The potential for tornadoes hail, and flash flooding is expected for south Louisiana thru early tomorrow morning. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Mudbug season is questionable this year, after the heat and drought of 2023. Brooke Thorington has more…

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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Severe weather is expected to impact the southern half of Louisiana for the next several hours. National Weather Service Meteorologist Christopher Bannan says flash flooding is possible this afternoon thru early tomorrow morning for southeast Louisiana…

Cut 3 (12) “…eight inches.”

Bannan says a strong line of storms could be capable of producing some tornadoes, which is why a tornado watch has been issued for southwest Louisiana..

Cut 4 (11) “…strong tornadoes.”

Once the line starts to develop, it will move to the east quickly and out of the Bayou State by early morning.

Bannan says there’s a moderate risk for flash flooding for southeast Louisiana…

Cut 5 (13) “ …potential develops.” 

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This crawfish season is among the most questionable in the Bayou State after the oppressive heat and drought of 2023. LSU AgCenter Crawfish Specialist Todd Fontenot says conditions have made it extremely difficult for the state’s favorite crustacean crop to thrive.

Cut 6 (08) “…this time.” 

Crawfish normally lay eggs in August but the drought dried out those areas where they normally retreat to reproduce.

Fontenot says many crawfish farmers made adjustments, for example, those who rotate from rice to crawfish, he says they irrigated post-harvest.

Cut 7 (11) “…as big as an effect.” 

On the bright side, Fontenot says the mild winter we’ve had so far has improved conditions for crawfish. But he’s quick to point out that for some farmers salinity issues and lack of rice stubble have devastated their mudbug crop.

Cut 8 (08) “…producers.” 

Fontenot says if you’re already craving crawfish, prepare for sticker shock due to the initial lack of supply.

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Eunice Republican Phillip Devillier was elected today as Louisiana’s new Speaker of the House. Devillier was elected to the House in 2015 and his district includes parts of Acadia, Evangeline and St. Landry Parishes. Devillier’s acceptance speech hit on a theme Governor Jeff Landry touched on during his inauguration speech and that’s unity….

Cut 9 (09) “… are coming” 

Devillier says Louisiana faces a lot of challenges and its residents have waited long enough for real change…

Cut 10 (14) “…Louisiana succeeds” 

Senators elected Metairie Republican Cameron Henry as its President. Henry was elected to the state House of Representatives in 2008 and he’s beginning his second term as a state senator…

Cut 11 (05) “…great honor”

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The Saints missed the playoffs despite blowing out Atlanta out 48-17 yesterday to finish with a 9-8 record. There’s a lot of talk about what happened at the end of the game when Jamaal Williams scored a touchdown from one yard out with three seconds left. Coach Dennis Allen didn’t want his team to score again

Cut 12 (10)  “…should be”  

Atlanta Coach Arthur Smith was furious after the game and refused to shake Allen’s hand. Quarterback Jameis Winston says it was a team decision to give Williams the ball so he can finish the year with one touchdown…

Cut 13 (09) “..good about that” 

What can we expect from a Jeff Landry administration? Teiko Foxx reports Lapolitics.com publisher Jeremy Alford believes Landry will not wait long to put his stamp on the governor’s office

Cut 1 (27) “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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The 73rd Louisiana Legislature will be sworn in today. Jeanne Burns reports Republicans have a supermajority in both the House and Senate…

Cut 2 (35)  “…I’m Jeanne Burns”

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A new era of state government begins as Republican Jeff Landry officially takes over as governor at noon today. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (45) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Louisiana’s 57^th Governor Jeff Landry officially takes over at noon today. Lapolitics.com publisher Jeremy Alford says Landry has been preparing for this moment since his election in October and will look to get a lot accomplished over the next few months …

Cut 4 (12) “…regular session.”

Alford also expects Landry to have a lot of success with his agenda because of a Republican supermajority in the House and Senate.

Cut 5 (11) “…comfortable with.”

Metairie Republican Cameron Henry is expected to be elected as Senate President today. Eunice Republican Phillip DeVillier is expected to be elected as House Speaker.

A special session looking at how to reduce crime in Louisiana will be held in February and the regular legislative session starts in March. But Alford says Landry can begin signing executive orders this afternoon to put his stamp on the governor’s office…

Cut 6 (12) “…things with.”

The inauguration Ball is still set for tonight.

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A new Louisiana Legislature gets sworn in today. Republicans continue to have a supermajority in the House and Senate, so where does that leave Democrats with a Republican taking over the governor’s office? Baton Rouge Senator Cleo Fields believes Governor-elect Jeff Landry will listen to the concerns of Democrats…

Cut 7 (12) “…with both parties”

In 2024, state lawmakers will look to address multiple issues. A special session is expected in February to pass laws that attempt to reduce crime. In the three-month-long regular session that begins in March, legislators will address the state’s property insurance crisis and what could be done to lower premiums. Pineville Representative Mike Johnson expects a robust discussion on insurance issues…

Cut 8 (11) “…fix that problem.” 

After electing their legislative leaders this morning, the next order of business for lawmakers will be a special session to redraw the Congressional district map. The courts have ruled that the map should contain two majority-minority districts. Republicans were committed in 2022 to having a map with only one black voting district. Fields believes the GOP-led Legislature will do the right thing this time…

Cut 9 (07)  “…next time.”

