LRN PM Newscall December 1

A new Food Network series called “Cajun Aces” staring two south Louisiana chefs premiers Saturday night. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 1 (28) “I’m Michelle Southern.”

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A newly released 300-page State Police report shows alleged criminal corruption by former State Police Superintendent Mike Edmonson.  Don Molino has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Don Molino.”

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A new Food Network series called “Cajun Aces” staring two south Louisiana chefs premiers tomorrow night. Husband and wife chefs Cody and Samantha Carroll run the very popular restaurants Hot Tails in New Roads, and Sac a Lait in New Orleans’ Warehouse District. Cody says the cameras follow them around Cajun country, and highlight Louisiana in a huge way…:

Cut 3 (11) “and Mirliton pie”

The couple says say this was one of the fastest green-lit projects ever by their production company, High Noon, to hit the Food Network. Cody says they’ve already seen the first episode entitled, “Crawfish and Mirliton,” and the camera work capturing the Cajun countryside is incredible…:

Cut 4  (08) “just beautiful” 

The first episodes of Cajun Aces airs on Food Network tomorrow night at 7pm; one highlighting crawfish dishes and the other about wild boar. Then next week the other two episodes next week will feature wild turkey and red fish. Samantha says there is a huge sense around the country of a huge love and fascination for all Louisiana has to offer…:

Cut 5  (10)  “at a festival’”

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A newly released 300-page State Police report provided to the Advocate, shows former LSP Superintendent Mike Edmonson allegedly knew about side trips several troopers took on their way to a conference in San Diego last year.  President of the Metropolitan Crime Commission Rafael Goyeneche (go-en-nech-che)  says Edmonson asked for an internal investigation only after the media became involved…

Cut 6 (09)  “documented misconduct.”

Edmonson retired last March after learning the troopers were being internally investigated after claiming overtime and expensive hotel stays in Arizona and Nevada.   Goyeneche says Edmonson’s tampering with key evidence could bring felony charges, including obstruction of justice…

Cut 7 (12)  “criminal violation.” 

Goyeneche says Edmonson’s behavior has been embarrassing for the State Police.  It will take a while to bring reconciliation to the agency…

Cut 8 (12) “and externally.”

Attempts by LRN to speak with Edmonson have not been returned.

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A suspected bank robber is in custody after being on the run this week.  Broussard Police Chief Brannon Decou says 29-year-old Jeremie Raymond of New Iberia allegedly held up the First Community Bank Monday, firing a weapon and injuring a bank teller.  He left on foot after the robbery.  Decou says Raymond was apprehend with help from the U.S. Marshal’s Fugitive Task Force…

Cut 9 (06)  “was apprehended.”

Decou says it is unknown if the sister was involved in the incident.  Decou says Raymond faces several charges…

Raymond is held in the East Baton Rouge Parish jail on a half-million-dollar bond and waiting extradition to Lafayette Parish.

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State Police is still searching for a driver involved in a fatal hit and run which killed a pedestrian in St. John the Baptist Parish last weekend. Senior Trooper Melissa Matey says they do know that the hit and run vehicle is a 1988 to 2000 model GMC or Chevrolet pickup truck. She says the tailgate is a different color than the rest of the vehicle and some of the paint is faded on both sides of the truck.

 

The vehicle has the Louisiana license plate X-4-4-4-6-6-6. Matey urges anyone who could’ve seen this vehicle to contact State Police immediately. She says the truck is a light color, possibly silver or gray.

Cut 12 (07) “model”

Eugene Webber III was killed on Saturday, November 25th while walking down U.S. 61.

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It’s official; Jimbo Fisher is leaving Florida State to take the head coaching job at Texas A&M, and will not host the FSU game against ULM Saturday. So what does this mean for LSU now that he’s back in the SEC? College football analyst Mike Detillier says Fisher is known for developing quarterbacks…:

Cut 13 (11)  “National Football League”

A Houston TV station is reporting that Fisher’s deal is worth $7.5 million dollars annually over what is “likely” a 10-year contract. Detillier says a big key for Fisher’s success overall in the SEC is whether or not he can do something about the struggling Aggie defense…:

Cut 14 (11) “figure that out”

Reports say Fisher is already expected to be introduced in College Station Monday. Fisher’s name was being tossed around at LSU after Les Miles was fired, but it didn’t work out. Detillier says college football is all about looking forward and not back at what you should have done…:

Cut 15 (12) “going to LSU”

Fisher was the Offensive Coordinator and Quarterbacks Coach at LSU from 2000-2006.

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LRN AM Newscall December 1

Will holiday company parties be a bit more laid back, because of the heightened awareness of sexual harassment in the workplace? Emelie Gunn reports…

Cut 1 (27) “I’m Emelie Gunn.”

