Early voting for the October 14^th election starts tomorrow, but Secretary of State Tom Schedler expects a small turnout. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Three amendments are on the October 14^th ballot wide and PAR President Robert Travis Scott explains what they mean. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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A Bossier Parish High School has told student athletes they could be kicked off a team for disrespecting the flag during the national anthem. Michael Farrar has more….

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Michael Farrar”

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Early voting begins tomorrow for the October 14^th election, but Secretary of State Tom Schedler doesn’t expect a big turnout. Three constitutional amendments, the state treasurer’s race and a few big local elections are on the ballot. However, Schedler says there has not been much publicity.

Cut 4  (10) “engaged”

There is also a vacant Public Service Commissioner seat on the ballot for many voters in south Louisiana, as Scott Angelle left his post to work for President Donald Trump. Schedler says there is a continuing pattern of a loss of interest in smaller elections…

Cut 5  (11)  “the world”

Early voting is from 8:30 am to 6 p.m. and starts Saturday and continues through October 7^th, except on Sunday. Schedler advises voters to use the GeauxVote app to see what is on the ballot and where to vote. He’s expecting an extremely low turnout.

Cut 6 (09) “in that”

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Voters should be aware of three constitutional amendments on the October 14^thballot. Amendment number one establishes a property tax exemption for construction work in progress. President of the Public Affairs Research Council, Robert Travis Scott, says if it passes, that law would be relatively straightforward.

Cut 7 (10)  “process”

Amendment two would give surviving spouses of first responders who died while on duty a property tax exemption. He says an exemption currently exists for surviving spouses of National Guard members, state police, law enforcement or fire firefighters who die in the line of duty. Scott says passage of Amendment two extends the tax break to spouses of volunteer firefighters, emergency medical responders and paramedics.

Cut 8 (10) “the home”

Amendment three would create a construction subfund of the transportation trust fund. Scott says in layman’s terms, that means if the state gas tax is ever raised, any new revenue must go towards road and highway construction projects and nothing else

Cut 9 (11)  “on highways”

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Parkway High School in Bossier Parish has told students that any school athlete that kneels or disrespects the flag during the national anthem could be kicked off the team. Executive Director of the ACLU of Louisiana Marjorie Esman says the laws of our country do not allow the schools to prohibit students from peacefully protesting in this manner.

Cut 10 (10)  “the government”

Parkway is part of the Bossier Parish School System and their superintendent Scott Smith says when a student joins a team, the players and coaches should stand when the national anthem is played to show respect. Esman says the ACLU condemns Bossier Parish’s threats to students’ first amendment rights.

Cut 11 (07) “would hope”

Esman says they haven’t heard of any other school districts prohibiting students from this type of protest. But she says they issued a statement so other schools thinking of taking similar action know what the law is.

Cut 12 (09) “students”

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 The state Department of Transportation’s Motorist Assistance Patrol Program, or MAP program, is headed to Alexandria to help with serious congestion problems in the region. Deidrea Druilhet with DOTD says the goal of introducing the MAP program to this central Louisiana area is to get traffic back to peak capacity by providing free help to drivers.

Cut 13 (06) “dead battery”

Druilhet says the MAP program has proven successful in Lake Charles, Baton Rouge, Shreveport and New Orleans. She says patrols will be out to assist on local highways, not just I-49.

Cut 14 (06) “McArthur”

Druilhet says these trucks are capable of moving stalled vehicles out of traffic lanes onto the shoulder. She says there are multiple ways to contact the program to get a MAP truck out to assist a disabled vehicle.

Cut 15 (09) “on duty”

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After getting a big win last week to start Sun Belt play, ULM looks to make it two in a row as they host Coastal Carolina. Coastal started the year with a 10 point win over UMASS, but they’ve lost their last two. Warhawks Head Coach Matt Viator says the Chanticleers have looked good on offense..

Cut 16  (19)  “they have”

ULM Quarterback Caleb Evans is coming off a great game in which he threw for 348 yards and rushed for 129 yards and five touchdowns. Viator says he’s anxious to see what Evans can do this week…

Cut 17 (20)  “our offense” 

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LSU faces Troy for homecoming tomorrow night. After losing the season opener to Boise State, the Trojans have won three in a row. Tiger Rag Associate Editor James Moran says Troy is not a team you can over look…

Cut 18 (11) “play well” 

LSU is coming off an uninspiring victory over Syracuse. Moran says he’ll look for improved play from the offensive line, after they struggled to pass block last week…

Cut 19 (15)  pass rush “

Moran anticipates we’ll see freshman Myles Brennan get some snaps before the fourth quarter, when the outcome of the game is still in doubt…

cut 20 (16)  “Brennan again” 

The state Department of Health has filed suit against several opioid companies a week after multiple Louisiana Sheriff’s Offices. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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House Majority Whip Steve Scalise is back at the Capitol working following a shooting that nearly ended his life. Jeff Palermo has more on the Metairie Congressman’s emotional return…

Cut 2 (32) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A week after multiple Louisiana Sheriff’s Offices filed suit against several opioid manufacturers, the state Department of Health has filed its own lawsuit claiming these drug companies have helped fuel the Bayou State’s severe opioid epidemic. Legal Analyst Tim Meche says this is a very trendy lawsuit now…

Cut 3 (11) “to settle”

Meche says it could be difficult for the suits to stick because the opioids are regulated and approved by the FDA and prescribed by doctors. He says this litigation is similar to lawsuits against gun manufacturers.