Thanks to term limits, several new legislators will be sworn in today. Johnson is impressed with the new crop of state legislators…

Cut 10 (11) “…regular people.”

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Republican Jeff Landry expressed his pride for Louisiana and gave his vision for a better Louisiana during a 32-minute long speech after he was sworn in as the state’s 57th governor. Landry says Louisiana residents seek a government that reflects their values and the public believes the most important voice in a child’s education should be the parents…

Cut 11 (11) “…mothers back.” 

Making Louisiana a safer place to live was a major part of Landry’s campaign. He plans to address it with a special session in February. He says too many families are being ripped apart by outrageous violence…

Cut 12 (10) “…for good.” 

Louisiana’s new governor has a great opportunity to get most of his agenda approved with a Republican controlled legislature and every statewide office is occupied by a Republican. He believes now is the time to make a real difference

Cut 13 (11) “…anymore.”

Landry officially takes office at noon.

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The Saints dominated their biggest rival the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday, but they didn’t get the help needed from other teams to make the playoffs. New Orleans defeated the Dirty Birds 48 to 17 to finish the season winning four of its last five. But the 9-and-8 overall record was not good enough. Head Coach Dennis Allen…

Cut 14 (18) “..finish the season.” 

Tampa Bay’s 9-0 win over Carolina prevented the Saints from winning the NFC South. But New Orleans could have still earned a wildcard berth if the Bears beat Packers and the Cardinals defeated the Seahawks. Chicago and Arizona both lost. Safety Tyrann Mathieu says at least they ended the season with a blow out victory…

Cut 15 (15) “…still playing.”

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LSU has a new defensive coordinator. The Tigers announced Blake Baker will take over defensive play-calling duties after two successful seasons as the defensive coordinator at Missouri. Tiger Rag Editor Todd Horne says Baker quickly emerged as the top candidate after the firing of Matt House….

Cut 16 (15) “…and Louisiana” 

Baker was LSU’s linebackers coach in 2021. He was the defensive coordinator at Louisiana Tech from 2015 to 2018. The Houston native is also a former Tulane linebacker. This past season, Baker played a major role in Missouri’s 11-2 season. Mizzou was fourth in the SEC in scoring defense and fifth in total defense. Horne says Baker has a good resume and head coach Brian Kelly needs this hire to work out…

Cut 17 (10) “…banking on” 

Baker replaces House, who was LSU’s defensive coordinator for two seasons. The 2023 Tigers’ defense ranked among the worst in the country. Horne says Baker gets credit for turning around a bad Missouri defense and he’ll try to do the same at LSU…

Cut 18 (21)  “…banking on.” 

Word that mortgage interest rates are decreasing sparks hope the real estate market can rebound this year. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Get ready to consume your favorite carnival treat. King Cake season gets underway on Saturday. Teiko Foxx has more.

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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2023 was not the best year for real estate with rising interest rates after an unprecedented hot market during the height of the pandemic. But Louisiana Realtors CEO Norman Morris believes things will improve with mortgage rates expected to settle in between five and six percent.

Cut 3 (10) “…buyers and sellers.”

Morris says the average interest rate for a 30-year fixed mortgage right now is 6.75%.

In addition to interest rates, Morris says the cost of homeowners insurance in the state is also a major hurdle for potential buyers. He says they are working with the legislature and new insurance commissioner to make them more affordable.

Cut 4 (07) “…in 2024.”

Morris says economists predict as we get further into the year, first quarter and beyond, that mortgage rates will stabilize around five percent which will make homes more affordable.

Cut 5 (11) “ …in twenty-four.” 

And with the cost of building materials decreasing, Morris says new construction will only increase the inventory of homes and give consumers more options in the housing market.

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If you are a king cake connoisseur, get ready to find the baby. One of the tastiest seasons in the Bayou State – King cake season kicks off this Saturday. Co-Owner of New Orleans Haydel Bakery David Haydel says they have been quite busy between local sales and shipping out orders nationwide.

Cut 6 (13) “….on Friday.” 

With a shorter carnival season, sales are expected to be much lower compared to last year.

Third-generation baker Haydel says the sweet Mardi Gras tradition comes in many variations when it comes to fillings, but when it comes to the most popular…

Cut 7 (12) “…the tradition.” 

In 2010, Haydel’s Bakery broke two Guinness World Records by creating two giant king cakes that wrapped around the Superdome.

It’s not just folks in the Bayou State who order his tasty king cakes. Haydel says he’s shipped one of the hand braided sweet treat topped with purple, green, and gold sugar to Linda Boogs at the Vatican. And he expects a busy season through the end of Mardi Gras.

Cut 8 (09) “…as hell.” 

To place an order, visit haydelsbakery.com.

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A 15-year-old student from Neville High School in Monroe is dead and five of his classmates injured after their deer camp caught on fire early this morning. The incident happened in Jefferson County, Mississippi and Sheriff James Bailey says his deputies were among the first on scene…

Cut 9 (11) “… burning camp.” 

Bailey says the student who died was 15-years-old. He says the five other teenagers were sent to Mississippi hospitals with burns and cuts from trying to escape.

