A new phone app has been created to help you keep tabs on how elected officials vote on various issues.   Jeff Palermo has more about OnPoint…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Two years from this week, Louisianans will cast their vote for the next governor of the Bayou State. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Governor Edwards Office says AG Jeff Landry is incorrect in saying the opioid crisis is worse due to Medicaid expansion.  Kelley Ray has more.

Cut 3  (30) “I’m Kelley Ray.”  

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A new phone app called OnPoint can help you keep an eye on politicians at nearly every level of government.  Vote-Smart-dot-org National Director Walker McKusick says they have culled information on over 40-thousand politicians, including those in Louisiana. He says the OnPoint app makes it easy to identify those in your area…

Cut 4  (11) “to you.”

The app helps to bring together the hottest trending topics in politics and reviews of government positions, who holds them and how they have voted. McKusick says OnPoint gives you up to date information on what elected officials have said about various issues…

Cut 5  (10)  “their website.”

McKusick credits their non-partisanship donations in helping them to present the true facts behind every politician in Louisiana…

Cut 6 (11) “facts matter.”

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This week, two years from now, voters will cast their ballots for Louisiana’s next governor. Current Democratic Governor John Bel Edwards is planning to run again. Pollster Bernie Pinsonat says Republican Attorney General Jeff Landry could challenge Edwards and tensions between the two continue to escalate. He says expect GOP leaders to keep attacking the governor on various issues.

Cut 7 (11)  “Republicans”

Pinsonat says there’s been word that along with Landry, Congressmen Garret Graves and Steve Scalise as well as U.S. Senator John Kennedy are taking a look at the governor’s seat.

Cut 8 (11) “to be”

Pinsonat says Scalise may decide to run if the Democrats take control of the House next year. He says the governor’s mansion is attractive to Scalise, Kennedy and Graves because they don’t have to give up their seat in Congress.

Cut 9 (10)  “them runs”

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The Edwards administration disputes the claim by Attorney General Jeff Landry that the expansion of the Medicaid program has helped fuel the opioid crisis. The state health department says there are fewer pain killers on the streets in the last year and more individuals are seeking life saving substance abuse treatment.  L-D-H Chief of Staff Andrew Tuozzollo says legislation passed this year that limits first time prescriptions for opioids has been effective…

Cut 10 (06)  “per prescription.”

Tuozzollo says the total number of pills prescribed has decreased by more than 10-million doses, a three-percent reduction from the year before Medicaid expansion to the year afterwards. He says Medicaid expansion has also helped thousands get treatment for addiction to painkillers…

Cut 11 (09) “getting treatment.”

Landry asserts that hundreds of thousands of new prescriptions have been provided to Louisiana patients in the past year at almost no cost, which has exacerbated the opioid crisis. Tuozzollo says nothing could be further from the truth, as there is solid data that shows the state has been successful at limiting painkiller prescriptions:

Cut 12 (10) “Medicaid expansion”

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Complete domination. That’s the best way you can describe the Saints 47-10 beat down of the Bills in Buffalo yesterday. New Orleans had 482 yards of total offense to Buffalo’s 198 and the Saints had the ball for over 41 minutes in the game. Quarterback Drew Brees on the team’s seventh straight victory..

Cut 13 (13) “moving forward”

The Saints rushed for 298 yards and set a franchise record by scoring six rushing touchdowns. Even Brees had a rushing touchdown…

Cut 14 (14) “a game”

Mark Ingram had three touchdowns and 121 yards rushing. Rookie Alvin Kamara also broke the century mark as he rushed for 106 and a touchdown. Brees says it’s fun to watch these guys run the ball…

Cut 15 (12) “us succeed.”

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The LSU football team scored four touchdowns in the 2nd half on Saturday to beat Arkansas 33-10. Tigers Coach Ed Orgeron is glad the 11 AM kick-off or last week’s loss to Alabama didn’t negatively affect his team…

Cut 16  (13)  “win the game”

LSU is now 7-3, 4-2 in the SEC and this Saturday they’ll visit a Tennessee team that was crushed by Missouri 50-17. The Vols are 0-6 in the league but Orgeron says their preparation for Saturday’s game is about LSU…

Cut 17 (14)  “bit better”

In LSU’s win over Arkansas. Quarterback Danny Etling threw for 217 yards and two touchdowns. Both of the TD passes went DJ Chark. The Alexandria native says their preparation going into the game paid off…

Cut 18 (16) “accomplish something” 

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Two people are arrested in two separate accidents which killed young children.  Kelley Ray has more…

Cut 1 (32) “I’m Kelley Ray”

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A man in Kenner who was released from jail because of the new state sentencing laws committed a crime 5 days later. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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A Franklin woman is under arrest for a crash claimed the life of a toddler. The single vehicle wreck occurred on Highway 83 in St. Mary Parish Wednesday morning.  27-year-old Grace Loustaloot was driving with three children in the vehicle.  State Police Master Trooper Brooks David explains what happened…

Cut 3 (13) “restraint seat.”

