Louisiana has the best business climate for construction, according to a report from American Builders and Contractors. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Canadian air is moving towards Louisiana and bringing winter weather with it. Jeff Palermo reports…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A mental health reform bill co-authored by U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy is on its way to be signed into law by President Obama. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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A report from American Builders and Contractors ranks Louisiana as the best business climate for construction. Vice President of Governmental Affairs with ABC of Louisiana, John Walters, says that’s due in large part to legislation state lawmakers have passed that benefits the construction industry.

cut 4  (12) “labor agreements”

Walters says the report shows you can have a very good career in the construction industry and there’s a demand for those workers.

Cut 5  (11)  “in Louisiana”

Another ABC report ranked Louisiana 8^th for year-to-year changes in the construction unemployment rate. Walters says that’s because projects come and go in the Bayou State. But he’s optimistic that this new ranking will persuade more companies to build in Louisiana.

Cut 6 (11) “of workers”

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Tis the season for holiday parties, and that means your company Christmas party too. Tulane business professor Dr. Mark Rosa says now that we’re out of the recession, he expects most companies will throw parties this year.

CUT 7 (08)  “get-together”

Rosa encourages everyone to attend their company’s holiday party. He says corporations put on these events so that employees can get together and socialize. He says it’s important to circulate at the party and detach from technology.

Cut 8 (08) “somebody else”

Rosa says people should avoid “talking shop” at their office parties and keep the conversation light, and they should avoid running out early. He says people can have fun at their company parties, but says moderation is key.

Cut 9 (08)  “in moderation”

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Cold temperatures are on the way to the Bayou State. That’s according to state climatologist Barry Keim, who says it’s time for Louisianans to break out the winter gear.

Cut 10 (10)  “the state”

Keim says people in some areas of the state will want to bring an umbrella with them today. And high temperatures will only be in the 40s for most of the state.

cut 11 (09) “from Louisiana”

Keim says below freezing temperatures will arrive before the weekend starts.

cut 12 (12) “southern half”

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A landmark mental health reform bill co-authored by Republican U.S Senator Bill Cassidy is on its way to be signed into law by the President. Cassidy says this measure will expand access to resources for those who need treatment for mental illnesses

Cut 13 (10) “health needs”

Cassidy says this legislation will also keep mentally ill individuals from going to jail and instead allow them to receive out-patient treatment. He says family members will also have an easier time to converse with doctors about the mental health of a loved one.

cut 14 (11) “mental illness”

The Mental Health Reform Act of 2016 also strengthens suicide prevention. And he says the measure will provide more funding for the massive opioid crisis.

Cut 15 (10) “that addiction”

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The Saints are getting to play one of the hotter teams in the NFC. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have won four in a row and moved into a first place tie with Atlanta in the NFC South. New Orleans quarterback Drew Brees says Tampa Bay is doing a lot of things well on defense…

Cut 16 (19) “opportunistic”

Brees was one of several current and former Saints players who were on hand for the opening day of testimony in the Will Smith murder trial. He says him and wife Brittany wanted to be there for Smith’s widow, Racquel

Cut 17 (19)    “that time”

President-elect Donald Trump will be in Baton Rouge Friday to encourage Louisianans to vote for Republican John Kennedy for U.S. Senate. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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More than $1 billion in Community Development Block Grants for Louisiana is included in a continuing resolution that’s moving through Congress. Michelle Southern has more…

Cut 2 (28) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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An entire family from Bunkie has been arrested on bomb making charges. Avoyelles Sheriff Doug Anderson says they executed a warrant on 38-year-old Jenus Juneau, who was accused of stealing $12-thousand worth of household goods, guns, and jewelry on Sunday.

Cut 3 (12) “zone established”

Anderson says Juneau’s wife, Kristina, and their two 19-year-old children were also charged with manufacture and possession of delayed action incendiary device. He says they’re still working to determine why this family was making pipe bombs.

cut 4  (09) “reason why”

Bond was set at $50-thousand for Jenus, who is also charged with theft, and $40-thousand for the rest of the family.

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The Republican Party of Louisiana has confirmed President-elect Donald Trump will be in Baton Rouge on Friday for a get out to vote rally encouraging voters to cast their ballot for Republican John Kennedy for U.S. Senate. UL-Lafayette Political Science Professor Pearson Cross expects a huge frenzy of supporters to be in attendance.

Cut 5  (09)  “a bottle”

The event is open to the general public, but they must RSVP. Cross says Trump understands the importance of having another Republican in the Senate. He says he’ll have a clear message to voters.

Cut 6 (09) “to do”

The event beings at noon inside the Dow Chemical Hanger at the Baton Rouge Airport. Cross says Trump’s visit isn’t really necessary given Kennedy is leading Democrat Foster Campbell by double digits in the polls, but it’s a nice gesture by the President-elect.

