The Department of Children and Family Services is making a statewide push to increase the amount of foster homes in the state. Emelie Gunn has more….

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Louisiana Alcohol and Tobacco Control suspends the liquor licenses of five French Quarter strip clubs after uncovering prostitution and drug use. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (21) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Governor Bobby Jindal takes part in another GOP presidential debate tonight, but once again he will not be on the main stage. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The Department of Children and Family Services is starting a statewide campaign to recruit more, desperately needed foster parents. Secretary Suzy Sonnier says fostering is a temporary situation with a permanent impact. She says there are about 48-hundred children in foster care.

cut 4  (10)  “and supports”

Sonnier says there is a critical need for foster homes, with over 300 children entering the system every month. She says with the shortage of homes available, in many cases, siblings are separated from each other.

Cut 5  (10)  “and sisters”

Foster Parent Sheri Soper has children of her own and currently fosters two others. She says it’s rewarding to watch the kids grow and develop while in her care and gets satisfaction knowing they’re living in a safe environment.

Cut 6 (08)  “something secure”

______________________________________

Louisiana’s Alcohol and Tobacco Control Commissioner has suspended the liquor licenses of five French Quarter strip clubs after undercover agents found prostitution, illegal drug use and lewd acts at the establishments. ATC Commissioner Troy Hebert says the suspensions come after a month-long investigation, called “Operation Trick or Treat”

CUT 7 (09)  “or tolerated”

Three of the clubs are on historic Bourbon Street in New Orleans. The other two are just off Bourbon Street. Hebert these businesses were running an operation that was a threat to public safety, which is why their liquor licenses were suspended…

Cut 8  (05)  “nobody going”

 Hebert says at least seven other strip clubs are still being investigated. He says ATC wants to help clean up the problems that already exist in the French Quarter and it’s not fair to other establishments working legally to have businesses running that don’t follow the law.

Cut 9 (10) “close you” 

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The presidential GOP hopefuls will participate in a debate hosted by CNBC tonight and again Governor Bobby Jindal will not be on the main stage. Instead, Jindal and three others will participate in an undercard debate at 5 PM. LSU Political Science professor Robert Hogan says Jindal couldn’t pass up the opportunity for free exposure…

Cut 10 (11) “national audience” 

Jindal’s campaign argued he should be included in the main debate, because recent poll numbers from Iowa, the first primary state, showed he was gaining support. The governor even threatened to skip the CNBC debate, but after thinking about it, Jindal will attend. Hogan says it would have been a bad move if he didn’t go

cut 11 (06) “still running”

In the national polls, Jindal is not performing well and Hogan says time is running out…

Cut 12 (08) “of funding”

______________________________________

According to a report by InsuranceQuotes.com, Louisiana has the largest savings for bundling home and auto insurance. The numbers indicate drivers here are padding their wallets with an extra $548 on average when car and homeowner’s insurance is from the same company. State Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon attributes this to State Farm, the largest insurance company in Louisiana:

Cut 13 (08)  “of things”

According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, Louisiana has America’s 2nd-highest homeowner’s and 5th highest car insurance. Donelon says this study proves that there is loads of savings to be had when it comes to insurance if people just shopped around…:

Cut 14 (11) “the  state”

The study found that, on average, Americans save $295 nationwide for bundling. Donelon says even though Louisiana ranks too high in auto and homeowners, this report is an indicator of how much we can get back by
by bundling and doing some research…:

Cut 15  (09)  “all coverages”

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ULM is a disappointing 1-and-6 heading into its rivalry game against UL Lafayette on Saturday. Because of the Warhawks poor season, there’s talk that Head Coach Todd Berry is on the hot seat. But Berry says he’s not impacted by that discussion…

Cut 16  (21)  “can”

Berry admits its been a difficult season. The Warhawks had tough games against Georgia and Alabama earlier in the year and they’ve also dealt with numerous injuries. He says some guys are coming back to full health and he’s optimistic they can turn their season around starting this Saturday

Cut 17 (15) “boost morale”

UL Lafayette leads the all-time series between the two teams, with a record of 26-and-24. The Cajuns have won six of the last seven meetings, but the last game played at Cajun Field was won by ULM. Warhawks Coach Todd Berry says he’ll bring a young team to Lafayette, many of them have never played in a college rivalry game…

Cut 18 (15) “that opportunity”

In the November 21st runoff election, voters will decide who will become the next Lt. Governor between Democrat Kip Holden and Republican Billy Nungesser. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (27)  “I’m Eric Gill”

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Get ready to see a bunch of TV ads in the governor’s race. Jeff Palermo has the story…

CUT 2 (30)  “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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

In the November 21st runoff election, voters will decide who will become the next Lt. Governor. The election pits Democrat Kip Holden against Republican Billy Nungesser. Holden says his accomplishments as Mayor-President of East Baton Rouge Parish are examples of what he could do for the state as Lt. Governor…

CUT 3 (10)  “a filmmaker”

