It’s a hectic time for those in the business of shipping packages.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (26) “I’m Kevin Barnhart.”

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Congressman Richmond is bringing a 500 billion dollar bill to Congress to address the country’s growing housing affordability crisis. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Matt Doyle.”  

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Law enforcement is stepping up patrols this holiday season to keep the roads safe.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 3 (31) “I’m  Kevin Barnhart”

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This week marks the busiest week for the United States Postal Service.  USPS spokesperson Sean O’Neill says while some deadlines may have already passed to ensure delivery by Christmas, there are still two days coming up that those shipping gifts this holiday season need to keep on their radar.

Cut 4 (12) “…priority mail express.″

O’Neill says for those in a rush, to drop items off at the post office, he recommends using the “click and ship” service on USPS.com to pay for postage ahead of time.

Cut 5 (08) “…done and done.”

O’Neill says for those leaving town, to ensure the packages you are receiving are in good care and not just left to fend for themselves at your doorstep, USPS has holding services that are quick and simple.

Cut 6 (10) “…coming to you.”

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Congressman Cedric Richmond has introducing a half-a- trillion dollar bill that would build an estimated 2.1 million new, affordable homes in America, and subsidize the purchase of existing houses. HousingNOLA Executive Director Andreanecia Morris says passing this legislation would address the country’s widening wealth gap.

Cut 7 (11) “…cyclical poverty.”

Morris says the legislation would also fund home owner education programs to keep people from being taken advantage of by financial institutions, fund home repair and reconstruction in rural areas, and provide a substantial economic stimulus.

Cut 8 (09) “…exists″

HousingNOLA says the bill would create over 30,000 affordable housing opportunities in New Orleans alone, and put an additional 513-million dollars into that city’s economy. She says when those subsidies are applied statewide.

Cut 9 (10)  “…other things” 

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The holidays can be a dangerous time on the roadways so law enforcement is stepping up patrols as part of the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign.  Deputy Director of the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission Dortha Cummins says in the last five years, 139 people have died during the Christmas and New Year’s Eve holiday period.

Cut 10 (08)   “…happened involved alcohol.”

Cummins says the campaign runs through New Year’s Day and drivers should be aware that law enforcement is out and actively looking for drivers who may be under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or both.

Cut 11 (09) “…time of year.”

Cummins says the state is one of five that has received a grant from the rideshare app Lyft to provide $5 off a ride to anyone in the state who uses the code “RIDE SMART LA,” all one word.

Cut 12 (08)   “…our coupon code.”

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The Saints visit the Panthers tonight in Carolina for the first meeting of the season between the two. Carolina sits at 6 and 7, and is riding a five game losing streaking that’s all but taken them out of the playoff conversation. Saints QB Drew Brees knows how vital a win tonight would be, with the top seed in the NFC on the line…

Cut 13 (10) “…at stake.”

The Saints swept the Panthers last year in two regular season games and won in the Dome during the playoffs.

The Panthers season has gone so wrong there’s even rumors it could be the last for coach Ron Riviera, whose team has lost a series of nail biters over the last month. It’s been a down year for the usually potent Panthers defense, but Brees knows they’re still loaded with talent, especially at linebacker

Cut 14 (10) “…as well.”

Offensively, Carolina has been carried by second-year running back Christian McCaffery, the diminutive swiss army knife has rushed for 926 yards, and has another 701 receiving yards. Saints running back Alvin Kamara, who was drafted two rounds after McCaffery, says he’s got a lot of respect for the former Stanford star.

Cut 15 (12) “…great year”

Obamacare individual health insurance market signups are down 10 percent in Louisiana, and 20 percent nationally. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”

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A Houston-based natural gas company moved a step closer to receiving a one-billion dollar plus property tax break as a result of a vote by the Louisiana board of Commerce and Industry. Kevin Barnhart has the story…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

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Despite lower premiums, Obamacare individual market signups are down 10 percent in Louisiana on the eve of the December 15th deadline for enrollment. State Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon says proponents of Obamacare are pointing towards a lower investment in advertising for the service, but he thinks locally there’s a more obvious answer.

Cut 3 (09) “.policies”

Advocates are concerned the market will de-stabilize if the pool of enrollees shrinks.

