Another Louisiana representative is added to a powerful GOP committee. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Louisiana Tech football coach Sonny Cumbie will return for a fourth season. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (26) “….I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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New Orleans endured a weekend of intense gun violence, with eight shootings in less than 12 hours, leaving three adults and a 3-year-old child dead, and nine others injured. New Orleans Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick says group fights on Canal and Bourbon Streets led to three shootings on Saturday night and into early Sunday, wounding six people…

Cut 3 (14) “…settling their beefs.” 

One of the victims included a 15-year-old shot on Bourbon Street, and another wounded on Canal Street.  NOPD Captain Lejon Roberts says the two shootings could be related.

Cut 4 (15) “…on Canal Street.”

One shooting that happened away from the French Quarter in Central City claimed the life of 3-year-old Rudy Ratliff, who died from a gunshot wound at a Willow Street home.  NOPD Sgt. Ron Howard says child found a gun inside Tatisha Refuge’s home and accidentally killed himself.  Howard says Refuge is facing criminal charges…

Cut 5 (13) “…investigation on Ms. Refuge.”

Refuge turned herself into police custody today

The weekend coincided with the Bayou Classic and holiday shopping, further amplifying community concerns. Authorities have not identified suspects in the shootings that happened in the French Quarter.

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Monroe-area Congresswoman Julia Letlow is added to the powerful House Republican Steering Committee. The committee is tasked with selecting chairs for all standing committees and deciding on the strategy for the Republican caucus. Letlow says she’s looking forward to serving on the committee.

Cut 6 (07) “…that they desire.”

Letlow says this powerful committee will have a major say on what the 119^th Congress will look like…

Cut 7 (11) “…committee selections.”

House Speaker Mike Johnson and Majority Leader Steve Scalise are also on the Republican Steering Committee, giving Louisiana 18-percent of the voting block. Letlow says she can’t wait to get to work for the people of Louisiana in the new Congress.

Cut 8 (13) “…of the state.”

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Despite three consecutive losing seasons, Louisiana Tech is bringing back football coach Sonny Cumbie for a fourth season. The Bulldogs went 5-and-7 this season, but 97.7 in Ruston Sports Director Sean Fox says an upset win over Western Kentucky and shutout victory over Kennesaw State likely saved Cumbie’s job…

Cut 9 (07)  “…the season.”

Louisiana Tech’s offense held them back in 2024. The Bulldogs ranked 113^th in the country in scoring offense, averaging 22 points per game, while the defense allowed just 20 points a game after a dismal 2023 season. Fox says for Cumbie to keep his job, the offense has to improve…

Cut 10 (09) “…going into 2025.”

There are Bulldog fans who say athletics director Ryan Ivey kept Cumbie, because the buyout to fire him was too expensive. But Fox doesn’t see it that way

Cut 11 (14) “…a chance.”

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The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season ended over the weekend and the final number was 18 named storms. NOAA was anticipating as many as 25 named storms, but LSU Public Health Climatologist Barry Keim says conditions never developed for there to be two dozen named storms…

Cut 12 (12) “…that was anticipated.”

Keim says after a mid-season lull we saw  lot of activity in September and October with Hurricanes Helene and Milton

Cut 13 (08)  “…Hurricane Harvey.”

Of the 18 named storms, two impacted Louisiana. Hurricane Beryl made landfall in Texas in early July and spawned tornadoes in northwest Louisiana. Keim says there was also Hurricane Francine which crossed over southeast Louisiana in early September….

Cut 14 (11) “…pretty good year.”

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The Saints have lost one of their best offensive playmakers for the season. Taysom Hill, who was carted off the field in the fourth quarter in yesterday’s 21-14 loss to the Los Angeles Rams, will need surgery to repair a torn ACL. Quarterback Derek Carr says Hill has the utmost respect of the players on the Saints and across the NFL…

Cut 15 (13) “…like that.”

The Saints are 4-and-8 and will visit the Giants on Sunday.

Thanksgiving was only four days ago, but we’re already late in the Christmas shopping season. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (35)“…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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One of the worst states in the nation for lung cancer survival is Louisiana, with a survival rate of 23-percent, significantly below the national average of 28-percent. Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 2 (34) “…Sean Richardson.”

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The nonprofit Tax Foundation applauds the changes Louisiana lawmakers have made to the state’s tax code. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (34) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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This year, the calendar is not on the side of retailers. Since Thanksgiving fell on the latest date possible, that leads to the shortest Christmas shopping season possible, when defined as starting the day after Thanksgiving and ending Christmas Eve. LSU Marketing Professor Dan Rice says retailers started their Black Friday deals early this year, as they’ve done in years past.

Cut 4 (07) “…some next week.”

And the short shopping season is forcing shoppers to adjust their behavior.

Cut 5 (18) “…to get back.” 

Rice says the short season is also driving shoppers to the online route to save time.

Cut 6 (11) “…their purchasing power.”