CUT 7 (09)  “Kennedy”

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The US House Appropriations Committee has approved a continuing resolution that contains $1.2 billion in Community Development Block Grants for Louisiana flood relief. The governor’s communications director Richard Carbo says they still have a long way to go, but they’re thankful for the support their seeing from Congress.

Cut 8 (12) “as possible”

Carbo says it’s not the full amount they’re requesting, but they’re pleased with this allocation, which will be used to help flooded homeowners. He adds that Congress should be voting on the proposal by the end of the week, which will also contain dollars to fund other flood repair projects.

Cut 9 (10)  “for Louisiana”

Carbo says the governor will head back to Washington in the spring to seek the additional funding Louisiana needs for flood recovery. He says the federal government has outlined the guidelines for allocating the $438 million the state has already received, and the state is working on the plan for spending the money.

Cut 10 (09) “record pace”

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LSU releases the details on defensive coordinator Dave Aranda’s new three-year contract extension that also makes him the associate head coach. Tiger Rag Editor Cody Worsham says he’s earned the distinction of being the highest paid assistant in college football.

cut 11 (08) “every dollar “

Aranda’s contract runs until March of 2020 and includes a first year salary of 1.8 million dollars. It goes up to 1.9 million in the final year. Worsham expects whoever is hired as the offensive coordinator will receive a similar salary.

cut 12 (10) “it is”

Aranda’s deal is pending approval from the LSU Board of Supervisors. Worsham says the contract contains buyout language that favors LSU, which means Aranda should be here for awhile…

Cut 13 (10) “have him”

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The Department of Children and Family Services is excited to announce Louisiana broke a record for the number of children adopted in a year. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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AAA warns against drowsy driving this holiday season. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Former and currents Saints players showed up for the first day of Will Smith’s murder trial. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Louisiana broke the state’s record for the number of foster children adoptions within a year. 735 children were adopted by 532 families between October of 2015 and September of 2016. Department of Children and Family Services Secretary Marketa Garner Walters says she couldn’t be more thankful for these families.

cut 4  (09) “can celebrate”

Walters says all of the children in state care have a history of either abuse or neglect with a big majority being under the age of five. She says while it’s exciting so many children found foster homes, many are still without a family.

Cut 5  (10)  “this year”

For information on adopting a foster child, visit the department of children and family services website. Walters says many people adopt more than one child with 109 families adopting two kids, 19 families adopting three and nine adopting four children. She says foster parents get so much out of adoption…

Cut 6 (11) “a parent”

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With people getting ready to hit the road for holiday travels, AAA warns drivers to avoid drowsy driving. According to the AAA Foundation report, you double the chances of getting into a wreck if you only get 5 to 6 hours of sleep, and the risk increases by 11 if you get less than four hours of shut eye. Spokesperson Don Redman says being tired behind the wheel is a form of impairment.

CUT 7 (08)  “of cocktails”

Redman says nearly 21-percent of fatal crashes result in people falling asleep behind wheel, resulting in about 75-hundred fatalities nationwide a year. He says it’s no surprise most drowsy driving is reported between 2 am and 5 am. But he says a lot of people admit to being tired behind the wheel in broad daylight.

Cut 8 (08) “the wheel”

AAA finds that nearly one in three drivers admitted to drowsy driving at least once in the past month. Redman says there are ways people can avoid being tired while driving on long trips.

Cut 9 (09)  “more sleep”

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Ronald Gasser, the man accused of fatally shooting former NFL player and John Curtis star Joe McKnight last week, has been charged with manslaughter, so what will be the key factors in a likely trial? Legal analyst Tim Meche says Gasser’s testimony will be the biggest factor. He says if Gasser can explain a reasonable fear to the jury, he could be found not guilty….

Cut 10 (10)  “the defendant”

Jefferson Parish Sheriff Newell Normand says it’s possible the manslaughter charge could be upgraded or downgraded based on future evidence. Meche says the Jefferson Parish D-A’s office could also let a grand jury have a say….

cut 11 (11) “of him”

Meche says it appears the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office conducted a very professional investigation in a tidal wave of criticism, which will likely help them build a better case. He says there is a state law that will play a big role in this case and that gives a person the right to shoot and kill someone attempting to invade your vehicle…

cut 12 (10) “this case”

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The first day of the murder trial for former-Saints star Will Smith was filled with emotional testimony. Loyola law professor Dane Ciolino says the biggest surprise was that former running back Deuce McAllister took the stand early in the day to testify about his friendship with Smith and his time with the Saints.

Cut 13 (12) “and celebrity”

Current and former Saints players Drew Brees, Steve Gleason, Roman Harper, and Jahri Evans were also in the courtroom showing support for Smith’s family. Ciolino says it makes a difference who the victim is in any homicide case, which is the biggest problem Cardell Hayes’ defense is facing.

cut 14 (11) “self-defense case”

The prosecution is arguing that Hayes was the aggressor in the incident because he rammed Smith’s car. The defense says that Smith was the aggressor and that he was reaching for a gun. Ciolino says the jury being sequestered will make everyone want to get through with the trial as quickly as possible.

