It’s believed tonight’s meeting about the new proposed 1-10 Calcasieu River Bridge is the last one for the public to add their input. Brooke Thorington has more

Cut 1(33)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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College football is mourning the loss of Mississippi State Coach Mike Leach who died last night after suffering a massive heart attack on Sunday. He was 61. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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State Police investigators have released more details about the death of an inmate yesterday at the St. Mary Parish Courthouse. Trooper Derek Senegal says the altercation occurred between the inmate and a corrections deputy in a deliberation room just outside a courtroom.

Cut 3 (09) “…gunshot wound” 

He says the inmate was taken to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead by the medical staff. He says the corrections officer was not injured.

Cut 4 (10)  “…at the time” 

Senegal says the inmate was at the courthouse on official business. Investigators are trying to figure out what led up to the incident.

Cut 5 (09) “…of scuffle”

He says the inmate’s identity will be released once his next of kin has been notified.

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The Department of Transportation and Development is hosting a meeting tonight in Lake Charles about the I-10 Calcasieu River Bridge. Lake Charles Representative Phillip Tarver says concerned residents need to attend this meeting.

Cut 6 (11)  “…this project.”

Tarver says the new bridge is expected to be constructed just north of the current structure and the route to the bridge for the most part will not change, but there are concerns about the transition into Westlake.

Cut 7 (08)  “…is safer.”

Tarver says approximately 90-thousand cars use the Calcasieu River Bridge daily.

The cost of the bridge is estimated to be $1.5 billion and Tarver says the legislature has already allocated one billion for the project. As for the remaining amount needed he says there are differing opinions on how it should be funded.

Cut 8 (09)  “…toll that bridge.“

If plans continue to proceed, Tarver expects construction should begin in the next year, a year and a half.

The meeting will be from 5 until 7 at the Pryce/Miller Recreational Center.

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The executive director of the Louisiana Association of School Superintendents says Louisiana is one of only 13 states that require all high school juniors to take the ACT test. Michael Faulk says the requirement is outdated.

Cut 9 (07) “… other measures.” 

Faulk says students who are not planning on going to college shouldn’t have to take the ACT test because they are not taught classes that prepare them for it.

Cut 10 (08) “… workforce.” 

Faulk says students who aren’t preparing to go to college are also given a chance to take a test called WorkKeys. He says only students who are planning to go to college should be required to take the ACT test.

Cut 11 (12)  “…ACT exam.”

Faulk says when students who are not prepared to take the ACT tests have to take it, their low scores drag down the state’s overall average, which has been declining for five consecutive years.

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A large portion of the state is under a tornado watch until 10 PM. The watch area covers Shreveport, Monroe, Natchitoches, Alexandria and DeRidder Mike Steele, with the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness, says  the threat for tornadoes exists for south Louisiana during the overnight hours…

Cut 12 (11) “…pop up”  

Steele says this storm system moving in from Texas brings a variety of threats

Cut 13 (08) “…flash flooding”  

Steele says much of the southern half of the state is also under a flash flood watch tonight through tomorrow…..

Cut 14 (11)   “…rain falling”

Louisiana ranks 50th in the America’s Health Rankings 2022 Annual Report. Whitney Thomas reports a dramatic rise in overdose death rates is a main factor…

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Whitney Thomas”

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It’s the busiest week of the year for the post office and the deadlines for mailing cards and packages are approaching. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (29) “…I’m Brooke Thorington”

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The governor’s office announces a public-private partnership that will result in a one-point-eight billion dollar port expansion in the New Orleans area. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (31) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The United Health foundation has released its America’s Health Rankings for 2022 and Louisiana is ranked dead last at 50. A major reason for Louisiana’s poor ranking is that drug deaths rose by 50% between 2019 and 2020.

United Health Foundation Chief Medical Officer Dr. Ravi Johar says Louisiana has a high premature death rate.

Cut 4 (06)  “…drug deaths”

The report highlights improvements, challenges, and disparities in the health and well-being of Americans across all 50 states. Johar says the state also suffers with a high prevalence of physical inactivity with a 30% rate.

Cut 5 (11) “…that sort.”

Louisiana also ranks low for STD rate, high risk HIV behaviors, and 48th for teen birth. Dr. Johar says the report serves an important purpose.

Cut 6 (10)  “…to address .” 

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This week is expected to be the busiest week of the year for the United States Postal Service. The deadline for mailing greeting cards and first-class packages, if you want them to arrive before Santa, is December 17^th. USPS spokesperson David Walton says you’ll want to have things ready to ship by Saturday if not sooner.

Cut 7 (08) “…the holidays.”

The postal service typically hires extra workers for the holiday season, but Walton says they didn’t have to hire as many because they increased their number of full-time employees throughout the year. Walton says so far things are running as smoothly as possible.

Cut 8 (09)  “…of year.”

And because the post office is expecting 250 million people to visit post offices during the holiday season this year some post offices have extended hours for customers to drop off packages and delivery workers are working longer days also.

Cut 9 (09)  “…time change.”

The deadline for Priority Mail Express Military service is Friday, December 16^th. The deadline for Priority Mail is December 19^th and for Priority Mail Express the deadline is December 23^rd.

