The State Department of Transportation has announced a project that will widen a portion of Interstate 10 between Lafayette and St. Martin Parishes. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (30) “reporting”

===================

Get ready to bundle up as the coldest air of the winter arrives in Louisiana. Jeff Palermo has the story…

CUT 2 (30) “reporting”

===================

Tomorrow morning we’ll see the coldest temperatures of the winter as low temperatures will dip into the teens in north Louisiana and low 20s in south Louisiana. The cold weather means a greater risk of fires as people try to keep their homes warm. State Fire Marshal Butch Browning says use today to make sure your detectors work

CUT 3 (09)  “retail outlet”

Browning says unfortunately the cold weather brings an increase in home fires. He says many people use space heaters, if that’s the case give them space and there are other things you can do…

CUT 4 (10)  “your home”

Browning says do not use your stove or stove top as a way to heat your home…

CUT 5 (10)  “for that”

===================

The State Department of Transportation announces a plan to widen a portion of Interstate 10 between Lafayette and St. Martin Parishes. DOTD spokesperson Diedra Druilhet says construction will take place where I-10 meets I-49 all the way to Breaux Bridge. She says the estimated cost of this project will be in the neighborhood of $125 million…

CUT 6 (07)  “the project done”

They anticipate the two year project will begin in the fall of 2016. The public comment period for this project is open and citizens have until January 17th to address their concerns. Druilhet says their plan should not impact traffic very much on this busy roadway…

CUT 7 (10)  “existing median”

Druihlet says the project will also include putting in new pavement on the existing roadway. She says this is the first of three projects that will widen or improve I-10 from Lafayette to the Atchafalaya Basin…

CUT 8 (11) “for that area”

===================

Media reports indicate that Saints defensive coordinator, Rob Ryan, will remain with the team next season. The Black & Gold defense ranked 31st in the NFL in yards allowed this season during a disappointing 7-9 season. Saints radio color analyst Hokie Gajan believes Ryan deserves a third year at the helm…

CUT 9 (08)  “number four defense”

In Ryan’s first year as Saints defensive coordinator, the team ranked fourth in the NFL in yards allowed. NFL analyst Mike Detillier says he’s not surprised that the Saints held on to Ryan…

cut 10 (10)  “have the players”

Ryan had recently said that this was his worst season in his 10 years as an NFL defensive coordinator. Detillier says the teams defensive problems are more of a personnel issue than a coaching one. He says the Saints need to use this offseason getting quality players to shore up their defense…

cut 11 (07)  “defensive coordinators”

===================

The Kaplan Police Department says an Abbeville High School teacher is in jail accused of having sex with one of his female juvenile students. Chief Boyd Adams says they originally received the complaint about 36-year-old Nicholas Willis from Abbeville Police…:

cut 12 (05)  “Abbeville High”

According to the Vermilion Parish School System website, Willis taught physical science and chemistry at Abbeville High. Adams says cops learned the alleged incident occurred in Kaplan where the suspect lived…:

cut 13 (09)  “arrested Mr. Willis”

Adams says Willis is accused of engaging in sexual relations with the juvenile which is a felony…:(Willis is charged with felony carnal knowledge of a juvenile and is being held on a $200,000 bond.)

cut 14 (04)  “$200,000”

===================

According to 24/7 Wall Street, Louisiana is the 5th most dangerous state in the USA. Michelle Southern reports…:

CUT 1 (30) “reporting”

______________________________________

The premiere of Duck Dynasty Season 7 is tonight at 8:30 on A&E and some experts are saying the show could be losing its luster. Michelle Southern reports.

Cut 2 (33) “reporting”

___________________________________

After getting sworn in yesterday, Republican Senator Bill Cassidy gets down to work today in the G-O-P controlled Senate. Scott Carwile has the story….

Cut 3 (29) “reporting”

________________________

According to 24/7 Wall Street, Louisiana is the 5th most dangerous state in the USA. The report indicates more dangerous than Louisiana are Alaska, New Mexico, Nevada and Tennessee. LSU Criminologist Edward Shihadeh (Sheh-Ha-Dah) says Louisiana has always ranked high nationally on crime…:

cut 4  (07)  “and crime”

The report also says Louisiana ranks 3rd highest in poverty rate and only 83% of people here have a high school diploma which is the 4th lowest. Shihadeh says lack of education and crime go hand in hand which is a well known finding. He says it’s important to remember that the crime rate is improving in Louisiana but it’s also coming down in other states…:

Cut 5  (09)  “relative to other states”

Shihadeh says poor socioeconomic factors likely contribute to higher crime rates in Louisiana. He says New Orleans and Baton Rouge have had a lot of success going after gang violence…:

Cut 6 (12)  “violent activity”

