Louisiana steps onto the worldwide stage tomorrow with a float at the Tournament of Roses Parade. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Backed with an endorsement from President-elect Donald Trump, Louisiana Congressman Mike Johnson is confident he will be re-elected as House Speaker. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (29) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Tonight is a big night for fireworks and the State Fire Marshal’s office is urging everyone to enjoy them the safest way possible. That means detonating devices 200 feet away from structures and vehicles. Never allowing children to light fireworks, lighting devices one at time and Deputy Chief Nick Heinen says never use fireworks while impaired…

Cut 3 (09) “…Happy New Year.” 

A recent study by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission shows that fireworks-related injuries are on the rise across the country.

Heinen says there have been over 300 retail fireworks permits issued for this end-of-the-year season and to only buy fireworks from certified fireworks retailers.

Cut 4 (15) “…passed successfully.”

Heinen says to ensure a safe celebration, set up a Safety Zone.  Use stakes, twine, or decorations to mark a safe area away from the fireworks display.

Cut 5 (09) “…like that.”

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Just one more day before Louisiana steps onto the worldwide stage at the Tournament of Roses parade in Pasadena, California. Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser has been hands-on in the design and construction of the float, which ties in beautifully with this year’s theme.

Cut 6 (09) “…is Saturday night.”

Nungesser says the float features all the unique things that make Louisiana such a special place to live.

Cut 7 (14) “…around the float.”

And what better way to showcase “Louisiana Saturday Night” than with a rendition of a song by that same title! Timothy Wayne, who’s currently studying at LSU, majoring in history, released his version of the 1980 Mel McDaniel hit earlier this month, and he will be on the float performing that song in front of a worldwide television audience. Nungesser says it will be a very proud moment for Wayne, for LSU and for the State of Louisiana.

Cut 8 (07) “…this young man.”

The Tournament of Roses Parade airs tomorrow morning at ten on NBC and ABC. Tune in early, the float and Timothy Wayne will be featured sometime in the first hour.

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Louisiana Republican Congressman Mike Johnson says President-elect Donald Trump’s endorsement of him for House Speaker was supposed to come on New Year’s Day, but Johnson told News Radio 710 KEEL in Shreveport he would like the endorsement to come earlier

Cut 9 (12)  “…so he did,”

In a social media post, Trump said Speaker Johnson is a good, hard working, religious man who will do the right thing. Because the GOP has a razor thin majority in the House, Johnson’s re-election as House Speaker is not a guarantee. Louisiana’s Fourth District Congressman says Trump’s complete and total endorsement will certainly help in his re-election chances…

Cut 10 (13) “…the line.”

A new Congress will be sworn in on Friday and that’s when the U-S House will vote on Speaker. A serious challenger to Johnson has not emerged…

Cut 11 (08) “…get the votes.”

The Republican from Bossier Parish has been House Speaker since October 2023. Kentucky Congressman Thomas Massie has already said he will not vote for Johnson, so Johnson can not afford to lose anymore Republican votes.

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Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves is departing Congress after nearly a decade, choosing not to run for reelection due to redistricting that significantly altered his constituency.

Cut 12 (09) “…that we have.”

Graves focused on practical infrastructure and disaster recovery projects rather than high-profile legislation. His accomplishments include the Red Snapper regulation returned to the state, using technology to comply with the Privacy Act, and upgrades to Baton Rouge-area highways like the Washington Street exit.

Cut 13 (08)  “…new terrace exit.”

Reflecting on Congress, Graves criticized the rise of theatrics over substance and emphasized his pride in meaningful achievements.

Cut 14 (11) “…truly deserves.”

Mike Johnson just got a huge boost in his quest to retain the speaker’s gavel. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (36) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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A lifelong Louisiana Democrat remembers President Jimmy Carter who passed away on Sunday at the age of 100. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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President-elect Donald Trump has endorsed Mike Johnson to return as Speaker of the House. In a post on social media, Trump says Johnson would provide, in his words, immediate relief from all the destructive policies of the last administration. LSU political science professor Robert Hogan says Trump’s endorsement is a 180 of sorts.

Cut 3 (09) “…recent budget deal.” 

With Republicans holding a very slim majority in the 119th Congress, it will take a nearly unified G-O-P caucus to agree on a speaker. Hogan says Trump’s endorsement is intended to achieve that unanimity.

Cut 4 (12) “…his preferences are.”

Hogan says it’s in Trump’s best interest to get the House Republican caucus on the same page, and quickly.

Cut 5 (12) “…speaker be elected.”

Hogan says it’s unlikely that Hogan will draw any significant challengers to his speakership.

