In Natchitoches Parish, an entire logging operation is shut down after vandals destroyed two pieces of vital equipment in Winn Parish last Thursday. Enforcement officers say a radiator on a skidder and hole in the engine block of a cutter have paralyzed the business.  Commissioner of Agriculture and Forestry Mike Strain says LDAF along with the Winn Parish Sherriff’s office is asking for the public’s help.

Cut 7 (10) “…this damage.”

State Police arrest 34-year-old Jessie Joseph III of Raceland for the man’s tenth DWI arrest.  Senior Trooper Jesse LaGrange says Joseph was clocked going 89 in a 70 mph zone.

Cut 9 (11)  “…at that time.”

He faces up to 30 years in jail.

The 19-year-old Alabama freshman accused of calling in a bomb threat to the LSU-Florida game at Tiger Stadium faces up to 20 years in prison.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”

Louisiana Public Broadcasting and Council for a Better Louisiana will host a gubernatorial run-off debate between Governor Edwards and Eddie Rispone on October 30^th. Matt Doyle has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I”m Matt Doyle”

Billboards intended for Louisiana encouraging residents to vote were accidently put in Jackson, Mississippi. The message encouraged voters to cast their ballots on November 16^th, Louisiana’s run-off election day, but in Mississippi, election day in November 5^th. Billboard workers noticed the wrong date and all incorrect messages have since been removed.

The University of Alabama student accused of calling in a bomb threat during the sold-out LSU-Florida game has pleaded not guilty to a felony charge that carries up to a 20-year prison sentence. Police records say 19-year-old Connor Croll called in the threat in an attempt to stop the game because his friend was on the verge of losing a bet. Baton Rouge Attorney James Rothkamm represents Croll…
cut 13 (06) “…of the charges”
Croll’s next court date is January 8th.
In Natchitoches Parish an entire logging operation is shut down after vandals destroyed two pieces of vital equipment in Winn Parish.  Officials say vandals entered the operation, destroying the radiator on a skidder and cutting a hole in the engine block of a cutter.  Ag Commissioner Mike Strain says they are working with local authorities to catch the culprits,
Cut 6 (11) “…to justice.”
Strain says the repair bill is estimated at $16 thousand, it does not include loss of business.

Governor Edwards and Eddie Rispone will face off in what might be the only gubernatorial debate of the run-off October 30^th on Louisiana Public Broadcasting.

LPB partnered with Council for a Better Louisiana to host the debate, and CABL President Barry Erwin says the discussion will be broken into seven sections over the course of the hour.

Cut 4 (10) “…Louisiana.”

LSU’s Quarterback Joe Burrow is now the Heisman favorite according to bet-online-ag. Burrow is followed by Alabama’s Tua and their former QB, Oklahoma’s Jalen Hurts. Advocate writer Brooks Kubena says Burrow’s performance over Mississippi state and Tua’s ankle injury, advanced him to the top spot. Kubena says the next few games will only intensify his odds of being selected.

Cut 9 (08)  “…in New York..”

Connor Croll, the 19-year-old Alabama freshman accused of calling in a bomb threat to Tiger Stadium during the LSU-Florida game because a friend was on the verge of losing a large bet, pleads not guilty.  East Baton Rouge District Attorney Hillar Moore says while some may dismiss Croll’s alleged actions as childish, the evacuation of thousands, possibly inebriated fans, could have been chaotic.

Cut 11 (12) “…from Tiger Stadium.”

Baton Rouge Attorney James Rothkamm is representing Croll and calls him a good kid and says they are waiting until all information comes back before determining how to proceed.

Cut 12 (07) “…character for him.” 

Tuscaloosa Police claim Croll confessed to making the threat. He faces up to 20 years for the felony charge.

