For the fourth year in a row, the cost for a traditional Thanksgiving meal has increased. Don Molino reports…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Don Molino”

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 LSU Football Coach Les Miles tries to stay focused on the next game as rumors of his firing swirl. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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 More people than ever plan on shopping local on Small Business Saturday. Emelie Gunn has more…..

Cut 3 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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For the fourth year in a row, the cost for a traditional Thanksgiving meal has increased. The LSU AgCenter surveyed Baton Rouge retailers and found the cost of items to prepare a meal for 10 was $49.81, a $1.31 increase from last year. Economist Kurt Guidry says a rise in turkey prices led to this year’s price increase…

cut 4  (07)  “this year”

He says, on the wholesale level, the price of turkey is up 9-percent from a year ago. On the other hand, the price of milk is about 50-cents lower than last year. Guidry says, fortunately for consumers, the retail price of turkey is only up slightly…

Cut 5  (07)  “their products”

If you plan to fry your turkey for Thanksgiving, you can add $30 to $45 dollars for the peanut oil you will use. Guidry says, while the price for the meal is a little higher, he doesn’t think it will limit anyone’s Thanksgiving dinner…

Cut 6 (08)  “expect to see”

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US Representative John Fleming of Minden has joined fellow Republican Louisiana Congressman Charles Boustany in letting voters know that he plans to run for US Senate next year. Political analyst Elliot Stonecipher says it’s not a surprise to see Fleming to throw his hat into the ring for David Vitter’s Senate seat…

CUT 7 (10)  “already”

Boustany, state treasurer John Kennedy and Public Service Commissioner Scott Angelle are other candidates could run for Vitter’s seat as the former gubernatorial candidate has announced he’s not seeking re-election in 2016. Stonecipher says Fleming could run into name recognition issues, but there are ways around that…

Cut 8  (12)  “you have”

In a statement, Fleming says voters are eager to see real, conservative solutions in our nation’s capital. Boustany says considering the Senate race is still nearly a year away, he thinks any candidates for that race should hold off on making any announcements until the dust settles from this past election….

Cut 9 (12) “candidates aren’t”

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LSU Coach Les Miles does not want the focus on him or the rumors of his firing, as his team prepares for the final regular season game of the year on Saturday against Texas A&M. The Tigers have lost three in a row for the first time in Miles 11-year coaching career at LSU and he was not ready to address his job status at his weekly luncheon with reporters…

Cut 10 (10) “the team”

It’s been reported that LSU is preparing to part ways with Miles, but the decision is not final. The coach sidestepped a question on whether he’s spoken with any LSU administrators about his job security…

cut 11 (09) “would do it”

Speculation over whether LSU would fire Miles at the end of the season intensified last week as a result of a published report in the Advocate newspaper that said the head coach was coaching for his job in the final two regular season games. Miles says the only instruction he’s received is to continue doing his job…

Cut 12 (06) “eleven years”

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A record number of people plan to shop local for Small Business Saturday. Dawn Starns, the Louisiana state director of the National Federation of Independent Business, says they’ve partnered with American Express and their survey found a large majority of shoppers plan to participate in Small Business Saturday…

Cut 13 (10)  “little unique”

Starns say this is so encouraging because this is the time of year where small businesses are in competition with big name stores. She says shoppers are often looking for unique gifts and items and that’s where your small business retailer comes in handy….

Cut 14 (09) “a gift”

Starns encourages shoppers to keep local stores in mind this holiday season, because says the money spent at a small retailer goes right back into the local economy.

Cut 15  (10) “employ people.” 

Republican Congressman Charles Boustany has announced his intention to run for David Vitter’s Senate seat next year. Emilie Gunn reports…

CUT 1 (29)  “I’m Emilie Gunn”

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Governor-elect John Bel Edwards has put together his transition team, which will be led by a longtime state senator Ben Nevers. Jeff Palermo has the story…

CUT 2 (29)  “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Republican Congressman Charles Boustany has announced his intention to run for David Vitter’s Senate seat next year. Vitter announced Saturday night that he would not seek re-election. UL-Lafayette Political Science Professor Pearson Cross says this announcement was expected.