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America is mourning the death of our 39^th president. Jimmy Carter passed away yesterday at the age of 100. The Democrat from Georgia served only one term in the White House, but might be best known for what he did after politics. Public Service Commissioner Foster Campbell says Carter went around the world to resolve conflict, promote democracy, protect human rights and prevent disease….

Cut 6 (10) “…What a Great American” (2x)

He and his wife also helped rebuild thousands of home for Habitat for Humanity, including several in Louisiana following Hurricane Katrina.

When he ran for President in 1976, he held a rally in Jackson Square in New Orleans, and Campbell remembers the personal touch he provided in northwest Louisiana

Cut 7 (11) “…for President.”

Carter lost in his re-election bid to Ronald Reagan in 1980. But Campbell says Carter didn’t stop trying to make the world a better place…

Cut 8 (11) “…some of these diseases.”

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Lafourche Parish has joined the Atchafalaya National Heritage Area, aligning its boundaries with the historical Atchafalaya Basin.  Executive Director Justin Lemoine aims to develop a recreational master plan and identify culturally significant sites in Lafourche.

Cut 9 (13)  “…historic region,”

Previously excluded due to an oversight when the Heritage Area was established in 2006, Lafourche’s inclusion rectifies a gap in representing Louisiana’s unique culture. Lemoine says this inclusion allows the parish to access federal funding for recreational projects and historical preservation through the National Park Service’s program.

Cut 10 (10) “…recreational resources .”

The bipartisan legislation, spearheaded by U-S House Majority Leader Steve Scalise and supported by Louisiana lawmakers, passed swiftly and was signed into law by President Biden.  Lemoine says the Atchafalaya National Heritage Area spans 15 parishes and over 11,000 square miles, showcasing Louisiana’s distinct food, music, and cultural ties to the land.

Cut 11 (08) “…part of the country.”

Louisiana saw a population increase for 2024 according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Colleen Crain has more.

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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Governor Jeff Landry’s first year in office was eventful with major legislation getting approved. Jeanne Burns looks back….

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Jeanne Burns.”

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New voting machines will soon be coming to Louisiana. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 3 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Looking for something to do New Year’s Day? The climate here in Louisiana is a little too warm for the Polar Bear Plunge, so why not take a hike? Louisiana State Parks Director Brandon Burris says all state parks are taking part in conjunction with America’s State Parks’ First Day Hikes, which started in Massachusetts in 1992.

Cut 4 (05) “…has to offer.”

Burris says it’s a way for the state to introduce its state parks to those either new to the state or to those who don’t regularly use them.

Cut 5 (09) “…marshes and byways.” 

Burris says many hikes are led by rangers.

Cut 6 (11) “…great animals here.”

For more information, visit the Louisiana State Parks First Day Hikes webpage.

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Louisiana’s population grew slightly in 2024 according to U.S. Census Bureau data. The state’s estimated population on July first was over 4.59-million up nearly 10-thousand from 2023. Demographer Greg Rigamer says this a small increase after three straight years of decline.

Cut 7 (13) “…lot of pepeople.”

Population losses have been widespread, particularly in central and northeast Louisiana. Caddo and Plaquemines parishes have also seen declines, but Rigamer says southeastern parishes like East Baton Rouge, Ascension, and Livingston are growing.

Cut 8 (08) “…significant factors.”

Governor Landry says his tax reform package will help end migration out of the state and bring more people to Louisiana. Rigamer says we’ll have to wait and see if that happens

Cut 9 (09)  “…within our region.” 

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It was a busy first year in office for Governor Jeff Landry. Landry got lawmakers to pass legislation that seeks to reduce crime, he also got lawmakers on board with a school choice bill, and he capped off 2024 by getting lawmakers to approve a major overhaul of the state’s tax code…

Cut 10 (13) “…health care.”

Landry says the tax reform legislation will lower everyone’s income taxes on January 1^st, but it will also increase the state sales tax to five percent. He says the tax reform plan will also eliminate the corporate franchise tax and help lure new businesses to the state, while also helping the ones currently here…

Cut 11 (09) “…for us.”

Part of the tax reform plan still needs voter approval and a Constitutional Amendment revising Article Seven of the state constitution will go before voters in March. Landry says there’s a lot packed into that amendment, including a permanent increase to teacher salaries…

Cut 12 (15) “…our businesses.”

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New voting machines will soon be coming in Louisiana. Secretary of State Nancy Landry says while the new model has not yet been selected, one thing that’s for certain is that in accordance with a new state law, there will be a paper component.

Cut 13 (11)  “…a locked box.”

