Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser addressed the elephant in the room when asked his thoughts on the state GOP.

Cut 1 (29)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon’s proposal to create a 45-million dollar fund that would be used to attract additional private insurance companies to Louisiana is met with skepticism. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (35)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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It ruffled some feathers when the state Republican Party endorsed Attorney General Jeff Landry for governor before any other GOP candidates announced their intentions. Lt Governor Billy Nungesser, who’s opted to seek re-election had some harsh words for party leader Louis Gurvich on the Newell Normand show on WWL Radio in New Orleans.

Cut 3 (10) “…endorse.” 

Nungesser says party leadership bullied committee members into endorsing Landry and not only has it upset Louisiana GOP members it’s being noticed by Republicans in other states also.

Cut 4 (13)  “…from the party.” 

Not only did Nungesser call for Gurvich to resign, but he also accused some party members of collecting a commission for fundraising and that the Landry campaign is funneling money to the party as a payback for the endorsement.

Cut 5 (08) “…an embarrassment.”

In addition to Landry, three other Republicans and one Independent have announced their gubernatorial candidacy.

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An ongoing labor study by fiscal website “WalletHub” ranks Louisiana among the top states for people leaving their jobs. Wallethub.com analyst Jill Gonzales says, even in the face of record high inflation, folks are choosing to just quit work…:

Cut 6 (08)  “…higher side of things.” 

Gonzales and others call it “the Great Resignation;” an emerging trend of walking out on one’s employment, for one reason or another. Alaska ranks highest, with over 4-percent of its workforce resigning over the past year. Louisiana is at #4, with 3.4-percent. Gonzales says this is having a negative effect on employers…:

Cut 7 (10)  “…of high inflation.” 

Gonzales says job burnout is the prime factor making people quit. Better opportunities are also behind many resignations, but a great many simply re-evaluated how and where they want to work in the wake of the pandemic. She says employers are also re-evaluating things like pay scales, benefit packages and more…and they can get that done…:

Cut 8 (04)  “…slowly but surely.” 

See the report at “WalletHub.com/edu”

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Five-year-old was killed in Jennings Thursday evening after police say his six-year-old cousin got a hold of a gun and it went off. Jennings Police Chief Danny Semmes says they received a call from a neighbor who was approached by the babysitter of the five children, and he asked for help.

Cut 9 (11) “…his cousin.” 

According to American Press the victim’s name is Auden Gaines.

The child later died at the hospital. The 26-year-old male babysitter along with the child’s aunt Kurstin Richard (ree-shard) have been arrested and the other children were taken to a child advocacy center in Lake Charles.

The children in the home were related and range in age from three to eight years.

Semmes says it’s one of the most tragic cases he’s ever seen in his career

Cut 10 (11) “…everybody involved.” 

Semmes says the victim’s mother and aunt live at the home along with four other children. The babysitter and the victim’s aunt were arrested and taken to the Jefferson Davis Parish Jail.

Cut 11 (11)  “…back stolen.”

Richard is charged with principal negligent homicide, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and cruelty to a juvenile.

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Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon made his case to state lawmakers today on why a special session is needed next month to address the big decline in private insurance companies willing to provide property coverage. Donelon believes wants to give insurance companies a financial incentive to write policies in coastal areas…

Cut 12 (08) “…incentive program.”

Donelon says a similar incentive program used after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita decreased the number of homeowners who needed coverage from Citizens Insurance, a state-run property insurer more expensive than private insurance.

There are some lawmakers who prefer waiting until the regular legislative session to create the incentive fund, but Donelon says that just delays the time many homeowners will be subject to high rates in order to be covered by Citizens

Cut 13 (10) “rate increase” 

House Speaker Clay Schexnayder is skeptical of Donelon’s plan, he says there’s no guarantee this will result in new or more private insurance companies taking on more policies..

Cut 14 (08)   “…it’s a maybe.”

Donelon didn’t name the companies, but he says there are seven private insurers anxious to take advantage of the state’s incentive program.

During the joint budget legislative committee meeting, House Appropriations Chairman Jerome Zeringue questioned whether it would be better if they put the 45-million dollars to help policyholders who have Citizens

Cut 15 (13) “… Citizens”

A decision on whether to hold a special session in early February will need to be made soon.

Prices at the pump are creeping back up. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Actor Alec Baldwin will be charged in New Mexico for the shooting death of a film crew member in 2021. Jeff Palermo talks with a Louisiana legal expert…:

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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You might have noticed you’re paying more at the pump, and according to Triple-A the average price for a gallon of regular gas in Louisiana is up to $3.06. Triple-A fuel analyst  Don Redman says that’s up 30 cents from a month ago and despite low demand and a healthy supply…

Cut 3 (07) “…$80 a barrel.” 

