A National Retail Federation survey finds nearly six out of 10 Americans will shop either in a store or online or both over Thanksgiving Weekend. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (26) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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A Monroe family has made a generous donation to State Police Troop F to keep troopers safe in the field. Halen Doughty has the story…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The National Retail Federation expects 59-percent of Americans will shop both in-store or online during the Thanksgiving weekend. Spokesperson Ana Serafin Smith says it’s a slight increase from last year…

Cut 3 (10) “as last year”

Smith says Black Friday remains the busiest day of the weekend with 74-percent planning to shop that day. She says folks of all ages will shop on Black Friday, especially Millennials, as they estimate 86-percent of 18-24 year olds plan to shop.

cut 4  (09) “and deals”

Smith says there’s good news for local businesses as 24-percent of consumers plan to shop on Small Business Saturday, which is up from last year

Cut 5  (10)  “everywhere else”

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Amidst tensions between Louisiana law enforcement and the public, one Monroe family is making sure State Troopers are safe in the field. Bunzy Bryant and his wife, Lynn, donated 90 bulletproof vests to State Police Troop F in Monroe. Bryant says these vests are extra protection beyond what the troopers wear every day.

Cut 6 (11) “AK-47”

Bryant says they have been close with Troop F for 16 years and have helped their Christmas drives, crawfish boils, and softball games for years. He says State Police is part of their family, and they want to keep the troopers safe.

CUT 7 (10)  “at night”

Bryant says he and his wife have gotten tons of calls from people expressing their thanks for the family’s donation, including one call from Governor John Bel Edwards. He says they want to spread the word to criminals that our boys are protected, and they have another message for the public.

Cut 8 (11) “of them”

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A Lafayette man attempting to push a disabled U-Haul trailer to the side of the road was struck and killed by an 81-year-old semi-truck driver. State Police Master Trooper Brooks David say the fatal crash happened this morning just after 1:00 am in Henderson.

Cut 9 (10)  “doing so”

The trailer belonged to 26-year-old Tanika Adams. David says the semi-truck driver hit Adams, another person, 25-year-old Vineeth Keesara, the trailer and the two vehicles on the side of the road. He says Keesara was pronounced dead at the scene and Adams was transported to Lafayette General Medical Center.

Cut 10 (09) “critical injuries”

David says Troopers are still investigating how the trailer got detached. He says the driver of the 18-wheeler voluntarily submitted to a chemical test.

cut 11 (10) “this crash”

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State auditors are unsure if the Attorney General’s Office improperly spent nearly $25 million. Beth Davis with the Legislative Auditor’s Office says they requested support for 28 transactions totaling $24.7 million from an escrow account that receives money from court settlements, fines, and other penalties.

cut 12 (07) “were incomplete”

Davis says they can’t say whether or not any illegal transactions took place, because there is no documentation, but they can’t confirm the dealings were appropriate either. She says they’ve asked the AG’s Office to explain what happened to the money.

Cut 13 (09) “could locate”

AG Jeff Landry, who took office in January, issued a statement blaming his predecessor for poor-record keeping. But Davis says the transactions occurred over the span of two fiscal years- the one ending June 30 of 2015 and the one ending June 30 of 2016.

cut 14 (08) “current administration”

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Community activists and law enforcement are anxiously awaiting the results of the Department of Justice’s investigation into the police shooting of Alton Sterling. Don Molino has more…

CUT 1 (29) “I’m Don Molino”

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The names of some soon to be jobless Republican politicians have been thrown around to be a part of President-elect Trump’s cabinet. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (24) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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The Beauregard Parish Gothic Jail is now open for tours, according to Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The Humane Society of Louisiana is concerned about the high number of complaints they’re receiving about owners neglecting horses. HSL Director Jeff Dorson says dozens of horses, sometimes several at a time have been found in various stages of starvation by Humane Society members…

cut 4  (09) “more responsible” 

There have been several owners who have been cited for cruelty. Dorson says if you can’t afford to take care of a horse, please don’t get into the business and if you’re in over your head, reach out to the humane society. He says the problem is there is a surplus of horses in rural areas.

Cut 5  (10)  “or care”

Dorson says it takes about 15-hundred dollars minimum to give a horse the right care and veterinarian care. He urges the public to help with the effort to stop horses from being neglected.

Cut 6 (10) “the authorities”

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There is a heightened awareness among law enforcement for potential protests once the U.S. Justice Department announces its results of its investigation into the shooting of Alton Sterling. The 37-year-old black man was fatally shot in July after a scuffle with two white Baton Rouge police officers. Police Chief Carl Dabadie says they are working on a plan to deal with protests as least aggressively as possible.

CUT 7 (10)  “wanna say”

It’s still unclear when Justice Department will finish its investigation or whether there will be any charges. There’s a feeling of unrest among the community as we await more information from the federal investigators. Chairman of the Youth and Young Adult Committee, Cleve Dunn Jr., says he’s doesn’t think DOJ has been transparent at all in this investigation.

