Cleanup continues in northwest Louisiana from a tornado that claimed three lives over the weekend. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Brooke Thorington” 

_____________________

It was Inauguration Day today at the Capitol…

cut  2 (52) “…I’m Matt Doyle”

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In Northwest Louisiana, power is being restored and clean up crews have moved in after an EF-2 tornado swept through the area around 2 am Saturday morning. Lt Bill Davis with the Bossier Parish Sheriff office says Swepco has restored power to most of the area.

Cut 3 (11)  “…along well.” 

79-year old Jerry Franks, and 65-year-old Mary Sue Franks were killed in Haughton and in Caddo Parish 75-year-old Raymond Holden was killed in Oil City during the storm.

In addition to lives lost, Davis says at least 50 homes have been destroyed in the Bossier Parish area.

Cut 4 (11) “…homes effected.”

In Benton, the middle school was heavily damaged and classes are canceled today. Crews are cleaning up debris and students are expected to attend class tomorrow. Davis describes the scene at Benton Middle School

Cut 5 (11) “…damage inside.”

_______________________

Gonzales Republican Representative Clay Schexnayder wins the Speaker vote 60-45 over Albany Republican Sherman Mack.

Schexnayder was backed by a coalition of Democrats and moderate Republicans, and is thought to be a more friendly choice for Governor Edwards, but says the People’s House will speak for itself…

Cut 6 (11) “citizen”

Lafayette Senator Page Cortez was named Senate President.

The new Speaker laid out his priorities for the next term, likely trying to assuage concerns from the chamber’s conservatives…

Cut 7 (09) “legacy.”

Schexnayder was handed the gavel by the previous Speaker, Taylor Barras.

Senator John Kennedy and AG Jeff Landry pushed Republicans to unify behind whoever received the most Republican support, but that didn’t happen, and Schexnayder won with a majority of his votes coming from Democrats…

Cut 8 (12) “…important”

The House is two members shy of a Republican Supermajority.

_________________________________

Governor Edwards was sworn in today for a second time and highlighted his three biggest focuses for the upcoming term.

His first and biggest focus for the next four years is education. He highlighted increased classroom funding, more teacher pay raises, and early childhood education.

Cut 9 (12) “…our state”

Early childhood education advocates are calling for an 80 million dollar upfront investment, with increased yearly funding for the policy to achieve universal access.

His second focus was workforce development…

Cut 10 (11) “…labor.”

He touched on equal pay for equal work, increased funding for higher ed, and a goal for 60 percent of Louisiana workers to have a degree or credential by 2030.

Finally, the Governor noted that coastal restoration will be a continuing focus for his administration. He says the state is finally starting to get ahead of our decades of losses…

Cut 11 (09) “…to lose”
______________________

Lafayette Senator Page Cortez is unanimously elected Senate President for the next four-year term.

Cortez reportedly wrapped up the job handily late last year and is set to lead the Upper Chamber’s new, more conservative disposition.

Cut 12 (13) “…Louisiana.”

Senators Sharon Hewitt of Slidell and Rick Ward of Iberville were reportedly in the running or considering running for the position. Cortez thanked his competitors in the race, and looked ahead…

Cut 13 (11) “LIghtly.”

Cortez replaces John Alario, who was term-limited out of the Senate and chose not to run for election in the House after a 48-year Legislative career.

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LSU’s record-breaking offense gets its biggest challenge yet tonight going up Clemson’s stingy defense in tonight’s national championship game. Clemson defensive coordinator Brent Venables is one of the best in the nation. LSU Quarterback Joe Burrow….

Cut 14 (11) “…lightly”

LSU has the highest-scoring offense in the country at 49 points per game. But Clemson is right up there, averaging 45 a contest. Tigers linebacker K’Lavon Chaisson says Clemson has great skill position players

Cut 15 (12) “…all that”

The Tigers are 14-0 for the first time ever, but LSU Running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire says the job is not done…

Cut 16  (12)  …dominate” 

Monday night’s national college football game is expected to bring big bucks to the Big Easy and the Bayou State. Matt Doyle has more…

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

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LSU students can go to New Orleans for the championship game and stay up late that night without worrying about going to school. Kevin Barnhart has the story…

cut  2 (30) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”

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State Police has identified the driver involved in a fatal hit and run of a bicyclist  Thursday morning just south of Alexandria. Trooper Casey Wallace says 27-year-old Lacey Jade Jordan of Oakdale was behind the wheel of a Chevy Silverado that hit a 50-year-old Taurus McQuarn of Alexandria on US Highway 165.