Donelon says it’s likely not just one cause either. The unemployment rate is down several percent in the past few years thanks to an improving economy, and the Commissioner says as more people find work, there’s less of a need for them to buy personal insurance plans.

Cut 4 (10) “…uninsured″

Previously there was a tax penalty for not having health insurance, but the Trump Administration has suspended that rule and is fighting it in court. With no requirement to keep insurance, fewer people are signing up, and Donelon says that’s likely to remain the case.

Cut 5 (09) “…those penalties”

20 percent fewer people nationally have signed up for the program.

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The state Board of Commerce and Industry agrees to give a developer planning to build a massive liquefied natural gas export facility in Calcasieu Parish a tax break that could eventually reach two-billion dollars. The advocacy group, Together Louisiana, objected. Broderick Bagert says local government taxing bodies did not give residents enough information about the project

Cut 6 (08) “…asking for.

Houma Senator Norby Chabert, sits on the Board, and calls the project a heck of a deal and Calcasieu Parish taxpayers are aware of its impact…

Cut 7 (11) “…this project”

Natural gas company Tellurian is the developer of the L-N-G export facility, which is expected to create 300 permanent jobs and 64-hundred construction jobs. A final investment decision is expected . Tellurian’s Jason French told the board it would not be a good idea to postpone a vote on the tax break …

Cut 8 (10) “…in parish prison.”

The board agreed and voted 17-2 in favor of the tax break. Governor John Bel Edwards must give final approval.

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Tax season is right around the corner and that means tax refunds.  According to research by financial technology company SmartAsset, just over 1.5 million taxpayers in the state will be owed a refund, with the average being right around $3,300.  VP of Financial Education at SmartAsset AJ Smith says refunds are based on allowances and how much someone is claiming throughout the year.

Cut 9 (11) “…tax time″

Smith says the research results presents taxpayers with a better idea on how their tax money is to be handled.

Cut 10 (12) “…make some changes.”

Smith says you may be losing out on opportunities to make money on the money that is being withheld.  If you want to make adjustments to your withholdings, you should speak with someone in HR at your job.

Cut 11 (07) “…throughout the year.”

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Governor John Bel Edwards gave the commencement address at the UL Lafayette graduation ceremony earlier today, celebrating the hard work of the Ragin Cajun class of 2019 that featured students from 29 different states and 26 different countries. Edwards celebrated the storied institution.

Cut 12 (11)   “…from them”

Edwards highlighted the career training and critical thinking skills imparted on the class, and says the students are equipped with the diverse set of skills that will be necessary to navigate the five or more different jobs many of the students will work throughout their life.

Cut 13 (11) “…your success”

The Governor, who is up for re-election in 2019, highlighted higher education funding as the primary reason he ran for office in 2015, and says the success of this class of students is a reminder of why the state needs to maintain appropriate funding levels.

Cut 14 (11) “…that future”

A dispute over property lines and a driveway that lead to a fatal shooting has ended in a murder conviction.  Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”

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Ralph Abraham’s gubernatorial campaign says a poll shows one week after announcing his intention to run for governor, the Congressman is in a dead heat with Democratic Governor John Bel Edwards. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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The Chackbay man who shot his neighbor a year ago over a property line dispute has been convicted of 2^nd Degree Murder. Lafourche Parish DA’s spokesperson David Melancon says 61-year-old Keith Trosclair told police he feared for his life, and that his neighbor, who was known to open carry, threatened him.

Cut 3 (11) “..his life”

The property line in question centered on a driveway.

But authorities say they had reason to doubt that version of events after reports from two witnesses that Trosclair was moving towards the victim while firing, and forensic evidence that indicated the neighbor, did not pose an immediate threat when Trosclair opened fire.

Cut 4 (08) “…Mr. Trosclair″

Law enforcement says Saunders weapon was still holstered when they arrived on the scene.

Melancon says it was a tragic, and completely avoidable murder.

Cut 5 (09) “…own hands”

2^nd Degree Murder carries a mandatory life sentence.

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Baton Rouge Police say the 18-year-old son of Alton Sterling has been arrested and faces a charge of first-degree rape.  Cameron Sterling is accused of taking a child into a bedroom, locking the door, then raping the 8-year-old boy he was babysitting last weekend.  Sgt. L’Jean McKneely says a relative made contact with authorities.

