It’s New Year’s Day and if you want to keep your resolutions this year, Brooke Thorington has some advice from a professional.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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2024 is here and Louisiana’s new Legislature will get to work soon on redrawing the state’s Congressional map. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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If you’re looking for a way to give back in the new year, the American Red Cross is making a call to action for more volunteers in Louisiana. Regional Volunteer Services Officer Rebecca Merritt says the need for more volunteers to help respond to disasters in the Bayou State has never been greater.

Cut 3 (12) “…keep happening.”

The American Red Cross has responded to nearly twice as many large disasters across the country as it did a decade ago.

Merritt says more than 900 people voluntarily give time to help the Louisiana Red Cross. In the last year, she says volunteers responded to more than 16 hundred local disasters.

Cut 4 (13) “…Cross going.”

Volunteers have helped serve more than five thousand meals to Louisianans who were seeking shelter from severe weather, severe heat, and wildfires.

Merritt says 90 percent of the Red Cross workforce is made up of volunteers. She says there are lots of different disaster-related volunteer roles.

Cut 5 (12) “…as well.”

Take action by lending a hand to the Louisiana Red Cross by visiting www dot redcross dot org forward slash Louisiana.

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It’s New Year’s Day and the beginning of 2024 resolutions. In order to avoid a setback, LSU Health New Orleans Chair of Psychiatry Dr. Rahn Bailey says choose realistic resolutions, let them be things you can control, and have a support group.

Cut 6 (08) “…positive future.”

The pandemic and long-term isolation raised awareness about its links to depression. Bailey says having positive support in your life increases your chances of being more likely to keep your resolutions.

Cut 7 (09) “…very beneficial.”

Bailey recommends joining or participating in group activities that involve hobbies you enjoy. At the same time, you’ll meet people with shared interests.

And when you do find that you’ve failed to keep your resolution, remember you can always start over again, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.

Cut 8 (06) “…in our lives.” 

If you or someone you care for is having a mental crisis you can call 9-8-8 for free counseling and guidance to local resources.

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2024 promises to be a busy year politically with a new governor and legislature set to take over on January 8th. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says two special sessions are planned. Pinsonat says a special session to redraw a new Congressional map will begin January 15th and a criminal justice reform session is expected to take place in February…

Cut 9 (06)  “…serious outcomes.”

Pinsonat says after the two special sessions, a three-month-long regular session begins on March 11th. He says property insurance reform, education, and the budget will be big issues in the regular session…

Cut 10 (10) “…behind him”

Republicans will have a supermajority in both the House and Senate, but Pinsonat says this will not be a lost year for Democrats. He says they will likely have a new Congressional map that would provide the opportunity for two Democrats to be elected to Congress in November or in a December runoff

Cut 11 (09) “…for em.” 

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A significant tax change takes place with the start of the new year. Tax Expert for Advantous, Jason DeCuir says Louisiana is moving to a Uniform Local Sales Tax Board to collect taxes from businesses, instead of the Parish E-File System which DeCuir calls one of the most complex collection systems in the country.

Cut 12 (11) “…local government.” 

DeCuir says after the Wayfare lawsuits, new federal rules regarding sales tax collection require states to have a simple centralized collection method. He says the state’s previous fragmented system cost Louisiana uncollected revenue from remote online businesses…

Cut 13 (12) “…remitting to Louisiana”

DeCuir says the new sales tax collection system is not perfect but it’s moving in the right direction

Cut 14 (11) “…right direction.” 

The State Supreme Court has opted on a five to two vote not to hear Caddo Parish Sheriff candidate Henry Whitehorn’s appeal to keep his one-vote victory in the run-off election. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The U-S EPA is giving Louisiana the authority to approve permits for underground storage of carbon dioxide. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

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In Ouachita Parish, four-year-old Bentley Whittlesey was killed in a fatal crash involving two vehicles. Trooper Ryan Davis says the child was a passenger in a Toyota Corolla that slammed into a Ford pickup truck on Highway 546 Thursday afternoon.

Cut 3 (12) “…serious injuries.”

Davis says Bentley Whittlesey was rushed to a local hospital but did not survive…

Cut 4 (12) “…his injuries.”

Davis 27-year-old Kaytlin Whittlesey, the driver of the Toyota, and the driver of the Ford received minor injuries. He says routine toxicology samples were taken, however…

Cut 5 (06) “ …this crash.” 

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The Louisiana Supreme Court says it will not hear Caddo Parish sheriff candidate Henry Whitehorn’s appeal, so there will be another run-off election between Whitehorn and John Nickelson. Political Analyst Scott Hughes…

Cut 6 (12) “…new election.”

Nickelson lost the November 18th election by one vote, but a lower court judge ordered a new election after several questionable votes were counted. Hughes expects an intense re-do election…

Cut 7 (05) “…polls.” 

