2015 comes to a close tonight. Don Molino looks back at an eventful year in Louisiana…

CUT 1 (30)  “I’m Don Molino”

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There seems to be a spike in hoverboard injuries during the holiday season. Jeff Palermo reports…

CUT 2 (30)  “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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2015 was filled with big stories in Louisiana. In July, the bayou state was in the national headlines when John Russell Houser opened fire inside a Lafayette movie theater, killing two people, injuring nine others and then turning the gun on himself. Here’s one man who survived the attack…

CUT 3 (06)  “right at people”

Also in 2015, Louisiana led the country in law enforcement officers killed while in the line of duty. Five were fatally shot, including State Trooper Steven Vincent. State Police Colonel Mike Edmonson says Vincent  attempted to help a stranded motorist near Lake Charles, when he was fatally shot

CUT 4 (07)  “celebrate his life”

At the state capitol, a huge budget shortfall dominated the discussion. On two separate occasions, students from public colleges protested on the steps of the capitol over proposed cuts in state funding to higher education…

CUT 5 (11)  “cheers”

The state’s budget problems will be a big story in 2016. In November, Louisiana voters chose Democrat John Bel Edwards as the man to fix the state’s fiscal mess…

CUT 6 (08) “others”

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One of the most popular gifts this holiday season is the hoverboard. But it seems that as soon as people unwrapped their hoverboard, it started sending them to the hospital. Dr. Russell Russo, a New Orleans Orthopedic Surgeon, says he has seen a spike in hoverboard injuries in the past few weeks…

CUT 7 (10) “hoverboard injuries” 

Russo says he’s seen up to 10 injuries from hoverboard accidents in the past couple of weeks, compared to 6 in the last four months. He feels the problem with hoverboards is that people jump on them and assume they’re just going to learn to ride with no issues. Russo says most hoverboard injuries occur when people try to dismount the device…

CUT 8 (09) “coming from”

He says kids and people with osteoporosis are at a higher risk to suffer injuries from hoverboards. Russo says if you’ve received a hoverboard, it would be best if you learned how to properly ride it…

CUT 9 (09)  “jump on them”

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Louisiana State Police is reminding everyone ringing in the New Year with alcohol, not to drink and drive. Sgt. Nick Manale says to make sure you have a plan in place to get home safely before you start drinking, because once alcohol enters the body, your judgement becomes impaired.

cut 10 (10)  “ride home”

Manale says State Police will be out in full force with DWI checkpoints, as well as, proactive patrols looking to get drunk drivers off the road. He says if you suspect an impaired driver, notify L-S-P.

Cut 11 (09) “that vehicle”

Manale says they want to make sure everyone has a safe and joyous New Year’s holiday this evening and that is all based on your decision to drink and drive or get a safe ride home.

cut 12 (08) “holiday safe”

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The Red River in the Shreveport-Bossier City area is expected to crest at 31.5 feet on Saturday, but officials are not expecting a huge impact to the public. Robert Jump, Caddo Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness deputy director, says regularly the river sits at about 18 feet but even with the higher crest, they don’t predict it will cause any flood damage to businesses or homes.

cut 13 (10)  “flaws are”

Jump says they’ve learned a lot of lessons from the Red River floods in June, which ruined many homes and businesses. He says flood control measures have been put in so they area can handle up to 37 feet of water.

cut 14 (09)  “be effected” 

Jump says their largest impact right now is agriculture in the southern part of the parish and they’ve already alerted farmers to move livestock to the dry side of the levee. He says they’re taking a different approach at keeping city infrastructure running.

cut 15 (11)  “pumps running”

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Today is University of Louisiana System President Sandra Woodley’s last day on the job. Don Molino reports…

CUT 1 (28) “I’m Don Molino”

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The drop in oil prices continues to lead to job losses in Louisiana. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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LSU is searching for a new defensive coordinator after Kevin Steele leaves the Tigers to become the new D-C at Auburn. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Today is University of Louisiana System President Sandra Woodley’s last day on the job. Woodley announced her resignation last month. She says one of the things she’s most proud of is working with partners to flip the narrative about higher education in the legislature where it’s no longer viewed as an expense but an investment…

cut 4 (09) “in Louisiana”

Former Louisiana Tech President Dan Reneau will serve as interim system president until a permanent replacement is found. Woodley feels she’s made a difference in higher education during her three years as UL System President…

Cut 5 (09) “retention rates”

She will stay on in an advisory capacity until March 15th. Woodley says she will look back on her time as UL System President with fondness. As far as her future plans go, Woodley is remaining mum on that…

Cut 6 (08) “will be”

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Tonight is New Year’s Eve and many will ring in the new year by shooting off fireworks in celebration. Deputy Chief with the State Fire Marshal’s office, Brent Thompson, has some tips to stay safe tonight….

