Saturday is election day in Louisiana. Jeff Palermo reports…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The City of Natchitoches officially kicks off their Christmas Festival season Saturday with it’s “Turn on the Holidays” event. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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 With Election Day tomorrow, both gubernatorial candidates are making their last pitch to get voters to support them at the polls. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 3 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Saturday is election day in Louisiana. The statewide ballot is highlighted by the gubernatorial runoff between Republican David Vitter and Democrat John Bel Edwards. Secretary of State Tom Schedler says, with this election falling on the Saturday before Thanksgiving, there’s concern that some activities may keep some voters from the polls…

cut 4  (10)  “turnout down”

However, early voting numbers have Schedler predicting a 42-percent voter turnout for the runoff, up from the primary election’s 39-percent. The Lt. Governor and Attorney General’s races will also be on Saturday’s ballot. Schedler says there are also local races on the ballot that will affect voter turnout…

Cut 5  (09)  “always does”

Polls will be open from 7AM to 8PM Saturday. Schedler says it’s always important to exercise your right to vote and encourages everyone to make time in their schedule tomorrow…

Cut 6 (09)  “friend, anybody”

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The City of Natchitoches officially kicks off their Christmas Festival season tomorrow with its “Turn on the Holidays” event. Entertainment, shopping and food vendors will be showcased throughout the day, then that evening, hundreds of thousands of Christmas lights will illuminate the Natchitoches Historic Landmark District. Mayor Lee Posey…:

CUT 7 (09)  “wow”

Turn on the Holidays features live musical performances, amusements, and fireworks. The event marks the beginning of the city’s preparation for the 89th Annual Natchitoches Christmas Festival on Saturday, December 5th. Posey says there will be events in the city every weekend through Christmas and it just gets bigger and bigger every year…:

Cut 8  (09)  “get to em”

Tomorrow’s event will begin the 45 nights of Christmas lights. There was a controversy this week regarding the fact that Posey banned the Confederate battle flag from the Christmas parade this year. Posey says a standards of excellence has been established for the festival and parade and they remove certain elements from the parade all the time…:

Cut 9 (12) “particular flag”

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The two candidates for governor are making their last pitch to voters on this election eve day. Republican Senator David Vitter says he’ll be all over the state campaigning today getting his message out.

Cut 10 (11) “after issue”

Polls heading into Saturday’s election show Vitter trailing his opponent. Vitter says before the polls close, he hopes to sway undecided voters in his direction…

cut 11 (11) “the issues”

 Democratic Representative John Bel Edwards says as governor, he will be present, hands on and engaged. He says he will bring Republicans and Democrats together.

Cut 12 (08) “do that”

Edwards says if elected, he’ll put Louisiana first. His message to voters is that this election isn’t about party, but about working together to fix the state’s problems.

Cut 13 (09)  “being Louisianans”

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Louisiana fishermen have the rare opportunity to catch red snapper in state waters in November and December. Randy Pausina, assistant secretary for the state Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, says a fall red snapper season begins today, after it was determined Louisiana did not reach its maximum number of red fish harvested for 2015…

Cut 14 (09) “92-percent”

The fall season will run seven days a week in state waters with a daily bag and possession limit of two fish per person at a 16-inch minimum total length. Pausina expects the fall season to remain open through the rest of the year, but the weather will have an impact….

Cut 15  (06)  “bad is right”

Pausina says many recreational anglers are appreciative of the opportunity to catch red snapper during the holidays…

Cut 16  (07)  “claiming our fish”

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The LSU football team looks to snap its two-game losing streak on Saturday when they visit Ole Miss. The Tigers offense has struggled to put points on the board the last two weeks. Offensive coordinator Cam Cameron says they want to get the running game going after attempting to throw the ball 40 times last week…

Cut 17 (13) “behind early”

Sophomore quarterback Brandon Harris has been up and down in these last two losses. Cameron says they are looking for more consistency from their young Q-B…

Cut 18 (14) “….with him“

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If the UL Lafayette football team wants to play in a bowl game for a fifth straight season, they’ll need to win two of its next three games to get to six wins on the year. Cajuns Coach Mark Hudspeth says they have yet to play up to their expectations this season, but hopes that starts on Saturday at home against New Mexico State….