Cut 15 (11) “quicker pace”

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Some LSU fans are gearing up to head to Orlando for the Citrus Bowl later this month, but so far ticket sales are lagging a bit. That’s according to LSU ticket manager, Brian Broussard, who says so far only about 4-thousand tickets have been sold.

Cut 16 (11) “the game”

The Tigers will face Louisville in the bowl game on December 31. Broussard says they still have over 5-thousand tickets available through their ticket office and you can get a good seat at a good price.

Cut 17 (13)    “lower levels”

Broussard says this game will be a good matchup and hopes fans will come out and support the Tigers. He says LSU fans shouldn’t let the 11 am Eastern Time kickoff discourage them.

Cut 18 (09) “New Years”

Senator David Vitter gave his farewell speech on the Senate floor. Halen Doughty reports the Republican from Jefferson Parish is set to leave the Senate after 12-years. Jeff Palermo has more…

CUT 1 (26) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A new campaign ad for Democrat Foster Campbell features Governor John Bel Edwards urging residents to vote for the Public Service Commissioner in the US Senate runoff. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The Crescent City will be featured as the Central time zone location for Dick Clark’s Rockin’ New Year’s Eve nationally televised show. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 3 (29) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries has received 21 whooping cranes from Maryland in the last week, giving the Bayou State a total of 25 large birds that have been delivered to this state this year. LDWF Biologist Sara Zimorski says the Whooping Cranes will be spread out between two facilities…

cut 4  (10) “those locations”

Zimorski says currently, there are released 38 birds in the wild and the new arrivals will be counted into the population in a few weeks. She says it’s so important to receive these shipments given the low number of the whooping cranes in the state.

Cut 5  (08)  “here again”

The whooping crane was considered extinct in Louisiana in 1950, but for the last six years the state has been working to restore a solid population of these large birds back into the state. Zimorski says once released, the birds are encouraged to stay by being fed, but eventually they branch out on their own.

Cut 6 (09) “natural foods”

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Senator David Vitter gave his farewell speech on the Senate floor Monday, as he will leave the office he’s held since January 2005. Vitter says as a Louisiana state legislator he worked to impose term limits here, as well as authoring the leading term limits measure for Congress. He says that’s why he’s imposing one on himself.

CUT 7 (11)  “term limits”

Vitter says in his tenure he’s worked to protect 2^nd Amendment rights and the right to life. He says he’s helped stopped automatic pay raises in Washington and worked on Obamacare reform to make the healthcare more patient oriented.

The outgoing Senator thanked embers of his team, his colleagues, and friends in Washington. But he says he owes the most to his wife, Wendy.

Cut 8 (11) “fireball shots”

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In a new ad, Governor John Bel Edwards asks residents to vote for Democrat Foster Campbell in Saturday’s US Senate race. In the 30-second spot, Edwards says Campbell could be the deciding vote against substantial cuts to social security and Medicare. ULM political science Professor Dr. Joshua Stockley says as popular as the governor is, this ad likely won’t do much to help Campbell.

Cut 9 (08)  “this race”

Campbell will face Republican John Kennedy in the December 10 runoff. The governor says in the ad that Campbell supports equal pay for women, and he will bring tax dollars home for roads, bridges, and coastal restoration. Stockley says while the ad is a nice gesture, it’s probably too little too late.

Cut 10 (07)  “upset victory”

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We can expect to see some Louisiana leaders working in the Trump Administration either in the cabinet or administrative positions, according to Public Service Commissioner Eric Skrmetta, who led the Trump campaign in Louisiana. He says federal lawmakers from this state are recommending Louisiana residents to the transition team.

cut 11 (10) “in Louisiana”

Skrmetta says the President-elect has chosen strong leaders for the positions he’s filled so far, including appointing Dr. Ben Carson as the Secretary for the Department of Housing. Skrmetta says he’s even thrown his hat in the ring for available positions in the new administration.

cut 12 (09) “in Louisiana”

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New Orleans will now be featured as part of the 2017 Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest. Local Representative for Dick Clark Productions Gary Solomon says this is the first time in the show’s history that there will be another countdown in the Central time zone. He says it’s a real game changer for the Crescent City…

Cut 13 (10) “parade”

Solomon says a number of celebrities will perform and the biggest feature will be the crowd having a good time in the French Quarter…

cut 14 (11) “real win”

Solomon says Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin eve will cut to New Orleans throughout the five and a half hour nationally televised show. He says viewers will feel like they’re a part of the New Orleans culture.

