Since 2019, Louisiana’s economy showed mixed progress according to the Committee of 100’s (C100) year-end report shows wages statewide have increased by 25-percent.

Cut 1 (36) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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The mayor of New Orleans is seeking federal assistance on security plans. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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The Committee of 100’s (C100) year-end economic report says wages statewide have increased 25-percent since 2019, with the average weekly wage nearly 12-hundred dollars. Committee of 100 CEO Adam Knapp says the state has made progress in bringing in more higher paying jobs, but there’s still more work to do…

Cut 3 (08) “…Louisiana since 2019.”

The report also says healthcare, construction, and professional services will be the fastest job growing sectors through 2032. Knapp says healthcare alone is expected to create 20,000 new jobs, with high demand for registered nurses, medical assistants, and home health aides.

Cut 4 (07) “…future in healthcare.”

The Meta data center in Richland Parish demonstrates progress, with not only new jobs, but also with well-paying jobs.  Knapp says its one of the most significant economic development deals in the country.

Cut 5 (09) “…the entire state.”

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New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell is seeking federal assistance on security plans for the Super Bowl and Mardi Gras.

Cut 6 (15) “…months on end.”

Mayor Cantrell says one of the things she’d like the tactical expert to do is to determine whether the city’s plans for bollards on Bourbon Street are sufficient to prevent another tragedy like the one that happened early on New Year’s Day.

Cut 7 (08) “…for public safety.”

Today, President Biden has granted Mayor Cantrell’s request that Mardi Gras be upgraded to a SEAR 1 event, the highest Special Event Assessment Rating by the Department of Homeland Security.

Cut 8 (09) “…and months ahead.”

SEAR 1 events are events that require extensive federal interagency support. The Super Bowl is already designated as a SEAR 1 event.

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There are some changes in unemployment insurance in Louisiana that took effect January 1st. Robert Wooley, the assistant secretary of Unemployment Insurance Administration at the Louisiana Workforce Commission, says benefits go down from 26 weeks to between 12 and 20 weeks, depending on the unemployment rate.

Cut 9 (06)  “…12-week range.”

Wooley says there are ways that people can get up to eight additional weeks of benefits.

Cut 10 (11) “…that would qualify.”

The state is also cracking down on unemployment fraud. Wooley says those who knowingly commit fraud by collecting benefits will be disqualified from receiving future benefits until they make restitution. Also, the state will pursue legal action in certain cases.

Cut 11 (10) “…they would prosecute.”

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A magnitude 3.0 earthquake struck southeast of Mooringsport, early this morning, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.  This tremor follows another 3.0 magnitude earthquake reported late Sunday night in the same region of Caddo Parish. U.S. Geological Survey Research Geophysicist Thomas Pratt says this has been occurring for the past few weeks.

Cut 12 (09) “…call them a sequence.”

In 2024, several tremors were recorded in northern parts of the state. While earthquakes are relatively rare in Louisiana compared to neighboring Texas, tremors measuring 0.5 or higher on the Richter scale are increasing, according to Pratt.

Cut 13 (09)  “…operations up there.”

Pratt says this is due to oil and gas companies injecting fluid into the earth that increases the pressure and opens the faults up more.

Cut 14 (13) “…something larger.”

In the wake of the New Year’s Day Terrorist attack on Bourbon Street, French Quarter businesses are asking what can be done to prevent something like it from happening again.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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A vigil will be held Saturday night at seven in memory of the 14 innocent victims of Wednesday morning’s terror attack on Bourbon Street. Meanwhile, after being closed for nearly 36 hours, Bourbon Street is getting back to normal. Andrew Greenstein was there last night.

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Louisiana Congressman Mike Johnson of Benton was re-elected as House Speaker, but it came with drama. Two Republican Congressmen initially voted for someone else, but switched their support when given another chance, giving Johnson the necessary votes to retain the gavel. Johnson told the House it’s time to get to work and that means putting Americans first again…

Cut 3 (12) “…working people.” 

Johnson says there will be a focus on common sense legislation that includes strengthening the southern border, renewing the Trump era tax cuts and returning to energy dominance…

Cut 4 (12) “…do so.”

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Many of the victims of Wednesday’s attack on Bourbon Street were brought to University Medical Center in New Orleans. Chief Medical Officer Jeffrey Elder: 

Cut 5 (14) “…sister LCMC Hospitals.”

Elder says the majority of the injuries that hospital personnel treated were orthopedic injuries – broken bones, including arms and legs. They had some gunshot wounds and blunt trauma, including head and chest. Elder says some patients remain hospitalized, and others have been released.