Cut 4  (11) “get one”

LDH is seeking damages for the amounts it has already paid for excessive opioid prescriptions and treatment costs as a result of those prescriptions. Meche says it seems like this is more about trial lawyers trying to make money rather than fight the epidemic.

Cut 5  (11)  “file suit”

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House Majority Whip Steve Scalise of Metairie is back at the U.S. Capitol for the first time since he was shot on June 14th while practicing for a charity baseball game. Scalise received a thunderous applause when he entered the House chambers and thanked those who helped save his life, including Ohio Representative Brad Wenstrup…

Cut 6 (12)  “blood loss”

Scalise and four others were shot by a gunman, who was killed when U.S. Capitol Police and other officers returned fire. Scalise was struck in the hip and the bullet damaged blood vessels, bones and internal organs. The 51-year-old says while it was an evil act, he was able to see the goodness of people…

Cut 7 (12)  “people are”

Scalise says while recovering and rehabbing he heard from several world leaders who looked at the shooting as an attack on our government. He had this message for his colleagues as he spoke to them for the first time in over three months….

Cut 8 (10) “one of you”

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A UNO poll finds 57-percent of registered Louisiana voters surveyed believe protesting NFL players should be fined or fired, but there is a big difference of opinion among races. Researcher Tony Licciardi says most of the black responders oppose penalizing the protesting players….
cut 9 (11) “….contrast there”

Cut 9 (11)  “contrast there”

Licciardi says the survey also found 49-percent approve of President Donald Trump’s job performance, while 45-percent disapprove. He says there are significant differences in opinion on approval along racial lines…

Cut 10 (12) “other minorities”

Licciardi says President Trump’s approval rating in Louisiana is down from 58-percent on his Election Day victory. He says it is not a surprise that there was such a big racial divide to these answers…

Cut 11 (09) “basis”

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State Police say a 42-year-old motorcyclist was killed after traveling over 100 miles per hour on LA 22 in Tangipahoa Parish. Senior Trooper Dustin Dwight says yesterday afternoon, police received 911 calls reporting a motorcyclist driving recklessly. He says an officer then spotted the vehicle…

Cut 12 (09) “per hour” 

Dwight says after clocking 42-year-old Andrew Alessi of Baton Rouge at 123 miles per hour in a 35 mile per hour zone, authorities received a report of a crash farther west down LA 22.

Cut 13 (09)  “attack yes”

Dwight says Alessi succumbed to his injuries shortly after arriving at the hospital. He says this death was totally preventable.

Cut 14 (09) “the law”

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Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says he will not support anyone who disrespects the national anthem, including the Saints. Michelle Southern reports…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Governor John Bel Edwards weighs in on the Saints national anthem protests and what impact it has on the subsidies the state provides to the NFL Franchise. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says he will not support anyone who disrespects the national anthem, including the Saints. He’s in Europe right now promoting Louisiana tourism and direct flights to New Orleans, but says he has cancelled plans to attend the Saints game Sunday at Wembley Stadium…:

Cut 3 (09) “and the anthem”

A handful of Saints players did not stand during the national anthem at their last game, and the Tom Benson organization says they have a right to express their feelings. But Nungesser says a demonstration like this is completely disrespectful to this country. He says football players have a following far greater than most people…:

Cut 4  (10) “any American”

Nungesser, who is the former president of Plaquemines Parish, says his entire life he’s worked with family and friends who have lost loved ones in war. He says this includes mothers who have lost sons, and wives who have lost husbands…:

Cut 5  (11)  “great country we live in”

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A 17-year-old has been arrested in connection to the death of an 8-month-old girl in Baton Rouge. Sgt. Don Coppola says over the weekend, authorities responded to a call reporting an unresponsive baby. He says their investigation determined the child was left in the care of the mother’s boyfriend, Vincent Cummings.

Cut 6 (06)  “force trauma “

Coppola says Cummings admitted to police that 8-month-old Katelyn Carter was acting strange so he picked the child up and squeezed her extremely hard.

Cut 7 (11)  “the floor”

Coppola says Cummings is charged with second degree murder and cruelty to a juvenile. He says this is an extremely unfortunate situation.

Cut 8 (08) “really tragic”

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Governor John Bel Edwards says it’s unfortunate to see NFL players not stand for national anthem, but that doesn’t mean the state can end it’s current agreement with the Saints. Edwards appeared this morning on the Newell Normand show on WWL radio….

Cut 9 (06)  “to the Saints”

Edwards also says the players have a First amendment right to protest, but he disagrees with not standing for the national anthem…..