___________________________________________________

The premiere of Duck Dynasty Season 7 is tonight at 8:30 on A&E and some experts are saying the show is losing its luster. Emily Yahr covers pop culture and entertainment for The Washington Post. She says it’s not unusual for reality show ratings to drop, but the Robertson family has seen a major decrease in numbers…:

CUT 7 (13)  “to watch that”

Yahr says one of the reasons could be that Duck Dynasty viewers are getting the vibe that the family is more concerned with their side projects launched since their rise to fame. But she doesn’t think this is the end as 3 million people tuning in is a really great number for cable and it’s probably the best thing A&E has going on right now…:

Cut 8 (07)  “a little longer” 

Some attribute the growing lack of interest in Duck Dynasty deals with the controversial statements made by family patriarch Phil Robertson, but Yahr thinks the hilarious “wow factor” of how the family interacts with each other is wearing off…:

Cut 9 (10)  “how much you like people”

________________________________________

A new republican controlled Congress is already battling with President Barack Obama over the much-delayed Keystone XL oil pipeline. The White House has issued a veto threat, if lawmakers approve the Canada-to-Texas pipeline. Newly elected republican senator Bill Cassidy doesn’t understand the opposition to the five-point-four billion dollar project

Cut 10 (10) “hate us” 

The House could approve a bill that green lights the project by the end of the week and a Senate could happen soon after. 60 members of the Senate support construction of the Keytone, including six Democrats, but Cassidy is concerned that won’t be enough to over turn a Presidential veto…

cut 11 (08) “too bad”

Cassidy says another bill he hopes gets to the President’s desk is legislation that would increase the revenue Louisiana would receive from royalities from drilling in the outer continental shelf and that money would go towards coastal restoration….

cut 12 (10)  “the Senate”

_____________________________________

The Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness is asking residents to please be aware of the artic weather that is currently moving through the state. The National Weather Service says the cold blast began impacting Louisiana overnight and a hard freeze is expected at sundown through Thursday morning. GOHSEP Director Kevin Davis…:

Cut 13 (09)  “exposed pipes”

Davis says they are encouraging folks to monitor local media for any possible additional watches and warnings for your region. He says protect pets, plants and pipes and if you plan to use space heaters…:

Cut 14 (07)  “fire started”

Davis says while no major impacts are expected from the freezing conditions, the state will be ready to address any potential problems…:

Cut 15  (08)  “right away”

____________________________________

Saints General Manager Mickey Loomis is not ready to comment on whether defensive coordinator Rob Ryan will return next season. Loomis says they are still in the process of evaluating the entire organization….

Cut 16  (19)  “to be adjusted”  

There have been reports the Saints will have trouble improving their roster, because of salary cap limitations. But in a 30-minute meeting with reporters, Loomis downplayed those concerns

Cut 17 (16)  “salary cap”

Some fans have blamed the team’s training camp location as one of the reasons why the Black and Gold finished a seven and nine record. Some Who Dats believe the environment didn’t get the team ready, but Loomis says the plan is to return to Greenbrier, West Virginia

Cut 18 (19) “part of the solution’

New 5th District Congressman, Republican Ralph Abraham of Alto, was sworn in on Capitol Hill today. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (28) “reporting”

===================

Hard freeze warnings have already been posted for portions of south and northeast Louisiana in anticipation of the arctic cold that will move into the state tomorrow. Eric Gill has more…

CUT 2 (28) “reporting”

===================

New 5th District Congressman, Republican Ralph Abraham of Alto, was sworn in on Capitol Hill today. Abraham will be taking over the seat previously occupied by Vance McAllister. The new congressman says he’s very excited to serve the 5th District…

CUT 3 (09)  “our constituents”

Abraham says the new Republican controlled Congress will get to work rather quickly and you can expect to see votes occur this week. He says they will address the immigration problem and the export ban on Liquefied Natural Gas. Abraham says one of the first items they will address will be the Keystone XL Pipeline…

CUT 4 (06)  “do with it”

(The White House said today that the President would veto Keystone XL pipeline legislation if it passes.)

Abraham says the Keystone XL Pipeline will provide jobs that would be great for the state. He says this Congress will pass laws that were not passed in the last congressional session and send them to the President for acceptance or veto. Abraham is optimistic that the GOP controlled Senate will be able override a presidential veto…

CUT 5 (12)  “of these vetoes”

===================

The Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office says the town clerk in Forest Hill has been arrested on multiple counts of forgery, malfeasance in office, and more. Lt. Tommy Carnline says their investigation began when town officials discovered some discrepancies in their fine collections…

CUT 6 (09)  “Trista Goleman”

31-year-old Trista Goleman had allegedly been cashing money orders that were being sent to the town for fine payments. Carnline says Goleman was booked into the Rapides Parish Detention Center….

