A south Louisiana restaurant will get national attention this weekend on the Travel Channel’s “Food Paradise.”  Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 1 (28) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Louisiana’s unemployment rate for October is at 4.8-percent, the lowest since June of 2008. Michelle Southern has more…

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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A strong cold front will cross Louisiana Saturday, reminding us it’s winter time. C.S. Ross with the National Weather Service says it will be around 80 degrees today but tomorrow, the temperature will drop 20 degrees after the front passes.

Cut 3 (11) “be noticeable ”

Ross says Louisiana won’t see more than a tenth of an inch of rain. He says come Monday, temperatures will be in the mid to upper 30s across the state.

Cut 4  (11) “next week” 

Ross says Halloween weekend was the last time we had a chill in the air….

Cut 5  (11)  “October 29th”

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A south Louisiana restaurant will get national attention this weekend on the Travel Channel’s “Food Paradise.”  Boudreau and Thibodeau’s Cajun Cookin’ in Houma will be one of the segments on the show.  Owner Debra Blanchard says a producer has local ties to Houma and thought it make for a great feature…

Cut 6 (12)  “to eat.”

She calls it an honor to be chosen for the show.  They have been in business for nearly 20 years.  Blanchard says the combination of good food and fun is the secret to their longevity…

Cut 7 (10) “up on.”

Blanchard says when it came time to name the restaurant. She explains it comes from a long time tradition throughout south Louisiana…

Cut 8 (06) “the walls.”

The show will air Sunday at 7pm on the Travel Channel.

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Governor John Bel Edwards announces a plan to upgrade high speed internet connectivity to 164-thousand students in K-12 public schools. Education Policy Advisor for the Governor Donald Songy says these kids have broadband in their schools but it’s slow…

Cut 9 (09)  “minimum speed”

88-percent of school districts are meeting the Federal Communications Commission’s recommended minimum connectivity required for students to take advantage of digital learning. Songy says the state will partner with the non-profit EducationSuperHighway to help improve internet services for schools lagging behind. He says they are identifying which schools need additional help…

90-percent of high speed internet costs are paid for by grant money but Songy says the struggle for many schools is finding the funding for that last 10-percent. He says these last few school districts are working hard to receive this level of broadband and sometimes just need a little extra technical support.

Cut 11 (10) “they have”

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New data from the Bureau of Labor and Statistics shows Louisiana’s unemployment rate for October was 4.8-percent, the lowest it’s been since June of 2008. Louisiana Workforce Commission Executive Director Ava Dejoie says this is the sixth consecutive month the rate has declined. She says we’ve had four industry super sectors that have reached all-time record highs this year.

Cut 12 (11) “machinery repair”

Dejoie says the announcement that DXC will open up in New Orleans will only help this number continue to decrease. She credits the many programs in place to help the unemployed find work…..

Cut 13 (11)  “healthcare sector”

Dejoie says professional and business services gained 49-hundred jobs for the month. She says oil and gas is still struggling, but they are working to transfer employees in that industry into other fields. She says Lake Charles continues to grow the most in the state with job opportunities.

Cut 14 (11) “that area”

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The Saints go after their eighth straight win on Sunday when they host the Redskins. New Orleans is coming off a 47-10 victory over the Buffalo Bills where they rushed for 298 yards. Running back Mark Ingram says they came into the season wanting a strong running attack and so far they’ve been able to do it….

Cut 15 (12) “down field”

A victory Sunday would give New Orleans its longest winning streak since 2011. Ingram credits great team chemistry for the team’s success on the field…

Cut 16  (11)  “details”

WrestleMania is April 8th.

The state is launching a Louisiana Cultural Shopping Trail to provide visitors an opportunity to discover unique retail stores as they travel through the Bayou State.  Kelley Ray has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Kelley Ray”

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Tickets are on sale now for WrestleMania 34, which takes place April 8th at the Mercedes Benz Superdome in New Orleans. Jeff Palermo reports..:

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Polls show Democratic councilwoman LaToya Cantrell beating fellow Democrat and former judge Desiree Charbonnet by a landslide in Saturday’s New Orleans mayoral election. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 3  (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”  

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The state is launching a Louisiana Cultural Shopping Trail to provide visitors an opportunity to discover unique retail stores as they travel through the Bayou State. Chairman of the Louisiana Tax Free Shopping Commission Steve Windham says L-A-shopping-trail-dot-com will highlight great antique or boutique shops, along with stores that feature hand-crafted goods…

Cut 4  (09) “main street.”

Windham says the Louisiana Cultural Shopping Trail gives specialized businesses off the beaten path a chance to showcase the state’s vibrant culture to visitors who are traveling our highways…

Cut 5  (09)  “cultural destination.”

Windham says Louisiana residents are encouraged to visit the over 100 stores that make up the Louisiana Cultural Shopping Trail, which winds throughout the state, but the main goal is to encourage out of state travelers to shop at these unique retailers…

Cut 6 (08) “to another.”

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Secretary of State Tom Schedler is expecting a voter turnout of 13 percent statewide for Saturday’s election which features the race for state treasurer and the New Orleans mayoral runoff between LaToya Cantrell and Denise Charbonnet.  Schedler says if it wasn’t for this race, it would be a slow day at the polls…

Cut 7 (10)  “single digits.”

Voter turnout for the October statewide election was 14-percent. Schedler says he initially thought that turnout for the November election would be even lower but early voting turnout was better than expected…

Cut 8 (06) “proud of.”

Schedler says the Treasurer Race between Democrat Derrick Edwards and Republican John Schroder is the only item on the ballot in half of the state’s parishes…

Cut 9 (07)  “the state.”

