BY DOUG GRAHAM | Staff writer The federal National Flood Insurance Program is $20.5 billion in debt, with 2024 bringing disaster where few even thought about buying flood protection. In Louisiana, home and business owners face dramatic price increases, driving many to drop their flood insurance policies. Democrats and Republicans in Congress agree on the need to help flood victims, but they can't come together with a solution on just how to do it. But there are ideas. Read about what reform might look like. Even in its 51st year, the Bayou Classic still fosters an environment for family and friends to gather. It's an event that transcends the game on the field, although that's still important for bragging rights, of course. Fans of Southern and Grambling will pack the Caesar's Superdome on Saturday for the annual clash. Says Jaguars head coach Terrence Graves: "It's a rivalry. It's relatives, neighbors, coworkers, classmates, church members and even friends. Both teams will play until the end." Read more about what the game means for fans. Louisiana residents who owe thousands in unpaid fines to the Office of Motor Vehicles may have a chance to get some relief. The agency is carrying out a 2024 delinquent debt reform law that allows more than 350,000 drivers to start over on violation fees and pay only the original fine for lapsing in car insurance coverage. Read about how this may affect you. | 