CUT 7 (12) “are felonies”

Goleman faces 17 felony counts each of forgery, malfeasance in office, injuring public records and filing false public records. Carnline says the final amount of the money orders Goleman is accused of cashing has not been determined as the investigation is ongoing. He says it appears the clerk was working alone in this incident…

CUT 8 (06) “this one clerk”

===================

A Baton Rouge TV station reports Ohio State Quarterback and two-time Big 10 MVP Braxton Miller is considering transferring to LSU. A shoulder injury  kept Miller from playing this season and two younger QBs passed him up on the Buckeye depth chart. Bayou Bengals Insider publisher Derek Ponamsky says it’s not a surprise to hear Miller might be interested in LSU…

CUT 9 (10)  “talk about”

Notre Dame Quarterback Everett Golson’s name has also been rumored as a possible transfer candidate to LSU. Both players would be eligible to play in 2015, but Ponamsky says LSU can’t talk to Miller or Golson until their respective schools grant them a release from their athletic scholarships

CUT 10 (12)  “gonna be mentioned”

Ponamsky says after below average play from the quarterback position this past season, there’s a good chance LSU will bring a veteran in, who can play right away….

cut 11 (7)  “a goal”

===================

Hard freeze warnings have already been posted for portions of south and northeast Louisiana in anticipation of the arctic cold that will move into the state tomorrow. Mike Marcotte, with the National Weather Service in Lake Charles, says this massive arctic front will bring the coldest temperatures seen this season. He says lows Thursday morning in central Louisiana could be in the upper teens…

cut 12 (08)  “20 to 25”

Marcotte says Thursday morning lows will be below freezing for a majority of the state with some areas seeing lows in the teens. He says although it will be cold across the state, he doesn’t expect any record low temperatures to be set with this arctic front…

cut 13 (06)  “stay in place”

Marcotte says Friday morning lows will remain at freezing or below for a majority of the Bayou State. He says the weekend will see morning temps rise above freezing, but it will be on the cool side. Marcotte says, as this arctic front approaches, remember “the three p’s”…

cut 14 (12)  “would be great”

===================

According to the Des Moines Register, Governor Bobby Jindal is scheduled to have two closed door meetings with conservative religious leaders in Iowa today. Scott Carwile reports…

CUT 1 (30) “reporting”

______________________________________

King Cake season is officially underway on this Twelfth Night and it’ll be a short one with Mardi Gras falling so early this year on February 17th. Michelle Southern reports.

Cut 2 (29) “reporting”

___________________________________

Angola Warden Burl Cain says he has not taken any steps to install a cooling system on death row despite a federal judge’s ruling to reduce the heat levels. Michelle Southern reports.

Cut 3 (28) “reporting”

________________________

Today, Governor Bobby Jindal is scheduled to have two closed door meetings with conservative religious leaders in Iowa. According to the Des Moines Register, the meetings will take place in Cedar Rapids and Des Moines. ULM Political Science Professor Joshua Stockley says Jindal is looking to shore up his support among this group of voters…

cut 4  (08)  “presidential nomination”

Jindal is thinking about a presidential run in 2016 and Iowa is important because they host the first primary. Stockley adds that evangelicals and conservatives are also important because of their participation in the primary. He says these meetings are very important to Jindal’s hopes…

Cut 5  (11)  “financial backing”

Stockley says these are important meetings to determine how serious of a presidential hopeful Jindal can be. He calls this part of the process the “invisible primary”, where candidates try to win endorsements and backing before the actual contests. He says this will have an important impact on Jindal’s decision to run, or not to run, for president…

Cut 6 (11)  “invisible primary”

___________________________________________________

King Cake season is officially underway on this Twelfth Night and it’ll be a short one with Mardi Gras falling so early this year on February 17th.  Gambino’s Bakery owner Sam Scelfo says the bulk of the pastry cakes they sell go two weeks before Mardi Gras no matter what day it falls in the year.:

CUT 7 (10)  “we’re excited about it”

Scelfo says they’ve been selling a bunch of King Cakes so far already this year but they expect to be extremely busy today. He says they typically sell between 70,000-75,000 King Cakes in any given season. Scelfo offers almost 70 different flavors…:

Cut 8 (07)  “as we can” 

There’s a story in The Wall Street Journal saying King Cakes no longer come with the baby inside due to a concern over lawsuits. But Scelfo says they are traditionalists and leave the baby in the cake but leave plenty of indicators letting people know it’s in there…:

Cut 9 (10)  “one before”

________________________________________

Doctor Bill Cassidy will be sworn in as a US Senator today giving Louisiana two republicans in the US Senate. What will that mean for the Bayou State? U-L Lafayette Political Science Professor Pearson Cross says Louisiana will have a unified voice on issues that the Senate debates

Cut 10 (10) “other issues” 