Cut 10 (11) “..five injuries.”

A cause of the fire has not been determined.

News of the fatal fire got back to Neville High School Friday morning and school was dismissed after the second period. Students were encouraged to gather at the Methodist Church in Monroe to pray for the individuals and families involved. Bailey says their hearts go out to those impacted…

Cut 11 (10) “…classmates”

Social media posts identify the deceased teenager as Tarver Braddock. He was a junior and a defensive back on the Neville football team and an outfielder on the baseball team.

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A new governor and Louisiana Legislature will be sworn in on Monday. Republicans will be in control of both the executive and legislative branches. Council for a Better Louisiana president Barry Erwin on what that means for the first regular session that begins in March…

Cut 12 (12)  “…vetoed.”  

Last year Governor John Bel Edwards vetoed a bill that would have prohibited public schools teachers from discussing gender identity and sexual orientation in front of the entire classroom. He also vetoed legislation that would have required transgender youth to have parental permission for school employees to call them by their preferred names and pronouns.

There was conflict between Governor Edwards and the Republican controlled Legislature. But Erwin expects a better working relationship with Republican Jeff Landry as governor, but it will not be smooth sailing…

Cut 13 (13) “..work together” 

Landry has said he wants to pass legislation to reduce crime, lower property insurance rates and improve public education. But he hasn’t provided a lot of specifics. Erwin says the new governor will back legislation that he knows can get the necessary votes in the Legislature…

Cut  14 (11) “..the Legislature.”

Governor John Bel Edwards’ two terms in office were met with what some deem as victories along with controversies. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (42) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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A new state law that went into this week requires health insurance plans to cover fertility preservations for cancer patients or those facing medical treatment that could prevent them from having a child. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 2 (25)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Louisiana’s longest-serving Insurance Commissioner, Jim Donelon, will leave office on Monday. Jeff Palermo has more on the 79-year-old who is retiring from politics…

Cut 3 (34) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Governor John Bel Edwards’ two terms in office ends Monday, ULM political science professor Pearson Cross says the Democrat from Tangiaphoa Parish constantly battled with a Republican-controlled Legislature. He says the battle started on his first day in office when the House rejected the governor’s choice for House Speaker.

Cut 4 (11) “…predecessor.”

Edwards and the Legislature had to address a two-billion dollar budget deficit in his first year in office. It took a sales tax increase and other budgetary moves to get the state out of the red.

Edwards first executive order was expanding Medicaid coverage to some 400,000 Louisianans. In 2017 Edwards pushed criminal justice reform measures aimed at reducing the state’s prison population and taking the savings to fund programs to cut down on recidivism.

In 2020, the governor had to impose Covid restrictions that many Republicans thought went too far…

Cut 5 (09) “…of course.”

During his eight years, Cross says the Edwards administration navigated multiple natural disasters and civil unrest in 2016 following the Baton Rouge police shooting of Alton Sterling.

Cross says Edwards tenure will be marred most notably by the death of Black motorist Ronald Greene while in State Police custody. He says the governor and State Police were accused of covering up what happened in Union Parish in 2019…

Cut 6 (12) “…the carpet.”

Cross believes Edwards will also be tarnished by the deaths of three toddlers whose endangerment had been reported to the Department of Children and Family Services in 2022, but the state agency didn’t act quick enough. Edwards supported DCFS Secretary Marketa Garner Walters until she resigned.

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A new law requiring Louisiana health insurance providers to pay fertility preservation costs for cancer patients whose treatment could render them sterile went into effect this week. The bill’s author, Baton Rouge Representative Paula Davis says it applies to new health plans and existing health care plans.

Cut 7 (11) “…is completed.”

The new legislation also allows religious organizations to apply for exemptions if they have conflicting beliefs about fertility preservation.

Davis says the mandate doesn’t apply to Medicaid or health insurance plans through the state health care exchange. Coverage for patients who are going through chemotherapy, radiation, and other procedures is limited.

Cut 8 (08) “…own expense.” 

Deductibles, co-payments, and coinsurance may still apply for some patients. Davis says lawmakers heard emotional testimony from female patients who testified in support of the bill…

Cut 9 (12)  “…a family.”

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The state’s longest-serving Insurance Commissioner, Jim Donelon, will leave office on Monday. The 79-year-old from New Orleans has been the state’s insurance commissioner since 2006. Donelon says one of his greatest achievements was an incentive program that resulted in more insurance companies providing homeowners coverage after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita…

Cut 10 (10) “…five years running.”

Donelon leaves office at a time when property insurance premiums are skyrocketing following several consecutive years of destructive hurricanes along the Gulf Coast. He says his final acts as commissioner attempted to stabilize the market again, with another incentive program for insurance providers and a grant program for homeowners to strengthen their roofs…

Cut 11 (12) “…program.” 

When Donelon entered office, the state had some of the most expensive auto insurance rates in the country and it remains a big problem…

Cut 12 (08) “…House Insurance Chairman.” 

Donelon began his career in public office serving on the Jefferson Parish Council. He served in the Louisiana House of Representatives from 1982 to 2001 and was appointed deputy Insurance commissioner in 2001.

