Small Business optimism is the highest it’s been since June 2021. Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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With the holiday season here, make sure you protect yourself from potentially deadly illnesses. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (28) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Optimism is the highest it’s been for small business owners since June 2021. That’s according to the latest national survey of small business owners. NFIB State Director Leah Long says the results of the Presidential election signal a major shift in economic policy…

Cut 3 (13) “…small business owners” 

Long says positive changes made here in Louisiana are lowering the personal income tax to 3-percent, and no longer have to pay an inventory tax are great news for small businesses, and says reform was a move in the right direction.

Cut 4 (07) “…in general.”

Challenges persist, as some owners reported unfilled job openings, and inflation remains the top concern.

Cut 5 (11) “…of how high inflation is.”

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The holiday season is here; and with that, there will be many celebration gatherings. The holiday season is usually the time when flu and COVID-19 cases tick up. Dr. Gabrielle Givens with St. Tammany Hospital says the very best way you can protect yourself is getting vaccinated.

Cut 6 (11) “…or influenza vaccines.”

Dr. Givens says the vaccines are in abundant supply and have been updated for this winter.

Cut 7 (08) “…influenza or COVID-19.”

Givens says while neither the flu nor the COVID-19 vaccine can prevent someone from contracting either virus, they can minimize symptoms and complications.

Cut 8 (07) “…case scenario, death.”

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It’s Prep Classic week as 16 high school football teams will play for state championships in the Caesars Superdome starting on Thursday. The division four select title game kicks-off the Prep Classic at noon and Vermilion Catholic head coach Broc Prejean (PRAY-ZHAWN) is hoping to lead the school to its third title…

Cut 9 (11)  “…home for,”

Vermilion Catholic will face Ouachita Christian at noon Thursday. It’s a rematch of the 2022 state title game that saw O-C-S win 28-14. V-C is led by quarterback Jonathan Dartez who set a state record for total touchdowns for a career in last week’s shutout win over Kentwood. The four-year starter wants to cap his high school career with a championship…

Cut 10 (11) “…blessed to be back.”

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Franklinton will play for a state championship on Friday night when they face Cecilia. The Demons are seeking their first state title since 2010 and the second in history. Demons head coach Nick Saltaformaggio says he has the best kept secret in Louisiana, his starting quarterback Jacob Crain who has thrown for 24 touchdowns..

Cut 11 (13) “…really really talented.

The Demons also have a running back in Sy Austin that’s rushed for nearly two-thousands and has 28 touchdowns on the season. Saltaformaggio says Austin has gotten stronger since he arrived as the head coach at the Washington Parish school in 2023…

Cut 12 (10) “…offensive line.”

The Division two non-select state title game between Franklinton and Cecilia is at 7 PM.

Parts of the state were under a cold weather advisory Friday morning. Andrew Greenstein explains what that means…

Cut 1 (36) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Saturday is Election Day in Louisiana. Jeff Palermo recaps the four amendments that all voters will be deciding.

Cut 2 (32) “….I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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With Old Man Winter bearing down on Louisiana, there’s some new terminology from the National Weather Service to get used to.

Cut 3 (08) “…wind chill warnings.” 

Danielle Manning, the lead meteorologist at the National Weather Service in New Orleans, says that’s all changed. Now, the service issues “cold weather advisories” and “extreme cold warnings.” Manning says the thresholds depend on where in the state you’re at.

Cut 4 (14) “…the northern area.”

Manning says they made the change, because people didn’t care whether it was the temperature or the wind chill factor that’s causing conditions to be brutally cold outside.

Cut 5 (06) “…you go outside.”

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The St. Martin Parish Sheriff’s Office has broken ground on a three-million dollar training facility designed to benefit law enforcement agencies across Louisiana.  Major Ginny Higgins says the facility will provide critical training—much of it at no cost—for agencies that cannot afford similar resources.

Cut 6 (11) “…that will be there.”

Higgins highlighted the regional impact, stating the facility would not only enhance law enforcement capabilities in Acadiana but also strengthen community and inter-agency collaboration. “It’s good for the community and for other agencies to come here and learn,” he said.