Cut 19 (16) “winning record”

The Aggies come to Cajun Field with a 2-and-7 record, but they have an outstanding running back. Larry Rose the Third leads the Sun Belt in rushing, with nearly 13-hundred yards on the ground. Hudspeth says Rose is an impressive back…

Cut 20 (21) “his labor”

The Voice of LSU, Jim Hawthorne, is back tonight for the call of the men’s basketball game. Eric Gill reports its his first broadcast since undergoing a medical procedure last month…:

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Authorities held a press conference in New Orleans this morning to reassure residents that an attack similar to the one in Paris last week is not imminent in Louisiana. Eric Gill reports…

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Baton Rouge Police report a second man has been arrested in the slaying of an elderly Baton Rouge couple whose bodies were discovered at a Hammond truck stop last month. Lt. Johnny Dunham says 48-year-old Frank Garcia was arrested in Hollywood, Florida Wednesday…

CUT 3 (08)  “homicide case”

71-year-old Denis Duplantier (doo-PLAHN-shay) and 70-year-old Suzanne Duplantier were taken from their home, robbed, and killed October 18th. Garcia is charged with two counts of first degree murder. Dunham did not disclose what information led to issuing the warrant for Garcia’s arrest…

CUT 4 (10)  “at this point”

42-year-old Ernesto Alonso was previously arrested and charged in the deaths of the Duplantiers. Dunham says this is still an active investigation and it’s possible more arrests could be made…

CUT 5 (07)  “call Crime Stoppers”

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The Voice of LSU, Jim Hawthorne, returns to his play-by-play calling duties tonight for the first time since having a medical procedure last month. Hawthorne will broadcast tonight’s men’s hoops game at the PMAC, after missing the Alabama and Arkansas football games. He says the doctors gave him the green light…:

CUT 6 (07) “very fortunate”

The LSU men’s basketball team is 2-0 after a win over McNeese State on Friday and victory over Kennesaw State on Monday. Hawthorne says he’s been extremely humbled by how many friends and LSU fans have reached out and wished him the best for a speedy recovery…:

CUT 7 (11)  “very supportive”

The 71 year old had previously announced he’d retire from LSU after this men’s basketball season. Hawthorne says he plans to call the final regular season football game next week. He admits it was an extremely unique experience to watch football games as a fan, which you don’t get to do when you’re working it…:

CUT 8 (11)  “watch a game”

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Federal, state, and local authorities held a press conference in New Orleans this morning to reassure residents that an attack similar to the one in Paris last week is not imminent in Louisiana. New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu says facts have been confused in the days following the Paris attacks…

CUT 9 (10)  “threats at all”

Landrieu says he’s been assured that there are no credible threats from any of the Syrian refugees in the New Orleans area. FBI Special Agent Jeffrey Sallet (sa-LET) says there is a very strong Joint Terrorism Task Force in the state. He says their job is to protect the citizens of Louisiana from these type of attacks…

cut 10 (11)  “preparing for”

He says, prior to the Paris attacks, the task force has been preparing to respond and prevent multi-event attacks. Sallet says there are currently no credible terrorist threats to Louisiana and authorities will strive to keep it that way…

Cut 11 (08) “are safe”

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Today is the Great American Smokeout, a day that has been designated for smokers to quit their habit. According to the Center for Disease Control 24-percent of Louisiana adults smoke, which is higher than the national percentage. Mike Rogers with the Smoking Cessation Trust says there are free products and services to help long time smokers put cigarettes down for good.

cut 12 (10)  “for it all”

Rogers says the only requirements to sign up are, you live in Louisiana and started smoking prior to September 1, 1988. He says the Smoking Cessation Trust has been around since 2012 and is showing much success.

cut 13 (09)  “receive benefits”

Rogers says 43-percent of those who sign up report that they actually quit. He attributes the success to the trust providing free medications and other necessary services and encourages everyone eligible to try it out.

(For more information visit smokefreela.org)

cut 14 (06)  “tobacco’s money” 

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The Grand Theater in Lafayette will reopen tonight for the first time since the tragic summer shootings, and the community is thrilled. Michelle Southern repors…:

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Bobby Jindal says he has no specific political plans once his second term as governor ends in January. Jeff Palermo has the story…

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 The longest serving president in the history of Northwestern State University has passed away. Emelie Gunn has more on the life of Dr. Randall Webb….

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The Grand Theater in Lafayette will reopen tonight for the first time since the tragic summer shootings, and the community is thrilled. A man opened fire on a crowd during a movie on July 23rd, killing two women and injuring several others, and since then the parking lot at The Grand on Johnston Street has been empty. Bret Fruge, a former employee, will be there tonight

cut 4  (10)  “to seeing it”

The first movie, The Hunger Games: Mocking Jay Part II is scheduled for 7pm. Fruge says he goes to the movies every chance he gets and he will definitely be there tonight…:

Cut 5  (09)  “is the 16”

Before the opening tonight, a dedication will take place honoring the victims of the gunfire and first responders. A small vigil will take place at 6pm, the ribbon cutting is at 6:25 then the newly renovated Grand 16 Theater box office will open at 6:45. Lafayette Mayor-President Joey Durel says he’s also happy for the owner of the theater, George Solomon…:

Cut 6 (10)  “were a victim”

11 people were shot in the incident and Jillian Johnson and Mayci Breaux lost their lives. Durel says during a vigil following the incident, he told the community that he wanted to buy the first ticket when the theater reopened…:

CUT 7 (10)  “lead the way”

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So what’s next for Governor Bobby Jindal now that his presidential campaign is over? He has a little over seven weeks left as Louisiana’s governor. Jindal says one of his top priorities is to help the next governor prepare for their four-year term….