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As we begin the new year, labor quality is the top concern among small businesses according to the latest National Federation of Independent Business survey. Regional NFIB Director Dawn McVea says unfilled positions continue to plague small businesses.

Cut 13 (12) “…out there.”

Forty percent of members say they were unable to fill positions in the last two months of 2023. McVea says 55 percent of small businesses report they were trying to hire employees in December.

Cut 14 (05) “…want to do.” 

Job openings in the construction industry were up nine points from last month and over half have a job opening they can’t fill. McVea says the highest were in construction and transportation.

Cut 15 (12) “…those sectors.”

Thirty-three percent of owners say they have job openings for skilled workers and 14 percent have openings for unskilled labor.

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The LSU men’s basketball team tips off SEC play tomorrow night in College Station against Texas A&M. The Fighting Tigers went 8-5 in the non-conference. Coach Matt McMahon says despite some struggles he’s seen his team improve…

Cut 16 (17) “…we stand.” 

LSU went a dismal 2-16 in the SEC. McMahon revamped the roster and added a bunch of transfers. He believes he has a better team this year…

Cut 17 (17) “…getting better.” 

LSU and A&M will tip off at 7:30 on Saturday night.

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Louisiana Tech begins Conference USA play on Saturday by taking on Sam Houston. The Bulldogs went 10-5 in the non-conference while the Bearkats are 7-8. Bulldogs Coach Talvin Hester says it’s not easy to win games in Huntsville…

Cut 18 (18)  “…to win.” 

Tip off on Saturday ist 4:30.

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The Saints are a slight favorite to beat Atlanta at home on Sunday. New Orleans needs a win and a Tampa Bay loss to win the NFC South. Quarterback Derek Carr says they will not scoreboard watch…

Cut 19 (20) “…afterward.” 

The Black and Gold can also secure a wild-card berth with a win against the Dirty Birds and victories by the Bears and Cardinals.

The Saints lost to the Falcons in Atlanta during Thanksgiving weekend. The Falcons rushed for 228 yards that day. Safety Tyrann Mathieu on shutting down the Atlanta ground game…

Cut 20 (20) “…run game.”

Governor John Bel Edwards plans to continue his quest to bring more renewable energy sources to the state as an attorney. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (28)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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If you’re looking for a healthy eating plan as part of your New Year resolutions, the DASH diet has been ranked number two overall, according to U.S. News and World Report. Teiko Foxx has more.

Cut 2 (34)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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The next chapter in Governor John Bel Edwards’ career will be written at the New Orleans law firm of Fishman Haygood. Senior partner Kerry Miller says Edwards, who was an accomplished attorney before his political career, will mesh well with their firm.

Cut 3 (10) “…throughout the state.”

During his two terms, one of the governor’s environmental goals for the state was to be carbon-neutral by 2050. Miller says Edwards will be able to continue to focus on the economic and environmental benefits of green energy with their firm.

Cut 4 (09) “…of Louisiana.”

As governor, Edwards announced more than $50 billion in renewable energy projects for the Bayou State. And now with the EPA allowing the state to issue permits for carbon capture projects, Miller says Edwards’ expertise on the subject and legal experience is invaluable in bringing more projects to the state.

Cut 5 (11) “ …that knowledge.” 

Miller says Edwards will work out an office in Hammond that will allow him to also spend time with his first grandchild.

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Governor John Bel Edwards touted his accomplishments during a farewell address last night in his hometown of Amite. Edwards says he entered office with a historic budget deficit, but now the state enjoys surpluses that resulted in investments into teacher pay, higher education and roads. He believes the state is better off than it was eight years…

Cut 6 (14) “…Laughter)

Edwards says the state’s unemployment rate is well below the national average and the state’s economy is growing….

Cut 7 (12) “…laughter) 

Edwards will leave office Monday and wishes his successor Jeff Landry the best of luck and he’s rooting for him…

Cut 8 (12) “…will continue” 

Edwards became a grandparent for the first time today as his daughter Samantha Bel gave birth to Rosalie Marie in New Orleans this morning.

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U.S. News and World Report once again ranked the DASH Diet, developed in part by LSU’s Pennington Biomedical Research Center, the second-best diet overall of 2024. Pennington Biomedical Registered Dietician Cathy Champagne says DASH was designed to lower blood pressure and the eating plan includes…

Cut 9 (12) “… dairy products.” 

Dash also came in first for the best heart-healthy diet, third for best diet for diabetes, and eighth for best weight loss. The diet has ranked in the top five overall of the publication for years. Champagnes says the plan has also proven effective in helping those with a history of heart disease.

Cut 10 (13) “..heart association.”

The DASH plan also includes whole grains, poultry, nuts, and fish. But the diet calls for two major changes from the way most people eat – lowering red meat consumption, sweets, and sugars.

Champagne says the DASH diet is a proven plan for healthy eating and they are pleased with its long history.

Cut 11 (10) “…Pennington Center.”

The full diet is available online at Pennington Biomedical Center’s website.

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As of January 1st, State Police must record the demographics of individuals from traffic stops. Baton Rouge Representative Denise Marcelle authored the legislation, and she says it’s important to show troopers are not racially profiling drivers they pull over.

Cut 12 (12)  “…of people.”  