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Former U-S Representative William Jefferson was recently released from prison and is expected to remain free. Jeff Palermo reports the convicted Congressman has a new sentencing hearing today…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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A State Police report obtained by the Advocate accuses the former head of the L-S-P, Mike Edmonson, of deleting text messages amid an investigation into questionable travel by some of his troopers. Kelley Ray has more…

Cut 3  (30) “I’m Kelley Ray”  

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Will holiday company parties be a bit more laid back this year, because of the heightened awareness of sexual harassment? A national conversation is underway about office misconduct in the wake of allegations against many high profile celebrities. UNO Business Professor Dr. Mark Rosa says it’s a hypersensitive issue…

Cut 4  (09) “deep consequences”

It’s now December and this is the first big weekend for gatherings with your bosses and co-workers. Rosa says it’s easy to want to let loose with people you don’t normally socialize with, but if you think you might find it difficult to behave, best to avoid alcohol all together…:

Cut 5  (11)  “laced environment”

Rosa says HR departments are likely re-evaluating their sexual harassment policies as accusations are leading to the firing of well-known individuals. Rosa says videos on what is acceptable in the office and at social functions will likely be shown as part annual training for employees…:

Cut 6 (09) “on this” 

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The National Flood Insurance Program, which provides flood insurance for thousands of Louisiana residents expires next Friday on December 8th.  U.S. Senator John Kennedy is hopeful Congress can renew the N-F-I-P without raising premiums, so flood insurance becomes unaffordable…

Cut 7 (07)  “any buses.”

The program was 24-billion-dollars in debt before Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, Maria and Nate struck the U.S. this year.  Kennedy says being in the hole that much is unacceptable…

Cut 8 (04) “fiscal responsibility.”

Kennedy says he can find money to help with the huge debt load.  They simply need to lower the private insurance company administration fees…

Cut 9 (10)  “the dollar.”

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If you were affected by the August 2016 floods and feel you should’ve received more flood insurance money or uncovered additional damages, you have until December 31st to submit a proof of loss. State Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon says the deadline was recently extended again to give victims a chance to get more…

Cut 10 (12)  “compensation”

Donelon says for help filing an appeal for more money from the flood insurance program, consumers can call 1-800-259-5300. He also suggests working with your insurance company…

Cut 11 (10) “insurance program”

Only 300 appeals have been filed and 38 of those policyholders received additional money. Donelon says many flood victims who already received a check are under the misunderstanding that they cannot receive more assistance. He says many people are scared to fight the federal government.

Cut 12 (10) “their policy”

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Former New Orleans Congressman William Jefferson is expected to remain free today following his new sentencing hearing. Jefferson was released from prison last month after serving more than five years of a 13-year sentence. Loyola University law professor Dane Ciolino says federal prosecutors do not want to retry Jefferson after 7 counts of his conviction were tossed out…

Cut 13 (11) “remain free.”

Jefferson was convicted of accepting 400-thousand dollars in bribes and seeking millions more as part of a business dealings in Africa.  Ciolino says Jefferson is catching a break, because of a recent Supreme Court ruling that makes it more difficult to convict elected officials on bribery charges…

Cut 14 (07) “of many.”

Cioilno says since the nation’s highest court determined that setting up meetings, calling other public officials or getting gifts do not necessarily qualify as an official act, the term “official act” is not as broad as it once was…

Cut 15 (11) “of value.”

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First place in the NFC South is on the line Sunday afternoon in the Mercedes Benz Superdome as the Saints host the Carolina Panthers. Both teams are 8-3. New Orleans is coming off a loss that ended their eight-game winning streak. Quarterback Drew Brees says they are seeking to play their best game of the season…

Cut 16  (14)  “important game.”

Atlanta is just one game back of the Panthers and Saints in the division standings. After Sunday’s game against Carolina, the Black and Gold will play the Falcons twice in a three week period. Brees is excited to see how his team handles the next month…

Cut 17  (08)  “best football.”

The Panthers have won four in a row and Carolina Q-B Cam Newton seems to be back on the top of his game. Two games ago, he threw four touchdown passes and on November 5th he had 86 yards rushing in a 20-17 win over Atlanta. New Orleans linebacker A-J Klein says it’s important to keep Newton in the pocket…

Cut 18 (19) “harder to stop” 

LRN PM Newscall November 30

Louisiana teachers can expand their curriculum from the comfort of their office chair with a new resourceful website.  Michelle Southern has more…

Cut 1 (28) “I’m Michelle Southern.”

