Former New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin’s appeal to his conviction on fraud charges is heard in a federal courtroom today. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (29) “I’m Eric Gill”

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The multi-state Powerball lottery game has a new matrix, which will lead to bigger jackpots and the rules have changed so more money can be won from lower-tier prizes. Emelie Gunn has more….

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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About 280-thousand dollars has been raised for the victims and those who lost their lives in the Lafayette theater shooting in July. Jeff Palermo has more….

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Former New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin’s appeal to his conviction on fraud charges is heard in a federal courtroom in New Orleans today. Nagin was convicted on 20 counts last year and sentenced to 10 years in federal prison. Loyola Law Professor Dane Ciolino says Nagin is arguing that the jury was incorrectly instructed on laws regarding honest services fraud…

cut 4  (06)  “the evidence”

He says, on appeal, the best argument any defendant has is that there was a flaw in the jury instructions. Ciolino says Nagin claims that the city would have awarded the contracts in question regardless of whether or not he received any kind of payment from the contractors…

Cut 5  (10)  “awarded anyway”

He says Nagin’s appeal only covers nine of his 20 convictions. Ciolino says, although Nagin is taking his best shot, it’s difficult in any criminal case to prevail on appeal…

Cut 6 (10)  “other errors”

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New changes are in place for the Powerball multi-state lottery game which will make it more difficult for players to win the grand prize, but more money could be won in other ways. Louisiana Lottery Spokesperson Kim Chopin says the matrix changes will increase the odds of winning the jackpot from 1 in 175 million to 1 and 292 million….

CUT 7 (06)  “really love”

To produce the added player benefits, ten numbers will be added to the field of white-ball numbers for a total of 69 and nine Powerball numbers will be removed for a total of 26. Chopin says this allows them to increase the prize for matching four white balls plus a red Powerball number from 10-thousand to 50-thousand dollars

Cut 8  (12)  “prize levels” 

Chopin says for players who add the one-dollar power play option, they can now multiply their nonjackpot prize up to ten times….

Cut 9 (12) “40 bucks” 

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About 280-thousand dollars has been raised for the 11 victims and the families of the two women killed in July’s Lafayette theater shooting. CEO of Pixus Digital Printing Todd Landry says the company raised the majority of the money by selling signs, t-shirts, car deals. He says he never dreamed they’d have this kind of impact.

Cut 10 (09) “a rewarding thing”

Landry says even though it’s been a little over two months since the tragedy, they’re still receiving orders. He says they’ve come out with a new Lafayette Strong commemorative wooden sign with all the proceeds going to the victims and their families.

cut 11 (10) “60 days”

The United Way says an initial payment of five-thousand dollarxs has been sent to each of the victim families. He says people interested in purchasing items can visit Louisiana Hot Stuff–dot-com.

Cut 12 (09) “as well”

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The Department of Children and Family Services announces changes coming to child support direct payment card clients when it comes to paying and receiving money. D-C-F-S Secretary Suzy Sonnier says Louisiana is in the process of moving towards a new stored value card for child support clients. She says this means all clients using the card need to update their address as soon as possible.

Cut 13 (10)  “is successful”

Sonnier says as D-C-F-S switches vendors, all clients will be getting a new value card in the mail. She says to change your address visit D-C-F-S-dot-L-A-dot-G-O-V-backslash-cafe. (www.dcfs.la.gov/cafe)

Cut 14 (08) “their address”

Sonnier is strongly encouraging her child support clients to start using direct deposit.