Louisiana Public Broadcasting and Council for a Better Louisiana will host a gubernatorial run-off debate between Governor Edwards and Eddie Rispone on October 30^th. Matt Doyle has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I”m Matt Doyle”

_____________________________

LSU could take top ranking next week in college football.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart” 

________________________

The 19-year-old Alabama freshman accused of calling in a bomb threat to the LSU-Florida game at Tiger Stadium faces up to 20 years in prison.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”

________________________

Governor Edwards and Eddie Rispone will face off in what is likely to be the only gubernatorial debate of the run-off October 30^th on Louisiana Public Broadcasting.

LPB partnered with Council for a Better Louisiana to host the debate, and CABL President Barry Erwin says the discussion will be broken into seven sections over the course of the hour.

Cut 4 (10) “…Louisiana.”

The program will begin at 7 PM and is stream-able on LPB.org.

The questions will be posed by a panel of journalists, but Erwin says they’ll give plenty of opportunities for the candidates to interrogate each other.

Cut 5 (10) “…rebuttal”

This follows a national trend in debate formats that set aside more time for candidate to candidate questions.

With less than a month until voters hit the polls there were growing concerns that a run-off debate would not happen. Erwin says in this case they just had a lot of coordinating work to do.

Cut 6 (09) .”things”

Erwin says they were in discussions about the format at least as of last week.

____________________

Could LSU take top ranking in college football next week?  A victory over ninth-ranked Auburn would be the third win over top-ten opponents for the Bayou Bengals this season.  Alabama has zero but is currently ranked number one.  AP Top 25 voter and Advocate writer Brooks Kubena says if LSU impressively handles their opponent, it could happen.

Cut 7 (11) “…higher than them.” 

Kubena says of the three top-ten opponents LSU has faced this year, Auburn is the only one with a previous loss, which could add a bit of urgency in their need to pick up a win.

Cut 8 (08) “…this one done.”

All eyes will be on Joe Burrow as the buzz for a Heisman Trophy continues to grow around the QB.  Kubena also participated in Heisman Trophy voting last year and says his performance over the next few games may only intensify his odds of being selected.

Cut 9 (08)  “…in New York..”

Kickoff is at 2:30 at Tiger Stadium.

______________________________

Connor Croll, the 19-year-old Alabama freshman accused of calling in a bomb threat to Tiger Stadium during the LSU-Florida game because a friend was on the verge of losing a large bet, pleads not guilty.  East Baton Rouge District Attorney Hillar Moore says a prank of this magnitude is not being taken lightly.

Cut 10 (10) “…to start scrambling.”

Croll faces up to 20 years for the felony charge.

Moore says while some may dismiss Croll’s alleged actions as childish, the evacuation of thousands of possibly inebriated fans from Tiger Stadium could have been chaotic.

Cut 11 (12) “…from Tiger Stadium.”

Baton Rouge Attorney James Rothkamm is representing Croll and calls him a good kid and says they are waiting until all information comes back before determining how to proceed.

Cut 12 (07) “…character for him.” 

Police claim Croll confessed to making the threat in an attempt to stop the game.

Rothkamm says Croll has the support of his family and community as the proceedings move forward.

Cut 13 (11) “…of the charges.”

Croll’s next court date is scheduled for January 8^th.

_____________________________

The Pelicans open the regular season tonight against the defending champs in Toronto sans superstar rookie sensation, forward Zion Williamson.

Williamson suffered a knee injury in preseason that required surgery that is set to keep him out for the next six to eight weeks. Locked on Pelicans publisher Jake Madison says it’s a noticeable setback for the franchise…

Cut 14 (10) “…wins” 

Williamson averaged 23 points and six rebounds a game on 71 percent shooting through his four preseason appearances.

Zion’s absence will give new Pels Lonzo Ball, JJ Redick, and Derrick Favors more of the limelight, but Madison says former Lakers small forward Brandon Ingram could benefit most from the minutes…

Cut 15 (09) “…option”

Ingram, who was acquired in the Anthony Davis trade, put up 18 points and five rebounds a game last year for L.A.

