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

CUT 1 (30)  “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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

CUT 2 (31)  “I’m Michelle Southern”

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

CUT 3 (07)  “around at people”

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

CUT 4 (09)  “upper body”

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

CUT 5 (06) “hospital”

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

CUT 6 (07) “this race”

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

CUT 7 (06)  “on em”

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

CUT 8 (09)  “after awhile”

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

CUT 9 (08)  “lunch break”

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

cut 10 (09)  “statuses up”

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

Cut 11 (08)  “people through”

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

cut 12 (10)  “Senator Vitter”

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

cut 13 (09)  “can not afford”

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

cut 14 (06) “they end up” 

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

cut 15 (09)  “in fact true”

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

CUT 1 (31) “I’m Eric Gill”

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

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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

Cut 3 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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

cut 4  (10)  “that direction”

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

Cut 5  (10)  “in this contest”

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

Cut 6 (09)  “Vitter alternative”

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

CUT 7 (09)  “to duty”

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

Cut 8  (10)  “the world”

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

Cut 9 (05) “and handler” 

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

Cut 10 (10) “ice cream stick ”

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

cut 11 (07) “to the fair”

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

Cut 12 (10) “half price”

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

Cut 13 (10)  “work force”

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

Cut 14 (07) “our area”

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

Cut 15  (09)  “kinds of projects”

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

Cut 16  (18)  “down the field”

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

Cut 17 (08) “down ride” 

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

Cut 18 (15) “for everybody”

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

Cut 19 (16) “as well”

___________________

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

CUT 1 (28)  “I’m Eric Gill”

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

CUT 2 (31)  “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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

CUT 3 (06)  “Debt Recovery”

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

CUT 4 (10)  “proper documentation”

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

CUT 5 (08) “legislative session”

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

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

CUT 6 (10) “been recovered”

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

CUT 7 (09)  “this parish”

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

CUT 8 (09)  “accomplices”

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

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

CUT 9 (07)  “looks like”

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

cut 10 (09)  “the presidency”

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

Cut 11 (07)  “Democratic nomination”

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

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

cut 12 (07)  “on campus”

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

cut 13 (06)  “him with that”

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

cut 14 (09) “Lt. Governor” 

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

The Louisiana Workforce Commission says the state set an employment record in September, but the oil and gas job losses continue at a rapid pace. Michelle Southern reports…:

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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With Halloween right around the corner, many of people are flocking to get the best costume. Emelie Gunn has more on what’s hot this year…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

______________________________________

The American Cancer Society says its okay for women to wait until they are 45 to get a mammogram. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The Louisiana Workforce Commission says the state set an employment record in September, but the oil and gas job losses continue at a rapid pace. 2500 non-farm jobs were added between the same time last year according to LWC Executive Director Curt Eysink. He says we’ve seen about 60 months straight now of growth year over year, however it’s not all good news…:

cut 4  (10)  “low price of oil”

Eysink says despite over the year gains, the mining and logging sector, which includes oil and gas, lost 1200 jobs in September and 8,800 over the 12 month period. He says the longer the price of oil stays low, the more it’s going to affect employment in that category…:

Cut 5  (05)  “out of this”

Eysink says the biggest impact of the job losses is being felt in the Acadiana and Lafayette region, and areas also not growing include New Orleans, Houma and Shreveport. He says two of the bright spots on the report include Baton Rouge and Lake Charles with both areas setting growth records…:

Cut 6 (09)  “the whole state”

______________________________________

With Halloween only ten days away, many children and adults are running to stores to try and get the best costume. Danielle Hebert, with Party City in Slidell, says kids are wiping the shelves clean searching for Disney Descendants costumes. And she says women are leaning toward the scary side for a costume this Halloween.

CUT 7 (10)  “and a glove”

Hebert says many people don’t seem too interested in pop culture costumes like Donald Trump this Halloween. But, she says with the newest Star Wars moving coming out soon, outfits are going quick.