Cut 15  (11)  “value card”

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It wasn’t the blowout people were expecting on Saturday night in Tiger Stadium. LSU only led by six points halftime and eventually defeated Eastern Michigan 44-22. Star running back Leonard Fournette admits they underestimated the Eagles…

Cut 16  (08)  “stay on everybody”

Fournette rushed for 233 yards and three touchdowns. The Tigers needed a big game from the Heisman Trophy candidate, because LSU only threw for 80 yards as quarterback Brandon Harris completed just four passes. It wasn’t all Harris’ fault as there were plenty of drops. Coach Les Miles says they’ll continue to work on the passing game…

Cut 17 (20) “South Carolina” 

Fournette made history on Saturday, becoming the first SEC running back to rush for over 200 yards in three consecutive games…

Cut 18 (10) “for me”

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For the second straight year, Louisiana Tech easily defeated UL Lafayette. The Bulldogs scored 22 points in the 2nd quarter and went on to win 43-13. The Cajuns scored first, a 49-yard touchdown pass to Elijah McGuire. But the Bulldogs scored the next 36 points. Coach Skip Holtz liked how his team responded to that early score…

Cut 19 (22) “they have”

Last year Tech beat the Cajuns 48-20. Holtz says it’s nice to beat your in-state rivals by wide margins two years in a row…

Cut 20 (10) “care of business”

In a recent poll ranking Louisiana’s six most recent governors, 31-percent of respondents view former four-term Governor Edwin Edwards as the best. Michelle Southern reports…

CUT 1 (29)  “I’m Michelle Southern”

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The convicted killer that was accidentally released from prison on September 22 in East Feliciana Parish has been caught. Don Molino has more….

CUT 2 (23)  “I’m Don Molino”

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In a recent poll ranking Louisiana’s six most recent governors, former four-term Governor Edwin Edwards came in at number one among respondents. 31-percent thought “The Cajun Prince” was the best governor, followed by former two-term Governor Mike Foster with 21-percent. Edwards feels he earned this honor by serving the people…

CUT 3 (11)  “care of people”

Edwards says he appreciates this support shown by Louisianians. The poll was conducted by Clarus Research Group on behalf of The Advocate and WWL-TV. Edwards admits his gubernatorial terms were a bit controversial, but says he took care of business, even though some may not have liked the way he did it…

CUT 4 (11)  “doing that”

Current Governor Bobby Jindal ranked third with 14-percent. But when asked who was the worst governor, 42-percent of respondents picked Jindal. Edwards says this didn’t come as a surprise to him…

CUT 5 (10) “in Louisiana”

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The convicted killer who was accidentally released from prison in East Feliciana Parish has been captured in Atlanta. Middle District of Louisiana US Marshal Kevin Harrison says they spoke with Marshals in Georgia after receiving a tip that 32-year-old Benjuiel Johnson was staying in an Atlanta Motel 6.

CUT 6 (08) “the arrest” 

Harrison says they spoke to a number of people in Iberville Parish and developed leads that Johnson had connections in Georgia.

CUT 7 (09)  “him there”

Harrison says Johnson is awaiting extradition back to Louisiana. He credits the catch to the great efforts of all law enforcement involved.

CUT 8 (10)  “this guy”

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

Louisiana State Police is investigating a triple fatality crash out of Concordia Parish which claimed the lives of three unrestrained people, including two teenagers. Master Trooper Scott Moreau says the crash involved a fully loaded Peterbilt 18 wheeler log truck driven by 28-year-old Mark Gordon of Jonesville…:

CUT 9 (09)  “eastbound lane”

Moreau says the log truck crossed into the opposite lane of traffic just as a Dodge pickup, driven by 49-year-old Richard Stewart Jr. of Vidalia, was approaching. He says Stewart Jr. attempted to take evasive action and serve into the shoulder..:

cut 10 (06)  “eastbound shoulder”

Moreau says the log truck hit the Dodge head on and three of the occupants, including Stewart Jr. and a 15 year old and 17 year old, were not buckled up and died after begin ejected. Charges are pending against Gordon. Moreau says there was also a 51-year-old passenger in the Dodge who was buckled up and sustained moderate injuries…:

Cut 11 (08)  “to point out”

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The Baton Rouge Police Department has arrested a 19-year-old man after he allegedly accidentally shot his pregnant girlfriend in the stomach. Cpl. Ljean McKneely says Jason Williams claims he was removing a handgun from a dresser when it accidentally discharged, striking his 19-year-old girlfriend who is four months pregnant. McKneely says the victim was rushed to a local hospital…

cut 12 (07)  “very critical”

