Another one of the big items on the 2015 runoff ballot on Saturday is the race for Lt. Governor. Michelle Southern reports…:

CUT 1 (29) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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The U.S. F-D-A has instated new policies to improve safety in imported seafood coming into the country. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Republican David Vitter takes a break from his gubernatorial campaign to file federal legislation that seeks to stop the influx of Syrian Refugees into the country. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Governor Bobby Jindal has dropped out of the 2016 presidential race. In a statement, Jindal says it was an honor to run for President, but this is not his time. Publisher of lapolitics.com, Jeremy Alford, says there were several signs that Jindal’s campaign was not doing well…

cut 4  (10)  “suspend the campaign”

Alford says Jindal had a hard time gaining much support in a field that contained over a dozen candidates. He says bad press from Louisiana also followed him to the early primary states like Louisiana…

Cut 5  (10)  “couple of years”

Jindal’s second term as governor ends in January. Alford says his administration has to deal with a midyear budget deficit and a deficit from last fiscal year. He also expects Jindal to tout the accomplishments that have occurred during his eight years as governor…

Cut 6 (10)  “high note”

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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has implemented new guidelines that calls for 100% screening of imported seafood before it enters the country. The new policy comes after U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy questioned the FDA when studies showed large amounts of bacteria in imported seafood…

CUT 7 (09)  “to me”

Cassidy says our Louisiana producers are required to follow strict safety measures and we should demand that other countries do the same. He hopes this new policy will help local shrimpers.

Cut 8  (10)  “lower costs”

For years, Louisiana shrimpers have complained about cheap imports flooding the market. Cassidy says this new guideline should reduce the amount of imported shrimp making it into the country.

Cut 9 (06) “combination”

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Another one of the big items on the 2015 runoff ballot on Saturday is the race for Lt. Governor. In a recent forum, both Republican Billy Nungesser and Democrat Kip Holden were asked what was the first thing they planned to do if they were elected to the state’s second highest post. Holden said he’s going to travel the state and find out what people want for their cities..:

Cut 10 (10) “those things”

Both candidates for governor have said they were going to immediately call a special session in 2016 to deal with the state’s budget woes. Nungesser says he’s going to put together a package to present to the legislature that would restore cuts to the state’s parks, museums and historical sites…:

cut 11 (06) “to the world”

The candidates were also asked what their single biggest, new idea would be to keep the tourism industry in Louisiana moving forward. Holden says he’d like to see towns and cities taking advantage of technology, websites and social media as a way to tell visitors what we’re all about…:

Cut 12 (11) “get here”

Nungesser said he’d focus on promoting prominent areas of the state that many outsiders don’t know about. He says one of the elements in Louisiana that often gets overlooked, for example, is the horse industry…:

Cut 13 (11)  “from 11 states”

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Republican Senator David Vitter is pushing his federal legislation that would stop the influx of refugees from Syria in the United States. During a speech on the Senate floor, Vitter says verification safeguards are not in place to confirm that each refugee doesn’t pose a security threat to the country

Cut 14 (08) “we do”

The legislation is in response to the deadly terrorist attacks in Paris that were performed by members of ISIS. The senator says one of the terrorists entered France by posing as a Syrian refugee. Vitter says the Paris attacks show the US can’t have lax policies when it comes to this issue…

Cut 15  (08)  “in place”

Vitter’s opponent in the governor’s race, Democrat John Bel Edwards, calls the Senator’s bill a last ditch effort to save his political career. Edwards’ campaign spokesperson, Mary-Patricia Wray….

Cut 16  (06)  “political stunt”

Wray says they’ve also learned that Vitter missed three Congressional hearings on Syrian refugee resettlement…

Cut 17 (11) “a stunt”

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Louisiana ranked number two nationally for worker safety in 2014. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (30)  “I’m Eric Gill”

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Natchitoches Mayor Lee Posey has banned the Confederate flag from the city’s annual Christmas Parade. Many residents have differing opinions on this decision. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 2 (31)  “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Louisiana ranked number two nationally for worker safety in 2014. The survey showed Louisiana improved to 2 incidents per 100 full time workers. The national average is 3.2. Louisiana Workforce Commission Executive Director Curt Eyesink says credit for this has to go to business and industry in the state, as well as their workforce…

CUT 3 (09)  “number of years”

Louisiana’s rate of work related injuries and illnesses has improved to its best level in 13 years. Worker’s comp rates have dropped 17-percent since 2008. Eyesink says the business community’s commitment to safety is leading to lower worker’s comp costs…

CUT 4 (09)  “to the employees”

Eyesink says these results show that workplace safety has become a top priority for Louisiana companies and their employees…

CUT 5 (08)  “that seriously”

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Natchitoches Mayor Lee Posey has banned the Confederate battle flag from their annual Christmas Parade. The Sons of Confederate Veterans have had a float in the parade for more than 20 years, but decided not to partake this year because of the ban. Northwestern State University Professor Holly Stave says she understands some people want to honor their families, but agrees with Mayor Posey’s decision.