Cut 15 (10) “Brewery drop”

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NFL Draft Analyst Mike Detillier believes LSU running back Leonard Fournette will be a top five pick in the 2017 NFL draft. Fournette announced he’s turning pro after the bowl game, even though he struggled to stay healthy this past season, because of an ankle injury. Detillier says Fournette is still one of the top NFL prospects in the upcoming draft class…

Cut 16 (10) “Johnathan Allen”

The NFL has become more of a passing league and a franchise running back is not desired as much as it was a decade ago.  But Detillier says we’ve seen two running backs drafted high in the first round recently and both have panned out well…

Cut 17 (17)    “he’s had “

When healthy, Fournette is one of the most explosive offensive players in the country. Detillier believes he has a shot to be the top overall pick…

Cut 18 (15) “ Texas A&M”

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Officials with the R-and-L Carriers New Orleans Bowl are expecting a big crowd for its bowl game on December 17th in the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. On that night, the Ragin Cajuns will face Southern Miss. Jay Cicero, C-E-O of the Greater New Orleans Sports Foundation, says it’s great match-up for their bowl…

Cut 19 (19)   “16 years”

The Cajuns are playing in the New Orleans Bowl for the fifth time in the last six years, while it’s also Southern Miss’ fifth appearance in the bowl game and first since 2009. Cicero says they expect 40-to-45-thousand fans for what should be a great game…

cut 20 (19)   “Superdome”

Only 171-thousand registered voters hit the polls for early voting for the runoff election, which is six percent of the state’s registered voters. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (28) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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A new survey out of Tulane reveals US Senate candidate Republican John Kennedy has a healthy lead in the race against Democrat Foster Campbell in the runoff. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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It’s a cold, rainy day across the Bayou State, and state climatologist Barry Keim says this is typical for winter in Louisiana. He says a storm is tracking across the southern part of the state today, bringing more of the wet weather we saw all weekend.

Cut 3 (12) “half inches”

Flash flood watches are in effect until 3pm in southwest and central Louisiana parishes. Keim says there’s also the potential for severe weather today in south Louisiana as warm air is colliding with cold air.

cut 4  (10) “about it”

Keim says the rain should finally move out of the state today and then we can get ready for our real dose of cold weather before the weekend arrives.

Cut 5  (10)  “and Friday”

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Officials with the Camping World Independence Bowl in Shreveport are excited about their December 26^th contest that pits North Carolina State versus Vanderbilt. Bowl Spokesperson Stefan Nolet says the ACC and SEC matchup marks the second time in three seasons the two conferences have played each other in this bowl. He says both teams finished the season strong.

Cut 6 (10) “game here”

Kick off for the Independence Bowl is at 4 p.m. Nolet expects Vanderbilt fans are excited because they haven’t been to a bowl since 2013 and seem to travel well. But he says traveling on the day after Christmas can be tough, but…

CUT 7 (07)  “federal holiday”

Louisiana Tech is also excited about its bowl destination. The Bulldogs will play 25^th ranked Navy on December 23^rd in Fort Worth, Texas in the Armed Forced Bowl. Athletic Director Tommy McClelland expects this will be a high scoring game. He says the kick-off is at 3 p.m. and predicts tons of fans will attend, like in past bowl games.

Cut 8 (09) “large crowd”

McClelland expects anywhere from 500 to a thousand students will attend the game. He says they were presented the option to play Army in the Heart of Dallas Bowl or a top 25 Navy team, so they selected the team that would give players another new experience.

Cut 9 (09)  “three years”

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Only 171-thousand of the state’s 3 million registered voters cast their ballots during the early voting period. Pollster John Couvillion, with JMC Analytics, predicts turnout for the runoff to be 35-percent, at the most. He says a runoff during the holiday season has always been bad for turnout, plus this Senate race isn’t exciting voters.

Cut 10 (08) “this one”

Couvillion says early voting data showed Democratic enthusiasm is lacking, with the percentage of black voters lower than in the primary. He says the only exception to this is in East Baton Rouge Parish, because of the hotly contested mayoral race.

cut 11 (12) “Weston-Broome”

Former State Senator Broome is facing Republican State Senator Bodi White in the Baton Rouge mayoral election. Only six percent of the state’s registered voters hit the polls for early voting. Couvillion says he was very impressed with the number of early voters in the primary, but….

cut 12 (10) “turnout”

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A new survey out of Tulane reveals Republican John Kennedy has a healthy lead over Democrat Foster Campbell in the Us Senate runoff. Brian Brox, associate professor of Political Science, says 59% of respondents said they would vote for Kennedy, while 40% said Campbell is their choice. He says the Republican has always been favored in Saturday’s race…:

Cut 13 (07) “characteristics”

The survey found that, when the presidential vote of the respondent is considered, nearly 83 percent of Trump voters said they plan to vote for Kennedy. Brox says it’s interesting that just 69 percent of Clinton voters said they would vote for Campbell. He attributes that to people that voted for Clinton, because they didn’t want to vote for Trump…:

cut 14 (09) “in the runoff”

Brox says supporters of the Senate candidate who did not make the runoff are splitting along partisan lines. He believes many voters feel that voting for the Democrat in this race means choosing the minority party since Republicans will control the Senate…:

Cut 15 (09) “power”

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December marks the peak of flu season, and the Louisiana Department of Health urges the public to get their flu shot. Jeff Palermo has more….

