The state Department of Health and Hospitals confirms a second death this year from the West Nile Virus — this time out of the Baton Rouge area. Emelie Gunn reports…:

CUT 1 (30)  “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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

The search continues for a convicted killer from Iberville Parish who was accidentally released from prison. Jeff Palermo has the story…

CUT 2 (29)  “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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

The state Department of Health and Hospitals confirms a second death this year from the West Nile Virus. State Health Officer Dr. Jimmy Guidry says there are now 54 confirmed cases in 2015 and 2 deaths, compared to 123 cases and 5 deaths the prior year. He says even as we move into October, the threat of infected mosquitoes is still there..:

CUT 3 (09)  “mosquito repellent”

Guidry says the latest West Nile death is out of the Baton Rouge area. He says about 90 percent of the cases they see are asymptomatic, but about 10 percent will develop West Nile Fever…:

CUT 4 (06)  “highest risk”

Guidry says less than a percent of people bitten by an infected mosquito will develop the more serious form of the disease, but anyone can get West Nile. He says it’s important to protect yourself from mosquitoes at least until the end of the year…:

CUT 5 (07) “into December”

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

The Louisiana chapter for Americans for Prosperity launches a statewide radio ad informs listeners about lawmakers who are up for re-election and voted for tax increases and the expansion of Medicaid. A-F-P State Director Phillip Joffrion says the commercial points voters to a website that has how lawmakers voted…

CUT 6 (08) “the budget” 

The Louisiana A-F-P is tied with the Tea Party. Joffrion says they want to spotlight those lawmakers who voted to raise taxes….

CUT 7 (10)  “term fixes”

Joffrion says this ad is an effort to urge Louisiana citizens to voice their concerns about Medicaid expansion and tax increases. He says the public can view their lawmaker’s record at Louisiana Score Card-dot-com.

CUT 8 (09)  “that site”

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

The manhunt continues for a convicted killer who was mistakenly released from the East Feliciana Parish jail on September 22nd.  Thirty-two-year-old Benjueil Johnson was in prison, serving a 40-year sentence for a 2010 fatal shooting in Plaquemine. State Department of corrections spokesperson Pam Laborde says they hope to bring Johnson back into custody soon…

CUT 9 (11)  “DOC custody”

Laborde says they are working with Crime Stoppers to offer a one-thousand dollar reward for information leading to Johnson’s capture…

cut 10 (10)  “right thing”

Laborde says an employee at Dixon Correctional Institute in Jackson, Louisiana, overlooked the fact that Johnson was convicted of manslaughter and didn’t do the due diligence needed to make sure he would not be accidentally released…

Cut 11 (08)  “make sure”

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

A debate has started over whether star LSU sophomore running back Leonard Fournette should sit out his junior season so he doesn’t risk injury before heading to the NFL. The Heisman Trophy candidate is not eligible for the draft until after next season. But NFL analyst Mike Detillier says this argument is ridiculous…:

cut 12 (09)  “like that”

Pro Football Talk got the conversation started when they suggested it would be smart for Fournette to opt out of playing next year instead of possibly getting injured and ruining his pro career. Detillier says sure there is always a risk in playing football, but college is a time for athletes to grow…:

cut 13 (07)  “would want”

Fournette weighed in on the topic by tweeting, “I will never jump ship, I’m drowning with my brothers.” Detillier says this talk is for the purpose of gossiping and getting people riled up…:

cut 14 (06)  “in 2016″

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

Secretary of State Tom Schedler says the ballots for the October 24th primary was sent to the printer, but it’s possible more names will be removed before election day. Michelle Southern reports…:

CUT 1 (31) “I’m Michelle Southern”

______________________________________

The Saints return to practice today to get ready for Sunday night’s game against Dallas. Michael Farrar has the latest on injured quarterback Drew Brees…

Cut 2 (25) “I’m Michael Farrar”

______________________________________

A new airline will offer daily non-stop flights out of New Orleans to Shreveport. Emelie Gunn has more….

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

______________________________________

Hundreds of cancer patients and survivors are in Washington to lobby Congress to make the fight against cancer a national priority. Amber Stevens, of Metairie, is a volunteer with the American Cancer Society and says they’re calling on the federal government to increase funding for cancer research by an additional six billion dollars over the next two years…

cut 4  (05)  “research”

Stevens says they’re also asking lawmakers to sign a quality of life bill to ensure cancer patients and their doctors are all working together. She says often times situations get even worse for patients because of poor coordination with the patient’s treatment team.

Cut 5  (09)  “same page”

According to the American Cancer Socity Cancer Action Network, more than 9-thousand Louisiana residents will die of cancer in 2015. Stevens says they are also in D-C to address the Medicare colorectal cancer screening loophole. She says A-C-S also wants to alleviate some of the cost barriers that some Medicare patients deal with when it comes colorectal screening…

Cut 6 (11)  “dollars”

______________________________________

Secretary of State Tom Schedler says the ballots for the October 24th primary have been sent to print, but it’s possible more candidates will be removed before election day. He says they started out with about 1150 races statewide but, due to offices running unopposed, challenges or candidates dropping out, there are now about 575 active races…:

CUT 7 (10)  “withdraw”

Schedler says in the November 2014 Congressional elections they found that about 5 percent of the candidates either withdrew or were disqualified, and for this one it’s up to 8 percent. He says in the last few cycles, the Louisiana Ethics Administration has been a lot more aggressive…:

Cut 8  (08)  “of that” 

Schedler says if a candidate is listed on the ballot but is not in the race come voting day, notices will be posted near the booths about the elections which are affected. He says when you go to the precinct you should make sure the person you are voting for is still active…:(He says the sample ballots at geauxvote.com are always up to date.)