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St. Tammany Parish leaders have placed a time capsule inside the Slidell Museum featuring items from the COVID pandemic, like toilet paper, a mask, a Covid-19 test, letters from students, and news s coverage of the surge in cases and deaths. Slidell Mayor Greg Cromer says the time capsule should remain locked for 100 years

Cut 10 (06) “…we faired.” 

The collection also showcases things like horrific death tolls, the start of quarantine, and software such as zoom. But Cromer says parish leaders 100 years from now will also learn how show how resilient people were through the pandemic

Cut 11 (09)  “…but forever.”

Cromer says this pandemic changed his appreciation for first responders, educators, and hospital workers. The mayor says 100 years from now he wants people to know… 

Cut 12 (11) “…apart of.”

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Plans are in place to build a one-point-eight billion dollar state-of-the-art container facility on the Mississippi River in St. Bernard Parish that would create more than 17-thousand new jobs by 2050. Port NOLA President Brandy Christian says a large marine terminal operator called Ports America and Switzerland-based Mediterranean Shipping Company are the private investors

Cut 13 (08) “…make it a reality.”

The governor’s office says the construction of the terminal will be supported by a substantial commitment from Port NOLA, as well as state and federal funding sources.

Christian says the facility will be capable of handling ultra-large container vessels which will help Louisiana attract new investment from companies competing globally

Cut 14 (10)  “…by container”

Governor John Bel Edwards says this port expansion will benefit manufacturing, agribusiness and energy workers. Christian says the new Louisiana International Terminal will be able to serve vessels of all sizes…

Cut 15 (11)  “…through container shipping”

The U-S Army Corps of Engineers is conducting an environmental review process. Barring unforeseen delays, construction would begin in 2025 and the first berth would open in 2028.

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There’s an enhanced risk for severe weather for most of north Louisiana and all of central Louisiana this afternoon and tonight. State Climatologist Barry Keim says tornadoes will be possible…

Cut  16 (07)  “..southeast Louisiana” 

Keim says make sure your wireless emergency alerts are turned on ahead of the expected severe weather…

Cut 17 (10) “….the situation” 

A Republican will lead the city of Shreveport for the first time in more than 20 years. Jeff Palermo has more on Saturday’s stunning results in the Shreveport mayoral run-off…

Cut 1(29)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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If you were confused by the proposed constitutional amendments on Louisiana’s ballot this year, experts think they have figured out why. Marsanne Golsby has more.

Cut 2 (29)  “…I’m  Marsanne Golsby”

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Republican Tom Arceneaux defeated Democrat Greg Tarver in Saturday’s Shreveport mayoral run-off election. Arceneaux received 56-percent of the vote to Tarver’s 44-percent. LSU Shreveport political science professor Jeffrey Sadow says Arceneaux did a better job in getting his base to the polls…

Cut 3 (06) “…ten points better” 

Arceneaux is an attorney and former Shreveport councilman. Tarver will remain a state senator representing a portion of Caddo Parish.

Arceneaux’s win over Tarver, a Black Democrat, is considered an upset since 57-percent of the city’s residents are Black. But Sadow says Tarver has a lot of detractors…

Cut 4 (10)  “…to many enemies” 

With Arceneaux’s election, Shreveport, Monroe and Alexandria are led by white mayors, despite a majority Black population in those cities. Sadow says current Shreveport mayor Adrian Perkins is unpopular and similar situations occurred in Monroe and Alexandria, where Friday Ellis and Jacques Roy are the mayors…

Cut 5 (12) “…go together”

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Saturday voters added three more constitutional amendments to Louisiana’s 48-year-old constitution. Over the years, voters have been asked to consider 308 amendments. As of Saturday, they have approved 206 of them.

Public Affairs Research Council Steven Procopio says PAR has struggled to find a pattern that explains voter behavior.

Cut 6 (08)  “…passed.”

He says one thing is clear:  the number of people who bother to vote on proposed amendments is less than the bigger races at the top of the ballot. PAR says since 2012, when Louisiana had major statewide races at the top of the ballot, at least 2 percent, and sometimes more than 6 percent fewer people  voted on the first amendment compared to those voting for president, senator, or governor.

Cut 7 (09)  “…dont know.”

Procopio says there are too many proposed amendments and they’re too complicated. PAR puts out guides before each election to try to help, but he says PAR’s research can only do so much.

Cut 8 (08)  “…super laws“

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The average price of a gallon of regular gas in the Bayou State today is $2.84. That’s quite a drop compared to this time six months when the state recorded its highest average at $4.56 a gallon. Triple A spokesperson Nick Chabbari says today’s average is down about 45 cents from a month ago.

Cut 9 (09) “… this year.” 

Chabarri credits market stability for the continued drop in prices at the pump.

Cut 10 (08) “…oil prices.” 

He says the Russian invasion of Ukraine was largely responsible for the disruption in the global oil supply, especially during the summer months, but that appears to have stabilized.

Barring any major disruptions in the market, Chabarri believes we will continue to see gas prices drop.

Cut 11 (10)  “…gasoline demand.”

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The LaSalle Parish Sheriff’s Office is offering a $5,000 reward to try to solve a murder that happened two years ago in Jena. Detective Brant King says on October 23^rd, 2020, deputies found Leon Turner dead of an apparent gunshot wound.

