Prices are once again going up at the pump, and GasBuddy forecasts the highest prices in three years for 2017. Don Molino has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Don Molino”

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Water systems around the state are increasing fees this month to help with an uptick in inspections. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Drivers can expect to pay more at the pump this year, as GasBuddy forecasts the highest prices in three years. Senior Petroleum Analyst Greg Laskowski says right now the statewide average is $2.16, which is about 40-cents higher than a year ago and a spike is likely later this winter and spring.

Cut 3 (10) “in Louisiana”

Laskowski says the national average price of gas for the year will be about $2.49 a gallon, and in 2016 that average was $2.13. He credits an energy friendly president taking office with some of the increase. But he says the price hike is predominantly because of OPEC’s decision to cut back on production.

cut 4  (10) “OPEC announcement”

Laskowski expects prices to peak in May or June and the yearly average is expected to be 36-cents higher. But he says people can still save at the pump, whether or not prices are rising. He advises people to watch the prices in their neighborhood and look for the best deals. He says gas prices can vary greatly in a city.

Cut 5  (10)  “your own market”

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Water systems across Louisiana are increasing fees to help with increased state inspections. State Health Officer Dr. Jimmy Guidry says there’s always been a fee to pay for state inspections but the legislature and governor agreed to increase the fee by another 75-cents per month starting in January, because health risks are getting higher…

Cut 6 (10) “be monitored”

Funding to monitor water systems was cut in 2012. Guidry says this fee is necessary because they want to ramp up testing on drinking water.

CUT 7 (09)  “eating amoeba” 

Guidry says they want to prevent another St. Joseph, where the drinking water is brown and lead has been found in the pipes of the town’s delivery system. He says while the fee increase will not fix all the problems, it will allow for improved testing of drinking water.

Cut 8 (09) “your health”

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Saints Quarterback Drew Brees is teaming up with Dunkin’ Donuts to open 69 new locations in Louisiana. Marketing manager with Dunkin’ Donuts in Louisiana, Erin Sheeran, says there are currently 5 stores in the Bayou State in Baton Rouge and New Orleans. She anticipates Brees will be hands on when it comes to expanding the Dunkin Donuts brand.

Cut 9 (09)  “the business”

Sheeran says a few stores are set to open this year in Gonzales, Chalmette, and Kenner. Other stores are also expected to open in Monroe, Shreveport, and Alexandria in the next few years. She says fans could catch a glimpse of the future Hall of Famer in the new store locations.

Cut 10 (09) “in the stores”

Brees’ other business endeavors include being a Jimmy John’s franchisee and co-owning Walk-On’s Enterprises. Sheeran says the franchise is excited about partnering with the QB. She says the company wanted to connect with the people of New Orleans and the rest of the state in a special way.

cut 11 (09) “to do”

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GLOVIS America announces a new inland distribution center for imported vehicles will be located in the old General Motors plant in Shreveport. Louisiana Economic Development Secretary Don Pierson says at the facility, Kia and Hyundai vehicles coming from other countries, will receive equipment and exterior upgrades.

cut 12 (09) “of things” 

GLOVIS is a part of the Hyundai Kia Automotive Group. Pierson says GLOVIS will make a one million dollar capital investment and the project will bring in many new jobs…

Cut 13 (10) “operation there”

A hiring date has not been set. The average salary is expected to be around 32-thousand dollars, plus benefits. Pierson says this will also result in about 246 indirect jobs. The former GM plant has been vacant since 2012 so, he says it’s great to have autoworkers back at the facility.

cut 14 (11) “be met”

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Healthcare and immigration are expected to be big issues for Louisiana’s congressional delegation in the 115^th US Congress. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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While December sees the most engagements of the year, psychologists say more couples get divorced in January than any other month. Don Molino has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Don Molino”

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Another cold snap is heading our way and it has a potential to bring us some snow. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Louisiana’s congressional delegation is gearing up to tackle some big issues in the 115^th United States Congress. Congressman Ralph Abraham was sworn in Monday for his second term representing northeast and central Louisiana. He says a big priority for his district will be creating and protecting jobs in agriculture.

cut 4  (07) “so many people”

Abraham says while national issues like Obamacare and securing the borders will dominate many conversations in Washington, he’s also focused on Louisianans’ concerns. He says an important issue for the Bayou State will be rebuilding energy resources.

