Early voting ended yesterday and as of last night 307-thousand people voted in person or with a mail in ballot, which JMC Analytics pollster John Couvillon says is a record for a non-Presidential election. Couvillon says the national climate could lead to voter participation as high as 35 percent for a state that lacks a marquee race.

Cut 8 (12) “…record”

Monroe Representative Jay Morris is publicly calling for Senator John Kennedy to jump into the 2019 governor’s race against John Bel Edwards. The North Louisiana Republican says it’s clear the Senator would be Edwards’s most formidable challenger, and…

Cut 3, 6 seconds, justify later

Kennedy says he’ll announce his 2019 intentions by December.

Hahnville High School QB Andrew Robison has won his arbitration hearing against the LHSAA over illegal recruitment allegations.  The victory means the senior is now eligible to play in Friday’s regular season finale.  He’ll also continue with a lawsuit against the governing body for damages. Robison’s Attorney says they weren’t surprised by the decision, but are thrilled about it.

Cut 9 (06) “…from the beginning.”

LHSAA has not commented due to pending litigation.

Although generally a great time, Halloween can pose some risks for those that are venturing out of their home tonight. Louisiana State Police spokesperson Mike Reichardt says you can check out LSP’s website to find out where registered sex offenders live, in an effort to avoid knocking at those doors.  He adds trick or treaters should stay close to home.

Cut 12 (09)  “…or your should.”

Early voting ended yesterday and as of last night 307-thousand people voted in person or with a mail in ballot, which JMC Analytics pollster John Couvillon says is a record for a non-Presidential election. Couvillon says the highly contentious Supreme court hearings involving Brett Kavanaugh also led to an increase in conservative voters during the first few says of the early voting period and then there was an increase in registered Democratic voters…
Cut 7 (10) “…election going on.”

A DeRidder man allegedly rammed his car into his ex-wife’s house and then tried to kill her and the other occupants by dousing the vehicle in gasoline before running off. Deputy Chief Chris Rudy says the incident appeared to have started early that day with a confrontation between 49-year-old Ricky Calloway got into a confrontation at the ex’s house.
After that argument Calloway allegedly came back, hit the house, then drove the car next to his ex-wife’s bedroom, all the while screaming at other witnesses…
Cut 14 (08)   “…of the house”

It’s been 21 years since the Tigers took down a number one team in Death Valley…

Cut 2 (30) ”I’m Matt Doyle.” 

The French Settlement Chief of Police and his wife have both been arrested following a traffic stop on a marked police department vehicle.  The vehicle was being driven by Tammy Brignac, the wife of police chief Harry Brignac, who was driving on a suspended license.  The chief admitted to knowingly instructing his wife to drive, and has been charged with malfeasance in office.

It will be a warm Halloween, but severe storms are on the way. State Climatologist Barry Keim…
cut 5 (12) “…across the south”
Much of the state is under an enhanced risk for severe weather. Strong to severe storms will move into north Louisiana tonight and the line of storms will pass through southeast Louisiana tomorrow morning.

State Police is asking motorists to be on the look out for trick or treaters this afternoon and into the early hours of the night…
cut 11 (06) “…in the road”
That’s Trooper Michael Reichardt. The Louisiana Highway Safety Commission says statistics show Halloween is more dangerous than New Year’s Eve on Louisiana roads. Last year, 878 people were injured and 10 people were killed in vehicle crashes during the Halloween period.

Early voting ended yesterday and as of last night 307-thousand people voted in person or with a mail in ballot, which JMC Analytics pollster John Couvillon says is a record for a non-Presidential election. Couvillon says even though the Louisiana ballot lacks a marquee race, voters are aware of the November 6th election, because of hotly contested midterm elections across the country…
cut 6 (08) “…voter turnout”
Couvillon projects an overall voter turnout of 35-percent.

Authorities in southwest Louisiana are looking for 49-year-old Ricky Calloway who allegedly crashed a vehicle into a house, set it on fire in an attempt to kill his ex-wife. The incident happened in the early morning hours of Tuesday in DeRidder. Deputy Chief Christopher Rudy was not successful…
cut 15 (07) “….have been”
Calloway fled the scene and the ex-wife was not injured.