The race, age, and gender of individuals pulled over by state police will then be entered into a database that Marcelle says can be reviewed to see if there are trends of law enforcement targeting any particular group.

Cut 13 (12) “…be available.” 

Since the death of Black motorist Ronald Greene in 2019, State Police have been under the microscope and Marcelle believes the public collection of such data will make the agency more transparent.

Cut  14 (06) “..they’re doing.”

Rick Gallot has started his new job as president of the state’s largest university system. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Governor-elect Landry is being applauded for his choice to head the Department of Natural Resources. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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House Speaker and Louisiana Congressman Mike Johnson says there’s a catastrophe at the Southern Border and the Biden administration needs to enact tougher immigration policies. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (34) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Former Grambling State President Rick Gallot is on his first week on the job as President of the University of Louisiana System. Gallot says one his top goals is to recruit prospective students to the nine colleges that make up the U-L System…

Cut 4 (09) “…system schools.”

Gallot was offered the job on October 25th but Governor Elect Jeff Landry expressed concerns with the board’s decision to hire Gallot. Later, Landry decided to move forward with the contract.

The Ruston native believes his experience will benefit him as he advocates for resources on behalf of the 90 thousand students.

Cut 5 (12) “…system schools.”

The U-L System is the largest higher education system in Louisiana with nine universities including Grambling, La Tech, McNeese, Nicholls, Northwestern, Southeastern, UL Lafayette, ULM, and UNO.

During Gallot’s tenure at GSU, the university set enrollment records and saw a 200 percent improvement in its fiscal health score. He says he will continue the momentum of moving the system forward

Cut 6 (12) “…already has.”

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Tyler Gray will serve as the next Secretary of the Department of Natural Resources. President of the Louisiana Oil & Gas Association Mike Moncla applauds Gray’s appointment because of his conservation background and experience with the Louisiana Mid-Continent’s Oil and Gas Association.

Cut 7 (06) “…fantastic pick.”

The boon of carbon capture in Louisiana will be among the industries DNR will regulate. Moncla says Gray’s current position on the operations side with Placid Refining Company adds even more knowledge for the oversite of DNR.

Cut 8 (07) “…another plus.” 

Before Gray’s appointment, Moncla says the two even discussed who they thought would be an ideal choice for the position and Moncla encouraged him to apply.

Cut 9 (09)  “…great choice.”

Landry has also appointed Jacques Thibodeaux to serve as Director of the GOHSEP and Susana Schowen as Director of the Louisiana Workforce Commission.

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Governor John Bel Edwards delivered his farewell address last night as he’s set to leave office on Monday after two terms. Edwards says the state is in much better shape than it was eight years ago and the best evidence to support that statement is the state’s finances…

Cut 10 (12) “…two reserve accounts.”

Edwards says improved budgeting practices resulted in teachers receiving more than five thousand dollars in teacher pay raises and historic investments in higher education. The governor says he’s leaving the office with the state’s unemployment rate well below the national average. He says his administration also allocated nearly five-point-five billion dollars to more than 2,00 infrastructure projects.

Edwards says natural disasters from hurricanes to floods to winter storms were huge challenges. He says there was no playbook for handling the COVID pandemic…

Cut 11 (15) “…public health.” 

Edwards delivered his farewell address in his hometown of Amite, where he’ll return as a private citizen. He says it’s been an honor to be Louisiana’s 56th governor…

Cut 12 (12) “…inhabit it” 

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House Speaker and Louisiana Congressman Mike Johnson is urging President Biden and Senate Democrats to enforce policies along the U-S Mexico border. Johnson and House Republicans visited the Southern Border on Wednesday and he says the situation is bad…

Cut 13 (10) “…our communities.”

Johnson made the remarks at a press conference in Eagle Pass, Texas. He says the lack of a strong border policy has resulted in lethal drugs pouring into the country and hundreds of terrorists have also entered the U-S.

Johnson believes the President should reinstitute a Trump-era policy of keeping migrants in Mexico until their U-S immigration court date…

Cut 14 (09) “…or more.” 

The Biden Administration is seeking 50-billion dollars in security assistance for Ukraine. But Johnson says House Republicans are not willing to spend that kind of money without a stringent border security policy…

Cut 15 (10) “… (clapping)

The White House has proposed more money to hire Border Patrol agents and asylum officers in an effort to reduce the number of illegal crossings. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer says Johnson’s trip to the border was an attempt to score political points. He urges the Congressman to negotiate in a bipartisan way.

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The seventh ranked LSU women’s basketball team tips off SEC play tonight by hosting Missouri. After losing their season opener, the Lady Tigers have won 13 in a row. Mizzou enters the game with a 9-4 record and they are led by Haley Frank, who averages 16 points and seven rebounds a game. LSU Coach Kim Mulkey…

Cut 16 (16) “…the same” 

LSU beat Missouri 77-57 last season, but two years ago in the PMAC, the game went into overtime and the Lady Tigers won 87-85. Tip off is at 8 PM and fans are encouraged to dress like Mulkey and the person who looks the most like Mulkey will win one of the coach’s game worn jackets. Mulkey is not a fan of the promotion…

Cut 17 (21) “…sequins right.” 