Cut 8  (12)  “as possible”

Jindal says he’s already voted, but would not tell reporters who he voted for to succeed him. He does not want to get involved in Saturday’s election…

Cut 9 (09) “I’m optimistic”

The governor and his family are preparing for life as private citizens. They are building a home in the Baton Rouge area that’s expected to be completed in early December. He says his wife, Supriya, has been working with the builder…

Cut 10 (12) “new home”

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The former president of Northwestern State University Dr. Randall Webb has passed away at the age of 72. Webb was the longest serving president in the history of the University, serving for 18 years, from 1996 to 2014. State Senator Gerald Long of Natchitoches knew Webb for almost 50 years and says he had a great love for the school and for life itself.

cut 11 (08) “of education”

Long says Webb was an incredible leader and model of integrity. He says the former president focused greatly on enhancing the college experience for students and letting graduates leave the school feeling accomplished.

Cut 12 (09) “fully accredited”

Long says Dr. Webb was an icon because he made a commitment to the small rural school and grew it to one of the most respected in the state. He says many other university presidents looked up to him.

Cut 13 (11)  “entire state”

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The Jindal administration releases its plan to solve a 487-million dollar budget deficit. It calls for 150-million dollars in cuts to state agencies, dipping into the state’s “rainy day” fund  and using revenues from lawsuit settlements. Council for a Better Louisiana president Barry Erwin says this is a short-term fix to the state’s budget woes…

Cut 14 (09) “structural problem”

The plan does NOT call for cuts to higher education or state worker layoffs. Erwin is glad to see Louisiana’s public colleges and universities spared

Cut 15  (09)  “significant amount”

The proposed deficit reduction plan calls for a 130-million dollar reduction in state spending by the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals. The joint legislative budget committee will review the plan on Friday. Erwin says the entire legislature must approve the use of 28-million dollars from the rainy day fund…

Cut 16  (06)  “there for”

LSU Coach Les Miles says there’s no added pressure to win, despite a published report suggesting he could be fired if they lose their last two games. Jeff Palermo has the story…

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Governor Bobby Jindal has returned to Louisiana after ending his bid for the Republican presidential nomination. Eric Gill reports…

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Political pundits in Louisiana are wondering if Governor Bobby Jindal’s announcement to suspend his presidential campaign was timed to upstage Republican David Vitter in the days leading up to the gubernatorial runoff election. Political analyst Clancy Dubos says that’s mere speculation, at this point, but it is plausible…

CUT 3 (10)  “in New Orleans”

In 2007, Vitter held a press conference to make his first public statement about his infamous prostitution scandal just before Jindal formally announced he was entering the governor’s race. Vitter’s event pushed Jindal’s announcement from the headlines. Dubos says this was not lost on the governor…

CUT 4 (10)  “fair play”

He says now that Jindal is back in Louisiana, he’ll begin working to fix the state’s budget crisis. Dubos says the budget issue could continue to keep Vitter from the headlines leading to the election…

CUT 5 (12)  “budget cuts”

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According to a report in the Advocate, LSU Coach Les Miles is coaching for his job the next two weeks. The Tigers have lost two in a row and could be looking at a 7-4 record if they lose to Ole Miss this Saturday and Texas A-and-M on November 28th. On today’s SEC coaches teleconference, Miles says there is no added pressure to win

CUT 6 (10) “than I have”

The Advocate article says there is a serious threat to Miles tenure based on sources at LSU. Miles current contract runs through the 2019 season. If LSU fired Miles at the end of the season, the Tigers would have to pay a buyout of at least 12.9 million dollars. On today’s SEC coaches teleconference, Miles said the support he’s received from athletic director Joe Alleva remains the same and there are no issues there…

CUT 7 (09)  “to me”

The LSU fan base is frustrated over the Tigers losing to Alabama for a fifth consecutive time and getting dominated two years in a row by Arkansas. But Miles says his team can win its last two games and play in a significant bowl game…

CUT 8 (07)  “on track”

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According to officials with the organization, Catholic Charities of Baton Rouge, have received threats for helping Syrian refugees resettle in Louisiana. Louisiana State Police Col. Mike Edmonson says a phone call came in Tuesday from out of state making gun threats to the organization.

CUT 9 (06)  “tolerate that”

Edmonson says he’s spoken to the executive director of Catholic Charities in Baton Rouge, David Aguillard, about the gun threats and learning information about the refugees.

cut 10 (09)  “State Police”

Edmonson says there have also been threats to Catholic Charities in other states. He says they take threats very seriously in Louisiana and are investigating the incident.

Cut 11 (05) “…into it.”

