The National Young Driver Survey shows the number of teens involved in fatal car crashes has dropped 53-percent in Louisiana over the last 10 years. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 1 (29) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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The Republican state Treasurer candidate says he wants to look out for Louisiana, but he needs the voters to get out on November 18. Kelley Ray has the story…

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Kelley Ray”

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Louisiana’s Republican congressional delegation says its goal is to pass a tax reform bill this year that will lead to lower taxes. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3   (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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This past weekend’s cold front has brought even cooler temperatures to Louisiana.  State Climatologist Barry Keim says it really feels like fall today…

Cut 4  (09) “beautiful day.”

Keim says this is just the start to what will be a relief from the above normal temperatures we saw last week…

Cut 5  (13)  “the 70s.”

Keim says we will run a little cooler than normal for this time of year, but it will warm up in time for the weekend. Keim says once we turn the corner we will go into a warming trend with temperatures climbing back above normal by the end of the week.

Cut 6 (10) “our tigers”

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The number of teens involved in fatal car crashes went down 53-percent in Louisiana over a ten-year period from 2005 to 2015. That’s according to the National Young Driver Survey. State Farm spokesperson Kip Diggs says car crashes are the number one killer of teenagers. He says the biggest contributing factor to the decrease is graduated driver’s licensing laws.

Cut 7 (10)  “to 18”

Diggs says the roads aren’t as dangerous because kids have more restrictions like cell phone and nighttime driving restrictions. He says this has led to parents being more involved in the driving process.

Cut 8 (10) “the phone”

Diggs says with the improvements with seat belts and vehicles, he expects this number of fatal crashes with drivers of all ages to go down. He says it all starts with adding more steps before teens can get a driver’s license.

Cut 9 (09)  “the road”

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The two candidates in the State Treasurer’s runoff face the challenge of getting people out to vote in the November 18 election. Former state representative John Schroder is up against Democrat Derrick Edwards. Schroder knows another low turnout election is coming.

Cut 10 (13)  “attracted to.”

Just over 13 percent of registered voters participated in the October 14th election. Schroder says if elected, he’ll push for smaller state government.

Cut 11 (12) “public trust.”

The former Covington Representative served the last ten years in the state legislature. He says in that time, the financial scene has changed and could necessitate differences in the way the Treasurer’s office dictates future budgets and how revenues are generated.

Cut 12 (09) “more taxes”

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The Louisiana Republican congressional delegation believes tax reform legislation can be passed this year. U.S. Senator John Kennedy says a bill has yet to be drafted, but he supports an across the board personal income tax cut, starting with the middle class…

Cut 13 (11) “go up.”  (2x)

Congressman Clay Higgins from St. Landry Parish says Republicans are also pushing to simplify the tax code, so that most taxpayers can file their taxes on one sheet of paper…

Cut 14 (07) “very simply.”

Will there be a roadblock put up by Democrats?  Senior Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy says President Trump has indicated he is willing to make some concessions to see this tax proposal become reality…

Cut 15 (10) “class families.”

Cassidy says no matter how the tax reform package passes, getting it done quick is of up most importance to Republicans…

Cut 16  (08)     “tax planning.”

The first step was taken last week when Senate Republicans passed a four-trillion-dollar budget plan, which cuts spending over the next decade by five-trillion-dollars.

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LSU’s Derrius Guice is the first running back in the SEC history to rush for over 250 yards in three different games. Guice had 276 yards and one touchdown in Saturday’s 40-24 victory over Ole Miss. Head Coach Ed Orgeron say he was anticipating a big game from his superstar back…

Cut 17 (15)  “we did”

The victory moved LSU’s record to 6-2, 3-1 in the SEC. They get a week off before they play top ranked Alabama in Tuscaloosa on November 4th. Orgeron says his guys will be ready… 

Cut 18 (19) “ready to go” 

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The Saints overcame a few 1st half mistakes to win their fourth straight a 26-17 victory over the Green Bay Packers. New Orleans Quarterback Drew Brees bounced back from two first half interceptions and ended up throwing for 331 yards. Mark Ingram rushed for 105 yards and a score. Head Coach Sean Payton is glad they pulled out the victory despite the early turnovers…

Cut 19 (10) significant“

The Saints have won four straight and they’ve moved to the top of the standings in the NFC South, with a winnable game coming up this Sunday against the Chicago Bears. Payton on the position of his team…

cut 20 (16)  “this game” 

Caddo Parish Commissioners vote to remove a Confederate monument and not all are happy.  Don Molino has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Don Molino”

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It was a violent night in Baton Rouge as a 56-year-old woman was fatally shot while stopped at an intersection and a 17-year-old was found shot to death in a park. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Eight people were arrested in Acadiana on multiple charges of Medicaid welfare fraud. Attorney General Jeff Landry says there is a tremendous amount of abuse in Louisiana and his office will continue to fight to root out welfare fraud. He says Louisiana spends 14 billion dollars a year under the Medicaid expansion.