Redman traditionally gas prices in January are among the lowest due to a decrease in demand. Just a month ago oil prices hovered around $70 a barrel and it looked as if gas prices were going to stabilize into Spring. He says however all of that reversed upon reports of an improving economy.

Cut 4 (11)  “…higher prices.” 

With the uptick in oil prices credited to economic improvements, Redman says as for the outlook on gas prices, OPEC’s output will play a large factor.

Cut 5 (10) “…the summer.”

Redman says prices are very similar to where we were a year ago and 2022 was a record-breaking year for high gas prices.

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Actor Alec Baldwin will be charged in the shooting death of a cinematographer while making a western movie in 2021. The charge will be involuntary manslaughter. Baton Rouge criminal defense attorney Franz Borghardt says a conviction will require proving Baldwin was grossly negligent in the shooting, which won’t be easy for prosecutors…:

Cut 6 (07)  “…likely to be loaded.” 

Baldwin insists he did not pull the trigger. He and weapons specialist Hannah Gutierrez Reed are charged in the death of Halyna Hutchins on the set of the film “Rust.” Borghardt feels the Santa Fe, New Mexico district attorney has a tall task ahead, considering what is already known…:

Cut 7 (07)  “…Mr. Baldwin.” 

A civil lawsuit filed against the film producers, by the victim’s husband and son, has been settled. Baldwin was not named in that suit. Borghardt says Baldwin will almost certainly have top-notch legal representation for a case that can often be hard to prove…:

Cut 8 (09)  “.represent Mr. Baldwin.” 

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Governor John bel Edwards will present a budget for next fiscal year to lawmakers in a few weeks, and the state has $728-million in a surplus money from the last fiscal year to spend. Governor Edwards says much of that money will go towards ongoing infrastructure projects that have gone up in price…

Cut 9 (09) “…inflation” 

Edwards will present his budget proposal to state lawmakers on February 17th. The governor says inflation is driving up the costs of ongoing infrastructure projects so some of the surplus dollars will go towards completing those projects

Cut 10 (08) “…left” 

Edwards is entering the final year in office and is trying to get as many infrastructure projects done. He says there will be hundreds of millions of dollars in surplus money and even recurring dollars spent on improving roads and ports…

Cut 11 (12)  “…some degree”

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State Treasurer John Schroder and Lake Charles Attorney Hunter Lundy released their gubernatorial announcement ads today. Lundy is running as an independent and at the moment he’s the only non-Republican in the race…

Cut 12 (10) “…I’ll do.”

Lundy describes himself as a Christian, a lawyer and a small businessman. He says he’ll operate state government in the best interests of the public, not the special interests….

Cut 13 (09) “right then” 

Schroder served in the Louisiana House of Representatives for over ten years and he was elected State Treasurer in 2017. The businessman from Covington wants to make Louisiana a great state…

Cut 14 (08)   “…fat cats last.”

Schroder says education, improving the economy and reducing crime are his major priorities…

Cut 15 (16) “… our community”

There is another entry into the Louisiana Governor’s race, it’s 36-year-old Mandeville Representative Richard Nelson. Michelle Southern has the story…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Michelle Southern”

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A former LSU quarterback has found a new home. Jeff Palermo has the details…

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Another Republican has declared their candidacy for governor. Mandeville Representative Richard Nelson is also the youngest candidate in the race at the age of 36. In addition to his one term in the legislature, Nelson says he brings seven years of experience working in the foreign service to the table.

Cut 3 (07) “…running for.” 

Nelson is a proponent of tax reform and elementary education. A graduate of LSU Law School, the Mandeville native also graduated top of his class in Biological Engineering. In addition to representing the 89^th District, Nelson runs his own consulting firm. In 2021 Nelson authored a bill to legalize the recreational use of marijuana, tax and regulate it.  Even though he says he’s never used it he’s for legalizing cannabis.

Cut 4 (10)  “…my opinion.” 

The former Eagle Scout and his wife Ashley have three boys. Nelson says he’s a moderate Republican and that sets him apart from other state leaders who are stuck in the past.

Cut 5 (09) “…Connecticut or something.”

Nelson joins, Attorney General Jeff Landry, Treasurer John Schroder, Representative Sharon Hewitt, and Independent Lake Charles attorney Hunter Lundy in the governor’s race.