About 400-thousand are expected to vote in Saturday’s election.

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Tickets are on sale now for WrestleMania 34, which takes place April 8th at the Mercedes Benz Superdome in New Orleans. The last time WWE’s flagship show came to The Big Easy was in 2014, bringing in over 75,000 fans and generating $142 million dollars in economic impact. WWE superstar Big Show did a media tour in south Louisiana this week to promote WrestleMania 34…:

Cut 10 (09)  “World Series”

Fans from all 50 states and 36 countries attended WrestleMania 30 in New Orleans. Big Show says you can expect more of the same next year…:

Cut 11 (07) “and then leave”

This is the quickest that Wrestlemania has ever returned to a previous host city ever. Big Show encourages locals to go, even if they aren’t wrestling fans, because there’s really nothing like it…:

Cut 12 (10) “in history”

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The election for the New Orleans mayoral race is tomorrow and polls show Democratic councilwoman LaToya Cantrell beating fellow Democrat and former judge Desiree Charbonnet by a landslide. Political Analyst Clancy Dubos says Charbonnet has raised nearly twice as much money as her opponent but  Cantrell has spent her money more wisely.

Cut 13 (11) “voters were”

Dubos says Cantrell’s campaign was very much rooted in social media. He says Charbonnet began the race as the frontrunner but recent attacks weakened her considerably.

Cut 14 (10) “her out”

This will be the first time a female has been mayor of New Orleans. Dubos says this big race with two Democratic candidates is likely to help out Democrat Derrick Edwards’ campaign for State Treasurer against Republican John Schroder.

Cut 15 (10) “would’ve been”

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The forecast calls for rain and temperatures falling into the 50s on Saturday in Knoxville for the LSU-Tennessee game. But the Tigers should have success running the football as the Volunteers rank last in the SEC in rushing defense. LSU Quarterback Danny Etling hopes success on the ground will lead to good results through the air…

Cut 16  (14)  “get involved”

Tennessee is a disappointing 4-6, 0-6 in the SEC, which is why Butch Jones was fired and Brady Hoke named as the interim head coach this week. Etling says they expect to face a fired up Tennessee team…

Cut 17 (17)  “be ready”

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The elimination of a tax break in Republican tax reform legislation could be detrimental to college sports, according to LSU Athletic Director Joe Alleva. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 1 (29) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Today state officials announced a newly formed software company will be relocating to New Orleans. Michelle Southern reports this is huge jobs news:

Cut 2 (28) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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According to a recent survey, Louisianans are researching butt implants more than any other plastic surgery procedure. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon at LSU Health New Orleans Dr. Oren Tessler says having a bigger behind is the latest trend, especially with celebrities.

Cut 3 (09) “themselves”

Tessler wants to remind those interested in the procedure that you’re actually getting an augmentation, not a lift. He says it’s also never a good idea for patients to come in with a photograph of what they’d like their hindquarters to look like after surgery.

Cut 4  (11) “safe manner” 

Tessler says women look at Kim Kardashian and other famous celebrities and want to have a similar body. But he says there are some significant risks associated with the procedure.

Cut 5  (09)  “significantly ”

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LSU Atheltics Director Joe Alleva says the elimination of tax break in the GOP tax reform bills could be disastrous for big-time collegiate athletics. LSU and many other schools require donations to purchase tickets to athletic events and Alleva is concerned those donations will go away, if fans can no longer claim 80-percent of the donation as a tax deduction…

Cut 6 (07)  “of money”

Alleva says LSU receives about 50-million dollars from this revenue stream as reportedly 45-thousand football season tickets require a donation to the school’s Tradition Fund for the right to purchase those tickets.

Cut 7 (11) “the difference”

A spokesperson for Congressman Steve Scalise, Lauren Fine, says this House tax proposal will put more money back in the pockets of people in Louisiana, who can choose to spend it how they want, whether it be on football tickets, or anything else. But Alleva is still concerned that fans will no longer make a donation if they know they can’t deduct it on their taxes.

Cut 8 (11) “some sports”

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Expectations of a bumper pecan crop in Louisiana this year have been lowered due to unfavorable weather, but that shouldn’t affect your pies for the holidays. That’s according to LSU AgCenter Associate Professor Charlie Graham, who says their original projection for this year was around 15 million pounds of pecans…:

Cut 9 (10)  “below that”

Graham says even though numbers are falling short of what they had hoped this year, pecans are still in greater supply than they were last year:

Cut 10 (10) “it was gonna be”

Graham also says prices should remain steady and not go down because the Georgia crop, expected to be about 90-100 million pounds, was reduced by 30 percent because of damage from hurricanes. He says Pointe Coupee Parish is typically the number one pecan producer in the state…:

Cut 11 (10) “so is the east”

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Governor John Bel Edwards announced today that two-thousand new jobs will be created as DXC Technology will open a digital transformation center in January of 2018 in New Orleans. Edwards says this has been in the works for over two years and is a great addition to the state.

Cut 12 (11) “and private”

DXC is a Virginia based information technology company. Edwards says LED estimates that another 2,257 indirect jobs will be created from this project. He says the two-thousand direct jobs will pay an average salary of 63-thousand dollars plus benefits and the economic benefits are unmatched.

Cut 13 (11)  “billion dollars”

Edwards says Louisiana will invest $25 million in higher education grants through the LSU, UL, and Technical and Community College Systems to ensure qualified workers can fill these new positions. He says this project is one of the most significant economic development announcements in Louisiana history.

Cut 14 (10)  “of Louisiana”

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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”