Cut 3 (08)  “… he became deceased.” 

Wallace says Jordan has not been charged yet as the investigation continues into the intricate details of the crash.

Cut 4 (08) “…her as well.”

Routine toxicology tests are pending.  Wallace says the crash is a reminder for cyclists to take the measures to protect themselves.

Cut 5 (09) “…just always key.”

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The LSU/Clemson showdown in the Dome Monday night for the CFP National Championship is expected to bring a lot of money and attention to New Orleans and the state at large.

Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says events like these can generate tens and even hundreds of millions of dollars in revenue, but even more so than that, it’s exposure you just can’t pay for…

Cut 6 (09) “Louisiana”

The Dome has seen three major games to start the year, the Georgia vs. Baylor Sugar Bowl, the Saints vs. Vikings playoff game, and now Clemson and LSU.

Nungesser says you couldn’t have asked for a better group of players to represent the state this year led by a figurehead like Heisman winner Joe Burrow.

Cut 7 (06) “that team.”

Nungesser highlighted Burrow’s Heisman speech where the QB called attention to poverty in his hometown. That led to huge donations to food pantries in Athens, Ohio, and Baton Rouge.

The Crescent City is already starting to swell with visitors in town for the game, who will, unfortunately, be arriving to some nasty weather. Nungesser says that shouldn’t tamp down the fun.

Cut 8 (11) “…good time”

The severe weather is expected to impact New Orleans Saturday.

_________________________________

There’s strong opposition in Mandeville over a proposed hotel and conference center at Fontainebleau State Park. Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says the development could also include a zipline and horseback riding, which would generate revenue to fund improvements at other state parks. But state representative-elect Richard Nelson says locals are opposed…

Cut 9 (11) “…connection to it..”

A standing-room crowd gathered at the Mandeville Community Center to hear more about Nungesser’s proposal. Nelson says those who could not get in, banged on windows and doors to show their opposition

Cut 10 (10) “…large hostile crowd.”

Nungesser spoke at the meeting and accused Nelson of getting forceful with him.  Nelson explains his side of the story.

Cut 11 (13) “…is their park.”

Nungesser says if there is a lot of opposition, the proposal will not move forward.
______________________

The LSU Board of Supervisors has called an audible. The board voted today to cancel classes on the Baton Rouge campus Monday and Tuesday because of the national title game. Earlier in the week, the university said classes would take place as scheduled. Board member Ronnie Anderson supported the proposal

Cut 12 (14) “…to agree.”

LSU interim president Thomas Galligan says he respects the board’s decision, but it causes scheduling issues…

Cut 13 (15) “…of class.”

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Severe weather is expected in Louisiana tonight and into tomorrow.  State Climatologist Barry Keim says a powerful cold front will spark the storms…

Cut 14 (09) “…about.”

The Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness warns NWS Shreveport predicts winds in excess of 80 miles an hour in north Louisiana.

Keim says the number one concern is the possibility for tornadoes and hail because while it’ll be wet, it won’t be dangerously so.

Cut 15 (10) “…issues”

This severe weather should be impacting southeast Louisiana just as the crowds pour into the city ahead of the CFP Championship game. Keim says if you’re heading over, be careful.

Cut 16  (10)  …brisk” 

GOSHEP has activited it’s Crisis Action Team, and will remain active through Monday night.

A study shows Louisiana lost a net 28,000 college-educated workers to other states in a ten year period starting in 2007. Matt Doyle spoke with the study’s author…

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

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President Donald Trump officially qualifies to be on the Louisiana Republican primary ballot for the April 4th primary. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

cut  2 (32) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”

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A study shows a net 28,000 college educated Louisianans migrated out of the state between 2007 and 2017, with a net 38,000 aged 25-54 leaving for greener pastures.

UL Lafayette Professor of Economics Gary Wagner conducted the study and says that’s bad news for the state because you need college-educated workers to power a modern economy.

Cut 3 (10)  “…have been.” 

