Should Louisiana invest in snowplows after a snowstorm that left major roadways closed for multiple days? Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Oral arguments today before the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals in the ongoing lawsuit over the state’s Ten Commandments law. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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As the state thaws out we are getting a look at the damages caused by the freezing temperature to Louisiana crops. The sugarcane industry can breathe a sigh of relief as Agriculture and Forestry Commissioner, Dr. Mike Strain says fortunately most sugarcane was under snow.

Cut 3 (11) “…the cold weather.”

Strain says other crops are not in the ground yet, but for winter pastures rye grass is likely lost and until mid to late march rely on hay for feed. Strain says some good news is the long term freeze likely killed the Pine Beetles.

Cut 4 (06) “…that are problematic.”

Strain says the cold is a double edged sword when dealing with crops and pests.

Cut 5 (12) “…natural control mechanism.”

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Work continues today on the reopening of major highways closed because of snow and ice. Large portions of I-10 and I-55 are closed as well as U-S 90 in Terrebonne and Lafourche Parishes. DOTD spokesperson Rodney Mallett says they’ve been chipping away on six inches of ice on elevated portions of our highway system, and they expect major progress today

Cut 6 (13) “…the sun.”

Mallett says the sun has been a major ally is the thawing of our roads, but he also credits the extensive work done by DOTD crews…

Cut 7 (12) “…block of ice”

Louisiana Transportation Secretary Joe Donahue says they expect the I-10 Atchafalaya Basin Bridge and the I-10 Mississippi River Bridge to reopen today, but the I-10 Twin Spans and the Bonnet Carre spillway will likely not re-open until Friday.

Mallett says not only sun has been an ally in their efforts to clear the snow and ice off the roads, so have the crews and equipment from the Arkansas Department of Transportation. He says they have much more experience when it comes to winter weather

Cut 8 (11) “…had worked.”

Mallett says the Arkansas Department of Transportation brought with them 16 snowplows that also had salt spreaders.

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A three-judge panel at the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals heard oral arguments this morning over the state’s Ten Commandments law. The law requiring the Ten Commandments to be displayed in all public school classrooms statewide is currently on hold in five parishes – East Baton Rouge, Livingston, Orleans, St. Tammany and Vernon. Solicitor General Ben Aguinaga (ah-gheen-YAH-ga) argued for the state that what makes the law constitutional is that the Ten Commandments are placed amid other historical context on specially-designed posters.

Cut 9 (11)  “…important historical documents.”

Aguinaga says the posters were designed with Supreme Court precedent in mind.

Cut 10 (15) “…that exact concept.”

During Aguinaga’s 20-minute argument, Judge Catharina Haynes expressed skepticism that posting the Ten Commandments is truly about teaching American history.

Cut 11 (16) “…the First Amendment.”

Jonathan Youngwood followed with his own 20-minute argument on behalf of the plaintiffs. Reading directly from the posters, Youngwood argued that the law is all about promoting Christianity in public schools.

Cut 12 (10) “…Gods before me.”

Youngwood said since the posters would be required to be in every public school classroom, kids would be subject to constant religious indoctrination.

Cut 13 (09)  “…every single day.”

The three judges will issue their ruling at a later date; regardless of what it is, it will almost certainly be appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court.

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Louisiana is beginning to thaw out. LRN Meteorologist Bill Jacquemin says who would have ever thought that 50-degrees would feel so good…

Cut 14 (10) “…and tomorrow.”

Jacquemin says temperatures will get below freezing again tomorrow morning and Saturday for much of the state and then the warm-up really gets going…

Cut 15 (11) “…lower 60s”

Below freezing temperatures are cold for Louisiana, but this morning we nearly saw temperatures below zero. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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The highest snowfall total recorded in Louisiana happened in Chalmette, 11.5 inches.  Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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New all time record lows were set this morning. National Weather Service Meteorologist Stacey Denson says single digit temperature readings were recorded across southwest Louisiana…

Cut 3 (13) “…in Lafayette.”

Denson says they are still finalizing snowfall totals, but a large portion of southwest Louisiana saw more than a half foot of snow…

Cut 4 (07) “…in Acadia Parish.”

