Law enforcement agencies in the state have begun testing body cameras for police officers. Michelle Southern has the story…

CUT 1 (31) “reporting”

______________________________________

Democratic Baton Rouge Mayor Kip Holden is expected to officially throw his hat in the ring in Louisiana’s Lieutenant Governor’s race. Scott Carwile reports…

Cut 2 (31) “reporting”

______________________________________

US Senator David Vitter has drafted legislation that would prohibit the federal government from mandating states to adopt Common Core standards. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 3 (31) “reporting”

______________________________________

Events throughout the state and in Ferguson, Missouri have prompted law enforcement agencies in Louisiana to begin at least testing body cameas to be worn by officers. The president is calling for body cameras to be used nation wide. Jim Bueerman (BEER-MAN) is the president of the Police Foundation. He says the foundation is a strong advocate for the cameras.

cut 4  (09)  “and side arms.”

Bueerman says relationships between communities and police cannot be solved by technology. But he says the cameras will add a tremendous degree of viability and accountability.

Cut 5  (13)  “treat each other”

The cameras cost about 295 dollars per officer and are positioned on the officers so they do not get in the way. Bueerman says the foundation expects the cameras to be on officers everywhere in the next 5 years.

Cut 6 (11)  “to the public”

______________________________________

Democratic Baton Rouge Mayor Kip Holden is throwing his hat in the ring in Louisiana’s Lieutenant Governor’s race. Holden is expected to officially announce his intentions at a press conference scheduled for 10AM. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says Holden has a real shot of making the runoff for the office despite the negative climate of the Democratic Party in Louisiana…

CUT 7 (09)  “look that good”

Pinsonat says it would be extremely difficult for any Democratic candidate to win a statewide office this year. But he says the election is a year away and that could be an advantage for Holden…

Cut 8 (10)  “into the runoff” 

Plaquemines Parish President Billy Nungesser, Jefferson Parish President John Young, and State Senator Elbert Guillory, all Republicans, have previously announced their intent to run. Although Holden is popular in his home base of Baton Rouge, he doesn’t yet have statewide name recognition. Pinsonat says to get known, Holden will probably have to do some serious fundraising to the tune of one-million dollars…

Cut 9 (09)  “introduce him”

______________________________________

US Senator David Vitter has drafted legislation that would prohibit the federal government from mandating states to adopt Common Core standards. Vitter had previously supported the federal education standards. Jeremy Alford with LaPolitics.com says Vitter now has to show that he’s serious about his current stance…:

Cut 10 (11) “his position” 

Alford says Vitter explained he changed his position after meeting with parents and teachers in Louisiana who really do not like Common Core. He says that’s what makes this issue so politically charged…:

cut 11 (13) “these standards”

Alford says Vitter is intent on staying at the forefront of policies that Louisianians care about and that combined with the very visible support of Congressman Bill Cassidy for Senate foreshadows a very intense race for Governor next year…:

cut 12 (08)  “Governor of Louisiana”

______________________________________

The Louisiana Workforce Commission says The Bayou State is ranked second best in the nation for work-related injuries and illness. The incidence rate in 2014 improved to its best level in more than 12 years. LWC spokesman Tom Guarisco says this is a great accomplishment for employers and workers in Louisiana…:

Cut 13 (10)  “workplace injuries”

LWC praises employers and their workforce for doing the right things to keep Louisiana safer. Guarisco says for a state that’s known for having big plants and industry, this ranking is a strong testament that companies are hammering the importance of safety on a daily basis…:

Cut 14 (05)  “do things safely”

Guarisco says workers compensation rates in Louisiana were reduced in 2014 by 5.1% and there is another 2.5 percent reduction recommendation pending for 2015…:

Cut 15  (08)  “very historic”

______________________________________

Law enforcement agencies in the state have begun testing body cameras for police officers. Michelle Southern has the story…

CUT 1 (31) “reporting”

______________________________________

Democratic Baton Rouge Mayor Kip Holden is expected to officially throw his hat in the ring in Louisiana’s Lieutenant Governor’s race. Scott Carwile reports…

Cut 2 (28) “reporting”

______________________________________

US Senator David Vitter has drafted legislation that would prohibit the federal government from mandating states to adopt Common Core standards. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 3 (31) “reporting”

______________________________________

Events throughout the state and in Ferguson, Missouri have prompted law enforcement agencies in Louisiana to begin at least testing body cameas to be worn by officers. The president is calling for body cameras to be used nation wide. Jim Bueerman (BEER-MAN) is the president of the Police Foundation. He says the foundation is a strong advocate for the cameras.

cut 4  (09)  “and side arms.”

Bueerman says relationships between communities and police cannot be solved by technology. But he says the cameras will add a tremendous degree of viability and accountability.

Cut 5  (13)  “treat each other”

The cameras cost about 295 dollars per officer and are positioned on the officers so they do not get in the way. Bueerman says the foundation expects the cameras to be on officers everywhere in the next 5 years.