Cut 5  (11)  “expound exponentially”

Congressman Mike Johnson took his first congressional oath of office, as the former-state representative now represents the 4^th District. Johnson says he’s looking forward to rolling back regulations on businesses.

Cut 6 (11) “free market again”

Johnson says rebuilding and strengthening the military is a key issue. He says bolstering our military bases is important for the nation as a whole, and especially for people in the 4^th Congressional District.

CUT 7 (10)  “the state”‘

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The holidays aren’t always the most wonderful time of the year, which is why more couples get divorced in January than any other month of the year. That’s according to New Orleans marriage and family therapist Dr. Eileen Palace, who says the holidays can put added strain on relationships.

Cut 8 (10) “in January”

Palace says people’s expectations of what holidays should be can set them up for disappointment. She says that coupled with lack of sleep and increased alcohol can create problems in a relationship. But she says sometimes there are more serious issues that have been going on for years.

Cut 9 (09)  “old issues”

Palace says people are also dealing with personal issues during the holidays because it can remind them of lost loved ones or their children being grown. She says this can lead to depression in women and irritability in men. She says it’s important to be tolerant of other people’s issues and not take it personally.

Cut 10 (10) “deal with it”

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Another cold snap is coming our way, and state climatologist Barry Keim says it will be the coldest one yet. He says a cold front is moving into the state today, which will drastically cool things off in the Bayou State.

cut 11 (12) “the weekend”

Keim says it will get progressively colder every day until Sunday. He says a storm forming in the Gulf will increase the chance for wintery precipitation in north and central Louisiana on Friday.

cut 12 (11) “central Louisiana”

Keim says it won’t be cold enough for snow in south Louisiana, which means more rain. He says the entire state should keep an eye on this system because things could change quickly.

Cut 13 (09) “the precipitation”

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Workers compensation rates are continuing a downward trajectory in Louisiana, as the Louisiana Department of Insurance announces a statewide rate decrease of nearly 10-percent. Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon says this is good news for Louisiana businesses because it makes competing for jobs easier.

cut 14 (08) “going forward”

Donelon says rates have seen a cumulative drop of 34-percent over the last 10 years and 50-percent over the last 20 years. He says workplace safety is the biggest reason Louisiana’s workers compensation rates continue to decline.

Cut 15 (11) “26-thousand”

Donelon says not only could this lower rate bring new businesses to Louisiana, it could also help existing companies create more jobs in the Bayou State.

Cut 16 (07) “even cheaper”

The Congressional Black Caucus sworn in its new chairman today, Louisiana’s own US Representative Cedric Richmond. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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A former LSU football player says his SEC championship ring was stolen. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Strong winds left a wake of destruction in Avoyelles Parish. Marksville Fire Chief Jerry Bordelon says it has not yet been confirmed if a tornado touched down. He says Walmart sustained the most damage, including an 18-wheeler being flipped over behind the building.

Cut 3 (11) “shopping buggies”

Entergy reports more than 16-thousand customers in Louisiana lost power at some point Monday. Bordelon says many Marksville residents were among those without electricity.

cut 4  (12) “a blackout”

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Parts of north and central Louisiana could see snow or ice this week. Patrick Omundson with the National Weather Service in Shreveport says cold air arrives tonight and precipitation is expected to arrive on Friday.

Cut 5  (12)  “air mass”

Snow accumulations in Monroe and Alexandria are expected to be less than one inch. Omundson says right now the models show a 70-percent chance of icy precipitation in Monroe on Friday.

Cut 6 (11) “Friday evening”

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Today, US Representative Cedric Richmond of New Orleans was sworn in as the chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus. Richmond says in this new Congress, the CBC will confront those who seek to divide people, and they will be clear on their demands on behalf of black people across the country.

CUT 7 (09)  “they worship” 

Richmond says it takes people of all ages and races with conviction and strength to affect change because the CBC cannot do it alone. He says they need the fire, passion, and talent of young people, as well as the wisdom, insight, and clarity of our elders.

Cut 8 (07) “of today”

Richmond says if we do not learn from the past, the future will be more of the same. He says they will be deliberate with their thoughts and actions, and they will engage on their own terms. He says they have the strength and courage of their predecessors and in that spirit they won’t give in, give up, or fall back.