Cut 7 (07) “…things like that.”

Higgins says its crucial for law enforcement to be well rounded and this facility aims to train all aspects of law enforcement.

Cut 8 (12) “…really exciting.”

The facility is set to open next October.

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A 30-year-old Lafayette man is facing charges for killing a black bear in Concordia Parish. Wildlife and Fisheries Lt. Chad Watts says over the Thanksgiving weekend Christopher Buck, a convicted felon, was booked into jail because he was in possession of a shotgun on the Richard Yancey Wildlife Management Area. Last Sunday a dead black bear was found at that same W-M-A, so investigators went back and spoke to Buck

Cut 9 (08)  “…black bear”

Watts says Buck told agents he thought he shot a pig, but investigators didn’t buy that story…

Cut 10 (08) “…he thought it was a pig.”

Watts says the bear was shot in buckshot, which was a critical piece of evidence in their investigation…

Cut 11 (11) “…containing buckshot.”

Taking a bear during a closed season carries up to a 950-dollar fine and up to 120 days in jail. Buck faces several years in prison because he was a convicted felon in possession of a firearm.

Sgt. Cole Cupit and agent Andrew Lemoine were also involved in the investigation. LDWF Veterinarian Rusty Berry performed the necropsy on the bear.

The first legal black bear season in Louisiana since 1987 begins Saturday and runs through December 22nd. Only ten hunters have been awarded tags and each hunter can only harvest one bear.

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Tomorrow is Election Day in Louisiana, and every voter in the state will be deciding on four constitutional amendments. Amendment 1 would increase the number of people on the state Judiciary Commissions from nine to 14. Public Affairs Research Council president Steven Procopio says the purpose is to speed up investigations of judges.

Cut 12 (07) “…citizens on there.”

Procopio says the argument against is that it would politicize the process, with the five additional members being appointed by the legislature – two each by the House and Senate and one by the governor.

Cut 13 (05)  “…at the case.”

Amendment 2 would require a 48-hour waiting period before the legislature can vote on budget-related bills. Amendment 3 would allow for up to three, two-day extensions of the session to finish budget work. And Amendment 4, which Procopio says is the most complex of them all, would establish a tax lien system for delinquent properties, in which investors would only be purchasing the debt and not the property itself. Procopio says it would take many aspects out of the constitution and into statute.

Cut 14 (12) “…be against this.”

Two of the four amendments on Saturday’s ballot have to do with passing budgets in the legislature. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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LSU Coach Brian Kelly says National Signing Day felt more like Tax Day instead as money is becoming more of a factor in getting players to sign with a school. Sean Richardson has the story…

Cut 2 (30) “….I’m Sean Richardson” 

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Two of the amendments you’ll be voting on on Saturday have to do with passing budgets in the legislature. Prairieville Representative Tony Bacala (BAH-ka-lah) authored amendments 2 and 3. Amendment 2 would require a 48-hour waiting period before voting on budget-related legislation. Bacala says a situation arose in the 2023 regular session that prompted this amendment.

Cut 3 (09) “…even review them.” 

Amendment 3 would allow a session to be extended by two days to finish work on the budget if necessary, and it would permit up to three such extensions. Bacala says under the current law, failing to pass a budget bill on time would trigger a lengthy – and costly – special session.

Cut 4 (10) “…as we could.”

Bacala says the two amendments are designed to work hand-in-hand.

Cut 5 (05) “…both passed together.”

The legislature passed both amendments nearly unanimously, clearing the way for their placement on the ballot.

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Republican Louisiana State Treasurer John Fleming announced his 2026 U.S. Senate candidacy, challenging incumbent Sen. Bill Cassidy. Fleming, a former naval officer and senior Trump advisor, emphasized his dedication to America First principles, highlighting his service in Trump’s administration. ULM Political Science Professor Dr. Pearson Cross says it will be an interesting race.

Cut 6 (12) “…come after him.”