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Louisiana ranks among the worst in the nation for lung cancer survival, with a survival rate of 23-percent, significantly below the national average of 28-percent. Louisiana also has high rates of new lung cancer and late-stage diagnoses. American Lung Association Director of Advocacy Eric Weinzettle says contributing factors include low rates of lung cancer screening and surgical treatment as well as a high smoking prevalence.

Cut 7 (10) “…here in Louisiana.”

The national lung cancer survival rate has improved by 26-percent over the past five years due to advancements in early detection and treatment. Weinzettle says targeted actions in Louisiana include increasing access to smoking cessation programs, biomarker testing, and lung cancer screening.

Cut 8 (12) “…care of with surgery.”

Additionally, Weinzettle underscores the importance of expanding insurance coverage for comprehensive biomarker testing to personalize treatment options. Advocacy efforts include urging Louisiana and federal policymakers to improve access to these life-saving measures, emphasizing opportunities to address the state’s lung cancer crisis and improve survival rates.

Cut 9 (10)  “…outreach about screening.”

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The nonprofit Tax Foundation says changes made to improve Louisiana’s tax code by lawmakers during the special session will move the Bayou State out of the bottom in their rankings for tax codes. Senior policy analyst at the Tax Foundation, Manish Batt, says the tax reform package waiting for the governor’s signature should improve the state’s Business climate…

Cut 10 (10) “…already have.”

Batt says based on the changes made, Louisiana’s tax code will rank in the middle of the pack compared to other states. He says the bill to lower the personal income tax rate to a flat three-percent rate from the current three-tiered rate is good policy and other states are also doing…

Cut 11 (13) “…that problem.”

In order to pay for the cut to income taxes, the legislators raised the state sales tax to five-percent, giving Louisiana the highest or one of the highest sales tax rates in the country. But Batt says legislators can do more reform to the soften the higher sales tax hit…

Cut 12 (09) “…two years.”

The Tax Foundation likes what legislators accomplished in the tax reform special session. State Representative Mandie Landry, a Democrat from New Orleans, remains pessimistic the changes will lead to business growth…

Cut 13 (12)  “…hasn’t happened”

Governor Landry lauds the tax reform package as a tax cut for Louisiana residents, but Representative Landry says a reduction to personal income taxes, combined with a higher sales tax, is a wash for most taxpayers …

Cut 14 (16) “…going up.”

While the income tax rate will go down starting January 1st, the state sales tax will go up to 5-cents at the start of the new year.

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The Saints fell to 4-and-8 after a 21-14 loss to the Rams at home yesterday. New Orleans had a chance to win or tie the game on a fourth down inside the Rams’ 10-yard line with under two minutes to go but came up short. Coach Darren Rizzi says they know they need to be better in tight games…

Cut 15 (18) “…they should be.”

The Saints led 6-0 at halftime but Rizzi says big plays and a season-high 104 yards for Rams running back Kyren Williams were the difference in the second half…

Cut 16 (13) “…consistent enough.”

Do-it-all tight end Taysom hill was carted off the field with a knee injury with under five minutes left in the game following a fourth down conversion. He is believed to have suffered ligament damage and will have an MRI today to find the extent of the injury.

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The Ragin Cajuns will host Marshall on Saturday night in the Sun Belt Championship. U-L Lafayette capped off a ten-win regular season with a 37-23 win over instate rival ULM. Running back Zylan Perry from Franklin rushed for a career high 150 yards and a pair of touchdowns. Perry was questionable head into the game. Coach Michael Desormeaux…

Cut 17 (15) “…his today.” 

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Doom and gloom surrounded the LSU football program a couple of weeks ago after suffering a third consecutive loss to Florida. But after a convincing 37-17 win over Oklahoma in the regular season finale, Tigers Coach Brian Kelly was talking about playing for a championship.

Cut 18 (17)   “…national championship game.”

LSU will not play for a meaningful championship this year with an 8-4 record, but Kelly is more confident than ever that the Tigers are close to playing for one after finishing the regular season on a two-game winning streak.

Cut 19 (19) “…proud of em.”  

Garrett Nussmeier had one of his best games, despite fumbling the ball on a sack that led to an Oklahoma touchdown. Nussmeier threw for 277 yards and three touchdowns.

It looked like Nussmeier was knocked out of the game with a shoulder injury in the first half when he took a blindside hit from Oklahoma’s Mason Thomas. Nussmeier missed the remainder of that series and the following one, but was determined to finish the game.

Cut 20 (15) “…out there.”

Tomorrow is Black Friday – the day that retailers pull out all the stops in offering their biggest discounts of the year. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (33)“…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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It’s the quarterfinal round of the high school football playoffs and there are several teams in central Louisiana looking for their first state championship. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Tomorrow is arguably the biggest shopping day of the year – Black Friday. And especially with Black Friday falling on the latest possible date, retailers are rolling out huge discounts in an all-out effort to drive foot traffic into their stores. WalletHub Analyst Chip Lupo says if you’re looking for huge bargains, your best bets will be the major department stores like JCPenney, Belk and Macy’s.