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A Prevent Child Abuse Louisiana report finds kids in Louisiana face more stressful or traumatic experiences than in the rest of the country. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Baton Rouge Police say two people who were robbed at gunpoint outside the Radio Bar last night, ended up killing the suspect with their vehicle. Sgt. L’Jean McKneely says after one of the robbery victims gave 33-year-old Corey Montgomery of Baton Rouge their wallet, they got into their vehicle and sped away…

Cut 3 (11) “parking lot.”

Investigators say from all indications, the victims didn’t try to hit Montgomery on purpose.

Cut 4  (06) “the suspect” 

The victims called police.  When they arrived, they found the Montgomery on the ground with the wallet he stole.  He was transported to an area hospital where he later died.  McKneely says this case is pretty much decided…

Cut 5  (07)  “armed robber.’”

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A 17-year-old student at North Webster High School in Springhill has turned himself into police for the murder of his classmate. Springhill Police Chief Will Lynd says Josh Lewis of Cotton Valley confessed to police that he shot 17-year-old Jaylen Thomas. He says the murder sparked after a disagreement between two teens that Lewis and Thomas knew.

Cut 6 (10)  “for me”

Lynd says Thomas was working at Sonic and was killed during his 30 minute break. He says the teenagers went to another location in Springhill when the shooting took place.

Cut 7 (10)  “the street” 

Thomas was a member of the North Webster High School football team. Lynd says this is a senseless homicide. He says crimes like this just don’t happen in Springhill.

Cut 8 (11) “accidental death”

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Louisiana teachers now have access to free teaching materials all with the click of a computer mouse and keyboard.  The Louisiana Federation of Teachers Share My Lesson is a free web based site teachers can use to enrich their skills.  LFT Spokesman Les Landon…

Cut 9 (13)  “the country.”

Landon says the site offers much more than materials for teachers.   The site can also benefit parents and their children…

The American Federation of Teachers designed the site, assisting in the development and expansion of the information available. Landon says this makes it easy for Louisiana educators to add to their teaching plan without leaving the state…

 

Cut 11 (10) “the country.”

The site is at la-dot-aft-dot-org.  It is free for anyone to signup and get started.

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A report from Prevent Child Abuse Louisiana finds 54-percent of children in the Bayou State have experienced traumatic or stressful occurrences in their life, compared to 46-percent nationwide. Executive Director Amanda Brunson says it’s a concern because adverse childhood experiences are traumatic or stressful occurrences that can lead to serious consequences with child development.

Cut 12 (11) “health behaviors”

Brunson says another trend noted is that kids who live in homes more prone to the adverse events typically don’t live in a neighborhood where they feel comfortable seeking the help of other adults. She says that’s a call to all people to be open and available to all children.

Cut 13 (08)  “your circle”

Brunson says the original study took place in California and the majority of children who experienced these adverse events were white, with college educated parents and had private health insurance. She says in low income areas these numbers are even higher…

Cut 14 (07) “of life”

LRN PM Newscall November 29

Much of Louisiana remains arid and dry due to La Nina’ conditions.  Kelley Ray talked with State Climatologist Barry Keim about a benefit some are seeing…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Kelley Ray.”

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Matt Lauer of the Today Show is yet another to be accused of sexual harassment. Emelie Gunn has more on why victims are now being taken seriously….

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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A Denham Springs woman has been arrested for filing a false police report after she allegedly told authorities she was raped by a Livingston Parish deputy.  State Police say 38-year-old Sherri Penton and the unidentified deputy met on a social dating website in mid-October.  State Trooper Bryan Lee explains what happened…

Cut 3 (13) “in Walker.”

After the incident, Penton went to a hospital claiming she was sexually assaulted.  That is when Lee says State Police became involved.  During their investigation, conflicting statements from Penton were revealed…

Cut 4  (10) ” not occur.” 

DNA tests cleared the deputy of any wrongdoing.  Penton was arrested and charged with Filing a False Complaint against Law Enforcement.  Lee says when a law officer is accused, they seriously take any allegations cast against them…

Cut 5  (08)  “them seriously.’”

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Louisiana is falling further behind in rainfall.  The recent arid conditions is blamed on the current La Nina pattern that is in place.  State Climatologist Barry Keim says there has been very little rain this fall…

Cut 6 (08)  “time period.”

A warm and dry winter is predicted for Louisiana.  Keim says much of north Louisiana is already seeing drought conditions…

Cut 7 (11)  “of drought.” 

An updated three-month forecast is due from the Climate Prediction Center tomorrow.  Keim says he expects more of the same.  With this weather pattern, he says the strong La Nina will keep moisture from coming south…

Cut 8 (11) “US midwest.”

