In Saturday’s election, John Fleming, Nancy Landry, and Liz Murrill won giving Republicans every statewide office. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

______________________________________

If you ever thought your vote didn’t matter, well think again. The Caddo Parish Sheriff’s race came down to a single vote. Brooke Thorington has more…

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

______________________________________

In 2024, the GOP will occupy every statewide office for the first time since 2015. On Saturday night, Republican candidates, John Fleming, Nancy Landry and Liz Murrill won their races for treasurer, secretary of state, and attorney general. Political Analyst Bernie Pinsonat says the Democratic Party will have very little influence on state government over the next four years…

Cut 3 (13) “….zero power.”

Republican Governor-elect Jeff Landry will replace Democratic Governor John Bel Edwards in January. Republicans will also continue to hold a supermajority in the House and Senate. Pinsonat says it will be up to the GOP to address the major issues facing the state.

Cut 4 (09) “…produce results.”

Pinsonat says Saturday’s election will shape the state’s future. He says the GOP leadership will have to find sound solutions to reversing issues that have been in existence for the last four decades.

Cut 5 (11) “ …but themselves.”  

________________________________________________________________

Much of Louisiana is under a tornado watch until seven PM tonight. LRN meteorologist John Wetherbee says isolated tornadoes are possible, plus some straight line winds…

Cut 6 (09) “…heavy rainfall”

Wetherbee says this is the first significant severe weather threat we’ve seen this fall…

Cut 7 (10) “…what’s going on” 

After this front moves through, it will be cool and mostly dry for the rest of the week.

___________________________________________________________________

In the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s race, a single vote gave Democrat Henry Whitehorn a victory over Republican John Nickelson. Political analyst Scott Hughes says they knew it would be a close race in the politically divided parish. He says Whitehorn was up about 2,000 votes but when the final northern rural precincts came in overwhelmingly for Nickelson…

Cut 8 (06) “…Saturday night.” 

In Louisiana, a candidate has to request a recount to initiate the process and Hughes says it predominantly involves the mailed-in hand-voted ballots.

Cut 9 (12) “…in number” 

Hughes says hand ballots that were perhaps torn or in which both candidates received votes will be re-examined, and then the race will be certified.

In the primary, ironically in Caddo Parish, Hughes says there was a recount for a legislative race that came down a 32-vote difference. That recount found an additional three votes, but it didn’t change the outcome of that race.

Cut 10 (06) “…is certified.” 

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

________________________________________________________

Three of the four teens charged in the 2022 carjacking death of 73-year-old Linda Frickey of Westwego have reached a plea deal that’s resulted in them receiving a 20-year prison sentence. Legal analyst Dane Ciolino says this is a good result for everyone…

Cut 11 (10) “…20 years in a jail”

In March 2022, Frickey was parked along the side of a road in the New Orleans’ mid-city. Surveillance video shows a person pulling her out of the vehicle and beating her. Authorities say as the car sped away, Frickey was dragged and her arm severed in the brutal death.

Because of the nature of Frickey’s death, the teens were charged as adults. Ciolino says Briniyah Baker, Lenrya Theopile and Mar’qel Curtis took the plea deal.

Cut 12 (09) “…these, these individuals”  

18-year-old John Honore is still set for trial as jury selection is underway in the case. Ciolino says while Honore’s three co-defendants plead guilty to manslaughter charges, Honore could be convicted of a murder…

Cut 13 (10) “..their friend”

Beginning tomorrow through next Saturday, extra law enforcement will be patrolling the roads and looking for seat belt violations during the statewide Click It or Ticket campaign. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

______________________________________

Three statewide races, Attorney General, Secretary of State, and Treasurer will be decided in the runoffs Saturday. Brooke Thorington has more on the predictions.

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

______________________________________

The Louisiana Highway Safety Commission Click It or Ticket campaign begins tomorrow (Saturday) and goes through the Thanksgiving weekend. Spokesperson Greg Fischer says state troopers and local law enforcement will be on the lookout to see if drivers are buckled up…

Cut 3 (11) “….the road.”

A LHSC report found at least 55 percent of adults killed in a vehicle crash in the Bayou State last year were not properly wearing their seat belts.

Fischer says a first offense for anyone not wearing a seatbelt is $50 and $75 for repeat offenders. He says their latest observational survey found fewer than 15-percent of people in Louisiana go unbuckled…

Cut 4 (09) “…every year.”

During Thanksgiving weekend last year, there were 10 fatalities and more than 100 accidents with serious injuries.

Freeman says the state’s passenger safety law requires everyone in a vehicle whether they’re driving or in the back seat to be properly restrained. He says a ticket is better than a tragedy.