Cut 12 (07) “…black pants” 

King says they need the public’s help because they haven’t had any recent tips and want to bring some closure to the victim’s family.

Cut 13 (05) “…come forward”  

To phone in an anonymous tip, call 318-992-7300.

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There was a shooting at the courthouse in Franklin this morning, but officials are releasing very few details. St. Mary Parish Sheriff’s Office spokesperson David Spencer says it happened inside a courtroom just before 9:00 am and State Police is handling the investigation.

Cut 14 (08)   “…more information.”

Spencer would only confirm one person was shot, and State Police would release more information as it becomes available.

Cut 15 (03) “…by ambulance.”

Our affiliate KQKI is reporting there was a struggle in the courtroom between a deputy and a person in custody and the individual who struggled with the officer was fatally shot. State Police is handling the investigation.

Louisiana is seeing Covid cases rise, and the worst flu season in 5 years. Michelle Southern reports now is the time to get updated on vaccines before the holidays…:

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern.”

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In Saturday’s election, 30-year-old political newcomer Davante Lewis defeated three-term incumbent Lambert Boissiere for a seat on the Louisiana Public Service Commission. Both are Democrats. Marsanne Golsby has more.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Marsanne Golsby”

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State Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon is hopeful another incentive program will alleviate the state’s insurance crisis. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (33) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Covid cases are on the rise and flu is at its highest level in 5 years, so the Louisiana Department of Health is strongly encouraging residents to get boosters and vaccines before holiday gatherings. LDH reported nearly 4500 new Covid cases in its last count. State Health Officer Dr. Joe Kanter…:

Cut 4 (13)  “…COVID-19.”

Kanter says at the start of the month, over 10% of healthcare visits in Louisiana were for flu-like illness. He says now is the time to take precautions…:

Cut 5 (12) “…severe disease.”

The updated COVID-19 boosters are formulated to offer continued protection against the original strain while also offering new protection against the Omicron and other variants. Kanter says getting the shots now will give your body time to bolster immunity before the height of gatherings…:

Cut 6 (12)  “…holidays.” 

Louisiana residents should also consider getting tested ahead of gatherings. Home testing kits are widely available or you can call 211 to find a test site near you.

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It would only make sense that the state’s favorite crustacean is the topic of ongoing research at Nicholls State. Biosciences Associate Professor Chris Bonvillain says they’ve been looking at how water quality and low oxygen levels impact wild crawfish in the Atchafalaya Basin.

Cut 7 (12) “…at a time.”

And while crawfish are surviving in waters with low-oxygen levels, Bonvillain says they’re maturing smaller in size as a result.

Cut 8 (12)  “…smaller eggs.”

Preliminary studies show low oxygen produces fewer eggs and Bonvillain says the next phase of research will look at egg size. He says unhealthy crawfish tend to produce fewer eggs…

Cut 9 (05)  “…as well.”

Bonvillian says he’s also received feedback from Louisiana crawfish farmers who say they too are seeing smaller crawfish than in the past.

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Florida’s Legislature begins a special session today to address the state’s property insurance crisis. Thousands of Louisiana property owners are forced to find new private insurance carriers as many companies are either folding or no longer writing policies in Louisiana. Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon says a possible solution, is an incentive program, similar to the one used after Katrina and Rita, which led to new private insurance companies in Louisiana.

Cut 10 (06) “…last resort.” 

Louisiana lawmakers are waiting to see how much money the Revenue Estimating Conference says is available for such a program. The REC is meeting this week.

Donelon says yes, it’s dire but not as bad as it was after Katrina, and it’s not just that some companies have left the state entirely….

Cut 11 (07)  “…consumers.”

After Katrina and Rita, Donelon says the state faced a $23.3 billion crisis with a million claims. The last two hurricane seasons total $14 billion and 800-thousand claims.

While those without coverage are forced to turn to Citizens the state’s insurer of last resort, Donelon is hopeful incentives will resolve the insurance crisis.

Cut 12 (12) “…in Citizens today.”

At least 10 insurance companies have left the state in the last year.

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Thirty-year-old progressive policy advocate Davante Lewis unseated three term Public Service Commissioner Lambert Boissiere in a Saturday runoff election for the District Three Public Service Commission seat. Lewis is the first openly LGBTQ person to win elective office in Louisiana, but he does not think his sexual orientation was as a factor in the race.

Cut 13 (13) “…affect them.”

Lewis, of Baton Rouge,  says anger about high utility bills and a desire for more renewable energy helped him. He won with 59 percent of the vote. The fifty-seven-year-old Boissiere, of New Orleans, was supported by prominent Democrats including Congressman Troy Carter and Governor John Bel Edwards.

The race received national attention. Lewis was supported by powerful national environmental groups who mounted a massive grassroots campaign and poured money into the race.

Lewis says his first priority will be to try to reinstate a rule the PSC repealed in 2018 allowing net metering for solar power. He says net metering credits solar panel owners for the electricity they add to the grid.

Cut 14 (06)  “…credit back.”

Lewis says only two percent of the energy used in Louisiana comes from renewable sources.

Cut 15 (08)  “…the grid.”

Lewis’s election doesn’t change the commission’s political ratio. There are still three Republicans and two Democrats.

