The state Coastal Protection & Restoration Authority releases its updated Coastal Master Plan for fighting erosion and wetlands loss. More from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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The state launches a hotline to report suspected juvenile sex trafficking. Brooke Thorington has more

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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So far this year we’ve learned that Senator John Kennedy and Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser aren’t running for governor and Treasurer John Schroder is. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (29) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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An autism indicator is now available on Louisiana identification cards. Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles spokesperson Matthew Boudreaux says the indicator was added to drivers’ licenses in December 2021 and now it’s an option on ID cards. He says it was added as a public safety measure for law enforcement.

Cut 4 (06)  “…other people.”

Boudreaux says the word Autism will appear below the photograph and a puzzle piece will be next to the word Louisiana on the ID.

Cut 5 (09) “…indicate that.”

To have the indicator added to your driver’s license or ID card Boudreaux says a Medical Examiner’s Certification of Autism Spectrum Disorder form must be completed, along with a statement from a qualified mental health professional.

Cut 6 (11)  “… identification card.” 

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Available now online, is Louisiana’s 2023 Coastal Master Plan. The plan is a roadmap for combating the state’s ongoing erosion, land loss, and flood risk problem. Ben Haase is executive director of the state’s Coastal Protection & Restoration Authority (CPRA). He says the master plan is updated every six years, to incorporate changes in technology, costs, and logistics…:

Cut 7 (11) “…50 years from now.”

The plan can be viewed online at “coastal.la.gov.” Haase says the Coastal Master Plan has been in existence since 2007 and has been responsible for a lot of progress in fighting coastal land loss…:

Cut 8 (12)  “…by this document.”

The 2023 update of CPRA’s plan includes a new project selection process, improved predictive models, new risk metrics, and other improvements. Haase says you are welcome to go online and read the plan, and your feedback is welcomed. He says the plan encompasses literally ALL of Louisiana’s coastal areas…:

Cut 9 (10)  “…portion of our coast.”

Public hearings on the Coastal Master Plan are scheduled for late January through mid-February in Baton Rouge, Houma, New Orleans, and Lake Charles, before submitting the plan to state lawmakers.

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In 2021 there were 607 confirmed or suspected juvenile victims of human trafficking in Louisiana. On January 1^st, the state launched a hotline for reporting human trafficking. Christy Tate, a child welfare manager with the Department of Children and Family Services says it’s a central point for individuals to report suspected trafficking.

Cut 10 (06) “…started.”

To report trafficking you can call 1-855-4LA-KIDS (1-855-452-5437) and option 4 will direct you to a live person who’s trained to ask questions to determine if it’s trafficking or not.

Cut 11 (09)  “…or not.”

Tate says they’ve already received calls and the hotline is a vital advancement in the state’s work to protect children.

Cut 12 (03) “…have it here.”

Tate says if you suspect something to call and you can choose to remain anonymous.

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We are starting to get a better idea of who’s in and who’s out of the governor’s race since Senator John Kennedy announced he’s staying put and Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser will seek re-election. ULM political science professor Pearson Cross says it appears some of the biggest names in state politics are no longer interested in the job.

Cut 13 (05) “…year to go.”

As of today, the two major candidates are Attorney General Jeff Landry and Treasurer John Schroder, both Republicans. So far, a Democrat hasn’t officially announced but Cross says that could change with neither Kennedy nor Senator Bill Cassidy running for governor.

Cut 14 (08)  “…serious run.”

As for who’s considered a frontrunner in the race, Cross says Landry, who’s been endorsed by the state Republican party, appears to have more working in his favor as opposed to Schroder.

Cut 15 (11)  “…that regard.”

Between the two Cross says it could come down to a competition to see who’s the most conservative.

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Saints players cleaned out their lockers on Monday after failing to make the playoffs for a second consecutive season. New Orleans Coach Dennis Allen says the 7-and-10 record they posted this season is not the standard

Cut  16 (15)  “…for championships” 

Allen says the indication he’s been given is that he’ll return next season as the head coach. But he says no decisions have been made on offensive coordinator Pete Carmichael or anyone else on the staff…

 Cut 17 (17) “…moving forward” 

2022 was the first losing season for the Saints since 2016. For the second straight, the injury bug hit New Orleans hard. Michael Thomas, Jarvis Landry, Marshon Lattimore and Marcus Maye missed multiple games as the Black and Gold had to use 75 different players. Allen says at least they didn’t suffer many soft tissue injuries…

Cut 18 (26) “…to play faster.” 

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The LSU men’s basketball team looks to snap a two-game losing streak tonight when they host Florida. The Tigers are 1-and-2 in SEC play. After upsetting Arkansas, Coach Matt McMahon’s team has lost back-to-back games to Kentucky and Texas A&M on Saturday…

Cut 19 (18) “…on Saturday.”