Eight-inch snowfall totals were recorded in Jennings, Opelousas, Lafayette, Jeanerette and even in Morgan City. Denson says the wind was so strong and the snowfall was coming down so fast, the National Weather Service in Lake Charles  issued its first ever blizzard warning on Tuesday morning….

Cut 5 (15) “…light snow.”

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Who got the most snow yesterday? Looks like the winner is Chalmette as the New Orleans suburb recorded 11.5 inches of snow. St. Bernard Parish Director of Homeland Security John Rahaim (ram) says it was a once-in-a-lifetime occurrence.

Cut 6 (09) “…left Colorado.”

Rahaim says the snow as beautiful to look at, unfortunately there were a few people injured while performing dangerous stunts.

Cut 7 (15) “…shouldn’t be doing”

Rahaim says the historic snowfall was great, but he’s ready for it go to away.

Cut 8 (11) “…here pretty soon.”

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Since the start of the storm, DOTD has worked around the clock to treat roadways with salt and brine. Spokesman Rodney Mallett says that work continues today and beyond.

Cut 9 (11)  “…tonight and tomorrow.”

For now, all Interstate freeways throughout South Louisiana from Lake Charles eastward remain closed. Mallett says it’s unclear when they will reopen.

Cut 10 (10) “…need to be.”

Mallett says one challenge with the Interstates is that many of them have long stretches where they go over water, and bridges always freeze first, making for extremely dangerous driving conditions.

Cut 11 (07) “…in the south.”

To stay up to date on road conditions, go to 511la.org.

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Get used to this snow; it’s going to be around for a few more days. LSU Public Health Climatologist Barry Keim says while it will be warmer tomorrow, it won’t warm up to the point to cause any significant melting.

Cut 12 (09) “…into the weekend.”

Keim says furthermore, despite the slightly warmer temperatures, we will not be out of the woods with dangerous conditions just yet.

Cut 13 (09)  “…block of ice.”

But Keim says if you can just survive tomorrow, we will see significant melting starting Friday.

Cut 14 (11) “…will be gone.”

The Red Cross is lending a helping hand during this arctic blast. Andrew Greenstein reports

Cut 1 (29) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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The governor is urging you to stay home not only today, but tomorrow as well. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Yesterday was not just a sneaux day, it was a day where lifelong memories were made. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (35) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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The Red Cross is supporting warming centers throughout South Louisiana. Micah Nicholas, the executive director of the Capital West chapter of the American Red Cross, says they’re supporting 35 warming centers across 30 parishes.

Cut 4 (08) “…disaster to them.”

Nicholas says the Red Cross could use all the help it can get in supporting these warming centers.

Cut 5 (07) “…disasters like this.”

Nicholas says the Red Cross’ work goes far beyond the warming centers themselves.

Cut 6 (13) “…as they arise.”

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What will the 2025 snowstorm and cold temperatures mean for the upcoming crawfish season? LSU AgCenter crawfish expert Mark Shirley says the mudbugs will bury themselves as deep into the mud as they can…

Cut 7 (11) “…of crawfish.”

Some seafood restaurants have started selling crawfish and Shirley says it will be limited this weekend, but all it takes is warm weather and farmers can begin harvesting again…

Cut 8 (08) “…quite a bit”

Shirley says farmers are putting in a lot of effort to bring crawfish to the market. He says despite this winter storm, they are still predicting a better crawfish season this year…

Cut 9 (11)  “…in the catch.”

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The snow has subsided, but not the danger. Road conditions will be much worse this morning than they were yesterday. During a news conference, Governor Landry pointed out that thanks to the frigid overnight lows, the roads will be extra slick.

Cut 10 (15) “…extremely, extremely dangerous.”

As such, state offices will be closed not just today, but tomorrow as well. Landry is urging you to stay off the roads; he says the more you do, the faster things can get back to normal.

Cut 11 (09) “…the weather improves.”

State Climatologist Jay Grymes says temperatures will begin below the freezing point and will stay that way.

Cut 12 (07) “…of the day.”

Joe Donahue with DOTD says crews are out in full force tending to the roadways.

Cut 13 (09)  “…treatment with salt.”

Donahue says all designated priority routes are open and are expected to remain open.

Cut 14 (13) “…north to south.”

State Police Superintendent Colonel Robert Hodges says the record snowfall kept troopers busy.