CUT 6 (09) “a symbol”

Posey told The Sons of Confederate Veterans they could fly any other Confederate flag except the battle flag. Stave says she doesn’t believe this will affect attendance to the parade because people go to see the lights and eat the great food. She says there are other ways to honor our Southern heritage.

CUT 7 (10)  “were made”

Dakota Scoggins, owner of a Natchitoches clothing shop called Old River Clothier, says he’s defending his family by selling t-shirts displaying the Confederate battle flag. He says he is worried that the mayor’s decision will lead to less people attending the parade and hurt their economy later down the line.

CUT 8 (09)  “hurts us”

Scoggins says Mayor Posey did not go through the correct processes to keep something out of the parade. He believes this decision is hypocritical because Melrose Plantation brings in thousands of tourists each year.

CUT 9 (08)  “like that”

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The Louisiana Highway Safety Commission says, despite increased seat belt usage, the number of fatal crashes in Louisiana increased from 2013 to 2014. According to finalized data, there were 664 fatal crashes on Louisiana roadways killing 739 people last year. Spokesperson Jessica Bedwell says there was a 2-percent increase in fatal crashes in 2014…

cut 10 (08)  “over the years”

The number of crashes and fatalities are down about 26-percent since 2007. Bedwell says most of these fatal crashes happen at night and often involve younger drivers…

Cut 11 (08)  “distracted driving”

The fatality rate of 18 to 20-year-olds increased in 2014 and the alcohol related crash rate of 18 to 24-year-olds increased for the first time in five years. Bedwell says the results of this report show that more needs to be done to keep impaired drivers off the road…

cut 12 (04)  “alcohol impaired”

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The debate on whether or not to accept Syrian refugees has become an issue in Louisiana’s gubernatorial race. In a new TV commercial, Republican David Vitter claims Democrat John Bel Edwards has pledged to work with President Obama to bring Syrian refugees to Louisiana. UL-Lafayette Political Science Professor Pearson Cross says this is an issue that matters if you think it matters…

cut 13 (10)  “to be important”

Edwards has fired back at Vitter claiming the senator missed key votes regarding the Syrian refugee issue. Recent polls show Edwards enjoying a double-digit lead over Vitter in the race. Cross says Vitter is looking for an issue that will sway undecided voters in his favor…

cut 14 (09) “something else” 

He says Edwards seems to be pushing back effectively against Vitter’s claims on the issue. On the other hand, Cross says Vitter appears to be chipping away at Edward’s lead. He says, right now, this is a race to election day…

cut 15 (10)  “It’s unclear”

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A stormy day is expected across Louisiana. Jeff Palermo tells us what to expect…

CUT 1 (25) “I’m Eric Gill”

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 The OMV has sent out the last of letters alerting drivers with lapsed auto insurance to pay up or be turned over to a collection agency. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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State Police Col Mike Edmonson says, in the wake of the terror attacks on Paris, they would like more information about the refugees of the Syrian civil war who are in Louisiana. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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A flash flood watch is in effect for a good portion of Louisiana today and forecasters say there’s a good chance we could see severe storms as result of massive weather system that will move through the bayou state. State Climatologist Barry Keim says be ready for anything…

cut 4  (08)  “the area”

Keim says we’ve seen strong storm systems move through the state over the last couple of weeks, but this one has the greatest potential to produce damaging storms…

Cut 5  (07)  “the area”

Keim says it’s not unusual to see a storm system of this magnitude move through the state in November…

Cut 6 (08)  “this time”

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The Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles continues to notify drivers whose auto insurance lapsed at one point by sending out the last of three letters to alert people to pay their fines or be turned over to a collection agency. State Police Col. Mike Edmonson says they’re working hard to resolve everyone’s cases and have already cleared about 55-thousand notices.

CUT 7 (09)  “the debt”

Edmonson advises drivers that if they sell their car, take the licenses plates with you and if you cancel an insurance policy, make sure you give OMV your newest information. Over 300-thousand previous notices sent out went to the wrong address. He says to find out if State Police is looking for you, visit express lane-dot-org. (www.expresslane.org)

Cut 8  (09)  “correct that”

Edmonson says they’ve collected about 8.1-million dollars. He says but there are about one-million cases that have yet to be resolved….

Cut 9 (05) “restore opportunity”

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State Police Col Mike Edmonson says, in the wake of the terror attacks on Paris, they would like more information about the refugees of the Syrian civil war who are in Louisiana. The US State Department said 14 Syrian refugees had been resettled in the state this year. Edmonson says they don’t know much about the people who have come here…:

Cut 10 (10) “to work with”

Governor Bobby Jindal issued an executive order Monday telling state agencies not to accept the resettlement of any more Syrian refugees. Director of the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness Kevin Davis says they’ve haven’t been told anything about the Syrian refugees or the process that they go through…:

cut 11 (06) “vetting process”

Edmonson says the federal government does an extremely poor job of communicating with regards to the Syrian refugees. He says there are a ton of questions and not enough answers…:

Cut 12 (09) “state of Louisiana”

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In the final televised debate before the November 21^st runoff, Democrat John Bel Edwards and Republican David Vitter, made their case to voters why they should be elected as the state’s next governor. Edwards says his experience in the military will be beneficial for Louisiana.