Cut 6 (11)  “to the public”

______________________________________

Democratic Baton Rouge Mayor Kip Holden is throwing his hat in the ring in Louisiana’s Lieutenant Governor’s race. Holden is expected to officially announce his intentions at a press conference scheduled for 10AM. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says Holden has a real shot of making the runoff for the office despite the negative climate of the Democratic Party in Louisiana…

CUT 7 (09)  “look that good”

Pinsonat says it would be extremely difficult for any Democratic candidate to win a statewide office this year. But he says the election is a year away and that could be an advantage for Holden…

Cut 8 (10)  “into the runoff” 

Plaquemines Parish President Billy Nungesser, Jefferson Parish President John Young, and State Senator Elbert Guillory, all Republicans, have previously announced their intent to run. Although Holden is popular in his home base of Baton Rouge, he doesn’t yet have statewide name recognition. Pinsonat says to get known, Holden will probably have to do some serious fundraising to the tune of one-million dollars…

Cut 9 (09)  “introduce him”

______________________________________

US Senator David Vitter has drafted legislation that would prohibit the federal government from mandating states to adopt Common Core standards. Vitter had previously supported the federal education standards. Jeremy Alford with LaPolitics.com says Vitter now has to show that he’s serious about his current stance…:

Cut 10 (11) “his position” 

Alford says Vitter explained he changed his position after meeting with parents and teachers in Louisiana who really do not like Common Core. He says that’s what makes this issue so politically charged…:

cut 11 (13) “these standards”

Alford says Vitter is intent on staying at the forefront of policies that Louisianians care about and that combined with the very visible support of Congressman Bill Cassidy for Senate foreshadows a very intense race for Governor next year…:

cut 12 (08)  “Governor of Louisiana”

______________________________________

The Louisiana Workforce Commission says The Bayou State is ranked second best in the nation for work-related injuries and illness. The incidence rate in 2014 improved to its best level in more than 12 years. LWC spokesman Tom Guarisco says this is a great accomplishment for employers and workers in Louisiana…:

Cut 13 (10)  “workplace injuries”

LWC praises employers and their workforce for doing the right things to keep Louisiana safer. Guarisco says for a state that’s known for having big plants and industry, this ranking is a strong testament that companies are hammering the importance of safety on a daily basis…:

Cut 14 (05)  “do things safely”

Guarisco says workers compensation rates in Louisiana were reduced in 2014 by 5.1% and there is another 2.5 percent reduction recommendation pending for 2015…:

Cut 15  (08)  “very historic”

______________________________________

A tragic story out of St. Landry Parish where a father died after running into a burning house to rescue his 10-year-old son. Eric Gill has more…

CUT 1 (30) “reporting”

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

Governor Bobby Jindal today issued an executive order which directs hospitals to bill the Crime Victims Reparation fund instead of victims for sexual assault medical treatment. Michelle Southern reports…:

CUT 2 (32) “reporting”

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

A tragic story out of St. Landry Parish where a father died after running into a burning house to rescue his 10-year-old son. 42-year-old John Robertson Sr. of Grand Prairie suffered fatal injuries while saving his son, John Robertson Jr. State Fire Marshal Butch Browning says the investigation is in its initial stages…

CUT 3 (09)  “of his injuries”

The boy remains hospitalized after suffering burns over 40% of his body where, at last report, he was in stable condition. Browning says they normally do not recommend people to run into a burning building…

CUT 4 (07)  “the same thing”

He says fires are dangerous, even for firefighters equipped with the proper tools and gear needed to enter a burning building. The cause of the fire is unknown at this time. Browning says this is an extremely sad story…

CUT 5 (06)  “who’s hospitalized”

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

After Sunday’s beat down by the Carolina Panthers, it appears that New Orleans Saints Head Coach Sean Payton has put his players on notice. Payton alluded that some could be looking for jobs sooner than they expect…

CUT 6 (11)  “who’s doing it”

The Saints have lost four of their last five games heading into a Monday night matchup in Chicago. Right tackle Zach Strief told reporters that he thinks the team too often shows up for games looking too relaxed. Payton says it’s the players’ job to show up with the intensity needed to win games…

CUT 7 (07) “other options”

The Saints are benefiting from the overall struggles all teams in the NFC South are having this season. Despite their 5-8 record, the Black & Gold are still tied for the division lead. Payton says the situation the Saints find themselves in is obviously serious…

CUT 8 (08) “your guys are”

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

Congressman Bill Cassidy is back in Washington today to start getting ready for his new role on the Senate side. The Congressman easily defeated Senator Mary Landrieu over the weekend. Cassidy says, with Republicans in control of Congress, they will finally be able to pass the Keystone XL pipeline legislation…:

CUT 9 (10)  “Presidential veto”

Cassidy, who ran a campaign on the promise of getting to Washington and fighting the policies of President Obama, says the first thing they plan to tackle piece by piece is the Affordable Care Act…:

CUT 10 (07)  “President’s desk”

Cassidy has a meeting scheduled with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and it’s expected the talk of committee assignments will come. The Congressman says he expects to get a seat on the Senate Energy and Appropriations Committees. He says he’s listened to the people of Louisiana and his plan is to come up with ways to create more jobs with better benefits and better job security…:

cut 11 (08)  “to doing that”