Cut 9 (11)  “never will be”

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Saints head coach Sean Payton says he has no plans to leave New Orleans in response to reports he could be traded to the Los Angeles Rams. Payton says he’s already started working on what the roster might look like in 2017

Cut 10 (07) “come out”

There has been speculation that the Saints could be interested in trading Payton for a draft pick compensation or a player. Payton says evaluations begin this week and he’s busy getting prepared for free agency. He says it’s difficult to constantly respond to these rumors.

cut 11 (13) “honoring that”

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Season two of the cold case series, Killing Fields, airs tonight at 9 p.m. on Discovery Channel. The show sheds light of unsolved murders in Iberville Parish. Sheriff Brett Stassi says last season focused on the 1997 murder of 34-year-old Eugenie Boisfontaine, whose body was found in Bayou Manchac. He says this season will feature two cases, one from 1991 where Curtis Smith’s body was dumped in Bayou Pigeon.

cut 12 (10) “Whiskey Bay”

Stassi says the first few episodes will focus on Boisfontaine’s murder but then spin off into a deep investigation of other cases. He says although Boisfontaine’s death remains unsolved, detectives were able to make an arrest in Smith’s murder and in Elizabeth Ferrell’s murder, whose body ended up in Whiskey Bay in April.

Cut 13 (05) “guilty verdict”

The show follows the Detective Rodie Sanchez, who comes out of retirement, along with Detectives Aubrey St. Angelo, Leslie Brandford and Major Ronnie Hebert. Stassi says through the television show, they were able to obtain forensic tools that usually they wouldn’t have access to.

cut 14 (10) “financial ability”

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Political analysts say we can look forward to more of the same in Louisiana politics next year. Halen Doughty explains why 2017 is expected to be all about the budget

CUT 1 (27) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Today in Washington D.C, John Kennedy will be sworn into the 115th Congress of the United States as Louisiana’s newest Senator. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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The Smoking Cessation Trust has some tips for smokers to quit as their New Year’s resolution. Don Molino has more…

Cut 3 (25) “I’m Don Molino”

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2016 was certainly an unusual year for Louisiana politics, so what can we expect in 2017? Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says next year will be all about the budget. He says we can look forward to another contentious battle over revenue versus spending. He says like last year, we are entering the New Year with a massive budget shortfall.

cut 4  (10) “sales taxes”

Pinsonat says there’s still the possibility of yet another special session next year to address the looming $600 million deficit, which could increase after the Revenue Estimating Conference meets again later this month. He says how Governor John Bel Edwards addresses the budget problems will greatly affect his popularity. He says Edwards is entering the 2017 with a high favorability rating.

Cut 5  (10)  “plummet again”

Pinsonat says we also have to elect a new state treasurer, and even that will be about the budget. He says Senator-elect John Kennedy became popular because of the budget crisis. He adds that one of the outgoing State Treasurer’s slogans during his campaign was that Louisiana has spending problem, not a revenue problem.

Cut 6 (10) “made Kennedy popular”

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Today in Washington D.C, John Kennedy will be sworn into the 115th Congress of the United States as Louisiana’s newest Senator. The former state treasurer says he intends to hit the ground running…:

CUT 7 (10)  “lowering taxes”

Kennedy says he doesn’t think the new Congress and the new president are going to spend a lot of time talking and studying, but that the bills will start moving. He says you can bet a major topic will be how to go about getting rid of Obamacare…:

Cut 8 (09) “sure doesn’t”

Kennedy says he feels the US Senate won’t let the current federal health care system lapse without having something new to take its place. He says one of the biggest things he’s going to try to do for Louisianians is get flood relief here quickly…:

Cut 9 (09)  “still affordable”

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Southeastern Louisiana University is urging people to donate their Christmas trees to help save the state’s coast rather than throwing them in the trash. Rob Moreau, manager of SLU’s Turtle Cover Environmental Research Station, says when you put recycled trees into the marsh it can help the shoreline in many ways…

Cut 10 (08) “landfills”

For more drop off information, visit southeastern.edu/turtlecove. Moreau says they are collecting trees at several places around the Hammond area.

cut 11 (11) “restaurants”

Moreau says when the Christmas trees are placed along with shoreline, the trees help to trap the sediments. He says eventually, grass begins to grow inside of the tree.

cut 12 (09) “it works”

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The Smoking Cessation Trust is offering tips to help smokers quit for the New Year. CEO Mike Rogers says this is a great resolution for people to push for. He says most people who try to quit cold turkey are unsuccessful but they have a great program to help…

Cut 13 (09) “medication”

To qualify for the free program you must be a Louisiana resident who has been smoking before Sept. 1, 1988. Rogers says whether you qualify for the program or not, the first step to take when quitting is to set a date to stop smoking and be optimistic.

cut 14 (09) “to be”

Visit smokefreela.org for more info on the program. Rogers says removing cigarettes and tobacco from your home and car will help you not be tempted to smoke. He also suggests getting your teeth cleaned to get rid of smoking stains and improve your outlook.