Cut 8 (09) “quite some time”

After Sterling was shot on July 5^th, numerous protests erupted and over 200 people were arrested. State Police Col. Mike Edmonson says they want to work with protesters, not against them, but if it gets out of hand, they will react. He says police will do everything they can to help people protest safely.

Cut 9 (10)  “are heard”

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A number of Louisiana Republicans have had their names tossed around as potentially working in President-elect Donald Trump’s administration. Jeremy Alford of LaPolitics.com says Trump’s campaign team in Louisiana is putting names together and sending them to the transition team.

Cut 10 (10)  “treasury position”

Alford says Congressman Charles Boustany’s name has been mentioned to be chief U.S. trade negotiator under the Trump administration. He says there are a lot of positions that need to be filled, but it’s up in the air who will actually be selected to be part of the cabinet.

cut 11 (09) “political magazines”

And Alford says Calcasieu Parish Clerk of Court Lynn Jones made the prediction that Democratic Governor John Bel Edwards could end up running for president. He says there are a few things that might not go with the party’s base, but some democrats are looking for a president like him.

cut 12 (11) “lists”

The Boston Globe also mentioned Edwards as a possible 2020 presidential candidate.

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Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser announces the Beauregard Parish Gothic Jail in DeRidder is now open for tours. The Gothic Jail will be the crown jewel of Louisiana’s Myths and Legends Scenic Byway, which is intended to give visitors a reason to visit some of Louisiana’s back roads. Nungesser says over 40-thousand dollars was raised at the Gothic Jail After Dark Fundraiser on Halloween to complete the renovations.

Cut 13 (12) “the stairwell”

Two men who were found guilty of murdering a taxi driver in the late 1920s were hanged to death from the stairwell, earning the Gothic Jail nationwide notoriety. The first floor of the gothic building is the jailer’s quarters, and the second is jail cells. Nungesser says about 15 years ago, someone had the foresight to save all the furniture from the then-decrepit building.

cut 14 (08) “years ago”

The Gothic Jail was originally built in 1914 and it was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1981 before it was deemed uninhabitable the next year. Nungesser says two tours will be given daily at 10 am and 2 pm Monday through Friday. He says tours are $5 for adults and $3 for kids. He says people can set up private tours at BeauregardTourism.com.

Cut 15 (08) “kinda funny”

More information about Louisiana’s Myth and Legends Scenic Byway can be found at LouisianaByways.com.

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Ed Orgeron could be coaching his final game for the LSU Tigers this Thursday night against Texas A&M. There’s no doubt the Louisiana native would love to be the head coach for the Tigers for many years to come. But he says his priority is to make sure the team is ready to play the Aggies…

Cut 16 (20)” national crowd”

LSU is coming off a tough 16-10 loss to Florida and there’s speculation the Tigers will make a push for Florida State Head Coach Jim Fisher, once the Seminoles regular season ends on Saturday night. Orgeron says he’s telling his team to block out the noise…

Cut 17 (12)      “job first “

After a bye week, Louisiana Tech is ramping up their preparations for the regular season finale on Friday against Southern Miss. Bulldogs wide receiver Trent Taylor says they have a good idea of what the Eagles like to do on defense…

Cut 18 (12) “ your offense”

Last year, Southern Miss thumped the Bulldogs on their home field, 58-24. Taylor says they would like to return the favor and win big in Hattiesburg….

Cut 19 (20)   “this week”

A survey conducted by the consulting firm Deloitte finds online shopping is ranked number one by consumers for their preferred method of holiday shopping. Don Molino has more…

CUT 1 (27) “I’m Don Molino”

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At a roundtable meeting today, Governor John Bel Edwards and other state leaders addressed ways to improve race relations. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (28) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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A report released by the consulting firm Deloitte finds the internet has taken the number one spot when it comes to how consumers will do their holiday shopping.  Executive Director of the Louisiana Retailers Association Dawn Johnson says there is a big convenience factor when it comes to purchasing gifts online.

Cut 3 (09) “more online”

Johnson says a lot of Black Friday shoppers go into the store, find out information from employees, then order the item online to save. The survey found 50-percent of respondents admitted to showrooming.

cut 4  (10) “all products”

Deloitte also found those polled plan on spending nearly one-thousand dollars on holiday gifts. But Johnson encourages shoppers to get out and shop in your local brick and mortar stores.

Cut 5  (08)  “the holidays”

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The Baton Rouge Advocate reports Florida State’s Jimbo Fisher remains the top candidate to become the next head coach of the Bayou Bengals. Tiger Rag Editor Cody Worsham says it’s not surprising Athletic Director Joe Alleva has Fisher high on his wishlist…

Cut 6 (06) “say no”

Fisher won a national championship at Florida State in January 2014 and has said he’s happy at F-S-U. But Worsham believes Fisher would take the LSU job if offered, to  coach in the SEC West, college football’s toughest division…

CUT 7 (12)  “willingly take”

Interim Head coach Ed Orgeron replaced Les Miles in September and the Tigers are 4-2 with Coach “O” at the helm. Worsham says if Fisher says no, Orgeron could get the LSU job…

Cut 8 (09) “right there”

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A USGS-NASA study found widespread shoreline loss across areas affected with oil from the Deepwater Horizon spill in 2010. Research Oceanographer Elijah Ramsey says they compared the damage before and after the spill in the Barataria Bay area. He says in 2009 and 2010 there wasn’t a lot of coastline erosion.