CUT 7 (08) “your hand”

Thompson says to exercise extreme caution when handling fireworks. He says to never give children fireworks, even if you think they are small and harmless.

Cut 8 (07) “millisecond”

Thompson says make sure to only purchase fireworks from a licensed distributor, never online. He also advises people to never experiment with homemade fireworks.

Cut 9 (05) “in jail”

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LSU has to find a new defensive coordinator. After guiding the Tigers defense for one season, Steele has left Baton Rouge to become the new defensive coordinator at Auburn. Football analyst Mike Detillier is shocked another SEC school would be interested in Steele after LSU’s defense took a step back from what it was under previous defensive coordinator John Chavis

Cut 10 (10) “in the season”

It’s the second straight year LSU will have to find a new defensive coordinator. The list of candidates last year recently became public and Detillier believes head coach Les Miles will go back to that list

cut 11 (11) “at LSU”

Wisconsin defensive coordinator Dave Aranda, Georgia Tech’s Ted Roof, Penn State’s Bob Shoop, and Oklahoma’s Mike Stoops are some of the individuals Miles spoke with last year. Miles also has the option to promote defensive line coach Ed Orgeron, but Detillier doesn’t see that happening

Cut 12 (05) “the family”

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A 52-year-old Boyce man is in jail on a three-million dollar bond after he allegedly held a gun to a woman’s head and repeatedly raped her. Lt. Tommy Carnline, with the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s office, says Jeffery Ducote Sr knocked on the door at the victim’s home, held a brief conversation with the woman, and then brandished a handgun to get inside her house…

Cut 13 (09) “terrible act”

Carnline says Ducote told his victim that he was looking for a person who used to live there. He says evidence found in the home helped detectives develop Ducote as a suspect…

Cut 14 (06) “so quickly”

Ducote faces four counts of first-degree rape plus other charges. Carnline says after the sexual assault, the victim fled her home and told authorities what happened to her

Cut 15 (11) “that time”

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The Saints final regular season game is this Sunday as the Black and Gold visit Atlanta. New Orleans will look to end the season on a two-game winning streak, but that won’t be good enough to avoid a second straight losing season. Quarterback Drew Brees says despite missing the playoffs again, he feels good about the future because of the character and leadership that’s on the team

Cut 16 (15) “move forward”

But will Brees be a part of the Saints future? The future Hall of Famer is entering the final year of his contract, but Brees laughs at any of the reports that suggest he might not be back next year…

Cut 17 (19) “I chuckle”

Some young wide receivers have emerged this year. Brandin Cooks and Willie Snead have combined to catch 145 passes and 12 touchdowns. Brees says the future is bright for the Saints

Cut 18 (19) “a time”

An Independence Police Officer has been arrested for stealing money from non-English speaking men during traffic stops. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (27)  “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Louisiana’s budget problems are worse than previously thought. Jeff Palermo has the story…

CUT 2 (30)  “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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LSU running back Leonard Fournette put on an impressive performance in the Tigers 56-27 win over Texas Tech in the Texas Bowl. The sophomore from New Orleans rushed for 212 yards and scored five touchdowns. Coach Les Miles is not surprised by Fournette’s showing

CUT 3 (10)  “special back”

Fournette finished 47 yards away from eclipsing 2,000 rushing yards on the season. The win gives LSU a 9-3 record for 2015. Miles hopes the victory over the Red Raiders is the sign of things to come in 2016

CUT 4 (12)  “bountiful way”

Will Kevin Steele return as LSU’s defensive coordinator in 2016. There’s reports he may take the same job at Auburn. It’s also being reported that LSU is working to keep Steele in Baton Rouge. Miles is impressed with what Steele did last night as LSU’s defense produced six sacks

CUT 5 (08)  “certain things”

