Doctors at TIRR Memorial Hermann in Houston gave an update today on wounded East Baton Rouge Deputy Nick Tullier’s condition. Michelle Southern has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Louisiana has one of the biggest wage gaps between its richest and poorest residents, according to a report from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (27) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Alexandria Police announce the arrest of two people in connection with a stabbing death. Cpl. Wade Bourgeois says the victim was discovered when police received a call Tuesday night.

Cut 3 (10) “multiple times”

Authorities have yet to release the identity of the stabbing victim. Bourgeois says their investigation led them to 54-year-old Daniel Mikkelson and 35-year-old Natarsha Meredith, who were brought in for questioning.

cut 4  (08) “murder”

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State Police say a West Carroll Parish woman has been arrested in the shooting death of her husband. A television report says the victim was killed a day after his birthday. Senior Trooper Michael Reichardt says they responded to a call of a shooting in Epps shortly after midnight Tuesday.

Cut 5  (08)  “Larry Carroll”

Reichardt says 44-year-old April Sollars has been charged with second degree murder. He says she was booked into the West Carroll Parish Jail without incident, and the investigation is ongoing.

Cut 6 (08) “early stages”
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A report by Bankrate.com finds Louisiana is the fourth worst state for drivers. Data Analyst with the company Claes Bell says the survey looked at a broad range of data to determine the ranking. He says Louisiana was ranked 49^th for insurance cost, which helped to secure the low ranking.

CUT 7 (11)  “of accidents”

Bell says the high number of auto fatalities contributed to Louisiana’s high ranking. He says another negative factor was a motorist’s average commute time.

Cut 8 (10) “public transit”

The report found New Mexico, Nevada, Wyoming, and California round out the bottom five states. But Bell says Louisiana did well in terms of low repair costs and the Bayou State ranked positively in one other category.

Cut 9 (07)  “in general”

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Doctors at TIRR Memorial Hermann in Houston announced today that wounded East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Deputy Nick Tullier is fully conscious and making strides in his recovery. Dr. Sunil Kothari, says they believed Tullier would be in a vegetative state when he arrived, but they quickly learned that he was minimally conscious.

Cut 10 (11) “fully conscious”

Tullier was one of six officers who were shot in an ambush in Baton Rouge last July. Kothari says no one ever recovers completely from this kind of brain injury, and at this point Tullier’s mind and body are out of sync. Clinical neuropsychologist Dr. Katherine O’Brien says they identified several cognitive capacities Tullier can demonstrate.

cut 11 (09) “where he is”

O’Brien says he can also communicate with nonverbal signals and respond to commands. Physical therapist Julie Welch says Tullier has severe weakness throughout his body. But she says he spends three to four hours a day doing physical, occupational, and speech therapy.

cut 12 (08) “as well”

Tullier’s father, James, celebrated the announcement with the doctors, saying Christmas has come early.

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A report from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities finds Louisiana has one of the biggest wage gaps between its richest and poorest residents. Director of the Louisiana Budget Project Jan Moeller says the Bayou State has the fourth highest rate of income inequality in the country. Moeller is not surprised by the finding.

Cut 13 (09) “very richest”

Moeller says this large wage gap is a reason why Louisiana’s economy has trouble growing.

cut 14 (11) “for everybody”

Moeller hopes the state legislature will look to address the large gap in wage earners. He says it will take higher income individuals paying more taxes and a higher minimum wage to help make a difference.

Cut 15 (11) “for everybody”

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Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser wants to boost international travel throughout Louisiana. Don Molino has more…

CUT 1 (28) “I’m Don Molino”

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LSU President F. King Alexander expresses his concerns to legislators about future budget cuts to higher ed. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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The number of international visitors has grown in Louisiana, but Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser, who oversees tourism in the state, doesn’t just want these travelers to visit New Orleans. Nungesser says there are direct flights into New Orleans from London, Germany, and Honduras, but he wants to see these tourists get out to the rest of the state.

Cut 3 (12) “of Louisiana”

Nungesser says there are 17 scenic byways across Louisiana through 53 parishes covering 2,400 miles. He hopes these highways encourage international travelers to get off the interstates and see more of the Bayou State. He says this would not only benefit the small towns in Louisiana, but the state as a whole.

cut 4  (09) “by tourists”

Louisiana saw a 36-percent increase in international tourism from 2014 to 2015, ranking second in the nation for overall growth. Nungesser says Louisiana could see one million more international visitors by 2018, representing an economic impact of $1.7 billion.

Cut 5  (09)  “more money”

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Governor John Bel Edwards’ executive order preventing LGBT discrimination in state government and businesses who have contracts with the state has been overturned. Attorney General Jeff Landry says he applauds Judge Todd Hernandez’ ruling. He says at the end of the day, this case was about the governor trying to create his own law.

