The State Fair has kicked off in Shreveport. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “..Matt Doyle”

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A Monroe man is behind bars for allegedly hitting a high school student on her skateboard and then driving away in a fatal hit-and-run. Jeff Palermo has more…

cut  2 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”   

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Louisiana Tech announces two economic development partnerships, one of which is a $7.5 million commitment from LED for a new $15 million multitenant office building in the school’s enterprise campus.  La Tech’s Chief Research and Innovation Officer Davey Norris says the addition will add 750 new jobs over the next decade.

Cut 3 (13)   “…type of jobs.” 

It’s estimated to create a half-billion-dollar economic impact over the next ten years.

Norris says the other partnership is a $3 million commitment from the state towards the Louisiana Tech Research Institute at the Cyber Innovation Center in Bossier City, where the school will work with Barksdale Air Force Base.

Cut 4 (10) “…national security purposes.”

Norris says additional funding for both projects will be coming from the school and private partnerships.

Cut 5 (11) “…and other partners.”

______________________

The Louisiana State Fair in Shreveport begins today and runs through November 10^th.

State Fair Marketing Manager Russell Adams says for the next few weeks they’ll have roughly 25 bands rotating through the grounds, rodeos, lumberjack shows, and a new addition that you’ve probably never seen before.

Cut 6 (10) “…tricks”.

Attendees will also be treated to antique tractor pulls, a BB gun competition, and a car show.

The carnival opens every day at noon and Adams says this year they’ll have 60 rides for folks to enjoy, with 25 of them dedicated to the kids.

Cut 7 (09) “…environment.”

A general admission ticket is 12 bucks.

Adams says just about any food you can think of you can find fried at the fair including mac-n-cheese and bread pudding. That being said they’ve got a few fan favorites returning this year…

Cut 8 (09) “…public.”

The fairgrounds are open 10 to 10 Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays, and 10 to 11 Fridays and Saturdays.

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A 51-year-old Monroe man is in custody in a fatal hit-and-run that claimed the life of 15-year-old Neville High student Ashley Dorsey. Corporal Reggie Brown with the Monroe Police Department says tips from the public led to the arrest of Daniel Ross

Cut 9 (10)  “…wide open”

Ross has been charged with negligent homicide and felony hit-and-run. Brown says they’ve received a full confession from Ross

Cut 10 (10) “….Mr. Ross”

Dorsey was riding her skateboard when she was hit on Tuesday night. The police report says Ross was operating his white Chevy Equinox negligently prior to hitting the victim. Brown says Ross drove away without rendering aid and its disappointing he didn’t come forward when news came out about a fatal hit and run

Cut 11 (11) “…did not” 

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A high ranking Livingston Parish sheriff’s deputy and his wife, a middle school teacher in Walker, are in jail, accused of child rape and the production of child pornography. Dennis and Cynthia Perkins have both lost their jobs and legal analyst Tim Meche says the charges against them could lead to life in prison

Cut 12 (09) “…for this” 

44-year-old Dennis Perkins’ bond has been set at over 1-point-five million dollars as he’s also facing video voyeurism and obscenity charges. His 34-year-old wife is being held on a 500-thousand dollar bond. Meche says if their cases go to trial, it will likely not happen in Livingston Parish…

Cut 13 (08) “…the community.”

The Attorney General’s office is leading the investigation. Livingston Sheriff Jason Ard says he considers Dennis Perkins a friend and family member, but no one is above the law. Meche says a jury will take their professions into account, which will make it difficult on the defense lawyers

Cut 14 (06) “…the community”

LSU coach Ed Orgeron’s four million dollar a year salary is good for 30^th highest in the NCAA and 9^th highest in the SEC. Matt Doyle has more…

Cut 1 (29) “..Matt Doyle”

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A Raceland man faces 30 years in prison following his 10^th DWI arrest. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

cut  2 (29) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”   

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LSU’s Ed Orgeron is the 30th highest-paid coach in college football and the 9th highest paid in the SEC at four million dollars a year according to the annual USA Today salary report. The Tigers are the number two team in the nation, but USA Today LSU writer Glenn Guilbeau says that doesn’t mean Coach O is underpaid…

Cut 3 (10)      start” 

Orgeron’s record at LSU is 32-and-9.

Gilbeau says if Orgeron can finish the season the way he started it, he’ll get a pay raise and fans will rush to crown Orgeron a king if he beats Bama November 9^th, but…

Cut 4 (08) “season”

Gilbeau says Orgeron could still score a major raise even if they lose to Bama by taking the team into, or close to the NCAA playoffs.