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The 2022 Prep Classic saw two of the state’s winningest coaches win a state championship. Jim Hightower has been involved in over 500 games and he’s never seen a finish like the one he experienced on Friday as his St. Thomas More Cougars rallied from 10 points down in the final two minutes to stun Lafayette Christian 52-48. Hightower says it was a wild finish…

Cut  16 (16)  “..pretty special” 

Louisiana’s winningest coach, J-T Curtis, captured his 27th state championship on Saturday night as the John Curtis Patriots blanked Brother Martin 23-0 nothing. Curtis saw his veer offense grind out a 99-yard touchdown drive in the second quarter, which set the tone…

Cut 17 (11) “….played very hard” 

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The Pelicans won their seventh straight last night as they defeated the Suns 129 to 124. New Orleans also beat Phoenix on Friday in the Smoothie King Center and with an 18-and-8 record the Pels have the best record in the Western Conference. Zion Williamson says it a nice accomplishment for December…

Cut 18 (15) “…deep team” 

Williamson has been outstanding during this seven game winning streak and he scored 35 points in yesterday’s overtime win. In O-T, Pelican fans chanted “M-V-P” when Zion was at the free throw line. Williamson says he loves feeling the love from the home fans…

Cut 19 (18) “….way they do”

Williamson has scored 30 or more points four times during this seven-game winning streak. Coach Willie Green is impressed with the former number one pick is doing, especially after missing all of last year with a foot injury…

Cut 20 (20) “…with us”

The Pels begin a three-game road trip in Utah on Tuesday.

Two 15-year-old boys are charged with making a bomb threat at Port Barre High school Monday. Marsanne Golsby has more.

Cut 1(30)  “…I’m Marsanne Golsby”

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Three members of Southern University’s Human Jukebox band were killed in a crash involving an 18-wheeler near Natchitoches last night. Brooke Thorington has the tragic details….

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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A new statewide poll shows a majority of Louisianans accept climate change as a reality, but feel it’s not up to the U.S. alone to address it. John Couvillon, with JMC Analytics & Polling, says the survey of over 600 residents found a majority (42%) feel it’s a real problem…:

Cut 3 (08) “…something about it.” 

Majorities polled feel climate change contributes to the severity of hurricanes, and that congress should work to address it. However, Couvillon says, large percentages also feel it’s not only up to the U.S. to fix, and favor an alternative approach…:

Cut 4 (11)  “…heavy polluter or not.” 

The U.S. has already lowered greenhouse gas emissions (believed to aggravate warming) tremendously, while other countries have not. What’s more Couvillon says his survey revealed large numbers of us would be willing to alter our consuming habits, if it meant helping slow climate change..:

Cut 5 (14) “…higher polluting country.”

You can view the entire survey at “winwithjmc.com”, click on “blogs.”

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After responding to four overdose deaths in a 72-hour period over the weekend, police in Monroe have one suspect in custody. Detective Matt Schmitz says 47-year-old Jarrell Lee Walker has been arrested and charged with the deaths of two persons who were found deceased on December third.

Cut 6 (07)  “…illicit drug.”

Walker faces several charges including two counts of negligent homicide. Schmitz says they are still waiting on toxicology reports, and they believe fentanyl is suspected to be involved in the deaths. As for the other two overdose deaths…

Cut 7 (05)  “…other two.”

Due to the number of drug overdose deaths in such a short period, Schmitz says they are warning the public of a suspected deadly batch of fentanyl circulating in the area. And they urge those with addiction issues to seek help.

Cut 8 (08)  “…their life.“

Walker was booked and processed at the Ouachita Parish Correctional Center.

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Authorities are investigating a double traffic fatality that happened around 4 pm Tuesday in Tangipahoa Parish. Trooper William Huggins says 67-year-old John Bitter was driving a Nissan and traveling eastbound on LA Highway 40 near Highway 445 when the single-vehicle crash occurred.

Cut 9 (11) “….a tree.” 

The passenger, 64-year-old Janice Pellegrin was also killed. Both victims are from Covington.

Huggins says Bitter and Pellegrin were both properly restrained and died as a result of the crash.

Cut 10 (09) “…under investigation.” 

Huggins says the investigation will include obtaining phone records and crash data recordings. Huggins says that’s similar to a Blackbox recording on a plane and it has valuable information like…

Cut 11 (09)  “…happened.”

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Port Barre (BARRY) police have arrested two fifteen-year-old boys for allegedly making a bomb threat at Port Barre High School Monday.  Police chief Deon Boudreaux one of the boys wrote a threat on a school bathroom wall, and the other conspired with him to do it.

Cut 12 (09) “… a lot of chaos.” 

Boudreaux says one boy is charged with terrorizing, and the other with accessory to terrorizing….

Cut 13 (08) “…two guys.”  

Boudreaux says the two are in the custody of their parents because the juvenile jail is full. Port Barre High School and Middle School are on the same campus. He says similar threats were made at the middle school on November 23^rd and December first^. The chief says the two suspects arrested for the alleged high school threat are not suspects in the threats at the middle school. He says they do have some suspects in the investigation at the middle school.

Cut 14 (10)   “…expert.”

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Three Southern University band members were killed in a crash involving an 18-wheeler last night. The students were reportedly on their way home to Texas for Christmas break. Captain Tony Moran with the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office says it happened on I-49 near Natchitoches around 7 pm.

