Early voting begins today for the November 18 election which includes a state treasurer race, New Orleans mayoral contest and local propositions in 32 parishes. Turnout is expected to be dismal and some legislators are questioning the validity of holding so many elections. Secretary of State Tom Schedler completely agrees.
Cut 25 (07) “good sign”
He expects the November election will have a lower turnout than the 14% in the primary.

State Fire Marshal Butch Browning is reminding residents as we’re turning our clocks back an hour on Sunday, it’s also a good opportunity to check the batteries in your smoke detector. He says another option could be to switch to a smoke alarm with a lithium battery. He says the battery is already sealed inside and activates when installed on the ceiling.
Cut 4 (09) “protection”

A 67-year-old grandmother is dead in Plaquemine after her grandson accidentally shot her Thursday. Authorities say 19-year-old Blaise Horton was holding a gun in a house when Kathleen Fulton was killed. Police Chief Kenny Payne says Horton didn’t know there was a single bullet remaining in the chamber.
Cut 6 (08) “the trigger”
The bullet grazed the dog and struck Fulton in the back.

A three-year-old toddler died as the result of an accidental shooting late Thursday in Arnaudville. The toddler was taken to a hospital and airlifted to another medical center where he later died. Major Ginny Higgins with the St. Martin Parish Sheriff’s Office says it’s important that gun owners are responsible with their weapons.
Cut 9 (08) “secure it.”