Cut 6 (10) “…information they gave.”

McKneely says the victim is a relative of Sterling.

Cut 7 (12) “…arrested last night”

McKneely says Sterling was at a hospital in the time between the incident and his arrest.

Cut 8 (10) “…in parish prison.”

Cameron Sterling’s father, Alton Sterling, was shot to death by police in 2016, triggering nationwide protests.

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Former St. Tammany Parish Sheriff Jack Strain is reportedly under investigation for allegedly molesting several juveniles. The ex-Abita Springs police chief served as sheriff of St. Tammany from 1996 to 2015. If there’s enough evidence to charge Strain, can St. Tammany D-A Warren Montgomery prosecute him? Legal analyst Tim Meche says yes..

Cut 9 (08) “…recusing himself.″

Meche says as long as Montgomery doesn’t show any bias in one direction or the other, his office should be able to handle the case if there are charges against Strain. The reports indicate the F-B-I is also part of the investigation into the sexual abuse allegations. Meche says these type of cases are usually tried locally…

Cut 10 (10) “…state court.”

Strain is also the target of a federal probe into public corrpution involving his former work release program that he once supervised. Two of Strain’s former deputies are facing federal charges. Meche says it’s curious to find out who leaked the sexual abuse investigation to the media and why

Cut 11 (11) “…federal corruption case.”

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Congressman Ralph Abraham says a new poll he funded shows he’s the Republican to beat Democrat John Bel Edwards in next year’s governor’s race. President of the Remington Research Group Titus Bond says they surveyed nearly 17-hundred likely voters this week and both Abraham and Edwards received 44-percent…

Cut 12 (09)   “…on support”

Eric Holl is a spokesperson for a group working to re-elect Edwards. Holl calls the Abraham funded poll a desperate plea for credibility as rumors swirl that other republicans plan to enter the race. Bond says his poll shows Abraham has replaced Senator John Kennedy as the G-O-P’s favorite to beat Edwards

Cut 13 (06) “…for governor”

Bond says their survey found that 47-percent of Democrats polled say they are open to voting for another candidate….

Cut 14 (11) “…liberal of his party”

An LSU grad from Walker may have a useful app you’ll want to download to your smart device.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (29) “I’m Kevin Barnhart.”

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A group of LSU faculty and students have teamed up to create a rehab program for stroke patients using an adapted guitar. Connor Ferrill has the story.

Cut 2 (27) “…I’m Connor Ferrill.”  

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Saturday’s special election drew 17-percent of registered voters. Don Molino has a recap on what happened…

Cut 3 (28) “I’m  Don Molino.”

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For the first time in franchise history, the Saints are back-to-back division champions. New Orleans clinched the NFC South crown on Sunday with a come from behind 28-14 win over Tampa Bay. New Orleans trailed 14-3 in the third quarter, but scored 25 unanswered points to avenge an earlier loss to the Buccaneers. Coach Sean Payton…

Cut 4 (13) “…important win″

New Orleans rushed for just three yards in the first half and Quarterback Drew Brees was intercepted in the second quarter and fumbled in the third quarter. But Payton likes how his team bounced back

Cut 5 (12) “…little bit.”

Brees finished with 201 yards passing. He threw one touchdown pass and ran for another. The defense held the Bucs to 279 yards, but the game turned when Taysom Hill blocked a punt in the third quarter. Payton says the versatile Hill showed again why he’s important to this team…

Cut 6 (11) “…do it well.”

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A useful app you may want to download to your smart device is available now, and the developer behind the app is an LSU grad from Walker, Louisiana.  The app is called Find a Spot and it links you with a friend to find the best possible geographical meetup place in the middle of your two locations.  App developer Derrick Denicola says the idea came to him while sitting in traffic.

Cut 7 (07) “…that I value a lot.”

Maybe if you aren’t taking a car to your next destination.  Denicola says Find a Spot has you covered there too.