Cut 3 (10) “are spending”

The individuals arrested were allegedly submitting time sheets and service logs for Medicaid services while working other jobs. Landry says we need to save these taxpayer dollars for services Louisiana needs, like new roads and higher education.

Cut 4  (11) “run efficiently” 

Landry says Medicaid fraud occurs when providers use the Medicaid program to obtain money they are not entitled to. He encourages residents to report Medicaid fraud or abuse to his office.

Cut 5  (10)  “6885”

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The Caddo Parish Commission has voted seven to five to remove a Confederate monument that has stood in front of the courthouse for 111 years.  Commissioner Louis Johnson voted in favor of removal.  Johnson says he cast his vote based on his constituent’s feelings…

Cut 6 (12)  “to represent.”

A motion was made to put the issue up for a public vote, but that recommendation was voted down.  Gulf Coast Patriot Network’s Rex Dukes is upset the public is not being allowed to make the decision on keeping or removing the statue…

Cut 7 (08) “the council.” 

Dukes claims the Parish Council forced the vote through, not taking into account how others living outside of Shreveport felt about the issue.  He says the majority no longer rules…

Cut 8 (07) “way anymore.”

Dukes says a federal lawsuit has been filed to stop the removal of the monument, something Johnson and the full council expects.  Johnson says he can’t control what the courts will do…

Cut 9 (09) “and integrity” 

The lawsuit was filed by the Shreveport Chapter of the United Daughters of the Confederacy, which owns the monument and they claim the statute is on private property.

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The Saints are looking for their first four game winning streak since 2013 when they visit the Green Bay Packers on Sunday. New Orleans finished with a winning record that year and quarterback Drew Brees says it remains to be seen if this team will playoffs

Cut 10 (11) “right direction.”

The Saints have forced nine turnovers during the three-game winning streak and New Orleans has found a running game, rushing for 193 yards in last week’s win over Detroit. Brees says the team is heading in the right direction….

Cut 11 (11) “bit more” 

LSU goes after its third striaght victory on Saturday when they visit Ole Miss. The Tigers rallied from 20 points down to beat Auburn 27-23 last week. Head Coach Ed Orgeron says they can’t afford to fall behind early to the Rebels in Oxford…

Cut 12 (10) “start fast” 

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A Prairieville man has been arrested in connection to the fatal shooting of one man and critically injuring another on Wednesday in Ascension Parish. Chief Deputy Bobby Webre says detectives arrested 46-year-old David Foreman Jr. last night. He says more arrests are possible.

Cut 13 (10)  “violent act”

61-year-old Byron Hayes was found dead at a Prairieville home and 70-year-old Douglas Tillotson is currently in critical condition following the shooting. Webre says there is a possibility the shooting was drug related.

Cut 14 (10) “wasn’t good”

Foreman faces multiple charges including first degree murder, attempted first degree murder and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Webre says Foreman may face more charges and they are still activing investigating.

Cut 15 (10) “people involved”

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There are 49 confirmed cases and 31 people have been hospitalized as a result of a salmonella outbreak in Caldwell Parish. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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A warmer and drier winter is predicted for Louisiana. Jeff Palermo spoke with a local weather expert…

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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State health officials suspect Jambalaya as the cause of an outbreak of Salmonella poisoning in Caldwell Parish.  Dr. David Holcombe with the State Office of Public Health says there are 49 confirmed cases of a gastrointestinal illness with 31 people hospitalized. He says salmonella is associated with chicken and eggs.

Cut 3 (11) “cooked product”

Holcombe says they know that 300 plates of Jambalaya were served at a softball charity event over the weekend. He says one person who showed symptoms associated with Salmonella poisoning died but it is still unclear if that is what caused his death.

Cut 4  (11) “seven days” 

Holcombe says very rarely will salmonella travel into the blood causing sepsis and eventually death. He also notes salmonella is difficult to spread from person to person.

