November has just begun and many retailers are already beating the Christmas shopping season drum. Eric Gill has more…

CUT 1 (29) “I’m Eric Gill”

______________________________________

 A Baton Rouge doctor has created a new shoe to help alleviate heel pain. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

______________________________________

 The 2015 Louisiana Tax Amnesty Period will run from November 16^th to December 15^th. Michelle Southern has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

______________________________________

November has just begun and many retailers are already beating the Christmas shopping season drum. Many stores are already setting up Christmas displays and advertising Christmas specials. Dan Rice, LSU Marketing Professor, says it appears stores are starting the Christmas season earlier and earlier each year…

cut 4  (08)  “little bit earlier”

He says it seems like retailers are trying to train consumers to make Christmas purchases earlier. Rice says many companies are not just going to have “Black Friday” deals for the holidays. He says some are giving holiday deals that are good for a longer period of time, up to several weeks in some instances…

Cut 5  (08)  “in the season”

Monday, online retailer Amazon launched a “Black Friday Deals Store” which will post sales daily til November 27th. Rice expects this Christmas shopping season to be a good one with people shopping both in-store and online…

Cut 6 (10)  “long time coming”

______________________________________

 A Baton Rouge doctor has designed a new shoe to help alleviate heel pain. Dr. Meredith Warner with LSU Louisiana Business and Technology Center, created The Healing Sole, which is a patent-pending flip flop which helps people recovered quicker from heel pain for various reasons, including plantar fasciitis.

CUT 7 (11)  “the treatment ”

 Warner says right now she is running a clinical trial to prove that the flip flop is actually working. She says the shoe incorporates basic treatment principles that doctors use regularly and considers it as a recovery device.

Cut 8  (10)  “kind of help”

 Warner says The Healing Sole places five treatment methods into the shoe. She says the most important design of the flip flop is the lifted big toe area, which puts a nice stretch on the plantar fascia.

Cut 9 (10) “the heel” 

______________________________________

Another statewide race headed into the November 21st runoff is between incumbent Republican Buddy Caldwell and fellow GOP challenger Jeff Landry for the office of Attorney General. Landry announced Monday he’s picked up the endorsement of the Democratic third place finisher in the primary, Geri Broussard Baloney. Landry says the AG’s office needs major reform…:

Cut 10 (09) “tax payer” 

Landry, a former Congressman and Tea Party favorite, says Caldwell is in for a difficult fight because the AG’s office is currently filled with cronyism, nepotism and corruption…:

cut 11 (06) “his business”

Caldwell has held the position since 2008. He says Landry has never tried a case and is unqualified to be be the state’s lawyer..:

Cut 12 (09) “currently”

In the primary, Caldwell received 35 percent of the vote to Landry’s 33 percent. He says the AG’s office deals with a caseload that Landry has too little experience to deal with…:

Cut 13 (08)  “or criminal”

______________________________________

The 2015 Louisiana Tax Amnesty program will run November 16^th to December 15^th.  Jared Coniglio (ca-nig-lee-oh), deputy secretary with the Department of Revenue, says this gives people the opportunity to bring their delinquent taxes up to date with lessened interest charges and penalties for 30 days.

Cut 14 (09) “were due”

 Coniglio says this amnesty period is possible because of the legislation passed in 2013, which allowed three years of amnesty but wouldn’t be offered again for a decade. He says in the past two amnesty periods, they collected more than their goals of $150 million in 2013 and $104 million in 2014.

Cut 15  (10)  “the legislature”

 Coniglio says the goal keeps shrinking because every year there are less tax payers that owe delinquent taxes, so many people take advantage of this opportunity.

Cut 16  (07)  “be 2025”

 __________________________________________________-

The biggest game of the season has arrived for the 4th ranked LSU Tigers as they will face 7th ranked Alabama on Saturday night in Tuscaloosa. LSU is undefeated while the Crimson Tide have one loss. Coach Les Miles says it’s been their goal to be in this position and have a chance to take control of the SEC West race…

Cut 17 (19) “this game”

A big game on Saturday for LSU running back Leonard Fournette and he can likely look forward to winning the Heisman Trophy in December. But Miles doesn’t want his talented sophomore to think about postseason awards, just victory….