Cut 15 (06) “do it”

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Saints Coach Sean Payton refused to address rumors on Monday that he could be coaching elsewhere in 2017. He said it would be silly to add fuel to those reports. Quarterback Drew Brees has said that reports of Payton leaving have been completely made up and said it comes with the territory when you don’t make the playoffs…

Cut 16 (14) “there’s going to be speculation”

Brees is coming off another great season. He threw for over 5,000 yards for a 5th time. He also tossed 37 touchdown passes and completed 70% of his passes. The 37-year-old signed a one-year contract extension prior to the start of 2016 season…

Cut 17 (15)    “at a time”

This is the third consecutive year the Saints have not made it to the playoffs. But Brees believes the right guys are in the locker room to make New Orleans a Super Bowl contender again…

Cut 18 (20) “very near future”

State Fire Marshal Butch Browning is reminding everyone ringing in the New Year to be careful when lighting off fireworks. Don Molino has more…

CUT 1 (23) “I’m Don Molino”

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Governor John Bel Edwards has appointed Crowley state lawmaker Jack Montoucet as secretary of the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (26) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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New Year’s Eve is tomorrow and fireworks are the main attraction but State Fire Marshal Butch Browning is reminding people to always be cautious. Browning says every season, an average of nine people are injured due to fireworks. He reminds everyone to make sure and follow a few simple guidelines when lighting the devices.

Cut 3 (10) “water handy”

Browning says it’s never a good idea to repackage fireworks, like taping a bunch together because it’s a recipe for disaster. He also advises people to purchase fireworks from a licensed dealer and report anyone selling suspiciously to the state fire marshal’s office.

cut 4  (06) “to door”

Browning says some parishes do not allow people to purchase fireworks and set them off, like East Baton Rouge. He advises anyone who isn’t sure if their town or parish allows fireworks to check on the fire marshal’s website.

Cut 5  (10)  “those devices”

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The state Department of Environmental Quality is reminding the public to recycle after the holidays because more waste is produced in December than any other month. Jean Kelly with DEQ says almost everything is recyclable in one way or another.

Cut 6 (09)”recycling days”

Kelly says you can even recycle electronics like computers in some parishes. She says in Easst Baton Rouge Parish, you can find information at brgov.com/recycle about seasonal pickups and recycling from the Capital Area Corporate Recycling Council.

CUT 7 (09)  “and nonprofits” 

Kelly says you can also recycle rechargeable batteries when they no longer hold a charge. She says people can call the Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation at 800-8-BATTERY for more information. She says some parishes have drop off sites for recycling, as well as pickups.

Cut 8 (09) “collecting it”

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Water testing results from more than 400 residences in the town of St. Joseph showed that at least 90 came back positive for levels of lead not safe for consumption. On December 16^th, Governor John Bel Edwards issued a public health emergency for the town after two samples showed high levels, and he ordered testing of every household. State Health Officer Dr. Jimmy Guidry says advises all residents not to drink the water, even if their samples did not contain high levels of lead.

Cut 9 (07)  “for consumption”

Guidry says in many cases, they found that the lead was coming from pipes inside of the home. He says they are offering additional tests to make sure there aren’t other sources of lead in those homes that children could be exposed to.

Cut 10 (09) “and soil”

Guidry says the state is providing residents in St. Joe with drinking water while they look into long term solutions. He says they are also encouraging parents in homes that did not pass the inspection to have their children tested for lead as well.

cut 11 (08) “of this”

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An arrest has been made in a brutal 2015 double slaying in Baton Rouge that claimed the lives of two young women from Texas. BRPD Sgt. L’Jean McKneely says 26-year-old Jonathan Robertson was in the East Baton Rouge Parish Prison on an unrelated attempted robbery charge. He says while Robertson was incarcerated, they were able to secure the weapon he had at the time of his arrest.

cut 12 (09) “2015”