The election will be held on March 23rd and early voting begins March 9th. Hughes says the presidential primary will also be on the ballot, so that should favor the Republican in the race, John Nickelson…

Cut 8 (09) “…vote race.” 

The election will be on March 23^rd with the presidential primary.

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If you plan to start the New Year with a bang, the State Fire Marshal’s Office wants to remind you of some simple tips regarding fireworks safety. Spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says to make sure there are no fireworks restrictions in your parish.

Cut 9 (09) “…our state.” 

Rodrigue says it’s best to attend a public display where professionals are handling the pyrotechnics. But if you are going to be purchasing fireworks…

Cut 10 (12) “…set ablaze.”

Rodrigue suggests having a water source nearby in case of any type of emergency or fire. Also, do not pop fireworks when impaired because it slows your reaction time. She reminds adults to never give children fireworks, even sparklers.

Cut 11 (13) “…and bracelets.”

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The federal government is giving Louisiana the authority to issue permits and provide oversight for wells that store carbon dioxide. Officials call it a monumental step in advancing the state’s energy future as it looks to become a leader in the carbon capture industry. Department of Natural Resources spokesperson Patrick Courreges says they’ve been waiting for the U-S EPA to give them this power…

Cut 12 (10)  “…or denial.”  

The Edwards administration has been working to make Louisiana a major player as a hub for Carbon Caputure and Sequestration. It’s taking carbon dioxide from industrial sources out of the air and storing it deep underground in a well. Courreges says Louisiana now has the power to approve these wells…

Cut 13 (09) “…a lot.” 

The Louisiana Oil and Gas Association, LABI, and Senator Bill Cassidy all released statements saying that Louisiana receiving primacy over the permitting and regulation of wells will lead to economic growth. Courreges says there are a lot of businesses interested in underground sequestration of carbon dioxide in Louisiana…

Cut  14 (08) “..in Louisiana”

The State Bond Commission approves $15 million to help pay for the infrastructure to build Louisiana’s first Buc-ees in Lincoln Parish. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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We’ve seen them in other states and now there’s one in Louisiana, a lawsuit attempting to remove former President Donald Trump’s name off the  March presidential primary ballot. Jeff Palermo has the story..

Cut 2 (35)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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The first Buc-cee’s in Louisiana is one step closer to reality. The Bond Commission has approved the city of Ruston’s request of $15 million to finance infrastructure to accommodate the project. Mayor Ronny Walker says now they are waiting on final plans from state transportation…

Cut 3 (10) “…the development.”

$15 million from the bond commission, $6 million from the state, and an expected $6 million from Congress will fund the construction of service roads, interchanges, etc. for the toothy beaver superstore. Walker says it’s a good return on investment for the state.

Cut 4 (12) “…two years.”

In addition to a good return on investment for the state, and Beaver Nuggets, Walker says Bucee’s will also provide more than 250 high-paying jobs.

Cut 5 (12) “ …health insurance.” 

The store will be located between Rushton and Grambling and Walker says the opportunity for new employment will benefit both towns.

Construction is expected to begin next year and is projected to open in 2025.

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A Louisiana resident has filed a lawsuit seeking to take former President Donald Trump’s name off of the state’s presidential primary ballot in March. Ashley Reeb of Chalmette filed the petition. Loyola University Law Professor Dane Ciolino says the petitioner believes Trump should be disqualified because he violated Section Three of the 14th Amendment

Cut 6 (11) “…presidency.”

Ciolino says under the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution a person engaged in insurrection can not serve as President. He says the courts are facing three difficult questions when determining if the former president should be disqualified.

Cut 7 (10) “…insurrection” 

A similar lawsuit was successful in Colorado, but not in Michigan. Ciolino says the U-S Supreme Court will eventually have to step in.

Cut 8 (10) “…in Louisiana.” 

President Trump is facing numerous felony charges including accusations he attempted the results of the 2020 election. The U-S Justice Department says the attack on the nation’s capitol on January 6, 2021 was an unprecedented assault on the seat of American democracy. Trump calls the charges fake.

Ciolino says the constitution does not say someone has to be convicted of insurrection in order to be found in violation of the 14th Amendment.

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Christmas is over and gift return season begins. President of Louisiana Better Business Bureau Carmen Million says before you try to return or exchange an unwanted Christmas gift, double check the store’s policy.

Cut 9 (12) “…item back.” 

Million says stores are not required to accept exchanges or give refunds unless the merchandise was defective or misrepresented. She says most stores will only accept returns and exchanges if you can present the item with its original receipt.

Cut 10 (08) “…super important.”

Most electronics and home appliances come with warranties that are to be fulfilled by the manufacturer, not the retailer. For electronics, Million says there may be specific return requirements like returning the item in its original packaging.

