Former Governor Kathleen Blanco announces she’s fighting an incurable form of liver cancer.  Kelley Ray reports on how one local doctor feels about her prognosis…

Cut 1 (32) “I’m Kelley Ray.”

______________________________________

Gas prices in Louisiana are on a steady downward trend. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

______________________________________________

Former Louisiana Governor Kathleen Blanco has announced she is fighting an incurable form of liver cancer.  It traveled from her eye after she was diagnosed in 2011 with ocular melanoma, a dangerous and rare cancer.  Chief of Surgical Oncology at LSU Health New Orleans Dr. Adam Riker says the key to get Blanco’s immune system strong to slow the progression of the cancer…

Cut 3 (10) “tumor cells.”

Riker says all hope is not lost.  If one treatment doesn’t work, there are several therapies that can tried in both mainstream and experimental medicine…

Cut 4  (12) “these days.” 

She is currently undergoing treatment in Philadelphia.  The 74-year-old native of New Iberia served as Louisiana’s first female governor from 2004 to 2008.  Blanco was criticized for her handling of Hurricane Katrina in 2005.  However, UL Lafayette Political Science Professor Pearson Cross says that has been muted after looking back at the magnitude of the storm…

Cut 5  (06)  “for them”

Cross says Blanco changed the face of politics in Louisiana becoming a trailblazer for females in public office…

Cut 6 (09)  “her legacy.”

Female mayors are currently serving in Shreveport and Baton Rouge and New Orleans just elected its first woman mayor.

____________________________________________________

Gas prices in Louisiana are on a steady downward trend, as the current statewide average of $2.26 is 4 cents lower on the week. AAA Fuel Analyst Don Redman says they expect gasoline demand to weaken throughout the winter, which translates to better prices at the pump…:

Cut 7 (05)  “Christmas Holidays”

Redman says January and February will be one of the best times of the year at the pump…:

Cut 8 (08) “right now”

Redman says normally gas prices start falling around October, but strong demand this year saw the number spike a bit. He says consumers were able to absorb the extra costs because of a strong economy..:

Cut 9 (10)  “personal economy”

________________________________________________________

Authorities in St. Landry Parish are investigating the finding of a 21-year-old woman’s body in Lake Dubisson (Doo-ba-san). The body was found this morning, but a search was started Sunday after a fisherman reeled in an unusual item from the lake according to Sheriff Bobby Guidroz (Gee-dro)…

Cut 12 (08) “the distance.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact the St. Landry’s Parish Sheriff’s Office at 337-948-6516…

_________________________________________________________

Totals are in for Friday’s historic snow event and Kentwood saw the most in the state with 6 and a half inches. That’s according to Shawn O’Neil with the National Weather Service in Slidell, who says parts of the Baton Rouge area saw three to five inches…

Cut 13 (09)  “that area”

O’Neil says the moisture stayed a little longer than originally anticipated. He says most areas below Lake Pontchartrain saw at least a small amount of snow but the majority fell within the Florida Parishes.

Cut 14 (09) “inch range”

O’Neil says this is the first measurable snow for south Louisiana since December of 2008.

Cut 15 (09) “snow event”

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

______________________________________________

Multiple reports indicate NFL viewership is down this season. Kelley Ray spoke with a Baton Rouge ad agent about the impacts…

Cut 2 (22) “I’m Kelley Ray”

______________________________________

Former Governor Kathleen Blanco says she’s in the fight for her life as the 74-year-old is battling liver cancer. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 3  (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”  

________________________________________________________

The LSU AgCenter has developed a milk-based meal replacement powder to help consumers lose weight. Studies show drinking meal replacement shakes for 12 weeks instead of meals is a safe way to drop pounds. Director of the AgCenter Food Incubator Gaye Sandoz says they’ve developed the powder and now LSU’s Pennington  Research Center will test the product.

Cut 4  (07) “to do”

Sandoz says the AgCenter created the powder shake in chocolate and vanilla flavors and a candy to be added to the meal replacement.

Cut 5  (08)  “special milk”

The powder is derived from a2 milk, which is easier to digest than normal milk. Sandoz says they will work with Pennington to package and market the product. She adds this development came from a long period of hard work by researchers.

Cut 6 (10) “the market” 

________________________________________________________

Multiple reports indicate fewer people are watching as much pro football than they used too. Baton Rouge-based Todd Advertising Agency owner Deborah Todd says it’s not just national anthem protests, she says viewer fatigue has also set in, because of an over saturation of NFL games…

Cut 7 (10)  “used to.”