CUT 1 (29) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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The jury selection in the Cardell Hayes case, the man accused of killing former Saints player Will Smith, is scheduled to begin today. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (27) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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The France-Louisiana Cooperation Accord has been extended until 2020 after it was signed by Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The Louisiana Department of Health reminds the public that December is the start of peak flu season. Dr. Frank Welch with LDH says flu activity has been low so far this year, as only 2 out of every 100 doctor visits in Louisiana have been flu related. He says there are things people can do to avoid getting sick.

cut 4  (08) “other people”

Welch says we’re at a higher risk of catching the flu during the holiday season. He says many people think that’s because the weather is cold, but it’s really because people spend time in close quarters at holiday parties and avoiding the cold.

Cut 5  (09)  “those situations”

Welch advises people to clean frequently used surfaces like door knobs when they have people in their homes. He says it’s not too late to get a flu shot, but the shot takes two weeks to take effect. He says even though for most people the flu is a mild inconvenience, it’s important for everyone to get their shot because for some people, the flu can be life threatening.

Cut 6 (10) “you and I”

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A recent poll from Southern Media and Opinion Research finds Governor John Bel Edwards’ approval rating is at 63-percent. Pollster Bernie Pinsonat says that’s a big improvement over the governor’s approval rating earlier this year.

CUT 7 (10)  “we had”

A poll from Morning Consult found Edwards’ approval rating was only 45-percent in the spring, while a UNO poll showed 56-percent of respondents approved of his job performance in October. Pinsonat says Edwards’ response to all the floods, tornadoes, and other issues the state has seen this year may have helped boost his numbers.

Cut 8 (09) “8 months”

The poll also found that the state is split on the direction Louisiana is heading. Pinsonat says 41-percent of respondents believe the state is heading in the right direction, while 40-percent say it’s the wrong direction. He says that’s understandable given all the issues Louisiana faces.

Cut 9 (12)  “the state”

The poll shows 42-percent of voters think conditions will improve, while 19-percent say it will get worse.

________________________________________

The jury selection is expected to begin today in the trial of Cardell Hayes, the man accused of killing Former Saints defensive end Will Smith. A judge has determined that the jury will be sequestered for the entire trial.  Legal Analyst Chick Foret says it will be hard for potential jurors to leave their families during the holiday season.

Cut 10 (10)  “on Tuesday”

Foret says it’s important to make sure the jury will hear the testimony from the witnesses, the evidence and nothing else.

cut 11 (10) “Judge Buras”

Jurors will not have access to TV’s or telephones. But Foret says Judge Camille Buras has promised to move the case along quickly and trial testimony will be heard even on weekends.

cut 12 (08) “this case”

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Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser extends the France-Louisiana Cooperation Accords for four more years.  Nungesser says it’s a program that brings French teachers to teach the French history, culture, and language in Louisiana schools.

Cut 13 (11) “across Louisiana”

The agreement extends the mutual agreement until 2020. Nungesser says this program supports French immersion programs and the Francophone culture. He says learning French opens doors for Louisiana students.

cut 14 (10) “to them”

Nungesser says the first French course in Louisiana was offered in 1969, and the earliest teachers that were sent by France were military personnel. He says French culture is a huge part of Louisiana heritage.

Cut 15 (09) “in Louisiana”

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The Saints appear to be heading towards another losing season as New Orleans played poorly in a 28-13 loss to the Detroit Lions. The Black and Gold committed 10 penalties and Quarterback Drew Brees threw three interceptions. Detroit jumped out to a 10-0 lead, which did not please Coach Sean Payton…

Cut 16 (16) “lose that battle”

The loss drops New Orleans record to 5-7.The Black and Gold are heading towards their fourth losing season in the last five. Payton was frustrated during the post game…

Cut 17 (10)    “poor start “

Payton also denied rumors that the Saints are interested in trading wide receiver Brandin Cooks during the offseason..

Cut 18 (09) “ thanks”

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The LSU Tigers will conclude the 2016 season by facing Louisville in the Buffalo Wild Wings Citrus Bowl on New Year’s Eve day in Orlando, Florida. It will be an early start for the Tigers, as the game will kick-off at 11 AM eastern time. Nonetheless, LSU Head Coach Ed Orgeron is proud to represent the Bayou Bengals in the bowl game…

Cut 19 (18)   “at LSU”

The game will feature LSU’s stingy defense against one of the best players in college football. Louisville Quarterback Lamar Jackson is considered a front-runner to win the Heisman Trophy. Orgeron calls Jackson a dynamic athlete…

cut 20 (11)   “on defense”

Police say a suspect is behind bars following the fatal shooting on Bourbon Street that took one life and left 9 others injured. Michelle Southern has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Jefferson Parish Sheriff Newell Normand today urged people not to rush to judgment in the fatal shooting of former John Curtis standout and NFL player Joe McKnight, Jr. Emelie Gunn reports…:

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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An arrest has been made in the case of the Bourbon Street shooting that left Demontris Toliver dead and 9 others injured. NOPD Chief Michael Harrison says 20-year-old Jordan Clay of Lafayette has been charged with 2^nd degree murder. He says a multi-agency investigation led to his arrest.