McKneely says Robertson faces two counts of first-degree murder in the horrible deaths of 23-year-olds Brandi Gilbert and Corrine Rayford. He says it’s not known what happened leading up to the vicious attack on the victims…:

Cut 13 (10) “the vehicle”

McKneely says Robertson faces several other charges as it’s believed the man was responsible for a number of crimes after the murders of these women took place. He says they’re asking anyone who may be a potential victim to come forward.

cut 14 (10) “to jail”

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It’s going to be a wet New Years weekend across the Bayou State, and forecasters expect several inches of rain to fall throughout South Louisiana. Alek Krautmann with the National Weather Service in Slidell says the three day event lasts Saturday into Monday…:

Cut 15 (08) “of rain”

Krautmann says the system will come in two waves, the first Saturday evening into the overnight, then there will be a break before more rain arrives late Sunday night into midday Monday. He says the rainfall may result in localized street flooding in poorly drained areas…:

Cut 16  (11)  “minor flooding”

The Louisiana Highway Safety Commission is urging drivers to be extra careful on the roads over the New Year’s holiday weekend. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says they are thrilled to kick off 2017 with New Orleans being showcased in Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve. Don Molino reports…:

Cut 2 (27) “I’m Don Molino”

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2016 was a tough year for Louisiana. Halen Doughty has more on this year’s biggest stories…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The Louisiana Highway Safety Commission wants to remind motorists to be extra careful while driving over the New Year’s holiday weekend. Executive Director Dr. Katara Williams says often times when New Year’s falls on a weekend, it can result in more crashes than during the week. She hopes people are more cautious of their actions while ringing in 2017.

cut 4  (10) “drink responsibly”

The Louisiana Highway Safety Research Group found during the 2015 New Year’s holiday 341 people were hurt in car crashes in the state and 44 of those injuries were alcohol related. Williams says it’s easy to avoid drinking and driving if you plan ahead.

Cut 5  (09)  “roadway”

Williams suggests taking an Uber or calling a cab to secure a safe ride home. She says they’re thinking of the safety of not only the driver but the passengers and everyone else on Louisiana’s roadways.

Cut 6 (09) “they’re drinking”

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Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says they are thrilled to kick off 2017 by nationally showcasing our amazing culture through New Orleans during this year’s “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve.” It’s the first time the production will do a Central Time Zone Countdown. He says it’s a great holiday to show people how much fun we have in Louisiana…:

CUT 7 (09)  “tourism industry”

New Orleans will be a part of the largest celebration of the year airing at 7pm our time on ABC, and feature Lucy Hale of Pretty Little Liars hosting in the Big Easy. Ryan Seacrest will lead the traditional countdown to midnight live from New York. Nungesser says the state has a three year commitment from Dick Clark Productions…:

Cut 8 (10) “around the state”

New Orleans officials announced safety measures they are taking this weekend including declaring Bourbon Street a pedestrian roadway only. Nungesser says, going into 2017, he’s very proud to see people working together throughout Louisiana to attract visitors and make things safer…:

Cut 9 (08)  “leaders”

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More than one hundred Princess Leias will march through New Orleans Friday in honor of the late Carrie Fisher. Elizabeth Pearce is a member of the Leijorettes, a Princess Leia themed dance line that’s part of the Krewe of Chewbacchus. Pearce says the Princess of Alderaan was a role model to her and the rest of the dancers.

Cut 10 (11) “a blaster”

Pearce says you don’t have to look like Leia Organa to be a Leijorette, you just have to embody her spirit. She says no two dancers look exactly alike because a lot of their props and costumes are homemade. But she says they all wear in the classic white dress with side buns.

cut 11 (11) “dance team motion”

Pearce says the Krewe of Chewbacchus will begin lining up at 3 pm just outside the French Quarter. She says people can still join the memorial parade. She says they are also raising money to cover the cost of the parade.

cut 12 (10) “collecting donations”

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2016 will go down in history as one of the most tragic, eventful years in recent memory. This year we saw everything from bizarre elections to tragic attacks to natural disasters. In Baton Rouge, few stories will top the shooting death of Alton Sterling outside of a convenience store. Protests erupted after the black man was killed during a confrontation with white police officers. Baton Rouge NAACP President Michael McClanahan said after the shooting that someone should lose their job over Sterling’s death.