CUT 3 (11)  “his plans”

He says Boustany has already been fundraising and meeting with donors in anticipation of a Senate campaign. The congressman plans to make a formal campaign announcement in his hometown of Lafayette in the near future. Cross says the race for the soon-to-be vacant Senate seat could feature some familiar names…

CUT 4 (09)  “careful look”

He says Public Service Commissioner Scott Angelle is another possible name that could enter the field. Cross adds that even Governor Bobby Jindal could jump into the race, but thinks that is unlikely…

CUT 5 (11)  “best option”

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Bossier Parish authorities are still trying to figure out why a mother fatally shot her son and injured another woman while driving down Interstate 20. Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Lt. Bill Davis says after the three people left a casino, 47-year-old Dora Blake of Minden took out a handgun, while riding in the backseat of the vehicle and shot the two people in the front seat.

CUT 6 (11) “be okay”

Davis says after Blake shot 22-year-old Patrick Hollingsworth and the passenger, the vehicle crashed into a tree on the side of the interstate. He says when witnesses came to help, Blake told them she’d been kidnapped and managed to shoot her abductors.

CUT 7 (06)  “another one”

Davis says Blake was treated for injuries sustained during the accident and was highly intoxicated. He says she was booked into Bossier Maximum Security Facility on a one million dollar bond.

CUT 8 (10)  “the front”

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Governor-elect John Bel Edwards names longtime state senator Ben Nevers of Boglausa as his chief of staff when he takes office. Nevers will also lead the new governor’s transition team. Edwards says Nevers has been a mentor to him in the legislature…

CUT 9 (09)  “of Louisiana”

Lake Charles business owner Laura Leach, Monroe Mayor Jamie Mayo, Jefferson Parish Sheriff Newell Normand, Baton Rouge senator Sharon Weston Broome, former legislator Taylor Townsend and Baton Rouge businessman Richard Lipsey are also on the transition team. Edwards says there’s a lot to do before he takes office on January 11th…

cut 10 (08)  “with precision”

Edwards first priority is to deal with the budget, as the state is looking at a one-billion dollar revenue shortfall.  He pledges to keep to his campaign promise and that is bring a moderate and bipartisan approach to the governor’s office….

Cut 11 (10) “the people”

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There is a lot of speculation concerning the job security of Les Miles’ at LSU. Tiger Rag Editor Cody Worsham says athletic director Joe Alleva has not commented on Miles’ future but his silence is telling.

cut 12 (10)  “from LSU”

Miles’ contract runs until 2019.  Worsham says coming off of the Tigers three game losing streak, it’s pretty clear to him that Miles’ job is in jeopardy. But he doesn’t believe there is any rush to get rid of Miles just yet.

cut 13 (10)  “going to get”

Worsham says Miles’ 15 million dollar buyout isn’t much of a determining factor because those who want him gone are willing to front that money.

cut 14 (08)  “to pay” 

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Louisiana ranks fourth for the best state to live in for low taxes. Emelie Gunn has more….

CUT 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Six weeks ago, no one would have predicted the result of Saturday night and that’s a victory for Democrat John Bel Edwards in the governor’s race. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (27) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Republican Senator David Vitter has announced he will not seek re-election to the US Senate next year. Jeff Palermo reports…

Cut 3 (29) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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According to the personal finance website, Kiplinger, Louisiana ranks fourth for best state to live in for low taxes and it’s also eighth for retirees. Kiplinger Senior Associate Editor Sandra Block says the Pelican State has a variety of tax friendly policies….

cut 4  (09)  “the country”

Block says another aspect in Louisiana’s favor is state gasoline taxes, which is 20 cents per gallon, about a dime lower than the rest of the nation.

Cut 5  (05)  “Louisiana”

Block says Louisiana’s income tax is also one of the lowest in the US. She says a downside is that low taxes could lead to cuts in social services, roads and education…

Cut 6 (10)  “good services”

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A state representative from Amite is the next governor of Louisiana. John Bel Edwards defeated Republican David Vitter by double digits, becoming the first Democrat to win a statewide election since 2008. Edwards says his victory is a breeze of hope for Louisiana….

CUT 7 (08)  “of others”

Edwards has this message for Louisiana residents….