Cut 3 (12) “federal partners”

Harrison says Clay was arrested in St. Martin parish, where he is currently being held as he awaits extradition to New Orleans. He says they are still searching for a second suspect in the incident that occurred over the Thanksgiving weekend, the same weekend as the Bayou Classic.

cut 4  (08) “weekend festivities”

Harrison says the shooting occurred at 1 am last Sunday in the 100 block of Bourbon Street. He says the investigation is ongoing as they continue their search for the other suspect and try to identify a motive.

Cut 5  (11)  “shootout followed”

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The Edwards’ family is getting in the holiday spirit as they will spend their first Christmas in the Governor’s Mansion. The family was displaced during the August flooding but are now settling back into life in the mansion. First Lady Donna Edwards is hosting a Joyeux Noel celebration at her home this afternoon at 3 p.m. to show off the improvements she’s made.

Cut 6 (08) “with that”

Edwards says after taking on about 7 feet of water in the basement she hopes displaying Louisiana’s French heritage and culture during the Joyeux Noel event will raise money for the Mansion. She says they’ve revamped the backyard.

CUT 7 (05)  “looks beautiful”

Guests of the event will be treated with holiday snacks, music and a special visit from Papa Noel. Edwards says she worked closely with other former First Ladies to spruce up the Mansion.

Cut 8 (10) “this process”

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Louisiana is in for a wet weekend as the cold front that passed us earlier in the week is turning back toward the state. State Climatologist Barry Keim says we have about three to four wet days in front of us. He says northern parishes can expect to see anywhere from five to seven inches of rain.

Cut 9 (10)  “a problem”

Keim says the upside to this wet weather is it will likely eliminate most of the drought we’ve seen across the state.

Cut 10 (08) “the rain”

Keim says severe weather threats are very minimal with this returning front. He says temperatures will remain relatively mild.

cut 11 (10) “the temperature”

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Jefferson Parish Sheriff Newell Normand held a news conference today to update the case of the death of former NFL player Joe McKnight during an apparent road rage incident. Multiple protests are taking place over the fact that the shooter, 54-year-old Ronald Gasser, was released claiming self defense. Normand warned against spreading rumors:

cut 12 (09) “should not be believed”

According to a release, McKnight exited his car and was shot by Gasser as he approached the shooter’s passenger window. It says Gasser fired 3 rounds from a .40 caliber semiautomatic handgun from the driver’s seat of his car, and three hit McKnight. Sheriff Normand responds to a report that McKnight was trying to resolve the issue with Gasser…:

Cut 13 (10) “be believed”

Normand said Gasser did not stand over McKnight as reports have stated and that there were 3 casings located inside the vehicle. He also says there was no video. Normand says Gasser admitted to shooting McKnight, but has not been charged pending the outcome of the investigation…:

cut 14 (10) “external force”

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More the 351-thousand Louisianans are now enrolled in Medicaid as part of the expanded healthcare program, according to the Louisiana Department of Health. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Bayou Country Superfest has announced the lineup for their first show in the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Michelle Southern has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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A bill co-authored by US Senator Bill Cassidy that seeks to reform mental healthcare has passed the US House and could receive Senate approval next week. Cassidy says this legislation is two years in the making, with the goal of making sure patients are not denied care. He says the bill should foster more mental health professionals, as well as create more outpatient treatment settings.

Cut 3 (11) “behavioral healthcare”

Cassidy says someone with mental illness dies 20 years younger than someone without it because physical health problems aren’t addressed. In his bill, the same day rule allows someone to be seen by a psychiatrist and physical health doctor on the same day. He adds there’s three times more mentally ill people in prisons than hospitals.

cut 4  (10) “often end”

Cassidy says some privacy laws inhibit communication between mental health providers and in-home care givers. He says the bill also establishes a Grant program focused on intensive early intervention for children who demonstrate signs of mental illness.

Cut 5  (09)  “early age”

The bill also provides for suicide prevention and substance abuse programs.

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More than 86-hundred Louisiana residents are receiving care for chronic conditions under the expansion of Medicaid. That’s according to the Louisiana Department of Health, who says enrollment has surpassed 351-thousand individuals. LDH Secretary Dr. Rebekah Gee says many people are now getting healthcare they weren’t receiving while uninsured.

Cut 6 (10) “breast cancer”

Gee says treatment has started for nearly 600 adults newly diagnosed with diabetes and over 3-thousand adults received colonoscopies and 786 patients had precancerous polyps removed. She says the Medicaid expansion should lead to better health outcomes for working citizens who were previously uninsured.

CUT 7 (09)  “healthcare”

Gee says they are still unclear with will happen with the expanded Medicaid program when President-elect Trump takes office. She says if the expansion were to be repealed, Louisiana would lose 4 billion dollars and thousands would be uninsured.

