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”

The House Judiciary Committee meets today to discuss ways to improve race relations in Louisiana following the tragic events of this summer. Don Molino has more…

CUT 1 (26) “I’m Don Molino”

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As flu season approaches, the Louisiana Department of Health reminds everyone to get their flu shot. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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There’s been accusations of illegal strip searches of students at Caldwell Parish High School, and the school superintendent admits the search for a missing $42 went too far. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (27) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A state legislative committee meets this morning to discuss on lawsuits against oil and gas companies by five coastal parishes, claiming these companies polluted and destroyed their land. House Natural Resources Chairman Stuart Bishop of Lafayette says there has been a lot of talk about these lawsuits and he wanted to have a public discussion.

cut 4  (10) “these lawsuits””

The parishes filing suit are Jefferson, Plaqumines, St. Bernard, Vermilion and Cameron. But Bishop says there is also those parishes like Terrebonne and Lafourche who oppose the lawsuits and do not want to participate, so what does this mean for them?

Cut 5  (10)  “the parishes”

A state law requires oil and gas companies to maintain and restore land used back to its original condition. Any money gained from a suit would go to restoring over 1,900 square feet of damaged coast. Bishop says representatives from the 20 coastal parishes affected will be present at the meeting.

Cut 6 (10) “thus far”

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The state House Judiciary Committee begins two days of meetings today to discuss universal training for police officers, as well as de-escalation tactics. Monroe Representative Katrina Jackson says the goal of the hearings is to improve the trust between police and the public, especially African-Americans who feel they’ve been targeted by law enforcement.

CUT 7 (09)  “with solutions”

Jackson says they plan to discuss community partnerships with law enforcement that can enhance respect for law enforcement in the communities they police.

Cut 8 (07) “will be there”

She says they need to look at ways that people on both sides can deescalate a situation in a way that keeps both police and the public safe. She says the purpose of the hearings is to start conversations about improving relations and building trust.

Cut 9 (06)  “vet everything”

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Flu season is just around the corner, and the Louisiana Department of Health urges everyone to go out and get their flu shot. Dr. Frank Welch with LDH says despite what some people may think, getting a flu shot will not give someone the flu, and everyone needs to get vaccinated even if they got the shot last year.

Cut 10 (08) “changes itself”

In years past, people had an option to get protected from flu in the form of a nasal spray, rather than an injection. But Welch says the nasal vaccine is not be available this year.

cut 11 (09) “at all”

The flu causes 500 deaths and nearly 3,000 hospitalizations every year in Louisiana. Welch says infants, elderly people, pregnant women, and people with chronic health conditions are at the greatest risk for complications from the flu. But he says it’s important for everyone to get their flu shot, even if they are not in those high risk groups.

cut 12 (09) “everyone else”

Welch says people should stay home if they are sick, wash their hands, and cover their cough to avoid spreading the virus.

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Candidates for US Senate went at it in the first statewide televised debate. GOP Congressman John Fleming was quick to attack his Republican colleague in the US House, Congressman Charles Boustany. While answering a question about his willingness to compromise, he directed his response towards Boustany saying, it’s important to get things done, but more important to get the things done right.

Cut 13 (10) “heaven’s sake”

Meanwhile, Democratic Public Service Commissioner Foster Campbell had strong words for Republican State Treasurer John Kennedy after Kennedy claimed he convinced the legislature to invest money from a tobacco settlement.

cut 14 (10) “no vote”

Campbell kept at it with Kennedy, asking Boustany to respond to a campaign ad from the Treasurer in which he jokes about suicide. In Kennedy’s ad, he says that he would rather drink weed killer than take part in the political games in Washington.

Cut 15 (09) “joking matter”

Kennedy also had a lot to say about his Republican opponents. He spoke about what the so-called club in Washington has done, promising not to be a part of it if elected.

Cut 16  (11)  “of themselves”

Democratic attorney Caroline Fayard even made a jab at Kennedy over his support of former-governor Bobby Jindal. Fayard says the Jindal administration led the state into debt under Kennedy’s watch.