Cut 5 (12) “ …for you.”  

The campaign runs through next Saturday.

________________________________________________________________

Three statewide races will be decided Saturday in the run-off for Attorney General, Secretary of State, and Treasurer. After a voter turnout of only 36 percent in the October primary, political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says it could be even lower for the runoff. He says Republicans are favored to win all three.

Cut 6 (08) “…will increase.”

For areas with legislative or local races in the run-off, Pinsonat expects voter turnout will be higher. For example, the mayor’s race in Lafayette. Incumbent Josh Guillory is in a heated race with the daughter of former Governor Kathleen Blanco, Monique Blanco Boulet…

Cut 7 (06) “…name Blanco.” 

Both Guillory and Boulet are Republicans.

Another contentious runoff is the Shreveport-Bossier City senate race between two current state representatives, Democrats Cedric Glover, and Sam Jenkins. Pinsonat says it’s just too close to call…

Cut 8 (08) “…big question.” 

Polls open at 7 AM and close at 8 PM. For poll locations and a sample ballot use your GeauxVote app.

_____________________________________________

Governor-elect Jeff Landry has concerns about the potential cost of Louisiana’s new policy that allows state workers who welcome a new child to receive six weeks of paid leave. The state has 70-thousand employees and the benefit begins January 1st. Landry questions whether the state can afford it…

Cut 9 (07) “…pay for it” 

Metairie Republican Cameron Henry is expected to be the new House Speaker and Eunice Republican Phillip Devillier the new Senate President. Landry says he’s asked for the financial details of this new policy….

Cut 10 (08) “…a look at it” 

The Louisiana Budget Project says Tennessee, Georgia, Texas and South Carolina have adopted a similar family leave policy for its employees in recent years.

________________________________________________________

Despite the rain this week, the latest drought monitor indicates 99 percent of the Bayou State is still in drought and 88-percent is either in extreme or exceptional drought. Which state climatologist says are the worst two classes of drought.

Cut 11 (10) “…those rains.”

Since August 1^st Keim says Louisiana has received 6-point-four inches of rain, but 15-point-seven inches would be considered normal for that time period. He says that’s only about 40 percent of the normal rainfall amount.

Cut 12 (09) “…really change.”  

But he says there’s some hope rain-wise for the state. On Monday a warm front will move through the state and be quickly followed by a cold front that will produce widespread rain across the state. Keim says some areas could see upwards of one to two inches of rain.

Cut 13 (06) “…we’re in.”

New Orleans po-boy shop owner Mike Serio will attend his 500th consecutive LSU game on Saturday night. Colleen Crain has more…

Cut 1 (40) “…I’m Colleen Crain”

_______________________________________________

Along with the fentanyl crisis, there’s a growing number of overdoses linked to nitazines. Brooke Thorington has more on this deadly synthetic opioid.

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

______________________________________________

Saturday is Election Day and voters will decide on candidates for three vacant statewide offices including Secretary of State. We talked to both candidates competing for the office. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 3 (31) “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

______________________________________________

Election Day is this Saturday. Three statewide elections, four constitutional amendments, several legislative races and other local races will be decided. Joel Watson with the Secretary of State’s office says they provide sample ballots…

Cut 4 (07) “…Eight PM.”

Fortunately, most people are able to vote without any issues. When there are problems, Watson says the Secretary of State’s office and other officials can help…

Cut 5 (10) “…to go.”

While you exercise your right to vote, Watson says you can dedicate that vote to someone who has served to ensure your right…

Cut 6 (10) “…to them.”

Go to SOS.LA.GOV and search Honor Vets Vote to let the Secretary of State’s office know the name of the veteran you want to honor.

_________________________________________________

New Orleans po boy shop owner Mike Serio is the iron man of LSU fans as he’ll attend his 500th consecutive game tomorrow night when the Tigers host Georgia State. His incredible streak started in 1983 and there have been some close calls. In 2005 after Hurricane Katrina, Serio had to scramble after LSU’s home game against Arizona State was shifted to Tempe…

Cut 7 (11) “…pretty wild”

During the 2020 COVID season, Serio watched the LSU-Vanderbilt game from a parking lot in Nashville. He also had to quickly pivot in 2021, when LSU’s game against Missouri was moved to Columbia because of a hurricane.

Not only does Serio go to every game, but he stays until the end, except for one game during a dark time for LSU football, the Curly Hallman years…

Cut 8 (08) “…early Curly” 

Serio says his favorite trip in the SEC is Kentucky. He says LSU’s game at Washington was cool in 2009, but his favorite trip was to Green Bay in 2016…

Cut 9 (08)  “…Yankee Stadium”

The 72-year-old Serio doesn’t expect missing a game anytime soon and is looking forward to next year’s season opener in Las Vegas.