Cut 8  (12)  “people first”

About a month ago, Vitter was the odds on favorite to be the next governor of Louisiana. But now it appears his political career is over as he’s announced he won’t seek re-election to the US Senate in 2016…

Cut 9 (08) “matter what”

Vitter did not disclose what he may do once his second-term in the US Senate ends…

Cut 10 (11) “after issue”

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Republican Senator David Vitter has decided to not seek re-election to the US Senate next year. Vitter made the announcement during his gubernatorial election concession speech Saturday night. LSU Political Science Professor Robert Hogan says this does not come as a shock…

cut 11 (09) “this announcement”

Vitter said when he decided to run for governor, he wanted to pursue challenges outside the Senate, no matter the outcome of this election. Hogan says Vitter’s decision makes sense…

Cut 12 (06) “this election”

Vitter said he had reached his personal term limit in the Senate. Hogan says Vitter’s open Senate seat will draw a lot of interest…

Cut 13 (11)  “the possibility”

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Two-term Republican incumbent Buddy Caldwell was defeated in the Attorney General’s race as fellow Republican and former Congressman Jeff Landry won by 12-percentage points. Caldwell says he’s proud of the work he’s done as the state’s top lawyer…

Cut 14 (10) “not through”

Caldwell says he was not pleased with accusations made by Landry that he was a corrupted politician…

Cut 15  (10)  “cheers”

Attorney General-elect Landry on what he’ll bring to the office…

Cut 16  (06)  “I didnt’”

Landry says he’s thankful for the support he’s received and now plans to bring honor and integrity to the Attorney General’s office…

Cut 17 (11) “against them”

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Is Les Miles getting ready to coach his last game in Tiger Stadium? It’s a possibility after the Tigers suffered their third straight loss in an embarrassing 38-17 defeat to Ole Miss. Coach Les Miles says his job status didn’t affect his players’ performance…

Cut 18 (11) “….team meeting“

This is the first time LSU has lost three straight games with Miles as the coach. A published report in the Advocate last week said Miles was coaching for his job after suffering losses to Alabama and Arkansas. The head coach says he doesn’t know if he’s in danger of losing his job…

Cut 19 (07) “right now”

LSU defensive tackle Davon Godchaux says rumors of Miles’ firing at the end of the regular season is not negatively impacting the team….

Cut 20 (08) “sticking with”

A recent JMC Analytics poll shows Democrat John Bel Edwards’ lead over Republican David Vitter is down to the single digits as voters head to the polls to elect the state’s new governor. Jeff Palermo reports…

CUT 1 (25)  “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Sunday begins the Click it or Ticket campaign to get drivers to buckle up during the holiday season. Emelie Gunn has more….

CUT 2 (31)  “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Louisiana voters will head to the polls Saturday to elect the state’s new governor. A recent JMC Analytics poll shows Democrat John Bel Edwards’ lead over Republican David Vitter has shrunk down to the single digits. LAPolitics-dot-com Publisher Jeremy Alford says the Syrian refugee issue has helped Vitter gain ground…

CUT 3 (08)  “leverage that”

Polls will be open from 7AM to 8PM. Alford says, in order for Vitter to win, he’ll need conservative voters to return to his camp. He says tracking numbers have shown that has happened in the last week…

CUT 4 (08)  “to do”

He says Edwards was polling highest during early voting, but that is not considered in these poll leading to election day. Alford says the Democratic Party’s “Get Out The Vote” campaign for Edwards is very strong, as evidenced during the early voting period…

CUT 5 (07)  “John Bel Edwards”

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With the Thanksgiving holiday right around the corner, The Louisiana Highway Safety Commission kicks off their Click it or Ticket campaign this Sunday. State Police Trooper Michael Reichardt says make sure you buckle up, because it’s the first step in saving your life in case you’re in an accident.

CUT 6 (08) “that easy”

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, wearing a seatbelt reduces the risk of fatal injury to front seat passengers by 45-percent. Reichardt says the campaign runs from November 22 until the 29^th. He says if you don’t buckle up, it could turn your happy holiday into a nightmare.

CUT 7 (10)  “tragedy”

Reichardt says in addition to checking for seatbelt violations, troopers will also be on the lookout for motorists drinking and driving.