Cut 9 (07) “will not count” 

___________________________________________

Two men are accused of animal cruelty after shooting and killing a calf and a total of four people are accused of stealing the calf’s meat in Morganza. Louisiana Agriculture Commissioner Mike Strain says  Point Coupee Parish Sheriff’s deputies we’re alerted about a dead calf on the spillway levee. He says investigators discovered the four suspects went to the area with the intention of killing a calf.

Cut 10 (10) “shot gun”

Strain says Leonard and Devillier received help from Kale Ashten David and Dustin James Vidrine to load the calf into the vehicle. He says the suspects cut off portions of the hindquarter and loin after realizing the calf was too big.

cut 11 (08) “interviews”

Strain says all four of the suspects have been arrested and booked into the Point Coupee Parish Jail on charges of theft of livestock for taking the meat. Strain says both Leonard and Devillier are also charged with animal cruelty for allegedly killing the calf and Leonard has an additional charge.

Cut 12 (08) “event”

____________________________________________________

A new airline will soon offer daily non-stop flights between Louis Armstrong International Airport in New Orleans and Shreveport Regional Airport. New Orleans Resident Trey Fayard is the founder of the new airline called Glo, which will also have flights from New Orleans to Little Rock and Memphis. He says he started the airline after experiencing years of wasted time having trouble getting to different locations in the mid-South region.

Cut 13 (10)  “these cities”

Fayard says their first flights are scheduled to take off November 15^th and you tickets are available for purchase now. He says many experienced executives have joined the Glo team from American Airlines, Pan Am, and Air Tran….

Cut 14 (08) “business venture”

Fayard says Glo will operate three 30-passenger aircrafts. He says with a lot of business coming to Louisiana, it’s time to be able to get around quick.

Cut 15  (07)  “for tickets”

_____________________________________________

Coming off a win over FIU at Joe Aillet Stadium, the Bulldogs are back at home this Saturday to host U-L Lafayette, a team they beat 48-20 last year. Tech quarterback Jeff Driskel says they look at the Cajuns as a rival and would like to beat them again

Cut 16  (15)  “any other game”

Louisiana Tech comes into this game leading Conference USA in total offense, as they are averaging 523 yards a game. But Driskel says there’s room for improvement….

Cut 17 (17) “they are there” 

__________________________________________________

So far this season much of LSU’s offensive production is coming from one man. Running back Leonard Fournette has 647 all-purpose yards, which accounts for 45-percent of the Tigers total yards. LSU offensive coordinator Cam Cameron says they are seeking to get more touches for the other skill position players…

Cut 18 (15) “even more”

In LSU’s three games, they’ve only thrown 47 passes. But Cameron says they are running the ball a lot, because that’s what opposing defenses are giving them…

Cut 19 (15) “backwards”

A group of businessmen called Blueprint Louisiana are urging the next governor to raise the gasoline tax, expand Medicaid and alter the TOPS program. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (30)  “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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

A recent Clarus Research Group poll on Louisiana’s governor’s race reveals that 44-percent of voters view Republican David Vitter unfavorably. Eric Gill has more…

CUT 2 (29)  “I’m Eric Gill”

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

The American Civil Liberties Union is accusing the Bossier Parish School Board of violating the US Constitution by allowing the Fellowship of Student Athletes to set up prayer boxes at Airline High School in Bossier City. Loyola Law Professor Dane Ciolino says this does appear to go against the First Amendment’s Establishment of Religion Clause…

CUT 3 (09)  “particular Christianity”

The Louisiana ACLU sent a letter to the School Board asking them to immediately remove the prayer boxes from the school. The School Board will discuss the situation at their next meeting Thursday. Ciolino says it won’t serve the public well for Bossier Parish School officials to take this issue to court…

CUT 4 (11)  “Supreme Court”

In response to the letter, Governor Bobby Jindal says this is an example that the war on Christianity has gone too far. Ciolino says that although school prayer is something that the public seems to strongly favor, the nation’s highest court stands firm with the Constitution…

CUT 5 (09) “the Constitution”

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

A group of businessmen and executives that are part of Blueprint Louisiana is calling on the next governor to raise the gasoline tax, expand Medicaid and change TOPS, so it no longer covers the full cost of tuition. Blueprint Chairman Dr. Phillip Rozeman says our roads need about one billion dollars a year to improve our transportation and raising the taxes on gasoline could help defer this cost.

CUT 6 (09) “our roads“

Rozeman says there is a need for Medicaid coverage expansion so working residents that normally make too much to qualify and not enough to buy their own insurance will be included. He says the group doesn’t necessarily agree with the Affordable Care Act but an expansion of Medicaid could save the state 165 million dollars over five years…

CUT 7 (10)  “this state”

Rozeman says TOPS is a great program but needs to be altered so it doesn’t automatically include the full cost of tuition and becomes more like a scholarship. He says this way it could be used more in the community and technical college system.