Cut 9 (10)  “oiled shorelines”

Ramsey says that continued throughout the next year. The study also mentioned that some of the affected wetlands received treatment but it proved not to be helpful.

Cut 10 (05) “eroding”

Ramsey says this is an important study and should not just be a onetime thing. He says along with widespread erosion, wetland fragmentation was experienced as well.

cut 11 (08) “broken apart”

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State and community leaders met for a roundtable on race relations this morning at the State Capitol. Governor John Bel Edwards spoke, calling for a renewed effort to build trust between law enforcement and the public.

cut 12 (12) “are about”

Edwards says they discussed teaching people in driver’s education courses how to respond to officers when they get pulled over. He says they also want to meet with kids in schools to educate youth about interacting with police.

Cut 13 (09) “those campuses”

Edwards says law enforcement agencies are also looking at increasing the number of training hours required and implementing new training methods. State Police Col. Mike Edmonson says it’s starting with the cadet class training at their police academy…

cut 14 (12) “not graduate”

Tensions were high in the summer after the police shooting of Alton Sterling and it’s still unknown when the Justice Department will complete its investigation of that case. Edmonson says resolving these problems is not just about training, it’s about having an open dialogue. He says the conversations don’t end when these meetings are over. He says we need ongoing discussions about ways to improve relations, and that starts with listening.

Cut 15 (10) “being heard”

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A national polling firm predicts the runoff elections in Louisiana. Michelle Southern takes a look.

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Thanksgiving feasts should be affordable, according to the Louisiana Farm Bureau. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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It’s been a year since Governor John Bel Edwards was elected into office. Emelie Gunn has more on what we can expect for the remainder of his term…

Cut 3 (27) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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LSU scientists have found the first evidence of Deepwater Horizon oil in a land animal—the Seaside Sparrow. LSU School of Renewable Natural Resources Professor Phillip Stouffer says they believe the oil got into the birds’ system, because they are feeding off the marsh and the oil is trapped in the marsh…

cut 4  (09) “birds’ tissue” 11

Researchers also found that the direct exposure to the oil could be damaging the birds’ reproductive systems. LSU School of Renewable Natural Resources Associate Professor Sabrina Taylor says the study tells us the oil didn’t affect the offshore and the near shore ecosystems, but the marsh land where the sparrows live.

Cut 5  (11)  “spill is”

Taylor says the oil gets buried under sediments and can be released during storms. Stouffer says when we think of oil spills, there’s mainly concern about marine animals, but their research shows wildlife that lives strictly on land can be impacted….

Cut 6 (04) “they’re facing”

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A survey from a national polling firm on the 2016 runoffs in Louisiana predicts winners. Pollster Robert Cahaly with the Trafalgar Group says some national pollsters thought Democratic Governor John Bel Edwards victory last year meant Democrat Foster Campbell had a shot in the US Senate runoff. But he says there were unusual circumstances surrounding that election.

CUT 7 (10)  “the Democrat”

Republican John Kennedy leads Campbell in the Trafalgar poll 58 to 35-percent. Cahaly says Kennedy is unifying the GOP behind him.

Cut 8 (07) “red state”

Cahaly says the 3^rd Congressional District race between Republicans Scott Angelle and Clay Higgins is a good illustration of the divide we’re seeing within the Republican Party nationally.

Cut 9 (08)  “Trump effect”

Cahaly says he’s got Higgins leading Angelle 49 to 42-percent. He says it remains to be seen whether or not Trump supporters are still energized about the election. He says either way, this will be a hard fought race between establishment Republicans and the Trump coalition.

Cut 10 (07)  “to Higgins”

The poll also found that Republican Mike Johnson has a strong lead over Democrat Marshall Jones in the 4^th Congressional District race, which Cahaly says isn’t surprising in a red state.

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The Louisiana Farm Bureau finds the cost of a Thanksgiving meal will be below the national average this year, thanks to the hard work of Louisiana farmers and ranchers. Chair of the Farm Bureau Women’s Committee, Denise Canatella, says they found that families can still affordably provide a bountiful meal on Thanksgiving.

cut 11 (10) “in Louisiana”

Canatella says Louisiana shoppers can expect to pay less for Thanksgiving favorites like sweet potatoes, stuffing, pumpkin pie mix, and pie shells. She says the low prices are a testament to farmers’ hard work following the floods and drought they’ve dealt with this year.

cut 12 (09) “low price”

The average price for a Thanksgiving dinner in Louisiana  $49.79, which is slightly less than the national average. But Canatella says shoppers will pay a little more for turkey, milk, rolls, whip cream, and a veggie tray. She encourages people to look around to find the best deals.

