The two candidates in the governor’s race held dueling press conference in Baton Rouge with their supporters. Jeff Palermo was there..

CUT 1 (30)  “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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WVUE-TV reports the US Department of Education is investigating how LSU handles cases of rape and sexual assault. Emelie Gunn reports…

CUT 2 (31)  “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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The two candidates for governor held press conferences in Baton Rouge today. Democrat John Bel Edwards was joined by sheriffs from the around the state as he received the Louisiana Sheriffs Association endorsement. Edwards says a recent Vitter ad that claimed he plans to release up to 55-hundred inmates if elected, is untrue

CUT 3 (12)  “incarceration rates” 

At today’s press conference at the Louisiana Sheriff’s Assocation, several lawmen spoke about why Louisiana residents should elect Edwards on November 21st. Assumption Sheriff Mike Waguespack says Edwards will bring integrity to the governor’s office

CUT 4 (12)  “of Louisiana”

The National Federation of Independent Business announced its endorsement for Vitter and then the Senator told a lunchtime crowd there’s a clear choice to make on November 21st…..

CUT 5 (12)  “guide us”

Several republican officials like Congressmen John Fleming and Ralph Abraham were in attendance to show their support for Vitter. State Treasurer John Kennedy gave the most raucous speech of the day…

CUT 6 (10) “(cheers)”

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Four French Quarter strip clubs who had their liquor licenses suspended by the state Office of Alcohol and Tobacco Control will be able to sell alcohol and cigarettes this weekend. That’s because a New Orleans judge has issued a temporary restraining order against ATC Commissioner Troy Hebert’s suspension order. Hebert is not pleased with Judge Regina Woods ruling…

CUT 7 (08)  “over there, now”

Judge Woods issued a temporary restraining order allowing the clubs to continue selling alcohol and tobacco. Hebert says this sends a horrible message…

CUT 8 (11)  “were served”

An undercover ATC operation found prostitution, drug sales, and other improper activities happening at these clubs. A hearing on the temporary restraining order is scheduled for next week. Hebert says if authorities really want to clean up the crime problem in the French Quarter, everyone needs to work as a team…

CUT 9 (09)  “are not”

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A flash flood watch is in effect for southwest and central Louisiana for Halloween. Donald Jones, with the National Weather Service in Lake Charles, says a lot of rain is moving in from the west bringing at least two to four inches of rain along with the chance of tornadoes.

cut 10 (08)  “as well”

Jones says this weather system will hit almost every corner of Louisiana but some areas more than others. He says with the already saturated grounds, the rainfall is likely to cause flooding on the streets and other low lying areas.

Cut 11 (10)  “overnight hours”

Jones says if you made plans for Halloween, it would be smart to move those indoors. He says this weather event will be very similar to what we experienced last weekend.

cut 12 (06)  “as well”

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WVUE-TV reports the US Department of Education is investigating how LSU handles cases of rape and sexual assault. New Orleans state Senator JP Morrell has been an advocate when it comes to legislation requiring college campuses to do a better job in reporting sexual assaults. Morrell says many colleges find the issue of sexual assault on campus overwhelming…

cut 13 (09)  “not an issue”

The report reveals 16 rapes were reported to an LSU campus advocacy group last year, but very little was done to protect the victims or punish the perpetrators. Federal investigators are checking into whether LSU responded promptly to a reported sexual assault incident earlier this year. Morrell says universities are required by law to have a Title IX coordinator to handle situations like this…

cut 14 (08) “or a janitor” 

In a statement, LSU says it cannot discuss matters pertaining to a pending investigation or any specific alleged incidents. Morrell says the state legislature will continue to work to get a process in place for colleges statewide to handle sexual assault claims. He says this investigation sends a strong message…

cut 15 (10)  “will be sanctioned”

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Weather this Halloween is looking a little spooky with heavy rain fall and the risk of serious flooding. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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State Police is reminding parents and kids to play it safe when Trick-or-Treating this Halloween. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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The New Orleans NAACP has requested that the Vitter campaign remove a TV commercial that uses the word “thugs”. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (31) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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 Forecasters say the weather on Halloween could be frightening, as severe storms and heavy rainfall is expected. State Climatologist Barry Keim says a front will stall along the Louisiana coast and it will help to produce another significant rain event, similar to what we saw last weekend…

cut 4  (09)  “in flood”

 Keim says this rain will likely take care of the lingering drought problems we’ve had, even in north Louisiana, which saw very little precipitation from July 4th until last weekend. He says there’s also the potential of tornadoes with this latest weather system….