Dating back to 2000, a net 88,000 college-educated people migrated away.

So where are these folks heading? Wagner says three-quarters of the migration is heading to just four states.

Cut 4 (09) “…Virginia.”

A few states are bucking that trend. Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, New York, Kentucky, and Pennsylvania all had net positive migration of over a thousand.

There’s concerns that continuing outmigration could create an economic death spiral, but Wagner says if we can create more high paying jobs, that trend could reverse itself quickly.

Cut 5 (10) “…back.”

_______________________

Former LSU athletics director Joe Alleva spoke candidly to Advocate columnist Scott Rabalais about moves made during his tenure. Alleva hired Ed Orgeron as head football coach in 2016. But in 2015 there were reports LSU wanted to fire Les Miles and hire then-Florida State coach Jimbo Fisher. In the Rabalais’ column, Alleva said he was not interested in Fisher

Cut 6 (11) “about that”

Rabalais’ column also says LSU could have hired then-Houston coach Tom Herman in 2016, but Alleva told Rabalais he didn’t want to pay Herman the money he wanted and thought Orgeron was the better choice

Cut 7 (06) “he’s had.”

Alleva is also quoted in the column that Miles squandered and didn’t’ utilize the players properly. Rabalais says Alleva told him that talking to Les was like talking to a wall…

Cut 8 (11) “…at Michigan”

Alleva also told Rabalais that he regrets hiring current basketball coach Will Wade. It was the Wade F-B-I wiretap scandal that led to Alleva being pushed out as AD.

_________________________________

President of the Louisiana Association of Educators Dr. Tia Mills says the recent resignation of the state’s education superintendent John White is a welcomed change. Mills says many educators were not thrilled with his administration.

Cut 9 (07) “…across the state.”

White clashed with teacher unions on several issues, including the expansion of the state’s voucher program and student-testing is now a major component of teacher evaluations.

Mills says the union is hoping for that the new leader is someone who has worked directly in the classroom.

Cut 10 (07) “…low rated schools.”

Mills says the union will be very vocal with the Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education and the Senate in the selection process of a successor.

Cut 11 (06) “…our great state.”
White has served in his role since 2012. The resignation is effective March 11.

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President Donald Trump officially qualifies to appear on the ballot for the April 4th presidential primary in Louisiana. Attorney General Jeff Landry filed the paperwork on behalf of the President at the Secretary of State’s office this morning.

Cut 12 (12) “…I happily accepted.”

Landry says it is important for President Trump to be victorious in 2020 because nearly 300,000 Louisiana jobs are supported by the oil and gas industry.

Cut 13 (11) “…that doesn’t happen.”

Landry also serves at the national co-chair of Veterans for Trump and says the President’s administration has help vets, military and their families.

Cut 14 (12) “…Democrat is nominated.”

So far, nine Democrats have qualified in Louisiana for the primary. In November 2016, Donald Trump received one-point-one million votes, the most votes ever in Louisiana history.

President Trump says there will be no military retaliation in response to an Iranian rocket attack on US bases in Iraq. Matt Doyle has local reaction.

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

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After eight years as the state’s top education leader, John White informs the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education that he’s stepping down in March. Jeff Palermo has the story…

cut  2 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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KingCakeSnob.com launches the fifth annual “Seal of Approval” ranking competition.  Spokesperson Andrew Alexander says the biggest criteria when rating king cakes is presentation, flavor, freshness, and uniqueness.

Cut 3 (06)  “… rise to the top.” 

The 2019 competition featured 633 different king cakes from more than 160 bakeries.  Alexander says there isn’t necessarily a pattern that is followed when it comes to the voters’ rankings of king cake.

Cut 4 (10) “…the winners circle.”

Last year’s competition saw nearly 3,500 king cake reviews on the website.  Alexander says the competition is an excuse to put the New Year’s health resolutions on hold.

Cut 5 (11) “…of king cake.”

Voting runs through February 18th. Last year, Manny Randazzo won the top overall “Traditional” King Cake, while Caluda’s repeated as best “Filled” King Cake.

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President Trump says the US will not retaliate militarily against Iran for last night’s rocket attack targeting two US bases in Iraq. Congressman Garret Graves sees a de-escalation of tensions in the region that hit a boiling point after the US killing of a top Iranian Commander

Cut 6 (11) “none”

The President says the missile attack will result in new sanctions on Iran.

