The future LIVE! Casino & Hotel in Shreveport-Bossier market is one step closer to opening in 2025. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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The SEC has released LSU’s 2024 football schedule and there’s the potential for some big time matchups for Tiger Stadium’s 100th season. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

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The Cordish Companies has broken ground on the $270 million LIVE! Casino & Hotel in Bossier City. The casino will be built on the site of the former Diamond Jacks casino. Principal of the Cordish Companies Jon Cordish says the LIVE! Casino will be the first land-based in northwest Louisiana.

Cut 3 (12) “…entertainment attraction.”

The newly renovated casino will feature 47 thousand square feet of gaming space, an upscale hotel, and first-class dining and entertainment venues. President of Cordish Gaming Group Rob Norton says the casino will create 750 permanent jobs and generate over $200 million in economic benefits.

Cut 4 (12) “…of time.”

While LIVE! is committed to philanthropy among non-profits in the community, Bossier City Mayor Thomas Chandler believes the company will set a new standard in the tri-state area.

Cut 5 (12) “ …and region.”  

The property is located across from Shreveport with easy access from Texas and Arkansas. The project is expected to be complete by late 2025.

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On this last radio call in the show “Ask the Governor,” Governor John Bel Edwards talked about his plans for the future and traditions he along with other Louisiana governors have participated in before leaving office. Among them is literally leaving his mark…

Cut 6 (09) “…as well.”

Another tradition recognized by outgoing presidents is a handwritten personal letter for your successor.

Cut 7 (05) “…I depart.” 

The state constitution only allows a governor to hold office for two consecutive terms. Edwards said he would have run for office again if he could have and even though he and Governor-elect Jeff Landry don’t always agree politically and are members of opposing political parties…

Cut 8 (13) “…8 years from now.” 

Edwards and First Lady Donna Edwards will become grandparents for the first time next month.

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LSU’s 2024 football schedule is out and it features several potential Top ten matchups in Tiger Stadium. Assistant Tiger Rag Editor William Weathers says there’s also an interesting non-conference tilt against UCLA, plus Oklahoma makes its first ever appearance in Tiger Stadium….

Cut 9 (07) “…right there” 

The SEC goes to 16 teams next year as Texas and Oklahoma joins the conference. The league is also getting rid of divisional play. Weathers says the 2024 schedule look different with South Carolina, Vanderbilt and Oklahoma on it, but not Auburn and Mississippi State

Cut 10 (07) “…around.”

LSU will have back-to-back road games in October against Arkansas and Texas A-and-M. Weathers says in November, LSU has a tough slate of games against Alabama, Florida, Vanderbilt and Oklahoma…

Cut 11 (06) “…hands full.”

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The Advocate Washington Bureau Chief Mark Ballard believes the vote along party lines for an impeachment inquiry of President Biden is merely pressure from far-right conservatives on Speaker Mike Johnson.

Cut 12 (11)  “..Ukraine funded.”  

The vote allows for an investigation to see if the President profited or was involved in any illegal business dealings with his son Hunter Biden. But Ballard points out that an actual impeachment is highly unlikely because there won’t be enough votes Congress convenes.

Cut 13 (09) “…uncovered” 

Three Bossier City juveniles have been arrested for the murder of a Haughton teen. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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The bird flu outbreak that arrived in the Bayou State last year by infected waterfowl is back again. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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McNeese State President Daryl Burckel announces his plans to leave his role by June 30th.  Burckel says it is the right time to welcome new leadership who can see the school through more growth.

Cut 3 (13) “…moving forward.”

During his seven years as President, he was able to bring the $40 million state-of-the-art Legacy Center to campus which seats more than four thousand people. The complex is the home to the men’s and women’s basketball and volleyball programs.

He also secured over $100 million in funding for the future campus.

Burckel led the university through major setbacks from the pandemic and natural disasters in 2020 and 2021.

Cut 4 (12) “…leadership team.”

Burckel has spent nearly 31 years working in higher education and was McNeese’s seventh president.  When asked what are his plans for the future…

Cut 5 (12) “ …and teaching.”  

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In Bossier Parish, three juveniles have been arrested after an 18-year-old Houghton teen was found dead in an apartment complex parking lot Monday night. Sheriff’s Office Lt. Matt Gaydos (Gay-duss) says the suspects, whose ages are 15, 16, and 17 are from Bossier City.

Cut 6 (11) “…lives away.”

Gaydos says robbery is believed to be the apparent motive for the shooting and that the suspects and the victim were acquaintances. The crime trail began in Bossier City with a stolen vehicle, a shooting in Houghton, and ended in Shreveport. Gaydos says it was a vehicle that led investigators to the suspects.

Cut 7 (11) “…Bossier City.” 

Gaydos says it’s always heartbreaking to see a life end way too soon. As for the suspects…

Cut 8 (12) “…out of hand.” 

