A 15-year-old faces first-degree murder for fatally shooting a 74-year-old woman who was in her carport checking on a noise. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (26) “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

_____________________

Infrastructure improvement was widespread throughout the state in 2019.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

cut  2 (30) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”

___________________________

A lot of folks will start the New Year off with a bang, and the State Fire Marshal’s office has safety tips for you before you attempt your amateur pyrotechnics.

Spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue’s first piece of advice for people buying fireworks is: don’t. Instead of risking it in your back yard, go to a public display.

Cut 3 (09) “…around.”

But if you purchase fireworks, make sure they are legal to light in your area. If they are, Rodrigue says buy from a licensed vendor.

Cut 4 (10) “…know.”

Rodrigue says a good rule of thumb is, if you don’t see any fireworks sellers in your area, it’s likely because fireworks are illegal in your jurisdiction.

Once you’ve acquired your certified fireworks from a legal vendor, make sure you find an open space in a legal area to fire them off in…

Cut 5 (12) “…fireworks.”

After the fireworks go off, spray them with a hose, and put them in a disposal bin, where they can be stored away from your home until they are picked up.

_______________________

The N-F-L Network reports that if Ravens defensive coordinator Don Martindale gets a job as a head coach, his top choice as offensive coordinator is LSU passing game coordinator Joe Brady. But LSU Coach Ed Orgeron remains confident Brady will stay in Baton Rouge once a new contract is finalized…

Cut 6 (10) “…LSU”

Brady has been named the top assistant in college football.

Orgeron says senior linebacker Michael Divinity will play in the national championship game against Clemson. Divinity has missed the last six games because he reportedly violated team rules. In five games, Divinity has three sacks and Orgeron expects his role in the title game will be to rush the passer

Cut 7 (12) “…we can”

One of Clemson’s best players on offense is running back Travis Etienne. The Jennings native is an explosive back, who is averaging eight yards a carry and has 18 touchdowns. Orgeron says when he took over for Les Miles, he tried to recruit Etienne to come to LSU…

Cut 8 (12) “…better job of.”

_________________________________

The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund says 128 officers died in the line of duty over the past year, an 18-percent decrease from 2018.The Fund’s CEO Marcia Ferranto says there were four officer deaths in Louisiana

Cut 9 (09) “…physical related death”

Ferranto on why we’ve seen a decline in law enforcement officer fatalities…

Cut 10 (09) “…also helped.”

Shreveport police officer Chateri Payne and Mandeville Police Captain Vincent Liberto were fatally shot. Baton Rouge Police Officer Shane Totty died in a motorcycle accident. Ferranto says shootings and traffic accidents are the reason for most officer deaths while on duty

Cut 11 (10) “…accidents”

East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Deputy Steven Whitstine died from congestive heart failure before crashing while driving to work.

______________________

The Louisiana DOTD had a busy 2019 as the department invested just over $1 billion into nearly 330 infrastructure projects on 942 miles of roadway.  DOTD spokesperson Rodney Mallett says the investment was able to be made in large part because of innovative funding efforts.

Cut 12 (09) “…money this year.” 

Among the projects, the widening of various sections of I-10 and the I-10/Loyola Drive interchange improvements.

Mallett says there were unexpected expenses for emergency situations that came up throughout the year.

Cut 13 (13) “…the state well.”

Back in June, 49-year-old Johnny Cole was killed after being struck by an 18-wheeler near Ruston. Cole was a sign specialist for the department.  Mallett says DOTD is rolling out new safety measures in response.

Cut 14 (09) “…sure they’re safe.”

The department also won the regional award for “Best Use of Technology and Innovation for the new I-49/I-220 interchange in Shreveport.

Five people, including a beloved Louisiana sports reporter, died Saturday after their plane crashed in Lafayette. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”

________________________________________

2019 was a memorable year for Louisiana.  Kevin Barnhart takes a look back.

Cut 2 (52) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart” 

____________________________________________

LSU looks unstoppable after devastating Oklahoma in the Peach Bowl, but two weeks from in the Championship they face a Clemson team that hasn’t lost since 2017…

Cut 3 (30) I’m Matt Doyle” 

_________________________________________

A twin engine plane crashed in Lafayette Saturday, killing five on their way to see the Tigers in the Peach Bowl.

National Transportation Safety Board investigator Dr. Jennifer Rodi says the plane climbed to 900 feet, before descending below 700, the local minimum safe altitude, for reasons unknown…

Cut 4 (11) “trees”

The plane then skidded into a post-office parking lot, striking a vehicle, causing additional non-fatal injuries.

