Livingston Sheriff Jason Ard defends his decision to employ Dennis Perkins, who is in jail on sex crime charges. Matt Doyle reports Ard had a combative press conference with reporters today about an incident that happened with another child in 2013…

Cut 1 (30) “…Matt Doyle”

__________________________________________

According to the nation’s report card, Louisiana has seen more improvement from eighth graders in the area of math than any other state. Kevin Barnhart has more

cut  2 (30) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”   

__________________________________________

Livingston Parish Sheriff Jason Ard speaks publicly for the first time, defending his decision to keep SWAT Commander Dennis Perkins on staff. Perkins and his wife are accused of sex crimes involving children.

WBRZ detailed a Baton Rouge cop’s 2013 allegation of improper conduct against his step-child by Perkins. Ard blames the officer for not putting the allegation in writing.

Cut 3 (10)   “investigation.” 

Ard says the “verbal investigation” unveiled no sexual misconduct and determined Perkins was just “tickling” the child.

Ard further defended his office’s decision to retain Perkins in light of the 2013 allegation…

Cut 4 (11) “…years ago”

The Sheriff says there are no reports of incidents or allegations against Perkins’ in his official file.

WBRZ also uncovered a 2011 restraining order filed against Perkins over allegedly using his LPSO vehicle to stalk someone. Ard says they had no record of it in administration.

Cut 5 (11) “by that”

WBRZ reports the restraining order was stamped received.

______________________

Four contractors are expected to submit bids by Friday with their plans on how to clear the site of the Hard Rock Hotel collapse.  New Orleans Fire Chief Tim McConnell says an exact timeline on demolition is unclear.

Cut 6 (10) “…every single day.”

McConnell says the responsibility of taking down the building is on the property owner, but the city has been hands-on with the analysis of the demolition plans.

Cut 7 (09) “…an active investigation.”

McConnell says public safety is the top priority in the handling of the site, but there is still a focus on how to recover the two dead bodies that remain inside the structure.

Cut 8 (10) “…about doing that.”

The building collapsed October 12^th, killing three and injuring numerous others.  The cause of the collapse remains unknown.

_____________________________

LSU will likely be the number one team in the Associated Press Top 25 poll when they visit second-ranked Alabama on November ninth. But Coach Ed Orgeron says they are not paying attention to the current rankings

Cut 9 (11)  “…towards that”

The hype is just starting to build on this potential number one versus number two match-up. Orgeron says they don’t want to give any bulletin board material for Alabama to feed on…

Cut 10 (08) “…ball is snapped.”

Orgeron says safety Grant Delpit will be available for the Alabama game, despite an ankle injury suffered in the win over Auburn.

Alabama Coach Nick Saban says Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa will be a game-time decision after undergoing surgery last week to correct a high ankle sprain. Saban says he’s well aware of the challenge LSU will present them

Cut 11 (12) “successful.”

Last year, Alabama shutout LSU in Tiger Stadium. But Saban says the Tigers are completely different offense…

Cut 12 (11) “…at it” 

______________________________________________________

The nation’s report card ranks Louisiana between 44^th and 49^th in math and reading assessments. However, the report shows the state has made more improvement than any other state in 8^th grade math. State Superintendent of Education John White says the findings indicate the state is turning around.

Cut 13 (12) “…answer is yes.”

Eighth graders were ranked 48^th for math. White says among the challenges to tackle in Louisiana is attracting STEM teachers to the education field.

Cut 14 (11) “…to the classroom.”

The state ranked 49^th on the ACT, down from 45^th last year. Louisiana is one of 15 states requiring all high school students to take the ACT and ranked 13^th among those, only ahead of Mississippi and Nevada. White says those results are a letdown.

Cut 15 (11) “…better next year.”

The state composite ACT score was 18.8, down from 19.2 last year, compared to the national average of 20.7, which is also down just slightly from 20.8 last year. Results are based on a scale of 1-36.

President Donald Trump says he’ll be back in the Bayou State to rally Republicans to vote for Eddie Rispone, but when should we expect his next visit?

Cut 1 (30) “…Matt Doyle”

__________________________________________

A few mock drafts show LSU quarterback Joe Burrow as a number one pick in the NFL draft next April. Jeff Palermo on the fifth-year senior’s rise up the draft boards…

cut  2 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”   

________________________________________

President Trump says he’ll be back in Louisiana before the November 16^th run-off to rally support for Eddie Rispone, but it’s unclear as to when, or where that will be. LSU-Shreveport Poli Sci Professor Jeff Sadow thinks Trump will return after the November 9^th early voting period ends…

Cut 3 (09)   “…dissipate.” 