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Governor Bobby Jindal has returned to Louisiana after ending his bid for the Republican presidential nomination. At a news conference at the Governor’s Mansion, Jindal said he has no regrets seeking the nation’s highest elected office. He stated that the failure of his campaign rests solely on his shoulders…

cut 12 (10)  “my responsibility”

Jindal says he would have liked the Republican National Committee to allow all candidates to participate in the debates, but the ultimate responsibility for the campaign’s failure is his. As far as his future goes, Jindal says that’s up in the air…

cut 13 (05)  “being governor”

Jindal says he will not get involved in this year’s governor’s race. His second term as governor will end in January. Jindal says, before leaves office, he’ll go on a statewide tour highlighting the achievements made during his two terms as governor…

cut 14 (08)  “job creation” 

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Another one of the big items on the 2015 runoff ballot on Saturday is the race for Lt. Governor. Michelle Southern reports…:

CUT 1 (29) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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The U.S. F-D-A has instated new policies to improve safety in imported seafood coming into the country. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Republican David Vitter takes a break from his gubernatorial campaign to file federal legislation that seeks to stop the influx of Syrian Refugees into the country. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Governor Bobby Jindal has dropped out of the 2016 presidential race. In a statement, Jindal says it was an honor to run for President, but this is not his time. Publisher of lapolitics.com, Jeremy Alford, says there were several signs that Jindal’s campaign was not doing well…

cut 4  (10)  “suspend the campaign”

Alford says Jindal had a hard time gaining much support in a field that contained over a dozen candidates. He says bad press from Louisiana also followed him to the early primary states like Louisiana…

Cut 5  (10)  “couple of years”

Jindal’s second term as governor ends in January. Alford says his administration has to deal with a midyear budget deficit and a deficit from last fiscal year. He also expects Jindal to tout the accomplishments that have occurred during his eight years as governor…

Cut 6 (10)  “high note”

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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has implemented new guidelines that calls for 100% screening of imported seafood before it enters the country. The new policy comes after U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy questioned the FDA when studies showed large amounts of bacteria in imported seafood…

CUT 7 (09)  “to me”

Cassidy says our Louisiana producers are required to follow strict safety measures and we should demand that other countries do the same. He hopes this new policy will help local shrimpers.

Cut 8  (10)  “lower costs”

For years, Louisiana shrimpers have complained about cheap imports flooding the market. Cassidy says this new guideline should reduce the amount of imported shrimp making it into the country.

Cut 9 (06) “combination”

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Another one of the big items on the 2015 runoff ballot on Saturday is the race for Lt. Governor. In a recent forum, both Republican Billy Nungesser and Democrat Kip Holden were asked what was the first thing they planned to do if they were elected to the state’s second highest post. Holden said he’s going to travel the state and find out what people want for their cities..:

Cut 10 (10) “those things”

Both candidates for governor have said they were going to immediately call a special session in 2016 to deal with the state’s budget woes. Nungesser says he’s going to put together a package to present to the legislature that would restore cuts to the state’s parks, museums and historical sites…:

cut 11 (06) “to the world”

The candidates were also asked what their single biggest, new idea would be to keep the tourism industry in Louisiana moving forward. Holden says he’d like to see towns and cities taking advantage of technology, websites and social media as a way to tell visitors what we’re all about…:

Cut 12 (11) “get here”

Nungesser said he’d focus on promoting prominent areas of the state that many outsiders don’t know about. He says one of the elements in Louisiana that often gets overlooked, for example, is the horse industry…:

Cut 13 (11)  “from 11 states”

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Republican Senator David Vitter is pushing his federal legislation that would stop the influx of refugees from Syria in the United States. During a speech on the Senate floor, Vitter says verification safeguards are not in place to confirm that each refugee doesn’t pose a security threat to the country

Cut 14 (08) “we do”

The legislation is in response to the deadly terrorist attacks in Paris that were performed by members of ISIS. The senator says one of the terrorists entered France by posing as a Syrian refugee. Vitter says the Paris attacks show the US can’t have lax policies when it comes to this issue…

Cut 15  (08)  “in place”

Vitter’s opponent in the governor’s race, Democrat John Bel Edwards, calls the Senator’s bill a last ditch effort to save his political career. Edwards’ campaign spokesperson, Mary-Patricia Wray….