Cut 6 (11) “the process”

The governor had filed a lawsuit against the AG for blocking state contracts that contained anti-discrimination language. Landry says it wasn’t the anti-discrimination aspect of the order that was the problem, it was the legality. He says if a bill passed that established the LGBT community as a protected class, then that would be different.

CUT 7 (07)  “create it”

Sean Sullivan with Forum for Equality Foundation says this ruling is another setback for the LGBT community in Louisiana. But he says they are confident the Governor’s Office will continue to fight to move these protections forward.

Cut 8 (09) “the state”

Sullivan says these are not new protections, as they have been in place under two previous Louisiana governors, Edwin Edwards and Kathleen Blanco. He says unfortunately, at this point in time these kinds of protections are necessary.

Cut 9 (08)  “and socially”

Governor Edwards released a statement saying he plans to appeal the ruling.

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LSU Head Coach Ed Orgeron has hired former Pittsburgh Offensive Coordinator Matt Canada to be the Tigers new O.C. Tiger Rag Associate Editor James Moran says once it was obvious Alabama’s Lane Kiffin was seeking a head coaching job, Canada was the best choice.

Cut 10 (10) “he’s been”

Moran says Matt Canada will fit well in the mix with defensive coordinator Dave Aranda. He says both started their coaching careers young and worked their way up quickly…

cut 11 (09) “and versatility”

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LSU President F. King Alexander went before the House Appropriations Committee and expressed his concerns over the 16^th budget cut in nine years that the school is facing. Alexander says they can’t be much more efficient when LSU is already 46 out of 50 flagship universities in per student spending. He says at some point the state needs to invest in the next generation of students.

cut 12 (11) “they have”

Higher Education Commissioner Joseph Rallo is asking the legislature to increase funding by 189-million dollars in next year’s budget. But the state has as an estimated 600-million dollar budget deficit for this year. Alexander says the University of Alabama is in the process of hiring 300 new teachers, while LSU has lost over 500 in the past nine years.

Cut 13 (07) “this weekend”

The state’s budget problems have forced TOPS students in the upcoming semester to pay over 50-percent of their tuition. Alexander says enrollment is down 3.5 percent for the next semester compared to the previous spring…

cut 14 (11) “our institution”

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The tables turned on a robbery suspect in Shreveport when a 71-year-old shop owner took action into his own hands. Cpl. Marcus Hines with Shreveport Police says the owner let 36-year-old Michael Kelly into his business to use the bathroom. He says that’s when Kelly stole the man’s wallet and things turned violent.

Cut 15 (07) “multiple times”

Hines says Kelly was struck three times and tried to flee on foot, but collapsed in front of the business. He says when police arrived, the owner was visibly shaken.

Cut 16  (10)  “minor injuries”

Hines says Kelly faces a laundry list of charges, including armed robbery, convicted felon in possession of a firearm, resisting an officer, and an outstanding warrant.

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The National Federation for Independent Business says small business optimism is through the roof since last month’s election. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Even during this time of year, the Zika virus is still a threat. Don Molino has more…

Cut 2 (28) “I’m Don Molino”

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Former-Texas Governor Rick Perry is President-elect Donald Trump’s choice for Energy Secretary. Halen Doughty has more on what that means for Louisiana’s oil and gas industry…

Cut 3 (26) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Small business optimism has skyrocketed since the election of Donald Trump, according the National Federation of Independent Business’ monthly Index of Small Business Optimism. NFIB state director Dawn Starns says business owners said they are now excited about the future.

cut 4  (10) “branches”

The survey finds small businesses job creation plans have increased from 9-percent to 23-percent since October. Starns says business owners felt bogged down recently by government regulations.

Cut 5  (07)  “businesses growing”

Starns says many business owners now have a renewed since of hope that they can grow their companies. She says optimism is soaring in many categories.

Cut 6 (08) “the economy”

________________________________________

Louisiana is home to three of the most sinful cities in the country, according to WalletHub. Baton Rouge came in at number 8 on the list, New Orleans is number 10, and Shreveport cracked the top 20. Jill Gonzales with WalletHub says they looked at a variety of metrics to determine which cities were the most sinful.

CUT 7 (10)  “per capita”

The report found that New Orleans came in second for excessive drinking, while Baton Rouge came in 12. Shreveport ranked 12^th for violent crimes per capita, and Baton Rouge landed at number 14 on the list. Gonzales says these Louisiana cities didn’t fare well in many categories.

Cut 8 (10) “lust ranking”

According to the report, Baton Rouge is the laziest city in the US, Shreveport came in third, and New Orleans was number 7. Gonzales says several factors went in to determining which cities are the laziest.

Cut 9 (12)  “dropouts”

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The Zika virus is still a threat even this time of year. LSU Health New Orleans Professor and Program Director of Environmental/Occupational Health Sciences Dr. James Diaz says in Louisiana the temperatures fluctuate during the winter and the eggs of the mosquitoes carrying Zika can survive even when it’s cold outside.