Cut 18 (20) “highest level”

In big games like this, mistakes can cost you. LSU leads in the SEC penalty yards per game and Miles hopes his team doesn’t see too many flags this Saturday

Cut 19 (18) “can be”

It appears we’ll have at least one gubernatorial debate before the November 21st runoff election. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (31)  “I’m Eric Gill”

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

State Insurance Commissioner Jim Donleon is issuing some reminders to the public, now that the Affordable Care Act open enrollment period is underway. Don Molino reports…:

CUT 2 (32)  “I’m Don Molino”

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

It appears we’ll have at least one gubernatorial debate before the November 21st runoff election. Republican David Vitter and Democrat John Bel Edwards will face off November 16th in a WVLA-TV debate televised statewide. ULM Political Science Professor Joshua Stockley says Louisiana voters deserve to hear the two candidates exchange ideas…

CUT 3 (07)  “and contrast” 

The debate will begin at 6PM from The Dunham School in Baton Rouge. A recent poll shows Vitter’s unfavorable rating at 52-percent. Stockley believes this has a lot to do with Senator’s negative campaign strategy. He says Vitter will have to walk a tightrope during the debate…

CUT 4 (11)  “as negative”

He says Vitter will have to find a way to expose the weaknesses of Edwards without coming across as negative. Edwards placed first in the primary with 40-percent of the vote, followed by Vitter’s 23-percent. Stockley says Edwards’ campaign strategy is working and he shouldn’t change anything…

CUT 5 (11)  “just fine”

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

State Insurance Commissioner Jim Donleon is issuing some reminders to the public, now that the Affordable Care Act open enrollment period is underway. He says during enrollment, which runs November 1st through January 31st, 2016, families that do not receive healthcare through their employers can sign up through the online Health Insurance Marketplace…:

CUT 6 (09) “the 15th”

The state department of insurance has launched a webpage with key information about open enrollment at ldi.la.gov/5things. Donelon says, historically, about 20% of people in Louisiana are uninsured. He says, under the Affordable Care Act, the tax penalty fee for not having coverage is substantially bigger in 2016 than it was in 2015…:

CUT 7 (11)  “not covered”

Donelon says if you do not elect coverage by January 31st, you will be unable to get healthcare insurance unless you qualify for a special enrollment period due to a life change such as marriage or pregnancy. He says going to out-of-network providers can be expensive…:

CUT 8 (10)  “gonna choose”

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

Rapides Parish continues to clean up after severe weather ripped through the area over the weekend. Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Lt. Tommy Carnline says a tornado touched down Saturday morning in the Elmer community that caused some damage…

CUT 9 (07)  “were damaged”

He says, fortunately, no injuries were reported. Tornados also touched down near the Tangipahoa Parish town of Tickfaw and the Livingston Parish town of Albany Saturday. Carnline says clean up and repair efforts are underway…

cut 10 (10)  “the roadway”

Cleco estimates all power in the area will be restored this afternoon. Carnline encourages motorists to exercise caution on the roadways and pay special attention to roads where there is standing water…

Cut 11 (05)  “just safer”

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

November is National Lung Cancer Awareness month and health officials are encouraging individuals, especially older current or former smokers, to talk to their doctor about lung screening. Dr.Brad Vincent is a pulmonologist with Mary Bird Perkins – OLOL Cancer Center in Baton Rouge. He says lung cancer kills more Americans than colon, breast and prostate combined…:

cut 12 (08)  “lethal cancer”

Vincent says screenings can detect lung cancer even before the first symptoms appear and are set to be covered by Medicare and health insurance companies beginning next year. He says the horrible thing about lung cancer is that patients typically don’t have any symptoms early on…:

cut 13 (08)  “to treat”

Vincent says the National Cancer Institute says lung cancer is the leading cause of death from cancer in the US, but when caught early, treatment can help patients to live longer, healthier lives. He says the earliest symptom is a simple cough that many patients dismiss, so it’s important to know your risk factors…:

cut 14 (11) “or less” 

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

The Louisiana Workforce Commission is rolling out enhancements to its online system for Louisiana job seekers and employers. Jeff Palermo reports…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

______________________________________

The Tulane School of Medicine has received a 1.6 million dollar grant from the National Institutes of Health to improve the flu vaccine. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

______________________________________

Louisiana’s START College Savings Program has been ranked the 5^th best plan in the country by Christian Science Monitor. Don Molino has more….

Cut 3 (29) “I’m Don Molino”

______________________________________

The Louisiana Workforce Commission is rolling out enhancements to its online system for Louisiana job seekers and employers. LWC Executive Director Curt Eysink says the improvements are being made to the HiRE employment system. Eysink says these upgrades will better connect unemployment insurance to workforce development and job matching…

cut 4  (07)  “for claimants”

He says Louisiana will be the first state in the country to launch a system where all the unemployment business conducted will ride on the same system as their job matching and skills development. Eysink says, with these enhancements, the re-employment process will begin immediately…

Cut 5  (10)  “your claim”

He says these enhancements will affect thousands of job seekers and employers by streamlining the employment process. Eysink says this roll-out is another major step in technological upgrades LWC has designed to make finding a job easier and more efficient…

Cut 6 (10)  “for everybody”

______________________________________

As flu season is rapidly approaching, the Tulane University School of Medicine is working on more effective vaccines after receiving a 1.6 million dollar grant from the National Institutes of Health. Tulane immunologist Dr. Elizabeth Norton says their goal is to make a better vaccine for people regardless of the strength of their immune system.