Cut 15 (13) “…the cold conditions.”

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LRN Meteorologist Bill Jacquemin (JACK-quim-in) says if you thought yesterday morning was brutal, this morning is even worse.

Cut 16 (07) “…in the teens.”

Jacquemin says the weather will warm up a little today, only to give way to another frigid night tonight.

Cut 17 (12)  “…and 20s tonight.”

And Jacquemin says after a brutal overnight tonight into tomorrow morning, things will start to get back to normal before a very mild weekend.

Cut 18 (10)   “…60s on Sunday.”

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The snowstorm has delayed the Saints head coaching search. New Orleans was set to meet in person with Giants offensive coordinator Mike Kafka yesterday and Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver today. Those two interviews have been pushed back to later in the week. Ross Jackson is the host of the Locked on Saints Podcast and he says the 44-year-old is an intriguing candidate…

Cut 19 (14) “…very well.”

As many were enjoy the snow outside, Saints running back Alvin Kamara took the social media site “X” to express his support for interim head coach Darren Rizzi to get the job on a permanent basis. Jackson says Rizzi is in the mix, but there are other candidates who might have a better chance at getting the job…

Cut 20 (20) “…team captain.”

South Louisiana is experiencing weather conditions normally reserved for the northern half of the United States. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Louisiana’s highway system is no match for this historic winter storm. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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South Louisiana is experiencing weather conditions normally reserved to regions of the country much farther north. LSU Public Health Climatologist Barry Keim says areas of South Louisiana are being blanketed by snow not seen in decades.

Cut 3 (11) “…seven in Slidell.” 

On the rare occasion that it snows in South Louisiana, the snow will stick to the ground for maybe a few hours. This time, it will linger for a few days. Keim says that’s because overnight lows will be bone-chillingly cold.

Cut 4 (10) “…but still frigid.”

While those temperatures are certainly cold, they’re not record-breakers. Keim points to the December 1989 storm in which it got down into the single digits in some places. If these brutal temperatures are too much for you to handle, Keim says take solace in the fact that they will return to normal by this weekend.

Cut 5 (09) “…in certain locations.”

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State officials are urging people to stay off the roads as this rare snow event is making travel very difficult. Governor Jeff Landry suggests that you cook yourself a big pot of gumbo instead…

Cut 6 (13) “…eat again.”

Not only is there multiple inches of snow in south Louisiana and into the Alexandria area, but we are looking at cold temperatures. The Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness is urging the public to practice space heater safety. GOHSEP chief of staff Scott Adams…

Cut 7 (09) “…to bed.”

Adams says it’s best to hunker down and stay at home today and make sure your house can handle these cold temperatures…

Cut 8 (09) “…covered.”

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State Department of Transportation officials are on the highways in south Louisiana and the driving experience is very difficult. DOTD spokesperson Rodney Mallett says on some roadways, you can’t see the curb or the edge of the street or the highway…

Cut 9 (12)  “…not easy.”

Mallett says visibility is also difficult when the snow is falling, it’s certainly very unique to Louisiana…

Cut 10 (10) “…the moment.”

Mallett says several major roads and bridges are closed…

Cut 11 (08) “…ice over.”

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It’s completely understandable that drivers in Louisiana are not used to these road conditions. State Police Trooper Marc Gremillion (GREM-ee-ahn) says they’ve had to respond to a lot of vehicles that had slid off the roadway.

Cut 12 (11) “…struck from behind.”

Gremillion says not only do you need to greatly reduce your speed, you’ll also need to adjust the way you come to a stop.

Cut 13 (07)  “…a lot farther.”

And if you start skidding, stay calm and by all means, do not steer away from the skid initially.

Cut 14 (11) “…out of it.”

DOTD is prepping roadways for tomorrow’s snowstorm. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (29) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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South Louisiana Braces for a winter storm that is expected to start tonight and end tomorrow night.  Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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Governor Jeff Landry has issued a state of emergency as two to six inches of snow is expected to fall across much of central and south Louisiana. Landry says once of the winter precipitation starts falling, stay off the roads…

Cut 3 (12) “…to travel.” 

Landry is also urging outdoorsmen not to hunt during the snowstorm…

Cut 4 (13) “…proper shelter.”