Cut 10 (08) “blood meal”

Diaz says the best way to prevent getting bitten is to wear proper clothing like long sleeves and pants. He says using mosquito repellent with DEET is always a good idea when spending time outside.

cut 11 (08) “very effective”

Diaz says it’s important to stay vigilant about Zika because there have been cases of local transmission in the surrounding states. He says while most cases are travel related, local transmission is the biggest scare.

cut 12 (11) “not infected”

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President-elect Donald Trump has chosen former-Texas Governor Rick Perry as the Secretary for the Department of Energy. So what does that mean for Louisiana’s oil and gas industry? Acting president of the Louisiana Oil and Gas Association, Gifford Briggs, says this nomination adds to the narrative of hope.

Cut 13 (13) “those barriers”

Briggs says Trump’s other cabinet selections, including Scott Pruitt to run the EPA and Exxon CEO Rex Tillerson as future Secretary of State, give them hope for what the industry could be. He says at this point they are cautiously optimistic.

cut 14 (12) “unpredictable”

Briggs says what they would like to see is a reduction in the number of regulations on the industry. He says every regulation comes a cost, which makes it harder for oil and gas companies to do business.

Cut 15 (11) “break even point”

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The National Federation for Independent Business says small business optimism is through the roof since last month’s election. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

______________________________________

Even during this time of year, the Zika virus is still a threat. Don Molino has more…

Cut 2 (28) “I’m Don Molino”

______________________________________

Former-Texas Governor Rick Perry is President-elect Donald Trump’s choice for Entergy Secretary. Halen Doughty has more on what that means for Louisiana’s oil and gas industry…

Cut 3 (26) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Small business optimism has skyrocketed since the election of Donald Trump, according the National Federation of Independent Business’ monthly Index of Small Business Optimism. NFIB state director Dawn Starns says business owners said they are now excited about the future.

cut 4  (10) “branches”

The survey finds small businesses job creation plans have increased from 9-percent to 23-percent since October. Starns says business owners felt bogged down recently by government regulations.

Cut 5  (07)  “businesses growing”

Starns says many business owners now have a renewed since of hope that they can grow their companies. She says optimism is soaring in many categories.

Cut 6 (08) “the economy”

________________________________________

Louisiana is home to three of the most sinful cities in the country, according to WalletHub. Baton Rouge came in at number 8 on the list, New Orleans is number 10, and Shreveport cracked the top 20. Jill Gonzales with WalletHub says they looked at a variety of metrics to determine which cities were the most sinful.

CUT 7 (10)  “per capita”

The report found that New Orleans came in second for excessive drinking, while Baton Rouge came in 12. Shreveport ranked 12^th for violent crimes per capita, and Baton Rouge landed at number 14 on the list. Gonzales says these Louisiana cities didn’t fare well in many categories.

Cut 8 (10) “lust ranking”

According to the report, Baton Rouge is the laziest city in the US, Shreveport came in third, and New Orleans was number 7. Gonzales says several factors went in to determining which cities are the laziest.

Cut 9 (12)  “dropouts”

________________________________________

The Zika virus is still a threat even this time of year. LSU Health New Orleans Professor and Program Director of Environmental/Occupational Health Sciences Dr. James Diaz says in Louisiana the temperatures fluctuate during the winter and the eggs of the mosquitoes carrying Zika can survive even when it’s cold outside.

Cut 10 (08) “blood meal”

Diaz says the best way to prevent getting bitten is to wear proper clothing like long sleeves and pants. He says using mosquito repellent with DEET is always a good idea when spending time outside.

cut 11 (08) “very effective”

Diaz says it’s important to stay vigilant about Zika because there have been cases of local transmission in the surrounding states. He says while most cases are travel related, local transmission is the biggest scare.

cut 12 (11) “not infected”

________________________________________

President-elect Donald Trump has chosen former-Texas Governor Rick Perry as the Secretary for the Department of Energy. So what does that mean for Louisiana’s oil and gas industry? Acting president of the Louisiana Oil and Gas Association, Gifford Briggs, says this nomination adds to the narrative of hope.

Cut 13 (13) “those barriers”

Briggs says Trump’s other cabinet selections, including Scott Pruitt to run the EPA and Exxon CEO Rex Tillerson as future Secretary of State, give them hope for what the industry could be. He says at this point they are cautiously optimistic.

cut 14 (12) “unpredictable”

Briggs says what they would like to see is a reduction in the number of regulations on the industry. He says every regulation comes a cost, which makes it harder for oil and gas companies to do business.