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The Assumption Parish Sheriff’s Office has charged a Labadieville teenager with negligent homicide in an accidental shooting death. Sheriff Mike Waguespak says 18-year-old Jamal Starks and several friends were playing with a handgun when it discharged, shooting 17-year-old Dronald Washington in the head. Waguespack says they originally investigated the incident as a self-inflicted shooting…

CUT 6 (10) “next to him”

He says their investigation determined that Starks was handling the gun when it went off, striking Washington. Waguespack says it is now up to a grand jury to determine how they will move forward with this case…

CUT 7 (05) “all around” 

Bail for Starks has been set at $125,000. Waguespack says this is a prime example of why no one should ever play with guns…

CUT 8 (06) “killed his friend”

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An Independence Police Officer is now behind bars after he allegedly used his position to steal currency from non-English speaking Hispanic males during traffic stops. State Police spokesperson Dustin Dwight says 25-year-old Laquinton Banks is facing several charges

CUT 9 (08)  “1,600 dollars”

Banks served on the Independence Police Department for five months prior to his arrest. Dwight says Banks was arrested for three felony charges, theft, malfeasance in office and a hate crime.

cut 10 (06)  “hate crime”

Dwight says the investigation is on-going and urges any other victims out there to contact Louisiana State Police.

Cut 11 (08) “any allegation”

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The state’s fiscal situation is worse than previously thought. Jay Dardenne, who is the budget architect for Governor-elect John Bel Edwards, says the revenue shortfall for this fiscal year has grown to 750-million dollars, thanks to a drop in oil prices and a slump in collections from sales taxes and corporate income taxes

cut 12 (08) “calendar year”

Dardenne says these factors push the state’s budget shortfall for next fiscal year an additional 600-million dollars to 1-point-9 billion dollars. Dardenne says the state’s fiscal outlook is more dire than they thought and hard work is needed to resolve…

cut 13 (12)  “year to year”

Edwards plans to call a special session after he’s sworn in on January 11th to address the state’s budget problems. Dardenne says tax increases could be needed, but they’ve yet come up with a plan to propose to lawmakers

cut 14 (05)  “answers today” 

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Tonight’s PowerBall jackpot has climbed to a massive 300 million dollars, one of the biggest we’ve seen in the last 10 years. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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More trash is produced during the month of December and the Department of Environmental Quality urges you to recycle. Eric Gill reports…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Eric Gill”

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 Louisiana had more police officer shot and killed in the line of duty in 2015 than any other state in the country. Michelle Southern has more on the horrifying statistic…

Cut 3 (31) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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 Tonight’s PowerBall jackpot has reached a whopping 300 million dollars. According to Kimberly Chopin with the Louisiana Lottery, the cash value of 184 million dollars could surely cheer up someone’s New Year’s party. She says we already have smaller winners throughout Louisiana because of the recent changes to PowerBall’s matrix.

cut 4  (06)  “in PowerBall”

 Chopin says this PowerBall jackpot is one of the largest we’ve seen in the last 10 years. She says PowerBall seems to get a hit more often during the holiday season.

Cut 5  (09)  “in Louisiana”

 Chopin reminds players to get their tickets before 9 pm tonight before PowerBall sales end. She says ticket sales have sky rocketed this week and expects them to keep increasing before the day is over.

Cut 6 (11)  “gets big”

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More trash is produced during the month of December and the Department of Environmental Quality urges you to recycle. DEQ spokesman Greg Langley encourages people to recycle Christmas trees because it not only reduces the amount of material that goes into landfills, but the trees are put to a beneficial use…

CUT 7 (08)  “for compost”

He says local governments throughout the state have different tree recycling programs and you can get more information at deq-dot-louisiana-dot-gov. Langley says plenty of people got new gifts that require batteries which they always prefer to keep out of landfills…

Cut 8  (10)  “throw it away”

He says you should remove lights, ornaments, tinsel, and other decorative items before recycling your tree. Although you may have accumulated a lot of trash through the holiday season, Langley says a lot of that can be reused…

Cut 9 (10)  “put it out”

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Louisiana had more law enforcement officers shot and killed in the line of duty this year than any other state in the nation. A report by the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund revealed 9 total officers were killed in the line of duty this year, triple the number from 2014. Chairman Craig Floyd says five officers were shot and murdered while on the job in 2015….