CUT 7 (11)  “the infection”

Norton says the grant will support research until 2020. She says there is an estimated three to four-thousand deaths each year from the flu and they plan to drastically drop that number with a better developed vaccine.

Cut 8  (10)  “one percent”

Norton says they also have another study going on right now to examine how well the flu shots are working in the New Orleans area. She says they’re looking to see what about a particular person makes the flu vaccination ineffective.

Cut 9 (08) “risk populations” 

______________________________________

The Christian Science Monitor has named Louisiana’s START College Savings Program the 5^th best plan in the country. State Treasurer John Kennedy says START is an underutilized program that allows money to grow over time without being taxed. He says over the past eight years tuition has gone up 70-percent and this is a great way to help students pay for college.

Cut 10 (11) “not taxed” 

Kennedy says all a parent needs to do to open a START account is ten dollars and then the money is professionally managed for future educational expenses. He says he is proud Louisiana has such a great program and START has grown so much since he first became state treasurer.

cut 11 (10) “the program”

Kennedy says anyone using the START program can take their money out whenever they choose. He says for more information on Louisiana’s START saving program, visit latreasury.com…

Cut 12 (06) “the program”

______________________________________

Daylight Saving Time ended Sunday and Louisiana State Police reminds motorists to stay safe on the road as you adjust to the new time schedule. Trooper Dustin Dwight says it will take a little time for our bodies to adjust to the new time change…

Cut 13 (05)  “to drive”

As the sun begins to set earlier in the day, it may throw some drivers off who are not used to driving in darker conditions. Dwight says this would be a good time to take a look at your car’s equipment…

Cut 14 (10) “at nighttime”

He reminds drivers to to stay engaged and aware of your surroundings as nighttime driving hours increase. Dwight says following basic driving safety rules will keep roads much more safe, even at night…

Cut 15  (06)  “driving environment”

______________________________________

Kicker Kai Forbath’s 50-yard field goal as time expired lifted the Saints to a 52-49 win over the New York Giants yesterday in the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Quarterback Drew Brees threw for a career high 511 yards and tied an NFL record for most touchdown passes in a game with 7. Head coach Sean Payton appreciated his team’s effort…

Cut 16  (10)  “the win”

Giants quarterback Eli Manning threw for a career best six touchdowns. Their combined 13 touchdown passes in a single game set a new NFL record. Payton was impressed with Forbath’s game-winning kick that improved the Black & Gold to 4-4 on the season…

Cut 17 (10) “to the kicker”

Former LSU standout Odell Beckham, Jr. caught three touchdown passes for the Giants. The Saints have now won three in a row. Payton says it’s nice to be on a winning streak, but the focus now must be on the Tennessee Titans…

Cut 18 (12) “lot of fight”

The two candidates in the governor’s race held dueling press conference in Baton Rouge with their supporters. Jeff Palermo was there..

CUT 1 (30)  “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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

WVUE-TV reports the US Department of Education is investigating how LSU handles cases of rape and sexual assault. Emelie Gunn reports…

CUT 2 (31)  “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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

The two candidates for governor held press conferences in Baton Rouge today. Democrat John Bel Edwards was joined by sheriffs from the around the state as he received the Louisiana Sheriffs Association endorsement. Edwards says a recent Vitter ad that claimed he plans to release up to 55-hundred inmates if elected, is untrue

CUT 3 (12)  “incarceration rates” 

At today’s press conference at the Louisiana Sheriff’s Assocation, several lawmen spoke about why Louisiana residents should elect Edwards on November 21st. Assumption Sheriff Mike Waguespack says Edwards will bring integrity to the governor’s office

CUT 4 (12)  “of Louisiana”

The National Federation of Independent Business announced its endorsement for Vitter and then the Senator told a lunchtime crowd there’s a clear choice to make on November 21st…..

CUT 5 (12)  “guide us”

Several republican officials like Congressmen John Fleming and Ralph Abraham were in attendance to show their support for Vitter. State Treasurer John Kennedy gave the most raucous speech of the day…

CUT 6 (10) “(cheers)”

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

Four French Quarter strip clubs who had their liquor licenses suspended by the state Office of Alcohol and Tobacco Control will be able to sell alcohol and cigarettes this weekend. That’s because a New Orleans judge has issued a temporary restraining order against ATC Commissioner Troy Hebert’s suspension order. Hebert is not pleased with Judge Regina Woods ruling…

CUT 7 (08)  “over there, now”

Judge Woods issued a temporary restraining order allowing the clubs to continue selling alcohol and tobacco. Hebert says this sends a horrible message…

CUT 8 (11)  “were served”

An undercover ATC operation found prostitution, drug sales, and other improper activities happening at these clubs. A hearing on the temporary restraining order is scheduled for next week. Hebert says if authorities really want to clean up the crime problem in the French Quarter, everyone needs to work as a team…

CUT 9 (09)  “are not”

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

A flash flood watch is in effect for southwest and central Louisiana for Halloween. Donald Jones, with the National Weather Service in Lake Charles, says a lot of rain is moving in from the west bringing at least two to four inches of rain along with the chance of tornadoes.

cut 10 (08)  “as well”

Jones says this weather system will hit almost every corner of Louisiana but some areas more than others. He says with the already saturated grounds, the rainfall is likely to cause flooding on the streets and other low lying areas.