Cut 15 (09) “…situation.”

State Police are investigating and say Tyran Williams, Dylan Young, and Broderick Moore were killed while trying to change a flat tire.

Moran says multiple first responders worked the accident.

Cut  16 (07)  “…coroners office.”

Southern University is offering grief counseling to students.

The Saints suffered an absolute gut punch of a loss last night as New Orleans blew a 13-point lead to the Buccaneers and lost 17-16. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1(31)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Data from the Louisiana Secretary of State show the youngest voters did not turn out heavily here in the November 8^th election as they did in other states. Marsanne Golsby has more.

Cut 2 (29)  “…I’m Marsanne Golsby..”

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When the 118^th Congress convenes next year, members of Louisiana’s Congressional delegation assume new leadership roles. Congressman Steve Scalise will serve as House Majority Leader and Representative Troy Carter will serve as Second Vice Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus.

Cut 3 (12) “…will assume.” 

Congresswoman Julia Letlow will serve on House Appropriations. Congressman Clay Higgins, a ranking member of Homeland Security, could possibly chair that committee. Carter says these roles says will allow Louisiana to be uniquely positioned to have a seat at the table…

Cut 4 (09)  “…of Louisiana.” 

Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves will move into a key role on Transportation and Infrastructure and Rep Mike Johnson has a pivotal role on the Judiciary Committee. And while Carter is the lone Democrat representing the state in DC, he’s very proud of the roles other members will serve in Congress.

Cut 5 (08) “…best for Louisiana.”

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Political analysts are still examining the reason the expected red wave did not happen in national elections. ULM political science professor Dr. Joshua Stockley says the youngest voters had a key impact

Cut 6 (10)  “…thirty years.”

But numbers we’ve acquired from the Louisiana Secretary of State show that didn’t happen in Louisiana. Here, the youngest voters had the lowest turnout, and the oldest had the highest. Stockley says that’s because the Louisiana ballot was humdrum compared to those in other states.

Cut 7 (11)  “…economic issues.”

In Louisiana, numbers show a clear progression of higher turnout through the age groups, from a low of just 28 percent amongst voters ages 18 to 20, to a high of 66 percent amongst voters 65 and older. Stockley says older voters have long dominated the electorate because they are more settled in the community.

Cut 8 (09)  “…day-to-day lives.“

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Senator Bill Cassidy says he’s filed legislation to give tax relief to people impacted by Hurricane Ida. Cassidy says bill would create special tax deductions for those who suffered personal casualty losses.

Cut 9 (10) “….standard deduction.” 

Cassidy says the bill gives tax relief to those using their own money to recover from their storm losses, and he adds it will waive the standard ten percent floor for deductions. He says a homeowner who is short 30-thousand dollars would get a three thousand dollar benefit.

Cut 10 (07) “…bring relief.” 

Hurricane Ida made landfall as a Category 4 storm on Louisiana’s southeastern coast on August 29th, 2021, causing $75 billion in damage. Cassidy says he is also looking at potential legislation to help with the skyrocketing costs of the National Flood Insurance Program. And he says he is taking a close look at the way FEMA is administering the program.

Cut 11 (12)  “…risk of flooding.”

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LSU star wide receiver Kayshon Boutte says he’s staying. The New Iberia native says he’ll play his senior year at LSU instead of opting for the NFL draft. Tiger Rag Assistant Editor William Weathers says this is huge news for the Bayou Bengals 2023 season and quite a nod to head coach Brian Kelly.

Cut 12 (13) “…he’s on board.” 

At the beginning of the season, there were rumors of tension between Boutte and the new head coach, but as the season progressed, Weathers says the relationship grew and Boutte’s choice to return signifies that.

Cut 13 (09) “…right in.”  

Weathers says he believes name, image, and likeness deals play a factor in a player’s decision to stay or go early. He says Boutte’s choice to stay will inspire others on the fence to remain as well.

Cut 14 (08)   “…in store.”

While Boutte is returning to LSU, another Tigers receiver from the Acadiana area is looking to leave. Jack Beche (Besh) has entered the transfer portal after catching 16 passes this season. As a freshman, the Lafayette native led LSU in receiving with 43 catches.

The runoff election for Louisiana Public Service Commission District 3 is getting national attention—and a lot of money is being spent. Marsanne Golsby has more.

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Marsanne Golsby ”

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Federal officials say inflation has slowed somewhat in recent weeks. But is it enough to be felt at street level, by the average consumer?

Cut 2 (28) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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 The holiday shopping season got off to a good start for retailers and it’s anticipated to continue. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The race for Louisiana Public Service Commission’s third district is getting national attention. Fifty-seven-year-old incumbent Lambert Boissiere the third is facing a stiff challenge from thirty-year-old activist Davante Lewis in the December 10^th runoff election. Both are Democrats.  “LAPolitics.com “publisher Jeremy Alford says Lewis has raised so much money that Lambert is taking note.

Cut 4 (09)  “…election.”

Alford says campaign finance reports show Lewis raised $30,000 in one three-day period last week. A high-profile Super PAC has about $1.1 million and is using it to attack Boissiere. The five-member commission regulates utilities and sets electric rates.  Alford says Lewis’s support is likely rooted in anger over skyrocketing electric bills.

Cut 5 (08) “…at it.”