Graves says it likely is not a coincidence that the barrage did not kill a single person. He says Iran likely calibrated the attack so as to not provoke a response from the US.

Cut 7 (09) “activity.”

Iranian officials have stated that if the US does not retaliate, they will not escalate further, but Graves says that doesn’t mean the region will become much calmer.

Cut 8 (12) “…activites”

_________________________________

Monday’s College Football Playoff National Championship Game is expected to be a financial winner for southeast Louisiana. Chief Marketing Officer for New Orleans & Company Mark Romig says thousands of visitors are expected…

Cut 9 (10) “…go into Monday.”

LSU fans are expected to be the most prominent fan base in town, and Romig says they’ll show off why they are the best fans in the world.

Cut 10 (10) “…friends with them.”

Romig says those that are still looking for overnight accommodations in the Big Easy may be in luck in finding a place to stay.

Cut 11 (08) “…national championship brings.”

Romig expects the economic impact from the national championship game to be in the hundreds of millions of dollars.
______________________

Louisiana Economic Development reports there was eight billion dollars in new capital investment in 2019 resulting in 12-thousand new jobs. L-E-D Secretary Don Pierson says they have been working to diversify the state’s economy with these new projects

Cut 12 (13) “…economy in.” 

Pierson says since the start of the Edwards administration, Louisiana has attracted more than 210 project wins…

Cut 13 (12) “…is operating”

Pierson says the big economic wins in 2019 include a new deal to keep CenturyLink’s headquarters in Monroe through 2025, a helicopter assembly plant locating in Lafayette and in St. Tammany Parish, Medline announced it will build an 800-thousand square foot distribution center

Cut 14 (10) “…the state”

The federal age to buy tobacco and e-cig products was raised to 21, but the state age remains 18. Matt Doyle spoke with Louisiana ATC Commissioner Juana Lombard about the conflicting laws…

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

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Monday’s clash between LSU and Clemson in the Superdome is proving to be a coveted ticket. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

cut  2 (30) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”

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New Orleans Police say 21-year-old Kentrell Baham faces a second-degree murder charge after fatally shooting a Walmart employee last night inside the store. NOPD Superintendent Shaun Ferguson describes what happened inside the Walmart located in Gentilly

Cut 3 (11) “expired”

A second victim was shot in the foot. Ferguson says a brave officer working security detail apprehended Baham…

Cut 4 (07) “…this business”

Hundreds of shoppers were in the store at the time of the shooting. Today the store is closed and grief counselors are available for employees. Ferguson did not provide a motive on what led to the shooting

Cut 5 (12) “…harm”

_______________________

A federal law is now in effect banning the sale of tobacco and e-cig products to those under 21, but state law still allows those 18 and up to purchase, a situation that’s creating some confusion.

Louisiana ATC Commissioner Juana Marine-Lombard says if you’re a retailer that is contemplating selling those products to someone 18-21, here’s the deal…

Cut 6 (10) “…law”

She adds there are now federal agencies actively enforcing that law.

Marine-Lombard says the issue stems from a lack of guidance from the FDA, who put the law into effect before answering key questions about how it would work.

Cut 7 (10) “immediately.”

The initial legislation signed by the President that made the change had a 180 day grace period, but for reasons unknown, the FDA put it into effect immediately.

The Commissioner says the FDA informed her that they are working diligently to provide clarity and guidance but in the meantime…

Cut 8 (12) “…written.”

The lack of guidance also leaves questions about potential exemptions for military members or others unclear.

_________________________________

Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s investigators have arrested a father and son duo for the New Year’s Eve robbery and murder of 82-year-old Robert James of Gretna.  The victim was taking out the trash at the Terrytown bar he worked at when the robbery occurred.  Sheriff Joe Lopinto says media coverage helped to get tips.

Cut 9 (09) “…persons of interest.”

Lopinto says the two were taken into custody and are now at the Jefferson Parish Correctional Center.

Cut 10 (11) “…of that cellphone.”

Lopinto was grateful for the public’s help in identifying the two.

Cut 11 (09) “…our detective bureau.”

The suspects, 40-year-old Ricky Lincoln Senior and 21-year-old Ricky Lincoln Junior were identified through surveillance footage and now face charges of second-degree murder, simple robbery, and obstruction of justice.