Cross says Louisiana loses clout in the US Senate, with Cassidy replacing three-term democratic Senator Mary Landrieu. But he says the state can make up for it by having Cassidy and Senior Senator David Vitter working together in a republican controlled Senate…

cut 11 (11) “might seem”

Cross anticipates since Cassidy has a medical background, he’ll find some issues that he can be an expert on…

cut 12 (12)  “quite heavily”

_____________________________________

Angola Warden Burl Cain says he has not taken any steps to install a cooling system on death row. A federal judge has ruled that the state needs to take more measures to cool off death row during the hot summer months. The ruling is currently under appeal. Cain says it would be too expensive to add any type of cooling system at the prison…:

Cut 13 (07)  “I can’t afford it”

Cain says they couldn’t just reduce the heat levels on death row, it would have to be the entire prison…:

Cut 14 (10)  “another prison”

Cain says he’s not aware of any other prison being facing legal action for having extreme hot conditions but Angola seems to be popular place to sue. He says death row was built in 2005 and has a natural ventilation system so it’s not even the hottest part of the prison…:

Cut 15  (09)  “it’s hot”

____________________________________

Louisiana Tech has lost its defensive coordinator. Manny Diaz has been hired by Mississippi State to be the Bulldogs new defensive coordinator. Diaz helped Tech win the Conference USA western division title and his defense was ranked 22nd in the nation in points allowed and 17th in rush defense. Jonathan Ford, publisher of Bleed Tech Blue, says Diaz gave the Bulldogs’ defense an identity

Cut 16  (13)  “find another one”  

While Tech loses a defensive coordinator, they add a quarterback. Jeff Driskel, who threw for 34-hundred yards at Florida, is transferring to Tech for his final year of college eligibility. The fifth-year senior is allowed to play in 2015 for the Bulldogs. Ford says Driskel didn’t perform as well as expected at Gainesville, but he’ll bring some much needed experience to the quarterback position in Ruston…

Cut 17 (14)  “FBS level”

Tech needs to replace fifth-year senior quarterback Cody Sokul, who led the Bulldogs to a victory in the Heart of Dallas Bowl. Ford says Driskel is your likely starter in 2015 and could have a lot of success…

Cut 18 (14) “that stature”

Republican lawmakers are looking to move past the controversy surrounding the number three House GOP leader, Republican Congressman Steve Scalise, over a speech he gave 12 years ago to a white supremacist group. Eric Gill has more…

CUT 1 (28) “reporting”

===================

The Kenner Police Department confirms New Orleans Saints outside linebacker Junior Galette is under arrest and booked with domestic abuse battery. Michelle Southern reports…:

CUT 2 (30) “reporting”

===================

Republican lawmakers are looking to move past the controversy surrounding the number three House GOP leader, Republican Congressman Steve Scalise, over a speech he gave 12 years ago to a white supremacist group. Incoming Utah Representative Mia Love is the first black female Republican elected to the House. She told ABC’s “This Week” that Scalice has the support of the party…

CUT 3 (09)  “of his colleagues”

Scalise has stated that the speech was a mistake that he now regrets. Republican leaders, including House Speaker John Boehner, have backed Scalise. Love says Scalise should remain House Majority Whip…

CUT 4 (11)  “American people done”

Republican Senator John Barrasso of Wyoming spoke on the issue on NBC’s “Meet the Press”. He said speaking to that group was a “grave mistake” for Scalise, but that doesn’t mean Scalise supports the views of that group…

CUT 5 (11)  “stick with that”

===================

State Police arrest a Breaux Bridge man for his role in a two-vehicle accident in St. Martin Parish that claimed the life of a 56-year-old woman last week. Master Trooper Brooks David says a truck, driven by 30-year-old Emmanuel Wiltz, crossed the center line of LA 328 in the path of a car driven by Betty Borel…

CUT 6 (08)  “of the crash”

He says Wiltz, who was suspected of being impaired at the time of the crash, received minor injuries as a result of the crash. David says Borel sustained what was believed to be moderate injuries and transported to a local hospital…

CUT 7 (07) “from the crash”

Several hours later, State Police were informed that Borel had succumbed to her injuries. David says Wiltz was originally charged with DWI, vehicular negligent injuring, and other charges. He says affter Borel’s death, authorities obtained an arrest warrant with upgraded charges… (Wiltz now also faces vehicular homicide and driving left of center charges.)