Cut 6 (09) “…from the hospital.”

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Days after the New Year’s Day Terror attack on Bourbon Street people are asking how this happened and what can be done to prevent anything like it from happening again.  Russell Desmond owner of Arcadian Books located in the French Quarter, says things are getting back to normal.

Cut 7 (09) “…a week ago.”

Desmond says there’s an increased security presence around the French Quarter and he said it was on full display for Thursday night’s Sugar Bowl as bomb sniffing dogs were checking vehicles attempting to park at the Dome. He says it’s all in effort to put people more at ease…

Cut 8 (14) “…crowd events.”

Desmond says moving forward is necessary for the city, and says we need to remember those lost and put security measures in place to prevent attacks like this in the future.

Cut 9 (11)  “…doesn’t happen again.”

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Things are returning to normal on Bourbon Street, two days after a terrorist plowed a pickup truck into a crowd, killing 14 innocent people. Crowds returned to one of the country’s most famous streets after it was closed for nearly 36 hours after the attack. One woman visiting New Orleans from Indiana says the incident will not keep her from returning to the city.

Cut 10 (05) “…100-percent come back.”

One New Orleans pastor says he’s heartbroken that such a heinous event happened in the City of New Orleans.

Cut 11 (10) “…those different things.”

A vigil will be held Saturday night at seven in memory of those killed in the attack.

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The mild weather we’ve been experiencing will come to an end on Sunday as the coldest weather of the season will begin to make its way into the Bayou State. LSU Public Health Climatologist Barry Keim says high temperatures will be in the 70s on Sunday, but be prepared for a big change…

Cut 12 (10) “…so far.”

Keim says the threat of severe weather exists Sunday for nearly the entire state, starting Sunday morning for northwest Louisiana and moving across the state as the day goes on…

Cut 13 (05)  “…lookout for that.”

High temperatures statewide on Monday will only be in the 40s and Keim says morning lows will be several degrees below the freezing mark…

Cut 14 (09) “…whole week.”

In light of the terror attack on Bourbon Street early yesterday morning, Governor Landry has issued an emergency declaration. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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The City of New Orleans had a plan to keep revelers on Bourbon Street safe. The city is admitting defeat. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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In light of the terror attack on Bourbon Street, talk will undoubtedly ramp up on turning it into a permanent pedestrian mall. Colleen Crain reports.

Cut 3 (34) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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Governor Landry has issued an emergency declaration following yesterday morning’s terror attack on Bourbon Street. That will allow Landry to use local, state and federal resources to keep people safe at the Sugar Bowl, the Super Bowl next month and during Mardi Gras. Landry says as part of his declaration, he’s ordered the mobilization of a military police company.

Cut 4 (11) “…and the FBI.”

Landry says people going to the Sugar Bowl today should not do so in fear.

Cut 5 (12) “…paramount to me” 

Landry says to demonstrate how safe the Superdome area will be, he will be attending the game originally slated to take place last night.

Cut 6 (15) “…it was yesterday.”

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Several years ago, bollards were installed at every intersection along Bourbon Street. But early yesterday morning, they were missing at the time that Shamsud-Din Jabbar drove onto the street and plowed into the crowd. Mayor LaToya Cantrell says shortly after the bollards were installed, they started malfunctioning.

Cut 7 (09) “…intended to do.”

With the Super Bowl coming to New Orleans next month, the city included replacing the bollards as part of its Super Bowl infrastructure package. Cantrell says the replacement work is ongoing.

Cut 8 (09) “…before Super Bowl.”

In the meantime, New Orleans Police placed a single patrol vehicle blocking off Bourbon Street at Canal Street. Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick says Jabbar defeated that plan.

Cut 9 (15)  “…still got around.”

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The tragedy on Bourbon Street is going to reignite talk about turning that street into a permanent pedestrian mall. New Orleans Councilman J.P. Morrell says that conversation will now be taking place very soon.

Cut 10 (12) “…the French Quarter.”

Morrell says whatever security measures had been in place to protect the people visiting the French Quarter have been proven to be ineffective.

Cut 11 (16) “…accessible to vehicles (2x).”

Morrell says what’s frustrating is that people knew a long time ago that Bourbon Street is a prime target for terrorists to carry out mass casualty attacks.

Cut 12 (12) “…of that list.”

In a little more than a month from now, New Orleans will be hosting Super Bowl 59. The event was already designated a Homeland Security event, with law enforcement already being beefed up. Councilman Morrell says that’s the way it’s going to be for other major events, like Mardi Gras, moving forward.