Fleming, who served as a U.S. Representative from 2009 to 2017 and co-founded the House Freedom Caucus, criticized Cassidy for voting to convict Trump during his impeachment trial, arguing Cassidy betrayed Louisiana conservatives. Cross says its likely Flemmings has gotten assurances Trump will endorse Flemming…

Cut 7 (05) “…consider him loyal.”

Congressman Clay Higgins may be another challenger to Cassidy for his Senate seat in 2026. Cross suggests Trump’s endorsement will likely determine the race’s outcome among Republican contenders.

Cut 8 (05) “…Clay Higgins.”

Cassidy’s spokesperson questioned Fleming’s motives, citing his brief tenure as state treasurer and alleging his eagerness to leave Louisiana for Washington.

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LSU football coach Brian Kelly sounded off on the NIL landscape that’s dominating recruiting. The veteran head coach says recruiting used about relationships, now it’s about the dollars…

Cut 9 (07)  “…live in”

The Tigers signed 23 players to start the early signing period. Recruiting services rank LSU’s class anywhere between sixth and eighth. Kelly is pleased with the class he brought in, but it will take more financial support from Tiger fans to remain competitive…

Cut 10 (08) “…one or two guys.”

LSU lost out on a few elite prospects in the final two weeks leading up to the early signing period. LSU can make up for those losses by signing players out of the transfer portal, but again it will take money….

Cut 11 (12) “…live in.”

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Governor Landry signs the tax reform bill this afternoon in a ceremony at the Capitol. Standing before lawmakers, Landry said passing the complex was a true team effort.

Cut 12 (15) “…our job creators.”

The package that Landry signed includes an across-the-board tax cut to a flat three-percent and the elimination of the corporate franchise tax. Landry says this tax reform package is the dawn of a new era.

Cut 13 (11)  “…pro-business environment.”

Landry says thanks to this overhaul of the tax code, Louisiana can now bridge the gap with neighboring states and keep its home-grown talent here.

Cut 14 (10) “…it’s frustrated us.”

Landry, however, did not get the broadening of the sales tax base he had been seeking. Instead, the tax package calls for an increase in the state sales tax rate to five-percent.

LSU signs some big names on this, the first day of the early signing period. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Governor Jeff Landry announces 10-billion dollar investment of a Meta AI Data Center coming to Richland Parish.  Colleen Crain has more.

Cut 2 (34) “….I’m Colleen Crain” 

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Outgoing Louisiana Congressman Garret Graves’ name has surfaced as a possible choice to lead the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Graves says he has spoken to Donald Trump’s transition team about various positions with the new administration, but FEMA director is not one he’s excited about…

Cut 3 (08) “…that position.” 

Graves believes for FEMA to be effective in responding to disasters, it needs to be cabinet level agency and not tucked inside the U-S Department of Homeland Security…

Cut 4 (08) “…of community.”

Graves is in his final days as a U-S Representative for Louisiana’s Sixth Congressional District. The Baton Rouge Republican was also rumored candidate for U-S Transportation Secretary. But former Wisconsin Congressman and Fox Business Host Sean Duffy is Trump’s nominee.

Graves says he’s not a fan of FEMA’s structure and wanted to see Trump implement reforms in his first term

Cut 5 (12) “…Homeland Security.”

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It’s national signing day and LSU has signed the top two running backs in the state. Zach Nagy, the publisher of LSU Tigers on S-I, says the top one is Harlem Berry from St. Martin’s High School in Metairie, whom he calls the best running back LSU has signed since Leonard Fournette.

Cut 6 (10) “…down the field.”

Nagy says LSU also signed the number-two running back in the state – J.T. Lindsey from Alexandria Senior High School, who he says has blossomed in his senior season.

Cut 7 (11) “…for that program.”

On the defensive side, LSU signed Aiden Anding of Ruston High School, the top cornerback and the number-13 player overall in the state.

Cut 8 (15) “…like Aidan Anding.”

When all is said and done, LSU is expected to have a top ten recruiting class.

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Central Intermediate School’s assembly transformed into a milestone celebration as Ashley Davis, a fourth-grade math teacher, was awarded the 3,000th Milken Educator Award. Founder Lowell Milken presented Davis with the prestigious honor and an unrestricted $25,000 cash prize, praising her dedication to raising academic achievement and fostering a love for learning.