Cut 13 (12) “for you”

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Governor John Bel Edwards was elected into office one year ago today. Political Analyst Bernie Pinsonat says the governor has had quite the year. He says he’s had some successes, including the approval of higher sales tax that prevented the state from bigger budget cuts.

cut 14 (09) “out alive”

Pinsonat says Edwards will likely be dealing with budget issues for the remainder of his years in office. He says despite budget problems, civil unrest from a police shooting and devastating flooding, the governor’s approval rating is high…

Cut 15 (10) “approval rating”

Pinsonat says Edwards faces some uncertainty with a new Republican presidency. He says it might be more difficult for a Democratic governor to get federal assistance…

Cut 16 (09)” the process”

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After a disappointing 16-10 loss to Florida, interim head coach Ed Orgeron’s chances of keeping the job on a permanent basis seem to be dwindling. The Tigers had plenty of chances to beat the Gators, but there were too many mistakes, including five trips into the red zone and coming away with just one touchdown. Safety John Battle says the coaches are not the blame for this loss….

Cut 17 (18) “A-and-M”

LSU came into this season with championship aspirations, instead they are 6-4 heading into the regular season finale. The Tigers lost by a combined 21 points in the four losses. Quarterback Danny Etling says they’ve learned every play matters in major college football…

Cut 18 (13) “ right attitude”

Orgeron says beating Florida would have been a great win for the program, but now they have to focus on the regular season finale against Texas A&M on Thanksgiving night…

Cut 19 (10)   “come Thursday”

LSU Athletic Director Joe Alleva has sent a letter to Tiger fans outlining the qualities he’s looking for in a new football coach. Jeff Palermo reports..

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The Public Service Commission has approved the construction of an 869 million dollar Entergy plant. Emelie Gunn has more….

Cut 2 (28) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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The Louisiana Holiday Trail of Lights gets underway this weekend across north Louisiana. Executive Director of the Webster Parish Convention and Visitors Bureau, Lynn Dorsey, says there are different festivals being held in Alexandria-Pineville, Monroe-West Monroe, Shreveport-Bossier, Minden and Natchitoches.

Cut 3 (09) “interest is”

Dorsey says in Minden they will have a fasching festival, which is a German celebration similar to Mardi Gras, to honor Minden’s German heritage. She says it all begins at dusk tomorrow when all the holiday lights in the city will be turned on.

cut 4  (08) “nutcrackers”

Natchitoches Main Street Manager, Samantha Bonnette, says Turn on the Lights is their kickoff to their annual Christmas festival. She says tomorrow the city of Natchitoches will celebrate with a day-long event of food, fun, and fireworks. She says there will be food vendors, live music, and inflatable jumpers for the kids.

Cut 5  (10)  “with us”

For more information about festivals throughout north Louisiana, go to HolidayTrailOfLights.com.

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The Public Service Commission has approved Entergy’s request to build a new 869 million dollar plant in St. Charles Parish. Entergy Spokesperson Michael Burns says they’re investing in the future of Louisiana. He says it will be a modern, highly efficient plant and will save customers billions.

Cut 6 (10) “ten years”

The plant is scheduled to be up and running by June of 2019. Burns says this power will be used throughout southeast Louisiana and meet the increased demand along the Mississippi River.

CUT 7 (10)  “older plants”

Entergy says the plant will be a highly efficient and use 30-percent less fuel than traditional plants. Burns says the power from this plant in Montz, could meet the city of New Orleans’ needs on the hottest day of the year. He says Entergy customers can expect slightly higher bills…

Cut 8 (10) “$1.92”

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LSU Athletic Director Joe Alleva has sent a letter to Tiger fans outlining the qualities he’s looking for when hiring a new head football coach. He said the guidelines include integrity, work ethic, relentless recruiter and accomplished leader. Tiger Rag Associate Editor James Moran says one of the items in Alleva’s letter stuck out…:

Cut 9 (08)  “Les Miles”

Moran said a letter like this would be what any athletic director would look for in a coach. He said Alleva’s final note is that the hire must be an accomplished leader of young men, and the first instinct would be to think that these qualities sound like Interim Head Coach Ed Orgeron.:

Cut 10 (10) “point to”

Moran said Alleva could be putting out this letter because he’s tired of hearing a lot of misinformation and speculation that’s circling. He believes this also points to the fact that a resolution is coming down very soon…:

cut 11 (10) “full swing”

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Governor John Bel Edwards has delayed an 18-million dollar cut to public colleges as part of his plan to eliminate a $313 million budget deficit. The governor did so at the request of legislators, who expressed concern at today’s budget meeting about another funding cut to higher ed. Monroe Representative Katrina Jackson asks for another month to see if there’s a way they can cut the budget, without impacting universities.

cut 12 (09) “has input”

Prairieville Representative Tony Bacala says he doesn’t understand why higher education is taking the brunt of the cuts, but the Louisiana Department of Health isn’t taking any. He says the higher ed budget has increased by $200 million in the last four years, but LDH’s budget has seen a $1.4 billion hike.