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

A teenage student from Dutchtown High School was killed and four other people were hurt in a head on crash this morning in Gonzales. State Police spokesman Jared Sandifer says for unknown reasons, a car was traveling in the wrong lane of traffic on La 74 near Interstate 10…:

cut 12 (09) “was killed”

Sandifer says the three sisters were on their way to school at the time of the crash and the backseat passenger in the teenagers’ car died on the scene. The other two sisters were taken to a local hospital and the other driver is recovering at a local hospital. Sandifer says the tragic crash remains under investigation…:

cut 13 (09) “as well”

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

Governor Bobby Jindal today issued an executive order which directs hospitals to bill the Crime Victims Reparation fund instead of victims for sexual assault medical treatment. Louisiana Foundation Against Sexual Assault Executive Director Ebony Tucker says there is still a lot to do, but this order is a step in the right direction…:

cut 14 (09) “at all”

The order comes amidst outrage on revelations that hospitals were billing victims of sexual assault for services related to their care. Tucker says the time period by which a victim of sexual assault must notify law enforcement is now extended from 72 hours to 1 year…:

cut 15 (05) “in federal court”

Tucker says many legislative changes need to be made in the 2015 session and they look forward to continuing the process of improving care and services for victims of sexual assault. She says they want to make sure the state has the funds to cover the costs of treating victims…:

cut 16 (12) “traumatic experience”

Now that that the US Senate election is over and she won’t be returning to Congress, what’s next for Mary Landrieu? Scott Carwile reports…

CUT 1 (31) “reporting”

______________________________________

The Department of Health and Hospitals is hosting a symposium today which will focus on finding solutions to rising youth ADHD diagnoses and treatment. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (30) “reporting”

______________________________________

Now that the US Senate election is over and she won’t be returning to Congress, what’s next for Mary Landrieu? Political Analyst Clancy Dubos expects Landrieu to first take some time off to spend with her family…

Cut 3 (08) “with voters, for her”

Landrieu served three terms in the Senate representing Louisiana before losing to Republican Congressman Bill Cassidy in Saturday’s Senate runoff election. Dubos says, after a waiting period, Landrieu could consider becoming a lobbyist…

cut 4  (05)  “before her”

He says Saturday’s defeat doesn’t necessarily mean that Landrieu’s political career is over. Dubos says Landrieu could decide to jump back in the political arena, but admits that it may be a while before she runs for office again…

Cut 5  (12)  “race coming up”

______________________________________

The Department of Health and Hospitals is hosting a symposium today which will focus on finding solutions to rising youth ADHD (or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) diagnoses and treatment. Secretary Kathy Kliebert says it’s concerning that Louisiana has the second highest state ADHD prescription rate in the nation…:

Cut 6 (13)  “come up with solutions”

ADHD medication use has risen 35.5 percent from 2008 to 2012 and young adult use has nearly doubled. Kliebert says they see an urgent need to gather doctors, parents, teachers and members of the community to explore the issue of the alarming rate of ADHD medication use in Louisiana….:

CUT 7 (08)  “medication usage”

Kliebert says you can find more information online at ddh.la.gov/ADHD. She feels there is a lot of over prescribing of these medications and the scary part is that they don’t know what the long-term affects could be on these kids. Kliebert says there are also studies that show ADHD medication is a gateway drug and is seriously abused..:

Cut 8 (12)  “appropriate diagnosis” 

___________________________________________

The Big Easy is once again expecting many football fans in town for the R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl and the Allstate Sugarbowl. New Orleans Tourism & Marketing Corporation President Mark Romig says the New Years Day matchup between Alabama and Ohio State in the Sugarbowl will be legendary…:

Cut 9 (13)  “January 1st game”

Romig says they are expecting a sell-out crowd at the Mercedez Benz Superdome for the inaugural College Football Playoff and expects the city to be backed…:

Cut 10 (10) “alumni presence” 

Romig says there will also be big crows in town for the New Orleans Bowl on December 20th. He says the game against UL-Lafayette and Nevada is expected to be a good one and Ragin’ Cajun fans always travel well down I-10…:

cut 11 (11) “New Orleans area”

______________________________________

The matchup for the Duck Commander Independence Bowl has been set as the South Carolina Gamecocks will face the Miami Hurricanes on December 27th in Shreveport. Independence Bowl Public Relations Director, Stefan (STEF-an) Nolet (NO-lay), says the excitement for this year’s game began in February when West Monroe-based Duck Commander signed on as the game’s sponsor…

cut 12 (12)  “on ABC”

This is the first year the Independence Bowl will be played on a Saturday since 1990 and the first time the game is broadcast on network television since 1991. Nolet says you can expect to see many of your favorite “Duck Dynasty” stars, as well. He says Uncle Si will be involved with the coin flip and Willie Robertson will present the trophy to the winner after the game…

Cut 13 (09)  “week, as well”

This year marks the Gamecocks 2nd trip to Shreveport, while Miami makes its first trip to the Independence Bowl. Nolet says there is a lot of activities surrounding the game for fans of all ages to enjoy. He says there’s a cook-off, inflatables for the kids, a flyover honoring the Tuskegee Airmen, and a lot more…