Landry says having the paper ballot will allow the state to easily verify the machine vote tally.

Cut 14 (11) “…recount is necessary.”

Landry says the state has not yet issued a request for proposals and there’s a lengthy approval process. Therefore, it will be a few years before voters will start casting their ballots on the new machines.

Cut 15 (08) “…testing it out.”

Landry says the current machines are 30 years old and as such, there are no replacement parts available for them.

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It was a great season for U-L Lafayette football, but the Cajuns had a couple of ugly postseason games. U-L Lafayette followed up a blowout loss in the Sun Belt Championship game with another blowout loss on Saturday. T-C-U trounced the Cajuns 34 to 3 in the New Mexico Bowl. Coach Michael Desormeaux’s team was playing without several starters who left the program for the transfer portal…

Cut 16 (20) “…going to compete.”

Desormeaux also feels good about the future and is eager to develop the chemistry needed for another winning season in 2025….

Cut 17 (17)  “…going to do.” 

The Cajuns finished 2024, 10-and-4.

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The Saints wanted to give their fans something to cheer about, but other than a nice trick play that resulted in a touchdown, there was not much to cheer about Sunday in a 25 to 10 loss to the Raiders. Interim head coach Darren Rizzi says the third down stat tells the story, the Saints only converted once on third down, while Las Vegas was 10-of-18 on third down…

Cut 18 (12)   “…like turnovers.”

Rookie Spencer Rattler got the start and looked sharp in the first half, but New Orleans could do nothing in the second half. Rattler finished 20 of 36 for 219 yards. He threw one touchdown pass, but he was intercepted twice and sacked three times…

Cut 19 (17) “…in the second half.”

The Saints are now 5-and-11 and wrap up the regular season on Sunday at Tampa Bay.

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The LSU Tigers will play Baylor tomorrow in the Texas Bowl to close out the 2024 season. The Bayou Bengals received good news for the 2025 season as star linebacker Harold Perkins announced he’s returning for his senior season. Perkins played only four games in 2024 because of a season-ending knee injury. Coach Brian Kelly is happy Perkins is coming back

Cut 20 (20) “…to write.”

State Attorney General Liz Murrill looks back at year one in office and looks ahead to year two. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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The Independence Bowl is Saturday night and Louisiana Tech is looking to upset 22^nd ranked Army. Jeff Palermo has a preview…

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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No matter where in the state you’re at, you will want to be weather aware tomorrow. LSU Public Health climatologist Barry Keim says a cold front is coming through, and that’s going to bring heavy rains. 

Cut 3 (09) “…even heavier rainfall.” 

Keim says while there’s potential for severe weather everywhere across the state, some parts of the state will be at higher risk of severe storms than others.

Cut 4 (13) “…else in Louisiana.”

Keim says those in the northern and eastern portions of the state should also be prepared for the potential of tornadoes.

Cut 5 (07) “…very strong tornadoes.”

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Attorney General Liz Murrill looks back at her first year in office and looks ahead to year two. Murrill says one of her biggest accomplishments is addressing crime in New Orleans through the creation of Troop NOLA within the State Police, saying it’s a force multiplier.

Cut 6 (10) “…have a need.”

As for her priorities in year two, Murrill said she would like to focus on the fentanyl crisis.

Cut 7 (15) “…opioid settlement money.”

Murrill says it’s an idea that the office of Arizona’s Democratic attorney general is implementing.

Cut 8 (16) “…the long-term.”

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The Mega Millions jackpot has soared to 1.22-billion dollars for tonight’s drawing. Louisiana Lottery Communications Director Kimberly Chopin (show-PAN) says it has a lump sum cash value of 549-million dollars.

Cut 9 (15)  “…September 11th,”

Chopin says there has never been a Mega Millions jackpot winner in Louisiana; but since the last time the jackpot was won, three players in Louisiana have won over one-million dollars.

Cut 10 (13) “…winning jackpot roll.”

Chopin says check your numbers as soon as possible; because if someone does win big, the clock starts ticking for that person to claim his or her winnings.

Cut 11 (13) “…claim their winnings.”

Tonight’s winning numbers will be drawn just before 10 p.m. Central time.

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A 13-year-old boy is hit and killed while riding a bicycle on a dark country roadway in Tangipahoa Parish. State Police say Benjamin Mixon of Kentwood was riding with another juvenile on State Highway 1061 at around 6:30 yesterday evening when an SUV hit them from behind. State Police Trooper Marc Gremillion (GREM-ee-on) says with a speed limit of 55 miles an hour and no shoulder, there was no way the driver could have seen the two boys until it was too late.