Cut 13 (12) “shared burden”

The Revenue Estimating Conference meets again December, and there’s a chance the state’s budget shortfall could increase by then. New Orleans Senator JP Morrel says by putting this cut off until next month, the ball is now in the legislature’s court.

cut 14 (10) “cuts are”

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Duck Dynasty announces after 130 episodes, the show is coming to an end this April. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The Louisiana Department of Education has released its yearly school report cards. Emelie Gunn has more on those results…

Cut 2 (28) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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After 130 happy, happy, happy episodes, Duck Dynasty announces the series will come to an end in April. The A&E series about the Robertson family of West Monroe has given yuppies around the country a taste of what it’s like to be a good ole boy since 2012. President of the West Monroe-West Ouachita Chamber of Commerce, Courtney Hornsby, says the show has spiked an interest in the small town.

Cut 3 (09) “backyard”

Hornsby says the Robertson empire has grown beyond the duck-call business that earned them their fame, as the family has since opened Willie’s Duck Diner and Duck and Dressing Boutique. She says even though the show is ending, she doesn’t see them slowing down.

cut 4  (09) “our community”

The family-friendly show drew more than 10 million viewers at its peak, but viewership has since declined in recent seasons. But Willie’s wife, Korie Robertson, says that decline hasn’t stopped people from all over the country coming to visit West Monroe.

Cut 5  (10)  “from everywhere”

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The Louisiana Department of Education has released its annual school report cards and found statewide gains in student achievement. Superintendent John White says the distribution of school and district letter grade ratings has improved. He credits this to an improvement in student results.

Cut 6 (10) “enrollment credits”

The number of school districts receiving an “A” grade is 16, up from 10 last year. White says at the same time, there are both challenges and successes that the school grading system does not fully reveal. He says the system doesn’t fully reflect the gains made by many schools that are making process, especially with low-achieving students.

CUT 7 (10)  “quality is”

The percentage of students scoring Mastery on LEAP Tests in grades third through six has increased six percentage points from last year. White says students and teachers are stepping up.

Cut 8 (07) “is up”

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While many people around the country are concerned about what will happen when president-elect Donald Trump takes office, Governor John Bel Edwards says he is more interested in seeing the country come together. Edwards says he does expect some changes to Medicaid, but it’s too early to tell what those changes might be.

Cut 9 (11)  “look like”

The state expanded the Medicaid program this year, and 341-thousand people have enrolled so far.

Trump also ran on a platform of immigration reform, often mentioning mass deportations. Edwards says both state and federal laws come into play with immigration, but federal law does trump. He says we’ll have to wait and see what policies come out of the administration.

Cut 10 (09) “obviously”

Edwards says one policy he does foresee going into effect is the ability to buy health insurance across state lines. He says he hasn’t heard any real opposition to it, even from members of Congress.

cut 11 (09) “prices down”

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The Baton Rouge Police Department arrests a woman for allegedly attempting to kill her 8 year old son by slitting his throat. Cpl L’Jean McKneely says the suspect, 40-year-old Gloria Ross, grabbed a kitchen knife as her kids were getting ready for school, and approached the young victim…:

cut 12 (07) “to his throat”

McKneely says the victim and two of Ross’s other children were able to escape and call police. He says when investigators questioned the suspect, she told them there was a reason for her actions…:

Cut 13 (06) “parish prison”

The victim was transported to a local hospital with a non life threatening laceration to the throat. McKneely says Ross is charged with attempted first degree murder and second degree cruelty to a juvenile. He says they were able to get more information about the mother…:

cut 14 (07) “psychological issues”

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The Alton Sterling case is still under investigation even though the Minnesota police officer involved in Philando Castile’s death has been charged with second degree manslaughter. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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LSU’s Pennington Biomedical Research Center finds less than 22-pecent of children are meeting the physical activity guidelines. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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TOPS recipients will have to cover more than half of their spring tuition, and Governor John Bel Edwards wants to make sure that doesn’t happen again. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A Minnesota police officer has been charged with second degree manslaughter after shooting Philando Castile. That shooting happened the same week Alton Sterling was killed during a confrontation with two white police officers. Legal analyst Tim Meche says don’t expect the federal investigation into the Sterling case to be resolved anytime soon.

cut 4  (10) “recused himself”

Meche says the local district attorney was in charge of the Minnesota case, while federal prosecutors are working on the Alton Sterling case. He says there is a five year statute of limitations, so they are in no rush to come to a conclusion and statewide elected officials aren’t getting involved.

Cut 5  (10)  “geographic areas”

Back in October, U.S. Attorney Walt Green issued a statement that said the Sterling case is a priority and are taking their time to ensure no stone is left unturned. Meche says federal authorities tend to take much longer to do an investigation and bring the case.

Cut 6 (10) “taking longer”

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The Louisiana Association of Business and Industry along with other organizations will hold a summit in Baton Rouge today on criminal justice reform. LABI President Stephen Waguespack says the goal of the forum is to find ways to reduce Louisiana’s incarceration rate, which is the highest in the world per capita.