The investigation is ongoing. One of the suspects arrested early Tuesday morning has been charged with First Degree Murder. The other two were arrested later in the day.

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Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries says the bird flu outbreak is wiping out waterfowl in the Bayou State for a second year. State Wildlife Veterinarian Dr. Jim Lacour says cases have been detected among waterfowl in the southwest and northeast parts of the state.

Cut 9 (13) “…municipal ponds.” 

Lacour says this year’s fall migration has created a resurgence of infected waterfowl. While this strain of bird flu poses minimal dangers to humans…

Cut 10 (10) “…to it.”

Though many waterfowl hunting dogs contact birds with HPAI, no dog infections have been reported in Louisiana. If you come across any unexplained mortality among birds, LaCour urges residents to avoid contact and call LWDF.

Cut 11 (12) “…fisheries offices.”

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The seventh ranked LSU Lady Tigers set a school record for most points scored in a game last night in a 133-to-44 win over McNeese. At one point, LSU scored 47 unanswered points. Hall of Fame Coach Kim Mulkey says such an incredible run is a first for her

Cut 12 (08)  “..kind of crazy”  

The 89-point win is also a school record for largest margin of victory. In the second quarter, the Lady Tigers outscored the Cowgirls 30-to-nothing. Mulkey says she asked the players to pick up the intensity after a slow start…

Cut 13 (11) “…better” 

LSU will host Northwestern State on Sunday.

Governor John Bel Edwards last monthly call-in radio show, “Ask the Governor” airs today. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Now that an appeals court has upheld a lower court’s ruling for another Caddo Parish Sheriff election the campaign is expected to get even spicier. Brooke Thorington has more…

Cut 2 (33)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Former associate AD Sharon Lewis’ 50-million dollar lawsuit against LSU is underway and the first day of testimony was highlighted by allegations of sexual misconduct performed by running backs coach Frank Wilson. Colleen Crain has more…

Cut 3 (37) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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Qualifying for the March 23^rd, 2024, Presidential primary begins today and ends on Friday. Deputy Secretary of State for Outreach Joel Watson says any political party that has 40,000 or more members in Louisiana…

Cut 4 (11) “…in Louisiana.”

Local, municipal, parish executive committee and state central committee candidates are to qualify with the clerk of court in the parish where they are registered to vote. Judicial candidates can qualify at the Louisiana Secretary of State’s office in Baton Rouge.

As for how many candidates will be on the March ballot, Watson says it’s too early to tell.

Cut 5 (10) “…and qualify.”

Waston says you can watch in real-time input on the website as candidates qualify at sos-dot-la-gov. Candidates must register by 4:30 PM on Friday, December 15^th.

And if you’re planning to vote in the primary, Watson reminds you that you can only vote in the party primary you are registered for.

Cut 6 (11) “… Independent primary.”

If you want to check, change, or declare your party registration you can do so at geaux-vote-dot-com. To declare or change your affiliation you must do so by mail 30 days before or online 20 days before the March 23^rd primary.

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Today is Governor John Bel Edwards’ last monthly call-in radio show, “Ask the Governor”. Louisiana Radio Network has produced the show for the last seven years. General Manager Jim Engster says the show gave Edwards a chance to directly talk with Louisianans.

Cut 7 (12) “…radio program.”

 Engster says the show launched statewide in April of 2016.

Cut 8 (10) “…this kind.” 

The program typically aired on the third Wednesday of every month. Engster believes the show was good public relations for Edwards.

Cut 9 (11)  “…Governor Edwards.”

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Unless the Louisiana Supreme Court opts to hear arguments in the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s race case, it looks like there will be another runoff election in March between Democrat Henry Whitehorn and Republican John Nickelson. Political analyst Scott Hughes…

Cut 10 (11) “…sheriff’s race.”

Hughes believes their campaigns will differ this go around to motivate voter turnout.

Cut 11 (12) “…better sheriff.” 

It was a heated race going into the runoff and Hughes expects things will continue to simmer.

Cut 12 (09) “…and March.” 

After a one-vote margin, Nickelson challenged the race, and an appellate court upheld a lower court’s ruling to void the November 18^th runoff and hold another one. Whitehorn is expected to appeal to the state supreme court.

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Former LSU Associate AD Sharon Lewis’ 50-million dollar sexual harassment, race-based, and gender-based retaliation lawsuit against LSU is underway. On the first day of testimony, a witness claimed LSU running backs coach Frank Wilson made unwanted sexual advances against her when she was an intern in the football recruiting office. Tiger Rag Editor Todd Horne is covering the trial at the federal courthouse in Baton Rouge…

Cut 13 (10) “…Sharon Lewis.”

The testimony came from Nikole Jessie. Horne says recalling the 2013 incident made Jessie break down and cry on the stand. Horne says after Wilson kissed Jessie on the lips, she testified she immediately told Lewis…

Cut 14 (10) “…her job.” 