LSU is the second highest-scoring team in the nation, averaging 50 points per game. Gilbeau says dollar for dollar it’s tough to find better value than LSU’s offensive trio…

Cut 5 (07) “…bargain”

Ed Orgeron, offensive coordinator Steve Ensminger, and passing game coordinator Joe Brady make a combined 5.2 million dollars. That’s 1.6 million less than Auburn coach Gus Malzahn’s total salary.

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A Natchitoches Parish logging operation is shut down after vandals destroyed two vital pieces of equipment in Winn Parish. Officials say the culprits entered the operation and destroyed the radiator on a skidder and cut a hole in the engine block of a cutter. Agriculture Commissioner Mike Strain says they are working with the local authorities

Cut 6 (11) “…to justice.”

Estimated damages are 16-thousand dollars and that does not include loss of business. The equipment was in St. Maurice when it was damaged. Strain says they are asking for the public’s help.

Cut 7 (10) “…this damage.”

Two men are charged in connection with the theft of two new tractors in Sabine Parish. Both 38-year old Stephen Morton of Shreveport and 41-year old Michael Bayonne of Alexandria are in custody. The two tractors valued $80-thousand dollars, are still missing. Strain says owners of ag equipment should keep detailed records of their property.

Cut 8 (11) “…a call.”

If you have any information about either crime, please call the LDAF Farm Related Crime Stoppers line at 1-800-558-9741

_____________________________

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.”

LaGrange says when an impaired driver puts the safety of others at risk, it’s a situation that is not taken lightly.

Cut 10 (12) “…with that also.”

LaGrange says a third DWI offense and every subsequent offense is considered a felony charge.

Cut 11 (05) “…off the road.”

Joseph faces up to thirty years in jail.

____________________________

Temps are noticeably beginning to cool throughout the state.  State Climatologist Barry Keim says the state is under a high-pressure system that originated over the north Pacific bringing colder air with it.

Cut 12 (09) “…all across Louisiana.” 

For the next several days, expect afternoon high temps to be in the mid-70s.  Keim says you may want to dress warmer for the mornings.

Cut 13 (07) “…region of Louisiana.”

Keim says looking into the weekend, forecast models begin to disagree on a front that could mean rain for the weekend, but says the temps should be pleasant for outdoor college football plans.

Cut 14 (10) “…the maximum temperature.”

Senator Bill Cassidy says a new law will patch a healthcare loophole that will save taxpayers billions of dollars.

Cut 1 (30) “I”m Connor Ferrill”

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Louisiana sees its highest case count in twenty years for hepatitis A. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart” 

________________________

Governor Edwards may be itching for a gubernatorial debate but Matt Doyle spoke to one political analyst who says don’t expect Eddie Rispone to take the risk…

Cut 3 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle”

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President Trump signed the Fair and Accurate Medicaid Pricing Act into law to close a loophole that allows drug companies to overcharge taxpayers. U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy authored the law that he says will save Americans over 3 billion dollars in taxes…

Cut 4 (12) “…loophole.”

Cassidy says he is a fan of drug companies who pioneer needed drugs for patients but…

Cut 5 (08) “…invented.”

Cassidy says he hopes the newly passed law is not the only healthcare reform he can push through Congress. Cassidy says 20 other pieces of bipartisan legislation are in the pipeline to send a message to drug companies…

Cut 6 (07) “…against you.”

____________________

The state’s latest tally of hepatitis A cases is up to just shy of 600, the highest case count in twenty years.  It’s part of a larger nationwide outbreak.  Louisiana Department of Health immunization director Dr. Frank Welch says the state’s number of new cases appears to be slowing down.

Cut 7 (11) “…every single week.” 

The average number of cases each year in the state is 10 to 15 cases.  Livingston Parish has the largest concentration of cases with between 121 and 240 cases. East Baton Rouge and Ouachita parishes reported the second highest concentration.

Welch says those most at risk for the ailment are those that have been homeless or have used injectable drugs over the last year and says immunizations can easily be obtained from pharmacies, doctors, federally qualified health centers, or public health units.

Cut 8 (09) “…combat this epidemic.”

Welch says the ailment, which is a highly contagious liver infection, can be spread easily through close contact, adding it is nothing to take lightly.

Cut 9 (08)  “…plus deaths nationwide.”

While having the vaccine is the best way to prevent catching hepatitis A, good hygiene including thoroughly washing hands is another recommendation in fighting back the epidemic.

______________________________

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.  UL Lafayette Poli Sci Professor Pearson Cross says Rispone has the momentum and a finely crafted message that is working, so there’s little incentive for the candidate to participate.