CUT 8 (05) “in the beginning”

===================

Alexandria Police say a man is behind bars for pulling the trigger in a fatal shooting that investigators are calling an accident. Lt. Brooks Fairbanks says 29-year-old Kendall Smith is charged with negligent homicide. He says they responded to a report of a shooting and located another 29-year-old male victim suffering from a gunshot wound…:

CUT 9 (05)  “pronounced deceased”

Fairbanks says an investigation revealed some individuals were playing with a weapon before the incident took place…:

CUT 10 (09)  “negligent homicide”

Fairbanks says this is a horrible tragedy that is completely avoidable where a young member of the community lost his life due to friends or family members recklessly handling a gun…:

cut 11 (12)  “not toys”

===================

The Kenner Police Department confirms New Orleans Saints outside linebacker Junior Galette is under arrest and booked with domestic abuse battery. They say the incident involved a female acquaintance who sustained injuries including blood coming out of her ear when her earring was apparently ripped out. Lt. Brian McGregor read the victim’s statement:

cut 12 (06)  “I couldn’t breathe”

The 26-year-old linebacker told cops that the woman was a dancer he brought home for the night, but the victim claims she was Galette’s assistant who had been staying with him for about two years. Also arrested was Gallett’s cousin, 27-year-old Terrance Banks of Newark, New Jersey. McGregor said in the victim’s statement she claimed both suspects were on top of her and she could not breathe…:

cut 13 (12)  “jump me again”

The woman told cops the argument started over money for a cab. She claimed both men jumped her so she grabbed a knife. McGregor read the victim’s statement..:

cut 14 (06)  “10”

===================

It’s an election year in Louisiana and Angola Warden Burl Cain’s name has come up as a possible candidate for governor. Cain was in Baton Rouge today and says he’s still thinking about running for the highest elected position in the state…

cut 15 (09) ” old Burl”

Cain has served as the Warden of the Louisiana State Penitentiary since 1995. He says the idea of him running for governor came from people who have visited the prison. Cain says he’s a civil servant and he’ll have to resign, if he runs, so he doesn’t want to talk about the topic

cut 16 (10) “to be”

The Department of Health and Hospitals is urging businesses to strengthen wellness at the office. Emelie Gunn has the story…

CUT 1 (30) “reporting”

______________________________________

According to GasBuddy.com, it’s possible we’re getting close to the bottom of the dramatic drop in the price we pay at the pump. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (30) “reporting”

____________________________________

A new Congress will be sworn in tomorrow, which means Mary Landrieu’s 18-year run as a US Senator has ended. Scott Carwile has the story…

Cut 3 (28) “reporting”

________________________

The state department of health and hospitals is encouraging businesses to come up with programs or policies at the workplace that would encourage employees to live a healthy lifestyle. D-H-H Well-Ahead Director Melissa Martin says we are at the workplace more frequently than anywhere else.

cut 4  (08)  “wellness programs”

Martin says the most important initiative is to offer a tobacco free environment. She says the state offers many cessation coaching programs for the workplace.

Cut 5  (09)  “many diseases”

Martin says providing two or three healthier cafeteria options can help improve employee wellness. And She says healthier snacks during meetings can actually provide a more productive workforce. (Martin says for ideas you can go to wellaheadla.com)

Cut 6 (12)  “for sweets”

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According to GasBuddy.com, it’s possible we’re at the bottom of the dramatic drop in the price we pay at the pump. Senior Petroleum Analyst Gregg Laskoski says their current statewide average for a gallon of regular in Louisiana is around $2.10 and crude oil prices will likely not drop much lower…:

CUT 7 (10)  “that point”

Laskoski says if gas prices are at their lowest point right now it wouldn’t be much of a surprise because that’s typically what happens in January…:

Cut 8 (05)  “gasoline” 

Laskoski says if gas prices do start to drop again it won’t be by much because this is the month refineries have to make the switch from the winter blend to the summer blend of gasoline. He says we’re still paying far less than we were in January 2014…:

Cut 9 (07)  “a year ago”

________________________________________

With a new Congress set to swear-in tomorrow that puts a wrap on Mary Landrieu’s last day as a U-S Senator. Landrieu has served Louisiana in the Senate the last 18 years and LSU Political Science Professor Robert Hogan says she’ll be remembered for her work to bring federal resources to the Bayou State…

Cut 10 (11) “Katrina” 

In 2006, Landrieu co-authored a piece of legislation that expanded oil and gas production in the Gulf of Mexico and it also steered billions of dollars in revenues produced offshore to Louisiana to help fund the state’s coastal restoration efforts. Hogan says Landrieu fought for the state

cut 11 (10) “available”

Landrieu has not said what she’ll do next. Hogan says Landrieu’s middle of the road approach to politics could result in her making a lot of money as a lobbyist or she could become an outspoken advocate on issues dealing with children or the poor

cut 12 (08)  “those issues”

_____________________________________

A cold week is on tap for Louisiana as artic air makes it way into the Bayou State. Tim Humphrey, with the National Weather Service in Lake Charles, says high temperatures will only be in the 40s for north Louisiana today and 50s in south Louisiana and even more colder air will arrive Wednesday