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The Ragin Cajuns men’s basketball team looks to extend their home winning streak to 20 games when they host 19th ranked James Madison at the Cajundome tonight. It’s the first nationally ranked team to visit Lafayette since Nevada in 2006. Coach Bob Marlin is glad the game is on their home court…

Cut 18 (13)  “…assure you” 

Marlin’s team is looking to bounce back after losing its Sun Belt Opener to Marshall by 14 points last Saturday…

Cut 19 (15) “…big games” 

The Cajuns shot just 33-percent from the field in the loss to the Thundering Herd.

After a poor season on defense, LSU football coach Brian Kelly has fired his defensive coordinator and three other assistants. Jeff Palermo has the story….

Cut 1 (29)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Governor-Elect Jeff Landry has named the leaders for the Department of Natural Resources, homeland security and workforce commission. Jeff Palermo has the details…

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

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A major shakeup within the LSU football coaching staff went down today as LSU Coach Brian Kelly fired defensive coordinator Matt House, along with three other assistant coaches. Tiger Rag Editor Todd Horne says  changes had to be made after a historically bad season for LSU on defense…

Cut 3 (11) “…do that.”

Defensive line coach Jimmy Lindsey, safeties coach Kerry Cooks, and cornerbacks coach Robert Steeples were also let go today.

House is fired after two seasons as the defensive coordinator at LSU. He came to LSU with a solid resume. In 2018, House was the defensive coordinator at Kentucky and in 2018 they had one of the best defenses in the country. He was the linebackers coach with the Kansas City Chiefs when they won the Super Bowl during the 2019 season. Horne says House might prefer the NFL game over college

Cut 4 (12) “…hot mess”

Horne expects Kelly to act quickly in hiring their replacements…

Cut 5 (06) “ …having a plan.” 

LSU ranked 105th in the nation in total defense giving up 417 yards a game. LSU also allowed 28 points a contest, third worst in the SEC.

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About 200-thousand people in Louisiana who were on Medicaid lost their health insurance coverage in 2023 as part of the nationwide Medicaid disenrollment process. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Louisiana healthcare economist Michael Bertaut (BURR-toe) says if you are without coverage, you have until January 15th to apply for health insurance through Health-Care-dot-gov…

Cut 6 (08) “…into Medicaid”

Bertaut says individuals with an income between 100 and 400-percent of the federal poverty level are eligible for tax credits that can lower your monthly premium for a Marketplace health insurance plan.

Cut 7 (10) “…out of their own pocket.” 

If you’re not familiar with the Medicaid online process, Bertaut suggests calling an agent to answer any questions and to help select the right plan for you.

Cut 8 (12) “…licensed agent.” 

For more information visit healthcare.gov

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If you received a cost of living raise you could find yourself in a higher tax bracket when you file your 2024 taxes. Shreveport CPA Hardy Foreman says even with a raise your expenses have gone up so you’re not necessarily bringing home more bacon…

Cut 9 (12) “…in 2025.” 

He says the federal tax brackets have not been adjusted for inflation in more than four years.

Foreman says for example a married couple with a joint income of more than $94,300 their tax bracket jumps from 22 percent to 24 percent.

Cut 10 (11) “..everything else.”

So, while you’re preparing your 2023 taxes, Foreman says you need to make some smart moves about your 2024 deductions. For example, if you have a small business keep receipts and write off your home office expenses, mileage, wifi, etc.

Cut 11 (12) “…tax bracket.”

For a listing of the tax brackets for 2024 visit LouisianaRadioNetwork.com

Today Monique Blanco Boulet will be sworn in as Lafayette’s first female Mayor-President. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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If one of your New Year resolutions is eating healthy, this carnival season indulge in a zero-sugar, gluten-free twist of a beloved Mardi Gras tradition. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 2 (34)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx”

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Governor John Bel Edwards will give his farewell remarks tonight and from his hometown of Amite. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (30) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Lafayette’s Mayor-President Elect Monique Boulet will be sworn in this afternoon at 3 pm at the Cajundome. Boulet is the first female to serve in the position. She says her first call to action is to build trust, increase transparency, and build the city’s economy.

Cut 4 (12) “…of Lafayette.”

In 2022, 98 homicides were reported across the Acadiana area by local law enforcement agencies. Boulet says she’s working on addressing the significant increase in violent crime in Hub City.

Cut 5 (12) “…address crime.”

The daughter of former Governor Kathleen Blanco has also served as CEO of the Acadiana Planning Commission. When asked how her mother would feel, she says…

Cut 6 (11) “…of this.”

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Louisiana’s float in the Rose Parade on New Year’s Day wins an award for the third consecutive year. Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says they took home the Showmanship Award for a second time this year and the float highlighted the Bayou State’s musical roots…

Cut 7 (10) “…for Louisiana.”

In 2022, Louisiana won the Wrigley Legacy Award for outstanding display of floral presentation, float design, and entertainment.

Nungesser says the parade’s theme “Celebrating a World of Music: The Universal Language” allowed Louisiana to showcase some homegrown talent like Amanda Shaw, James Burton, and Sean Ardoin

Cut 8 (08) “…Mardi Gras theme.” 