Cut 14 (08)  “kinda flair”

______________________________________

Former Governor Edwin Edwards will be releasing another book next year and this one will be loaded with pictures. Biographer Leo Honeycutt says many people have been asking him to write another book about The Cajun Prince since there are already several new chapters in his life:

Cut 15  (08)  “very historic”

Honeycutt says while he was working on the 600+ page novel he ended up amassing over 900 pictures. He says the new venture is a coffee table book and will be Edwards’ life in pictures…:

Cut 16  (10)  “first and second terms”

Honeycutt says they will begin working on the project next year and he’ll push to have it out by the end of the summer/early fall. He says the Edwards picture book will also be another Louisiana political history book…:

Cut 17  (10)   “and when”

When the new congress is seated in January, the Republican Party will have control of both the House and Senate and the Louisiana delegation says they are more ready than ever. Eric Gill has more…

CUT 1 (32) “reporting”

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

This year’s elections are over and coming up next in Louisiana politics will be the 2015 Governor’s race. Michelle Southern reports…:

CUT 2 (30) “reporting”

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

When the new congress is seated in January, the Republican Party will have control of both the House and Senate and the Louisiana delegation says they are more ready than ever. 4th District Congressman John Fleming of Leesville says the party discussion now turns to how they can make things right and rebuild the trust of the American people…

CUT 3 (11)  “they like Republicans”

Fleming feels the last time the GOP had contol of both houses of Congress, they made many mistakes and turned it over to a left-wing Democratic Party who has made things even worse. He says it’s now time for Republicans to get it right. Fleming says one thing they’ll do is send improvements to the Affordable Care Act to President Obama’s desk…

CUT 4 (06)  “may get through”

Fleming says Republicans will send bills to the President and if he vetoes them, then he’ll be held accountable. He says the GOP sent nearly 400 bills to the Senate in the last Congress that were never taken up. Fleming says the new Republican controlled Congress will crank out legislation at an unprecedented rate…

CUT 5 (11)  “hand of government”

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

This year’s elections are over and coming up next in Louisiana politics will be the 2015 Governor’s race. Among the candidates currently running are Republicans US Senator David Vitter, Lt. Governor Jay Dardenne, PSC member Scott Angelle and the only Democrat in the race is state Representative John Bel Edwards. UL-Lafayette Political Science professor Pearson Cross says Vitter is most likely to make the runoff.:

CUT 6 (06)  “political spectrum”

Some have predicted that New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu, a Democrat, could consider throwing his hat in the ring for Governor but Cross doesn’t think that would happen now after his sister’s unsuccessful campaign to keep her Senate seat…:

CUT 7 (05) “statewide office”

Cross says Angelle has a strong base in Acadiana but will need to work on statewide name recognition to work into a runoff with Vitter. He says the more likely scenario is a runoff between Dardenne and Vitter but the two have different politics…:

CUT 8 (09) “conservative”

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

Louisiana’s newly elected Congressmen discuss Washington D.C. committee assignments. Congressmen-elect Garret Graves, representing the 6th District, would be the only Louisiana member sitting on the House Transportation Committee…:

CUT 9 (06)  “energy pipelines”

5th District Congressman Vance McAllister currently serves on the House Natural Resources committee but will not be returning after losing in the primary. Graves says he is going to get that spot…:

CUT 10 (07)  “Louisiana’s economy”

Congressman-elect Ralph Abraham, representing the 5th District, will likely replace McAllister on the House Agriculture Committee. Sources also say Abraham is in line for a spot on the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee. The GOP has already promised Senator-elect Bill Cassidy a seat on the Senate energy committee. He says now that Republicans have control of Congress they will be able to pass legislation that will benefit the working public…:

cut 11 (13)  “for working families”

Cassidy also says he is seeking a spot on the Senate Appropriations committee. He says there has been no accountability for federal agencies under Senate Majority leader Harry Reid which the new Congress wants to change…:

cut 12 (04) “work better”

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

State Police say an Opelousas man was killed Saturday evening when the bike he was riding was struck from behind by a pickup truck in St. Landry Parish. Master Trooper Brooks David says 55-year-old Joseph Norman was riding his bike with no lights on his bike and wearing dark clothing…

cut 13 (10) “from that crash”

He says Norman was ejected from his bike and received fatal injuries as a result. David says it’s important for cyclists, especially at night, have lights on their bikes and wear reflective clothing. Impariment is not a suspected factor in this crash. David says the driver of the truck, 69-year-old Joseph Thibodeaux of Prairieville, was uninjured in the crash…

cut 14 (08) “or Mr. Norman”

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

####Corrected version. Corrected Vadal Alexander’s position and year in school####

So now that all of the major Democratic candidates lost their elections this year, where does that leave the party going forward? Michelle Southern reports.

CUT 1 (31) “reporting”

______________________________________

Former Governor Edwin Edwards loses for the first time in a runoff election. Michelle Southern reports.