Todd says cord cutters, households who get rid of cable or satellite TV, is also hurting NFL viewership. She says internet based apps like Netflix, Hulu and Directvnow, is helping to further divide people’s attention away from professional football and it’s cheaper…

Cut 8 (08) “a month.”

NFL contracts involving the five television networks, Twitter and Amazon Prime are worth five-billion-dollars through 2022.  With the viewers scattering, Todd foresees advertisers and networks alike renegotiating their contracts…

Cut 9 (08)  “to give.”

________________________________________________________

LaPolitics Weekly reports Congressman Ralph Abraham is considering a run for governor in 2019. Abraham says he hasn’t made any decisions, but a number of people are asking him about it. ULM Political Science Professor Joshua Stockley says the Richland Parish physician will need to boost his name recognition

Cut 10 (12)  “to support”

U.S. Senator John Kennedy, Attorney General Jeff Landry and Congressman Garret Graves are a few GOP politicians that are suspected to run against current Democratic Governor John Bel Edwards. Stockley says at this point it appears Kennedy, Landry or Graves have a better chance at defeating Edwards in 2019…

Cut 11 (10) “disadvantage”

Abraham is a doctor, airplane pilot and former veterinarian. Stockley says it’s more common to see winning candidates from New Orleans, Lafayette or Baton Rouge. He says Abraham is very popular in north and central Louisiana, but…

Cut 12 (10) “southern Louisiana”

________________________________________

A dozen juvenile whooping cranes have been released at the Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge as part of an ongoing effort to protect them from extinction. Biologist Sara Zimorski with Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries says they are joining eleven juveniles that were released a couple of weeks ago in Vermilion Parish…

Cut 13 (08) “72 birds.”

Whooping cranes are the tallest bird in North America, standing on average five feet tall.  Zimorski they are a beautiful bird to look at and fits in well with Louisiana because…

Cut 14 (12) “in 1950.”

In 1939, the last recorded whooping crane egg hatched in Louisiana until last year.  Zimorski says by letting them hatch in a controlled environment, helps them to get a larger population quicker…

Cut 15 (12) “in Louisiana.”

South Louisiana saw some snow Friday morning to the delight of residents. So how rare of an event is this? Don Molino reports…:

Cut 1 (27) “I’m Don Molino”

______________________________________

It’s snowed in south Louisiana and everybody knows it as social media is flooded with videos of our winter wonderland. Michelle Southern has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Michelle Southern”

______________________________________________

South Louisiana saw some snow Friday morning to the delight of residents. So how rare of an event is this? State Climatologist Barry Keim says, believe it or not, we actually see white flakes more often than hurricanes. But for it to span nearly the entire bottom half of the state is very rare…:

Cut 3 (08) “south Louisiana”

More than six inches stuck in Kentwood, and snow covered the grass in Baton Rouge for the first time since December of 2009. So how does snow happen in Louisiana? Keim says it happens when there is cold Canadian air at the surface, but moist air coming in from the Gulf of Mexico…:

Cut 4  (11) “cold rain” 

Two to three inches of snow accumulated in Amite, and 2 inches of snow was measured on an elevated surface in Lake Charles. Keim says high temperatures throughout the state on Friday did not get out of the 30s for the entire day which is also very uncommon for Louisiana…:

Cut 5  (11)  “low 40s”

________________________________________________________

Social media went crazy when south Louisiana actually got snow. Parents are posting videos of their kids playing in the white stuff for the first time ever. One man recorded his young son opening the door and discovering a winter wonderland in the Bayou State.

Cut 6 (12)  “woah.”

Grownups and kids made snow angels and built snowmen, and watched their pets try to figure out what was going on…:

Cut 7 (08)  “big ole flakes” 

Cajun Musician Jo-EL Sonnier added a video of him playing his accordion from the front porch of his house as snow was falling…:

Cut 8 (12) “Westlake, Louisiana to be exact”

__________________________________________________________

Motorists are advised to stay off the roads especially in southeast Louisiana.  Snow  and ice in some areas has made driving conditions treacherous in many areas.  Rodney Mallett with the Department of Transportation says crews are constantly working to make sure roads are open and clear when possible…:

Cut 9 (05)  “a lot.”

Mallett says even though it’s stopped snowing, that doesn’t mean it’s a good idea to be out and about…:

A cold Canadian air blast is lowering temperatures to below freezing throughout Louisiana tonight.  National Weather Service forecaster Michael Hill says the areas which got snow on the ground will see very low temperatures for a few evenings.:

Cut 12 (09) “the area.”