Louisiana has promoted tourism with floats in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and the Tournament of Roses Parade for the last three years and Nungesser says they see a bump in visits to the Louisiana Office of Tourism’s website.

Cut 9 (11)  “…for 2024.”

Nungesser says the Office of Tourism will also be promoting Louisiana at the Super Bowl this year in Las Vegas. In 2025, Super Bowl 59 will take place at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans.

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You don’t have to give up king cake to live a healthier lifestyle. Ochsner Signature Eat Fit king cakes are for those who want to indulge in carnival season confections while keeping their New Year’s resolution. Eat Fit NOLA Dietician Emma Poling says it’s a smarter choice over the traditional king cake.

Cut 10 (10) “…every flavorful.”

Eat Fit King Cakes made by Unrefined Bakery are certified gluten-free, grain-free, dairy-free, and keto-friendly.  The cakes are decorated with purple, green, and gold colors made with no artificial dyes. Plus, the cakes have zero sugar.

Poling says people may worry about not getting the traditional taste, but the cakes are just as delicious and under 120 calories.

Cut 11 (12) “…juice dyes.” 

Select retailers in Louisiana, Texas, and Mississippi are now offering the healthy king cake.

Poling says the cake is based on all-natural ingredients for those with healthy eating goals. And now everyone can say yes to king cake.

Cut 12 (12) “…carnival season.” 

For a full list of retailers, visit EatFitKingCake.com.

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Governor John Bel Edwards will give his farewell remarks tonight from his hometown of Amite. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says Edwards will highlight his achievements which he believes is a smart move politically if the Democrat wants to run again in 2027.

Cut 13 (11) “…so desires.”

Among the two-term governor’s accomplishments is balancing the budget and increasing funding for education. Pinsonat says Edwards was fortunate the state was able to receive federal funds after multiple natural disasters and the pandemic.

Cut 14 (11) “…wisely.” 

With less than a week before his successor Governor-elect Jeff Landry takes office, Pinsonat says this is Edwards’ last chance to remind voters while he’s still governor of the state’s progress under his leadership…

Cut 15 (11) “…same opinion.”

Edwards has stated that he plans to return to work at his law practice and spend time with his first grandchild. ________________________________________________________________

The Saints will conclude the regular season by hosting the Atlanta Falcons. New Orleans needs to win and they need some help from other teams in order to get in the postseason. The Dirty Birds beat the Saints 24-15 in Atlanta on Thanksgiving weekend. Atlanta rushed for 228 yards that game. Coach Dennis Allen says they can’t let the Falcons run all over them…

Cut 16 (12) “…passing game.” 

For the Saints to win the NFC South, they will have to beat Atlanta and Carolina needs to defeat the Buccaneers. A wild card berth for the Saints can occur if they win on Sunday and the Cardinals beat the Seahawks and the Bears defeat Green Bay. Allen says their focus needs to be on Atlanta…

Cut 17 (16) “…against Atlanta.” 

The Saints are coming off one of their best performances of the season, a 23-13 win over Tampa Bay, snapping the Buccaneers four-game winning streak. Allen was asked how they can repeat that effort…

Cut 18 (16)  “…good results.” 

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The second year of the Brian Kelly era at LSU concluded on New Year’s Day with a 35-31 win over Wisconsin in the ReliaQuest Bowl. After waiting three years to get his first start, quarterback Garrett Nussmeier threw for 395 yards and three touchdowns in the bowl game. Nussmeier believes the program is heading in the right direction…

Cut 19 (19) “…in the offseason.” 

Kelly is 20-7 after two seasons at LSU. He took over a program that had only 37 scholarship players. The veteran coach says it took two years to build the roster back up and he would to win more than ten games every year…

Cut 20 (16) “…as we move forward.”

Keep Louisiana Beautiful has several New Year’s resolutions for Louisianans to help do their part in keeping the state clean in 2024. Teiko Foxx spoke with Director Susan Russell

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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A Jefferson Parish man was fatally when a bullet came through his apartment window. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

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Keep Louisiana Beautiful (KLB) is asking Louisianans to adopt one of their resolutions to help clean up the Bayou State in the New Year. Director Susan Russell says litter is a major issue in Louisiana. She says one simple resolution is to have a garbage bag in your vehicle to collect litter.

Cut 3 (13) “…get home.”

According to KLB’s 2023 roadside litter study, there are more than 143 million pieces of litter on Louisiana roadways.

Russell says truck drivers can make sure their bed is free of debris. She also urges truck drivers to secure large loads when transporting items on the highway.

Cut 4 (12) “…roadside hazard.”

More than 53 percent of roadway litter is due to motorists. The KLB study also found Louisiana taxpayers are paying more than $91 million annually on litter abatement, a 65 percent increase since 2010.

Russell suggests using reusable bottles and bags and fewer single-use paper and plastic items.

Cut 5 (09) “ …don’t biodegrade.” 

Visit LetLouisianaShine dot org for more resolutions and litter facts.

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Opelousas police officer Savannah Butler faces two counts of negligent injury after her firearm was discharged at police chief Graig LeBlanc and his wife Crystal. St. Landry Parish Sheriff Bobby Guidroz says it happened after an argument between the LeBlancs outside of Butler’s home.

Cut 6 (11) “…front of him.”

