The National Flood Insurance Program has issued over one billion dollars to help Louisiana policyholders impacted by the historic August flooding. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (24) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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The Greater New Orleans Fair Housing Action Center announces a $200-thousand donation to Baton Rouge groups assisting with flood relief efforts. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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A traffic stop in Covington led to disturbing discoveries and two arrests. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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LSU Health New Orleans is offering free well water testing in areas affected by the historic flooding in August. Assistant Professor of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Adrienne Katner says test kits that could be used to analyze for metals and coliform bacteria will be distributed at two locations in French Settlement in Livingston Parish on Thursday and Friday afternoon

cut 4  (10) “the well”

Katner says the main side effect of drinking contaminated water is diarrhea. She says a contaminated well can be cleaned through shock chlorination and FEMA also offers assistance…

Cut 5  (10)  “their well”

Katner says their free well water testing program will start in Livingston Parish, but they’ll also visit other affected parishes over the next several months. She says the free sampling kits at the two locations in French Settlement on a first come, first serve basis.

Cut 6 (10) “through 29th”

To learn more about the study call (504) 568-5942 or email well-testing-at-L-S-U-H-S-C-dot-edu. (welltesting@lsuhsc.edu)

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Louisiana flood victims have received over one billion dollars in flood insurance payments in less than three months after the historic flooding. Wayne Berggren (Berg-gren) with the National Flood Insurance Program says they’ve seen over 29-thousand claims submitted for review and payment and of that 48-percent have been closed out.

CUT 7 (08)  “flood insurance”

Berggren says the average payment a homeowner covered under the National Flood Insurance Program is about 68,000. He expects when all claims are reviewed, flood victims overall will have received a little over two billion dollars.

Cut 8 (10) “final estimates”

For more information about flood insurance, homeowners can visit flood-smart-dot-gov (floodsmart.gov). Berggren says these flood insurance payments will help people rebuild. He says this  event is why every homeowner should at least get an estimate for flood insurance from their local agent.

Cut 9 (10)  “declared disaster” 

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The Greater New Orleans Fair Housing Action Center is making donations to community groups assisting with flood relief efforts in south Louisiana. Executive Director Cashauna Hill says $200-thousand dollars from their Baton Rouge Revitalization Fund will be distributed among faith-based and nonprofit organizations.

Cut 10 (09) “to recovery”

Hill says organizations in the greater Baton Rouge area will receive a portion of these grants. She says the groups will then use the funds at their discretion to assist flood victims in any way that they need.

cut 11 (11) “management services”

Hill says being based in New Orleans, GNOFHAC understands the need for people to get back into their homes as soon as possible after a disaster. She says they’re thrilled to be able to help people and extremely grateful for the work these organizations have been doing since the flood in August.

cut 12 (10) “necessary work”

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A dangerous couple is behind bars following a traffic stop in Covington that led to a disturbing discovery. Capt. Daniel Seuzeneau with the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office says Monroe Myers and his girlfriend, Winter Flowers, were pulled over for a missing taillight.

Cut 13 (07) “drug paraphernalia”

Seuzeneau says the drugs and paraphernalia were not even the biggest concern. He says deputies also discovered a sawed off 20 gauge shotgun disguised as a children’s toy.

cut 14 (11) “dangerous weapon”

Seuzeneau says the couple have been charged with possession of meth and heroin, intent to distribute, possession of a firearm with a controlled dangerous substance, and being fugitives out of Tangipahoa parish. He says both Myers and Flowers also have previous criminal history.

Cut 15 (09) “they belong”

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The Pelicans tip-off a new season tonight as they host the Denver Nuggets at 7 PM inside the Smoothie King Center. New Orleans began last season with a 1-and-11 record and Head Coach Alvin Gentry wants to avoid that kind of start…

Cut 16  (17)  “of numbers”

Pelicans star Anthony Davis starts the season healthy and first round pick Buddy Hield should help New Orleans on the offensive end. But Davis says there will be an adjustment period for Hield…

Cut 17 (19)” different environment”

Davis is set to begin his fifth season in the NBa. He played in a career low 61 games last year and averaged 24 points and 10 rebounds a game.  Davis says he’s anxious to get the season started…

Cut 18 (19) “our belt”

There’s talk of central Louisiana getting a second interstate, called I-14, connecting Texas to Georgia. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Research from the American Cancer Society finds Louisiana ranks fifth in the nation for the number of smoking-related cancer deaths. Michelle Southern reports…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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There is serious conversation about an east-west interstate that would cross central Louisiana through Alexandria, connecting western Texas to Georgia. Malcom Morris of Leesville, who is with the Gulf Coast Strategic Highway Coalition, says the chance of a new interstate called I-14, is very likely. He says they’re working on getting a federal designation and Texas has already been issued one.

Cut 3 (11) “designation”

Morris says once a designation is received, a corridor is selected but the interstate is probably 10 years out from being constructed. He says the plan is for I-14 to run mostly along Highway 28.

cut 4  (09) “Mississippi”

Morris says having two interstates, one moving north-south and one moving east-west, is a tremendous economic boom for the cities in central Louisiana. He says I-14 would be helpful for the overall military picture of this country and especially this area.