Cut 17 (09) “which is it”

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LSU players are just like LSU fans, they are excited to have running back Leonard Fournette back on the field after miss the last two games because of an ankle sprain. Offensive guard Josh Boutte says it makes the Tigers ground attack much more potent…

Cut 18 (10) “running game”

LSU wide receiver Malachi Dupre scored his first two touchdowns of the season last week. It’s been tough first half of the season for Dupre who has just 18 catches in six games. But the former John Curtis star says he’s maintained a positive attitude during his struggles…

Cut 19 (19)   “it happened”

Last year Ole Miss beat LSU 38-17. The Rebels blew the game open with three touchdowns in the second quarter. LSU defensive end Arden Key says it was a painful loss…

cut 20 (12) “for em”

Attorney General Jeff Landry reacts to a state judge ruling in his favor in a lawsuit filed by Governor John Bel Edwards. Emelie Gunn…

CUT 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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A Louisiana man is suing the state over a law that prevents him from getting married because he doesn’t have a birth certificate. Michelle Southern has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Attorney General Jeff Landry is pleased a Baton Rouge judge has ruled in his favor in a lawsuit filed against him by Governor John Bel Edwards. A judge says Landry does NOT have to sign off on state contracts that contain language to protect against LGBT discrimination in the workplace. Landry says the question of the power of the attorney general has been resolved but…

Cut 3 (09) “to bed”

In April, Governor Edwards issued an executive order that prohibited discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity to be included in most state contracts. Landry has since blocked dozens of state contracts, because he says the state legislature on many occasions has refused to protect LGBT individuals from discrimination in state law.

cut 4  (08) “objecting to”

Governor Edwards’ spokesperson Richard Carbo says the governor is reviewing his legal option, but says ruling does not impact the merits of the executive order. But Landry is still concerned the executive order is too overreaching.

Cut 5  (10)  “respect that”

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With 24 candidates in the US Senate race, it may come as a surprise that many Louisiana voters struggle to name even one. We asked Louisiana residents if they knew any of the two dozen candidates.

Cut 6 (10) “after that no”

The sidewalk pop quiz comes just ahead of tonight’s first statewide televised debate, which airs at 7pm on LPB. Some respondents were familiar with one candidate, but more for his controversial past than his current campaign.

CUT 7 (07)  “anybody else”

Analysts have said that voters are paying much more attention to what’s happening with presidential candidates Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton. This woman says it’s not surprising voters are not tuned into the Senate race.

Cut 8 (09) “some more”

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A Louisiana man is suing over a state law that requires couples seeking marriage licenses to present a birth certificate, which can pose a problem for those born outside the US. 31-year-old Victor Vo of Lafayette has lived in this country since he was 3 months old and became a U.S. citizen when he was eight and recently had his marriage license application rejected by a court clerk. Attorney Marley Ann Brumme is representing Vo and says the law is unconstitutional and discriminatory.

Cut 9 (10)  “born abroad”

Denham Springs Representative Valarie Hodges wrote the 2015 law in question. She says it’s an effort to prevent marriage fraud. But Brumme says the law is overstepping the state’s authority.

Cut 10 (08) “with Louisiana”

Hodges says no law is perfectly written, and she is committed to tweaking the language if necessary. But managing director of the New Orleans Workers Center for Racial Justice, Audrey Stewart, says Louisiana has a long history of discriminating against immigrants.

cut 11 (11) “to rights”

Hodges says she is working with Attorney General Jeff Landry to ensure that those who are in this country legally are encouraged and able to get married in Louisiana, whether they are native born or legal immigrants.

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In the race for the 3rd Congressional District, it appears as though it’s GOP Public Service Commissioner Scott Angelle’s race to lose, as he’s raised more than rest of the field combined. UL-Lafayette Political Science Professor Pearson Cross says this goes along with how the race has been from the very beginning…:

cut 12 (08) “and money”

Third Quarter Federal Elections Commission records show Angelle has over $1 million dollars in receipts through the third quarter, followed by little known Gus Rantz with more $620,000. Cross says Clay Higgins, a former police captain with the St. Landry Parish Sheriff’s Office, is arguably the second best-known candidate in the race….:

Cut 13 (09) “and so on”

Cross says also worth mentioning for a potential runoff spot is Democrat Larry Rader because many people in the district would never vote Republican. He says there’s also a former state Representative who is a favorite in the district’s western region…:

cut 14 (10) “constituency”

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The top five candidates for US Senate are taking the stage tonight for the first statewide televised debate, which will air at 7pm on LPB. Don Molino has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Don Molino”

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A survey of 800 likely Louisiana voters finds the margin between Presidential candidates Republican Donald Trump and Democrat Hillary Clinton is shrinking. Emelie Gunn has more….