Cut 12 (03) “…at a hillcrest.”

Gremillion says Benjamin and the other rider did not help matters with the clothing they were wearing.

Cut 13 (05)  “…on the roadway.”

Also, Gremillion says neither bike had any lights on it. Troopers took a toxicology sample from the driver, as per standard procedure.

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For the sixth time in the program’s history, Louisiana Tech will play in the Independence Bowl. The Bulldogs will battle 22^nd ranked Army at 8:15 on Saturday night. The Black Knights are led by quarterback Bryson Dailey, who finished sixth in the Heisman Trophy voting. Tech Coach Sonny Cumbie says not only does Army have a great quarterback, but their offensive line is outstanding…

Cut 14 (07) “…offensive line.”

Louisiana Tech enters the game with a five and seven record, but statistically they have one of the best defenses in the country, allowing just over 300 yards a game. Linebacker Zach Zimos says they will be challenged by Army

Cut 15 (12) “…how to play.”

Tech is missing several key players from its defense, because they entered the transfer portal.

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The Ragin Cajuns will face TCU in the New Mexico Bowl in Albuquerque on Saturday at 1:15 central time. U-L Lafayette is in a bowl game for a seventh straight year and they are 10-and-3 on the season, while the Horned Frogs are 8-and-4. Cajuns Coach Michael Desormeaux says the team that makes the fewest mistakes will win….

Cut 16 (12) “…going to win.”

It’s the first ever meeting between the two schools on the football field.

Thirty-four-thousand, 10-year lithium battery smoke alarms valued at more than 1-million dollars was donated by Lowe’s Home Improvement to the State Fire Marshal’s Operation Save-A-Life program.  Jeff Palermo has more.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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One of the goals in year two of the Landry administration is to make state government run more efficiently. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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The State Fire Marshal (SFM) says Lowe’s Home Improvement has donated over 34-thousans 10-year lithium battery smoke alarms to their Operation Save-A-Life program.  Valued at more than 1-million-dollars makes it the largest donation in its history.  State Fire Marshall Bryan Adams says since 2012, over 120,000 alarms have been installed through the program.

Cut 3 (09) “…working smoke alarm.” 

Lowe’s Slidell store initiated the donation, which STFPD #1 and SFM collaboratively accepted. Adams praised the partnership, emphasizing the life-saving impact of smoke alarms.

Cut 4 (05) “…several people’s lives.”

Slidell Store Manager John LeMaster expressed gratitude and commitment to community safety.

Cut 5 (14) “…really good day.”

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One of the goals of the Landry administration in year two is making state government run more efficiently. Jonesboro Representative Jack McFarland, the chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, says one way to accomplish that is by reining in government contracts.

Cut 6 (08) “…our government’s budget.”

McFarland says contrary to popular belief, the legislature goes not get to approve contracts; it only gets to review them. 

Cut 7 (08) “…to fund them.”

McFarland says another thing to look at is licensing and permits, saying more red tape placed on business and industry will cost more money to enforce.

Cut 8 (11) “…more hurdles.”

McFarland says Louisiana will be trying to do what President-elect Donald Trump is trying to do with the creation of his Department Of Government Efficiency, just at the state level.

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Foster care families can apply for a free pass to visit any of the state’s 21 state parks, 14 historical sites or nine state museums. Director of the Louisiana Office of State Parks Brandon Burris says they want to give thanks to foster caregivers for their time and extra expenses they put into helping foster care children. He says this imitative also provides foster families with something they can do together…

Cut 9 (07)  “…Louisiana has to offer,”

Burris says this was the brain child of Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser.  He emphasized the program’s goal of helping foster families create lasting memories while exploring Louisiana’s rich cultural and natural heritage.

Cut 10 (11) “…we have.”

Burris says the Louisiana State Parks Caregiver pass encourages foster families to enjoy recreational and educational opportunities together.

Cut 11 (08) “…this particular situation.”

According latest data, there were fewer than two-thousand licensed foster homes in Louisiana in 2023 and on average there are 41-hundred children in the state’s foster care system each day.

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There’s a slight risk for severe weather this afternoon and into tonight. LRN Meteorologist Bill Jacquemin says residents in Shreveport, Monroe, Alexandria and Lake Charles should be weather aware today

Cut 12 (10) “…heavy rain.”

Jacquemin says showers and storms may produce intense rainfall over short durations, potentially causing localized flash flooding…

Cut 13 (12)  “…tomorrow.”

There’s the possibility for another round of severe weather on Saturday.