Cut 10 (08) “more successful”

Some lawmakers have called on ending state subsides to the Saints, but Senate President John Alario says that would be just as unAmerican as not standing for the anthem

Cut 11 (12) “a contract”

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The St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office says a man murdered his ex wife this morning with an ax in her front yard. Chief Deputy John Doran says the brutal incident happened as 48-year-old Kimberly Owens left for work at 8:00 this morning:

Cut 12 (10) “surprised her” 

Doran says 56-year-old Mark Owens turned himself in and will be charged with murder. He says two 911 calls came in — one from a neighbor, and the other from the victim’s mother who was also there…:

Cut 13 (09)  “attack yes”

He says the two had been divorced for a couple of years, and the suspect previously arrested on another domestic related incident in 2015.

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Shreveport Police are investigating the death of an 82-year-old woman who was found stabbed to death in her home. Sgt. Marcus Hines says detectives with the Violent Crimes Unit are working to determine who committed this horrific crime. He says the victim, Kathleen Cates’, car had been stolen sometime after her death.

Cut 14 (12) “the country”

Hines says witnesses in the neighborhood report an African American man and woman doing yard work for Cates earlier in the day before she was killed.

Cut 15 (10) “headway”

Hines says it’s beyond tragic to live 82 years and die in this manner. He says whoever did this to Kathleen Cates deserves to be punished to the fullest extent of the law.

Cut 16  (10)  “her life”

Hurricane Harvey hit Texas a month ago which knocked out about 30% of the nation’s refining capacity, but things are slowly recovering. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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The East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office says a man has been arrested for allegedly running over and killing his brother with his vehicle early this morning. Jeff Palermo reports…:

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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An Oklahoma man has been arrested in Lafayette for allegedly breaking into a woman’s home and sexually assaulting her then demanding she drive him to an ATM. Cpl. Karl Ratcliff with the Lafayette Police Department says they were able to catch 22-year-old Devon Bell after a dispatcher remembered a recent call about a suspicious person in the neighborhood.

Cut 3 (10) “sexual assault”

Bell is charged with home invasion, sexual battery, aggravated kidnapping, and criminal trespassing. Ratcliff says this case is also now considered a kidnapping. He says detectives were able to receive surveillance video showing that Bell was in fact the suspect they were looking for.

Cut 4  (11) “here”

Ratcliff says this was a very scary experience for the victim and she called authorities to report the incident after she was away from Bell and felt safe. He says Bell has only been in the area for a few days and police are not looking for other suspects.

Cut 5  (09)  “relatives here”

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It’s been a month since Hurricane Harvey made landfall in Texas, knocking out nearly 30% of the nation’s refining capacity, but motorists are now starting to see consistent declines in gas prices. That’s according to Patrick DeHaan, senior petroleum analyst at GasBuddy. He says we’re likely about to start seeing the downward momentum accelerate…:

Cut 6 (09)  “these storms “

DeHann says the current statewide average for a gallon of regular in Louisiana stands at $2.35. He says with the switch-over to winter-blend gasoline, consumer demand beginning to slow and Gulf Coast refineries getting back closer to normal, consumers can expect to see much lower prices at the pump next month:

Cut 7 (06)  “today”

Hurricane Irma caused mass evacuations in Florida, which DeHann says further crippled the supply in the US….:

Cut 8 (09) “weeks”

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A councilwoman in Arcadia has been suspended from her position after she was convicted of stealing more than 37-thousand dollars when she was the town water clerk. Louisiana Inspector General Stephen Street says Patricia Hampton was found guilty of theft charges from an investigation sparked by an audit that found discrepancies in the water department’s records.

Cut 9 (08)  “that way”

Street says Hampton was taking payments for water bills and collecting them for her personal use.

Cut 10 (10) “understand that”

Under Louisiana law, Hampton will be required to resign from the Town Council if the felony conviction is upheld. Street says it’s important to have the Inspector General’s and the District Attorney’s offices involved to hold these individuals accountable.

Cut 11 (11) “to steal”

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The East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office says a man has been arrested for allegedly running over and killing his brother with his vehicle early this morning. EBRSO spokeswoman Casey Hicks says they were called about 3:40am..:

Cut 12 (08) “his vehicle” 

Hicks says deputies arrived on the scene in a parking lot to find 30-year-old Stephen Hebert half asleep behind the wheel of a truck that was running..:

Cut 13 (08)  “of the vehicle”

Stephen Hebert is charged with negligent homicide and DWI in the death of the victim, 32-year-old Kirk Hebert, because Hicks says he appeared to be very intoxicated and admitted that he and his brother had been drinking. She says beyond that, the suspect didn’t remember much…:

Cut 14 (09) “his vehicle”

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The U.S. Senate will not vote on a measure co-authored by Senator Bill Cassidy to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act. Cassidy says they don’t have the support, so they have postponed the vote. He says this is extremely disappointing to many American families who pay too much through Obamacare.

