Three people are dead and three others injured after a train collided with a car in New Iberia. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (29)  “I’m Eric Gill”

================

If you still haven’t cleared out your Christmas list, experts say gift cards are always a huge hit with last minute shoppers. Jeff Palermo reports…:

CUT 2 (29)  “I’m Jeff Palermo”

===================

Tonight’s Powerball prize is the second largest Christmastime jackpot the multi-state game has had in over 10 years, according to the Louisiana Lottery. Spokeswoman Kimberly Chopin says tonight’s drawing is worth an estimated $227 million dollars. She says on Christmas day in 2002, the jackpot was $280 million…

CUT 3 (10)  “record yet”

The jackpot tonight has an estimated cash value of $141 million dollars. Chopin says since 2009, of the Holiday jackpots that were over $100 million dollars, 5 of them were hit during the Christmas drawing…

CUT 4 (10)  “millionaire”

She says you must purchase your Powerball ticket before 9PM to get into tonight’s drawing. Chopin says you often find larger jackpots around Christmas because more people tend to purchase lottery during the holiday season. She feels there are a couple of reasons for that…

CUT 5 (11)  “kind of gift”

============================

Three people are dead and three others injured after a train collided with a car in New Iberia. State Police Master Trooper Brooks David says the vehicle was stopped on the tracks and the train was unable to avoid the crash. He says three occupants of the car were pronounced dead at the scene…

CUT 6 (09) “critical condition”

He says the 70-year-old victim is identified as Phyllis Leblanc of New Iberia. The names of the two minors killed have not been released. At last report, the three injured were listed in critical condition. David says they are working to determine why the car was stopped on the tracks. He says investigators did speak to witnesses…

CUT 7 (08) “functioning properly” 

David says the warning devices at the crossing were working properly at the time. He says they believe the car came to a stop on the tracks either before or while the lights and crossing gates were activated. David says a tragedy like this is heartbreaking for the family, especially at this time of year…

CUT 8 (07) “out to them”

============================

The flu bug has been quiet this holiday season. According to the CDC’s latest flu count, South Carolina is the only state showing significant flu activity. Over the last three years, doctor offices were very busy with flu cases prior to Christmas. CDC medical officer Fiona Havers says eventually the flu bug will start to spread…

CUT 9 (04)  “pretty soon”

Havers says the slow start to influenza activity gives people more time to get a flu shot, if they haven’t received one already..

cut 10 (11)  “now”

Experts are not sure why previous flu seasons started prior to Christmas. Havers says they do know that this year’s vaccine protects you better from the various flu strains that are going around

Cut 11 (10) “vaccine”

============================

If you still haven’t cleared out your Christmas list, experts say gift cards are always a huge hit with last minute shoppers. More consumers than ever before will purchase gift cards this holiday season, according to the National Retail Federation. LSU Assistant Professor of Marketing Dan Rice says gift cards are more appropriate than some people think…:

cut 12 (10) “type of gift”

The NRF says gift cards are the most-requested gift for the 8th year in a row. Rice says gift cards let the giver feel like they’ve put some effort into which one to select that would fit their friends and relatives passions…:

cut 13 (10)  “Best Buy”

CardHub’s list of the most popular choices this year include Visa gift cards, Amazon and American Express. Starbucks loaded $5.1 billion dollars onto cards between October 2014 and September 2015, according to the company. Rice says cash is becoming more taboo,as gifters and giftees feel it’s far too impersonal…:

cut 14 (07)  “at one point” 

============================

The American Automobile Association projects a record number of Americans will hit the road this holiday season. Jeff Palermo reports…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

______________________________________

Louisiana’s population grew by 22-thousand over the last year based on the lastest Census estimates. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

______________________________________

The body of a three year old child who wandered away from his house Monday night, was found in a canal the following morning by the Franklin Parish Sheriff’s Office. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 3 (29) “I’m Michelle Southern”

______________________________________

Much of the state could experience severe weather today. State Climatologist Barry Keim says this warm-humid air mass that’s over the state could produce flash flooding, damaging winds, hail and tornadoes…

cut 4  (07)  “out there”

Keim says higher rainfall totals are anticipated in southeast Louisiana, while the threat of severe weather extends across the entire state…

Cut 5  (06)  “produce hail”

Keim says rain chances will remain high through Christmas Day, but today provides the highest risk for severe storms

Cut 6 (10)  “vigilant”

______________________________________

For the first time on record, the American Automobile Association projects that over 100 million holiday travelers will hit the road this year. That’s nearly one in three Americans traveling 50 miles or more for the holidays. AAA spokesman Don Redman says this is a huge number…

CUT 7 (07)  “for Thanksgiving”