CUT 8 (08)  “our state” 

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

A recent Clarus Research Group poll on Louisiana’s governor’s race reveals that 44-percent of voters view Republican David Vitter unfavorably. The poll was paid for by The Advocate and WWL-TV. UL-Lafayette Political Science Professor Pearson Cross says, during Vitter’s years in public office, it appears the Senator has managed to alienate some voters…

CUT 9 (09)  “don’t like you”

The survey also shows that over 40-percent of voters could not give a favoribility rating to any of the other three major candidates, Republicans Jay Dardenne and Scott Angelle and Democrat John Bel Edwards. Cross says this is a sign that voters are not quite fully engaged with the election…

cut 10 (08)  “known candidates”

Cross doesn’t think this is a sign that Vitter should abandon his campaign. He says just because Vitter’s unfavorability rating is high, it doesn’t mean he can’t be elected governor…

Cut 11 (08)  “of two evils”

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

The Iberville Parish Sheriff’s Office is searching for a convicted killer who was released from prison due to a computer glitch. 32-year-old Benjuiel Johnson was serving 40 years in prison after pleading guilty to manslaughter and other charges in the 2010 death of Cordies Gales. Major Ronnie Hebert says Johnson was sent to East Feliciana Parish to face some prior charges…

cut 12 (09)  “he was released”

It’s reported that when Johnson’s name was checked through the Department of Corrections computer system, the manslaughter conviction did not show up, so Johnson was released on bond. Hebert says they’re doing all they can to track down Johnson…

cut 13 (05)  “this problem”

The US Marshals Office is assisting with the search. If you see Johnson, you are asked to immediately call 9-1-1. Hebert says details are limited as to where Johnson may have fled…

cut 14 (04)  “at this time”

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

LSU President F. King Alexander hopes the next governor reverses the trend of fewer state dollars going towards higher ed.  Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

______________________________________

Authorities are still trying to figure out why a mother in Eunice may have shot and killed her two daughters before setting their house on fire then turning the gun on herself. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

______________________________________

The US Department of Veterans’ Affairs announces it has awarded a least for a permanent Veterans Clinic for Lake Charles. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

______________________________________

LSU President F. King Alexander is concerned about the continuing decline in state funding for higher education. Alexander says if trends keep continuing, Louisiana will become the second state to not pay a penny on higher education by the year 2027. Alexander hopes the trend reverses with the next governor…

cut 4  (10)  “to ask”

During a speech at the Baton Rouge Press Club, Alexander also called on for more state dollars to conduct research. He says it would be a wise investment for the state….

Cut 5  (11)  “other areas”

Alexander says public colleges and universities have one billion dollars in deferred maintenance on the campuses. He says there is no consistent source of funding to address the problem.

Cut 6 (08)  “backlog”

______________________________________

Authorities are still trying to figure out why a mother in Eunice may have shot and killed her two daughters before setting their house on fire then turning the gun on herself. The mother is identified as 39-year-old Carla Watford and her two deceased daughters are 16-year-old Julia Watford and 9-year-old Tayla Watford. State Fire Marshal Butch Browning…:

CUT 7 (08)  “her own death”

Browning says they recovered the weapon they believe was used in the murder suicide and also chemical accelerant that was used to set the fire. Eunice Police Chief Randy Fontenot said the family wants the public to know that Carla Watford was a good person, and what lead her to do this we may never know…:

Cut 8  (08)  “in this community” 

Browning says investigators have learned the fire started near the master bedroom, and they also found a note believed to have been written by Carla Watford…

Cut 9 (05) “murder-suicide” 

___________________________________________

A 16-year-old is behind bars after wielding a shotgun while committing a series of armed robberies in the Uptown area, according to New Orleans Police. Mayor Mitch Landrieu spoke out about violence in the city and says he is dedicated to stopping this trend.

Cut 10 (09) “higher priority”

Extra police patrolling the area arrested the teenage while riding a bike. Landrieu says we continue to aggressively recruit more police officers and are investing thousands of dollars to advance protection for the people of New Orleans.

cut 11 (09) “behind bars”

Authorities found five smart phones, similar clothes described by victims and a lever action rifle inside a chair bag while searching the suspect’s home. Landrieu says we must do everything we can to build a city of peace.

Cut 12 (08) “remain safe”

____________________________________________________

After months of wrangling, the US Department of Veterans Affairs announces it has awarded a lease for a permanent Veterans Clinic in Lake Charles. Lafayette Congressman Charles Boustany has been applying pressure on the V-A to get this done

Cut 13 (04)  “progress now”

The permanent Lake Charles veterans’ clinic will be on a 4.5 acre site on Gerstner Memorial Parkway. Boustany is glad to see progress, but more work is needed to ensure quality healthcare needs for veterans living in southwest Louisiana

Cut 14 (10) “our veterans”

Boustany says it’s been a long journey to get this point. He says the 24-thousand square foot building is expected to be ready for use by 2017….

Cut 15  (09)  “getting started”

_____________________________________________

LSU’s Leonard Fournette is on his way to a record breaking season as he already has 631 rushing yards through games. He’s getting a chance to carry the football over 20 times a game and opposing defenses are keying on him. Coach Les Miles was asked about if he plans on changing Fournette’s running style to avoid some punishment from opposing tacklers

Cut 16  (15)  “would want”

Miles would like to see his team cut down on penalties. They’ve been flagged 28 times and they are averaging 86 penalty yards a game, which is the seventh highest in the country. The head coach says penalties will be a focus in practice this week…

Cut 17 (10) “to do” 

LSU is last in the SEC in pass offense, averaging just 100 yards through the air a game. But Quarterback Brandon Harris is completing 62-percent of his passes and has not turned the ball over. Miles expects the passing game will become more explosive…

Cut 18 (16) “getting it done”

________________________________________________________

The Saints are one of four teams in the NFL that are winless. Coach Sean Payton says there is no way to sugarcoat it, they are in hole and they have to find a way to get their first win of the season

Cut 19 (15) “good week”

The Saints host Dallas this Sunday and Payton is looking forward to ending the losing streak….