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Now that Republican state representative Richard Nelson has entered the governor’s race, the attention focuses on Congressman Garret Graves. Among potential candidates from the Republican side, he’s yet to give an indication. LSU Political Science Professor Robert Hogan says Graves has to make sure he has the resources…

Cut 6 (08)  “…hat in the ring” 

Graves has said he’s hearing from a lot of folks who want him to run, but when he’ll make a decision is not known. At the moment, the Republican candidates for governor are Attorney General Jeff Landry. Treasurer John Schroder, state senator Sharon Hewitt and now Nelson. Lake Charles Attorney Hunter Lundy says he’ll run for as an independent. Hogan says out of the Republican candidates, Graves has the best chance at getting votes from Democrats…

Cut 7 (10)  “..right now” 

Graves is 50-years-old and he’s served Louisiana’s Sixth Congressional District since 2015. Hogan says Graves just won a fifth two-year term and is gaining seniority…

Cut 8 (11)  “.House of Representatives” 

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Baton Rouge Police have arrested a juvenile in connection with the shooting and robbery of his 10th-grade Broadmoor High School classmate as he walked to his bus stop this morning. Sgt. L ’Jean McKneely says the victim was taken to the hospital.

Cut 9 (08) “…this robbery” 

After being shot the victim ran home for help and paramedics responded to a neighborhood off Sherwood Forest Boulevard. McKneely says the incident did not happen on school grounds.

Cut 10 (09) “…previous incident.” 

East Baton Rouge Parish Schools Superintendent Sito Narcisse says the victim was shot in his midsection.

Cut 11 (06)  “…families right now.”

The 15-year-old suspect is being held at a juvenile detention center and faces two counts of armed robbery

Chairman of the Louisiana Oyster Task Force says the $2.5 billion Mid-Barataria Sediment Diversion project will wipe out the state’s seafood industry. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The state’s Republican Party advises Congressman Garret Graves to stay out of the Governor’s race. Kevin Gallagher has more…:

Cut 2 (34)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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Chairman of the Louisiana Oyster Task Force says the $2.5 billion Mid-Barataria Sediment Diversion project will devastate the state’s seafood industry. Mitch Jurisich says the project scheduled to begin in March will put him and others like him out of business permanently.

Cut 3 (11) “…severely impacted.” 

Jurisich questions the project’s intent and is crying foul. He says the plan to build twenty-one square miles in the next 50 years but lose 50 square miles makes no sense.

Cut 4 (12)  “…big money.” 

And after what happened in 2012 at Mardi Gras Pass, there are fears this project devastate those who make their livelihood along the west bank of Plaquemines and Jefferson Parishes and into Lafourche Parish. With less than two months until the project begins, Jurisich says they plan to file legal action.

Cut 5 (10) “…only option.”

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The head of the Louisiana Republican Party advises Congressman Garret Graves to stay out of the race for Governor this fall. On the party’s Facebook page LAGOP chairman Louis Gurvich says (quote) “I believe he would be making a terrible mistake by leaving Congress for the governor’s mansion.” Political analyst Roy Fletcher says Gurvich is trying to build and maintain a unified GOP front in state elections…:

Cut 6 (09)  “…only one Republican.” 

Gurvich does not criticize Graves in his article. He instead lays out a case for why he’s a greater asset to Louisiana in D.C., and winning the Governor’s race would mean him letting his seat in Congress go, with a very narrow GOP margin of power there. Fletcher says Graves doubtlessly has also considered these points, and also his own ability to raise needed campaign cash…:

Cut 7 (11)  “…into consideration.” 

Gurvich does ask, with the state GOP clearly backing Attorney General Jeff Landry, (quote) “why change all that for the sake of one congressman’s ego?” Fletcher says he feels the state GOP wants to circumvent the spirit of Louisiana’s Open Primary system, which he feels is as viable now as it was when first implemented…

Cut 8 (09)  “..get in the Big Dance.” 

“Facebook.com/lagop” to read Gurvich’s entire article. Congressman Graves has not made any announcement about the fall election.

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The Louisiana State Police is investigating a two-vehicle wreck on Interstate 49 last night in St. Landry Parish that killed an unlicensed 17-year-old driver. Trooper Thomas Gossen says Jaquanta Jason of Washington was traveling at a high rate of speed

Cut 9 (10) “…coroner’s office” 

Gossen says this crash is unfortunately an example of the many driving issues troopers encounter on a daily basis…

Cut 10 (09) “…as well” 

The driver of the 18-wheeler was restrained and non injured. Gossen says Jason was speeding, not buckled up and did not have a driver’s license…

Cut 11 (07)  “…with her.”

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After 5 years in Lafayette, the prestigious Louisiana Seafood Cook-Off moves this year to Lake Charles. The next annual event will be held at the city’s Golden Nugget casino and entertainment complex. Speaking at the Golden Nugget Tuesday morning, Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says Lake Charles is deserving, after fighting its way back from two devastating hurricanes…:

Cut 12 (11) “…your hard work.”

The big event comes up June 27^th at the Golden Nugget in Lake Charles. The search is on now for a field of competing chefs to see whose seafood cuisine reigns supreme. The LA. Seafood Cook-Off moves periodically, and Nungesser says selecting Lake Charles as its new home was easy to do…:

Cut 13 (12) “excited about it.” 