He says of the expected 100.5 million holiday travelers this year, more than 90-percent will get to their holiday destination by car. Redman suggests getting your car checked before hitting the road for the holiday. He says this year’s holiday season is the “perfect storm” for people traveling…

Cut 8  (06)  “since 2009″

He says lower gas prices, an improved economy, and holidays falling on the weekend make it much easier for people to travel this holiday season. Redman says, while airfare is slightly lower this year, there are other travel needs that will cost you a bit more…

Cut 9 (08)  “increasing slightly”

______________________________________

New Census numbers show Louisiana added nearly 22-thousand residents to its population from July 1st 2014 to July of this year. Demographer Elliot Stonecipher says the slight increase is due to more births compared to deaths and an increase in citizens from foreign countries

Cut 10 (09) “in migrants” 

Stonecipher says Louisiana finished with a net loss of 74-hundred residents, when you look at migration totals within the United States. Meaning, the bayou state lost more of its residents to other states than they took in. He says that problem could get worse, if oil prices remain low…

cut 11 (07) “gas industry”

Louisiana’ population is at four-point-six million and since 2010, the state has grown by 137-thousand residents, which is a three-percent increase. The state lost a Congressional district following the 2010 census, but Stonecipher doesn’t expect that to happen again in 2020, unless there’s a massive loss of jobs in the oil industry, because of low oil prices

Cut 12 (07) “four or five years”

_____________________________________

The body of a three year old child who wandered away from his house Monday night, was found in a canal the following morning by the Franklin Parish Sheriff’s Office. Sheriff Kevin Cobb says they were called to the home near Crowville around 4am yesterday and learned that the child left the residence while everyone was sleeping…:

Cut 13 (08)  “and water”

Cobb says once the parents learned the child was not in the home, they contacted authorities and a vigorous search began. He says around 7am Tuesday morning, they located the body of the child…:

Cut 14 (08) “home site”

Cobb says the child succumbed to apparent drowning in the ditch about 200 yards from his house. He says this is a horrible tragedy that has rocked their small community…:

Cut 15  (10) “holiday season”

 __________________________________

Saints quarterback Drew Brees reportedly has a torn plantar fascia in his right foot and is awaiting a second opinion. That’s according to ESPN’s Ed Werder, who says the injury affects his planting foot when he throws. Saints sideline reporter Kristian Garic says even though the Saints are out of playoff contention, Brees will try to play, if the doctors give him the ok

Cut 16  (11)  “during a game”

Brees suffered the injury in the first half of Monday night’s loss to Detroit. Garic says expects Brees will do all he can to make sure he’s on the field this Sunday when the Saints host Jacksonville

Cut 17 (16) “going to play”

Some Saints say this is a good opportunity to play last year’s third round draft pick Garrett Grayson. But Garic wonders if Grayson is ready to play

Cut 18 (15) “zero reps”

______________________________________

Now that Blue Bell ice cream has returned to store shelves in Louisiana, can people trust that the product is safe to eat? Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (29)  “I’m Eric Gill”

================

An investigation is underway into the shooting death of a 32-year-old man  by a sheriff’s deputy. Jeff Palermo has the story…

CUT 2 (30)  “I’m Jeff Palermo”

===================

State Police say a shooting involving deputies from the St. Martin Parish Sheriff’s Office has left one man dead. Master Trooper Brooks David says LSP was contacted by the sheriff’s office last night about the shooting near Breaux Bridge…

CUT 3 (10)  “shot was fired”

He confirms that St. Martin Parish Sheriff’s deputies were involved, at least one shot was fired, and one person is dead. David says this is an active investigation and information is limited at this time…

CUT 4 (05)  “last night”

The man shot by deputies has been identified as 32-year-old Michael Noel of Breaux Bridge. David says it’s unclear why deputies were called to the residence, but that part of the investigation will be handled by the St. Martin Parish Sheriff’s Office…

CUT 5 (09)  “by St. Martin”

============================

A 19-year-old was found on the side of the road dead from multiple gunshot wounds in Jennings. Deputy Chief Danny Semmes says Trey Gant of Jennings was rushed to a local hospital after they arrived on the scene around 11:30 last night…

CUT 6 (09) “to his injuries”

Semmes says they are searching for 29-year-old Thomas Segura, but he’s not considered a suspect just yet

CUT 7 (11) “person of interest” 

============================

A Prarieville man succumbed to his injuries at a hospital after being shot in a Baton Rouge strip mall parking lot, and authorities are searching for the suspects. BRPD Lt. Jonny Dunnam says they were called to the scene after receiving reports that a black SUV had driven through a fence between the parking lot and College Dr. before crashing into a truck in the road:

CUT 8 (10) “medical attention”