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Those wanting to be at the Superdome Monday night to cheer on the LSU Tigers in the CFP National Championship game will need to shell out some serious coin.  Stubhub spokesperson Adam Budelli says even the cheapest priced ticket to get into the game is currently $840.

Cut 12 (08) “…a massive game.” 

Budelli says the get-in price has remained relatively flat, and is expected to either remain flat or see a rise closer to kickoff.  Tickets have been purchased in Canada, the UK, and Australia and from over 20 different states domestically.

Cut 13 (07) “…state of Louisiana.”

Budelli says compared to other years, this game is on pace to be one of the biggest selling National Championship games On StubHub.

Cut 14 (12) “…at Levi’s Stadium.”

Roughly 4000 tickets are currently up for grabs on Stubhub.

An LSU Health New Orleans School of Medicine professor details the first reported case and treatment of stagnant blood flow with an astronaut stationed at the International Space Station. Kevin Barnhart has the story

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”

________________________________________

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife will stock 13 fishing sites later this month with rainbow trout as part of the “Get Out and Fish” community fishing program. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart.” 

____________________________________________

The countdown is on for next Monday’s national championship game between LSU and Clemson. Matt Doyle has more…

Cut 3 (30)  “… I’m Matt Doyle” 

____________________________________________

An LSU Health New Orleans School of Medicine professor details the treatment of a  blood clot involving an astronaut on the International Space Station. Dr. Serena Aunon-Chancellor is the lead author of the paper and she says the findings demonstate that the human body reaction to space travel still surprises us…

Cut 4 (11) “…moon or Mars.”

An ultrasound performed about two months into the mission revealed a blood clot in one astronaut. It’s the first time NASA had encountered this condition in space before. The astronaut took blood thinners to shrink the clot and it was eventually gone 10 days after the astronaut returned to earth.

Aunon-Chancellor says the paper details how the astronaut was treated while in orbit.

Cut 5 (08) “…here on earth.”

Aunon-Chancellor says it is a huge honor to have her paper published in the New England Journal of Medicine…

Cut 6 (10) “…much broader community.”

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The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries will stock 13 fishing sites around Louisiana later this month with rainbow trout.  LDWF fisheries biologist Megan MacMenamin says it is all part of the “Get Out and Fish” community fishing program.

Cut 7 (10) “…state of Louisiana.”

Rainbow trout is a cold-water fish, and will only be able to survive in Louisiana during winter months.  MacMenamin says by doing the stocking, it really increases an angler’s odds of catching a fish.

Cut 8 (08) “…bit more appeal.”

MacMenamin says the fish being stocked are adult rainbow trouts that are about one to two pounds in weight, but they could get much bigger.

Cut 9 (07) “…1 to 2 pounds.”

________________________________________

A big weekend of national championship game events kicks-off  Saturday with a fan fest at the Morial Convention Center in New Orleans and musical acts performing at Woldenberg Park. New Orleans host committee executive director Jeff Hundley says fans can also participate in media day at Xavier University on Saturday

Cut 10 (11) “…been held”

On Sunday night at Mardi Gras World, it’s the Taste of the Championship. Local residents and fans can sample gourmet food and drinks. Proceeds benefit the CFP Foundation’s Extra Yard for Teachers Initiative.

Hundley says even though Baton Rouge is just up the road from New Orleans, they expect hotel capacity in New Orleans to be close to capacity…

Cut 11 (08) “…have you”

_______________________________________________________

For the second year in a row, the Saints lose a home postseason game in overtime as Minnesota upset the Black and Gold 26-20 in overtime. The Vikings had the better running attack, Kirk Cousins made some big throws and the Saints offense struggled through the first three quarters. Coach Sean Payton says they didn’t lose by a miracle or bad call this time…

Cut 12 (11) follow up game” 

Quarterback Drew Brees threw for 208 yards and a touchdown, but he was also intercepted once and lost a fumble for the first time this year. The 40-year-old Brees says it was a hard-fought game, but it hurts to come up short…

Cut 13 (07) “…disappointing”  (2x)

The Vikings fumbled on their first possession, but the Saints had to settle for a field goal despite great field position. Brees says not scoring a touchdown on the first drive set a bad tone…

Cut 14 (07) “…we did .”