Florida enters today’s game with an 8-and-7 overall record, 1-and-2 in the SEC. McMahon says they have a veteran group led by their leading scorer and fifth-year forward Colin Castleton…

Cut 20 (20)  “…the floor.” 

Tip-off is at 6 PM.

State Treasurer John Schroder becomes the second major candidate to run for governor. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A ruling clears up what type of visit a physician can recommend medical marijuana in Louisiana. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 2 (28)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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State Treasurer John Schroder tells supporters he plans to run for governor and will officially launch his campaign next month. Meanwhile, Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser is not expected to enter the race. Louisiana Association of Business and Industry President Stephen Waguespack says another major candidate left to decide is Congressman Garret Graves…

Cut 3 (11) “…what the heck” 

Graves has not given an indication on when he’ll announce his intentions on running for governor. The Baton Rouge native is beginning his fifth term representing the state’s 6th Congressional District, which covers Baton Rouge and a portion of the Bayou Parishes, including Lafourche and Terrebonne Parishes.

Waguespack says Senator John Kennedy’s decision not to run was the first big domino to fall, Graves’ announcement would be the next….

Cut 4 (10)  “…in D-C” 

Republican state lawmakers Richard Nelson and Sharon Hewitt are other possible candidates. Waguespack says on the Democrat side, State Transportation Secretary Shawn Wilson is seriously considering running…

Cut 5 (11) “…in a poll”

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According to an opinion from Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry, physicians can recommend medical marijuana to patients via a telemedicine visit. Gretna Representative Joe Marino says while doctors can’t prescribe schedule 2 medication like narcotics without an in-person visit, marijuana is not in the same classification.

Cut 6 (10)  “…legally different” 

Both Landry and Marino interpreted the law regarding doctor visits and access to medical marijuana to allow telemedicine visits. Medical marijuana can only legally be recommended by physicians who participate in the program. Marino says the ruling also helps those in rural areas who have difficulty seeing physicians in general.

Cut 7 (07)  “…that reason.”

Marino says the legislature passed the law to allow access to those who can benefit from medical marijuana and the law removed such hurdles it wasn’t intended to create more. Marino says a telemedicine visit is appropriate for someone who’s in hospice or….

Cut 8 (10)  “..no sense.” 

Marino says the state’s medical marijuana program continues to need revisions so it’s more accessible and affordable.

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Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says a lawsuit filed against him by longtime State Librarian Rebecca Hamilton is possibly politically motivated. Hamilton alleges Nungesser fired her and had her marched out of her office after she reported him to the FBI and other investigators over what she calls “questionable contracts.” On Jim Engster’s “Talk Louisiana” radio show, Nungesser says he had nothing to do with Hamilton being placed on administrative leave…:

Cut 9 (09) “…employees made complaints.” 

Nungesser was questioned by the FBI about some contracts awarded by his agency, but no charges were ever filed. Hamilton’s lawsuit asks the judge to prevent Nungesser from taking enforcement action against her related to her being placed in leave in September. Nungesser says he suspects the lawsuit was intended to hurt him politically..:

Cut 10 (10) “…some type of an election.” 

Nungesser says he did not hire Hamilton and he cannot fire her either. She is currently on leave and collecting her state salary. He says the actions taken against her were because of library employee grievances and the state Library Board will deal with the matter….:

Cut 11 (12)  “…to do with it.”

Nungesser says the lawsuit is an attempt to discredit him as he runs for either higher office or re-election. His decision on that is expected tomorrow morning.

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State Treasurer John Schroder tells his supporters he’s running for governor and that makes him the second major candidate to declare his candidacy. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says now that Senator John Kennedy is no longer a factor expect to see more candidates jump in the race.

Cut 12 (07) “…is running.”

Pinsonat believes over the next two months, rumored candidates will make it known if they are in or out of the governor’s race.

Cut 13 (o7) “…you can raise.” 

When it comes to fundraising, Pinsonat says Attorney General Jeff Landry has a huge advantage with the backing of the state Republican party. He says gubernatorial candidates have to raise a minimum of five million to be considered a viable contenders.

Cut 14 (07)   “…your time.”

Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser is expected to officially announce tomorrow he’s not running for governor.

We are expecting to learn more tonight about a rumored Buc-ees coming to Ruston, Whitney Thomas reports on the potential of the famous mega-convenience store being built on I-20.

Cut 1 (31)  “…Whitney Thomas.”

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Experts predict Louisiana’s oil & gas industry will shrink OR move toward clean, green energy. But what does the industry say? Kevin Gallagher reports…:

Cut 2 (33)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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Haydel’s Bakery in New Orleans is working around the clock to meet the demand for King Cakes. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (31) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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After a year of rumors, there could potentially be a Buc-ee’s coming to Ruston based on an agenda item that will be discussed at tonight’s city council meeting. Malcolm Butler with the Lincoln Parish Journal says council members are expected to discuss an agreement with CSMS Management.

Cut 4 (12)  “…started Buck-ees.”