The Louisiana Seafood Promotion & Marketing Board, a division of Nungesser’s office, holds the annual cook-off which attracts huge crowds year after year and helps promote quality Louisiana Seafood to the nation and the world. Executive Director Chef Samantha Carrol says winning this year’s cook-off could be a springboard to bigger things for one Louisiana chef…:

Cut 14 (08)   “…their own television shows.”

Legislation to require each public school classroom to display “In God, We Trust” in Louisiana has been filed for the regular session in April. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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LSU’s spring semester began on a somber note as a student was killed in a traffic accident near the campus early Sunday morning. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A new study from the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy indicates if Louisiana updates its building energy codes, energy use in new buildings could be cut by as much as 20% in residential and 32 percent in commercial structures. Mike Waite, is a senior manager with ACEEE…

Cut 3 (08) “…electric grid.” 

Waite says the benefits of the new building energy codes are immediate. He says Louisiana is still operating under 2009 national guidelines that are updated every three years, which means Louisiana is four versions behind.

Cut 4 (12)  “…of this year.” 

The annual savings on energy costs for the average Louisiana home built under the newest guidelines, Waite says is significant.

Cut 5 (07) “…in utility bills.”

ACEEE says Louisiana is among the top ten states that would see the biggest impact upon the adoption of the newest building codes.

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Among the bills filed for the upcoming legislative session in April is one requiring every public school classroom and even postsecondary institutions, to display the national motto “In God We Trust,” Haughton Representative Dodie Horton authored the bill.

Cut 6 (11)  “…must trust in God.” 

Horton says the current law requires it to be displayed in each building but when she asked her grandchildren if they’ve ever seen such a sign, they said they haven’t. Horton says the bill merely amends a current law.

Cut 7 (10)  “…every school.” 

The bill also does not require public funds to purchase the displays. Horton says she did not want to burden the schools with an unfunded mandate.

Cut 8 (07)  “..these posters.” 

Horton expects the legislation will reach the governor’s desk for signature.

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A statue of LSU legend Seimone Augustus shooting a basketball was unveiled in front of a large crowd outside of the Pete Maravich Assembly Center on Sunday. Augustus is considered the greatest women’s basketball player ever from Louisiana and is humbled by the honor…

Cut 9 (12) “…for everyone.” 

Augustus led LSU to three straight final four appearances from 2004 to 2006 and was the consensus national player of the year her final two seasons. The legend of Augustus grew before she arrived at LSU, after standout seasons at Capitol High School in Baton Rouge. Associate Head Coach Bob Starkey was on LSU’s staff when Augustus signed…

Cut 10 (09) “…it’s true.” 

Augustus is the first female athlete with a statue on LSU’s campus…

Cut 11 (09)  “…proof of that.”

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Today is Martin Luther King Junior Day, which is a National Day of Service. Volunteers around the state this week are packing together 200-thousand meals for food banks statewide. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana is a co-sponsor . CEO Michael Tipton says food insecurity is a critical issue in Louisiana

Cut 12 (12) “…important issue”

A food packing event will take place tomorrow in New Orleans. On Wednesday, Monroe and Thibodaux. Lafayette and Lake Charles and Thursday. Entergy is part of this effort. Spokesperson Jody Montelaro says food banks need the help after the holidays…

Cut 13 (12) “…holiday season” 

Montelaro says it makes the heart feel good to help out people who struggle to find quality meals every day…

Cut 14 (06)   “…feel great”

Senator Bill Cassidy is proud of what he’s accomplished for Louisiana over the past year. Kevin Gallagher reports…:

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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The state’s favorite crustacean is not immune to inflation, and you should expect to pay $2.00 a pound more than last year. Brooke Thorington has more on an app that tracks prices.

Cut 2 (29)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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There are now four announced candidates running for governor this fall, so how is the race stacking up so far? Kevin Gallagher has that…:

Cut 3 (33) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.” 

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U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy is proud of what he achieved in 2022. The senator says he pushed through a law advocating for pregnant moms in the workplace, to help veterans to better transition to civilian life and to assure you get no unexpected medical bills. He says he also worked to assure Louisiana received sufficient disaster recovery aid…:

Cut 4 (11)  “…go down the list.”

Cassidy says he’s worked to bring federal flood insurance back to a reasonable cost, introduced legislation to get illegal immigration under control and supported the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs act, which will bring millions to Louisiana for road and bridge improvements, including $150-million for a new I-10 bridge in Lake Charles…:

Cut 5 (10) “…road and highways.”

Cassidy says Louisiana sent him to D.C. to deliver solutions and that’s what he has tried to do. He says he is particularly proud of passing his “No Surprises Act” last January which prevents patients from receiving medical bills they were not expecting for from procedures they thought insurance covered…:

Cut 6 (09)  “…of this legislation.” 

Cassidy says he looks forward to bringing home more for Louisiana in the year ahead.