The two-year-old, Temperence Finister, was transported to a hospital where she was pronounced dead.  David says they are trying to figure out why the child wasn’t properly restrained…

Cut 4  (07) “in time.” 

The other two children and the driver were properly restrained and received minor injuries.  David says upon arrival, police allegedly found prescription drugs in Loustaloot’s possession, which may have played a factor in the fatal accident…

Cut 5  (09)  “the roadway.”

Loustaloot is charged with vehicular homicide, two counts of first degree vehicular negligent injuring, possession of narcotics, no child restraint, careless operation and expired motor vehicle inspection sticker.

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A report by Truth Initiative finds youth in Louisiana are smoking at a rate of 12-percent, lower than the national average of 16-percent. President and CEO of Truth Initiative Robin Koval says when you give young people the facts and allow them to make decisions for themselves, they are more likely to respond in a positive way.

Cut 6 (11)  “like that”

The adult smoking rate in Louisiana is over 22-percent, compared to 15 in the rest of the country. But Koval says the Bayou State is making some strides in the right direction, with more parishes approving ordinances to ban smoking in all public buildings.

Cut 7 (11) “national average”

Truth Initiative spoke with Louisiana Radio Network because the Bayou State is among 12 states that makes up Tobacco Nation because of its high adult smoking rate. Koval says individuals within these states smoke more, live shorter lives and are more likely to get and die from cancer than the rest of the country.

Cut 8 (09) “United States”

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A woman suspected of texting before a fatal accident on I-12 that killed a 5 month old child, turned herself into Denham Springs police today.  A warrant was issued for the arrest 23-year-old Jessica Cowart of Denham Springs. Detective Amber Fairburn says Cowart was not fully focused on the road when the wreck happened…

Cut 9 (05)  “was messaging.”

Police say she slammed into a vehicle, which hit another one, throwing five-month-old Reese Graham and her car seat through the front window.  Reese died two days later.  Fairburn says speed was also a factor in the accident…

Cut 10 (05) “per hour.”

Cowart is charged with negligent homicide, negligent injuring and reckless operation.  She is free on a 51-thousand-dollar-bond.

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The five police officers at the baseball field in Alexandria, Virginia, where U.S. House Majority Whip Steve Scalise was shot, have received the Capitol Police Medal of Honor. Scalise, who was critically injured, says these individuals risked their lives and ran towards the danger knowing they were outgunned.

Cut 11 (12) “their bravery”

Scalise says the training undergone by members of the Capitol Police Department prepared them and gave them the skills to save the lives of so many that day…

Cut 12 (09) “the line”

Scalise says nobody saw this attack coming and these five individuals immediately jumped in and did things no one can describe to save lives.

Cut 13 (09)  “and women”

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The Kenner Police Department says a habitual offender that was released early from jail due to the state’s new criminal justice reform, committed an armed robbery 5 days after he was let out. Chief Michael Glaser says it’s extremely frustrating that Tyrone White was let back on the streets:

Cut 14 (10)  “City of Kenner”

Glaser says White approached two construction workers repairing a roof on a home, shouting orders with what they thought was a real gun. He says one of the victims was on the ground, and another was on the roof…:

Cut 15 (09) “he wasn’t robbed”

Glaser says White is well known in that neighborhood, and cops had already been alerted that he was lurking again pulling on car door handles to see if they were unlocked. Glaser says this 24-year-old man should never have been let out of jail…:

Cut 16  (10)  “and he’s 24 years old”

A Covington woman has been arrested for lying that an NFL referee physically abused her. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Two people were injured when a Shell platform caught fire in the Gulf early this morning. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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A 25-year-old man is in custody after he allegedly attacked a woman, who tried to help him as he was lying in a ditch near Oak Grove.  West Carroll Sheriff Jerry Philley says the victim was driving her children to school when she saw Christian Turnbow of Oak Grove lying in a roadside ditch and she called 911 before coming to the man’s aid…

Cut 3 (08) “him off.”