Cut 5  (12)  “to them”

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We’re two weeks away from Election Day, and party leaders on both sides are facing similar struggles. Candidates for US Senate have been going at it with opponents from their own party. Executive Director of the Louisiana Democratic Party Stephen Handwerk says those vicious blows will make it harder for the party to come together after November 8th.

Cut 6 (07) “attacking you”

After Senate candidate and former-KKK leader David Duke qualified to participate in next week’s Senate debate, Handwerk and Louisiana GOP executive director Jason Dore agreed that if he polled high enough, he should be included. However, Handwerk says they share the same opinion about whether or not they would like to hear what Duke has to say.

CUT 7 (10)  “my opinion”

Selfies in the voting booth have been a big topic this election cycle. Both party leaders encourage people to exercise their First Amendment rights and selfie if they like. Dore says social media is a huge part of the world today and sees this as an extension of that.

Cut 8 (07) “great thing”

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Louisiana ranks fifth in the country when it comes to the percentage of cancer deaths that are attributable to smoking, according to research from the American Cancer Society. Thirty-two percent of all cancer deaths in Louisiana are attributed to smoking. Chronic Disease Director with the Louisiana Department of Health, Melissa Martin, says LDH is doing what they can to reduce the number of smokers. She says that starts with preventing kids from picking up the habit.

Cut 9 (07)  “our state”

The report shows Louisiana ranks second for the number of male smokers who died from lung cancer, at 38-percent. The rate for women was 25-percent, coming in at number 8 nationwide. Martin says the state is doing what it can to decrease exposure of second hand smoke…

Cut 10 (09) “or restaurants”

Martin says the state also offer a free comprehensive quit line at 1-800-QUIT-NOW to educate the public on how to kick their habit.

cut 11 (09) “replacement therapy”

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Voters in Baton Rouge and around the state are exercising their right to vote today on this first day of early voting. Charles and Kathleen Gendusa were among those that cast their vote on the first day the polls opened. They say they were hoping to go before the lines got long, but they ended up having to wait about 20 minutes. They were so eager to vote, they even showed up a day early.

cut 12 (09) “back today”

Early voting will be open from 8:30 am until 6 pm every day except Sunday through November 1. Raymond Jensen works at the Registrar of Voters Office and says early voting turnout has been good so far. He says there’s usually a lot of early voters during a presidential election, and the lines show it.

Cut 13 (07) “15 minutes”

Jensen says he expects wait times to be between 15 and 30 minutes throughout the early voting period. Carla Schiavone also cast her ballot on the first day of early voting. As a displaced flood victim, she says she didn’t have any trouble finding out where to vote, but she did have to drive a long way.

cut 14 (09) “get it done”

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Early voting begins today and runs until November 1. Jeff Palermo has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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There aren’t many women or racial minorities in Louisiana’s judicial system, according to a study by Tulane University. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Republican Donald Trump leads Democrat Hillary Clinton in the statewide polls with only two weeks left until Election Day. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Early voting begins today for the Presidential election. Secretary of State Tom Schedler says polls will be open at their parish Registrar of Voters Office or at other designated locations from 8:30 am until 6 pm everyday but Sunday through November 1. He reminds voters that Election Day is on a Tuesday, so it might be easier for people to early vote, especially flood victims.

cut 4  (07) “office again”

Schedler says there are 220 races statewide involving more than 700 candidates, as well as 6 constitutional amendments and 78 propositions in 38 parishes. He says in last year’s gubernatorial race, there was about a 40-percent voter turnout, and he expects this race to be much higher.

Cut 5  (10)  “we can’t”

Schedler says voters can use the Geaux Vote app to find out where they can cast their ballots. He says this year’s “I Voted” stickers featuring the iconic Blue Dog are extremely popular. He says the only way to get a sticker is to vote, and early voters will also get a sticker.

Cut 6 (10) “voted sticker”

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The search is on for 53-year-old Jerry Williams Junior of Ponchatula who is wanted for the murder of his ex-wife. Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s office spokesperson Dawn Panepinto says Williams gunned down his wife outside of her Hammond home Sunday morning…

CUT 7 (12)  “50 year old Linda Williams”

Panepinto says Williams has a history of physical abuse…

Cut 8 (10) “etc”

Panepinto says 50-year-old Linda Williams was pronounced dead at the scene…

Cut 9 (10)  “once fatally” 

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A study by Tulane University finds that women and racial minorities are not widely present in Louisiana’s judicial system. The report shows that while women make up 51-percent of Louisiana’s population, only 30-percent of state judgeships are held by women. Political scientist Sally Kenney with Tulane’s Newcomb College Institute says we need to start conversations about women and minority inclusion.