Cut 10 (10) “…run-off”

The Baton Rouge Area Chamber of Commerce hoped to have a candidate forum tomorrow, but only Edwards has agreed to attend.

Governor Edwards says he’ll debate Rispone, and has RSVP’d to the October 30^th Louisiana Public Broadcasting run-off debate. Cross says Edwards has good reason to want a public showdown.

Cut 11 (10) “speaker.”

Because of Rispone’s momentum and Edwards’ public speaking skill, 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.

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Second ranked LSU started slow, but eventually cruised to another SEC road victory as the Bayou Bengals scored 27 unanswered points on their way to a 36-13 win over Mississippi State on Saturday. The offense settled for field goals early, before finding the end zone on a more regular basis. Coach Ed Orgeron…

Cut 13 (11) “…next week.”

Orgeron says he’s proud the defense held State to just a touchdown in the first half as the offense was trying to find its groove…

Cut 14 (11) “…to play” 

LSU had a season-low in points with 36 points and total yards with 413, but Quarterback Joe Burrow still threw for 327 yards and four touchdowns. He broke the Tigers single season record for touchdowns thrown as he has 27. Burrow says the hard work they did in the offseason has led to what is already a record breaking season…

Cut 15 (11) “…five games left”

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The Saints stretched their winning streak to five straight with a dominating performance in Chicago beating the Bears 36-25. New Orleans outgained Chicago 424-to-252. Wide receiver Michael Thomas had nine catches for 131 yards as Teddy Bridgewater threw for 281 yards and two touchdowns. Latavius Murray filled in for the injured Alvin Kamara and had 119 yards and two TDs. Bridgewater says this game was all about attitude…

Cut 16  (18) “…did that today” 

The Saints are now 6-1 and Bridgewater is 5-0 as a starter filling in for the injured Drew Brees, who could possibly return next Sunday. Bridgewater on the team’s great run since the loss to the Rams…

cut 17  (16) “…letting it rip” 

New Orleans returns home next Sunday to host the suddenly hot Cardinals, who have won three in a row.

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For the first time in five seasons, Louisiana Tech beat its biggest Conference USA Rival as the Bulldogs downed Southern Miss 45-30 to improve to 6-1 overall, 3-and-0 in Conference USA. Star junior cornerback Amik Robertson had three interceptions and the Thibodaux native says he was fired to go up against Quez Watkins, one of the best receivers in the league

Cut 18 (15)  as a team” 

La Tech fell behind 14-0 in the first quarter. Robertson says he told the team to stay with it

cut 19 (10)   “come back”   

Explosives will be used to bring down the cranes at the Hard Rock Hotels collapse in New Orleans, but with recent movement and an incoming tropical system, they are racing the clock. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “I”m Kevin Barnhart”

_____________________________

An Alabama student who allegedly called in a false bomb threat to Tiger Stadium has been released from East Baton Rouge Parish Prison on bond. Matt Doyle asked a legal analyst what to expect next…

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

________________________

A recount breaks a tie in a Baton Rouge Senate race that’s sparked controversy after reports came out that said a GOP mega-donor tried to give a candidate a quid pro quo to drop out…

Cut 3 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle”

________________________

Demolition experts will use explosives to take down the heavily damaged cranes at the Hard Rock Hotel in New Orleans.  The “T” at the top of each crane weighs about 145,000 pounds.  New Orleans Fire Chief Tim McConnell says recent movement detected indicates they may not have much time to spare.

Cut 4 (12) “…take this down.”

McConnell says there is major gas and electrical infrastructure going to the French Quarter that is within an area of danger that they are trying to be mindful of with the demolition.

Cut 5 (07) “…around there.”

McConnell hopes to have the crane demolition done by dark as they are racing the clock to beat the bad weather.

Cut 6 (10) “…come down uncontrolled.”

McConnell says bodies still inside the collapse and workers are doing everything they can to not only safely demolish the cranes, but have a better chance at recovering the remains for the families.

____________________

The Saints will head to the Windy City for a Sunday matchup with the Chicago Bears.  The black and gold are on a 4-game hot streak with Teddy Bridgewater at starting QB.  Coach Sean Payton says Bridgewater’s performance showcases the aspects of his demeanor that the coach appreciates at the QB position.

Cut 7 (11) “…presence about him.” 

The Saints will have to figure out a way to keep their streak alive without cornerback PJ Williams, who is suspended for two games for violating the NFL’s substance-abuse policy.  Payton says he’s got faith in Patrick Robinson and rookie safety CJ Gardner-Johnson to step up in the absence.