Cut 15 (11) “afford”

Cassidy says on a bi-partisan level, lawmakers believe Obamacare isn’t doing well. He says the alternative is Senator Bernie Sanders’ bill which has 15 co-sponsors to create a single payer plan…

Cut 16  (09)  “federal government”

There’s yet another reality show with northeast Louisiana ties that is quickly becoming the latest TV craze. Jeff Palermo reports…:

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Baton Rouge Rep. Ted James strongly disagrees with a fellow lawmaker who wants to cut state tax dollars to the New Orleans Saints. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Louisiana ranks third in the country in the rate of women who are murdered by men. Michael Farrar gets reaction from the Louisiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Michael Farrar”

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There’s yet another reality show with northeast Louisiana ties that is quickly becoming the latest TV craze. Rednecks 4 Hire follows three men who do nasty jobs that nobody else wants to deal with. David Yelton says he and Mike Myers and Kevin Dodd will do almost anything…:

Cut 4  (08) “”beaver damns”

Yelton says the three of them know each other from church, and decided to work together to help people out. He says everything you see on the show actually happened the exact way it’s presented…:

Cut 5  (05)  “no way to script it”

Yelton says so far they’ve filmed 6 episodes which air on the CW at 6:30am on Saturdays, and 12:30pm on Sundays. You can also like Rednecks 4 Hire on Facebook, and watch the show through their YouTube Channel. Yelton says people like it most when he gets hurt….:

Cut 6 (11) “filming the whole thing”

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Congressman Clay Higgins is another lawmaker voicing his disapproval of NFL players refusing to stand during the national anthem. Higgins says growing up, football season was always something he looked forward to and found it grounding in times of instability. But he says now it’s sickening to watch.

Cut 7 (08)  “America”

Higgins says there was a time when the NFL was patriotic but he says this group of players has hurt what the NFL once stood for.

Cut 8 (11) “my field”

Higgins says these athletes have the right to disrespect the national anthem and he has the right to turn off the TV.

Cut 9 (11)  “to me”

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Baton Rouge Representative Ted James says fellow House member Kenny Havard is wrong to suggest that the state should stop providing tax dollars to the Saints because they had players who did not stand for the national anthem. James says Havard must have forgotten that legislators take an oath to uphold the constitution and that violates the first amendment.

Cut 10 (09)  “black athletes”

In the 2016 legislative session, Havard was in hot water after he made a joke suggesting strippers should weigh under 160 pounds and be young. James hopes Havard is only seeking attention because it’s obvious the protesting athletes are not disrespecting our military. He says he welcomes a discussion if the lawmaker genuinely wants to talk about incentives and address the deficit problems in our state.

Cut 11 (10) “approach it”

James hopes this is just grandstanding and suspects Havard is not alone with this sentiment.

Cut 12 (11) “the table”

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Once again Louisiana ranks in the top five for the rate of women who are murdered by men. The Violence Policy Center looked at the latest data available, which is 2015, and found the rate in Louisiana is double the national average and the Bayou State has the third highest rating in the country. Executive director of the Louisiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence, Mariah Wineski, says the report saddens her

Cut 13 (09) “this data”

Wineski says one factor is inadequate funding for domestic violence services, for those seeking immediate safety….

Cut 14 (09) “our state”

Wineski says another factor is easy firearm access for abusers. She says state and federal law prohibit many abusers from possessing firearms, but Louisiana lacks any consistent process for actually implementing these prohibitions

Cut 15 (09) “their guns”

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25th ranked LSU continues preparations today for its final nonconference game of the year as the Tigers will host Troy on Saturday night. Last week, LSU focused on not committing penalties and they only had three called against in the Syracuse game. Head Coach Ed Orgeron says they look to get more consistent on offense this week…

Cut 16  (24)  “this week”

The Tigers had trouble protecting their quarterbacks last Saturday as Syracuse did a good job of pressuring Danny Etling and Myles Brennan. Orgeron says the offensive line can’t get beat in one-on-one battles…

Cut 17 (12)  “one on ones” 

Coach “O” says expect to see true freshman Myles Brennan continue to get snaps while the game is still on line. Brennan played three series in the Syracuse game and guided the team on a touchdown and threw an interception in another. Etling says it’s important he stays in a rhythem and have the proper mindset…

Cut 18 (09) “supposed to do” 

Etling threw two touchdown passes last week to Drake Davis and Stephen Sullivan. The Q-B says these are two wide receivers who should keep getting better as the season goes along…

Cut 19 (20)   and learn“

Saints Quarterback Drew Brees and Coach Sean Payton responded to the president’s comments regarding players who do not stand during the national anthem. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 1 (29) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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St. Francisville Representative Kenny Havard wants to cut state funding to the New Orleans Saints after multiple players did not kneel during the national anthem. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Following the Panthers game, Saints Quarterback Drew Brees and Coach Sean Payton each responded to President Donald Trump’s comments regarding players who do not stand during the national anthem. The President said owners should, “get that son of a b” off the field, and fire those who protest racial inequality in that way. Payton is disappointed in Mr. Trump’s position…:

Cut 3 (08) “that’s how I feel”

Payton applauded members of his team for standing up for what they believed in, as a handful decided to sit during the national anthem Sunday. This is upsetting some fans who are now calling for a boycott of the team. Brees says he disagrees with what the president said…:

Cut 4  (09) “disappointed a lot of people”

Some fans are posting pictures on social media of black and gold memorabilia on fire, and others changing their profile picture to the Saints and NFL logos upside down, or crossed out. Brees agrees there is plenty of inequality in this country…

Cut 5  (09)  “for our country”

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A Louisiana lawmaker would like to cut state tax dollars for the New Orleans Saints after multiple players didn’t stand during the national anthem during yesterday’s game. St. Francisville Rep. Kenny Havard says Louisiana has made dramatic cuts to departments across the board and now is the perfect time to redistribute the money given to an organization that is not grateful.

Cut 6 (09)  “appreciated “

Havard says he supports the first amendment fully and believes these players do have a right to protest, but they should not do it during the anthem.

Cut 7 (10)  “for that”

According to a story by Forbes Magazine in 2015, the Saints will receive 392 million dollars in state subsidies through 2025. Havard says they have looked at cutting funding to the Saints in the past. He says the state also rents office space in Benson Tower for an extremely expensive price…

Cut 8 (08) “the state”

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State Police say a 7-year-old was killed Sunday in a single vehicle crash in St. Charles Parish. Trooper Melissa Matey says they believe the driver, 32-year-old Islam Ezzo of Hahnville was impaired when he ran off the road…:

Cut 9 (08)  “later died”

Ezzo is charged with Vehicular Homicide, Vehicular Negligent Injuring and Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle. Additional charges may be forthcoming. Matey says the child was not properly restrained…:

Cut 10 (10) “height and weight”

7 year old Alina Ezzo of Luling was transported to St. Charles Hospital and pronounced deceased. Islam Ezzo was transported to University Medical Center with serious injuries. Matey says this is a very tragic crash…:

Cut 11 (11) “made a poor choice”

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Lake Charles Police are investigating a shooting that occurred last night that left a 10-year-old dead and a 17-year-old injured. Deputy Chief Mark Kraus says police are actively searching for a suspect or suspects. He says authorities discovered a grim scene when they responded to the call.

Cut 12 (10) “what happened” 

The 10-year-old has been identified as Jaylyn Citizen of Lake Charles. Kraus says the 17-year-old underwent surgery at a local hospital. He says this isn’t a case where two children were playing with a gun and it accidentally went off, this was an intentional shooting.

Cut 13 (09)  “some arrests”

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Six Winnfield Senior High School students were recognized on the House floor by Congressman Ralph Abraham after serving as pallbearers for a World War II veteran. 93-year-old Thomas Hunter had no close family so the football players stepped up after learning about the situation. Abraham says this is an inspiring story about a community rallying to honor a hero.

Cut 14 (10) “so deserved”

Hunter outlived all of his siblings and was never married or had children. Abraham says it’s a privilege to represent this rural North-Central Louisiana community.

Cut 15 (09) “great nation”

Abraham hopes other people in the country learn from the example set by these young men. He says their actions speak volumes of what is truly important in our community.

Cut 16  (10)  “without question”

Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser is visiting Germany and the United Kingdom along with 17 tourism partners, to promote Louisiana and the direct flights into New Orleans. Jeff Palermo reports…:

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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People who suffer from ALS or similar disease have the chance to bank their voice before losing it for good. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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A hearing is set for today on a motion to change the venue of Norris Greenhouse Jr.’s trial in the death of 6-year-old Jeremy Mardis in Avoyelles Parish. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 3 (28) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser is visiting Germany and the United Kingdom, leading a mission along with 17 tourism partners, to promote Louisiana and the direct flights into New Orleans. Nungesser says so far the international flights have been extremely popular…:

Cut 4  (09) “the interest”

Nungesser says Germans are required to take 24 days of paid vacation every year, and he wants them to come to Louisiana. During the mission, Nungesser will be a guest on several radio shows in Frankfurt, Hamburg, and Hannover. He plans to talk about the music, the food and other great things to see here in Louisiana…:

Cut 5  (09)  “anywhere else”

The group will host several events to promote Louisiana’s authentic experience to travel agents, media partners, and tour operators of several high-profile German travel and tourism companies. Nungesser says we have a ton of tourist-friendly, major events on the horizon, like the Tri-centennial of New Orleans, and the 150th anniversary of Tabasco…:

Cut 6 (07) “opportunities”

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The US Supreme Court is expected today decide today whether to accept a petition
by a New Orleans man who was convicted on a 10-2 vote of murder in 2015.
Louisiana is one of two states where a unanimous decision is not necessary for a
felony. Loyola Law Professor Dane Ciolino says for years the nation’s high court
has allowed non-unanimous verdicts in Louisiana and Oregon…:

Cut 7 (10)  “strong argument”