Cut 15 (11) “break even point”

The Office of Community Development is hosting public meetings in flood impacted areas of the state to update flood victims on the recovery process. Michelle Southern has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Former Governor Edwin Edwards is in the hospital with another bout of pneumonia. Michelle Southern speaks with his wife Trina…:

Cut 2 (24) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Public meetings are being held in flood impacted areas of the state to update flood victims on the ongoing recovery efforts. Executive Director for the Office of Community Development, Pat Forbes says the task force wanted to make sure that everybody had a chance to weigh on how dollars will be distributed…:

Cut 3 (10) “those meetings”

The first round of money will go to elderly and disabled low income families who are not in a flood plain and don’t have flood insurance first. Forbes says they are working as quickly as possible, but the action plan still has to go through the bureaucratic process.

cut 4  (11) “or reply”

Former-Denham Springs mayor Jimmy Durbin sits on the Restore Louisiana Task Force. He says once approved, they’ll get to work on a plan to spend the $1.2 billion in federal aid. He says they’re moving about 60 days ahead of the normal timeline, and they hope to have the money in the hands of those who need it most soon.

Cut 5  (09)  “housing rehab”

A meeting will be held tonight in Lafayette, and more are scheduled in Rapides, Caddo, Ouachita, East Baton Rouge, and Ascension parishes.

______________________________________

Governor John Bel Edwards has sent a letter to Senator-elect John Kennedy to bring him up to speed on the efforts to get more federal aid for flood recovery. The letter comes after Kennedy told USA today that the governor hasn’t done enough to secure federal funding. Edwards’ Communications Director, Richard Carbo, says Kennedy’s statements just weren’t based in reality.

Cut 6 (11) “his remarks”

Carbo says the governor has worked closely with the state’s congressional delegation to secure as much funding as they can as quickly as possible. He adds that the first round of aid was approved with unprecedented speed. But he says they understand Kennedy is new to this.

CUT 7 (10)  “flood recovery”

Carbo says the letter outlined the efforts made by the administration, as well as the process by which federal funds are approved. He says they will be working closely with Kennedy on flood recovery and a number of other issues when the now-State Treasurer takes his new office next year.

Cut 8 (10) “with him”

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A Baton Rouge father has been arrested after allegedly killing his 4-year-old while play fighting. Baton Rouge Police Sgt. Don Coppola says on November 30^th, Kristopher Carter brought his unconscious son, Marcel, to the hospital. He says Carter transported the child to the hospital himself, hours after the incident because his son did not want to go.

Cut 9 (10)  “abdomen area”

Coppola says Carter has been charged with negligent homicide. He says detectives spoke with a witness inside the home who said Carter hitting his son with a closed fist and told him to fight back.

Cut 10 (10) “too hard”

The autopsy revealed Marcel died from a laceration on his small bowel. He says the child’s mother and school officials told detectives Marcel had no signs of any illness before being with Carter.

cut 11 (08) “sad story”

Carter was bonded out of jail this morning.

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Former Governor Edwin Edwards is in the hospital with another bout of pneumonia. His wife Trina says that the 89-year-old has been having trouble with this infection for a while. She says it seems every winter about this time Edwards comes down with it:

cut 12 (07) “what it was”

Mrs. Edwards says its been an eventful couple of days as she deals with the couple’s three year old son Eli in a hospital room with a sick husband. She says hopefully Edwards will be discharged soon…:

Cut 13 (07) “this weekend”

Mrs. Edwards says her husband has a spot in one of his lungs that he keeps getting pneumonia in every year and doctors are working on a way to treat that so it doesn’t continue to recur. She says of course the state’s only four term governor is still in good spirits…:

cut 14 (05) “starts doing that”

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The state’s income forecasting panel has decided to delay the state’s reduced budget outlook for the financial year that ends June 30th; saying the picture of where Louisiana stands should be more clear in a month. The income projections were expected to be dismal; and Commissioner of Administration Jay Dardenne says the delay is irresponsible…:

Cut 15 (11) “where we have to cut”

Higher than estimated revenue would mean a large portion of the budget could get funding the state can’t afford, leaving higher ed and health care to face more mid-year cuts. A new reduction would come on top of a $313 million dollar shortfall from last year yet to be closed. Dardenne says the wait gives agencies less time to deal with inevitable cuts…:

Cut 16  (11)  “blind eye to reality”

The Transportation Task Force will vote on recommendations today that they plan to present to the governor;, including a $700 million dollar a year budget increase for roads and bridges. Halen Doughty reports…:

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Congressman Garret Graves spoke before the Baton Rouge Press Club to discuss his feelings about flood relief in the state. Don Molino has more….

Cut 2 (24) “I’m Don Molino”

______________________________________

The Louisiana Department of Health has seen an uptick in mumps cases around the country and is concerned the disease could find its way here. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

_____________________________________________

The Transportation Task Force will vote today on a recommendation that the budget for roads and bridges be increased by $700 million a year. DOTD Secretary Shawn Wilson says the need in Louisiana is great, and in order to address that need, they need an annual infusion of dollars that’s indexed for the Transportation Trust Fund.

cut 4  (07) “million dollars”

Wilson says that money could come from toll roads, public-private partnerships, or an increase in the gas tax. He says the state’s 20-cent gas tax that was imposed 30 years ago is only worth half hat today. He says the state has $16 million in projects needed, including a new Mississippi River Bridge in Baton Rouge, and those projects require funding.