Cut 9 (08)  “…wait what?”

Her creative approaches, like “Lemonade Day,” integrate real-world applications, fostering both academic and social-emotional growth.  Davis has significantly influenced Central Intermediate’s inclusion model, creating a supportive environment for general and special education students to thrive.

Cut 10 (15) “…it doesn’t matter.”

Beyond the classroom, Davis mentors fellow teachers, leads professional learning communities, and serves on the Instructional Leadership Team. Davis also actively supports her community by coaching youth sports.

Cut 11 (13) “…form of teaching.”

Davis, the first recipient in Central Community School System and 51st in Louisiana, joins the national Milken Educator Network, celebrating exceptional teaching and leadership.

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Governor Jeff Landry has announced a Meta, the operator of Facebook and Instagram, will invest $10 billion  dollars to build an Artificial Intelligence Optimized Data Center in Richland Parish near Rayville. Landry says the project is expected to result in 500 or more direct jobs and more than one-thousand indirect jobs, plus thousands of construction jobs.

Cut 12 (10) “…technology and innovation.”

Landry says this is investment is a game changer for Louisiana…

Cut 13 (14)  “…Louisiana’s landscape.”

Landry says this facility is the largest of more than 20 Meta Data centers…

Cut 14 (08) “…our state.”

Construction begins immediately and Entergy will meet add clean, power efficient power plants to its system to meet growing power demands.

Four years after an investigative report uncovered serious allegations against LSU’s Title Nine office, a new report suggests that little has been done about it. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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LSU football has lost a five-star commitment on the eve of national signing day. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (33) “….I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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Four years ago, in the wake of an explosive investigative report by USA Today, LSU promised to make improvements to its Title Nine office. However, a new report by the Louisiana Illuminator says there’s been little to no progress. Piper Hutchinson is conducting the investigation for the Illuminator in conjunction with Tiger Rag Magazine. She says employees within the office are alleging a hostile work environment, which is causing a slowdown in Title Nine complaints.

Cut 3 (11) “…office right now.”

Hutchinson notes that universities in general, not just LSU, receive a fair number of Title Nine complaints. Among the complaints at LSU is one in which a professor who allegedly covered up sexual assault allegations against a graduate assistant.

Cut 4 (11) “…to these abuses.”

Hutchinson says among the Title Nine complaints at LSU involved the Title Nine office itself.

Cut 5 (11) “…Department of Education.”

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Today the state is breaking ground on the Maurepas Swamp Project in St. John the Baptist Parish.  A freshwater divergence that will reconnect the Mississippi River to Maurepas Swamp.   Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana Communication Director James Karst says CRCL is also working in conjunction with the state…

Cut 6 (09) “…in the swamp.”

River reintroduction involves redirecting fresh water and sediments from the Mississippi River into the swamp via engineered channels. This process replenishes nutrients, improves water quality, and mitigates subsidence by restoring natural sediment deposition. Karst says the reintroduction aims to counteract decades of wetland loss and create a healthier environment for native species.

Cut 7 (11) “…very long time.”

Volunteers and environmental groups will plant bald cypress and water tupelo trees, species essential for stabilizing the ecosystem and providing resilience against hurricanes and flooding. Karst says these trees also enhance carbon sequestration and support diverse wildlife habitats.

Cut 8 (11) “…swamp land again.”

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Former Catholic priest and admitted serial child molester, pleaded guilty to kidnapping and raping a boy in the 1970s.  93-year-old Lawrence Hecker’s plea is a rare conviction linked to the Catholic Church’s long-standing abuse scandal. Orleans Parish District Attorney Jason Williams says Hecker plead guilty to every count…

Cut 9 (05)  “…to a life sentence.”

Williams says Hecker’s victim, who was assaulted in a church bell tower converted into a weightlifting room, had reported the attack to his school principal, who failed to inform authorities.

Cut 10 (14) “…predator to run.”

