LUY-Development

Category: Louisiana News

  • LSU fires men’s basketball coach coach Matt McMahon, is finalizing agreement to rehire Will Wade

    LSU fires men’s basketball coach coach Matt McMahon, is finalizing agreement to rehire Will Wade

    LSU has fired fourth-year coach Matt McMahon and is finalizing an agreement to rehire former Tigers coach Will Wade from N.C. State, a person with knowledge of the development told The Associated Press on Thursday.

    The person spoke on condition of anonymity because there has been no formal announcement from LSU or N.C. State.

    Multiple reports of Wade’s impending return to LSU have been published.

    The topic of Wade’s potential return to LSU had been churning for weeks, enough so that Wade was ready with a response when asked about it after the Wolfpack’s loss to Virginia in the Atlantic Coast Conference Tournament. That included noting that the job at the time wasn’t open, with McMahon — the permanent successor after Wade’s ouster — still in place.

    “I was hired at NC State to do a job. This wasn’t going to take one year,” Wade said, then motioned toward Wolfpack athletic director Boo Corrigan at the back of the news-conference room. “I’ve already met with our administration about next year and some of the changes that we need to make and some of the things that we need to do to put this program where it deserves long-term.”

    Exactly two weeks later, Wade was gone. The buyout in Wade’s six-year deal at N.C. State has a $5 million buyout that drops to $3 million after April 1.

    Wade’s return to LSU would come four years after his firing there over allegations of money-fueled recruiting violations, which came amid a federal corruption investigation into the sport. Wade rebuilt his career with a two-year stint at McNeese that included 50 wins and two trips to March Madness.

  • The Miss-Lou’s Big Heart Shines: Record-Breaking $58,685 Raised for St. Jude

    The Miss-Lou’s Big Heart Shines: Record-Breaking $58,685 Raised for St. Jude

    Natchez, MS – The Miss-Lou community has once again come together in a powerful way, showing incredible generosity and heart as 95 Country (WQNZ, Natchez, MS) celebrates a record-breaking year, during its annual 95 Country Cares for St. Jude Kids Radiothon, held March 12–13, 2026.

    This year’s radiothon raised an amazing $58,685, marking the highest total ever raised in a single year in station history!

    Over the past decade, 95 Country listeners and our community partners have helped raise an incredible $469,320 for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Every dollar goes directly toward lifesaving treatment and support, ensuring families never receive a bill for care, travel, housing, or food—so they can focus on what matters most: their child.

     

    “Year after year, our listeners and community partners show just how big their hearts are,” said Margaret Perkins, President/CEO of Listen Up Y’all Media. “To break our own record is truly remarkable, and it speaks volumes about the compassion and generosity of the Miss-Lou community. From heartfelt stories to generous pledges, this year’s St Jude Radiothon once again demonstrated the life-changing power of local radio. I want to thank our community partners, without whom, the Radiothon would not be possible. I want to thank our 95-Country team, whether On the Air, marketing, programming, engineering, and support, for an outstanding job! Your tireless efforts led to tremendous success!”

    Together, the Miss-Lou community is making a real difference—one child, one family, and one miracle at a time. For more information or to support St. Jude’s mission, visit: /st-jude

  • Demario Davis Signs with Jets After Standout Run with Saints

    Demario Davis Signs with Jets After Standout Run with Saints

    According to reports from Tom Pelissero, Demario Davis is signing with the New York Jets on a two-year, $22 million deal, which includes $15 million fully guaranteed. The move marks Year 15 in the NFL for the longtime defensive leader, who recently turned 37 years old.

    Davis spent the past several seasons with the New Orleans Saints, where he became one of the team’s most respected veterans and defensive anchors. Known for his leadership, durability, and playmaking ability, Davis earned multiple Pro Bowl selections during his time in New Orleans.

    The signing also marks a reunion with the Jets, where Davis played in 2017 before joining the Saints.

  • Saints all-time sack leader Cameron Jordan says he’s entering free agency

    Saints all-time sack leader Cameron Jordan says he’s entering free agency

    NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Saints all-time sack leader Cameron Jordan is entering free agency for the first time in his career, yet isn’t ruling out remaining with New Orleans.

    “We shall see what happens,” Jordan told The Associated Press on Thursday. “It’s obvious that I have to be a free agent. What else would you call a player without a contract?”

    The 36-yeaer-old Jordan was the first of New Orleans’ two first-round draft picks in 2011, taken 24th overall out of California.

    He has played in 243 games during 15 seasons with the Saints, amassing 132 career sacks, including 10 1/2 last season. He was named AP first-team All-Pro in 2017 and also named to eight Pro Bowls.