Holden took first place in the primary with 33-percent of the vote closely followed by Nungesser’s 30-percent. He says he will continue to travel the state to spread his message. Holden says, although this is your standard Republican versus Democrat runoff election, old style party politics will not work here…

CUT 4 (07)  “and deliver”

Nungesser says he’s put 75,000 miles on his truck meeting voters across the state during this campaign and doesn’t plan on slowing down now. Nungesser says he has a passion and work ethic that sets him apart and plans on spreading that message…

CUT 5 (10)  “this state”

Nungesser is a former two-term President of Plaquemines Parish. He says tourism promotion should be expanded to include hunting and fishing, among other events. Nungesser says tourism professionals from across the state should have their concerns addressed…

CUT 6 (10) “for the state”

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

The heavy rainfall and strong winds this past weekend have created headaches for sugarcane farmers as they harvest their crop. LSU Ag Center sugarcane specialist, Kenneth Gravois, says the wet harvesting conditions make it more difficult and costly for the farmers. And he says moving the crop to the mills creates problems on the roads too…

CUT 7 (10)  “to the factory”

Gravois says sugarcane farmers are equipped to handle the wet conditions in the field, but its still has a negative financial impact for producers…

CUT 8 (10)  “to the mill”

Gravois says sugarcane farmers were enjoying ideal harvesting conditions, until this past weekend, which saw some areas get 10 inches of rain.  He says there will be some losses because the cane was knocked down by the wind and rain, but hopefully the rest of the harvest will go smoothly…

CUT 9 (10)  “losses are”

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The ad wars have erupted in Lousiaina’s governor’s race. Democrat John Bel Edwards has a new TV ad that tells viewers Republican David Vitter only offers deception and hypocrisy. The Republican Governor’s Association released a spot that calls Edwards just another Obama liberal. UL Lafayette political science professor Pearson Cross says a negative tone has already been set in this race

cut 10 (07)  “of voters”

Politico is reporting that Vitter’s latest ad also links Edwards to Obama and makes the claim the state lawmaker wants to release thousands drug dealers and criminals from prison. Cross expects Vitter to run an aggressive campaign….

Cut 11 (08)  “reputation”

Cross says not only will the two candidates be throwing barbs at each other with commercials, so will outside groups, which could make it tough on TV viewers…

cut 12 (06)  “or shower”

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

Authorities in Tangipahoa Parish say a 14-year-old has been arrested after allegedly making an online threat against Hammond Schools early this morning. Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff Daniel Edwards says the suspect was taken into custody around 9AM. Edwards says the FBI was first alerted about the online threat…

cut 13 (10)  “go tomorrow”

He says the specific threat was a posting of a cartoon character holding a gun saying it would be best if you don’t go to school in Hammond tomorrow. Edwards says, looking at this young person’s history, they believe he had no intention to carry out the threat…

cut 14 (10) “too late” 

He says while they’re confident the student would not have carried out the threat, there is no way of knowing that on the front end of the investigation. Edwards says the juvenile is charged with terrorizing…

cut 15 (09)  “72 hours”

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

The World Health Organization has announced that ham, sausage, and other processed meats could lead to colon, stomach, and other cancers. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (28) “I’m Eric Gill”

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 Two of Louisiana’s major political factions have endorsed gubernatorial candidates, Democrat John Bel Edwards and Republican David Vitter. Emelie Gunn has more….

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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 After a low turnout of just 39-percent in the primary, Secretary of State Tom Schedler urges voters to get out for the runoff on November 21^st. Jeff Palermo has more….

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The World Health Organization has announced that ham, sausage, and other processed meats could lead to colon, stomach, and other cancers. WHO researchers also said that red meat probably caused cancer, too. Leigh Ann Burns, Registered Dietician with the LSU Health Sciences Center, says meats that are transformed to improve its flavor or preserve it are included in this category…

cut 4  (08)  “this group”

She says red meat includes beef, pork, lamb, goat, and other mammals humans consume. The WHO placed processed meats in the same danger category as cigarettes and asbestos. Burns says people should not equate the cancer risk of eating processed meats to cigarettes…

Cut 5  (07)  “meats are”

The meat industry says the classification is unfair because cancer is a complex disease not caused by a single food. The WHO has classified processed meat as “carcinogenic to humans” and red meat as “probably carcinogenic”. Burns says this report is in no way suggesting you need to become a vegetarian…

Cut 6 (10)  “type tumors”

______________________________________

Hype is already building for the November 7th top-10 matchup between LSU and Alabama at 7pm in Tuscaloosa. Because both teams are on a bye this weekend, there’s plenty of time for that excitement to keep growing. Brant Garrison is with Tuscaloosa Tourism and Sports. She says hotel bookings are racking up and will no doubt be completely sold out that weekend…:

CUT 7 (06)  “from them”

No. 4 LSU and No. 7 Alabama will play as top 10 teams for the sixth time in the last eight meetings including the 2011 Game of the Century which also happened at Bryant Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa. Garrison says she’s not sure if this game is as big as the 2011 game, but it’s always more fun when there’s something on the table to be won…:

Cut 8  (11)  “great energy”

(7-0) LSU is the only undefeated team in the SEC and they are one game ahead of (7-1) Alabama and one and a half games ahead of Ole Miss in the SEC West. Garrison says there is always a lot of energy when LSU comes to town, but Bama fans are even more fired up that they could take the Tigers spot in the standings…:

Cut 9 (08) “game” 

______________________________________

 The Louisiana Sheriff’s Association has endorsed Democratic gubernatorial candidate John Bel Edwards and the state’s Oil and Gas Political Action Committee is endorsing Republican David Vitter. Jeremy Alford of LA-Politics-dot-com (LApolitics.com) says this kind of support is a big deal coming so soon after the primary election.