Cut 8  (10)  “age group”

Manager of the Costume Shop of West Monroe Renata Herren says both men and women have been very interested in superhero costumes. She says every year one theme from years back will come back and become a big hit

Cut 9 (06) “it’s crazy” 

Herren says young girls have ditched the typical princess costume and moved toward the new cartoon, Monster High characters. She says everyone in the costume business is excited Halloween falls on a Saturday this year.

Cut 10 (06) “for sure”

______________________________________

The American Cancer Society has changed the guidelines to starting breast cancer screenings at the age of 45. Dean Emeritus at the LSU School of Public Health in New Orleans, Dr. Elizabeth Fontham, says they weighted the pros and the cons when it came to younger women getting mammograms and came to the conclusion that the age should be changed from 40-years-old.

cut 11 (11) “versus film”

 Fontham says your risk for breast cancer goes up as you age, but women 55 and over can now be screened every other year, annually. She says after menopause, tumors tend to grow significantly slower, which means its safe to get checked less often.

Cut 12 (09) “screening”

 Fontham says another change that comes with the updated guidelines is doctors no longer need to perform breast exams during checkups.

Cut 13 (11)  “mortality rate”

____________________________________________

Baton Rouge authorities are investigating a case where a 15-year-old girl spent a night in a wooded area bound and gagged. Corporal L’ Jean McKneely says a person walking near the St. James Baptist Church spotted the girl

Cut 14 (10) “runaway missing”

McKneely says the girl was taken to a local hospital. He says they know more than one person is responsible for this crime…

Cut 15  (09)  “at the scene”

McKneely says the girl left her home with an unknown male on Monday. They are not sure if that person is responsible. He says the girl was left in a helpless situation Monday night and then found by a passer-by on Tuesday…

Cut 16  (06)  “of the day”

__________________________________________________________

Junior defensive end Lewis Neal is having a breakout season for the 5th ranked LSU Tigers. Neal has seven sacks and 30 tackles this season. In his first two seasons, he only had 10 tackles and zero sacks. Neal says he always knew he had the ability to produce

Cut 17 (13) “stick to” 

Neal says first-year defensive line coach Ed Orgeron has been a big help this season. He says Coach O’s attitude rubs off on the rest of the players…

Cut 18 (12) “a lot”

The Tigers passing game is also getting better. They’ve thrown the football for more than 200 yards the past two games. Sophomore wide receiver Malachi Dupre had 115 receiving yards and two touchdowns against Florida and he credits the development of quarterback Brandon Harris

Cut 19 (15) “for him”

A Port Allen man has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for two counts of solicitation of murder. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (30)  “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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

The Hammond Police Department has identified the abducted Baton Rouge couple found dead at a truck stop as Denis and Suzanne Duplantier (DOO PLON SHAY.) Eric Gill reports:

CUT 2 (28)  “I’m Eric Gill”

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After Saturday night’s primary election, at least 77-percent of the state House and Senate races will be decided. LaPolitics-dot-com Publisher Jeremy Alford says that’s based on the number of lawmakers running without opposition and the number of legislative races involving just two candidates. Alford says an unusually large number of legislators ran unopposed this election…

CUT 3 (08)  “54-percent”

He says 51-percent of state lawmakers were automatically re-elected in unopposed races. Alford says a large number of legislative seats will be decided Saturday in two candidate races…

CUT 4 (07)  “October 24th”

He says a total of 38 legislative seats will be filled after Saturday in two candidate races. Alford says there are 23 House races and 9 Senate races with multiple candidates that could go to the November 21st runoff…

CUT 5 (09) “after Saturday”

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A Port Allen man has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for pleading guilty to a murder-for-hire plot against an elderly Pointe Coupee couple. Prosecutor Tony Clayton says 38-year-old Tommy Lee Gioele hired someone to kill the Persicas after a business deal went wrong. He says Giolele is serving 10 years of a 20 year sentence and will be required to wear an ankle bracelet for five years after being released.