Cut 5  (10)  “state system”

Wilson says addressing all of the state’s needs at once would be impossible, as the state still has a $13 billion backlog of road and bridge needs. But he says that with a good annual investment, Louisiana can have an infrastructure system that we can be proud of.

Cut 6 (07) “onetime solution”

________________________________________

Congressman Garret Graves spoke before the Baton Rouge Press Club to express his frustration with the flood recovery and what he hopes to accomplish with President- elect Trump. Graves says the fact that some families will not be placed in a FEMA trailer until after Christmas is ridiculous.

CUT 7 (10)  “status quo”

Graves says he’s been able to talk with President-elect Donald Trump along with vice president-elect Mike Pence about the timeline of FEMA assistance. He says both agreed that the efficiency of getting flood relief dollars to victims was absurd…

Cut 8 (10) “for itself”

Graves addressed the Restore Louisiana Taskforce and how relief dollars are being appropriated. He says the flood didn’t discriminate based on income level and neither should the disaster aid.

Cut 9 (12)  “per household”

________________________________________

The Louisiana Department of Health says they’ve been seeing an uptick in mumps cases around college campuses nationwide but more recently a large concentration in Arkansas. Dr. Frank Welch with LDH says Mississippi and Alabama have seen outbreaks, as well as, a fairly large one in Texas so it’s very concerning…

Cut 10 (07) “this outbreak””

Welch says the mumps is easily spread as it’s airborne and can be passed along by saliva and mucus. He says Louisiana has a very good vaccination rate in children, which is in the mid-90s, and shelters us from this disease somewhat but the public can still take steps to prevent catching the mumps.

cut 11 (10) “your doctor”

But Welch says everyone should be vaccinated for mumps. He says most kids in our state have had two doses of the MMR vaccine but adults can receive it as well.

cut 12 (10) “against this”

________________________________________

New Orleans Representative Helena Moreno has launched a nonprofit organization dedicated to advocating for women’s issues in Louisiana. Moreno says the Ignite Advocacy Network seeks to bring women together to raise awareness, advocate for positive policies, and ignite the network into action.

Cut 13 (12) “a change”

Moreno says Louisiana ranks 49^th for wage equality and 49^th for women’s overall health, with more women dying of breast and cervical cancer in Louisiana than in many other states. She says she wants to address those issues, as well as educational opportunities and domestic violence prevention.

cut 14 (09) “deserve it”

Moreno says Ignite is the next phase of the #ItsNoJoke campaign, which she started after a male lawmaker made degrading jokes about exotic dancers. She invites women around the state to join her effort by visiting IgniteForChange.org.

Cut 15 (11) “things done”

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The Saints haven’t been able to put it together for the last couple of games, but there are still three weeks left starting with the contest against the Cardinals on the road this Sunday. New Orleans offensive tackle Zach Strief says they can’t focus on the past, but instead on winning the remaining games of the season…:

Cut 16 (14) “nobody is quitting”

Several current Saints players commented Monday on their thoughts about the high profile Will Smith trial after discovering the killer, Cardell Hayes, was convicted of manslaughter. Strief said it’s a tragedy for Smith’s wife Raquell, the family/friends and everyone involved…:

Cut 17 (13)    “they realize that”

Hayes is slated to be sentenced on February 17th, and Orleans Parish DA Leon Cannizzaro says he will go for the maximum 60 years. Smith was a friend and former mentor of New Orleans defensive end Cam Jordan. In the locker room Monday, Jordan says the loss of Smith is a pain he can’t describe…:

Cut 18 (14) “you can’t make sense of”

The Transportation Task Force is recommending that lawmakers increase the budget for roads and bridges by $700 million a year. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

______________________________________

Congressman Garret Graves spoke before the Baton Rouge Press Club to discuss his feelings about flood relief in the state. Don Molino has more….

Cut 2 (24) “I’m Don Molino”

______________________________________

The Louisiana Department of Health has seen an uptick in mumps cases around the country and is concerned the disease could find its way here. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

_____________________________________________

The Transportation Task Force will vote today on a recommendation that the budget for roads and bridges be increased by $700 million a year. DOTD Secretary Shawn Wilson says the need in Louisiana is great, and in order to address that need, they need an annual infusion of dollars that’s indexed for the Transportation Trust Fund.

cut 4  (07) “million dollars”

Wilson says that money could come from toll roads, public-private partnerships, or an increase in the gas tax. He says the state’s 20-cent gas tax that was imposed 30 years ago is only worth half hat today. He says the state has $16 million in projects needed, including a new Mississippi River Bridge in Baton Rouge, and those projects require funding.