Cut 13 (07) “the guts”

Seven days after Sterling’s death, a man from Kansas City shot and killed three officers in Baton Rouge and wounded three more in an ambush on cops. Governor John Bel Edwards spoke about the deaths of Matthew Gerald, Brad Garafola, and Montrell Jackson.

cut 14 (10) “everyday hero”

Of course you can’t talk about 2016 in Louisiana without mentioning the floods. After north Louisiana was hit with an unprecedented flood in March, south Louisiana was devastated by another historic flood in August. East Feliciana Parish OEP Deputy Director Jim Parker said they were doing everything they can to keep people safe as the flood waters rose.

Cut 15 (08) “sandbags fast”

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LSU and Louisville kickoff tomorrow at 10am in the Camping World Stadium. Tigers’ sideline reporter Gordy Rush says obviously the key in this Citrus Bowl contest is for LSU to stop the Heisman trophy winner Lamar Jackson. Rush says the D has to blitz and bring a lot of pressure to the QB like other teams that have beaten the Cardinals have been able to do.:

Cut 16 (07) “operate”

The game, which is the first-ever meeting between the teams in football, will be televised on ABC. Louisville comes into this matchup ranked No. 12 in the FBS in total defense, but Rush doesn’t think this is a team that LSU won’t be able to run the ball against…:

Cut 17 (12)    “who’s an edge rusher”

This will be Steve Ensminger’s final game in the interim offensive coordinator role as Matt Canada takes over the job on New Year’s Day. Rush says the obvious difference you saw with LSU’s offense under Ensminger’s leadership is that he forced defenses to protect the whole field…:

Cut 18 (20) “first and second down”

Nine Louisiana police officers were killed in the line of duty this year, ranking the state third in the nation for officer deaths. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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In the wake of Debbie Reynolds death just one day after her daughter, Carrie Fisher, passed away, doctors say you really can die from a broken heart. Michelle Southern has more…

Cut 2 (26) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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It’s been a tough year for Louisiana law enforcement, as Louisiana was third in the nation for officers killed in the line of duty. That’s according to President of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, Craig Floyd, who says nationwide, 135 police officers were killed this year. He says firearms-related fatalities were the leading cause of on duty deaths.

Cut 3 (12) “ambush attacks”

One of those attacks occurred on July 17 in Baton Rouge when a gunman killed three officers and wounded three others. A total of 9 Louisiana police officers were killed in 2015. Floyd blames a growing disrespect for the rule of law for the increase in officer deaths. He says police are visible, vulnerable symbols of law and authority.

cut 4  (08) “the enemy”

Floyd says too often, the service and sacrifice of police officers is taken for granted. He says we need more education about the role of law enforcement in our society. He says that’s why they are opening the National Law Enforcement Museum in 2018, to tell the story of law enforcement.

Cut 5  (10)  “been told”

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A barn at the New Orleans Fair Grounds Racetrack is under quarantine for a case of Equine Herpesvirus, according to the Louisiana Department of Agriculture. Ag Commissioner Mike Strain says one horse at the location developed the neurological disease and was humanely euthanized by a veterinarian. He says this virus is highly contagious and there is no vaccine to prevent it.

Cut 6 (06)”highly infectious”

Some symptoms of Equine Herpesvirus are fever, limb swelling, nasal discharge and inability to rise. Strain says the disease is spread from close horse to horse contact, as well as, contaminated equipment, clothing, hands and through the air. He says the horses in quarantine will be closely monitored.

CUT 7 (09)  “the signs” 

The disease is not transmissible to humans.

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Many are asking if you really can die from a broken heart, following the death of movie star Debbie Reynolds, just one day after her daughter, Carrie Fisher. Cardiologist Dr. Frank Smart with LSU Health New Orleans says broken heart syndrome is more common than you might think. He says the emotion that goes with losing someone causes the body to produce a lot of adrenaline.

Cut 8 (12) “blocked arteries”

Smart says medicine doesn’t entirely understand how grief and hope affect people’s lives, but doctors can prescribe preventative treatments.

Cut 9 (10)  “for life”

Smart says for some, there’s a lot of pressure to remain calm and collected during stressful times, which can increase the risk for a heart attack. He says it’s best for people to try to cope with grief in their own ways.