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Rates of COVID-19 cases and deaths surge among nursing home residents and staff nationwide including here in Louisiana, because most residents and staff are not up to date on their COVID-19 vaccinations. That’s according to the Director of Advocacy for the AARP, Andrew Muhl….

Cut 7 (10) “…the booster.”

According to AARP’s Nursing Home COVID-19 Dashboard, cases among residents nationwide increased 57% towards the end of December. In Louisiana, resident cases went from 460 to just over one-thousand, while staff cases went up from 245 to 533 during the same period. Muhl says it’s unfortunate

Cut 8 (14)  “.staying safe..”

Nursing home deaths nationwide increased by 14% during the end of December. Since the beginning of the pandemic 3,626 nursing home residents have died from the virus, and 13 more died at the end of December. Muhl says they’ll continue to advocate for better safety measures.

Cut 9 (14)  “… They’ve been taking .”

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You’ll want to budget accordingly for crawfish boils this year, with prices up $2.00 a pound compared to this time last year.  Crawfish App averages data from more than 16 hundred businesses and app co-founder Laney King says while she tries to remain optimistic…

Cut 10 (12)  “…this year.”

King says inflation has caused base prices for crawfish farmers to double in the last few years along with an increase in fuel prices.  It’s not just customers that are upset, King says retailers are equally frustrated about the increase in prices. While your favorite store to pick up mudbugs is getting the blame for the higher prices, she says they’re just paying what farmers and wholesalers are charging them.

Cut 11 (10)  “…no denying.”

With prices up, King says you might want to compare prices by using the Crawfish App to see if you can find a better price somewhere else besides your usual stop.  She says as the weather warms up, hopefully, prices will go down. decline.

Cut 12 (09) “…down a little.”

The Crawfish App compares prices for both boiled and live crawfish.

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There are now four announced candidates running for Louisiana Governor this fall. Slidell state Senator Sharon Hewitt officially entered the race Friday; joining A.G. Jeff Landry, Treasurer John Schroder and Lake Charles attorney Hunter Lundy. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat…:

Cut 13 (10)  “…typical Louisiana race.”

Attorney General Jeff Landry leads those candidates in fundraising for the race. His campaign reports over $5-million cash on hand, with well over a million in Political action Committee money, plus the backing and resources of the state Republican Party.   Pinsonat says it was a brilliant strategy and fellow candidates are now forced to try and catch up…:

Cut 14 (10)  “…to run for governor.”

At this point, Pinsonat gives Landry a clear advantage in the race. He says perhaps Congressman Garret Graves could be a formidable challenge, but has doubts Graves will run. So far there are no declared Democrat candidates. Pinsonat says the Party of The Left is running behind at this time…:

Cut 15 (09)  “…two different worlds.”

Democrat DOTD Secretary Shawn Wilson may run, as may New Orleans Councilwoman Helena Moreno and state Democratic Party chair Katie Bernhardt…but so far none have made it official.

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Former Saints coach Sean Payton will interview with teams this week as he decides whether he wants to return to coaching. Payton is still under contract with the Saints and so if a team hires him, they will have to send draft picks to New Orleans. General Manager Mickey Loomis says they wish the best for Payton, but they also want to be compensated well…

Cut  16 (19)  “…maximize that” 

Four teams have received permission to speak with Payton, the Broncos, Cardinals, Texans, and the Panthers.

The Saints are coming off a 7-and-10 campaign and a second straight non-playoff appearance. But Loomis says he has no plans to tear down the roster and build it back up…

Cut 17 (16) “…in my mind'” 

Injuries have been a big problem for the Saints for two years in a row. Loomis says they are looking into it…

Cut 18 (19) “…knee injuries” 

Slidell Senator Sharon Hewitt announces she’s running for governor. Jeff Palermo has more on her candidacy…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The lineup for Jazz Fest is out, and organizers say this year they are back in their full glory. Brooke Thorington has more

Cut 2 (34)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Add another name to the list of candidates who are running for governor. Slidell Senator Sharon Hewitt made her candidacy official today. The Republican has served in the state senate since 2016 and she’s also an engineering executive…

Cut 3 (08) “…and results” 

She is the chairwoman of the Senate Governmental Affairs Committee and led the Senate GOP’s redistricting efforts last year.

If elected Hewitt would be the state’s first woman Republican governor. The 64-year-old says she one of the first female executives at Shell Oil as she oversaw Shell’s central deepwater assets in the Gulf

Cut 4 (09)  “…our state.” 

Hewitt has been married for 40 years and helped raised two sons and she’s a grandmother. Hewitt says she’ll put her business experience to work growing the economy, cutting taxes and creating more opportunity across Louisiana….

Cut 5 (13) “…in Louisiana.”