Cut 20 (16)  “so its important”

A new Advocate/WWL-TV poll shows Democrat John Bel Edwards and Republicans Scott Angelle and Jay Dardenne each defeating Republican David Vitter in a potential runoff in Louisiana’s governor’s race. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (26)  “I’m Eric Gill”

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

The state Department of Revenue announce the 50th arrest under a statewide crack down on tax fraud. Eric Gill has more…

CUT 2 (29)  “I’m Eric Gill”

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

A new Advocate/WWL-TV poll shows Democrat John Bel Edwards and Republicans Scott Angelle and Jay Dardenne each defeating Republican David Vitter in a potential runoff in Louisiana’s governor’s race. The survey, conducted by Clarus Research Group, shows Edwards and Vitter tied at 24-percent heading into the primary. Political analyst Clancy Dubos says this is bad news for the Senator who was polling at 38-percent this spring…

CUT 3 (10)  “a runoff”

The poll shows Angelle and Dardenne with 15-percent and 14-percent respectively. Dubos says the spring polls were largely based on name recognition, but now voters are taking notice of the gubernatorial candidates…

CUT 4 (10)  “large numbers”

The poll shows Vitter losing to Edwards in a potential runoff by four points, Angelle by five points, and Dardenne by seven points. Dubos says this survey doesn’t mean that Vitter won’t make the runoff, but he will be an underdog if he does. He says this poll does bring up an interesting question…

CUT 5 (08) “the runoff”

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

The State Fire Marshal’s Office believes the fatal fire in Eunice where a mother and her two children died, was the result of a murder-suicide. Fire Marshal Butch Browning says they are still working to determine the cause of the early Sunday morning massive blaze…:

CUT 6 (08) “to this fire”

Browning says Eunice cops and fire investigators are working to determine how the blaze was started and what might have happened…:

CUT 7 (07)  “it is suspicious”

Authorities have identified the mother as 39-year-old Carla Watford. They believe she shot her two children, 16 year old Julia Watford and 9-year-old Layla Watford before starting the fire then turning the gun on herself. Browning says autopsies on the three are planned…:

CUT 8 (07)  “cause of death” 

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

The Bayou State is ranked among the top states in the country where Hispanics have adapted to the American mainstream. The WalletHub study ranks Louisiana fourth for all states for Hispanic assimilation. Manny Blanco, President of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Foundation, says Louisiana’s Hispanic population is a varied group…

CUT 9 (07)  “and Mexico”

The study ranked states on Cultural & Civic, Education, and Economic assimilation. Blanco says the state’s Hispanic unemployment and poverty rates are concerning…

cut 10 (09)  “accomplish that”

The state’s “Veteran Status for Hispanics” is 10th in the country, which Blanco says is a source of pride within the community. He has high hopes for the future of the Hispanic community in Louisiana…

Cut 11 (10)  “our communities”

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

The state Department of Revenue announce the 50th arrest under a statewide crack down on tax fraud. Joyce Gaines of Harvey, owner of Tax Town, is accused of filing false income tax returns for hundreds of clients. Barry Kelly, Director of Criminal Investigations, says teaming up with the Attorney General’s Office is a key to the success of the crack down…

cut 12 (07)  “to do alone”

Gaines, along with two of her employees, are charged with filing or maintaining false public records and illegal transmission of monetary funds. Kelly says this type of tax fraud case is not unusual…

cut 13 (09)  “don’t even own”

Gaines’ scheme resulted in more than $250,000 in fraudulent state income tax refunds. LDR has saved tax payers more than $50 million through various anti-fraud programs since 2014. Kelly says this is a reminder for residents to do some research and be careful about who they select to prepare their taxes…

cut 14 (08)  “are bound to”

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

The Baton Rouge Press Club has canceled their Attorney General forum after incumbent Buddy Caldwell dropped from the event. Emelie Gunn has more….

CUT 1 (28) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

______________________________________

The Center for Louisiana Studies is holding a Gun Violence Symposium in Lafayette today to discuss what they call one of the biggest problems in our state. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Michelle Southern”

______________________________________

John’s Boehner resignation as US House Speaker gives Metairie Congressman Steve Scalise a chance to improve his leadership role in the House. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

______________________________________

The Baton Rouge Press Club was set to host a forum today involving the major candidates in the Attorney General’s race but Republican Incumbent Buddy Caldwell canceled on the event. Political Analyst Bernie Pinsonat says it doesn’t serve Caldwell any good to debate Republican candidates Jeff Landry and Marty Maley.

cut 4  (06)  “the advantage”

Pinsonat says out of all the major candidates, Landry has the most money on hand with 1.4 million dollars in the bank. He says Caldwell follows Landry with 1.2 million dollars and Maley only has a few thousand dollars…

Cut 5  (08)  “great race”

In 2011, Caldwell switched parties. Pinsonat says in order for the Madison Parish resident to be reelected, he’ll need votes from democrats because Landry has the conservative vote locked up.