__________________________________________________

Nitazines, a synthetic opioid, are being linked to a growing number of overdose deaths, and St. Tammany Parish Coroner Dr. Charles Preston says their potency is alarming…

Cut 10 (12) “…kinds of stores.”

In the last few years, the use of nitazines has spiked in Louisiana and other parts of the country. But Preston says it’s hard to know just how many are linked to the drug that’s being created in illicit laboratories…

Cut 11 (10) “…for them.” 

Preston says if they suspect someone has died from an overdose, but the toxicology is negative the case is sent to the DEA for further investigation for confirmation.

He says fentanyl test strips do not detect nitazines and if you do consume it, it could take multiple doses of Narcan to be revived.

Cut 12 (11) “…your body.” 

Preston says nitazines were developed in the 1950s but never received FDA approval because they can stop you from breathing.

__________________________________________________

On the ballot, this Saturday is a runoff for Secretary of State between two women, Republican Nancy Landry and Democrat Gwen Collins-Greenup. Landry has served three terms as State Representative for Lafayette and Vermillion Parishes. Landry says serving as the First Assistant Secretary of State makes her the only candidate with experience running a statewide election…

Cut 13 (11) “…that election.”

Landry says if elected she plans to use federal and state dollars in new voting machines that produce a paper copy for voters.

Cut 14 (12) “…their ballot.”

Her opposition is the former clerk of court in East Feliciana Parish, Gwen Collins-Greenup. Collins-Greenup says her experience encompasses many dimensions as she’s also an attorney and an accountant. The Democrat says her first priority is replacing old voting machines and upgrading voter registration databases.

Cut 15 (12) “…are voting.”

Collins-Greenup says she wants to modernize business services, streamline the business filing process, expand business resources, and combat business identity theft. She plans to improve voter access and voter participation…

Cut 16 (13) “…to vote.”

On Saturday’s ballot, voters will also elect a new Attorney General and Treasurer. Voting polls open at 7 am and close at 8 pm.

___________________________________________________

Saturday night’s matchup between 15th-ranked LSU and Georgia State is not a marque matchup on the college football schedule. But Heisman voters will be paying attention to quarterback Jayden Daniels’ performance. Tigers Coach Brian Kelly says Daniels has had little trouble with the increased media coverage that has been associated with his Heisman campaign

Cut 17 (14) “…a great job.”

Daniels’ main competition for the Heisman is Oregon’s Bo Nix or Washington’s Michael Penix Jr, who have similar numbers and better records, Kelly says some of Daniels’ best qualities can’t be measured by statistics or records.

Cut 18 (19) “…quarterback position”

_____________________________________________________

Louisiana Tech will close out the season tomorrow when they face Jacksonville State. The Gamecocks are 7-and-3 and have one of the best defenses in Conference USA. Bulldogs Coach Sonny Cumbie is impressed with their pass rush…

Cut 19 (19) “…identification.” 

Tech has lost five in a row and they have just three wins on the season. Cumbie says a victory on Saturday would be big…

Cut 20 (20) “…this program” 

On his monthly call-in radio program”Ask the Governor,” Governor John Bel Edwards talked about his transition out of office…Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

______________________________________

The Ragin Cajuns’ football stadium is set to undergo a major renovation starting on December 11th. Jeff Palermo has the details…

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

______________________________________

Governor-Elect Jeff Landry has set aside five thousand tickets for the public to attend the inaugural ball on January 8. Landry says tickets can be purchased at one-team-dot-la.

Cut 3 (07) “….served basis.”

The theme of the ball is “Come Back Home Louisiana” and tickets can be purchased for $100 each. Landry says in order to reserve a ticket…

Cut 4 (09) “…that form”

The black-tie ball will be held at the Raising Canes River Center in Baton Rouge. Landry says he wants to give Louisianans the opportunity to be a part of a memorable occasion.

Cut 5 (12) “ …with us.”  

Landry will be inaugurated as Louisiana’s 57^th governor. The ball is set to begin at 7 pm.

________________________________________________________________

Term-limited Governor John Bel Edwards says his transition out of office is going as planned. As he prepares to turn over power to Louisiana’s 57^th governor, Edwards says his team is prepared to hand over the reins to Landry’s administration.

Cut 6 (12) “…be surprised.”

Governor Bobby Jindal, Edwards’s predecessor, left the state in a huge fiscal crisis. Edwards says his administration is leaving the state in a better position.

Cut 7 (09) “…do this.” 

Under the Edwards administration, he expanded Medicare and implemented a $53 hundred teacher pay raise. He has also managed the recovery of Hurricane Delta, Ida, and Laura.

