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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Officials are once again warning the public about more designer drugs that are making the rounds with a high potential of overdose. Don Molino reports

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Don Molino”

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The Louisiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence receives a grant to help victims of domestic violence in Acadiana and central Louisiana become financially stable. Halen Doughty has more…:

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Weather events in Louisiana caused a lot of destruction in 2016. Jeff Palermo looks back…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Officials are once again warning the public about more designer drugs that are making the rounds with a high potential of overdose. East Baton Rouge Parish Coroner Dr. Beau Clark says a recent death as been confirmed to be directly related to the use of “Novel Psychoactive or Synthetic Opiod Substances.” He says they aren’t sold locally yet…:

cut 4  (09) “one dose”

Clark says these drugs are not new, but they are deadly chemical compounds of other drugs designed to exploit temporary loopholes in current laws. He says these chemists who create the opiod-like substances have no regard for public safety…:

Cut 5  (08)  “these drugs”

Clark says one of these substances is known as “pinky” which is around 7 and a half times more potent than morphine and been associated with numerous fatalities across the US. He says they wanted to make an immediate notification to those in possession of or are considering to use any of these designer drugs…:

Cut 6 (07) “very rapidly”

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The Louisiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence has received a grant from the Allstate Foundation to set up Financial Empowerment Programs in Acadiana and Central Louisiana. Coalition Interim Executive Director Mariah Wineski says financial abuse occurs in 99-percent of domestic violence cases.

CUT 7 (10)  “abuser”

Wineski says the money will fund financial education, credit repair, and matched savings programs for domestic violence victims. She says Louisiana received $50-thousand of the grant, which totaled $1.2 million and benefited more than 40 programs across the country.

Cut 8 (11) “of Louisiana”

Wineski says they hope to serve over 500 people at Faith House Acadiana and Safety Net for Abused Persons. She says they are optimistic they will be able to help more victims in Louisiana achieve financial stability in the future.

Cut 9 (07)  “statewide”

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2016 will be remembered for two significant flood events, one in north Louisiana and the other in south Louisiana, which killed 13 people in August. State Climatologist Barry Keim says the north Louisiana flood event took place between March 7th and 12th. He says between 15 to 25 inches of rain fell…

Cut 10 (09) “four days”

In August, Keim says the state experienced an unprecedented rain event.  30-thousand people had to be rescued and nearly 150-thousand homes damaged. He says the largest rainfall total was in Livingston parish…

cut 11 (09) “in Louisiana”

But once the flood waters receded, the state  experienced several weeks without any rainfall, making this another unusual weather year

cut 12 (08) “extreme drought”

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A study from Bankrate-dot-com finds 52-percent of Americans do not plan on using all of their vacation days this year. The report also notes that most of the workers who are not taking all of their vacation days, will have five days or more unused. Melissa Elliot is the owner of Express Employment Professionals and she says it’s just hard for some people to get away

Cut 13 (08) “what they do”

Elliot owns an employment services firm in Baton Rouge and Covington. She says employers like hard-working individuals, but there’s a reason why they give vacation time and many would prefer for you to use all of your days…

cut 14 (10) “with here”

Elliot says this study shows that many people love what they do…

Cut 15 (08) “what they want”

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The LSU Tigers have one more practice in Baton Rouge today and then its off to Orlando where the Bayou Bengals will complete their preparations for Saturday’s Citrus Bowl matchup with Louisville. The Cardinals are ranked 12th in the F-B-S in total defense and Tigers quarterback Danny Eltling says they look impressive on film

Cut 16 (19) “of Louisville”

Former LSU quarterback Steve Ensminger will serve as the interim offensive coordinator for the bowl game and he’ll call plays one last time, before Matt Canada takes over as the O-C. Etling says he’s spoken with Canada and he’s excited about the hire…

Cut 17 (19)    “as a quarterback”

Louisville is known for its explosive offense and Heisman trophy winning quarterback Lamar Jackson. LSU defensive end Lewis Neal says playing the proper technique will be important on Saturday

Cut 18 (19) “to the T”

2016 will be remembered as a tough year for the state’s ag industry. Don Molino has more…

CUT 1 (29) “I’m Don Molino”

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Following the case of a mother who left an infant in a Wal Mart trash can, the state is reminding the public about Louisiana’s Safe Haven law. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The holidays are a great time for celebration and enjoying friends and
family, but it also can bring stress and heart related issues. With the
new year coming, Ochsner Medical Center Cardiologist Dr. Doug Mendoza,
is offering advice on how to get a healthier heart for the holidays..:

Cut 3 (10) “in depression”

Mendoza says increased fluid retention can occur with higher salt
contend in holiday foods and this can lead to shortness of breath…:

cut 4  (10) “heart attack”

Mendoza says it’s good to Know the early signs of a heart attack that
can begin hours or days before a heart attack…:

Cut 5  (09)  “sweating, nausea”

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2016 will go down as a difficult year for Louisiana’s agriculture industry. LSU AgCenter economist Kurt Guidry says farmers were hurt by lower commodity prices and unfavorable weather…

Cut 6 (10) “and flooding”

Guidry says the March flood had a 90-million dollar economic impact to the state agriculture industry. Many producers had to replant corn, which added to production costs. He says then we had the August flood in south Louisiana, which ruined many acres of rice, soybean and cotton

CUT 7 (12)  “our commodities”

Guidry says making the recovery more difficult from the floods is that major crops like corn and soybeans are not going for a high price on the market…

Cut 8 (12) “our producers”

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Officials in Pointe Coupee Parish say a woman gave birth in a Wal Mart bathroom in New Roads, then left the infant in the trash can. Department of Children and Family Services Deputy Director Terri Ricks wants the public to know that no mother has to take such desperate measures, because of Louisiana’s Safe Haven Law…:

Cut 9 (10)  “and walk away”

You can find more information on this law at safehaven.com. Ricks says the baby girl, who was discovered just hours after birth, is currently in DCFS custody, and it appears that she is going to pull through. It’s important that people know Safe Haven is legal and anonymous, says Ricks, whereas abandoning any child is a serious crime..:

Cut 10 (06) “it’s illegal”

Since 2004 they’ve had about 45 infants that have been safely relinquished. Ricks says a designated facility can be a licensed hospital, a public health unit, medical clinic or a police or fire station. She says the positive in this is that the baby is okay, and someone’s Christmas wish to become a parent…:

cut 11 (06) “good news story”

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This afternoon in Shreveport, it will be Vanderbilt versus North Carolina State in the Camping World Independence Bowl. Spokesperson Stefan Nolet says the Independence Bowl has a history of close match-ups and this game should add to that tradition as the two squads are coming into the contest on an upswing…

cut 12 (09) “close out of the year”

Both teams are 6-and-6 on the year. It’s the first bowl game for Vandy since 2013 and Nolet says the Commodore fans that have made it to Shreveport are excited to be there…

Cut 13 (12) “we’re excited”

This is the 41st Independence Bowl and it’s the 11th oldest bowl game in college football.

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The LSU Tigers return from Christmas Break today to continue preparations for Saturday’s game against Louisville in the Citrus Bowl. It’s the first ever meeting between the two teams and the Tigers are a slight favorite to win. LSU Coach Ed Orgeron says they expect a tough game in Orlando….

cut 14 (11) “ready to go”

Orgeron says the game plan has been installed for the game. Stopping Heisman Trophy winner and Louisville Quarterback Lamar Jackson should priority number one. Junior linebacker Donnie Alexander says they want to keep Jackson in the pocket…

Cut 15 (12) “make a play”

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Thousands of people are expected to turnout for St. James Parish’s biggest Christmas Eve tradition- the Festival of Bonfires. Don Molino has more…

CUT 1 (31) “I’m Don Molino”

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The North American Aerospace Defense Command, or NORAD, is gearing up to track Santa’s journey around the world. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Christmas Eve is a time for family traditions, and that means something a little different in St. James Parish- the Festival of Bonfires. Festival spokesperson Jason Amato says they have over 135 bonfires that are permitted, with the bulk of them in the Lutcher-Gramercy area. He says when the festival begins, there are bonfires as far as they eye can see.

Cut 3 (11) “Mardi Gras”

The festival located halfway between Baton Rouge and New Orleans is a Cajun Christmas staple. Amato says there’s a few stories about how the tradition got started, and locals tell people to pick the one they like best.

cut 4  (11) “Santa Clause”

Amato says they light the bonfires at 7 p.m. sharp, but he encourages spectators to be there at 5 p.m. He says while many bonfires will be the typical four post tee-pee, some will be more creative.