    ESPN first reported that Jordan would be entering free agency rather than signing an extension before the free agency period begins next week.

    As the 2025 season wound down, Jordan stated on numerous occasions that he fully expects to play one more season at the very least. In discussing career longevity, he has compared himself to Hall of Fame defensive end Julius Peppers, who played for 17 seasons.

    Jordan, the son of former NFL tight end Steve Jordan, who grew up in Chandler, Arizona, has stated numerous times that his preference would be to spend his entire career in New Orleans, where he has long since settled, began his family and performed the bulk of his charitable foundation work.

    Jordan’s production dipped in the 2023 (two sacks) and 2024 (four sacks) seasons, but he attributed those numbers largely to how he was deployed in former head coach Dennis Allen’s system during those seasons.

    Last season, first-year Saints coach Kellen Moore brought in Brandon Staley as defensive coordinator, and Jordan enjoyed a resurgent season.

    Wherever he ends up, Jordan said, he felt “blessed and grateful for the opportunities last year to display my talents.”

  • Magnitude 4.9 Earthquake in North Louisiana Becomes Second Largest in State History

    Magnitude 4.9 Earthquake in North Louisiana Becomes Second Largest in State History

    According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), a magnitude 4.9 earthquake occurred at approximately 5:30 a.m. on March 5 just north of Edgefield, Louisiana, near U.S. Highway 71. The quake originated at a relatively shallow depth of about three miles below the surface, which likely contributed to residents across the area feeling the shaking.

    The event now ranks as the second-largest earthquake recorded in Louisiana history. The only stronger quake documented in the state occurred on February 9, 2006, when a magnitude 5.3 earthquake struck near Grand Isle, Louisiana.

    While earthquakes are relatively uncommon in Louisiana compared to other parts of the United States, they do occur occasionally as a result of geological stress along fault systems beneath the region.

    Officials are encouraging anyone who felt the earthquake to help researchers by reporting their experience to the USGS. These public reports help scientists better understand how far the quake was felt.

    Residents who experienced the shaking can submit a report online through the USGS “Did You Feel It?” system at:
    https://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/eventpage/us7000s27e/tellus

  • Central Louisiana Secures Four Sites in State’s Historic FastSites Economic Development Initiative

    Central Louisiana Secures Four Sites in State’s Historic FastSites Economic Development Initiative

    Central Louisiana is gaining significant momentum in economic development after four sites in the region were selected to move forward in the inaugural round of Louisiana’s new FastSites program, a major statewide effort designed to attract high-impact industries and investment.

    Louisiana Economic Development recently announced 19 sites across 16 parishes that will advance in the program’s first round of funding. The initiative represents the largest coordinated site investment effort in Louisiana history and aims to strengthen the state’s ability to compete for large-scale projects in industries such as advanced manufacturing, logistics, energy innovation and other next-generation sectors.

    Notably, four of the selected sites are located in Central Louisiana, highlighting the region’s readiness and growing reputation as a destination for major industrial investment. Sites in the region selected for the program include:

    • Beaver Lake Industrial Park — Rapides Parish

    • England Airpark — Rapides Parish

    • Port Distran — Rapides Parish

    • Natchitoches Parish Port Warehouse — Natchitoches Parish

    The FastSites initiative is designed to prepare development-ready locations before companies begin searching for places to build. By investing in infrastructure improvements such as utilities, road access, rail connectivity and environmental readiness ahead of time, Louisiana hopes to shorten the timeline for companies to begin construction and operations.

    State leaders say this proactive approach gives Louisiana—and particularly Central Louisiana—a stronger position when competing nationally for major economic projects.

    The program is funded through the $150 million Site Investment and Infrastructure Fund, established through Act 365 during the 2025 Regular Legislative Session. The fund operates as a revolving investment program. As sites are sold or leased and development begins, the state recovers its initial investment and reinvests those funds into additional projects, creating a long-term pipeline of competitive industrial sites.

    For Central Louisiana, the selection of four sites signals growing confidence in the region’s economic potential. With infrastructure improvements underway, local leaders believe the region will be better positioned to attract larger companies, higher-paying jobs and transformative development opportunities.

    By preparing sites before companies begin their search, the FastSites program shifts Louisiana’s strategy from reacting to opportunities to actively creating them—helping ensure the state, and Central Louisiana in particular, remains competitive in the race for future industry.