After one of the children in the car called 911, police arrived.  Philley says they arrived and Turnbow was still on the scene…

Cut 4  (08) “and arrested.” 

Philley says they are still trying to determine why Turnbow was lying in a ditch to start with…

Cut 5  (09)  “later date.”

The victim suffered moderate injuries including a separated shoulder.  Philley says Turnbow is charged with attempted second degree murder and sexual battery.

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A fire in Many destroyed the SARC of Sabine Workforce building, which helps developmentally disabled persons find employment.  State Fire Marshal Butch Browning says the investigation is moving along quickly after witnesses saw a suspicious person near the building after the fire started.  Police found the suspect soon after that…

Cut 6 (07)  “active warrant.”

Browning says upon further questioning, it was discovered the alleged arsonist was an “active participant” in some of the programs at the center…

Cut 7 (07) “the facility.”

Browning says the burned down building is a great loss to the community. An active search is underway to find a suitable location for them to relocate…

Cut 8 (11) “important work.”

Formal charges will be filed later.

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The Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office says a Covington woman has been arrested after lying that an NFL referee was physically abusing her. Lt. Brennan Matherne says 49-year-old Sandra Brooks filed reports with the sheriff’s office in June stating her live in boyfriend, 57-year-old Carl Johnson Sr. of Thibodaux,  was hitting her. He says Brooks sent police audio recordings of the alleged incidents…

Cut 9 (10)  “false report”

Matherne says Brooks is also charged with defamation because she filed a report with Johnson’s employer, the NFL and also contacted a media outlet with these allegations. He says they take domestic abuse seriously but it is never acceptable to falsely report these incidents.

Cut 10 (11) “their advantage”

Matherne urges any and all victims of domestic violence to come forward. He says this is a very unique case where the believed victim submitted evidence that actually implicated her of the crime.

Cut 11 (08) “wrongdoing”

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The U.S. Coast Guard says two people were injured and dozens have evacuated a Shell platform off of Louisiana after an early morning fire. Petty Officer Lexie Preston says the platform sits about 115 miles south of Vermilion Bay on the central Louisiana coast…:

Cut 12 (07) “nearby platform”

Preston the fire has been reduced to a small flame, and a light sheen is reported north of the platform. She says a 54-year-old male suffered from flash burns and a concussion, and a 29-year-old male suffered a sprained wrist and a concussion….:

Cut 13 (05)  “nearby hospital”

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The Rayville Police Department arrested a 14-year-old twice yesterday after he was found with rifle ammunition and a handgun at school. Police Chief Willie Robinson says they received a call from Rayville High School that a .30-06 magazine was found in the student’s backpack. He says the teenager was charged and released into the custody of his grandparents.

Cut 14 (11)  “kid’s vehicle”

Robinson says the student was picked up once again and taken to Green Oaks Juvenile Detention Center in Monroe. He says the teenager gave police an excuse for why he had the gun and ammunition in his possession on school campus.

Cut 15 (09) “another bag”

Robinson says carrying a firearm on school property by a student or nonstudent is against the law. He says it’s never a good idea to bring a weapon to a firearm free school especially after all the recent incidents we’ve seen in the country.

Cut 16  (11)  “and everything”

Attorney General Jeff Landry is tackling the opioid crisis saying he knows why there is a problem in Louisiana. Michelle Southern has that…:

Cut 1 (29) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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The Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office is urging the community to come forward with any info into the death of a Gonzales man found dead on the street. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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The Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office is asking the public to come forward with any information about the death of 44-year-old Brian Tumas who was found dead on the street where he lived. Sheriff Jeff Wiley says Tumas suffered significant trauma, was transported to a local hospital and died about 12 hours later.

Cut 3 (11) “his body”

But Wiley does say they are not ruling out any scenario. He says one theory is he was walking to his car on a foggy morning and was hit by a vehicle but there is some confusion because not much is known about Tumas’ life.

Cut 4  (11) “schedules” 

Wiley says police responded to the scene at around 4:45 am on Friday morning. He says Tumas lived with his parents in the senior citizen area of Pelican Point in Gonzales.

Cut 5  (09)  “about it.”

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State Attorney General Jeff Landry has announced a drug prescription takeback box is now available 24 hours a day at the Baton Rouge Police Department.  In making the announcement, Landry addressed the drug problem taxing the state.  He says statistics show the problem may be related to recent Medicaid expansion, which made Louisiana the 31^st state to do so in 2016…

Cut 6 (10)  “Medicaid expansion.”

He says once Medicaid expansion was approved, it opened the door to allow many more opioids to become available to anyone who wants them…

Cut 7 (09) “for free.”