BRPD identified the victim as 27-year-old George Reusch (Rowsh) Jr. and, according to friends on Facebook, he leaves behind a fiance and 7-month-old baby. Dunnam says a motive for the shooting or possible suspects are unknown at this time. He says investigators spoke to several witnesses at the scene…:

CUT 9 (08)  “on foot”

============================

Now that Blue Bell ice cream has returned to store shelves in Louisiana, can people trust that the product is safe to eat? The company was forced to take their ice cream off the shelves last spring due to a listeria outbreak which resulted in three deaths. LSU Health New Orleans Infectious Diseases Professor Dr. Fred Lopez says the FDA has taken steps to decrease the likelihood of something like this happening in the future…

cut 10 (11)  “safety measures”

Lopez says, in light of these new rules by the FDA, he believes food safety has improved as a whole. He says, from a safety standpoint, it’s probably safer now to eat Blue Bell than any time ever…

Cut 11 (11) “ever happening”

He says information on what Blue Bell has done to upgrade procedures and employee training is on their website. Lopez says he would feel absolutely safe eating Blue Bell. He says they have even added an additional step to their process to ensure safety…

cut 12 (09) “ice cream”

============================

There’s only a couple of more shopping days left before Christmas and stores are advertising deep discounts to help consumers purchase those last minute gifts. Tulane marketing professor Harish Sujan warns against buying items, just because it’s 50-percent off

cut 13 (10)  “regret this”

Sujan says if you’re still looking for a gift for a person or loved one, don’t purchase an item just because it’s on sale…

cut 14 (08)  “for them” 

There’s been reports that retailers are having trouble moving winter clothes, because of the warm temperatures outside. Sujan imagines that some of your biggest sales involve winter clothing…

cut 15 (05)  “they can”

============================

Today is the first full day of winter. Don Molino has more on what you can expect weather-wise this season…

CUT 1 (23) “I’m Don Molino”

______________________________________

Fewer people are choosing to hook up costly broadband to their homes for internet and are instead only using their smartphones. Jeff Palermo reports…:

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

______________________________________

An alcoholic version of the famous Abita Root Beer is hitting stores this week. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

______________________________________

Today is the first full day of winter. Winter officially began at 10:49PM last night with the winter solstice. State Climatologist Barry Keim says the seasonal forecast is kind of gloomy…

cut 4  (06)  “an El Nino”

He says this winter will bring cooler and wetter than normal conditions to Louisiana. Keim says, despite a forecast for cooler temperatures, you shouldn’t expect a lot of freezes across Louisiana this winter…

Cut 5  (10)  “months or so”

He says those who enjoy the cold during this time of year will be disappointed for much of the season. Keim says El Nino will keep many arctic air intrusions into Louisiana at bay, but not all of them…

Cut 6 (06)  “less than normal”

______________________________________

Fewer people are choosing to hook up costly broadband to their homes for internet and are instead only using their smartphones. That’s according to a recent study by the Pew Research Center on home broadband adoption between 2013-2015. Senior Researcher John Horrigan says, today, 67% of Americans have broadband at home…:

CUT 7 (10)  “couple of years”

Horrigan says while fewer people are getting internet for their homes, more consumers are becoming “smartphone only” — mainly because residential broadband service is becoming more expensive. He says smartphone only people rely solely on their cellular devices for online access…:

Cut 8  (09)  “2015″

Horrigan says they are seeing this happening mostly among low income Americans, but they also found a number of incidents of this pattern among lower-middle income users…:

Cut 9 (10) “as well”

______________________________________

Governor elect John Bel Edwards is taking steps so low-income adults do not lose food stamp benefits in January. The Jindal administration took action to prevent certain able bodied adults from receiving food stamps. But Julie Baxter Payer, spokesperson for Governor-elect Edwards, says he will seek to remove the work requirement, so an estimated 31-thousand adults can still access food stamps

Cut 10 (08) “that back” 

Payer says Edwards wants to provide food stamp benefits for abled bodied adults for at least one-year, until they improve state worker training programs. She says until that time, these individuals should continue to receive this federal assistance…

cut 11 (10) “to employment”

Governor Jindal’s spokesperson, Mike Reed, says the best way to break the cycle of poverty is for individuals to get a job and get off of government assistance. But Payer says Edwards believes these adults face significant barriers to employment and they’ll look to extend a waiver that Jindal allowed to expire

Cut 12 (11) “our intention”

_____________________________________

An alcoholic version of the famous Abita Root Beer arrives in stores this week. Abita Brewing Company Brewmaster Mark Wilson says the hard root beer will be the first product in its line of “Bayou Bootlegger” hard sodas. He says it only made sense to come up with an adult take on the same old-fashioned Abita Root Beer recipe made with pure Louisiana cane sugar…:

Cut 13 (09)  “of that process”