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Senator John Kennedy and New Orleans Congressman Troy Carter are speaking out about the terror attack on Bourbon Street that killed ten in the early morning hours of New Year’s Day. At a news conference at New Orleans Police headquarters, Kennedy said he’s dumbfounded as to why anyone would do such a heinous thing.

Cut 13 (07)  “…going to ask.”

Kennedy had a stern order to federal investigators.

Cut 14 (17) “…they stole Christmas.”

Congressman Carter said no stone will go unturned in finding the other people responsible for the terrorist attack.

Cut 15 (11) “…cowards to justice.”

Carter had a message for Jabbar’s accomplices.

Cut 16 (10) “…you to justice.”

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Just like all of New Orleans, the Saints felt the impact of the New Year’s morning terrorist attack on Bourbon Street. Interim head coach Darren Rizzi says hearing the news brought back painful memories. Rizzi lost two high school football teammates during the 9-11 attacks and could see the smoke from the knocked down Twin Towers from his childhood home in New Jersey…

Cut 17 (17)  “…in our country.” 

Saints linebacker Demario Davis is a man of great faith. Davis says there is no way you can compartmentalize or process it…

Cut 18 (18)   “…impacted.”

Rizzi says he first heard the tragic news when he pulled into the parking lot of the Saints training facility, he quickly tried to determine the location of his son who was in the French Quarter on New Year’s eve…

Cut 19 (20) “…last night.”

Louisiana steps onto the worldwide stage tomorrow with a float at the Tournament of Roses Parade. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Backed with an endorsement from President-elect Donald Trump, Louisiana Congressman Mike Johnson is confident he will be re-elected as House Speaker. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (29) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Tonight is a big night for fireworks and the State Fire Marshal’s office is urging everyone to enjoy them the safest way possible. That means detonating devices 200 feet away from structures and vehicles. Never allowing children to light fireworks, lighting devices one at time and Deputy Chief Nick Heinen says never use fireworks while impaired…

Cut 3 (09) “…Happy New Year.” 

A recent study by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission shows that fireworks-related injuries are on the rise across the country.

Heinen says there have been over 300 retail fireworks permits issued for this end-of-the-year season and to only buy fireworks from certified fireworks retailers.

Cut 4 (15) “…passed successfully.”

Heinen says to ensure a safe celebration, set up a Safety Zone.  Use stakes, twine, or decorations to mark a safe area away from the fireworks display.

Cut 5 (09) “…like that.”

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Just one more day before Louisiana steps onto the worldwide stage at the Tournament of Roses parade in Pasadena, California. Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser has been hands-on in the design and construction of the float, which ties in beautifully with this year’s theme.

Cut 6 (09) “…is Saturday night.”

Nungesser says the float features all the unique things that make Louisiana such a special place to live.

Cut 7 (14) “…around the float.”

And what better way to showcase “Louisiana Saturday Night” than with a rendition of a song by that same title! Timothy Wayne, who’s currently studying at LSU, majoring in history, released his version of the 1980 Mel McDaniel hit earlier this month, and he will be on the float performing that song in front of a worldwide television audience. Nungesser says it will be a very proud moment for Wayne, for LSU and for the State of Louisiana.

Cut 8 (07) “…this young man.”

The Tournament of Roses Parade airs tomorrow morning at ten on NBC and ABC. Tune in early, the float and Timothy Wayne will be featured sometime in the first hour.

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Louisiana Republican Congressman Mike Johnson says President-elect Donald Trump’s endorsement of him for House Speaker was supposed to come on New Year’s Day, but Johnson told News Radio 710 KEEL in Shreveport he would like the endorsement to come earlier

Cut 9 (12)  “…so he did,”

In a social media post, Trump said Speaker Johnson is a good, hard working, religious man who will do the right thing. Because the GOP has a razor thin majority in the House, Johnson’s re-election as House Speaker is not a guarantee. Louisiana’s Fourth District Congressman says Trump’s complete and total endorsement will certainly help in his re-election chances…

Cut 10 (13) “…the line.”

A new Congress will be sworn in on Friday and that’s when the U-S House will vote on Speaker. A serious challenger to Johnson has not emerged…

Cut 11 (08) “…get the votes.”

The Republican from Bossier Parish has been House Speaker since October 2023. Kentucky Congressman Thomas Massie has already said he will not vote for Johnson, so Johnson can not afford to lose anymore Republican votes.

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Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves is departing Congress after nearly a decade, choosing not to run for reelection due to redistricting that significantly altered his constituency.

Cut 12 (09) “…that we have.”