The President’s last visit to the state was an October the 11^th primary eve night trip to Lake Charles.

Sadow says there won’t be early voting period visits from the President because the kinds of people who early vote don’t really need any more encouragement, and usually can’t be swayed.

Cut 4 (09) “…ago.”

Vice President Mike Pence made a trip to Baton Rouge Monday, but it wasn’t a rally, it was a 5,000 dollar a plate fundraiser for Rispone.

Sadow says assuming the President visits sometime between November 9^th and the 16^th, the Commander in Chief is likely to hold court in north Louisiana.

Cut 5 (06) “Rispone.”

President Trump has a 52 percent approval rating as of Monday’s JMC Analytics poll.

______________________

A fire destroys the Livingston Parish home of a murder suspect that is currently in jail.  The home of Errol Hicks burned down Monday.  State Fire Marshal spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says the blaze was a very destructive fire making the investigation a challenging one.

Cut 6 (10) “…their investigative efforts”

Hicks is facing a second-degree murder charge stemming from an act of domestic violence for the September death of Carol Hutchinson.  Rodrigue says investigators indicate there is a wide range of possibilities as to what sparked the fire.

Cut 7 (10) “…or the other.”

Rodrigue says it appears no one was inside the structure at the time of the fire.

Cut 8 (09) “…occupying the home.”

Livingston Parish Fire Protection districts 6, 7, and 4 worked to combat the blaze before 4am Monday.

_____________________________

Joe Burrow’s record-breaking season at LSU has some NFL scouts salivating over the prospect of making the fifth-year senior the new face of their franchise next year.

NFL Analyst Mike Detillier says the Tiger’s captain is clearly in the first-round conversation, and likely being looked at by teams like the Bengals, Dolphins, and Broncos…

Cut 9 (09)  “…Oregon”

Burrow has thrown for 2,800 yards and 30 TDS while completing 79 percent of his passes this year.

Bama’s Tua Tagovialoa was the consensus top-rated player heading into the season, but Detillier says Burrow could surpass him if the right team likes his match in their system.

Cut 10 (12) “…quarterback.”

Ohio State defensive end Chase Young is now regarded as the top overall rated player in college, but the top of this year’s draft will be full of QB needy teams.

Burrow was, at best, considered a second-round pick heading into the 2019 season. Detillier says his rapid rise is akin to similar efforts by the last two draft’s number one picks.

Cut 11 (10) “at best.”

____________________________

The NCAA says it will develop so athletes can make money off their name, image and likeness. Tiger Rag Magazine assistant editor Tyler Nunez says it remains to be seen how this will work…

Cut 12 (08) “…want to” 

The NCAA says it must embrace change to provide the best possible experience for college athletes. The governing board of college athletics hopes to develop rules and put them in place by January 2021. Nunez says it will be interesting to see what the exact rules say

Cut 13 (09) “to happen”

The NCAA has long been resistant to paying college athletes as they’ve wanted to protect their amateur status. But Nunez says with all of the money that football and basketball produces for schools, it’s time for players to see their cut…

Cut 14 (13) “…dramatic way”

The State Fire Marshal Office’s receives a $55-thousand grant to distribute free smoke alarms to needy families. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (30) “..Brooke Thorington”

__________________________________________

University of Louisiana System President Jim Henderson remembers former ULM leader Dwight D. Vines, who died Saturday at age 88. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

cut  2 (31) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”   

________________________________________

Tropical Storm Olga’s early Saturday morning landfall left at its peak 92,000 Entergy customers without power.  Entergy spokesperson Lee Sabatini says 80 mile per hour winds gusts produced incredible damage on the Northshore and Metro New Orleans…

Cut 3 (12)   “…spans of wire.” 

The most recent report indicates about 6,700 are still without power.  Sabatini says they are tackling the issue of accessibility to damaged energy infrastructure.

Cut 4 (10) “…transformers in backyards.”

Sabatini says they have brought in extra workers to help speed up service restoration.

Cut 5 (11) “…restored by tomorrow.”

About 2,000 CLECO customers are also without power.