Cut 8 (11) “…be really neat.″

Denicola says it took about seven years to produce the app after first coming up with the idea. He says the app has received about 45-hundred downloads. The 2007 LSU grad says it’s simple to use, even his parents can figure it out, which was his goal…

Cut 9 (10)  “…password in” 

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A group of LSU faculty and students have teamed up to create a rehab program for stroke patients using an adapted guitar. Assistant Professor of the School of Kinesiology Nikita Kuznetsov (KOOZ-nets-ahv) helped to create the project after a musician and friend suffered from a stroke. Kuznetsov said the guitar could be an avenue for recovery because of the focused movements involved in strumming…

Cut 10 (11)   “…song production”

The adaptive guitar is capable of creating many types of chords through a mechanical device placed on the neck of the guitar. Kuznetsov, not an engineer himself, said he proposed the guitar device to mechanical engineering seniors at LSU as a possible project in an engineering design course…

Cut 11 (07) “…at LSU”

Kuznetsov said he hopes the program will not only improve motor function but that it will improve quality of life by providing a strong community for patients…

Cut 12 (12)   “…movement rehabilitation”

Contact Nikita@lsu.edu for a chance to participate in the study.

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Louisiana voters decide to keep Republican Kyle Ardoin as Secretary of State. Ardoin defeated Democrat Gwen Collins-Greenup in Saturday’s special election and had this to say to his supporters

Cut 13 (11) “…upon me.”

Ardoin received 59-percent of the vote in a low voter turnout election. The 51-year-old Ville Platte native has served as interim Secretary of State since Tom Schedler resigned in May amid a sexual harassment scandal.

Cut 14 (09) “…in history.”

Shreveport has a new mayor. 33-year-old West Pointe graduate, Adrian Perkins, easily defeated Mayor Ollie Tyler, who was seeking a second term. Perkins received 64-percent of the vote and says Shreveport’s future starts now…

Cut 15 (13) “…seeking one.”

Perkins is a war vetera and attorney with no previous political experience. His promise of a better Shreveport led to a landslide victory over the incumenbent…

Cut 16 (11)  call home”

Over the last week, the Louisiana Department of Health has seen a rise in reported flu cases.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (29) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”

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One in four kids in Louisiana live in food insecure homes according to a new study. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 2 (30) “Im Matt Doyle”  

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With the holiday season in effect, the state has seen an uptick in flu cases.  This news comes after a horrible flu season last year, with triple the number of hospitalizations and deaths than normal.  Flu Bug expert for Louisiana Department of Health Frank Welch says if you have not received a flu shot yet, you need to.

Cut 3 (10) “…get that flu shot.”

After seeing such a rapid spread of the illness last year, Welch says this year’s swell in cases seems normal.

Cut 4 (09) “…the normal uptick.″

Welch says getting the flu shot only doesn’t guarantee someone won’t get the flu, but if they do get the flu after getting the flu shot, it won’t be so severe.

Cut 5 (10)  “…amount of protection.” 

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The nation is bidding farewell to the 41st President of the United States, George H-W Bush, who had his funeral service today at the Washington National Cathedral in D-C. Bush, who lived most of his adult life in Texas, had a close connection to Louisiana. In 2001, he gave this advice to LSU graduates while delivering a commencement speech…

Cut 6 (12) “…your country”

Laura Bush, before she was the First Lady, was a commencement speaker at LSU in 1992 and former President George W. Bush spoke at LSU’s commencement in May of 2004. When George H-W Bush spoke in 2001 he told the graduates to be bold

Cut 7 (14) “it good”

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A Report from Hunger Free America says Louisiana has the third highest rate of food insecure children in the nation. About 25 percent of kids in the state live in households where their parents do not make enough money, and CEO Joel Berg puts much of the blame on the state’s low minimum wage.

Cut 8 (10) “…enough food”

Arkansas and New Mexico led the list, with neighboring Mississippi coming in at 5^th.

Berg says that doesn’t mean the state is a third world country, but it does mean many families are having to make tough choices choose b absolute necessities despite living in such a wealthy country

Cut 9 (12) “much poverty”

The report estimates food insecure homes would need an additional 441 million dollars in purchasing power a year to meet their basic needs.