Landry hopes to be able to expand the prescription drug take back boxes to more places across the state.  They have placed a few others along the northshore of Lake Pontchartrain and the Shreveport area.  He says by teaming up with other law enforcement partners they are looking to take the program statewide …

Cut 8 (09) “the website.”

That website address is end-the-epidemic-l-a-dot-org.  There are currently 41 boxes in 32 parishes.  The Governor’s Communications Director Richard Carbo disagrees with Landry’s findings and says 14,000 people have already taken advantage of substance abuse treatment under Medicaid expansion…

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Louisiana’s Superintendent of Education John White released the annual school performance scores for the 2016-2017 year. White says the scores have remained steady for the third consecutive year. He says Louisiana fourth graders are showing the most improvement in reading and math.

Cut 9 (06)  “progress”

White also adds the percent of students scoring Mastery and above on LEAP English language arts and math tests has increased 13 percent since 2013. He says these are extremely important results that show our improvements as a state.

Cut 10 (09) “ever before”

This is the last year public schools with be graded on the state’s curve transition policy. White says unfortunately, 272 schools statewide received D of F grades for three straight years or saw high school graduation rates less than 67-percent. He says all improvements starts with an awareness of where there have been successes and challenges.

Cut 11 (10) “education”

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The East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office says this morning’s deadly shooting in Central was the result of a domestic murder suicide. EBRSO spokeswoman Casey Hicks…:

Cut 12 (06) “on himself”

The victim is identified as 24-year-old Alyssa Kanouse. The ex-boyfriend as 31-year-old Larry Warino Jr of Lafayette. Hicks says Kanouse was found dead inside a silver sedan, and Warino was found dead in a white one..:

Cut 13 (05)  “suicide”

Warino is listed as a legislative aide for Lafayette Representative Stuart Bishop of Lafayette. Hicks says it’s unfortunate to see an increase in domestic incidents like this which result in the loss of life…:

Cut 14 (08)  “report it”

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Reactions are coming in the aftermath of the largest church mass shooting in Texas history this past weekend near San Antonio which killed 26. Seven years ago, former Shreveport area State Representative Henry Burns authored a bill which allows guns in places of worship, with church leadership approval. Burns says the law specifies that all in the congregation are aware if someone is carrying a weapon.
Cut 9 (10) “entire assembly.”

Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser and 10 chefs are in New York City to promote Louisiana cuisine. Nungesser says during the three-day visit to the Big Apple the Louisiana chefs will be able to meet with writers, producers and editors who cover in food and travel.
cut 12 (10) “…their hometown”
The participating chefs are from Monroe, Lake Charles, Baton Rouge, New Orleans and several places in between.

Secretary of State Tom Schedler is afraid of another low turnout for the upcoming November 18 election. Don Molino has more.
Cut 1 (28) “I’m Don Molino.”
A 43-year-old Minden woman is dead after losing control of her truck on Interstate 20 early this morning. State Police say Tammy Lair was not wearing her seat belt when exited the roadway, overturned and was ejected from the vehicle.

There’s been a lot of talk, but how will the GOP tax reform plan affect you?  Kelley Ray sheds some light…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Kelley Ray”

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State Farm is reminding drivers to be extra cautious of deer crossing the road, as it’s getting darker earlier. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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49 aspiring Troopers have reported for the 97th State Police academy cadet class .  Jeff Palermo has more.

Cut 3  (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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So what do CPAs say the GOP tax plan will do for us and our pocketbooks?  Among the changes, the plan eliminates the ability to deduct state income tax, which is between two and six percent in Louisiana.  Brandon Legarde with the Society of Louisiana CPA’s says that one change impacts everyone…

Cut 4  (08) “on that.”

One of the reasons the GOP is happy with tax reform is the change afforded to businesses in trying to urge corporations to come back to the U.S.  Legarde says his office is still trying to determine how all the tax breaks will benefit businesses and if they will be able to get around some of the new laws…

Cut 5  (09)  “the process.”

Legarde says even with the promise of being able to file your taxes on a postcard, the simplicity of the tax code remains to be seen, keeping accountants on their toes…

Cut 6 (04) “us busy.”

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Especially now that it’s getting darker earlier, State Farm wants to remind people to watch out for deer while driving. Louisiana ranks 41^st in the country for the most deer collisions. State Farm Spokesperson Kip Diggs says it’s now mating season deer and they’re on the move. He says dusk to dawn are the highest risk times to see deer out on the roadways.