Edwards says he plans to meet with Governor-Elect Landry next week. He says he’s rooting for Landry’s success and hopes he can continue to move the state forward.

Cut 8 (13) “…same direction.” 

Edwards plans to remain in the Bayou State with his family after his term ends.

_____________________________________________

Ragin Cajuns athletics announced today that 65-million dollar renovation of the west side of their football stadium will begin December 11th. Athletic department spokesperson Evan Roberts says the project will transform the gameday experience for Cajun Nation…..

Cut 9 (09) “…chairback seating” 

It’s the most significant improvement to the facility since it opened in 1971. Roberts says fans can view renderings of what the new stadium will look like at build-the-culture-dot-com…

Cut 10 (10) “…going to love” 

The Our Lady of Lourdes Stadium Renovation has been talked about for more than a decade. The new west side of the stadium will be ready for the 2025 stadium. Roberts that means limited seating for the 2024 season…

Cut 11 (11) “…construction.”

_______________________________________________________

Saturday is election day and among the statewide races is the run-off for Treasurer. Republican John Fleming, says his combined experience as a family physician, business owner, former member of Congress, and tenure in the Trump administration make the better choice for the office. He says the role of the treasurer is to protect taxpayers’ money.

Cut 12 (09) “…on investment.”  

Fleming says in addition to making proper investments with state funds, the treasurer also serves on the bond commission and oversees unclaimed property. He says he also wants to work with the Landry administration…

Cut 13 (09) “…young people.”

His opponent is Democrat Dustin Granger, a small business owner and financial advisor. He says he’s the better choice because of his financial background and that he wants to put Louisiana residents first instead of businesses. Granger says for too long, Louisiana has cut investments in people, health, education, and infrastructure…

Cut  14 (12) “…against that.”

Granger says another example of the state giving away money is incentives to insurance companies.

Cut 15 (11) “…get worse.”

In addition to the Treasurer’s race, there are two other statewide run-offs; Secretary of State, Attorney General, and four constitutional amendments on Saturday’s ballot. Voting begins at 7 am and ends at 8 pm.

One person has died from Monday’s attack by a 23-year-old student on the Louisiana Tech’s campus. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (27)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

______________________________________

Governor-elect Jeff Landry’s first cabinet appointment is also the first Black woman to serve as the director of the Department of Environmental Quality.

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

______________________________________

One of the four victims in Monday’s stabbing on the Louisiana Tech campus has passed away from her injuries. Annie Richardson lived in Ruston and was a Louisiana artist. Bulldogs Coach Sonny Cumbie opened his weekly press conference discussing the tragic incident….

Cut 3 (04) “….lives”

Twenty-three-year-old Jacoby Johnson of Rayville now faces a second-degree murder charge and three counts of attempted second-degree murder. Authorities have called the attack on four women as random.

Tech freshman Colin Campbell of Minden saw the attack and took two of the victims to the hospital before first responders arrived.

Cumbie says the team’s thoughts and prayers are with those impacted by this violent act…

Cut 4 (08) “…scary situation”

________________________________________________________________

Governor-elect Jeff Landry Appoints the first Black woman to head the Department of Environmental Quality. The appointment of Aurelia Skipwith Giacometto (Jack-ah-metto) is also his first cabinet appointment. Landry says Giacometto served as Director of U.S. Fish and Wildlife under former President Trump.

Cut 5 (11) “ …of Louisiana.”  

The Indiana native began her career at Monsanto as a lab tech and in addition to a biology degree from Howard, and a master’s in molecular genetics from Purdue, she has a law degree from the University of Kentucky.

Landry says her appointment will attract others to the state.

Cut 6 (10) “…Environmental Quality.”

After leaving her federal appointment with U.S. Fish and Wildlife, Landry says Giacometto returned to the private sector and became an advisor…

Cut 7 (09) “…reliable energy.” 

Landry made the announcement from his transition team headquarters at the University of Louisiana Lafayette.

_____________________________________________

Today marks two years since President Joe Biden signed the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy is a co-author of the legislation and he says Louisiana has received nine-billion dollars from the infrastructure law in the first two years alone…

Cut 8 (11) “…in Baton Rouge” 

Cassidy says one-point-four billion dollars has been invested in broadband, benefiting more than 447-thousand households…

Cut 9 (06) “…affordable internet.” 