If we get some snow melt Friday and Saturday, what is left will refreeze again.  Hill says that means drivers need to be careful…:

Cut 13 (08)  “out there.”

A hard freeze warning will be in effect Friday night into Saturday morning for several areas including Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Lake Charles and New Orleans.  Hill says a warming trend will put temperatures closer to normal this weekend…

Cut 14 (07) “the 30s”

______________________________________________________________

The 2017 AllState Sugar Bowl Prep Classic wraps up with three more games. Starting at noon Saturday, John Curtis goes after its 26th state title when they face the Catholic High Bears from Baton Rouge. The Patriots will once again rely on its power running game. Legendary Coach JT Curtis on his Darryan Washington and Malik Wells…

Cut 15 (07) “you want”

At 3:30 PM, Lakeshore from St. Tammany makes its first ever appearance in the state championship game as they take on defending champion and top seed and the Karr Cougars. Lakeshore head coach Craig Jones…

Cut 16  (12)  “on offense”

And the final game of the Classic, it will be the Zachary Broncos and the Hahnville Tigers, which will be a large crowd from St. Charles Parish. The Tigers have the top running back in the state, Pooka Williams, who has put on a show in the postseason. Hahnville head coach Nick Saltaformaggio (SALT-tuh-for-mah-gee-oh) says watching at home or at the Dome will be impressed with Williams…

Cut 17 (12) “of talent”

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo.”

______________________________________________

U.S. House members approve conceal carry bill allowing permit holders to bring concealed weapons into other states.  Kelley Ray reports supporters say it will help people with good intentions to protect themselves…

Cut 2 (26) “I’m Kelley Ray”

______________________________________

The National Retail Federation expects consumers will spend about 967 dollars a person on holiday shopping this Christmas. Don Molino has more…

Cut 3  (28) “I’m Don Molino”  

________________________________________________________

With Christmas right around the corner, the Louisiana SPCA encourages people to give the gift of a home to a pet in need through adoption. Spokesperson Alicia Haefele says they’re offering a 50-dollar adoption special until December 23^rd. She says last year 222 animals found forever homes during the holiday season.

Cut 4  (10) “great match”

Haefele says for an additional donation of 75-dollars, you can surprise a loved one with an adopted animal by getting it hand delivered on Christmas Eve, Hanukah or Kwanzaa.

Cut 5  (10)  “deliver it”

Haefele says this service is available around the state. She says it’s important to make sure everyone adopting a pet understands it’s a life time commitment, not just a holiday gift.

Cut 6 (10) “brush it” 

________________________________________________________

The U.S. House of Representatives have passed 231-to-198 the Concealed Carry Reciprocity  (Ress-per-ross-a-tee) Act to allow a person with a concealed carry permit issued in one state to carry a firearm in another state.  U.S. Congressman Mike Johnson says the Senate and hopefully the House are just reaffirming the rights of Americans with this bill…

Cut 7 (12)  “state lines.”

Johnson says by passing this bill, there will be less confusion as to which states allow concealed carry and those that don’t…

Cut 8 (11) “carry permit.”

Johnson says this will not keep people from getting weapons, but it will improve the likelihood that law abiding citizens will be able to be in possession of one to bring weapons to different states…

Cut 9 (10)  “good thing.”

________________________________________________________

Louisiana Tech in Ruston has been granted 1.3 million dollars to enhance its cybersecurity programs. The money was awarded by the National Science Foundation. U.S. Congressman Ralph Abraham of Alto says LA Tech is a leader in training the next generation of professions that will be tasked with protecting our nation. He says this grant will help the university maintain cyber security among the 1-20 corridor.

Cut 10 (12)  “their goal”

Abraham says this field is something that’s very deficient in a number of college graduates. He says cyber security is an incredibly important mission.

Cut 11 (11) “the nation”

Louisiana Tech is the first university in the country to establish a Bachelor of Science in Cyber Engineering degree program. Abraham says Louisiana Tech is looking toward the future…

Cut 12 (08) “cyber security”

________________________________________

The National Retail Federation predicts holiday shoppers will spend about 967 dollars a person on gifts this year, up 3.4-percent from in 2016. Mark Rosa, Professor with the UNO School of Business, says everybody gets excited during the season and wants to be generous but we have to resist the urge to overspend. He says it’s easy to put purchases on credit cards.