At last report, the woman is in critical but stable condition and the unborn child’s condition is listed as very critical. McKneely says Williams fled the scene after the shooting…

cut 13 (10)  “what happened”

He says Williams was apprehended when he went to the hospital to check on the woman. McKneely says Williams was booked into the East Baton Rouge Parish Prison… (Williams is charged with negligent injuring and Illegal Use of a Weapon.)

cut 14 (05)  “a weapon”

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A well known Louisiana tradition kicks off this weekend as the 2015 Angola Prison Rodeo gets underway. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Eric Gill”

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The statewide average price for gasoline in Louisiana has seen a slight rise over the week. Could this mean the end to falling prices? Emelie Gunn has more….

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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The Department of Children and Family Services announces changes to the food assistance program to encourage able-bodied recipients without children to move into the workforce. Jeff Palermo reports…

Cut 3 (31) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A well known Louisiana tradition kicks off this weekend as the 2015 Angola Prison Rodeo gets underway. The annual event runs every Sunday in October at the Louisiana State Penitentiary. Warden Burl Cain says this is an event the entire family can enjoy. He says, in addition to the rodeo, there are arts and crafts, food, and events the kids will enjoy…

cut 4  (06)  “our carousel”

Tickets are just $15 each and can be purchased online at angolarodeo-dot-com or by calling (225) 655-2030. Cain says proceeds from the event are put to good use…

Cut 5  (06)  “the inmates”

The event draws more than 70,000 spectators to the prison annually. Cain says this is the only prison rodeo in the United States and if you plan to attend, you should get your tickets in advance…

Cut 6 (05)  “it’s amazing”

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Analysts have been telling us that gas prices would drop during the fall, but according to the American Automobile Association the statewide average price for a regular gallon of gasoline has gone up a few pennies over the week to $2.03. Triple-A Fuel Analyst Don Redman says prices are leveling off now that refineries are transitioning into the winter blend of gasoline…

CUT 7 (11)  “come down”

Redman says refineries shutting down for maintenance is putting a little dent in the supply of gasoline. He says this slight uptick in the price per gallon is typical during this time of year.

Cut 8  (07)  “by November” 

Redman predicts gas prices to drop to about $1.80 per gallon in December, but Russia entering the Middle East could dramatically affect the price of crude oil.

Cut 9 (08) “in prices” 

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In last night’s gubernatorial debate hosted by WDSU-TV in New Orleans, each of the four major candidates took shots at each other on a couple of different subjects. On the topic of defunding Planned Parenthood, Republican David Vitter criticized both Democrat John Bel Edwards and fellow Republican Jay Dardenne. In reference to Edwards, Vitter equates his support of President Obama to support for Planned Parenthood…

Cut 10 (07) “means anything”

Vitter supports defunding the organization. Edwards says while he supports the Commander in Chief, he does have issues with many positions taken by the President…

cut 11 (07) “David Vitter”

On the same topic, Vitter called out Dardenne claiming that the Lt. Governor voted in favor of abortion six times. In response, Dardenne called Vitter a liar…

Cut 12 (10) “rate up”

On the topic of Common Core, Republican Scott Angelle took the opportunity slam Vitter’s inconsistency on the issue…

Cut 13 (10)  “Common Core”

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The Department of Children and Family Services announces changes to the food assistance program to encourage able-bodied recipients without children to move into the workforce. Secretary Suzy Sonnier says a federal waiver was allowed to expire that creates changes in an able-bodied person’s SNAP eligibility…

Cut 14 (10) “SNAP benefits”

Sonnier says now, able-bodied adults without dependents must work at least 20 hours a week or be enrolled in a federally-approved job training program to qualify for SNAP benefits. She says there are approximately 62,000 able-bodied SNAP recipients in the state with no dependents. Sonnier says there is a single goal in this effort…

Cut 15  (07)  “in the workforce”

Recipients who do not comply with the requirement changes will only receive benefits for three months over a three year period. Sonnier says there are opportunities across the state for recipients to engage in some form of work activity…

Cut 16  (08)  “working with”

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The Saints are 0-3 heading into Sunday night’s game with Dallas. But Coach Sean Payton says no one has their head down or is feeling sorry for themself….