The senator’s office says 545 million dollars in funding has already been awarded to Louisiana for ports and waterways to repair infrastructure and strengthen supply chains. Another 368-million dollars has been awarded for infrastructure and coastal resiliency. Cassidy says Louisiana is better off now than it was two years ago because of the infrastructure law…

Cut 10 (09) “…our state” 

_______________________________________________________

Southern University has parted ways with Head Football Coach Eric Dooley after only two seasons. Despite different perspectives, Athletics Director Roman Banks says it was clear a change in leadership of the program was necessary.

Cut 11 (11) “…was best.”

After a 7-5 season last year, the Jaguars struggled to a 5-5 record this year. The Jaguars lost to Prarie View A&M in a blowout-loss of 21-44 last Saturday.

The Jaguars will take on its rival the Grambling State Tigers in the 50^th annual Bayou Classic in less than two weeks. Banks says Assistant Head Coach Terrance Graves and Safeties Coach Sean Wallace will serve as Interim Head Coach for the big game.

Cut 12 (12) “…Bayou Classic.”  

Coach Graves is the only coach in the history of the Bayou Classic to coach both Southern University and Grambling State as the Interim Head Coach.

Acadiana Representative Phillip DeVillier is the Republicans’ choice for the next Louisiana Speaker of the House. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

______________________________________

The Governor’s Office has kicked off the “56 for 56” social media campaign chronicling the progress of the state under Governor Edwards leadership for his remaining 56 days. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 2 (33)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

______________________________________

It appears that Eunice Representative Phillip DeVillier is the Republicans’ choice for Louisiana Speaker of the House. LA-Politics-dot-com Publisher Jeremy Alford says he’s never seen a legislature so pro-active, and they need to get a leg up because…

Cut 3 (10) “….right off the bat.”

And there’s a chance another special session could be called before the regular session begins in March.

DeVillier has strong Cajun roots like Governor-elect Jeff Landry, and he was first elected to represent Acadiana District 41 in 2015.  As he begins his third and final term in the legislature, Alford says DeVillier has very strong ties to business and industry.

Cut 4 (11) “…in January.”

Alford says with the Governor’s race, and the majority of House and Senate races decided last month, there’s already a huge jump on the next term of state government.

Cut 5 (08) “ …early start.”  

Metairie Senator Cameron Henry is expected to be the Republicans’ choice for Senate President.

________________________________________________________________

The Govenor’s Office has launched “56 for 56” – a social media campaign highlighting one of the governor’s accomplishments every day for his final 56 days in office. While the series highlights the progress of Governor Edwards, Digital Creator for the Governor’s Office Tyler Walker says it also celebrates Louisianans who supported and worked with Governor Edwards since 2016.

Cut 6 (13) “…we’ve made.”

The first post highlights Edwards first day in office where he signed an executive order expanding Medicaid. Walker says the campaign will also recap economic development projects, the bipartisan criminal justice reform, and…

Cut 7 (09) “…to highlight.” 

The public can follow the “56 for 56” campaign on the Governor’s social media accounts and use the hashtag #56for56. Walker encourages Louisianans to join in and comment on their favorite state improvement during Edwards tenure.

Cut 8 (11) “….this week.” 

_____________________________________________

The question looms if incoming lawmakers can meet the January 15^th deadline to redraw the state’s congressional map to include a second majority-minority district.  Outgoing Senate President Page Cortez says it’s best to ask for a deadline extension because it’s not ideal for current lawmakers to meet.

Cut 9 (11) “…could pass.” 

And if Edwards vetoed the maps, because of the limited timeline, Cortez says there would be a veto override session for incoming lawmakers and Governor-elect Landry.  Cortez says they’ll have a better idea next week of where things stand.

Cut 10 (08) “…take it up.” 

Cortez says he hasn’t discussed it with Governor Edwards if he plans to call for a special session before he leaves office. Cortez believes Edwards is waiting to see if Judge Shelly Dick grants an extension or not.

Cut 11 (08) “…additional time.”

Governor-elect Landry and new lawmakers will be sworn in office one week before the January 15^th deadline.

A suspect is in custody after a stabbing at Louisiana Tech’s campus in Ruston this morning. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

______________________________________

Yes, that’s rain falling from the sky in south Louisiana, Brooke Thorington has more.

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

______________________________________

State Police say a two-vehicle crash on LA 415 in West Baton Rouge Parish claimed the life of a minor Saturday evening. Trooper Christian Reed says nine-year-old Braelynn Washington of Port Allen was a front passenger in a Chevrolet Blazer when it was struck by a Jeep Cherokee. 

Cut 3 (09) “….the Jeep.”

The Chevrolet headed south on LA 415 attempted to make a left turn at LA 986 when the Jeep headed south hit the vehicle. The occupants in the Jeep were wearing seatbelts and were not injured. Reed says the exact cause of the accident remains under investigation

Cut 4 (09) “..to this.”