Brees will turn 41-years-old this month but did not want to speculate on his playing future during his postgame press conference. But expressed optimism about the Saints future…

Cut 15 (15) “…free agency”

Brees is in the final year of his contract and could be a free agent in March.

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The Ragin Cajuns go after their 11th victory tonight when they face Miami of Ohio in the Lending Tree Bowl in Mobile, Alabama. The Red Hawks started 2-and-4, but won six of their last seven including the MAC Championship game. Cajuns Coach Billy Napier on what Miami does well…

Cut 16  (25)  …explosive plays” 

UL-Lafayette has never won 11 games in a season. This team features 20 seniors and Napier says it’s a special group led by Kevin Dotson, Jacques Boudreaux and Ja’Marcus Bradley…

Cut 17  (23) “than that” 

_________________________________________________

A week from tonight the LSU Tigers will try to complete a perfect 15-0 season by beating Clemson in the national championship game. Sophomore Tigers linebacker K’Lavon Chaisson has played very well down the stretch and is likely getting ready to play in his final game in purple and gold…

cut 18  (27) special”  

An improved LSU defense faces its biggest test. Clemson has one of the top quarterbacks in the nation in Trevor Lawrence, who is 25-0 as a starter during his college career. Defensive lineman Rashard Lawrence says he is impressed in Lawrence’s ability to run with the football

cut 19 (23)  good game”  

LSU safety Jacoby Stevens is impressed with Clemson’s overall talent on offense…

cut 20 (20) “    NFL throws    ”    

Oil prices have jumped after a U-S airstrike assassination of Iran’s top general. Brooke Thorington on what this means for motorists.

Cut 1 (28) “…I’m Brooke Thorington” 

_____________________

The road to Miami and Super Bowl 54 continues for the Saints on Sunday as they host the Vikings in the wildcard round of the playoffs. Jeff Palermo has a preview…

cut  2 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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After a U-S airstrike in Baghdad, oil prices and futures have seen a 4-percent increase so far. GasBuddy-dot-com says we should see gas prices start to rise at the pump over the next week or two at least 5 to ten cents a gallon. But GasBuddy Head of Petroleum Analysis Patrick DeHaan says that all could change.

Cut 3 (12) “…impact.”

DeHaan says we shouldn’t expect a major spike in oil prices overnight, but the situation is very fluid at the moment. However, if the situation worsens there are fears we could see prices hit the $3-a gallon mark.

Cut 4 (10) “…in Louisiana.”

DeHaan says gas prices should be somewhat insulated here seeing as the U-S is producing 7 and a half million more barrels of oil every day than we were a decade ago.

Cut 5 (09) “…wildcard here.”

The average gas price per gallon in Louisiana is $2.31

_______________________

The Saints and Vikings are set to meet for the fifth time in an N-F-L postseason game on Sunday at noon. Minnesota has won three of the four previous meetings, but they are the underdog this time around. NFL analyst Mike Detillier says the Vikings will need a big game out of running back Dalvin Cook

Cut 6 (10) “…thing here”

For the Saints to have success on offense, they’ll need to control Minnesota’s pass rush led by Everson Griffin and former LSU star Danielle Hunter…

Cut 7 (09) “…this game.”

The Saints won 13 regular-season games last year and lost in the N-F-C Title game. New Orleans has 13 wins again in the regular season, but Detillier says the Saints are playing better on offense than a year ago and Drew Brees is a big reason why…

Cut 8 (11) “…on offense.”

_________________________________

The Ragin’ Cajuns are preparing to play Miami of Ohio in the LendingTree Bowl in Mobile, Alabama.  While attendance is expected to be low due to the game taking place on a Monday night, season ticket holder Craig Melancon says the fans making the trip are excited to be there.

Cut 9 (08) “…traveled to Mobile.”

If the game were to fall on a weekend, Melancon expects they would likely have about 10,000 more fans show up.

Melancon says the alumni association has put together a Sunday night event with several of the downtown bars.

Cut 10 (09) “…Mardi Gras parade.”

The team already has ten wins, and Melancon says for them to close out the season with an eleventh victory in Mobile is huge for the program.

Cut 11 (09) “…to Cajun Field.”