Cut 13 (12)  “freeze likely”

Humphrey says a high pressure area currently located in Canada will bring us the cold air…

Cut 14 (12)  “for us”

Humphrey says the cold air mass heading down from Canada will be dry, so you won’t have to worry about any winter precipitation

Cut 15  (07)  “especially cold”

____________________________________

After missing 21 games with a shoulder injury, Pelicans shooting guard Eric Gordon may play tonight when New Orleans hosts the Washington Wizards. Gordon, who is averaging almost 10 points a game, went through practice yesterday and believes there’s a chance he can play tonight

Cut 16  (12)  “still uncertain”  

The Pelicans are 17-and-16 on the season, one game back of Phoenix for the final playoff spot in the Western Conference. Pelicans guard Jrue Holiday says it will be a big boost to get Gordon back…

Cut 17 (20)  “helps everybody out”

Head Coach Monty Williams expects Gordon will provide a jolt to the team…

Cut 18 (12) “been missing”

There are some new state laws that are on the books with the start of a new year. Don Molino tells us about a few of them…

CUT 1 (27) “reporting”

===================

Louisiana native Donna Douglas, famously known as Elly Mae Clampett on The Beverly Hillbillies, died at the age of 81 on New Years Day. Michelle Southern reports…:

CUT 2 (31) “reporting”

===================

Just over 20 new state laws went into effect with the start of the new year. That includes changes to Louisiana’s D-W-I laws. Jefferson Parish assistant district attorney Norma Broussard, says the changes will make it easier for everyone to understand the penalties of driving under the influence

CUT 3 (06)  “what’s gonna happen”

Broussard says another change is that judges can now take certain measures to provide substance abuse help for those convicted of their first or second D-W-I…

CUT 4 (09)  “third or fourth offenders”

Broussard says the state’s revised D-W-I laws also calls for jail time for first time offenders, who are under the age of 21…

CUT 5 (10)  “three month sentence”

===================

Louisiana native Donna Douglas, famously known as Elly Mae Clampett on The Beverly Hillbillies, died at the age of 81 on New Years Day. She was born in Pride at and lived in Zachary in East Baton Rouge Parish. Douglas appeared on the Jim Engster show in May of 2013 and says she never considered not coming back to Louisiana…:

CUT 6 (11)  “Louisiana was home”

Douglas was an author of works including the cookbook, Southern Favorites With a Taste of Hollywood. She was a “Miss Baton Rouge” and was named “Miss New Orleans” in 1957. On the Jim Engster Show in May of 2013 Douglas said she’d never planned to be an actress…:

CUT 7 (09) “up there”

The CBS television series aired from 1962 to 1971 and Douglas starred on the program for all nine seasons. The Beverly Hillbillies became the number one show in the United States in its first two years. Douglas was famous for closing out the show with a whistle and her signature line, “Y’all come back now, here!” — which is how she signed off on the Jim Engster show in May 2013…:

CUT 8 (08) “a year ago”

===================

Louisiana has been experiencing some mild temperatures so far this winter which is good news for the crawfish season. LSU Ag Center Aquaculture specialist Dr. Greg Lutz says warmer weather allows the mudbugs to grow faster during the winter months…:

CUT 9 (05)  “a little bit”

Lutz says this also means the harvest will begin sooner than it normally would which is welcome by growers because we didn’t have a lot of rain during the fall…:

CUT 10 (09)  “into the ponds”

Lutz says the supply of crawfish right now is fair and it should be getting bigger toward the end of the month. He says mudbug lovers like when the season starts early…:

cut 11 (12)  “our producers”

===================

LSU fans are wondering who the Tigers will get to coach up the defense, now that John Chavis is in Texas as A-and-M’s defensive coordinator. Football insider Mike Detillier says it shouldn’t be hard to find a good replacement as many NFL and college football assistants will seek out the coaching vacancy at LSU

cut 12 (12)  “coveted job”

Detillier says the names he’s keeping an eye on to replace “Chief” are former USC defensive coordiantor Clancy Pendergast, Alabama linebackers coach Kevin Steele, Clemson defensive coordinator Brent Venables and Penn State defensive coordinator Bob Shoop. And he believes these individuals would be interested if Miles contacted them

cut 13 (12)  “college football”

Louisiana native and former Ole Miss head coach Ed Orgeron says he’s would be interested in joining LSU’s staff, if contacted by Miles. Detillier says Coach “O” has always had a great interest in working at LSU

cut 14 (06)  “type titles”

2015 promises to be another interesting year in Louisiana politics. Jeff Palermo has the story…

CUT 1 (32) “reporting”

______________________________________

Louisiana’s Economic Development Secretary Stephen Moret is anticipating significant job growth in 2015. Scott Carwile has more…

Cut 2 (27) “reporting”

____________________________________

If your New Years resolution is to live a healthier lifestyle, here are some tips. Emelie Gunn has more….