The driver and rear passenger in the Chevrolet were not wearing seatbelts and sustained moderate injuries. Reed says the law requires every occupant in a car to be properly restrained in a seat belt or child restraint.

Cut 5 (12) “ …car seat.”  

Reed says certified car seat technicians are available every Tuesday from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm at 17801 Highland Road to help properly install safety seats.

________________________________________________________________

Rain, something we haven’t seen much of for quite some time, is falling in south Louisiana. State Climatologist Barry Keim says a storm system in the Gulf, off the Texas coast, is expected to track eastward along Louisiana’s coastline today, tomorrow, and part of Wednesday.

Cut 6 (12) “…about that.”

Keim says any rain is welcome considering 99 percent of the state is in drought and 88 percent of Louisiana is in either extreme or exceptional drought. Since October 1^st there’s only been an average of one-point-nine inches of rain in the state.

Cut 7 (09) “…since October 1st.” 

When you look at rainfall amounts for the year, Keim says Louisiana is far behind the normal average…

Cut 8 (11) “….this week.” 

Keim says the system is bringing mild temps in the 50s and 60s for the next few days to the state.

_____________________________________________

I-55 Northbound in St. John the Baptist Parish reopened today after being closed for four weeks. State Transportation spokesperson Rodeny Mallett urges motorists to always pay attention to changing weather conditions and react accordingly.

Cut 9 (11) “…the crash.” 

Repairs for I-55 north began on November 6^th. Both directions of the interstate were impacted in the crash, but damage to the northbound lanes was more extensive. Fortunately for commuters, Mallett says there was the nearby alternative route of US-51.

Cut 10 (10) “…where you’re going.” 

Because road conditions can change quickly Mallett urges motorists to use their hands-free travel apps like 511-LA, Waze, or Google Maps.

Mallett reminds motorists to always buckle up, pay attention to the road, never drive impaired, avoid tailgating other vehicles, and when weather conditions change slow down…

Cut 11 (11) “…we had.”

More than 160 vehicles were involved in the October 23^rd crash and seven people were killed.

“Born to Fly” – a documentary about the greatest pole vaulter of all time Mondo Duplantis will make its way to Lafayette on Saturday at 6:45 pm. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

_______________________________________________

 Louisiana Tech announces an enhancement to their Online learning. Colleen Crain has the story…

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

______________________________________________

A federal appeals court orders Louisiana’s Legislature to approve a new Congressional district map with two majority-minority districts by January 15th. Jeff Palermo has the story

Cut 3 (31) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

______________________________________________

A screening for the documentary “Born to Fly” about former LSU and world champion pole vaulter Mondo Duplantis rise to fame will be held Saturday at the Acadiana Center for the Arts in Lafayette. Filmmaker Brennan Robideaux says he documented Duplantis journey for six years.

Cut 4 (12) “…around him.”

Robideaux reached out to then-17-year-old Duplantis after he broke the high school pole vaulting record while attending Lafayette High School.

Duplantis is from Lafayette but began receiving offers from the Swedish Athletics Association in 2015 to compete for the Scandinavian country. Robideaux says he’s always asked why Mondo wears the yellow and blue colors for Sweden and not red, white, and blue.

Cut 5 (13) “…the film.”

The documentary was also nominated for the Jury Award for Best Documentary at the Austin Film Festival. The Louisiana premiere will take place at the New Orleans Film Festival this weekend.

Rodideaux says the goal now is to get the film distributed across the U-S.

Cut 6 (11) “…watch it.”

Duplantis currently holds the world record for pole vaulting at 20 feet five and a fourth inches.

_________________________________________________

After more than a six-month blackout, the lights are set to go back on in Hollywood South as a deal was reached between the actors union and studios. Director of Louisiana Entertainment Chris Stelly says it’s good news for the businesses and citizens who depend on film production in Louisiana.

Cut 7 (13) “…motion pictures.”

The new three-year contract was valued at more than one billion dollars and included increases in minimum salaries, and benefits, as well as a new residual for streaming programs. Stelly expects production to resume within a few weeks.

Cut 8 (10) “…we’re ready.” 

Stelly says the camera was rolling on four to five productions before being halted by the longest strike ever for actors. He says the true impact of the strike is unknown.

Cut 9 (11)  “…so recently.”

__________________________________________________

Louisiana Tech is launching Tech Online, an enhancement to its online and distance learning. Director of Online Learning Initiative, Jerona Washington is excited about the services they can offer students seeking degrees or certifications…

Cut 10 (09) “…their organization.”

Tech Online offers programs including graduate degrees up to doctorates. Washington says they even accommodate programs that require internships…

Cut 11 (12) “…supervision from.” 