Butler says they reached out to Ruston Mayor Ronny Walker to ask about the speculations but he declined to comment. He says if the rumors are confirmed tonight that the potential location for the Buck-ees will be perfect.

Cut 5 (08) “…of land.”

This would be the first Buc-ee’s in Louisiana. Butler says it would be great for the local economy.

Cut 6 (07)  “…our parish.” 

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Dr. David Guzick, a National Academy of Medicine-recognized physician, will begin his new job as Chancellor for LSU Health Shreveport today. Guzick says he has a promising vision for the center.

Cut 7 (13) “…the region.”

Guzick’s most recent position was at the University of Florida, where he served as senior vice president of health affairs and president of UF health for nine years. He was able to integrate the hospital system with health science faculty, which led to tremendous growth. Guzick says he is more than prepared to be Chancellor.

Cut 8 (13)  “…in Shreveport.”

Guzick was awarded best physician for women and is a recipient of the Roy M. Pitkin Award. He says the Chancellor position is a way of expanding his career.

Cut 9 (07)  “…great things.”

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Experts say the Louisiana oil & gas industry is expected to shrink over the next year OR attempt a shift to clean, sustainable fuels. LSU energy sector economist David Dismukes says a number of companies will seek incentives via the Biden Administration’s Infrastructure Investments Act to invest in energy projects like wind, clean hydrogen fuel and carbon capture. Louisiana Oil & Gas Association President Mike Moncla says he agrees…but not as many companies as one may think…:

Cut 10 (11) “…get into green.”

In a “Louisiana Illuminator ” article, Dismukes said, “Clean hydrogen initiatives will be something else that will take off and probably be pretty big.” Moncla says LOGA is all for alternate fuels used alongside traditional energy but feels that prediction is “wishful thinking”…:

Cut 11 (12)  “…into that arena.”

Moncla says there are well over 800 companies currently drilling in Louisiana, and he doesn’t see too many of them having interest in, nor the budget for, exploring green energy…:

Cut 12 (10) “…in south Louisiana.”

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It’s now socially acceptable to devour a King Cake and among the most popular is from Haydel’s Bakery in New Orleans. Third-generation baker David Haydel says on average they braid anywhere from 60,000 to 75,000 cakes a year. And it’s not just folks in the Bayou State who enjoy a Haydel King Cake.

Cut 13 (09) “…since then.”

They also ship internationally and Haydel says they’ve sent the beloved pastry to places like Egypt, Ireland, and Australia.

And while most bakeries place the plastic baby on the outside of a King Cake, Haydel’s does it the old fashion way.

Cut 14 (12)  “…can find it.”

Haydel says they begin prepping for King Cake season in early November and bring in truckloads of ingredients. The average day at Haydel’s this time of year begins at 12:30 in the morning for bakers, they close shop at 5:00 in the evening, a cleaning crew comes in, and then it starts all over again. And even with all that preparation on King’s Day, they sold out.

Cut 15 (09)  “…a lot of fun.”

And every Haydel King Cake includes a porcelain collectible.

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A disappointing Saints season ended with a frustrating 10-7 loss to Carolina in the Superdome. New Orleans scored its lone touchdown on the opening drive, while the Panthers kicked a game-winning field goal on the final play of the game. Saints defensive end Cam Jordan says the game was a microcosm of the season…

Cut  16 (16)  “…losing” 

There were high hopes going into the season, but the Saints started the season two and five and could never really recover. It’s the second straight year Jordan and the Saints missed the playoffs…

 Cut 17 (11) “…with a vengance.” 

Once again the Saints have a bunch of unrestricted free agents going into the offseason. Coach Dennis Allen could not predict on how much of a roster turnover we will see…

Cut 18 (13) “…week or two” 

Saints safety Tyann Mathieu hopes this season could serve as a lesson that will result in more victories next year…

 Cut 19 (18) “…believe in that”

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The 7th-ranked LSU women’s basketball team defeated Kentucky 67-48 to improve to 16-0 yesterday, the best start in program history. Coach Kim Mulkey’s team led 31-17 at halftime to cruise to their fourth SEC win of the year…

Cut 20 (20)  “..start a game” 

Senator John Kennedy has told supporters he will not run for governor. Fellow Republican Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser announces his decision Tuesday. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 1(30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Jefferson Parish deputies arrest two children for a string of car thefts and burglaries, and they’re looking for two other suspects. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Now that Senator John Kennedy has told supporters he will not run for governor this year, the next shoe to drop appears to be Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser. The 63-year-old Republican was a guest on Talk Louisiana with Jim Engster today and says tourism officials are encouraging him to run for re-election…

Cut 3 (09) “…decision to make.” 

Nungesser says he’ll make his announcement on WWL Radio in New Orleans on January 10th.

Attorney General Jeff Landry is the only major candidate to announce his candidacy for governor. Nungesser and Landry are not on friendly terms and on WRKF’s Talk Louisiana Nungesser said Landry is not electable because of his nasty political style…

Cut 4 (11)  “…good of Louisiana.” 