Cut 7 (09)  “they have”

New data from State Farm finds the odds Louisiana drivers will hit a deer is down at 1 in 332, lower than the national average of 1 in 162. Diggs says if you feel a collision with a deer is inevitable, do not swerve away from the deer. He says vehicles are designed to take an impact like this.

Cut 8 (10) “a ditch”

Diggs says it’s important to drive with your high beams on as frequently as possible because the earlier you see a deer, the more time you have to avoid a crash. He reminds motorists that they also travel in packs.

Cut 9 (11)  “animal”

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Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser and 10 Louisiana chefs are in New York City to prepare the Bayou State’s world-class food and give the Big Apple a taste of what we have to offer. Nungesser says they hope to woo people with our culture and encourage them to take their next vacation to Louisiana.

Cut 10 (08)  “to do”

Chefs like Cory Bahr, Bonnie Breaux and Jay Ducote are joining the lt. governor on this trip. Nungesser says 60 interviews will be conducted with the chefs to talk about all things Louisiana, as they are from every corner of the state.

Cut 11 (09) “around Louisiana.”

This trip is a marketing and communications effort in part of the Louisiana Culinary Campaign. Nungesser hopes to link bloggers and writers with Louisiana chefs to show our unique heritage and food. He says many people with the Office of Tourism are along for the ride.

Cut 12 (10) “their hometown”

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For the first time since 2005, two state police cadet classes will run simultaneously.  Aspiring troopers have reported for the 97^th cadet class with 49 individuals.  The 96th class has entered their 11th week of training.  Sgt. Jared Sandifer says both classes are going through an intense training program…

Cut 13 (08) “those lines.”

Sandifer says people across the state should be happy that many are still willing to join the ranks and help serve them…

Cut 14 (11) “much better.”

Sandifer says even though there will be two different classes, the end result will be the same…

Cut 15 (07) “can be.”

After graduation, troopers will participate in a 10-14 week field training program before beginning their new careers.

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The Saints won their sixth straight on Sunday as they dominated Tampa Bay 30-10. A blocked punt that went for a touchdown in the 1st quarter gave New Orleans a 9-0 lead and they never looked back. Rookie Alvin Kamara has a touchdown rushing and receiving and Ted Ginn Junior caught a 36-yard touchdown pass from Drew Brees. The Saints Q-B says they did a lot of things well…

Cut 16  (20)  “football games.”

A strange play occurred when TommyLee Lewis laid down in the end zone during a kickoff in the hopes the Buccaneers kick-off team would not see him. The play didn’t work at all and New Orleans was forced to start a drive deep in their zone. Payton says they’ll probably not try that again…

Cut 17 (23)  “was a dud”

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LSU ougained Alabama on Saturday night but still lost to the Crimson Tide 24-10 in Tuscaloosa. Tigers Head Coach Ed Orgeron says Alabama’s ability to make the big play was the difference…

Cut 18 (17) “ball in the end zone” 

LSU entered the game as a three touchdown underdog, but lost by two touchdowns. Orgeron says he does not believe in moral victories…

Cut 19 (10)     we’re coming” 

A Mandeville man has been arrested for allegedly holding two teenagers at gunpoint after they toilet papered his house. Emelie Gunn has more…..

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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LSU fans are somewhat torn on how to feel about the game against Alabama on Saturday. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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As we’re turning our clocks back an hour on Sunday for Daylight Saving Time, State Fire Marshal Butch Browning reminds residents now is a good time to check the batteries in your smoke alarm. He says first generation fire alarms need to have the batteries replaced every 12 months, and it also might be time for an upgrade…:

Cut 3 (11) “of security”

Browning says when switching to a smoke alarm with a lithium battery, the battery is already sealed inside and activates when installed on the ceiling.

Cut 4  (09) “protection” 

Browning reminds anyone who cannot afford an alarm that the “Operation Save-A-Life” program will install a smoke detector in your home. He says it’s important to check to make sure your alarms are all working..:

Cut 5  (10)  “smoke alarms”

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A 67-year-old grandmother is dead in Plaquemine after her grandson allegedly shot her by mistake.  Police say 19-year-old Blaise Horton reported he was holding a gun in a house when 67-year-old Kathleen Fulton was killed.  Police Chief Kenny Payne says Horton said he didn’t know there was a single bullet remaining in the chamber…

Cut 6 (10)  “pulled the trigger”

Payne says the bullet grazed the dog and struck Fulton in the back.  He says Horton’s sister was in the home at the time, evidence at the scene matches up with the story Horton and the sister told officers…:

Cut 7 (12) “to the grandmother”

Payne says even though this appears to be accidental, the Iberville Parish D.A. will pursue charges…

Cut 8 (09) “and bonded out”

The dog was treated by a vet and will survive.