Dale Lambert, who received a mandatory life prison sentence, wants the high
court to hear his challenge of the Louisiana law that allows felony convictions
by a vote of less than 12 jurors. Ciolino says some have argued that the jury
laws here were put in place long ago to diminish the voting power of black
jurors. But he says in present day, DA’s strongly favor the 10-2 verdicts…:

Cut 8 (11) “retrials”

Ciolino says the best argument these petitioners can make is that 10-2 is not
constitutionally sufficient…:

Cut 9 (10)  “well over 200 years ago”

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LSU’s Speech Language Hearing Clinic has a program that allows people with a medical condition like ALS to bank their voice. Speech Language Pathologist Sara Green Mele (me-lee) says individuals with a degenerative disease come to the clinic and record their voice in a sound proof booth using a third party recording software…

Cut 10 (07)  “placements”

LSU has used this technology for two years. Mele says by using head or eye control, people are unable to talk can communicate with their friends and family. She says one might think they could download the software on their computer and bank their voice from home but that’s not the case.

Cut 11 (09) “successful”

WAFB news anchor Donna Britt was recently diagnosed with ALS and has banked her voice. The process takes about six to eight hours. Mele says with ALS, even with the loss of voice, a patient’s cognition remains strong. She says all hope isn’t lost if someone has already lost their voice.

Cut 12 (10) “voice”

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A hearing is set for today on a motion to change the venue of Norris Greenhouse Jr.’s trial. He and Derrick Stafford, former Marksville City Marshals, are accused in the death of 6-year-old Jeremy Mardis. Stafford was already convicted for attempted manslaughter and manslaughter in Avoyelles Parish. Legal Analyst Tim Meche believes there’s a good chance Greenhouse’s trial will be moved…:

Cut 13 (09) “adjudicated guilty”

Greenhouse is facing charges of attempted second degree murder in the injuring of the father, Christopher Few, and second degree murder for the death of Mardis. Meche says change of venue decisions are strictly up to the judge, and a recent trend in Louisiana is to bring in a jury from another Parish…:

Cut 14 (10) “move it”

Meche says Greenhouse’s lawyer has a good case, because there was been a TON of publicity about this case, on a local, state and national level. He also points to the fact that the victim’s family has been extensively interviewed by electronic and print media…:

Cut 15 (06) “this one”

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So does LSU have a quarterback controversy? Starter Danny Etling was 10-of-17 for 188 yards and two touchdowns, but freshman Myles Brennan entered the game in the third and led the Tigers on a touchdown drive, but he also threw an interception. Head Coach Ed Orgeron on why he put Brennan in the game…

Cut 16  (16)  “on the line”

The two quarterbacks did enough good things to help the Tigers beat Syracuse 35-26, as LSU improved to 3-1. Orgeron says it was a good win after losing by 30 points the week before….

Cut 17 (16)  “for us” 

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The Saints put together one of their better performances in a long time as they defeated NFC South rival Carolina 34-13. Quarterback Drew Brees threw three touchdown passes and the defense forced three turnovers and held a struggling Panthers offense to 288 total yards. Coach Sean Payton says the Black and Gold had a good week of practice and it showed in their performance on Sunday….

Cut 18 (13) “get a win” 

Carolina came into the game ranked number one in the NFL in total defense. But the Saints were able to sustain a balanced attack with the run and the pass throughout the game. Payton says it was nice to see…

Cut 19 (13)   went against“

Sunday marks the 12-year anniversary of Hurricane Rita, the last major hurricane to hit Louisiana. Don Molino has more…:

Cut 1 (29) “I’m Don Molino”

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Governor John Bel Edwards is requesting a review of campus policies regarding hazing and alcohol. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A Breaux Bridge Police Officer is under arrest amid allegations he was engaging in sexual relations with a 16-year-old juvenile. State Police is investigating and Master Trooper Brooks David says Breaux Bridge Police Chief Rollie Cantu contacted LSP detectives about the claims against 29-year-old Craig David…:

Cut 3 (10) “this juvenile”

Officer David was charged with carnal knowledge of a juvenile, computer aided solicitation of a minor and malfeasance in office. Master Trooper David says it’s a shame when LSP has to arrest someone sworn to protect the public:

Cut 4  (09) “and do the right thing”

State Police is investigating a fiery crash in St. Landry Parish Thursday night which claimed the lives of two people. Master Trooper Brooks David says officers attempted to stop a vehicle for traveling the wrong way on a one-way road. He says the driver did not stop and he feld from police, later failing to negotiate a curve…:

Cut 5  (08)  “that building”

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Sunday marks the 12-year anniversary of Hurricane Rita making landfall near the Texas-Louisiana boarder. State Climatologist Barry Keim says nationwide it’s a forgotten storm, because of the destruction left behind by Hurricane Katrina, but Rita had higher maximum sustained winds and

Cut 6 (10)  18,7 feet”

Keim says Rita even re-flooded parts of New Orleans. But he says the hardest hit areas were low-lying communities in southwest Louisiana….