Cut 2 (29) “reporting”

______________________________________

In January, Louisiana will have two republican US Senators as a result of Billy Cassidy’s victory over Democrat Mary Landrieu in the US Senate race. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (30) “reporting”

______________________________________

So now that all of the major Democratic candidates lost their elections this year, where does that leave the party going forward? LSU Media Professor Bob Mann, who is a former Democratic staffer, says the party needs to have some serious and honest reflection…:

cut 4  (09)  “in the south”

Mann says there are many in the Democratic party who may feel that the answer is to moderate its message and start leaning more conservative. He says that’s what Mary Landrieu tried to do and it’s one of the reasons she did so poorly in the election…:

Cut 5  (10)  “here’s how we’re different”

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

Former Governor Edwin Edwards says even though he lost the election to Republican Garret Graves, his campaign in the 6th Congressional District race was not run in vain. This is the first time the 87-year-old has ever lost in a runoff. Edwards says this doesn’t mean he’s going to retire…:

Cut 6 (12)  “(laughter)”

Edwards was defeated by Graves 62-37. Edwards says he’s happy and he feels like he’s fulfilled his role in life…:

CUT 7 (08)  “not given up”

Edwards says while he was hoping for a better result, this is not unexpected…:

Cut 8 (12)  “willing to accomplish” 

___________________________________________

For the first time in 82-years, an incumbent US Senator has lost a re-election in Louisiana. Republican Congressman Bill Cassidy easily defeated three-term Democrat Mary Landrieu. Cassidy says the voters spoke loudly that they want less interference from the government

Cut 9 (10)  “to do”

Cassidy received 57-percent of the vote to Landrieu’s 43-percent. Cassidy had this message for those who have supported Landrieu throughout the years….

Cut 10 (08) “applause” 

With Cassidy’s victory, Senator Mary Landrieu’s 18-year run as US Senator is over. Landrieu says it’s been a great honor to serve the state of Louisiana

cut 11 (13)  “so much”

Many political analysts say Landrieu’s vote for the Affordable Care Act, which is unpopular in Louisiana, played a significant role in her defeat. But Landrieu says she doesn’t regret that vote

cut 12 (11)  “healthy workforce”

__________________________________________

Two new congressmen have been elected in the 5th and 6th Congressional Districts. In the 6th District, Republican Garret Graves defeated Democratic former four-term governor Edwin Edwards. Graves says this election result is an emphatic statement from the voters of Louisiana…

Cut 13 (11)  “for this country”

Graves will fill the seat left vacant by now Senator-elect Bill Cassidy. Graves feels voters are not happy with how government is working and they want that to change…

Cut 14 (12)  “for this country”

Republican political newcomer Dr. Ralph Abraham easily won in the 5th Congressional District race over Democratic Monroe Mayor Jamie Mayo. The seat was lost last month by Republican Vance McAllister. Abraham says voters in his district know he’s one of them…:

Cut 15  (09)  “so to speak”

Mayo received 35% of the vote at Abraham got 64-percent. The physician from Richland Parish says when he gets to Washington D.C. he’s going to work on bringing more jobs and infrastructure to his district…:

Cut 16  (10)  “5th District”

__________________________________________

Pathetic, terrible, horrendous, all of those adjectives describes the Saints 41-10 loss to the Carolina Panthers yesterday in the Mercedes Benz Superdome. It’s the fourth straight loss at home and the largest margin of defeat for the franchise since 2007. Saints Coach Sean Payton didn’t sugarcoat the performance when he spoke with reporters after the game

Cut 17  (10)   “it was awful”

Carolina jumped out to a 17-0 lead in the first quarter and the Saints didn’t do much to get back in the game. Payton calls it an embarrassing performance

Cut 18 (17) “it was awful”

The LSU football team will play Notre Dame in the Music City Bowl on Tuesday, December 30^th.  It’s the 15^th straight season the Tigers will play in a bowl game and it’s their first meeting against the Fighting Irish since beating them 41-13 in the 2007 Sugar Bowl. Offensive guard Vadal (vuh-Dall) Alexander is excited to face Notre Dame…

Cut 19 (18)   “play em”

Kick-off for the game is set for two PM in Nashville. It’s been a down season for Notre Dame as they are 7-and-5, but LSU defensive tackle Chrisitan LaCouture (Lock-uh-chur) says it’s exciting to play one of the most recognizable names in college football

Cut 20 (16)  “excited for the challenge”

6th Congressional District candidate Garret Graves is disputing accusations from his opponent, Former Governor Edwin Edwards, that his family gets special privileges because of Governor Bobby Jindal. Michelle Southern reports.