Cut 10 (11) “judicial office”

Racial minorities make up only 23-percent of judgeships in Louisiana, while accounting for 36-percent of the population. Kenney says the judicial system being dominated by white males can affect how fair people perceive the system to be.

cut 11 (12) “male judges”

The report found similar numbers for federal courts based in Louisiana, with women constituting 40-percent of judges and racial minorities making up only 14-percent. Kenney says the US Senate advises and consents for those judgeships. She says there are over 100 judicial vacancies in the country, and many senators have declined to give approval to fill those positions.

cut 12 (10) “judicial districts”

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Recent polls show Republican Donald Trump will defeat Democrat Hillary Clinton in Louisiana on November 8^th. But Executive Director of the Louisiana Democratic Party, Stephen Handwerk, says they are not throwing in the towel yet.

Cut 13 (08) “Hillary Clinton”

But Executive Director of the Louisiana Republican Party, Jason Dore, believes Louisiana will be dark red on November 8, fully supporting Donald Trump. He says when it comes to the issues like the economy, 2^nd Amendment, Obamacare, and the oil industry, it’s clear which candidate shares Louisiana values.

cut 14 (07) “our state”

Handwerk believes that the polls showing Trump out in front in Louisiana has more to do with the public’s dissatisfaction with the political system than it does with the billionaire businessman’s ideologies.

Cut 15 (12) “campaign cycle”

But Dore says Trump is energizing voters. He says they have seen record high participation in the Trump campaign in Louisiana. So much so, that they are sending volunteers from the Bayou State to campaign in other parts of the country.

Cut 16  (09)  “Trump campaign”

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Louisiana Tech looks to make it five victories in a row when they host the Rice Owls on Saturday. Rice has really struggled this year as they just 1-and-6. But Bulldogs Coach Skip Holtz says don’t look at the records…

Cut 17 (17)” both sides”

Rice won its first game of the season last week, as they defeated Prairie View A-and-M 65-44. Holtz says the Owls show a lot of different looks on offense and they snap the ball quick…

Cut 18 (19) “they do”

Louisiana Tech is 5-3 overall, 3-and-1 in Conference USA. The Bulldogs lead the West division. But Holtz says they can’t let up…

Cut 19 (21)   “two thirds done”

Louisiana 4th Congressional district race has been light on the negative TV ads. Don Molino has the story….

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Don Molino”

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Investigators believe an electrical malfunction sparked a fire that killed two small children and one adult. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The Pegasus Equine Guardian Association is raising concerns about Fort Polk’s efforts to rehome over 700 horses that roam on the Army base. PEGA President Amy Hanchey says about 150-thousand American horses are sent to slaughter houses each year, and they’re afraid that’s where these horses will end up because the horse market is already flooded.

Cut 3 (08) “Fort Polk”

PEGA is concerned that the rescue facilities offering to take the horses may not be legitimate. Garrison Commander Col. David Athey says if there is significant credible evidence to suggest an organization is questionable, they are going to do what is right.

PEGA suggests heard management techniques and fertility control methods to keep the horses away from training areas and reduce the population. Hanchey says these horses have been roaming this land for nearly a century.

cut 4  (11) “at this time”

Athey says removing the horses is for the safety of the soldiers and the horses. Hanchey says they respect that the soldiers need to train, but they feel that in the Kitsatchie National Forest’s 600-thousand acres surrounding Ft. Polk, there should be room for the horses.

Cut 5  (09)  “the horses”

Athey says Ft. Polk does not own or train on National Forest Land.

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With the start of early voting kicking off tomorrow, interest in Louisiana’s US Senate race still seems to be lacking. Republican candidate John Kennedy says it’s been a rough year for Louisiana, which has made this campaign extremely unusual…:

Cut 6 (11) “racial unrest”

Kennedy says this race is overshadowed by the interesting Presidential race underway between Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton…:

CUT 7 (10)  “very unusual”

Many analysts feel that once the primary is over, national parties will take notice if Election Day brings about a Republican vs Democrat in the runoff. Still Kennedy says it’s hard for US Senate candidates to draw more attention than Trump or Clinton…:

Cut 8 (09) “back seat”

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Usually competitive races have their fair share of negative TV commercials, but that’s the not case in the 4th Congressional District race. LSU-Shreveport political science professor Jeffrey Sadow it’s likely the lone Democrat on the ballot, Marshall Jones, will make the run-off and the negative ads will come in the weeks leading up to the December 10th runoff….

Cut 9 (05)  “that point”

Sadow says Shreveport cardiologist Trey Baucum, Shreveport City Council Member Oliver Jenkins and state representative Mike Johnson are the three Republicans who have the best shot at making the runoff. Sadow says they are not using mass advertising to get voters to the polls …

Cut 10 (11) “churches and a like”

Former state senator Elbert Guillory is the the only candidate outside of the Shreveport area in the race. He also ran for lieutenant governor last year, but Sadow says the republican from Opelousas is a long shot to make the runoff…

cut 11 (07) “vigorously”

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A tragic fire in Vermilion Parish claimed the lives of two young children, aged 1 and 3, and the woman who was trying to save them. State Fire Marshal’s Office spokesman Brant Thompson says the blaze broke out just prior to 5am on Sunday. And that’s when the mother inside the residence awoke to the smell of smoke…:

cut 12 (10) “flee the home”