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The North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un ordered the launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile yesterday that landed in the Sea of Japan. Retired U.S. Army Lt. General Russel Honore says the 33-year-old leader of North Korea is ordering these strikes to act like he has a seat at the table with powerful countries like the U.S. But he says if Kim Jong Un tries to go to war with us, he will lose.

Cut 9 (11)  “North Korea”

Honore predicts North Korea has about 12 nuclear warheads and the U.S. has about 3,900. He says the size of Kim Jong Un’s army is not to fight outside countries, it’s to control his people.

U.S. officials says these missiles launched by North Korea could comfortably reach anywhere in America. Honore says South Koreans need to be more aggressive getting information inside of the communist country. He says it’s a hard task to unify the Korean peninsula because not everyone wants it done.

 

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The Today Show Host Matt Lauer is another prominent name who has been fired amid allegations of sexual misconduct. LSU Health New Orleans Assistant Professor of Psychiatry Michelle Many says after seeing so many well-known names accused of sexual harassment, victims are feeling more confident coming forward but not so much because of the consequences the offender may face.

Cut 12 (11) “the past”

Alabama judge Roy Moore and Minnesota Senator Al Franken are just two names in politics accused of sexual misconduct. Many says in the past, these claims were handled differently in the workplace and not always taken seriously. She says women often faced further victimized by coming out with allegations.

Cut 13 (10)  “very encouraging”

Many says the general consciousness of sexual assault and harassment has been raised over the last 10 or so years. She says it’s time for employers to take another look at this issue and establish a protocol in the event allegations come out.

Cut 14 (11) “go down”

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LRN PM Newscall November 28

Governor Edwards is in Washington DC today touting the success of the state’s new criminal justice reform effort.  Michelle Southern has more.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern.”

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Five years ago, a sinkhole formed in Bayou Corne resulting in the mandatory evacuation of 350 people. Emelie Gunn has more on a new documentary on the sinkhole’s impact

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Could the trick to losing weight be as close as your kitchen spice rack? The University of Michigan has found an essential oil in cinnamon that attacks fat cells.  Professor at LSU’s Pennington Biomedical Research Center Dr. Steven Heymsfield explains the effectiveness of the oil called cinnamaldehyde (cin-na-mal-duh-hide)….

Cut 3 (11) “develop diabetes.”

Heymsfield warns the results of this study are new and more is needed to say that taking cinnamon is the only treatment to combat diabetes…

Cut 4  (10) ” of it.” 

Heymsfield says with continued research, the medical community might be able to develop more potent cinnamon to be used for diabetic patients…

Cut 5  (11)  “something interesting.’”

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Governor John Bel Edwards participated in a criminal justice reform event organized by the Pew Charitable Trusts in Washington DC today.  The Edwards Administration helped passed ten new laws allowing for the early release of non-violent prisoners.  Nearly two-thousand were released last month.  Edwards says he kept his campaign promise to lower the jail population…

Cut 6 (07)  “of progress.”

The new legislation reduced sentences for non-violent offenders and expanded probation and parole opportunities.  Edwards says the cost savings from a lower incarceration rate will allow the state to spend more money on programs to reduce the risk of former prisoners reoffending…

Cut 7 (11)  “crime victim.” 

Senator John Kennedy responded to Edwards visit to Washington by saying the answer to criminal reform isn’t by releasing prisoners, but starts with those who are running the prison system by being above reproach…

Cut 8 (08) “and stealing.”

Kennedy says Edwards criminal justice reform effort isn’t working.  He cites some who were released under the new guidelines are already back in jail…

Cut 9 (10)  “at gunpoint.”

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State Police is investigating the death of a Slidell man whose vehicle was struck by a boat in St. James Parish. Trooper Jesse LaGrange says 20-year-old Jeremiah Allee of St. Amant was driving down LA 18 towing a boat and trailer. He says somehow the trailer detached, crossed the center line and hit 49-year-old David Burvant’s vehicle.

LaGrange says troopers are working to determine how the boat and trailer became detached from Allee’s truck. He says impairment is not suspected.

LaGrange reminds drivers towing anything behind a vehicle with a trailer, check and double check to make sure your connections are secure.

Cut 12 (11) “the trailer”

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In August of 2013, a sinkhole in Bayou Corne swallowed swamps and resulted in a mandatory evacuation of 350 residents. The salt mining company, Texas Brine, drilled through a salt dome, which created the sinkhole.  Five years later, film producer Victoria Greene released “The Forgotten Bayou”, a documentary on the lives of those impacted, Texas Brine, and scientists and government officials.

Cut 13 (11)  “the country”

The sinkhole spans over 40 acres in the northern part of Assumption Parish. Greene says “Forgotten Bayou” aired at the Vermillion Center in Lafayette last night and she has plans to host the film in other areas of the state in recent months. She says if there is one message to take away from the documentary it’s….