Louisiana is also expecting the coldest temperatures of the winter with temperatures dropping into the teens Tuesday night into Wednesday. A homeless man died from hypothermia earlier this month when Louisiana experienced cold temperatures. Landry is encouraging local governments to open warming shelters…

Cut 5 (14) “…safe as well.”

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Needless to say, while not unprecedented, snow and ice are not things that Louisiana is accustomed to. Rodney Mallett with DOTD says crews have been busy prepping the roads for severe driving conditions.

Cut 6 (14) “…across the state.”

Mallett says while prep work started yesterday, it will continue throughout the day today.

Cut 7 (14) “…to ice over.”

Since there are no snowplows anywhere in the State of Louisiana, DOTD is bringing in help from Arkansas to perform those tasks as needed. A 14-mile stretch of I-49 in Rapides Parish is closed due to the incoming storm, and conditions may force additional Interstates closures, but Mallett says he hopes it doesn’t come to that.

Cut 8 (09) “…during this storm.”

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South Louisiana is under a winter storm warning as residents prepare for a rare heavy snow event expected to begin tonight. According to LSU Public Health Climatologist Barry Keim, this is a   generational storm for South Louisiana.

Cut 9 (18)  “…major snow here.”

Keim says it’s expected to snow most of the day on Tuesday and prepare for more than just flurries.

Cut 10 (16) “…in this particular case.”

Keim says the snowfall will end tomorrow night, but Wednesday will be brutally cold, and the snow will stick around. He advises residents to stay off the roads if possible and take necessary precautions to stay warm and safe.

Cut 11 (12) “…hang around in your neighborhood.”

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Louisiana State Police are getting ready for the winter storm. Trooper Shelby Mayfield says they’ve been getting ready for the last several days.

Cut 12 (12) “…or any emergencies”

Trooper Mayfield says when the snow starts falling, if you do not have to be out on the roadways, stay off them.

Cut 13 (14)  “…have to be.”

Mayfield says if you absolutely have to be on the roadways, use common sense.

Cut 14 (06) “…cruise control on.”

President-elect Donald Trump gets inaugurated today. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (36) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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The Humane Society of Louisiana urges pet owners to provide extra protection from the cold.  Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Sean Richardson”

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TikTok’s days in the U.S. could be numbered. Colleen Crain reports.

Cut 3 (36) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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Today is the day when the 45th President officially becomes the 47th President. Donald Trump takes the oath of office at 11 this morning. When Trump begins his second non-consecutive term, he will do so with a Republican-controlled House and a Republican-controlled Senate. Speaker Mike Johnson says he hopes that will lead to the passage of some of his key agenda items, like renewing his tax cuts from his first term.

Cut 4 (13) “…Trump tax cuts.”

Once a pair of Trump’s cabinet nominees are confirmed, Republicans will only have a 217-to-215 majority in the House, meaning the G-O-P cannot lose a single vote in the House to pass legislation without Democratic support until those vacancies are filled by way of special elections. Historically, the party in power almost always loses seats in the House in midterm elections, so Republicans may only have two years to pass some of Trump’s most ambitious goals. Congresswoman Julia Letlow says she’s not worried about that.

Cut 5 (08) “…I possibly can.”

Democrat Cleo Fields, who like Trump is making his return to Congress after being out of office, says both parties need to work together to pass common-sense legislation that will improve the lives of all Americans.

Cut 6 (07) “…care about education.”

Fields says with a House that’s split almost right down the middle, it’s more important than ever for the two parties to cooperate.

Cut 7 (04) “…to work together.”

Due to dangerously cold weather in Washington, DC, the swearing-in ceremony will take place in the Capitol Rotunda.

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With temperatures dropping into the 20s and 30s overnight across Louisiana, the Humane Society of Louisiana urges pet owners to provide extra protection from the cold. Pet owners should bring dogs and cats indoors.  Outdoor dogs should have fresh, dry straw in their shelters, and insulated plastic bins can serve as makeshift shelters for outdoor cats.

Cut 8 (12) “…your animals inside.”

Dorson says if bringing your pets indoors another option is moving them into a garage or storage area, but do so responsibly.

Cut 9 (12)  “…come to our state.”