Cut 10 (10) “officer died” 

Floyd says there are now laws in all 50 states that say drivers must slow down and move over when you see an emergency vehicle on the side of the road to give officers an added margin of safety. He hopes this increase in on-duty officer deaths isn’t a trend for the future.

cut 11 (09) “who serve”

 Floyd says 423 officers have lost their lives in the line of duty in Louisiana to date. He says it’s unfortunate that their uniform and badge have made police a target and now must be prepared for an attack at any moment.

Cut 12 (09) “your surroundings”

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Louisiana’s 2015 tax amnesty program ends tomorrow, December 31^st. Kizzy Payton with the State Department of Revenue says this is the time to call the Department to set up a payment arrangement or agreement to settle your delinquent tax debts. She says Louisianans won’t get this opportunity again for a while.

Cut 13 (10)  “until 2025”

Payton says eligible tax payers can make their payments online at w-w-w-dot-l-d-r-tax-amnesty-dot-com (www.ldrtaxamnesty.com) or by calling the Department of Revenue. She says they’ll also be open on New Year’s Eve to accept payments.

Cut 14 (09) “as well”

Payton says this is the very last chance for eligible tax payers to settle their debt with the state. She says the Department of Revenue has other tools to use if someone doesn’t pay their delinquent taxes.

Cut 15  (10) “the refund”

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The Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness is closely monitoring levels along the Red and Mississippi Rivers due to rising water levels. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (31)  “I’m Eric Gill”

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State Police in Acadiana is implementing “No Refusal” checkpoints during the New Year’s week. Emelie Gunn has more….

CUT 2 (31)  “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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The DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office says a domestic situation in Stonewall has claimed the life of one. Sheriff Rodney Arbuckle believes the incident stemmed from a custody dispute involving 36-year-old Donovan Carman’s two-year-old child. Arbuckle says they responded to a call of someone being shot Monday afternoon…

CUT 3 (11)  “the residence”

The victim, 67-year-old Bobby Nichols, was transported to an area hospital where he later died. Arbuckle says Carman and the victim’s daughter had recently ended their relationship and there was a disagreement about their child’s custody arrangements. He says apparently Nichols, the child’s grandfather, tried to thwart Carman’s efforts to take the child…

CUT 4 (10)  “Caddo Parish Sheriffs”

The child was unharmed in the incident. Arbuckle says formal charges will be filed against Carman as soon as they take custody of the suspect…

CUT 5 (07)  “”DeSoto Parish”

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The Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness is closely monitoring levels along the Red and Mississippi Rivers due to rising water levels. Executive Director Kevin Davis says they’re working with the US Army Corps of Engineers and the National Weather Service to keep an eye on river levels…

CUT 6 (07) “several weeks”

He says heavy rainfall over the last 30 days has led to the river levels rising rapidly. The Red is expected to crest at 31 feet, one foot above flood stage, in Shreveport and remain below flood stage in Alexandria. Davis says we could see Mississippi River levels top flood stage in just a couple of weeks…

CUT 7 (07) “New Orleans area” 

Davis expects more issues with the Mississippi River than the Red River. Mississippi River levels are expected to crest 9 to 12 feet above flood stage in Vicksburg, Natchez, and Baton Rouge. Davis says they’re coordinating with parish officials along both rivers to ensure they’re prepared…

CUT 8 (07) “and monitoring”

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Some suspected drunk drivers in Acadiana will be ordered by a judge to provide a blood or urine sample to determine if they are drunk if they refuse a breathalyzer test. State Police Troop I Spokesman Brooks David says the “No Refusal” campaign takes place today and tomorrow. He warns drivers of the consequences of not taking the breathalyzer test.

CUT 9 (10)  “of impairment”

David says the reason for the “No Refusal” checkpoint isn’t to look for good guys but to stop the nationwide trend of increased impaired drivers during the holidays. He urges adults to make smart choices after drinking and to never get behind the wheel.

cut 10 (09)  “arrest you”

David says they’ll be out in full force to make sure no family has to face the loss of a loved one during the holiday season. He says during the “No Refusal” checkpoints, they’ll have judges on standby to approve search warrants if a driver refuses to take a chemical test.