Cut 7 (11)  “once were”

Rita is the last major hurricane to hit Louisiana. It still ranks number four all-time for lowest atmospheric pressure and seventh for highest maximum sustained winds, which was 180-miles per hour. Keim says Rita was also relatively a quick moving storm

Cut 8 (08) “at Bunkie”

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East Baton Rouge District Attorney Hillar Moore sent an email to local school administrators alerting them police have seen an increase in possession of alcohol and intoxication among high school students at LSU home games. Moore says law enforcement agencies that provide security on LSU game days will increase their presence

Cut 9 (12)  “his future”

The letter comes ad the campus is reeling from the death of an 18-year-old fraternity pledge. Hospital tests show Maxwell Gruver had a high level of alcohol in his system. There was also the arrest of an 18-year-old, who was caught on video knocking out an LSU student on the Parade Grounds.  Moore says he wants LSU tailgaiting to remain a safe atmosphere…

Cut 10 (08) “out here”

Meanwhile Governor John Bel Edwards is requesting university officials to review their hazing, drug and alchol abuse policies. Edwards does not want to see another student die as a result of a possible hazing incident

Cut 11 (11) “redouble our efforts”

Edwards says it’s up to the state to ensure students who attend a Louisiana university are safe from harm….

Cut 12 (10) “what happened” 

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Saturday is National Hunting and Fishing Day and the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is celebrating by hosting four events to get people outdoors. L-D-W-F spokesperson Joel Courtney says if you don’t have opportunities to fish or hunt, then come to one of these celebrations…

Cut 13 (08)       hunter educators”

Courtney says the events are at rifle ranges in West Monroe, Woodworth and Haughton, plus the Waddill Willdlife Refuge in Baton Rouge….

Cut 14 (11) “we’re doing”

Hunters for the Hungry is hosting their annual “Clean out your Freezer Day” to benefit food banks throughout Louisiana. On Sunday from 1pm to 4pm, hunters with leftover meat are encouraged to donate before they stock up this hunting season. H-F-H Executive Director Jimmy Anthony says the donations will be directly distributed to nearly 400 agencies across the state:

Cut 15 (11) “bounty of nature”

Even frozen items that are non-hunting related are acceptable donations. The program started nearly 25 years ago when a group of hunters thought it was a shame to waste all of last year’s frozen game. Anthony says they keep growing and growing every year…:

Cut 16  (09)  “for us”

To find a collection site in your area visit hunters-the-number-4-hungry-Louisiana-dot-org (hunters4hungrylouisiana.org).

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Louisiana is the second hungriest state in the nation. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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This is Louisiana Craft Brewers Week, designated to commemorate beers brewed right here in the state, and the people who make it possible. Jeff Palermo reports…:

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A new report from the USDA finds there are over 41 million Americans, including 13 million children, who lived at risk of hunger in 2016. Bread for the World, a movement in the US to end hunger, broke the numbers down by state, and found that Louisiana is the second hungriest in the nation. President David Beckmann says this should be a wake-up call…:

Cut 3 (11) “or eating at all”

Beckmann said the hunger problem in the state is concentrated among African Americans where about 1 out of 3 families may run out of food for the month.

Cut 4  (07) “white families”

Beckmann said there are several ways to reverse this trend such as maintaining funding for Medicaid, SNAP, and providing tax credits for low-income families:

Cut 5  (10)  “roughly”

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Good budget news for the state has been hard to find, but we finally found some. Governor John Bel Edwards says the state ended up with a 143-million dollar surplus for the fiscal year that ended June 30th. Edwards says it’s a sign Louisiana’s economy is improving….

Cut 6 (08) “forecasts”

The Edwards administration had to close two mid-year shortfalls last year, but a higher than anticipated increase in personal income and sales tax collections helped create the surplus. The governor says the state’s constitution limits how the surplus money can be used…

Cut 7 (10)  “debt”

Because of limits on how the surplus money can be spent, it can not be used to help the state close an anticipated one-billion dollar budget gap next fiscal year. Edwards says he’s having positive meetings with legislators and business leaders over how the state can replace the loss of temporary taxes that expire in July….

Cut 8 (12) “many decades”

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This is Louisiana Craft Brewers Week, designated to commemorate beers brewed right here in the state, and the people who make it possible. Cary Koch (COKE), Executive Director of the Louisiana Craft Brewers Guild, says when this designation was made by the State Legislature in 2013, there were just 7 breweries that took part, and three brewpubs…:

Cut 9 (10)  “this industry”

LACBW events include tap takeovers, samplings of cask ales, special beer releases, and opportunities to meet the brewers. Koch says this week is about giving back to Louisiana Craft Beer, and you can log on to la-beer.org to find a brewery near you…:

Cut 10 (12) “far away”

Koch says Louisiana has over 30 breweries and brew pubs — and establishments in every corner of the state are opening up their taps and shevles to carry these locally made beers. He says these brewers make it a priority to use as many Louisiana-made products as possible…:

Cut 11 (08) “so heavily”