No emergency distress call was put out before the plane began to descend, and no contact was had with ground flight crew. NTSB Vice President Chairman Bruce Landsberg says the craft also had no onboard flight data recorder, making the investigation more difficult…

Cut 5 (11) “…records”

The plane was a PA31-T Cheyenne, built in 1980.

Lafayette Mayor-President Joel Robideaux says the community wants to get to the bottom of what happened, but first, the focus must be on the victim’s families…

Cut 6 (07) “…period”

Among those killed was Louisiana sports reporter Carly McCord, daughter-in-law to LSU offensive coordinator Steve Ensminger.

_______________________

Despite a dominant 42-10 win over Carolina Sunday, the Saints will not get a week off and instead host the 6^th seed Vikings this weekend.

New Orleans needed a win and a loss by either the Packers or 49ers to get a week off and the two seed. Coach Sean Payton says it was out of their hands, but the team certainly held up it’s end of the bargain.

Cut 7 (08) “…edge.”

Drew Brees tossed three touchdowns and 253 yards while running back Alvin Kamara continued his late-season resurgence with two TDs.

The Saints could have used the rest, but the good news is they get at least one dome game before having to hit the road to face the 49ers in the divisional round. Payton says they aren’t sweating it.

Cut 8 (09) “home game.”

San Fran’s 48-46 victory in the dome earlier this year is the reason why the Saints lost home-field advantage.

The Saints have strung together three strong halves in a row heading into the playoffs, and Payton says they’re riding some strong momentum heading into the offseason.

Cut 9 (08) “…football.”

_____________________________________________

2019 was a year full of memorable moments.  The Louisiana sports world was left with a bad taste in its mouth when the Saints lost the opportunity to go to the Super Bowl because of poor officiating in the NFC Championship game.  But the year is ending well, as the Saints are NFC South champs, LSU has a perfect regular season, and Joe Burrow brought the Heisman Trophy back to LSU for the first time in 60 years.

Cut 10 (14) “…(applause).”

Governor Edwards won reelection after defeating GOP challenger Eddie Rispone in a runoff by a margin of 2%.  In his victory speech, Edwards outlined his plans for what to expect in the next four years.

Cut 11 (10) “…the minimum wage.”

Governor Edwards also secured the first teacher pay raise in a decade.  And he eulogized Louisiana’s first female Governor, Kathleen Blanco, who died in August at the age of 76. Blanco was at the helm of the state through hurricanes Katrina and Rita.

Cut 12 (13) “…a brighter future.” 

___________________________________

After a historic dismantling of Oklahoma in the Peach Bowl LSU heads home to take on Clemson two weeks from now in the Superdome for the National Championship Game.

LSU ran up 49 points in the first half against the Sooners in their 63-28 win. Tiger Rag Editor Ron Higgins says considering the competition, it was the greatest single-game performance by any LSU team, ever.

Cut 13 (12) “…complete”

The Tigers did it all with little help from 1^st Team All Sec running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire, who was limited by a hamstring injury.

If they want to raise the trophy on January 13^th, the Tigers will have to be the first team to beat the Tigers since 2017. Higgins says LSU will be favored, which is likely to just fire up Dabo Swinney’s team even more…

Cut 14 (09) “disrespected”

They’ll also have to hand Clemson QB Trevor Lawrence his first ever collegiate loss.

LSU features the current number one offense, but Clemson is right behind at number three, and Higgins says they have a very similar style of play.

Cut 15 (09) “the ball”

Five people, including a beloved Louisiana sports reporter, died Saturday after their plane crashed in Lafayette. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”

________________________________________

2019 was a memorable year for Louisiana.  Kevin Barnhart takes a look back.

Cut 2 (52) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart” 

____________________________________________

LSU looks unstoppable after devastating Oklahoma in the Peach Bowl, but two weeks from in the Championship they face a Clemson team that hasn’t lost since 2017…

Cut 3 (30) I’m Matt Doyle” 

_________________________________________

A twin engine plane crashed in Lafayette Saturday, killing five on their way to see the Tigers in the Peach Bowl.

National Transportation Safety Board investigator Dr. Jennifer Rodi says the plane climbed to 900 feet, before descending below 700, the local minimum safe altitude, for reasons unknown…

Cut 4 (11) “trees”

The plane then skidded into a post-office parking lot, striking a vehicle, causing additional non-fatal injuries.

No emergency distress call was put out before the plane began to descend, and no contact was had with ground flight crew. Lafayette Fire Chief Rob Benoit says the craft also had no onboard flight data recorder, making the investigation more difficult…

Cut 5 (11) “…records”

The plane was a PA31-T Cheyenne, built in 1980.