Cut 11 (09) “that vehicle”

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LSU star running back Leonard Fournette needs 259 yards tonight in the Texas Bowl to reach 2,000 on the season. The Tigers and Red Raiders battle tonight at 8pm in NRG Stadium. Fournette told reporters in Houston that he didn’t set any goals for this season…:

cut 12 (13) “to the limit”

Fournette says he didn’t know he needed 259 yards to become the first SEC back to reach 2,000 rushing yards. The Red Raiders defense is allowing more than 270 yards per game on the ground. Fournette says this has been a wild season…:

cut 13 (11)  “thank God”

Lone Star Sports & Entertainment said the Texas Bowl isn’t officially sold yet, but is expected to be by game time. Fournette denied that he would sit out next season ahead of the 2017 NFL Draft…:

cut 14 (05)  “doing thatl” 

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Secretary of State Tom Schedler plans to switch to iPad voting over the next few elections. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (29) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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2015 was an exciting year in Louisiana politics. Michelle Southern has more on the highlights of the past year….

Cut 2 (32) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Louisiana’s future first lady, Donna Edwards, says she plans to stress the importance of keeping art and music in public schools. Eric Gill has more…

Cut 3 (28) “I’m Eric Gill”

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Secretary of State Tom Schedler plans on having voters cast their ballots on iPads for the next governor’s election. He says over the next three to four years, voting machines need to be replaced and while iPads are expensive, it’s a cheaper alternative than getting all new machines.

cut 4  (09)  “a unit”

Schedler says by changing to iPads, they’ll be able to open more precincts, including on college campuses so students don’t have to travel home or mail in a ballot to vote. He says voters can download the Geaux Vote app on their smart phones to fill out ballots beforehand and the iPads can read those votes.

Cut 5  (10)  “you’re finished”

Schedler says many people are concerned that when voting on an iPad their votes are being stored in a cloud, but votes are not saved. He says they plan to gradually incorporate the new voting system over the next few elections.

Cut 6 (09)  “this system”

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2015 will go down as an extremely memorable year in the history of Louisiana politics. Governor Bobby Jindal’s tenure ended, US Senator David Vitter’s political career ended and Governor-elect John Bel Edwards shocked pundits throughout the state with his victory. U-L Lafayette Political Science Professor Pearson Cross says no one predicted a democrat would become governor.

CUT 7 (10)  “biggest story”

Cross says this year’s legislative session was controversial with the budget issues and proposed cuts to higher education. He says also, it’s not very common to have an absent governor, who was off to Iowa campaigning for President of the United States.

Cut 8  (10)  “resign”

Cross says Senator Vitter’s decision not to return to the US Senate was almost as surprising as Edwards’ victory over him in the governor’s election. He says Vitter’s loss has created an enormous vacuum in the race for his senate seat.

Cut 9 (06)  “David Vitter”

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Governor-elect John Bel Edwards’ wife Donna Edwards says she plans to stress the importance of teaching art and music in public schools as the state’s first lady. Emily Wright, a Music Teacher at Slidell Junior High, says she was really excited to hear this because many people see music as an extra course when in reality, children really need to take these classes.

Cut 10 (07) “in school” 

Wright says keeping art and music courses in public schools is important because there is a direct correlation with other subjects. She says music is interesting and gives students a way to express themselves.

cut 11 (06) “have to do”

The future first lady of Louisiana is a former public school music teacher. Wright says students who take dance, art or music classes are more likely to stay in school.

Cut 12 (08) “people want”

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8-3 LSU and 7-5 Texas Tech face off at 8pm tonight in the Texas Bowl in NRG Stadium in Houston. The contest wil be televised by ESPN and kickoff at 8pm. Tiger Rag Assistant Editor James Moran says this game is highlited by a massive contrasting styles…:

Cut 13 (14)  “to win the game”

Moran says you can expect this to be a high scoring game with lots of offense…:

Cut 14 (12) “a little bit”

Moran says neither LSU or Texas Tech’s defense is all that great. He says if The Tigers can stick to the running game they should be able to come away with the win…:

Cut 15  (14) “talented team”

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An outbreak of canine influenza is sweeping across Texas and there is concern the virus could make its way to Louisiana. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (29)  “I’m Eric Gill”

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Saints and Pelicans owner Tom Benson issued a statement in response to a Sunday Times Picayune column that suggested he sell both teams.  Eric Gill reports…