Cut 13 (09)  “same principles”

Vitter’s prostitution scandal was brought up multiple times during the debate. The senator wasn’t afraid to address it in his final remarks, by explaining his family’s forgiveness is what motivates him to do his best for the state.

Cut 14 (11) “great heights”

In Vitter’s latest television ad, he accuses Edwards of picking voters up from an adult night club in New Orleans on a party bus to early vote. In Edward’s response, he made a comment about Vitter’s sensitive past.

Cut 15  (09)  “senator”

All the polls are showing Vitter trailing in the final days leading up to the election. Vitter tried to make his case by pointing out that most of Edwards’ campaign money comes from trial lawyers.

Cut 16  (10)  “Louisiana jobs”

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The 17th ranked LSU football team will look to snap a two-game losing streak this Saturday in Oxford where they’ll take on the 25th ranked Ole Miss Rebels. The Tigers no longer have a chance at winning a national championship or an SEC title, but Coach Les Miles believes there’s a desire within the program to finish the regular season with two more wins

Cut 17 (15) “this done”

Miles is in his eleventh season as head coach and frustration within the fan base maybe at an all-time high since the mad hatter arrived in Baton Rouge. The coach he’s working hard to fix the issues that have led to a rare losing streak at LSU…

Cut 18 (15) “….step up“

In the two losses, LSU’s offensive line has not played well. In the loss to Arkansas, Quarterback Brandon Harris was sacked five times and LSU rushed for only 59 yards. Miles was asked if his o-line was in a slump

Cut 19 (21) “more productive”

Amid rumors to the contrary, New Orleans Saints head coach Sean Payton says defensive coordinator Rob Ryan has not been fired. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (28)  “I’m Eric Gill”

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JMC Analytics is out with a new survey on Saturday’s runoff elections. Eric Gill takes a look at the results.

CUT 2 (31)  “I’m Eric Gill”

===================

Amid rumors to the contrary, New Orleans Saints head coach Sean Payton says defensive coordinator Rob Ryan has not been fired. Fox Sports reported that sources had informed them that Ryan would be terminated following Sunday’s 47-14 loss to Washington. Payton was asked about Ryan’s status at a press conference this morning…

CUT 3 (06)  “absolutely”

Payton says rumors like this are just part of the business. Although no personnel moves have been made, Payton hinted that some changes are on the horizon…

CUT 4 (10)  “of us collectively”

Payton says the subject of Ryan’s dismissal is a subject that hasn’t been discussed, at least as of now. However, NFL analyst Mike Detillier says the time has come for the Saints to let Ryan go…

CUT 5 (07)  “downhill since”

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According to the Secretary of State’s office, the number of early voters for Saturday’s runoff elections was up 16-percent from the primary. The director of the University of New Orleans Survey Research Center, Ed Chervenak, says based on early voting numbers, the electorate seemed to favor Democrat John Bel Edwards for governor

CUT 6 (11) “registered republicans”

Chervenak says when you compare the early voting figures from the primary to the runoff, the was an increase in African-American voters and registered democrats, which would benefit Edwards over his Republican opponent David Vitter

CUT 7 (08)  “candidate’s side”

Edwards and Vitter will meet tonight at 6 PM in the final televised debate before election day. Chervenak expects a higher hitting and tough debate…

CUT 8 (10)  “the other”

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The Department of Revenue’s 2015 Louisiana Tax Amnesty period begins today. Over the next 30 days people have the opportunity to bring overdue taxes up to date with lessened interest charges. Deputy Secretary Jarrod Coniglio (ca-nig-lee-oh) this is a prime opportunity for some to get squared away with the revenue department…

CUT 9 (10)  “last amnesty is”

The tax amnesty period will run through December 15th. More information is available at ldrtaxamnesty-dot-com. Coniglio says there are incentives for delinquent tax payers to come forward…

cut 10 (09)  “of the interest”

During this amnesty period, 33-percent of the penalty and 17-percent of the interest will be waived if 100-percent of the tax debt is paid. Coniglio hopes people will take advantage of this amnesty period because state law dictates another one cannot be offered for at least 10 years…

Cut 11 (10)  “than 2025”

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The latest JMC Analytics survey on the Louisiana gubernatorial race shows Democrat John Bel Edwards with 51% of the vote, Republican David Vitter with 35% and 13% still say they are undecided. Pollster John Couvillion says the numbers have narrowed slightly from his last poll…:

cut 12 (11)  “metropolitan areas”