Cut 16  (06)  “political stunt”

Wray says they’ve also learned that Vitter missed three Congressional hearings on Syrian refugee resettlement…

Cut 17 (11) “a stunt”

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Louisiana ranked number two nationally for worker safety in 2014. Eric Gill reports…

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Natchitoches Mayor Lee Posey has banned the Confederate flag from the city’s annual Christmas Parade. Many residents have differing opinions on this decision. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 2 (31)  “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Louisiana ranked number two nationally for worker safety in 2014. The survey showed Louisiana improved to 2 incidents per 100 full time workers. The national average is 3.2. Louisiana Workforce Commission Executive Director Curt Eyesink says credit for this has to go to business and industry in the state, as well as their workforce…

CUT 3 (09)  “number of years”

Louisiana’s rate of work related injuries and illnesses has improved to its best level in 13 years. Worker’s comp rates have dropped 17-percent since 2008. Eyesink says the business community’s commitment to safety is leading to lower worker’s comp costs…

CUT 4 (09)  “to the employees”

Eyesink says these results show that workplace safety has become a top priority for Louisiana companies and their employees…

CUT 5 (08)  “that seriously”

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Natchitoches Mayor Lee Posey has banned the Confederate battle flag from their annual Christmas Parade. The Sons of Confederate Veterans have had a float in the parade for more than 20 years, but decided not to partake this year because of the ban. Northwestern State University Professor Holly Stave says she understands some people want to honor their families, but agrees with Mayor Posey’s decision.

CUT 6 (09) “a symbol”

Posey told The Sons of Confederate Veterans they could fly any other Confederate flag except the battle flag. Stave says she doesn’t believe this will affect attendance to the parade because people go to see the lights and eat the great food. She says there are other ways to honor our Southern heritage.

CUT 7 (10)  “were made”

Dakota Scoggins, owner of a Natchitoches clothing shop called Old River Clothier, says he’s defending his family by selling t-shirts displaying the Confederate battle flag. He says he is worried that the mayor’s decision will lead to less people attending the parade and hurt their economy later down the line.

CUT 8 (09)  “hurts us”

Scoggins says Mayor Posey did not go through the correct processes to keep something out of the parade. He believes this decision is hypocritical because Melrose Plantation brings in thousands of tourists each year.

CUT 9 (08)  “like that”

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The Louisiana Highway Safety Commission says, despite increased seat belt usage, the number of fatal crashes in Louisiana increased from 2013 to 2014. According to finalized data, there were 664 fatal crashes on Louisiana roadways killing 739 people last year. Spokesperson Jessica Bedwell says there was a 2-percent increase in fatal crashes in 2014…

cut 10 (08)  “over the years”

The number of crashes and fatalities are down about 26-percent since 2007. Bedwell says most of these fatal crashes happen at night and often involve younger drivers…

Cut 11 (08)  “distracted driving”

The fatality rate of 18 to 20-year-olds increased in 2014 and the alcohol related crash rate of 18 to 24-year-olds increased for the first time in five years. Bedwell says the results of this report show that more needs to be done to keep impaired drivers off the road…

cut 12 (04)  “alcohol impaired”

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The debate on whether or not to accept Syrian refugees has become an issue in Louisiana’s gubernatorial race. In a new TV commercial, Republican David Vitter claims Democrat John Bel Edwards has pledged to work with President Obama to bring Syrian refugees to Louisiana. UL-Lafayette Political Science Professor Pearson Cross says this is an issue that matters if you think it matters…

cut 13 (10)  “to be important”

Edwards has fired back at Vitter claiming the senator missed key votes regarding the Syrian refugee issue. Recent polls show Edwards enjoying a double-digit lead over Vitter in the race. Cross says Vitter is looking for an issue that will sway undecided voters in his favor…

cut 14 (09) “something else” 

He says Edwards seems to be pushing back effectively against Vitter’s claims on the issue. On the other hand, Cross says Vitter appears to be chipping away at Edward’s lead. He says, right now, this is a race to election day…

cut 15 (10)  “It’s unclear”

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A stormy day is expected across Louisiana. Jeff Palermo tells us what to expect…

CUT 1 (25) “I’m Eric Gill”

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 The OMV has sent out the last of letters alerting drivers with lapsed auto insurance to pay up or be turned over to a collection agency. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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State Police Col Mike Edmonson says, in the wake of the terror attacks on Paris, they would like more information about the refugees of the Syrian civil war who are in Louisiana. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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A flash flood watch is in effect for a good portion of Louisiana today and forecasters say there’s a good chance we could see severe storms as result of massive weather system that will move through the bayou state. State Climatologist Barry Keim says be ready for anything…

cut 4  (08)  “the area”

Keim says we’ve seen strong storm systems move through the state over the last couple of weeks, but this one has the greatest potential to produce damaging storms…

Cut 5  (07)  “the area”

Keim says it’s not unusual to see a storm system of this magnitude move through the state in November…

Cut 6 (08)  “this time”

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The Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles continues to notify drivers whose auto insurance lapsed at one point by sending out the last of three letters to alert people to pay their fines or be turned over to a collection agency. State Police Col. Mike Edmonson says they’re working hard to resolve everyone’s cases and have already cleared about 55-thousand notices.