CUT 2 (28)  “I’m Eric Gill”

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An outbreak of canine influenza is sweeping across Texas and there is concern the virus could make its way to Louisiana. Jae Chang is a veterinarian at Farr Veterinary Hospital in Lake Charles. He suggests that dog owners get their pets vaccinated against the canine flu…

CUT 3 (09)  “once a year”

He says it’s important to vaccinate you dog, especially if you plan to board your pet or travel out of town with them. Although dog flu has a low mortality rate, Chang says it is very contagious and dogs can get really sick…

CUT 4 (09)  “kennel cough”

He says pet owners shouldn’t panic, but they should be aware of the threat. Chang says there have been no confirmed cases of canine influenza in Louisiana, but that’s likely to change…

CUT 5 (07)  “than unprepared”

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A line of strong, severe thunderstorms moved through the state overnight leaving thousands without power. Meteorologist Alek Krautmann, with the National Weather Service in Slidell, says wind gusts of well over 30 miles per hour wreaked havoc over Louisiana…:

CUT 6 (09) “tree limbs”

Krautmann says the record high temps seem to be done as a cold front moved through behind the severe weather system…:

CUT 7 (08) “tomorrow night” 

Krautmann says Louisiana is finally back to feeling like December…:

CUT 8 (09) “of the week”

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A St. Mary Parish Deputy was shot and injured while responding to an incident in Ashton, and State Police are leading the investigation. Master Trooper Brooks David say the deputies were responding to a scene of a possible shooting where they located a male subject who was injured. He says a SWAT team moved in when the suspect started shooting again…:

CUT 9 (06)  “and shot”

David says after transferring the man to the hospital and attempting to secure the scene, they were fired upon by the suspect and one deputy was injured. He says State Police located the suspect inside the home…:

cut 10 (08)  “treatment”

The investigation is ongoing. The St. Mary Parish Sheriff’s Office says the deputy who was shot is listed in stable condition. David says the suspect is also injured and faces many charges…:

Cut 11 (04) “police officer”

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Saints and Pelicans owner Tom Benson issued a statement in response to a Sunday Times Picayune column that suggested he sell both teams. Benson’s response, “I’m not selling either team”. Saints sideline reporter Kristian Garic is not at all surprised by Benson’s response…

cut 12 (08) “my legacy”

He doesn’t feel the column is a personal attack on Benson as the owner of the teams. Garic read the article and feels that it’s more concerned how the legal fight between the Benson family over ownership succession could affect the franchises…

cut 13 (10)  “et cetera”

The column suggests that if legal matters concerning ownership succession between Benson and his estranged heirs wound up in the legal system for several years, it would have a detrimental affect on how these teams would be run. Garic believes that is a fair argument…

cut 14 (08)  “that at all” 

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As 2015 is coming to an end, State Climatologist Barry Keim has put together a list of the top weather events in Louisiana for the year. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (29) “I’m Eric Gill”

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Louisiana employers are only slightly less optimistic about staffing for the first quarter of 2016 than they were the prior year. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (32) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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As 2015 is coming to an end, State Climatologist Barry Keim has put together a list of the top weather events in Louisiana for the year. Keim picks El Nino as the state’s top weather event of 2015. He says El Nino kicked in in March and will probably continue to build as we get deeper into winter…

Cut 3 (07) “winter warmth”

He says he picked El Nino because of its duration and intensity. Keim’s number two pick is the squall line that moved across the state on April 27th. He says this system swept from west to east across Louisiana and the whole southern half of the state felt its impact…

cut 4  (10)  “International Airport”

He lists drought as the number three weather event of the year. He says the dry conditions began really settling in during the late summer and by late October, 86-percent of the state was in drought…

Cut 5  (07)  “Drought Monitor”

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Louisiana employers are only slightly less optimistic about staffing for the first quarter of 2016 than they were the prior year. Michael Doyle is the Vice President at the Manpower Group covering the southeast US. He says their Quarter One 2016 Employment Outlook Survey for Louisiana shows about 18% of companies polled do plan to hire during that time…:

Cut 6 (04)  “12% score”

Doyle says 76% of businesses taking part in the survey said they plan to keep the employees that they already have. Louisiana has a 12% net employment outlook, and Doyle says it was 19% in 2015. He says they’ve seen slowdowns in the oil and gas industry which is suffering because of the low price of crude, but some sectors benefit from them…:

CUT 7 (10)  “being down”

Doyle says about 15% of companies in Baton Rouge plan to hire, and about 20% of New Orleans employers say they will be adding to their staff in the first quarter of 2016. He says The Big Easy seems to be going along with a national trend of growth in the hospitality and retail industries…:

Cut 8  (07)  “ready for it”

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As we kick off the final week of 2015, there are several things you might want to consider when it comes to saving money on your taxes. Baton Rouge CPA Bill Potter says if you itemize your deductions, you’ll want to maximize those before the new year…:

Cut 9 (06)  “you can do”

Potter says it’s also a good idea to look at your latest pay stub and review your withholdings to see if you’re covered with your tax liability…:

Cut 10 (10) “paying late” 

Potter says he always recommends that people have all of their information ready to go so they can file as soon as possible. He says the IRS will let you file beginning January 19th..:

cut 11 (08) “problem”

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With one game left in the season, many in the “Who Dat?” nation are wondering if this will be coach Sean Payton’s last game with the Saints. The Black and Gold will finish the season with their second consecutive losing record and miss the playoffs. NFL analyst Mike Detillier says this will be the team’s biggest story of the offseason…

Cut 12 (06) “move on”

He says it will take a couple of seasons to rebuild the team to be a Super Bowl contender like it was in the past. Detillier says the unsettled ownership issue of the team could also play a part in Payton’s decision. He says when it comes to Payton’s future with the Saints, the coach is holding all the cards…

Cut 13 (08)  “this stage”

Payton has been the Saints head coach for the past 10 seasons, which Detillier says is an eternity in today’s NFL. Detillier believes Payton is leaning more toward one way than the other…

Cut 14 (06) “in 2016″

Some of the best deals of the year fall the day after Christmas, and experts say you can expect even steeper discounts this season. Don Molino reports.

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Don Molino”

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It’s Christmas Day, but the weather outside feels more like spring. Michelle Southern has the story…

Cut 2 (23) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Planning to hit up the mall tomorrow? Savvy shoppers know that some of the best deals of the year fall the day after Christmas, and experts say with December 26th falling on a Saturday, retailers will be ready with sales. LSU Assistant Professor of Marketing Dan Rice says stores will attempt to sell off excess inventory and appeal to shoppers who are making returns…:

Cut 3 (10) “after Christmas”

Rice says tomorrow will also be a great day to stock up on next year’s wrapping paper, ornaments and seasonal dinnerware. He says post-Christmas apparel sales will likely be even more substantial this year as retailers struggle to get rid of winter clothing with short shelf life due to unseasonably balmy weather…:

cut 4  (11)  “this year”

Rice says some stores are even opening as early as 5am tomorrow as they seek to clear the shelves to make room for new products in the new year. He says spending was expected to be way up this season because gas prices are so low, but that hasn’t really happened yet…:

Cut 5  (08)  “for deals”

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Saturday’s Camping World Independence Bowl in Shreveport will pit the Tulsa Hurricanes against the Virginia Tech Hokies. Independence Bowl spokesman Stefan Nolet says this year’s matchup is full of history. He says Tulsa played in the first I-Bowl in 1976 and Virginia Tech coach Frank Beamer coached his first bowl game in Shreveport…

Cut 6 (06)  “40th anniversary”

The Independence Bowl is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. Nolet says there will be many events surrounding Independence Stadium leading up to the game. He feels this year’s kickoff time will give fans the opportunity to truly have a gameday experience…

CUT 7 (10)  “the game”

The game kicks off at 4:45 and it will be televised on ESPN. This will be the final game of Beamer’s coaching career, as he has announced his retirement at the end of this season. Nolet says they are honored to host coach Beamer in the last game of his career…

Cut 8  (09)  “to see”

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It’s a tropical like Christmas Day across Louisiana. There’s a potential a few record highs could be broken as high temperatures will be around 80-degrees. State Climatologist Barry Keim says this is really unusual for December 25th…

Cut 9 (06)  “amazing run”

Keim says a cold front will bring drier and more seasonable weather to Louisiana on Monday. But he says for the next couple of days we’ll have to deal with more of this warm and humid air

Cut 10 (10) “weather pattern” 