CUT 8 (08)  “home safe”

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A 26-year-old Denham Springs man will spend the rest of his life in prison for shooting up his fiancee with heroin, causing a fatal overdose. An East Baton Rouge Parish jury found Jarret McCasland guilty of second-degree murder, which carries a mandatory life sentence. District Attorney Hillar Moore says a seldom used statue was used in his case

CUT 9 (08)  “deadly drug”

McCasland, who did not take the stand in his defense, will face formal sentencing in January for the death of 19-year-old Flavia Cardenas. Moore says the evidence against McCasland was overwhelming and a verdict came quickly…

cut 10 (10)  “that testified”

Cardenas died in July of 2013. Moore says this case illustrates that heroin is a deadly drug and could have lasting consequences…

Cut 11 (10) “person’s death”

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The joint legislative budget committee approves Governor Bobby Jindal’s proposal to close a 487-million dollar budget deficit. The plan calls for cuts to state agencies, patchwork financing and tapping into the rainy day fund. Senate president John Alario says it’s not a perfect plan, but it puts something in place until a new governor takes over in January…

cut 12 (09)  “what’s happening”

Gubernatorial candidates, David Vitter and John Bel Edwards, had asked legislators to reject Jindal’s deficit reduction plan. Covington Representative John Schroder was one of a handful of lawmakers who voted against it. Schroder says it doesn’t address the state’s spending problems…

cut 13 (09)  “in reductions”

Higher education was not cut under the plan. Commissioner of Administration Stafford Palmieri says the governor made it a priority to make sure public colleges were not hit with cuts…

cut 14 (07)  “Louisiana forward” 

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Saturday is election day in Louisiana. Jeff Palermo reports…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The City of Natchitoches officially kicks off their Christmas Festival season Saturday with it’s “Turn on the Holidays” event. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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 With Election Day tomorrow, both gubernatorial candidates are making their last pitch to get voters to support them at the polls. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 3 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Saturday is election day in Louisiana. The statewide ballot is highlighted by the gubernatorial runoff between Republican David Vitter and Democrat John Bel Edwards. Secretary of State Tom Schedler says, with this election falling on the Saturday before Thanksgiving, there’s concern that some activities may keep some voters from the polls…

cut 4  (10)  “turnout down”

However, early voting numbers have Schedler predicting a 42-percent voter turnout for the runoff, up from the primary election’s 39-percent. The Lt. Governor and Attorney General’s races will also be on Saturday’s ballot. Schedler says there are also local races on the ballot that will affect voter turnout…

Cut 5  (09)  “always does”

Polls will be open from 7AM to 8PM Saturday. Schedler says it’s always important to exercise your right to vote and encourages everyone to make time in their schedule tomorrow…

Cut 6 (09)  “friend, anybody”

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The City of Natchitoches officially kicks off their Christmas Festival season tomorrow with its “Turn on the Holidays” event. Entertainment, shopping and food vendors will be showcased throughout the day, then that evening, hundreds of thousands of Christmas lights will illuminate the Natchitoches Historic Landmark District. Mayor Lee Posey…:

CUT 7 (09)  “wow”

Turn on the Holidays features live musical performances, amusements, and fireworks. The event marks the beginning of the city’s preparation for the 89th Annual Natchitoches Christmas Festival on Saturday, December 5th. Posey says there will be events in the city every weekend through Christmas and it just gets bigger and bigger every year…:

Cut 8  (09)  “get to em”

Tomorrow’s event will begin the 45 nights of Christmas lights. There was a controversy this week regarding the fact that Posey banned the Confederate battle flag from the Christmas parade this year. Posey says a standards of excellence has been established for the festival and parade and they remove certain elements from the parade all the time…:

Cut 9 (12) “particular flag”

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The two candidates for governor are making their last pitch to voters on this election eve day. Republican Senator David Vitter says he’ll be all over the state campaigning today getting his message out.

Cut 10 (11) “after issue”

Polls heading into Saturday’s election show Vitter trailing his opponent. Vitter says before the polls close, he hopes to sway undecided voters in his direction…

cut 11 (11) “the issues”

 Democratic Representative John Bel Edwards says as governor, he will be present, hands on and engaged. He says he will bring Republicans and Democrats together.

Cut 12 (08) “do that”

Edwards says if elected, he’ll put Louisiana first. His message to voters is that this election isn’t about party, but about working together to fix the state’s problems.