Zion may have been the rookie with the biggest spotlight, but fellow first-rounders center Jaxson Hayes and Nikel Alexander-Walker have also impressed in pre-season, particularly Alexander-Walker…

Cut 16  (11) “plays” 

Tip-off is at 7PM.

________________________________

2nd ranked LSU is preparing to host 9th ranked Auburn in an SEC series that’s been dominated by the home team over the last two decades. Auburn has not won in Tiger Stadium since 1999. Tigers coach Ed Orgeron says what’s happened in the past will not impact what happens Saturday

cut 17  (14) “…has been phenonemal” 

LSU’s Jacoby Stevens is the SEC Defensive Player of the Week. Stevens had a one-handed interception, eight tackles and a sack in the Tigers 36-13 win over Mississippi State. Orgeron says Stevens has really played well lately…

Cut 18 (15)  football player” 

Saints QB Drew Brees intends to practice with the team this week ahead of their Week 8 clash with the Cardinals this Sunday.  In an interview with WWL Radio, Brees says he’s impressed with the team’s latest performance in his absence.

Cut 8 (11) “…yards a pop.”

The Saints are on a five-game win streak with Teddy Bridgewater starting in the absence of Brees.

Five predominantly African American churches in Crowley have been vandalized since July, with the most recent incident being discovered this morning. Crowley Police Chief Jimmy Broussard says they aren’t sure what exactly is motivating these crimes, but considering the targets have been majority black institutions and houses of worship…

Cut 10 (07) “…of town”

Governor Edwards and Eddie Rispone will face off in what is likely to be the only gubernatorial debate of the run-off October 30^th on Louisiana Public Broadcasting. LPB partnered with Council for a Better Louisiana to host the debate. The questions will be posed by a panel of journalists but CABL President Barry Erwin says they’ll give plenty of opportunities for the candidates to interrogate each other.
Cut 30 (10) “…rebuttal”
The program will be stream-able on LPB.org.
State and local officials broke ground today on the U-S Highway 165 South Lighting project. The 555-thousand dollar project calls for the installation of nearly 40 new street lighting poles on U-S Highway 165 South from Century Bouelvard to Winnsboro Road. Governor John Bel Edwards says the project should be completed in four months, adding local and state funds are paying for the new poles

Cut 13 (05) “…Monroe.”

Governor Edwards and Eddie Rispone will face off in what is likely to be the only gubernatorial debate of the run-off October 30^th on Louisiana Public Broadcasting. LPB partnered with Council for a Better Louisiana to host the debate, and CABL President Barry Erwin says the discussion will be broken into seven sections over the course of the hour.

Cut 29 (10) “…Louisiana.”

The program will begin at 7 PM and is stream-able on LPB.org.

The Pelicans announce rookie sensation and first overall pick Zion Williamson will miss the next six to eight weeks after undergoing surgery on his knee. Williamson was expected to miss tommorow’s season opener against the Raptors in Toronto, and the home opener Friday against the Mavericks. In the meantime Williamson’s absence clairifies the team’s starting lineup, as former Lakers forward Brandon Ingram will slot into the positional void left open by the injury.

Saints QB Drew Brees intends to practice with the team this week ahead of their Week 8 clash with the Cardinals this Sunday. In an interview with WWL Radio, Brees says this week’s practice will be the gauge on the possibility of a return.

Cut 7 (12) “…range of motion.”

The Saints are on a five-game win streak with Teddy Bridgewater starting in the absence of Brees. 

Five predominantly African American churches in Crowley have been vandalized since July, with the most recent incident being discovered this morning. Crowley Police Chief Jimmy Broussard says thankfully so far damage to the churches has been limited, but it’s still unnerving for congregants…

Cut 9 (10)  “…doors.”

The first incident occurred in early July, with the rest occurring within the last month.