Cut 11 (10)  “overnight hours”

Jones says if you made plans for Halloween, it would be smart to move those indoors. He says this weather event will be very similar to what we experienced last weekend.

cut 12 (06)  “as well”

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

WVUE-TV reports the US Department of Education is investigating how LSU handles cases of rape and sexual assault. New Orleans state Senator JP Morrell has been an advocate when it comes to legislation requiring college campuses to do a better job in reporting sexual assaults. Morrell says many colleges find the issue of sexual assault on campus overwhelming…

cut 13 (09)  “not an issue”

The report reveals 16 rapes were reported to an LSU campus advocacy group last year, but very little was done to protect the victims or punish the perpetrators. Federal investigators are checking into whether LSU responded promptly to a reported sexual assault incident earlier this year. Morrell says universities are required by law to have a Title IX coordinator to handle situations like this…

cut 14 (08) “or a janitor” 

In a statement, LSU says it cannot discuss matters pertaining to a pending investigation or any specific alleged incidents. Morrell says the state legislature will continue to work to get a process in place for colleges statewide to handle sexual assault claims. He says this investigation sends a strong message…

cut 15 (10)  “will be sanctioned”

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

Weather this Halloween is looking a little spooky with heavy rain fall and the risk of serious flooding. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

______________________________________

State Police is reminding parents and kids to play it safe when Trick-or-Treating this Halloween. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

______________________________________

The New Orleans NAACP has requested that the Vitter campaign remove a TV commercial that uses the word “thugs”. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (31) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

______________________________________

 Forecasters say the weather on Halloween could be frightening, as severe storms and heavy rainfall is expected. State Climatologist Barry Keim says a front will stall along the Louisiana coast and it will help to produce another significant rain event, similar to what we saw last weekend…

cut 4  (09)  “in flood”

 Keim says this rain will likely take care of the lingering drought problems we’ve had, even in north Louisiana, which saw very little precipitation from July 4th until last weekend. He says there’s also the potential of tornadoes with this latest weather system….

Cut 5  (08)  “be prepared”

 Keim says it’s a good thing many parishes have moved Trick or Treating to Friday, because heavy downpours are expected Saturday….

Cut 6 (09)  “in flood”

______________________________________

State Police is reminding kids and parents about some of the basic safety rules when it comes to walking the streets for trick or treat. Trooper Brian Lee says as you hit up neighborhoods, please remain vigilant for possible hazardous or dangerous situations. He says parents should make sure kids have flashlights and something reflective on their costume…:

CUT 7 (10)  “panned out”

Lee says you should always walk on sidewalks if they are available, but if not pedestrians should stay on the left side of the road facing traffic. He encourages people to check the State Police sex offender registry to see if there are any culprits in the area you’ll be trick or treating…:

Cut 8  (10)  “law enforcement”

Lee says it’s also important to make sure your kids know their address and phone number, or have it on their costume, so in case they wander off running from house to house, they know to find you. He says parents are urged to inspect all candy for safety after returning home…:

Cut 9 (07) “candy is safe” 

______________________________________

The New Orleans NAACP chapter has asked David Vitter’s gubernatorial campaign to take down a TV ad that uses the word “thugs” inside the commerical. Morris Reed, chapter president of the NAACP of New Orleans, believes “thugs” is used in the commercial to drive a wedge between the black and white communities

Cut 10 (09) “probationary period” 

The commercial makes the claim that Edwards would release thousands of “dangerous thugs” from prison if elected.  Reed says the ad seeks to strike fear in the hearts of the white community…

cut 11 (08) “not necessary”

The Vitter campaign has said they will not remove the ad from television. A statement from the campaign goes on to say that Edwards’ proposal to release thousands of criminals is dangerous and irresponsible. Reed says not only is the commercial offensive, but it might not be factual

Cut 12 (12) “the street”

______________________________________

Three major national political forecasters now say a win for Republicans in this gubernatorial election is not as certain as it once was. Some classify the race as a “toss-up” or a downgrade from “Likely Republican” to “Leans Republican.” Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat attributes this to the gubernatorial primary…:

Cut 13 (06)  “damage to each other”