Keim says you won’t need a sweater this Christmas weekend as we are staying warm and humid for the next few days…

cut 11 (11) “Monday morning”

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Saints Quarterback Drew Brees says he is going to play this Sunday against the Jaguars for New Orleans’ last home game of the season. Brees has a torn plantar fascia in his right foot and he didn’t practice Thursday, but he says he’s making progress every day and he has every intention to take the field in the Dome Sunday…:

Cut 12 (05) “for my guys”

Brees suffered the injury early in the Saints’ loss to the Detroit Lions on Monday. He says he’s taking it easy because right now it hurts to walk…:

Cut 13 (09)  “as possible”

The Saints won’t make the playoffs and they have just two games left, but Brees says he wants to play for the team. He says stiffness was an issue on Thursday and whether or not he’ll practice Friday will depend on how he’s feeling…:

Cut 14 (07) “get stiff”

Tonight, the annual Bonfires on the Levee celebration takes place in St. James Parish.  Jeff Palermo reports…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Governor-elect John Bel Edwards takes time from the transition to spend a couple of days celebrating Christmas. Don Molino has the story…

Cut 2 (23) “I’m Don Molino”

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Over 150 soldiers with the Louisiana National Guard return today after 10-month deployment overseas. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (28) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Tonight, the annual Bonfires on the Levee celebration takes place in St. James Parish. The fires are scheduled to be lit at 7PM to light the way for Papa Noel. St. James Parish President Timothy Roussel says the lighting of the bonfires is a big deal because it’s tradition…

cut 4  (08)  “1800s”

He says thousands of people will descend on the area for tonight’s festivities. If you plan on heading to the Bonfires on the Levee celebration, it’s recommended that you get into the area before 6PM. Roussel says, if you’ve never seen the bonfires before, it is a sight to see…

Cut 5  (11)  “at 7PM”

He says 133 structures will be set ablaze along the levee tonight. For safety reasons, the structures are 15 feet tall instead of 20 feet, as in year’s past.  Roussel says this is the perfect event to get anyone into the Christmas spirit…

Cut 6 (09)  “festive atmosphere”

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Many religious fellowships throughout the state will engage in “candlelight services” this Christmas, and the State Fire Marshal’s Office is issuing guidelines to organizations who plan to utilize candles this season. Marshal Butch Browning says folks need to understand that there’s a possibility for tragedy regarding the use of open flames in assemblies..:

CUT 7 (11)  “on fire (2x)”

The National Fire Protection Association showed that in all 9,000 religious structure fires from 2007-2011, more than 350 were directly attributed to the use of candles. Browning says stationary candles should be on a strong base so that they don’t tip over in large crowds…:

Cut 8  (08)  “could burn”

Browning says candles should never be issued to young children. He says it just takes one second for a flame to be dropped during a crowded ceremony and somebody’s clothes catch on fire…:

Cut 9 (10)  “from that”

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Governor-elect John Bel Edwards knows he has a challenging year in front of him, but he’s looking forward to spending the next couple of days with family for the Christmas holiday. Edwards says his family gathering at his mother’s home in Tangipahoa Parish tonight…

Cut 10 (11) “gathering there” 

Edwards says his contribution to the Christmas dinner is oyster soup. He says another family tradition is to watch the black-and-white version of “It’s a Wonderful Life.” He says he’ll also spend the Christmas holiday reflecting on the huge challenge in front of him, one that he embraces

cut 11 (10) “priorities”

Edwards says his transition teams have been busy since the election day working on solutions to improve transportation, education and health care…

Cut 12 (09) “that opportunity”

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It’s a timely gift for members of the Louisiana National Guard’s 1023rd Engineer Company, as the unit returns today from a 10-month deployment. Over 150 soldiers will arrive in Monroe this afternoon after spending much of 2015 in Kuwait. Ross Bethea is the Captain of the 10-23rd Engineer Company

Cut 13 (09)  “get home”

Betha says they also completed missions in Iraq, Jordan and Afghanistan. He says during the course of their deployment they helped strengthen facilities and living conditions for Kuwaiti and ally forces

Cut 14 (09) “wonderful”

Betha says none of the soldiers from the 10-23rd were injured or killed during their deployment. He says the experience for everyone involved was tremendous…

Cut 15  (10) “my life”

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