Cut 3 (29) “reporting”

________________________

With statewide elections taking place this year and the possibility of Governor Bobby Jindal announcing a run for President, 2015, expects to be another wild year in Louisiana politics. Political Analyst Bernie Pinsonat says Republican US Senator David Vitter is the front-runner in the governor’s race, but there are other strong candidates…

cut 4  (12)  “uncertainty”

Pinsonat says we can expect an announcement early this year from Jindal on running for President. He says the governor may have to announce his intentions sooner than originally planned, because of former Florida Governor Jeb Bush’s entrance into the race…

Cut 5  (06)  “too far ahead”

Pinsonat says it’s unclear how involved Jindal will be with state matters in his final year of office, especially if he’s focused on the 2016 Presidential race…

Cut 6 (08)  “the budget”

___________________________________________________

Louisiana’s Economic Development Secretary Stephen Moret anticipates significant growth in 2015 as a result of the new projects they announced last year. Moret says a lot of that growth will occur in the high tech and the software development industry…

CUT 7 (04)  “in Louisiana”

Moret says in 2014, Louisiana announced dozens of company expansions or relocations, which will result in 25-thousand new jobs…

Cut 8 (10)  “nice growth” 

Moret says the economic growth this year and in the coming years will be diversified growth, which has his office exicted…

Cut 9 (11)  “today”

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Three people were killed in a New Year’s eve crash in Livingston Parish, including an 11-year-old girl. State Police trooper Jared Sandifer says alcohol is not suspected in the two-vehicle wreck that happened around 8:15 on Wednesday night near Walker…

Cut 10 (11) “another one” 

The 11-year-old girl that died in the crash has been identified as Hannah Chisholm of Denham Springs. Sandifer says she was in the rear middle seat, wearing a seatbelt, but the vehicle was equipped with a lap belt only

cut 11 (10) “option”

Hannah’s mother, 37-year-old Shannon Chisholm was also killed in the crash. Sandifer says 24-year-old Trinity Kiger of Satsuma also died from his injuries. He says Kiger was the one who hit the Chisholm’s 2000 Mercury Mountaineer

cut 12 (05)  “seatbelt”

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With a New Year underway, many people strive to live a healthier lifestyle and try to lose weight. Melissa Martin with the State Department of Health and Hospitals says in order to keep your New Years resolution you can start with keeping it simple and realistic.

Cut 13 (12)  “and convenient”

Martin says having a support system to keep you motivated while working toward your goals. She says also smart phones have new food journal apps that can help you stay accountable and aware of the decisions you make…

Cut 14 (11)  “back burner”

Martin says drinking water is very important to staying on track because the number one symptom of dehydration is hunger. She says also watching your alcohol consumption can really make a difference when it comes to following through with your resolutions.

Cut 15  (11)  “intake”

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The Centers for Disease Control says the flu has now reached the epidemic level in the United States and the state Department of Health and Hospitals says its going to get worse before it gets better in Louisiana. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (29) “reporting”

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LDWF is now accepting applications to become a wildlife and fisheries field agent. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (27) “reporting”

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The Centers for Disease Control says the flu has now reached the epidemic level in the United States and the state Department of Health and Hospitals says its going to get worse before it gets better in Louisiana. Medical director for the immunization program, Dr. Frank Welch, says the flu situation in the Bayou State is absolutely terrible…

Cut 3 (06) “influenza-like symptoms”

Welch says almost seven out of every 100 doctor visits in the state are for flu-like symptoms. He says this year’s flu shot is not perfect, but that should not be an excuse to not get immunized. Welch says the flu shot is still absolutely your best protection…

cut 4  (11)  “dies from it”

Welch says the flu shot will still partially protect you making the illness less serious and less likely someone needs to be hospitalized. And he speaks from personal experience. Welch says, after receiving a flu shot a couple of months ago, he contracted the flu last week…

Cut 5  (11)  “three days later”

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The minimum wage goes up in 21 states today. Of course, here in Louisiana the minimum hourly wage stays at $7.25. But Tulane Business Professor Mark Rosa says with nearly half of the states acting on their own, it will spur more talk about raising the federal minimum wage

Cut 6 (10)  “has been changed”

Critics of a higher minimum wage say it forces some businesses to reduce their work force in order to compensate for the higher wages. But Rosa says government can minimize impact, by raising the wage rate slightly or index it to inflation.

CUT 7 (09)  “50 percent”

Arkansas is one of the few states in the South that’s raising the minimum wage today. The lowest paid workers will have to earn at least $8.05 an hour as a result of a ballot initiative approved by voters in November. Rosa says it will be interesting to see how this impact’s Arkansas’ economy…

Cut 8 (08)  “large percentages” 

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The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is now accepting applications from individuals who are interested in becoming an enforcement agent. LDWF spokesperson Adam Einck says individuals interested in applying should visit the state’s civil service website and also must complete a test to qualify for consideration.