Several Republicans are considering a run at governor, including State Treasurer John Schroder, Congressman Garret Graves, state lawmakers Richard Nelson and Sharon Hewitt and there will be Democrats who will get in the race too. Nungesser is a moderate and is concerned if too many Republicans run, it will hurt his chances at making the run-off…

Cut 5 (10) “…the runoff”

Nungesser says if he can get in the run-off he likes his chances at becoming Louisiana’s next governor.

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Jefferson Parish deputies arrest two children, ages 12 and 14, for a string of car thefts and burglaries. The two were apprehended early Wednesday morning in the midst of a car burglary at the Creeks of River Ridge apartment complex and two suspects got away in dramatic fashion. Sheriff Joe Lopinto said one suspect fled the scene, carjacked a vehicle, crashed it, and ran off on foot. While the other suspect drove off, he encountered two deputies blocking the complex exit.

 Cut 6 (12)  “…catch up with him.” (2x)

Lopinto says the getaway car was a vehicle that had been carjacked from St. John on Tuesday.

A 12-year-old and 14-year-old were arrested and the four are believed to be linked to more than 60 car burglaries. Lopinto says the mother of the two juveniles, 42-year-old Tiffany Broomfield came to the sheriff’s office and was questioned why she didn’t know where her children were at 2 am.

Cut 7 (08)  “…(x2) who they were with.”

Lopinto says after Broomfield argued with officers she was arrested on outstanding warrants and told her two children would not be going home with her. Lopinto says he has a 12-year-old, and he knows where they are in the middle of the night.

Cut 8 (09)  “….know where they are.” 

Deputies say they’ve checked with local hospitals for any gunshot wounds possibly related to the incident in case one of the suspects was shot when he drove off.

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The work release inmate accused of killing a co-worker at Foster Farms in Farmerville has been arrested in Texas. Union Parish Sheriff Dusty Gates and his deputies have been looking for 48-year-old Bruce Causey since April

Cut 9 (10) “…warrants on him” 

Gates says Causey fatally stabbed Ketrick Lavon Calhoun at the chicken processing plant and fled the scene. He says police in Texas responding to a verbal domestic incident near Houston resulted in Causey’s arrest.

Cut 10 (09) “…make a mistake” 

Gates says Causey will have to face a firearm charge in Texas before he’s extradited to Louisiana. The sheriff says the Calhoun family is relieved…

Cut 11 (10)  “…to hear that.”

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It looks like a third day of voting will pass without the U.S. House selecting a Speaker. Republican House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy has fallen short of the 218 votes needed to become speaker for a 9th time today. “The Advocate” reporter Mark Ballard – who is in D.C. at the Capitol – says this is despite talk in the halls of Congress that negotiations with McCarthy’s naysayers were making progress…:

Cut 12 (13) “…and House procedures.”  

In a seventh vote taken at mid-day today (Thursday), McCarthy gathered only 201 votes. Democrat Hakeem Jeffries had 213. A motion for an 8^th vote fell short of enough votes to proceed.  A 9th vote today also failed to elect him. Ballard says behind-the-scenes negotiations will go on until the GOP can unite sufficient votes behind McCarthy’s leadership..:

Cut 13 (o7) “…Speaker of the House.” 

There are 20 Republican holdouts, who want concessions from McCarthy as House leader. Ballard says they want House rules changed so it no longer takes a majority vote to call for a vote to replace the Speaker. They also demand he commit to allowing far fewer so-called omnibus federal spending bills…:

Cut 14 (13)   “…passed at that moment.”

Ballard says there are still 5 congressmen who vow they will never vote for McCarthy as Speaker, and he’ll need at least three of their votes to cross the finish line.

LSU’S Pennington Biomedical Research Center’s DASH Diet receives tops rankings among U.S. News and World Report’s list of Best Diets. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1(29)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Drivers are seeing a spike in gasoline prices, but it should not last long. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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LSU’S Pennington Biomedical Research Center’s DASH Diet once again ranks among U.S. News and World Report’s list of Best Diets. Dr. Catherine Champagne is one of the developers and she says the DASH diet consistently makes the list because so much research went into its creation.

Cut 3 (10) “…health benefits.” 

The DASH Diet was listed in the 1997 New England Journal of Medicine and ever since has been quoted by others about 6,000 times.

Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy foods. And unlike most fad diets that exclude foods, Champagne says the DASH Diet follows a different methodology.

Cut 4 (05)  “…in moderation.” 

Champagne says not only is the DASH Diet heart-friendly it helps prevent diabetes. And unlike fad diets, she says it’s one everyone in the home can take part in.

Cut 5 (08) “…entire family.”

The DASH Diet is ranked second for the best overall diet and weight loss, and number one for the best heart-healthy and diabetes diet.