______________________

The State Fire Marshal and Operation Save a Life are partnering together to put more working smoke alarms in homes to reduce fire fatalities. State Fire Marshal spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says the $55-thousand dollar FEMA grant will help several families as the cold weather will soon arrive…

Cut 6 (10) “.use it”.

This year’s current fire fatality count is 52, which is lower compared to the same time last year of 60.  The grant will allow them to purchase five-thousand smoke detectors. Cold morning lows are expected to arrive later this week. Rodrigue reminds users to keep space heaters away from combustibles and never leave them unattended.

Cut 7 (12) “…fire hazard.”

Taking proper precautions like having your heater inspected and serviced before use can also help prevent fire fatalities. Rodrigue says but things do happen and the best tool to help prevent fire deaths is working fire alarms.

Cut 8 (12) “…your home.”

To register for a free smoke alarm visit lasfm-dot-org

_____________________________

Visitation for former ULM President Dwight D. Vines, who died Saturday at age 88, is today from 5 to 9 pm at First Baptist Church in Calhoun.  Vines was at the helm of the university from 1976-1991.  President of the University of Louisiana System Jim Henderson remembers Vines as a great example for higher education leaders.

Cut 9 (12)  “…now ULM.”

Under his leadership, 40 new degree programs were added.  Vines also created the University Foundation, which today has raised millions to advance the school.  Henderson says Vines still had a presence on the campus in recent years and last year was named President Emeritus.

Cut 10 (08) “…quality of ways.”

Henderson says personally, he knew Vines as “Uncle Delbert” as Vines was the half-brother to his mother, and remembers him as an outstanding family man.

Cut 11 (10) “…of the man.”

Services for Vines are scheduled for 10:30 tomorrow morning at the church, with interment at the Northwest Louisiana Veterans Cemetery in Rayville.

____________________________

LSU is ranked number one in the AP Top 25 poll for the first time since 2011. The win over Auburn was LSU’s third over a Top 10 team and it convinced voters to rank the Tigers over number two Alabama and number three Ohio State. Assistant Tiger Rag Editor Tyler Nunez says there’s not much separation between the top three teams

Cut 12 (05) “…six voting points” 

LSU, Bama and Ohio State are off this Saturday, so that likely means LSU will be ranked number one when they visit Tuscaloosa on November 9th. Nunez says Oklahoma’s loss to Kansas State on Saturday helps LSU’s chances of making the college football playoff

Cut 13 (07) “to Alabama.”

After throwing for another 321 yards and a touchdown against Auburn, Tiger Rag Editor James Moran says LSU Quarterback Joe Burrow continues to distance himself from the other Heisman Trophy candidates

Cut 14 (05) “…this point”

VP Mike Pence will headline a five to 15 thousand dollar a couple fundraiser for Eddie Rispone today in Baton Rouge. Matt Doyle has more…

Cut 1 (29) “I”m Matt Doyle”

_____________________________

Nine in ten workers admit they’ve gone into the office when suffering from a cold or the flu. Matt Doyle has the story…

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

________________________

The Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge in southwest Louisiana is celebrating 100-years of conservation. Connor Ferrill has the story.

Cut 3 (30) “…I’m Connor Ferrill”

________________________

Vice President Mike Pence returns to Louisiana today to hold a closed-door fundraiser for Eddie Rispone in Baton Rouge.

Tickets are 5,000 dollars per couple for general access. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says it’s likely the money won’t be headed directly into the Rispone campaign.

Cut 4 (06) “indirectly”

It’ll cost you 15,000 dollars per couple to get the VIP treatment.

It’s a boon for the Baton Rouge businessman who’s poured over 11 million dollars of his own funds into the campaign but appears to have stopped self-funding. Pinsonat says he likely won’t need to anymore.

Cut 5 (09) “Pence”

If the money is being raised for PACs, then by law PACs are not allowed to coordinate with political campaigns.

Pinsonat says national GOP visits have proven effective, citing Edwards’ drop from 59 percent support in Calcasieu parish in the 2015 run-off, to his recent primary finish of just 44 percent in the parish after…

Cut 6 (11) ”…close”

It’s the second time this month Pence has visited Louisiana. His last trip was a rally in Kenner on October 5^th.

____________________

Assumption Parish native and Department of Energy Deputy Secretary Dan Brouillette is awaiting Senate confirmation as the nation’s next Energy Secretary. President Trump nominated Brouillette and says his experience is unparalleled. Brouillette says it’s a nomination he does not take lightly.