Cut 3 (07) “…57-percent.”

Lupo says surprisingly, electronics aren’t being discounted this year as much as he would expect.

Cut 4 (09) “…Black Friday.”

Lupo says the most discounted items this year are jewelry and appliances.

Cut 5 (14) “…JC Penny’s for example.” 

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The hurricane season ends on Saturday and it was extremely active, though slightly below forecasts issued by Colorado State University. CSU Research Scientist Phil Koltzbach says an average season has 14 named storms and in 2024 there were 18 named storms, slightly less than the 25 predicted in July…

Cut 6 (07) “…over forecast that.”

Five hurricanes made U.S. landfall, tied for the second most in history, with major hurricanes Helene and Milton causing significant damage. The season caused approximately 250 fatalities and 100 billion dollars in damages. The record-warm Atlantic sea surface temperatures and cool neutral conditions contributed to low vertical wind shear, fostering hurricane development. Klotzbach says despite these factors, a mid-season lull occurred due to dry air

Cut 7 (05) “…peak of the season.”

With the 2024 Hurricane season ending, Klotzbach says next year’s forecast won’t be out until next April, but they are already working on it, but they also understand a lot of the conditions can change during the winter…

Cut 8 (08) “…active seasons.”

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It’s Thanksgiving Day but 64 high school football teams get to practice today as they are preparing for their quarterfinal matchup tomorrow night. Vermilion Catholic is the top seed in Division Four select and they are led by quarterback Jonathan Dartez who has rushed for 21-hundred yards and 34 touchdowns. He also has 19 passing touchdowns. Louisiana Football Magazine’s Lee Brecheen says Dartez is a dynamic player…

Cut 9 (09)  “…in Louisiana.”

Vermilion Catholic hosts St. Edmund tomorrow night in what is expected to be a high scoring game.

Franklin Parish is in the quarterfinals for the first time in school history and the Patriots will host Iowa. Brecheen says Franklin Parish will be tough to beat

Cut 10 (07) “…talent now.”

Brecheen says one of the best quarterfinal matchups will take place in Stonewall as Cecilia will visit North Desoto

Cut 11 (12) “…the game.”

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Southern and Grambling will face off in the 51st annual Bayou Classic in the Superdome Saturday. Jaguars Coach Terrence Graves says this is the unofficial state championship…

Cut 12 (17) “…New Orleans.”

The 7-and-4 Jags have already clinched a spot in the SWAC Championship against Jackson St. The Tigers are playing for pride at 5-and-6, but Grambling Coach Mickey Joseph says neither team will phone it in…

Cut 13 (1o)  “…be a battle (2x)”

Kickoff in the Superdome is at 1:00.

When preparing your Thanksgiving feast, be sure to practice proper food safety. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (36)“…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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The 51st annual Bayou Classic is this Saturday at the Superdome. Jeff Palermo reports.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Ranked as the 10^th most expensive state for grocery prices, with Louisiana residents spending an average of 283-dollars per week in 2023, compared to the national average of 270-dollars.  Sean Richardson has the story.

Cut 3 (31) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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As you prepare your Thanksgiving feast, make sure you’re practicing food safety. By now, you should be thawing your frozen turkey. But Jennifer Duhon, a registered dietician at the LSU Agricultural Center, says if you didn’t give your turkey enough time to completely thaw out, you do have another option.

Cut 4 (13) “…to be cool.”

Duhon says whatever you do, do not thaw your turkey at room temperature, since you would run the risk of spreading germs throughout the kitchen. As for what goes inside the turkey…

Cut 5 (17) “…also your stuffing.” 

And Duhon says be sure to properly store any leftovers in the refrigerator before the tryptophan puts you in a food coma.

Cut 6 (07) “…be concerned about.”

You can refrigerate your leftovers for up to five days, or you can freeze them.

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The 51st Bayou Classic between Grambling and Southern takes place at the Superdome Saturday afternoon. Candace Brock with the Bayou Classic says the event goes far beyond just football.

Cut 7 (10) “…colleges and universities.”

Brock says the festivities kick off at three Thursday afternoon with the Thanksgiving Day parade, and it will be a spectacle.

Cut 8 (12) “…parade as well.”

The festivities continue with several events Friday, including the Battle of the Bands. And for the third year in a row, there will be a high school battle of the bands, featuring bands from two New Orleans high schools – G.W. Carver High School and Abramson Sci Academy – as well as two bands from out of state high schools – Craigmont High School of Memphis and Westbury High School of Houston.

Cut 9 (07)  “…in the band.”

Southern enters the game at 7-and-4, while Grambling enters at 5-and-6.

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Louisiana ranks as the 10th most expensive state for groceries, with residents spending an average of 283 dollars per week in 2023, compared to the national average of 270 dollars. Other Southern states also faced high costs, such as Mississippi around 290 dollars, and Texas around 286 dollars. UNO Professor of Economics Walter Lane says despite a slowdown in inflation over the past year, many Louisiana residents still perceive rising prices due to costs remaining significantly above pre-2021 levels.