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Hot and dry weather, than a late summer flood, then more hot and dry weather resulted in more than 500-million dollars in crop losses for Louisiana farmers in 2022. LSU AgCenter Economist Michael Deliberto says parts of northeast Louisiana saw 18 inches of rain during a week-long period in late August,

 Cut 6 (12)  “…quality reduction” 

The LSU AgCenter told the USDA that more than 800-thousand acres of the soybean crop was damaged, which is 68-percent of the crop, 316-million dollars in soybean losses.

Deliberto says low Mississippi River water levels also made it difficult to expert crop

Cut 7 (12)  “…oil seeds.”

Deliberto says 2022 was a good year for sugarcane, but they are still trying to determine the extent of damage from the freezing temperatures Christmas week…

Cut 8 (07)  “….first time” 

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How are gasoline prices for Louisiana consumers in the New Year? The statewide average price of regular gas is $2.94; up over 15-cents from a week ago, but still cheaper than a year ago. Louisiana AAA’s Don Redman says he expects prices to drop over the winter…:

Cut 9 (10) “…to do with demand.” 

Redman say demand for motor fuels always declines in colder months and the poor economy makes it even less. Barring anything unforeseen, Redman says, we can plan to spend less when we fill the tank…:

Cut 10 (08) “…at the pump.” 

The demand for motor fuels is down almost globally right now. Redman says crude oil is currently trading at around $77-a-barrel right now, compared with $120-a-barrel nine months ago. He says, for now, we will benefit by getting a break at the fuel pump…:

Cut 11 (12)  “…the coming weeks.”

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Congress remains in limbo until a new Speaker of the House is chosen and after five attempts it remains undecided. GOP Leader Kevin McCarthy has been nominated five times and has yet to garner enough votes. Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves says voting for speaker unlike other issues is a lengthy process.

Cut 12 (13) “…this case 34 names.”  

Graves says not only does it mean there’s not a figurehead in place it also impacts House committee appointments.

Cut 13 (11) “…this point”  

The mid-term elections resulted in a House GOP majority that Graves says is an indication voters want accountability against the Biden Administration.

Cut 14 (10)   “…void that’s there.”

Graves says he along with the other Republican House members that represent Louisiana voted for Kevin McCarthy.

An Addis police officer faces two counts of negligent homicide after his vehicle struck a car and killed two Brusly teenage girls during a high-speed chase Saturday. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (37)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Websites with pornographic material are now required to verify a user’s age in Louisiana or face consequences. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The field for the 2023 governor’s race should become more clear this month. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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An Addis police officer faces two counts of negligent homicide after his vehicle struck a car with three passengers in Brusly and killed two teenage girls while he was participating in a high-speed chase Saturday. 18^th Judicial District Attorney Tony Clayton says once the evidence comes out the public will be enraged over Officer David Cauthron’s actions.

Cut 4 (07)  “…horrible decision.”

17-year-old Maggie Dunn and 15-year-old Caroline Gill were killed and Maggie’s brother Liam Dunn was also injured in the crash.

Authorities were pursuing 24-year-old Tyquel Zanders who allegedly stole a family member’s vehicle and led them on a chase in both East and West Baton Rouge parishes, that reached speeds of 110 miles per hour. Clayton expects there will be legislation to better define when officers can and cannot pursue a suspect at high rates of speed.

Cut 5 (07) “…violent nature.”

Zanders also faces charges in the deaths of the two teens.

Clayton says he believes the two charges of negligent homicide and one charge of negligent injuring are warranted against Cauthron.

Cut 6 (11)  “…under arrest.” 

Grief and crisis counselors will be at Brusly High School to assist students with the loss of their classmates.

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As of January 1st, websites that have pornographic material must verify a user’s age in Louisiana or face consequences. Metairie Representative Laurie Schlegel, who’s also a licensed counselor, authored the legislation because of the harmful effects pornography can have on children, like depression, and anxiety and they’re more likely to…

Cut 7 (08) “…in boy’s aggression.”

Schlegel says pornography is also tied to two of society’s greatest ills like sexual assault and human trafficking.

She believes age verification should be the gold standard when it comes to pornography which Schlegel says is just a click away and too accessible for children.

Cut 8 (11)  “…the majority of children.”

Louisiana is the first state to pass such a law and Schlegel hopes to see the issue addressed on a federal level.

Cut 9 (08)  “…have to.”

Schlegel says accountability will come when companies are sued for allowing minors access to hardcore pornography. She says websites would verify someone’s age in collaboration with LA Wallet. 

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2023 is shaping up to be a fascinating year for state politics with a governor’s race taking place in the fall. We still don’t know who is exactly running, but political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says we are expecting a decision from junior U-S Senator John Kennedy…

Cut 10 (10) “…couple months now.” 

