Early voting in the November 3rd election is over. Almost 521-thousand voters cast ballots in the seven days of early voting, with Democrats outnumbering Republicans by almost 16-thousand. LSU Political Science Professor Robert Hogan says while that may be cause for concern for Julia Letlow for the time being, she may be bolstered by the U.S. House races in districts five and six on Election Day.

Cut 3 (11) “…might incur statewide.”

Global credit rating agency Fitch Ratings has upgraded Louisiana’s state credit rating from Double-A negative (AA-) to Double-A (AA), with a stable outlook. State Treasurer John Fleming says a stronger credit rating can help access capital markets on more favorable terms, potentially reducing borrowing costs.

Cut 14 (08) “…for the taxpayer.”

FMOL Health is helping those who can’t easily get to a clinic to get screened for breast cancer by unveiling its new mobile mammography unit. Dr. Chris Funes (FOO-nez), the medical director for ambulatory quality for FMOL Health, says screenings are by appointment.

Cut 13 (10)  “…get them screened.” 

The National Retail Federation expects shoppers to increase their spending on Halloween costumes this year. N-R-F Senior Analyst Lea Grgich says nearly half of consumers are using A-I to help with their Halloween shopping this year.

Cut 10 (07) “…during product research.”

Grgich says classic Halloween characters like witches and vampires remain popular costume choices for adults, while comic book characters like Batman and Spider-Man dominate costume choices for kids.