Cut 5  (10)  “Cajun Navy”

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State Fire Marshal Butch Browning has some advice for families to prevent your holiday get together from going up in smoke. Browning says it’s important to keep three feet of open space around fireplaces and space heaters. He says home chefs also need to stay safe in the kitchen.

Cut 6 (10) “unattended”

Browning reminds families with live Christmas trees that they are starting to dry out, even after being properly watered. He says they see more fires from Christmas trees at this time, after the trees have been sitting in the home for about a month.

CUT 7 (11)  “a fire”

Browning says the best way to keep your family safe from a fire is to make sure you have a working smoke alarm.

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There are many Louisiana soldiers currently serving our country who are not able to be with their families for Christmas. They’d like to send a message home. U.S. Army Capt. Javiya Williams is sending her love home to Rapides Parish…:

Cut 8 (11) “can’t wait to see you”

You can view all Louisiana Military Holiday Greetings online at dvidshub.net. These soldiers send greetings to Northeast Louisiana…:

Cut 9 (18)  “Roanoke, Virginia”

This family sends a message back home to loved ones in Shreveport from overseas…:

Cut 10 (12) “Merry Christmas Y’all”

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Children around the country are getting ready to keep track of Santa’s journey, with a little help from the North American Aerospace Defense Command, or NORAD. Lt. Commander Paul Noel says making sure the skies are safe over North America is part of NORAD’s mission, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

cut 11 (08) “Santa’s journey”

Noel says last year alone they had over 15-hundred volunteers who came to work the 23 hours period. He says they took over 141-thousand calls and emails. He says they expect the same enthusiasm this year.

cut 12 (11) “yuletide journey”

Noel says NORAD began tracking Santa in 1955 by accident. He says there was a misprint in the paper urging children to call and talk to Santa instead connected them to the Continental Air Defense Command.

Cut 13 (08) “that night”

Noel says families can monitor Santa’s journey through the NORAD Track Santa app or online at NORADSanta.org. He says people can also call 1-877-HI-NORAD.

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A 32-year-old man is in the Franklin Parish detention center after he allegedly kidnapped, sexually assaulted and forced a 74-year-old woman into the trunk of her car. Franklin Parish Sheriff Kevin Cobb says 32-year-old Jimmy Edward Franklin was eventually taken into custody in a wooded area early this morning after a pursuit by law enforcement. Cobb says Franklin has a lengthy criminal history…

cut 14 (06) “of things”

Cobb says the horrific crime started in the Catahoula Parish town of Enterprise when the elderly victim was kidnapped from her residence and stuffed into the trunk…

Cut 15 (11) “drug situation”

Cobb says the victim was able to escape her attacker in Wisner and quickly told authorities about what happened to her….

Cut 16  (07)  “own life”

Cobb says they believe Franklin sexually assaulted the woman and charged him with aggravated rape. He faces several other charges including attempted murder of a a police officer, as Cobb says he fired a weapon at deputy while he was being pursued.

Flu season is here, just in time for the holidays. Don Molino has more on how to stay healthy this holiday season…

CUT 1 (29) “I’m Don Molino”

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The year-end holiday travel period, as defined by AAA, begins today and this year is expected to reach the highest level on record. Jeff Palermo reports…:

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A Houma substitute teacher has been arrested for allegedly having sex with teenagers. Halen Doughty has the story…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The holiday season is here, and unfortunately so is flu season. Dr. Frank Welch with LDH says we’re seeing a slight uptick in the number of flu cases in Louisiana.

cut 4  (08) “1.5 percent”

Welch says about 4 of every 100 doctor visits is for the flu. He says public health officials are also watching for potential outbreaks of other illnesses. He says there’s a fairly large outbreak of mumps in northern Arkansas.

Cut 5  (09)  “going around”

Welch says illness is more prevalent this time of year because so many people stay indoors, which allows viruses to spread. He says there are ways people can avoid getting sick during the holidays.