Cut 13 (09) “coming again”

Rosa says it’s important to create a budget before setting out to shop and make sure you stick to it. He says it’s very easy to wind up in debt after holiday shopping.

Cut 14 (10) “getting ahead”

Rosa says even though this is more holiday spending than years past, that doesn’t always make for a happy Christmas.

Cut 15 (07) “by finances”

__________________________________________________________-

Tough night in Atlanta for the Saints who lost a hard fought game to the Atlanta Falcons 20-17. New Orleans had a chance to win it in the end, but quarterback Drew Brees pass into the end zone with 1:25 ended up in the hands of former LSU Tiger Deion Jones for an interception. Saints Head Coach Sean Payton was not hard on his team’s effort…

Cut 16  (11)  “hurt tonight”

There were six players who didn’t finish the game for the Saints, including rookie running back Alvin Kamara, who left the game with a concussion on the team’s first offensive drive. Quarterback Drew Brees blames Thursday night football….

Cut 17  (19)  “absolutely not”

The Saints were also hit with 11 penalties for 87 yards. Payton says it was a bizarre game…

Cut 18 (11) ” bounce back” 

________________________________________________________

A Task Force has been established by Governor Edwards to review sexual harassment and discrimination policies in state agencies.  Michelle Southern has more…

Cut 1 (28) “I’m Michelle Southern.”

______________________________________

North Louisiana is under a freeze warning and the Florida parishes could see snow by the morning. Emelie Gunn has more on these wintry conditions…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

______________________________________________

A Task Force has been established by Governor Edwards to review sexual harassment and discrimination policies in state agencies.  The seven member panel will be selected by Friday and they hope to hold their first meeting later this month.  The Governor’s Communications Director Shauna Sanford says they want to get guidelines in place due to the recent reports of sexual harassment…

Cut 3 (12) “important issue.”

Sanford says one of the items the task force will consider is if the current training program for new employees is effective…

Cut 4  (08) “more robust.” 

The task force will look at each agency to check for uniformity in the sexual harassment policy.  Sanford says they want to make sure that all employees know the procedures in reporting if they suspect are the victim of harassment…

Cut 5  (10)  “is completed..”

The task force will report back to the governor by March 1^st.

________________________________________________________

There’s a lot of talk of wintry mix tomorrow morning and Alek Krautmann with the National Weather Service in Slidell says the Florida Parishes are in for some rain tonight transitioning into sleet and possibly snow by morning. He says we’ll see temperatures in the low 40s throughout today…

Cut 6 (10)  “continues.”

Schools in Lafayette and West Feliciana have already announced closures for tomorrow. Krautmann says there is a winter weather advisory for the Greater Baton Rouge and Northshore areas. He says we’ll have cold temperatures over the weekend but will be dry and clear.

Cut 7 (06)  “northern areas” 

Most of north Louisiana is under a freeze warning tonight. Meteorologist for the National Weather Service in Shreveport Davyon Hill says temperatures could be as low as the mid 20s in some areas. He says they aren’t expecting much freezing rain.

Cut 8 (09) “of us”

Hill says they aren’t anticipating any icy roads in norther parishes. He says it’s important for people to remember the four Ps, plants, pipes, people and pets when freezing temperatures arrive.

Cut 9 (07)  “like that”

________________________________________________________________

The reward for information on the death of a St. Tammany Parish Fire Chief’s wife has been increased to ten-thousand-dollars. Nanette Krentel, the wife of Fire District No. 12 Chief Stephen Krentel, was thought to have died when the couple’s house burned down, but her death was later ruled a homicide. Nanette’s father, Dan Watson, is frustrated with the process.:

An autopsy revealed Krentel died as the result of a gunshot wound to the head. Watson says he hopes the added incentive and the anonymity Crimestoppers provides will bring forth some useful information so that this doesn’t become a cold case. He says the investigation itself has been messed up from the beginning…:

Watson says he knows Nanette was fearful of her husband’s brother because he had threatened her. He says he knew his daughter kept handguns, and stayed at home quite a bit…:

Cut 12 (09) “a lot of stress”

Anyone with information on Nanette’s death can call Crimestoppers and submit an anonymous tip.