Cut 8 (12) “…at that position.”

Punter Thomas Morestead says as much as he loves the New Orleans crowd, he’s looking forward to another trip to the outdoor stadium.

Cut 9 (10)  “…get a win.”

______________________________

Connor Croll, the Alabama student who allegedly called in a false bomb threat to Tiger Stadium during Saturday’s game, has been released from East Baton Rouge Parish Prison on a 100,000 dollar bond.

Croll has been charged with communication of false information of planned bombing on school property. Legal analyst Tim Meche says expect Croll’s defense to be based around the fact that the threat had no teeth…

Cut 10 (13) “…harm”

Croll reportedly told police he called in the threat to stop the game because his friend was at risk of losing money on a bet.

The stadium was swept, but the game was not canceled or disrupted as a result, and Croll’s call was traced shortly thereafter. Meche says you won’t get away with that in 2019…

Cut 11 (07) “…joking.”

Meche says because there never was a real threat he expects the Virginia native will be hit with probation and counseling.

Cut 12 (08) “…man.” 

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A Baton Rouge Senate race will not be a three-way run-off after a recount puts Representative Franklin Foil four votes ahead of Representative Steve Carter for second place.

Controversy erupted after a report that Republican kingmaker Lane Grigsby attempted to convince Foil to drop out in exchange for help winning a judgeship. It’s left a cloud over the proceedings…

Cut 13 (08) “…for you.”

That’s former GOP Congressional candidate Rob Maness, who says the events have shaken his confidence in the state party’s integrity.

Maness says he doubts there will be any repercussions for Grigbsy’s reported actions. He says moneyed interests like the Baton Rouge businessman have too much influence.

Cut 14 (09) “…tell you” 

The longtime GOP activist says Grigsby’s substantial influence with gubernatorial candidate Eddie Rispone and other state leaders has convinced him to register as an independent.

Cut 15 (09) “…else”

Maness says he was approached with a similar offer in 2016 when he ran for the Senate seat ultimately won by John Kennedy.

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Second-ranked LSU begins the second half of the regular season tomorrow against Mississippi State with a 6-0 record. The Tigers have put themselves in the conversation as a possible playoff team. Running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire says they are trying to live in the moment

Cut 16  (19) “…next game” 

Mississippi State is allowing nearly 28 points a game and they rank 10th in the SEC in total defense. But they’ve forced 16 turnovers in six games. Edwards-Helaire says they have to protect the football…

cut 17  (20) “…that situation” 

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Louisiana Tech and Southern Miss will meet for the 51st time on Saturday and the winner will have sole possession of first place in the West Division of Conference USA. Bulldogs Coach Skip Holtz says there’s no doubt, this is a big game

Cut 18 (21)  west division” 

Tech has won five in a row and they are perfect 3-and-0 at Joe Aillet Stadium. The Golden Eagles are 4-and-2 overall and they are coming off a 45-27 win over North Texas. Southern Miss QB Jack Abraham threw for 421 yards and three touchdowns in that game and Holtz says his defense will be tested…

cut 19 (11)   “speedy receivers”   

A tropical storm warning has been issued for the southeastern Louisiana coast from Grand Isle to the east. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

_____________________________

Governor Edwards claims GOP gubernatorial candidate Eddie Rispone’s plan to freeze Medicaid Enrollment will result in hundres of thousands of people losing their health insurance . Kevin Barnhart has more…

cut  2 (31) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”   

________________________________________

There’s controversy in a tied Baton Rouge Senate race as one of the candidates was reportedly offered help winning a future judgeship in exchange for dropping out.

Franklin Foil and Steve Carter are in tie for second. The Advocate’s Mark Ballard says Republican mega-donor Lane Grigsby tried to get Foil to drop out by calling the seat’s term-limited incumbent…

Cut 3 (10) “…race”

Grigsby backed Carter in the primary.

Claitor says the offer was appalling, and he did not pass it along to Foil, whom he supports. Ballard says Claitor expressed concerns that the offer was also illegal.

Cut 4 (09) “similar”

Grigsby was heavily involved in a number of primary races, including the election of Cleo Fields to the Senate, a number of BESE members, and was reportedly involved in Eddie Rispone’s run for governor.

Ballard says it’s a rare look at how the sausage gets made in Baton Rouge.

Cut 5 (10) “…newspaper.”

A hand recount of paper ballots in the race is scheduled for today at the Secretary of State’s office which could break the deadlock.