Washington says one of the most popular programs has attracted students from all over…

Cut 12 (08) “…the country.” 

__________________________________________________

A big development in the lawsuit against Louisiana’s current Congressional District map. The U-S Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals is ordering state legislators to draw a new Congressional map by January 15th. A map that has two majority-minority districts. The current map has one. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says this is a difficult assignment as a new legislature is sworn in on January 8th….

Cut 13 (11) “…so many implications”

Governor-elect Jeff Landry says he’ll call a special session on January 8th, Inauguration Day, so the new Legislature can redraw a Congressional district map that must feature two districts in Louisiana that favor a Black candidate winning. Pinsonat says redistricting is a difficult process and freshmen lawmakers will need to get caught up to speed quickly…

Cut 14 (10) “…period.”

Louisiana’s Constitution says the earliest a special session can start is seven days after one is called. So if it’s January 8th, the special session can not start until the 15th. Pinsonat says you could say this will be Governor-elect Landry’s first big challenge…

Cut 15 (12) “…Jeff Landry”

It’s possible Governor John Bel Edwards will call a special session to address this. A spokesperson for the governor says it’s to be determined if he’ll call a redistricting special session.

___________________________________________________

For the fifth straight game, the Saints started slow and could not come back from a 24-3 halftime deficit as they ended up losing in Minnesota 27-19. New Orleans gave up nearly 300 yards of offense in the first half and backup quarterback Jameis Winston could not lead the Black and Gold all the way back. Coach Dennis Allen…

Cut 16 (16) “…all the time.”

Winston came in for an injured Derek Carr who suffered both a shoulder injury and a concussion on a hard hit. The shoulder injury is reportedly not serious. Marshon Lattimore and Michael Thomas also suffered injuries. The Saints head into the bye week and Allen wants his players to get away from football for a little bit…

Cut 17 (17) “…be successful”

The Saints are now 5-5 and in first place in the NFC South heading into the bye week.

______________________________________________________

LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels put on a performance in Tiger Stadium on Saturday night that’s never been accomplished in FBS college football. Daniels threw for more than 350 yards and rushed for more than 200 yards in the Tigers 52-35 win over Florida. Daniels says he could not do it by himself…

Cut 18 (18) “…opponent”

Daniels threw for 372 yards and three touchdowns. He also rushed for 234 yards on 12 carries and had two scores. Coach Brian Kelly says that type of performance should make Daniels the favorite to win the Heisman…

Cut 19 (25) “…most popular player” 

There was another controversial call involving targeting that went against LSU on Saturday. Senior safety Andre Sam was ejected from the game in the second quarter while trying to tackle Florida running back Montrell Johnson. After a lengthy review, it was determined Sam was guilty of targeting. Kelly begs to differ…

Cut 20 (16) “..play football” 

The family of slain Northwestern State football player Ronnie Caldwell has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the university and the apartment complex where he was shot. That was just three days after Caldwell told his parents that his roommate had threatened him with a gun. Attorney Johnathan Cox says they want to know if Campus Advantage ran a background check on the roommate

Cut 14 (05) “…wasn’t done.”

State offices are closed today in honor of Veteran’s Day. The Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs is holding several ceremonies. And because it’s important to continue to raise awareness about veterans and their sacrifices, LDVA Spokesperson Brandee Patrick is encouraging servicemen and women to remain active.

Cut 5 (08) “…stay engaged.”

—

Rain is headed Louisiana’s way this weekend. State Climatologist Barry Keim says highs in north Louisiana will be in the 60s and in the 70s for the southern half.

Cut 12 (11) “…into Tuesday.” 

For his part, LSU Head Coach Brian Kelly has his focus on Florida’s transfer quarterback Graham Mertz this Saturday as the Gators QB has thrown for nearly 2,500 yards, 17 touchdowns, and only 2 interceptions. Kelly says he recruited Mertz out of high school…

Cut 16 (20) “…playmakers.”

Governor Edwards along with LDVA Secretary Col Joey Strickland will honor veterans at a wreath-laying ceremony today. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

_______________________________________________

The Louisiana Office of Alcohol and Tobacco Control is planning to release a list of vape products on Friday that can be legally sold. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

______________________________________________

Governor-elect Jeff Landry is under fire for a transition committee focused on New Orleans that doesn’t include city leaders. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (29) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

______________________________________________

This afternoon the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs will host a wreath-laying ceremony at the Veterans Memorial Park, adjacent to the State Capitol. LDVA spokesperson Brandee Patrick says Secretary Col Joey Strickland has been working with the governor to revitalize the park.

Cut 4 (08) “…their sacrifice.”