Cut 17 (06) “to work” 

The Saints seem optimistic that Quarterback Drew Brees will return to the field this Sunday after missing last week’s loss to Carolina. Payton says Brees and the rest of the team are working hard and hopefully it results in a win against the Cowboys…

Cut 18 (10) “from winning”

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The LSU Tigers are big favorites to beat Eastern Michigan on Saturday night. Coach Les Miles says he wants to see a penalty free game after his team was flagged 14 times last weekend. Right guard Will Clapp says it’s been a point of emphasis in practice

Cut 19 (06) “stuff happens”

Running back Leonard Fournette will go for his third consecutive 200-yard game. Clapp says they enjoy blocking Fournette, because he’s a great teammate…

Cut 20 (14) “class act”

Investigators have discovered that the Eunice mother who shot her two daughters then herself purchased the gun nine days in advance. Emelie Gunn has more….

CUT 1 (30)  “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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

LSU Coach Les Miles says on his radio show that he can’t imagine running back Leonard Fournette sitting out next season so he’s healthy for when he’s eligible to be drafted in 2017. Jeff Palermo has the story…

CUT 2 (30)  “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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

Investigators have learned that the Eunice mother who shot her two children then took her own life, while also setting her home on fire, purchased a hand gun nine days before the double murder suicide. Deputy Chief with the state Fire Marshal’s Office Brant Thompson says the autopsy results came back confirming their suspicions.

CUT 3 (10)  “the head”

Thompson says the mother, 39-year-old Carla Watford, carefully planned out this murder and legally purchased the .38-caliber hand gun along with 50 rounds of ammunition. He says they don’t believe anyone was aware Watford bought the gun.

CUT 4 (06)  “that purchase”

Thompson says investigators found a multiple page document when they arrived at the scene. He says Watford left a note trying to explain why she did this horrific thing.

CUT 5 (11) “own life”

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A recent poll of Louisiana voters on the presidential race, paid for by The Advocate and WWL-TV, shows Governor Bobby Jindal receiving only three-percent support from state Republicans.  UL-Lafayette Political Science Professor Pearson Cross says this has to be disheartening to Jindal…

CUT 6 (08) “top spot” 

The poll, conducted by Clarus Research Group, shows Ben Carson leading the Republican field with 23-percent followed by Donald Trump at 19-percent. Cross feels Carson’s message hits home with voters since Louisiana is a particularly religious state…

CUT 7 (09)  “brash industrialism”

Hillary Clinton leads the Democrat field in Louisiana with 57-percent support. The survey revealed that Jindal would lose in a hypothetical presidential matchup to Clinton in Louisiana. But Cross feels that, if the the election were actually between Jindal and Clinton, Jindal would come out on top in Louisiana…

CUT 8 (07)  “back for Jindal”

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According to records from the National Weather Service, this September will go down as one of the driest for north Louisiana. Senior Meteorologist Jason Hansford says Shreveport Regional Airport recorded only 0.07 inches of rain during the entire month, which just surpassed the previous record set in 1994.

CUT 9 (10)  “on record”

Hansford says the drought is having a big impact on agriculture and creating fire issues. He says burn bans are in place for almost every parish in north Louisiana.

cut 10 (11)  “ground now”

Hansford says we’re going to keep relatively low humidity throughout the next week. He says unfortunately relief from the dry air isn’t expected any time soon.

Cut 11 (07)  “the state”

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State Treasurer John Kennedy announces that audits of life insurance company policies have found $35 million that should have been paid to Louisiana residents. He says insurance companies often do not make concerted efforts to locate beneficiaries or heirs after a policy holder dies. Kennedy says they began doing these audits back in 2009…

cut 12 (09)  “over to us”

Kennedy says, so far this year, claimants have received $2.6 million from these life insurance policy audits. He says many times family members do not know these policies exist. Kennedy says this has been a very successful program…

cut 13 (10)  “to her”

He says his office tries to locate these beneficiaries when they discover an unpaid policy, but you can search online at LATreasury-dot-com to see if you are owed any money. Kennedy says when a life insurance company learns of a policy holders death, they should actively seek out the beneficiaries and heirs of that person…

cut 14 (05)  “doing that”

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Tonight all four major gubernatorial candidates will appear at a televised debate hosted by W-D-S-U T-V in New Orleans. Emelie Gunn has more….