Cut 9 (11)  “of the week”

They will be accepting applications until January 23rd and out of those applications, 24 cadets will be chosen and will will train for six months in Baton Rouge. Einck says cadets will be taught game laws and trained to become search and rescue responders.

Cut 10 (09) “enforcement personnel” 

Einck says this is a great position for people who love to be outdoors. He says field agents spend most of their time outdoors, on the water and trekking through the woods.

cut 11 (08) “to apply”

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The new year is off to a dreary start weather wise in north Louisiana. Marty Mayeaux, with the National Weather Service in Shreveport, says cold and rainy conditions will keep people inside

cut 12 (06)  “of rainfall”

High temperatures today will barely get out of the 40s. Mayeaux says it will be warmer tomorrow, but the rain will stick around for the northern half of the state….

Cut 13 (09)  “Saturday afternoon”

There’s also a good chance of rain in southwest Louisiana today and those rain chances increase across south Louisiana over the weekend

Cut 14 (05)  “to be wet”

Louisiana Highway Safety Commission Executive Director, Lt. Col. John LeBlanc hopes to avoid a repeat of last year where eight people were killed on Louisiana roadways during the New Year’s holiday. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (27) “reporting”

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Over 56-thousand people in Louisiana have selected a health insurance plan during the first month of enrollment through what is commonly referred to as “Obamacare.” Jeff Palermo has the story…

CUT 2 (32) “reporting”

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Highway Safety officials are hoping to avoid a repeat of last year where eight people were killed on Louisiana roadways during the New Year’s holiday. Louisiana Highway Safety Commission Executive Director, Lt. Col. John LeBlanc, says historically and statistically the New Year’s holiday is one of the deadliest times to be on the road…

CUT 3 (09)  “over these holidays”

LeBlanc says all of the fatalities that occurred on state roadways during last year’s New Year’s holiday were alcohol related. He says if you do plan on ringing in the new year with alcohol, do it responsibly…

CUT 4 (10)  “an impaired driver”

LeBlanc says if you plan on drinking alcohol tonight, make sure you secure a sober driver home. He says their “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign continues through January 3. LeBlanc says law enforcement will be out in force tonight, putting in extra effort to remove impaired drivers from the road…

CUT 5 (06)  “night, too”

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Federal health officials say more than 56-thousand Louisiana residents have selected health insurance plans during the first month of enrollment under what is commonly called “Obamacare.” Doctor Karen DeSalvo, with the US Department of Health and Human Services, says that’s encouraging to see…

CUT 6 (11)  “this year”

DeSalvo says it’s also worth noting that most of those who are choosing a health insurance plan through the Marketplace are not having to pay the full cost of the premiums

CUT 7 (09) “health insurance”

Almost 102-thousand people in Louisiana purchased health insurance through the federal marketplace in 2014. DeSalvo says the 2015 open enrollment period will last until February 15th, and urges people to get covered…

CUT 8 (11) “take for granted”

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This is a big tourism week for New Orleans with tomorrow’s Sugar Bowl matchup between Ohio State and Alabama. But New Orleans Convention and Visitors Bureau Communications Director Lauren Cason says there’s more going on in the Big Easy than the game. She says New Orleans has been named one of the best places to celebrate New Year’s Eve in the nation…

CUT 9 (08)  “New Year’s Eve”

Cason says the Sugar Bowl’s added importance as one of the College Football National Championship semi-final games is bringing an extra dose of excitement to the city. She says having two teams with huge fanbases is a great for the economy…

CUT 10 (11)  “great business”

She says New Year’s Eve and the Sugar Bowl provide a great start to the tourism year in New Orleans. Cason says there are some new events coming to the Crescent City in the new year that should add a nice boost…

cut 11 (10)  “annual ones”

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National media outlets are reporting LSU defensive coordinator John Chavis is leaving Baton Rouge for the same job at Texas A&M. Tiger Rag Editor James Moran says it’s a big loss for a program that’s won a lot of football games over the last several years, because of their defense

cut 12 (06)  “to be filled”

Chavis has been LSU’s defensive coordinator the last six years and made one-point-three million dollars this past season. LSU offered him a new contract, but Moran says the Aggies are willing to pay “The chief” a higher annual salary…

cut 13 (08)  “over the top”

Reports indicate Chavis has agreed to a three-year deal with Texas A-and-M, which will pay him nearly one-point-seven million dollars a year. Moran says one possible candidate to replace Chavis is former Ole Miss head coach and Louisiana native Ed Orgeron

cut 14 (06)  “defensive line coach”