CUT 7 (09)  “the debt”

Edmonson advises drivers that if they sell their car, take the licenses plates with you and if you cancel an insurance policy, make sure you give OMV your newest information. Over 300-thousand previous notices sent out went to the wrong address. He says to find out if State Police is looking for you, visit express lane-dot-org. (www.expresslane.org)

Cut 8  (09)  “correct that”

Edmonson says they’ve collected about 8.1-million dollars. He says but there are about one-million cases that have yet to be resolved….

Cut 9 (05) “restore opportunity”

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State Police Col Mike Edmonson says, in the wake of the terror attacks on Paris, they would like more information about the refugees of the Syrian civil war who are in Louisiana. The US State Department said 14 Syrian refugees had been resettled in the state this year. Edmonson says they don’t know much about the people who have come here…:

Cut 10 (10) “to work with”

Governor Bobby Jindal issued an executive order Monday telling state agencies not to accept the resettlement of any more Syrian refugees. Director of the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness Kevin Davis says they’ve haven’t been told anything about the Syrian refugees or the process that they go through…:

cut 11 (06) “vetting process”

Edmonson says the federal government does an extremely poor job of communicating with regards to the Syrian refugees. He says there are a ton of questions and not enough answers…:

Cut 12 (09) “state of Louisiana”

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In the final televised debate before the November 21^st runoff, Democrat John Bel Edwards and Republican David Vitter, made their case to voters why they should be elected as the state’s next governor. Edwards says his experience in the military will be beneficial for Louisiana.

Cut 13 (09)  “same principles”

Vitter’s prostitution scandal was brought up multiple times during the debate. The senator wasn’t afraid to address it in his final remarks, by explaining his family’s forgiveness is what motivates him to do his best for the state.

Cut 14 (11) “great heights”

In Vitter’s latest television ad, he accuses Edwards of picking voters up from an adult night club in New Orleans on a party bus to early vote. In Edward’s response, he made a comment about Vitter’s sensitive past.

Cut 15  (09)  “senator”

All the polls are showing Vitter trailing in the final days leading up to the election. Vitter tried to make his case by pointing out that most of Edwards’ campaign money comes from trial lawyers.

Cut 16  (10)  “Louisiana jobs”

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The 17th ranked LSU football team will look to snap a two-game losing streak this Saturday in Oxford where they’ll take on the 25th ranked Ole Miss Rebels. The Tigers no longer have a chance at winning a national championship or an SEC title, but Coach Les Miles believes there’s a desire within the program to finish the regular season with two more wins

Cut 17 (15) “this done”

Miles is in his eleventh season as head coach and frustration within the fan base maybe at an all-time high since the mad hatter arrived in Baton Rouge. The coach he’s working hard to fix the issues that have led to a rare losing streak at LSU…

Cut 18 (15) “….step up“

In the two losses, LSU’s offensive line has not played well. In the loss to Arkansas, Quarterback Brandon Harris was sacked five times and LSU rushed for only 59 yards. Miles was asked if his o-line was in a slump

Cut 19 (21) “more productive”

Amid rumors to the contrary, New Orleans Saints head coach Sean Payton says defensive coordinator Rob Ryan has not been fired. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (28)  “I’m Eric Gill”

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JMC Analytics is out with a new survey on Saturday’s runoff elections. Eric Gill takes a look at the results.

CUT 2 (31)  “I’m Eric Gill”

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Amid rumors to the contrary, New Orleans Saints head coach Sean Payton says defensive coordinator Rob Ryan has not been fired. Fox Sports reported that sources had informed them that Ryan would be terminated following Sunday’s 47-14 loss to Washington. Payton was asked about Ryan’s status at a press conference this morning…

CUT 3 (06)  “absolutely”

Payton says rumors like this are just part of the business. Although no personnel moves have been made, Payton hinted that some changes are on the horizon…

CUT 4 (10)  “of us collectively”

Payton says the subject of Ryan’s dismissal is a subject that hasn’t been discussed, at least as of now. However, NFL analyst Mike Detillier says the time has come for the Saints to let Ryan go…

CUT 5 (07)  “downhill since”

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According to the Secretary of State’s office, the number of early voters for Saturday’s runoff elections was up 16-percent from the primary. The director of the University of New Orleans Survey Research Center, Ed Chervenak, says based on early voting numbers, the electorate seemed to favor Democrat John Bel Edwards for governor

CUT 6 (11) “registered republicans”

Chervenak says when you compare the early voting figures from the primary to the runoff, the was an increase in African-American voters and registered democrats, which would benefit Edwards over his Republican opponent David Vitter

CUT 7 (08)  “candidate’s side”

Edwards and Vitter will meet tonight at 6 PM in the final televised debate before election day. Chervenak expects a higher hitting and tough debate…

CUT 8 (10)  “the other”

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The Department of Revenue’s 2015 Louisiana Tax Amnesty period begins today. Over the next 30 days people have the opportunity to bring overdue taxes up to date with lessened interest charges. Deputy Secretary Jarrod Coniglio (ca-nig-lee-oh) this is a prime opportunity for some to get squared away with the revenue department…