Republican Attorney General Jeff Landry, GOP State Treasurer John Schroder and Lake Charles Hunter Lundy are also running. Lundy will listed on the ballot as an Independent.

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Kumho (Coo-moe) Tires announces plans to construct a 350-thousand-square-foot warehouse and future plans for a distribution center in Franklin. Brandy Christian President of the Port of New Orleans says it’s a significant multi-million-dollar investment in St. Mary Parish

Cut 6 (12)  “…as well.” 

Kumho Tires manufactures 17-inch passenger and light truck tires.

Christian says it’s also significant for the public-private partnership with the Port of New Orleans to establish a $1.8 billion container facility, further growing Louisiana’s import and export capacity.

Cut 7 (11)  “…and manufacturing.” 

The state-of-the-art facility will have the annual capacity to manufacture five million tires annually. Christian says they are excited to see Kumho Tires’ commitment to the region and it’s indicative of the future growth of the Port of New Orleans.

Cut 8 (11)  “..the Midwest.” 

The tire distribution center is expected to create upward of 200 full-time jobs.

___________________________________________

The lineup for the 2023 New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival was unveiled this morning. Festival producer Quint Davis says the headliners run the gamut in musical genres.

Cut 9 (10) “…it’s for everybody.” 

The pandemic forced the festival to postpone and then eventually canceled in 2020 and 2021. Davis says last year was an abbreviate comeback festival but this 2023 festival is reminiscent of those before COVID and it’s about darn time.

Cut 10 (11) “…put them on.” 

Davis says Ed Sheeran is kicking off his American tour at Jazz Fest the first weekend, and Dead & Company, who isn’t on tour will perform the second weekend.

The annual event is held at the Fairgrounds and Racecourse, which Davis says while it’s one of the biggest race tracks in the country it’s easy to navigate and you can catch all your favorite acts.

Cut 11 (11)  “…on time (x2).”

The festival kicks off on April 28^th and runs through May 7th. For tickets and the full line-up visit NOjazzfest.com

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Seimone Augustus is considered the greatest women’s basketball player from Louisiana and on Sunday LSU will unveil a statue of the former All-American. It will be located near the Maravich Center. Lady Tigers Coach Kim Mulkey says Augustus is very deserving of the statue

Cut 12 (12) “…Olympics”

Augustus scored 27-hundred points at LSU, led the Lady Tigers to three Final Fours, won four W-N-B-A titles and won three gold medals for the U-S Olympic team. Mulkey says Augustus was a great shooter…

Cut 13 (12) “…jump shot” 

Augustus’ statue will be located next to the statues other LSU basketball legends, Shaquille O’ Neal, Pete Maravich and Bob Petit. Augustus is the first statue on LSU’s campus of a female-student athlete. Mulkey pushed for it…

Cut 14 (07)   “…for Louisiana”

Independent Lake Charles attorney Hunter Lundy makes his candidacy for Governor this fall official. Kevin Gallagher has more…:

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

______________________________________

Freshman quarterback Walker Howard has reportedly entered the transfer portal after just one season at LSU. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Niagara Bottling announced its plans to invest $160 million in a state-of-the-art production facility near Hammond. The company – headquartered in Diamond Bar, California – operates more than 40 production facilities with over 7,000 employees worldwide. Tangipahoa Parish president Robby Miller, says this is a great company to work for.

Cut 3 (10) “…good operation” 

The new facility will have highly automated technology used to increase production efficiency, allowing the company to meet high demands. Miller says the new development will be advanced.

Cut 4 (12)  “…really excited.” 

The Company expects to begin construction on the 500,000-square-foot facility 6 months into the year. Miller says work on the facility has begun. 

Cut 5 (12) “…not mistaken.”

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Amid talk of who is and is not running for governor this fall, the first person who officially declared candidacy is Lake Charles attorney Hunter Lundy. Lundy is an independent, who says the fact that he is not aligned with either big political party makes him the best choice for voters…:

Cut 6 (10)  “…sides of the aisle.” 

Lundy says, if elected, he’d work to ease poverty and hunger in Louisiana and take steps to reduce recidivism among prison inmates. He says he’ll be open to proposed legislation, with no prejudices as to party affiliation…:

Cut 7 (08)  “…gonna go with it.” 

Lundy has a campaign ad and video that are about to start airing on television and social media that lays out his campaign philosophy. Lundy says, after years in the courtroom, he’s ready to look toward the Capitol and the Governor’s Mansion…:

Cut 8 (11)  “..that’s what I’m doing.” 

Find more information on the candidate at “lundyforlouisiana.com”

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The Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office arrest a Gray teen in connection with a social media threat that he was attempting to acquire a gun and bring it to HL Bourgeois High School Thursday. Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Blake Tabor says they received an anonymous tip Wednesday afternoon and soon after took him into custody.

Cut 9 (11) “…of terrorizing.” 