Pinsonat says outside forecasters had previously considered a GOP win a lock due to the fact that Louisiana is still a red state and it’s still very difficult for a Democrat to win here. He says Republican David Vitter ended up with high negatives because of the type of attacks he was getting from his opponents in the primary…:

Cut 14 (10) “normally are”

Pinsonat says the candidates shouldn’t put too much stock into outsider forecasts because they typically base their opinions on news reports and talking to so-called political insiders. He says Democrat John Bel Edwards tends to be painted in a more positive light in the media which is what political forecasters see…:

Cut 15  (10)  “someone damaged”

___________________________________________________

Louisiana Tech will face Rice tonight in a big Conference USA matchup. The Bulldogs are 3-and-1 in league play, while Rice is 2-and-1. A loss for either team, likely knocks them out of contention to play in the CUSA title game. The game will be on Fox Sports One at seven o’ clock and Tech coach Skip Holtz says the national TV audience should be entertained by this game…

Cut 16  (16)  “to play”

Rice leads Conference USA in rushing as they are averaging close to 200 yards a game on the ground. But Holtz says the Owls also have a good passing game

Cut 17 (20) “last year”

_____________________________________________________

The Saints will go after their third straight victory on Sunday when they host the New York Giants. A win will move New Orleans to 4-and-4 on the season. Wide receiver Brandin Cooks says after an 0-3 start to the season, the team feels better about itself…

Cut 18 (14) “good way”

The Giants are 4-3 on the year and there defensive coordinator is Steve Spagnuolo, who had the same job in New Orleans in 2012. Right tackle Zach Streif says they know Spagnuolo will have a specific plan to stop the Saints offense…

Cut 19 (22) “personnel group”

A new poll on Louisiana’s governor’s race shows Democrat John Bel Edwards leading Republican David Vitter by a 52 to 40-percent margin. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (28)  “I’m Eric Gill”

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

The percentage of high schools in the state receiving “A” grades under the accountability system has gone up 13-percent since last year. Emelie Gunn has more….

CUT 2 (30)  “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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

Shreveport Police arrest two people they believe are responsible for a deadly shooting that killed one and injured two others. Cpl. Breck Scott says 29-year-old Elbert Fredieu (FREE-doo) and 24-year-old Scarlett Groce (gross), were taken into custody Wednesday. Scott says authorities found Fredieu working at Barksdale Air Force Base…

CUT 3 (09)  “degree murder” 2X

Fredieu is charged with one count of second degree murder and two counts of attempted second degree murder. 36-year-old Verdina Crichlow was killed in the shooting. Scott says Groce was located at her home in Bossier City…

CUT 4 (09)  “degree murder”

Groce is charged with one count of principal to second degree murder. Scott says detectives are still trying to determine a motive. He says the surviving victims, 43-year-old Tammy Harris and 15-year-old Tranautica Webber, remain hospitalized…

CUT 5 (07)  “critical condition”

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

With the top 10 LSU-Alabama game coming up in Tuscaloosa, fans are scrambling to get their tickets. Cameron Papp with Stub Hub says this is definitely a high demand game. He says the cheapest ticket available to Bryant Denny Stadium on November 7th is 195-dollars, which will get you an upper level seat behind one of the end zones.

CUT 6 (07) “end zone tickets”

The No. 4 Tigers and the No. 7 Crimson Tide are both off this weekend. Papp says the 2013 LSU- Alabama matchup had the highest ticket sales followed by the 2011 game of the century.

CUT 7 (08)  “find out”

Kickoff for the SEC showdown is 7pm. Papp says 26-percent of ticket sales are coming from Alabama and 11-percent are coming from Louisiana. He says ticket prices skyrocket the closer a fan wants to get to the field.

CUT 8 (10)  “sideline tickets”

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

A new poll on Louisiana’s governor’s race shows Democrat John Bel Edwards leading Republican David Vitter by a 52 to 40-percent margin. The survey was conducted by Anzalone Liszt Grove Research on behalf of the anti-Vitter Gumbo PAC. Political Analyst Clancy Dubos believes Edwards lead could actually be larger than 12 points…

CUT 9 (11)  “bigger than that”

He says stories adverse to the Vitter campaign have come out since this poll was taken and Edwards lead could be 15 points or higher. The survey also shows Vitter’s unfavorability rating has climbed to 52-percent. With the election a little more than three weeks away, Dubos says there is little time for Vitter to turn things around…

cut 10 (09)  “for him”

The poll shows that more than half of the voters that supported Scott Angelle and Jay Dardenne are now supporting Edwards. Dubos thinks Edwards’ recent endorsement by the Louisiana Sheriff’s Association could be a sign…

Cut 11 (07)  “weeks to come”

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

The State Department of Education says the percentage of high schools in Louisiana who have received an “A” grade under the state’s accountability system have increased from 10-percent last year to 23-percent this year. Superintendent of Education John White says higher graduation rates and ACT scores led to 73-percent of high schools receiving at least a “C” grade.