Minimum wage increases have been passed in a majority of states over the past few years, but Louisiana remains one of the few left that utilize the federal minimum of 7.25 an hour. Berg says addressing that would be a good start towards addressing the state’s chronic poverty…

Cut 10 (08)   “…in Louisiana”

The report noted a significant decrease in food insecurity in states with minimums over 10 dollars an hour. The Governor is backing an 8.50 an hour minimum wage.

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LSU Athletic Director Joe Alleva told ESPN Radio in Baton Rouge that despite the great year for the Tigers, it’s not time to talk about a contract extension for Coach Ed Orgeron. Tiger Rag Editor James Moran says it’s Alleva’s style to wait after the final game is played

Cut 11 (11) “…of the team”

Orgeron is currently getting paid 3.5 million dollars a year and his current contract does not expire until December 31st, 2021. According to USA Today, Orgeron’s salary is the 37th highest among college football coaches. Moran says he can see Orgeron getting a raise in the offseason

Cut 12 (04)   “…salary.”

Moran says LSU’s 9-3 season to this point was better than expected and that might result in an increase in pay and at least another year added on to his contract…

Cut 13 (11) “…the winter”

A Fort Polk interior designer and military spouse got to help set the Christmas mood in the White House this year. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”

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Today we find out whether or not Senator John Kennedy will jump into the 2019 governor’s race…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”  

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CDC data indicates drug overdose deaths rose 12% in Louisiana from 2016 to 2017.  Kevin Barnhart has more.

Cut 3 (31) “I’m  Kevin Barnhart”

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A Fort Polk interior designer and military spouse had the honor last week of joining 150 of volunteers for the annual Christmas decoration of the White House. Amy Hirata was one of the seven thousand total applications sent in to join for the festive activities in the nation’s capital. Hirata says her team was put to work getting ornaments ready to hang.

Cut 4 (10) “ornaments″

She says the design was created in part by the First Lady, and described it as a traditional Christmas theme full of reds, golds, and greens. Hirata says each room was designed to highlight some of the best aspects of American life.

Cut 5 (12) “…our country.”

Most teams focused on decorating just one of the many historic rooms in the White House, but Hirata says her work can be seen throughout the entire grounds…

Cut 6 (11) “…each room.”

She says she’s particularly proud of her work on the library room, which featured her large green plaid and red velvet ribbons.

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Senator John Kennedy is expected to make his decision today on whether he’ll run for governor in 2019. Baton Rouge Republican businessman Eddie Rispone is currently the only announced challenger to Democratic Governor John Bel Edwards. LaPolitics.com publisher Jeremy Alford expects Kennedy to jump in.

Cut 7 (10) “…an announcement.”

Republican Congressman Ralph Abraham says he’s also leaning towards a run and will announce his decision by the end of the year.

If Kennedy jumps in, he’ll wade into a campaign that analysts predict will shatter previous fundraising records for Louisiana gubernatorial races. Alford says the campaign spending should easily top 20 million dollars.

Cut 8 (10) “…election cycle”

And if Kennedy is a participant, Alford says you’ll get a clear ideological divide between him and the governor on key issues that will shape the state’s future, a divide that’s played out publicly since Edwards took office.

Cut 9 (08) “…right now.”

Kennedy is less than two years into his six year Senate term.

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New CDC data indicates drug overdose deaths rose 12% in Louisiana from 2016 to 2017.  Overdose deaths has contributed to the life expectancy rate declining for  three straight year in the United States, a pattern not seen in 100 years. President and CEO of Trust for America’s Health John Auerbach says this marks the first time that more than 1,000 people died in a single year from overdoses in Louisiana.

Cut 10 (10)   “…the woods yet.”

Auerbach says part of the reason for the increase in the deaths last year was the increase in the use of synthetic opioids such as Fentanyl, with Fentanyl deaths up 45% in a single year.

Cut 11 (09) “…to it’s strength.”

Auerbach says there are many efforts in the country showing promise in reversing the trend.

Cut 12 (10)   “done in Louisiana.”

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For the first time in the 125-year history of LSU Football, the Tigers will play in the Fiesta Bowl in Glendale, Arizona on New Year’s Day and they’ll face UCF, who has won 25 in a row. Coach Ed Orgeron says his team deserved to play in a New Year’s Six Bowl game

Cut 13 (11) “…well deserved.”