Cut 14 (11) “and drill”

Greene says she was not commissioned by the state, Texas Brine, or those affected to create her film. She says there was a culture and community to the people who lived in Bayou Corne and other than the 12 to 14 families that still live there, the rest are spread out around Louisiana and some into Mississippi.

Cut 15 (12) “just gone”

LRN PM Newscall November 27

A Slidell man faces negligent homicide charges from a fatal hit and run in which investigators say he pulled the victim’s body from his windshield. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A suspect linked to the fatal shootings of four people in Zachary and East Feliciana is in custody. Michelle Southern reports one victim was an ex-girlfriend…:

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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State Police arrest a Slidell man after he allegedly hit a bicyclist, removed him from his windshield and left the scene.  Trooper Dustin Dwight says 48-year-old Larry Kellett struck 59-year-old Calvin Lefort Jr. of Slidell on US 190 Saturday night…

Cut 3 (08) “a ditch.”

It was fairly easy to find out where Kellett went.  Dwight says all they had to do was follow a fluid trail…

Cut 4  (09) ” negligent homicide.” 

After police found Kellett, Dwight says he offered a breath sample, which showed no alcohol in his system.  Dwight says they are still trying to find out why he left the scene, making more of a problem for himself…

Cut 5  (08)  “right now.’”

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Baton Rouge Police charge a 38-year-old man with cruelty to a juvenile after allegedly beating his son with a belt for getting suspended. Sgt. Don Coppola says Edward Humphrey dropped the child off at his mother’s workplace, who called police about her 11-year-old son’s injuries.

Cut 6 (09)  “upper back”

Coppola says earlier this month, Humphrey was sent to pick up his son from school after being suspended. He says that’s when Humphrey allegedly took the 11-year-old to the teacher’s lounge and whipped him with a belt.

Cut 7 (10)     the child” 

Coppola says it’s unknown if anyone witnessed Humphrey whipping the child, but the discipline went too far…

Cut 8 (10) “extreme injuries”

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State Police are looking for the driver of a pickup truck after a man riding in the bed of the truck, fell out and died in Winn Parish Sunday morning.   Master Trooper Scott Moreau says they believe they know the events leading up to the death of 21-year-old Hunter Thomisee of Montgomery…

Cut 9 (12)  “the scene.”

Troopers are still trying to determine how Thomisee fell out and why he was in the bed of the pickup.  Moreau says while they continue the investigation, they need the public’s help to find the vehicle and it’s driver…

 ________________________________________________________

Attorney General Jeff Landry urges consumers buying online for Cyber Monday to be mindful of the deals they take part in. Press Secretary for the A-G’s Office Ruth Wisher reminds Louisiana residents that internet scams are out there. She says to make sure the website is secure before entering in your credit card information.

 

Wisher also suggests avoiding online purchases while using a public wifi network.

Cut 12 (11) “more secure”

Wisher says be on the lookout for look-alike websites. She says there’s a scam out there called cybersquatting.

Cut 13 (06)  “copycat site”

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Authorities say a suspect linked to the fatal shootings of four people in Zachary and East Feliciana was arrested in Alabama. East Feliciana Sheriff Jeff Travis says they responded to a call Sunday around 5pm and located three people deceased inside a home. He says they established Ike Hamilton as the suspect…:

Cut 14 (11) “of Gerald Tate”

Zachary Police Chief David McDavid says they were called to a grocery store Sunday afternoon in reference to a fatal shooting. He says they responded and located the fourth victim, Chris Price, dead…:

Cut 15 (11) “Hamilton”

Hamilton is being charged with multiple counts of 2nd-degree murder. McDavid says they also learned that Hamilton’s mother, Belinda Folse, was responsible for taking her son to Alabama…:

Cut 16  (08)  “after the fact”

LRN AM Newscall November 27

November is National Hospice and Palliative Care Month.  Many may not want to talk about end of life decisions, but experts say there is no better time.  Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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The largest oyster reef of it’s kind will be constructed in Calcasieu Lake near Lake Charles.  Kelley Ray has more.

Cut 2 (32) “I’m Kelley Ray.”

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Governor John Bel Edwards voiced his frustration with the low voter turnout for the November 14th election. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 3  (28) “I’m Emelie Gunn”  

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National Hospice and Palliative Care President and CEO Edo Banach (Ban-ick) says about 50 percent of Louisiana Medicare decedents were enrolled in hospice at the time of death. Banach says although it may be difficult to discuss, the holiday season provides an opportunity to discuss advance care planning with loved ones…

Cut 4  (08) “wishes are”

Starting a conversation about a grim subject may be hard to get started.  Banach says remember you’re not talking about death itself, but end of life wishes, which everyone has to consider…

Cut 5  (10)  “wishes are”

Banach says every adult should complete an advance directive and appoint a health care proxy or else your end of life decisions will be taken out of your hands…

Cut 6 (11) “it yourself.