Cut 10 (08) “picking horses” 

Alford says Vitter made an aggressive push to get an early endorsement from the Sheriffs and didn’t get it. He says Edwards comes from a long line of law enforcement so he had more of an advantage when it came to getting their support.

cut 11 (10) “weekend runoff”

 Alford says it’s not surprising that both candidates received major support this soon after the election because we’re on a very quick track to the runoff. He says the accusations that a private investigator employed by a firm working for the Vitter campaign taped a conversation involving Jefferson Parish Sheriff Newell Normand may have played a big role in the Sheriff’s Association endorsing Edwards.

Cut 12 (10) “that narrative”

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 After a turnout of just 39-percent in the primary, Secretary of State Tom Schedler hopes for a bigger turn out for the November 21^st runoff. Schedler says before the election, they predicted turnout anywhere from 45 to 50-percent and voters likely didn’t show up due to frustration with this election cycle or the major rainfall across the state.

Cut 13 (10)  “61.4”

The headline items on the November 21^st ballot are the governor’s race, lt governor and attorney general. He says there are another 153 races to be decided statewide.

Cut 14 (10) “remaining races”

Schedler says he will continue to remind voters across Louisiana the importance of casting their vote. But he says at the end of the day it’s a personal responsibility to go out and exercise that right.

Cut 15  (09)  “not voting”

___________________________________________________

Expectations are high as the Pelicans tip-off the regular season tonight against the defending NBA champs, the Golden State Warriors. New Orleans is considered by many as a team on the rise, but Jake Madison, who writes from the blog site, Bourbon Street Shots, says wins might be difficult early on, because the team is dealing with numerous injuries

Cut 16  (20)  “back on track”

The Pelicans will start the season without their top two centers Omar Asik, who has a calf string, and Alexis Ajinca, who has a hamstring injury. Swingman Quincy Pondexter won’t return until November and point guard Tyreke Evans recently had knee surgery. He says the Pels will definitely miss Evans, who is coming off a good season…

Cut 17 (14) “time being”

Pelicans made the playoffs last season as the eighth seed and were swept by Golden State in the first round. He says the Western Conference will be difficult again this year, but New Orleans has one of the best players in the game in Anthony Davis, who has added some muscle to help his ability to score down low…

Cut 18 (20) “the past”

In addition to the Governor’s race, the state’s next Lt. Governor and Attorney General will also be decided November 21st. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (28)  “I’m Eric Gill”

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

Democrat John Bel Edwards and Republican David Vitter have begun to make the case on why they should be elected as the state’s next governor. Jeff Palermo has the story…

CUT 2 (28)  “I’m Don Molino”

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

The Governor’s race is not the only statewide race heading to a runoff next month. The state’s next Lt. Governor and Attorney General will also be decided November 21st. Democrat Kip Holden narrowly came out on top in the Lt. Governor primary over Republican Billy Nungesser. But political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says signs point to Nungesser winning the runoff…

CUT 3 (10)  “Lt. Governor”

In the Attorney General’s race, incumbent Buddy Caldwell is in a tight race with fellow Republican Jeff Landry. Pinsonat says the dynamics of this race are more intriguing than the other runoffs and that will make it more difficult for Landry to claim the AG’s seat…

CUT 4 (07)  “Jeff Landry”

He says this could be the race to watch as it features two Republican candidates. Pinsonat expects Landry to identify Caldwell as the “Democrat” in this race in order to secure a majority of the Republican vote. Pinsonat says Landry has his work cut out for him to unseat the incumbent…

CUT 5 (08) “a Republican”

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

Heavy rains have inundated Louisiana over the past few days. State Climatologist says the southeast and north-central parts of the state were the hardest hit areas. Keim says a vast majority of Louisiana received 5 inches of rain or more…

CUT 6 (09) “10 inches”

He says the the wettest spot in the state was LSU in Baton Rouge with a recorded 10.5 inches of rain. But Keim says there is some good news that comes with these rains. Last week, 86-percent of Louisiana was considered in drought. Keim says he expects a 1 to 2 category improvement in drought conditions across the state following these rains…

CUT 7 (10)  “hole, up there”

The rain is expected to taper off today. But Keim says there’s more wet weather on the horizon and that could possibly knock out Louisiana’s drought…

CUT 8 (10)  “across the state”