Cut 5  (08)  “be prepared”

 Keim says it’s a good thing many parishes have moved Trick or Treating to Friday, because heavy downpours are expected Saturday….

Cut 6 (09)  “in flood”

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State Police is reminding kids and parents about some of the basic safety rules when it comes to walking the streets for trick or treat. Trooper Brian Lee says as you hit up neighborhoods, please remain vigilant for possible hazardous or dangerous situations. He says parents should make sure kids have flashlights and something reflective on their costume…:

CUT 7 (10)  “panned out”

Lee says you should always walk on sidewalks if they are available, but if not pedestrians should stay on the left side of the road facing traffic. He encourages people to check the State Police sex offender registry to see if there are any culprits in the area you’ll be trick or treating…:

Cut 8  (10)  “law enforcement”

Lee says it’s also important to make sure your kids know their address and phone number, or have it on their costume, so in case they wander off running from house to house, they know to find you. He says parents are urged to inspect all candy for safety after returning home…:

Cut 9 (07) “candy is safe” 

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The New Orleans NAACP chapter has asked David Vitter’s gubernatorial campaign to take down a TV ad that uses the word “thugs” inside the commerical. Morris Reed, chapter president of the NAACP of New Orleans, believes “thugs” is used in the commercial to drive a wedge between the black and white communities

Cut 10 (09) “probationary period” 

The commercial makes the claim that Edwards would release thousands of “dangerous thugs” from prison if elected.  Reed says the ad seeks to strike fear in the hearts of the white community…

cut 11 (08) “not necessary”

The Vitter campaign has said they will not remove the ad from television. A statement from the campaign goes on to say that Edwards’ proposal to release thousands of criminals is dangerous and irresponsible. Reed says not only is the commercial offensive, but it might not be factual

Cut 12 (12) “the street”

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Three major national political forecasters now say a win for Republicans in this gubernatorial election is not as certain as it once was. Some classify the race as a “toss-up” or a downgrade from “Likely Republican” to “Leans Republican.” Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat attributes this to the gubernatorial primary…:

Cut 13 (06)  “damage to each other”

Pinsonat says outside forecasters had previously considered a GOP win a lock due to the fact that Louisiana is still a red state and it’s still very difficult for a Democrat to win here. He says Republican David Vitter ended up with high negatives because of the type of attacks he was getting from his opponents in the primary…:

Cut 14 (10) “normally are”

Pinsonat says the candidates shouldn’t put too much stock into outsider forecasts because they typically base their opinions on news reports and talking to so-called political insiders. He says Democrat John Bel Edwards tends to be painted in a more positive light in the media which is what political forecasters see…:

Cut 15  (10)  “someone damaged”

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Louisiana Tech will face Rice tonight in a big Conference USA matchup. The Bulldogs are 3-and-1 in league play, while Rice is 2-and-1. A loss for either team, likely knocks them out of contention to play in the CUSA title game. The game will be on Fox Sports One at seven o’ clock and Tech coach Skip Holtz says the national TV audience should be entertained by this game…

Cut 16  (16)  “to play”

Rice leads Conference USA in rushing as they are averaging close to 200 yards a game on the ground. But Holtz says the Owls also have a good passing game

Cut 17 (20) “last year”

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The Saints will go after their third straight victory on Sunday when they host the New York Giants. A win will move New Orleans to 4-and-4 on the season. Wide receiver Brandin Cooks says after an 0-3 start to the season, the team feels better about itself…

Cut 18 (14) “good way”

The Giants are 4-3 on the year and there defensive coordinator is Steve Spagnuolo, who had the same job in New Orleans in 2012. Right tackle Zach Streif says they know Spagnuolo will have a specific plan to stop the Saints offense…

Cut 19 (22) “personnel group”

A new poll on Louisiana’s governor’s race shows Democrat John Bel Edwards leading Republican David Vitter by a 52 to 40-percent margin. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (28)  “I’m Eric Gill”

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The percentage of high schools in the state receiving “A” grades under the accountability system has gone up 13-percent since last year. Emelie Gunn has more….