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Construction begins today on a new oyster reef in Calcasieu Lake near Lake Charles. About 12,500 cubic yards of crushed limestone will be spread on the lake bottom to create 100 acres of artificial oyster reef. Assistant Secretary for Fisheries Patrick Banks says it will increase oyster and seafood production…

Cut 7 (09)  “and fin fish.”

Oyster reefs have been constructed in Calcasieu Lake since 1963.  They were smaller in size, anywhere from 18 to 59 acres. Banks says more money is allowing them to do a much larger project…

Cut 8 (09) “this year.” (2x)

Even though it will take a couple of years to have a fully developed oyster population, Banks says the reef will begin to offer rod and reel fisherman a new place to drop a line…

Cut 9 (11)  “reef structure.”

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On Governor John Bel Edwards’ monthly call in radio show, Ask the Governor, he voiced his frustration with the 13-percent turnout for the November 14th election. Edwards says there were important elections like the state’s treasurer’s race, New Orleans mayoral runoff and a state representative seat in St. Tammany Parish.

Cut 10 (11)  “very small”

Edwards says everyone has the freedom to vote or not vote, but it’s something you would think residents would do. He says it’s more convenient than ever to vote with seven days of early voting, but still it seems there’s lower turnout than ever.

Cut 11 (09) “to vote”

Edwards says it’s likely voter apathy is keeping residents away from the polls. He says he’s worked with the Secretary of State’s Office to reduce the number of elections, but it doesn’t seem to be helping with turnout.

Cut 12 (06) “increase turnout”

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So now that the regular season is over for the LSU Tigers, what bowl game will they play in? Jerry Palm does bowl projections for CBS Sports and he expects the Tigers will be in Florida on New Year’s Day….

Cut 13 (07) “there again”

Palm says if LSU goes to the Outback Bowl, they’ll play a team from the Big 10…

Cut 14 (11) “committee game”

The bowl season in Louisiana begins with the R-and-L Carriers New Orleans Bowl on December 16th. Palm has La Tech versus Troy in that game. He has Southern Miss versus Florida State in the Independence Bowl on December 27th. And the Sugar Bowl is a semifinal contest in the College Football Playoff. Palm says the number one seed will likely be in New Orleans

Cut 15 (09)     number one”

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There was no happy ending in Los Angeles for the Saints, who had their eight-game winning streak snapped by the up and coming Rams. New Orleans had trouble getting its offense going and the defense missed its top two cornerbacks, who are injured. Coach Sean Payton says L-A was the better team in the 26-20 win…

Cut 16  (16)  “good enough”

The Saints were just 3-for-13 on third downs and running back Mark Ingram was held to just to 31 yards. Other than a 74-yard run by rookie Alvin Kamara, New Orleans offense didn’t do much. Payton says penalties made it difficult to sustain drives…

Cut 17 (16)  20 calls”

The loss drops the Saints record to 8-3 and into a first place tie with Carolina for first place in the NFC South. New Orleans and the Panthers meet this Sunday in the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Saints Quarterback Drew Brees on moving from this loss to a big divisional matchup….

Cut 18 (19) “meaningful game” 

LRN PM Newscall November 24

Events for the 44th annual Bayou Classic are underway in New Orleans. Emelie Gunn has more….

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Now that Black Friday is about done, attention turns to smaller locally owned businesses.  Kelley Ray has a look at Small Business Saturday…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Kelley Ray.”

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An aide to Governor Edwards has resigned as a result of sexual harassment allegations. The news of Johnny Anderson’s resignation occurred when many are focused on a four-day holiday. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says political action committees will remind voters when Edwards runs for re-election in two years…

Cut 3 (10) “for an ad”

Anderson was the Deputy Chief of Staff for Programming and Planning.  He told the Advocate he’s innocent, but doesn’t want to be a distraction as he attempts to clear his name. Anderson was also accused of harassment in 2007 when he served as chair of the Southern Board of Supervisors. Pinsonat says having this happen to Anderson again is not a good look for Edwards…

Cut 4  (06) ” he had” 

Edwards spoke about the recent rash of sexual harassment allegations in the world of entertainment and politics during his “Ask the Governor” show on Wednesday. But never mentioned Anderson’s resignation, which became public later that day. Pinsonat says Edwards says should have talked about Anderson on his radio show…

Cut 5  (09)  he didnt’”

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The 44th Bayou Classic is tomorrow in the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans, as Grambling State takes on Southern. Media Director for the Bayou Classic Angela Young says the game kicks off at 4 p.m. but today, the Hyatt Regency hosts a BizTech Challenge and then it’s the famous Battle of the Bands at 6 p.m.