Kennedy won re-election in November to a second term in the U-S Senate. But the 71-year-old announced in early November he’s considering a run for Governor. Pinsonat says if Kennedy decides not to run, we could have a large field of candidates, but they’ll need to raise a lot of money to compete with Attorney General Jeff Landry, who already has the endorsement of the state Republican Party…

Cut 11 (11)  “…statewide organization.”

This is also Governor John Bel Edwards’ final year in office as it’s a lame-duck year for Edwards and the Louisiana Legislature. But Pinsonat says trying to get more private property insurance companies into the state will be a goal…

Cut 12 (10) “…to see that.”

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LSU’s matchup with Purdue in the Citrus Bowl was not much of a game as the Fighting Tigers blew out the Boilermakers 63-7 in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl at Camping World Stadium in Orlando. The Tigers had nearly 600 yards of offense. Sophomore wide receiver Malik Nabers had nine catches for 163 yards and a touchdown, he also threw a TD pass on a trick play…

Cut 13 (13) “…and executed”

Jayden Daniels started at quarterback as expected, but back-up Garrett Nussmeier also saw significant snaps. Daniels threw for 139 yards and a TD pass, while Nussmeier had 173 yards passing and two touchdowns and an interception. Coach Brian Kelly says Daniels still goes into the offseason as the starter…

Cut 14 (14)  “…elite quarterbacks.”

The Tigers played stellar defense as they intercepted three passes and had four sacks. Kelly says he was impressed with their play…

Cut 15 (18)  “…today”

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What a victory for Tulane yesterday in the Cotton Bowl as the Green Wave rallied back from a 15-point deficit to beat U-S-C 46-45 to finish a magical season with a 12-2 record. Coach Willie Fritz led the turnaround of a program that won just two games last season…

Cut  16 (2o)  “…for an institution” 

Tulane found themselves down 45-30 with 4 minutes and 30 seconds left. A fourth touchdown run by Tyjae Spears, a safety and then a touchdown pass with nine seconds left produced the comeback. Fritz says his team showed great heart…

 Cut 17 (14) “…young men” 

Alex Bauman caught the touchdown pass that tied the game at 45 with nine seconds left. Initially, the referee ruled it was an incomplete pass, but Bauman knew that instant replay would show he caught the pass in the end zone…

Cut 18 (14) “…I scored.” 

The extra point gave Tulane a dramatic victory.

If you think you have unclaimed property, you can now check the databases of 49 states, not just Louisiana’s. Marsanne Golsby has more.

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Marsanne Golsby”

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Louisiana is ranked third for the worst roads in America according to a consumer affairs report. Whitney Thomas has that story

Cut 2 (28)  “…I’m Whitney Thomas .”

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Louisiana’s unclaimed property program is now connected to a national database where you can check to see if you are owed money from one of 49 states. State Treasurer John Schroder says if you’ve lived in other places you can check on one secure website-Missing Money.com

Cut 3 (08) “…and check.” 

Schroder says the site is especially convenient for military families who have lived in multiple states, and others whose jobs have transferred them around.

He says one out of six Louisiana residents is owed money, while nationally it’s one out of seven.

Schroder says over 220 million properties totaling billions of dollars are available to search and claim on missing-money-com..

Cut 4 (09)  “…in Mississippi.”

Schroder says MissingMoney.com is ad-free, highly secure, and is the only site approved by the 49 states. Only Georgia is not participating.  He says it also charges no fees.

Cut 5 (08) “…state program”

There’s also Louisiana’s L-A-Cash-Claim-dot-org, which holds over one-billion dollars worth of properties waiting to be claimed.

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Louisiana ranks third for the worst roads in America according to Consumer Affairs. Their study looked at the D-plus grade Louisiana received from the American Society of Civil Engineers for its poor road conditions and pavement roughness. Deputy Editor at Consumer Affairs, Cassidy McCants,  says they also found Louisiana doesn’t spend enough money on its roads.

Cut 6 (07)  “…on roads” 

Louisiana has 61,300 miles of public roads, and 46% of the major roadways are in mediocre condition according to government data analyzed by a group called TRIP. McCants says drivers are paying for Louisiana’s poor roads, because of the wear and tear on their vehicles…

Cut 7 (09) “…per driver.”

McCants says they also surveyed a few residents and one driver blames the poor road conditions on the state relying on quick fixes like “patch repairs” rather than fixes made to last. 

She says another reason for Louisiana’s poor ranking is the number of traffic fatalities…

Cut 8 (11)  “…million miles.”

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The new year brings about opportunities for a fresh start and for many a new job. But what if you like what you do for a living but feel it’s time to receive more compensation, UNO professor of Economics and Finance Mark Rosa says to be prepared to present your case when you ask for a raise, promotion, or both.

Cut 9 (12)  “… to anybody.”

Rosa says when asking for a raise be reasonable, if you make $15 an hour don’t expect the company to agree to give you $72 an hour. Or if you want to be able to work three days a week at home and no one else at the company can, don’t expect your boss to agree.

Cut 10 (12) “…asking for.” 