Orgeron says he’s impressed with U-C-F’s 25-game winning streak…

Cut 14 (11) “…how to win”

U-C-F beat Auburn in last year’s Peach Bowl. Some wondered if Auburn was ready to play in that game after losing to Georgia in the SEC Championship game. Orgeron says his guys want to play in the Fiesta Bowl…

Cut 15 (09) “…to play”

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Louisiana Tech will face former Western Athletic Conference foe Hawaii in the Hawaii on Saturday night, December 22nd. The Bulldogs will play in a bowl game for a fifth consecutive season, but they ended the 2018 regular season losing three of their last four. Coach Skip Holtz was not happy with how his offense performed down the stretch…

Cut 16 (25)        points up”

Hawaii is 8-5 on the season and Holtz says he’s still learning about the Rainbow Warriors, while the coaching staff also juggles recruiting

Cut 17 (18) “lot of points”

Holtz says playing a bowl game in Hawaii is an unique experience and he’s glad his team has this opportunity

Cut 18 (20)  excited about it“

A Louisiana school that produced viral videos showing its students receiving acceptance letters to prestigious universities is now accused of falsifying transcripts. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Americans for Prosperity launches an anti-gas tax campaign on Saturday with ads on social media and gas station video screens…

Cut 2 (30) “Im Matt Doyle”  

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All good things must come to an end and the Saints 10-game winning streak ended last night with a 13-10 loss to Dallas. New Orleans was held to 176 total yards of offense as Quarterback Drew Brees was under duress for much of the game

Cut 3 (12) “we are doing”

Brees threw for just 39 yards in the first half and ended up with 127 yards passing. New Orleans couldn’t get its run game going as Alvin Kamara was held to 36 yards rushing, while Mark Ingram had just 27 yards on the ground. Coach Sean Payton says not enough success on first down, led to a long night…

Cut 4 (10) “in this game″

The officials missed an obvious targeting penalty when Dallas linebacker Jaylon Smith made helmet-to-helmet contact on Alvin Kamara. Instead of punting, the Saints should have received a first down on a critical drive in the fourth quarter. Payton was asked about the hit in the postgame

Cut 5 (11)  “…do enough” 

The Saints record falls to 10-2 and they slip to second in the NFC.

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A federal judge has ordered $34.8 million in restitution from the owner of Explo Systems, a military contractor hired to demilitarize artillery charges at Camp Minden in Webster Parish, in a case stemming from a huge munitions blast in 2012 due to illegal dumping of the materials.  US Attorney David Joseph says it was a difficult case to clean up.

Cut 6 (12) “…at Camp Minden.”

Explo Systems, who went bankrupt in 2013 had an $8.7 million contract for the job.  In addition to the restitution, David Alan Smith, owner of the company was sentenced to just shy of five years in prison, with four others in the company receiving sentences of between 2 to 5 years behind bars.  Joseph says he’s happy with the outcome.

Cut 7 (07) “…was done here.”

Joseph says the state has already been reimbursed for the cost it incurred from the case, so the restitution would be going toward the military.

Cut 8 (03) “…is currently due.”

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A Koch brother’s backed conservative advocacy group will begin airing anti-gas tax ads on social media and at gas station video screens across the state this weekend ahead of next year’s legislative session that may include a push to raise the tax to pay for road projects. Americans for Prosperity State Director John Kay says it’s no time for another tax.

Cut 9 (10) “you can”

Last year. infrastructure advocates attempted to pass a 17 cent gas tax that would have raised half a billion dollars a year to pay for infrastructure. Kay says that kind of price hike on an everyday item would hurt.

Cut 10 (07)   “…Louisiana”

Those advocates say they’re considering a six-cent gas tax increase next legislative session, with two cent hikes every other year after that.

Louisianans pay 38.4 cents per gallon in gas taxes total, 20 of which is state gas tax, one of the lowest totals in the nation. Kay says that’s something to be lauded, and that makes up for the state’s higher than normal sales tax rate.

Cut 11 (08) “…bad thing”

Pennsylvania leads the nation in state gas tax rates at 58.7 cents a gallon.

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Holiday traditions and events around the Bayou State are becoming quite the draw for visitors.  Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says as the state continues to promote staycations in Louisiana, it’s a great time to take the family around the state to take in some of the great celebrations.