Cut 5  (07)  “do fine”

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Pineville Police have made an arrest in the stabbing death of 42-year-old Latish White. A passerby found her body near the Pineville Expressway early Wednesday morning.  Deputy Police Chief Darrell Basco says they learned 29-year-old Matthew Sonnier of Pineville was responsible for her death and arrested him in Alexandria…

Cut 6 (11)  “apprehended him.”

Basco says Sonnier was a known acquaintance of White and the two were together at the time of her death…

Cut 7 (12) “the intersecton.” 

It has been a quiet year for the Pineville Police Department.  Basco says he is glad his department worked quickly to apprehend Sonnier…

Cut 8 (06) “24 hours.”

Sonnier is charged with second degree murder and aggravated flight from an officer.  He is in the Rapides Parish Detention Center without bond.

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NOAA released their winter outlook today and it says La Nina will dictate a warmer and drier winter in Louisiana for a second year in a row. Wetter-than-average conditions are expected across the northern United States. State Climatologist Barry Keim says it’s a similar weather pattern we saw in 2011…

Cut 9 (12)      “drought here” 

Keim says the last few weeks of dry and warm weather are a precursor of this coming winter according to NOAA.

Cut 10 (11) “bode well.”

Does this mean there won’t be cold snaps to affect Louisiana?  Keim says don’t put the coats away.

Cut 11 (09) “or there.” 

The winter forecast will be revised by NOAA in Mid-November.

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Dr. Craig Greene will be sworn in next week as the Public Service Commissioner who will represent the Baton Rouge, Lafayette, and Houma areas. Greene, who has never held political office before, explained why he ran for the position.

Cut 12 (10) “problem solving” 

Greene expects the biggest problem he will face as a public service commissioner is getting energy at the cheapest rate possible. He says the best way to solve these problems is to ask the question, how do we learn from our mistakes?

Cut 13 (11)  “done wrong”

Greene says he supports clean energy initiatives to produce electricity, but understands the use of wind energy might not be the best option in Louisiana.

Cut 14 (10) “needs met”

It is now illegal to burn a flag in Ibervile Parish.  Kelley Ray has more.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Kelley Ray”

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There is a noted decline in voter turnout for Louisiana elections.  More from Michelle Southern.

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern.”

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Media reports indicate the Clinton man suspected of shooting four people, killing three of them, called authorities to let them know he’s the shooter. Doctor Peter Scharf, a criminologist with the LSU School of Public Health on why possible serial killer Ryan Sharpe would do this

Cut 3 (07) “attention.”

Sharpe was arrested last week for allegedly fatally shooting three people and wounding another in East Baton Rouge and East Feliciana parishes. Authorities are also trying to determine a motive. A source says Sharpe’s ex-girlfriend recently got married. Scharf says many people experience heart break, but do not go on a shooting spree…

Cut 4  (09) “decifpher often.” 

Sharpe worked as a plumber. His father says what his son is accused of doing is totally out of his character. Scharf says if the suspect never alerted authorities as what’s being reported, the shootings may have continued, because Sharpe was unfamiliar to law enforcement before his arrest…

Cut 5  (09)  “criminal suspect”

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The Iberville Parish Council has made it illegal to burn the American flag. Chairman Matt Jewell says it’s in response to an Ohio flag burning incident, which  caused consternation among war veterans.  Though there has not been any incidents in Iberville Parish, he and others want to make sure it doesn’t offend Veteran’s there…

Cut 6 (07)  “discourage that.”

The ACLU says Iberville Parish can’t stipulate any laws to prevent First Amendment rights.  Louisiana’s ACLU Executive Director Marjorie Esman says the council made a mistake…

Cut 7 (10) “land is.” 

Jewell brushes off any comment made by the ACLU as the organization’s usual rhetoric…

Cut 8 (07) “enforce it.”

Iberville Parish leaders reason they passed the law since their community is very patriotic. Burning flags will result in a one-thousand-dollar fine and possibly six months in jail.  Esman says the passage of the law is just the opposite…

Cut 9 (12) “unconstitutional laws.”

The law is expected to go into effect in 30 days.

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LSU political communication professor Mike Henderson finds that voter turnout for statewide elections has been on a decline for the last 30 years. In 1983, 54-percent of the eligible voters voted for governor and in 2015 the voter turnout was down to 33-percent. Last weekend’s special election saw only a 13 percent turnout. Henderson says the voting public seems to be burned out on state politics…

Cut 10 (09) “Louisiana politics.”