Lafayette Mayor-President Joel Robideaux says the community wants to get to the bottom of what happened, but first, the focus must be on the victim’s families…

Cut 6 (07) “…period”

Among those killed was Louisiana sports reporter Carly McCord, daughter-in-law to LSU offensive coordinator Steve Ensminger.

_______________________

Despite a dominant 42-10 win over Carolina Sunday, the Saints will not get a week off and instead host the 6^th seed Vikings this weekend.

New Orleans needed a win and a loss by either the Packers or 49ers to get a week off and the two seed. Coach Sean Payton says it was out of their hands, but the team certainly held up it’s end of the bargain.

Cut 7 (08) “…edge.”

Drew Brees tossed three touchdowns and 253 yards while running back Alvin Kamara continued his late-season resurgence with two TDs.

The Saints could have used the rest, but the good news is they get at least one dome game before having to hit the road to face the 49ers in the divisional round. Payton says they aren’t sweating it.

Cut 8 (09) “home game.”

San Fran’s 48-46 victory in the dome earlier this year is the reason why the Saints lost home-field advantage.

The Saints have strung together three strong halves in a row heading into the playoffs, and Payton says they’re riding some strong momentum heading into the offseason.

Cut 9 (08) “…football.”

_____________________________________________

2019 was a year full of memorable moments.  The Louisiana sports world was left with a bad taste in its mouth when the Saints lost the opportunity to go to the Super Bowl because of poor officiating in the NFC Championship game.  But the year is ending well, as the Saints are NFC South champs, LSU has a perfect regular season, and Joe Burrow brought the Heisman Trophy back to LSU for the first time in 60 years.

Cut 10 (14) “…(applause).”

Governor Edwards won reelection after defeating GOP challenger Eddie Rispone in a runoff by a margin of 2%.  In his victory speech, Edwards outlined his plans for what to expect in the next four years.

Cut 11 (10) “…the minimum wage.”

Governor Edwards also secured the first teacher pay raise in a decade.  And he eulogized Louisiana’s first female Governor, Kathleen Blanco, who died in August at the age of 76. Blanco was at the helm of the state through hurricanes Katrina and Rita.

Cut 12 (13) “…a brighter future.” 

___________________________________

After a historic dismantling of Oklahoma in the Peach Bowl LSU heads home to take on Clemson two weeks from now in the Superdome for the National Championship Game.

LSU ran up 49 points in the first half against the Sooners in their 63-28 win. Tiger Rag Editor Ron Higgins says considering the competition, it was the greatest single-game performance by any LSU team, ever.

Cut 13 (12) “…complete”

The Tigers did it all with little help from 1^st Team All Sec running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire, who was limited by a hamstring injury.

If they want to raise the trophy on January 13^th, the Tigers will have to be the first team to beat the Tigers since 2017. Higgins says LSU will be favored, which is likely to just fire up Dabo Swinney’s team even more…

Cut 14 (09) “disrespected”

They’ll also have to hand Clemson QB Trevor Lawrence his first ever collegiate loss.

LSU features the current number one offense, but Clemson is right behind at number three, and Higgins says they have a very similar style of play.

Cut 15 (09) “the ball”

Over 300 Louisiana farmers have attended hemp seminars as Ag Commissioner Mike Strain says federal approval for local production is imminent…

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle 

_____________________

There’s a chance LSU’s leading rusher could play Saturday against Oklahoma. Jeff Palermo has the story….

cut  2 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

___________________________

As more people take to the roads for holiday celebrations Louisiana State Police want to remind motorists to take action to prevent accidents. State Trooper Michael Reichardt says never get behind the wheel when impaired and always buckle up.

Cut 3 (09) “…up correctly.”

Troopers are partnering with law enforcement across the state in operation of the national “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign. Reichardt says to add a designated driver to your holiday list of things to do.

Cut 4 (07) “…drink and drive”

According to LSP during the Christmas holidays last year, 16 people were killed and 12 of those fatalities were alcohol-related. Reichardt says never get behind the wheel or in the vehicle with someone who is impaired.

Cut 5 (11) “one too many”

For the latest road conditions visit 511-LA-dot-org or dial 511 from any cell phone in Louisiana.

_______________________

Ag Commissioner Mike Strain expects Louisiana will receive federal approval to begin selling hemp licenses to state farmers by the first of January.

Strain says obtaining one of those licenses is a bit of a lengthy process due to how regulated the industry is, but so far it appears Louisiana growers are intrigued by the plant’s possibilities…

Cut 6 (10) “…the road.”

Strain expects the next session to be held on January 8^th or 9^th. For more information about attending a hemp seminar, visit www-dot-L-D-A-F-dot-LA-gov

Not everyone will be allowed to get a hemp license. Because hemp is a cousin of the marijuana plant, Strain says applicants will have to complete a State Police background check after applying…

Cut 7 (05) “…years”

Strain says after passing the background check, you won’t be able to put seeds in the ground until after they verify the product will be profitable, and legal…

Cut 8 (11) “THC-A.”