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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According to the finance website ValuePenguin, Louisiana is home to two of the most dangerous highways in the country. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Two interstate highways that stretch across Louisiana are ranked among the most dangerous roads in the country, according to a new report from the finance website ValuePenguin. Interstates 10 and 20 came in at numbers four and 8 respectively on the list. Research analyst Craig Casazza says I-10 is the second darkest interstate, and it’s also known for drunk drivers.

cut 4  (08) “lit areas””

The report found that Louisiana has the third most fatal stretch of I-10, with a fatality rate of nearly 55 deadly accidents per 100 miles. Casazza says I-20 came in as the fifth darkest and eighth most dangerous highway with a fatality rate is 43 fatal crashes per 100 miles.

Cut 5  (08)  “looked at”

The most dangerous part of I-49 in Louisiana runs through Shreveport, and New Orleans is the most dangerous city for traffic fatalities in the state. Casazza says through the report, ValuePenguin wants to raise awareness about the dangerous conditions along these highways.

Cut 6 (08) “policy changes”

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Five of the 24 candidates for US Senate will go head to head tonight in the first statewide televised debate of the race. Republicans Charles Boustany, John Fleming and John Kennedy, along with Democrats Foster Campbell and Caroline Fayard are the candidates who will participate tonight. ULM political science professor Dr. Joshua Stockley says this will give voters an opportunity to hear from them in a more spontaneous fashion.

CUT 7 (11)  “the candidates”

The debate begins at 7 PM on LPB. Kennedy and Boustany have been attacking each other during the race. Boustany has even accused Kennedy of spreading allegations that Boustany was involved with prostitutes. Stockley says we will likely see more of that hostility in tonight’s showdown.

Cut 8 (11) “to continue”

Stockley says the attacks won’t be limited to the GOP candidates. He says Campbell and Fayard will each have to pitch themselves as the best Democrat for the job, as they’re fighting to make it into the runoff, since it’s doubtful two Democrats will make it.

Cut 9 (11)  “each other”

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A poll of 800 likely Louisiana voters shows the presidential race in the state is tightening up. The survey conducted by JMC Analytics finds Republican candidate Donald Trump at 45-percent, but Democrat Hillary Clinton has creeped up to 38-percent. In July, Trump had a 15-percentage point lead. Pollster John Couvillon says white female Democrats are helping to narrow the gap.

Cut 10 (07) “race up”

The survey was conducted October 11-15, after a recording was released of Trump making lewd comments about women. Couvillon says after looking at the national polls, he thinks these allegations against the billionaire affected this survey.

cut 11 (10) “allegations”

The poll was commissioned by the John Fleming for U.S Senate campaign. Couvillon believes Trump will win Louisiana by a high single digit margin. He says the race is much tighter in the Baton Rouge and New Orleans, but Trump has a wider lead in the rural areas of the state.

cut 12 (10) “parishes”

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A Baton Rouge judge has ruled in favor of Attorney General Jeff Landry for his refusal to sign state contracts that protect against LGBT discrimination, in spite of an executive order signed by Governor John Bel Edwards in April. Legal analyst Clancy Dubos says Landry is clearly trying to make a political statement, and in this case the judge has agreed with him.

Cut 13 (10) “any contract”

Edwards filed the lawsuit in September because the AG has refused to sign upwards of 40 state contracts containing language that prevents discrimination against the LGBT community. The governor could appeal the court’s decision or file another lawsuit. Dubos says even after this ruling, it still remains to be seen how this will play out.

cut 14 (06) “from over”

Judge Donald Johnson said state law is unclear about who has the final say regarding state contracts, but Edwards cannot force Landry to move contracts with this kind of provision forward. Dubos says Landry may have ulterior political motives in denying the contracts.

Cut 15 (09) “right now”

The Governor’s Office issued a statement in response to the defeat, saying it is in no way a ruling on the merits of the executive order, and he is reviewing his legal options. Landry posted a statement on Twitter following the decision, applauding Judge Johnson for his attentiveness, preparation, and judgement.