Cut 8 (11) “different reality”

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The Cajundome will host its first event tonight since completing a 22-million dollar renovation, as the Ragin’ Cajuns basketball team will take on Nicholls State tonight. Cajundome Director Greg Davis believes people will be impressed with the updates.

Cut 9 (10)  “basketball court” 2x

Davis expects the renovated dome will help them recruit better basketball players. He says they’ll also be at an advantage competing for big name acts, adding that they are still able to host events like monster truck shows, ice hockey games, and circuses.

Cut 10 (11) “live entertainment”

Davis says the flow of the facility has also been updated to give patrons easier access to restrooms. He adds that the overall experience in the Cajundome has been greatly enhanced.

cut 11 (11) “been renovated” 2x

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The lineup for next year’s Bayou Country Superfest over the Memorial Day weekend has just been announced, featuring super stars Blake Shelton, Miranda Lambert, Brooks & Dunn, Rascal Flatts, Thomas Rhett, and Hank Williams Jr. Producer Quint Davis says it’s all new again because it’s coming to New Orleans for the first time.

cut 12 (10) “country music”

Davis says they’re doing it big this year with 6 acts a night, instead of 5, and three headliners each night. He says it will be interesting to see how Blake Shelton and Miranda Lambert interact over the Memorial Day weekend, since the two divorced last year.

Cut 13 (08) “about that”

The 3-day festival was moved to the Superdome after LSU could not host the fest in its usual venue, Tiger Stadium, due to renovations. Davis expects the festival to have a huge impact on tourism in New Orleans.

cut 14 (08) “holiday weekend”

Democrat Foster Campbell is making a hard push in the final days before the runoff, as the US Senate candidate has raised $2.5 million for his campaign in just one month. Jeff Palermo has more…

CUT 1 (26) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office is investigating the case of a 51-year-old Air force Veteran who is accused of raping several foster children in his care spanning several years. Michelle Southern reports..:

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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The Feral Hog Management Task Force meets today to discuss ways to control the wild hog population in Louisiana. Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Veterinarian Dr. Jim LaCour says it’s a big problem in the state.

Cut 3 (08) “their properties”

The taskforce was created during the 2016 regular legislative session and is comprised of 11 members from different departments.  LaCour says current methods to control feral hogs are just not working. He says the goal of the taskforce is to discuss best methods of control.

cut 4  (09) “of thing”

The LSU Ag Center estimates there are over half a million, or as many as 700-thousand feral hogs in the state. LaCour says the legislature has dedicated 360-thousand dollars towards the problem…

Cut 5  (11)  “for control”

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Today is the last day of the 2016 Atlantic Hurricane Season which was the first one considered “above-normal” for the first time since 2012. This year, there were 15 named storms, including 7 hurricanes – 3 of which were major. NOAA’s lead hurricane forecaster, Gerry Bell, says there were several factors which lead to the active season…:

Cut 6 (09) “wind shear”

Five named storms made landfall in the US during 2016, the most since 2008 when 6 storms hit. Hermine was the first hurricane to make landfall in Florida since Wilma in 2005. Bell says the reason the Gulf was spared for the most part this year is because the storms formed over the tropical Atlantic which tend not to track this way…:

CUT 7 (08)  “the Gulf”

Bell says that he can’t stress enough to the millions and millions of coastal residents the importance of being prepared every year for hurricane season…:

Cut 8 (07) “a lot of people”

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Democratic US Senate candidate Foster Campbell says he’s raised $2.5 million in campaign funds in the last month, but will dollars be enough to secure a victory? Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says while Campbell has raised a decent amount of money, the Democrat’s biggest hurdle is trying to win a statewide election in a red state.

Cut 9 (08)  “bigger problem”

Campbell has made it clear that a majority of his campaign donations have come from individuals, not political action committees. But Pinsonat says voters don’t care about the money, they vote based on candidate’s platforms.

Cut 10 (08) “to Washington”

Pinsonat expects Campbell will use the nearly $1.5 million he has on hand to hit the airwaves hard in the last few days before the runoff. He says Campbell will likely run ads that depict Kennedy as the candidate for elitists and big corporations, but it’s unlikely it will be enough for a win.

cut 11 (10) “big win”

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A Bossier Parish Air Force veteran is behind bars, accused of raping and sexually exploiting young boys in his foster care. Lt. Bill Davis with Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office says 51-year-old Terral Parfait was arrested after one of his victims came forward.

cut 12 (10) “seven years”

Davis says Parfait lives alone and has been a foster parent for quite some time. He says so far, Parfait has been charged with three counts of 1^st degree rape.

Cut 13 (09) “foster care”

Davis says hundreds of floppy disks, flash drives, VHS, and DVDs were also seized from the suspect’s home where they found images of known child pornography produced of the boys that were in his care. He encourages parents to come forward who know their children have been in foster care with Parfait or have had any interaction with him at all…:

cut 14 (11) “be victims”

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A Baton Rouge college student is under arrest for murdering and dismembering his parents in Tennessee. Knox County Sheriff Major Michael MaClean says 29-year-old Joel Michael Guy Junior went home for the Thanksgiving weekend and viciously stabbed his parents and tried to cover the crime up….