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Officers say a three-year-old toddler has died as the result of an alleged accidental shooting in St. Martin Parish.  Police have arrested the uncle 28-year-old Dracolby Numa Journet of Arnaudville.  He has been charged with Illegal Possession of a Stolen Firearm and Obstruction of Justice.  Sheriff’s Office spokeswoman Major Ginny Higgins says cops responded to the call around 7pm Thursday…:

Cut 9 (07)  “gunshot wound”

Higgins says the child was airlifted to a hospital and later died. She says this is a tragic situation, not only for the family, but also for responding deputies…:

Cut 10 (09) “involved”

Journet remains in custody without bond.

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A Mandeville man has been arrested after allegedly blocking off the exit of a subdivision and holding two teens at gunpoint after they toilet papered his house. Police Chief Gerald Sticker says homeowner Craig Scott unjustifiably took matters into his own hands.

Cut 11 (08) “minutes flat”

Scott faces charges of aggravated assault and obstruction of a roadway. Sticker says Scott told the teens they could not leave until they called their parents and during this time one called 911. He says rolling a house with toilet paper can be considered criminal mischief but often times homeowners do not press charges.

Cut 12 (10) “investigate it”

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LSU fans are somewhat torn on how to feel about the game against Alabama on Saturday. On the one hand, the Tigers are huge underdogs headed into Bryant-Denny Stadium, but the matchup between The Bayou Bengals and Crimson Tide has been a wild ride in recent years. These fans bleed purple and gold and would never say LSU can’t beat Alabama…:

Cut 13 (11)  “LSU all the way”

LSU is expected to lose the game by a large margin, being a 21 and a half point underdog. These fans believe that spread is way too big, but The Tigers would have to play perfect to beat Nick Saban’s machine-like team:

Cut 14 (10)  “don’t think they’ll beat Alabama”

Still other fans would like to see a nice effort by the Tigers, but believe this just isn’t the year…:

Cut 15 (11) “that’s all I’m saying”

A Navy veteran has chosen not to accept the Peoples Health Champion Award at the next Saints home game. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Attorney General Jeff Landry is not happy the Edwards administration has filed a lawsuit against drug manufacturers over the opioid crisis and he’s asked a state judge to take over the suit. Michelle Southern has more…

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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A United States Navy veteran has declined to accept the Peoples Health Champion Award during this Sunday’s Saints game in the Superdome. Commander John Wells says he was very honored and excited when he was named a recipient. But he says the anthem protests by NFL players are a slap in the face to veterans.

Cut 3 (08) “for years”

Wells spent 22 years in the Navy and has been an advocate to get better benefits for military veterans. Wells says he understands there is a reason for the protests and there are some problems between police and the public…

Cut 4  (11) “disrespecting it” 

Wells says if there is a conversation to be had, let’s have the conversation…

Cut 5  (05)  “conversation”

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Another legal battle is brewing between Democratic Governor John Bel Edwards and Republican Attorney General Jeff Landry. The A-G filed a motion in court this week to take control of the Edwards administration lawsuit that accuses pharmaceutical companies of worsening the opioid crisis. Landry says it only makes sense for his office to handle this litigation…

Cut 6 (08)  “Attorney General’s office”

The department of health filed its lawsuit on September 27th claiming drug manufacturers intentionally flooded Louisiana with highly addictive and dangerous opioids. Landry says his office was also working on its own lawsuit…

Cut 7 (09) “I’ll say”

The AG won a legal battle this week over the governor’s office on an executive order dealing with discrimination of LGBT state workers. Landry is confident a state judge will rule that his office can supersede the L-D-H opioid lawsuit and he plans to expand it once he takes control…

Cut 8 (08) “particular issue”

Edwards’ executive counsel, Matthew Block, says the governor wants to collaborate on the lawsuit.

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A poll from Morning Consult finds in his second year in office, Governor John Bel Edwards has an approval rating of 53-percent. LSU Political Science Professor Robert Hogan says any time a governor has an approval of over 50-percent that’s good news. He says Edwards has received high marks when it comes to dealing with the high number of natural disasters Louisiana has recently seen.

Cut 9 (09)  “other states” 

Edwards has a 32-percent disapproval rating. But Hogan says that doesn’t mean Edwards is in the clear just yet. He says there are some big things the governor has to confront in the coming months.