cut 12 (07)  “their students”

White says more schools also demonstrated progress with low-achieving students due to increased reading and math scores with previously low achieving students. He says schools have really stepped up to give kids the support needed to succeed in school.

cut 13 (08)  “those kids”

White says right now basic has been our expectation and our students deserve better than basic. He says the state plans to raise the bar on standards over the next ten years.

cut 14 (07) “higher expectations” 

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

The AARP of Louisiana has released a “Video Voter Guide” which features the two candidates for governor discussing their views on policies which impact older voters. AARP Louisiana spokesman Andrew Muhl says they want the electorate to know where Republican David Vitter and Democrat John Bel Edwards stand on critical issues…

cut 7 (07) “was produced”

The video can be viewed online at aarp.org/la.

Louisiana’s public colleges will ask the new governor and legislature for a significant increase in state funding. The Board of Regents currently receives 769-million in state dollars and its allocated to universities and colleges. Higher education commissioner Joe Ralllo says the board is requesting an additional 636-million dollars next fiscal year to help meet the state’s workforce demands…

cut 13 (06) “dollar value”

The governor and legislature could have trouble meeting the financial request from higher ed, because the state’s budget does not look good.

State Police Col Mike Edmonson announces the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles collected just over $2 million dollars in car insurance lapse fines since they sent out 1.2 million warning letters to drivers. He said that as of Wednesday, the agency was able to clear the driving records of about 30,000 people since the notices went out October 13th…

cut 10 (09) “without a fee”

Edmonson says when the letters were initially sent out, the OMV was getting about 1500 calls per day but that has since died down as more issues get cleared up. Critics say these notices are an unfair way the state is trying to plug the budget.

If you’re missing Blue Bell ice cream, you’re in luck because the creamery will deliver it to your home.  Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

______________________________________

The AARP of Louisiana has released a “Video Voter Guide” which features the two candidates for governor discussing their views on policies which impact older voters. Michelle Southern reports.

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

______________________________________

The Board of Regents is looking for the state to nearly double its funding for public colleges and universities. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

______________________________________

Blue Bell ice cream lovers are in luck because the creamery is offering delivery services to homes and businesses. Spokesperson Joe Robertson says they will send you four half-gallons of ice cream for 129-dollars and ship it anywhere across the country for everyone missing Blue Bell.

cut 4  (08)  “your door”

Robertson says customers interested in ordering will get their choice of five flavors: Buttered Pecan, Cookies ‘n Cream, Dutch Chocolate, Homemade Vanilla and The Great Divide. He says they’ve actually been providing this service since 1982, just not many people know about it.

Cut 5  (08)  “their Blue Bell”

Robertson says Blue Bell will begin phase 2 of restocking on Monday and Louisiana should see the ice cream in stores again during phase 4. But wouldn’t comment on when phase 4 would begin. He says to order, visit Blue-bell-dot-com.

Cut 6 (08)  “your order”

______________________________________

The AARP of Louisiana has released a “Video Voter Guide” which features the two candidates for governor discussing their views on policies which impact older voters. AARP Louisiana spokesman Andrew Muhl says they want the electorate to know where Republican David Vitter and Democrat John Bel Edwards stand on critical issues…:

CUT 7 (07)  “was produced”

The video can be viewed online at aarp.org/la. Muhl says voters over the age of 45 make up 56% of Louisiana’s registered voter population, and their goal was to present as much information as possible to allow them to make an informed decision…:

Cut 8  (10)  “expansion”

Muhl says AARP supports Medicaid expansion and also programs which would allow people to stay in their homes as long as they want to. He says, on November 21st, voters will be setting the course for the future of our state, which faces major budgeting challenges especially around heath care financing. He hopes the video will help their members prepare..:

Cut 9 (08) “get older” 

______________________________________

State Police Col Mike Edmonson announces the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles collected just over $2 million dollars in car insurance lapse fines since they sent out 1.2 million warning letters to drivers. He said that as of Wednesday, the agency was able to clear the driving records of about 30,000 people since the notices went out October 13th…:

Cut 10 (09) “without a fee” 

Edmonson says when the letters were initially sent out, the OMV was getting about 1500 calls per day but that has since died down as more issues get cleared up. He says some of the letters are being sent out due to a glitch, but they are simply acting on information from insurance companies…:

cut 11 (09) “call us”

Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon criticized the debt collection notices saying it’s an unfair way that the state is trying to plug a hole in the budget. Donelon says  a large portion of these notifications are to people who moved out of state or sold their cars and Edmonson says that’s why he’s extended OMV hours and is working with the public…:

Cut 12 (06) “these records”