Cut 5  (10)  “state system”

Wilson says addressing all of the state’s needs at once would be impossible, as the state still has a $13 billion backlog of road and bridge needs. But he says that with a good annual investment, Louisiana can have an infrastructure system that we can be proud of.

Cut 6 (07) “onetime solution”

________________________________________

Congressman Garret Graves spoke before the Baton Rouge Press Club to express his frustration with the flood recovery and what he hopes to accomplish with President- elect Trump. Graves says the fact that some families will not be placed in a FEMA trailer until after Christmas is ridiculous.

CUT 7 (10)  “status quo”

Graves says he’s been able to talk with President-elect Donald Trump along with vice president-elect Mike Pence about the timeline of FEMA assistance. He says both agreed that the efficiency of getting flood relief dollars to victims was absurd…

Cut 8 (10) “for itself”

Graves addressed the Restore Louisiana Taskforce and how relief dollars are being appropriated. He says the flood didn’t discriminate based on income level and neither should the disaster aid.

Cut 9 (12)  “per household”

________________________________________

The Louisiana Department of Health says they’ve been seeing an uptick in mumps cases around college campuses nationwide but more recently a large concentration in Arkansas. Dr. Frank Welch with LDH says Mississippi and Alabama have seen outbreaks, as well as, a fairly large one in Texas so it’s very concerning…

Cut 10 (07) “this outbreak””

Welch says the mumps is easily spread as it’s airborne and can be passed along by saliva and mucus. He says Louisiana has a very good vaccination rate in children, which is in the mid-90s, and shelters us from this disease somewhat but the public can still take steps to prevent catching the mumps.

cut 11 (10) “your doctor”

But Welch says everyone should be vaccinated for mumps. He says most kids in our state have had two doses of the MMR vaccine but adults can receive it as well.

cut 12 (10) “against this”

________________________________________

New Orleans Representative Helena Moreno has launched a nonprofit organization dedicated to advocating for women’s issues in Louisiana. Moreno says the Ignite Advocacy Network seeks to bring women together to raise awareness, advocate for positive policies, and ignite the network into action.

Cut 13 (12) “a change”

Moreno says Louisiana ranks 49^th for wage equality and 49^th for women’s overall health, with more women dying of breast and cervical cancer in Louisiana than in many other states. She says she wants to address those issues, as well as educational opportunities and domestic violence prevention.

cut 14 (09) “deserve it”

Moreno says Ignite is the next phase of the #ItsNoJoke campaign, which she started after a male lawmaker made degrading jokes about exotic dancers. She invites women around the state to join her effort by visiting IgniteForChange.org.

Cut 15 (11) “things done”

Two new Republican leaders are heading to Washington after GOP victories in both the 3^rd and 4^th Congressional District races. Don Molino has more…

CUT 1 (28) “I’m Don Molino”

______________________________________

Cardell Hayes will likely serve at least 20 years in prison after being found guilty of manslaughter in the shooting death of former-Saints player Will Smith. Michelle Southern gets an analysis on the verdict…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

______________________________________

As expected, Republican state lawmaker Mike Johnson is the runaway winner in the 4th Congressional District race. The staunch conservative who replaces US Representative John Fleming says he looks forward to being a part of the real reform the Trump Administration is going to lead…:

Cut 3 (10) “in the country”

Johnson says our economy has been in shambles and every bit of change Mr. Trump says he’s going to bring needs to happen. Johnson says he believes the Republican wave moving across the nation means that God has given the nation another chance…:

cut 4  (10) “in generations”

Johnson says government is too large, and it’s doing too many things wrong…:

Cut 5  (09)  “as the state”

______________________________________

What does a dog do when it catches a car? Those are the words Capt. Clay Higgins used to open his acceptance speech after winning the 3^rd Congressional District race. The former deputy with the St. Landry Parish Sheriff’s office beat Public Service Commissioner Scott Angelle 56 to 44-percent in Saturday’s election.

Cut 6 (07) “overwhelmed”

Higgins perhaps rode a wave of Donald Trump enthusiasm, as the man who has never held an elected office is heading to Washington to represent more than 760-thousand Louisianans.

CUT 7 (08)  “my district”

Higgins says his victory is proof that voters are tired of millionaire career politicians. He says this is a new day for the country, when a working class man driven by the support of his neighbors can succeed against the odds.

Cut 8 (09) “our nation”

________________________________________

Cardell Hayes has been found guilty of manslaughter in the shooting death of former-Saints player Will Smith. Loyola law professor Dane Ciolino says it isn’t surprising the jury went for the manslaughter charge. He says the verdict is consistent with the evidence.

Cut 9 (11)  “the shooting”

Ciolino says while Hayes had to testify in his defense, it certainly didn’t help his case. He says much of what the defendant claimed was not supported by the evidence or witness testimony. He says Hayes’ testimony that was inconsistent with the facts made his self-defense claims less credible.