Cut 10 (07) “…gone away.”

Thanksgiving serves as a key indicator of grocery trends. This year, a 15-item Thanksgiving meal costs 65 dollars on average, down three percent from 2023 but up 42-percent higher than in 2019. Land says Thanksgiving is getting cheaper year over year…

Cut 11 (08) “…last couple of years.”

As prices stabilize but remain elevated, many Louisiana shoppers continue to feel financial strain at the checkout line, but Lane says compared to eating out its much cheaper.

Cut 12 (09) “…substantial.”

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Law enforcement has a warning for you as you hit the road for your Thanksgiving travels – wear your seatbelt, or else. The nationwide “Click It Or Ticket” enforcement period started last weekend and runs through Sunday. Greg Fischer with the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission says there are more officers on the road, and they’re specifically looking for people not wearing their seatbelts.

Cut 13 (12)  “…for traffic enforcement.”

Fischer says not wearing your seatbelt can have very dire consequences.

Cut 14 (12) “…wearing a seatbelt.”

In Louisiana, not wearing your seatbelt is a primary offense, meaning officers can pull you over just for not wearing your seatbelt and without committing any other moving violation. And if you’re caught not wearing your seatbelt, it will cost you a little money. 

Cut 15 (05) “…75 for consecutive.”

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College Football is set for perhaps its highest stakes Rivalry Week ever this weekend as teams vie for a spot in the 12-team playoffs. Three SEC bubble playoff teams in Alabama. Ole Miss, and Texas A&M suffered potentially season ending upsets last weekend. Of the three, Dennis Dodd of CBS sports says the Crimson Tide have the best shot…

Cut 16 (13) “…in years.”

Dodd says the quality across the SEC has slipped this season without a clear favorite. Texas A&M could still compete in the conference championship game and earn a CFP spot with a win against Texas on Saturday…

Cut 17 (21) “…all at the same time” 

BIG 10 and SEC fans have argued over whether 11-and-1 Indiana deserves to get in over two and three loss SEC teams with tougher schedules, but after last weekend’s chaos, Dodd isn’t hearing the arguments

Cut 18 (17)   “…happened here.”

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Louisiana Tech will close out its regular season on Saturday by hosting Kennesaw State. The Bulldog are 4-and-7, despite being ranked 22^nd in the country in total defense. Last year Tech ranked 110^th in total defense. Coach Sonny Cumbie gave his thoughts on the 2024 campaign

Cut 19 (13) “..whatever reason.”  

Tech is also playing for pride. The Bulldogs are 4-and-7 and Cumbie says he wants the players to finish on a high note…

Cut 20 (15) “…for our guys.”

It’s time to find that perfect Christmas tree. Sean Richardson spoke with a Christmas tree farmer..

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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If you’re planning on flying with food this Thanksgiving holiday, there are some important things you’ll need to know. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (29) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Louisiana Economic Development Secretary Susan Bourgeois says the tax reform package is a game-changer for the state. She says good riddance to the franchise tax.

Cut 3 (08) “…tax was dramatic.” 

Bourgeois says simplifying the tax code is about being attractive for re-investment in addition to being attractive to new investment.

Cut 4 (08) “…they can create.”

Bourgeois says the tax reform package positions Louisiana more competitively to take advantage of everything that the state has to offer naturally.

Cut 5 (13) “…years and generations.”

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Many Louisiana residents opt for a real Christmas tree rather than an artificial one. Steele’s Christmas Tree Farm Co-Owner Kevin Steele Sr. says you can enjoy the authentic holiday experience with a real tree. Beyond their environmental benefits, these trees offer the season’s sights, smells, and tactile joy.

Cut 6 (09) “…Washington Parish.”

Steele says another reason for a real tree is plastics: artificial trees are made from PVC, which generates significant pollution during production and is challenging to recycle. In contrast, real Christmas trees are a renewable resource.

Cut 7 (08) “…and it’s biodegradable.”

Steele says by choosing a locally grown tree over an artificial one you’re not just making a sustainable choice for the planet, but creating memories…

Cut 8 (10) “…the memories we’re creating.”

Steeles Christmas Tree Farm opens at 2 PM on Thanksgiving day.

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If you’re planning on bringing food for your Thanksgiving feast with you on the airplane, keep in mind that you will not be able to take certain items through TSA security. Sari Koshetz with the TSA says those items will need to be in your checked baggage.

Cut 9 (07)  “…smear or pour.”

Some examples of food items that will need to go into your checked luggage:

Cut 10 (12) “…syrup and soup.”

Koshetz says there are certain items that you can take with you in your carry-on baggage.

Cut 11 (08) “…fresh fruit.”

If you’re taking fresh fruit on an international flight, make sure you comply with that country’s agricultural laws.