CUT 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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A study finds more Louisiana motorists are buckling up in 2015. Jeff Palermo has more….

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame announces its 2016 induction class and once again it’s a star studded group of athletes and coaches. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 3 (31) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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The four major gubernatorial candidates for governor are slated to appear tonight at 6 in a televised debate hosted by W-D-S-U T-V in New Orleans. It will also air online and on N-B-C affiliated stations across the state. L-S-U Political Science Professor Robert Hogan says this is the chance for Republican candidates Scott Angelle and Jay Dardenne to gain some traction against frontrunner David Vitter.

cut 4  (09)  “this debate”

Hogan says Angelle and Dardenne are getting a chance to receive free publicity. He expects both republicans will use this as their chance to prove to Louisianan’s why they should be elected over Vitter.

Cut 5  (07)  “generally see”

This is the only televised debate before the October 24^th primary that the four major candidates have committed to attend. Vitter has missed his fair share of debates and forums, but Hogan says it doesn’t look good for him to miss too many.

Cut 6 (10)  “so much”

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Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame announces its 2016 induction class and once again it’s a star studded group of athletes and coaches. One of the headliners is four time Major League Baseball All-Star Pitcher Ben Sheets out of St. Amant High. Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Chairman Doug Ireland says Sheets is also an Olympic Gold Medalist…:

CUT 7 (10)  “excellent control”

The group  of eight will be enshrined next summer at the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Museum in Natchitoches. NBA standout PJ Brown of Winnfield will also be recognized in next year’s class. Ireland says Brown was a great player at Louisiana Tech, but didn’t project to be a 15 year NBA Veteran…:

Cut 8  (08)  “in New Orleans” 

Included in the class is University of Michigan and NFL star Anthony Thomas aka, “The A-Train,” also from Winnfield and 21 year long Tulane Baseball Coach Rick Jones. Ireland says another big headliner is St. Thomas More coach Jim Hightower who is the second-winningest high school football coach in state history…:

Cut 9 (07) “St Thomas More” 

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A study shows more Louisiana drivers are buckling up this year. Louisiana Highway Safety Commission Executive Director Col. John LeBlanc says their 2015 Louisiana Seat Belt and Motorcycle Helmet Observation Survey found a record 86 percent of front seat passengers and drivers we’re using their seatbelt.

Cut 10 (11) “last year”

LeBlanc says they’re still trying to get more young male drivers to buckle up. And he says front seat seatbelt use among African Americans measured lower than other races.

cut 11 (10) “those crashes”

LeBlanc says even though the numbers are going up, we can always improve. He attributes the yearly increase to, “Click it or Ticket” and other seatbelt campaigns……. (LeBlanc says 58 percent of drivers killed in Louisiana are not buckled up.)

Cut 12 (10) “rate up”

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Get ready for some beautiful weather Louisiana as another cold front settles over the state over the next several days. State Climatologist Barry Keim says today is just the beginning with slightly cooler and less humid conditions. He says the temperatures this morning are in the 60s across most of Louisiana…:

Cut 13 (08)  “so much better”

Keim says by tomorrow morning, the minimum temperatures are going to be in the 50s, with high temperatures only in the 70s. He says this weather pattern is going to persist through the weekend and perhaps even into early next week…:

Cut 14 (10) “foothold now”

Keim says from here on out, cooler and less humid weather should start to dominate the pattern as we kiss summer heat goodbye. He feels, for the most part, those long periods of hot sticky weather are over..:

Cut 15  (10)  “of Louisiana”

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It sounds like there’s a good chance Saints quarterback Drew Brees will play this Sunday against the Dallas Cowboys. Brees missed week three’s loss to Carolina, because of a bruised rotator cuff. But the future Hall of Famer is back at practice throwing footballs to his receivers and he believes he’s making good progress….