CUT 6 (10) “care of”

Clayton says the man Gioele hired to kill the couple had no intention of committing the murder and fully cooperated with authorities throughout the investigation. He credits the capture of Gioele to Louisiana State Police.

CUT 7 (11)  “have the hit”

Clayton says Gioele manned up to what he did and openly confessed to his crime of solicitation of murder.

CUT 8 (08)  “next day”

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The Hammond Police Department says the Baton Rouge couple found dead at a truck stop near I-12 had been strangled and kidnapped from their home. The two have been identified as Denis and Suzanne Duplantier (DOO PLON SHAY.) Baton Rouge Police Corporal L Jean McKneely say they did a welfare check at the victims’ home and discovered them and a vehicle missing. McKneely says they used OnStar to locate the vehicle in Hammond…:

CUT 9 (09)  “inside of the car”

Hammond police found the vehicle parked in a remote corner of the truck stop with the bodies inside. McKneely says very few details of the crime are being released at this time…

cut 10 (09)  “our investigation”

Officials are looking for a 2007 white Chevrolet pick-up truck that was captured on camera at the truck stop on Sunday when the victims were left there. McKneely says BRPD is searching the victims’ home for any evidence that will help authorities identify and capture the suspects. McKneely says this joint investigation between BRPD and Hammond Police is in its early stages…

Cut 11 (08)  “particular situation”

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A 3-year-old was shot during a home invasion in Lake Charles this morning. Deputy Chief Mark Kraus says two armed men entered the house demanding money. He says when the victim said he didn’t have any, a suspect began pistol whipping the man holding his child when the gun discharged and hit the child.

cut 12 (08)  “suspects fled”

Kraus says the two suspects fled the scene in a dark colored pickup truck. He says he wants to put people at ease by explaining this doesn’t tend to happen to the ordinary person but crimes like these are usually connected to some other type of criminal activity.

cut 13 (07)  “what it is”

Kraus says the child was transported to an out of town hospital and both victims are expected to live. He says once they catch these suspects, he hopes a judge will put these people in prison for the longest time possible.

cut 14 (09) “to jail.” 

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

Governor Bobby Jindal’s second book is out today and it makes a case for why he should be should be the next man in the White House. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Eric Gill”

______________________________________

This week is Teen Driver Safety week and a survey finds teens are still texting and driving even after being aware of the consequences. Emelie Gunn has more….

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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 A longtime Louisiana political analyst finds voter interest in this year’s governor’s election is as low as he’s ever seen. Jeff Palermo has more….

Cut 3 (25) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

______________________________________

Governor Bobby Jindal’s second book is out today and in it the GOP presidential hopeful shares why he thinks he should be the next man in the White House. The title is “American Will: The Forgotten Choices That Changed our Republic.” UL-Lafayette Political Science Professor Pearson Cross says it’s not a surprise Jindal has released another book…

cut 4  (11)  “presidential campaign”

In this book, Jindal makes a case for why he should be elected president through stories from history. Cross says it’s not that unusual for a presidential candidate to release a book…

Cut 5  (11)  “United States”

Former Republican consultants Matt Latimer and Keith Urbahn are acknowledged as co-authors of the book. Cross thinks this book will be one thing Jindal hands out on the campaign trail…

Cut 6 (09)  “read it”

______________________________________

A survey released from State Farm finds many teenagers are still texting and driving ever after understanding the potential dangers. Spokesperson Roszell Gadson says over 90-percent of teens admit to knowing it’s distracting, yet 44-percent confessed they still text and drive. He says this week is Teen Driver Safety week and hopes they can get the word out for young drivers to stay focused on the road.

CUT 7 (10)  “disturbingly high”

Gadson says their survey also found the biggest deterrent for teenagers to stop distracted driving is getting into a car accident. He says the second factor was 50-percent were scared of being caught by the police.