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President Biden has signed into law the legislation that designates the U.S. Post Office on Benedette Street in Rayville as the Luke Letlow Post Office. Congresswoman Julia Letlow says her family is deeply touched by the honor that her late husband has received…

Cut 12 (05) “…about it.”

The “Luke Letlow Post Office Building” commemorates the life and legacy of the congressman-elect, who tragically passed away from COVID-19 complications in 2020, days before being sworn into office.  Letlow says she is flooded with emotion

Cut 13 (11)  “…finding connections.”

Letlow says that having a post office named after him in his home community is a meaningful tribute to his dedication to public service and his enduring impact on Louisiana.

Cut 14 (09) “…who Luke was.”

Business groups are applauding the tax reform package approved by the legislature in the just-ended special session. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Two bills have been approved by the Louisiana Legislature to make temporary pay raises for public K-12 teachers and support staff permanent, pending voter approval of a constitutional amendment in March.

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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Business groups are hailing the tax reform package passed by the legislature in the just-concluded special session. Will Green, the president and CEO of the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry, says the new tax structure will entice more companies into doing business here in Louisiana.

Cut 3 (13) “…income tax rate.” 

Green says now, thanks to the reform, Louisiana’s corporate income tax rate is lower than those in neighboring states.

Cut 4 (11) “…and for talent.”

And Green says Louisiana’s lower income tax rate will make it a more attractive state for people to move to.

Cut 5 (08) “…jobs and talent.”

As of January 1st, the income tax rate will be a flat three-percent with a 12-thousand-500-dollar standard deduction.

______________________________________

The Louisiana Legislature approved two bills to make temporary pay raises for K-12 teachers and support staff permanent, pending voter approval of a constitutional amendment in March. The legislation allocates funds from protected education trusts to reduce nearly $2 billion in teacher retirement system debt. Prairieville Representative Tony Bacala (back-a-la)says this shift would free up approximately $287 million annually for local school districts, enabling a $2,000 raise for teachers and $1,000 for support staff.

Cut 6 (12) “…give pay raises.”

Bacala says both amendments allow surplus savings to fund early childhood education and address staff shortages.

Cut 7 (09) “…bigger raise.”

Bacala’s bill, which unanimously passed the House and the Senate requires school districts to use the savings created by the retirement debt payment in Emerson’s Bill to fund the permanent raise.

Cut 8 (12) “…on the local side.”

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Starting January 1^st, Louisiana residents will pay lower income taxes. It’s the result of the legislation approved by lawmakers in the tax reform special session. Governor Jeff Landry says the state’s three-tiered income tax system will be replaced by a flat three-percent tax and the standard deduction will be increased to $12.500 in 2026

Cut 9 (11)  “…working poor.”

To pay for the lower income taxes, legislators raised the state sales tax rate to five-percent, beginning on January 1^st. But Landry says in the end, Louisiana residents will pay less taxes…

Cut 10 (15) “…against you.”

Landry says another goal of the special session was to make the state more competitive, so it can attract more jobs and higher wages. The governor says that was accomplished with the Legislature’s decision to by eliminating the corporate franchise tax on businesses. He believes this special session fufills a campaign promise of growing Louisiana’s economy…

Cut 11 (14) “…Louisiana home.”

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Head coach Gary Goff didn’t win enough football games at McNeese and after three seasons he was fired today. The Cowboys went six and six this season after failing to win a game on the field last year. Jim Gazzolo covers McNeese for the American Press and says there were many who thought Goff won enough games this season to keep his job…

Cut 12 (11) “…little surprised.”

Gazzolo says two former McNeese players, Slade Nagle, who is an assistant coach at LSU and Kerry Josephy, who is the quarterbacks coach for the Chicago Bears are two possible replacements…

Cut 13 (08)  “…rally around.”

Goff was 10-and-23 and had one year left on his contract. He arrived in Lake Charles in 2022 after leading Valdosta State to the Division Two national championship game in 2021. Gazzolo says despite inheriting a program that was not in good shape, he didn’t win enough games fast enough

Cut 14 (12) “…up to that.”

Hosting Thanksgiving dinner will put less strain on your wallet this year. Colleen Crain reports.

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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Is the tax reform package that the legislature overwhelmingly passed a good thing or a bad thing? Jeanne (ZHAHN) Burns reports it depends on who you ask.

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Jeanne Burns.”

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LSU football won its first game in five weeks. Andrew Greenstein has this report from Tiger Stadium.

Cut 3 (36) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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This year, you can host a Thanksgiving feast for ten for relatively little money. Avery Davidson with the Louisiana Farm Bureau says the price of Thanksgiving dinner has gone down this year.

Cut 4 (11) “…was last year.”

Furthermore, that’s more than 12 dollars less than the national average. Davidson says that low cost is spurred in large part by a drop in the price of turkeys.

Cut 5 (14) “…$25.67 this year.” 

Davidson says part of the reason for our comparatively low price is the fact that it costs less to transport the goods to your local supermarkets.