Cut 10 (07) “is facing”

Hogan says Edwards is a Democrat in a state dominated by Republicans. He says the governor has been able to stay away from disputes that separate the two parties.

Cut 11 (10) “approval rating”

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GOP leaders on Capitol Hill unveiled today the key details in a new tax plan. The proposal lowers the number of tax brackets from seven to four, and increases the standard deductions. Louisiana Congressman Clay Higgins says this is major reform which is pro citizen and pro economic growth…:

Cut 12 (07) “virtually doubled”

Some democrats have already criticized the plan saying it would only benefit the wealthy, and that the middle class wouldn’t even be getting that big of a break. Higgins says that is wrong…:

Cut 13 (11)  “my pocket”

Higgins says for the first time in a long time the US has seen more than three percent growth in the economy over the past two quarters. He says that’s just with the thought of passing major tax reform, but now Americans have a promise from Congress in their hand…:

Cut 14 (12)  “and not penalized”

Monroe-based CenturyLink’s 24-billion-dollar acquisition of Level 3 Communications has been completed, making it the state’s largest public company.  Kelley Ray has more…

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Kelley Ray”

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Open enrollment for health insurance coverage through the Affordable Care Act begins today and runs until December 15^th. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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The 24-billion-dollar acquisition of Level 3 Communications by Monroe based CenturyLink is now complete, expanding the largest public trading company in Louisiana to more than 350 metropolitan areas.   CenturyLink Spokesperson Ann Marie Sartor says the merger allows them to continue leading the telecommunications industry…

Cut 3 (09) “technology solutions.”

Sartor says besides expansion in the U.S., CenturyLink will be able to focus on overseas operations as a result of the merger with the added assets and manpower the former Level 3 Communications is able to provide…

Cut 4  (06) “for us.” 

Sartor says even though they are growing, CenturyLink will still keep their focus on their number one asset, their customers…

Cut 5  (06)  “for communications.”

CenturyLink is committed to Louisiana.  They have a state contract that keeps their headquarters in Monroe through at least 2020.

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Open enrollment for health insurance policies through the Affordable Care Act begins today and runs until December 15^th. Over 122-thousand Louisianans are covered through the online marketplace. State Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon says most policy holders will see a double digit increase in premiums.

Cut 6 (11)  “last year”

In 2017, 86-percent of Marketplace enrollees in Louisiana received a subsidy. Donelon credits an average 18.5 increase in premiums to the uncertainty surrounding the Affordable Care Act.

Cut 7 (11) “its passage”

In Louisiana, the only insurers offering the Affordable Care Act health plans are Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana and Vantage Health Plan. Donelon offers some tips for those interested in purchasing or renewing their plans.

Cut 8 (11) “expenses”

Visit healthcare.gov to search policies.

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On the day Louisiana is releasing 19-hundred non-violent offenders, a state audit finds the Department of Corrections is not able to track offenders or know their exact release date.  They found 11 percent of offenders were at another facility other than what was reported in their computer system.  Another 19 percent had at least one error in their record.  Auditor Kristen Jacobs says the DOC does not have hard and fast policies which lead to improper reporting by local facilities…

Cut 9 (06)  “next month.” 

In several cases, the audit found that the DOC did not have proper methods in place to calculate correct prisoner release dates.  Jacobs says the DOC tried to plug up the holes in the records system.  They spent 3.6-million-dollars a few years ago on a computer data system that was quickly abandoned…

Cut 10 (07) “and testing.”

The DOC has been notified of their findings and Jacobs says they are willing to work on streamlining very complex procedures…

Cut 11 (12) “very complicated.”

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When it comes to popularity in Congress, both of Louisiana’s US Senators rank right about in the middle, according to a new Morning Consult poll. US Senator John Kennedy is ranked 39th out of 100 Senators, and Senator Bill Cassidy was number 62. ULM Political Science Professor Joshua Stockley says the approval numbers are essentially the same, however..:

Cut 12 (11) “Affordable Care Act”

Cassidy received a 47% approval rating, while Kennedy had 50%. Cassidy is about three years away from re-election, and Stockley feels the Baton Rouge Senator is still more popular than he is unpopular…:

Cut 13 (10)  “Republican state”

Vermont US Senator Bernie Sanders was ranked the most popular in the poll, which Stockley says isn’t surprising given Sanders cult-like following throughout the entire nation. Stockley says he’s also not surprised that Republican Caucus leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky was ranked least popular…:

Cut 14 (10)  “mentions in Tweets”