Cut 8  (08)  “by cellphones”

Gadson says State Farm is working with high schools around the country to participate in Teen Driver Safety Celebrate My Drive program to help students become more aware of this growing problem. He says car crashes are the number one killer of teenagers and they want to engage students to drive safely in a supportive and positive way.

Cut 9 (10) “this issue” 

______________________________________

A longtime Louisiana political analyst finds the interest in this year’s governor’s race is a bad as he’s ever seen.  Bernie Pinsonat says voters are very disappointed in the last four years with Jindal and reduced funding toward higher education and hospitals.

Cut 10 (09) “fix something”

A survey from LSU’s Public Policy Research Lab found just 39-percent of voters in Louisiana were interested in this election. Pinsonat says the four major candidates haven’t been able to generate any interest, because they’re all being muffled by the constant attack ads.

cut 11 (09) “else’s fault”

 Pinsonat says the voters are finding themselves shying away from believing the candidates can actually fix problems. He says 70-percent of voters give Jindal a negative rating and that’s rubbing off on the newest candidates.

Cut 12 (09) “right now”

______________________________________

 The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries have cited a man after he killed a legendary dear for allegedly not having deer tags or possession of basic season and big game hunting licenses. L-D-W-F Spokesperson Adam Einck says 40-year-old Glen Toups, Jr. of Abbeville shot a buck with a crossbow on an Avoyelles Parish hunting club’s property near Simmesport.

Cut 13 (11)  “as well”

Einck says the deer meat was donated to local charities and the antlers and head are being held as evidence. He says the deer was one of the top five biggest irregular dear shot with an arrow and was unofficially scored as a 208 class buck.

Cut 14 (08) “for that”

 Einck says the hunting club asked Toups if he had the proper qualifications before he went hunting and he told them he did. He says the club first discovered out their guest hunter did not have licenses and volunteered the information to the officer.

Cut 15  (08)  “in place”

______________________________________

LSU Coach Les Miles is warning his team not to let its guard down against Saturday’s opponent, Western Kentucky. Miles says the 6-and-1 Hilltoppers should be ranked in the Top 25 and their quarterback Brandon Doughty, is good enough to play in the SEC…

Cut 16  (17)  “get your attention”

Doughty and the Western Kentucky offense will face an LSU defense that’s ranked 3rd in total defense. The Tigers have been much better at getting after the quarterback this season. They’ve recorded 17 sacks, after recording just 19 sacks last year. Miles gives credit to first-year defensive line coach Ed Orgeron…

Cut 17 (12) “made a difference” 

While LSU statistically has one of the best defenses in the SEC, they’ve given up several big pass plays. There were a few times, Florida receivers were running wide open, including on a 19-yard touchdown pass. Miles says they are working to get that corrected…

Cut 18 (12) “to do”

______________________________________

The Ragin Cajuns have a big Sun Belt Conference match-up tonight with Arkansas state. Coach Mark Hudspeth’s team has won the last four times they’ve played a regular season game on a Tuesday night…

Cut 19 (19) “continues”

Arkansas State comes in with a record of 3-and-3, 2-0 in the Sun Belt. The Cajuns won their Sun Belt opener and they are 2-3 overall. UL Lafayette has finally settled on a quarterback. Jalen Nixon threw for 238 yards and had four total touchdowns the last time out and Hudspeth hopes to see that kind of performance again…

Cut 20 (11) “other night”

According to the Secretary of State’s Office, 222,000 Louisianians cast an early ballot for Saturday’s election.  Jeff Palermo reports…

CUT 1 (30)  “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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

LSU announces Mike the Tiger won’t be attending anymore home games in Death Valley, at least for the rest of this season. Michelle Southern reports…:

CUT 2 (31)  “I’m Michelle Southern”

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

According to the Secretary of State’s Office, 222,000 Louisianians cast an early ballot for Saturday’s election. That’s about 14,000 less than participated in last November’s election. Pollster John Couvillon feels the lower early voting turnout shows a lack of public interest in the governor’s election…