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After missing the last two games because of an ankle injury, LSU running back Leonard Fournette is expected to play this Saturday against 23rd ranked Ole Miss. Tigers Head Coach Ed Orgeron says not being able to play has been tough on his All-American tailback…

Cut 16  (16)  “his hand”

Starting left guard Will Clapp could also play this Saturday after missing the Southern Miss contest with an arm injury. While Coach “O” says tackle Toby Weathersby and tight end Foster Moreau would be questionable. Last year, Ole Miss beat LSU 38-17. Orgeron says he has not forgotten that humbling loss in Oxford…

Cut 17 (21) “fix this week”

Ole Miss brings a 3-3 record into Baton Rouge as they are 1-and-2 in the SEC. But the Rebels have the best pass offense in the SEC, averaging 320 yards through the air. Orgeron says Ole Miss Head Coach Hugh Freeze is one of the best offensive coaches in college football…

Cut 18 (22) “he’s doing there”

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Louisiana Tech running back Jaqwis Dancy will miss the rest of the season as he’s been diagnosed with cancer. Coach Skip Holtz says the sophomore from Arkansas has been diagnosed with Stage 3 Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. Holtz says the team learned about Dancy’s cancer fight earlier this month and it’s helped bring the team together….

Cut 19 (17)   “Louisiana Tech”

Hodgkin’s lymphoma is a treatable form of cancer of the lymphatic system. He played in all 13 games as a freshman, but did not play this season because of an ankle injury. Holtz says the team will wear a special decal on their helmet in honor of Dancy…

cut 20 (21) “love em”

PSC Chairman and former Congressman Clyde Holloway of Forrest Hill has passed away at 72. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Louisiana’s high school graduation rate has hit a new high, as has the overall US rate. Michelle Southern reports on today’s numbers released by the White House.

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Food prices at the grocery store are down 13-percent from last year. That’s based on a survey from the American Farm Bureau. Louisiana Farm Bureau specialist Neil Melancon says the quarterly survey looks at prices of sixteen different food items and the numbers look much better than they did this time last year.

Cut 3 (08) “year ago”

Steak prices are down 11-percent, while chicken breasts are down 16-pecent and bacon decreased by 3-percent. Melancon says there was a spike in meat prices a few years ago, because the demand outweighed the supply of livestock, but the like livestock supply has been rebuilt.

cut 4  (08) “are now”

Prices for eggs have plummeted a whopping 51-percent, and whole milk is down 10-percent. Melancon expects the next survey, which will be conducted before Thanksgiving, will continue to show lower prices at the grocery store..

Cut 5  (09)  “out there”

Melancon says of the 16 items on the survey, only three increased in price- bagged salad by 16-percent, apples by 10-percent, and potatoes by 3-percent.

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Chairman of the Public Service Commission and former Congressman Clyde Holloway of Forrest Hill has passed away at the age of 72. Former state representative and close friend of Holloway, Woody Jenkins, says Holloway was the type of man who took the initiative and didn’t wait for someone else to tell him what needed to be done.

Cut 6 (10) “mobilize people”

A cause of death was not given. Jenkins says Holloway was an honest man with traditional conservative principles. He says Holloway fought hard to help his hometown of Forrest Hill and wasn’t afraid to run for any political office.

CUT 7 (09)  “the effort”

Holloway served as one of five members of the PSC since 2009, and served in the US House of Representatives from 1987-1993. Louisiana Republican Party Chairman Roger Villere says Holloway was one of the founders of the conservative movement in the state.

Cut 8 (10) “state well”

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A new survey released by JMC Analytics finds democratic Public Service Commissioner Foster Campbell tops the poll, coming in at over 23-percent. Pollster John Couvillon says democratic voters are rallying behind Campbell. He says fellow Democrat Caroline Fayard polls at 9-percent, so Campbell’s message seems to be getting out to minority voters.

Cut 9 (07)  “governor”

Couvillon says it looks like it’s now a fight for the second spot in the runoff with Republicans John Kennedy, John Fleming, and Charles Boustany all on each other’s heels. He says right now Kennedy is leading Fleming by one point, but Fleming is well positioned to make the runoff.

Cut 10 (10) “tight race”

The poll was commissioned by the Fleming campaign. Couvillon says Campbell is essentially a lock for the runoff. But he says we can be expect to see a big ramp up in ads from the three major republican candidates.

cut 11 (07) “etcetera”

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The US graduation rate is at an all time high, and so is Louisiana’s. According to a report released by the White House, the Bayou State’s graduation rate for 2014-2015 is 77.5 percent, compared to 74.6 percent the prior year. Louisiana Superintendent of Education John White…:

cut 12 (09) “future for life”

The overall US graduation rate went up to 83- percent. White says years ago Louisiana committed that graduating from high school would be a part of our state’s high school rating system…:

Cut 13 (08) “to make sure it happens”

The numbers from Washington show Asian Americans had a 90.2 percent graduation rate, whites were 88-percent and African Americans at 75-percent. White says Louisiana also has unfortunate gaps between low income students and their peers. He says Louisiana outpaces the nation in terms of improvement, but there is still a long way to go…:

cut 14 (10) “here at home in Louisiana”