CUT 9 (10)  “last amnesty is”

The tax amnesty period will run through December 15th. More information is available at ldrtaxamnesty-dot-com. Coniglio says there are incentives for delinquent tax payers to come forward…

cut 10 (09)  “of the interest”

During this amnesty period, 33-percent of the penalty and 17-percent of the interest will be waived if 100-percent of the tax debt is paid. Coniglio hopes people will take advantage of this amnesty period because state law dictates another one cannot be offered for at least 10 years…

Cut 11 (10)  “than 2025″

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The latest JMC Analytics survey on the Louisiana gubernatorial race shows Democrat John Bel Edwards with 51% of the vote, Republican David Vitter with 35% and 13% still say they are undecided. Pollster John Couvillion says the numbers have narrowed slightly from his last poll…:

cut 12 (11)  “metropolitan areas”

The poll, which was conducted November 14th-16th, shows Republican Billy Nungesser leading Democrat Kip Holden by 11 points in the Lt. Governor’s race, with 21% undecided. Couvillion says other Lt. Governor candidates in the primary saw their votes fall to Nungesser in Saturday’s runoff. He also says Holden has not done a lot of television advertising..:

cut 13 (06)  “result”

In the Attorney General election, incumbent Buddy Caldwell polled just 25% to fellow GOP opponent Jeff Landry who came out with 46% with the undecideds still at 29%. Couvillion says Landry has substantially outspent Caldwell in advertising. He says it was also a bad sign that the incumbent got just 35% of the vote in the primary…:

cut 14 (10) “runoff started” 

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Republican David Vitter and Democrat John Bell Edwards will meet in another televised debate this evening. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (28) “I’m Eric Gill”

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The governor’s race hits the homestretch as Democrat John Bel Edwards and Republican David Vitter make their final pitch before the November 21st election. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (27) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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 After over 8 million turkeys died from the bird flu this year, does that mean we’ll see a shortage of turkeys for the holiday season? Emelie Gunn has more…..

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Republican David Vitter and Democrat John Bel Edwards will meet in another televised debate this evening. The debate will begin at 6PM and is being hosted by Nexstar Television stations. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat feels the dynamics of this debate are interesting…

cut 4  (08)  “months back”

He says Vitter needs to show a kinder, gentler side of himself while still criticizing Edwards of being liberal and pro-Obama. Pinsonat says Vitter really needs to fire up his supporters to cast their ballot Saturday…

Cut 5  (10)  “to Louisiana”

He says you can expect Edwards to continue to attack Vitter’s character as it has been working well for his campaign to date. Pinsonat says Edwards will probably play it safe tonight…

Cut 6 (07)  “to win”

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It’s the final week of the gubernatorial campaign as Democrat John Bel Edwards and Republican David Vitter will make their case on why they should be the state’s next governor. Edwards says his campaign is not about political parties, but putting Louisiana first…

CUT 7 (05)  “a like”

Vitter says a vote for Edwards will take Louisiana down the wrong path

Cut 8  (09)  “Pro Obama liberal”

Edwards says if Vitter is elected, he’ll divide the state, keeping Louisiana from making great strides…

Cut 9 (05) “restore opportunity”

Recent polls have shown Vitter trailing by double-digits, but his internal polling shows the race to be much tighter…

Cut 10 (12) “as a liberal”

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Due to this year’s outbreak of avian influenza, will there be enough turkeys for Thanksgiving? Professor and Poultry Extension Specialist with the LSU Ag Center Theresia Lavergne says the last confirmed case of this flu was in June and it affected almost four percent of turkeys in the country. She says but you’ll still be able to find a turkey.

cut 11 (10) “in price”

 Lavergne says it’s all based on the laws of supply and demand on whether or not there will be a shortage or turkeys and if the price will increase. She says in a report by Poultry Times, we could see a 20 to 40 cent increase per pound for the bird, but….

Cut 12 (10) “to year”

Lavergne says a lot of turkeys are also kept in cold storage to have in the event of a shortage. She says typically people eat the smaller hens during their family’s feast, which weren’t as effected by the flu.