CUT 3 (09)  “policy proposals”

Basing this election’s early voting numbers on historical trends, a 45 to 50 percent voter turnout is expected for the election. Couvillon says low voter turnout typically favors Republican candidates…

CUT 4 (10)  “Democratic intensity”

A breakdown of early voting numbers show that 71-percent of participants were white, while just 27-percent were black. Couvillon says the low percentage of black voters participating in early voting can have an impact on the number of voters hitting the polls Saturday…

CUT 5 (06) “October 24th”

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

LSU announces Mike the Tiger won’t be attending anymore home games in Death Valley, at least for the rest of this season. Ginger Gutner, with the LSU Vet School, says they tried something a little different in order to get Mike VI into his trailer for the McNeese State game, but it didn’t work a second time…:

CUT 6 (07) “onto us”

Gutner says, this way, everyone can enjoy Mike the entire day on game days since they won’t have him in the back trying to get him into the trailer. She says anyone who visits Mike’s dwelling knows that he likes to sleep by the windows up front around people, so she doesn’t think the big crowds are keeping him from the games…:

CUT 7 (07)  “game day”

Mike VI didn’t make any games last season, and in 2013 he was only at three and some fans aren’t happy this tradition isn’t being honored. But Gutner says they can’t force this giant tiger to do anything and they will reevaluate the matter next season…

CUT 8 (09)  “and see”

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

The State Fire Marshal’s Office and the Department of Agriculture and Forestry announce the arrest of a man who is accused of intentionally setting fires when he worked as a volunteer firefighter in 2010 and 2011. Ag Commissioner Mike Strain says the suspect faces six counts of simple arson…

CUT 9 (09)  “near Jonesboro”

They say 22-year-old Justin Murphy of Jonesboro confessed to setting small grass fires while he was a volunteer member of the Jonesboro Fire Department. Strain says Murphy’s confession came while he was being questioned about another fire in north Louisiana last week…

cut 10 (07)  “one home”

He says Murphy has not been charged in the Liberty Hill fire. Bond was set at $90,000. Strain that wildfires are something investigators take quite seriously…

Cut 11 (09)  “you cause”

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

The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office says two brothers are under arrest in connection with the murder of Nanette Me’Shell King whose dead body was found in a burned car near Sun. Sheriff Jack Strain says the victim’s ex boyfriend, 53-year-old Gary Harris, allegedly murdered her — and his brother, 64-year-old Ray Harris, helped him cover it up…:

cut 12 (06)  “individuals were”

Strain says investigators believe that after the breakup from a 20-year relationship, Gary Harris talked King into coming back to their house on September 20th to talk about how they were going to divide their property — and it was there that he murdered her. He says the story is disturbing..:

cut 13 (06)  “cover his crime”

Gary Harris is charged with second degree murder and Ray Harris accessory after the fact. Strain says they believe after Gary Harris murdered King, he moved her body to the car, which was found burned out, several weeks later. He says the steps the Harris brothers took to cover this up are appalling…:

cut 14 (07)  “cold and calculating”

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It looks like has found itself a passing game. Jeff Palermo has more on the Tigers 35-28 win over Florida…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The State Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is calling on waterfowl hunters to voice their opinions on proposed changes to hunting zones. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (23) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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NOAA weather forecasters predict that a very strong El Nino will bring some much needed rain to Louisiana in the coming months. Eric Gill has more…

Cut 3 (29) “I’m Eric Gill”

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An LSU Public Policy Research Lab report surveying people’s opinions about the 2015 election cycle found that 56-percent of Louisianans believe the state is heading in the wrong direction. Dr. Michael Henderson says only 29-percent of voters surveyed thought the state was going in the right direction

cut 4  (07)  “wrong direction”

Henderson says none of the gubernatorial candidate have capitalized on this pessimism. He says the closer we get to the election the more negative voters feel about the future of Louisiana.