Cut 6 (12) “…all come through.”

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After a hiatus of more than 20 years, Northwestern State University is restarting its rodeo program. Faculty advisor Dr. Michelle Morris, a professor of educational psychology, says a huge outpouring of support from the community led to the resumption of the program.

Cut 7 (05) “…are actively recruiting.”

One of the riders that the school recruited was McKenzie Davis, who had participated in barrel racing her entire life. Davis, an accounting major from Pollock, had previously been enrolled at LSU Alexandria. She says Northwestern State’s resumption of their rodeo program got her to transfer. 

Cut 8 (14) “…back to Northwestern.”

When Northwestern State ended their rodeo program in the mid-1990s, the school sold all the property that it had used for training. Morris says the community is stepping up in providing the school’s rodeo riders places to train.

Cut 9 (13)  “…can train physically.”

There are five rodeos in the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association each semester, and the national finals are held in the summer.

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Is the overall tax reform package passed by the legislature good or bad for Louisianians? It depends on who you ask. Invest Louisiana director Jan Moeller says raising the state sales tax will hurt low-income workers

Cut 10 (11) “…up even higher.”

Louisiana’s sales tax rate is 4.45 percent. It will go up to five percent on January 1st and drop to 4.75 percent in 2030. Moeller is not a fan of this plan…

Cut 11 (11) “…them are temporary.”

On the other hand, Daniel Erspamer (ERS-pah-mer), the CEO of the Pelican Institute, calls it a great day for the people of Louisiana.

Cut 12 (14) “…here in Louisiana.”

Governor Jeff Landry originally proposed to tax 41 services that are currently not taxed., but that bill did not pass. Erspamer says the debate over sales taxes is not over yet.

Cut 13 (12)  “…up in April.”

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For the first time in more than a month, LSU is in the win column. The Tigers beat Vanderbilt Saturday night, 24-17, snapping a three-game losing streak. Adding to the turmoil of a three-game losing streak that took LSU out of playoff contention was the news days earlier that they lost the nation’s top recruit, quarterback Bryce Underwood, to Michigan. After the game, Coach Brian Kelly said he’s proud of how his team tuned out all the chatter and focused on the job at hand.

Cut 14 (20) “…this football team.”

LSU simplified its defense. Defensive End Bradyn Swinson, who assisted on four tackles and one sack, said that game plan paid off.

Cut 15 (10) “…probably ran today.”

In the week leading up to the game, Josh Williams, Greg Penn, Will Campbell and Garrett Nussmeier called a players-only meeting. Williams discussed the nature of the meeting after the game. 

Cut 16 (10) “…out for us.”

With the win, LSU improves to 7-and-4 on the season. They wrap up the regular season next Saturday at home against Oklahoma, then they’ll await their bowl destination.

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The Ragin Cajuns are one win away from a Sun Belt Western division championship with a 51 to 30 win over Troy on Saturday. Coach Mike Desormeaux’s team is now 9-and-2 overall and 6-and-1 in league play…

Cut 17 (20) “…part of it” 

Redshirt senior Chandler Fields made his first start of the season for the injured Ben Woolridge and threw for a career-high 323 yards and two touchdowns. Fields on his team’s big day…

Cut 18 (11)   “…excited about it.”

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Louisiana Tech fell to 4-and-7 on the season and will not go to a bowl game after losing to Arkansas 35-14. Coach Sonny Cumbie’s offense could only muster 43 yards in the first half and could not take advantage of two turnovers forced by the defense…

Cut 19 (21) “…overcome that.”  

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ULM’s losing streak is now up to five after losing to Arkansas State 28 to 21. The Warhawks have one more chance to reach bowl eligibility and they will need to beat the Cajuns this Saturday. ULM Coach Bryant Vincent…

Cut 20 (13) “…embrace that.”

Kick-off against the Cajuns is at 11 AM.

Early voting is underway in the December 7th election. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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The state Legislature has approved a major change to Louisiana’s tax laws, which will result in a cut in income taxes in exchange for higher sales taxes. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Early voting is underway in the December 7th election. Joel Watson with the Secretary of State’s office says what’s unique about this early voting period is that it goes straight through Thanksgiving; and as such, there are some days when the polls will be closed.

Cut 3 (11) “…their voice heard.” 

Watson says turnout is expected to be low, which would be unfortunate since everyone will have something on their ballot.

Cut 4 (10) “…big mayor’s race.”

Watson says the Baton Rouge mayor’s race may be the highest profile runoff race, but it’s not the only high-profile item on the ballot.

Cut 5 (08) “…in the state.”

Early voting ends Saturday, November 30th.

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A prison escapee’s run for freedom comes to an end. 20-year-old Jamarcus Cyprian escaped from the Tangipahoa Parish Jail back on May 16th; and on Wednesday, he was arrested at an apartment complex in Hammond. Cyprian was serving time for armed robbery. Sheriff Gerald Sticker says deputies were executing a search warrant in connection with a shooting at another apartment complex, in which he was identified as a person of interest.