______________________________________

Louisiana’s public colleges will ask the new governor and legislature for a significant increase in state funding. The Board of Regents currently receives 769-million in state dollars and its allocated to universities and colleges. Higher education commissioner Joe Ralllo says the board is requesting an additional 636-million dollars next fiscal year to meet the state’s workforce demands…

Cut 13 (06)  “dollar value”

The governor and legislature could have trouble meeting the financial request from higher ed, because the state’s budget does not not look good. But Rallo says if the state wants to grow its economy, higher ed needs to be funded at a higher level…

Cut 14 (06) “potential jobs”

Rallo says the gubernatorial candidates say higher education will be a priority and he hopes whoever is elected will stick to that promise…

Cut 15  (06)  “number one”

___________________________________________________

The Saints take a two-game winning streak into Sunday’s game against the New York Giants. Quarterback Drew Brees says it’s been nice to see the team have some success on the field, but they can’t stop now…

Cut 16  (18)  “the field”

Brees will have to be careful with the football on Sunday. New York is second in the NFL with 11 interceptions. They had three picks last week in a win over Dallas. Brees says the Giants are an aggressive defense that likes to dial up blitzes…

Cut 17 (13) “quite a bit”

_____________________________________________________

UL Lafayette is an 11.5 point favorite heading into Saturday’s game against ULM. The Ragin Cajuns enter with a record of 2-and-4, but they are getting better play from junior quarterback Jalen Nixon, who threw for over 200 yards and also rushed for over 200 yards in their last game against Arkansas State. Coach Mark Hudspeth likes how first-year starting quarterback is developing

Cut 18 (10) “to improve”

It’s homecoming weekend on the UL Lafayette campus and Hudspeth doesn’t want his players getting caught up with all of the festivities…

 Cut 19 (11) “out stadium”

The Cajuns suffered their first conference loss of the season last week when they fell to Arkansas State by ten points. Hudspeth says despite the defeat, they can still win the Sun Belt…

Cut 20 (20) “against ULM”

Results from the National Assessment of Education Progress exams shows Louisiana public school students ranking from 43rd to 49th nationally in reading and math. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (27)  “I’m Eric Gill”

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

One of the men video taped by a private investigator from a firm working for the David Vitter campaign believes Jefferson Parish Sheriff Newell Normand was the intended target of the so-called spying incident. Jeff Palermo reports…

CUT 2 (30)  “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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

Results from the National Assessment of Education Progress exams, also known as the Nation’s Report Card, shows Louisiana public school students ranking from 43rd to 49th nationally in reading and math. Fourth graders finished 43rd nationally in reading while ranking 45th in math with eighth grade students ranking 48th and 49th respectively. But BESE President Chas Roemer says there are some positives in these results…

CUT 3 (09)  “or state”

While fourth grade performance improved, only 30-percent were deemed proficient in math and 29-percent in reading. Roemer says most student gains came from African-American and at-risk students…

CUT 4 (07)  “a positive”

29-percent of eighth graders are considered proficient in reading while just 18-percent are regarded as proficient in math. Roemer hopes the improvement among fourth graders is setting a foundation for the future. He says educators must continue to demand better performance from students…

CUT 5 (10)  “this state”

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

Shreveport Police are looking for a gunman who fatally shot one woman multiple times and seriously injured two others. Cpl. Breck Scott says 36-year-old Verdina Crichlow was killed, while 43-year-old Tammy Harris and a 15-year-old were shot multiple times in the upper body inside an apartment.

CUT 6 (10) “the hospital”

Scott says they’re unsure of who the shooter is at this time. He says the suspect is still on the loose but detectives are following up on leads and got a description of the man.

CUT 7 (08)  “unknown direction”

Scott says authorities have not determined a motive. He says they’re talking with one of the victims to determine what they know about the suspect.

CUT 8 (06)  “to justice”

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

The East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office says a woman is under arrest amid allegations that she tried to kill her 2-year-old little boy. EBRSO spokeswoman Casey Hicks says they received a call from a local hospital indicating that the toddler had been brought in by his mother, 29-year-old Samantha Snell, in critical condition and with multiple fractures:

CUT 9 (07)  “trauma to it”

Hicks says deputies responded to the hospital and interviewed Snell…:

cut 10 (09)  “in and out of consciousness”

Hicks says Snell admitted to beating her child and biting him as a form of discipline. She says the woman was angry that her son got water out of the refrigerator which is when she hit him with a belt causing him to fall on the tile floor and hit his head…:(Snell is charged with attempted first degree murder and second degree cruelty to juveniles.)