Four wreaths will be placed before today’s ceremony at the Heritage Monument, which honors African American veterans, the Gold Star Monument, the bust of George Washington in honor of Purple Heart veterans and the Minute Man statue for state guardsmen.

Patrick says Strickland will be joined by Governor John Bel Edwards in placing wreaths to represent each branch of the military as well as those who are Prisoners of War and Missing in Action.

Cut 5 (08) “…leave behind.”

Earlier in the day at the Southeast Louisiana Veterans Cemetery in Slidell Patrick says they will hold burial honors for 23 unclaimed veterans. She says it’s our duty to ensure those veterans receive a dignified burial and final resting place of honor.

Cut 6 (07) “…we’ve lost.”

There are a number of Veteran’s Day ceremonies taking place over the next few days, for a listing visit VetAffairs-dot-la-gov.

_________________________________________________

The Louisiana Office of Alcohol and Tobacco Control is planning to publish a list on Friday of vape products that retailers can sell. A state new law requires vape products to be registered with A-T-C in order to be legally sold. Agency Commissioner Ernest Legier says for a vape product to be on the registry, it must receive FDA approval…

Cut 7 (08) “…pre-marketing list.”

It’s expected most flavored vapes will not meet the requirements to be on Louisiana’s VAPE directory. Legier says the law is an attempt to look out for the well-being of its citizens, especially younger people…

Cut 8 (10) “…doing that.” 

The Louisiana Convenience and Vape Association has filed a lawsuit in an effort to stop the ban of certain vape products. The association claims the registry is unconstitutional. But Legier disagrees

Cut 9 (08)  “…safety interests.”

__________________________________________________

Governor-elect Jeff Landry has been criticized for forming an exploratory committee on the city of New Orleans that doesn’t include city leaders. He says right now the committee is solely focused on identifying concerns.

Cut 10 (09) “…city functions.”

The Republican says committee members plan to meet with city leaders when they have solutions.

Cut 11 (09) “…of Louisiana.” 

No one from the mayor’s office, the Orleans Parish DA’s office nor the New Orleans Police Department were asked to sit on the committee. The Attorney General campaigned that he was the best candidate to address rising crime, an issue that has plagued the Crescent City.

Cut 12 (04) “…major problems.” 

The committee is chaired by former Bollinger Shipyards CEO Boysie Bollinger.

__________________________________________________

The Food and Drug Administration approved Zepbound, a new type two diabetes drug for chronic weight management by pharmaceutical giant Eli Lily. Director of Bariatric Medicine at LSU Health New Orleans, Dr. Catherine Hudson says more than 22 percent average weight loss was seen in obese patients but for diabetics…

Cut 13 (11) “…weight loss.”

Zepbound targets how the body breaks down sugar and fat. It’s part of a new class of drugs that mimic a hormone that helps reduce food intake and appetite. Like similar drugs, Hudson says the drug will be administered by injection.

Cut 14 (09) “…a week.”

Some side effects associated with Zepbound are gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, constipation, and diarrhea.

Hudson says the cost may put the drug out of reach for many people given only a small amount of insurance providers are willing to cover weight loss medication.

Cut 15 (13) “…for obesity.”

The FDA approved the drug for adults with obesity or who are overweight with at least one weight-related condition.

___________________________________________________

The Ragin Cajuns can become bowl eligible for a school-record sixth consecutive season with a win tonight at home against Southern Miss. U-L Lafayette is coming off a tough loss to Arkansas State last Saturday. Coach Michael Desormeaux wants his team to play hard for 60 minutes…

Cut 16 (19) “…gonna be.”

Chandler Fields will start at quarterback tonight for the injured Zeon Chriss. Fields will make his first start after starting five games last season. Desormeaux says they believe Fields can get the job done…

Cut 17 (17) “…play for us.”

Southern Miss is just 2-and-7 on the season, but they have one of the best running backs in the country in Frank Gore Junior who has rushed for nearly 1,000 yards, In his last two games he has 378 rushing yards and three touchdowns, Desormeaux says Gore is a handful…

Cut 18 (13) “…dialed in there.”

Kick-off is at 6:30

______________________________________________________

LSU continues to prepare for Saturday night’s game against the Florida Gators. The main goal out there for the Tigers is to achieve a second straight ten-win season. Offensive guard Garrett Dellinger believes the Bayou Bengals will be motivated…

Cut 19 (12) “…ton of stuff to play for.” 

Jayden Daniels returned to practice yesterday as he makes his way out of concussion protocol. Kelly has yet to name a starting QB. Wide receiver Kyren Lacy says they can win with either Daniels or Garrett Nussmeier

Cut 20 (09) “…needs us.”