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

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern.”

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

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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

Cut 3 (11) “develop diabetes.”

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

Cut 4  (10) ” of it.” 

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

Cut 5  (11)  “something interesting.’”

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

Cut 6 (07)  “of progress.”

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

Cut 7 (11)  “crime victim.” 

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

Cut 8 (08) “and stealing.”

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

Cut 9 (10)  “at gunpoint.”

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

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

Cut 12 (11) “the trailer”

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

Cut 13 (11)  “the country”

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

Cut 14 (11) “and drill”

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

Cut 15 (12) “just gone”

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

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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

Cut 3 (08) “a ditch.”

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

Cut 4  (09) ” negligent homicide.” 

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

Cut 5  (08)  “right now.’”

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

Cut 6 (09)  “upper back”

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

Cut 7 (10)     the child” 

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

Cut 8 (10) “extreme injuries”

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

Cut 9 (12)  “the scene.”

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

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

Cut 12 (11) “more secure”

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

Cut 13 (06)  “copycat site”

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

Cut 14 (11) “of Gerald Tate”

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

Cut 15 (11) “Hamilton”

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

Cut 16  (08)  “after the fact”

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

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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

Cut 2 (32) “I’m Kelley Ray.”

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

Cut 3  (28) “I’m Emelie Gunn”  

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

Cut 4  (08) “wishes are”

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

Cut 5  (10)  “wishes are”

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

Cut 6 (11) “it yourself.”

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

Cut 7 (09)  “and fin fish.”

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

Cut 8 (09) “this year.” (2x)

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

Cut 9 (11)  “reef structure.”

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

Cut 10 (11)  “very small”

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

Cut 11 (09) “to vote”

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

Cut 12 (06) “increase turnout”

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

Cut 13 (07) “there again”

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

Cut 14 (11) “committee game”

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

Cut 15 (09)     number one”

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

Cut 16  (16)  “good enough”

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

Cut 17 (16)  20 calls”

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

Cut 18 (19) “meaningful game” 

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

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Kelley Ray.”

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

Cut 3 (10) “for an ad”

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

Cut 4  (06) ” he had” 

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

Cut 5  (09)  he didnt’”

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

Cut 6 (10)  “Sheryl Underwood”

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

Cut 7 (11)     Superdome” 

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

Cut 8 (10) “same thing”

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

Cut 9 (08)  “corporate headquarters.”

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

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

Cut 12 (10) “as JcPenney.”

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

Cut 13 (11)  “week ago.”

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

Cut 14 (07) “day anymore.”

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

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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

Cut 3  (10) “Black Friday”  

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

Cut 4  (10) “home gadgets”

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

Cut 5  (10)  “advantage of”

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

Cut 6 (09) “in take

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

Cut 7 (08)  “approaches”

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

Cut 8 (08) “adult population”

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

Cut 9 (09)  “their life”

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

Cut 10 (09)  “house happen”

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

Cut 11 (06) “the holiday”

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

Cut 12 (10) “multiple stores”

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

Cut 13 (09) “your vehicle”

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

Cut 14 (11) “online purchases”

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

Cut 15 (10) “on A&M”

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

Cut 16  (16)  “right now”

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

Cut 17 (13)  “being undefeated”

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

Cut 18 (18) “this week” 

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

Cut 19 (23)       many possessions”

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

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Kelley Ray.”

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

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Michelle Southern.”

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

Cut 3  (29) “I’m Emelie Gunn”  

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

Cut 4  (07) “food outright.”

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

Cut 5  (12)  “Waitr grow.”

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

Cut 6 (07) “our customers.”

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

Cut 7 (08)  “late October.”

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

Cut 8 (11) “few months.”

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

Cut 9 (10)  “specific electronics.”

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

Cut 10 (11)  “after Christmas.”

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

Cut 11 (11) “they closed.”

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

Cut 12 (12) “season’s over.”

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

Cut 13 (08) “they like”

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

Cut 14 (11) “offensive touching”

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

Cut 15 (12) “a person-”

Some of the hottest holiday toys for the season are already in short supply. Michelle Southern speaks with a toy expert..:

Cut 1 (29) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Voice of the ULM Warhawks Frank Hoffmann will hang up his mic after giving the play by play of Saturday’s game against Arkansas State. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Nobody wants to be that parent who wasn’t able to get their hands on the most popular toy this holiday season. So what’s hot in 2017? Chris Byrne, aka “The Toy Guy,” plays with toys for a living for the consumer review website TTPM.com. He says arts and crafts are a huge trend this year…:

Cut 3 (10) “of frosting”

Byrne says on the high tech end, KidiBuzz from VTech is all the rage. He says it’s essentially a kid-friendly smartphone, that’s not a phone…:

Cut 4  (10) ” their phone” 

Byrne says they find parents are not loyal to specific retailers when it comes to toys at this busy time of the year. He says some of the hottest holiday toys for the season are already in short supply, so if you see something you want, buy it right then…:

Cut 5  (07)  are selling out”

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The holidays can be challenging for those living with Alzheimer’s. Families and friends may be unsure how to handle their loved one suffering from the disease, which can create stress for everyone. Stacey Denham with the Alzheimer’s Association’s Louisiana chapter says when you approach someone with the disease, do it in a non-threatening way

Cut 6 (11)  that stress”

Denham says depending on abilities and preferences, make sure to keep the person with Alzheimer’s involved in the celebrations and don’t make that person guess who is in the room with them…

Cut 7 (11)     together” 

When there are several people around, it can become very confusing for someone coping with Alzheimer’s.  She says let guests know what to expect before they arrive and tell them how they can help…

Cut 8 (09) “that conversation”

Denham says there is a help line available anytime at 800-272-3900.

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West Monroe state representative Frank Hoffmann has been the voice of the ULM Warhawks for the last 42-years but Saturday, he will call his last game against when ULM takes on Arkansas State. Hoffman says it’s bitter sweet to end his long play by play career.

Cut 9 (11)  “doing it”

Hoffmann is the eighth active longest play by play voice for a university in the nation. Hoffman says he’s called some great wins over his 42-years.

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The Attorney General’s Office is offering safety tips for consumers who will shop online this holiday. Spokesperson Ruth Wisher says shoppers need to be aware that internet scams are out there…

Cut 12 (10) “it is”

Wisher says if something looks too good to be true, it probably is. She says consumers should always pay online with a credit card.

Cut 13 (09)  “an S”

To report a scam to the Attorney General call the Consumer Protection Hotline at 800-351-4889. Wisher says it’s never a good idea to online shop while using a public wireless network. She says consumers should also be on the lookout for the scam, cybersquatting.

Cut 14 (08) “it’s legal”

AAA projects that the number of travelers for Thanksgiving holiday will be the highest it’s been in 12 years. Don Molino has more.

Cut 1 (27) “I’m Don Molino.”

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The USDA reminds holiday chefs not to forget food safety when cooking your Thanksgiving turkey. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Restore Louisiana awards nearly 92-million dollars to 31-hundred homeowners affected by the 2016 floods. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 3  (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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AAA predicts nearly 51-million people will travel 50 miles or more for the Thanksgiving holiday, a three-percent increase from last year and it’s the highest number since 2005. AAA spokesman Don Redman says gas prices are about 35-cents higher than last year, but that’s not stopping the expected 45-million that will hit the highways..

Cut 4  (07) “personal economy.”

Air fares are the lowest since 2013, which Redman says will mean about a five percent increase in air travel, but Redman warns air passengers may pay more after they land…

Cut 5  (07)  “an increase.”

Redman says planning ahead is the key to making it to your destination safely…

Cut 6 (07) “alternative routes.”

Redman adds AAA expects to service over 300-thousand due to automotive problems. He says make sure your vehicle is inspected before leaving.

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The U.S. Department of Agriculture reminds holiday chefs to be conscious of food safety. Sarah Lichtman with the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service says the first step is cleaning your hands and surfaces before and after touching raw meats. She says the next step is to separate…

Cut 7 (10)  “like that”

About 128-thousand people are hospitalized each year as a result of foodborne illness. Lichtman says it’s also important to make sure you cook your turkey to 165 degrees Fahrenheit. She debunks the common myth that the before cooking your turkey it needs to be washed in the sink.

Cut 8 (10) “the oven”

Lichtman says it’s important not to forget about leftovers sitting out on the table.

Cut 9 (10)  “containers”

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The lines have become blurred between family traditions on Thanksgiving and getting the good deals before everyone else to kick off the holiday shopping season.  National Retail Federation’s Ana Serafin Smith says many stores are opening earlier on Thanksgiving.  It all started with one retail giant…

Cut 10 (11)  “followed suit.”

According to best-black-Friday-dot-com, 38 retail chains will be open Thursday.  They include Best Buy, Gamestop, JcPenney,’s, Sears and numerous others.  The four Louisiana K-Marts are expected to open as early as 6am.  Most other retailers will remain closed until early afternoon.  Smith says the consumer demands it and retail will answer…

Cut 11 (10) “the holidays.”

Surveys show more consumers are expected to shop online this year compared to shopping at brick and mortar stores.  Smith says for some shoppers there’s a great attraction to shopping on Thanksgiving night…

Cut 12 (06) “they’re off.”