CUT 2 (30)  “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Shreveport Police arrest two people they believe are responsible for a deadly shooting that killed one and injured two others. Cpl. Breck Scott says 29-year-old Elbert Fredieu (FREE-doo) and 24-year-old Scarlett Groce (gross), were taken into custody Wednesday. Scott says authorities found Fredieu working at Barksdale Air Force Base…

CUT 3 (09)  “degree murder” 2X

Fredieu is charged with one count of second degree murder and two counts of attempted second degree murder. 36-year-old Verdina Crichlow was killed in the shooting. Scott says Groce was located at her home in Bossier City…

CUT 4 (09)  “degree murder”

Groce is charged with one count of principal to second degree murder. Scott says detectives are still trying to determine a motive. He says the surviving victims, 43-year-old Tammy Harris and 15-year-old Tranautica Webber, remain hospitalized…

CUT 5 (07)  “critical condition”

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With the top 10 LSU-Alabama game coming up in Tuscaloosa, fans are scrambling to get their tickets. Cameron Papp with Stub Hub says this is definitely a high demand game. He says the cheapest ticket available to Bryant Denny Stadium on November 7th is 195-dollars, which will get you an upper level seat behind one of the end zones.

CUT 6 (07) “end zone tickets”

The No. 4 Tigers and the No. 7 Crimson Tide are both off this weekend. Papp says the 2013 LSU- Alabama matchup had the highest ticket sales followed by the 2011 game of the century.

CUT 7 (08)  “find out”

Kickoff for the SEC showdown is 7pm. Papp says 26-percent of ticket sales are coming from Alabama and 11-percent are coming from Louisiana. He says ticket prices skyrocket the closer a fan wants to get to the field.

CUT 8 (10)  “sideline tickets”

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A new poll on Louisiana’s governor’s race shows Democrat John Bel Edwards leading Republican David Vitter by a 52 to 40-percent margin. The survey was conducted by Anzalone Liszt Grove Research on behalf of the anti-Vitter Gumbo PAC. Political Analyst Clancy Dubos believes Edwards lead could actually be larger than 12 points…

CUT 9 (11)  “bigger than that”

He says stories adverse to the Vitter campaign have come out since this poll was taken and Edwards lead could be 15 points or higher. The survey also shows Vitter’s unfavorability rating has climbed to 52-percent. With the election a little more than three weeks away, Dubos says there is little time for Vitter to turn things around…

cut 10 (09)  “for him”

The poll shows that more than half of the voters that supported Scott Angelle and Jay Dardenne are now supporting Edwards. Dubos thinks Edwards’ recent endorsement by the Louisiana Sheriff’s Association could be a sign…

Cut 11 (07)  “weeks to come”

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The State Department of Education says the percentage of high schools in Louisiana who have received an “A” grade under the state’s accountability system have increased from 10-percent last year to 23-percent this year. Superintendent of Education John White says higher graduation rates and ACT scores led to 73-percent of high schools receiving at least a “C” grade.

cut 12 (07)  “their students”

White says more schools also demonstrated progress with low-achieving students due to increased reading and math scores with previously low achieving students. He says schools have really stepped up to give kids the support needed to succeed in school.

cut 13 (08)  “those kids”

White says right now basic has been our expectation and our students deserve better than basic. He says the state plans to raise the bar on standards over the next ten years.

cut 14 (07) “higher expectations” 

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The AARP of Louisiana has released a “Video Voter Guide” which features the two candidates for governor discussing their views on policies which impact older voters. AARP Louisiana spokesman Andrew Muhl says they want the electorate to know where Republican David Vitter and Democrat John Bel Edwards stand on critical issues…

cut 7 (07) “was produced”

The video can be viewed online at aarp.org/la.

Louisiana’s public colleges will ask the new governor and legislature for a significant increase in state funding. The Board of Regents currently receives 769-million in state dollars and its allocated to universities and colleges. Higher education commissioner Joe Ralllo says the board is requesting an additional 636-million dollars next fiscal year to help meet the state’s workforce demands…

cut 13 (06) “dollar value”

The governor and legislature could have trouble meeting the financial request from higher ed, because the state’s budget does not look good.