Henderson hopes more information on the issues and the candidates could help increase voter participation, but it could also backfire…

Cut 11 (09) “help a lot.” 

Is it possible that having statewide elections on Saturday hurts voter turnout? Henderson says there are two trains of thought…

Cut 12 (13) “down much.” 

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Authorities in Rapides Parish are investigating a fire in a ditch off Old Boyce Road where a charred body has been found. Sheriff’s Office Spokesperson Tommy Carnline says when they responded to the scene at around 6:30 this morning, the fire was put out and then deputies discovered a grim scene.

Cut 13 (07)  “conducted.”

Local media outlets report two bodies were discovered, but Carnline says that has not been confirmed.

Cut 14 (08) “human remains”

Carnline says no vehicle was involved in the fire and responding to a ditch fire is nothing out of the ordinary.

Cut 15 (11) “their mind”

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An 18-month-old toddler is dead and police have the father in custody.  More from Kelley Ray…

Cut 1 (27) “I’m Kelley Ray”

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A tiger who became a roadside attraction was put to sleep Monday.  Michelle Southern has more…

Cut 2 (28) “I’m Michelle Southern.”

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A tiger who was a roadside attraction in Grosse Tete was euthanized.  Tony the Tiger lived at the Iberville Parish Tiger Truck Stop since 2001.  Due to health issues, he was put to sleep on Monday.  Attorney Jennifer Treadway says despite what protesters say, Tony died peacefully and was very loved by his caretakers…

Cut 3 (08) “men weeping.”

There have been ongoing legal battles between Tony’s owner Michael Sandlin and the Animal Legal Defense Fund.  Sandlin’s attorney Jennifer Treadway says Sandlin plans to get another tiger which he has the proper permit to do so…

Cut 4  (08) “LSU does.” 

Senior Staff Attorney for the Animal Legal Defense Fund Tony Eliseuson (Ella-susan) claims Tony lived in deplorable conditions…

Cut 5  (12)  “his demise.”

Eliseuson says they stand ready to prevent another tiger from living at that truck stop…

Cut 6 (08)  “another tiger.”

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An 18-month-old is dead following a gruesome murder.  New Orleans Police says the father, 45-year-old Mark Hambrick told police “God made him do it.”  Police Chief Michael Harrison says Hambrick called himself into police several hours after he killed the child…

Cut 7 (09) “old child.” 

Hambrick gave a detailed description to police of himself and the child and told them he would be found on his porch when police came on the property.  Harrison says the father remained strangely calm during the arrest…

Cut 8 (07) “not normal.”

Harrison says the exact motive is still unknown, however police say they are seeking any information about Hambrick that can help them with the investigation…

Cut 9 (11)  “823-1111″

Hambrick is in custody with charges to be filed later.

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Two years from now, Louisiana voters will likely be gearing up for a gubernatorial runoff election. GOP Chairman Roger Villere says they plan to go after current Democratic Governor John Bel Edwards in a big away. He says Edwards does not share many of the conservative beliefs of Louisiana voters.

Cut 10 (11) “in there”

Villere says one big name that has been mentioned a lot for the 2019 election is U.S. Senator John Kennedy. He says Kennedy is an extremely formidable candidate for the position.

Cut 11 (10) “state treasurer ” 

Villere says many other potentially strong Republican politicians have voiced interest in running for Governor.

Cut 12 (08) “at it” 

_________________________________

Open enrollment for the Medicare program is now until December 7^th for 2018 plans. State Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon says this is the only time of the year when senior citizens can shop around for their plans and compare prices. He says it’s important to find a plan that goes along with your current doctors.

Cut 13 (11)  “system.”

Donelon says there are different plans with different pricing structures available during this period, so there is a good chance for savings.

Cut 14 (11) “last year”

Staff with the Senior Health Insurance Information Program are available to talk with Louisiana residents. Donelon says call L-D-I to reach someone who can help with the shopping process at 1 (800) 259-5300.  He says there are assistance programs to help some individuals pay for healthcare premiums.

Cut 15 (09) “eligible “

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The search continues for a missing worker after an oil and gas platform exploded in Lake Pontchartrain on Sunday. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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New Orleans will see it’s first female mayor in it’s history.  Kelley Ray has more on the upcoming runoff election…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Kelley Ray.”