Wilson says fans of Abita Root Beer have been asking for an alcoholic version and now is the time to give it to them. He says the flavors in the Abita Root Beer deliver aromas of wintergreen, vanilla, sassafras with hints of close and anise…:

Cut 14 (07) “version of it”

Wilson says the Bayou Bootlegger Hard Root Beer is brewed to achieve a 5.9 percent alcohol by volume and is all natural and gluten free. He says they hope the hard root beer is eventually as popular as the original…:

Cut 15  (10) “that would be great”

 __________________________________

Three Louisiana college baseball teams are ranked in the first preseason poll. Collegiate Baseball has UL Lafayette ranked sixth, LSU is ranked seventh and Tulane is ranked 19th. Tigers Coach Paul Mainieri says it’s nice to see his team ranked in the top ten

Cut 16  (11)  “everyday players”

LSU reached the College World Series last season and return one of the top pitchers in the country in Alex Lange. However, they must replace eight of nine everyday starters from last season’s batting order. Mainieri says he’s excited that Lange and veteran left hander Jared Poche will anchor their pitching staff in 2016…

Cut 17 (12) “let down”

LSU’s incoming class was ranked seventh nationally by Collegiate Baseball. Mainieri says they’ll count on a couple of those players right away….

Cut 18 (17) “our league”

A Bossier Parish man faces two counts of attempted first-degree murder for allegedly trying to blow up a home in Benton. Jeff Palermo has the story…

CUT 1 (28)  “I’m Jeff Palermo”

================

As the fall shrimp season comes to a close, many shrimpers and seafood dealers say this has been a terrible year for the industry. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 2 (29)  “I’m Eric Gill”

===================

A maintenance worker at a horse farm in Bossier Parish is in jail after he allegedly set off a bomb underneath a home located at that same horse farm. Bossier Parish Sheriff’s spokesperson, Lt. Bill Davis, says 54-year-old Douglas Holley of Benton was employed at the horse farm for four months and was apparently upset with a veterinarian who lived on the property

CUT 3 (10)  “it exploded”

No one was seriously injured. Holley is facing two counts of attempted first degree murder and one count of manufacturing a bomb. Davis says investigators found bomb making materials at Holley’s home…

CUT 4 (08)  “explosive scene”

Unless he bonds out, Holley will spend Christmas at the Bossier Maximum Security Facility. Davis says the two victims are counting their blessings, because the bomb caused damage to their pier-and-beam house…

CUT 5 (08)  “radical explosion”

============================

State Climatologist Barry Keim says Louisiana should brace for wet weather conditions leading up to Christmas. He says the rain is due to a slow moving cold front settling over the state today. Keim says this front is expected to stall before ever passing through the state…

CUT 6 (10) “southeastern Louisiana”

He says the entire state is vulnerable to heavy rainfall up to Christmas Eve. Keim adds that this weather system will also bring the potential of damaging winds, tornados, and flash flooding. This is a very busy week for many and Keim urges every one to exercise caution during inclement weather…

CUT 7 (09) “umbrellas handy” 

He says up to five inches of rain could fall in areas across the state over the next three days, especially in southeast Louisiana. Keim says these weather conditions should start to clear Christmas Eve and Christmas Day is looking pretty good…

CUT 8 (07) “this year”

============================

As the fall shrimp season comes to a close, many shrimpers and seafood dealers say this has been a terrible year for the industry. Louisiana Shrimp Association President Clint Guidry says a resurgence of imported shrimp led to some of the lowest prices ever seen at the dock…

CUT 9 (08)  “white shrimp season”

But he says the federal government has recently passed legislation to better control the importing of shrimp into the US. Guidry says new FDA guidelines calling for 100% screening of imported shrimp before it enters the country will even the playing field between imported and domestic shrimp…

cut 10 (10)  “traded unfairly”

Guidry says he’s looking forward to working with the new legislature and governor in enacting legislation to help the industry. He says a good sign going into 2016 is that shrimp prices were beginning to pick up toward the end of the fall season…

Cut 11 (07) “in mid-September”

============================

17 arrest warrants have been issued in an attempt to stop criminal activity by the Gremlins Gang. State Police spokesperson Brooks David says many involved with this criminal organization live in Abbeville and they are suspected of engaging in drug and violent crime activity throughout four parishes in south Central Louisiana

cut 12 (07) “criminal gang activity”

David says 10 members of the Gremlins gang are in custody and they are searching for seven others. He says all of them face several charges, including racketeering, which carries a long prison sentence if convicted…

cut 13 (05)  “in prison”

David says Abbeville and the surrounding parishes around Vermilion are safer with these individuals off the streets. He says several agencies cooperated in this year-long investigation

cut 14 (11)  “feels safe” 

Blue Bell lovers in Louisiana are rejoicing as the ice cream is coming back to stores today across the state right in time for the holidays. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (29) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