_______________________________________________________

One of the main concerns when we start to see wintry weather like this for the first time of the season is the roadways. Department of Transportation spokesman Rodney Mallett says even today as the bottom half of the state is dealing with constant rain, they keep seeing a trend of rear end crashes and side-swiping because people aren’t paying attention…:

Cut 13 (09)  “car in front of you”

Mallett says they are keeping an eye on the weather, and their goal is to keep the main roads open unless they absolutely have to be closed. He encourages motorists to check the site 511la.org for updated road information:

Cut 14 (12) “from our scouts”

Ag Commissioner Mike Strain is urging winter weather preps for livestock and pets. He says make sure cattle has plenty of hay, feed and water, and make sure to check water troughs as they can cover with ice…:

Cut 15 (12) “heat lamps”

He says if possible, keep companion animals inside, or at the very least make sure a dry shelter is available and have a warm blanket for your pet.

____________________________________________

Cut 1 (27) “I’m Emelie Gunn.”

______________________________________________

A 10-million dollar rehab facility is set to open around the first of the year in Abita Springs. Jeff Palermo reports the C-E-O of Longbranch Recovery Center says it’s the largest investment in an addiction treatment facility in the state’s history…

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo.”

______________________________________

There are reports Smoothie King is looking to moving its corporate headquarters from Louisiana to Texas.  Kelley Ray has more…

Cut 3  (25) “I’m Kelley Ray”  

________________________________________________________

Both the U.S. House and Senate have approved separate tax reform bills and will now come together in a committee to iron out the differences. U.S. Representative Clay Higgins of St. Landry Parish says the economy will sky rocket once they pass a bill that cuts corporate and personal income taxes….

Cut 4  (06) “a win”

Once the committee agrees on a tax reform plan, the House and Senate will have to pass it. Higgins says he’s confident the president will sign the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act before the end of the year. He says the U.S. hasn’t seen this type of economic stimulation in decades.

Cut 5  (08)  “voted for”

This would be Congress’ first rewrite of the tax code in nearly 30 years. The Senate’s bill would eliminate the requirement for individuals without health insurance to pay a penalty. Higgins supports that provision. He says this legislation can only benefit the United States…

Cut 6 (11) “increasing” 

________________________________________________________

A new addiction treatment center is opening on the Northshore.  The ten-million-dollar Longbranch Recovery Center will open around the first of the year in Abita Springs.  Longbranch Healthcare CEO Chris McMahon, sober for 17 years, says he wants to do his part in helping those who need it the most…

Cut 7 (10)  “a problem.”

McMahon says there is a huge need for addiction treatment in Louisiana.  It has been found that treating the symptoms of addiction is more successful for the patient…

Cut 8 (12) “of addiction.”

McMahon says the location of the facility was as important as treating the patient.  He says the former Longbranch Hotel in Abita Springs is a now a 32-bed facility that will be able to house patients during 30 to 90 day treatment programs…

Cut 9 (11)  “and welcome.”

An outpatient program is also opening in Old Metairie. For more information go to longbranchhealthcare.com.

_________________________________________________________

There are reports Smoothie King is looking at moving its corporate headquarters from Metairie to Texas. A five-year deal between Louisiana and the fruit drink maker expires at the end of the year. Louisiana Economic Development Secretary Don Pierson has spoken with Smoothie King…

Cut 10 (12)  “a business.”

Pierson says if they are planning on leaving the state, it would leave about 60 employees out of work…

Cut 11 (06) “manufacturing operation.”

Under the deal set to expire, the state pays Smoothie King hundreds of thousands of dollars in incentives. Pierson says Louisiana Economic Development will work with Smoothie King to explore all options for them to remain in the state…

Cut 12 (07) “excellent outcome.”

Smoothie King is in the third year of a ten-year naming rights agreement to the home of the New Orleans Pelicans.  At the time, owner Wan Kim said the deal  allows the company to show its commitment to New Orleans.

________________________________________

After a third consecutive losing season, UL Lafayette has fired head coach Mark Hudspeth. Athletic Director Bryan Maggard informed Hudspeth of his decision Sunday morning following the team’s 63-14 loss to Appalachian State…

Cut 13 (10) “our program”

Hudspeth directed the school to four straight New Orleans Bowl titles from 2011 to 2014, but because of NCAA sanctions, UL Lafayette was forced to forfeit 22 victories, including two bowl wins. Maggard says the next head coach needs to recruit Louisiana well and must be a proven winner

Cut 14 (10) “win championships”

______________________________________________

For the second straight year, LSU is headed to the Citrus Bowl in Orlando and this year they’ll play Notre Dame. Last year the Tigers trounced Louisville 29-9 on New Year’s Eve. This year’s game will be played on New Year’s Day at noon in Camping World Stadium. LSU Coach Ed Orgeron is excited…

Cut 15 (09) “matchup”

Notre Dame is 9-3 and led offensively by Josh Adams one of the nation’s top running backs. He’s rushed for over 13-hundred yards and seven yards a carry. Two times this season, the junior has rushed for over 200 yards in a game. Orgeron says he’ll get to know Adams over the next month…

Cut 16  (11)  “ought to be”

It’s rare for a team to go to the same bowl game game in consecutive years. Florida Citrus Sports CEO Steve Hogan says they have ways to make the experience different for the players…

Cut 17  (09)  “multiple parks.”