The poll, which was conducted November 14th-16th, shows Republican Billy Nungesser leading Democrat Kip Holden by 11 points in the Lt. Governor’s race, with 21% undecided. Couvillion says other Lt. Governor candidates in the primary saw their votes fall to Nungesser in Saturday’s runoff. He also says Holden has not done a lot of television advertising..:

cut 13 (06)  “result”

In the Attorney General election, incumbent Buddy Caldwell polled just 25% to fellow GOP opponent Jeff Landry who came out with 46% with the undecideds still at 29%. Couvillion says Landry has substantially outspent Caldwell in advertising. He says it was also a bad sign that the incumbent got just 35% of the vote in the primary…:

cut 14 (10) “runoff started” 

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Republican David Vitter and Democrat John Bell Edwards will meet in another televised debate this evening. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (28) “I’m Eric Gill”

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The governor’s race hits the homestretch as Democrat John Bel Edwards and Republican David Vitter make their final pitch before the November 21st election. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (27) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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 After over 8 million turkeys died from the bird flu this year, does that mean we’ll see a shortage of turkeys for the holiday season? Emelie Gunn has more…..

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Republican David Vitter and Democrat John Bel Edwards will meet in another televised debate this evening. The debate will begin at 6PM and is being hosted by Nexstar Television stations. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat feels the dynamics of this debate are interesting…

cut 4  (08)  “months back”

He says Vitter needs to show a kinder, gentler side of himself while still criticizing Edwards of being liberal and pro-Obama. Pinsonat says Vitter really needs to fire up his supporters to cast their ballot Saturday…

Cut 5  (10)  “to Louisiana”

He says you can expect Edwards to continue to attack Vitter’s character as it has been working well for his campaign to date. Pinsonat says Edwards will probably play it safe tonight…

Cut 6 (07)  “to win”

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It’s the final week of the gubernatorial campaign as Democrat John Bel Edwards and Republican David Vitter will make their case on why they should be the state’s next governor. Edwards says his campaign is not about political parties, but putting Louisiana first…

CUT 7 (05)  “a like”

Vitter says a vote for Edwards will take Louisiana down the wrong path

Cut 8  (09)  “Pro Obama liberal”

Edwards says if Vitter is elected, he’ll divide the state, keeping Louisiana from making great strides…

Cut 9 (05) “restore opportunity”

Recent polls have shown Vitter trailing by double-digits, but his internal polling shows the race to be much tighter…

Cut 10 (12) “as a liberal”

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Due to this year’s outbreak of avian influenza, will there be enough turkeys for Thanksgiving? Professor and Poultry Extension Specialist with the LSU Ag Center Theresia Lavergne says the last confirmed case of this flu was in June and it affected almost four percent of turkeys in the country. She says but you’ll still be able to find a turkey.

cut 11 (10) “in price”

 Lavergne says it’s all based on the laws of supply and demand on whether or not there will be a shortage or turkeys and if the price will increase. She says in a report by Poultry Times, we could see a 20 to 40 cent increase per pound for the bird, but….

Cut 12 (10) “to year”

Lavergne says a lot of turkeys are also kept in cold storage to have in the event of a shortage. She says typically people eat the smaller hens during their family’s feast, which weren’t as effected by the flu.

Cut 13 (09)  “at Thanksgiving”

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LSU is in jeopardy of having its once promising football season spiral out of control. The Tigers were manhandled for a second straight week on Saturday, this time by Arkansas, who beat LSU 31-14. It was a rough game for the offense line as LSU only rushed for 59 yards and allowed five sacks. Offensive tackle Vadal Alexander says they have to keep working…

Cut 14 (14) “don’t come easy”

Coach Les Miles says the team’s two-game losing streak is his fault…

Cut 15  (06)  “it’s me”

Running back Leonard Fournette was held to less than 100 yards for a second consecutive game as his Heisman chances are slipping away. Just like many LSU fans, Fournette was dejected after the game, but they can’t give up on the season…

Cut 16  (09)  “whatever happens”

Quarterback Brandon Harris threw for 271 yards and one touchdown. But he also fumbled once and he was intercepted. Miles says he still has faith in Harris…

Cut 17 (17) “and brillant”

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It was a brutal performance for the Saints on Sunday as they were routed by the Redskins 47-14. Coach Sean Payton says it will be hard to look at the tape and find anything that went well

Cut 18 (08) “….on box off“

The Saints defense set the tone for this one, as they allowed Washington to march 96 yards down the field on its first drive and score a touchdown. New Orleans allowed 514 yards of total offense. Payton on the defense’s poor performance…

Cut 19 (13) “underneath coverage”

It wasn’t a great day for Quarterback Drew Brees either. He threw for just 209 yards and two touchdowns, but was intercepted twice. The Saints are entering the bye week with a 4-6 record and Brees hopes the week off will help the team….