Cut 6 (10)  “Sheryl Underwood”

Randy Jackson will also be a judge. Young says the Bayou Classic Parade kicks off Saturday at 9 a.m. and culminates at Fan Fest in Champion’s Square.

Cut 7 (11)     Superdome” 

Young says the theme for this year’s events is “We are One” and the Bayou Classic is a family friendly event bringing those under the umbrella of HBCUs together. She says it’s estimated that the events will have a huge economic impact on the Crescent City.

Cut 8 (10) “same thing”

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The National Federation of Independent Businesses expect 82 percent of those surveyed will participate in Small Business Saturday tomorrow.  The special shopping day was created in a joint partnership by American Express and the NFIB.  NFIB State Director Dawn Starns says shopping small businesses is a great way to keep your dollars in your community…

Cut 9 (08)  “corporate headquarters.”

Surveys show that 61-percent of consumers are aware of Small Business Saturday and 82-percent of those plan to shop and eat at a small independently owned business.  Starns says the momentum has been picking up…

Starns says when you patronize local smaller business, you aren’t just shopping with a business owner, you are shopping with people you know and trust…

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There are some great sales for shoppers to grab today, but there are some items that aren’t a deal. Personal finance website Wallethub says the average discount among retail chains is 37-percent.  Analyst Jill Gonzalez says two retailers are very aggressive with discounts this year…

Cut 12 (10) “as JcPenney.”

Online shopping has become a very large part of Christmas shopping with Amazon leading the way.  However Gonzalez says you have to be aware of current prices to make sure you’re getting the best deal…

Cut 13 (11)  “week ago.”

Gonzalez says 33 percent of those surveyed plan on spending at least 500-dollars on holiday shopping, even though Black Friday has lost some of its luster…

Cut 14 (07) “day anymore.”

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AM Newscall November 24,2017

BlackFriday.com surveyed Louisiana residents to see what shopping trends they are most interested in this holiday season. Emelie Gunn has more….

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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There are plenty of shoppers this weekend, unfortunately there are also crooks looking to steal your Christmas gifts. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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A new survey from BlackFriday.com shows Louisiana shoppers actually prefer buying online for Cyber Monday rather than fighting the crowds on Friday. But Site Retail Expert Carson Yarbrough says over 60-percent of consumers in the Bayou State still plan to catch some deals in stores this Black Friday.

Cut 3  (10) “Black Friday”  

Yarbrough says the survey also finds that more than 68-percent of Louisiana shoppers will check Amazon before looking or buying somewhere, more than the national average of 55-percent. She says Bayou State buyers also are not wanting jewelry in their stockings this Christmas.

Cut 4  (10) “home gadgets”

Yarbrough says they also asked Louisiana residents which holiday perk they were most likely to take advantage of…

Cut 5  (10)  “advantage of”

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Almost half of U-S adults are considered to have high blood pressure as a result updated guidelines for what constitutes hypertension. Tulane epidemiology professor Doctor Paul Whelton led the team that redefined the blood pressure guidelines and his hope is that leads lifestyle changes for some patients…

Cut 6 (09) “in take

Previously, about one-third of Americans were estimated to have hypertension, which can lead to a heart attack or stroke. Whelton says the goal is to help patients more accurately understand the consequences of high blood pressure, so they can address it sooner…

Cut 7 (08)  “approaches”

Whelton says the new guidelines were written after an extensive review of over 900 published studies. He says high blood pressure is known as the silent killer, because often there are no symptoms. His hope is that adults will take with their doctor about the new guidelines to see lifestyle changes or medication is needed…

Cut 8 (08) “adult population”

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Can decorating your home for Christmas really improve your mood? Psychologist with LSU Health New Orleans Dr. Michelle Moore says studies show it actually can. She says putting up lights or decorating your Christmas tree brings back happy childhood memories and typically gives people a better demeanor.

Cut 9 (09)  “their life”

Moore says there’s been a recent trend of families putting up Christmas decorations before Thanksgiving. She says it’s simply the act of putting up holiday décor that takes the mind off of everyday stresses.

Cut 10 (09)  “house happen”

Moore says studies have shown that decorating the outside of your house for the holidays can bring neighbors together.