CUT 7 (12)  “of crime”

Waguespack says criminal justice reform can save the state millions of dollars, as well as improve public safety and the lives of those incarcerated after their release. He says they’ll hear from experts on the issue, and they’ll also get ideas from other states that have effectively made similar reforms.

Cut 8 (10) “the process”

Waguespack says even though Louisiana locks up more people than any other state, we aren’t seeing any improvements in public safety or the recidivism rate. He says they’re hopeful that positive change can be implemented from what’s learned at this meeting.

Cut 9 (08)  “next year”

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Less than one quarter of children in the US are getting enough exercise, according to a report by LSU’s Pennington Biomedical Research Center. The 2016 US Report Card on Physical Activity for Children finds that less than 22-percent of children ages 6 to 19 meet the physical activity guidelines. Researcher Peter Katzmarzyk thinks that’s because of a drive to be more efficient.

Cut 10 (08)  “used to”

The report found that less than 13-percent of children walk or ride their bikes to school, and nearly 63-percent of children are getting too much screen time per day. Katzmarzyk says parents don’t seem to want their kids outside as much as they used to. He says if we want kids to be active, we have to make sure that it is a safe environment.

cut 11 (09) “the community”

Katzmarzyk says physical activity is integral to our health, not only as children but as adults as well. He says a lack of exercise at an early age will lead to health problems in the future.

cut 12 (07) “of things”

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TOPS recipients will be responsible for more than half of their spring tuition, and state leaders are arguing about who’s to blame. House Appropriations Chairman Cameron Henry said the governor was more concerned about funding other priorities, like private-public hospitals. But Governor John Bel Edwards said on his monthly call-in radio show that funding TOPS was and still is a top priority for him.

Cut 13 (07) “not to”

Edwards says he is committed to working with legislators to make sure that TOPS recipients will not have to foot as much of the bill for their tuition next year.

cut 14 (08) “fully funded”

Edwards says when he presents the proposed budget for next fiscal year to legislators in early 2017, the popular scholarship program will be fully funded.

Cut 15 (08) “can do it”

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Earlier this season, Florida was getting ready to host LSU, now the Gators are getting ready to visit the Tigers in Death Valley. The two ranked SEC teams are set to meet this Saturday at high noon. Florida Coach Jim McElwain says he appreciates the way LSU plays football

Cut 16 (14)” talent there”

The 21st ranked Gators are 7-2 on the eyar, but seven starters are not expected to play against LSU, who is relatively healthy. McElwain joked about changing the rules of football in order to make the game more even…

Cut 17 (20) “some guys”

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After a difficult loss to Denver on Sunday, the Saints return to game action tonight with a Thursday night match-up with NFC South rival Carolina. New Orleans Quarterback Drew Brees says it’s a challenge to prepare for a game on a short week, but they are looking to get the bad taste out of their month from last Sunday’s heart breaking loss…

Cut 18 (13) “ on Carolina”

The Saints beat Carolina 41-38 earlier this season. Brees threw for 465 yards and four touchdowns. The Q-B says the Black and Gold had a good day that day and Carolina still has a good defense…

Cut 19 (19)   “the past”

The University of New Orleans and Northwestern State plan to cover the TOPS shortfall for recipients next semester. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (28) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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The critically injured East Baton Rouge Parish deputy shot in a July ambush has been moved to a state-of-the-art rehab hospital in Texas. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (28) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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An infant is in critical condition and a mother is facing charges following an accidental shooting in a vehicle. Baton Rouge Police Cpl. L’Jean McKneely says 23-year-old Crystal Kinchen of Baton Rouge left two small children unattended in a parked car with a handgun.

Cut 3 (12) “the face”

McKneely says Kinchen called 911, as she drove the child to the hospital. He says detectives arrived at the hospital shortly after.

cut 4  (07) “investigaton”

McKneely says the mother has been charged with second degree cruelty to a juvenile for leaving the children alone in the car. He says the infant is being treated for the gunshot wound.

Cut 5  (07)  “the best”

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The University of New Orleans and Northwestern State say they will use other financial resources to cover the 60-percent of tuition TOPS students will be required to pay for next semester. NSU President Jim Henderson says the scholarship program promised to pay 100% of a recipients’ tuition and they intend to keep the promise for their students.

Cut 6 (08) “that option”

Henderson, who will become the U-L System President in January, says about 21-hundred students at NSU are on TOPS, which gives them more flexibility for payment options. He says they’ve identified some resources from donors to cover the tuition cost but they’re still looking for a statewide solution.

CUT 7 (10)  “is sacrosanct”

Henderson says for TOPS students to drop out of school or incur additional debt is not an option they will consider. He says many universities are doing what they can to lessen the damage on students.

Cut 8 (06) “of students”

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An Orleans Parish criminal court judge rules that the jury in the Cardell Hayes murder trial will be sequestered. Hayes is accused of killing former-Saints player Will Smith after a car accident on April 9th. Legal analyst Chick Foret says there will be a lot of media coverage of the trial, and the judge wants to prevent any potential bias.