______________________________________

These low gas prices are a nice Christmas gift for motorists, but how long will it last? Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

______________________________________

The FDA plans to ban tanning beds for anyone under 18.Jeff Palermohas more on the proposed regulations

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

______________________________________

Blue Bell lovers get an early Christmas present today as the ice cream makes it way back on shelves in Louisiana. Blue Bell Spokesperson Joe Robertson says seven different flavors will be available after originally thinking only four different kinds would make it to grocery stores.

cut 4  (09)  “peppermint”

Robertson says as production capacity increases, they’re going to keep adding in new flavors until all are returned to shelves. Blue Bell was forced to take their ice cream off the shelves last spring because its products were linked to 10 listeria cases, including three deaths in Kansas. He says they’ve made huge changes to ensure that listeria is never a problem again in Blue Bell ice cream.

Cut 5  (10)  “proven safe”

Robertson says this is phase four of the five phase rollout and so far everything is going well. He says Blue Bell is excited to continue releasing ice cream until grocery stores are completely restocked.

Cut 6 (09)  “another phase”

______________________________________

Many will travel on Louisiana highways during this holiday season and they’ll see the price at the pump around a $1.80 for a gallon of regular gasoline. Gas-Buddy-dot-com (gasbuddy.com) spokesperson Gregg Laskoski says prices haven’t been this low since March 2009. And He says gas prices are 50 cents lower than this time last year.

CUT 7 (09)  “last year”

Laskoski says the downward pressure of the price of crude oil is what’s driving gas prices down. He says we can expect to see gas this low into the first month of the new year.

Cut 8  (11)  “new year”

Laskoski says some locations across the state are advertising gas prices as low as $1.57 a gallon.

Cut 9 (09) “in Kansas”

______________________________________

The Food and Drug Administration plans to ban anyone younger than 18 from using indoor tanning beds or sunlamps. LSU Associate Clinical Professor and Dermatologist Dr. Sarah Jackson says the American Academy of Dermatology is in full support of these regulations. Jackson says about 1.6 million minors use tanning beds every year.

Cut 10 (09) “lifetime” 

Jackson says there are countless cases of skin cancer related to tanning bed use. She says they’ve seen an increase in the amount of young women with melanoma since tanning beds became popular, but action is being taken….

cut 11 (09) “indoor tanning”

Louisiana passed a law last year that prohibits anyone under 18 from using a commercial tanning bed. Jackson says this FDA regulation, which is up for public comment, also requires adult tanning bed users to sign a consent form every six months. She says there will also be adjustments to the beds themselves.

Cut 12 (09) “bulbs”

_____________________________________

Democrat John Bel Edwards is three weeks away from being sworn in as the state’s next governor. Edwards says the budget will be one of his biggest challenges. He says a revenue shortfall of one-point-two to one-point-six million dollars is possible next year and there’s no easy solutions…

Cut 13 (05)  “significant”

Edwards says tough budget decisions will be made and there are a lot of options on the table. He says one option not available is the continued reduction of state dollars for higher education…

Cut 14 (10) “going forward”

Another priority for the incoming administration is the expansion of the Medicaid program. Edwards says this will result in additional federal tax dollars flowing into the state, helping Louisiana with its health care needs. He says without federal assistance, hospitals will close

Cut 15  (09) “for everybody”

 __________________________________

The Saints face the Detroit Lions tonight at the Mercedes Benz Superdome in a battle of two teams with losing records. New Orleans is 5-8 on the year, but coming off one of its best performances of the season when they beat Tampa Bay last week. Quarterback Drew Brees says they want to build on that performance…

Cut 16  (19)  “we are”

The Saints were eliminated from playoff contention for a second straight year when Seattle and Minnesota won yesterday. Even though the Saints have fallen short of reaching their goals, Brees says the players have not given up on the season…

Cut 17 (11) “to work”

A former investigator with the DA’s Office in Washington Parish has been indicted by a grand jury amidst allegations he used his position to force women to have sex with him. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (29)  “I’m Emelie Gunn”

================

The latest installment of Star Wars opened Friday to an extremely eager audience and the hype is just about everywhere you go. Michelle Southern reports…:

CUT 2 (30)  “I’m Michelle Southern”

===================

A former investigator with the DA’s Office in Washington Parish has been indicted by a grand jury amidst allegations he used his position to force women to have sex with him. Chief Deputy Mike Haley says 66-year-old Michael Cotton of Bogalusa allegedly threatened a female drug offender to obtain sex. He says the victims assisted in the investigation…:

CUT 3 (10)  “Mr. Cotton”

Haley says, between about March 2013 and July 2015, Cotton is also accused of helping a woman obtain drugs and use the influence of his position for sex with another woman…:

CUT 4 (08)  “that they had”

22nd Judicial District DA Warren Montgomery says it greatly disturbs him that a member of the criminal justice system would deal drugs and prey on the vulnerable. Cotton had been hired part time by the previous administration but was later fired by Montgomery in August. Haley says Cotton faces serious charges…:

CUT 5 (08)  “bond (2x)”

============================

The bodies of a Vernon Parish woman and her 9-year-old son have been found, and authorities have placed the victim’s fiance under arrest. Vernon Parish Sheriff Sam Craft says family members reported 32-year-old Misty Marshall and her three children missing on December 4th. He says they were able to locate two children safe, but later discovered Marshal and her son, dead:

CUT 6 (11) “woods road”

Craft says Marshal’s fiance, Matthew Dotson, was arrested and charged with one count of first-degree murder and is currently being held on 2 million dollars bond. He says more charges could be coming…:(Craft says 32-year-old Misty Marshall, who had not been seen since before Thanksgiving, was located in a wooded area near New Llano, and her child was found near the home where he lived with his family in Simpson.)

CUT 7 (11) “assistance” 

Craft says they are unsure of motive at this time or how the two were killed, but they do believe their bodies were dumped around the end of November. He says this tragic crime has rocked these small communities…:

CUT 8 (10) “to dealing with”

============================

The latest installment of Star Wars opened Friday to an extremely eager audience and the hype is just about everywhere you go. For it’s preview showings alone, “The Force Awakens” brought in a record breaking $57 million dollars at box offices in the US. This Louisiana kid went on opening day and says he’s the biggest Star Wars fan you’ve ever met…:

CUT 9 (07)  “everything”

Star Wars Episode 7 has maintained a mid 90 percentile approval rating on the critic website Rotten Tomatoes which writes, “believe the hype.” This Louisiana kid dressed up as his favorite character to wear to the movie on opening day…:

cut 10 (06)  “right here”

This Louisiana Star Wars fan says he’s been waiting years to learn the next evolution of the story…:

Cut 11 (11) “kinda crazy”

______________________________________________________

Outgoing Angola Warden Burl Cain is the subject of an investigation conducted by multiple agencies. The Department of Corrections, State Police and the Inspector General’s office didn’t provide many details at a press conference. Inspector General Stephen Street says they are trying to get to the facts in an efficient manner…

cut 12 (10) “more efficiently”

Cain has served as Angola’s warden for 21 years, but is resigning effective December 31st. There’s been a series of investigative reports by the Advocate newspaper that’s looked into questionable real estate dealings involving Cain. State Police Colonel Mike Edmonson says he sent a team of investigators to Angola…

cut 13 (09)  “through those”

Cain has said he’s done nothing wrong. Greg Phares with the Inspector General’s Office says there are allegations that go beyond real estate transactions, but Corrections Secretary James Leblanc couldn’t elaborate

cut 14 (11)  “that way” 

A request for a lower bond is denied in the case of a Marksville deputy who is connected to the fatal shooting of a six-year-old boy. Jeff Palermo has the story…1

CUT 1 (30)  “I’m Jeff Palermo”

================

The New Orleans City Council has voted for the removal of four confederate monuments from their current location. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 2 (31)  “Emelie Gunn”

===================

Newly announced key cabinet members say they are up to the challenge of taking on their role for the incoming Edwards Administration. Former Congressman Charlie Melancon will be the new head of the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. He says he’s looking forward to trying to find a balance between private and commercial fisherman…:

CUT 3 (08)  “Wildlife and Fisheries”

Melancon served in the US House of Representatives from 2006-2011. Shawn Wilson will take the reins as Secretary of the Department of Transportation. He’s been the DOTD Chief of Staff for 10 years and looks forward to carrying out Edwards’ vision for a comprehensive transportation system…:

CUT 4 (10)  “in trucks”

Some had questioned whether or not Edwards would keep on Col Mike Edmonson as the Superintendent of State Police. The Governor-elect said local law enforcement officials including the Sheriff’s Association and the Chiefs of Police reached out to him and expressed their desire to see Edmonson continue to serve…:

CUT 5 (09)  “his leadership”

============================

A Baton Rouge man was arrested for placing a small camera in the men’s urinal at an office building. Baton Rouge Police Cpl. L’Jean Mckneey says 52-year-old Stephen McCants was charged with Video Voyeurism after a man found his camera in the bathroom and notified authorities

CUT 6 (10) “of Stephen McCants”

Mckneely says after the photo was released to the media, they got many tips alerting them that the man in the video was Stephen McCants. He says once he was brought in for questioning, McCants admitted to placing the camera in the bathroom.

CUT 7 (07) “on someone” 

Mckneely says they were able to obtain a search warrant for McCants’ house and found additional footage from the camera. He says even though McCants claims it was a joke, putting a video camera in the rest room is always illegal.