Cut 6 (10)  “black turnout”

______________________________________

The Center for Louisiana Studies is holding a Gun Violence Symposium in Lafayette today to discuss what they call one of the biggest problems in our state. CLS Director Michael Martin says the day long program features scholars from universities and colleges across Louisiana who study gun violence in a variety of ways:

CUT 7 (11)  “human rights issue”

The event is open to the community and is being held at the UL-Lafayette Alumni Center. Martin says in the wake of the Lafayette movie theater shooting and other incidents around the country, they feel the topic of gun control needs to be discussed no matter which side of the debate you’re on…:

Cut 8  (09)  “might be addressed” 

Martin says the nice thing about having speakers in to bring varying perspectives, is that they all come to the table with certain ideas about what might work in this situation. He says they all may even have completely opposing view points, but the goal is to frame reasonable discussions…:

Cut 9 (07) “next steps” 

___________________________________________

House Speaker John Boehner’s decision to resign from the top post in the US House provides an opportunity for Metairie Congressman and House Majority Whip Steve Scalise to move up to a higher leadership position. LSU political science professor Robert Hogan says Scalise has a chance to be majority leader…

Cut 10 (10) “republican party”

Scalise came under scrutiny about nine months ago when it was learned that he spoke to a group connected with former KKK leader David Duke back in 2002. Hogan says the Congressman took steps to quiet down the controversy, but that speech could still hurt his chances

cut 11 (07) “to see”

Hogan says if Scalise becomes House majority leader that would mean good things for Louisiana

Cut 12 (06) “doesn’t matter”

____________________________________________________

LSU’s Leonard Fournette had another 200-yard plus performance on Saturday to help the Tigers beat Syracuse 34-24. The Heisman Trophy candidate rushed for 244 yards and two touchdowns against the Orange, becoming the first player in LSU school history to have consecutive 200-yard efforts. Fournette’s longest run came on a 62-yard touchdown run in the third quarter. He gives credit to his fullback…

Cut 13 (07)  “what I did”

Syracuse was keyed up to slow down Fournette, but he still put up big numbers. After the game, he gave credit to the Orange defense for making it a hard fought day….

Cut 14 (11) “this game”

_______________________________________________________

Fournette was not the only college football running back from Louisiana. Bulldogs running back Kenneth Dixon had three touchdowns to help La Tech defeat FIU 27-17. Dixon says it was good to get a win after two straight losses…

Cut 15  (18)  “and defense”

Dixon now has 68 touchdowns, which is sixth most in college football history. He finished with 169 yards against FIU, his 20th career 100 yard rushing performance. But Dixon says he’s not focused on individual accomplishments…

Cut 16  (09)  “you know”

______________________________________

The Saints are still winless after losing to Carolina 28-22. The Saints defense could not contain Panthers quarterback Cam Newton, who threw for 315 yards and two touchdowns. Newton also had a rushing touchdown. Saints quarterback Luke McCown says the players will not give up, despite an 0-and-3 start.

Cut 17 (11) “we face” 

McCown played well for the injured Drew Brees as he threw for 310 passes. He was intercepted once and that came in the fourth quarter on a great play by Carolina defensive back Josh Norman. McCown says Brees was a big help on the sidelines.

Cut 18 (15) “as teammates”

The latest campaign finance numbers in the Louisiana’s governor’s race shows Republican David Vitter still has the most cash on hand with $4 million. Eric Gill has more…

CUT 1 (30)  “I’m Eric Gill”

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

The historic O-K Allen Bridge will be demolished this Saturday. Emelie Gunn has more on why…

CUT 2 (29)  “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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

The latest campaign finance numbers in the Louisiana’s governor’s race shows Republican David Vitter still has the most cash on hand with $4 million. Republican Jay Dardenne reports $1.6 million, Democrat John Bel Edwards has $1.4 million, and Republican Scott Angelle has about $1 million. LaPolitics-dot-com Publisher Jeremy Alford says, when you throw in cash from a pro-Vitter Super PAC, the senator has over $7 million available…

CUT 3 (09)  “to compete”

He says Super PAC money matters quite a bit as we enter the final four weeks of the campaign. Alford says, although Vitter dwarfs his competitors in the amount of cash on hand, it doesn’t mean they can’t compete…

CUT 4 (08)  “ground game”

Alford says Edwards raised the most money of any candidate in the last quarter. He says Vitter wants to face Edwards in the runoff, since no Democrat has won a statewide office in Louisiana in seven years. Alford says this does pose an intriguing question…

CUT 5 (07) “finance report”

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

A significant piece of central Louisiana’s history will be removed with the demolition of the O-K Allen Bridge on Saturday. The new Curtis-Coleman Memorial Bridge is currently being built right next to the old one and will be closed to traffic during the destruction. D-O-T-D Spokesperson Rodney Mallett says….

CUT 6 (09) “to this”

Mallett says the O-K Allen Bridge, which has connected Alexandria to Pineville, has been in place for almost 80 year but its usefulness has come and gone. He says once motorists get used to all the perks of the using the Curtis-Coleman Memorial Bridge, they’ll be thankful.

CUT 7 (11)  “awful quick”

Mallett says the northbound side of the Curtis-Coleman Memorial Bridge is now open two ways until the southbound portion is completed. He says this bridge will help to fix many current traffic problems.