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Three victims from last night’s energy platform explosion on Lake Pontchartrain remain in critical condition and the search for one of the workers continues today. Jefferson Parish EMS Director Mike Guilliot says seven people were taken to the hospital

Cut 3 (14) “were discharged”

Officials can’t find any environmental impacts from the blast and the Coast Guard says the platform is no longer burning. Jefferson Parish Sheriff Joe Lopinto says the platform is just a storage facility and owned by Clovelly Oil Company. Lopinto says the explosion occurred at 8 PM on Sunday

Cut 4  (12) “supply boat” 

Officials say cleaning chemicals used during a maintenance operation could be a possible cause. Lopinto is not releasing much information on the 8th worker that remains missing…

Cut 5  (12)  “find em”

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Zachary police say a man accused of allegedly murdering his 11-month-old baby is in custody.  33-year-old Fabian Smith is charged in the death of Jericho Smith.  Police arrived on the scene Saturday to find the baby lying in a pool of blood with multiple stab wounds.  Police Chief David McDavid says Smith did not own up to the incident initially…

Cut 6 (08)  “tragic event.”

McDavid says they found multiple weapons in the house and the autopsy shows the baby died of stab and gunshot wounds…

Cut 7 (06) “head also.” 

McDavid says neighbors called 9-1-1 after other children in the Smith’s house ran next door telling them what happened…

Cut 8 (07) “call 911.”

Fabian Smith was the only adult home at the time of the murder.

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The three constitutional amendments on Saturday’s ballot passed and are now law. President of the Public Affairs Research Council Robert Travis Scott says the first amendment which establishes a property tax exemption for construction work in progress will make things more certain for tax assessors.

Cut 9 (11)  “be taxed”

Amendment number two expands an already existing law and will give the spouses of volunteer firefighters, EMS, and paramedics who die on duty, a full property tax exemption on their home. Scott says this will be retroactive to those who have already suffered this tragedy.

Cut 10 (10) “valuable job”

Scott says with the passage of amendment three, the state has created a new fund within the transportation fund. He says this fund will receive any new money if the legislature decided to increase the gas tax.

Cut 11 (07) “have now” 

_________________________________

New Orleans is on the verge of electing its  first female mayor.  Councilwoman LaToya Cantrell and former Municipal Court Judge Desiree Charbonnet are in the November 18 runoff. Political analyst Clancy Dubos says with history in the making, more attention will be drawn to the Mayor’s race in the runoff election…

Cut 12 (07) “sharp edged.” 

Voter turnout for the Mayoral primary was 32 percent.  The state Treasurer’s race will also be decided next month. Dubos expects a less than 10 percent turnout statewide. He says Democrat Derrick Edwards and Republican John Schroder have their work cut out for them, when it comes to securing votes.

Cut 13 (09)  “a ballot.”

Dubos says even though New Orleans has never had a female mayor, it’s not a big surprise to see two women in the runoff.

Cut 14 (12) “have two.”

A dismal 13 percent voters, representing about 400,000, participated statewide on Saturday.

______________________________________________

Detectives in Baton Rouge are investigating a fatal shooting last night that left a 26-year-old dead after a homeowner claims he brandished a firearm and charged at him. BRPD Sgt. Don Coppola says the 36-year-old homeowner told police he was standing in his yard when he shot Clayton Bradford after a verbal altercation.

Cut 15 (10) “crimes unit”

Coppola says the investigation is still under investigation so there is no word on if the homeowner faces any charges. He says the two had a verbal altercation in the homeowner’s front yard when things turned ugly.

Cut 16  (11)  “fired”

State health officials say now is the time for Louisianans to get their flu shot, as the influenza season is starting. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Looks like the Bayou State has gotten some much needed relief from the heat as a cold front passed through last night. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Congressman Garret Graves is seeking to protect Cajuns, saying they’re endangered.  Kelley Ray has more…

Cut 3 (31) “I’m Kelley Ray”

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State health officials are reminding Louisianans it’s time to get your annual flu vaccination. Assistant Secretary for the Office of Public Heath Dr. Parham Jaberi says the flu season has begun and doctors are starting to see a small number of cases.

Cut 4  (09) “from now”

LDH will host flu vaccination clinics until December in all parts of the state and residents can visit LDH’s website for locations and dates. Jaberi says walk-ins are welcome. He says the flu shot is free for individuals with insurance and 10 dollars for those without insurance.

Cut 5  (09)  “them somewhere”

Jaberi says it’s important to get a flu shot because the virus is dangerous to young children and the elderly. He says many people think they can get the flu from the vaccine, but that’s not true.