Cut 16  (09)  “that’s the key”

Brees there was a bright spot to him missing last Sunday’s game. By watching from the sidelines he got a chance to see how the players pull for each other…

Cut 17 (16) “for us” 

__________________________________________________

ULM is getting ready to play Sun Belt rival Georgia Southern this Saturday. The Warhawks are coming off a frustrating 34-0 loss to Alabama. Both of their losses have come against SEC schools and Coach Todd Berry is eager to begin conference play….

Cut 18 (15) “Georgia Southern”

ULM goes into Saturday’s game without leading receiver Rashon Ceaser, who is out indefinitely with a lower-body injury. Berry says some younger players will have to step up….

Cut 19 (20) “freshman quarterback”

The state Department of Health and Hospitals confirms a second death this year from the West Nile Virus — this time out of the Baton Rouge area. Emelie Gunn reports…:

CUT 1 (30)  “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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The search continues for a convicted killer from Iberville Parish who was accidentally released from prison. Jeff Palermo has the story…

CUT 2 (29)  “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The state Department of Health and Hospitals confirms a second death this year from the West Nile Virus. State Health Officer Dr. Jimmy Guidry says there are now 54 confirmed cases in 2015 and 2 deaths, compared to 123 cases and 5 deaths the prior year. He says even as we move into October, the threat of infected mosquitoes is still there..:

CUT 3 (09)  “mosquito repellent”

Guidry says the latest West Nile death is out of the Baton Rouge area. He says about 90 percent of the cases they see are asymptomatic, but about 10 percent will develop West Nile Fever…:

CUT 4 (06)  “highest risk”

Guidry says less than a percent of people bitten by an infected mosquito will develop the more serious form of the disease, but anyone can get West Nile. He says it’s important to protect yourself from mosquitoes at least until the end of the year…:

CUT 5 (07) “into December”

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

The Louisiana chapter for Americans for Prosperity launches a statewide radio ad informs listeners about lawmakers who are up for re-election and voted for tax increases and the expansion of Medicaid. A-F-P State Director Phillip Joffrion says the commercial points voters to a website that has how lawmakers voted…

CUT 6 (08) “the budget” 

The Louisiana A-F-P is tied with the Tea Party. Joffrion says they want to spotlight those lawmakers who voted to raise taxes….

CUT 7 (10)  “term fixes”

Joffrion says this ad is an effort to urge Louisiana citizens to voice their concerns about Medicaid expansion and tax increases. He says the public can view their lawmaker’s record at Louisiana Score Card-dot-com.

CUT 8 (09)  “that site”

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The manhunt continues for a convicted killer who was mistakenly released from the East Feliciana Parish jail on September 22nd.  Thirty-two-year-old Benjueil Johnson was in prison, serving a 40-year sentence for a 2010 fatal shooting in Plaquemine. State Department of corrections spokesperson Pam Laborde says they hope to bring Johnson back into custody soon…

CUT 9 (11)  “DOC custody”

Laborde says they are working with Crime Stoppers to offer a one-thousand dollar reward for information leading to Johnson’s capture…

cut 10 (10)  “right thing”

Laborde says an employee at Dixon Correctional Institute in Jackson, Louisiana, overlooked the fact that Johnson was convicted of manslaughter and didn’t do the due diligence needed to make sure he would not be accidentally released…

Cut 11 (08)  “make sure”

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

A debate has started over whether star LSU sophomore running back Leonard Fournette should sit out his junior season so he doesn’t risk injury before heading to the NFL. The Heisman Trophy candidate is not eligible for the draft until after next season. But NFL analyst Mike Detillier says this argument is ridiculous…:

cut 12 (09)  “like that”

Pro Football Talk got the conversation started when they suggested it would be smart for Fournette to opt out of playing next year instead of possibly getting injured and ruining his pro career. Detillier says sure there is always a risk in playing football, but college is a time for athletes to grow…:

cut 13 (07)  “would want”

Fournette weighed in on the topic by tweeting, “I will never jump ship, I’m drowning with my brothers.” Detillier says this talk is for the purpose of gossiping and getting people riled up…:

cut 14 (06)  “in 2016”

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

Secretary of State Tom Schedler says the ballots for the October 24th primary was sent to the printer, but it’s possible more names will be removed before election day. Michelle Southern reports…:

CUT 1 (31) “I’m Michelle Southern”

______________________________________

The Saints return to practice today to get ready for Sunday night’s game against Dallas. Michael Farrar has the latest on injured quarterback Drew Brees…

Cut 2 (25) “I’m Michael Farrar”

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A new airline will offer daily non-stop flights out of New Orleans to Shreveport. Emelie Gunn has more….