Cut 13 (09)  “being Louisianans”

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Louisiana fishermen have the rare opportunity to catch red snapper in state waters in November and December. Randy Pausina, assistant secretary for the state Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, says a fall red snapper season begins today, after it was determined Louisiana did not reach its maximum number of red fish harvested for 2015…

Cut 14 (09) “92-percent”

The fall season will run seven days a week in state waters with a daily bag and possession limit of two fish per person at a 16-inch minimum total length. Pausina expects the fall season to remain open through the rest of the year, but the weather will have an impact….

Cut 15  (06)  “bad is right”

Pausina says many recreational anglers are appreciative of the opportunity to catch red snapper during the holidays…

Cut 16  (07)  “claiming our fish”

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The LSU football team looks to snap its two-game losing streak on Saturday when they visit Ole Miss. The Tigers offense has struggled to put points on the board the last two weeks. Offensive coordinator Cam Cameron says they want to get the running game going after attempting to throw the ball 40 times last week…

Cut 17 (13) “behind early”

Sophomore quarterback Brandon Harris has been up and down in these last two losses. Cameron says they are looking for more consistency from their young Q-B…

Cut 18 (14) “….with him“

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If the UL Lafayette football team wants to play in a bowl game for a fifth straight season, they’ll need to win two of its next three games to get to six wins on the year. Cajuns Coach Mark Hudspeth says they have yet to play up to their expectations this season, but hopes that starts on Saturday at home against New Mexico State….

Cut 19 (16) “winning record”

The Aggies come to Cajun Field with a 2-and-7 record, but they have an outstanding running back. Larry Rose the Third leads the Sun Belt in rushing, with nearly 13-hundred yards on the ground. Hudspeth says Rose is an impressive back…

Cut 20 (21) “his labor”

The Voice of LSU, Jim Hawthorne, is back tonight for the call of the men’s basketball game. Eric Gill reports its his first broadcast since undergoing a medical procedure last month…:

CUT 1 (29)  “I’m Eric Gill”

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Authorities held a press conference in New Orleans this morning to reassure residents that an attack similar to the one in Paris last week is not imminent in Louisiana. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 2 (27)  “I’m Eric Gill”

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Baton Rouge Police report a second man has been arrested in the slaying of an elderly Baton Rouge couple whose bodies were discovered at a Hammond truck stop last month. Lt. Johnny Dunham says 48-year-old Frank Garcia was arrested in Hollywood, Florida Wednesday…

CUT 3 (08)  “homicide case”

71-year-old Denis Duplantier (doo-PLAHN-shay) and 70-year-old Suzanne Duplantier were taken from their home, robbed, and killed October 18th. Garcia is charged with two counts of first degree murder. Dunham did not disclose what information led to issuing the warrant for Garcia’s arrest…

CUT 4 (10)  “at this point”

42-year-old Ernesto Alonso was previously arrested and charged in the deaths of the Duplantiers. Dunham says this is still an active investigation and it’s possible more arrests could be made…

CUT 5 (07)  “call Crime Stoppers”

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The Voice of LSU, Jim Hawthorne, returns to his play-by-play calling duties tonight for the first time since having a medical procedure last month. Hawthorne will broadcast tonight’s men’s hoops game at the PMAC, after missing the Alabama and Arkansas football games. He says the doctors gave him the green light…:

CUT 6 (07) “very fortunate”

The LSU men’s basketball team is 2-0 after a win over McNeese State on Friday and victory over Kennesaw State on Monday. Hawthorne says he’s been extremely humbled by how many friends and LSU fans have reached out and wished him the best for a speedy recovery…:

CUT 7 (11)  “very supportive”

The 71 year old had previously announced he’d retire from LSU after this men’s basketball season. Hawthorne says he plans to call the final regular season football game next week. He admits it was an extremely unique experience to watch football games as a fan, which you don’t get to do when you’re working it…:

CUT 8 (11)  “watch a game”

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Federal, state, and local authorities held a press conference in New Orleans this morning to reassure residents that an attack similar to the one in Paris last week is not imminent in Louisiana. New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu says facts have been confused in the days following the Paris attacks…

CUT 9 (10)  “threats at all”