Cut 9 (11)  “the evidence”

Judge Camille Buras has ruled the jury will not have any contact with the outside world for the duration of the trial, which is set to begin December 5th. Foret says this will likely change the makeup of the jury, because the jurors will have to be people who don’t have anywhere to be.

Cut 10 (08) “the jury”

Foret says it’s not often we see juries sequestered, but he expects this to be one of the most publicized cases in the history of Orleans parish. He says he’s not surprised by the judge’s decision.

cut 11 (09) “same ruling”

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There has been lots of talk on social media about the name change of the Triple-A Minor League baseball team, The New Orleans Zephyrs to the Baby Cakes. General Manager Cookie Rojas says they took ideas from fans and focus groups to come up with a new nickname to liven up baseball in the Crescent City. He says the moment he heard the name, he knew this was it.

cut 12 (10) “of endearment”

Rojas also adds the King Cake with the baby inside helped them develop the new name. He says they wanted to keep the traditional colors of dark blue and gold but add a little spin.

Cut 13 (08) “to it”

Rojas says the reaction has been both positive and negative on social media. But he says he wants people to be passionate about minor league baseball.

cut 14 (08) “been fantastic”

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TOPS recipients are preparing to pay nearly 60-percent of their tuition for the spring semester, and state leaders say they are committed to making sure that doesn’t happen again next year. Jeff Palermo has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Good news for IT workers in northwest Louisiana, as CRSA just opened their new integrated technology center in Bossier City. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Some lawmakers don’t agree with the Office of Motor Vehicles new policy of “no cash” as a form of payment. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 3 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Louisiana will experience some rollercoaster temperatures this week. State Climatologist Barry Keim says we’ll see high temperatures in the 80s across the state over the next two days but a significant cold front will come in on Friday.

cut 4  (10) “on Monday”

Keim says Saturday will be relatively cool and breezy, with temperatures in the 50s in the morning and reaching the mid 60s in the afternoon. He says we see a lot of dramatic swings in temperatures during this time of year.

Cut 5  (11)  “of time”

Several high school football games have been pushed up to Thursday, because of the potential of severe weather, but Keim says rain chances are fairly low.

Cut 6 (10) “some problems”

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TOPS students will pay nearly 60-percent of their tuition for the spring semester. So what about future years, will the state direct more dollars to the taxpayer funded scholarship program, so TOPS recipients pay less?  House Appropriations Chairman Cameron Henry says if the governor makes TOPS more of a priority in the next session, it will be funded at a higher level.

CUT 7 (09)  “just not”

Henry says in the last session, Edwards made a big push to hospitals, who provide care for the uninsured and poor. He says some legislators saw the funding of private-public hospitals as more important than TOPS, because not all taxpayers have children in college. He says there could be more money for TOPS, if fewer dollars were appropriated for health care.

Cut 8 (08) “11-percent”

Governor John Bel Edwards issued a statement saying he hopes the state can restore funding to TOPS because too many students depend on the program. But Henry says he will not support raising more taxes to fund TOPS.

Cut 9 (11)  “spend less”

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CSRA has opened a new integrated technology center in Bossier City, which is good news for economic development in northwest Louisiana. LED Secretary Don Pierson says CSRA isn’t a household name like IBM and CenturyLink, but it’s still a major information technology company.

Cut 10 (10)  “homeland security”

Pierson says now employs 400 people in Shreveport-Bossier but will expand to 800 by June 2018. He says Louisiana is funding a 10-year $14 million higher education initiative with colleges in northwest Louisiana to help the company expand its workforce.

cut 11 (12) “great company”

The 96-hundred square foot facility anchors the 3-thousand acre National Cyber Research Park in Bossier City. Pierson hopes this new high tech center will attract more cyber companies to Louisiana.

cut 12 (11) “also security”

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Some lawmakers are not happy with the Office of Motor Vehicles decision to stop accepting cash as a form of payment. OMV Commissioner Karen St. Germain announced the new policy as a way to save money and prevent theft by state workers. Jonesboro Senator Jim Fannin says many senior citizens do not have credit cards. He says it’s unfair citizens can’t use cash, because employees might steal the cash.

Cut 13 (09) “the agency”

Fannin says the “no cash” policy should have been presented to lawmakers first and now his office is receiving multiple complaints. St. Germain says accepting cash has become a burden for OMV workers, because they are on the hook if they come up short. Fannin says this is not a valid reason for why the change was made.

cut 14 (11) “the cash”

St. Germain says a major reason why the OMV will not longer accept cash as a method of payment is that it saves the state 500-thousand dollars, because it costs money to handle the cash and security is needed for transporting the cash…

Cut 15 (09) “that cash”

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It’s likely LSU running back Leonard Fournette’s final game in Tiger Stadium on Saturday. The junior from New Orleans is expected to be a Top Five pick in next spring’s NFL draft, but he admits it will be hard to leave college early…

Cut 16 (10)” Coach O”

Fournette says the juniors on the team will meet with Coach Ed Orgeron after the season to determine whether they should return for their senior season. The All-American running back has battled an ankle sprain all season long and says he’ll be ready for the Gators…