Kickoff is at 6:30 Monday night.

______________________

A single-vehicle crash south of Alexandria killed a man from Bunkie and a woman from Marksville. State Police Trooper Casey Wallace says the victims were not buckled up when the driver lost control on Highway 71 early Friday morning…

Cut 12 (10) “…woodline.” 

43-year-old Hoang Thai Nguyen and 40-year-old Le Bui Chatelain were pronounced dead at a hospital. Wallace says they were not wearing a seat belt…

Cut 13 (10) “…like that”

Wallace says routine toxicology tests are pending as the crash remains under investigation

Cut 14 (09) “…what happened”

About six-thousand taxpayers that were sent double tax returns last March have yet to repay the state. Brooke Thorington has more on what they are facing.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Brooke Thorington” 

_____________________

29-year-old Jeremy Anderson is arrested in Baton Rouge as the man allegedly behind the premeditated murders of three homeless people last month. Matt Doyle has more…

cut  2 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle”

___________________________

Over six-thousand Louisiana taxpayers have yet to repay the state after a computer glitch last March sent them a double tax refund. Louisiana Department of Revenue spokesperson Byron Henderson says only half of the individuals given an extra refund in error have yet to repay the state.

Cut 3 (10) “…that is owed.”

Henderson says ignoring collection letters for the amount owed will only delay the inevitable.

Cut 4 (10) “…is satisfied.”

Collection efforts include offsetting state and Federal tax returns, wage garnishments and bank levies.

Henderson says procrastinating about what is owed can be costly, late fees are owed on the debt as well.

Cut 5 (07) “…25 percent.”

The total amount of repayment yet to be paid is $1.9 million. If you owe money to the state contact the department to return the amount in a lump sum or set up a repayment plan

_______________________

The Ragin’ Cajuns are mourning the death of former athletics director David Walker.  Walker served in many roles in the administration for more than thirty years, including his run as the interim AD from 2005, then officially taking the reins in 2007 through his retirement in 2010.  Voice of the Ragin Cajuns Jay Walker remembers his impact.

Cut 6 (10) “…really respected him.”

David Walker helped navigate the University and Lafayette communities through the aftermaths of hurricanes Katrina and Rita.  Jay Walker remembers the AD as being an effective fundraiser for the department.

Cut 7 (10) “…was very persuasive.”

Just before his retirement, Walker hired basketball coach Bob Marlin and former football coach Mark Hudspeth.

Cut 8 (10) “…New Orleans Bowls.”

_________________________________

Authorities arrest a suspect in the allegedly premeditated murders of three homeless people in Baton Rouge last month. East Baton Rouge Sheriff Sid Geautreaux says one of his detectives received a tip that led to the arrest of 29-year-old Jeremy Anderson…

Cut 9 (08) “…crimes”

Anderson has been charged with two counts of 1st Degree Murder, and one count of 2nd Degree Murder.

Anderson is thought to have murdered 40-year-old Gregory Corcoran and 53-year-old Christina Fowler December 13^th, and 50-year-old Tony Williams December 27^th. District Attorney Hillar Moore says a crime lab linked the two scenes…

Cut 10 (11) “…person.”

Corcoran and Fowler were found underneath an overpass, and Williams was discovered on the front porch of a vacant residence.

Baton Rouge Police Chief Murphy Paul says Anderson does have a criminal history, and while they don’t have a motive yet, they’re confident it was just a one-man job…

Cut 11 (10) “…presents”

Anderson lived just blocks away from the murders, per the Advocate.

______________________

Out of the four NFL Wildcard playoff games this weekend, the Saints are the biggest favorite. The Saints are eight-point favorites over the Vikings, but oddsmaker consultant Scott Cooley says he could see that line come down before Sunday’s noon kickoff…

Cut 12 (06) “…we’ll see.” 

Cooley says even though the Saints will have to win three playoff games to reach the Super Bowl in Miami, they are one of the favorites to get to south Florida

Cut 13 (12) “…the conference”

Cooley says historically, sports fans like betting on the Saints…

Cut 14 (10) “…those guys.”

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” 

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

cut  2 (30) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”

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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.

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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.”

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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.

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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”

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

Cut 2 (52) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart” 

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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” 

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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.

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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.”

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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.” 

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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”