Alford adds a major infusion of out-of-state donations is helping Lewis. Many are from environmental activists who want the energy industry to shift away from fossil fuels.

Cut 6 (09)  “…barnburner.” 

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The LSU AgCenter says its possible this year’s sugarcane crop could set a new record if sugar recovery levels continue to perform well. LSU Ag Center sugarcane specialist Doctor Kenneth Gravois says a couple of dry months in the harvest season, allowed this season’s sugarcane harvest in south Louisiana to get off to a fast start…

Cut 7 (10) “…for harvest”

Gravois says it looks like the crop will produce some 245 pounds of sugar for each ton of sugarcane harvested, which could lead to a record crop…

Cut 8 (06)  “…crop.”

Early in the season, mills were struggling due to high molasses levels, but Gravois says it appears the problem has solved itself…

Cut 9 (10)  “…sugar recovery”

According to the American Sugar Cane League, Louisiana’s sugar industry had an economic impact of about three-billion dollars in our state, with nearly 17-thousand jobs throughout Louisiana supported by sugarcane.

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The federal Department of Commerce reports inflation has slowed slightly; now at about 6 percent higher than one year ago. Rising costs and prices had been at over 8 percent recently, posting 40-year highs. Will this small decrease be enough to be felt by consumers? U.L.-Lafayette economics professor Gary Wagner says the answer is probably “no”…:

Cut 10 (12) “…at least into 2023.” 

The Fed has raised interest rates benchmark interest rates six times since March to try to slow runaway inflation, and this latest indicates there is some success. However, Wagner thinks the labor market will continue to slow, meaning the economy will continue to worsen…:

Cut 11 (11)  “…real consistent yet.”

Despite that, Wagner says the 2022 holiday shopping season is expected to be improved from last year…:

Cut 12 (10) “…that’s favorable.”

Last week, Fed Chairman Jerome Powell said more interest rate hikes are coming, but will likely be smaller than the six three-quarters-of-a-percent jumps seen earlier this year.

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With the holiday shopping season up and running for over a week now, economists are predicting spending this year to increase anywhere from six to eight percent from last year.  LSU Marketing Associate Professor Dan Rice says the prediction also has to account for record inflation.

Cut 13 (11) “…up seventeen percent.”

Rice says online shopping is up two percent from last year because more people are using their phones to make online purchases. Rice says the majority of online transactions are purchased via a smartphone versus a tablet.

Cut 14 (11)  “…mobile device.”

Shopping trends have proven fruitful for Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday this year. Rice says more retailers are extending their sales period and customers are responding.

Cut 15 (08)  “…earlier and earlier.”

And barring any supply chain disruptions, an increase in fuel costs, etc., Rice expects sales to continue to go well for most retailers.

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After losing in the SEC Championship game, LSU will have an opportunity to win its tenth game of the season in Orlando when they play Purdue in the Citrus Bowl on January second at noon. Coach Brian Kelly believes it’s already been a successful season winning the SEC West, but getting to ten wins would be really sweet…

Cut  16 (18)  “..on the back” 

There’s a chance some major contributors to the 2022 team will not play in the bowl game and instead prepare themselves for the NFL draft. Kelly says they’ll have those discussions with those players…

Cut 17 (19) “….their choice” 

The NCAA transfer portal opens today and LSU hit the portal hard to help create the 2022 season. Kelly says they’ll get some guys out of the portal again this year, but they really want to build the program with players they sign out of high school…

Cut 18 (17) “…and develop” 

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After winning the American Athletic Conference, Tulane will play in the Cotton Bowl and face USC on January 2nd. Coach Willie Fritz says he can’t wait to take on the Trojans…

Cut 19 (18) “….to it”

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The Saints visit the Tampa Bay Buccaneers tonight in Monday night football. New Orleans is four and eight, but still alive to win the NFC South as the Bucs are in first place with a five and-six record. New Orleans defensive end Cam Jordan says they can’t suffer any more losses…

Cut 20 (11) “…on that”

Vernon Parish authorities have charged five soldiers stationed at Ft. Polk with drugging and raping two women in Rosepine. Marsanne Golsby has more.

Cut 1(29)  “…I’m Marsanne Golsby”

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Two of the three Americans who died of carbon monoxide poisoning at their Mexico City Airbnb are from New Orleans. Brooke Thorington has more from a mother who wants to hold the rental company accountable

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Five soldiers stationed at Ft. Polk are in the Vernon Parish Jail today, charged with raping two women in  Rosepine on November 25^th.Sheriff Sam Craft says the women knew one of the soldiers, and that all five of them gave the two spiked alcohol. He says once the women were incapacitated the men raped them.

Cut 3 (11) “..type scenario.” 

Craft described the women as very credible witnesses.  He says they sought medical help the morning after the attacks.

Cut 4 (08)  “…had transpired” 

Craft says forensic evidence collected at the hospital confirmed the assaults. He says there is also video evidence. He says sheriff’s office investigators have received help from the Army’s criminal investigation division.

Cut 5 (09) “…to us”

Craft says the five soldiers are being held in the Vernon Parish Jail.

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28-year-old Jordan Marshall of New Orleans was one of the three Americans who died from carbon monoxide poisoning October 30^th at their Airbnb rental in Mexico City. His mother Jennifer Marshall and the families of the other victims want the vacation rental company to be held accountable and require working carbon monoxide detectors at all of their listings.