Cut 17 (09) “every day”

Fournette’s injury gave sophomore running back Derrius Guice more opportunities and the Baton Rouge product has taken advantage. Guice leads the team in rushing and has nine touchdowns. Fournette was impressed with Guice’s school-record 96 yard rushing touchdown last week…

Cut 18 (12) “ its amazing”

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ULM takes a two-game winning streak to Appalachian State this Saturday. The Warhawks are coming off a 37-23 win over Georgia State on the road. Coach Matt Viator likes how his team is overcoming adversity and the players’ confidence is also increasing…

Cut 19 (15)   “defensive football”

Another win for ULM on Saturday and they can improve their Sun Belt record to 4-3 and their overall mark to 5-6. But the Moutaineers are 7-3 and have the top defense in the league. Viator says App State’s defense doesn’t give up many big plays…

cut 20 (18) “here we go”

FEMA will continue to pay for flood victims to stay in hotels until December 18^th. Michelle Southern has more…

CUT 1 (28) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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A 17-year-old St. Paul’s High School football player is still recovering from a serious neck injury suffered in last Friday’s playoff win. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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FEMA will continue paying for August flood victims to live in hotel rooms until December 18^th. Denham Springs resident and flood victim Dennis Rodriguez is living in a Breaux Bridge hotel thanks to the program and says it has been a tremendous help.

Cut 3 (10) “for us”

Rodriguez says he’s thrilled they’ve extended to deadline because their home is still unlivable. He says he’d have nowhere to live if the program ended on November 18^th like originally planned.

cut 4  (09) “ours yet”

More than 2-thousand families are using the program. Rodriguez says there are about five or six other families staying at the same hotel. He says the program has been a blessing, but wishes he could be closer to home.

Cut 5  (11)  “no complaints”

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There’s a light at the end of the tunnel for Hollywood South, according to Louisiana Film and Entertainment Association president Patrick Mulhearn. He says we’re halfway through the 36 month, 180-million dollar cap, legislators placed on the film tax credit program and he’s hopeful lawmakers will approve changes next year that will be more beneficial for Louisiana’s film industry.

Cut 6 (10) “front-end cap”

Mulhearn says he is cautiously optimistic about the direction the legislature will take with the program. He says other states, like Georgia, that do not have limits on film tax credits, are bringing in more projects, but that leaves them vulnerable to fraud.

CUT 7 (08)  “in Atlanta”

Mulhearn says right now they’re doing what they can to keep Celtic in Baton Rouge and other studios open, while they wait for the tax credit program to be revised. He says they’re currently finding other uses for their facilities.

Cut 8 (10) “that discussion”

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A 17-year-old continues to recover after suffering a serious neck injury in a football game on Friday. Michael Doherty, a junior at St. Paul’s High School in Covington, collided with three players resulting in a major injury to his C5 vertebra. St. Paul’s athletic director, Craig Ketelsen, says Doherty’s condition is still in a holding pattern after undergoing a seven hour surgery.

Cut 9 (10)  “positive results”

Ketelsen says when he went to visit the injured player at Lakeview Hospital, there were so many people visiting, he was only able to talk to Doherty’s parents. He says the love and support Doherty is receiving is amazing.

Cut 10 (10) “the state”

While Doherty lays in a hospital, the St. Paul’s football team is preparing for its next playoff game this Friday, against Evangel Christian. Ketelsen says Saints Cornerback Delvin Breaux sent Doherty a video message about a similar injury he suffered while playing football at LSU. He says Doherty is a hard working young man, dedicated to his teammates.

cut 11 (10) “handle adversity”

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New Orleans-based air service GLO Airlines is celebrating today its one year anniversary of its inaugural flight. Founder and CEO Trey Fayard says they started with just one flight from New Orleans to Little Rock and have since added more stops. He says they’re excited about offering south Louisianans daily, non-stop flights to destinations across the Gulf South.

cut 12 (07) “great year”

GLO Airlines offers two-daily flights from New Orleans to Shreveport and back to the Crescent City. Fayard says they aren’t done yet, as the company is looking to originate flights from other Gulf and mid-South cities in the future.

Cut 13 (07) “in Louisiana”

GLO customers can bring two bags and one carryon at no charge and enjoy free snacks on the flight. The company now accepts TSA Pre-Checks to expedite the boarding process. Fayard says passengers love flying with GLO.

cut 14 (08) “on vacation”

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After a heated US Senate race, Caroline Fayard has endorsed Foster Campbell in the runoff. UL-Lafayette political science professor Pearson Cross says Fayard had strong words about her opponent going into the general election, like accusing him of being friendly with David Duke. He says this endorsement is about fence mending.

Cut 15 (09) “Foster Campbell”

Cross says Campbell will have a tough fight in the runoff against Republican State Treasurer John Kennedy. He says last year’s gubernatorial race proved that on occasion, Louisiana voters can elect a Democrat into statewide office.

Cut 16  (09)  “a majority”

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