Rosa says because many companies are having a hard time filling positions they have to be more flexible when it comes to salaries and or benefits to attract and/or retain employees.  But he warns if you give your employer an ultimatum be prepared….

Cut 11 (12)  “…credibility.”

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Strong to severe thunderstorms are likely for Monday in northwest and north central Louisiana. National Weather Service meteorologist Charlie Woodrum says a strong cold front will move across the region and tornadoes are possible…

Cut 12 (10) “…with this event.”

There’s also a slight risk for severe weather for northeast, central and southwest Louisiana. In mid-December, a child and mother were killed in Caddo Parish by an EF-2 tornado that struck Keithville. Woodrum says another tornado outbreak is possible today

Cut 13 (10) “…tornado warning”

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LSU plays Purdue today in the Citrus Bowl in Orlando as the game is set to kick-off at noon. The Tigers won the SEC West, while the Boilermakers won the Big Ten West division, but both teams will be missing several key players who helped accomplish those feats. LSU is thin at wide receiver and at defensive line, but defensive coordinator Matt House says they are embracing the challenge

Cut 14 (14)  “…guys compete.”

Purdue is going through a coaching change and so former Saints quarterback and Boilermaker legend Drew Brees is serving as an interim assistant coach for the Gold and Black. Brees has developed a great relationship with LSU during his time in New Orleans, but today he wants to beat the Bayou Bengals…

Cut 15 (11)  “…trying to beat em”

LSU’s starting quarterback in 2022 Jayden Daniels is playing today and he’s already announced he’ll play for the Tigers in 2023. Offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock says Daniels throwing ability has improved during his time in Baton Rouge…

Cut  16 (25)  “…hopefully” 

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Five people , four adults and a juvenile, have been arrested following the death of an infant in Winnfield. Jeff Palermo has the troubling details…

Cut 1(30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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The Ronald Greene investigation, the DCFS scandal and a ban on most abortions are among the top stories in 2022. Marsanne Golsby has more…

Cut 2 (45)  “…I’m Marsanne Golsby”

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In 2021 the Louisiana Office of Tourism says 41 million people visited the Bayou State, not quite the pre-pandemic levels of 53 million in 2019. But Lt Governor Billy Nungesser is optimistic that numbers this year will indicate significant growth.

Cut 3 (07) “…record-breaking numbers.” 

Prior to COVID, he says the state had five years of record-breaking number years in state tourism.

Nungesser says it’s not just the Crescent City that’s rebounding in tourism, he says they saw record-breaking numbers during Mardi Gras elsewhere in the state.

Cut 4 (12)  “…really proud of.” 

And with the Sugar Bowl on Saturday, Nungesser says he’s been promoting tourism to both Alabama and Kansas State fans encouraging them to extend their trips.

Cut 5 (13) “…has to offer.”

For the second consecutive year, the Office of Tourism has promoted the state at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and the Tournament of Roses parade.

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If you are going to celebrate the New Year with fireworks, the state Fire Marshal’s office says light them at least 200 feet away from houses or anything else that can catch fire. Spokeswoman Ashley Rodrigue says the embers can start fires.

 Cut 6 (10)  “…of wind.”

She says don’t handle fireworks if you are impaired, and keep a close eye on young children.

Cut 7 (09)  “…their own.”

Rodrigue says to shoot only one firework at a time and keep an eye on where the embers land.

And she says fires have started in garbage cans when the packaging wasn’t soaked with water

Cut 8 (12)  “…can catch fire.“

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This year had its share of big stories in Louisiana with the investigation into the 2019 State Police custody death of Ronald Greene ranked as our top story of 2022. Federal prosecutors refused to pursue charges against the officers involved, but five officers are facing state charges. Greene’s mother Mona Hardin felt some relief…

Cut 9 (11) “…held accountable.” 

A special legislative committee held several hearings looking at how State Police attempted to cover-up the investigation into Greene’s death. There are questions of what Governor John Bel Edwards knew and when did he know about the beating Greene took from officers before he died….

Cut 10 (09) “…false.” 

The resignation of Department of Children and Family Services Secretary Marketa Garner Walters was another major story. Two Baton rouge toddlers died in a four-month span from drug overdose deaths. In both cases, DCFS received warnings the children were in danger. Governor Edwards defended Walters’ before he no longer could…

Cut 11 (11)  “…absolute failure.”

It was a big year for pro life advocates who saw abortion become illegal in most cases in Louisiana as a result of legislation passed that went into effect after Roe Versus Wade was overturned. Kathaleen Pittman was a long-time administrator at a Shreveport abortion clinic that shut down for good in August

Cut 12 (11) “…on the staff”  

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A 98-year-old mother from Alexandria and her 69-year-old daughter were killed in a two-vehicle crash on U-S 190 in Pointe Coupee Parish on Thursday morning. State Police Trooper Christian Reed says the victims were traveling in an S-U-V that slammed into the back of a parked tractor-trailer on the side of the road…

Cut 13 (09) “…at the scene”  

The victims have been identified as 69-year-old Barbara Dobard Rigby and 98-year-old Maynette Dobard of Alexandria. A person inside the 18-wheeler’s sleeper cab was not hurt. A toxicology sample was obtained from Rigby and submitted for analysis.