  • Saints QB Tyler Shough Named Pepsi Zero Sugar NFL Rookie of the Year

    Saints QB Tyler Shough Named Pepsi Zero Sugar NFL Rookie of the Year

    New Orleans Saints quarterback Tyler Shough has been named the Pepsi Zero Sugar NFL Rookie of the Year, the league announced today, capping off an impressive debut season for the first-year signal caller.

    Shough becomes the fourth player in franchise history to receive the honor, joining running backs George Rogers (1981), Rueben Mayes (1986), and Alvin Kamara (2017).

    “I am truly humbled and honored to be chosen for this award,” Shough said. “Coming in as a rookie, my goal was to do anything I could to contribute to our team’s success. Whatever I was asked to do, I just wanted to help the team. This wouldn’t be possible without all of my teammates and coaches giving everything they had each and every week to help us win.”

    Shough also expressed gratitude to Saints fans, saying their passion for the team and the city of New Orleans continues to inspire him.

    Selected by New Orleans in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft (40th overall) out of Louisville, Shough quickly established himself as a key contributor. In 11 games, including nine starts, the 6-foot-5, 219-pound quarterback completed 221 of 327 passes (67.6 percent) for 2,384 yards, 10 touchdowns, and just six interceptions. He finished the season with a 91.3 passer rating and led the entire NFL with a 103.3 passer rating on third down.

    Shough set Saints rookie records in nearly every major passing category, and his completion percentage ranks as the third-highest among qualifying rookie quarterbacks in NFL history.

    In addition to the Rookie of the Year honor, Shough was named to the Pro Football Writers of America (PFWA) All-Rookie Team and earned NFL Rookie of the Month honors for December and January. He is also a finalist for the Associated Press NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award, which will be announced tonight at the 15th annual NFL Honors ceremony at the Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco.

    With a decorated rookie season now complete, Shough’s future appears bright as the Saints look ahead to building around their young quarterback.

  • Vidalia Police Release January 2026 Arrest Report

    Vidalia Police Release January 2026 Arrest Report

    The Vidalia Police Department has released its arrest report for January 2026, detailing arrests, traffic enforcement, and accident activity throughout the month.

    According to the report, officers made several arrests on a range of charges, including bench warrants, assault-related offenses, drug possession, theft-related crimes, and traffic violations.

    On January 4, Jacob Lane Miller of Roxie, Mississippi, was arrested on a bench warrant related to an expired tag. That same day, Fredrick B. Green of Vidalia was arrested on a charge of aggravated assault.

    Multiple arrests were reported on January 13. Anthony I. Knockum of Baton Rouge was arrested for simple battery, possession of a Schedule II substance, and vehicle burglary. Togg J. Williams of Baton Rouge and Devonta C. Herbert of Belle Rose were each arrested on charges of simple battery, vehicle burglary, and resisting an officer.

    On January 14, Demond Fleming of Vidalia was arrested for conspiracy to commit theft. Rashad P. Rutland of Natchez, Mississippi, was arrested on January 18 on three bench warrants.

    A traffic-related arrest was made on January 26 when Victor K. Welch of Westmon, Louisiana, was arrested for speeding and driving under suspension. On January 27, Carell Jones of Natchez was arrested on a bench warrant, while Glenn White of Ferriday was arrested on three bench warrants.

    Later in the month, Jeffery Scott Bonnett Jr. of Vidalia was arrested on January 30 on two bench warrants. The final arrest of the month occurred on January 31, when Keith J. Glaviano of Batchelar was arrested for possession of marijuana.

    In addition to arrests, the Vidalia Police Department reported issuing 57 traffic citations and responding to 13 vehicle accidents during January.

    All individuals listed in this report are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

  • NWS Upgrades Concordia Parish to Ice Storm Warning as Significant Icing Expected

    The National Weather Service has upgraded portions of the Miss-Lou area to an Ice Storm Warning, with Concordia Parish in Louisiana now expected to see significant winter weather impacts this weekend.

    The Ice Storm Warning is in effect from noon Saturday through 6 PM CST Sunday. Forecasters are calling for significant ice accumulation, with up to three-quarters of an inch of ice possible, along with additional sleet. These amounts are enough to cause serious disruptions across the parish.

    According to the National Weather Service, impacts are expected to include widespread power outages and tree damage due to the weight of the ice on power lines and branches. Travel conditions are expected to deteriorate rapidly, and travel could become impossible in some areas as roads turn slick and debris blocks roadways.

    Officials strongly encourage residents to delay all travel during the warning period. If travel is absolutely necessary, drivers are urged to use extreme caution and carry a winter storm kit, including items such as blankets, extra clothing, water, a flashlight, booster cables, and a first aid kit in case they become stranded.