________________________________________

A Tropical Storm Warning has been issued for a portion of coastal southeast Louisiana as Nestor is expected to develop in the Gulf of Mexico and quickly move to the northeast. National Weather Service forecaster Mike Efferson says they are not expecting this developing storm to ramp up into a hurricane

Cut 6 (05) “…coastal Louisiana.”

Nestor is expected to form in the southwest Gulf of Mexico and race towards the Florida panhandle, but Efferson says areas south of Lake Pontchartrain could see some effects…

Cut 7 (10) “…tropical storm force.”

Efferson says this mid-October storm is not expected to have a major impact on Louisiana…

Cut 8 (11) “…this storm”

______________________________

Governor John Bel Edwards says his Republican opponent Eddie Rispone’s plan to freeze Medicaid enrollment if elected will rip away healthcare from more than 300,000 people. Edwards says seasonal workers who see pay fluctuations feeling the biggest impact.

Cut 9 (12) “…has been frozen.”

Edwards says federal dollars foot the bill for the cost of Medicaid expansion.

Cut 10 (11) “…need it the most.”

Rispone’s campaign responded calling Edwards’ press conference today a political stunt and the expansion is unstable and full of waste.  Edwards says he feels confident in the safeguards implemented to ensure the program’s integrity.

Cut 11 (13) “…eligibility check system.” 

____________________________

Louisiana Economic Development is investing $3.6 million dollars into a new eight-million dollar natural gas pipeline at the Madison Parish Port near Tallulah to encourage future economic development. The state’s contribution will help double the pipeline’s capacity. L-E-D Secretary Don Pierson says initially only one company would benefit now it’s ten.

Cut 12 (12) “…port facilty” 

Pierson says this is a unique opportunity to help a rural area that’s in the need of new jobs.

Cut 13 (11) “…future growth.”

The Madison Parish Port is on the Mississippi River. It handles mainly agricultural products and Pierson says with the gas pipeline expansion, the Port will attract more tenants.

Cut 14 (11) “…future progress”

CenterPoint Energy will construct the pipeline and provide the natural gas service.

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The National Hurricane Center gives an area of low pressure in the Bay of Campeche a medium chance of developing into at least a tropical depression in the Gulf of Mexico this week. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle”

_____________________________

Authorities say they now know what motivated an Alabama student to phone in a threat to Tiger Stadium. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

cut  2 (29) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”   

________________________________________

An area of low pressure just off the southern Mexican coast has a medium chance of developing into a tropical depression and possibly a storm according to the National Hurricane Center. National Weather Service Slidell Meteorologist Michael Hill says forecasts show the system moving away from Mexico, and heading towards the central Gulf coast this weekend.

Cut 3 (09) “…will go”

And Hill says depending on which way the storm tilts over the next two days, we could be looking at a very wet weekend…

Cut 4 (06) “rain”

There is some good news though, Hill says even if we do get bulls-eyed by the system, it’s unlikely to do anything other than dump some rain on the region.

Cut 5 (11) “…about.”

Hill says the rainy weather will combine with an incoming cold front that is set to send temperatures into the 50s tomorrow morning.

________________________________________

A woman is arrested in Breaux Bridge for impersonating a police officer. 48-year-old Christina Macdonald is accused of initiating a traffic stop.  Assistant Police Chief Terry Latiolais says the suspect flashed a badge to encourage another driver to pull over.

Cut 6 (11) “…their separate ways.”

Latiolais says after the stop, the victim came to the police station to explain what had happened.

Cut 7 (08) “…thought they did.”

The investigation is ongoing as to how the suspect obtained the badge or if it was an official badge, but have confirmed it was not a Breaux Bridge Police Department badge.  Latiolais says impersonating an officer hurts the relationship between law enforcement and citizens.

Cut 8 (06) “…officer or not.”

______________________________

At the Hard Rock Hotel collapse site, today is day five and likely the last day of rescue mode operations.  New Orleans Fire Chief Tim McConnell says they have not had a detection of life since Sunday morning from any of the dogs searching the rubble.

Cut 9 (11) “…mode to recovery.”

DNA was recently found at the scene but was matched with another body recovered on Saturday.  McConnell says the transition to recovery mode means reducing the risk to responders take at the site as a further collapse is likely.

Cut 10 (10) “…for these families.”

McConnell says the chance of survival of the remaining missing construction worker drops significantly if there is no indication of a live person by tonight.  McConnell believes they have a good idea of where bodies can be found.

Cut 11 (09) “…families some closure.” 

Two people are confirmed dead as a result of Saturday morning’s collapse.