Cut 20 (13) “no other choice”

Lawyers for Saints and Pelicans owner Tom Benson and his estranged heirs have agreed to mediation over Benson’s lawsuit to remove them as future owners of the teams. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (28)  “I’m Eric Gill”

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Republican gubernatorial candidate David Vitter’s latest campaign commercial features “Duck Dynasty” star Willie Robertson backing the senator in the governor’s election. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 2 (26)  “I’m Eric Gill”

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Lawyers for Saints and Pelicans owner Tom Benson and his estranged heirs have agreed to mediation over Benson’s lawsuit to remove them as future owners of the teams. Legal analyst Tim Meche believes this is a sign that Judge Jane Triche Milazzo indicated to Benson’s lawyers that they would not win the case during trial…

CUT 3 (10)  “with them”

He says everyone who has studied this case predicted this day would come. Benson’s lawsuit seeks to take back stock in the team from his heirs and force them out as non-voting owners of the teams. Meche says it’s normal for a judge to order mediation in a case like this…

CUT 4 (11)  “as his heirs”

He says, at the end of the day, both parties are going to have to sit together and come to some understanding. Meche says the big question here is what the heirs will hold out for…

CUT 5 (08)  “of the teams”

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In the 2015 University of New Orleans Louisiana Gubernatorial Runoff survey, polls show Republican Bill Nungesser in a 10 point lead over Democrat Kip Holden in the Lt. Governor’s race. Ed Chervenak, director of the UNO Survey Research Center, says, unlike the governor’s race, the Lt. Governor’s election is running on race and partisanship..:

CUT 6 (09) “partisanship”

The poll of 600 likely voters was conducted between November 2nd-8th. It also showed that two-thirds of people feel Louisiana is headed in the wrong direction and Governor Jindal with a 70 percent disapproval rating. Chervenak believes the Governor and now Republican Presidential candidate is having a major impact on the upcoming runoff…:

CUT 7 (08)  “would be in trouble”

This was the same poll that found Democrat John Bel Edwards with a 22 point lead over Republican David Vitter. Chervenak says there’s a major split in the Republican party as nearly half of people who voted for the other two GOP candidates in the primary, Scott Angelle and Jay Dardenne, said they will vote for Edwards in the runoff…:

CUT 8 (11)  “certainly shift”

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It looks like Republican gubernatorial candidate David Vitter is bringing some star power to his campaign. His latest campaign commercial features “Duck Dynasty” star Willie Robertson backing the senator in the governor’s election. ULM Political Science Professor Joshua Stockley feels Robertson’s endorsement of Vitter is pretty inconsequential…

CUT 9 (10)  “Senator Vitter”

The commercial continues Vitter’s theme of redemption from his prostitution scandal with Robertson stating, “I know he’s made some mistakes, but who hasn’t?” Stockley says “Duck Dynasty” fans and Vitter supporters are cut from the same conservative cloth and this endorsement won’t move the needle much for Vitter…

cut 10 (09)  “and independents”

Vitter’s last two TV spots have dealt with his prostitution scandal. Stockley believes the Vitter campaign has a lot more than this to deal with before election day…

Cut 11 (08)  “too late”

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A three hour standoff between authorities and an armed man on a boat in Larose ended early this afternoon. Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office Spokesperson Brennan Matherne says police responded to a call by a boat owner alerting them that an armed man, who didn’t have permission, was aboard a boat docked along the Intracoastal Canal.

cut 12 (09)  “shotgun”

Matherne says negotiators continued to talk to Boudreaux until he shot one round into the air from the boat. He says after the shot, the tactical team moved in as Boudreaux began to flee on foot from his position on the boat.

cut 13 (08)  “shots fired”

Matherne says the suspect was not armed when he entered the vessel, the weapon was already on the boat. He says Boudreaux had no connection to the boat and it is likely he could become a suspect of a burglary because some of the items on board are missing.

cut 14 (08) “the vessel” 

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Today and tomorrow are the last days to get out and early vote for the runoff election. Emelie Gunn has more….

CUT 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Ready for mudbugs? Crawfish are already starting to pop up in stores across some coastal parishes in Louisiana. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (27) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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 The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention finds the country’s obesity rate has climbed to almost 38-percent, up 6-percent from ten years ago. Jeff Palermo looks at what’s happening in Louisiana….

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Early voting ends tomorrow and Secretary of State Tom Schedler urges everyone to go out and exercise your right to vote. Schedler says it’s important to early vote, because November 21^st is the weekend before Thanksgiving, which will be a busy time for many.

cut 4  (10)  “early voting”

Schedler says the number of early voters is outpacing what we saw in the primary. Total voter turnout in October was 39-percent and he says we could possibly have the anomaly where the general election receives a better turnout than in the primary.

Cut 5  (05)  “in October”

Schedler says voters are more engaged now that this a smaller ballot, especially with the governor’s race down to just two candidates. He says 90% of people who have early voted for the runoff, also voted in the October 24^th primary.