Guidroz says they do not know why Chief LeBlanc was at Butler’s residence on December 22^nd, or why his wife, who’s a Captain with the St. Landry Parish Sheriff’s Office later arrived at the home and what led to the argument.

Cut 7 (05) “…trespassing.” 

Butler and Captain LeBlanc have both been placed on administrative leave, pending investigations by both agencies.

After being shot the LeBlancs were treated for their injuries and released from local hospitals. Guidroz says fortunately the injuries were not serious…

Cut 8 (03) “…lot worse.” 

Butler also faces illegal discharge of a firearm and obstruction of justice charges, after allegedly cleaning up the scene before notifying the Sheriff’s Office.

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An innocent bystander was killed on New Year’s eve near Westwego in Jefferson Parish as a woman was attempting to retrieve her stolen vehicle. Sheriff Joe Lopinto says when the owner tried to get her vehicle back, she was confronted by three male suspects in the parking lot and at least one of the suspects fired at the vehicle’s owner…

Cut 9 (09) “…our state.” 

The Jefferson Parish coroner has identified the victim as 32-year-old Corey Washington. Lopinto says the search for the suspects continues…

Cut 10 (09) “..it is”

Lopinto says the victim was inside a nearby apartment complex when he was struck by a stray bullet

Cut 11 (09) “…the victim”

Pennington Biomedical health experts want you to know New Year resolutions that involve nutrition, exercise or mental health are doable with small shifts. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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 January 8th will mark the end of a long political career for Jay Dardenne. Colleen Crain has more…

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Colleen Crain”

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A Violent Crime Task Force has submitted a report that will give the new Legislature something to work from as they look to pass criminal justice reform measures. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (35) “…I”m Jeff Palermo”

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Does setting health and fitness resolutions for a new year have to be a waste of time? Pennington Biomedical Assistant Professor of Research Jacob Mey has some tips on staying on track. Mey suggests making subtle adjustments to your diet and every day ask yourself… 

Cut 4 (10) “…positive direction.”

When starting a new exercise routine, a couple of days of exercise at a light effort is a great way to start. If you never work out, Mey says don’t start with a goal that involves working out 6 days a week. He suggests starting slowly rather than diving in at the deep end.

Cut 5 (13) “…step counts.”

Health goals should also include celebrating the little victories to track how far you’ve come.

Mey says be kind to yourself when things don’t go as planned. He says regroup and identify achievable steps to keep going.

Cut 6 (09) “…person perspective.”

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A 35-year political career is ending. Jay Dardenne who has served in the East Baton Rouge Metro Council, state senate, Secretary of State, Lt Governor, and Commissioner of Administration, is retiring from politics. The 69-year-old started in state government when elected to the state senate in 1991. He served in the upper chamber until 2006 and helped craft several significant pieces of legislation

Cut 7 (13) “…subject.”

Dardenne left the Senate in 2006 to be Secretary of State after the death of Fox McKeithen. He was elected as Lt. Governor in 2010 and helped come up with the Pick Your Passion marketing campaign…

Cut 8 (10) “…after Katrina” 

In 2015, Dardenne ran unsuccessfully for governor. However, on the campaign trail, he connected with John Bel Edwards. After Edwards was elected, he chose Dardenne as his Commissioner of Administration, putting him in charge of state finances. He says the challenges of the job began on day one…

Cut 9 (12)  “…two billion dollar problem.”

It took a couple of years to put an end to budget deficits, but the challenges didn’t stop as the state was also hit with major hurricanes, civil unrest after the Alton Sterling police shooting, and the COVID pandemic.

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The Louisiana Violent Crime Task Force has submitted a report for the next Legislature to review. Prairieville Representative Tony Bacala served on the Task Force and says the report contains several broad recommendations and areas to address. Bacala says speeding up the time between an arrest and trial has to be addressed…

Cut 10 (12t “the victim”

Bacala says legislation is also needed to bring real, substantive consequences to juveniles committing serious crimes. He says the Legislature also has to address rehabilitative efforts and programs and the alarming shortage of law enforcement officers…

Cut 11 (11) “…that profession” 

Bacala says to understand all of the issues with violent crime, they need better data. He says one important statistic has come to their attention. Bacala says felony arrests in New Orleans have significantly dropped, from 22-thousand in 2010 to just four-thousand in 2022…

Cut 12 (12) “…blow up.” 

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The LSU Tigers completed their mission of achieving a ten-win season as LSU rallied in the final minutes to beat Wisconsin 35-31 in the ReliaQuest Bowl in Tampa. Garrett Nussmeier was named the game’s MVP as he led the Tigers back from two 14-point deficits…

Cut 13 (13) “…Las Vegas” 

In his first collegiate start, Nussmeier threw for 395 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception. Nussmeier led LSU on an eight-play, 98-yard drive for the winning touchdown with just over three minutes left.

Cut 14 (11) “…very thankful.” 

LSU’s defense struggled giving up 508 yards, but back-to-back sacks on the Badgers final drive put the game away. Coach Brian Kelly says it was a good confidence builder…

Cut 15 (15) “…win a championship.”

Kelly says he was with Nussmeier’s performance…

Cut 16 (16) “…for us”