Cut 12 (11)   “…parade on Saturday.”

Nungesser says Louisiana is more often becoming the place where families congregate for the holiday festivities.

Cut 13 (11) “…all over Louisiana.”

Nungesser highlights the Nachitoches Chrismas Festival, which is in its 92^nd year in 2018, as the one of the state’s staple Christmas celebrations.

Cut 14 (11) “…lights and celebration.”

Other events this weekend include Christmas in the Park in Bogalusa, Winter Fete in Alexandria, there’s a Christmas Parade in Jeanerette on Sunday and there’s the always popular Celebration in the Oaks in New Orleans.

Today marks the end of a hurricane season that now researchers are now saying they initially under-predicted.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (32) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”

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After being closed to repair damages sustained from a collision with a crane last month, the Sunshine Bridge in St. James Parish will be partially reopening to traffic tomorrow, but it comes with some restrictions.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 2 (21) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

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Donald Trump’s approval rating in Louisiana took a big jump this year, thanks to swelling support from his base…

Cut 3 (30) “…Matt Doyle”

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Today marks the final day of the 2018 hurricane season, a season that was initially forecasted to be below average.  Even though Louisiana was spared of the impact of any major weather event, other coastal areas in the US were not so lucky.  Colorado State University hurricane researcher Phil Klotzbach, lead author of the forecast says they under-predicted the slightly above average season.

Cut 4 (10) “actually has 3.″

While the season only saw two major hurricanes, Klotzbach says both brought devastation to the areas they made landfall with Hurricane Florence having a death toll of 53 and Hurricane Michael with 43 and counting.

Cut 5 (07) “…of Florida respectively.”

Klotzbach says regardless of the forecast, it’s important for coastal residents to always be prepared during hurricane season.

Cut 6 (05) “…saw this year.”

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Good news for the thousands of motorists who use the Sunshine Bridge in St. James Parish. The bridge was closed last month for repairs after a barge hit the structure, but after testing and inspections, it will be partially reopened tomorrow. DOTD spokesperson Rodney Mallett says this comes after crews have been working around the clock on repairs.

Cut 7 (06) “…main cords replaced.”

Mallett insists the bridge is safe, but there will be some restrictions for drivers.

Cut 8 (05) “…of 11 feet.”

Mallett says with only one lane in each direction opening, drivers can still expect some delays.

Cut 9 (05) “…a lot of people.”

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President Donald Trump’s approval is up to a clear majority of voters in Louisiana in a new poll from Bernie Pinsonat. Pinsonat says 2018 has featured a few big signature wins for causes close to white heart for white conservative voters that dominate the state’s electorate.

Cut 10 (10)   “…55% popular.”

Trump sports a 70 percent approval rating in total from white voters in Louisiana.

The poll also surveyed voter’s opinions on Senator John Kennedy and Governor Edwards. While Trump’s overall approval rating was lower than both of theirs, the percentage of voters who give him the best possible rating beats out the two Bayou State heavyweights.

Cut 11 (07) “…percent.”

Kennedy had the next highest excellent rating at 24 percent.

As popular as the President is with Louisiana white voters, he’s even less popular with black voters who make up nearly a third of the population. Those voters almost universally dislike Trump, with 86 percent disapproving of his job, Pinsonat says politically that may not matter…

Cut 12 (07)   “his corner.”

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Louisiana is under the threat of severe weather, especially for those north of Interstate 20.  National Weather Service Shreveport Meteorologist Brandi Richardson says an upper-level trough will push rain into the area during the daylight hours.

Cut 13 (12) “…north of there.” 

Richardson says the weather pattern will also bring a cold front into the area.

Cut 14 (07) “…force those thunderstorms.”

Richardson says when it comes to severe weather in for those south of I-20, it’s important for residents to be prepared as well.

Cut 15 (08) “…prepare for it.”

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Nichols is looking to keep their dream season alive, fresh off a 49-30 win over San Diego in the first round of the FCS playoffs. Up next they’ll take on Eastern Washington on Saturday up in Cheney Washington. The Eagles are averaging 60 points in their last three games and only lost 2 all years. Colonel’s Coach Tim Rebowe says they’re not to be underestimated.