Cut 5  (06)  “up today”

Henderson says even though voters feel this way, these negative sentiments don’t seem to be translating into positive or negative attitudes toward the candidates. He says none of the four major candidates have succeeded in consolidating the support of the dissatisfied voters.

Cut 6 (08)  “or another”

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Recent polls show Republican David Vitter has the highest unfavoribility ratings out of the four candidates running for governor, but yet, analysts believe Vitter has the best shot at succeeding Bobby Jindal. Pollster Bernie Pinsonat says once Vitter makes the runoff, his negatives will begin to go away.

CUT 7 (10)  “John Bel Edwards”

Based on the latest poll from LSU’s Public Policy Research Lab, Vitter’s unfavorable rating is 41-percent, the three other candidates were in the teens or single digits. Pinsonat says Vitter’s high unfavorability is due to a strong stance against President Obama.

Cut 8  (10)  “Medicaid expansion”

Many analysts predict a Vitter versus John Bel Edwards runoff. Pinsonat says if that’s the case, Vitter can still win because Louisiana voters are expected to vote for a Republican over a Democrat

Cut 9 (08) “looking for” 

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The State Department of Wildlife and Fisheries wants to hear from hunters about the proposed changes to the waterfowl hunting zones.  Waterfowl program manager Larry Reynolds says they’re seeking public comment through November 5^th and the changes they are proposing could be significant for some hunters.

Cut 10 (10) “good ideas”

Reynolds says it’s important to get public input because it’s the hunters who are influenced by these decisions more than anyone else. He says time is short to get your voice heard.

cut 11 (10) “2016 season”

Reynolds says the Wildlife and Fisheries Commission can alter waterfowl hunting zones every five years and want to make sure these choices are what hunters want. He says these are pretty significant changes being purposed.

Cut 12 (11) “season dates”

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NOAA weather forecasters predict that a very strong El Nino will bring some much needed rain to Louisiana in the coming months. State Climatologist Barry Keim says the state can expect cooler and wetter than normal conditions for the coming winter and spring…

Cut 13 (07)  “above normal”

He says rainfall typically runs about 25-percent above average during an El Nino event. Forecasters call this El Nino one of the strongest on record. In addition to rainfall, Keim says El Ninos tend to bring more freezing weather, too…

Cut 14 (06) “that’s incredible”

He says, during El Nino years, the number of freeze days in Louisiana doubles. Because of the strength of this El Nino, Keim says it could cause some adverse weather conditions for Louisiana this winter…

Cut 15  (07)  “this winter”

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LSU kicker Trent Domingue will be big man on campus this week after scoring on a fake field goal to help the Tigers beat the previously unbeaten Florida Gators 35-28. Coach Les Miles called for Domingue to take a pitch from Brad kragthorpe and Domingue did the rest, running 16 yards for the score…

Cut 16  (13)  “for sure”

Domingue was LSU’s second leading rusher, behind Leonard Fournette who had 180 yards and two touchdowns. Quarterback Brandon Harris threw for 202 yards and two scores and Fournette is proud of his sophomore QB…

Cut 17 (12) “good overall” 

 Harris has thrown for over 200 yards in back-to-back games and admits he’s playing with a chip on his shoulder…

Cut 18 (11) “can’t do”

The state fire marshal’s office and Department of Agriculture and Forestry has issued a statewide burn ban due to extremely dry conditions across the state.  Jeff Palermo reports…

CUT 1 (30)  “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Federal fundraising reports show that Governor Bobby Jindal’s presidential campaign raised less than $600,000 during the third fundraising quarter. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 2 (31)  “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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The state fire marshal’s office and Department of Agriculture and Forestry has issued a statewide burn ban due to extremely dry conditions across the state. The US Drought Monitor reports that 86-percent Louisiana is currently in drought. State Fire Marshal Butch Browning says the burn ban was issued because of dry conditions, abnormal emergency responses, and adverse future weather forecasts…