Thompson says 3 of the 6 occupants of the home were able to escape. He says a second adult and close friend of the family, 22-year-old Felicie Cloteaux, did not leave the house when the fire broke out but instead ran to another bedroom…:

Cut 13 (08) “Arabella”

Thompson said no official cause of the fire has been determined, but investigators suspect an electrical malfunction sparked the blaze. There were no working smoke alarms in the home at the time. Thompson says Cloteaux’s body was recovered from the home still clutching the two small children in her arms…:

cut 14 (10) “friend’s children”

A lawmaker from Covington is working on legislation that would reform Louisiana’s recall procedure. Michelle Southern reports…:

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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The state Democratic Party urges democrats to get out and vote especially since Republican U.S. Senate candidate David Duke will participate in a November 2^nd televised debate. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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LSU is offering a new scholarship for Louisiana residents who are the children of graduates of the state’s Flagship University. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 3 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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With only 15 days before the U.S. Senate election in Louisiana, we’ll likely hear a lot more from the major candidates. La-politics-dot-com publisher Jeremy Alford says get ready to see and hear radio and TV campaign advertisements and a fair share of attack ads from third party groups. He says John Kennedy has the biggest target on his back, because he’s considered the Republican front-runner…

cut 4  (06) “a stick”

A recent statewide poll showed Kennedy and Democrat Foster Campbell are in good position to claim the two run-off spots. Alford says in order for the other candidates to catch-up, they’ll likely have to go negative…

Cut 5  (11)  “break out”

The Presidential and Senate race are the top two races in the state. But Alford says voters will also start to hear more about other races in their area…

Cut 6 (12) “of advertising”

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An effort to change the process in which an elected official is recalled in Louisiana is gaining steam due to Jefferson Parish President Mike Yenni’s sexting scandal. A petition to recall Yenni is making the rounds, but Covington Representative Paul Hollis says gathering all of the required signatures has proven to be difficult in the past..:

CUT 7 (10)  “it’s almost impossible”

In Louisiana petitioners have to collect thirty-three and a third percent of the total number of registered voters in order to be successful. Hollis says the turnout in the Jefferson Parish President race last year was 90,000, despite the fact that there are 270,000 people who can vote..:

Cut 8 (11) “on anything”

Hollis says many other states’ base signature requirements on the percentage of people who voted. He says if you look over all the recalls in the past 50 years, there have been successful recalls, but they’ve been in very small areas…:

Cut 9 (09)  “in my opnion”

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Former KKK leader and Republican U.S. Senate candidate David Duke has been invited to participate in a November 2^nd televised debate because he received 5-percent of the vote in a Raycom Media poll. Executive Director of the Louisiana Democratic Party Stephen Handwerk says they’re using this as an opportunity to raise money to get the word out to voters that Duke has this much support.

Cut 10 (08) “single level”

Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate, Public Service Commissioner Foster Campbell, issued a statement saying Duke’s destructive rhetoric is a distraction from the campaign, which is about our future, not our past. Handwerk says Duke is an embarrassment to the state.

cut 11 (11) “for Trump”

Calls for comment from Duke were not returned. Handwerk wants Democratic voters to use this as an incentive to go to the polls and vote for a candidate that is good for Louisiana. He says having him involved in this election hurts the state.

cut 12 (10) “tragic floods”

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LSU has created a merit based scholarship for incoming freshman whose mom or dad graduated from LSU or are employed by the school. The Louisiana Tiger Legacy Scholarship Program will be a fixed amount that is only available to Louisiana residents. Director of Financial Aid and Scholarships Amy Marix says the scholarship program starts with the fall 2017 incoming class.

Cut 13 (10) “eight semesters”

Other universities around the country are known for offering similar scholarships. Marix says the purpose of creating this scholarship is to support Louisiana students, especially with the current deficiencies with the TOPS program.

cut 14 (10) “we can”

LSU’s operating scholarship dollars will fund this program. Marix says they want to keep generation after generation going to LSU. She says there are some very strong academic requirements in order to receive the scholarship.

Cut 15 (10) “our students”

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It was a historic night in Tiger Stadium on Saturday as running back Leonard Fournette rushed for a school record for 284 yards as LSU defeated Ole Miss 38-21. Fournette missed the two previous games, because of a bad ankle and says he’s still not 100 percent…

Cut 16  (14)  “ what I did” 

Head Coach Ed Orgeron says it was good to have Fournette back…

Cut 17 (13)” 3-0″

There’s been some who have suggested that Fournette should just sit out the rest of the season, so he doesn’t risk a serious injury that could impact his future NFL career. Fournette says he wanted to be on the field with his teammates…

Cut 18 (20) “working out”

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Saints Quarterback Drew Brees threw for 367 yards and three touchdowns, but it wasn’t enough to overcome several mistakes that led to a 27-21 win for Kansas City. New Orleans was penalized 10 times and had two critical turnovers. Coach Sean Payton says they don’t have enough talent to overcome those kinds of errors

Cut 19 (19)   “types of mistakes”