_______________________________________________________

The Saints regained control of the NFC South with a convincing 31-21 win over the Carolina Panthers. The Atlanta Falcons also lost, so now New Orleans has a one-game lead over the Panthers and a two-game lead over the Dirty Birds for the division lead. Quarterback Drew Brees threw for 269 yards and one touchdown in the victory

Cut 18 (18) “front of us” 

Rookie Alvin Kamara had another big game, 66 yards receiving on five catches and he also carried the ball nine times for 60 yards and had two rushing touchdowns. Kamara scored the game’s first touchdown when the Saints went for it on fourth and goal on the two-yard line. Brees says the decision to go for it on fourth down showed they were there to win

Cut 19 (15)    be agressive”

The Saints are 9-3 heading into a Thursday night showdown with the Falcons. Brees is glad they got the win over the Panthers, but there’s still room to improve…

cut 20 (17)  those things” 

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

Cut 1 (28) “I’m Michelle Southern.”

______________________________________

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

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Don Molino.”

______________________________________________

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

Cut 3 (11) “and Mirliton pie”

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

Cut 4  (08) “just beautiful” 

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

Cut 5  (10)  “at a festival’”

________________________________________________________

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

Cut 6 (09)  “documented misconduct.”

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

Cut 7 (12)  “criminal violation.” 

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

Cut 8 (12) “and externally.”

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

_______________________________________________________

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

Cut 9 (06)  “was apprehended.”

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

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

Cut 12 (07) “model”

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

___________________________________________________

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

Cut 13 (11)  “National Football League”

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

Cut 14 (11) “figure that out”

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

Cut 15 (12) “going to LSU”

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

________

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

Cut 1 (27) “I’m Emelie Gunn.”

______________________________________________

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

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo.”

______________________________________

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

Cut 3  (30) “I’m Kelley Ray”  

________________________________________________________

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

Cut 4  (09) “deep consequences”

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

Cut 5  (11)  “laced environment”

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

Cut 6 (09) “on this” 

________________________________________________________

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

Cut 7 (07)  “any buses.”

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

Cut 8 (04) “fiscal responsibility.”

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

Cut 9 (10)  “the dollar.”

_________________________________________________________

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

Cut 10 (12)  “compensation”

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

Cut 11 (10) “insurance program”

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

Cut 12 (10) “their policy”

________________________________________

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

Cut 13 (11) “remain free.”

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

Cut 14 (07) “of many.”

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

Cut 15 (11) “of value.”

_______________________________________________________

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

Cut 16  (14)  “important game.”

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

Cut 17  (08)  “best football.”

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

Cut 18 (19) “harder to stop” 

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

Cut 1 (28) “I’m Michelle Southern.”

______________________________________

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

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

______________________________________________

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

Cut 3 (11) “parking lot.”

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

Cut 4  (06) “the suspect” 

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

Cut 5  (07)  “armed robber.’”

________________________________________________________

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

Cut 6 (10)  “for me”

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

Cut 7 (10)  “the street” 

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

Cut 8 (11) “accidental death”

_______________________________________________________

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

Cut 9 (13)  “the country.”

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

_______________________________________________________

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

Cut 12 (11) “health behaviors”

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

Cut 13 (08)  “your circle”

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

Cut 14 (07) “of life”

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

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Kelley Ray.”

______________________________________

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

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

______________________________________________

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

Cut 3 (13) “in Walker.”

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

Cut 4  (10) ” not occur.” 

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

Cut 5  (08)  “them seriously.’”

________________________________________________________

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

Cut 6 (08)  “time period.”

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

Cut 7 (11)  “of drought.” 

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

Cut 8 (11) “US midwest.”

_______________________________________________________

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

Cut 9 (11)  “North Korea”

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

_______________________________________________________

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

Cut 12 (11) “the past”

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

Cut 13 (10)  “very encouraging”

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

Cut 14 (11) “go down”

____________________