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

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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

Cut 2 (34)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx”

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

Cut 3 (30) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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

Cut 4 (12) “…of Lafayette.”

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

Cut 5 (12) “…address crime.”

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

Cut 6 (11) “…of this.”

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

Cut 7 (10) “…for Louisiana.”

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

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

Cut 8 (08) “…Mardi Gras theme.” 

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

Cut 9 (11)  “…for 2024.”

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

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

Cut 10 (10) “…every flavorful.”

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

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

Cut 11 (12) “…juice dyes.” 

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

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

Cut 12 (12) “…carnival season.” 

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

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

Cut 13 (11) “…so desires.”

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

Cut 14 (11) “…wisely.” 

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

Cut 15 (11) “…same opinion.”

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

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

Cut 16 (12) “…passing game.” 

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

Cut 17 (16) “…against Atlanta.” 

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

Cut 18 (16)  “…good results.” 

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

Cut 19 (19) “…in the offseason.” 

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

Cut 20 (16) “…as we move forward.”

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

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

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

Cut 3 (13) “…get home.”

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

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

Cut 4 (12) “…roadside hazard.”

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

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

Cut 5 (09) “ …don’t biodegrade.” 

Visit LetLouisianaShine dot org for more resolutions and litter facts.

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

Cut 6 (11) “…front of him.”

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

Cut 7 (05) “…trespassing.” 

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

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

Cut 8 (03) “…lot worse.” 

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

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

Cut 9 (09) “…our state.” 

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

Cut 10 (09) “..it is”

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

Cut 11 (09) “…the victim”

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

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Colleen Crain”

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

Cut 3 (35) “…I”m Jeff Palermo”

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

Cut 4 (10) “…positive direction.”

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

Cut 5 (13) “…step counts.”

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

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

Cut 6 (09) “…person perspective.”

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

Cut 7 (13) “…subject.”

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

Cut 8 (10) “…after Katrina” 

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

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

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

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

Cut 10 (12t “the victim”

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

Cut 11 (11) “…that profession” 

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

Cut 12 (12) “…blow up.” 

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

Cut 13 (13) “…Las Vegas” 

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

Cut 14 (11) “…very thankful.” 

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

Cut 15 (15) “…win a championship.”

Kelly says he was with Nussmeier’s performance…

Cut 16 (16) “…for us” 

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.