Cut 6 (06) “…with a gun.”

Sheriff Sticker says Cyprian was going to great lengths to change his appearance so that he would not get caught.

Cut 7 (07) “…of his hair.”

Sticker says Cyprian was traveling out of and back to Louisiana during his six months on the lam. 

Cut 8 (11) “…some family there.”

And Sticker says Cyprian was likely committing several crimes in Dallas during the times he went to that city. It was ten days before jail employees realized that Cyprian was gone, only discovering this after three other inmates escaped. Those three were quickly recaptured.

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A Rapides Parish Sheriff’s deputy is recovering after being shot by a patient at a psychiatric treatment facility. Tommy Carnline with the sheriff’s office says there was a disturbance between the patient and hospital employees, and the patient started fighting with a deputy who was trying to de-escalate the situation.

Cut 9 (12)  “…shot the suspect.”

Carnline says both the deputy and the suspect were taken to hospitals.

Cut 10 (11) “…of this time.”

Carnline says this could have ended much worse for everyone involved.

Cut 11 (03) “…injured too bad.”

The investigation into the incident is still ongoing.

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Louisiana lawmakers have approved a tax reform package that will result in lower income taxes for working individuals, but a higher state sales tax rate. The individual income tax rate would be a flat three-percent rate. The standard deduction would triple $12,500 dollars. Leesville Senator Mike Reese says this tax change will help grow the economy…

Cut 12 (12) “…to our state.”

Most Democrats also supported the tax code overhaul, even though the state sales tax rate will increase from 4.45 percent to five percent for the next five years. Lafayette Senator Gerald Boudreaux is the Chairman of the Senate Democratic Caucus

Cut 13 (12)  “…additional adjustments.”

The cut in income taxes would result in a one-point-three billion dollar annual loss in revenue. The state will get most of that back by raising the state sales tax to five percent. Also getting approved on Friday, charging state and local sales taxes for streaming services and online games.

The film tax credit program has been capped at 125-million dollars, down from 150-million. Legislators also voted to repeal the corporate franchise tax. Foil says this tax penalized businesses

Cut 14 (07) “…concerned.”

The tax section of Louisiana’s constitution has also been changed, which will require voter approval in March.

Louisiana voters will decide on four constitutional amendments in a Dec. 7 election, two of the amendments address legislative budgeting.  Sean Richardson has the story.

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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A Louisiana congressman will be sleeping outside tonight to shed light on a growing problem. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (29) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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The December 7 election has four amendments that Louisiana Voters will vote on, addressing judicial ethics, legislative budgeting, and property tax processes. Amendment 1 proposes adding five appointees to the Judiciary Commission, expanding its current nine-member structure, and give the Supreme Court authority to initiate investigations and discipline judges for misconduct. Public Affairs Research Council President Dr. Steven Procopio explains that the Judiciary Commission investigates judges…

Cut 3 (12) “…Judiciary Committee.”

Amendment 2 mandates a 48-hour review period for lawmakers before voting on budget amendments. This responds to rushed budget approvals in 2023.  Procopio says Amendment 3 complements Amendment 2 by allowing a two-thirds legislative vote to extend sessions by up to six days to finalize budgets. Procopio says it’s rare when time is not an issue.

Cut 4 (11) “…end of the session.”

Amendment 4 proposes replacing Louisiana’s tax sale process for delinquent property taxes with a tax lien auction, Procopio says it addresses potential due process violations highlighted in recent court rulings.

Cut 5 (15) “…debt amount.”

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New Orleans Congressman Troy Carter will be sleeping outside tonight to draw attention to youth homelessness in the city, the state and the country. Congressman Carter will be participating in the Covenant House Sleep Out tonight.

Cut 6 (09) “…issue of homelessness.”

Carter says the problem of homelessness is growing.

Cut 7 (09) “…Louisiana and America.”

Carter says the fact that it’s expected to be a frigid night in New Orleans – at least, in New Orleans standards – will further shed light on the issue.

Cut 8 (07) “…with being unhoused.”

Carter says by sleeping outside, he and other officials who will be joining him can feel the pain that homeless people, especially children, go through on a nightly basis and work to bring resources to help get them off the streets.

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Researchers at LSU are developing a hand-held device to better detect cancer cells during surgery. It’s called SafeMargin, and it was invented by LSU electrical engineering associate professor Dr. Jian Xu (JAN ZHOO). He says the purpose of the device is to quickly detect a clean margin during cancer surgeries.

Cut 9 (08)  “…of the cancer.”

Dr. Xu says there are still many steps that need to happen before it can gain FDA approval, but he hopes to bring it to market by the end of the decade.

Cut 10 (05) “…this into market.”

Xu says the device is not only a game-changer, but it is also a life-saver.

Cut 11 (04) “…globally every year.”

Xu says not only would SafeMargin be a time-saver, but it would also be a money-saver. While traditional technology to detect clean margins would cost close to 42-hundred dollars, using SafeMargin would cost only about 100 dollars per surgery.