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The Ruston Police Department says the woman accused of kidnapping an 8-year-old boy has been arrested by the Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office. Authorities say Dakota Johnson was located safe in the Swartz area. Ruston PD Deputy Chief Clint Williams says the boy’s mother reported her son was in their vehicle asleep at a motel when a woman she was in the room with stole it..:

CUT 9 (09)  “issued”

Williams says the Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office got a call from someone in the Swartz area saying that the suspect, 23-year-old Sommer Hattaway, had left the boy at that residence. The child was located and returned to his family in Lincoln Parish. Williams says the search then began for Hattaway…:

cut 10 (09)  “our warrant”

Williams says Hattaway will be charged with theft of a motor vehicle and kidnapping. He says they don’t think the woman knew the child was in the car, but why she allegedly stole the vehicle from the hotel remains under investigation…:

Cut 11 (08)  “immediately before”

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Despite finishing second in the October 24th primary, Senator David Vitter is confident he will be elected as the state’s next governor on November 21st. Vitter believes voters will choose him over John Bel Edwards, because Edwards does not represent the values that Louisiana is seeking

cut 12 (10)  “Obama liberal”

But Edwards says a vote for Vitter will continue to send Louisiana down the wrong path…

cut 13 (11)  “people first”

Vitter received criticism from oppponents for dodging debates prior to the primary. The Republican senator says he welcomes the opportunity for multiple debates before the November 21st runoff…

cut 14 (11) “Louisiana” 

Edwards says  he expects Vitter will use false advertising and lies to make his case to be the next governor. The state representative says the Washington style politics are not wanted in Baton Rouge….

cut 15 (08)  “things done”

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

The Louisiana National Guard Museum at Jackson Barracks will open a new exhibit in February to mark the 25^th Anniversary of Operation Desert Storm. Emelie Gunn has more….

CUT 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

______________________________________

The November 21st runoff has been decided. Democrat John Bel Edwards had 40% of the vote, and Republican David Vitter pulled it out with 23%. Michelle Southern reports..:

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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A tight race is expected in the gubernatorial runoff between Democrat John Bel Edwards and Republican David Vitter. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 3 (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The Louisiana National Guard Museum at Jackson Barracks will open a Desert Storm exhibit in February to mark the 25^th anniversary and they’re seeking the help of current and former guardsmen. Museum Director Captain Heather Englehart says they’re searching for items to help tell the story of how the National Guard assisted in Operation Desert Storm.

cut 4  (10)  “their photographs”

Englehart says the museum is really struggling to find videos from that time period. She says if any guardsmen has a particularly interesting story, they’re willing to interview them on camera.

Cut 5  (09)  “perspective”

Any past or present National Guardsman can contact Beverly Boyko at (504) 278-8024 to donate artifacts. Englehart says anyone who participated in the operation is encouraged to come forward to share their experience.

Cut 6 (11)  “was like”

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It’s Democrat John Bel Edwards and Republican David Vitter in the November 21st gubernatorial runoff. Edwards won the primary with 40-percent of the vote. He told his supporters he’ll run a honest campaign as he seeks to replace Bobby Jindal

CUT 7 (09)  “cheering”

On election night, Edwards was not afraid to criticize Vitter, including the incident that occurred on Friday that led to the arrest of a man who was working for the Vitter campaign. Jefferson Parish Sheriff Newell Normand said the person was spying on his conversation at a coffeehouse. Edwards says that’s why the people of Louisiana should not elect Vitter

Cut 8  (13)  “governor’s office”

Vitter, who got 23% of the votes, said in his post-election speech that Edwards is a liberal who supports the president…:

Cut 9 (12) “for illegals” 

Vitter will likely continue to tie Edwards to President Obama over the next month. He told his supporters that Edwards will bring to the Governor’s mansion exactly what the president has brought to the White House…:

Cut 10 (11) “in Baton Rouge (booo)” 

______________________________________

Analysts are anticipating a close governor’s race as Democrat John Bel Edwards and Republican David Vitter will battle for votes leading up to the November 21st runoff. ULM political science professor Joshua Stockley says at this moment, he gives a slight edge to Edwards, who received 40-percent of the vote in the primary

cut 11 (10) “Scott Angelle”

Stockley says Vitter will have to convince all of the republicans who didn’t vote for him in the runoff to vote for him in the runoff…

Cut 12 (06) “vote for him”

Vitter is expected to tie Edwards to President Barack Obama in this race, and Stockley says the state representative from Amite will have to show his politics are different from the Commander in Chief…

Cut 13 (12)  “conservative democrat”

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LSU enters the bye week with a perfect 7-0 record after beating Western Kentucky 48 to 20 in a mud-filled game at Tiger Stadium. It’s the eighth time the Tigers have started the season 7-0, but Coach Les Miles says there’s still room for improvement….