Cut 11 (06)  “to juveniles”

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

One of the men that was video taped by a private investigator from a firm working for the David Vitter campaign believes Jefferson Parish Sheriff Newell Normand was the target of the so-called spying incident. Attorney John Cummings says, to him, Normand was without a doubt the target of the investigator…

cut 12 (10)  “not at me”

Robert J. Frenzel, the investigator, is charged with one count of misdemeanor criminal mischief in the incident. Cummings says he believes Normand was the target because the Sheriff’s Association was going to endorse Democrat John Bel Edwards in the gubernatorial runoff…

cut 13 (10)  “their endorsement”

Vitter has called the entire episode a “bizarre and silly incident”. But Cummings says Vitter is a strange duck himself…

cut 14 (06) “something sneaky” 

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

The Department of Children and Family Services is making a statewide push to increase the amount of foster homes in the state. Emelie Gunn has more….

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

______________________________________

Louisiana Alcohol and Tobacco Control suspends the liquor licenses of five French Quarter strip clubs after uncovering prostitution and drug use. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (21) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

______________________________________

Governor Bobby Jindal takes part in another GOP presidential debate tonight, but once again he will not be on the main stage. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

______________________________________

The Department of Children and Family Services is starting a statewide campaign to recruit more, desperately needed foster parents. Secretary Suzy Sonnier says fostering is a temporary situation with a permanent impact. She says there are about 48-hundred children in foster care.

cut 4  (10)  “and supports”

Sonnier says there is a critical need for foster homes, with over 300 children entering the system every month. She says with the shortage of homes available, in many cases, siblings are separated from each other.

Cut 5  (10)  “and sisters”

Foster Parent Sheri Soper has children of her own and currently fosters two others. She says it’s rewarding to watch the kids grow and develop while in her care and gets satisfaction knowing they’re living in a safe environment.

Cut 6 (08)  “something secure”

______________________________________

Louisiana’s Alcohol and Tobacco Control Commissioner has suspended the liquor licenses of five French Quarter strip clubs after undercover agents found prostitution, illegal drug use and lewd acts at the establishments. ATC Commissioner Troy Hebert says the suspensions come after a month-long investigation, called “Operation Trick or Treat”

CUT 7 (09)  “or tolerated”

Three of the clubs are on historic Bourbon Street in New Orleans. The other two are just off Bourbon Street. Hebert these businesses were running an operation that was a threat to public safety, which is why their liquor licenses were suspended…

Cut 8  (05)  “nobody going”

 Hebert says at least seven other strip clubs are still being investigated. He says ATC wants to help clean up the problems that already exist in the French Quarter and it’s not fair to other establishments working legally to have businesses running that don’t follow the law.

Cut 9 (10) “close you” 

______________________________________

The presidential GOP hopefuls will participate in a debate hosted by CNBC tonight and again Governor Bobby Jindal will not be on the main stage. Instead, Jindal and three others will participate in an undercard debate at 5 PM. LSU Political Science professor Robert Hogan says Jindal couldn’t pass up the opportunity for free exposure…

Cut 10 (11) “national audience” 

Jindal’s campaign argued he should be included in the main debate, because recent poll numbers from Iowa, the first primary state, showed he was gaining support. The governor even threatened to skip the CNBC debate, but after thinking about it, Jindal will attend. Hogan says it would have been a bad move if he didn’t go

cut 11 (06) “still running”

In the national polls, Jindal is not performing well and Hogan says time is running out…

Cut 12 (08) “of funding”

______________________________________

According to a report by InsuranceQuotes.com, Louisiana has the largest savings for bundling home and auto insurance. The numbers indicate drivers here are padding their wallets with an extra $548 on average when car and homeowner’s insurance is from the same company. State Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon attributes this to State Farm, the largest insurance company in Louisiana:

Cut 13 (08)  “of things”

According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, Louisiana has America’s 2nd-highest homeowner’s and 5th highest car insurance. Donelon says this study proves that there is loads of savings to be had when it comes to insurance if people just shopped around…:

Cut 14 (11) “the  state”

The study found that, on average, Americans save $295 nationwide for bundling. Donelon says even though Louisiana ranks too high in auto and homeowners, this report is an indicator of how much we can get back by
by bundling and doing some research…:

Cut 15  (09)  “all coverages”

___________________________________________________

ULM is a disappointing 1-and-6 heading into its rivalry game against UL Lafayette on Saturday. Because of the Warhawks poor season, there’s talk that Head Coach Todd Berry is on the hot seat. But Berry says he’s not impacted by that discussion…

Cut 16  (21)  “can”

Berry admits its been a difficult season. The Warhawks had tough games against Georgia and Alabama earlier in the year and they’ve also dealt with numerous injuries. He says some guys are coming back to full health and he’s optimistic they can turn their season around starting this Saturday

Cut 17 (15) “boost morale”

UL Lafayette leads the all-time series between the two teams, with a record of 26-and-24. The Cajuns have won six of the last seven meetings, but the last game played at Cajun Field was won by ULM. Warhawks Coach Todd Berry says he’ll bring a young team to Lafayette, many of them have never played in a college rivalry game…

Cut 18 (15) “that opportunity”