Landrieu says he’s been assured that there are no credible threats from any of the Syrian refugees in the New Orleans area. FBI Special Agent Jeffrey Sallet (sa-LET) says there is a very strong Joint Terrorism Task Force in the state. He says their job is to protect the citizens of Louisiana from these type of attacks…

cut 10 (11)  “preparing for”

He says, prior to the Paris attacks, the task force has been preparing to respond and prevent multi-event attacks. Sallet says there are currently no credible terrorist threats to Louisiana and authorities will strive to keep it that way…

Cut 11 (08) “are safe”

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Today is the Great American Smokeout, a day that has been designated for smokers to quit their habit. According to the Center for Disease Control 24-percent of Louisiana adults smoke, which is higher than the national percentage. Mike Rogers with the Smoking Cessation Trust says there are free products and services to help long time smokers put cigarettes down for good.

cut 12 (10)  “for it all”

Rogers says the only requirements to sign up are, you live in Louisiana and started smoking prior to September 1, 1988. He says the Smoking Cessation Trust has been around since 2012 and is showing much success.

cut 13 (09)  “receive benefits”

Rogers says 43-percent of those who sign up report that they actually quit. He attributes the success to the trust providing free medications and other necessary services and encourages everyone eligible to try it out.

(For more information visit smokefreela.org)

cut 14 (06)  “tobacco’s money” 

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The Grand Theater in Lafayette will reopen tonight for the first time since the tragic summer shootings, and the community is thrilled. Michelle Southern repors…:

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Bobby Jindal says he has no specific political plans once his second term as governor ends in January. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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 The longest serving president in the history of Northwestern State University has passed away. Emelie Gunn has more on the life of Dr. Randall Webb….

Cut 3 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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The Grand Theater in Lafayette will reopen tonight for the first time since the tragic summer shootings, and the community is thrilled. A man opened fire on a crowd during a movie on July 23rd, killing two women and injuring several others, and since then the parking lot at The Grand on Johnston Street has been empty. Bret Fruge, a former employee, will be there tonight

cut 4  (10)  “to seeing it”

The first movie, The Hunger Games: Mocking Jay Part II is scheduled for 7pm. Fruge says he goes to the movies every chance he gets and he will definitely be there tonight…:

Cut 5  (09)  “is the 16”

Before the opening tonight, a dedication will take place honoring the victims of the gunfire and first responders. A small vigil will take place at 6pm, the ribbon cutting is at 6:25 then the newly renovated Grand 16 Theater box office will open at 6:45. Lafayette Mayor-President Joey Durel says he’s also happy for the owner of the theater, George Solomon…:

Cut 6 (10)  “were a victim”

11 people were shot in the incident and Jillian Johnson and Mayci Breaux lost their lives. Durel says during a vigil following the incident, he told the community that he wanted to buy the first ticket when the theater reopened…:

CUT 7 (10)  “lead the way”

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So what’s next for Governor Bobby Jindal now that his presidential campaign is over? He has a little over seven weeks left as Louisiana’s governor. Jindal says one of his top priorities is to help the next governor prepare for their four-year term….

Cut 8  (12)  “as possible”

Jindal says he’s already voted, but would not tell reporters who he voted for to succeed him. He does not want to get involved in Saturday’s election…

Cut 9 (09) “I’m optimistic”

The governor and his family are preparing for life as private citizens. They are building a home in the Baton Rouge area that’s expected to be completed in early December. He says his wife, Supriya, has been working with the builder…

Cut 10 (12) “new home”

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The former president of Northwestern State University Dr. Randall Webb has passed away at the age of 72. Webb was the longest serving president in the history of the University, serving for 18 years, from 1996 to 2014. State Senator Gerald Long of Natchitoches knew Webb for almost 50 years and says he had a great love for the school and for life itself.

cut 11 (08) “of education”

Long says Webb was an incredible leader and model of integrity. He says the former president focused greatly on enhancing the college experience for students and letting graduates leave the school feeling accomplished.

Cut 12 (09) “fully accredited”

Long says Dr. Webb was an icon because he made a commitment to the small rural school and grew it to one of the most respected in the state. He says many other university presidents looked up to him.