Cut 6 (10) “actual illness”

________________________________________________________

A significant cold front moved through the Bayou State leaving us with some much needed relief. State Climatologist Barry Keim says this front has brought in much cooler and drier Canadian air and pushed out the warm Gulf of Mexico air. He says the afternoon highs will be in the 70s in northern parishes and low 80s in the coastal zone.

Cut 7 (11)  “coastal parishes”

Keim says this cool weather will stick around all week long. He says we may have broken the back of summer.

Cut 8 (07) “be over”

Keim says even as temperatures in the 90s subside, expect a warmer than usual autumn.

Cut 9 (11)  “currently getting”

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Baton Rouge Republican Congressman Garret Graves authored legislation seeking to protect Cajuns, saying they are endangered, because of coastal land loss.  He is pushing for them to be protected under the Endangered Species Act of 1973.  Graves believes the federal government has been mismanaging the Mississippi River system for years, endangering the Cajun’s way of life…

Cut 10 (08)  “primarily live.”

Graves claims endangered species are given extra protections and since the Cajun culture is threatened, he wants them to be afforded the same opportunity…

Cut 11 (13) “same protections.”

He says no matter how his fellow congressman feel, the federal government needs to get out of the business of “land grabbing”…

Cut 12 (09) “that loss.”

Following discussion on the floor and some good natured jabbing, Graves withdrew his amendment from consideration.

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Halloween is only two weeks away and Louisiana residents are rushing to find the hottest costume. Store manager for Halloween Express in Baton Rouge DeMarcus Cox says the most popular costume this year is Pennywise the Clown from the movie It. He says it looks like guys are going for scarier outfits for this Halloween.

Cut 13 (08) “scream man”

Cox says women aren’t on board for the scary theme this year, instead dressing up as female superheroes.

Cut 14 (10) “wonder woman”

Cox says the trends show even kids are looking to be scary with clown costumes. But he says the favorite costume for children is…

Cut 15 (05) “policeman “

________________________________________________

The LSU Tigers are once again ranked in the Top 25 polls after their historic come from behind win over Auburn. LSU trailed by 20 points, but roared back to beat their SEC West rival 27-23. The defense held Auburn to 64 yards in the 2nd half, D.J. Chark returned a punt 75 yards for a touchdown and Connor Culp kicked two field goals in the final three minutes. Head Coach Ed Orgeron…

Cut 16  (20)  “football game”

It’s the Tigers largest come from behind win at home since 1949. LSU is now 5-2, 2-1 in the SEC. Two weeks ago, some wondered if LSU would finish with a winning record. Now they are in position to compete for an SEC West title. Orgeron says his team never showed any signs of quitting after the upset loss to Troy…

Cut 17 (21)  “have been” 

.__________________________________________________________

The Saints nearly blew a 35-point lead, but an opportunistic Black and Gold defense preserved a 52-38 victory over the Detroit Lions. The Saints defense, which looked very bad at the beginning of the season, forced five turnovers and scored a franchise record three touchdowns in one game. Head Coach Sean Payton credits the pressure put on Detroit QB Matthew Stafford

Cut 18 (17) “sack fumble early” 

An interception in the end zone by Cam Jordan on a batted pass sealed the victory. Before that big play by Jordan, the Lions scored four straight TDs. One of the scores was a punt return and another a pick six. The Saints offense failed to get a first down in eight straight possessions in the second half. Payton not happy with how his team finished

Cut 19 (12) to win“

The Saints have won three in a row and for the first time since 2013 they have a winning record at 3-2. Quarterback Drew Brees tossed two touchdown passes, but only threw for 186 yards and he threw his first two interceptions of the season. Brees says there’s a lot of mistakes that need to be corrected going forward

cut 20 (20)  “get better” 

A New Orleans Police officer is dead following and early morning shooting.  Kelley Ray has more.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Kelley Ray.”

______________________________________

The Kappa Sigma fraternity chapter at the University of Louisiana at Monroe is suspended after a pledge group’s private statements were made public. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern.”

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A New Orleans police officer is dead following a shooting early this morning.  NOPD identifies the officer as 29-year-old Marcus McNeil. Chief Michael Harrison says four officers were patrolling the area.  They are still investigating what exactly happened…

Cut 3 (12) “as a result.”

Harrison says the 30-year-old male suspect fled from the scene following the shooting and was surrounded by SWAT members.  He later surrendered…

Cut 4  (07) “this time.” 