CUT 1 (30) “reporting”

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

A Grand Isle businessman was sentenced to 25 weekends in prison after pleading guilty to two counts of federal civil rights violations. Michelle Southern reports…

CUT 2 (30) “reporting”

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

6th Congressional District candidate Garret Graves is disputing accusations from his opponent, Former Governor Edwin Edwards, that his family gets special privileges because of Governor Bobby Jindal. The Edwards campaign has continued to tie Graves to Jindal and criticized his time as head of the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority…:

CUT 3 (13)  “the fish habitat”

Edwards has alleged that Graves was somehow involved in getting his father’s engineering firm Government contracts and making his brother-in-law the leasing agent at the Water Institute in Baton Rouge. Graves says these accusations are completely absurd…:

CUT 4 (09)  “completely baseless”

Graves made the comments on The Jim Engster Show then Edwards called in to reply. The Former Governor accuses Graves of refusing to admit he has a relationship with The Governor…:

CUT 5 (12)  “with Jindal”

Graves says he has no problem touting his 6 years when he worked for the state and says great strides were made for Louisiana’s coast during that tenure. Edwards says the Water Campus office complex will house the agency Graves once headed and there is a million square feet of space to be leased and the agent is Graves’ brother in law…:

CUT 6 (10)  “white black birds”

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

The Iberia Parish Sheriff’s Office has arrested a New Iberia man after a hostage situation. Lt. Richard Fleming says they received information that a woman was being held hostage at an apartment complex in New Iberia Thursday afternoon. He says as officers were setting up a perimeter around the apartment, the suspect, 31-year-old Thomas Chevalier attempted to leave with the victim…

CUT 7 (06) “without incident”

Fleming says the situation began the night before when Chevalier broke into the victim’s apartment prior to her arrival. He says when the victim returned home, Chevalier then battered and sexually assaulted her…

CUT 8 (09) “hostage situation”

The victim received treatment for non-life threatening injuries at a local hospital and has since been released. Fleming says Chevalier and the victim did have a relationship in the past, but the extent of that relationship is unknown at this time. He says Chevalier is facing multiple charges… (Chevalier is facing second degree battery, false imprisonment, violation of protective order, aggravated burglary, and aggravated rape charges.)

CUT 9 (06)  “aggravated rape”

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

State Police are investigating a fatal crash in Livingston Parish that has left two men dead. Trooper Jared Sandifer says 50-year-old Lloyd Hutson of Jackson was driving on LA 447 near Walker when he entered a right-hand curve…

CUT 10 (10)  “of that crash”

He says Hutson crossed the center line into the path of a car driven by 76-year-old Raymond Bender of Denham Springs. The two vehicles collided head-on and both drivers were killed as a result. Sandifer says investigating troopers believe impairment may have been a factor in this wreck…

cut 11 (04)  “under investigation”

He says impairment is suspected on the part of Hutson. Sandifer says neither Hutson nor Bender were wearing seat belts at the time of the crash. He says this is another reminder of the importance of being properly restrained while inside a motor vehicle…

cut 12 (05) “traffic crash”

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

A Grand Isle businessman was sentenced to 25 weekends in prison after pleading guilty to two counts of federal civil rights violations which occurred after Hurricane Isaac. Josh Jambon admitted to using racial slurs and striking two black female crew members who were cleaning up on Grand Isle. Loyola Law Professor Dane Ciolino says this is an unusual sentence…

cut 13 (08) “sentencing guidelines”

Jambon faced a maximum sentence of two years in prison and $200,000 in fines. US District Judge Susie Morgan also fined Jambon $10,000. Jambon pleaded guilty in July and was sentenced Thursday. Ciolino says the judge was no doubt impressed with the one-hundred or so character letters on Jambon’s behalf requesting leniency…

cut 14 (06) “acknowledged actions”

Ciolino says typically civil rights cases are brought against police or government officials and it’s rare to see a claim brought against a private individual. He says while it is unusual, given the egregious racially charged conduct and offensive battery, this case certainly fit the bill…

cut 15 (05) “in federal court”

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

With tomorrow’s election looming, everybody wants to know who is going to represent Louisiana in the new Congress next year? Jeff Palermo has the story…

CUT 1 (31) “reporting”

______________________________________

As lots of businesses will be holding their Holiday parties over the next few weeks, there are a few words to the wise. Michelle Southern reports.

Cut 2 (29) “reporting”

______________________________________

Louisiana residents who have health insurance through the Obamacare marketplace are advised to seek out cheaper policies during open enrollment. Scott Carwile reports…

Cut 3 (32) “reporting”

______________________________________

Tomorrow is election day in Louisiana. The ballot is highlighted by the US Senate race between Democratic incumbent Mary Landrieu and Republican challenger Bill Cassidy. Secretary of State Tom Schedler expects a 40-percent voter turnout for the election…

cut 4  (11)  “or six points”

He says the high early voter turnout was a nice surprise and is hopeful that voters will turn out Saturday. Schedler expects voters to be more active in the 5th and 6th Congressional districts due to those contested seats…

Cut 5  (11)  “first district”

Schedler says Saturday’s ballot will be light, with some parishes having only the Senate race to decide. He says, no matter the number of items on the ballot, it’s always important to exercise your right to vote. Since this election falls on a Saturday, Schedler says voting hours will be a little different… (Polls will be open 7AM – 8PM.)