State Police Col Mike Edmonson announces the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles collected just over $2 million dollars in car insurance lapse fines since they sent out 1.2 million warning letters to drivers. He said that as of Wednesday, the agency was able to clear the driving records of about 30,000 people since the notices went out October 13th…

cut 10 (09) “without a fee”

Edmonson says when the letters were initially sent out, the OMV was getting about 1500 calls per day but that has since died down as more issues get cleared up. Critics say these notices are an unfair way the state is trying to plug the budget.

If you’re missing Blue Bell ice cream, you’re in luck because the creamery will deliver it to your home.  Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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The AARP of Louisiana has released a “Video Voter Guide” which features the two candidates for governor discussing their views on policies which impact older voters. Michelle Southern reports.

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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The Board of Regents is looking for the state to nearly double its funding for public colleges and universities. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Blue Bell ice cream lovers are in luck because the creamery is offering delivery services to homes and businesses. Spokesperson Joe Robertson says they will send you four half-gallons of ice cream for 129-dollars and ship it anywhere across the country for everyone missing Blue Bell.

cut 4  (08)  “your door”

Robertson says customers interested in ordering will get their choice of five flavors: Buttered Pecan, Cookies ‘n Cream, Dutch Chocolate, Homemade Vanilla and The Great Divide. He says they’ve actually been providing this service since 1982, just not many people know about it.

Cut 5  (08)  “their Blue Bell”

Robertson says Blue Bell will begin phase 2 of restocking on Monday and Louisiana should see the ice cream in stores again during phase 4. But wouldn’t comment on when phase 4 would begin. He says to order, visit Blue-bell-dot-com.

Cut 6 (08)  “your order”

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The AARP of Louisiana has released a “Video Voter Guide” which features the two candidates for governor discussing their views on policies which impact older voters. AARP Louisiana spokesman Andrew Muhl says they want the electorate to know where Republican David Vitter and Democrat John Bel Edwards stand on critical issues…:

CUT 7 (07)  “was produced”

The video can be viewed online at aarp.org/la. Muhl says voters over the age of 45 make up 56% of Louisiana’s registered voter population, and their goal was to present as much information as possible to allow them to make an informed decision…:

Cut 8  (10)  “expansion”

Muhl says AARP supports Medicaid expansion and also programs which would allow people to stay in their homes as long as they want to. He says, on November 21st, voters will be setting the course for the future of our state, which faces major budgeting challenges especially around heath care financing. He hopes the video will help their members prepare..:

Cut 9 (08) “get older” 

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State Police Col Mike Edmonson announces the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles collected just over $2 million dollars in car insurance lapse fines since they sent out 1.2 million warning letters to drivers. He said that as of Wednesday, the agency was able to clear the driving records of about 30,000 people since the notices went out October 13th…:

Cut 10 (09) “without a fee” 

Edmonson says when the letters were initially sent out, the OMV was getting about 1500 calls per day but that has since died down as more issues get cleared up. He says some of the letters are being sent out due to a glitch, but they are simply acting on information from insurance companies…:

cut 11 (09) “call us”

Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon criticized the debt collection notices saying it’s an unfair way that the state is trying to plug a hole in the budget. Donelon says  a large portion of these notifications are to people who moved out of state or sold their cars and Edmonson says that’s why he’s extended OMV hours and is working with the public…:

Cut 12 (06) “these records”

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Louisiana’s public colleges will ask the new governor and legislature for a significant increase in state funding. The Board of Regents currently receives 769-million in state dollars and its allocated to universities and colleges. Higher education commissioner Joe Ralllo says the board is requesting an additional 636-million dollars next fiscal year to meet the state’s workforce demands…

Cut 13 (06)  “dollar value”

The governor and legislature could have trouble meeting the financial request from higher ed, because the state’s budget does not not look good. But Rallo says if the state wants to grow its economy, higher ed needs to be funded at a higher level…

Cut 14 (06) “potential jobs”

Rallo says the gubernatorial candidates say higher education will be a priority and he hopes whoever is elected will stick to that promise…

Cut 15  (06)  “number one”

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The Saints take a two-game winning streak into Sunday’s game against the New York Giants. Quarterback Drew Brees says it’s been nice to see the team have some success on the field, but they can’t stop now…

Cut 16  (18)  “the field”

Brees will have to be careful with the football on Sunday. New York is second in the NFL with 11 interceptions. They had three picks last week in a win over Dallas. Brees says the Giants are an aggressive defense that likes to dial up blitzes…