Senator John Kennedy is hailing the passage of the Social Security Fairness Act. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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The Department of Justice is suing the State of Louisiana and the Louisiana Department of Corrections for allegedly keeping prisoners behind bars after they’ve completed their sentences. Sean Richardson reports.

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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Senator John Kennedy is hailing the passage of the Social Security Fairness Act. The act eliminates two provisions that reduced the Social Security benefits of people who worked in the public sector. Senator Kennedy said good riddance to them.

Cut 3 (17) “…earn their pensions.” 

Kennedy said Social Security is not free and belongs to the people who paid into it.

Cut 4 (09) “…who earned it”

Kennedy said the act, once signed into law, will benefit everyone who has paid into the system.

Cut 5 (13) “…Social Security Act.”

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State Police are investigating a fatal police shooting in Hammond on Saturday night. Authorities say a Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s deputy fatally shot 48-year-old Timothy Douglas of Ponchatoula during a foot pursuit. Trooper Marc Gremillion says the deputy was trying to apprehend Douglas who allegedly was driving a stolen vehicle…

Cut 6 (12) “…altercation ensued.”

Gremillion says during the physical altercation, the deputy fired his weapon, striking Douglas…

Cut 7 (11) “…shooting incident .”

Gremillion says the investigation remains active…

Cut 8 (09) “…working with us.”

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Unseasonably warm and wet weather is expected for the Christmas week, with highs in the mid-70s and rain likely through Saturday. LSU Public Health Climatologist Barry Keim says Christmas Eve and Christmas Day bring increased chances of showers and thunderstorms,

Cut 9 (09)  “…west of Shreveport,”

Keim says a cold front will come through Christmas Day and temperatures may reach 73 degrees.

Cut 10 (07) “…not very cold.”

Keim says we are not expecting severe weather with the rain this week…

Cut 11 (05) “…across the state.”

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The Justice Department is suing the State of Louisiana and the Louisiana Department of Corrections, claiming that the state is keeping prisoners in custody after they have completed their sentences. Lydia Wright with the Promise of Justice Initiative says a years-long investigation found that the Louisiana Department of Corrections is keeping thousands of prisoners behind bars beyond their scheduled release dates.

Cut 12 (09) “…served their time.”

Wright is pinning the blame on the state not using modern technology to keep track of when prisoners are scheduled to be released.

Cut 13 (15)  “…served their sentences.”

Governor Landry and Attorney General Liz Murrill issued a joint statement, calling the lawsuit frivolous and calling it, in their words, “Grinch Joe Biden’s parting Christmas present to the state and to its people.” The statement goes on to say that the problem stems from the failed criminal justice reforms pushed by the Biden administration. Wright says the problems started much earlier.

Cut 14 (13) “…policies and practices.”

The Louisiana Department of Health is prohibiting its workers from promoting seasonal vaccines. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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More than 25-percent of Louisiana third graders scored far below state reading targets on a fall assessment, according to recent data. Sean Richardson reports.

Cut 2 (36) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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Louisiana is on a winning streak of sorts in job growth. Colleen Crain has more.

Cut 3 (34) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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The Louisiana Department of Health is prohibiting workers from promoting seasonal vaccines like flu, COVID and mpox. That includes advertising, promoting on social media, giving media interviews and holding vaccine events. Rosemary Westwood broke the story for NPR; she says part of the directive comes from state Surgeon General Ralph Abraham.

Cut 4 (11) “…including masking.”

Westwood says that is something that the Department of Health had regularly done, especially since the start of the COVID pandemic.

Cut 5 (12) “…to get them.” 

Westwood says the policy is not being put into writing, which puts department workers in an uncomfortable position.

Cut 6 (07) “…is not okay.”

In a statement, the Department of Health says it’s been re-evaluating its priorities and messaging since the end of the pandemic. It says its position now is that seasonal vaccines and other practices like wearing masks and social distancing should be individual choices. It stresses that this only applies to seasonal vaccines and not childhood immunizations.

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More families in Louisiana are going hungry. Joel Berg with Hunger Free America says a new report shows that a quarter of a million Louisianians live in households that can’t afford enough food – that’s an increase of 10-percent since the summer of 2021.

Cut 7 (09) “…terms of hunger.”

Berg says one thing that has proven to work is taking advantage of federal food programs.

Cut 8 (14) “…really did help.”

In fact, 75-percent of recipients of that credit said they had enough money to buy more fruits and vegetables. Berg said another thing that would help would be making all school meals free, saying that the money that’s spent to determine which kids got free meals and which one get reduced-cost meals could actually go to feeding all kids.

Cut 9 (11)  “…all its kids.”