Reed says it’s a tragic incident to end the year…

Cut 14 (10)   “…fatal crash”

A new report shows food insecurity in Louisiana is on the rise as a result of inflation and a cut in federal benefits like the child tax credit. Whitney Thomas reports

Cut 1 (25)  “…I’m Whitney Thomas.”

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Sugar cane experts say Louisiana’s huge sugar cane industry was hit hard by the recent hard freezes. Marsanne Golsby reports.

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Marsanne Golsby.”

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Wastewater samples in Shreveport indicate there’s about to be a spike in COVID cases. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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Hunger Free America says food insecurity is surging in Louisiana because of inflation and the expiration of the child tax credit and free school meals. Hunger Free America CEO, Joel Berg, says more than 470-thousand Louisiana residents are living without enough food and with the cuts to federal aid, their paychecks are not enough to keep enough food on the table.

Cut 4 (13)  “…for food.”

Berg says the number of people without enough food over a seven-day period spiked by 26% in Louisiana, and 30% nationwide between October 2021 and October 2022.

Cut 5 (13) “…the nation.”

Residents in need can contact the national hunger hotline at 1-8-6-6 3 Hungry. Berg says he’s also encouraging the public to help fight hunger…

Cut 6 (09)  “…in Louisiana.” 

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LSU Ag Center experts say the recent freezes were disruptive to the sugar cane industry. Sugar cane specialist Kenneth Gravois says the crops now being harvested experienced what he calls a killing freeze.

Cut 7 (09) “…we’ve had.”

However, he says ten of the eleven sugar cane mills in Louisiana are still processing cane, and 85 percent of the cane in the fields has already been harvested—and he adds that despite the freeze, the quality of the sugar being processed is still very good.

Cut 8 (09)  “…the crop.”

He says ideally, the weather will remain cool to refrigerate the mature cane that hasn’t been harvested yet. In addition, he says 90 percent of the new crop is already in the fields. Gravois says experts just tested soil temperatures to assess the health of that crop.

Cut 9 (10)  “… don’t freeze.”

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Recent wastewater samples from Shreveport show an increase in COVID in northwestern Louisiana. The Center for Excellence for Emerging Viral Threats at LSU Health Shreveport has been monitoring samples. Director of Viral Genomic and Surveillance Dr. Krista Queen…

Cut 10 (11) “…sick yet.” 

Queen says people in the area should practice social distancing, wear face masks, and clean their hands more often because they could be spreading COVID and not know it yet.

She says when individuals are infected the virus begins replicating in their body even before they know they are sick.

Cut 11 (08)  “…uses the restroom.”

Queen says the increase of the virus in wastewater is similar to this time last year when because people tend to gather more for the holidays and also spread viruses.

Cut 12 (12) “…recently.”

Even though the wastewater samples are from Shreveport, Queen says it’s indicative of the area in terms of community spread.

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With the New Year comes a significant change in corporate taxes for Louisiana. A tax reform package passed by lawmakers in 2021 reduces the state’s corporate franchise tax; a tax paid on companies’ capital. Tax attorney and consultant Jason Decuir says the difference is relatively little (.025 percent) but there is also a built-in exemption that will benefit smaller businesses…:

Cut 13 (09) “…the franchise tax.”

Decuir says this is a first step in eventually getting rid of corporate franchise taxes altogether…:

Cut 14 (07)  “…starting this year.”

Decuir says there are also triggers calling for further reductions if Louisiana’s revenue hits certain benchmarks, which IS projected to happen. He says this is an important step in becoming a friendlier environment for business and competing with our Gulf south neighbor states…:

Cut 15 (08)  “…to do the same.”

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The Saints are getting ready for this Sunday’s game against the Eagles in Philadelphia. New Orleans is not sure who they will see at quarterback. MVP candidate Jalen Hurts did not play last weekend because of a shoulder injury, so Gardner Minshew started and nearly led the Eagles to a win over Dallas. Saints Coach Dennis Allen on getting ready to face the high-flying Eagles offense…

Cut  16 (19)  “.operate” 

The Saints enter the game with a six-and-nine record and need to win to keep their slim playoff hopes alive. Philadelphia has the best record in the NFL at 13-and-2. Allen says the players understand the challenge in front of them…

Cut 17 (16) “…handful for sure” 

It doesn’t look like former Saint C-J Gardner Johnson will play in this game. The Eagles safety remains on injured reserve but is still tied for first in the NFL with six interceptions. New Orleans traded Gardner Johnson to Philadelphia before the season started and Allen says they have no regrets…

Cut 18 (15) “…moved forward.”