Graves focused on practical infrastructure and disaster recovery projects rather than high-profile legislation. His accomplishments include the Red Snapper regulation returned to the state, using technology to comply with the Privacy Act, and upgrades to Baton Rouge-area highways like the Washington Street exit.

Cut 13 (08)  “…new terrace exit.”

Reflecting on Congress, Graves criticized the rise of theatrics over substance and emphasized his pride in meaningful achievements.

Cut 14 (11) “…truly deserves.”

Mike Johnson just got a huge boost in his quest to retain the speaker’s gavel. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (36) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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A lifelong Louisiana Democrat remembers President Jimmy Carter who passed away on Sunday at the age of 100. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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President-elect Donald Trump has endorsed Mike Johnson to return as Speaker of the House. In a post on social media, Trump says Johnson would provide, in his words, immediate relief from all the destructive policies of the last administration. LSU political science professor Robert Hogan says Trump’s endorsement is a 180 of sorts.

Cut 3 (09) “…recent budget deal.” 

With Republicans holding a very slim majority in the 119th Congress, it will take a nearly unified G-O-P caucus to agree on a speaker. Hogan says Trump’s endorsement is intended to achieve that unanimity.

Cut 4 (12) “…his preferences are.”

Hogan says it’s in Trump’s best interest to get the House Republican caucus on the same page, and quickly.

Cut 5 (12) “…speaker be elected.”

Hogan says it’s unlikely that Hogan will draw any significant challengers to his speakership.

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America is mourning the death of our 39^th president. Jimmy Carter passed away yesterday at the age of 100. The Democrat from Georgia served only one term in the White House, but might be best known for what he did after politics. Public Service Commissioner Foster Campbell says Carter went around the world to resolve conflict, promote democracy, protect human rights and prevent disease….

Cut 6 (10) “…What a Great American” (2x)

He and his wife also helped rebuild thousands of home for Habitat for Humanity, including several in Louisiana following Hurricane Katrina.

When he ran for President in 1976, he held a rally in Jackson Square in New Orleans, and Campbell remembers the personal touch he provided in northwest Louisiana

Cut 7 (11) “…for President.”

Carter lost in his re-election bid to Ronald Reagan in 1980. But Campbell says Carter didn’t stop trying to make the world a better place…

Cut 8 (11) “…some of these diseases.”

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Lafourche Parish has joined the Atchafalaya National Heritage Area, aligning its boundaries with the historical Atchafalaya Basin.  Executive Director Justin Lemoine aims to develop a recreational master plan and identify culturally significant sites in Lafourche.

Cut 9 (13)  “…historic region,”

Previously excluded due to an oversight when the Heritage Area was established in 2006, Lafourche’s inclusion rectifies a gap in representing Louisiana’s unique culture. Lemoine says this inclusion allows the parish to access federal funding for recreational projects and historical preservation through the National Park Service’s program.

Cut 10 (10) “…recreational resources .”

The bipartisan legislation, spearheaded by U-S House Majority Leader Steve Scalise and supported by Louisiana lawmakers, passed swiftly and was signed into law by President Biden.  Lemoine says the Atchafalaya National Heritage Area spans 15 parishes and over 11,000 square miles, showcasing Louisiana’s distinct food, music, and cultural ties to the land.

Cut 11 (08) “…part of the country.”

Louisiana saw a population increase for 2024 according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Colleen Crain has more.

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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Governor Jeff Landry’s first year in office was eventful with major legislation getting approved. Jeanne Burns looks back….

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Jeanne Burns.”

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New voting machines will soon be coming to Louisiana. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 3 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Looking for something to do New Year’s Day? The climate here in Louisiana is a little too warm for the Polar Bear Plunge, so why not take a hike? Louisiana State Parks Director Brandon Burris says all state parks are taking part in conjunction with America’s State Parks’ First Day Hikes, which started in Massachusetts in 1992.

Cut 4 (05) “…has to offer.”

Burris says it’s a way for the state to introduce its state parks to those either new to the state or to those who don’t regularly use them.

Cut 5 (09) “…marshes and byways.” 

Burris says many hikes are led by rangers.

Cut 6 (11) “…great animals here.”

For more information, visit the Louisiana State Parks First Day Hikes webpage.

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Louisiana’s population grew slightly in 2024 according to U.S. Census Bureau data. The state’s estimated population on July first was over 4.59-million up nearly 10-thousand from 2023. Demographer Greg Rigamer says this a small increase after three straight years of decline.

Cut 7 (13) “…lot of pepeople.”