Cut 6 (10)  “voting cycle”

______________________________________

Ready for mudbugs? Crawfish are already starting to pop up in stores across some coastal parishes in Louisiana. Marine extension agent with the LSU Ag Center Alan Matherne says the reason the crawfish season tends to start around this time of year is because the farmers flood their ponds..:

CUT 7 (10)  “out of the ground”

Matherne says since the crawfish that are coming up now are mostly from last season and the quality of the mudbugs is good…:

Cut 8  (06)  “this point”

Matherne says there’s not a lot of crawfish available right now. He says January through March is typically when the harvest is at its peak…:

Cut 9 (10) “available”

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 A new report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention finds the nation’s obesity rate has climbed to almost 38-percent, which is up from 32-percent ten years ago. Department of Health and Hospitals Assistant Secretary of Public Health JT Lane says Louisiana’s obesity rate is at 35 percent and although they’d like to see it lower, we’re heading in the right direction.

Cut 10 (09) “welcome sign”

The C-D-C found the obesity rate for women in the country is now higher than men. Lane says in Louisiana the obesity rate for women is 36-percent and for men it’s 33-percent. He says there is an even greater disparity between white and black adults.

cut 11 (07) “concerns me”

 Lane says D-H-H is working hard to reduce these disparities in the state. He says by implementing “Well Spots,” in over one-thousand businesses statewide, they’re making a conscious effort to help people live healthier lives.

Cut 12 (09) “over time”

______________________________________

A gag order remains in place when it comes to information authorites can release to the public about last week’s fatal shooting by two Marksville deputy marshals. State Police Superintendent Mike Edmonson visited with District Judge William Bennett and Edmsonson says the judge is adamant that no evidence can be released….

Cut 13 (07)  “jeopardize it”

Six-year-old Jeremy Mardis was killed in the shooting and his 25-year-old father, Christopher Few was severely wounded, but has reportedly been released from the hospital. An attorney for Few says police body camera footage shows Few with his hands up, but Edmonson says only a select group of people have seen the video….

Cut 14 (10) “that’s it”

Edmonson says even though he can’t provide any more details on the case, he told the Jim Engster show that the investigation remains active…

Cut 15  (10)  “we go forward”

 ________________________________________________

LSU basketball tips off a new season filled with high expectations tonight as they host McNeese State. Many believe the Tigers can make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament, because they have the top freshman in the country. Ben Simmons is a preseason All-American and the six-foot-ten forward from Australia says he has no problem with the high expectations…

Cut 16  (15)  “prepared for that”

Simmons headlines a freshman class that also features Antonio Blakeney and Brandon Sampson. Junior guard Tim Quarterman is a veteran leader on this squad and he says this team is ready to meet those high expectations…

Cut 17 (13) “of the night”

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The 4-and-5 Saints visit the Washington Redskins, who also has a losing record at 3-and-5. New Orleans Quarterback Drew Brees says with the playoffs fast approaching, now is the time to string some victories together….

Cut 18 (20) “….is critical“

After the Sunday’s game against the Redskins, New Orleans will have a bye week. Brees says with an open week coming up, it makes it even more important to get a victory…

Cut 19 (16) “that run”

The Saints have allowed 86 points in their last two games. Defensive end Cam Jordan says they need to get more pressure on the quarterback…

Cut 20 (10) “where we can”

Two new polls on the governor’s race show Democrat John Bel Edwards leading Republican David Vitter with 10 days to go before the election. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (29)  “I’m Eric Gill”

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A new study finds drinking champagne can help to prevent Alzheimer’s and dementia. Emelie Gunn has more…..

CUT 2 (31)  “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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The Avoyelles Parish Sheriff’s Office says one of the Marksville officers involved in the shooting death of a 6-year-old boy won’t be bonding out today because of a technical issue. It’s reportedly due to a state law banning attorneys from bonding out defendants. Sheriff Doug Anderson says the father of 23-year-old Norris Greenhouse Jr., who is an attorney, was preparing a million dollar property bond to get his released…:

CUT 3 (10)  “or Monday”

Greenhouse Jr. and Derrick Stafford are accused of firing at least 18 shots on the vehicle the boy, Jeremy Mardis, and his father, Chris Few, were riding in. Each were charged with second degree murder and attempted second degree murder. Anderson says once Greenhouse Jr. bonds out, he will have to be transferred…:

CUT 4 (08)  “from our jail”

Norris Greenhouse Sr. is an assistant DA in Avoyelles Parish, but the office recused itself from the case and asked the state Attorney General to prosecute. Anderson says there are some conditions to Greenhouse Jr.’s bond…:

CUT 5 (07)  “his residence”

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Early voting for the November 21st runoff continues today. As of this morning, there were 119-thousand early votes, compared to 88-thousand for the same time period in the primary. And Pollster John Couvillon of JMC Analytics says larger parishes are early voting heavily…

CUT 6 (08) “would do well”

Voter turnout for the primary was 39-percent, which was lower than anticipated. Couvillon says based on early voting totals so far, the turnout for the runoff should be higher than the primary…

CUT 7 (04)  “50% turnout”

Couvillon says the primary election dragged on and on and many voters were not exicted to go to the polls. He says the enthusiasm for the runoff is definitely higher…