Cut 10 (11) “for people”

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Assistant District Attorney Tony Clayton believes the sad case about a mother dumping her baby in a trash can at a New Roads Walmart exposes an actual problem with Louisiana law. 34-year-old Kyandrea Thomas is charged with attempted second degree murder. Clayton says it’s concerning that this unstable woman may not get fair treatment under the circumstances…

cut 11 (10) “with that”

Insanity can only be a defense in Louisiana if the individual is believed to not understand the difference between right and wrong while committing the crime. Clayton says other states factor in metal state of the defendant but that’s not the case in Louisiana.

cut 12 (08) “you’re doing”

Clayton says it’s time to approach mental disabilities differently because many people in the state are affected. He says he will bring this change before the legislature in the next session but until then….

Cut 13 (05) “fixes it”

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Authorities in Washington Parish arrest an 18-year-old accused of vandalizing and stealing from Louisiana National Guard members. Major Justin Brown with the Franklinton Police Department says the suspect is identified as Evantrell Tennessee who they pegged with the help of DNA:

cut 14 (09) “his arrest”

Brown says Tennessee is accused of trashing and robbing several soldiers’ vehicles while the troops were training. He believes there are more people involved in this crime…:

Cut 15 (10) “Tennessee”

Tennessee faces several charges including two dozen counts each of felony theft and criminal damage. His bond is set at $207,000.

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2016 was a year for the record books when it comes to politics in Louisiana. Emelie Gunn has more….

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Governor John Bel Edwards says state leaders are doing what they can to prepare for a decision on the Alton Sterling case. Michelle Southern has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Like many Louisiana residents, Senator-elect John Kennedy isn’t happy that Amazon will begin collecting Louisiana sales taxes. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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2016 was quite a hectic year for Louisiana politics. Jeremy Alford of LaPolitics.com says the top political story of the year was Republican Taylor Barras being elected as speaker of the House rather than Governor John Bel Edwards’ pick of Democratic Representative Walt Leger. He says this is the first time in modern history that the governor did not hand select the speaker.

cut 4  (08) “the house”

Alford says this changed the relationship between the House and the Senate, which greatly affected the state’s three legislative sessions. He says lawmakers worked more continuous days in sessions during 2016 than any other legislative session since 1812.

Cut 5  (09)  “important sessions”

Alford says the political year ended with Republican State Treasurer John Kennedy as a U.S. Senator. He says we also rounded out 2016 with Louisiana politicians taking on some big positions.

Cut 6 (10) “for Louisiana”

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Louisianans have a lot to look forward to in 2017, including more federal funding for flood recovery and hopefully a resolution to the state’s massive budget shortfall. Also coming next year is a decision in the Alton Sterling case from the Department of Justice. Governor John Bel Edwards says at this point, he still doesn’t have any information about when a decision is coming or what it will be.

CUT 7 (09)  “that announcement”

Edwards says the state is taking steps to ensure that Louisiana is ready for whatever that decision might be. He says they are also urging police departments to re-evaluate how they train officers, pushing more de-escalation tactics and ways to hold police officers more accountable.

Cut 8 (10) “law enforcement officers”

But Edwards says the public also has a responsibility to make sure they’re interacting with the police in a proper fashion as well. He says they are also looking into ways to educate the public on how they can do their part in keeping situations from getting out of hand.

Cut 9 (08)  “for example”

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Amazon’s new policy of collecting sales tax in Louisiana has upset a lot of Louisiana residents, including Senator-elect John Kennedy. He says many state lawmakers are dancing at the Capitol because they’ll have more money to spend, at the expense of Louisiana taxpayers.

Cut 10 (07) “taxpayers pockets”

It’s estimated once the policy goes into effect on January 1, it will bring in an additional $30 million a year for Louisiana. Kennedy says when you start talking about the internet and taxes, you’re taking the first step down a very slippery slope.

cut 11 (09) “sooner or later”

Louisiana law already requires taxpayers to self-report their online purchases and pay the taxes, but most online shoppers do not. Kennedy says it’s not their fault the taxes aren’t being collected, it’s the state Department of Revenue’s fault for not enforcing the law.

cut 12 (12) “the bad guy”

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Now that we’re through the holidays, many people are scrambling to get the most tax savings they can before the end of the year. Metairie CPA Gina Rachel says charitable donations are one way to save on your taxes. She says donations will still count even if you donate on your credit card and don’t pay it until January. She says monetary donations aren’t the only way to give.