Cut 10 (11) “any weapons”

Ciolino says the defense spent a lot of time trying to point fingers at police for not handling the evidence properly and the prosecution for misconduct. But he says those attempts at distracting the jury clearly didn’t work.

cut 11 (07) “himself”

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Orleans Parish District Attorney Leon Cannizzaro says he plans to seek the maximum 60-year sentence for Cardell Hayes following his manslaughter conviction in the death of Will Smith, and attempted manslaughter for injuring Smith’s wife. Cannizzaro says he understands why the jury downgraded the charge from second degree murder…:

cut 12 (12) “aggressive fashion”

Cannizzaro says this was the murder of a hero who was just trying to have fun in New Orleans…:

Cut 13 (10) “road rage incident”

Manslaughter carries a sentence of 20-40 years, and attempted manslaughter a maximum of 20 years. Cannizzaro says when Hayes is sentenced on February 17th, the judge will have the discretion to impose a sentence of up to 60 years. He says that day they will present victim impact because they believe Hayes should get the maximum…:

cut 14 (12) “come out”

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Following the Republican sweep of federal runoff elections on Saturday, the GOP of Louisiana says this is proof that Democratic Governor John Bel Edwards’ election was a fluke. Executive Director of the Republican Party of Louisiana Jason Dore says Foster Campbell didn’t lose the US Senate race because he’s a Democrat, he lost because of ties to the governor.

Cut 15 (04) “he endorsed”

Dore says the governor loaned Campbell his entire campaign team for the failed effort. He adds that last year’s gubernatorial race had more to do with scandal than platforms.

Cut 16  (07)  “the race”

Dore says voters made it clear Saturday that they reject Democratic policies, as evidenced by Edwards going 0 for 4 on his endorsements in the runoffs. He says Edwards’ days in the Governor’s Mansion are numbered, and he fully expects the Governor to be voted out of office in the next race.

Cut 17 (08) “in 2019”

Louisiana Democrats did get a win in Baton Rouge with the election of Sharon Weston Broome as Mayor/President.

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Now that Republican State Treasurer John Kennedy a U.S. Senator, he says he’ll work to solve Louisiana’s problem. Jeff Palermo has more…

CUT 1 (25) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Two polls find a majority of Louisianans believe President-elect Trump should repeal Obamacare and replace it with a new healthcare system. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Republicans have a stronger majority in the US Senate after Republican John Kennedy’s victory Saturday. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Cardell Hayes has been found guilty of manslaughter in the shooting death of former Saints star Will Smith. Hayes was also found guilty of attempted manslaughter for shooting Smith’s wife during the April 9th road rage incident in New Orleans. Former Saints running back Deuce McAllister was there when the verdict was read and says this was not a win for anybody…

cut 4  (07) “really win”

Hayes could have been found guilty of second-degree murder for the road rage shooting. He faces up to 40 years in prison and sentencing is set for February 17th. It took 5.5 hours before the jury reached the verdict. McAllister says there is some relief that Hayes was found guilty of a crime, but it’s still not a win….

Cut 5  (10)  “for everybody”

District Attorney Leon Cannizaro says they are gratified for the verdict. Hayes’ lead attorney John Fuller says they respect the jury’s decision and they’ll regroup and see what the next approach is. McAllister spoke with Smith’s widow, Racquel, and says it’s very painful time for the family…

Cut 6 (12) “not there”

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Two different polls show a majority of Louisiana residents agree with repealing the Affordable Care Act, better known as Obamacare. Pollster Ed Chervenak says in a telephone survey conducted by the University of New Orleans Survey Research Center, 66-percent of 776 people polled support the idea…

CUT 7 (08)  “right idea”

Chervenak says the poll also found men are more interested in the complete repeal of the Affordable Care Act than women.

Cut 8 (06) “our men”

A poll by Southern Media and Opinion Research found 56-percent of Louisianans surveyed believe President-elect Trump should repeal Obamacare and replace it with a new healthcare plan. But Pollster Bernie Pinsonat says 34-percent oppose the replacement…

Cut 9 (07)  “Democrats”

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Now that Republican State Treasurer John Kennedy has been elected as U.S. Senator, he plans to tackle some of Louisiana’s problems in Washington D.C. Kennedy says it’s time for a change and the first thing he will fight for is additional relief for our flood victims.

Cut 10 (06)  “afford it”

Kennedy says he will fight to bring more jobs to Louisiana. He says we have the third highest unemployment rate in the country.

cut 11 (08) “those jobs”

The future U.S. Senator says our economy is in trouble and he’ll work to fix that.

cut 12 (08) “of 08”

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John Kennedy’s victory in the US Senate race gives the GOP a larger majority, 52 republicans to 48 democrats in the upper chamber. ULM political science professor Dr. Joshua Stockley says this is an important win for Republicans, because it gives them a larger cushion to deal with issues as they arise in the Senate.