____________________________

The Rapides Parish Sheriff’s office has charged a 71-year-old Alexandria man with two counts of first-degree murder for the 1989 deaths of his wife and her friend. Lt Stephen Phillips says Robert Blair was responsible for the disappearances of 34-year-old Isabelle Blair and 31-year-old Marian Coutee after finding a vehicle in a pond on a piece of property that once belonged to Robert Blair…

Cut 12 (10) “…the victims” 

Phillips says a detective assigned to the case 30 years ago received some new information about two months ago, which led to a search of the pond that turned up the vehicle. He says this is why cold cases are never really closed…

Cut 13 (09) “…before.”

On Tuesday, Robert Blair was taken into custody without incident. His bond has been set at two-million dollars. Phillips says they are glad to finally get justice in this case…

Cut 14 (11) “…family member”

Republicans are on the verge of holding a supermajority in both the House and Senate. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

_____________________________

A Louisiana senate race appears headed to a three-person runoff. Don Molino has the story…

cut  2 (30) “…I’m Don Molino”   

________________________________________

Based on the results from the October 12th election, Republicans are two seats away from capturing a Super Majority in the state House. Dr. Michael Henderson, assistant professor at the LSU Manship School of Mass Communication, says the GOP won several house seats Saturday held by a Democrat, but voters in that district supported President Trump in 2016

Cut 3 (11) “…to three”

Henderson says if Republicans win the 50th House district seat in St. Mary Parish and the 62nd in East Feliciana and on hold on to the seats they already have, they’ll have the 70 needed for a supermajority. Henderson says in the 62nd district Johnny Arceneaux is looking to defeat incumbent Roy Adams, who is an Independent…

Cut 4 (11) “…Republican challengers”

Democrats can also prevent a supermajority of Republicans in the House by winning either the 70th or 94th district races which are in Baton Rouge and New Orleans. Henderson says if Republicans have a supermajority in the House and Democrat John Bel Edwards wins re-election for governor, we might see the legislature override a governor’s veto…

Cut 5 (09) “…party unity.”

Republicans have already achieved a supermajority as the picked up two additional seats in the Senate.

________________________________________

A highly competitive Baton Rouge Senate race is likely headed for a hand recount after a voting tally adjustment results in a tie between Republican Representatives Franklin Foil and Steve Carter.

As of Sunday morning it looked like Foil would make the run-off over Carter by an eight vote margin. Senator Dan Claitor, who was term-limited out of the disputed seat, says it’s an incredible development.

Cut 6 (11) “…settle”

Democrat Beverly Brooks Thompson has the most votes and is guaranteed a spot in the Senate District 16 run-off.

The recent update puts both Carter and Foil at 12,522. Former state Democratic Party Chairman Jim Nichol says each campaign can select two representatives to witnesses the recount.

Cut 7 (08) “…private”

If the vote remains tied, a three-way run-off will likely be held. Whoever obtains a plurality of votes would then be elected without needing over 50 percent.

The race for the 16^th had the second highest turnout of any state senate competition. Nichol says this race is another reminder that every vote counts…

Cut 8 (11) “…morning”

______________________________

Widespread showers and thunderstorms over the next couple of days will bring rain to the state that hasn’t seen much precipitation over the last several weeks. State Climatologist Barry Keim says a front is currently stalled along the coastline…

Cut 9 (13) “…even more rain.”

The pattern could result in three to four inches over the next three days, especially over northern parishes.  Keim says two-thirds of the state is considered to be abnormally dry or in drought.

Cut 10 (06) “…things like that.”

Keim says the rate of rain fall with a light drizzle is perfect for recharging the soil.

Cut 11 (11) “…landscape can handle.” 

____________________________

LSU’s impressive win over Florida on Saturday moved the Fighting Tigers to number two in the latest AP Top 25. Alabama is ranked number one, even though LSU has two victories over Top 10 teams and the Crimson Tide’s schedule has not been as difficult. The Advocate’s Brooks Kubena is a Top 25 voter and has a theory on why Bama is ranked number one….

Cut 12 (11) “…that’s it” 

Kubena says LSU’s offense is one of the best in the country, but there are questions about the Tigers defense, which might be why LSU received 12 first-place votes, compared to Alabama’s 30

Cut 13 (09) “…up 28 points.”

In Kubena’s Top 25 poll, he has Ohio State number one, followed by LSU and then Alabama. Kubena says the Buckeyes look like the most complete team to him…

Cut 14 (12) “…doing well”

Election day is tomorrow, and Connor Ferrill has the details.