Tabor says the patrol division quickly identified who sent the message and the suspect is being held without bond at the Terrebonne Parish Juvenile Justice Complex.

Cut 10 (10) “…nor should we.” 

The juvenile’s name and age has not been revealed, and the Tabor says more information will be released once it’s available. He says the investigation is ongoing.

Cut 11 (05)  “…from happening.”

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Freshman LSU quarterback Walker Howard has reportedly entered the transfer portal. Tiger Rag Assistant Editor William Weathers says Howard was third string on the depth chart behind starter Jayden Daniels and back-up Garrett Nussmeier…

Cut 12 (09) “…number two guy”

The Lafayette native guided St. Thomas More to a state championship in 2020 and this past season appeared in two games for the Tigers. His father, Jamie Howard, played for the Tigers in the 1990s and his late mother was also an LSU graduate. Weathers says it’s hard for Tiger fans to see Walker leave after one season…

Cut 13 (09) “…he could do.” 

Weathers says when starting QB Jayden Daniels announced he would  return for his senior season, it delayed Howard’s opportunity at getting serious playing time…

Cut 14 (09)   “…little quicker.”

Today marks the seven-year anniversary of Medicaid expansion in Louisiana, Whitney Thomas reports what this means for the state.

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Whitney Thomas.”

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The newest strain of COVID, XBB.1.5. (XBB-dot-1-dot-5) is said to be the most transmissible variant yet. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The National Federation of Independent Business says small business optimism for the near-future has dropped again, for a 12^th straight month. Kevin Gallagher has more…:

Cut 3 (29) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.” 

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On January 12th, 2016, Governor John Bel Edwards signed an executive order expanding Medicaid. The governor’s communications director Lauren Leist that the decision seven years ago provided health insurance to over half a million working Louisianans…

Cut 4 (12)  “…for hypertension.”

Leist says more than 180 thousand residents received specialized mental health treatment as a result of the Medicaid expansion. She says an expanded Medicaid program played a critical role in the state’s battle against COVID…

Cut 5 (11) “…from covid.”

Before Governor. Edwards took office Louisiana’s uninsured rate among adults was nearly 23 percent, it’s now down to nine percent. Leist says the decision to expand the Medicaid program also benefited taxpayers…

Cut 6 (10)  “…at home.” 

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The newest strain of COVID, XBB.1.5. (XBB-dot-1-dot-5) is rapidly growing in the US, health experts say nationally the variant accounts for 30 percent of cases. State Health Officer Dr. Joe Kanter says currently it only accounts for about 18 percent of cases in Louisiana.

Cut 7 (11) “…would imagine.”

Kanter says the World Health Organization believes this to be the most transmissible variant yet, which he says is to be expected. He also says holiday gatherings are responsible for the uptick in cases.

Cut 8 (10)  “…available to us.”

Protections in the form of previous COVID infection antibodies, vaccines, boosters, and oral therapeutics.

The XBB.1.5 variant is expected to become the most dominant version in the next few weeks. Kanter says fortunately it’s not increasing hospitalizations at this point, but he does expect to see an increase in cases the closer we get to Mardi Gras.

Cut 9 (11)  “…with earlier.”

Kanter says about 95 percent of those in Louisiana have either been vaccinated, had COVID, or both.

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Optimism for the near-future continues to drop among Louisiana’s small businesses. The National Federation of Independent Business regularly canvasses members for its Optimism Index, and NFIB State Director Dawn McVea says the survey posted a 12^th straight month of member businesses who feel the next 3-to-6 months will be rough…:

Cut 10 (07)  “…growing their business.”

51-percent of NFIB member businesses say their outlook for the next six months has gotten worse. McVea says a large number say inflation is still their biggest obstacle in meeting costs and eking out a profit…:

Cut 11 (11)  “…is not great.”

41 percent of members report continued trouble filling job openings. 43-percent report they’re unable to raise prices to offset costs; an all-time high. Also, fewer members expect their sales to improve in the near future. McVea says many are looking to their legislators for policy changes that may help them prosper…:

Cut 12 (13) “…from all of this.”

McVea says almost certainly, some Louisiana businesses will be forced to close their doors unless the economy improves.

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The Louisiana Department of Transportation announces plans to repair the Interstate 10 eastbound overpass at I-49 in Lafayette after a truck driving under the overpass caused extensive damage to three out of the eight grinders on the eastbound bridge. DOTD spokesperson, Deidra Druilhet says the repairs will come in two phases, with the first phase taking place a week from Friday…

Cut 13 (14)  “…on I-10.”

Currently, one lane is open on I-10 eastbound at Evangeline Thruway. Druilhet says the first phase of work is expected to be completed between January 20th and 22nd.

Cut 14 (14)  “…at time.”

Phase two of the project includes the removal of necessary bridge components and installing newly constructed grinders and a bridge deck.