Horne says Jessie testified that another student employee lost her job after complaining about being sexually harassed and did not want to lose her job, despite receiving inappropriate gifts from Wilson…

Cut 15 (13) “…to accept.”

Lewis is suing the university claiming her attempts to report sexual misconduct against student interns involving former LSU Coach Les Miles and Wilson resulted in a hostile work environment for her and it also impacted her pay.

An attorney representing LSU said in opening arguments that Lewis has no evidence of this drama and is only attempting to profit from a coaching change situation when 40 people lost their jobs.

Sexual harassment allegations against Wilson first surfaced in March 2022 and LSU said at that time they were unaware of these allegations and there is no evidence they were reported to LSU.

A nine-person jury is hearing the case and testimony is expected to last until December 22nd.

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The Saints return to practice today to get ready for the surging New York Giants who have won three in a row. New York has one of the better running backs in the NFL, Saquon Barkley. Linebacker Pete Werner says they can’t let Berkley beat them…

Cut 16 (12) “…like him.”

The Saints snapped a three-game losing streak with a 28-6 win over the Carolina Panthers on Sunday. Werner on holding the Panthers to just a touchdown…

Cut 17 (17) “…this week.”

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Coach Will Wade makes his long-awaited return to the sidelines tonight as his McNeese team hosts Southern Miss tonight in Lake Charles. Wade has not coached a game since March of 2022 and he was suspended for the first 10 games of this season because of recruiting violations that led to his firing in Baton Rouge. Wade is a fiery coach on the sidelines, but after some time away, he might be a little calmer…

Cut 18 (13)  “…on things.” 

Even though Wade missed the first ten games, the Cowboys are 8-and-2 and that includes wins over Texas State and UAB. The coach is looking forward to being back on the sidelines…

 Cut 19 (19) “…Southern Miss team.” 

Tip-off at the Legacy Center is at 7 PM.

As of this morning, there hasn’t been a homicide in New Orleans this month and violent crime is also down.  Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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Tis the season for traveling as Triple-A forecasts an additional two million travelers this Christmas and New Year’s holiday compared to last year. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 2 (33)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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As of this morning, the City of New Orleans has not reported a homicide for December. In September the Crescent City went 12 days without a murder. President of the Metropolitan Crime Commission Rafael Goyeneche…

Cut 3 (12) “…about 19%.”

However, he’s quick to point out that homicides for 2022 were among the highest for the last three decades and this year’s murder rate is still higher than those from 2019 to 2021.

MCC says shootings are down 22-percent, carjackings down 46-percent, and armed robbery has declined 34-percent from this time last year.

Even with a sizable loss of law enforcement officers, down approximately 25-percent since 2018, Goyeneche credits the NOPD’s return to proactive policing for the reduction in violent crime…

Cut 4 (10) “…several years.”

He says the pandemic limited proactive policing.

Goyeneche says prioritizing arrests of those carrying weapons illegally and/or drugs is reflected in the reduction of violent crime because they are not out on the streets.

Cut 5 (10) “ …drug offenses.”  

In 2018 NOPD had approximately 1,200 officers in 2023 the number had dwindled to 900.

Goyeneche is also hopeful the partnership with Republican Governor-elect Jeff Landry and Democrat Orleans Parish District Attorney Jason Williams will continue the crime reduction.

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AAA predicts 115 million people will be on the move over the Christmas and New Year’s holiday, the second highest year-end holiday travel recorded. Spokesperson Don Redman says that’s a two percent increase over last year and most will travel by vehicle

Cut 6 (13) “…the road”

Redman says the national average for a gallon of gas was $3.26 and this year its $3.14 a gallon for regular gasoline. He says travelers can expect cheaper gas prices in the Gulf South

Cut 7 (08) “.. seventy-one.” 

Redman says triple A is reporting a record even point five million Americans will travel by air for the holidays, so be prepared for packed airports

Cut 8 (12) “…winter” 

As for train, bus, and cruise travel, he says travel is expected to increase by nearly four percent.

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Caddo Parish Sheriff candidate Henry Whitehorn loses his appeal as the election drama continues. The 2^nd Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a lower court’s ruling granting Republican John Nickelson another election after he lost to Whitehorn by one vote in November.  Political analyst Scott Hughes says it was a split three-two decision.

Cut 9 (05) “…hear it.” 

For the case to advance, Hughes says you have to have to prove a new argument because this case mirrors the precedent set in the 1999 Red River Parish Sheriff’s race.

Cut 10 (06) “…previous decisions.”

And filing a challenge to the state’s highest court, Hughes says won’t be cheap for Whitehorn…

Cut 11 (12) “…a mistake.”

If filed Hughes expects the Supreme Court to render an answer sooner than later.

A Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries agent receives North America’s highest honor for civilian heroism, the Carnegie Medal. Brooke Thorington has more…

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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LSU Health Shreveport has opened the doors to a new 79 million dollar state-of-the-art medical facility. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 2 (34)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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A serious canine respiratory illness has now spread to 16 states. Colleen Crain has the story.

Cut 3 (30) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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A Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries agent receives North America’s highest honor for civilian heroism, the Carnegie Medal. In 2022, Sergeant Stephen Rhodes saved nine people including a seven-year-old girl when their boat capsized. He says he didn’t hesitate, removed his gear, and jumped in the water.

Cut 4 (08) “…and fixed.”

And after two rounds of CPR, Rhodes says she began to show signs of life. The young girl was airlifted to a New Orleans hospital and made a full recovery.

Rhodes says he began May 7, 2022, on a boat patrol in Golden Meadow when he received a call about a possible shrimp violation on Grand Isle. He was nearby writing up a ticket when the boat flipped.

Cut 5 (05) “…right time.”

Sixteen individuals have been honored with the Carnegie Medal this year and more than 10,000 since its inception in 1904. As a first responder, Rhodes says he doesn’t necessarily like the title hero…

Cut 6 (11) “… inescapable.”

Rhodes, a 16-year veteran of LDWF who lives in Houma, was nominated for the award by his mother and presented with the honor by Governor John Bel Edwards.

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After nearly three years of construction, LSU Health Shreveport has unveiled its $79 million Center for Medical Education. Dr. David Lewis Dean of the School of Medicine says the center brings innovative learning techniques to north Louisiana seen at major universities nationwide…

Cut 7 (12) “…future leaders.”

The new center’s 155-square-foot structure also includes teaching spaces, a 500-seat auditorium, and a Wellness Center.

While the center received more than 26 million dollars from the Louisiana Legislature last year, Lewis says more than a third of the cost was supported by partnerships and the community.

Cut 8 (12) “…large donations.” 

An important component of the building is the more than 11 thousand square foot Center for Emerging Viral Threats research, education, and training facility. The research space will help in advanced research on viral pathogens and molecular testing for different viruses.

Lewis says this facility gives Shreveport advantage to compete for top-tier students from both near and far.

Cut 9 (12)  “…our citizens.”

The four-story structure is the first new building on campus in 15 years.

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A serious canine respiratory illness is now in 16 states. Though no cases of Atypical Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex have been reported in Louisiana, Ginger Guttner with the LSU Vet School wants you to know what it is and when to be concerned…

Cut 10 (10) “…the veterinarian.”

As the illness spreads to other states and holiday travel increases, Guttner says it’s important to call ahead and ask questions before boarding your dog…

Cut 11 (08) “…sick dogs.” 

Guttner says it’s also important to know about the facility’s cleaning protocols.

It’s okay to walk your dog with dogs you already know but Guttner says it’s not the time to introduce your dog to a new population of dogs. When the Vet School first posted information about this Canine illness, it was seen in 14 states. At last check, it was up to 16.

Cut 12 (08) “…in Florida.” 

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The Top Ten 2023 baby names for Louisiana are out. Baton Rouge General Communications Manager Katie Johnston says the name Ivy for a girl grew in popularity, from 37th the year before to 13th in the state and it’s the fifth most popular in the capital city.

Cut 13 (08) “…speculation.”

Ivy is the name of a Taylor Swift song on the album Evermore. Johnston says pop culture has an impact on baby names. Last year Maverick was a popular boy name after the release of Top Gun: Maverick.

Cut 14 (07) “…after year.”

Among the staples for boys are Liam and Noah, and for girls, Olivia and Amelia.

A growing trend in the Red Stick for boy names is Jalen. Johnston says they’ve seen multiple spellings, and they expect a similar name will make its mark in 2024.

Cut 15 (06) “…next year.”

The Top Ten Names for 2022 in Louisiana are Liam, Elijah, Noah, Luke, James, Levi, John, William, Oliver, and Asher.

For girls, it’s Olivia, Amelia, Ava, Charlotte, Harper, Emma, Isabella, Mia, Avery, and Evelyn.

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It’s game week for the Ragin Cajuns as they will play Jacksonville State on Saturday in the New Orleans Bowl. U-L Lafayette will make its seventh New Orleans Bowl appearance on Saturday and Coach Michael Desormeaux says the players are excited

Cut 16 (20) “…this game”

The demolition of the west side of Cajun Field began Monday. The school will replace the west side with 34 suites, 40 loge boxes, 524 club-level seats, and an expanded chairback section. The 65-million-dollar project is expected to be completed in time for the 2025 season. Desormeaux says it’s an exciting time for the program…

Cut 17 (20) “…all about”

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It certainly was not Saints quarterback Derek Carr’s best day as he only threw for 119 yards in New Orleans 28 to 6 win over Carolina. Carr has had multiple concussions and rib fractures this season and Coach Dennis Allen was asked Monday if injuries contributed to Carr’s performance against the Panthers…

Cut 18 (18)  “…ready for New York.” 