Hecker’s guilty plea was welcomed by survivors prepared to testify about decades of abuse. Williams described the plea as significant for survivors seeking justice.

Cut 11 (13) “…hurt other people.”

Investigations have expanded into whether the archdiocese concealed systemic abuse. No senior clergy have been charged in connection with Hecker’s crimes.

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

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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

Cut 2 (26) “….I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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

Cut 3 (14) “…settling their beefs.” 

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

Cut 4 (15) “…on Canal Street.”

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

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

Refuge turned herself into police custody today

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

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

Cut 6 (07) “…that they desire.”

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

Cut 7 (11) “…committee selections.”

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

Cut 8 (13) “…of the state.”

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

Cut 9 (07)  “…the season.”

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

Cut 10 (09) “…going into 2025.”

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

Cut 11 (14) “…a chance.”

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

Cut 12 (12) “…that was anticipated.”

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

Cut 13 (08)  “…Hurricane Harvey.”

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

Cut 14 (11) “…pretty good year.”

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

Cut 15 (13) “…like that.”

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

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

Cut 1 (35)“…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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

Cut 2 (34) “…Sean Richardson.”

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

Cut 3 (34) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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

Cut 4 (07) “…some next week.”

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

Cut 5 (18) “…to get back.” 

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

Cut 6 (11) “…their purchasing power.”

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

Cut 7 (10) “…here in Louisiana.”

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

Cut 8 (12) “…care of with surgery.”

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

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

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

Cut 10 (10) “…already have.”

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

Cut 11 (13) “…that problem.”

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

Cut 12 (09) “…two years.”

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

Cut 13 (12)  “…hasn’t happened”

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

Cut 14 (16) “…going up.”

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

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

Cut 15 (18) “…they should be.”

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

Cut 16 (13) “…consistent enough.”

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

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

Cut 17 (15) “…his today.” 

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

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

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

Cut 19 (19) “…proud of em.”  

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

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

Cut 20 (15) “…out there.”

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

Cut 1 (33)“…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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

Cut 3 (07) “…57-percent.”

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

Cut 4 (09) “…Black Friday.”

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

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

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

Cut 6 (07) “…over forecast that.”

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

Cut 7 (05) “…peak of the season.”

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

Cut 8 (08) “…active seasons.”

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

Cut 9 (09)  “…in Louisiana.”

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

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

Cut 10 (07) “…talent now.”

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

Cut 11 (12) “…the game.”

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

Cut 12 (17) “…New Orleans.”

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

Cut 13 (1o)  “…be a battle (2x)”

Kickoff in the Superdome is at 1:00.

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

Cut 1 (36)“…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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

Cut 3 (31) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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

Cut 4 (13) “…to be cool.”

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

Cut 5 (17) “…also your stuffing.” 

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

Cut 6 (07) “…be concerned about.”

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

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

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

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

Cut 8 (12) “…parade as well.”

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

Cut 9 (07)  “…in the band.”

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

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

Cut 10 (07) “…gone away.”

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

Cut 11 (08) “…last couple of years.”

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

Cut 12 (09) “…substantial.”

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

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

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

Cut 14 (12) “…wearing a seatbelt.”

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

Cut 15 (05) “…75 for consecutive.”

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

Cut 16 (13) “…in years.”

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

Cut 17 (21) “…all at the same time” 

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

Cut 18 (17)   “…happened here.”

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

Cut 19 (13) “..whatever reason.”  

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

Cut 20 (15) “…for our guys.”

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

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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

Cut 2 (29) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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

Cut 3 (08) “…tax was dramatic.” 

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

Cut 4 (08) “…they can create.”

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

Cut 5 (13) “…years and generations.”

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

Cut 6 (09) “…Washington Parish.”

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

Cut 7 (08) “…and it’s biodegradable.”

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

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

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

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

Cut 9 (07)  “…smear or pour.”

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

Cut 10 (12) “…syrup and soup.”

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

Cut 11 (08) “…fresh fruit.”

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

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

Cut 12 (05) “…about it.”

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

Cut 13 (11)  “…finding connections.”

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

Cut 14 (09) “…who Luke was.”