Cut 6 (06)  “…of hurt.”

Attorney Michael Haggard says hotel chains are held to industry standards and must have smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and there’s no reason why Airbnb shouldn’t either.

Cut 7 (04)  “…to prevent.”

In 2021 Airbnb reported an annual gross profit of $4.8 billion.

Jennifer Marshall wants to bring about awareness of the issue and she highly encourages vacationers to pack their own carbon monoxide detectors so they can avoid a similar fate.

Cut 8 (11)  “…their families.“

Jordan Marshall, a 12th-grade English teacher at Rosenwald Collegiate Academy, and 33-year-old Courtez Hall, who taught social studies at KIPP Morial Middle School, died along with 28-year-old Kandace Florence of Virginia.

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LSU is a 17 and a half point underdog for Saturday’s SEC championship matchup against Georgia. Coach Brian Kelly says the point spread should not be the sole source of motivatation for the Tigers.

Cut 9 (09) “…to think” 

Georgia leads the nation in scoring defense, holding opponents to eleven points a game. But Kelly says the Bulldogs are good on offense as well, led by a veteran quarterback in Stetson Bennett…

Cut 10 (11) “…do not” 

LSU defensive tackle Mekhi Wingo says getting pressure on Georgia’s quarterback is a key…

Cut 11 (11)  “…in the pocket”

Kick-off Saturday is at 3 PM.

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After two years of the pandemic, for many, the traditional office Christmas party is making a return. And while many of us are out of practice, UNO business professor Mark Rosa has some sound advice. While some might be hesitant to socialize with their work colleagues, Rosa says if your employer is hosting one you should attend.

Cut 12 (11) “…wise one.” 

Rosa says it should go without saying to limit your alcohol intake and refrain from lewd behavior at the office party. He says to also be mindful and respectful of those who choose to socially distance themselves and wear face masks at the party.

Cut 13 (04) “…mask on.”  

The office holiday party provides employees with the opportunity to mingle socially and for many, it will be the first time to do so face-to-face. Rosa says to keep it light and avoid discussing business if you can.

Cut 14 (08)   “…best behavior.”

And if you’re able to bring your significant other to the party to introduce them to your office mates and it’s also best if they too limit their alcohol consumption.

Republican State Treasurer John Schroder says if GOP Senator John Kennedy decides to run for governor, he won’t run, but if he doesn’t, Schroder says he will announce in January that he is running.  Marsanne Golsby has more.

Cut 1(29)  “…I’m Marsanne Golsby”

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Federal authorities are searching for potential victims from an online child exploitation scheme that started in Northeast Louisiana in 2021. Whitney Thomas Reports

Cut 2 (33)  “…I’m Whitney Thomas.”

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The community of Holum in Caldwell Parish is recovering from a tornado that hit Tuesday. The National Weather Service says the tornado strengthened as it went along, reaching peak winds of 140 miles per hour as an EF3. Caldwell Parish Sheriff Chief Deputy Jack McKeithen describes the damage.

Cut 3 (09) “..three or four others.” 

McKeithen says the tornado killed some livestock and injured one person whose house collapsed around him.

Cut 4 (12)  “…last night” 

McKeithen says he is thankful that the people in the small community and throughout Caldwell Parish have turned out to help those who suffered damage.

Cut 5 (08) “…good citizens”

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Republican State Treasurer John Schroder says he will not run for governor in 2023 if GOP U.S. Senator John Kennedy runs…

Cut 6 (12)  “…in 2023.”

Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser is in the same position, while Attorney General Jeff Landry has already announced and has the endorsement of the Louisiana Republican Party.

Schroder says he and Kennedy have worked closely for many years. Kennedy endorsed him when he ran for Treasure and the two have similar political philosophies.

Cut 7 (08)  “…Senator Kennedy.”

He also says the Louisiana Republican Party’s early endorsement of Attorney General Jeff Landry has no bearing on his decision, but he is hoping Kennedy clears the air soon.

Cut 8 (07)  “…benefit anybody.“

Schroder succeeded Kennedy as treasurer in 2017 when Kennedy became one of Louisiana’s two  US Senators.

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Federal authorities are searching for potential victims from an online child exploitation scheme that started in northeast Louisiana in 2021. The investigation centers on Gary London Harper who has been indicted for producing child pornography after preying on minors. U.S Attorney for Louisiana’s Western District  Brandon Brown says he’s glad Harper is in federal custody.

Cut 9 (11) “…multiple victims” 

Harper used Snapchat and  Cash app with usernames like “lilharp”, “oleharp”, “Millwright2011”, and “olecountry1234”. Harper was in his late 20’s while using the accounts posing as an 18 years old. Brown says for this very reason parents should be more mindful..

Cut 10 (11) “…do not” 

Brown says Harper’s trial date has been set for March. He says victims that come forward will receive help and  have access to legal resources ..

Cut 11 (10)  “…with you”

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A Greater New Orleans Crimestoppers tip leads to the recovery of 16 vehicles and the arrest of David Darby of Texas and Haley Smith of New Orleans.  Trooper Kate Stegall says the tip led them to an Algiers abandoned apartment complex and eight stolen cars. Then a traffic stop of Darby prompted a search of his apartment at the same complex.