Cut 13 (06) “tie breaker”

Stockley expects efforts to repeal the Affordable Care Act and passing immigration reform will be close votes because these issues divide both parties. He says Obamacare is the chief accomplishment of the Obama Administration, and Democrats won’t want to give it up. He says 52 votes won’t be enough to pass more contentious bills.

cut 14 (09) “is 60”

Stockley doesn’t expect every vote to be an uphill battle. He says both parties can agree on things like infrastructure and reducing the national deficit. But he says we’ve seen a growing divide between the parties over the past few years.

Cut 15 (09) “reversing itself”

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Who Dat fans are not happy once again as the Saints lose in an ugly fashion. New Orleans didn’t score a touchdown for the second week in a row in the 16-11 loss to Tampa Bay. Coach Sean Payton says the early penalties set the tone for this game…:

Cut 16 (15) “we’ve gotta be better”

At this point the Saints chances at making it into the post season are slim to none. Payton says this is a disappointing loss…:

Cut 17 (12)    “time and time again”

Tampa Bay picked off quarterback Drew Brees three times and New Orleans was only able to pick up 294 yards — the third lowest of the season. Brees says the overall production the team is capable of is just not there…:

Cut 18 (12) “that’s gonna be positive”

Now that Republican State Treasurer John Kennedy a U.S. Senator, he says he’ll work to solve Louisiana’s problem. Jeff Palermo has more…

CUT 1 (25) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

______________________________________

Two polls find a majority of Louisianans believe President-elect Trump should repeal Obamacare and replace it with a new healthcare system. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

______________________________________

Republicans have a stronger majority in the US Senate after Republican John Kennedy’s victory Saturday. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

_____________________________________________

Cardell Hayes has been found guilty of manslaughter in the shooting death of former Saints star Will Smith. Hayes was also found guilty of attempted manslaughter for shooting Smith’s wife during the April 9th road rage incident in New Orleans. Former Saints running back Deuce McAllister was there when the verdict was read and says this was not a win for anybody…

cut 4  (07) “really win”

Hayes could have been found guilty of second-degree murder for the road rage shooting. He faces up to 40 years in prison and sentencing is set for February 17th. It took 5.5 hours before the jury reached the verdict. McAllister says there is some relief that Hayes was found guilty of a crime, but it’s still not a win….

Cut 5  (10)  “for everybody”

District Attorney Leon Cannizaro says they are gratified for the verdict. Hayes’ lead attorney John Fuller says they respect the jury’s decision and they’ll regroup and see what the next approach is. McAllister spoke with Smith’s widow, Racquel, and says it’s very painful time for the family…

Cut 6 (12) “not there”

________________________________________

Two different polls show a majority of Louisiana residents agree with repealing the Affordable Care Act, better known as Obamacare. Pollster Ed Chervenak says in a telephone survey conducted by the University of New Orleans Survey Research Center, 66-percent of 776 people polled support the idea…

CUT 7 (08)  “right idea”

Chervenak says the poll also found men are more interested in the complete repeal of the Affordable Care Act than women.

Cut 8 (06) “our men”

A poll by Southern Media and Opinion Research found 56-percent of Louisianans surveyed believe President-elect Trump should repeal Obamacare and replace it with a new healthcare plan. But Pollster Bernie Pinsonat says 34-percent oppose the replacement…

Cut 9 (07)  “Democrats”

________________________________________

Now that Republican State Treasurer John Kennedy has been elected as U.S. Senator, he plans to tackle some of Louisiana’s problems in Washington D.C. Kennedy says it’s time for a change and the first thing he will fight for is additional relief for our flood victims.

Cut 10 (06)  “afford it”

Kennedy says he will fight to bring more jobs to Louisiana. He says we have the third highest unemployment rate in the country.

cut 11 (08) “those jobs”

The future U.S. Senator says our economy is in trouble and he’ll work to fix that.

cut 12 (08) “of 08”

________________________________________

John Kennedy’s victory in the US Senate race gives the GOP a larger majority, 52 republicans to 48 democrats in the upper chamber. ULM political science professor Dr. Joshua Stockley says this is an important win for Republicans, because it gives them a larger cushion to deal with issues as they arise in the Senate.

Cut 13 (06) “tie breaker”

Stockley expects efforts to repeal the Affordable Care Act and passing immigration reform will be close votes because these issues divide both parties. He says Obamacare is the chief accomplishment of the Obama Administration, and Democrats won’t want to give it up. He says 52 votes won’t be enough to pass more contentious bills.

cut 14 (09) “is 60”

Stockley doesn’t expect every vote to be an uphill battle. He says both parties can agree on things like infrastructure and reducing the national deficit. But he says we’ve seen a growing divide between the parties over the past few years.

Cut 15 (09) “reversing itself”

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