Cut 15 (08) “destroy evidence”

Guy was arrested last night in Baton Rouge at his apartment on Nicholson Drive. MaClean says they believe he turned violent during an argument about money….

Cut 16  (09)  “financial support”

It’s unclear which college Guy was attending. LSU says they have no record of him attending classes on their campus.

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Walgreens now provides an over the counter opioid antidote. Jeff Palermo has more…

CUT 1 (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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LSU’s Pennington Biomedical Research Center is looking for people to take part in a groundbreaking study that looks at ways to prevent Alzheimer’s disease. Emelie Gunn reports…:

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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How realistic are metal detectors along Bourbon Street in New Orleans? Don Molino has more…

Cut 3 (29) “I’m Don Molino”

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Walgreens Pharmacy has made Naloxone, an opioid antidote, available over the counter in Louisiana. LSU Health New Orleans Professor of Psychiatry James Becnel says there is an opioid overdose every 18 hours in Louisiana. He says not only addicts, but anyone who has an opioid prescription for more than two weeks should purchase naloxone.

cut 4  (08) “health status”

Becnel says the response from EMS is usually not quick enough, so having naloxone on hand could save someone from dying of an overdose.

Cut 5  (10)  “back up”

The price of Naloxone varies, with the easiest method of a nasal spray costing around 65 dollars. Becnel hopes more pharmacies will make this available…

Cut 6 (10) “treat it”

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The AARP Foundation announces one million dollars in donations are being used to assist older individuals impacted by the devastating August flood. Director of AARP Louisiana, Denise Bottcher, says the money went to 16 non-profit organizations who are assisting in the rebuilding efforts. Bottcher says over 74-hundred donors provided money to help older flood victims get back in their homes….

CUT 7 (07)  “later date”

Governor John Bel Edwards says seeing the homes rebuilt with the money raised by AARP is inspiring. He says this donation is a blessing, because many senior citizen flood victims are on fixed incomes…

Cut 8 (10) “their lives”

Edwards travels to Washington D.C. today to lobby for additional money for flood recovery. The governor is seeking over three-billion dollars in federal assistance…

Cut 9 (09)  “ recovery program”

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LSU’s Pennington Biomedical Research Center is looking for people to take part in a groundbreaking study that looks at ways to prevent Alzheimer’s disease. Director for Pennington’s Institute for Dementia Research and Prevention, Jeff Keller, says they are looking at how something like hypertension can cause impairment of brain function…:

Cut 10 (09)  “developing dementia”

Keller says Alzheimer’s is a complex disease without a cure or any new treatments, and this study aims to figure out which combination of medications and lifestyle changes may help people best avoid the disease. He says they are looking to enroll more than 600 older adults who are at high risk for losing important mental functions…:

cut 11 (11) “this disease”

For information about how to participate in the study, log on to idrp.pbrc.edu. Keller says 5.4 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s which is likely to affect 1 in 9 people age 65 and older. He says it is the costliest disease in the US and will triple in the next 35 years…:

cut 12 (11) “we can’t let that happen”

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Metal detectors are one possible idea to preventing future fatal shootings on Bourbon Street in New Orleans. Owner of L and R Security Services Inc., Edward Robinson, says it would be tough to do logistically and expensive. He says a lot of planning would need to take place between police and the businesses along the famous street.

Cut 13 (09) “costly factor”

L and R Security handles checkpoints for various events including Jazz Fest and LSU football games. Robinson says aside from costs, another factor to installing metal detectors is if businesses want to go along with it, as well. He says there are so many entrances to the street and…

cut 14 (10) “come in”

Robinson says numerous police officers and private security workers also be needed to monitor the metal detectors. He says manpower is part of the price for this safety measure.

Cut 15 (08) “a week”

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After allowing 30 or more points in four of their first five games, the Saints defense has been playing much better lately. They shutout the Rams last Sunday in the second half during a 49-21 win. Linebacker Craig Robertson credits a togetherness for the improved play…

Cut 16 (13) “we’re having fun”

During the Saints 49-21 win over the Rams the theme song from the “Lion King” was played after New Orleans successful trick play that saw Willie Snead throw a touchdown pass to Tim Hightower. Coach Sean Payton also referenced the “Circle of Life” song in a postgame tweet. Offensive Tackle Zach Strief is not saying why this song is so important to the team…

Cut 17 (19)    “LA Rams “

ULM closes out its regular season on Saturday against in state rival UL Lafayette. The Warhawks are 4-7, but have won two of their last three. Coach Matt Viator likes how his team has been able to run the ball lately…

Cut 18 (19) “ of sacks”

ULM is coming off a bye week, so with this being the final game of the regular season, Viator says they are treating this game like a bowl game…

Cut 19 (15)   “about it”