Kansas City’s Arrowhead Stadium is one of the toughest venues to play in the NFL for opposing teams. The crowd seemed to affect the Saints, but Payton says it’s not the reason why they lost…

cut 20 (13) “unsportsmanlike conduct”

Department of Transportation Secretary Shawn Wilson says people don’t seem to be dismissing the idea of a gas tax increase. Michelle Southern reports…:

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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A Raycom Media Poll on the U.S. Senate race puts Republican John Kennedy and Democrat Foster Campbell in the runoff if the election were held today. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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State Transportation Secretary Shawn Wilson says, after meeting with residents in each region of the state, there seems to be growing support for increasing the state’s gasoline tax. He says the public realizes a bigger financial investment is needed…:

Cut 3 (09) “and improving infrastructure”

Governor John Bel Edwards named the task force charged with coming up with recommendations on how to repair Louisiana’s transportation problems. Wilson says there is a $13 billion dollar plus backlog in projects that need to be improved throughout the state, but that doesn’t include new infrastructure…:

cut 4  (09) “transportation”

The task force’s proposals are due by the first of the year, and a boost in the gas tax is expected to be one of the key suggestions. Wilson says 19 states link their gas taxes to inflation and other things, and the response from the electorate is most often a positive one because people care about quality transportation. He says they welcome all ideas…:

Cut 5  (11)  “possibly inflation”

(It’s been almost 29 years since the state has adjusted the gas tax, and Wilson says it’s lost almost 50% of its value.)

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The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is trying to figure out how a 23 foot whale washed up on Little Florida Beach in Cameron Parish. Marine Biologist Mandy Tomlin says whales are in the Gulf of Mexico, but very rarely seen near the coast, so it appears this young whale got separated from its mother…

Cut 6 (11) “very very young”

Tomlin says the whale did not appear to be in good health and they also know a whale washed up recently on a Florida beach. She says they did extensive evaluation of the whale in the hopes of finding out how this happened…

CUT 7 (11)  “worked on”

Tomlin says they took several samples from the whale’s body in the hopes they can figure out why this animal died and they hope to learn more about the sperm whale itself…

Cut 8 (09) “as well”

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A Raycom Media Poll on the US Senate race has Republican State Treasurer John Kennedy and Democratic Public Service Commissioner Foster Campbell leading the large field of candidates. In the survey of 625 registered voters, 24 percent say they plan on voting for Kennedy, while 19 percent say Campbell is their choice. ULM Political Science Professor John Sutherlin…

Cut 9 (06)  “likely scenario”

The poll has Republican and former KKK leader David Duke receiving five-percent of the vote, which means he receives an invite to a televised debate on November second. Sutherlin says Duke, who ran for US Senate and Governor in the early 90s, still has good support in rural areas…

Cut 10 (06) “right now”

Democrat Caroline Fayard finished third at 12-percent, followed by Republican Congressmen Charles Boustany and John Fleming, who are at 11 and 10 percent respectively. Sutherlin says it’s unlikely this threesome can make a big jump with election day just over two weeks away…

cut 11 (11) “Kennedy Campbell runoff”

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Three people riding in a dump truck that was towing a trailer are lucky to be alive after it careened over the guardrail into water on Interstate 55 near the Ruddock exit. State Police Trooper Jared Sandifer says only two people were slightly hurt….

cut 12 (12) “ended up being”

Witnesses told a New Orleans TV station that Good Samaritans pulled a woman and child from the water and helped them get to safety. Sandifer says State Police is still following up to confirm those reports…

Cut 13 (10) “above and beyond”

Sandifer says they believe a pickup truck that was pulling a trailer, cut off the dump truck, forcing it over the side of the road. He says the search for that vehicle is ongoing…

cut 14 (09) “law enforcement agency”

60% of Americans support the legalization of marijuana, according to a new Gallup poll. Jeff Palermo reports…:

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Attorney General Jeff Landry is asking a state judge to determine if Governor Edwards executive order that seeks to protect LGBT workers from discrimination in the workplace is constitutional. Don Molino has more…

Cut 2 (25) “I’m Don Molino”

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According to the National Retail Federation, Americans are expected to spend a record-high 8.4 billion dollars on Halloween candy and costumes this year. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 3 (28) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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A new Gallup poll shows 60% of Americans support the legalization of marijuana, almost double the amount of people who thought pot should be legal in 2000. David Brown is the director of a group called Sensible Marijuana Policy for Louisiana, or SMPL. He believes this signifies that a lot of changes are taking place within the US electorate…:

cut 4  (08) “many other drugs”

Nine states are slated to decide whether to expand legal access to pot in the November election. State officials are currently hammering out a plan to get medical marijuana into the hands of patients who suffer certain specific ailments. But Brown feels that Louisiana will be one of the very last states to get on board with recreational legalization…:

Cut 5  (10)  “at the very end”

Brown says the fact that the Legislature passed a bill that would put a mechanism in place to get patients in need medical marijuana indicates many Louisiana lawmakers are approaching the matter with more of an open mind. He said that’s not happened on accident…:

Cut 6 (10) “patients themselves”