    Residents are also reminded to stay away from downed power lines and report outages directly to their electric provider. With slick roads and the potential for falling trees and power lines, conditions may remain dangerous even after precipitation ends.

  • Winter Weather Info and Closures

    Winter Weather Info and Closures

    Updated: 01/26/26 @ 5:45PMExtreme Cold Watch January 25, 06:00pm until January 27, 12:00pm

    There are numerous low-hanging and downed tree limbs across the area, many of which may be entangled with power lines. Do not approach, attempt to clear, or attempt to cross these hazards. Always assume all downed or low-hanging lines are energized and dangerous.The Miss-Lou area is expected to experience winter weather conditions, including likely icing. Mississippi and Louisiana have both issued a State of Emergency ahead of the conditions.  Local officials and organizations have shared the following updates, closures, and recommendations to help residents stay safe and prepared.



    [headerText widget_name=”Closures” level=”h3″ url=”” el_class=””]

    Natchez Stewpot Closure & Meal Assistance

    The Natchez Stewpot will be closed:

    • Saturday, January 24, 2026

    • Sunday, January 25, 2026

    • Monday, January 26, 2026

    To assist those in need, the Stewpot is distributing extra meals today, Friday, January 23, 2026, in preparation for the incoming weather.

    Tuesday, January 27th

    City of Natchez and Adams County offices to re-open

    Adams County Courthouse to reopen at 1PM

    Trash pickup for both city and county customers will resume

    Due to continued below-average temperatures, residents are encouraged to leave faucets on a slow drip to help prevent broken water lines.

    To report storm-related damage, visit www.adamscountyms.net and click “Report Damage.”

    Monday, January 26th Closures

    Rapides Parish School Board has announced that its schools and offices will be closed. Any further closures will be announced on Monday.

    Natchez-Adams County School District offices and schools will be closed. Further decisions on closures past Monday will be announced at a later date.

    Delta Charter will be closed. A decision on Tuesday will be announced on Monday.

    Adams County Christian School (ACCS) will be closed. A decision on Tuesday will be announced on Monday.

    Alcorn State University will transition to online instruction. On Tuesday, the university will have a delayed start and open at 12 p.m. All classes will be conducted online before 12 p.m.

    Natchez City Hall & Non-essential Offices will be closed

    Adams County Offices will be closed

    Vidalia City Offices will be closed

    All Louisiana State Offices will be closed

    Shops at Kress will be closed Sunday and Monday

    Natchez Historical Society’s Preservation Gala scheduled for Jan 27th has been postponed until further notice

    Concordia Bank & Trust will delay opening until 10AM

    Bryans Marine is closed Monday[vc_section][headerText widget_name=”Travel & Road Safety” level=”h3″ url=”” el_class=””]

    Officials strongly urge residents to stay off the roads and to travel only if absolutely necessary.
    Adams County and City of Natchez Road crews will be out in full force working as quickly and safely as possible.

    Emergency responders must be able to safely access roadways, and unnecessary travel increases the risk of accidents and delayed response times.

    Road Closures and Hazards

    The flyover on 61 near Walmart in Natchez MS is closed
    Firetower road is closed to to a downed tree with powerline entanglement.
    MLK north is blocked in both directions at the Broadmoore intersection.
    Low hanging limb on Morgantown near Mt Carmel,
    698 Liberty Road one lane blocked
    317 Foster Mound Road Power pole tree down across the road.

     

    Elevated Sections of I-49 from Exit 80 (MacArthur Dr.) to Exit 94 (Rapides Station Rd.)

    Louisiana DOTD announced that beginning Saturday, January 24th at 2:00 p.m. I-49 through Alexandria will be closed from Exit 8- (the southern junction of MacArthur Dr.) to Exit 94 (Rapides Station Rd.), due to winter conditions. This closure will remain in effect until any frozen precipitation accumulation has been cleared. The closure includes all entry and exit ramps between these exits.

    The Flyover connecting Devereux Dr, and Sgt Prentiss Dr. is now closed. MDOT is, and will continue treating the bridge.

    Reed Loop Road near Spanky’s Storage Units

    Morgantown Road near Steam Plant Road

    Entrance to Redd Loop Road Trailer Park – COMPLETELY CLOSED due to downed power lines

    Hurricane Road (City of Natchez)

    Cloverdale Road near 194

    North Rankin Street

    West Wilderness Road near Prince Addition

    Magnolia Avenue (low-hanging power line)

    Morgantown Road near Mt. Carmel

    Brooklyn Drive

    245 Country Club Drive (occupants are safe; falling limbs reported during response)[/vc_section][headerText widget_name=”Water System & Plumbing Protection” level=”h3″ url=”” el_class=””]

    Residents are encouraged to:

    • Drip faucets during freezing temperatures

    • Insulate exposed water lines

    • Report any leaks to the appropriate water utility provider

    • Immediately report busted water mains if water is seen gushing from the ground or roadways

    Early reporting helps minimize damage and speeds up repairs.