CUT 8 (07)  “to vote early”

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A new poll on the governor’s race published by The Advocate shows Democrat John Bel Edwards’ double-digit lead over Republican David Vitter slipping a bit. According to the survey, conducted by Market Research Insight, Edwards beats Vitter, 52 to 38 percent, if roughly 26-percent of African-Americans vote in the election. ULM Political Science Professor Joshua Stockley doesn’t think these results really surprise anyone…

CUT 9 (10)  “in this race”

The survey shows Edwards support among white voters has fallen 10-percent while Vitter gained 8-percent support. Stockley says this could signify some backlash over Edwards’ negative “prostitutes over patriots” ad…

cut 10 (10)  “changed that”

The University of New Orleans has released their 2015 Louisiana Gubernatorial Runoff Survey and it reveals that Edwards enjoys a 22 point lead over Vitter among likely voters. UNO Survey Research Center Director Dr. Ed Chervenak says these results show Louisiana voters appear to be in a disgruntled mood…

Cut 11 (10)  “for some change”

The poll shows Governor Bobby Jindal with a 70-percent disapproval rating. Chervenak believes this is turning out to be a driving force in this election…

cut 12 (07)  “John Bel Edwards”

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A new study out of Reading University finds drinking one to three glasses of champagne a week can aid in preventing Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Dr. Jeff Keller with LSU’s Pennington Biomedical Research Center says champagne, like red wine, contains polyphenols, which is known to have great health benefits.

cut 13 (10)  “metabolism”

Keller says the study was based on trials in rats. He says grapes and other plants contain these polyphenols, which help to ward off predators in nature and apparently your memory as well….

cut 14 (07) “consume them” 

Keller says any consumption of alcohol needs to be done carefully, but it’s very clear that in moderation champagne can be good for your cognitive functioning…

cut 15 (08)  “and champagne”

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Reports say one of the two officers charged with the death of a 6-year-old boy could post his one-million dollar bond and be released. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Joe’s Crab Shack, which has locations across the country including Louisiana, is the first major restaurant chain to experiment with a no-tipping policy. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Unlike last year, the flu season is off to a slow start in Louisiana. Jeff Palermo has the story….

Cut 3 (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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 Fall weather is definitely on its way, as a cold front finishes passing the state today and gets rid of the humidity. State Climatologist Barry Keim says the air is going to be dry and cool with high temperatures in the mid to upper 60s for the next few days.

cut 4  (08)  “the region”

 Keim says come Saturday and Sunday, we’ll see low temperatures in the 40s. He says for the next three days, it’s time to break out the sweaters and jackets.

Cut 5  (09)  “like this”

 Keim says make sure you’re well prepared on Saturday when tailgating for the LSU- Arkansas game because it will be the chilliest game of the season.

Cut 6 (08)  “bit chilly”

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 Multiple reports indicate one of the two officers charged in the shooting death of a 6-year-old boy in Marksville will post a 1-million dollar bond and be released.  23-year-old Norris Greenhouse, Jr, will reportedly put property up to secure the bond. Legal analyst Tim Meche says it is not unusual for something like this to happen.

CUT 7 (10)  “of bond”

Meche says once Greenhouse is released, he will not be working as a city marshal and won’t be able to carry a firearm. He says if he is out on bond, his travel will be restricted.

Cut 8  (07)  “normal restrictions ”

Meche says regardless of the crime, you have a constitutional right to be released on bond. He says as long as Greenhouse is present on his court date, everything is satisfied.

Cut 9 (06) “supposed to”

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Joe’s Crab Shack, which has locations across the country including Louisiana, is the first major restaurant chain to experiment with dropping tipping wages for its servers, and paying them higher, fixed, hourly wages. Don Kasten is an Assistant Professor at Nicholls State’s Chef John Folse Culinary Institute. He expects this to become a trend…:

Cut 10 (10) “10% or less”

The Joe’s Crab Shack owner said front house workers at select restaurants will now earn hourly wages of around $12-$14, and prices on the menu increase around 15%. Kasten believes patrons will love this…:

cut 11 (10) “20 %”

Joe’s Crab Shack feels the tipping system is antiquated and they expect the new policy to result in an improved team atmosphere and significant reduction in turnover. But Kasten doesn’t think all servers and bartenders will like this policy, at least until all establishments get on board…:

Cut 12 (09) “rewarded”

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At this time last year, three-percent of all doctor visits were because of the flu. That’s according to Dr. Frank Welch, with the Department of  Health and Hospitals. Welch says this year they are seeing fewer cases…

Cut 13 (10)  “started yet”

Welch says it’s hard to explain why we saw more flu cases at this time last year. He says last year’s flu shot was ineffective against the strain going around, which led to more cases. The doctor says this year’s flu vaccination should be more successful…

Cut 14 (04) “go around”

Welch says now is the time to get a flu shot, with influenza activity for the year off to a slow start. He says temperatures will be cooler this weekend, forcing more people inside and that’s how the flu bug gets around….