Cut 11 (13) “…the manufacturer.”

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Freezing temperatures are in the forecast tonight down to the I-10 corridor. LRN meteorologist Bill Jacquemin says the forecasted low for Shreveport, Monroe and Alexandria is around 30-degrees and some areas could see temperatures even lower than that…

Cut 12 (12)  “.. 25-degrees”  

Jacquemin says frost and freezing conditions are expected Saturday morning too. But he says tomorrow morning will be the colder of the two mornings…

Cut 13 (07) “…short term” 

New Year’s eve will be a mild day, but another front will move through and 2024 will start off chilly.

On January 1, 2024, the minimum wage will increase in 22 states, 43 cities and counties. Teiko Foxx reports the minimum wage in Louisiana holds steady at $7.25…

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Louisiana State Parks has a suggestion for New Year’s day. Colleen Crain has the details

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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On January 1st, gender-altering procedures for minors will be illegal in Louisiana. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (31) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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A minimum wage increase in 22 states goes into effect Monday, but Louisiana remains one of a handful that is keeping the federal minimum wage of 7.25 an hour.  Louisiana Budget Project Executive Director Jan Moeller says state lawmakers have not adopted a minimum wage law so the federal wage is in effect.

Cut 4 (12) “…Louisiana legislature.”

The federal minimum wage has been stuck at $7.25 since 2009.

Moeller says Louisiana lawmakers have rejected efforts year after year to establish a state minimum wage. He says the minimum wage is still below an adequate living wage for a full-time worker in the Bayou State.

Cut 5 (12) “…so low.”

Wages will increase in 22 states including Nevada, Oregon, and Florida. More than 15 states including Alabama, Tennessee, Georgia, and South Carolina will keep the federal minimum of 7.25 an hour.

Moeller says Louisiana continues to lose population as many search for better employment. To be more competitive, he says the state needs to embrace an increase of at least three to four dollars.

Cut 6 (07) “…an hour.”

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After your black-eyed peas and cabbage, you may want to add First Day Hikes to your New Year’s Day traditions. All 50 states are participating in America’s State Parks project and Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser is encouraging all Louisianans to enjoy the rich beauty of the state parks…

Cut 7 (07) “…21 state parks.”

Some of the hikes are more challenging and are guided

Cut 8 (11) “…of the parks.” 

There are also guided tour hikes at Fountainbleu ( FountainBlue) State Park in Mandeville and Sam Houston Jones State Park in Lake Charles.

Nungesser says special to his heart this year, is the addition of track chairs that allow individuals confined to wheelchairs, walkers, or similar devices to enjoy the trails with family and friends

Cut 9 (07)  “…and their family.”

Check the events page at LA State Parks Dot Com for details

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On Monday, the Louisiana law that bans procedures to alter the gender of a minor goes into effect. Grant Parish Representative Gabe Firment says even though his bill had pushback from LGBTQ advocates and the governor vetoed the legislation…

Cut 10 (08) “…protect children.”

Because other surrounding states passed similar legislation, Firment feared it would bring minors seeking gender-affirming medical care to the state.

Cut 11 (12) “…experimental procedures.” 

Because of resistance from LGBTQ rights groups, Firment expects the law to be challenged in court…

Cut 12 (08) “…will stand.” 

Governor John Bel Edwards says the law needlessly harms a very small population of vulnerable children and their families and he expects it will be ruled unconstitutional.

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Eleven days from now, Governor-elect Jeff Landry will be sworn in, and he still has several major positions to fill in his cabinet. Landry has yet to name the next Transportation Secretary. Lapolitics-dot-com publisher Jeremy Alford says it’s a coveted position with federal transportation dollars available to spend…

Cut 13 (05) “…of activity”

The state’s next transportation secretary will have a major say about how to fund new interstate bridges in Lake Charles and Baton Rouge and other major infrastructure projects. Alford says Landry has options…

Cut 14 (11) “…that job.” 

Expect more future cabinet secretaries to be announced next week. Landry also needs to name a new Louisiana Workforce Commissioner, Economic Development Secretary, GOHSEP director, Natural Resources Secretary, and Coastal Restoration and Protection Authority director. Alford says there are hundreds of positions that need to be filled when a new administration takes over and it takes time…

Cut 15 (11) “… state government.”

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The Saints will need help if they want to get into the playoffs. According to the New York Times’ playoff simulator, New Orleans only has a 12-percent of making the postseason. They can be eliminated from playoff contention with a loss on Sunday against Tampa Bay. Coach Dennis Allen says his team’s mindset hasn’t changed…

 Cut 16 (16) “…that’s the message.” 

The Saints have lost four of their last six. The four defeats were by eight points or less. Quarterback Derek Carr says there’s no quit in this team…

Cut 17 (21) “…going after it.” 