Cut 14 (12) “couple of weeks”

In a couple of weeks, the Tigers will visit Alabama, who is 7-and-1. Miles is glad the bye week has arrived…

Cut 15  (10)  “some fatigue”

___________________________________________________

The heavy rainfall that has impacted much of the state the last couple of days should come to an end today. Gavin Phillips, with the National Weather Service in Slidell, says the storm system that has dumped more than a half of rain in some areas is finally moving out

Cut 16  (09)  “24 hours”

Phillips says it’s rare to have this kind of prolonged rain event in Louisiana in October, but it’s much needed after several weeks without significant rain

Cut 17 (07) “rainfall” 

 _______________________________________________________

The Saints have a two-game winning streak after holding on to beat the Indianapolis Colts 27-21. It looked like New Orleans would have an easy win in Indy, but the Colts mounted a furious comeback to have a chance in the fourth quarter. Coach Sean Payton gives credits the Colts for coming back, but wishes it didn’t happen…

Cut 18 (19) “things we didn’t”

Quarterback Drew Brees threw for 255 yards and one touchdown. But the biggest pass of the game was thrown by backup Luke McCown on a fake field goal. McCown’s 25-yard completion to Ben Watson set up New Orleans first touchdown of the game. Brees says it was awesome to see that trick play work

Cut 19 (15) “make em”

Brees got some help from the running game. Mark Ingram rushed for 143 yards and a touchdown, Khiry Robinson ran the ball into the end zone twice and running back CJ Spiller caught six passes. Brees says it was a good day for that group…

Cut 20 (20) “plays out”

Louisiana will get some much needed rain over the next five days. Emelie Gunn has more….

CUT 1 (31)  “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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

It’s election day tomorrow and polls will close at 8 PM, so who will be in the runoff in the governor’s race? Don Molino has the story…

CUT 2 (26)  “I’m Don Molino”

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

Louisiana will get some much needed rain over the next few days. State Climatologist Barry Keim says the majority of the state has been in extreme drought and this rain event will likely to change all of that. He says we’ll be in an incredibly wet pattern until at least Tuesday.

CUT 3 (10)  “of rain”

Keim says given the way things look right now, we’re probably going to have some flooding problems.

CUT 4 (10)  “right now”

Keim says this is going to take a serious bite out of the drought problems we’ve been having across the state and we can expect to see the majority of the rain early Sunday into Monday. He says the coast will likely get hit the hardest but much of the state will see a couple of inches.

CUT 5 (07) “equal opportunity”

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

The Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s office has secured a handgun after it was found in a Golden Meadow Upper Elementary School student’s backpack. Spokesperson Brennan Matherne says the student notified a teacher immediately after discovering the weapon in his bag.

CUT 6 (10) “moves on”

Matherne says at no point did the student pose a threat to his classmates. He says they’re investigating how the gun got in the student’s bag.

CUT 7 (08)  “this time”

Matherne says the student has been cooperative throughout the entire process.

CUT 8 (05)  “it’s available”

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

There was enough social media outrage this week over a restaurant in Destin, Florida denying an LSU fan inside during the Tigers/Gators game, that Harry T’s has now issued a “sincere apology.” The fan is Don Bass, the Chief Criminal Deputy at the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office in Mississippi. He says he went to Harry T’s to meet up with some friends:

CUT 9 (07)  “welcome here”

Bass, who is 62, says he was wearing an LSU hat at the time and the planned gathering was for a wedding and not to even watch the game. He says following the incident, he was upset that Harry T’s refused their business so he sent the owner an email…:

cut 10 (11)  “went from there”

The response from Harry T’s indicated that LSU did not carry a good name at the establishment. The email went “angry viral” and the restaurant is now back peddling big time even offering an LSU scholarship donation. But Bass says he will never be going back to Harry T’s…:

Cut 11 (10)  “the same”

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

As we head into tomorrow’s October primary, polls have shown Republican David Vitter and Democrat John Bel Edwards in a run-off. But Jeremy Alford, with la-politics-dot-com, says polling data has come out this week that shows Vitter is fighting to secure the second spot in the runoff

cut 12 (10)  “this point”

A poll conducted by Marblepoint showed Edwards at 41-pecent. Alford says the Amite representative should lead the primary field when the votes are counted on Saturday night…

cut 13 (08)  “high 30s”

Alford says with Edwards nearly a lock to make the runoff, the big surprise we could see on Saturday night is whether Republicans Scott Angelle or Jay Dardenne can catch Vitter for the second runoff spot…

cut 14 (10) “passing Vitter” 

Election Day is tomorrow and polls are open from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Emelie Gunn has more on election details…

CUT 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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 A proposed merger between Pineville-based Cleco Corp. and Macquarie Infrastructure and Real Assets, has some left feeling uneasy. Don Molino has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Don Molino reporting”

______________________________________

Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon blames the Jindal administration for letters sent by the Office of Motor Vehicles seeking money from residents who at one time may have allowed their auto insurance to lapse. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

______________________________________

Election Day is tomorrow and polls will open at 7:00 a.m. and close at 8:00 p.m. Secretary of State Spokesperson Meg Casper says those in line by 8:00 p.m.  will be allowed to vote. She says voters curious to see who is on your ballot, visit Geaux Vote.com.

cut 4  (10)  “real time”

Casper wants to remind voters to bring your photo ID but if you do forget, there is a way to fill out an affidavit and you will not be turned away. She says there is a limit of three minutes at the voting booth to make sure lines move quickly, so make sure you’re up to date with everyone on your ballot.