The Saints once again had trouble stopping the run on Sunday. The Panthers rushed for 215 yards and New Orleans is one of five teams who has allowed more than 17-hundred yards rushing on the season. Allen says open-field tackling has been an issue…

 Cut 19 (19) “…explosive plays.” 

The Saints will face a good running back this Sunday when Saquon Barkley and the Giants visit the Dome.

Louisiana Congressman Mike Johnson was back in his district for the fist time since he was elected as Speaker of the House in late October. Jeff Palermo has the story….

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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A key member from last year’s national championship team is no longer with the LSU Lady Tigers. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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DNA from remains of a 2005 Natchitoches Parish cold case is being profiled at a Texas lab, in hopes of identifying the body. Director of Operations of Othram Labs, Colby Lasyone says they believe the body found in an oil drum encased in cement is that of a black male between the ages of 18 and 30…

Cut 3 (06) “…information.”

The body was located in a shallow creek near Clarence and was ruled a homicide. It was determined that the victim had been deceased for as few as one year or as many as twenty-five years.

Lasyone says after a valid sample of DNA is extracted from the remains, it will be compared to possible genealogy matches.

Cut 4 (08) “…this case.”

The biggest barrier Lasyone says is funding. Not every agency has the budget to deep dive into cold cases and perform extensive lab work. He says they are raising funds at DNAsolves.com.

Cut 5 (08) “ …the agency.”  

At LouisianaRadioNetwork-dot-com you can see an LSU FACES image of what they believe this particular John Doe looks like.

If you have any information about the case you’re asked to call the Natchitoches Parish Coroner’s Office.

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House Speaker Mike Johnson was back in his district this past weekend. Johnson says it was the first time he’s been home since elected as speaker on October 25th. Johnson says he’s still the same guy, but the security detail that accompanies him everywhere is a major change…

Cut 6 (10) “…three suburban motorcade”

Johnson admits it’s still surreal for him that he is now the Speaker of the House and his schedule has increased dramatically…

Cut 7 (08) “..my analogy.” 

During his time back home, Johnson visited one of his favorite breakfast spots, Strawn’s Eat Shop in Shreveport. He held a town hall meeting televised by the Fox News Network….

Cut 8 (10) “…the economy” 

Johnson says the House plans to hold a vote Wednesday  to formalize an impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden. Republicans allege Mr. Biden benefited financially from deals made with China and other foreign companies by his son Hunter. The White House says the President has done nothing wrong.

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State Police are investigating the in-custody death of 35-year-old Kenderis D. Lawrence, of Shreveport, who fled from Shreveport Police as they were patrolling the Broadmoor area Saturday evening due to a recent rise in burglaries. Trooper LeAnn Hodges says when he failed to comply with officers a taser was deployed.

Cut 9 (08) “…saving measures.” 

Lawrence was transferred to Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport where he was later pronounced deceased.

Hodges says Lawrence was originally on a bicycle in the 4100 block of Youree Drive and led officers on a foot pursuit through A.C. Steere Park.

Hodges says they are asking anyone with information, pictures, or video about the incident to contact LSP either by phone, their online reporting system, or the LSP Fusion Center Hotline.

Cut 10 (09) “…provided.”

The incident happened just after 11:30 on Saturday night.

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They are celebrating in Ruston today as the Bearcats football team won its first state championship since 1990, beating the Zachary Broncos 31-17. It’s the ninth state title in program history and coach Jerrod Baugh says a lot of hard work went into it…

Cut 11 (13) “…for these kids.”

Ruston quarterback Josh Brantley rushed for three touchdowns and linebacker Jadon Mayfield had a game-high 12 tackles. Mayfield says it was a great way to end his high school career…

Cut 12 (13)  “…state champion”  

Calvary Baptist and St. Thomas More also won state championships on Saturday. The Cougars of repeated as Division Two select state champions by knocking off Lafayette Christian 35-21. S-T-M Coach Jim Hightower…

Cut 13 (08) “…super proud of em”

St. Thomas More quarterback Sam Altmann threw for 153 yards and a had a rushing touchdown…

Cut  14 (13) “…achieved it”

After a lower court ruled for another Caddo Parish Sheriff election, candidate Henry Whitehorn’s appeal will be heard today.  Brooke Thorington has more

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Louisiana tops the list of states, unfortunately, it’s a list of states with the highest flu activity. Colleen Crain has the details…

Cut 2 (33)  “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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LSU’s Jayden Daniels shows off his humor and hopes his winning the award inspires others. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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The Second Circuit Court of Appeals will hear Caddo Parish Sheriff candidate Henry Whitehorn’s case today. Whitehorn is hoping to overturn the ruling for a new election after opponent John Nickelson challenged Whitehorn’s one-vote victory. Political Analyst Scott Hughes…

Cut 4 (10) “…court ruling.”