Connor Croll, the 19-year-old Alabama freshman accused of calling in a bomb threat to Tiger Stadium during the LSU-Florida game because a friend was on the verge of losing a large bet, pleads not guilty.  Croll faces up to 20 years for the felony charge.  His next court date is scheduled for January 8^th.
Five majority-African American churches have been vandalized in Crowley over the past four months. Matt Doyle has the story.

cut  2 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle”   

Southern University is hosting a job fair for it’s medical marijuana program starting at 4pm. Illera Holistic Healthcare is Southern’s grower, and CEO Dr. Chanda Macias says it’s a great opportunity to get your foot in the door of an industry that’s seen exceptional growth over the past few years.
Cut 5 (11) “…needs”
Southern is one of two authorized growers in the state.

State and local officials broke ground today on the U-S Highway 165 South Lighting project. Monroe Mayor Jamie Mayo says the additional lighting will improve the safety and aesthetics of a busy corridor that features several businesses, including hotels and restaurants. Governor John Bel Edwards says the project should be completed in four months. Because of stormy weather, the ceremonial groundbreaking on Monday morning was moved indoors, but the governor didn’t seem to mind

Cut 14 (12) “…for me”

Southern University holds a job fair today as it seeks workers for its new medical marijuana program. Brooke Thorington has the story…

Cut 1 (30) “..Brooke Thorington”

__________________________________________

Five majority-African American churches have been vandalized in Crowley over the past four months. Matt Doyle has the story.

cut  2 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle”   

________________________________________

Those interested in a career in medical marijuana will have their shot today at Southern University as the Baton Rouge school is hosting a job fair for its medical marijuana program today. Illera Holistic Healthcare is Southern’s grower, and CEO Dr. Chanda Macias says they have administrative and hands-on positions…

Cut 3 (12) “…sales”

They’ll be hiring for ten positions today and an additional 20 positions in the near future.

Macias says medical marijuana is a new industry, so you won’t need the years of experience other employers seem to always want. That being said…

Cut 4 (11) “to learn”

Applicants will have to pass a state background check, and all available positions are full-time with pay starting at 40,000 a year for some positions, and up to six figures for others.

Macias says it’s a great opportunity to get your foot in the door of an industry that’s seen exceptional growth over the past few years.

Cut 5 (11) “…needs”

Southern is one of two authorized growers in the state. The other, LSU and GB Sciences, have product that is now available at select pharmacies statewide.

________________________________________

Saints QB Drew Brees intends to practice with the team this week ahead of their Week 8 clash with the Cardinals this Sunday.  In an interview with WWL Radio, Brees says his return to the field is near.

Cut 6 (07) “…need some competition.”

Brees was injured in the Week 2 loss to the Rams. Following a surgery on his throwing hand, the initial prognosis of return set at six weeks.  A comeback at the dome this week would be right on schedule with that timeline.

Brees says this week’s practice will be the gauge on the possibility of a return.

Cut 7 (12) “…range of motion.”

The Saints are on a five-game win streak with Teddy Bridgewater starting in the absence of Brees.  The Black and Gold beat the Bears 36-25 yesterday.  Brees says he’s impressed with the team’s performance in his absence.

Cut 8 (11) “…yards a pop.”

The 6-1 Saints host the 3-3-1 Arizona Cardinals for a noon kickoff.  The Cardinals are currently on a three-game win streak.

______________________________

Five predominantly African American churches in Crowley have been vandalized since July, with the most recent incident being discovered this morning.

Crowley Police Chief Jimmy Broussard says thankfully so far damage to the churches has been limited, but it’s still unnerving for congregants…

Cut 9 (10)  “…doors.”

The first incident occurred in early July, with the rest occurring within the last month.

Broussard says they aren’t sure what exactly is motivating these crimes, but considering the targets have been majority black institutions and houses of worship…

Cut 10 (07) “…of town”

The son of a St. Landry Parish deputy was arrested on federal hate crime charges earlier this year after allegedly setting fire to a series of historically black churches.