Cut 13 (08) “donations as well”

Rachel says taxpayers could have a tax savings of anywhere from 15 to 30-percent. She says at this time of year people also try to accelerate any deductions that might expire next year.

cut 14 (10) “lose that”

Rachel says higher education deductions will expire next year as well. She says even if you’re too busy to do anything before the end of the year, you still have options to save on their taxes.

Cut 15 (09) “that as well”

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The Saints return to the practice field today to get ready for the regular season finale on Sunday at Atlanta. Running back Mark Ingram enters the contest 60 yards shy of 1,000 for the season. Ingram says eclipsing 1,000 yards for the season would mean a lot…

Cut 16 (13) “on the season”

A win on Sunday and the Saints will finish with an 8-and-8 record, but they’ll miss the playoffs for a third consecutive year. Head Coach Sean Payton says he would rather finish the season with a win than a loss….

Cut 17 (14)    “another game”

Sunday’s game means a lot for Atlanta. A Falcons win and they secure a first round bye in the NFC playoffs. Ingram says it’s an important game for the Saints too…

Cut 18 (19) “a rival”

A proposed pipeline that would go through the Atchafalaya Basin from Calcasieu to St. James Parish is upsetting many environmental groups in the state. Emelie Gunn has more….

CUT 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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The weather has been hard to keep up with lately in Louisiana. Halen Doughty has more on what we can expect in the coming days…

Cut 2 (26) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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A Denham Springs woman has been arrested for allegedly selling fake driver’s licenses to illegal immigrants. Denham Springs Police Chief Shannon Womack says the investigation began after an illegal alien was pulled over in a traffic stop on December 20th.

Cut 3 (10) “got it from”

Womack says the investigation led them to 59-year-old Criselda Meraz, who worked at River Road Notary Tax Title. He says detective executed a search warrant on the business on December 23rd.

cut 4  (04) “driver’s licenses”

Womack says they also discovered material and equipment to make more fake IDs, as well as $30-thuousand in cash. He says Meraz faces multiple charges, including forgery.

Cut 5  (07)  “police department”

Womack adds that the investigation is ongoing, and more charges and arrests are possible.

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Not everyone is happy with the proposal to install an underground pipeline through the Atchafalaya Basin. The Bayou Bridge Pipeline would run across 11 parishes spanning from Calcasieu to St. James Parish. Director of the environmental group, The Bucket Brigade, Anne Rolfes says Louisiana needs to stop seeing the oil and gas sectors as the only economic engine, as the renewable energy business is booming.

Cut 6 (08)”cleaner jobs”

Proponents of the Bayou Bridge Pipeline say it would improve safety, as there is a greater chance for a spill when transporting oil on a truck or train. But Rolfes says these claims of improved safety are bogus.

CUT 7 (10)  “about accidents” 

The pipeline is connected with the highly publicized Dakota Pipeline and the oil companies say the Bayou Bridge Pipeline could boost the state’s economy. A public hearing on the pipeline’s application is set for January 12^th. Rolfes encourages everyone to attend and says running another pipeline through a sensitive area will negatively affect our drinking water and crawfish harvest.

Cut 8 (06) “stand up”

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A Houston man was arrested in Jefferson Davis Parish after a road rage incident where he pointed a hand gun at another driver. Chief Deputy Christopher Ivey says officers responded to a call reporting the incident and pulled over 29-year-old Michael Banks on I-10. He says Banks admitted to having a gun but denied pointing it anyone.

Cut 9 (10)  “the weapon”

Ivey says during the traffic stop, deputies smelled a strong odor of marijuana. He says a K-9 unit was called to the scene and the drug was found wrapped up like a Christmas present.

Cut 10 (08) “New Orleans”

Ivey says Banks’ road rage is what got him in trouble. He says Banks faces multiple charges including, aggravated assault with a firearm and possession of Marijuana with intent.

cut 11 (04) “the month”

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Many Louisianans are struggling with whether to break out their summer attire or more winter gear. Robert Ricks with the National Weather Service says the pattern of hot then cold weather will continue for the next month or so. He says right now, warm air has settled over the Bayou State.

cut 12 (11) “this far south”

Ricks says unfortunately, unseasonably warm temperatures often come with fog. He says fog is covering much of south Louisiana in the mornings, from Lake Charles to the Mississippi coast.

Cut 13 (09) “lot of fog”

Ricks says things will start to cool down again later in the week, but only for a little while.

cut 14 (08) “the weekend”

Ricks says we could be looking at a potential for severe weather by Sunday or Monday when things warm back up.

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