While related to marijuana, hemp’s THC levels are so low that it is not psychoactive.

_________________________________

The Saints Michael Thomas is making a case as one of the best wide receivers ever. In Sunday’s 38-28 win over Tennessee, Thomas set the record for most receptions in an NFL season. He’s caught more passes and has more receiving yards than any other player during their first four years in the league. NFL Analyst Mike Detillier…

Cut 9 (10) “…this game”

The Saints finish the regular season on Sunday against Carolina. The Black and Gold can still get the number one seed and home-field advantage in the NFC playoffs. Detillier says New Orleans must beat the Panthers and hope a couple of teams lose…

Cut 10 (10) “…hands”

The Saints are 13-2 on the road over the last two seasons.

Detillier says his biggest concern heading into the postseason is the health of the offensive line. He says starting guard Andrus Peat could return this Sunday from a broken arm, but the other starting guard, Larry Warford, also has a knee injury…

Cut 11 (10) “out there”

______________________

Four people have been arrested and the search is on for three others allegedly involved in a dog fighting case in Donaldsonville. Ascension Sheriff Bobby Webre says they received a tip about dog fighting taking place at a residence and when deputies arrived about 15 fled people the scene where a dog fight was in progress

Cut 12 (10) “…just horrible” 

Webre says not only did they arrest four people, drugs, guns and dog fighting paraphernalia were also seized….

Cut 13 (10) “      terrible

Webre says cases of animal cruelty will always be taken seriously. He says Ascension parish will not tolerate dogfighting or anything like it

Cut 14 (10) “…bond.”

Deputies have charged 36-year-old Joseph Duncan of Donalsonville, 30-year-old Jarret Bringier of Darrow, 37-year-old Keith Williams Junior of Donaldsonville and 32-year-old Joshua Jones of Donaldsonville.

Detectives are still looking for  34-year-old Blake Chatman, 32-year-old Kenneth Miller and 50-year-old Michael Williams, all of Donaldsonville.

Louisiana’s unemployment rate has fallen slightly over the year to 4.7 percent as the state as a whole continues to add jobs…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”

________________________________________

The federal government is raising the minimum smoking and vaping age to 21 nationwide. Brooke Thorington has more on what that means for Louisiana

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Brooke Thorington” 

____________________________________________

LSU fans return to Atlanta later this week for the semifinal matchup against Oklahoma in the Peach Bowl. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (30) “ I’m Jeff Palermo”

__________________________________________________

The Louisiana Workforce Commission says total private employment has seen an increase in jobs over the year for 21 consecutive months. Also, seasonally adjusted nonfarm employment is at its highest level since 2015, and Workforce Commission Chief Economist Ali Bustamante says the state added 41-hundred jobs from October to November.

Cut 4 (09) “year”

The state’s unemployment rate fell slightly over the year to 4.7 percent in November.

New Orleans and Baton Rouge led the state in gains at 13,100 and 4,600 respectively, but Bustamante says Hammond was a surprise third-place finisher with 1,200 jobs…

Cut 5 (09) “…area”

Shreveport, Lake Charles, Monroe, and Houma all lost jobs over the year, but Shreveport saw a substantial 1,000 job gain between October and November. Bustamante knows why…

Cut 6 (04) “…The Area”

Those markets combined to lose 2,500 jobs.

________________________

Congress has raised the minimum smoking and vaping age to 21 nationwide. The provision was added to a year-end spending bill signed by President Donald Trump. Louisiana Health Secretary Rebecca Gee says it’s welcomed news considering, most people get addicted to nicotine in their teens.

Cut 7 (06) “…the public.”

Gee says any hurdle to keep tobacco products out of the hands of teens could help prevent them from becoming smokers and, also save the state money in future medical care.

Cut 8 (05) “…these products.”

The measure also raises the minimum age on purchasing chew tobacco to 21. Gee is glad Congress acted, because an effort to raise the minimum age in Louisiana failed earlier this year at the State Capitol…

Cut 9 (06) “…other challenges”

The new age requirement is expected to go into effect in nine months.

__________________________________________________

Gilead Sciences awards 245,000 dollars in grants to four Louisiana organizations to help combat HIV as part of 2.3 million dollars in grants administered across the south.  Corporate Contributions Director Arun Skaria says HIV is still a serious problem in America, but we’re near epidemic levels in the south…

Cut 10 (10) “…right now”

It’s the third year California-based Gilead has administered the COMPASS funds. Skaria says the South’s disproportionate representation in HIV numbers comes down to its persistent struggles with health issues, and history of discrimination.