Cut 1 (29) “…I’m Connor Ferrill”

_____________________________

There are four constitutional amendments on the October 12th ballot. Jeff Palermo has more…

cut  2 (31) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”  

________________________________________

Election day is tomorrow with the gubernatorial race at the top of the ballot. Secretary of State Kyle Ardoin says there are a few things voters should know before they head to the polls…

Cut 3 (11) “…polling stations.”

Ardoin says you can also look at a sample ballot at geauxvote.com. He expects an overall voter turnout of 45 percent.

Ardoin says voters should expect a speedy process and minor wait times on the way to the voting booth…

Cut 4 (12) “…as possible.”

Once voters cast their ballots, they can expect a newly designed I voted sticker which features Louisiana’s state bird the pelican.

Ardoin says if voters have any issues, they should give the secretary of state’s office a call…

Cut 5 (09) “…normal website.”

Visit geaux-vote-dot-com for more information.

________________________________________

The biggest game of the season has arrived for 5th ranked LSU as they host 7th ranked Florida in an SEC Showdown. Quarterback Joe Burrow remembers losing to the Gators in the Swamp last year and badly wants to beat Florida in Death Valley on Saturday night

Cut 6 (08) “…like this”

Burrow says Florida has the best defense they’ve faced this season…

Cut 7 (11) “…get to.”

LSU leads the country in scoring, averaging 55 points per game. Burrow says for the Tigers to put a bunch of points on the scoreboard Saturday night, they need to take advantage of their scoring opportunities….

Cut 8 (10) “…red zone”

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In addition to the governor’s race and other elections, the October 12th ballot has four proposed constitutional amendments. Public Affairs Research Council of Louisiana Policy Director Steve Procopio advises voters to do their homework before they enter the voting booth…

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The proposed constitutional amendment that has received the most attention is Amendment Four, which would give New Orleans the ability to create a residential property tax exemption for affordable housing units. Procopio on why the measure must receive approval statewide…

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Amendment one also deals with a property tax exemption. Procopio says it creates a property tax exemption for certain goods that go back and forth between the rigs in the Gulf of Mexico…

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The other two amendments deal with funding for three schools that are not getting tobacco settlement fund dollars and allowing the Board of Tax Appeals to rule on constitutional amendments. Parlouisiana.org has information on the amendments.

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Donald Trump supporters will head into the Sudduth Coliseum tonight in Lake Charles to hear the President rally GOP voters to vote Republican in tomorrow’s election. This man explains why he will not vote to re-elect the governor

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Governor John Bel Edwards spoke with reporters in Lake Charles prior to the President’s arrival. Edwards says Louisiana’s economy is strong and growing…

Cut 13 (12) “…in the nation.”

A woman spending the afternoon outside of the Sudduth Coliseum where Trump will speak tonight believes the President’s visit will energize Republican voters

Cut 14 (10) “…they will.”

Edwards says not only is the state’s economy growing, but personal income is up, more jobs are on the way and investments have been made to improve our roads…

Cut 15 (07) “…is yes.”

The Republican gubernatorial candidates hope President Trump’s visit to Lake Charles on Friday will prevent Governor Edwards from winning re-election without the need of a run-off. Jeff Palermo has the story…

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Louisiana’s national rankings for STD cases has dropped. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

cut  2 (25) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

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There were sparks during the final televised gubernatorial primary debate as the candidates tried to make a statement before voters cast their ballot on Saturday. ULM Political Science Professor Joshua Stockley says nothing occurred that changes the dynamics of the race

Cut 3 (12) “…too late.”

President Donald Trump will be in Lake Charles tomorrow night to rally Louisiana voters to vote for one of the two main Republican candidates. Stockley says getting an endorsement from sitting President is huge, but this is different since Mr. Trump is not back one particular candidate…

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 A NextStar TV poll has Edwards receiving 43-percent of the vote, Rispone at 21-percent and Abraham at 20-percent, 12-percent are undecided. Stockley on why Edwards has a chance to win the election outright on Saturday…

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The election is Saturday and polls are open from 7 AM to 8 PM.

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For the second consecutive year, Louisiana ranks number two in the nation for infrastructure investment, according to Site Selection Magazine. Economic Development Secretary Don Pierson says the publication recognizes the state’s significant enhancements through recent initiatives.

Cut 6 (08) “…to be done.”

Pierson says the state has seen almost $40 billion invested in infrastructure throughout the state, just in 2019.

Cut 7 (10) “…infrastructures being improved.”