Population losses have been widespread, particularly in central and northeast Louisiana. Caddo and Plaquemines parishes have also seen declines, but Rigamer says southeastern parishes like East Baton Rouge, Ascension, and Livingston are growing.

Cut 8 (08) “…significant factors.”

Governor Landry says his tax reform package will help end migration out of the state and bring more people to Louisiana. Rigamer says we’ll have to wait and see if that happens

Cut 9 (09)  “…within our region.” 

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It was a busy first year in office for Governor Jeff Landry. Landry got lawmakers to pass legislation that seeks to reduce crime, he also got lawmakers on board with a school choice bill, and he capped off 2024 by getting lawmakers to approve a major overhaul of the state’s tax code…

Cut 10 (13) “…health care.”

Landry says the tax reform legislation will lower everyone’s income taxes on January 1^st, but it will also increase the state sales tax to five percent. He says the tax reform plan will also eliminate the corporate franchise tax and help lure new businesses to the state, while also helping the ones currently here…

Cut 11 (09) “…for us.”

Part of the tax reform plan still needs voter approval and a Constitutional Amendment revising Article Seven of the state constitution will go before voters in March. Landry says there’s a lot packed into that amendment, including a permanent increase to teacher salaries…

Cut 12 (15) “…our businesses.”

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New voting machines will soon be coming in Louisiana. Secretary of State Nancy Landry says while the new model has not yet been selected, one thing that’s for certain is that in accordance with a new state law, there will be a paper component.

Cut 13 (11)  “…a locked box.”

Landry says having the paper ballot will allow the state to easily verify the machine vote tally.

Cut 14 (11) “…recount is necessary.”

Landry says the state has not yet issued a request for proposals and there’s a lengthy approval process. Therefore, it will be a few years before voters will start casting their ballots on the new machines.

Cut 15 (08) “…testing it out.”

Landry says the current machines are 30 years old and as such, there are no replacement parts available for them.

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It was a great season for U-L Lafayette football, but the Cajuns had a couple of ugly postseason games. U-L Lafayette followed up a blowout loss in the Sun Belt Championship game with another blowout loss on Saturday. T-C-U trounced the Cajuns 34 to 3 in the New Mexico Bowl. Coach Michael Desormeaux’s team was playing without several starters who left the program for the transfer portal…

Cut 16 (20) “…going to compete.”

Desormeaux also feels good about the future and is eager to develop the chemistry needed for another winning season in 2025….

Cut 17 (17)  “…going to do.” 

The Cajuns finished 2024, 10-and-4.

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The Saints wanted to give their fans something to cheer about, but other than a nice trick play that resulted in a touchdown, there was not much to cheer about Sunday in a 25 to 10 loss to the Raiders. Interim head coach Darren Rizzi says the third down stat tells the story, the Saints only converted once on third down, while Las Vegas was 10-of-18 on third down…

Cut 18 (12)   “…like turnovers.”

Rookie Spencer Rattler got the start and looked sharp in the first half, but New Orleans could do nothing in the second half. Rattler finished 20 of 36 for 219 yards. He threw one touchdown pass, but he was intercepted twice and sacked three times…

Cut 19 (17) “…in the second half.”

The Saints are now 5-and-11 and wrap up the regular season on Sunday at Tampa Bay.

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The LSU Tigers will play Baylor tomorrow in the Texas Bowl to close out the 2024 season. The Bayou Bengals received good news for the 2025 season as star linebacker Harold Perkins announced he’s returning for his senior season. Perkins played only four games in 2024 because of a season-ending knee injury. Coach Brian Kelly is happy Perkins is coming back

Cut 20 (20) “…to write.”

State Attorney General Liz Murrill looks back at year one in office and looks ahead to year two. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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The Independence Bowl is Saturday night and Louisiana Tech is looking to upset 22^nd ranked Army. Jeff Palermo has a preview…

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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No matter where in the state you’re at, you will want to be weather aware tomorrow. LSU Public Health climatologist Barry Keim says a cold front is coming through, and that’s going to bring heavy rains. 

Cut 3 (09) “…even heavier rainfall.” 

Keim says while there’s potential for severe weather everywhere across the state, some parts of the state will be at higher risk of severe storms than others.

Cut 4 (13) “…else in Louisiana.”

Keim says those in the northern and eastern portions of the state should also be prepared for the potential of tornadoes.

Cut 5 (07) “…very strong tornadoes.”

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Attorney General Liz Murrill looks back at her first year in office and looks ahead to year two. Murrill says one of her biggest accomplishments is addressing crime in New Orleans through the creation of Troop NOLA within the State Police, saying it’s a force multiplier.