A win for Tampa Bay on Sunday and the Buccaneers will clinch their third consecutive NFC South title. They are one of the hottest teams in the NFL as they’ve won four in a row. Allen says the Bucs offense has played very well during this stretch…

Cut 18 (20)  “…his feet.” 

Saints fans are frustrated with their team on this Christmas Day and there’s growing belief among Who Dat Nation that a change in leadership is needed. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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 Sad news as Louisiana sees this year’s first pediatric flu death. Colleen Crain has more…

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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The Saints could miss the playoffs for a third consecutive season and many in Who Dat Nation would like to see a new head coach. But Ross Jackson, host of the Locked on Saints Podcast, doesn’t see the franchise firing coach Dennis Allen, unless the team gets blown out in their last two regular season games…

Cut 3 (12) “…their head coach.”

Jackson says the Saints have always valued continuity at the head coaching position…

 Cut 4 (08) “..franchise history”

Jackson says even if the Saints miss the playoffs, he expects head coach Dennis Allen back, but longtime offensive coordinator Pete Carmichael could be let go…

Cut 5 (11) “…Miami Dolphins”

Dennis Allen is 14-and-18 in his two seasons.  The Saints next game is on Sunday against Tampa Bay.

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The flu has taken the life of a Louisiana child. The Department of Health confirms the state’s first pediatric flu death of the season. State epidemiologist Theresa Sokol says Louisiana and South Carolina have the highest flu activity in the nation…

Cut 6 (06) “…ten years.”

While the state’s flu activity is extremely high, RSV cases are on the decline except for children under one year. Louisiana saw 3 RSV related deaths this season.

Sokol says the age group most impacted by the flu right now is children between the ages of two and eleven. Preventing respiratory illnesses is important to avoid dangerous consequences. Sokol says stay home when you are sick, wash your hands, wear a mask if necessary and…

Cut 7 (09) “…serious complications.”

It is especially important to be mindful of protecting the very young, the old, and those with underlying medical conditions. Sokol says this year, new tools join the flu vaccine in reducing complications of respiratory illnesses. For those 60 year and older, an RSV vaccine is available and for the very young…

Cut 8 (09) “…young infants.” 

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This holiday season, the Red Cross is asking Louisianans to give a gift with meaning and help with growing disaster needs. Regional Disaster Officer Ed Bush says funds are needed to provide safe shelter and meals to thousands of people affected by disasters.

Cut 9 (13)  “…financial support.”

This year, the Red Cross distributed 108 million dollars in assistance to people after disasters including the power outage in north Louisiana and the Tiger Island wildfire.

Bush says dedicating time and manpower is an incredibly meaningful gift for many residents during local disasters.

Cut 10 (13) “…in helping.”

Bush says the Red Cross has provided relief and assistance to nearly six thousand Louisianans in time of need this year. With a growing frequency of disasters, he urges everyone to help provide support for those who need support in the face of emergencies.

Cut 11 (12) “…need help.” 

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Louisiana Senator John Kennedy wished everyone a Merry Christmas. The Republican says he’s pleased to be home spending the holidays with his family and friends and that there’s no better place to celebrate the birth of Christ than the Bayou State.

Cut 12 (13) “…than Louisiana.” 

Kennedy extended well wishes from his wife Becky, son Preston, dogs Lily Grace and Charlie, and his stuffed alligator…

Cut 13 (13) “…and Alphones.”

Governor-elect Jeff Landry’s pick as the next Secretary for the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries has no ties to Louisiana. Jeff Palermo on why Landry may have selected 26-year-old Madison Sheahan from Ohio…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Livingston Parish has been awarded $45 million to build a disaster response rescue center.  Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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With Christmas dinner right around the corner, State Agriculture Commissioner Mike Strain reminds Louisianans to safely handle their turkey this holiday season.  He says it takes about 24 hours for every four to five pounds to defrost a turkey.

Cut 3 (10) “…next day.”

Strain urges Louisianans to never thaw the turkey in the sink or on the kitchen counter. He says the safest way is to thaw it in the fridge.

Cut 4 (13) “…the refrigerator.”

If you don’t have much time, you can place the turkey in a clean sink and cover it with cold water, according to the CDC. You can even safely defrost it in the microwave.

Strain says folks shouldn’t bypass having Louisiana homegrown produce on their Christmas dinner table. In the Strain household, Louisiana-certified food and products are always a part of the holiday feast.

Cut 5 (12) “ …Louisiana first.”  

