The sign-up period to run for mayor of New Orleans and other elected offices in the state begins today. Political Analyst Clancy Dubos says the entire world is going to be watching the Big Easy race…:
Cut 6 (07) “elsewhere”
He says that’s why he feels that even though the race is wide open, it feels like there’s less interest in the job than in years past.

The State Treasurers seat is also up for grabs in the October 14th election. UL-Lafayette political science professor Pearson Cross says this is the first time this post has been open since 2000, so it should be interesting. He says the fact that Kenner Representative Julie Stokes dropped out, could open it up to other contenders…:
Cut 7 (09) “in the race”
Also up for election is a seat on the Louisiana Public Service Commission, several judgeships, two vacant state House seats and local positions around the state.

An Amite Walmart that was set on fire last weekend sustained over a million dollars in damage. Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff Daniel Edwards says much of the inventory inside the store was completely ruined. He says 45-year-old Larry Schouest of Hammond allegedly used things in three Wal Marts to start the blaze while he made off with laptops…:
Cut 13 (13) “a fire”
Schouest is facing two counts of aggravated arson, six counts of felony theft, and charges of criminal damage to property.

It looks as though with year will be a good one for the brown shrimp harvest in the Gulf of Mexico. According to NOAA’s annual forecast, the harvest is expected to yield 44.2 million pounds. Dr. Rick Hart with the National Marine Fisheries Service says many factors in the water are adding up to lead to a productive season…:
Cut 10 (08) “for harvest”