CUT 3 (09)  “rain predicted”

The burn ban is in effect until further notice. The ban applies to all private burning. Browning says violators of the ban could face consequences…

CUT 4 (08)  “of burning”

Violation of the burn ban could result in criminal and/or civil penalties. Private burning will only be allowed by permission of your local fire department or local government. Browning says the main reason this ban is in place is safety…

CUT 5 (07) “these fires”

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The four men seeking to become the state’s next governor discussed their plans to solving the state’s budget problems during a televised debate on Louisiana Tech’s campus. Republican David Vitter, who has served in Congress since 1999, blamed his three opponents for helping to create the financial mess…

CUT 6 (08) “we speak”

Vitter says if elected, he’ll look at ways on how the state can reduce its spending. But Republican Scott Angelle says Vitter is not the guy who should be in charge of getting Louisiana’s fiscal house in order

CUT 7 (12)  “it works”

When a new governor and state legislature is sworn-in in January, they’ll face a 700-million dollar budget shortfall. Republican Jay Dardenne says he’ll look to make funding higher education a priority and cut elsewhere

CUT 8 (12)  “we can cut”

Democrat John Bel Edwards says he plans on calling two special sessions when he takes office to address the fiscal mess left behind by Governor Bobby Jindal

CUT 9 (12)  “items”

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Federal fundraising reports show that Governor Bobby Jindal’s presidential campaign raised less than $600,000 during the third fundraising quarter. The report further states that the governor has only $261,000 on hand. LSU Political Science Professor Robert Hogan says this report is not good news for Jindal…

cut 10 (07)  “in the bank”

Jindal’s $579,000 fundraising total pales in comparison to efforts by other Republican presidential hopefuls, like Ben Carson whose campaign raised over $20 million during the same time frame. Hogan says Jindal’s recent surge of support in Iowa might make it possible for him to go back to some people who have donated money in the past…

Cut 11 (07)  “to his campaign”

A Jindal spokesperson says the election is not an auction and they are running a lean, mean campaign. Hogan says it is possible to run a campaign on a shoestring budget if the candidate focuses on one state, as Jindal is doing in Iowa. Hogan says he believes there is support for the issues Jindal is pushing, but the crowded Republican field is definitely hurting him…

cut 12 (07)  “reflects that”

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The Saints convincing 31-21 win over Atlanta on Thursday night has the Who Dat nation thinking the Black and Gold can turn this season around. In the victory, there was a blocked punt for a touchdown, the defense forced three turnovers and quarterback Drew Brees threw for over 300 yards

cut 13 (10)  “pay off”

The victory improves the Saints record to 2-and-4 and they still have a lot work to do to get themselves in position to make the playoffs. But Brees says how they played on Thursday night against a team that was undefeated, gives them hope

cut 14 (09)  “next week”

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Louisiana is in for another beautiful weekend and possibly even some nighttime sweater and jacket weather. State Climatologist Barry Keim says we could even see some low temps in the 40s in northern parishes…:

cut 15 (07)  “low 50s”

Keim says daytime highs won’t get out of the 70s in most areas of the state. He says if you’re going to some nighttime football games, it might be a good idea to bundle up…:

cut 16 (07)  “moving in”

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The Louisiana Army National Guard has made significant jumps in their overall strength and retention of force. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (29) “I’m Eric Gill”

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Tomorrow is the last day to early vote for the October 24th primary and the Secretary of State’s office says turnout looks to be about average. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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A survey from LSU finds that a majority of Louisiana residents are still not paying attention to the governor’s race. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The Louisiana Army National Guard has made significant jumps in their overall strength and retention of force. LANG ranks number four among all other states’ National Guards in overall strength of its force and first for retaining personnel. Col. Pete Schneider praises everyone at the Guard for helping raise Louisiana’s rankings…

cut 4  (10)  “our state”