Cut 15  (08)  “has to spread”

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The Ragin Cajuns begin the stretch run of their season tonight as they visit South Alabama in a game that will be seen on ESPNU, beginning at 6:30 PM. UL Lafayette has won its last two games and Coach Mark Hudspeth says he wants to keep the positive momentum going, but they face a good Jaguars team tonight…

Cut 16  (12)  “both teams”

South Alabama is led by quarterback Cody Clements, who has thrown for 17-hundred yards and 12 touchdowns. Hudspeth wants his defense to put some pressure on him…

Cut 17 (11) “our DBS”

The Cajuns are expected to play two quarterbacks tonight. Brooks Haack and Jalen Nixon. Haack is expected to start and Hudspeth says Haack’s throwing arm needs to give their offense a spark…

Cut 18 (17) “….run game“

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Arkansas will have its opportunity to slow down LSU running back Leonard Fournette this Saturday. Fournette only ran for nine yards in a shutout loss to the Razorbacks last year. Hogs Coach Bret Bielema says Fournette has improved a lot since that game…

Cut 19 (11) “think twice”

Arkansas is coming off a wild one-point overtime victory at Ole Miss last Saturday. Bielema says his team is not looking back…

Cut 20 (13) “LSU prep”

We’re well into November but there are an unusual high number of mosquitoes seen buzzing around for this time of year. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (27)  “I’m Eric Gill”

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LSP has arrested an on duty Shreveport firefighter after trying to meet up with a minor and her mother for sexual encounters with both. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 2 (31)  “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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We’re well into November but, apparently, no one has told the mosquitoes. There are an unusual high number of mosquitoes seen buzzing around for this time of year. Colby Colona, President of the Louisiana Mosquito Control Association, says there is one big reason we’re seeing more of the pests and that’s weather…

CUT 3 (07)  “at this time” 

She says warm temperatures and heavy rain events can trigger dormant mosquito eggs to hatch and that’s what’s happened here over the past three weekends. Colona hopes temperatures will become more fall or winter like sooner than later…

CUT 4 (05)  “issue anymore”

She says once cooler temperatures arrive, mosquitoes will enter a dormant stage and their numbers will drastically drop. Colona says until colder weather arrives, you should take proper precautions to avoid mosquito bites…

CUT 5 (10)  “fitted clothing”

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The two candidates for governor touched on several key policy issues during last night’s debate hosted by Louisiana Public Broadcasting and the Council for a Better Louisiana. They each have vastly different views on the topic of education. Democrat John Bel Edwards says he’d support charter schools, but only if school districts felt they had a need for them…:

CUT 6 (10) “or not”

But Republican David Vitter, who supports charter schools without reservation, says limiting the opportunity to districts with low letter grades, would alienate thousands of students who happen to be in high a performing district…:

CUT 7 (10)  “charter schools”

The two are also split on the direction they believe healthcare should be headed in the state. Edwards says he would immediately expand the traditional Medicaid program as governor, and it should have already been done…:

CUT 8 (10)  “right versus wrong”

But Vitter says he would only consider Medicaid expansion on Louisiana’s terms. He says states who have expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, like Kentucky, have seen health care costs skyrocket…:

CUT 9 (10)  “on that issue”

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Thunderstorm activity is expected across north Louisiana today and into tonight. Marty Mayeaux with the National Weather Service in Shreveport says a cold front is moving in bringing a chance of severe weather…

cut 10 (07)  “strong thunderstorms”

He says there is a chance of isolated tornados throughout the region today. Mayeaux says these storms could bring about an inch of rain to the area…

Cut 11 (05)  “prolonged precipitation”

He says the cold front will bring much cooler temperatures to the state over the next few days. Mayeaux says the severe weather threat will diminish as the system moves east…

cut 12 (10)  “New Orleans”

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A political analyst says there was no clear cut winner or loser in last night’s gubernatorial debate between Democrat John Bel Edwards and Republican David Vitter. LSU Political Science Professor Robert Hogan says each candidate held their own…

cut 13 (09)  “state’s voters”

The debate got heated and personal toward the end. Edwards called Vitter a liar and a cheater, while Vitter accused the West Point graduate of not living by the Honor Code. Hogan says you can expect this type of back and forth between the candidates to continue through election day…

cut 14 (09) “close election” 

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Louisiana State Police arrested a Shreveport firefighter after he allegedly facilitated a meeting online with what he thought was a 13-year-old girl and her mother to have a sexual encounter with both. Trooper Matt Harris says 35-year-old Brian Garza was on duty when he chatted with the girl and arranged to meet her at a location. Harris says when Garza showed up, Troopers were waiting to arrest him…

cut 15 (10)  “old girl”

Harris says Garza believed he was talking to a 13-year-old girl when it was actually an LSP agent on the other end. He says if Garza is convicted, he could be fined up to 75-thousand dollars and spend 70 years in prison.

cut 16 (06)  “a minor”