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Attorney General Jeff Landry has filed a lawsuit that seeks to have a state judge declare Governor John Bel Edwards’ executive order that protects L-G-B-T individuals from discrimination in the workplace as unconstitutional. Landry believes the governor is circumventing the Legislature to create his own law…

CUT 7 (07)  “of language”

Landry argues the state legislature has rejected several proposed laws that prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. The Republican A-G says he’s protecting the will of the legislature…

Cut 8 (07) “objecting to”

The executive order says state employees can not be fired or harassed at work if they are lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender. The order extends to businesses that have state contracts and Landry has already refused to sign legal contracts with the anti-discrimination clause. Edwards believes he has the authority to issue such an order…

Cut 9 (08)  “executive order”

Edwards says the attorney general is putting his own political interests ahead of Louisiana’s needs. He disagrees with Landry’s stance that’s it okay for businesses to discriminate…

Cut 10 (03) “Louisiana values”

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Spending on Halloween costumes, decorations and candy will reach a record high 8.4 billion dollars this year. That’s according to the National Retail Federation. Spokesperson Ana Serafin Smith says more than 171 million Americans are planning to partake in Halloween festivities this year…

cut 11 (10) “greeting cards”

Smith says millennials and their use of social media are the reason why the popularity Halloween is growing…

cut 12 (12) “on twitter”

Smith says the Presidential election is also driving up costume sales as many people are dressing up as either Donald Trump or Hillary Clinton.

Cut 13 (09) “political characters”

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A much anticipated cool front has made its way through the state and temperatures are much more fall-like. Freddie Ziegler, with the National Weather Service in Slidell, says the temps are about 10 to 15 degrees cooler than they were the day before…

cut 14 (11) “upper 50s”

Ziegler says the humidity is also much lower. He says we expect high temperatures in the 70s this weekend and we’ll see the lows dip into the 40s for the northern part of the state….

Cut 15 (07) “below normal”

A little bit of rain fell as the cold front moved across the state. Ziegler says rain is out of the forecast this weekend and much of next week…

Cut 16  (07)  “      the state” 

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Ole Miss brings the best pass offense in the SEC to Baton Rouge on Saturday night when they visit the LSU Tigers. The Rebels have five receivers who have caught 15 passes or more, but they had some critical drops in a loss last week to Arkansas. Rebels Coach Huge Freeze expects them to bounce back…

Cut 17 (18)” they know that”

LSU is looking to go 3-0 under interim head coach Ed Orgeron. Freeze says it appears that Coach O has made some changes that have worked…

Cut 18 (20) “the field”

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Louisiana Tech takes its high powered offense to Miami tomorrow where they’ll face the F-I-U Panthers in a Conference USA contest. Both teams have won three in a row, but the Bulldogs have averaged 56 points a game in their last two contests. Tech Quarterback Ryan Higgins says the offense has bought into what the coaches have taught them….

Cut 19 (14)   “want to be”

Higgins ranks second in the country in passing yards per game. Wide receiver Trent Taylor has 75 catches for 987 yards, Carlos Henderson had 326 yards receiving last week. And running back Jarred Craft has rushed for over 700 yards this season. But Higgins says none of the players are competing for the numbers…

cut 20 (20) “about it”

Louisiana travelers will have even more options next year because of an exciting announcement from British Airways. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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LSU’s daily paper, The Reveille, will become a once a week newspaper for the 2017 spring semester. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (28) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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It’s an exciting day for Louisiana travelers looking to go overseas, as British Airways announces there will be non-stop flights from New Orleans to London. Senior Vice President Simon Brooks says the flights will leave four times a week beginning March 27, 2017. He says they are delighted to connect these two iconic cities.

Cut 3 (11) “wonderful place”

Brooks says the 8 hour 40 minute flight will include free food and drink, pillows and blankets, as well as free entertainment. He says the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner is known for its smooth ride, because it flies at a lower pressurization.

cut 4  (09) “great aircraft”

Brooks says American Airline customers will be able to use their frequent flyer miles on these flights. He adds that although the plane lands in London, passengers will have limitless travel options.

Cut 5  (10)  “and beyond”

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An arrest has been made in the case of an elderly man who was shot to death in his own driveway in Houma. Cody Voisin with the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office says shortly after the death of 87-year-old Anthony Dale Lirette, an arrest warrant was issued for 21-year-old Deandre Pharagood.

Cut 6 (07) “degree murder”

Voisin says there was no relationship between the victim and Pharagood. He says their investigation into the matter is ongoing.

CUT 7 (05)  “investigation”

Pharagood was booked into the Terrebonne Parish jail on a $500-thosuand bond.

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The head of the Louisiana NAACP spoke before the House Judiciary Committee to provide ideas on how law enforcement and the public can work better together. Ernest Johnson says there needs to be more interactive relationships between police officers and the community. He suggests officers should be very familiar with everyone in the area they patrol.

Cut 8 (10) “the community”

Johnson also advises elected officials should host more town hall meetings where police officers attend in plain clothes. He says a culture change needs to be made when officers are addressing people in tricky situations with the public.