To treat hypothermia, bring pets indoors, wrap them in warm blankets, and dry wet fur. Advanced care may include warm IV fluids, heated pads, or warm oxygen therapy. Dorson emphasizes that if you’re cold, your pets likely are too, urging owners to protect their animals from harsh weather conditions.

Cut 10 (10) “…the best policy.”

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TikTok could be on its last legs after the Supreme Court upholds a law that bans the popular app in the U.S. TikTok is owned by ByteDance, which the Chinese government controls. As such, the U.S. is concerned that the Chinese government has access to Americans’ data. LSU law professor Del Wright says ByteDance argued that the ban was about stifling free speech, and the Supreme Court rejected that.

Cut 11 (10) “…and national security.”

Last week, President Biden said he would not enforce the ban, essentially punting that task to his successor, Donald Trump. Wright says the law is still on the books regardless of what Trump does or does not do.

Cut 12 (15) “…by lawsuits.”

Wright says the Supreme Court’s ruling, however, isn’t necessarily the final nail in the coffin for TikTok. He says the law contains some out provisions.

Cut 13 (09) “…close the deal.”

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The biggest snowstorm in decades could take place in Louisiana tomorrow. The National Weather Service says four to six inches of snow could fall north of I-10 to south of Alexandria. Two to four inches could fall south of the I-10-12 corridor and one to two inches could fall between Alexandria and I-20. And NWS Meteorologist Donald Jones says temperatures Tuesday night into Wednesday will be in the teens for most of the state…

Cut 14 (13) “…like temperatures.”

But it’s the snow that everyone is talking about. Jones says predicted snowfall accumulation could fluctuate, but the current projection is four to six inches of snow along the I-10 corridor, but Alexandria, Bunkie, Houma, Morgan City, New Orleans, Hammond, and Slidell could see three inches and possibly more…

Cut 15 (13) “…verify.”

Jones says because temperatures will be below freezing for most of the day on Tuesday, freezing rain is less likely…

Cut 16 (16) “…freezing rain.”

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Jayden Daniels’ magical season for the Washington Commanders continues for at least another week. To the surprise of nearly everyone in the NFL world, perhaps except for Daniels himself, the Commanders ousted the NFC’s top seed, the Detroit Lions, 45-31, in the Divisional Playoffs. The Heisman Trophy-winning former LSU quarterback said the Lions didn’t go 15-and-2 in the regular season for nothing.

Cut 17 (06)  “…challenge for us.”

Daniels came up a yard short of 300 yards and threw two touchdown passes. Daniels says the game – just like the season – was a grind.

Cut 18 (13)   “…position like this.”

The Washington franchise will appear in the NFC Championship Game for the first time in 33 years. If the Commanders win next week, Daniels would be the first rookie ever to start at quarterback in the Super Bowl.

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The fifth-ranked LSU women’s basketball team improved to 20-0 with an 80-63 victory over Flroida. It’s the second time in program history the Lady Tigers won their first 20 games. Mikayla Williams had 22 points and Aneesah Morrow added 20 points and 10 boards. After allowing Florida to score 21 points in the first quarter, Coach Kim Mulkey’s team played much better defense…

Cut 19 (18) “…only six.”

The win sets up a huge matchup on Thursday night in Columbia, South Carolina as LSU will face the defending national champion Gamecocks. After Sunday’s game, Mulkey was not ready to talk about Thursday’s tilt…

Cut 20 (20) “…their place.”

You’ll need a warm coat, gloves, hats and boots next week as Louisiana could see a significant winter storm. Jeff Palermo has the details…

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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The governor and attorney general react angrily to a Justice Department report saying Louisiana State Police troopers routinely use excessive force during drug arrests and vehicle pursuits. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (28) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Many schools and all state offices will be closed on Tuesday as artic cold weather is expected to grip the state and there’s a chance we’ll see snow on Tuesday. LSU Public Health Climatologist Barry Keim says we’re looking at the possibility of a widespread snow event in the Bayou State…

Cut 3 (11) “…very, very closely.” 

The cold air mass will begin moving into the state on Sunday. Long periods of subfreezing temperatures and dangerous wind chills are expected Sunday night through Thursday. Keim says Monday and Tuesday will be very cold days…

Cut 4 (11) “…above freezing.”