The publication also took into consideration the state’s $50 billion coastal master plan to protect and restore the state’s coast.  Pierson says strengthening wetlands, swamp and estuaries buffers communities and industries against storm surge.

Cut 8 (10) “…and Louisiana workers.”

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The first question asked at last night’s debate was about the hiring and firing of former Governor Edwards’ Deputy Chief of Staff Johnny Anderson, and his sexual harassment scandal.

Anderson was accused of sexual harassment by six women at Southern University before he was hired into the Edwards Administration. Edwards said before he was hired, Anderson was cleared.

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Former Edwards employee Juanita Washington accused Anderson of sexual harassment and assault while working under him in the administration.

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Washington is now suing Edwards for access to documents, emails, and texts related to Anderson’s tenure, saying the Governor covered up the accusations.

Edwards says the office has a zero-tolerance policy for harassment, and the incident inspired a series of sexual harassment reforms in state offices.

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A CDC report shows that Louisiana dropped in the rankings for new cases of gonorrhea and early-stage syphilis. Assistant Secretary for the state Office of Public Health Dr. Alex Billioux says Medicaid expansion has been effective in the decline.

Cut 12 (12) “…screening and treatment..” 

In this latest report, Louisiana was ranked seventh for primary and secondary syphilis case rates, declining from #3 and in gonorrhea, the state fell two spots to number five.

Billioux says the state is now making house calls in an effort to help overcome transportation hurdles.

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Billioux says another hurdle faced is the access to medication to treat STD patients.

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Congressman Ralph Abraham is attempting to oust Speaker Nancy Pelosi from the House of Representatives ahead of a possible impeachment and three days shy of the gubernatorial primary.

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 76 teams will cook up over 90 different gumbos in downtown New Iberia this Sunday for the 30th annual World Championship Gumbo Cookoff. Matt Doyle has the story.

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Congressman Ralph Abraham who is in third place in the recent gubernatorial polls introduces a resolution calling for the expulsion of House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and for the Speaker’s Office to be vacated. Political analyst Clancy DuBos says it appears to be an 11th hour effort to drum up support…

Cut 3 (10) “…connect those dots.”

A statement from Abraham says Nancy Pelosi’s vicious crusade against our lawfully-elected president President is nothing more than a politically-motivated witch hunt and it must be stopped.  DuBos says the resolution will not materialize into any sort of action.

Cut 4 (07) “…a publicity stunt”

DuBos expects Abraham to make a further attempt to rally in tonight’s debate in Shreveport, which is closer to his district.

Cut 5 (11) “…in north Louisiana.”

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More than 20,000 people are expected to pack into New Iberia this weekend as 76 teams compete to be the 30^th annual Gumbo World Championship Cookoff winner.

Greater Iberia Chamber CEO Janet Faulk-Gonzales says the gumbo is being cooked up for anyone that attends, and you’ll have a chance to fill up at all of the different team’s booths.

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There’s no entry fee, and samples start at four bucks for non-seafood varieties, and five bucks for a seafood gumbo.

Gumbo servings on Sunday start at 11 AM, and Faulk-Gonzales says you’ll have an opportunity to try every style imaginable cooked by teams coming in from across the country.

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The festival starts on Saturday where 52 of the teams will cook “Anything but gumbo” dishes for the public.

Faulk-Gonzales says after three decades they’ve started narrowing down just what makes the perfect gumbo, and perhaps surprisingly past champions have not included one old-school ingredient.

Cut 8 (07) “…okra.”

And she says they don’t favor tomatoes either.

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The Lafayette Police Department has released images of a truck that could have been involved in a fatal hit-and-run crash on October 1st that took the life of 19-year-old Kirk Broussard. Corporal Bridgette Dugas says they are looking for a dark-colored pick-up truck…

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Dugas says the image of the vehicle released was traveling on Acadian Hills Lane when Broussard was hit and later pronounced dead…

Cut 10 (09) “…October 1st”

Dugas says if anyone can identify the vehicle or the driver of the vehicle please contact the Lafayette Police Department or Lafayette Crime Stoppers. She says at this time, they are not sure if this truck actually hit Broussard…

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7th ranked Florida will bring one of the best defenses in the country to Tiger Stadium on Saturday night when they battle 5th ranked LSU. Gators Head Coach Dan Mullen says Joe Burrow is the best quarterback they’ve played this year

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The LSU-Florida rivalry has become heated over the years with the two schools laying claim that they are “D-B-U,” defensive backs university. Mullen says Florida has had its share of great defensive backs…

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LSU is a 13-point favorite on Saturday. Mullen says handling the environment inside Tiger Stadium will be a key…

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