Cut 9 (10)  “deescalate”

The House Judiciary Committee wrapped up two days of hearings on interaction between law enforcement and citizens. Chairman Katrina Jackson plans to hold more meetings to come up with a universal community policing policy. Johnson says right now there is no policy where officers become involved as part of the community…

Cut 10 (08) “certain communities”

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One of many lesser-known candidates in the US Senate race has dropped out, less than three weeks before the election. Attorney and former-investment banker Abhay Patel is the first candidate to back out of the crowded field. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat isn’t surprised he withdrew, since he polled poorly.

cut 11 (09) “get out”

After dropping out of the race, Patel endorsed Republican Congressman Charles Boustany over the two other major republican candidates, John Kennedy and John Fleming. There are also two major Democrats in the race, Foster Campbell and Caroline Fayard. Pinsonat says he’s not sure how much that endorsement will really help Boustany.

cut 12 (10) “little attention”

Patel’s name will still appear on the ballot along with the 23 other names running for US Senate. Pinsonat says if any other minor candidates drop out, it won’t have a huge impact on who will make the runoff.

Cut 13 (08) “those five”

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LSU’s daily newspaper, The Daily Reveille, will become a weekly 32-page paper come the spring semester of 2017. Reveille editor in chief Quint Forgey says this is a very bitter-sweet moment. He says it’s a sad day, because everyone who works for the newspaper was raised and trained to produce a daily paper.

cut 14 (10) “was best”

The Daily Reveille has been a part of LSU since 1887. But Forgey says the Reveille staff is optimistic, because the new weekly publication will be an excellent read

Cut 15 (08) “be exciting”

Forgey says they’ll have to up to date content on their website, LSUNow.com. He says the decision to end the daily publication was not easy, but they believe the future is still bright for the school newspaper and the students involved.

Cut 16  (11)  “Baton Rouge”

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Amid allegations of a rigged election by Republican Presidential candidate Donald Trump, the Secretary of State assures voters there will be no fraud at the polls. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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People should expect to see plenty of clowns, including the Clown Prince of Crime, on the street this Halloween. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Governor John Bel Edwards addressed a variety of issues on this month’s edition of his call-in radio show, including everything from infrastructure to taxes. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 3 (28) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Republican Presidential candidate Donald Trump has said the November 8^thelection has been rigged by the media and at the polls to favor Democrat Hillary Clinton. Republican Louisiana Secretary of State Tom Schedler calls Trumps comments irresponsible and says the polls are not rigged and every state is ready to go to carry out a fair election.

cut 4  (10) “some specifics””

Schedler says in Louisiana, we haven’t had a problem with a voting machine count in decades. There have been rumors the Russians will hack into the system and alter votes, but Schedler says no voting machines are connected to the internet.

Cut 5  (09)  “separate cartridge”

Schedler says he is confident that the Presidential election will go off without any major problems and they have protections in place to protect against voter fraud.

Cut 6 (09) “no intrusion”

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Fall weather is finally set to return to Louisiana, thanks to a cold front that will move through the state today. State climatologist Barry Keim says the cold front will also likely bring us some rain, which is much-needed given the drought-like conditions the state has been experiencing. But he says it probably won’t be enough to break out the rain boots.

CUT 7 (08)  “use it”

Keim says once the rainfall moves through, fall weather will return. He says you’ll really feel the cool temperatures tomorrow.

Cut 8 (10) “entire state”

Keim says by this weekend, it should start to feel more like autumn outside. He says it will be great weather for outdoor activities.

Cut 9 (10)  “degrees”

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Villains don’t stand a chance this Halloween, as super hero costumes are flying off the shelves. Manage of Spirit Halloween in Alexandria, Caitlyn Piacitelli, says even the girls are suiting up as Marvel and DC characters. She says the most popular costume this year is a more unconventional kind of hero.

Cut 10 (09) “all gone”

Piacitelli says plenty of guys are stocking up on green hair to be Harley’s puddin’, Mr. J.

Spirit Halloween District Manager of Louisiana, Leah Miller, says all the characters from Suicide Squad have been hot sellers. She says Dead Pool and Star Wars have been as well, after those movies were also box office hits.

cut 11 (08) “as well”

The Bayou State will need all the extra heroes on the street it can get this year, as there will likely be plenty of scary clowns walking around as well. Miller says the creepy clown craze in Louisiana hasn’t hurt clown mask sales at all.

cut 12 (08) “merchandise goes”

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During Governor John Bel Edward’s monthly call-in show, he addressed several topics including a new Mississippi River bridge in Baton Rouge, the future of the film tax credit program, and coastal parish lawsuits against the oil and gas industry. Edwards says a new bridge is a huge priority for Baton Rouge, but it takes a lot of money to build a bridge.

Cut 13 (07) “are insufficient”

Edwards says the Transportation Task Force meeting today to discuss improvements in the Baton Rouge area.