Berg says it’s no surprise that Louisiana has one of the highest hunger rates, since it already has one of the highest poverty rates.

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More than 1 in 4 Louisiana third graders scored far below state reading targets on a fall assessment. According to recent data, about 27% scored “well below” and 19% scored below expectations, meaning nearly half failed to meet literacy benchmarks. Under a new law, schools must create reading improvement plans within 30 days for students scoring “well below,” with targeted interventions such as tutoring or summer programs. Deputy Superintendent Jenna Chaisson (CHASS-on) says there has been many literacy improvements in the state.

Cut 10 (13) “…teachers and leaders”

Chaisson says implementing required science of reading training for teachers and the state wide literacy screener.

Cut 11 (14) “…how to read.”

Chaisson says these screeners gives them valuable information for where students are in their reading comprehension.

Cut 12 (13) “…literacy skills…”

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Some encouraging job numbers for Louisiana from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. It says added four-thousand non-farm jobs last month and more than 20-thousand non-farm jobs in the last year. The seasonally-adjusted unemployment rate ticked up two-tenths of a point to 4.3-percent, but Emily DiPalma with the Louisiana Workforce Commission says that’s nothing to be concerned about.

Cut 13 (08)  “…consider full employment.”

DiPalma says a few sectors led the way in job growth.

Cut 14 (09) “…over the year.”

As for which metropolitan areas led the way in the number of new jobs created, DiPalma says the state’s two biggest ones topped the list.

Cut 15 (16) “…over the year (3x).”

DiPalma says this marks 44 months in a row that monthly jobs experienced year-over-year growth.

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LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier threw for 37-hundred yards and 26 touchdowns this season and led the Tigers to eight victories. Nussmeier had the option to enter his name in the NFL draft, but the Lake Charles native says there’s still more to do at LSU…

Cut 16 (16) “…wasn’t finished.”

If Nussmeier entered the NFL draft, he would have likely been a second-day selection. Nuss is hoping to improve on what he did in 2024, so that he can be a first round pick in the 2026 NFL draft…

Cut 17 (18)  “…than I am now.” 

Nussmeier will have a new group of pass catchers next season as Kyren Lacy, CJ Daniels and Mason Taylor are moving on to the NFL or in Daniels case, the Miami Hurricanes.But the Tigers have restocked thanks to the transfer portal and have brought in some talented pass catchers in Bauer Sharp, Barion Brown and Nic Anderson.

Cut 18 (16)   “…that room.”

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The Saints are in Green Bay tonight. New Orleans rookie quarterback Spencer Rattler will make his fourth start of the season. Rattler made three starts in October and was sacked 14 times, but showed more poise coming off the bench last week. Rattler says when started two months ago, starting center Eirk McCoy was injured and having back him back is huge…

Cut 19 (10) “…a lot better.”

With the possibility of starting quarterback Derek Carr missing the rest of the season, there’s a chance Rattler will start the final three games of the season, giving New Orleans a chance to see what they have in Rattler. The rookie is not putting extra pressure on himself…

Cut 20 (12) “…to.”

A record 119 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more during the year-end holidays. Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 1 (29) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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Civil rights groups are urging school districts across the state not to post the Ten Commandments starting January 1st. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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The Louisiana Department of Education’s upcoming Teacher Exit Data Report says fewer Louisiana teachers are leaving the profession.  Colleen Crain has more.

Cut 3 (29) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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AAA expects a record number 119-million travelers over the Christmas and New Year’s holidays. That’s 3 million more travelers than last year. Don Redman with Triple-A says with Christmas falling on a Wednesday, peak travel is expected the weekends before and after the holiday.

Cut 4 (11) “…set in 2019.”

Nearly 90-percent of travelers will drive, drawn by the flexibility and affordability of road trips. Though gas prices are lower than last year, the total falls slightly short of 2019’s record. Redman says over 7-million passengers will fly, despite ticket prices being 4-percent higher domestically and 13-percent internationally. So, get there early.

Cut 5 (06) “…long security lines.” 

Redman says if you’re planning on leaving Sunday, you’ll be in good company.

Cut 6 (07) “…the better.”

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Civil rights organizations are urging school districts not to post the Ten Commandments in classrooms starting January 1st as required by a new state law. Alanah Odoms, the executive director of the ACLU of Louisiana, says Judge John DeGravelles (de-GRAVEL) was very clear in his ruling that the posting of the Ten Commandments in public schools is unconstitutional.

Cut 7 (15) “…going to go.”