Cut 7 (08) “the President” 

Brouillette is a U-S Army veteran, who previously worked for former Louisiana Congressman Billy Tauzin. He also had a position in the George W. Bush administration and served on the Louisiana State Mineral and Energy Board.  Brouillette says the department of energy has been working on advancements in technology in getting energy products to the market.

Cut 8 (09) “…today”

Brouillette says the department is currently working on advancements in nuclear energy, but there is a push for all versions of energy, which he says could be promising for Louisiana’s contributions to the nation’s energy needs.

Cut 9 (09)  “…solar”

Brouillette currently lives in San Antonio. He and his wife have nine children.

______________________________

An Accountemps survey shows nine in ten workers admit to coming into work with cold or flu-like symptoms, and a third of workers admit to always going into work when sick. Senior Recruiting Manager for Robert Half in New Orleans, Carrie Lewis, says bosses should set the expectation that sick workers can stay home…

Cut 10 (10) “…organizations.”

54 percent of those who admit they’ve rolled into work with a cold or the flu say it’s because they have too much work to do, another 40 percent admit to not wanting to use up sick leave.

Lewis says only about 27 percent of workers 40 and older admit to always coming into work when sick, versus 39 percent of workers aged 25 to 40.

cut 11 (10) “…promotion.”

It’s 2019, so Lewis says not all jobs have to be done at the office. If you’re contagious but still capable of working, see if you can do it from home.

cut  12 (10) “…all-around.” 

The survey questioned 2,800 workers in 28 cities around the country.

_____________________________

The Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge is celebrating 100-years of conservation on 70,000 acres of coastal land in Cameron and Vermillion Parish. Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge Program Manager Scooter Trosclair says thousands of visitors from around the world every year spend a weekend at this fabulous recreational spot…

Cut 13 (08) “…fresh water species.”

Edward Avery Mcllhenny, the son of Tabasco founder Edmund Mcllhenny, agreed to donate the land to the state in exchange for a promise that it would be used for research purposes. The deal led to research breakthroughs in the 50s, 60s and, 70s that helped out gators worldwide.

Cut 14 (12) “…endangered species list.” 

Trosclair says the biggest challenge the refuge has faced over the past century is a familiar one, coastal land loss…

Cut 15 (11) “…15,000 acres.”

Trosclair says the refuge has received 33 million dollars in grant funding to help strengthen shoreline protection.

_________________________________________

LSU is the new number one college football team in the country after a hard fought 23-20 win over Auburn. The Tigers have won a lot of games on pure execution this season, but LSU used grit on Saturday to beat Auburn for a third straight season. Coach Ed Orgeron says its the kind of game you need to win to have a championship season

Cut 16  (21)     everybody” 

LSU held Auburn to 287 total yards and used a balanced attack on offense as the ground game produced 187 yards rushing. Junior running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire had 136 yards and one touchdown. The Baton Rouge product told running backs coach Tommie Robinson he would not be denied…

cut 17  (11) “…it happen” 

Now the Tigers can finally focus on the Alabama game which will take place on November 9th. Both teams do not play this weekend. LSU has lost eight in a row to Bama. Quarterback Joe Burrow lost at home to the Tide last season…

cut  18 (14)  two weeks”  

__________________________________________________

Drew Brees was sharp on Sunday as he came off a five-week absence to lead New Orleans to a sixth straight win, a 31-9 victory over the Arizona Cardinals. Brees tossed three touchdown passes and threw for 373 yards. Some were concerned that the Saints were rushing Brees back, but Coach Sean Payton was not concerned…

cut 19 (23)   “good win”   

Brees says it was great to be back…

cut 20 (15) “ those guys”   

The Saints are off Sunday and return to the field November 10th to host the struggling Falcons, a stretch of four straight games against divisional opponents.

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

Cut 1 (30) “..Matt Doyle”

__________________________________________

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”   

________________________________________

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.

_____________________________

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” 

____________________________

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”

__________________________________________

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”   

________________________________________

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.

________________________________________

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”

_____________________________

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”

________________________

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.

__________________________________________

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”

_____________________________________

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.

____________________________________________

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.” 

__________________________________________

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.

_____________________________________

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” 

____________________________________________

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.

___________________________

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”