There’s a strong possibility of severe weather tonight and into the overnight hours. A cold front is approaching and hopefully most of the heavy stuff will wait until after trick or treating. State Climatologist Barry Keim says this approaching storm system has the potential to trigger scary weather…
cut 6 (07) “…of those thunderstorms”
Flooding is a threat tomorrow in south Louisiana as the potential exists for five inches of rain.

The Louisiana Highway Safety Commission says Halloween is more dangerous than New Year’s Eve on Louisiana roads. Since 2005, Halloween has ranked first or second behind Mardi Gras with the most vehicle crashes that hurt or kill people. State Police spokesperson Michael Reichardt says make sure the little ghouls and goblins are visible…
cut 10 (06) “…people can see”
Last year in Louisiana, 878 people were injured and 10 people were killed in vehicle crashes during the Halloween period.

The first college football playoff rankings of the year were released last night and Alabama is ranked first, followed by Clemson and LSU is ranked third, ahead of undefeated Notre Dame.

It’s been 21 years since the Tigers took down a number one team in Death Valley…
Cut 2 (30) ”I’m Matt Doyle.”

Testimony continues today in Avoyelles Parish where Michael Mayeaux faces two counts of second-degree murder in the 2016 deaths of his grandparents Hillman and Eloise Mayeaux. An autopsy shows Eloise was stabbed 33 times, while Hillman was shot in the neck. Michael Mayeaux’s defense team say their client is mentally ill and did not know right from wrong.

Most of Louisiana is under an enhanced threat for severe weather today. The thunderstorms should arrive after trick or treating for most of the state…
Cut 1 (30) “I’m Kevin Barnhart.”

It’s illegal for a registered sex offender to participate in Halloween trick-or-treat activities. State Police Trooper Michael Reichardt says check L-S-P’s website to find where registered sex offenders live…
cut 9 (06) “…neighbor’s house”
And motorists need to be on the look out for trick or trearters on their ride home today.

A former state representative from North Dakota has died from a bacterial infection after eating raw oysters at a New Orleans restaurant. That’s according to the Bismark Tribune. 58-year-old Rae Anne Kelsh died at New Orleans hospital after serving 22 years in the North Dakota House. Health officials say eating raw or undercooked oysters can cause serious illness or even death.

The point spread is growing for Saturday’s SEC showdown between LSU and Alabama. It’s up to 15 points at some betting sites. Former LSU quarterback Herb Tyler says the underdog role is not the main motivation for the players…
cut 8 (12) “…a W”
In the first college football playoff rankings of the year, Alabama is ranked number one, Clemson two and then LSU is third, ahead of undefeated Notre Dame.

The potential exists especially for northwest Louisiana we’ll see rain and possibly severe thunderstorms during trick or treat times. State Climatologist Barry Keim says a cold front is responsible for this wicked weather…
cut 4 (12) “….across northern parishes”
The possibility of severe weather in south Louisiana will take place late tonight and during the overnight hours.

State Police has tips to make sure Halloween is both fun and safe…
voicer 3 (28) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”

A DeRidder man allegedly rammed his car into his ex-wife’s house and then tried to kill her and the other occupants by dousing the vehicle in gasoline before running off. Deputy Chief Chris Rudy says the incident started Monday as 49-year-old Ricky Calloway got into a confrontation at the ex’s house.
Cut 13 (11) “…by the house”
Calloway is wanted for attempted first-degree murder. No one was hurt in the incident.

Enhanced thunderstorm activity in the bayou state cause some ghosts and ghouls to purge their trick or treating plans this evening.  Kevin Barnhart has the details.

Cut 1 (30)  “I’m Kevin Barnhart.”

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 It’s been 21 years since the Tigers took down a number one team in Death Valley…

Cut 2 (30) ”I’m Matt Doyle.” 

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Louisiana State Police have some tips for making sure your Halloween is both fun and safe.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 3 (31) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart.”