Cut 13 (09)  “at Thanksgiving”

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LSU is in jeopardy of having its once promising football season spiral out of control. The Tigers were manhandled for a second straight week on Saturday, this time by Arkansas, who beat LSU 31-14. It was a rough game for the offense line as LSU only rushed for 59 yards and allowed five sacks. Offensive tackle Vadal Alexander says they have to keep working…

Cut 14 (14) “don’t come easy”

Coach Les Miles says the team’s two-game losing streak is his fault…

Cut 15  (06)  “it’s me”

Running back Leonard Fournette was held to less than 100 yards for a second consecutive game as his Heisman chances are slipping away. Just like many LSU fans, Fournette was dejected after the game, but they can’t give up on the season…

Cut 16  (09)  “whatever happens”

Quarterback Brandon Harris threw for 271 yards and one touchdown. But he also fumbled once and he was intercepted. Miles says he still has faith in Harris…

Cut 17 (17) “and brillant”

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It was a brutal performance for the Saints on Sunday as they were routed by the Redskins 47-14. Coach Sean Payton says it will be hard to look at the tape and find anything that went well

Cut 18 (08) “….on box off“

The Saints defense set the tone for this one, as they allowed Washington to march 96 yards down the field on its first drive and score a touchdown. New Orleans allowed 514 yards of total offense. Payton on the defense’s poor performance…

Cut 19 (13) “underneath coverage”

It wasn’t a great day for Quarterback Drew Brees either. He threw for just 209 yards and two touchdowns, but was intercepted twice. The Saints are entering the bye week with a 4-6 record and Brees hopes the week off will help the team….

Cut 20 (13) “no other choice”

Lawyers for Saints and Pelicans owner Tom Benson and his estranged heirs have agreed to mediation over Benson’s lawsuit to remove them as future owners of the teams. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (28)  “I’m Eric Gill”

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Republican gubernatorial candidate David Vitter’s latest campaign commercial features “Duck Dynasty” star Willie Robertson backing the senator in the governor’s election. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 2 (26)  “I’m Eric Gill”

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Lawyers for Saints and Pelicans owner Tom Benson and his estranged heirs have agreed to mediation over Benson’s lawsuit to remove them as future owners of the teams. Legal analyst Tim Meche believes this is a sign that Judge Jane Triche Milazzo indicated to Benson’s lawyers that they would not win the case during trial…

CUT 3 (10)  “with them”

He says everyone who has studied this case predicted this day would come. Benson’s lawsuit seeks to take back stock in the team from his heirs and force them out as non-voting owners of the teams. Meche says it’s normal for a judge to order mediation in a case like this…

CUT 4 (11)  “as his heirs”

He says, at the end of the day, both parties are going to have to sit together and come to some understanding. Meche says the big question here is what the heirs will hold out for…

CUT 5 (08)  “of the teams”

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In the 2015 University of New Orleans Louisiana Gubernatorial Runoff survey, polls show Republican Bill Nungesser in a 10 point lead over Democrat Kip Holden in the Lt. Governor’s race. Ed Chervenak, director of the UNO Survey Research Center, says, unlike the governor’s race, the Lt. Governor’s election is running on race and partisanship..:

CUT 6 (09) “partisanship”

The poll of 600 likely voters was conducted between November 2nd-8th. It also showed that two-thirds of people feel Louisiana is headed in the wrong direction and Governor Jindal with a 70 percent disapproval rating. Chervenak believes the Governor and now Republican Presidential candidate is having a major impact on the upcoming runoff…:

CUT 7 (08)  “would be in trouble”

This was the same poll that found Democrat John Bel Edwards with a 22 point lead over Republican David Vitter. Chervenak says there’s a major split in the Republican party as nearly half of people who voted for the other two GOP candidates in the primary, Scott Angelle and Jay Dardenne, said they will vote for Edwards in the runoff…:

CUT 8 (11)  “certainly shift”

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It looks like Republican gubernatorial candidate David Vitter is bringing some star power to his campaign. His latest campaign commercial features “Duck Dynasty” star Willie Robertson backing the senator in the governor’s election. ULM Political Science Professor Joshua Stockley feels Robertson’s endorsement of Vitter is pretty inconsequential…

CUT 9 (10)  “Senator Vitter”

The commercial continues Vitter’s theme of redemption from his prostitution scandal with Robertson stating, “I know he’s made some mistakes, but who hasn’t?” Stockley says “Duck Dynasty” fans and Vitter supporters are cut from the same conservative cloth and this endorsement won’t move the needle much for Vitter…

cut 10 (09)  “and independents”

Vitter’s last two TV spots have dealt with his prostitution scandal. Stockley believes the Vitter campaign has a lot more than this to deal with before election day…

Cut 11 (08)  “too late”

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A three hour standoff between authorities and an armed man on a boat in Larose ended early this afternoon. Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office Spokesperson Brennan Matherne says police responded to a call by a boat owner alerting them that an armed man, who didn’t have permission, was aboard a boat docked along the Intracoastal Canal.

cut 12 (09)  “shotgun”

Matherne says negotiators continued to talk to Boudreaux until he shot one round into the air from the boat. He says after the shot, the tactical team moved in as Boudreaux began to flee on foot from his position on the boat.

cut 13 (08)  “shots fired”

Matherne says the suspect was not armed when he entered the vessel, the weapon was already on the boat. He says Boudreaux had no connection to the boat and it is likely he could become a suspect of a burglary because some of the items on board are missing.

cut 14 (08) “the vessel” 

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