He says Louisiana ranked number 15 last year in overall strength. In the last year, LANG was able to increase their numbers to 9,650, better than 100-percent of their strength goal. Schneider credits the state with providing fantastic to benefits to our National Guard…

Cut 5  (09)  “in Louisiana”

He says LANG also surpassed its goal on retaining National Guardsmen. Schneider says as important as it is for the Guard to have new recruits, it’s also important that they keep as many experienced soldiers in their ranks as possible…

Cut 6 (10)  “coming in”

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Tomorrow is the last day to early vote for the October 24th primary and the Secretary of State’s office says turnout looks to be about average. Spokeswoman Meg Casper says, so far, the numbers are only slightly behind what they saw for the Congressional elections in 2014…:

CUT 7 (10)  “several cycles”

The 2015 gubernatorial early voting period began October 10th and will be over tomorrow at 6pm. Casper says every day they’ve seen about 20 to 30 thousand people participating in early voting statewide. She says it’s becoming more popular for people to make their choices ahead of election day…:

Cut 8  (09)  “cast their ballot”

Casper says they can’t remind voters enough to make sure your schedule is clear on election day because there’s a lot going on with football and hunting next Saturday. She says this is a really big election with nearly 1,070 offices up for grabs, about 2,000 candidates running and 4 constitutional amendments..:

Cut 9 (08) “well informed” 

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A new poll from LSU shows voters are getting more interested in the October 24^thprimary, with about 40 percent of voters following election news, up from 25-percent last spring. Dr. Michael Henderson with the LSU Public Policy Research Lab says even though we’ve seen an increase, it’s still lower than last fall’s election.

Cut 10 (08) “under construction”

Henderson says several gubernatorial candidates have higher name recognition compared to the spring and summer. He says Public Service Commissioner Scott Angelle and state Representative John Bel Edwards have made the most gains in name recognition. He says with name recognition, comes changes on how voters feel about the candidates.

cut 11 (09) “each other”

 Henderson says voters’ opinions of the major candidates are evolving. He says this is especially true for Vitter, who has both the highest share of favorable opinions at 30-percent and the highest share of unfavorable opinions at 41-percent.

Cut 12 (10) “I thought”

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Leonard Fournette and the LSU Tigers will face eighth ranked Florida on Saturday night in Tiger Stadium. Last year, the Tigers beat the Gators 30-27, as Fournette rushed for, at that time, a career-high 140 yards and 225 all-purpose yards. The sophomore expects another tight contest in Death Valley

Cut 13 (07)  “out and compete”

LSU is coming off a win over South Carolina that took place in front of a half-empty Tiger Stadium. Fournette says LSU fans are more than prepared for this Saturday and he’s looking forward to it…

Cut 14 (08) “be crazy”

Florida’s back-up quarterback, Treon Harris, will start for the Gators against LSU. He takes the place of Will Grier, who has been suspended for taking a banned over the counter supplement. Coach Les Miles says he doesn’t see a drop-off in talent with Florida’s number two QB….

Cut 15  (15)  “pocket presence”

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The four major candidates for governor squared off in the final televised debate before the October 24^th primary and for most of the 60 minutes the four men stuck to discussing issues and how they would solve problems in the state. But Republican Scott Angelle did take one shot at the GOP frontrunner in the race David Vitter.

Cut 16  (11)  “of America”

At the end of the debate, all the candidates discussed why they should be elected governor. Democrat John Bel Edwards says he has learned leadership throughout his life and is ready to serve the people of Louisiana.

Cut 17 (09) “next governor” 

Republican David Vitter says he will be an effective governor because he’s fighting for the people. He says he has proven to be effective time and time again and will continue to do so if elected.

Cut 18 (10) “for you”

Republican Jay Dardenne says we need a leader who has the vision and skillset to run our state. He says Louisiana is at a crossroads, but we have the opportunity to make a positive change….

Cut 19 (09) “us apart”

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