Cut 11 (06) “the holiday”

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The holiday shopping season unfortunately attracts criminals looking to steal your Christmas gifts. Lt. Brennan Matherne, with the Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s office, says be smart about parking, as you should park in well-lit, well-traveled areas and keep purchases out of sight…

Cut 12 (10) “multiple stores”

Matherne says it’s important to remain vigilant of your surroundings and to do that minimize distractions…

Cut 13 (09) “your vehicle”

He says if stranger approaches you, it could be a con artist who will attempt to district you with the intention of stealing your money or belongings. He says when shopping on the internet, be sure to make secure online transactions…

Cut 14 (11) “online purchases”

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18th ranked LSU wraps up the regular season on Saturday when they host Texas A-and-M. Twenty seniors will play their final home game in an LSU uniform. Defensive lineman Christian LaCouture is one of those players

Cut 15 (10) “on A&M”

Saturday could be the final game for Texas A-and-M Head Coach Kevin Sumlin. Reports say he will be fired after the game against the Tigers, but Sumlin says his team has to block that type of noise out…

Cut 16  (16)  “right now”

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Louisiana Tech closes out the regular season on Saturday with a home against U-T-S-A, who has a 6-and-4 record. Bulldogs Coach Skip Holtz says the Roadrunners are outstanding on defense, which keeps them in every game…

Cut 17 (13)  “being undefeated”

The Bulldogs need a win in order to be eligible for a bowl game for a fourth straight season. Holtz says he hasn’t thought much about a potential postseason game…

Cut 18 (18) “this week” 

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A win Saturday for the Ragin Cajuns and they’ll be bowl eligible for a sixth time in seven years under head coach Mark Hudspeth. U-L will host Georgia Southern in the home finale on Saturday afternoon. The Eagles have just one win, but Hudspeth says they have a lot of team speed…

Cut 19 (23)       many possessions”

AM Newscall November 23,2017

What electronic items are a good buy this holiday season?  Kelley Ray spoke with a retail analyst to find out…

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Kelley Ray.”

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Expect to spend more for a fresh Christmas Tree this year, as the supply is down.  Michelle Southern has more…

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Michelle Southern.”

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A Caddo Parish man is back with his family after he was detained by Guatemalan authorities in March. Emelie Gunn has the story…

Cut 3  (29) “I’m Emelie Gunn”  

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The food delivery app Waitr will deliver over two-thousand hot Thanksgiving meals across Louisiana and five other states.  They began delivering on Monday and will continue this week.   Waitr’s Director of New Market Growth Whitney Savoie says customers donated money through their app to help families who needed a hot Thanksgiving meal.  Waitr also asked their restaurants to get involved…

Cut 4  (07) “food outright.”

Savioe says CEO Chris Meaux was looking for a unique way to help needy families during the holiday season…

Cut 5  (12)  “Waitr grow.”

Savoie says Waitr and their 38-hundred employees matched a part of the donation.  She says it’s a wonderful feeling to know those donations will remain in the communities they serve…

Cut 6 (07) “our customers.”

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In some cases,  Black Friday starts today, as 38 retail chains plan to open today.  LSU Marketing Professor Dan Rice says brick and mortar stores are feeling the pinch due to increasing internet sales, but they are putting up a fight…

Cut 7 (08)  “late October.”

So how do you know if you are getting a good deal on Black Friday?  Rice says take some time beforehand and research the items you are looking to get…

Cut 8 (11) “few months.”

What are some of the best deals this year?  Rice says…

Cut 9 (10)  “specific electronics.”

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Christmas tree lots are popping up around Louisiana.  We talked with Gray Anderson of Grant Christmas Tree Farm and Syrup Mill in Allen Parish.   He says one of the most important things to do is keep the tree well moisturized…

Cut 10 (11)  “after Christmas.”

There is a reported national shortage in Christmas trees this year, due to the financial recession a few years ago.  It could mean higher prices for a tree than in the past.  Kevin Steele of Steele’s Christmas Tree Farms near Angie in Washington Parish explains…

Cut 11 (11) “they closed.”

After years of a stagnant economy, Steele says people are looking to go back to familiar traditions and it all starts with the tree…

Cut 12 (12) “season’s over.”

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Governor John Bel Edwards calls the recent wave of sexual harassment allegations made against politicians, journalists and those in the entertainment industry as heart breaking. Edwards says the common theme is a man who is in a position of power or prestige…

Cut 13 (08) “they like”

Edwards hopes this discussion will result in H-R departments implementing solid policies that will help victims of sexual harassment come forward…

Cut 14 (11) “offensive touching”

Edwards has two daughters and he said it would be painful for him, if they were victims of sexual harassment. The governor says he’s surprised by the number of allegations made in recent weeks, including the ones against television journalist and talk show host Charlie Rose…

Cut 15 (12) “a person-”