Cut 5  (08)  “very quickly”

The Secretary of State’s official prediction for voter turnout is about 45 to 50 percent. Casper says to get the quickest and most up to date results on the election, voters can go to S-O-S-dot-L-A-dot-gov (SOS.LA.Gov). She says this is an important election for Louisiana, so don’t forget to get out there and cast your vote.

Cut 6 (09)  “voice heard”

______________________________________

 The consumer group, The Alliance for Affordable Energy, isn’t happy with the possible merger of Pineville-based Cleco Corp. and Macquarie Infrastructure and Real Assets. Logan Atkinson-Burke with the Alliance of Affordable Energy says it’s a bad and unfair deal for Cleco customers.

CUT 7 (10)  “for them”

 The Public Service Commission will get the chance to approve this merger early next year. Atkinson-Burke says Macquarie has a history of purchasing utilities and making promises then raising rates as soon as possible. She says the company has done this in other states.

Cut 8  (10)  “late cases”

 Robbyn Cooper with Cleco says this will be a great deal and is beneficial for the company and their employees. She says as part of the agreement, Macquarie has committed to providing rate credits for customers totally 65 million dollars over a ten year period.

Cut 9 (04) “even better” 

Cooper says the new owners have a recognized record of success. She says customer rates will not go up as a result of the merger.

Cut 10 (08) “…is approved” 

______________________________________

Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon believes the debt collection notices sent out by the state Office of Motor Vehicles to Louisiana citizens, who allegedly allowed their auto insurance to lapse, is an attempt by the Jindal administration to plug a hole in the state’s budget. But Donelon is glad the OMV will allow a person to defend themself from paying these fines

cut 11 (10) “indebtedness”

 The OMV sent 1.2 million notices notifying residents they face fines for allowing their auto insurance to lapse. Many of the cases happened years ago. Donelon says he plans to meet with OMV Commissioner Stephen Campbell next week to talk about how the insurance department can help determine if a fine is warranted

Cut 12 (06) “owed to the state”

State Police, which oversees the Office of Motor Vehicles, says those residents who received a notice and want to dispute they owe a fine, are asked to call the number listed on the letter. Donelon says he’s been told the OMV will act fairly…

Cut 13 (10)  “collection efforts”

_____________________________________________________

The LSU Tigers put their perfect 6-0 record on the line Saturday night in Tiger Stadium when they host Western Kentucky, who has a record of 6-1. LSU has done well this year getting to the opposing passer, but the Hilltoppers have allowed just eight sacks. Coach Les Miles explains the challenges his defense faces when it comes to rushing the Hilltopper quarterback

Cut 14 (10) “and throw”

Western Kentucky has the third best passing offense in the country as their quarterback Brandon Doughty has thrown for 2,709 yards, which is the second best in the nation. Miles says his players understand they are going up against a good opponent…

Cut 15  (14)  “nice match-up”

LSU has struggled on special teams this year. In the last two weeks, they’ve allowed a kickoff return and a punt return for a touchdown. Miles says special teams have been an emphasis at practice this week

Cut 16  (15)  “we see”

A report finds that Louisiana leads the nation for TV political campaign advertising. Jeff Palermo has the story…

CUT 1 (30)  “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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In the final televised debate before the October 24th primary, Republican Scott Angelle took a hard shot at GOP candidate David Vitter’s past prostitution scandal. Michelle Southern reports…:

CUT 2 (31)  “I’m Michelle Southern”

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The Shreveport Police Department says a man who was waving his knife at people and then at an officer was shot by the cop. Corporal Breck Scott says they got a call around 8 this morning about an armed man near the Eldorado Casino…:

CUT 3 (07)  “around at people”

Scott says they are unsure why the man appeared to be threatening random people with a knife. He says the officer advised the suspect repeatedly to drop the knife…:

CUT 4 (09)  “upper body”

Scott says the unidentified suspect is currently in critical condition…:

CUT 5 (06) “hospital”

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According to analysis from the Center for Public Integrity, Louisiana leads the country in political TV advertising this year at 15.8 million dollars. Jeremy Alford, with lapolitics.com, says he’s a seen a report that if you include radio and TV, nearly 16-million dollars has spent in the governor’s race alone.  Alford says the ads have been effective, especially for Republican Scott Angelle…

CUT 6 (07) “this race”

Alford says Republican David Vitter and a Super PAC supporting him has also spent a lot of money, much of targeted at the other two republican candidates in the race…

CUT 7 (06)  “on em”

Alford says the political money being spent is good for media outlets, but he says many of the ads are negative, which will keep undecided voters from going to the polls on election day…

CUT 8 (09)  “after awhile”

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The Office of Motor Vehicles has extended its hours until 8 p.m. to answer all calls regarding the letters drivers are receiving for not paying fines for expired auto insurance. State Police spokesperson Lt. J.B. Slaton says they want to help the public and want to work with everyone to get these outstanding fines straight.