CUT 8 (07)  “as well” 

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

Ohio Republican Congressman John Boehner has announced he will step down as Speaker of the House and resign his US House seat at the end of October. It’s reported that the announcement came after intense pressure from conservative Republicans for him to take a harder line on their causes. Minden Representative John Fleming feels Boehner made the appropriate decision…

CUT 9 (11)  “fresh ideas”

He says there’s been a ground swell among the GOP base that Boehner’s leadership in the House has not been effective. Fleming says he’ll keep an open mind on the selection of the next Speaker, but will be looking for certain traits…

cut 10 (08)  “in the past”

Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves appreciates the public service Boehner’s given over the past several years but feels a change in leadership is needed. He says voters clearly stated in last November’s election that they want change…

Cut 11 (09)  “didn’t see it”

He says, moving forward, they need to look for the best new leadership for the future and one that will be responsive to what voters want. Graves says with some big issues facing Louisiana, it’s important that we have a strong position on the new House leadership team…

cut 12 (06)  “shot for us”

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

With more than 7-thousand LSU fans in upstate New York this weekend for the game, some are worried Syracuse might not have enough beer to accommodate The Tigers. Visit Syracuse Communications Manager Nikita Jankowski says they’ve partnered with Visit Baton Rouge to enhance LSU fan’s experience in the college town.

cut 13 (10)  “get here”

Jankowski seriously doubts they’ll run out of beer because they’re now one of the biggest craft breweries towns in the country. She says the people of Syracuse love their beer, just like Louisianans.

cut 14 (09)  “one here”

Jankowski says Syracuse is home to a variety of wineries, cideraries and breweries, as well as, some great shopping, with the biggest mall in the state. She says the entire town is excited to have LSU as guests and the people are eager to show off their region.

cut 15 (09) “you guys” 

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

Saints Quarterback Drew Brees’ banged up throwing shoulder will not allow him to play Sunday against Carolina. Its the first time in Brees’ 15-year career that he’ll miss a game due to injury. Luke McCown will get the start and he says if he follows the game plan, they should be able to score some points…

cut 16 (11) “for you” 

McCown has been taking the reps with the first-team offense as Brees has watched during practice this week. The former Louisiana Tech standout has studied the game tape and he’s ready for the challenge of facing the Panthers…

cut 17 (11) “give you fits”

If you’ve been watching sports TV lately you’ve probably seen an ad for DraftKings.com or FanDuel.com, but residents from Louisiana are not able to sign up to win money. Michelle Southern reports why…:

CUT 1 (28) “I’m Michelle Southern”

______________________________________

A “Super Blood Moon” will be visible this Sunday and won’t happen again for 18 years. Emelie Gunn has more on why you should get outside and take a look…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

______________________________________

A poll on the governor’s race commissioned by an anti-David Vitter group shows Democrat John Bel Edwards leads the field with 28% to the Republican US Senator’s 27%, but some eyebrows are raised at this survey. Eric Gill reports…:

Cut 3 (28) “I’m Eric Gill”

______________________________________

With the rising popularity of online fantasy football, many fans in Louisiana want to know why they can’t participate for cash. The Sportsman’s Paradise is one of 5 states which makes it a crime to conduct an online sports fantasy business, where money is wagered in order to win a cash prize. Kelly Duncan, a gaming lawyer in New Orleans, says Louisiana’s gambling law prohibits these fantasy companies from letting people here play for money to win a cash prize…:

cut 4  (08)  “Louisiana”

If you’ve been watching sports TV these days, chances are you’ve seen an ad for DraftKings.com or FanDuel.com, but residents from Louisiana are not able to sign up to win money. Duncan says fantasy sites claim it isn’t gambling because skill is involved, but that doesn’t fly in Louisiana the way it does other states where the companies are allowed to operate…:

Cut 5  (10)  “participate”

Duncan says, additionally, Louisiana law specifically prohibits gambling by computer businesses where something is risked of value to win a prize…: (A bill was filed in the last legislative session that would have allowed betting on virtual gaming sites but it was pulled.)

Cut 6 (05)  “statute”

______________________________________

LSU’s only Heisman trophy winner Billy Cannon is super excited about Leonard Fournette and his chances to win college football’s most prestigious award. Fournette is already the odds on favorite to win the Heisman after running for 387 in and 6 touchdowns in 2 games. Cannon says he’s watched Fournette develop into a fantastic running back.

CUT 7 (11)  “the safeties”

Fournette walked all over Auburn’s defense last Saturday for 228 years on 19 carries, averaging a school-record 12.0 years per carry. Cannon says Fournette put on an award winning performance.

Cut 8  (07)  “football today” 

Fournette also has rushed for 100 yards in four consecutive games, dating to last season. In those games, he picked up nine touchdowns. Cannon says he hopes he can watch Fournette receive the Heisman trophy.