Cut 6 (10)  “you’re voting on”

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With tomorrow’s election looming, everybody wants to know who is going to represent Louisiana in the new Congress next year? ULM Political Science Professor Joshua Stockley says the US Senate race is Republican Bill Cassidy’s race to lose. He says Democratic incumbent Mary Landrieu’s had a lot of ground to make up since November 4th…

CUT 7 (11)  “too late”

The 5th Congressional District race features Democrat Monroe Mayor Jamie Mayo and Republican Dr. Ralph Abraham in the runoff. Stockley says the political climate in Louisiana favors Republicans, especially in the 5th District…

Cut 8 (11)  “come Saturday” 

Stockley says the 6th Congressional District race could prove to be the most interesting of the night. He says enthusiasm isn’t very high for either candidate, Republican Garret Graves or Democrat Edwin Edwards. Stockley says voter turnout could be the deciding factor here…

Cut 9 (11)  “likely to win”

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It’s Christmas Party season and experts are passing out some important rules of etiquette when it comes to celebrating with your bosses and co-workers. Tulane business professor Dr. Mark Rosa says first and foremost you should always be careful about how much you drink…:

Cut 10 (09) “for the employee” 

Rosa says even if you just show up and stay a short time, that’s better than not making an appearance at all but you should consider the party mandatory. He says you should consider a Holiday office party an extension of the workplace — all the same rules apply…:

cut 11 (07)  “watch our behavior”

Rosa says supervisors should be particularly mindful of their behavior at work Christmas Parties. He says managers and bosses are essentially representing the company at a work function…:

cut 12 (07)  “that professionalism”

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Louisiana residents who have health insurance through the Obamacare marketplace are advised to seek out cheaper policies during open enrollment. Brian Burton, State Director for the Navigators for a Healthy Louisiana, says there are new choices and more competition in the Health Insurance Marketplace…

Cut 13 (09)  “for their dollars”

In Louisiana, consumers can now choose from 6 issuers in the Marketplace. Burton says United Healthcare is a new provider for this year and they’re making a big difference for consumers…

Cut 14 (09)  “better for them”

Open enrollment closes on February 15. The Department of Health and Human Services says nearly 8 in 10 current Marketplace consumers can find coverage for $100 or less, taking into account any applicable tax credits. Burton says, for returning customers, it’s a good idea to see what the Marketplace has to offer this year…

Cut 15  (08)  “for you”

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Louisiana Tech will face Marshall in the Conference USA Championship game on Saturday. It’s the first time the Bulldogs will play in a conference title game. In order to win, the Bulldogs will have to slow down a Thundering Herd offense that’s averaging 47 points a game. Marshall’s QB is senior Rakeem Cato and Tech Head Coach Skip Holtz says there’s a lot of talent around him

Cut 16  (10)  “they have balance”

Holtz says the conditioning could play a factor in this one, because Marshall has played some of its best football in the fourth quarter this year

Cut 17  (20)   “big plays”

The Saints will look to end a three-game losing streak at home when they host the Carolina Panthers on Sunday. Before they started this losing skid in the Dome, they won 20 straight previous games, including playoffs, played in New Orleans. Quarterback Drew Brees on trying to snap the home losing streak….

Cut 18 (08) “and practice”

The Saints go into the game with a healthy backfield as Khiry Robinson is expected back from a six-game absence because of a forearm injury. Brees says Robinson will be a nice addition to what Pierre Thomas and Mark Ingram are capable of doing

Cut 19 (14)   “is great”

The Centers for Disease Control reports a widespread outbreak of the flu in Louisiana. Eric Gill has more…

CUT 1 (31) “reporting”

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Louisiana has petitioned the US Supreme Court to hear an appeal of Louisiana’s ban on gay marriage before a federal appeals court rules. Eric Gill has more…

CUT 2 (30) “reporting”

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In an interivew with an LSU journalism student on Tiger TV, Republican Congressman Bill Cassidy says he supports over-the-counter sales of birth control. Cassidy says he’s going along with the recommendation made by the College of Obstetrics and Gynecology

CUT 3 (08)  “over the counter”

Cassidy has been endorsed by pro-life groups, but on the issue of birth control, based on this interview with a Tiger TV reporter, he backs the sale of over the counter birth control…

CUT 4 (05)  “with that”

Cassidy’s was asked by the Tiger TV reporter whether the government should make it easier for young, sexually active people to get birth control.  The Congressman said yes based on a recommendation from doctors who care for women…

CUT 5 (12)  “at all”

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The Centers for Disease Control reports a widespread outbreak of the flu in Louisiana. In fact, Louisiana is the only state in the Continental US with widespread flu cases. Dr. Frank Welch, with the state Department of Health and Hospitals, says it’s not a designation the state wants, but we appear to be leading the pack…

CUT 6 (10)  “in Louisiana”

Welch says about five percent of all doctor visits in the state are for flu like symptoms. He says the CDC has found that the predominant strain of flu, H3N2, has mutated slightly and is now not exactly matched with the vaccine. Welch says this doesn’t mean that the vaccine won’t work…

CUT 7 (10) “get that vaccine”

Welch still recommends you get a flu shot as it’s the best way to protect yourself against the flu, even though it isn’t 100-percent perfect. And Welch says it’s important to remember that everybody in Louisiana who gets the flu, got it from someone else…

CUT 8 (10) “from the flu”