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There is a tragic story out of Denham Springs. Police say a 5-year-old child was run over and killed in the street moments after leaving an ice cream truck. Amber Fairburn with Denham Springs PD says officers were dispatched Wednesday evening…:

Cut 12 (09) “to Ochsner” 

No charges are filed in the incident. Fairburn says the child was pronounced dead at a local hospital. She says the driver of the vehicle indicated he did not see the little boy…:

Cut 13 (09) “Toyota Tundra”

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An off-duty Slidell Police Lieutenant was killed last night in a motorcycle accident on Brownswitch Road. Trooper Dustin Dwight says a 29-year-old Gina Marie Groglio of Pearl River was attempting to make a left hand turn into a private drive when she struck the motorcycle driven by 52-year-old Ray Dupuy

Cut 14 (09) “didn’t see”

Dupuy served on the Slidell Police Department for over two decades. Impairment is not suspected to be a contributing factor in the crash, but Dwight says Groglio was cited for improper turning…

Cut 15 (12) “DOT helmet”

Governor John Bel Edwards confirmed on his monthly call in radio show that Amazon is set to build a distribution center in Louisiana. Michael Farrar reports…:

Cut 1 (29) “I’m Michael Farrar reporting”

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A report by the Fordham Institute finds public school teachers are absent much more than charter school educators. Emelie Gunn gets reaction from a teacher’s union.

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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LSU’s star running back will not play on Saturday night against Syracuse. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Governor John Bel Edwards confirmed on his monthly call in radio show that Amazon is set to build a distribution center somewhere in Louisiana, but details are limited at the time. He says either way, it’s great news that the online retail giant is bringing a part of its operation to the state…:

Cut 4  (08) “from Amazon”

Other states report a single Amazon distribution center has the potential to create hundreds of jobs. Edwards says he doesn’t know where the distribution center will be located, because there is still more than one site under consideration. He says, once it happens, it will be great for brick and mortar retailers as well…:

Cut 5  (10)  “sales tax”

The state has also said they are very interested in being the home of the second Amazon headquarters which the company said would bring an investment of $5 billion dollars and 50,000 jobs. Edwards says the state is still working with Amazon in order to finalize the site selection…:

Cut 6 (07) “to select”

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A Fordham Institute study finds 28-percent of public school teachers missed more than 10 days of work compared to charter school teachers at 10-percent. But Louisiana Federation of Teachers spokesperson Les Landon says Fordham skews data to show public education isn’t doing well. He says the report also claims generous collective bargaining agreements lead to an increase in teacher absences…

Cut 7 (11)  “arguement”

Landon says teachers in charter schools are often much younger than traditional public school teachers. He also says they are extremely mobile, as many educators in charter schools come from the Teach for America Program.

Cut 8 (10) “spouses”

Landon says teachers are entitled to 10 sick days according to state law. He says traditional public school educators and charter schools teachers are not comparable.

Cut 9 (08)  “situation”

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After a long wait, the car-sharing service, Uber, is finally available in Monroe, West Monroe and areas governed by Ouachita Parish. Monroe Mayor Jamie Mayo says his office has spent the last six months working on a contract with Uber and he knows the city is excited it’s finally official…

Cut 10 (08) “with em”

Mayo says he’s also hoping to work out a deal with Lyft as well. Mayo says ride-sharing services are needed because they have many visitors coming into the city, because of businesses like CenturyLink, Chase, Advantage and Gardner Denver Thomas

Cut 11 (07) “accommodate them”

Mayo says he knows Uber has already signed up a lot of drivers who are looking to make some extra money driving people around town. The mayor thanks the city council and the city attorney’s office for helping to make Uber a reality in Monroe…

Cut 12 (08) “our citizens “

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Louisiana Tech University has set an enrollment record for this fall as nearly 13-thousand students are taking classes this fall, which is 17-percent increase since the fall of 2013. Jim King is the Vice President for Student Advancement…

Cut 13 (09) “academically prepared”

King says the average ACT score of 24.71 for first-time freshmen is also a university record….

Cut 14 (09) “have em”

King says they’ve been able to boost enrollment at Louisiana Tech, despite state budget cuts. He says when you are listed on U.S. News and World Report’s 2018 Best Colleges list, it helps attracts students to your school….

Cut 15 (06) “come up here”

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LSU Coach Ed Orgeron says star running back Derrius Guice will not play in Saturday’s home game against Syracuse. Guice reportedly has a knee injury. Tiger Rag Associate Editor James Moran believes LSU is being cautious with its best offensive player. Moran says this gives senior Darrell Williams a chance to start…

Cut 16  (15)  “of carries”

There is some positive injury news. Orgeron says starting defensive end Rashard Lawerence should play against the Orange. Moran says the former Neville star’s return to the field is critical…

Cut 17 (16)  “thin at”

It’s rare that an LSU football team loses by 30 points. Moran expects the Tigers to bounce back this Saturday and they performed well last season after losses with Orgeron at the helm….

Cut 18 (14) “as a coach”