Cut 6 (11) “family gatherings”

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The year-end holiday travel period, as defined by AAA, begins today and this year is expected to reach the highest level on record. Spokesman Don Redman says more than 103 million Americans are forecast to travel today through January 2nd, a 1.5% increase over 2015…:

CUT 7 (10)  “smashed that”

Redman says increased travel this year is being driven by additional consumer spending because the labor market is improving and wages are rising. He says most people will be driving…:

Cut 8 (08) “roadway”

Redman says low gas prices and increased consumer optimism will prompt more Americans than ever to set out on road trips, take to the skies or board trains, buses and cruise ships to celebrate the holidays. He says the estimate US drivers have saved more than $27 billion at the pump so far this year…:

Cut 9 (09)  “previous record”

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A high scoring game is expected this afternoon when Louisiana Tech takes on Navy in the Armed Forces Bowl. The Bulldogs average 44 points a game, while the Midshipmen score points with a relentless ground attack. But the Voice of the Bulldogs, Dave Nitz, says Navy’s leading rusher, Will Worth, is out with an injury…

Cut 10 (11) “in Ft. Worth”

Today’s game features one of the top wide receivers in the game. Louisiana Tech’s Trent Taylor has caught 124 passes for 15-hundred yards and ten touchdowns. Nitz says he’s looking forward to the senior’s last game in a Bulldog uniform…

cut 11 (12) “gets open”

Nitz says the motivation is high for the Bulldogs to win this game…

cut 12 (10) “to the seniors”

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Only hours remain to finish up your Christmas shopping in time for the big day. LSU marketing professor Ofer Mintz doesn’t expect the stores will be too crowded today and tomorrow, and he says last minute shoppers can still find good deals.

Cut 13 (10) “bargains there”

Mintz says brick and mortar stores could see more business in these final hours before Christmas, since it’s too late to order online. He says smart retailers will use that to their advantage to draw more shoppers through the doors.

cut 14 (10) “other things”

Mintz says all kinds of people will be shopping today and tomorrow, not just procrastinators. He has some advice for people heading out to fight the crowds the day before Christmas Eve.

Cut 15 (08) “don’t hesitate”

West Monroe High School’s own Rebel Band has been selected to play at President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 1 (31) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Followers of the Webster Parish Convention and Visitors Bureau’s Instagram account got an unexpected surprise, courtesy of 61-year-old Executive Director Lynn Dorsey. Michelle Southern has more…

Cut 2 (00) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Governor John Bel Edwards defends his brother Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff Daniel Edwards following FBI raids at both the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office and the Hammond Police Department. An FBI spokesperson says they were carrying out court ordered actions during the December 15 raids. But Edwards says he doesn’t know what the federal agents were looking for.

Cut 3 (11) “my brother Daniel”

FBI agents seized computers, cellphones, and case files from both agencies in an investigation that reportedly stems from mishandling of evidence by a drug task force. Edwards says he is confident his brother had nothing to do with any crimes that may have taken place in the departments.

cut 4  (09) “much less illegal”

Two suspects who worked for the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office are reportedly facing federal charges.

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The West Monroe High School Rebel Band has been selected to play at President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration. Band Director Robert Freeman says West Monroe was the only high school in Louisiana chosen to perform in the parade. He says it’s exciting for these students to have this once in a lifetime experience.

Cut 5  (12)  “experience once”

Freeman says the band just found out they were selected Tuesday and called an emergency meeting to decide if parents would want to put up the roughly $600 it will cost for students to attend. He says they took a vote, and it was clear everyone wanted to play at this historic event.

Cut 6 (09) “be accepted”

Freeman says the Rebel Band will likely play a medley of Louisiana tunes that was arranged for them when the band played at President George W. Bush’s second inauguration. He says they plan to tweak the piece to make it a unique arrangement for this event.

CUT 7 (10)  “musical gumbo”

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The Webster Parish Convention and Visitors Bureau is dealing with the ramifications of an adult video that was accidentally uploaded to the bureau’s Instagram account. Webster CVB Chairman Jerry Madden says the video was posted by the CVB’s Executive Director, 61-year-old Lynn Dorsey.

Cut 8 (09) “our parish”

Madden says Dorsey was staying in a Baton Rouge hotel room when the video went live Monday night. Dorsey was reportedly using an iPhone 7 purchased by the bureau. He says she says she was trying to send the video to her husband.

Cut 9 (08)  “of it”

Madden says the bureau will discuss and implement a new social media policy in light of the mishap. He says Dorsey called and reported what happened, and she has apologized for what she calls an honest mistake.