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The SEC matchup of the year is this Saturday when LSU takes of the Alabama Crimson Tide. Emelie Gunn takes a look at ticket sales on the secondary market…

Cut 1 (28) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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19-hundred non-violent offenders will be released starting today as part of approved changes in criminal justice reform.  Kelley Ray has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Kelley Ray”

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A Caldwell Parish teen is in police custody after he allegedly burned down a building that belonged to a historic church in Rayville. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3   (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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The hurricane season ends on November 30, but a named storm has never struck Louisiana in November in 167 years of record keeping.  State Climatologist Barry Keim says the state came close to breaking that streak in 2009 when Tropical Storm Ida churned in the Gulf…

Cut 4  (08) “was spared.”

This hurricane season has not been quiet.  Keim says it ranks high on the list with the second most major hurricanes in a season with one month to go…

Cut 5  (06)  “major hurricanes.”

Louisiana prior to this year was spared hurricane or tropical storm landfalls for four seasons.  Keim says Mother Nature made up for it this year…

Cut 6 (09) “early October.”

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LSU takes on the Alabama Crimson Tide this Saturday at Bryant-Denny Stadium and ticket sales are on fire. Cameron Papp with Stub Hub says ticket prices range from 90 dollars to over 500 dollars for a seat to see the highly anticipated match up. He says this is the highest selling Alabama home game this season so far.

Cut 7 (08)  their calenders”

Papp says traditionally tickets sell for a little more when the game is played in Tiger Stadium but these ticket prices match up to what we saw two years ago at Alabama’s last home game against the Tigers. He says the average ticket price is going for about 300 bucks.

Cut 8 (11) “college football”

Papp says there is still plenty of time left for fans to purchase tickets.

Cut 9 (07)  “game time”

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Over 19-hundred prisoners will be released today as part of the state’s criminal justice reform legislation enacted this year. The Edwards Administration says this will lower the highest incarceration rate in the country and produce better outcomes for non-violent offenders.  Winn Parish Sheriff Cranford Jordan (jer-dun) doesn’t see how releasing inmates will lead to better public safety…

Cut 10 (11)  “job properly.”

Jordan says the system is flawed from the start.  He says Louisiana needs to take a cue from Texas and begin rehabilitation before prisoners are released…

Cut 11 (11) “them out.”

Non-violent offenders will be eligible released after serving 35 percent of their sentence under the new law, but they will be still monitored according to Department of Corrections Secretary Jimmy LeBlanc…

Cut 12 (11) “control of.”

It is estimated the reform effort will reduce the state’s prison population by ten percent over ten years.  LeBlanc says many parish jail inmates are released without additional education or skills.  He says this reform will help in that regard as programs will be put into place to help released inmates stay out of jail…

Cut 13 (06) “need attention.”

It is estimated the new program will save the state 262-million-dollars over 10 years, with 70-percent of that money to be reinvested into training and prisoner rehabilitation programs.

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A Caldwell Parish juvenile is in custody after allegedly destroying a building that belonged to St. Paul Baptist church in nearby Richland Parish.  Sheriff Gary Gilley says the suspect also stole an Entergy truck before setting fire to the structure…

Cut 14 (12) “Caldwell Parish.”

Authorities say the suspect also damaged several vehicles at Caldwell Parish High School. Gilley says they are still trying to determine why this teen burned down a building belonging to a church that’s been around for 137 years…

Cut 15 (08) “this happended.”

The fire started around 9:30 AM on Tuesday and Gilley says the suspect was taken into custody early that afternoon. He says witnesses told investigators they saw a young white male at the church in an Entergy truck when the blaze started…

Cut 16  (16)  “this time.”

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After a long layoff, UL Lafayette returns to the football field this Saturday when they visit South Alabama. The Cajuns last played on October 19th, when they were blown out by Arkansas State 47-3. Coach Mark Hudspeth says his players are not dwelling on that lopsided loss…

Cut 17 (23)  “from us”

Also in the Sun Belt this Saturday, ULM hosts Appalachian State. The Mountaineers are 4-0 in league play and Warhawks Coach Matt Viator says they have one of the top defenses in the Sun Belt…

Cut 18 (06) “excited about it” 

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LSU will bring a three-game winning streak into Saturday’s SEC showdown with top ranked Alabama. Crimson Tide Head Coach Nick Saban says the Tigers are the best team they’ve seen this year and their season turned around after losing to Troy…

Cut 19 (20) right now“

Saban says his players need to be ready for a physical game on Saturday…

cut 20 (19)  “understand that”