Because it’s an election case and timely, Hughes expects the court will rule quickly. He says five judges will review briefings filed by both sides and question the attorneys.

Cut 5 (11) “…decision.”

The legality of eleven ballots is being questioned in the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s race. Of those votes, two people voted twice, at least five mail-in votes were invalid, and four were cast by unqualified voters.

As for similar cases, Hughes says ironically in neighboring Red River Parish a runoff election for sheriff in 1999 was challenged all the way to the Supreme Court which ruled in favor of another election.

Cut 6 (11) “…uphold this.”

Last week Whitehorn told the media he will take the case to the Louisiana Supreme Court if necessary.

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The State Office of Community Development has distributed over 146 million dollars to nearly eight thousand Louisiana homeowners for pandemic mortgage assistance through the Louisiana Homeowner Assistance Fund. Ginger Moses Chief Operating Officer with Office of Community Development…

Cut 7 (11) “…the cap.”

The Bayou State received federal funding through the 10-billion American Rescue Plan Act. Service providers had to participate in the program for an applicant to be eligible.

Moses says payments went directly to mortgage companies. She says this will impact thousands of Louisianans who struggled to meet mortgage payments during the pandemic.

Cut 8 (13) “…these dollars.” 

 Moses says the program offered a lifeline to Louisiana residents to help meet their mortgage payments and not lose their homes.

Cut 9 (10)  “…the funding.”

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Again this year, a large number of Louisianans are sick with the flu. Louisiana Health Officer, Dr. Joe Kanter…

Cut 10 (08) “…in the country.”

We’re tied with South Carolina. Kanter says 1 in 5 flu tests are currently positive.

Kanter says the Bayou State is nearing previous flu season peaks but numbers often rise after holiday gatherings. Louisiana loses somewhere between 500 and a thousand lives to flu every year but, Kanter says…

Cut 11 (07) “…and death.” 

Those at highest risk due to the flu are the elderly, those with significant underlying medical conditions, and immune-compromised individuals. Kanter says there’s still time to get the benefits of a flu vaccine before holiday travel and gatherings and vulnerable people should also…

Cut 12 (09) “…added protection.” 

For more information on the flu visit ldh.la.gov/fight the flu

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“That Kid” from San Bernardino, California is the third LSU football player to win the Heisman trophy. Jayden Daniels received 501 of the 870 first-place votes. After three inconsistent years at Arizona State, Daniels transferred to LSU and blossomed into college football’s best player…

Cut 13 (12) “…your dreams”

Daniels had a season for the ages in 2023 as he nearly accumulated 5,000 total yards of offense. Daniels also led the nation in passing touchdowns with 40 and total touchdowns with 50. He orchestrated one of the greatest offenses in LSU’s history. He wishes it could have led to more team success…

Cut 14 (11) “…for me”

During his Heisman acceptance speech, Daniels thanked God, his parents, coaches, teammates and everyone who helped him along his incredible journey. The latest Heisman winner also says he’s a product of hard work and faith…

Cut 15 (13) “here today”

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The Saints ended a three-game losing streak with a 28-6 win over a bad Carolina Panthers team. New Orleans offense didn’t do much for three quarters, but Derek Carr threw two touchdown passes in the fourth quarter to put the game away. Coach Dennis Allen on the victory…

Cut 16 (21) “…deciding factor”

Carr only threw for 119 yards. And late in the third quarter, following a sack, Carr and center Erik McCoy got into a heated argument and had to be separated. Allen says the screaming match is no big deal…

Cut 17 (14) “…get pissed”

Carr says him and McCoy are still cool…

Cut 18 (17)  “…all good” 

Despite the victory, the Saints fans booed several times during the game as the offense struggled to move the ball. Tight end Jimmy Graham says he can understand Who Dat Nation’s frustrations…

 Cut 19 (09) “…reason too” 

The Saints are back home this Sunday to host the Giants.

If you’re still looking for Medicare health coverage or want to change your existing plan, you have until tomorrow to meet the 2024 Medicare Annual Enrollment deadline. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (34)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx” 

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Senator Bill Cassidy says Republicans can not support a 111-billion dollar military aid package for Ukraine and Israel without policy changes that will reduce the number of illegal crossings across the southern border. Jeff Palermo has more..

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

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The deadline to choose a 2024 Medicare health plan or make changes to your current plan is tomorrow. For those still seeking coverage, Blue Cross Blue Shield Healthcare Economist Mike Bertaut says Louisianans 65 and older can choose Medicare Parts A, B, D, or a combination of the three.

Cut 3 (12) “…to go.”

Under Parts A and B you get coverage for hospital care, doctor visits, nursing facility care, home healthcare services, and preventative service. Part D includes prescription drug coverage.

Bertaut says choosing a plan can be difficult and overwhelming at times, but there are free services to help guide you to a plan that is best for you.

Cut 4 (12) “…you nothing.”