McNeil had a wife, and two children age 2 and 5. Harrison says the deceased officer along with the other three officers were on patrol when the ambush happened…

Cut 5  (11)  “this hurts.”

________________________________________________

Sasol announces they have hired their 500^th employee to support its new 11 billion dollar ethane cracker and derivatives project in Calcasieu Parish and plans to hire at least 200 new employees over the next two years. Kim Cusimano with Sasol says they’ve been working towards this goal for several years.

Cut 6 (11)  “2013″

93-percent of those hired are Louisiana residents and 83-percent are Calcasieu Parish residents. Sasol partnered with the Louisiana Community and Technical College System and SOWELA Technical Community College in Lake Charles to help fill positions. Cusimano says they were true success factors in ensuring quality workers for the openings.

Cut 7 (09) “advantage of” 

These careers have an average salary of 80-thousand dollars. Cusimano says if you’re interested in working for Sasol….

Cut 8 (09) “available”

________________________________________________

The University of Louisiana at Monroe is continuing to investigate alleged racist remarks made by several students which resulted in the suspension of the Kappa Sigma Pledge fraternity.  ULM President Nick Bruno says this incident is not representative of the way their students behave…

Cut 9 (09)  “get along”

Bruno says he understands that racism is dividing the country.  He hopes the students and ULM faculty can rise above the divisive issue…

Cut 10 (10) “by one”

The Dean of Students will now investigate the incident.  Bruno says he doesn’t know if the students will be expelled…

Cut 11 (06) “of things” 

The students used a private group internet exchange called Group Me in order to make the comments, which became public.

_________________________________

Louisiana legislators met for a one day retreat this week to consider what needs to be done to prevent falling off a fiscal cliff.  The state is facing a 1-point-38-billion dollar cut in funding when extra temporary tax revenue ends July 1^st.  Minden Representative and House Democratic Caucus chairman Gene Reynolds says they are one step closer to resolving the issue…

Cut 12 (11) “something done.” 

As much as legislators don’t want to consider tax increases, Reynolds says the public needs to talk with their representatives to urge them to find a solution everyone can agree on, no matter the cost…

Cut 13 (07)  “you like.”

If some don’t understand the concept completely of what this means for the state, Reynolds says now is the time to become informed…

Cut 14 (05) “deal is.”

65 members of the House attended the meeting Thursday…

Authorities arrest a plumber involved in a string of south Louisiana murders.  Kelley Ray has the details…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Kelley Ray.”

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LDWF is reminding residents to co-exist with black bears as the mammals are making a comeback in the Bayou State. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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A Clinton man police allege killed three and injured one in East Feliciana and East Baton Rouge Parishes is in custody.  Police say 36-year-old Ryan Sharpe shot and killed 66-year-old Carroll Breeden, 62-year-old Thomas Bass and Brad DeFranceshi since July.  He also injured 47-year-old Buck Hornsby last month.  Breeden’s daughter, Marcy Breeden Slotte, says her grieving may never end…

Cut 3 (07) “get peace.”

Slotte is upset that living in a rural area in the town of Pride did not protect her family…

Cut 4  (09) “little disturbring.” 

Slotte says even though Sharpe is off the streets, she has questions remaining as to why the killings happened…

Cut 5  (06)  “with people.”

Officials expect to charge Sharpe with one count of murder in East Baton Rouge Parish and two counts of murder and one count of attempted murder in East Feliciana Parish.

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With all the destruction due to numerous fires in California, people can become concerned in Louisiana about the threat for wildfires.  State Fire Marshal Butch Browning says the northern part of the state is somewhat drier…

Cut 6 (09)  “moderate danger.”

Browning says most of Louisiana is usually under a moderate danger for wildfires most of the time.  He warns if you have to burn, do so only if necessary…

Cut 7 (09) “that fire.” 

Browning says the Department of Agriculture does a good job in monitoring areas where wild underbrush could cause dangerous fires…

Cut 8 (09) “accelerate fires.”

Caddo, Desoto, Webster and West Carroll Parishes are currently under burn bans.

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As black bears have made a big comeback in the Bayou State, the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries encourages Louisianans to visit bearwise.org. Black bear expert for LDWF Maria Davidson says there is now more interaction between black bears and the public.

Cut 9 (09)  “be having”

The black bear was officially moved from the protected list in April of 2016. Davidson says the website is one stop shopping for bear conflict resolution. She says people who have never had to deal with bears before are having bears move into their areas.