CUT 9 (08)  “lunch break”

The Office of Motor Vehicles has sent out 1.2 million letters and the fines for lapsed insurance could be as high as $525. There are reports of people who received these letters that they have information to dispute the claims of expired auto insurance.  Slaton says they are willing to work with the public.

cut 10 (09)  “statuses up”

Slaton warns callers that there may be a wait, but stay patient or try calling back. The OMV is taking calls from 8 AM to 8 PM and that’s even on the weekends, until the call volume drops. He says if you received a letter, the number to the O-M-V is on the bottom.

Cut 11 (08)  “people through”

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In the final televised debate before the October 24th primary, Republican Scott Angelle took a hard shot at GOP candidate David Vitter’s past prostitution scandal. Angelle directed the live television audience to visit a political blog that has an interview with Wendy Ellis, a prostitute who claims Vitter was a client of hers in the late 1990s..:

cut 12 (10)  “Senator Vitter”

The New Orleans based site is “the-american-zombie-dot-com.” Angelle said Vitter’s past would cast a shadow over Louisiana and potentially hurt the ability to attract new businesses and grow the economy…:

cut 13 (09)  “can not afford”

A spokesperson for the Vitter campaign says this blog has proven to post untrue articles and adds that desperate candidates like Angelle say desperate things. Scott McKay, is the publisher of the political blog The Hayride. He says American Zombie is known for picking up controversial stories, which may or may not be true, that traditional media isn’t interested in publishing…:

cut 14 (06) “they end up” 

McKay says American Zombie is the same site that ran the “double dipping” story in the Congressional races last year which claimed Senator Bill Cassidy was lying on his time sheets at LSU. He doesn’t think it’s an effective tactic to direct people to a website with questionable credibility that most people have never heard of…:

cut 15 (09)  “in fact true”

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We’re two days away from the gubernatorial elections, so is there anything the candidates can do at this point to sway voters? Eric Gill reports…:

CUT 1 (31) “I’m Eric Gill”

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The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s office says the K-9 Thor who was attacked and stabbed during a pursuit of a burglary suspect, is in recovery and doing well. Jeff Palermo reports…:

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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 The State Fair of Louisiana kicks off this weekend in Shreveport with many new attractions and runs until November 8th. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 3 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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We’re two days away from the gubernatorial elections, so is there anything the candidates can do at this point to sway voters? ULM Political Science Professor Joshua Stockley says, this late in the cycle, it’s rare that people hitting the polls would change their minds about how they are going to vote…:

cut 4  (10)  “that direction”

Stockley says recent polls have suggested that many people remain undecided on who they want to vote for governor, and at this point that typically means they won’t show up to the polls. He feels the long time trend showing Democrat John Bel Edwards and Republican David Vitter making the runoff, still stands firm…:

Cut 5  (10)  “in this contest”

Stockley says if there is going to be a surprise on election day, he wouldn’t be shocked if Republican Scott Angelle overtook Vitter for second place and made it to the November 21st runoff with Edwards. He believes the fact that Angelle hit the airwaves before Republican Jay Dardenne worked in his favor…:

Cut 6 (09)  “Vitter alternative”

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The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s office says the K-9 Thor who was attacked and stabbed during a pursuit of a burglary suspect, is in recovery and doing well. Sheriff Jack Strain says they are hopeful Thor can return to work sooner than later, but they are taking it day by day starting with when doctors remove the drain tube from the surgery site:

CUT 7 (09)  “to duty”

Strain says deputies shot the suspect, 30-year-old Darien Greenwood, when he began stabbing Thor. Greenwood was pronounced dead at a local hospital and the incident is under investigation. Sheriff Jack Strain says the outpouring of support and prayers for Thor have been coming from all over…:

Cut 8  (10)  “the world”

Strain says Greenwood was wielding a 4-6 inch switch blade and had it not been for Thor intervening, they believe the suspect could have stabbed and killed the deputy. He says the way Thor put his own life on the line for his partner, is an incredible situation…:

Cut 9 (05) “and handler” 

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The 109^th State Fair of Louisiana kicks off today in Shreveport and runs until November 8^th. President and Grand Marshal of the fair Chris Giordano says this year’s fair is looking to be bigger and better than ever with new carnival rides, events and food vendors.

Cut 10 (10) “ice cream stick ”

Giordano says they’ve brought in many new attractions with everything from baby giraffes, Wild Wild Wacky Emu racing and the Wall of Death, which is a stunt show that defies gravity. He says this year the fair is also bringing back the Red River State Fair Classic football game, which features Grambling State and Texas Southern on November 7^th.

cut 11 (07) “to the fair”

 Giordano says he hopes to beat last year’s crowd of over 455-thousand people even though the weather forecast isn’t looking too great for the opening weekend. He says he wants to alert people to visit the State Fair of Louisiana website to get details on special deals.