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Alexandria International Airport is using a federal grant to lure United Airlines back. The airport is receiving one-million dollars through the Small Community Air Service Development Program. England Airpark Executive Director Ralph Hennessy says they’ve wanted to lure United back ever since the airline left in 2022 due to the effects of the COVID pandemic.

Cut 12 (08) “…new air service.”

Hennessy says if the airport is successful in bringing United back, the money would be put to good use.

Cut 13 (12)  “…into the market.”

Hennessy says it will ask United to operate three daily non-stops to and from Houston. He says United returning to Alexandria will have other benefits for passengers.

Cut 14 (05) “…other two airlines.”

American and Delta are the other two airlines that fly out of Alexandria.

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Breaking news out of New Orleans, as there has been a deadly shooting in broad daylight in the French Quarter. It happened at the intersection of Iberville and Royal, just one block south of Bourbon Street. New Orleans Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick says this was not a random shooting.

Cut 15 (13) “…a confirmed homicide.” (One killed, three others injured)

Kirkpatrick says a person of interest is in custody.

Cut 16 (13) “…person of interest.”

The shooting happened just weeks after a person was targeted outside a hotel not too far from the scene. Kirkpatrick says it’s too early to tell whether the shootings are connected. It also comes just four days after two people were killed during a second line parade in the St. Roch (ROCK) neighborhood.

Louisiana voters will decide on four constitutional amendments in a Dec. 7 election, two of the amendments address legislative budgeting.  Sean Richardson has the story.

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

______________________________________

A Louisiana congressman will be sleeping outside tonight to shed light on a growing problem. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (29) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

______________________________________

The December 7 election has four amendments that Louisiana Voters will vote on, addressing judicial ethics, legislative budgeting, and property tax processes. Amendment 1 proposes adding five appointees to the Judiciary Commission, expanding its current nine-member structure, and give the Supreme Court authority to initiate investigations and discipline judges for misconduct. Public Affairs Research Council President Dr. Steven Procopio explains that the Judiciary Commission investigates judges…

Cut 3 (12) “…Judiciary Committee.”

Amendment 2 mandates a 48-hour review period for lawmakers before voting on budget amendments. This responds to rushed budget approvals in 2023.  Procopio says Amendment 3 complements Amendment 2 by allowing a two-thirds legislative vote to extend sessions by up to six days to finalize budgets. Procopio says it’s rare when time is not an issue.

Cut 4 (11) “…end of the session.”

Amendment 4 proposes replacing Louisiana’s tax sale process for delinquent property taxes with a tax lien auction, Procopio says it addresses potential due process violations highlighted in recent court rulings.

Cut 5 (15) “…debt amount.”

______________________________________

New Orleans Congressman Troy Carter will be sleeping outside tonight to draw attention to youth homelessness in the city, the state and the country. Congressman Carter will be participating in the Covenant House Sleep Out tonight.

Cut 6 (09) “…issue of homelessness.”

Carter says the problem of homelessness is growing.

Cut 7 (09) “…Louisiana and America.”

Carter says the fact that it’s expected to be a frigid night in New Orleans – at least, in New Orleans standards – will further shed light on the issue.

Cut 8 (07) “…with being unhoused.”

Carter says by sleeping outside, he and other officials who will be joining him can feel the pain that homeless people, especially children, go through on a nightly basis and work to bring resources to help get them off the streets.

______________________________________

Researchers at LSU are developing a hand-held device to better detect cancer cells during surgery. It’s called SafeMargin, and it was invented by LSU electrical engineering associate professor Dr. Jian Xu (JAN ZHOO). He says the purpose of the device is to quickly detect a clean margin during cancer surgeries.

Cut 9 (08)  “…of the cancer.”

Dr. Xu says there are still many steps that need to happen before it can gain FDA approval, but he hopes to bring it to market by the end of the decade.

Cut 10 (05) “…this into market.”

Xu says the device is not only a game-changer, but it is also a life-saver.

Cut 11 (04) “…globally every year.”

Xu says not only would SafeMargin be a time-saver, but it would also be a money-saver. While traditional technology to detect clean margins would cost close to 42-hundred dollars, using SafeMargin would cost only about 100 dollars per surgery.

______________________________________

Alexandria International Airport is using a federal grant to lure United Airlines back. The airport is receiving one-million dollars through the Small Community Air Service Development Program. England Airpark Executive Director Ralph Hennessy says they’ve wanted to lure United back ever since the airline left in 2022 due to the effects of the COVID pandemic.

Cut 12 (08) “…new air service.”

Hennessy says if the airport is successful in bringing United back, the money would be put to good use.

Cut 13 (12)  “…into the market.”

Hennessy says it will ask United to operate three daily non-stops to and from Houston. He says United returning to Alexandria will have other benefits for passengers.

Cut 14 (05) “…other two airlines.”

American and Delta are the other two airlines that fly out of Alexandria.