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Wicked weather is brewing as a front to the northwest of the state will move into  Louisiana today, bringing with it enhanced thunderstorm activity.  State Climatologist Barry Keim says the timing of the rain may spook some in the northern portions of the state during prime time for trick or treating, possibly causing some to purge their evening plans.

Cut 4 (12) “…across northern parishes.”

Temps are expected to be in the mid to upper sixties in the northern parishes.

Keim says southern portions of the state will see temps in the upper seventies and will not see the severe weather until later, so trick or treaters are advised to head out early in order to conjure up some candy.

Cut 5 (12) “…across the south.” 

Keim says that some of the conditions that come with the storm activity may be downright scary.

Cut 6 (07) “…of those thunderstorms.”

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The last time the Tigers beat a number one team at home was 21 years ago when they toppled Florida, and this Saturday night they’ll have a chance to repeat that magic against Nick Saban and the Tide. Herb Tyler, who quarterbacked that 97’ team says Bama may look unstoppable, but the Tigers have something no one else has…

Cut 7 (11) “…gunna like.”

Tyler threw for 172 yards and ran for two touchdowns for 14^th ranked LSU in the 28-21 upset.

The Purple and Gold nation might be optimistic, but Vegas sure isn’t, marking the Tigers as 14 point underdogs, even at home and ranked number four. Tyler says the good news is, it’s likely most of the players don’t know and don’t care what Vegas thinks…

Cut 8 (12) “…a W.”

Bama has a 52 to 25 lead in the all-time series going back to their first game in 1895, which was a Tiger victory. They’re riding a seven-game win streak in recent years over LSU, but Tyler says you can tell there’s something different about this team than last few…

Cut 9 (09) “…as well.”

The game kicks off at 7PM.

___________________

Although generally a great time, Halloween can pose some risks for those that are venturing out of their home tomorrow night.  Whether you are walking around looking for candy or just simply driving from point A to point B, it’s important to keep your head on a swivel.  Louisiana State Police spokesperson Mike Reichart says to make sure the little ghouls and goblins are visible in the dark.

Cut 10 (06)   “…people can see.“

Reichart says if you are driving, you definitely need to be more mindful of small pedestrians.

Cut 11 (06)   “…in the road.”

Reichart says you can check out LSP’s website to find out where registered sex offenders live, in an effort to avoid knocking at those doors.  He adds trick or treaters should stay close to home.

Cut 12 (09)  “…or your should.”

________________________________

A DeRidder man allegedly rammed his car into his ex-wife’s house and then tried to kill her and the other occupants by dousing the vehicle in gasoline before running off. Deputy Chief Chris Rudy says the incident appeared to have started early that day with a confrontation between 49-year-old Ricky Calloway got into a confrontation at the ex’s house.

Cut 13 (11)   “…by the house”

After that argument Calloway allegedly came back, hit the house, then drove the car next to his ex-wife’s bedroom, all the while screaming at other witnesses…

Cut 14 (08)   “…of the house”

Rudy says they aren’t sure exactly what triggered this violent escalation, but after he crashed into the home, he allegedly tried to kill his ex in a fairly odd, and ultimately unsuccessful fashion…

Cut 15 (07)   “…have been”

Calloway is still being sought by authorities on attempted First-Degree-Murder, anyone with information is urged to call Crime Stoppers.

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Alabama Football Coach Nick Saban calls the LSU 7-and-1 Tigers an elite football team. And Saban adds a seven-game winning streak against the Bayou Bengals, doesn’t guarantee a win this Saturday

Cut 16 (20) “.of the week”

During this seven-game winning streak, LSU has been shutout twice and the most points they’ve scored in any of those games is 17. But Saban says LSU’s offense provides his defense with more challenges this year…

Cut 17 (18)  “their personnel”

A wild atmosphere is expected Saturday night in Tiger Stadium. It will be a new experience for sophomore quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, but Saban is optimistic he can handle it…

Cut 18 (14) “…to play” 

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The eyes of the football universe will be on Southeast Louisiana this weekend as both LSU and the Saints play huge games with massive playoff implications, and everybody, Black and Gold included will be watching that Tiger/Tide matchup. Saints Coach Sean Peyton it being Louisiana, he knows the players are gonna throw back a few and stay up late watching LSU, thankfully…

Cut 19 (17) “.time slots” 

And they’ll be facing the undefeated Rams, who come into New Orleans at 8-0 on the back on a nail-biter against Green Bay. Los Angeles sports the top running game in the league behind former Georgia Bulldog Todd Gurley, and sixth best Defense. Peyton credits that to the brilliant Rams head coach Sean McVay, whose seven years younger than Drew Brees.