But Keim says the potential for snow is what can make this particular winter storm memorable. He says models are indicating that moisture from the Gulf, combined with cold temperatures will help produce snow, possibly multiple inches…

Cut 5 (10) “…very often.”

The last measurable snowfall in New Orleans was 2009.

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The University of New Orleans (UNO) will furlough approximately 290 staff and faculty members as part of ongoing efforts to close a 10-million-dollar budget deficit driven by low enrollment. This follows previous cost-cutting steps, including layoffs, administrative reductions, consolidating five colleges into two, and closing facilities. President Kathy Johnson says the decision was hard but necessary to secure UNO’s future.

Cut 6 (09) “…gut-wrenching.”

UNO CFO Edwin Litoff says the furloughs aim to save 1.7-million-dollars, with a hiring freeze projected to reduce the deficit by an additional 2.5-million-dollars. However, Litoff acknowledges that further cuts, layoffs, and retirement incentives will be needed.

Cut 7 (09) “…end of the year.”

Efforts to restructure UNO last year yielded limited savings, contributing to the current crisis, as the university faces additional debt obligations and potential revenue shortfalls. Litoff says UNO also plans stricter tuition collection.

Cut 8 (09) “…classes for next semister.”

Employees earning over $100,000 face the longest unpaid leave periods.

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To get around the state, Governor Jeff Landry has been flying in a five-point-five-million-dollar airplane. Previous governors used helicopters but according to State Police the helicopters were 20 years old and difficult to maintain. WRKF Capitol Access Reporter Brooke Thorington broke the story along with Julie O’ Donoghue from the Louisiana Illuminator…

Cut 9 (09)  “…traveling on it.”

Public flight records show the single-engine plane traveling between Baton Rouge and Lafayette, near where the governor lives. The plane also made several back-and-forth trips between Baton Rouge and New Orleans after the Bourbon Street terrorist attack. Thorington says the plane was purchased last September….

Cut 10 (07) “…turbo prop plane.”

Thorington says they do know the plane is not just for the governor’s travels

Cut 11 (12) “…in a hurry.”

The governor’s office says using the plane instead of the helicopters should save the state money.

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The state has moved almost 160 homeless people in New Orleans, who were living in encampments around the Superdome, into a transitional shelter in Gentilly. Scott Adams, the chief of staff at GOHSEP, says they wanted to make the area around the Dome more secure…

Cut 12 (12) “…for Mardi Gras.”

Adams says they’re doing a lot more for the homeless people besides simply giving them shelter, food, showers and laundry.

Cut 13 (07)  “…get to work.”

The plan has drawn concern from a pair of state legislators and from nearby residents, even though there’s a concrete wall separating the neighborhoods from the street where the shelter is located off of on France Road. Adams says there is tight security in the area. 

Cut 14 (10) “…areas are impacted.”

The shelter will be open through Mardi Gras and later if need be and it could cost the state up to 16-million dollars, depending on how long it stays open. 

Louisiana takes a huge step towards launching broadband internet statewide. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Southwest Louisiana Congressman Clay Higgins expresses his frustration with the customers service Americans are receiving when they call the Social Security Administration’s helpline. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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The federal government gives the final okay for the state to receive funding for the deployment of broadband statewide. Veneeth Iyengar, the executive director of Connect L-A, says Louisiana is the first country to secure federal approval of broadband funds.

Cut 3 (08) “…our federal funds.” 

Iyengar says the state awarded contracts to several companies, including several based in Louisiana, to build the broadband infrastructure in a robust way.

Cut 4 (13) “…and north Louisiana.”

Iyengar says construction will begin very soon, and that people across the state should be connected by the end of summer.

Cut 5 (10) “…of this year.”

This funding is through the state’s GUMBO 2.0 program, which will connect about 140-thousand locations across the state by way of 20 internet service providers, most of which are based in Louisiana.

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Much of Louisiana could experience freezing rain, sleet, icy roads, and possibly even snow, starting Monday night and into Tuesday. National Weather Service in Lake Charles Meteorologist Nick Slaughter says artic air will move in on Sunday and it will get very cold a couple of days later.

Cut 6 (05) “…Tuesday and Wednesday.”

Slaughter says freezing temperatures are expected to impact the region from Sunday night through at least Wednesday night, bringing extended subfreezing temperatures and dangerous wind chills.