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Governor-elect Jeff Landry has appointed Madison Sheahan as the new Secretary for the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. The 26-year-old old from Ohio and has spent the last three years working with South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem. La-politics-dot-com publisher Jeremy Alford says Landry may have felt the need to bring an outsider because former LDWF Secretary Jack Montoucet has been implicated in a bribery scandal

Cut 6 (09) “…who can you trust”

Montoucet resigned abruptly last April. A former contract worker in the Lafayette Parish District Attorney’s Office has pleaded guilty to his role in a scheme involving LDWF that allowed people facing felony and misdemeanor charges to pay money to avoid a pre-trial diversion program. Montoucet has not been indicted.

Alford says Landry is confident Sheahan will reshape and rebrand the department…

Cut 7 (10) “…from Louisiana” 

Some will question what a person living in South Dakota for the last three years knows about hunting and fishing issues in Louisiana. Alford says Sheahan’s role will be to reform the department and provide leadership, while her staff and the Louisiana Wildlife Commission can focus on regulations…

Cut 8 (12) “…this is one of those jobs” 

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Livingston Parish has received $45 million in state dollars to build a disaster response rescue center. Livingston Parish Sheriff Jason Ard says after the 2016 floods and other natural disasters they know how important it is to not only have a place to house those who are displaced…

Cut 9 (12) “…vehicles.” 

The 100,000-square-foot Livingston Parish Emergency Response and Evacuation Center will be able to seat 5,000 people and will be located south of Livingston on LA 63 south of I-12.

Ard says he got the idea for a shelter when Hurricane Gustav struck. At the time they were able to use a newly constructed detention center that had 700 beds and no inmates yet. That’s where first responders stayed.

Cut 10 (11) “…this parish.”

And it’s not only going to benefit Livingston Parish, but surrounding parishes also. Ard says the site will have space for rescue and utility vehicles and will be ideal to house linemen and National Guardsmen.

Cut 11 (11) “…the future.”

Construction is expected to be completed in late summer, or early fall of 2025.

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The LSU Lady Tigers could host a game against Southern in Tiger Stadium as soon as next year. Head Coach Kim Mulkey says she’s not sure how possible it would be but likes the idea of hosting a game that could have over 100,000 fans…

Cut 12 (14)  “…court down there.”  

Iowa set a women’s basketball attendance record earlier this year as over 55,000 fans packed their football stadium for an exhibition game against DePaul. Nebraska volleyball set the record for most fans at any women’s sporting event with over 92,000 at their Memorial Stadium in August. While Mulkey says the idea hasn’t been shared with Southern, a historic game against their cross-town rival could be in the works…

Cut 13 (11) “…had a conversation.” 

Proceeds from the game could go to assist Southern’s women’s basketball program and their NIL fund.

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Louisiana will be impacted by a Christmas weekend storm system that could produce heavy rainfall on Sunday….Christmas eve. LRN meteorologist Bill Jacquemin says rain is expected to develop tomorrow afternoon and evening….

Cut  14 (14) “…on Sunday night”

Jacquemin says rain during a holiday weekend is never fun, but the rainfall is much needed…

Cut 15 (10) “…some time.”

There’s the potential for one to three of inches of rain will fall this weekend.

Former Congressman Ralph Abraham will serve as the next Secretary of Health in Governor-elect Jeff Landry’s administration. Brooke Thorington has more….

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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An eight-person federal jury dismisses a lawsuit filed by former LSU Assistant Athletic Director Sharon Lewis, claiming she was sexually harassed and wrongly terminated. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

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Governor-elect Jeff Landry has appointed former Louisiana Congressman and physician Ralph Abraham of Richland Parish as the next Secretary of the Louisiana Department of Health.

Cut 3 (05) “…great service.”

Abraham served three terms in DC representing the state’s 5^th congressional district. Landry said it was hard convincing Abraham, who’s a family physician in Richland Parish to take the post but he’s pleased he’s accepted because…

Cut 4 (08) “…facing Louisiana.”

Landry says all Louisianans deserve access to high-quality healthcare including those who live in rural areas and says Abraham is the most qualified person to represent their needs.

Landry touts Abraham’s knowledge of Medicaid and says under his watch the state will create incentives and supports to help Louisianans move from dependence to independence…

Cut 5 (12) “ …outcomes.”  

Madison Sheehan, who most recently helmed the Republican Party in South Dakota will be the first female to oversee State Wildlife and Retired Caddo Parish Juvenile Court Judge David Matlock will be the next Secretary of DCFS.

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An eight-person jury has dismissed Sharon Lewis’s 50-million dollar federal lawsuit against LSU. Lewis, who oversaw LSU’s football recruiting department, claims she was wrongfully terminated and retaliated against for reporting sexual misconduct complaints involving former head coach Les Miles. Tiger Rag Editor Todd Horne says executive deputy athletic director Verge Ausberry was one of the last witnesses to take the stand…

Cut 6 (04) “…was racist.”