Cut 10 (08) “bearwise.org”

Davidson says residents can find information on bear proofing systems around homes and camps along with ways to secure trash cans.

Cut 11 (09) “this website” 

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Investigators are seeking answers in the death of an eight-month-old child left in a car for several hours.  Tangipahoa Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Dawn Panepinto says the child’s guardian never dropped off the child to a day care center and when they returned to the daycare to pick up the toddler, it was discovered the infant was still in the vehicle…

Cut 12 (06) “of time.” 

Panepinto says the District Attorney’s office is continuing their investigation into the tragedy and the guardian is cooperating with police …

Cut 13 (11)  “extremely cooperative.”

Panepinto says this is a good time for all who care for younger children to review their protocol for taking care of them while in their custody…

Cut 14 (10) “can happen.”

The daycare is not being investigated.  Police are withholding the names of the persons involved pending the review by the DA’s office.

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Ten LSU students are charged in connection with the hazing death of 18-year-old Maxwell Gruver of Georgia. Jeff Palermo spoke with a legal analyst…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Sean Pennison is one of ten members of the Phi Delta Theta Fraternity charged with hazing in the death of pledge Max Gruver. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Ten LSU students face charges in connection with last month’s hazing death of 18-year-old Maxwell Gruver. All ten were booked on a misdemeanor hazing charge and Matthew Alexander Naquin (Nah-Can) is also charged with negligent homicide.  Loyola University Law Professor Dane Ciolino says Naquin was singled out due to his alleged role in the incident…

Cut 3 (10) “this case.”

The lesser misdemeanor charges carry a 30 day sentence, however, Ciolino says if Naquin is found guilty of negligent homicide, he could be imprisoned for some time…

Cut 4  (08) “five years.” 

Law enforcement is cracking down on hazing around the country and Ciolino says they are intent on bringing justice to the victims…

Cut 5  (10)  “homicide case.”

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The East Baton Rouge Coroner’s Office has released the cause of death of Maxwell Gruver.  Dr. Beau Clark says the death was an accident due to acute alcohol intoxication…

Cut 6 (11)  “his lungs.”

Clark says Gruver’s high blood alcohol level of .495 was more than six times the legal limit…

Cut 7 (05) “with death.” 

An initial autopsy report revealed that Gruver had THC, the chemical found in marijuana.  Coroner Clark won’t say if that was confirmed in his findings…

Cut 8 (09) “going on.”

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Sean Pennison is one of the ten LSU students arrested as part of the investigation into Max Gruver’s death. His Attorney Franz Borghardt says it’s extremely hard for these students as Max was their friend. He says Pennison is not being charged with Gruver’s death, only hazing.

Cut 9 (07)  “innocent”

Borghardt says it’s disappointing that LSU decided to arrest these ten young men rather than issue a court summons for the misdemeanor. He says these students truly cared about Max.

Cut 10 (10) “fraternity”

Of the ten, one fraternity member, Matthew Naquin, has been charged with hazing and negligent homicide. Borghardt says Gruver’s death will stay with Pennison for the rest of his life.

Cut 11 (10) “with this” 

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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention finds Louisiana is ranked second in the country when it comes to the high rates of STDs for the third year in a row. Deputy Director for the Louisiana STD/HIV Program Chaquetta Johnson says chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis are the sexually transmitted diseases measured. She credits this increase to a few factors.

Cut 12 (11) “tested” 

2016 CDC data shows Louisiana’s chlamydia rate is 680 cases per 100,000 people. Johnson says they are looking at ways to increase screening and testing to lower this high number…

Cut 13 (09)  “disease.”

The CDC also reports Louisiana had the second highest rate of HIV in 2016. Johnson says they are aggressively tackling this epidemic. She says they have partnered with each office of public health and also with community and parish leaders to educate the public on these diseases.

Cut 14 (07) “Louisiana”

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Former Saints and LSU star Tracy Porter has been arrested on drug and domestic battery charges. Sgt. Don Coppola with the Baton Rouge Police Department says on October 5th, the victim alleged she visited Porter to get her keys back from him, then the two became involved in an argument that got physical…:

Cut 15 (09) “what she was reporting”

Porter was arrested on charges of battery of dating partner, possession of marijuana and distribution of schedule II drugs. Copolla says the victim and 31-year-old Porter had been in a relationship over the past couple of years. He says Porter did admit to grabbing her…:

Cut 16  (07)  “that had become physical”