Cut 7 (11) “…bundled up.”

Slaughter says uncertainty remains regarding winter precipitation. It is still too early to determine the exact snow or ice accumulations and potential impacts.

Cut 8 (10) “…still up in the air”

Winter precipitation depends on surface low in the Gulf of Mexico. If it stays south of the state, Louisiana will remain dry, but the further north it moves, the great the chance we could see snow or a wintery mix.

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A pair of government advocacy groups are joining forces. The Committee of 100 for Economic Development and the Council for A Better Louisiana, or CABL, have announced that they’re merging to form Leaders for a Better Louisiana. Barry Erwin, who was the president of CABL, says this merger was a long time in the making.

Cut 9 (09)  “…way, we hope.”

Erwin says CABL and the Committee of 100 have unique things to bring to a merged organization.

Cut 10 (12) “…state as well.”

Erwin says by joining forces, CABL and the Committee of 100 can do great things for the state under the new moniker of Leaders for a Better Louisiana.

Cut 11 (07) “…so to speak.”

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Louisiana U-S Representative Clay Higgins along with several other Republicans used a Congressional hearing to blast the former head of Social Security for agreeing to a telework agreement with SSA union employees. Higgins says it’s resulted in extremely long wait times when calling the Social Security helpline

Cut 12 (12) “…Social Security.”

Higgins called the SSA helpline during the hearing was on hold for an hour and a half without speaking to an employee.

Cut 13 (12)  “…nobody  (phone thrown down).”

Higgins anger was directed at Martin O’ Malley. The former Maryland governor resigned in November as Social Security Commissioner. He’s now seeking to be the next chairman of the Democratic National Committee. In testimony to the committee, O’Malley blamed Congress for reducing staffing levels to 50-year lows.

But Higgins says the Republican led Congress with help from the incoming Trump administration will attempt to reverse the current telework union agreement that runs through October 2029…

Cut 14 (10) “…watch us do it.”

President Biden delivers his farewell address at seven tonight. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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The Louisiana Department of Education launches its new website. Colleen Crain reports.

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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President Biden delivers his farewell address tonight. ULM Political Science Professor Pearson Cross says Biden will tout his accomplishments in his four years in office.

Cut 3 (09) “…massive infrastructure investment.” 

Cross says he also expects Biden to make at least a passing reference to his predecessor and successor.

Cut 4 (10) “…a personal rule.”

All in all, Cross expects this farewell address to be a traditional one.

Cut 5 (13) “…some looking ahead.”

Biden’s address is at seven Central time.

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The Louisiana Department of Education launches its new website today. Department spokesman Ted Beasley says the old website was ten years old and was getting to be a tad cumbersome to use. Beasley says the new website is easier to navigate.

Cut 6 (10) “…they’re looking for.”

Beasley says part of that is what he calls community homepages contained within the website, including those for students, family, educators and system leaders.

Cut 7 (11) “…they’re looking for.”

Beasley says they also spent time making the site as aesthetically pleasing as possible.

Cut 8 (10) “…they’re looking for”

The website also has a new web address – doe.louisiana.gov. Those who still go to louisianabelieves.com will be redirected to the new URL.

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Buzz is building for the probability of winter precipitation next week. LRN Meteorologist Bill Jacquemin says there’s a chance a large portion of the state could see snow and ice on Tuesday, but what we know for sure is that it will be cold, with dangerous wind chills…

Cut 9 (11)  “…freezing mark.”

Jacquemin says for snow, there needs to be precipitation, and it remains to be seen if the conditions will be right for precipitation to fall…

Cut 10 (10) “…winter precipitation.”

Jacquemin says we’ll have to wait a few more days before forecasters can accurately predict the possibility for snow. But he says there’s an excellent chance for pipe busting cold…

Cut 11 (08) “…season.”

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Small businesses are more optimistic now than they have been in the last six years. That’s according to the latest Small Business Optimism Index by the National Federation of Independent Business. State Director Leah Long says small business owners are looking forward to the upcoming change at 16-hundred Pennsylvania Avenue.

Cut 12 (08) “…the labor shortage.”

Here locally, Long says the reduction in the income tax will be a big boost to small business owners.

Cut 13 (06)  “…hire more employees.”