CUT 8 (04) “video voyeurism”

============================

The New Orleans City Council votes for  the removal of four confederate monuments from their current locations. The council made its decision after passionate arguments from both sides. The first person to speak was New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu, who called on the council to remove the monuments after a mass shooting at an African American church in South Carolina.

CUT 9 (11)  “much more”

Landrieu proposes that the monuments, including the one of General Robert E. Lee, be moved to a museum. He says it’s time for the city to cut its ties with our Confederate past….

cut 10 (10)  “as slaves”

A Pro-monument speaker discussed how the monuments are part of New Orleans’ rich culture. He relayed a quote from a blogger in favor of keeping up the statues…

Cut 11 (09 “repeat it”

The pro-monument speaker says they would like to place interpretive plaques on the monuments to explain the current and past meaning of each statue. He says the monuments help to make the city unique.

cut 12 (11) “fair minded”

============================

Louisiana public schools received an overall letter grade of “B” from the state department of education. That’s based on a vareity of factors including test and graduation data from the previous school  year. State Superintendent of Education John White

cut 13 (10)  “are all increasing”

Ten school districts received an “A” grade, 30 received a “B” grade, while nine school districts have a “D” grade and two school districts received a failing grade. White says it will be more difficult to achieve an “A” or “B” score in future years…

cut 14 (10)  “basic education” 

Go to Louisiana-believes-dot-com to find out the letter grade of the public school your child attends.  White says the department of education has taken steps to improve school performance over the last 10 years…

cut 15 (10)  “teachers”

============================

***Now with McNeese State Story and fix to JBE duplicate cut***

Louisiana State Police graduates 57 new troopers today. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

______________________________________

Governor-elect John Bel Edwards announced some members of his cabinet and staff during a news conference Wednesday. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (33) “I’m Michelle Southern”

______________________________________

The LSU Vet School has a reminder to keep your pets safe during the holiday season. Don Molino has more…

Cut 3 (33) “I’m Don Molino”

______________________________________

Louisiana State Police is graduating a new cadet class today. These 57 men and women have been in training for the last 16 weeks and will continue field training for 12 weeks after graduation. Trooper Nick Manale says this is their third cadet class in the past few years and they’re excited to increase the number of troopers in Louisiana.

cut 4  (07)  “out there”

Manale says everyone who starts a State Police career begins in the patrol section. He says each cadet is assigned to a troop area across Louisiana to keep our roadways and communities safe.

Cut 5  (10)  “troop location”

Manale says there isn’t a set date for the next cadet class but he encourages everyone interested to submit an application.

Cut 6 (09)  “new academy”

______________________________________

Governor-elect John Bel Edwards announced some members of his cabinet and staff during a news conference Wednesday. State Police Col Mike Edmonson will remain at his post, former US Representative Charlie Melancon will be the new Wildlife and Fisheries Secretary, DOTD Chief of staff Shawn Wilson will now head the agency. Edwards says he’s delivering on his promise to establish a staff that looks like the state…:

CUT 7 (09)  “this team”

Some others listed Wednesday include retiring state Representative Karen St. Germain who will head the Office of Motor Vehicles and Don Pierson will serve as secretary of Louisiana Economic Development. Edwards says he’s proud of the team he’s assembled to tackle the challenges that lie ahead:

Cut 8  (04)  “together”

Major General Glenn Curtis will remain head of the Louisiana National Guard, Joey Strickland will be the Secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs and Juana Marine-Lombard will be the new ATC Commissioner. Edwards says he know Louisiana has a tough road ahead, but he’s never been more optimistic about the future of our state…:

Cut 9 (10) “people first”

______________________________________

The Federal Reserve announced Wednesday that it would raise interest rates for the first time in nearly a decade, so what does this mean for Louisianians? State Treasurer John Kennedy says the Fed lowered rates to almost zero during the 2008 financial crisis, but moved it up .25 percent to .5 percent. He says this means a couple things for consumers…:

Cut 10 (10) “little bit” 

Kennedy says the Fed is taking baby steps as a one quarter of 1% rate increase will only modestly impact consumers. He says if you have a savings account…:

cut 11 (05) “earning interest”

Kennedy says even though we’re not totally seeing the impacts in Louisiana due to a struggling oil industry, this is a sign the Fed believes the economy as a whole is healthier…

Cut 12 (10) “much better”

_____________________________________

The LSU Vet School wants to remind pet owners to be careful when feeding their animals table food during the holidays. Assistant Professor Dr. Nancy Welborne says every year during this time, their clinics see an increase in digestive issues with family pets, often because of eating a high fat diet that they’re not used to.