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Governor John Bel Edwards and AG Jeff Landry are in court today after the governor sued Landry for blocking protections for members of the LGBT community. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Just weeks after flood victims rolled out of what was a shelter at Celtic Studios in Baton Rouge, camera crews could be rolling in. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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New data from the Associated Press and USA Today shows Louisiana has the second highest rate of accidental shootings involving minors. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Governor John Bel Edwards and Attorney General Jeff Landry are in court today after the governor sued the AG for blocking state legal contracts that had wording to protect members of the LGBT community from workplace discrimination. Jeremy Alford of Lapoltics.com says it’s very unusual to see statewide elected officials sue another…

cut 4  (10) “laws””

Alford says the Governor is making moves by executive order and expects we’ll continue to see these trends throughout the remainder of his term. He says this could be a tough case for the judge to decide.

Cut 5  (09)  “coming term”

Alford says this feud between Governor Edwards and AG Landry has really been going on since the day the two were sworn into office and expects it will continue…

Cut 6 (10) “2019”

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Lights, camera, action! Those words haven’t been spoken at Celtic Studios in Baton Rouge in over a year, but that could change soon, as Louisiana’s film industry is starting to show signs of life. Executive Director Patrick Mulhearn says calls are starting to come in from companies who want to film in Louisiana. He says it’s encouraging to see a light at the end of the tunnel.

CUT 7 (09)  “very soon”

Louisiana’s film industry has seen a downturn because of a 2015 law that placed a capped on the state’s film tax credit program. But Mulhearn believes film companies now have a better understanding of the credits available. He hopes next year, lawmakers will switch the program from a back end cap to a front end cap.

Cut 8 (10) “business here”

Mulhearn says he met with two different productions on the same day, and he hasn’t done that in over a year. He says it looks like things are looking up for Louisiana’s film industry.

Cut 9 (08)  “than later”

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Louisiana ranks second in the nation for accidental shootings involving minors, nearly three times more than the national average. That’s according to new data from the Associated Press and USA today. East Baton Rouge District Attorney Hillar Moore says what we don’t know is how kids are getting their hands on these weapons.

Cut 10 (09) “like that”

Alaska was the only state to top Louisiana on the list. The report found Baton Rouge had more accidental shootings than any other city in the Deep South. Moore says often times parents know or suspect that their child has a gun, but they don’t do anything about it.

cut 11 (10) “frustrating part”

The district attorney says there is no state law on the books to make parents responsible for accidental shootings involving children. Moore says that’s why prosecutors can’t charge parents for criminal negligence in allowing these kids to get ahold of a gun.

cut 12 (07) “had it”

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Voters will have a lot to consider on November 8^th. In addition to the federal elections and local races, six constitutional amendments are on the ballot. The Public Affairs Research Council published a guide that explains the proposals to voters. PAR president Robert Travis Scott says three of the amendments will have a big impact on state policy, and one will affect college tuition.

Cut 13 (11) “vote”

Scott says amendment number three would change the state’s corporate tax income structure. He says Louisiana has an upper rate of 8-percent for corporate income taxes, which is relatively high compared to other states in the region. But he says companies are able to take a lot of deductions and exemptions.

cut 14 (11) “for corporations”

Scott says amendment five would create a new state fund, similar to the rainy day fund. He says the Revenue Stabilization Trust Fund would trim tax revenue off the top of mineral and corporate taxes during times when they are good, and put that money back to save for when the cycle goes back down.

Cut 15 (12) “for it”

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LSU and Southern Miss were tied at ten at halftime on Saturday night in Death Valley, but the Tigers erupted for four 3rd quarter touchdowns and defeated the Golden Eagles 45-10.  Running back Derrius Guice’s 61 yard touchdown early in the third quarter started a very good second half for the Tigers…

Cut 16  (13)  “second half”

Guice finished with 162 yards rushing and two touchdowns. Danny Etling threw for 3 touchdowns and 276 yards. Etling talked about what Coach Orgeron said at halftime…

Cut 17 (10) “pretty nice”

Etling threw two long touchdown passes in the game, one to DJ Chark and the other to Malachi Dupre. Orgeron liked that LSU was able to hit on a few deep balls…

Cut 18 (11) “stiffer opponents”