Cut 9 (04) “Heisman Trophy” 

___________________________________________

A poll on the governor’s race commissioned by an anti-David Vitter group shows Democrat John Bel Edwards leads the field with 28% to the Republican US Senator’s 27%. The Democrat leaning Public Policy Polling survey shows Vitter losing to Edwards by a 50 to 38 percent margin in a potential runoff. Public Policy Polling’s Tom Jensen says this is a huge difference from a year ago…

Cut 10 (08) “point shift”

The poll conducted on behalf of the Vitter attacking group GumboPac also found that Republicans Scott Angelle and Jay Dardenne trail with 15 percent and 14 percent respectively. Jensen says their survey also shows Vitter’s popularity in Louisiana has fallen apart over the last year…

cut 11 (07) “opinion of him”

However, political analyst Bernie Pinsonat is skeptical of this poll. He says Vitter’s supporters are primarily religious right, social conservatives, and Tea Party types that have stood by him through thick and thin…

Cut 12 (10) “doesn’t matter”

Pinsonat says Gumbo PAC is a group that has attacked Vitter throughout his campaign for governor. He says it’s important for people to pay attention to who these PACs are supporting because they typically have a hidden motive…

Cut 13 (08)  “particular party”

______________________________________

The so called “Super Blood Moon” will coincide with a lunar eclipse on Sunday night in a phenomenon that won’t happen again until the year 2033. L-S-U Professor of Astronomy Brad Schaefer says you can see the closest full moon pass through the Earth’s shadow. He says the event isn’t as unusual as it sounds but it’s still a rare and beautiful.

Cut 14 (09) “the universe”

Schaefer says you can see this marvel from your backyard at about 8 p.m. and the moon will begin to turn blood red at around 9 p.m. He says the moon will be 14 percent bigger and brighter than usual creating a deep red color.

Cut 15  (10)  “in color”

Schaefer says this is the first time we’ve had a “Super Blood Moon” since 1982. He says this is a great time to get outside and experience an event that many have never seen before.

Cut 16  (08)  “you afraid?”

______________________________________

Can ULM beat Alabama again? These two schools meet on Saturday afternoon in Tuscaloosa in a rematch of the 2007 game that saw the Warhawks upset Nick Saban and the Crimson Tide 21-14. ULM Coach Todd Berry says that game won’t have an impact on what happens tomorrow..

Cut 17 (16) “at all” 

ULM will start a freshman at quarterback. Garrett Smith has played well in his first two collegiate games. Berry is interested to see how he handles the Crimson Tide defense.

Cut 18 (14) “with Garrett”

Alabama is a 38-point favorite. But Berry says he’s not worried about that…

Cut 19 (08) “every week”

Alexandria Representative Lance Harris has been re-elected to his state House seat after his lone opponent withdrew from next month’s election. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (27)  “I’m Eric Gill”

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

Fundraising continues for the building of the National Hurricane Museum and Science Center in Lake Charles. Emelie Gunn has more….

CUT 2 (31)  “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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

Alexandria Representative Lance Harris has been re-elected to his state House seat after his lone opponent withdrew from next month’s election. The Secretary of State’s Office reports that Vivian Brossett of Boyce dropped out of the race for the District 25 House seat. Harris says he’s grateful for another term in office…

CUT 3 (06)  “more years”

Harris is the current chairman of the state House Republican Delegation. He expects the state’s budget issues to be the main focus for lawmakers for years to come. Harris says the recent report from the Jindal Administration that Louisiana ended its most recent fiscal year with a deficit is troubling…

CUT 4 (10)  “that nature”

Harris is hopeful that legislators can make appropriate changes to the budget under the leadership of our next governor. He says we didn’t get into this budget mess overnight and it will take time to fix it. Harris believes it will take a plan laid out over several years that solves the most critical problems first…

CUT 5 (08) “fiscal footing”

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

Efforts continue to raise money to build the National Hurricane Museum and Science Center in Lake Charles. Supporters of the project have collected 42-million dollars in pledges and they’re still seeking another 15-million in the hopes of opening the 68-thousand square foot facility in 2018. Gray Stream is leading the fundraising efforts and he says the building has two purposes, it’ll serve as a museum and a research center.

CUT 6 (06) “save lives”

Gray says research will take place at the museum to help better protect Louisiana from future hurricane damage. He says their goal is to collect information and distribute it to other hurricane experts.

CUT 7 (09)  “positive way”

Gray says he’s pleased with how the fundraising has been going and hopes the dollars keep rolling in.

CUT 8 (10)  “successful” 

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

The Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office is investigating two armed robberies connected to the creation of false accounts on the website “plenty of fish.com.” Capt. Dawn Foret says during both incidents, each victim believed he was meeting a woman from the dating site but when he arrived to meet her, it wasn’t what he expected.

CUT 9 (12)  “gunpoint”

Foret says four suspects were arrested, 20-year-old Aaron Kenny of Houma and 21-year-old Gregory Holloway of Schriever were charged with two counts of armed robbery with a firearm. She says 17-year-old Jasmine Dupont of Gibson is accused of being the bait for the victims and charged with one count of armed robbery with a firearm and the fourth suspect is a 20-year-old from Dulac.

cut 10 (10)  “marijuana”

Foret says the suspects used a picture of a 16-year-old girl from Houma for the website, without her knowledge. She says when it comes to crimes linked to technology, the cops will catch up with you and you can’t hide behind an online alias.