Cut 6 (10) “…have a need.”

As for her priorities in year two, Murrill said she would like to focus on the fentanyl crisis.

Cut 7 (15) “…opioid settlement money.”

Murrill says it’s an idea that the office of Arizona’s Democratic attorney general is implementing.

Cut 8 (16) “…the long-term.”

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The Mega Millions jackpot has soared to 1.22-billion dollars for tonight’s drawing. Louisiana Lottery Communications Director Kimberly Chopin (show-PAN) says it has a lump sum cash value of 549-million dollars.

Cut 9 (15)  “…September 11th,”

Chopin says there has never been a Mega Millions jackpot winner in Louisiana; but since the last time the jackpot was won, three players in Louisiana have won over one-million dollars.

Cut 10 (13) “…winning jackpot roll.”

Chopin says check your numbers as soon as possible; because if someone does win big, the clock starts ticking for that person to claim his or her winnings.

Cut 11 (13) “…claim their winnings.”

Tonight’s winning numbers will be drawn just before 10 p.m. Central time.

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A 13-year-old boy is hit and killed while riding a bicycle on a dark country roadway in Tangipahoa Parish. State Police say Benjamin Mixon of Kentwood was riding with another juvenile on State Highway 1061 at around 6:30 yesterday evening when an SUV hit them from behind. State Police Trooper Marc Gremillion (GREM-ee-on) says with a speed limit of 55 miles an hour and no shoulder, there was no way the driver could have seen the two boys until it was too late.

Cut 12 (03) “…at a hillcrest.”

Gremillion says Benjamin and the other rider did not help matters with the clothing they were wearing.

Cut 13 (05)  “…on the roadway.”

Also, Gremillion says neither bike had any lights on it. Troopers took a toxicology sample from the driver, as per standard procedure.

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For the sixth time in the program’s history, Louisiana Tech will play in the Independence Bowl. The Bulldogs will battle 22^nd ranked Army at 8:15 on Saturday night. The Black Knights are led by quarterback Bryson Dailey, who finished sixth in the Heisman Trophy voting. Tech Coach Sonny Cumbie says not only does Army have a great quarterback, but their offensive line is outstanding…

Cut 14 (07) “…offensive line.”

Louisiana Tech enters the game with a five and seven record, but statistically they have one of the best defenses in the country, allowing just over 300 yards a game. Linebacker Zach Zimos says they will be challenged by Army

Cut 15 (12) “…how to play.”

Tech is missing several key players from its defense, because they entered the transfer portal.

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The Ragin Cajuns will face TCU in the New Mexico Bowl in Albuquerque on Saturday at 1:15 central time. U-L Lafayette is in a bowl game for a seventh straight year and they are 10-and-3 on the season, while the Horned Frogs are 8-and-4. Cajuns Coach Michael Desormeaux says the team that makes the fewest mistakes will win….

Cut 16 (12) “…going to win.”

It’s the first ever meeting between the two schools on the football field.

Thirty-four-thousand, 10-year lithium battery smoke alarms valued at more than 1-million dollars was donated by Lowe’s Home Improvement to the State Fire Marshal’s Operation Save-A-Life program.  Jeff Palermo has more.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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One of the goals in year two of the Landry administration is to make state government run more efficiently. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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The State Fire Marshal (SFM) says Lowe’s Home Improvement has donated over 34-thousans 10-year lithium battery smoke alarms to their Operation Save-A-Life program.  Valued at more than 1-million-dollars makes it the largest donation in its history.  State Fire Marshall Bryan Adams says since 2012, over 120,000 alarms have been installed through the program.

Cut 3 (09) “…working smoke alarm.” 

Lowe’s Slidell store initiated the donation, which STFPD #1 and SFM collaboratively accepted. Adams praised the partnership, emphasizing the life-saving impact of smoke alarms.

Cut 4 (05) “…several people’s lives.”

Slidell Store Manager John LeMaster expressed gratitude and commitment to community safety.

Cut 5 (14) “…really good day.”

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One of the goals of the Landry administration in year two is making state government run more efficiently. Jonesboro Representative Jack McFarland, the chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, says one way to accomplish that is by reining in government contracts.

Cut 6 (08) “…our government’s budget.”

McFarland says contrary to popular belief, the legislature goes not get to approve contracts; it only gets to review them. 

Cut 7 (08) “…to fund them.”

McFarland says another thing to look at is licensing and permits, saying more red tape placed on business and industry will cost more money to enforce.

Cut 8 (11) “…more hurdles.”