    [headerText widget_name=”Personal Preparedness” level=”h3″ url=”” el_class=””]

    Residents should prepare ahead of time by ensuring they have:

    • Non-perishable food

    • Drinking water

    • Fuel

    • Battery Powered radios to stay informed.
    • Power Banks to charge necessary electronics.

    • Medical supplies, including oxygen, prescription medications, and other critical medical needs

    Those who rely on electrically powered medical equipment should plan accordingly for possible extended power outages or plan to go to a shelter.

    [headerText widget_name=”Generator Safety” level=”h3″ url=”” el_class=””]

    Residents using generators are urged to follow these safety guidelines:

    • Never operate generators indoors, in garages, or near windows or doors

    • Place generators outdoors and at least 20 feet away from structures

    • Never use generators to power household wiring unless connected through a properly installed transfer switch

    • Allow generators to cool before refueling to prevent fires

    • Use heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cords

    • Install carbon monoxide detectors in the home if operating a generator

    Improper generator use can result in carbon monoxide poisoning, fire, or electrical hazards.

    [headerText widget_name=”Shelters” level=”h3″ url=”” el_class=””]

    MISSISSIPPI:
    The Adams County Safe Room will be open starting at 12:00 PM on Saturday, January 24, 2026, for residents in need of shelter and warmth.

    The Adams County Safe Room
    323 Liberty Rd
    Natchez, MS

    Please bring a blanket, food, water, and any medication that you may need. Pets are welcome, but they must be in a kennel.

    For anyone who needs a ride to the Adams County Safe Room are encouraged to call 601-445-3525

    Volunteers are needed to assist at the Adams County Safe Room. If you are able to volunteer, please call 601-445-3525.

    Food donations are also needed. Individuals or organizations willing to donate food or provide meals are encouraged to call the same number for coordination.

    Important notice: Law enforcement will not be checking warrants for individuals seeking shelter. Residents needing warmth or safety are encouraged to utilize the safe room.

    LOUISIANA:

    The following warming shelters will be available in Louisiana:

    Concordia Parish Courthouse (Bottom Floor)
    4001 Carter St #5, Vidalia, LA
    318-719-2010

    Ridgecrest City Hall
    116 Foster Dr, Ridgecrest, LA
    479-856-1961

    Ferriday Hall
    9 Greathouse St, Ferriday, LA
    318-757-3606

    Clayton City Hall
    101 Shady Ln, Clayton, LA
    318-719-1796

    Monterey Sub-Station
    6098 Hwy 129, Monterey, LA
    318-316-2979

    [headerText widget_name=”Emergency Services Reminder” level=”h3″ url=”” el_class=””]Residents are asked to reserve 911 for emergency use only to ensure emergency services remain available for life-threatening situations.[headerText widget_name=”Utilities & Power Outages” level=”h3″ url=”” el_class=””]

    Local utility providers have additional crews on standby; however, outages may be extended due to hazardous conditions. Crews will restore service as quickly and safely as possible.

    City and county public works crews will be actively removing fallen limbs and debris from roadways as conditions allow. These crews cannot remove limbs that are entangled with power lines or located near downed electrical lines. Only authorized utility personnel can safely handle those situations.

    Residents are strongly advised to stay away from all downed power lines and to always assume any downed line is energized and dangerous, even if it appears inactive. Report downed lines immediately to your local utility provider and avoid the area until crews arrive.

    Downed power lines should be reported immediately to Entergy at 1-800-ENTERGY (1-800-368-3749) or by calling 911. Additional storm safety information is available through Entergy’s Storm Center.

    Concordia Electric is also reminding customers to use proper reporting channels as conditions worsen. Residents are asked to use the Concordia Electric mobile app to report outages only. For other issues, including blinking lights, low voltage, or trees down, customers should call 318-339-7969. Outages may also be reported by phone. If dispatchers are unavailable, callers are encouraged to leave a detailed voicemail, as messages will be checked frequently.

    Entergy outage map as of 1/25/26 10:20am:

    [headerText widget_name=”Vehicle Cooling System Advisory” level=”h3″ url=”” el_class=””]If water has been used in a vehicle’s cooling system, residents are advised to flush the system and replace it with proper coolant or antifreeze before freezing temperatures cause damage.