The Chief says if this is a case of juvenile delinquency, now would be a good time to turn yourself in because they’re getting close to having the feds get involved…

Cut 11 (07) “…of state.”

Anyone with information about these incidents is urged to call the Crowley Police Department.

____________________________

State and local officials broke ground today on the U-S Highway 165 South Lighting project. Monroe Mayor Jamie Mayo says the additional lighting will improve the safety and aesthetics of a busy corridor that features several businesses, including hotels and restaurants. Governor John Bel Edwards…

Cut 12 (08) “…in Monroe.” 

The 555-thousand dollar project calls for the installation of nearly 40 new street lighting poles on U-S Highway 165 South from Century Bouelvard to Winnsboro Road. Edwards says local and state funds are paying for the new poles

Cut 13 (05) “…Monroe.”

Edwards says the project should be completed in four months. Because of stormy weather, the ceremonial groundbreaking on Monday morning was moved indoors, but the governor didn’t seem to mind

Cut 14 (12) “…for me”

___________________________

Cut 15 (07) “…is yes.”

Cut 16 (13) “…feel guilty”

_______________________

Those interested in a career in the medical marijuana industry will have their shot today at Southern University. The college is hosting a job fair for it’s medical marijuana program starting at 4pm. Illera Holistic Healthcare is Southern’s grower, and CEO Dr. Chanda Macias says it’s a great opportunity to get your foot in the door of an industry that’s seen exceptional growth over the past few years.
Cut 5 (11) “…needs”
Southern is one of two authorized growers in the state. The other, LSU and GB Sciences, have product that is now available at select pharmacies statewide.

Saints QB Drew Brees intends to practice with the team this week ahead of their Week 8 clash with the Cardinals this Sunday.  In an interview with WWL Radio, Brees says he has been impressed with the team’s performance in his absence.

Cut 8 (11) “…yards a pop.”

Five predominantly African American churches in Crowley have been vandalized since July, with the most recent incident being discovered this morning. Crowley Police Chief Jimmy Broussard says thankfully so far damage to the churches has been limited, but it’s still unnerving for congregants…
Cut 9 (09)  “…and the caregivers.”
The first incident occurred in early July, with the rest occurring within the last month.

Republican gubernatorial candidate Eddie Rispone has so far not agreed to participate in any run-off debates or forums with Governor Edwards before the November 16 election. Because of Rispone’s momentum and Edwards’ public speaking skill, UL Lafayette Poli Sci Professor Pearson Cross does not expect there to be a run-off debate.

Cut 12 (12) “…or so.” 

A recent poll shows the two candidates tied 47 to 47 percent.

Those interested in a career in the medical marijuana industry will have their shot today at Southern University. The college is hosting a job fair for it’s medical marijuana program starting at 4pm. Illera Holistic Healthcare is Southern’s grower, and CEO Dr. Chanda Macias says medical marijuana is a new industry, so you won’t need the years of experience other employers seem to always want. That being said…

Cut 4 (11) “to learn”

They’ll be hiring for ten positions today and an additional 20 positions in the near future.
Saints QB Drew Brees intends to practice with the team this week ahead of their Week 8 clash with the Cardinals this Sunday.  In an interview with WWL Radio, Brees says this week’s practice will be the gauge on the possibility of a return.

Cut 7 (12) “…range of motion.”

Republican gubernatorial candidate Eddie Rispone has so far not agreed to participate in any run-off debates or forums with Governor Edwards before the November 16 election. Governor Edwards says he’ll debate Rispone, and has RSVP’d to the October 30^th Louisiana Public Broadcasting run-off debate.  UL Lafayette Poli Sci Professor Pearson Cross says Edwards has good reason to want a public showdown.

Cut 11 (10) “speaker.”

A recent poll shows the two candidates tied 47 to 47 percent.

Game time is set for the Tuscaloosa showdown between second-ranked LSU and top-ranked Bama on November 9^th. Kickoff is scheduled for 2:30.