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The Restore Louisiana Homeowner Assistance Program has offered grant awards for nearly 31-hundred homeowners affected by the floods in 2016, totaling nearly 92-million dollars. Office of Community Development Executive Director Pat Forbes says these funds are helping people rebuild their homes and many of the homeowners are reimbursed for work already done.

Cut 13 (11) “to work”

Forbes says they still have a long way to go as this is less than 10-percent of the people they hope to serve. He says they have Homeowner Assistance Centers in Baton Rouge, Hammond and Lafayette to help those still in need of funds.

Cut 14 (11) “from contractors”

Over 38-thousand homeowners have qualified to receive assistance. Forbes says there is no risk of running out of this federal grant money and encourages more people to take the next step in the application process.

Cut 15 (10) “done so.”

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For Nicholls State to advance in the FCS playoffs, they’ll have to figure out a way to slow down South Dakota senior quarterback Chris Streveler, who has thrown for 32-hundred yards, 23 touchdowns and just five interceptions. Colonels Coach Tim Rebowe says Streveler is the best quarterback they’ve faced all season

Cut 16  (20)  “the board”

Rebowe says South Dakota is also stingy on defense as they’ve held four of their opponents to a touchdown or less…

Cut 17 (15)  “get it done”

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Fifth-year senior left tackle K-J Malone would love to play in the regular season finale against Texas A-and-M, but his injured knee may not allow him to do so. Malone hasn’t played since the Florida game and remains very questionable for this Saturday. But the 6-4, 320-pounder from Ruston hopes to at least be in uniform…

Cut 18 (11) “goes down” 

Freshman Saahdiq Charles has replaced Malone on the line and the Tigers are 4-and-1 during that time. Malone says he’s tried to stay as part of the team as much as he could, despite his injury…

Cut 19 (13)        as a positive”

Louisiana orthopedic specialists are practicing a method to reduce the need for oral painkillers after surgery. Michelle Southern has more…

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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A new study finds that black students are two times as likely to be suspended as white students. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A well known north Louisiana chef was arrested after allegedly stalking a woman by calling and texting her 54 times.  Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Department spokesperson Glen Springfield says 35-year-old William Blake Phillips was asked several times to quit calling.  However the woman claims Phillips went a step farther…

Cut 3 (07) “the complainant.”

After making contact with Phillips, Springfield says Phillips denied some of the allegations…

Cut 4  (11) “the residence.” 

Phillips was named the 2016 Louisiana Seafood King and has managed restaurants in the Monroe area.

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Orthopedic specialists in the Bayou State are using a new post-surgical procedure to control pain and decrease the need for oral painkillers. Dr. Judson Penton says they are using a specially designed disposable pump to deliver medication that blocks pain only in the area of the surgery.

Cut 5  (10)  “after surgery”

Penton, who practices in Lafayette at Louisiana Orthopedic Specialists, says they started inserting small disposable pain pumps near the incision site next to the nerves in the surgical area. He says the pumps are portable and will only administer an amount of medication approved by a physician.

Cut 6 (08)  “the state”

Penton says the medicine flows continually at a very slow rate and they’ve seen patients have quicker recovery times and they were not dependent on opioids for relief….

Cut 7 (11) “60%”

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A new study out of the Education Research Alliance for New Orleans at Tulane University finds from 2001 to 2014, black students were twice as likely as white students to be suspended. Low income students were about 1.75 times more likely as non-low income students to be suspended. Researcher Nathan Barrett says these numbers are troubling.

Cut 8 (08) “within incidents”

Barrett says they also found that punishments resulting from fights between a black student and white student are different.

Cut 9 (10)  “day difference”

Barret says it’s hard to determine if adults are intentionally punishing students differently. He says reducing discipline disparities based on race and income requires addressing both within-school and across school disparities.

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Today in Atlanta, the Georgia Dome was imploded after 25 years in existence. Meanwhile, the Mercedes Benz Superdome in New Orleans continues to be one of the top entertainment venues. Alan Freeman, General Manager of the Dome, says when the facility was built, the architects took a long range view of the stadium’s future.

Cut 11 (10) “practical”

Freeman also credits the success of the Superdome to the great relationship they have with the New Orleans Saints. He says the state owns the arena and provides the funds to keep up with improvements as the building ages, especially after Hurricane Katrina did major damage.

Cut 12 (11) “Wrestlemania”

Freeman says the Superdome is a viable building and in a city that thrives on hosting major events. He says they have plans to make the facility even better.

Cut 13 (12)  30 years”

High school students who are in good standing with the FFA have an opportunity to get a college scholarship.  Michelle Southern has more…

Cut 1 (29) “I’m Michelle Southern.”