McFarland says Louisiana will be trying to do what President-elect Donald Trump is trying to do with the creation of his Department Of Government Efficiency, just at the state level.

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Foster care families can apply for a free pass to visit any of the state’s 21 state parks, 14 historical sites or nine state museums. Director of the Louisiana Office of State Parks Brandon Burris says they want to give thanks to foster caregivers for their time and extra expenses they put into helping foster care children. He says this imitative also provides foster families with something they can do together…

Cut 9 (07)  “…Louisiana has to offer,”

Burris says this was the brain child of Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser.  He emphasized the program’s goal of helping foster families create lasting memories while exploring Louisiana’s rich cultural and natural heritage.

Cut 10 (11) “…we have.”

Burris says the Louisiana State Parks Caregiver pass encourages foster families to enjoy recreational and educational opportunities together.

Cut 11 (08) “…this particular situation.”

According latest data, there were fewer than two-thousand licensed foster homes in Louisiana in 2023 and on average there are 41-hundred children in the state’s foster care system each day.

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There’s a slight risk for severe weather this afternoon and into tonight. LRN Meteorologist Bill Jacquemin says residents in Shreveport, Monroe, Alexandria and Lake Charles should be weather aware today

Cut 12 (10) “…heavy rain.”

Jacquemin says showers and storms may produce intense rainfall over short durations, potentially causing localized flash flooding…

Cut 13 (12)  “…tomorrow.”

There’s the possibility for another round of severe weather on Saturday.

Senator John Kennedy is hailing the passage of the Social Security Fairness Act. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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The Department of Justice is suing the State of Louisiana and the Louisiana Department of Corrections for allegedly keeping prisoners behind bars after they’ve completed their sentences. Sean Richardson reports.

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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Senator John Kennedy is hailing the passage of the Social Security Fairness Act. The act eliminates two provisions that reduced the Social Security benefits of people who worked in the public sector. Senator Kennedy said good riddance to them.

Cut 3 (17) “…earn their pensions.” 

Kennedy said Social Security is not free and belongs to the people who paid into it.

Cut 4 (09) “…who earned it”

Kennedy said the act, once signed into law, will benefit everyone who has paid into the system.

Cut 5 (13) “…Social Security Act.”

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State Police are investigating a fatal police shooting in Hammond on Saturday night. Authorities say a Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s deputy fatally shot 48-year-old Timothy Douglas of Ponchatoula during a foot pursuit. Trooper Marc Gremillion says the deputy was trying to apprehend Douglas who allegedly was driving a stolen vehicle…

Cut 6 (12) “…altercation ensued.”

Gremillion says during the physical altercation, the deputy fired his weapon, striking Douglas…

Cut 7 (11) “…shooting incident .”

Gremillion says the investigation remains active…

Cut 8 (09) “…working with us.”

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Unseasonably warm and wet weather is expected for the Christmas week, with highs in the mid-70s and rain likely through Saturday. LSU Public Health Climatologist Barry Keim says Christmas Eve and Christmas Day bring increased chances of showers and thunderstorms,

Cut 9 (09)  “…west of Shreveport,”

Keim says a cold front will come through Christmas Day and temperatures may reach 73 degrees.

Cut 10 (07) “…not very cold.”

Keim says we are not expecting severe weather with the rain this week…

Cut 11 (05) “…across the state.”

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The Justice Department is suing the State of Louisiana and the Louisiana Department of Corrections, claiming that the state is keeping prisoners in custody after they have completed their sentences. Lydia Wright with the Promise of Justice Initiative says a years-long investigation found that the Louisiana Department of Corrections is keeping thousands of prisoners behind bars beyond their scheduled release dates.

Cut 12 (09) “…served their time.”

Wright is pinning the blame on the state not using modern technology to keep track of when prisoners are scheduled to be released.

Cut 13 (15)  “…served their sentences.”

Governor Landry and Attorney General Liz Murrill issued a joint statement, calling the lawsuit frivolous and calling it, in their words, “Grinch Joe Biden’s parting Christmas present to the state and to its people.” The statement goes on to say that the problem stems from the failed criminal justice reforms pushed by the Biden administration. Wright says the problems started much earlier.

Cut 14 (13) “…policies and practices.”

The Louisiana Department of Health is prohibiting its workers from promoting seasonal vaccines. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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More than 25-percent of Louisiana third graders scored far below state reading targets on a fall assessment, according to recent data. Sean Richardson reports.

Cut 2 (36) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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Louisiana is on a winning streak of sorts in job growth. Colleen Crain has more.