Cut 12 (07) “…and Smith.” 

Stegall says the 16 vehicles are valued at more than $ 300 thousand and the search also found stolen several guns and a travel trailer. Stegall says there are even more stolen items that they need the public’s help locating.

Cut 13 (10) “…to Darby.”  

Stegall says that one tip led them to multiple stolen cars, and guns, and resulted in two arrests.  She says if you see something say something and this case is a testament to the value of Crimestoppers.

Cut 14 (06)   “…owners of the vehicles.”

Louisiana’s first through third graders showed improvement on a literacy test this fall, but Whitney Thomas reports the state’s public school education leader is concerned the percentage of kindergartners reading below grade level has declined….

Cut 1 (28) “I’m Whitney Thomas.”

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The state department of transportation has an interactive map that allows the public to provide input on proposed highway projects. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The coroner in St. Tammany Parish confirms charred remains found Monday in a double murder case as those of a missing local priest. More from Brooke Thorington…:

Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The state Department of Education released its fall 2022 Reading Report and it shows an improvement in reading skills for students in 1st-through-3rd grade, but kindergarten scores declined two-percent. Superintendent of Education Cade Brumley says kindergartners faced a learning delay because of the pandemic.

Cut 4 (13)  “…language acquisition.”

The Reading Report is based on a literacy screener given to students during the first 30 days of the school year and analyzes the child’s reading ability. Louisiana’s overall score improved for a second consecutive year, second-graders, in particular, scored two-percent higher than last year’s second-graders. Brumley says it’s good to see reading progress.

Cut 5 (13) “…around reading.”

Brumley says overall the Reading Report shows just under 50% of K-through-third graders scoring on or above benchmark, which means more work is needed to get young people reading at grade level

Cut 6 (13)  “…and homes.” 

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If you want to give input on highway projects the state is considering, the Louisiana Department of Transportation is making it easier. Spokesman Rodney Mallett says there’s a new interactive map on the DOTD website.

Cut 7 (07) “…January 6th.”

Mallett says you can comment on any project that was presented during the annual legislative public hearings that are held across the state during October and November. Now you can click on the map instead of going to a meeting or sending an email.

Cut 8 (09)  “…to make comments.”

He says the public input from the meetings and emails has often been helpful.

Cut 9 (10)  “…subdivision.”

You can find the map on the Department of Transportation’s website.

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The St. Tammany Parish town of Covington mourns the death of retired local priest, Father Otis Young, from a grisly double murder. Badly burned remains found Monday behind a local business have been confirmed by the parish coroner to be those of Father Young. Covington Police Sgt. Edwin Masters…:

Cut 10 (09) “…double homicide.” 

Father Young and a church assistant, Ruth Prats, were reported missing Sunday. Two charred bodies were found Monday behind a local business. Sgt. Masters says they cannot yet confirm the other remains are those of Ms. Prats…:

Cut 11 (05)  “…the second victim.”

The coroner says both victims died from blunt force trauma, then were set on fire. Sgt. Masters says Covington Police are holding a suspect…:

Cut 12 (12) “…a false name.”

The suspect is 49-year-old Antonio Tyson, who was just released from prison in August, after serving over 30 years for rape and burglary. Masters says Tyson is being held without bond.

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A month-long narcotic investigation in Caddo Parish leads to the arrest of 53-year-old Emanual Barrett of Shreveport. Head of the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Drug Task Force Lt. Darin Marshall says when they searched Barrett’s home, they found a significant amount of illegal substances.

Cut 13 (06) “…methamphetamines.”

Marshall says the street value of those substances was over $7,000.

Earlier this month, a wastewater study indicated the city of Shreveport has twice the national average of meth giving the area a notorious distinction. Marshall says the arrest of Barrett will make a difference.

Cut 14 (06)  “…in itself.”

Marshall says in his 20 years in law enforcement he’s seen the meth problem grow increasingly alarming and they are doing all they can to contain it.

Cut 15 (06)  “…near future.”

Barrett was booked into the Caddo Correctional Center, charges include possession of schedule II narcotics with intent to distribute, resisting an officer, and illegal use of a controlled dangerous substance in the presence of a juvenile.

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After allowing 274 rushing yards in the loss to Texas A&M, the Tigers defense looks to bounce back this Saturday in the SEC Championship game against Georgia. LSU cornerback Mekhi Garner admits they came out flat against the Aggies…

Cut  16 (16)  “…good thing

Georgia leads the nation for the fewest points allowed, allowing just eleven a game and they ranked fourth in total defense. Tigers freshman tight end Mason Taylor on the Dawgs defense…

Cut 17 (12) “…we’re coached”

Georgia’s quarterback Stetson Bennett is second in the SEC in passing yards. His top receiver is Brock Bowers. Garner says they are really good at the tight end position…

Cut 18 (18) “…stop that offense” 

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Southern will play Jackson State in the SWAC Championship game on Saturday. The Tigers trounced the Jaguars in the regular season matchup, winning 35-0. Southern Coach Eric Dooley says they need to execute better…

Cut 19 (17) “…forward to it”

The game will be played at Jackson State’s home field. Dooley says that doesn’t bother him…

Cut 20 (19) “…as well”

 Kickoff is at 3:00.