After all of the pieces are secured and in place, a concrete closure pour will be performed to tie in all new components to the existing bridge overpass.  Druihet says phase two will not take place until after Mardi Gras…

Cut 15 (13)  “…all finished up.”

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The Warhawks hosts the Ragin Cajuns tonight on the hardwood and it’s the 2,000th game in the ULM men’s basketball program history. Coach Keith Richard says it’s appropriate to play a milestone game against their big in-state rival…

Cut  16 (10)  “…milestone night.” 

The Cajuns enter the game 12-4 overall, 2-and-2 in the Sun Belt. Coach Bob Marlin’s team lost their first two conference games on the road, but returned to the Cajundome and picked up a couple of wins. Marlin wants to keep the positive momentum going…

Cut 17 (15) “…simple game.” 

ULM is 7-and-10 overall, but off to a 3-and-1 in the Sun Belt. Richard says the team has found its identity…

Cut 18 (18) “…a good game.” 

Tip-off is at 6:30 at Fant-Ewing Coliseum.

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The fifth-ranked LSU Lady Tigers look to improve to 17-0 when they visit Missouri tonight in Columbia. In every game this season, player-of-the-year candidate and six-foot-three sophomore Angel Reese has recorded a double-double. LSU Coach Kim Mulkey says Reese brings more than just points and rebounds to the team…

Cut 19 (14) “…more years.”

Missouri is 14-and-3, 3-and-1 in the SEC. Mulkey says Mizzou is a good shooting team…

Cut 20 (14)  “…the floor.” 

Tip-off is at 6 PM.

Congressman Garret Graves says he’s still looking at running for governor and plans to give it more consideration now that a Speaker of the House has been chosen. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A federal judge sentences former state senator Karen Carter Peterson to nearly two years in prison on a wire fraud charge. Whitney Thomas more…

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Whitney Thomas”

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Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves says he’ll make a decision very soon on the governor’s race. Graves was on Mornings with Brian Haldane today and says he’s gotten plenty of encouragement to seek the state’s highest office.

Cut 3 (14) “…from folks” 

With only two major candidates in the race so far, Republicans, Attorney General Jeff Landry and Treasurer John Schroder, Graves says he’s received feedback that more names need to be added to the ballot.

Cut 4 (08)  “…extraordinary.” 

Graves says now that the Speaker of the House vote is settled he expects to meet with supporters and family members over the next few days and make a decision on the governor’s race.

Cut 5 (11) “…for Louisiana.”

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The national average price for a dozen eggs hit $3.59 in November, up nearly 50 percent from the previous year, and the price for eggs still remains at a historical high. Louisiana Agriculture Commissioner Mike Strain says a bird flu outbreak is the main reason why eggs are still expensive…

Cut 6 (07)  “…egg laying chickens” 

Strain says the egg industry is also dealing with supply chain issues and increased costs for production…

Cut 7 (10)  “  packaging costs” 

Strain says we will not see egg prices drop significantly until energy, fertilizer and transportation costs decrease. He says producers are also working to increase production…

Cut 8 (08)  “..these prices” 

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Dakota Theriot plead guilty today to killing three people in Livingston Parish and two in Ascension Parish after a multi-parish shooting spree in 2019. Among his victims were his girlfriend, her father, her brother, and his parents. 21^st Judicial District Attorney Scott Perilloux says Theriot’s history of mental illness and the pandemic delayed his trial.

Cut 9 (11) “…entered into.” 

Perilloux says the five murders were unspeakably tragic and extremely unordinary for the two parishes.

Cut 10 (10) “…take in.” 

Theriot will be transferred to Angola to serve multiple life sentences. Because of his history of mental illness, Perilloux was asked if Theriot will be placed in the general population at the state prison.

Cut 11 (03)  “…going to happen.”

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Former state senator Karen Carter Peterson received a 22-month prison sentence today after admitting she used more than 140-thousand dollars in campaign funds from her own campaign and the Democratic Party to feed a gambling addiction. Loyola Law Professor Dane Ciolino says the federal sentencing guideline called for a sentence between 41 and 51 months

Cut 12 (07) “…applicable guidelines”

Peterson’s attorneys pushed U-S District Judge Sarah Vance to sentence the former lawmaker to probation or home confinement. They touted her Christian faith, admission of guilt and the treatment she’s receiving for her gambling addiction. Ciolino says Peterson’s punishment could have been more serve…

Cut 13 (05) “…get.” 

Judge Vance has ordered Peterson to report to jail on March 6th. Ciolino says Peterson will spend at least a year and a half in prison…

Cut 14 (12)   “…she gets out .”

Peterson abruptly resigned from the state senate last year, citing depression and a gambling addiction. She served in the state legislature from 1999 to 2022 and as chair of the Louisiana Democratic party from 2012 to 2020.