Horne says Ausberry testified that Lewis had trouble when white people told her no or disagreed with her. Lewis was one of 40 workers in the football department let go when Brian Kelly was hired in December 2021.

The jury deliberated for only three hours. Lewis’ attorney Larry English says they are disappointed by the outcome…

Cut 7 (09) “…our case” 

English says they will consider their legal options moving forward.

Lewis also claims running backs coach Frank Wilson, who worked on Miles staff from 2010 to 2015 and then hired back by Kelly in 2022, exposed himself to Lewis and also forcefully kissed a student intern on the lips. Horne says Wilson denied those allegations on the witness stand…

Cut 8 (11) “…any situation.” 

Horne says during cross-examination, Wilson admitted to fathering a child out of wedlock while separated but still married to his wife.

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The Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services’ new campaign is encouraging Louisianans to “Be There” for families in need this holiday season. Secretary Terri Ricks says even a small deed can make a huge impact on a child or family in your community.

Cut 9 (11) “…every day.” 

DCFS assists one in four Louisianans every year including food assistance, child support services, and financial assistance.

Ricks says that currently there are more than 41 hundred children in Louisiana’s foster care. She encourages everyone to provide help or open their homes to youth who have no place to go.

Cut 10 (08) “…special ways.”

This year, the 211 Statewide Network has made more than 267 thousand referrals to services. It has helped meet more than 159 thousand needs for residents.

Ricks says there were more than 11 hundred unmet needs due to a lack of available resources. She says if you know anyone who needs resources like food, housing, utility assistance, or clothing…

Cut 11 (13) “…need some.”

Visit BeThere dot Louisiana dot gov to learn more about programs and resources.

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53-year-old Lawrence J. Voisin of Houma faces two counts of first-degree rape in connection with alleged sexual abuse with a 10-year-old student. Terrebonne Parish sheriff Tim Soignet says detectives arrived at a local school where the minor reported the abuse.

Cut 12 (10)  “…Mr. Voisin.”  

During the investigation, deputies gathered evidence from the victim that suggested that Voisin was involved in a sexual relationship with the juvenile. Soignet says Voisin, who was located at his home, confessed to some of the charges.

Cut 13 (12) “…did occur.” 

Voisin is being held on a 250-thousand dollar bond at the Terrebonne Parish jail.

LSU’s women’s basketball star Angel Reese receives a huge honor as she’s named as the Sporting News Athlete of the Year. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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Louisiana lawmakers are preparing for four legislative sessions in the first half of 2024. Teiko Foxx has the story…

Cut 2 (34)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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State Police have reinstated Trooper Lt. John Clary after criminal charges in the Ronald Greene case were dropped for withholding bodycam footage. In exchange, Clary will testify in the case against two officers. Legal analyst Franz Borghardt believes what’s happening is…

Cut 3 (13) “…being terminated.”

Graphic bodycam footage shows Black motorist Ronald Greene being beaten by officers in 2019. He died while in police custody.

Borghardt admits while it “looks bad” that Clary has gotten his job back he points out that it’s easier to prosecute someone who destroyed evidence versus withholding it. He says terminating a civil employee is much different than a private one.

Cut 4 (05) “…firing someone.”

Greene’s mother Mona Hardin told the Associated Press she was surprised and disgusted Clary has been restored to duty. Borghardt says while Hardin is understandably upset…

Cut 5 (09) “ …(x2) evidence there.”  

Master Trooper Kory York faces negligent homicide and malfeasance charges, and Union Parish Sheriff’s deputy Chris Harpin is charged with three counts of malfeasance in the Ronald Greene death.

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LSU announced the commitment of transfer quarterback AJ Swann. Swann has played in 15 games over two seasons at Vanderbilt. Redshirt sophomore quarterback Garrett Nussmeier is expected to take over for the Tigers as Jayden Daniels leaves for the NFL, but Shea Dixon of On3.com  says Swann will bring exactly what the Tigers need to the young QB room…

Cut 6 (09) “…heir apparent.”

Swann passed for almost 3,000 yards and 22 touchdowns at Vanderbilt leading the team to a 4-11 record. Dixon says the former four-star recruit was expected to transfer to South Carolina until deciding he wanted to go somewhere he could compete for a national championship…

Cut 7 (13) “…and develop.” 

Swann will join Nussmeier, Freshman Rickie Collins, and incoming four-star 2024 recruit Collin Hurley in the LSU quarterback room. Dixon says Nussmeier, who is getting his first start in the ReliaQuest Bowl on January 1^st, will still have the inside track at the starting spot after waiting behind Daniels for two seasons but there could be a competition this offseason…

Cut 8 (07) “…SEC games.” 