Cut 11 (10) “…challenge.”

Skaria says the Central Louisiana AIDS Support Services, Louisiana Public Health Institute, Brotherhood Inc., and 504 Health Net will receive the funds.

Cut  12 (10) “leadership” 

__________________________________________________

LSU and Oklahoma hold their first practices in Atlanta today as they prepare for their semifinal game in the Peach Bowl. Peach Bowl C-E-O Gary Stokan says they are expecting a bunch of points inside the Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Saturday…

Cut 13 (11) “…December 28”

The two teams will also tour the College Football Hall of Fame today. They will have a go-kart outing tomorrow and then it’s all business for the two teams. But Stokan says for fans, there will be a fan night at the Georgia Aquarium on Friday and a fanfest Saturday, plus many other activities

Cut 14 (12) “…Olympic Park.”

Stokan says a record number of tickets have been purchased for the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl. He says it seems like sports fans are really excited about the matchups in the college football playoff

Cut 15 (11) “…two better games”

The winners of these two games will play for the national championship in New Orleans on January 13th.

______________________________________________

The Saints rallied from a 14-0 deficit to beat Tennessee 38-28 to keep alive their chances of getting the number one seed in the NFC playoffs. Drew Brees threw for 279 yards and three touchdowns and Michael Thomas he broke the NFL record for most receptions in a season, as he had 12 catches for 136 yards on the day. Thomas has 145 catches on the year, but he’s more worried about winning a title

Cut 16  (27)  …break more records” 

Alvin Kamara also had a big game as he rushed for two touchdowns. It was the first time he’s reached the end zone since Week 3, but he’s more worried about winning

Cut 17  (12) “I’m good” 

Coach Sean Payton is happy with the win, but not happy about the slow start or the 11 penalties, nine were in the first half

cut 18  (17)  areas”  

AAA tows an average of 850-thousand motorists over the holiday season but there are steps you can take ahead of the drive to get your destination without a hitch. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Brooke Thorington 

_____________________

Isle of Capri gets approval from the Louisiana Gaming Control Board to be the first riverboat casino to crawl up out of the water and set up shop on land. Matt Doyle has the story.

cut  2 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle.”

__________________________________________

The National Retail Federation Estimates nearly 148-million U-S consumers will shop on super Saturday. That’s up from 134-million last year. LSU marketing professor Dan Rice says the last Saturday before Christmas has become the biggest shopping day of the year

Cut 3 (11) “…retailer.”

Rice says on this final weekend before the Christmas holiday, retailers do a good job marketing themselves to procrastinators

Cut 4 (11) “…more male”

Rice says there are some good deals to be had in the final shopping days before Christmas. But he says do a little research beforehand to make sure you are truly getting a great deal…

Cut 5 (08) “smart phone”

_______________________

According to AAA a third of the country will be in transit over the holidays, either by plane, trains or automobiles.  AAA Spokesperson Don Redman says that’s the most ever predicted in the last twenty years by the association and the majority of travelers will take to the roadways.

Cut 6 (07) “…patience.”

Redman says the top three reasons AAA tows during the holidays are flat tires, dead batteries, and lockouts, so have your car checked before you leave and take an extra set of keys.

In addition to patience on the roadways, Redman says be prepared to pay more at the pump this year if you’re traveling by car.

Cut 7 (07) “…several days”

However, after Christmas, Redman says gas prices should drop going into the New Year.

Airports will be packed in addition to the roads, AAA estimates a 5 percent increase in air travelers this year. Redman recommends arriving at the airport at least two hours before departure.

Cut 8 (05) “the holidays.”

Redman says the busiest travel day in the skies will be December 26^th.

The official traffic season begins this weekend and ends January 1^st.

_________________________________

The Louisiana Gaming Control Board approves plans for Lake Charles based Isle of Capri riverboat casino to move on land, the first facility to make the jump 18 months after the Legislature ok’d such moves.

The plan is to shutter the riverboat and build a 112.7 million dollar facility right nearby. L-G-C-B Chairman Ronnie Jones says the plan is a major expansion in food offerings…

Cut 9 (10) “…steakhouse”

Capri is just off I-10 west of Lake Charles.

Jones says the project is a significant investment for the company even as gaming revenues have stayed flat in Louisiana. He says this shows the Legislature’s decision is paying off.

Cut 10 (09) “…running”

The new facility will have 72,000 square feet of gaming space.

Considering how hard the industry pushed to allow riverboats on land, some are surprised it’s taken one this long to announce a move, but Jones says more are likely soon to follow.