Cut 12 (10) “half price”

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Hundreds of new jobs are coming to the Port of Iberia as a result of two large companies who have announced plans to begin projects at the port. President of the Iberia Industrial Development Foundation Mike Tarintino says businesses are realizing how much Iberia Parish has to offer.

Cut 13 (10)  “work force”

Tarintino says Primoris Services Corp. and Dynamic Industries are now seeking about 600 new employees to get started. He says other companies already at the port are expanding and looking for people to fill new positions.

Cut 14 (07) “our area”

 Tarintino says the reason new businesses are investing in the area is because the Port of Iberia is in an ideal location for the oil and gas industry.

Cut 15  (09)  “kinds of projects”

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The Saints are getting ready to take on the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday. Indy is 3-and-3 on the season and coming off a loss to New England. But Coach Sean Payton says the Colts are very good over the last few years after a loss and they have a lot of talent…

Cut 16  (18)  “down the field”

The Saints are 2-and-4 on the season. Payton says there’s two things his team needs to get better at…in order to turn their season around…

Cut 17 (08) “down ride” 

In the latest AP Top 25 poll, LSU is ranked fifth and the college football playoff selection committee only picks four teams to play for the national championship. CBS-sports-dot-com College football analyst,  Jerry Palm, says two of the teams ahead of LSU, TCU and Baylor, will play each other on November 27th and the other two teams ahead of LSU are also not guaranteed of an undefeated season

Cut 18 (15) “for everybody”

Palm says Florida, Texas A-and-M, Alabama and LSU are the four teams from the SEC that have a shot at making the college football playoff…

Cut 19 (16) “as well”

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The Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles has mailed 1.2 million letters to drivers with lapsed insurance warning them that a collections agency could be used if they don’t pay their fines. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (28)  “I’m Eric Gill”

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An arrest has been made in connection with the murder of an elderly Baton Rouge couple who was found strangled to death at truck stop in Hammond. Emelie Gunn has more….

CUT 2 (31)  “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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The Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles has mailed 1.2 million letters to drivers with lapsed insurance warning them that a collections agency could be used if their fines of up to $525 go unpaid. A new law allows the office to send solicitations in an effort to collect money through the Office of Debt Recovery. State Police Lt. JB Slaton says these letters are just a first step…

CUT 3 (06)  “Debt Recovery”

He says these fines have been piling up over the past several years, but it wasn’t until recently the office had the means to collect them. Slaton encourages people who received letters to contact the OMV. He says it’s a good idea for motorists to get their documentation in order…

CUT 4 (10)  “proper documentation”

He says OMV phone lines have been busy so please be patient when trying to call in. Slaton says it’s unfortunate that some people claim this is a money grab by the state…

CUT 5 (08) “legislative session”

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The Baton Rouge Police Department has arrested a 42-year-old man in connection with the murder of an elderly Baton Rouge couple found dead in at a truck stop in Hammond.  Chief Carl Dabadie says Ernesto Alonso was arrested in Miami, Florida for the abduction and murder of Denis and Suzanne Duplantier. Alonso is said to have done odd jobs around the couple’s home.

CUT 6 (10) “been recovered”

East Baton Rouge District Attorney Hillar Moore says once Alonso is returned to Louisiana, his office will present the evidence to a grand jury so they can seek an indictment.

CUT 7 (09)  “this parish”

Police Spokesperson Lt. Johnny Dunham says investigators are still investigating who drove the vehicle to Hammond with the Duplantiers in the backseat. He says they are unsure where the murders took place and are searching for others who could be involved.

CUT 8 (09)  “accomplices”

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Vice President Joe Biden ended months of speculation today by announcing he will not seek the Democratic presidential nomination. In his announcement, Biden said he didn’t think there was sufficient time to mount a winning campaign. LSU Political Science Professor Robert Hogan says this is great news for Hillary Clinton…

CUT 9 (07)  “looks like”

He says Biden’s decision smooths the way for Clinton to gain the Democratic nomination. Hogan says many Democrats are breathing easier now that Biden has chosen not to run…

cut 10 (09)  “the presidency”

National polls showed Biden consistently polling with at least 10-percent support among Democratic voters. Hogan doesn’t really see anyone else with the ability to rise up and seriously challenge for the nomination…

Cut 11 (07)  “Democratic nomination”

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The final televised debate among gubernatorial candidates will be held tonight on the LSU campus. Republicans Scott Angelle and Jay Dardenne as well as Democrat John Bel Edwards will participate, while Republican David Vitter has declined to attend. LSU Reveille Editor Fernanda Zamudio-Suarez says students’ attitude about Saturday’s election pretty much reflects the rest of the state…

cut 12 (07)  “on campus”

The debate begins at 7PM and can be viewed online at tigertv-dot-tv. Zamudio-Suarez says even though the campus is Republican leaning, some are throwing their support behind Edwards…

cut 13 (06)  “him with that”

She says Dardenne has a slight home field advantage on campus as he is a former student body president at LSU. Zamudio-Suarez says the two Republicans dominating the student crowd are Vitter and Dardenne…

cut 14 (09) “Lt. Governor” 

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