Cut 16 (16) “…and them”

Eastern Washington QB Eric Barriere scored six total touchdowns in the Eagles last game, a 74-23 win over Portland State.

But Nichols has been impressive themselves, averaging 27 points scored in the first halves of their last three games while only letting in 10 total points from opponents over that same period. Rebow says strong starts have been a focus this year, but against this kind of opponent, they’ll need to keep their foot on the pedal…

Cut 17 (15) “slugfest”

Rebow says his team isn’t intimidated by their deep run in the FCS playoffs, and are looking forward to cracking the elite eight with a running game that’s trampled opponents this year.

Cut 18 (17)   arrogance“

LSU is 10th in the new college football playoff rankings, which gives them a good shot at playing in a New Year’s Six bowl game. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Prosecutors are attempting to obtain the cell phone passcode of Matthew Naquin, a former LSU student charged with negligent homicide in the suspected hazing death of Max Gruver.  Kevin Barnhart tells us why.

Cut 2 (32) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

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120 jobs are coming to Minden in Webster Parish as a result of Catamaran Solutions plans to assume operation of a 135,000 square foot industrial fabrication center. The jobs will come with an average salary of 61-thousand dollars a year. Minden Mayor Tommy Davis says the jobs will come in phases.

Cut 3 (09) “for minden”

Davis says the firm will provide analytics-informed construction and maintenance services for industrial clients…

Cut 4 (11) “…also″

The site is part of the state’s developing I-20 Cyber Corridor. Davis says Minden’s rail and interstate access helped seal the deal.

Cut 5 (08)  “…available.” 

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This year Christmas tree prices are on the rise.  That’s due to growing shortages stemming from the Great Recession.  The 2008 financial crisis put many tree farmers out of business.  Blake Huval, the owner of Huval’s Tree Hut in Central, says at the time, the market was flooded with more trees than demand is having its effect on the price this year.

Cut 6 (09) “…10 to 12 years.”

Huval says farmers at the time scaled back on planting new trees that would be ready for harvest this year.

Cut 7 (11) “…to sell it.”

Huval says for those looking to save a few bucks, he recommends looking at trees that might not be a premium grade tree.

Cut 8 (08) “…wrong with that.”

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LSU is 10th in the new college football playoff rankings, which is good news for their chances of playing in a New Year’s Six bowl game. Jerry Palm does bowl projections for CBS-Sports-dot-com and says as long as there not any major upsets in the Big 10 or ACC Championship games, the Tigers should have a postseason game in either Arizona or Georgia…

Cut 9 (09) “Fiesta Bowl”

Palm says if LSU goes to the Peach Bowl they could face Michigan. He says if the Tigers play in the Fiesta Bowl, they’ll likely face a Group of 5 opponent like U-C-F…

Cut 10 (12)   “…Fiesta Bowl”

LSU’s seven overtime loss to Texas A&M cost them three spots in the rankings, but they remain ranked in the Top 10 despite three losses on the season. Palm says when you look at the teams around them, 10 is a good spot, but they could fall again if there’s a couple upsets this Saturday…

Cut 11 (11) “…LSU”

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Prosecutors are attempting to obtain the cell phone passcode of Matthew Naquin, a former LSU student charged with negligent homicide in the suspected hazing death of Max Gruver.  But Loyola University Law Professor Dane Ciolino says the Fifth Amendment prohibits Naquin from being obligated to give a testimony revealing his cellular passcode.

Cut 12 (09)   “…act that’s testimonial.”

Ciolino says, while it could be that Naquin feels there could be damaging information on the cell phone, he could also be keeping quiet out of principle.

Cut 13 (10) “…certainly has merit.”

Ciolino says with Naquin’s case of using a passcode, courts will have a tougher time accessing the contents of his cell phone.  Ciolino adds that courts don’t have the same issue with some of the new technology used in unlocking devices.

Cut 14 (10) “…this is different.”

A hearing on the issue is scheduled for next Tuesday.

John Madden may be retired as a football commentator, but 21 years later he still celebrates holidays with a Louisiana classic creation, the Turkducken.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”

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There will be heavy law enforcement on the roadways over the next few days, ensuring motorists get to their destination safely.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”