Cut 11 (12) “follow suit”

______________________

St Tammany Parish is about to see major job growth. Medline Industries will build a distribution center that will create more than 460 new jobs near Covington. Louisiana Economic Development Secretary Don Pierson says the $53-million-dollar medical supply facility will be a major boon for the state.

Cut 12 (11) “…facility” 

Pierson says Medline might not be a household name, but they do business in more than 90 countries.

Cut 13 (09) “…company.”

Pierson says a strong workforce for companies to draw from and Interstates 12 and 55 near the area make the location very attractive for industry.

Cut 14 (06) “…distribution.”

Also in St Tammany, Ampirical, is expected to create 400 new jobs over the next decade with an average salary of $85-thousand, as they construction corporate headquarters in the parish.

The National Weather Service reports a deadly tornado that tore through central Louisiana was a highly powerful EF-3.

Cut 1 (28) “…I’m Matt Doyle 

_____________________

Governor Edwards highlights the success of his administration during 2019, the final year of his first term. Jeff Palermo has the story…

cut  2 (31) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

__________________________________________

Senator John Kennedy says Democrats may support impeachment in the House, but there’s next to no shot the Senate will vote to remove the President.

Kennedy says House Democrats failed to prove the President tried to without military aid to Ukraine in exchange for an investigation into the Bidens.

Cut 3 (07) “…fried chicken.”

Polls show Americans are still sharply divided on the issue along partisan lines, and Kennedy says the Upper Chamber is as well, which makes the odds of President Trump being removed slim to none.

Cut 4 (11) “…as well”

An AP poll of House Representatives shows Democratic defections on impeachment in the House will be in the low single digits.

Once the House votes to impeach, Kennedy says the Senate will take up the issue in the first week of the New Year.

Cut 5 (10) “Trump”

_______________________

A tornado that flattened parts of central Louisiana during it’s 62 mile trip from DeRidder to Alexandria is confirmed to have peaked at EF-3, with winds of 140 to 160 miles per hour.

NWS Forecaster Kent Kuyper says the twister peaked at a remarkable 400 yards wide but varied wildly depending on where it was.

Cut 6 (07) “…strength.”

Kuyper says it’s the biggest tornado he’s seen strike the region in his 20 years out of Lake Charles…

Cut 7 (08) “…EF-2”

The system was a full EF-3 when it entered southwest Alexandria, but had dipped down to around an EF-1 when passing south of Leesville.

The tornado grew as the system moved through the region, and Kuyper says he had upgraded the situation from a regular tornado, before making a rare declaration as it approached Alexandria…

Cut 8 (11) “dangers.”

One person died in Vernon Parish as a result of the event when their mobile home was crushed by another trailer that had been flung by the high winds.

_________________________________

At his end of the year press conference, Governor John Bel Edwards said it’s a good time to be a Louisianan right now. Edwards says not only can the state say it’s home to LSU and the Saints, but Louisiana’s economy continues to grow

Cut 9 (13) “…in Lousiana”

Edwards says one of the big economic development wins this year was the retaining of CenturyLink’s corporate headquarters in Monroe through 2025.

The governor says they continue to see positive results from the expansion of the Medicaid program, which is providing insurance to 466-thousand residents. Edwards says a recent Tulane study found more people are going to the doctor and taking their necessary medication

Cut 10 (07) “…our goal”

Edwards says in 2019 budget stability was achieved for the first time in years. He says it led to a pay raise for teachers and additional investments into education

Cut 11 (10) “in a decade”

______________________

A spirited debate is ongoing on the House floor today ahead of tonight’s vote to impeach President Donald Trump. New Orleans Congressman Cedric Richmond is the lone member of Louisiana’s House delegation who supports removing President Trump out of office because he’s doing irreparable harm to our country…

Cut 12 (11) “…Donald Trump” 

Richmond says Trump abused his power by pressuring Ukraine into investigating a political rival in exchange for military aid

Cut 13 (07) “…to justice.”

But Republican Louisiana Congressman Mike Johnson from Benton says it’s the House Democrats who are abusing their power

Cut 14 (13) “…due process.”

The state transportation department announces it is stepping up safety measures to protect its workers. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”

_________________________________

Alexandria Mayor Jeff Hall says the western end of town is in rebuild mode after it was hit by a powerful tornado. Jeff Palermo has the story.

cut  2 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

__________________________________________

Saints Quarterback Drew Brees is the NFL’s new all-time touchdown passing leader. Brees surpassed Peyton Manning’s mark of 539 TD passes by tossing four touchdown passes in a 34-7 win over the Colts. Brees says it was special to do it on a night the franchise honored the 2009 Super Bowl team

Cut 3 (12) “…as well.”