The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, however, ruled that DeGravelles’ injunction only applies to the five districts named in the lawsuit. The state has said it would defend any school district which gets sued over displaying the Ten Commandments. Odoms says the state is wasting taxpayer money in doing so.

Cut 8 (15) “…that it’s unconstitutional.”

Odoms is urging the state to follow its own advice until the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals hears oral arguments on January 23rd.

Cut 9 (13)  “…the school districts.”

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Fewer Louisiana teachers are leaving the profession. The Louisiana Department of Education’s upcoming Teacher Exit Data Report shows a two-percent drop in the number of teachers exiting their positions, with 13-percent leaving in 2023-2024 compared to 15-percent the previous year. LDOE Deputy Superintendent Jenna Chaisson (CHASS-on) says this marks the second consecutive year of decline.

Cut 10 (11) “…leaving the classroom.”

Chaisson emphasized the critical role teachers play in student success and the state’s commitment to supporting them. Initiatives include the “Let Teachers Teach” workgroup and stipends.

Cut 11 (06) “…at the state level.”

Chassion says these efforts aim to recruit and retain quality educators while addressing shortages in critical areas with differentiated compensation for different jobs.

Cut 12 (16) “…some shortages”

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Congress is now in an all-out game of Beat The Clock. If Congress does not reach a budget deal by midnight Eastern time tonight, the federal government will be shut down. New Orleans Democratic Congressman Troy Carter says he thought there was a bipartisan, bicameral deal – until one man who’s not even in Congress threw everything into turmoil.

Cut 13 (07)  “…vote for it.”

But Baton Rouge Republican Congressman Garret Graves says that’s not the complete story.

Cut 14 (09) “…to pass it.”

Carter says if there’s a shutdown, everyone from all walks of life will pay a dear price.

Cut 15 (14) “…for crop losses.”

Graves says the wrong people will be paying the price for a government shutdown.

Cut 16 (09) “…doing its job.”

Lawmakers worked well into the night last night and will work late again today, right up until midnight if necessary, to get a deal done. Graves says Congress is close to reaching one.

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Saints Coach Darren Rizzi has named rookie Spencer Rattler the starting quarterback for Monday’s game at Green Bay, but Rizzi is not closing the book on Derek Carr returning. Carr is trying to come back from a fractured non-throwing hand and reports of him missing the rest of the season are inaccurate…

Cut 17 (16)  “…on the field.” 

Rizzi sounded more pessimistic about Alvin Kamara. The star running back left last Sunday’s game in the fourth quarter with a groin injury. Rizzi says at first they thought the injury was minor, but further imaging has shown the injury is worse than originally thought…

Cut 18 (18)   “…what happens.”

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U-L Lafayette athletics director Bryan Maggard has fired Bob Marlin in the middle of his 15th season. The Cajuns made it to the NCAA Tournament in 2023, but this season they are 3-and-9. In a statement, Maggard said a change is necessary. Host of the Locked on Sun Belt Podcast, Dave Schultz, says there’s been an exodus in talent in Lafayette and they haven’t been able to replace it…

Cut 19 (19) “…those guys.”

Marlin was 269 and 198 during his time in Lafayette, but Schultz says fan interest in the program has declined…

Cut 20 (16) “…few years.”

Caddo and Bossier parish firefighters now have access to free cancer screenings through a new health initiative by Willis Knighton.  Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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The CDC is continuing to monitor the first severe case of human bird flu in the U.S. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Firefighters from Caddo and Bossier parishes now have access to free annual physicals and cancer screenings through a new state law.  Willis Knighton is partnering with local fire districts and cities on the new health initiative. CEO Jaf Fielder says firefighters are 14-percent more likely to develop cancer because of their job than any other occupation.

Cut 3 (13) “…in the future.” 

This program benefits 1,500 active and retired firefighters, covering the $1,300 cost per participant through hospital donations. Fielder says the initiative aligns with a state law passed earlier this year requiring local governments to provide no-cost cancer screenings for full-time and retired firefighters, effective in 2025.

Cut 4 (07) “…our mission.”

Fielder emphasized the importance of addressing these hidden dangers firefighters face while serving their communities.

Cut 5 (12) “…our local communities.”

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The Louisiana National Guard is celebrating 30 years of its Youth Challenge Program. Lieutenant Colonel Kenny Paul says the Louisiana Guard’s Youth Challenge Program was among the first of its kind and one of the most successful.

Cut 6 (10) “…first initial ten.”

Lieutenant Colonel Paul says the program is an alternative education program for 16 to 18 year olds, emphasizing teamwork, discipline and personal development. 

Cut 7 (13) “…in that arena.”