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Louisiana has petitioned the US Supreme Court to hear an appeal of Louisiana’s ban on gay marriage before a federal appeals court rules. Special counsel Kyle Duncan filed the request this week. Tulane Constitutional Law Professor, Keith Werhan (wer-HAN), says the state may think that this issue is on the fast track to being decided in the Supreme Court…

CUT 9 (11)  “the Supreme Court”

Federal Judge Martin Feldman upheld Louisiana’s ban on same-sex marriage earlier this year. The 5th Circuit Court of Appeals is scheduled to hear the appeal January 9th. Werhan thinks side-stepping the appeals court may not be the right move…

CUT 10 (09)  “court of appeals”

Last month, the 6th Circuit Court of Appeals upheld gay marriage bans in Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and Tennessee. Werhan says, now that there is a circuit split on the issue, Louisiana wants to make sure their case is heard in the nation’s highest court…

cut 11 (08)  “5th Circuit”

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The Rapides Parish Sheriff’s office says a staff member at Red River Academy in Lecompte is under arrest for allegedly trying to rape a female teenage student. Lt. Tommy Carnline says the local police station requested deputy assistance into a criminal sexual conduct allegation at the residential-type school…:

cut 12 (06) “with her”

Carnline says their detectives began their investigation into the complaint by the young woman…:

cut 13 (09) “of Cheneyville”

Carnline says they were able to obtain enough probable cause to issue arrest warrants for 36-year-old Charles Allen of Cheneyville…:(Allen was arrested for 1 count of sexual battery, one count of attempted forcible rape and 1 count of prohibited sexual conduct between educator and student. He is being held in lieu of $55,000 bond.)

cut 14 (09) “and a student”

State Police has teamed up with the state Office of Motor Vehicles to implement the “Parents Supervised Driving Program”. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (30) “reporting”

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A telephone poll on the sixth District Congressional runoff shows Republican Garret Graves with a six-percentage point lead over Democrat Edwin Edwards. Scott Carwile has more…

Cut 2 (30) “reporting”

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New early childhood licensing rules have been approved by the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education for child care centers. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (28) “reporting”

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State Police has teamed up with the state Office of Motor Vehicles to implement the “Parents Supervised Driving Program”, an effort to prevent teen motor vehicle crashes through education and awareness of teen driving restrictions. President of Safe Roads Alliance, Jeff Larason, says the program provides parents with more information so they can do a better job with their teens while they have their learner’s permit…

cut 4  (07)  “their license”

Parents of teens receiving learner’s permits will receive this free guide with information and lessons on driving basics, parental pointers, and licensing qualifications. Louisiana requires at least 50 hours of parental supervised driving for those with learner’s permits. Larason says the more parental driving supervision, the better…

Cut 5  (10)  “will go down”

Last year, 189 young drivers were killed in crashes across Louisiana and almost 19,000 were injured. Sgt. Nick Manale is hopeful this new program will decrease those numbers…

Cut 6 (11)  “to be safe”

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In the final days before Saturday’s election, a new poll on the 6th District Congressional race shows Republican Garrett Graves with 53-percent of the vote while Democratic former governor Edwin Edwards has 47-percent. The Glascock Group surveyed 532 voters from across the district. Pollster Darrell Glascock says Edwards’ numbers are surprising.

CUT 7 (06)  “this thing happen”

Glascock feels recent television ads that Edwards began running may be helping his numbers. Glascock says Saturday’s election result could come down to voter turnout…

Cut 8 (04)  “this election” 

He thinks if Edwards can get his voters to turn out, he has a chance of winning. But Glascock says, right now, Graves is sitting on a decent lead heading into Saturday…

Cut 9 (06)  “any mistakes”

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For a fourth straight season, the UL-Lafayette Football team has accepted an invitation to play in the R and L Carriers New Orleans Bowl which will be played Saturday December 20th. The voice of the Ragin Cajuns Jay Walker says their fans are always fired up about heading to the Big Easy…:

Cut 10 (12) “New Orleans, LA” 

Walker says the only thing some fans aren’t terribly thrilled about is the 10am kickoff…:

cut 11 (10)  “always have”

UL-Lafayette will likely have to wait until Sunday Sunday to find out who they will play. Walker says it could either be a team from Mountain West or Conference USA…:

cut 12 (09)  “gonna be Rice”

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The Board of Elementary and Secondary Education approves new licensing rules for childcare centers and preschool programs. The regulations include a provision that require one teacher for every 11 two-year-olds at a child care center. Melanie Bronfin, executive director of the Policy Institute for Children in New Orleans, wishes it was a lower

Cut 13 (11)  “high ratios”

BESE didn’t want a lower staffer ratio, because it would drive up tuition costs. But Bronfin argues it’s not safe or good for the children to have one adult watch over as many as 11 two-year-olds at one time…

Cut 14 (08)  “our children”

But Bronfin is pleased BESE approved a rule that requires employees of child care centers to participate annual training and professional development. She says all employees and volunteers at the child care facility must go through a fingerprint-based criminal background check as well…

Cut 15  (08)  “have been checked”

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