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Republican John Schroder has been elected as the state’s new state treasurer and says he plans to bring transparency and accountability to the office. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Prices are the lowest they have been in years for Thanksgiving dinner.  Kelley Ray has more…

Cut 3  (31) “I’m Kelley Ray.”  

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High school students who are in good standing with the FFA are eligible to receive a 500-dollar scholarship to attend a community college in Louisiana.  Louisiana Community and Technical College System President Monty Sullivan says they hope this will help convince more students to continue their education past high school…

Cut 4  (10) “any kind.”

Sullivan says they have made it easy for students to apply for the scholarship by eliminating unnecessary paperwork…

Cut 5  (09)  “the award.”

Sullivan says this is the first time they have entered into a partnership with an organization to provide scholarships, but it is generating a lot of excitement…

Cut 6 (06) “be involved.”

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Now that Republican John Schroder has been elected as Louisiana’s new State Treasurer, he says he wants to improve the way the state handles finances in a struggling economy. Schroder hopes to work with the state legislature and Governor Edwards to balance the budget and spend responsibly.

Cut 7 (10)  “of Louisiana”

Schroder says government has become a burden and the state’s infrastructure has become unaffordable. He plans to stay a budget hawk, as he’s been since he was elected as a state representative 10 years ago.

Cut 8 (09) “get done”

Schroder also hopes to reform the process on how the state picks construction projects for funding and take the politics out of it. He also plans to educate the public on the state budget, so taxpayers know how their money is spent.

Cut 9 (10)  “the expense”

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You will see savings this year on Thanksgiving dinner.  An American Farm Bureau Marketbasket survey estimates it will cost $43.27 on average in Louisiana.  Farm Bureau Federation News Director Neil Melancon says a large inventory of turkeys are helping to drive prices down…

Cut 10 (10)  “that stuff.”

That is over three-dollars cheaper than 2016 for a 16-item meal including turkey and all the trimmings. Melancon says since turkey prices are very low right now, he recommends to shop around and compare…

Cut 11 (08) “dollar range.”

Melancon says we are paying less for other items, some which are grown locally…

Cut 12 (07) “four-cents.”

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There are plenty of reasons to be proud of the New Orleans Saints right now, and fans are loading up on black and gold gear more now than even before the season. That observation is from Pat Randazza with Purple and Gold Sports and Black and Gold Sports in Baton Rouge…:

Cut 13 (10) “it gets”

Randazza says her biggest seller with Saints fans is by far the jerseys. She says the hottest one right now, other than Drew Brees, is the Alvin Kamara #41 jersey. The running back, who is having a breakout rookie season with the Saints, recently told fans to go ahead and buy his #41 jersey because he’s not changing it…:

Cut 14 (10) “always the hottest”

Randazza says the third most popular jersey is running back Mark Ingram’s which she said spiked big time mid-season. She also expects a busy holiday season and now is about the time shoppers are coming in to buy gifts for their fellow sports maniac friends…:

Cut 15 (08) “automobile with”

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LSU has a chance to finish the regular season with nine wins, after beating Tennessee 30-10 in Knoxville. Because windy and rainy conditions, the Tigers had to rely on its ground game on Saturday night. Darrell Williams rushed for two touchdowns and Derius Guice had 97 yards and a score. The second half was played in a cold rain, but Guice says that’s what football is about…

Cut 16  (18)  “and go”

Head Coach Ed Orgeron was pleased his team didn’t let the weather affect them when the sideways rain began falling at the start of the 2nd half…

Cut 17 (12)  “came to play”

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The Saints won their eighth straight yesterday in dramatic fashion, rallying back from a 15-point deficit late in the 4^th quarter to beat the Washington Redskins 34-31 in overtime. Will Lutz kicked his fourth field goal to win it in OT. Running back Mark Ingram rushed for 131 yards and a score and Quarterback Drew Brees threw for 385 yards and two touchdowns. Brees on the 8-and-2 Saints….

Cut 18 (18) “anyway” 

The Saints needed a big game from the offense, because the defense had trouble stopping the Redskins. Washington QB Kirk Cousins threw for 322 yards and three touchdowns. But the Saints have rookie running back Alvin Kamara who had a touchdown catch and scored on a two-point conversion to the tie game at 31 with 1:05 left. Kamara had 117 total yards of offense. Brees on his star-studded backfield of Ingram and Kamara….

Cut 19 (20)   like that” 

The Saints are 8-2 heading into next Sunday’s game at Los Angeles versus the Rams. New Orleans is tied with Minnesota for the 2^nd best record in the NFC. Coach Sean Payton says he’s not ready to say they are one of the best teams in the NFL….

cut 20 (22)  “I’ll say that”