Paul says in the three decades of the program, more than 28-thousand kids have graduated, many of whom have gone on to do great things.

Cut 8 (12) “…other state schools.”

The latest class of graduates, 118 of them, graduated in a ceremony last weekend.

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In the largest fentanyl bust in Livingston Parish history, four individuals were arrested, and over 100-thousand doses of fentanyl were seized following a multi-agency investigation. Sheriff Jason Ard says Tyrone Broadway was the ringleader of the drug trafficking operation and undercover agents made multiple purchases from his group, uncovering approximately 36-thousand pressed fentanyl pills.

Cut 9 (08)  “…very long time,”

Ard says search warrants were executed at residences in Livingston and Tangipahoa Parishes leading to the discovery of nearly 68-thousand additional pressed fentanyl pills, and 46 pounds of fentanyl…

Cut 10 (11) “…150-thousand people.”

Broadway, along with Eugene Skinner, Donald McCray, and Devonte Skinner, were arrested as a result of the investigation. Ard says he’s pleased these drug dealers are off the street.

Cut 11 (06) “…time in prison.”

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The CDC is continuing to monitor the first severe case of human bird flu in the U.S. Dr. Demetre Daskalakis with the CDC says bird flu has been around for many years, including human cases outside the U.S.

Cut 12 (13) “…50-percent of cases.”

Dr. Daskalakis says there’s something very unique about this case of human bird flu.

Cut 13 (12)  “…their related products.” (First case linked to a non-commercial backyard flock)

Daskalakis says the CDC is monitoring the condition of the patient, who’s from southwest Louisiana.

Cut 14 (10) “…the United States.”

Fallout has begun elsewhere in the United States, with California issuing a state of emergency.

Reading scores are up among the state’s youngest learners. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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A National Council on Teacher Quality report says Louisiana teachers are less diverse than its population. Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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An Opelousas man was arrested after fleeing a Youngsville mental health facility on foot, stealing a school bus and causing a four-vehicle crash in Lafayette on Sunday night. Lafayette PD Senior Corporal Ashley Wood says  26-year-old Marion Baker has been identified as the suspect.

Cut 3 (10) “…collision with four vehicles.” 

Lafayette P-D reports several individuals received moderate injuries as a result of the crash.

Wood says following the collision, Baker fled the scene and stole a truck from a bystander who had stopped to help.

Cut 4 (11) “…by law enforcement.”

Wood says Baker is currently being held without bail in Lafayette Parish Jail.

Cut 5 (09) “…as well as theft.”

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Students in kindergarten through third grade are improving their reading scores, thanks to a new focus on phonics-based literacy instruction. Dr. Jenna Chiasson (CHASS-on), the deputy superintendent at the State Department of Education, says those students improved their reading proficiency by more than two percentage points.

Cut 6 (09) “…level in literacy.”

Dr. Chiasson says several factors are contributing to the rise in reading proficiency among those children.

Cut 7 (12) “…Science of Reading.”

Dr. Chiasson says tutoring has also helped improve reading scores, with kids getting individualized instruction. She says better reading scores at the early levels will set those kids up for success later in their education and, in effect, later in life.

Cut 8 (14) “…are indeed working.”

Last year’s kindergarten class improved their reading scores by more than 20 points as first graders.

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Louisiana’s teacher workforce is significantly less diverse than its population of college-educated adults, according to a National Council on Teacher Quality (NCTQ) report. Teach for America Executive Director Ge’ron Tatum says some of this is due to limited pathways and elimination of teacher prep programs.

Cut 9 (07)  “…teacher pay is inadequate,”

Louisiana teachers earn 5-thousayd-dollars less than the Southern regional average and 15-thousdand dollars below the national average, deterring people of color from entering or staying in the profession. Tatum stress that representation matters, as research shows teachers of color significantly benefit student outcomes.

Cut 10 (11) “…leads to great results.”

Tatum says to address this, strategies include recruiting from historically Black colleges, offering financial support to prospective teachers.

Cut 11 (15) “…entering the profession.”

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Three people are dead, including two children, as a result of a head-on collision between an SUV and a pickup truck on L-A 25 in Washington Parish. State Police Trooper Marc Gremillion says the adult who was killed has been identified as 42-year-old Tequilla Santee. Gremillion says the two children who died were 11 and three years old…

Cut 12 (10) “…deceased on the scene.”

The three people killed were in 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe and they were from Covington. Gremillion says a Chevy Silverado heading in the opposite direction struck the Tahoe head-on. The 18-year-old driver of the Silverado was critically injured and so were two other passengers in the Tahoe.

Cut 13 (07)  “…or speed.”