Cut 13 (10)  “problems”

Welborne says also, beware when your children are dumping out their stockings that your dog doesn’t get ahold of any chocolate because it’s highly toxic. She says milk chocolate is the least harmful, while dark chocolate is the most and it only takes a little to make your pet sick.

Cut 14 (06) “cause seizures”

Welborne says peanut butter is also a no-no for feeding your dog because of some sweetening agents. She advises people to watch out for toys and ornaments to make sure pets don’t ingest or choke on parts.

Cut 15  (08) “or decoration”

 __________________________________

McNeese State officially announced Defensive Coordinator Lance Guidry will be the next head coach of The Cowboys, taking over for Matt Viator. Guidry is, who played at McNeese from 1990-1993, served as Viator’s defensive coordinator since 2013. He’s popular with fans as his fiery pre-game speeches before both bowl games became widely-viewed his on social media. Guidry was fired up today…:

Cut 16  (17)  “applause”

McNeese wanted to act quickly before an NCAA-mandated recruiting dead period closes this Saturday. Guidry was extremely excited about getting this job…:

Cut 17 (13) “back in the saddle”

Guidry says one of the major things he’ll be looking for in his team is enthusiasm…:

Cut 18 (11) “national championship”

Louisiana State Police graduates 57 new troopers today. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

______________________________________

Governor-elect John Bel Edwards announced some members of his cabinet and staff during a news conference Wednesday. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (33) “I’m Michelle Southern”

______________________________________

 The LSU Vet School has a reminder to keep your pets safe during the holiday season. Don Molino has more…

Cut 3 (33) “I’m Don Molino”

______________________________________

Louisiana State Police is graduating a new cadet class today. These 57 men and women have been in training for the last 16 weeks and will continue field training for 12 weeks after graduation. Trooper Nick Manale says this is their third cadet class in the past few years and they’re excited to increase the number of troopers in Louisiana.

cut 4  (07)  “out there”

Manale says everyone who starts a State Police career begins in the patrol section. He says each cadet is assigned to a troop area across Louisiana to keep our roadways and communities safe.

Cut 5  (10)  “troop location”

Manale says there isn’t a set date for the next cadet class but he encourages everyone interested to submit an application.

Cut 6 (09)  “new academy”

______________________________________

Governor-elect John Bel Edwards announced some members of his cabinet and staff during a news conference Wednesday. State Police Col Mike Edmonson will remain at his post, former US Representative Charlie Melancon will be the new Wildlife and Fisheries Secretary, DOTD Chief of staff Shawn Wilson will now head the agency. Edwards says he’s delivering on his promise to establish a staff that looks like the state…:

CUT 7 (09)  “this team”

Some others listed Wednesday include retiring state Representative Karen St. Germain who will head the Office of Motor Vehicles and Don Pierson will serve as secretary of Louisiana Economic Development. Edwards says he’s proud of the team he’s assembled to tackle the challenges that lie ahead:

Cut 8  (04)  “together”

Some others listed Wednesday include retiring state Representative Karen St. Germain who will head the Office of Motor Vehicles and Don Pierson will serve as secretary of Louisiana Economic Development. Edwards says he’s proud of the team he’s assembled to tackle the challenges that lie ahead:

Cut 9 (10) “people first”

______________________________________

 The Federal Reserve announced Wednesday that it would raise interest rates for the first time in nearly 7 years, so what does this mean for Louisianians? State Treasurer John Kennedy says the Fed lowered rates to almost zero during the 2008 financial crisis, but moved it up .25 percent to .5 percent. He says this means a couple things for consumers…:

Cut 10 (10) “little bit” 

Kennedy says the Fed is taking baby steps as a one quarter of 1% rate increase will only modestly impact consumers. He says if you have a savings account…:

cut 11 (05) “earning interest”

 Kennedy says even though we’re not totally seeing the impacts in Louisiana due to a struggling oil industry, this is a sign the Fed believes the economy as a whole is healthier…

Cut 12 (10) “much better”

_____________________________________

The LSU Vet School wants to remind pet owners to be careful when feeding their animals table food during the holidays. Assistant Professor Dr. Nancy Welborne says every year during this time, their clinics see an increase in digestive issues with family pets, often because of eating a high fat diet that they’re not used to.

Cut 13 (10)  “problems”

Welborne says also, beware when your children are dumping out their stockings that your dog doesn’t get ahold of any chocolate because it’s highly toxic. She says milk chocolate is the least harmful, while dark chocolate is the most and it only takes a little to make your pet sick.

Cut 14 (06) “cause seizures”

Welborne says peanut butter is also a no-no for feeding your dog because of some sweetening agents. She advises people to watch out for toys and ornaments to make sure pets don’t ingest or choke on parts.

Cut 15  (08) “or decoration”

 _________________________