Cut 3 (34) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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The Louisiana Department of Health is prohibiting workers from promoting seasonal vaccines like flu, COVID and mpox. That includes advertising, promoting on social media, giving media interviews and holding vaccine events. Rosemary Westwood broke the story for NPR; she says part of the directive comes from state Surgeon General Ralph Abraham.

Cut 4 (11) “…including masking.”

Westwood says that is something that the Department of Health had regularly done, especially since the start of the COVID pandemic.

Cut 5 (12) “…to get them.” 

Westwood says the policy is not being put into writing, which puts department workers in an uncomfortable position.

Cut 6 (07) “…is not okay.”

In a statement, the Department of Health says it’s been re-evaluating its priorities and messaging since the end of the pandemic. It says its position now is that seasonal vaccines and other practices like wearing masks and social distancing should be individual choices. It stresses that this only applies to seasonal vaccines and not childhood immunizations.

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More families in Louisiana are going hungry. Joel Berg with Hunger Free America says a new report shows that a quarter of a million Louisianians live in households that can’t afford enough food – that’s an increase of 10-percent since the summer of 2021.

Cut 7 (09) “…terms of hunger.”

Berg says one thing that has proven to work is taking advantage of federal food programs.

Cut 8 (14) “…really did help.”

In fact, 75-percent of recipients of that credit said they had enough money to buy more fruits and vegetables. Berg said another thing that would help would be making all school meals free, saying that the money that’s spent to determine which kids got free meals and which one get reduced-cost meals could actually go to feeding all kids.

Cut 9 (11)  “…all its kids.”

Berg says it’s no surprise that Louisiana has one of the highest hunger rates, since it already has one of the highest poverty rates.

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More than 1 in 4 Louisiana third graders scored far below state reading targets on a fall assessment. According to recent data, about 27% scored “well below” and 19% scored below expectations, meaning nearly half failed to meet literacy benchmarks. Under a new law, schools must create reading improvement plans within 30 days for students scoring “well below,” with targeted interventions such as tutoring or summer programs. Deputy Superintendent Jenna Chaisson (CHASS-on) says there has been many literacy improvements in the state.

Cut 10 (13) “…teachers and leaders”

Chaisson says implementing required science of reading training for teachers and the state wide literacy screener.

Cut 11 (14) “…how to read.”

Chaisson says these screeners gives them valuable information for where students are in their reading comprehension.

Cut 12 (13) “…literacy skills…”

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Some encouraging job numbers for Louisiana from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. It says added four-thousand non-farm jobs last month and more than 20-thousand non-farm jobs in the last year. The seasonally-adjusted unemployment rate ticked up two-tenths of a point to 4.3-percent, but Emily DiPalma with the Louisiana Workforce Commission says that’s nothing to be concerned about.

Cut 13 (08)  “…consider full employment.”

DiPalma says a few sectors led the way in job growth.

Cut 14 (09) “…over the year.”

As for which metropolitan areas led the way in the number of new jobs created, DiPalma says the state’s two biggest ones topped the list.

Cut 15 (16) “…over the year (3x).”

DiPalma says this marks 44 months in a row that monthly jobs experienced year-over-year growth.

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LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier threw for 37-hundred yards and 26 touchdowns this season and led the Tigers to eight victories. Nussmeier had the option to enter his name in the NFL draft, but the Lake Charles native says there’s still more to do at LSU…

Cut 16 (16) “…wasn’t finished.”

If Nussmeier entered the NFL draft, he would have likely been a second-day selection. Nuss is hoping to improve on what he did in 2024, so that he can be a first round pick in the 2026 NFL draft…

Cut 17 (18)  “…than I am now.” 

Nussmeier will have a new group of pass catchers next season as Kyren Lacy, CJ Daniels and Mason Taylor are moving on to the NFL or in Daniels case, the Miami Hurricanes.But the Tigers have restocked thanks to the transfer portal and have brought in some talented pass catchers in Bauer Sharp, Barion Brown and Nic Anderson.

Cut 18 (16)   “…that room.”

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The Saints are in Green Bay tonight. New Orleans rookie quarterback Spencer Rattler will make his fourth start of the season. Rattler made three starts in October and was sacked 14 times, but showed more poise coming off the bench last week. Rattler says when started two months ago, starting center Eirk McCoy was injured and having back him back is huge…

Cut 19 (10) “…a lot better.”

With the possibility of starting quarterback Derek Carr missing the rest of the season, there’s a chance Rattler will start the final three games of the season, giving New Orleans a chance to see what they have in Rattler. The rookie is not putting extra pressure on himself…

Cut 20 (12) “…to.”