Brees now has 541 touchdown passes and the 40-year-old appreciates what football has given to him…

Cut 4 (12) “…for ever”

With the win, the Saints improve to 11-3 with the win as they are looking for a second Super Bowl championship. Brees says he can’t spend much time reflecting on this latest record…

Cut 5 (12) “…so appreciative.”

_______________________

DOTD lays out plans for increased safety measures at a ceremony honoring Johnny Cole, an employee killed on the job when he was struck by an 18-wheeler this summer.  DOTD spokesperson Rodney Mallett says they will implement a spotter for two-person crews.

Cut 6 (08) “…are paying attention.”

Mallett says cones will now be placed further back from a work area equipped with a bell or alarm mechanism.

Cut 7 (10) “…react as well.”

DOTD is also buying 70 trailers with bright flashing LED arrows.  Mallett says safety vests will also change from orange to neon yellow.  There will also be brighter lighting on top of vehicles.

Cut 8 (08) “…it miles away.”

_________________________________

Slidell Senator Sharon Hewitt will lead the Senate Republican caucus in the upcoming session, with the job of uniting the Upper Chambers’ GOP supermajority.

The fall elections likely brought an end to a Senate that aligned itself with Governor Edwards over the past four years, and Hewitt is optimistic the chamber can pass a more conservative agenda.

Cut 9 (09) “…caucus”

Hewitt says the caucus is not opposed to having a relationship with Governor Edwards over the next four years if he is willing to find common ground with them on some conservative priorities.

Cut 10 (12) “…markets.”

Hewitt says they’re still pinpointing exactly what issues will take precedence in the spring, but so far the caucus seems to be on board with one lingering issue.

Cut 11 (10) “insurance”

The senator also says they may look at a proposal to move DOTD salaries into the general fund to free up more money for roadwork.

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Alexandria is among the areas getting a clearer picture today of the devastation left by yesterday’s twister outbreak.  Mayor Jeff Hall says damage to homes, businesses, and churches is most concentrated on the western side of the city.

Cut 12 (09) “…variety of areas.” 

Hall says about a thousand homes were without electricity during the peak of a power outage.  Closed roads slowed down the work of power crews.

Cut 13 (07) “…they are passable.”

Hall says the Johnny Downs Sports Complex saw extensive damage.

Cut 14 (08) “…out and rebuild.”

Following a sweep of all the major accolades of college football, Secretary of State Kyle Ardoin declares today “LSU Football Day” throughout the state.  Jeff Palermo has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Four southeast Louisiana men in their 30s are under arrest for allegedly killing two Asian water buffalo on a ranch in Plaquemines Parish. Matt Doyle has more.

cut  2 (30) “.Matt Doyle.”

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After a 13-0 run so far, only two games remain on the road to a College Football Playoff National Championship for the Bayou Bengals. In celebration of LSU’s success, Secretary of State Kyle Ardoin proclaims today as LSU Football day throughout the entire state.

Cut 3 (11) “…that got awards.”

Ardoin says today is the day for residents to wear purple and gold and break out the best LSU decorations.

Cut 4 (09) “…the upcoming game.”

After a week off, LSU returns to practice today to get ready for their semifinal matchup against Oklahoma on December 28th. Ardoin has faith the Tigers will go all the way

Cut 5 (04) “…will do it.” (2x)

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Four people have been arrested for hunting and killing two Asian Water Buffalo on a ranch in Plaquemines Parish. Ag Commissioner Mike Strain says they harvested the meat and bragged about it on social media.

Cut 6 (10) “…arrested”

30-year-old Andrew Crawford, 35-year-old Billy Johnson, 37-year-old Randall Siebert, and 32-year-old Lane Siebert are facing felony charges.  Strain says they’re all looking at jail time.

Cut 7 (11) “…livestock.”

Strain says everyone involved is now facing felony charges as a result because you can’t just hunt someone else’s livestock.

Cut 8 (08) “…park”

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Sheriff offices in Rapides, Washington, and Orleans Parish have been hit by a cyberattack that’s left some services unavailable or limited in those areas. Cybersecurity expert Robert Allen says public employees need to stop opening questionable files on their computers that expose the network…

Cut 9 (09) “…lines”

The state suffered a similar attack that knocked out the Office of Motor Vehicles last month, and Allen says this latest attack is a testament to how impactful a cybersecurity threat can be.

Cut 10 (04) “…infrastructure.”

Allen says workers in both state and private institutions need to remain vigilant and follow best practices when using company computers.

Cut 11 (08) “…junk.”

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Tornado activity has rocked parts of the state today.  National Weather Service Lake Charles Meteorologist Rob Megnia says a twister in Beauregard Parish, caused damage in the DeRidder area.

Cut 12 (07) “…yet fortunately.” 