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Louisiana lawmakers are gearing up for Sessionpalooza in 2024. An organizational session, one for the congressional map, another on crime, and then the regular session in March.  LAPolitics.com Publisher Jeremy Alford says the last time the legislature had this many sessions on the calendar was in 2008.

Cut 9 (12) “…something comparable.” 

The organizational session begins on January 8^th. It could wrap up that day or take until January 10th to complete. Alfred says a special session to redraw the Congressional map is tentatively scheduled to take place from January 15^th through 23rd…

Cut 10 (12) “…on this.”

A federal judge has given the Louisiana Legislature until January 30th to redraw a Congressional map with two majority-minority districts. Alford says a criminal justice reform special session from February 16 to March 6th could change some of the sentencing laws that were approved in 2017 as part of Governor Edwards’ criminal justice reform package…

Cut 11 (13) “…council reports.”

The talk of property insurance reform will have to wait until a regular session that’s set to begin March 11th and end June third.

Ochsner receives a million-dollar grant to help combat the opioid crisis in rural Louisiana. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Among Governor John Bel Edwards’ proudest accomplishments is Medicaid Expansion. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Term Limited Randal Gaines may be leaving the Louisiana Legislature but he isn’t leaving service to the Louisiana Democratic Party. Colleen Crain has more.

Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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Ochsner Lafayette General is launching a million-dollar initiative to confront opioid addiction and abuse head-on in rural communities. Family Doctor James McNally at Ochsner Health Center in Jennings says the project provides critical resources to rural communities that lack services and focuses on…

Cut 4 (12) “…the future.”

The initiative funds preventative and educational programming expenses related to treatment and recovery support.

McNally says Louisiana recorded more than two thousand overdose deaths in 2021 and fentanyl is largely to blame. Among parishes, he says per capita, there are higher numbers of cases in southwest Louisiana.

Cut 5 (08) “…the country.”

More than two thousand Louisianans died from a drug-related overdose in 2021 nearly doubling the national average, according to the CDC. McNally says it’s vitally important to remove the stigma associated with opioid addiction.

Cut 6 (13) “…more people.”

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After an extremely hot and dry summer, mudbugs are starting to emerge in south Louisiana crawfish ponds. That’s according to LSU AgCenter Crawfish Specialist Todd Fontenot, who says the emergence started a few weeks later than normal, which could push back the crawfish season…

Cut 7 (09) “…their survival”

Fontenot says the intrusion of salt water into freshwater marshes and bayous has many crawfish farmers concerned…

Cut 8 (11) “…talked about” 

St. Landry Parish crawfish farmer Zack Herbert says crawfish supply will likely be a major issue in 2024…

Cut 9 (12)  “… industry-wide.”

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Among Governor John Bel Edwards’ proudest accomplishments in office is Medicaid expansion. He says it’s cheaper for a person to be on Medicaid for 10 cents on the dollar as opposed to paying 40 cents on the dollar when they’re uninsured and get care…

Cut 10 (12) “…to do.”

Approximately a half-million Louisiana residents have Medicaid coverage as a result.

Louisiana is also one of two states in the deep south that opted for Medicaid Expansion under the Affordability Care Act, and as a result Edwards’ says….

Cut 11 (12) “…the country.” 

Arkansas is the only other state in the southeast with expanded Medicaid.

While many hardline conservatives are against Medicaid expansion, Edwards, a pro-life Democrat, says allowing the working poor to have healthcare is a pro-life value.

Cut 12 (10) “…is pro-life.” 

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State Representative Randal Gaines of LaPlace is term limited, but is now seeking to be the next chairman of the Louisiana Democratic Party. Gaines says he was recruited to run as many state and national officials reached out to him…

Cut 13 (09) “…get people elected.”

Gaines says, the Democrats represent a cross-section of Louisiana and he wants to assess what’s important to the people. He says the turn out in the last election shows leadership failed in its responsibility to reach the people and convey the party’s message and identity.

Cut 14 (12) “…we represent.” 

Gaines says he has support of business and faith-based leaders. He seeks to replace the current Democratic Chair, Katie Bernhardt. Gaines says hhe recently shared a positive message with Edwards…

Cut 15 (05) “…the Deep South.”

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The Saints put together one of their better performances of the season as the Black and Gold defeated the New York Giants 24-6. New Orleans held the Giants to 193 total yards and the offense converted on both of its red zone opportunities. Coach Dennis Allen says it was great complimentary..

 Cut 16 (15) “…our team”

Unprovoked, Allen said it was a good game from quarterback Derek Carr, who has received a bunch of criticism from the fan base.

Cut 17 (15) “….played well” 

Carr threw for 218 yards and three touchdowns. There were very few boos from the home crowd in this game and he appreciated the love the fans showed…

Cut 18 (14)  “…our team.” 

The Saints are now 7-7 and tied with Tampa Bay for first place in the NFC South. New Orleans will visit the L-A Rams on Thursday night.