Cut 11 (09)  “catch them”

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

The Attorney General’s Office says they’ve made a second arrest in an elaborate financial fraud scheme that claimed hundreds of victims and millions of dollars. Assistant AG Kurt Wall says the original suspect, 24-year-old Donald Batiste of Baton Rouge, allegedly marketed stolen social security numbers for a “credit repair” company

cut 12 (11)  “car loan”

Wall says 64-year-old Brenda Taylor of Carencro is accused of co-conspiring with Batiste to create fake bank records in an attempt to receive a $250,000 loan she claimed was for her church. He says many people, many children, had their identities stolen but an exact number of victims is not known at this time…:

cut 13 (10)  “guy’s behavior”

Wall says the conspiracy also affected financial institutions and car dealerships and resulted in more than $1 million dollars in funded auto loans. Millions were also used on credit lines at clothing and jewelry stores, banks and cell phone purchases. Wall says Batiste’s charges include felony racketeering and he faces 75 years in prison:

cut 14 (08)  “think about that”

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

10 years ago today, Hurricane Rita hit southwest Louisiana causing immense damage. Emelie Gunn has more on how we’ve recovered…

CUT 1 (28) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

______________________________________

Louisiana’s October 24th primary election is one month from today and UL-Lafayette Political Science Professor Pearson Cross says it’s finally starting to feel like election season. Eric Gill reports…

Cut 2 (27) “I’m Eric Gill”

______________________________________

There is a record number of graduates from Louisiana’s Community and Technical Colleges. Jeff Palermo has more….

Cut 3 (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

______________________________________

Today marks the 10^th anniversary of Hurricane Rita and many remember the destruction it caused only a month after Katrina. Lafayette Congressman Charles Boustany recalls the immense flooding and tornadoes that slammed into southwest Louisiana. He says the only fortunate thing that came out of this tragic event was there were no lives lost.

cut 4  (09)  “leadership”

Boustany says both Cameron and Calcasieu Parishes showed extreme resilience and entrepreneurship after the storm, which destroyed farmland and ruined crops and livestock. He says the recovery proves that after a natural disaster, the people of south Louisiana come back better than before.

Cut 5  (08)  “of opportunity”

Boustany says they learned many lessons after Hurricane Katrina, so the response was much improved. He says coming back, they built stronger and developed a better understanding of storm surge to better prepare for future natural disasters.

Cut 6 (11)  “hurricane damage”

______________________________________

We’re one month away from Louisiana’s October 24th primary election. For a while, the governor’s race has been lackluster, at best. However, UL-Lafayette Political Science Professor Pearson Cross says it appears the governor’s race is finally starting to heat up…

CUT 7 (08)  “election season”

Cross still expects Republican David Vitter and Democrat John Bel Edwards to emerge from the primary into November’s runoff. He says we’re beginning to see some hostility among the candidates and that’s something everyone’s been waiting for…

Cut 8  (07)  “now gone” 

Cross says we’re at the point in the campaign where issues and negative politics take hold. He says with all four major gubernatorial candidates running television ads and taking shots at each other, it finally feels like election season. Cross says Republican’s Jay Dardenne and Scott Angelle really have their work cut out for them with only one month to go…

Cut 9 (08) “putative front-runners” 

___________________________________________

A record number of students have graduated from the state’s technical and community colleges in the 2014-2015 year. Louisiana Community and Technical College System President Dr. Monty Sullivan says they’ve graduated over 21-thousand students, who have entered the workforce or moved on to universities to pursue bachelor’s degrees.

Cut 10 (07) “across Louisiana”

Sullivan says 70 percent of graduates go directly into high demand jobs. He says by entering into critical economic fields, they’re making wages that are enough to sustain a family.

cut 11 (07) “those jobs”

Sullivan says they’re projecting that they need to produce about 40-thousand graduates to meet the workforce demands for Louisiana in 2020. He says the graduates are entering into a broad range in jobs from computer science to welding as well, as many graduates moving on the universities to study everything from engineering and accounting.

Cut 12 (10) “reflects that”

______________________________________

Governor Bobby Jindal continues to poll in the single digits in Iowa. Public Policy Polling surveyed nearly 500 Republican primary voters last weekend and four-percent said they would like to see Jindal receive the GOP nomination for President. Polling analyst Jim Williams says Jindal’s four-percent standing puts him in the top ten in Iowa

Cut 13 (07)  “John Kasich”

Public Policy Polling continues to see Donald Trump leading the state with 24-percent, Ben Carson is at 17-percent and 13-percent are for Carly Fiorina. He says a positive sign for Jindal is that his favorability rating is 59-percent

Cut 14 (08) “in Iowa”

There’s still over four months to go before the Iowa caucus. Williams says they’ve already seen these poll numbers shift dramatically. He says the now departed Scott Walker’s decline is a prime example

Cut 15  (08)  “the race”

______________________________________

Saints Quarterback Drew Brees is confident that he can play this Sunday against Carolina Panthers. Brees says he’ll put in extra time this week to rehab is bruised shoulder, so he can play against the Panthers. The quarterback says his desire to play is not just because the team is 0-2…

Cut 16  (11)  “be smart”

Brees also remains optimistic that the Saints can turn their season around despite two losses to start the year…

Cut 17 (13) “start cooking” 

Brees’ banged up shoulder has been one of the biggest news items in the state this week. The veteran Q-B says he is a little suprised with all of the attention its getting…

Cut 18 (10) “of a deal”

_________________________________

Syracuse is planning to start a walk-on junior college transfer versus the 8th ranked LSU Tigers Saturday. Zack Mahoney would be the third different starting quarterback for the Orange as the other two have been injured. Syracuse head coach Scott Shafer likes what Mahoney brings to the field…

Cut 19 (13) “good football player”

So far SEC defenses have not been able to slow down Tiger running back Leonard Fournette this season. Shafer understands the challenge his defense faces, but he’s not the only talented skill position player on LSU’s offense…

Cut 20 (15)  “for one player”