Regarding the film tax incentive program, Edwards says he doesn’t think the $180 million cap that lawmakers placed on the program in 2015 as the problem. He says a lot of movie producers had concerns about Louisiana’s commitment to the future of the industry, and expects lawmakers will address those concerns in next year’s legislative session.

cut 14 (08) “the program”

Edwards also touched on the lawsuits filed by several coastal parishes against the oil and gas industry for the destruction of the coast. He says he supports the suit because it’s not enough to say these companies create jobs and boost revenue if they’re expediting coastal erosion.

Cut 15 (08) “as well”

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he Ragin Cajuns look to snap a three-game losing streak on Saturday night when they visit Texas State. UL Lafayette is coming off a 24-0 loss to Appalachian State and Coach Mark Hudspeth says it’s obvious they have to figure out a way to put some points on the board….

Cut 16  (16)  “this week

UL Lafayette will face Texas State team that’s also struggling. The Bobcats have lost four of their last five games. They have also allowed 40 points points in five of their six games this season. Hudspeth says they’ve spent more time this week trying to improve the Cajuns…

Cut 17 (22)” our prepration”

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The Saints play in one of the most difficult venues for opposing teams in the NFL this Sunday when they visit the Kansas City Chiefs. Last year K-C was 6-2 at Arrowhead Stadium and this season they are 2-0. Saints Quarterback Drew Brees has yet to throw for over 300 yards in a game on the road this season, but knows New Orleans offense can be just as good on the road as it is at home if they execute…

Cut 18 (14) “just fine”

Kansas City’s defense is led by Marcus Peters. who has five interceptions in five games this season. Last year, the former Washington standout had eight picks as a rookie. Brees says  he’s well aware of the 23-year-old cornerback…

Cut 19 (19)   “on the quarterback”

Jefferson Parish Parish President Mike Yenni addressed the council for the first time today since his sexting scandal broke out. Jeff Palermo has more…

CUT 1 (31) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The ACLU is looking into the alleged strip searches of multiple students at Caldwell Parish High School. Michelle Southern has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser is looking to grow the state’s seafood industry. Nungesser says Louisiana produces more than 850-million pounds of seafood every year. He says when you combine seafood, with tourism, it accounts for 14-billion dollars in annual revenue for Louisiana and the two should help each other…

Cut 3 (11) “eat it”

Nungesser says they are getting close to releasing details about a new program where all Louisiana residents can be an ambassador for the seafood industry. He says they can do that with help from social media…

cut 4  (11) “the state”

Nungesser says his office doesn’t have the resources to promote Louisiana’s seafood and tourism industry to the level they would like. But he says if they can get Louisiana residents to use social media, to show off the great food and destinations the state has to offer, he believes that can lead to more out of state visitors…

Cut 5  (09)  “the world”

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Jefferson Parish President Mike Yenni addressed the parish council today for the first time since his sexting scandal made headlines. Yenni says he has learned to not run from your troubles when you can rise from them instead. He says over the past few weeks, he has walked the deepest valley of despair.

Cut 6 (09) “to redemption”

The Jefferson Parish Council has called for Yenni’s resignation and gave him a vote of no confidence. But the embattled politician says it is his job to move the parish forward and asks that the council let him do his job. He says he has never taken his oath to the parish or the people lightly.

CUT 7 (08)  “over judgement”

Jefferson Parish residents responded to Yenni following his refusal to resign from office. Gregory Carroll with Citizens for a Better Kenner says he’s concerned that city equipment was used to have those conversations with a 17-year-old, and that he offered that boy a job.

Cut 8 (07) “his enjoyment”

A recall petition has been started to remove Yenni from office. Carroll adds that nearly 80-percent of the registered voters in the parish want Yenni to resign.

Cut 9 (12)  “a shame”

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Law enforcement, elected officials, and the public gathered at the House Judiciary Committee meeting today to discuss ways to improve community relations with police. Deputy Chief of Staff for the Governor’s Office, Julie Baxter Payer says they are looking at more training and education for law enforcement. She says they want to encourage investments in officer wellness and safety initiatives.

Cut 10 (10) “hiring process”

State Police Col. Mike Edmonson says he’s been meeting with law enforcement around the country to learn more about practices implemented in other areas. He says they are extending training periods for officers to ensure they are better prepared for the field, as well as working to recruit better people for the job.

cut 11 (09) “law enforcement”

Edmonson says they also want to address how the public responds to police officers, especially young adults. He says many young people don’t know what to do if they get pulled over.

cut 12 (09) “open discussions”

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The ACLU of Louisiana is working together with parents after multiple students said they were strip searched at Caldwell Parish High School to find a student’s missing 42 dollars. Executive Director of the ACLU of Louisiana Marjorie Esman says the Supreme Court has ruled very clearly that this is a violation of the law.

Cut 13 (10) “school policy”

Caldwell Parish School Superintendent John Gullatt says they are conducting an investigation themselves and has apologized to the families involved. Esman says the ACLU and the parents of the students are discussing how to move forward and only time will tell if they decide to take legal action but…

cut 14 (09) “officials involved”

It’s been reported a teacher and principal have been placed on administrative leave in connection with the searches. Esman says moving forward, the school needs to alter how they deal with matters like this.

Cut 15 (10) “law is”