Cut 10 (09) “deal with”

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LSU running back Leonard Fournette has received criticism from fans and those in the national media for deciding not to play in the Citrus Bowl. Tigers head coach Ed Orgeron came to Fournette’s defense today by saying Leonard would still be with the team today, if his ankle was not injured…

cut 11 (10) “no question”

Fournette signed with an agent this week, so he can begin his professional career and prepare for the NFL draft. Orgeron insists the team has no qualms with the decision Leonard has made…

cut 12 (08) “with it”

Fournette missed four games this season because of an ankle injury. Stanford’s Christian McCaffrey and Baylor’s Shock Linwood are other high profile running backs who have decided not to play in their team’s bowl game. Orgeron doesn’t see this becoming a trend in college football…

Cut 13 (12) “different case”

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The Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office is taking part in a multi-agency investigation to bust criminals accused of robbing people after the August floods. They say, so far, a dozen suspects have been tied to multiple crimes including the case of a stolen trailer. LPSO spokeswoman Lori Steele says the trailer was recovered in late November…:

cut 14 (10) “take place”

Steele says the investigation crossed parish lines, and so far, 12 people have been arrested by various law enforcement groups. She says it’s incredible to see so many agencies cooperating to get these victims some answers and sentimental items recovered…:

Cut 15 (08) “take shape”

Steele says the very active investigation is ongoing and they anticipate more arrests will be made. She says it’s important all citizens take necessary safety precautions around this time of year…:

Cut 16  (09)  “any time of the day”

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Governor John Bel Edwards took time today to reflect on what he says has  been a rewarding but challenging year as well. Jeff Palermo has the story…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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State Police announced today that Louisiana is the first state that will equip all state troopers with body cameras. Don Molino has more…

Cut 2 (26) “I’m Don Molino”

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The latest data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics finds women earn on average 76-percent of the salary men make in Louisiana. Tulane business professor Dr. Mark Rosa says typically, women spend more time caring for families, and being out of the office could affect earnings, especially in commissioned jobs.

Cut 3 (07) “better pay”

The report found the earnings ratio between men and women dropped more than 1-percent from 2014 to 2015, the first decline since 2009. Rosa says another factor is the abundance of trade jobs in Louisiana. He says while labor intensive jobs pay more money, not many women want to work in those industrial fields.

cut 4  (09) “welding job”

In Louisiana, there’s been a push to pass an Equal Pay Bill requiring companies to pay women the same salary as men for equal work. Rosa says many business owners agree with that concept, but it’s hard to make it a reality when job duties are different.

Cut 5  (07)  “to pay”

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The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries confirms the first sighting of a wild cougar in the state since 2011. It said a trail camera picture sent to the department in November out of Morehouse Parish is authentic. Maria Davidson is LDWF’s Large Carnivore Program Manager. She says this is unusual as there is no cougar population here:

Cut 6 (10) “thousands of miles”

Davidson says it’s not likely that this animal will remain in any one area longer than it would take to consume a kill and there is little chance the cougar would still be in Northeast Louisiana. She says when they’ve documented photos like this in the past, the animal commonly can show up somewhere else very quickly…:

CUT 7 (09)  “the same place”

Davidson says it is quite possible that this cougar could have been photographed on other trail cameras placed at deer feeders. She says they encourage people to report any physical evidence of cougar sightings…;

Cut 8 (09) “originated from”

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Governor John Bel Edwards calls 2016 a challenging year, but also very rewarding and positive as well. Edwards says he entered office and immediately addressed an unprecedented budget deficit by making cuts and raising revenues through tax increases…

Cut 9 (09)  “myself in”

Edwards says the most difficult day in office came on July 17th when a gunman shot six Baton Rouge law enforcement officers, killing three of them. He says the two historic floods were also challenging…

Cut 10 (12) “13 individuals”

Edwards says the goals for 2017 include addressing long-term structural budget reform so that Louisiana has a fair and predictable tax structure. He says his administration also plans on tackling criminal justice reform….

cut 11 (09) “saved money”

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Louisiana will become the first state to equip all State Troopers with body cameras. State Police Col. Mike Edmonson says they hope all troopers in the state will have body cameras before this summer. He says they plan to start rolling out the first round of body cams after the holidays.

cut 12 (10) “up first”

Edmonson says law enforcement around the state are changing their training methods to better prepare officers for the field, and the footage from these cameras will help improve their methods. He says from a training perspective, this is a homerun.

Cut 13 (11) “look at”

Edmonson says tensions between law enforcement and the public have been high in Louisiana since the police shootings and ambush in Baton Rouge last summer. He hopes these new cameras will improve transparency between police and citizens.

cut 14 (09) “being honest”

The cameras will be paid for through the existing State Police budget at a cost of $5.3 million over 5 years.

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