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The Saints have a winning streak. New Orleans raced out to a 21-0 lead over the defending NFC championship Carolina Panthers and had to hold for a 41-38 victory. The Saints led by two touchdowns at halftime and Carolina tied it with three touchdowns in the 4th quarter. But rookie Will Lutz kicked a 52-yard field goal with 11 seconds left for the win. Coach Sean Payton on their second consecutive victory

Cut 19 (11)   “do that”

Quarterback Drew Brees threw for 465 yards and four touchdowns, he was also intercepted once. Brandin Cooks had 7 catches for 173 yards and one touchdown. But the 52-yard field goal by Lutz was the difference. Payton is very high on the 22-year-old.

cut 20 (18) ” mental toughness”

Following an explosion at Camp Minden in September, a plan has put into place to dispose over 200-thousand pounds of explosives that contain an unstable chemical compound. Jeff Palermo has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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At the second meeting of the Restore Louisiana Task Force, Congressman Garret Graves urges members to move quickly as more federal aid is coming. Don Molino has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Don Molino”

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Officials announce plans to dispose of volatile explosives at Camp Minden in Webster Parish that led to a bunker exploding in September. Department of Environmental Quality Secretary Chuck Brown says there are three bunkers that contain Clean Burning Ignitor, which is deteriorating and becoming more unstable by the day. He says on Monday they will open the doors of one of the bunkers and let the fire out.

Cut 3 (12) “taking off”

The chemical compounds are being stored at Camp Minden after they had been improperly stored by an explosives company that went out of business. The Louisiana National Guard has been burning off M6 propellant in contained burning chambers. Brown says nearly 200-thousand pounds of the CBI will be destroyed, as well as 40-thousand pounds of M6 propellant.

cut 4  (09) “ignitor”

Officials have set three separate dates to burn each of the bunkers, Monday, October 22, and October 29. It will take place early in the morning to take advantage of calm wind. Brown says DEQ and the EPA will be on hand to monitor the air quality. He says they do not anticipate a chain reaction of explosions with their plan.

Cut 5  (10)  “plan in place”

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A 20-year-old Baton Rouge man has been charged with negligent homicide in the shooting death of his mother. BRPD Sgt. L’Jean McKneely says the 37-year-old mother and her son got into a verbal argument, which turned physical…

Cut 6 (10) “striking her”

McKneely says when authorities arrived at the scene, Dexter Clay Jr. was applying pressure to the wound on his mother, Melissa Clay. He says Dexter Clay fully cooperated with police…

CUT 7 (07)  “negligent homicide”

McKneely says the mother was transported to a local hospital where she later died. He says the shooting was clearly an accident…

Cut 8 (10) “through it”

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Flood recovery discussions are ongoing, as the Restore Louisiana Task Force is deciding how to spend the $438 million the state has received so far from the federal government. Republican Baton Rouge Congressman Garrett Graves says they will seek more federal assistance, but it’s important for the state to decide quickly how they’ll allocate the first installment of federal funds.

Cut 9 (10)  “be spent”

Graves says Louisiana’s congressional delegation will seek additional funding from Congress when they return for their lame duck session after the November election. He says the Comite River Diversion project and other flood mitigation plans will be at the top of the list for their funding request.

Cut 10 (07) “and businesses”

Graves says the task force needs to come up with specific areas that need disaster funding, like home repair and mental health. He says it will be easier to get federal dollars approved if Congress understands exactly where the money will go.

cut 11 (10) “next request”

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A 12-year-old and a 14-year-old have been arrested for vandalizing over 50 graves and smashing urns in an Independence Cemetery. Vincent Spitale, president of Colonial Cemetery Association, says this is very upsetting for the families as they have to go through the grieving process again. He says so many things were destroyed.

cut 12 (10) “cement floor”

The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office has charged the teens with multiple counts of criminal damage to property, desecration of a grave and simple burglary. Spitale says all the name plates were broken and the doors will have to be replaced. He says he wishes he could understand why the teens did a heinous act like this…

Cut 13 (03) “from it”

Spitale says they aren’t sure how much it will cost to repair the cemetery. He says family members of those whose graves were damaged or destroyed came out to see the destruction.

cut 14 (07) “this time”

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LSU will be without one of their starting safeties in Saturday night’s game against Southern Miss. Head Coach Ed Orgeron says senior Rickey Jefferson suffered a serious leg injury in practice this week….

Cut 15 (14) “I know that”

Junior John Battle will take Jefferson’s spot in the starting line-up.. Coach O’ says the whole team is ready to play after an unexpected week off and the death of the school’s live mascot…

Cut 16  (12)  “on Saturday night”