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For the second straight year, the Ragin Cajuns lost their bowl game, and finish with a losing record of 6-7. Despite scoring three defensive touchdowns, Jacksonville State beat U-L Lafayette 34-31 in overtime in the New Orleans Bowl. Cajuns coach Michael Desormeaux’s offense only had 247 yards of offense…

Cut 19 (18) “…with me” 

Desormeaux says it was a tough way to end the season…

Cut 20 (20) “…like this”

Number one-ranked Ochsner Children’s Hospital will build a new 343 thousand square foot facility thanks to a historic donation from New Orleans Saints owner Gayle Benson. Teiko Foxx has the story…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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North Louisiana mayors are excited about the possibility of passenger rail service along the I-20 corridor. Jeff Palermo has the story….

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

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Ochsner Children’s Hospital is building a new 343 thousand square foot facility with a large donation from New Orleans Saints Owner Gayle Benson. Chief Medical Officer Dr. Butch Adolph says this will help advance the growing need to help children throughout the region.

Cut 3 (13) “…one facility.”

The donation will come from the Gayle and Tom Benson Charitable Foundation, a private foundation founded in 2007 to make a positive impact.

Adolph says the new five-story structure helps continue to grow its pediatrics program and treat critical conditions such as pediatric heart and liver transplants. He says the placement of departments is easily accessible to speed up time-sensitive procedures.

Cut 4 (12) “…bigger capacity.”

The new pediatric cardiovascular unit will expand from 12 to 20 beds. The 14-bed intensive care unit will expand to 20 beds.

Ranked the number one hospital for kids in Louisiana, the current hospital cares for more than 100 thousand children every year. Adolph says a new facility will help meet the needs of more families who want their children to receive care at Ochsner…

Cut 5 (06) “ …bit faster.”  

Ochsner Medical Center-New Orleans expects to break ground around the summer of 2024 and open its doors in late 2027.

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The Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign is underway. Greg Fischer with the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission says over the past five Christmas holidays in Louisiana 26 people were killed and 452 injured in vehicle crashes involving alcohol.

Cut 6 (05) “…any means.”

Fischer says the annual campaign is making a difference. According to the Center for Analytics and Research in Transportation Safety at LSU for every 1,000 hours of impaired driver patrol, there are four fewer fatalities…

Cut 7 (06) “…fewer fatalities.” 

In 2021, more than 40 percent of vehicle crashes in the state were alcohol-related and the number of fatalities that year was 299.

With more parties this time of year there are more impaired drivers on the road, especially at night. And Fischer says for some because the holidays can be difficult…

Cut 8 (09) “…on the road.” 

The LHSC helps pay for overtime so more law enforcement officers can stop impaired drivers. The campaign runs through New Year’s Day.

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There’s been plenty of speculation about a special session before the regular one to address the state’s property insurance crisis next year. But at a recent NOLA-dot-com town hall meeting, Insurance Commissioner-elect Tim Temple says it’s highly unlikely…

Cut 9 (11) “…timing issue.” 

But if and when one is called, Temple says he’ll push to get legislation introduced. He says he’s focusing on bringing property owners immediate premium relief. But stresses he’s not suggesting mandates for premium changes, because that only drives carriers away.

Cut 10 (12) “…availability.”

After the 2020 and 2021 hurricane seasons, with 800-thousand claims and $23 billion in property loss Temple says we have to acknowledge the industry was stressed and twelve companies went insolvent.

An incentive program to incite new carriers to come to the state went into effect earlier this year. Temple unfortunately says property owners won’t see the benefits immediately…

Cut 11 (09) “…to change.”

When Temple’s lone opponent withdrew from the election in the fall, Temple was named commissioner-elect. He says he’s using the extra time to meet with decision-makers so he can hit the ground running on January 8th.

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An important step has occurred in bringing passenger rail service to north Louisiana. The Federal Railroad Administration has awarded a 500-thousand dollar planning grant to the Southern Rail Commission. Commissioner Knox Ross says this money will determine what’s needed to bring passenger rail service to the I-20 Corridor…

Cut 12 (06)  “..want to be.”  

The proposed rail line would connect Dallas-Fort Worth to Atlanta, with stops in Shreveport, Ruston, Monroe and Vicksburg, Mississippi. Ross says passenger rail service would bring economic development to these cities, especially their downtown areas…

Cut 13 (12) “…all about” 

The mayors of Shreveport, Ruston and Monroe were in attendance for the announcement. The press conference was held in downtown Monroe. Mayor Friday Ellis spoke of at the site of a proposed train station…

Cut  14 (13) “..every day”

Officials say now is the time to build an I-20 passenger line with millions of dollars available as a result of the 2021  federal infrastructure law.