Long says one thing that small business owners want out of the new administration is the reauthorization of the Main Street Tax Act.

Cut 14 (12) “…small business owners.”

St. Tammany Parish is one step closer to securing almost six-billion dollars for flood control. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (28) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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If you want to live your healthiest life in 2025, you can make just a few simple changes. Colleen Crain reports.

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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The 1.36 percent Citizens assessment you pay on top of your premiums for property insurance is going away. Don Molino has more…

Cut 3 (30) “…I’m Don Molino.”

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Flu activity remains high in Louisiana. Dr. Eric Griggs with the St. Tammany Health System says so are hospitalizations.

Cut 4 (13) “…RSV and COVID.”

Dr. Griggs says only about 42-percent of Louisianians are vaccinated against the three viruses. He says even though we’re now in the peak season, it is by no means too late to get your shots.

Cut 5 (08) “…and flu season.”

Griggs says there are things that you can do to protect yourself and everyone else.

Cut 6 (09) “…to get vaccinated.”

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If you want to live your healthiest life in 2025, you can make just a few simple changes. Jennifer Duhon with the LSU Ag Center says one thing you can do is add fiber to your diet – fruits, vegetables, whole grains and beans.

Cut 7 (10) “…increasing your fiber.”

Duhon says don’t focus on cutting out certain foods from your diet – instead, maintain a proper balance of the types of foods you eat.

Cut 8 (10) “…other nutrients in.”

And Duhon says after enjoying that balanced meal, instead of making a beeline to the couch, get up and take a short walk.

Cut 9 (10)  “…or 15 minutes.”

Also, Duhon says by preparing meals at home instead of eating out, you can not only eat healthier, but you can also save a lot of money.

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St. Tammany Parish is one step closer to securing almost six-billion dollars for its flood risk management project. The project was authorized under the 2024 Water Resources Development Act. Parish President Mike Cooper says this is the largest single investment in flood risk reduction in Louisiana history. 

Cut 10 (11) “…long flood wall.”

President Cooper says that’s the structural solution. As for the non-structural solution…

Cut 11 (10) “…along Lake Pontchartrain.”

Cooper says it’s a large investment, but it is greatly needed.

Cut 12 (08) “…relief to us.”

The St. Tammany Levee, Drainage and Conservation District will discuss the projects in a meeting this Wednesday evening.

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Residents with property insurance are getting a small break. Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple says the 1.36-percent assessment on all residential and commercial property insurance policies will disappear in April. The assessment has been paying off bonds Louisiana Citizens Insurance incurred from claims after hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Temple says the Citizens Board determined they have enough money to pay off the loans…

Cut 13 (09) “…June 26.”

Temple says this will result in a 100-dollar savings for residential property insurance policies and 200-dollars for commercial policyholders.

Cut 14 (10) “…on insurance.”

Citizens’ Policyholders are also getting a break. A new law that went into effect January first waves the 10-percent surcharge on all new policies and renewals for the next three years, which means lower premiums for Citizen policyholders…

Cut 15 (09) “…decrease.”

There are 115-thousand Citizens policyholders, down from 140-thousand after the hurricanes of 2020 and 2021.

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The Ragin Cajuns grinded out a victory over in-state rival ULM 71 to 68. U-L Lafayette trailed most of the game and only shot 36 percent from the field, but figured out a way to win. Interim head coach Derrick Zimmerman…

Cut 16 (11) “…mentally tough attitude.”

The loss keeps ULM winless in the Sun Belt, while the Cajuns are 3-and-2, one of seven teams tied for third place in the conference. U-L Lafayette is at Sun Belt preseason favorite Arkansas State on Thursday and play ULM again on Saturday in Monroe. Zimmerman on winning on the road…

Cut 17 (15)  “…proud of the team” 

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Louisiana Tech scored 52 points in the second half to defeat Liberty 79 to 74. Bulldogs coach Talvin Hester says Amaree Abram’s defense was the key to the game, as his defense on the Flames top scorer was outstanding…

Cut 18 (18)   “…us and them.”

Abram had 13 points. Sean Newman led the way with 27 points and he had eight assists. Hester says Newman was sensational…

Cut 19 (13) “…the end.”

Tech is now 2-and-2 in Conference USA and will be at Jacksonville State on Thursday.