Cut 17 (13) “quite a bit”

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UL Lafayette is an 11.5 point favorite heading into Saturday’s game against ULM. The Ragin Cajuns enter with a record of 2-and-4, but they are getting better play from junior quarterback Jalen Nixon, who threw for over 200 yards and also rushed for over 200 yards in their last game against Arkansas State. Coach Mark Hudspeth likes how first-year starting quarterback is developing

Cut 18 (10) “to improve”

It’s homecoming weekend on the UL Lafayette campus and Hudspeth doesn’t want his players getting caught up with all of the festivities…

 Cut 19 (11) “out stadium”

The Cajuns suffered their first conference loss of the season last week when they fell to Arkansas State by ten points. Hudspeth says despite the defeat, they can still win the Sun Belt…

Cut 20 (20) “against ULM”

Results from the National Assessment of Education Progress exams shows Louisiana public school students ranking from 43rd to 49th nationally in reading and math. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (27)  “I’m Eric Gill”

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One of the men video taped by a private investigator from a firm working for the David Vitter campaign believes Jefferson Parish Sheriff Newell Normand was the intended target of the so-called spying incident. Jeff Palermo reports…

CUT 2 (30)  “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Results from the National Assessment of Education Progress exams, also known as the Nation’s Report Card, shows Louisiana public school students ranking from 43rd to 49th nationally in reading and math. Fourth graders finished 43rd nationally in reading while ranking 45th in math with eighth grade students ranking 48th and 49th respectively. But BESE President Chas Roemer says there are some positives in these results…

CUT 3 (09)  “or state”

While fourth grade performance improved, only 30-percent were deemed proficient in math and 29-percent in reading. Roemer says most student gains came from African-American and at-risk students…

CUT 4 (07)  “a positive”

29-percent of eighth graders are considered proficient in reading while just 18-percent are regarded as proficient in math. Roemer hopes the improvement among fourth graders is setting a foundation for the future. He says educators must continue to demand better performance from students…

CUT 5 (10)  “this state”

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Shreveport Police are looking for a gunman who fatally shot one woman multiple times and seriously injured two others. Cpl. Breck Scott says 36-year-old Verdina Crichlow was killed, while 43-year-old Tammy Harris and a 15-year-old were shot multiple times in the upper body inside an apartment.

CUT 6 (10) “the hospital”

Scott says they’re unsure of who the shooter is at this time. He says the suspect is still on the loose but detectives are following up on leads and got a description of the man.

CUT 7 (08)  “unknown direction”

Scott says authorities have not determined a motive. He says they’re talking with one of the victims to determine what they know about the suspect.

CUT 8 (06)  “to justice”

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The East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office says a woman is under arrest amid allegations that she tried to kill her 2-year-old little boy. EBRSO spokeswoman Casey Hicks says they received a call from a local hospital indicating that the toddler had been brought in by his mother, 29-year-old Samantha Snell, in critical condition and with multiple fractures:

CUT 9 (07)  “trauma to it”

Hicks says deputies responded to the hospital and interviewed Snell…:

cut 10 (09)  “in and out of consciousness”

Hicks says Snell admitted to beating her child and biting him as a form of discipline. She says the woman was angry that her son got water out of the refrigerator which is when she hit him with a belt causing him to fall on the tile floor and hit his head…:(Snell is charged with attempted first degree murder and second degree cruelty to juveniles.)

Cut 11 (06)  “to juveniles”

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One of the men that was video taped by a private investigator from a firm working for the David Vitter campaign believes Jefferson Parish Sheriff Newell Normand was the target of the so-called spying incident. Attorney John Cummings says, to him, Normand was without a doubt the target of the investigator…

cut 12 (10)  “not at me”

Robert J. Frenzel, the investigator, is charged with one count of misdemeanor criminal mischief in the incident. Cummings says he believes Normand was the target because the Sheriff’s Association was going to endorse Democrat John Bel Edwards in the gubernatorial runoff…

cut 13 (10)  “their endorsement”

Vitter has called the entire episode a “bizarre and silly incident”. But Cummings says Vitter is a strange duck himself…

cut 14 (06) “something sneaky” 

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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”

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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”

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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”

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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”

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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”

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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”

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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. 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”

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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” 

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 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”

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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”

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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”

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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”

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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”

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