Cut 20 (18) “new thoughts” 

The game LSU game kicks off at 7PM Saturday, and the Saints start at 325PM Sunday.

A new report shows 14 percent of bridges in Louisiana are structurally deficient, with a need for rehabilitation or possibly even replacement.  Spokesperson for the transportation research group TRIP, Rocky Moretti says fixing all of the bridge issues is not something that can happen overnight and it’ll take funding from all levels of government.

Cut 7 (09) “…bridges in Louisiana.”
DOTD responded, saying just because a bridge is rated structurally deficient, doesn’t mean it’s not safe to drive on.

The United Cajun Navy will provide protection to a few south Louisiana synagogues while tensions are high after the Pittsburgh terror attack on a Jewish congregation. 11 people died in the Saturday morning massacre by alleged shooter Robert Bowers. United Cajun Navy spokepersonBrian Trascher says they are inspired in part by an Islamic donation effort that raised 150,000 dollars for the victims.

Cut 4 (07) “…differences″
State Police asked the public to look for a Chevy that had damage to its right headlight, right bumper area and hood.

Over a million dollars in drugs were seized in Lafayette in one of the biggest busts in Parish history. The bust led to the arrest of three people and the discovery of 11.9 pounds of methamphetamine, enough for thousands of doses. Due to the level of danger involved in such a high profile drug bust,Lafayette Parish Sheriff Office spokesperson Lt. Mowell says they had to break out the big guns to take down the two locations.

Cut 13 (11) “…marcotics.“

A 28-year-old LaPlace man has been charged in a fatal hit and run that occurred on October 20th. Investigators say 55-year-old Danny Simoneaux of LaPlace was  hit by vehicle while walking on L-A 628. L-S-P spokesperson Melissa Matey says Charles Combetta not only accused of driving away after striking the victim, he also tried to destroy any evidence.

Cut 10 (10) “…were damaged.”

The United Cajun Navy will provide protection to a few south Louisiana synagogues while tensions are high after the Pittsburgh terror attack on a Jewish congregation. United Cajun Navy spokesperson Brian Trascher says they will provide an unarmed lookout service to keep an eye out for suspicious behavior around the houses of worship.

Cut 3 (10) “…the ordinary”
The United Cajun Navy says it’s a standing invitation over the next few weeks or months for any south Louisiana Jewish congregation that would like the support.

A new report shows 14 percent of bridges in Louisiana are structurally deficient, with a need for rehabilitation or possibly even replacement.  Spokesperson for the transportation research group TRIP, Rocky Moretti, says precautions are being taken with some of these bridges in order to extend structural lifespans.
Cut 6 (10) “…can remain open.”
DOTD responded, saying just because a bridge is rated structurally deficient, doesn’t mean it’s not safe to drive on.

A 28-year-old LaPlace man has been charged in a fatal hit and run that occurred on October 20th. Investigators say 55-year-old Danny Simoneaux of LaPlace was  hit by vehicle while walking on L-A 628. L-S-P spokesperson Melissa Matey says they believe Charles Combetta was the man who hit Simoneaux

Cut 9 (08) “…from the public.”

Matey says Combetta not only drove away after striking Simoneaux, he also tried to destroy any evidence

Over a million dollars in drugs were seized in Lafayette in one of the biggest busts in Parish history. The bust led to the arrest of three people and the discovery of 11.9 pounds of methamphetamine, enough for thousands of doses. Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Lt. John Mowell says the seizures were made at two locations.

Cut 12 (11)   “…out of.”

He says the majority of the meth was seized at the business location.