In Rapides Parish, storm damage has been confirmed in the Plainview area. Megnia says if a tornado warning comes across your phone or radio for your area, take action.

Cut 13 (06) “…shelter somewhere else.”

Megnia says this type of weather is typical for this time of year.  A cold front is moving south, but the Gulf is still producing enough warmth and moisture to be a recipe for severe weather.

Cut 14 (07) “…have those conditions.”

Joe Burrow’s legendary status continues to grow after he gives a heartfelt Heisman Trophy acceptance speech. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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An impeachment vote moves to the House floor this week. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart.” 

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LSU President F. King Alexander is headed to Oregon State, and the search is on for his replacement…

Cut 3 (30) “ I’m Matt Doyle.”

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Quarterback Joe Burrow delivered a memorable and tearful Heisman Trophy acceptance speech on Saturday night after he became only second Tiger to win the prestigious award. He started his speech by thanking his offensive line and ended it by thanking Coach Ed Orgeron who showed faith in him

Cut 4 (14) “…(applause)”

Burrow won the Heisman by a landslide over three other finalists. It’s the largest margin of victory in the 85-year history of the award. He also received the highest percentage of first-place votes and the highest percentage of possible points, 94-percentage. After his speech, Burrow said it’s a dream come true

Cut 5 (12) “…national title”

Burrow describes himself as just a man from Athens, Ohio, who faced adversity when he transferred from Ohio State. He says his story shows hard work pays off…

Cut 6 (11) “…offseason work”

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China and the US agree to a “phase one” trade deal that will see some tariffs on China canceled, and in exchange the People’s Republic agrees to purchase tens of billions dollars of US agricultural goods.

US Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue was giving a commencement address at Southern as the news broke. He celebrated the news…

Cut 7 (10) “…domestically.”

The President estimates China could purchase around 50 billion dollars of additional ag products as a result.

Purdue says the agreement will be a shot in the arm to American growers.

Cut 8 (07) “…here.”

This comes on the heels of news early last week that House Democrats will back a revamped trade deal with Mexico and Canada. Purdue says these two agreements combined are great news for Louisiana Ag.

Cut 9 (06) “…respect.”

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An impeachment vote on the House floor is imminent following a Judiciary Committee vote on Friday. Northwest Louisiana Congressman Mike Johnson says the founding fathers warned against single party impeachments as it would be bitterly divisive, which he says is exactly the case in this situation.

Cut 10 (08) “…in the bottle.”

Two articles, one focusing on abuse of power related to a phone call where President Trump is accused of holding up federal aid to Ukraine in exchange for dirt on a political rival and the other on obstruction for refusal to cooperate in the impeachment inquiry, are heading to the floor. Johnson says impeachment has been the goal of Democrats since day one of the Trump administration.

Cut 11 (12) “…would remove him.”

Johnson says the impeachment proceedings boil down to one thing: Democrats just don’t like anything about Trump.

Cut  12 (10) “…charge of impeachment.” 

New Orleans Congressman Cedric Richmond also sat on the Committee and voted in favor of impeachment.

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LSU Law Dean Thomas Galligan takes over as interim school President while the institution conducts a national search to replace former President F. King Alexander, who left for Oregon State.

Council for a Better Louisiana President Barry Erwin says the search may be national, but we’re starting to hear some prominent local names as early favorites.

Cut 13 (10) “…university”

Dardenne leads the Division of Administration, and Moret is the President of the LSU Foundation.

Erwin says whoever takes over for Alexander will have big shoes to fill. Erwin says Alexander was making good progress on turning LSU into a destination for talented students and staff, so they’ll have to…

Cut 14 (11) “…students”

But it is LSU, and so athletic success remains a requirement for the job. The school recently invested a lot of money in new AD Scott Woodward, but the new Pres will have to keep an eye on the program…

Cut 15 (11) “…of it.”

Alexander’s last day will be December 31^st. He served as school President for six years.

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After a tough loss to the 49ers last week, the Saints look to get back on track tonight when they host the 6-and-7 Indianapolis Colts. Indy has lost three in a row, but they have a few standout performers, like linebacker Darius Leonard who had two interceptions last week. Coach Sean Payton on Leonard

Cut 16  (19)  …hands on it” 

The Saints are 10-and-3 and in a fight to get the number one seed in the NFC playoffs. Quarterback Drew Brees says it’s time to start playing their best football

Cut 17  (19) “building towards” 

One area of improvement for the Saints is in the red zone. This season they are only scoring touchdowns 56-percent of the time in the red zone. Last year they were just at 68-percent. For the season, running back Alvin Kamara has just two touchdowns. He spoke this week about improving in the red zone

cut 18  (16)     successful”