Bertaut says original Medicare doesn’t cover all of your healthcare expenses, leaving you responsible for about 20 percent of your costs. He urges Louisianans to consider the three P’s when looking for the ideal Medicare plan.

Cut 5 (13) “ …plans incorporate.”  

Medicare coverage starts January 1st. The number to call is 1-800-568-1417 or visit bcbslaplan.com/Medicare.

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Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy says Republicans are unified and will not approve a 110-billion dollar military aid package for Ukraine and Israel unless the legislation addresses southern border security. Cassidy says since President Biden took office there have been eight-million illegal crossings…

Cut 6 (06) “…not done so”

Democratic leadership in the Senate says this funding for Ukraine is desperately needed and the funding bill should not be tied to extreme immigration proposals. But Cassidy says the crisis at the U-S-Mexico border can no longer be ignored…

Cut 7 (09) “..southern border.” 

Democrats say their bill contains more than five billion dollars in emergency funding for the U-S Customs and Border Protection and two-point-three billion dollars in emergency dollars to U-S Immigration and Customs Enforcement. But Cassidy says Republicans want to see policy changes

Cut 8 (11) “…country of origin” 

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Mandeville Representative and former gubernatorial candidate Richard Nelson has been appointed Secretary of the Louisiana Department of Revenue. Political Analyst Bernie Pinsonat says there’s speculation Governor-elect Jeff Landry promised Nelson a job in exchange for dropping out of the race…

Cut 9 (12) “…Republican.” 

One of Nelson’s campaign promises was to repeal the state income tax. Pinsonat says the popularity of no state income tax in nearby Texas and Florida, and a GOP super-majority in the legislature, Nelson’s appointment to helm Revenue brings even more momentum for the initiative…

Cut 10 (10) “…the revenue.”

Nelson was the youngest gubernatorial candidate and Pinsonat believes the appointment is a good fit.

Cut 11 (12) “…the governor.”

Jarrod Coniglio, who has more than three decades of experience with oversight of the state’s Medicaid program and Department of Revenue, has been named under-secretary of LDR.

Retired Judge Joe Bleich has ordered a new runoff election for Caddo Parish Sheriff after candidate John Nickelson won his lawsuit challenging the result of the November 18^th election. Teiko Foxx has more….

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Insuring Louisiana’s school buildings is becoming a struggle with climbing rate increases.  Colleen Crain has the story

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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State Transportation has extended the deadline for the public-private partnership to widen Interstate 10 and construct a new Calcasieu River Bridge. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (30) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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John Nickelson has won his lawsuit requesting a special election after challenging the result of the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s November 18^th runoff election. He lost to Henry Whitehorn by one vote. Political Analyst Scott Hughes says retired Judge Joe Bleich identified at least 11 illegal votes.

Cut 4 (12) “…vote margin.”

Of the eleven votes, two people voted twice, at least five mail-in votes were invalid, and four were cast by unqualified voters.  Hughes expects Whitehorn to appeal the court’s decision to overturn the election.

Cut 5 (12) “…on this.”

In a statement released Tuesday, Whitehorn expressed his disappointment:

“Overturning an election because the winner won by one vote is essentially saying, every vote matters, except if the win is by one.”

Hughes says the earliest an election can be held is next spring.

Cut 6 (12) “…local race.”

Caddo Sheriff Steve Prator’s term ends June 30^th.

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Louisiana Homeowners are not the only ones feeling the pinch of climbing property insurance premiums. Louisiana School Boards Association Lobbyist, Dannie Garrett says it’s becoming a struggle for school districts

Cut 7 (09) “…money somewhere.”

Garret says expenses associated with school buildings are schools’ second largest expense and insurance rates continue to rise. He would like to see the legislature address property insurance reform but Garret says, districts, especially rural ones need help…

Cut 8 (11) “…school system.” 

Even School Districts with a strong industrial presence, which beefs up the tax base, are beginning to have trouble keeping up while more rural parishes are struggling and need help from the state. But while insurance rates have continued to climb, state funding of schools has been flat, says Garret.

Cut 9 (06)  “…per pupil.”

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State Transportation extends the deadline of the public-private partnership for widening Interstate 10 and a new Calcasieu River Bridge. The project made headlines when the use of tolls to fund construction was announced. DOTD spokesperson John Guidroz…

Cut 10 (11) “…this project.”

The original deadline of December 3^rd has been extended for 60 days. State lawmakers rejected the proposal over the $2.1 billion price tag and the burden tolls would place on motorists. A new administration will be sworn in on January 8^th and Guidroz says the bridge connecting Lake Charles and Westlake is critical infrastructure…

Cut 11 (11) “…cost anything.” 

In October, after the House Transportation Committee rejected the plan, interim State Transportation Secretary Eric Kalivoda stated DOTD would focus on rehabbing the existing bridge in the meantime. Guidroz says the deadline extension can be seen as a lifeline for the project…

Cut 12 (10) “…path forward.” 