Cut 13 (11)  “entire state”

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The Jindal administration releases its plan to solve a 487-million dollar budget deficit. It calls for 150-million dollars in cuts to state agencies, dipping into the state’s “rainy day” fund  and using revenues from lawsuit settlements. Council for a Better Louisiana president Barry Erwin says this is a short-term fix to the state’s budget woes…

Cut 14 (09) “structural problem”

The plan does NOT call for cuts to higher education or state worker layoffs. Erwin is glad to see Louisiana’s public colleges and universities spared

Cut 15  (09)  “significant amount”

The proposed deficit reduction plan calls for a 130-million dollar reduction in state spending by the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals. The joint legislative budget committee will review the plan on Friday. Erwin says the entire legislature must approve the use of 28-million dollars from the rainy day fund…

Cut 16  (06)  “there for”

LSU Coach Les Miles says there’s no added pressure to win, despite a published report suggesting he could be fired if they lose their last two games. Jeff Palermo has the story…

CUT 1 (30)  “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Governor Bobby Jindal has returned to Louisiana after ending his bid for the Republican presidential nomination. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 2 (31)  “I’m Eric Gill”

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Political pundits in Louisiana are wondering if Governor Bobby Jindal’s announcement to suspend his presidential campaign was timed to upstage Republican David Vitter in the days leading up to the gubernatorial runoff election. Political analyst Clancy Dubos says that’s mere speculation, at this point, but it is plausible…

CUT 3 (10)  “in New Orleans”

In 2007, Vitter held a press conference to make his first public statement about his infamous prostitution scandal just before Jindal formally announced he was entering the governor’s race. Vitter’s event pushed Jindal’s announcement from the headlines. Dubos says this was not lost on the governor…

CUT 4 (10)  “fair play”

He says now that Jindal is back in Louisiana, he’ll begin working to fix the state’s budget crisis. Dubos says the budget issue could continue to keep Vitter from the headlines leading to the election…

CUT 5 (12)  “budget cuts”

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According to a report in the Advocate, LSU Coach Les Miles is coaching for his job the next two weeks. The Tigers have lost two in a row and could be looking at a 7-4 record if they lose to Ole Miss this Saturday and Texas A-and-M on November 28th. On today’s SEC coaches teleconference, Miles says there is no added pressure to win

CUT 6 (10) “than I have”

The Advocate article says there is a serious threat to Miles tenure based on sources at LSU. Miles current contract runs through the 2019 season. If LSU fired Miles at the end of the season, the Tigers would have to pay a buyout of at least 12.9 million dollars. On today’s SEC coaches teleconference, Miles said the support he’s received from athletic director Joe Alleva remains the same and there are no issues there…

CUT 7 (09)  “to me”

The LSU fan base is frustrated over the Tigers losing to Alabama for a fifth consecutive time and getting dominated two years in a row by Arkansas. But Miles says his team can win its last two games and play in a significant bowl game…

CUT 8 (07)  “on track”

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According to officials with the organization, Catholic Charities of Baton Rouge, have received threats for helping Syrian refugees resettle in Louisiana. Louisiana State Police Col. Mike Edmonson says a phone call came in Tuesday from out of state making gun threats to the organization.

CUT 9 (06)  “tolerate that”

Edmonson says he’s spoken to the executive director of Catholic Charities in Baton Rouge, David Aguillard, about the gun threats and learning information about the refugees.

cut 10 (09)  “State Police”

Edmonson says there have also been threats to Catholic Charities in other states. He says they take threats very seriously in Louisiana and are investigating the incident.

Cut 11 (05) “…into it.”

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Governor Bobby Jindal has returned to Louisiana after ending his bid for the Republican presidential nomination. At a news conference at the Governor’s Mansion, Jindal said he has no regrets seeking the nation’s highest elected office. He stated that the failure of his campaign rests solely on his shoulders…

cut 12 (10)  “my responsibility”

Jindal says he would have liked the Republican National Committee to allow all candidates to participate in the debates, but the ultimate responsibility for the campaign’s failure is his. As far as his future goes, Jindal says that’s up in the air…

cut 13 (05)  “being governor”

Jindal says he will not get involved in this year’s governor’s race. His second term as governor will end in January. Jindal says, before leaves office, he’ll go on a statewide tour highlighting the achievements made during his two terms as governor…

cut 14 (08)  “job creation” 

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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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