An estimated 90,000 vehicles cross the Calcasieu River Bridge daily.

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In partnership with the Louisiana Workforce Commission, Niagara Bottling is hosting a two-day hiring event, today and tomorrow in Hammond. Regine Williams with the LWC says they are looking to hire employees for their new water bottling plant in Ponchatoula.

Cut 13 (09) “…and more.”

Since 1963, the southern California-based company has grown into the largest family-owned and operated bottled water company in the US. Williams says they are asking attendees to pre-register for the event which can be done on LWC’s social media pages.

Cut 14 (08) “…hiring event.”

The event will be from 8am until 3:30 pm today and 8 am until 1:30 pm Thursday at Chappapeela Sports Park.

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LSU Coach Brian Kelly says a decision has yet to be made on if quarterback Jayden Daniels will play in the Tigers bowl game on New Year’s Day in Tampa against Wisconsin. Daniels is a likely top ten pick in the 2024 NFL draft and Kelly says the Heisman finalist understands the pros and cons of playing in one more college game…

Cut 15 (15) “…both sides of it.”

The NCAA transfer portal is open and it’s expected the Tigers will sign defensive linemen, defensive backs and also look for a veteran receiver or two. What about a quarterback to compete with Garrett Nussmeier? Kelly says if they sign a quarterback, they’ll inform Nussmeier and others…

Cut 16 (21) “…that room.”

After a disastrous season on defense, Kelly is still evaluating what went wrong. Could B-K fire defensive coordinator Matt House after two seasons? Kelly says personal relationships will not get in the way of what’s best for LSU…

Cut 17 (18) “…national championship.”

LSU Pennington Biomedical Research Center receives a grant of more than $13 million to find the best way to help childhood obesity in minority and rural communities.

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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Drivers who travel across the Jimmie Davis Bridge in Shreveport connecting Caddo and Bossier Parishes will notice activity at the base of the bridge. Teiko Foxx explains….

Cut 2 (34)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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LSU Pennington Biomedical Research Center has received a more than $13 million grant to help fight childhood obesity among minorities and those in rural communities. Associate Professor Amanda Staiano says the grant will allow them to find the best approach to deliver their 26-hour evidence-based obesity program.

Cut 3 (09) “…time period.”

Staiano says participants will be under the guidance of their physician and have access to a nutritionist. And while they recognize the program isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach, a social worker is also assigned to the family…

Cut 4 (11) “…they need.”

The outreach study among minority children and those in rural backgrounds is in conjunction with Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Staiano says both Louisiana and Tennessee have similar obesity rates, especially among minorities and children in rural areas.

Cut 5 (11) “ …of families.”  

In the US about 22 percent of Hispanic and 20 percent of Black children have obesity compared to 14 percent of white children. In rural areas, the childhood obesity rate increases to 22 percent.

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The Louisiana Department of Transportation has started preliminary site work for the new $361 million dollar Jimmie Davis Bridge connecting Bossier and Caddo Parishes. Spokesperson Erin Buchanan says drivers may notice workers clearing debris and vegetation near the foot of the bridge.

Cut 6 (08) “…extensive.”

Buchanan says major construction on the four-lane bridge is still about a year away as design work continues. She says the design phase also includes transforming the existing structure into a linear park.

Cut 7 (10) “…each side.” 

Buchanan says crews are assembling a trestle bridge to be used during construction on the new bridge. She says it’s a design-build project so larger parts of the development may not be seen for some time…

Cut 8 (08) “…great sign.” 

The entire project is expected to be completed in around five years.

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State Police have arrested a teenager driver involved in a fatal hit and run crash that occurred last week involving a bicyclist in Lafourche Parish. Trooper Ross Brennan says 19-year-old Isabelle Nguyen was traveling north on LA Highway one when she struck 66-year-old Henry Savoie of Larose

Cut 9 (10) “…that vehicle” 

Savoie died over the weekend from his injuries. Brennan says Nguyen was arrested yesterday and charged with hit and run driving with serious injury or death…

Cut 10 (06) “…of the crash”  

According to the police report, while Troopers were at the scene of the crash, Nguyen went to a sub station of the sheriff’s department. That’s when she was interviewed about her involvement in the crash. Brennan says Nguyen should have contacted authorities immediately

Cut 11 (07) “…here”

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Three people have died in three separate house fires in Louisiana over the last two days. Two of the fatal fires were in Avoyelles Parish. State Fire Marshal spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says the first fatal fire that occurred in Avoyelles occurred in the southern part of the parish…

Cut 12 (08)  “…inside”  

Rodrigue says there was second fatal fire in Avoyelles Parish this morning…

Cut 13 (09) “…man inside”

Rodrigue says they are also investigating a fatal fire that took place in St. Tammany Parish…

Cut  14 (11) “…accident there”