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

______________________________________

Hundreds of cancer patients and survivors are in Washington to lobby Congress to make the fight against cancer a national priority. Amber Stevens, of Metairie, is a volunteer with the American Cancer Society and says they’re calling on the federal government to increase funding for cancer research by an additional six billion dollars over the next two years…

cut 4  (05)  “research”

Stevens says they’re also asking lawmakers to sign a quality of life bill to ensure cancer patients and their doctors are all working together. She says often times situations get even worse for patients because of poor coordination with the patient’s treatment team.

Cut 5  (09)  “same page”

According to the American Cancer Socity Cancer Action Network, more than 9-thousand Louisiana residents will die of cancer in 2015. Stevens says they are also in D-C to address the Medicare colorectal cancer screening loophole. She says A-C-S also wants to alleviate some of the cost barriers that some Medicare patients deal with when it comes colorectal screening…

Cut 6 (11)  “dollars”

______________________________________

Secretary of State Tom Schedler says the ballots for the October 24th primary have been sent to print, but it’s possible more candidates will be removed before election day. He says they started out with about 1150 races statewide but, due to offices running unopposed, challenges or candidates dropping out, there are now about 575 active races…:

CUT 7 (10)  “withdraw”

Schedler says in the November 2014 Congressional elections they found that about 5 percent of the candidates either withdrew or were disqualified, and for this one it’s up to 8 percent. He says in the last few cycles, the Louisiana Ethics Administration has been a lot more aggressive…:

Cut 8  (08)  “of that” 

Schedler says if a candidate is listed on the ballot but is not in the race come voting day, notices will be posted near the booths about the elections which are affected. He says when you go to the precinct you should make sure the person you are voting for is still active…:(He says the sample ballots at geauxvote.com are always up to date.)

Cut 9 (07) “will not count” 

___________________________________________

Two men are accused of animal cruelty after shooting and killing a calf and a total of four people are accused of stealing the calf’s meat in Morganza. Louisiana Agriculture Commissioner Mike Strain says  Point Coupee Parish Sheriff’s deputies we’re alerted about a dead calf on the spillway levee. He says investigators discovered the four suspects went to the area with the intention of killing a calf.

Cut 10 (10) “shot gun”

Strain says Leonard and Devillier received help from Kale Ashten David and Dustin James Vidrine to load the calf into the vehicle. He says the suspects cut off portions of the hindquarter and loin after realizing the calf was too big.

cut 11 (08) “interviews”

Strain says all four of the suspects have been arrested and booked into the Point Coupee Parish Jail on charges of theft of livestock for taking the meat. Strain says both Leonard and Devillier are also charged with animal cruelty for allegedly killing the calf and Leonard has an additional charge.

Cut 12 (08) “event”

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A new airline will soon offer daily non-stop flights between Louis Armstrong International Airport in New Orleans and Shreveport Regional Airport. New Orleans Resident Trey Fayard is the founder of the new airline called Glo, which will also have flights from New Orleans to Little Rock and Memphis. He says he started the airline after experiencing years of wasted time having trouble getting to different locations in the mid-South region.

Cut 13 (10)  “these cities”

Fayard says their first flights are scheduled to take off November 15^th and you tickets are available for purchase now. He says many experienced executives have joined the Glo team from American Airlines, Pan Am, and Air Tran….

Cut 14 (08) “business venture”

Fayard says Glo will operate three 30-passenger aircrafts. He says with a lot of business coming to Louisiana, it’s time to be able to get around quick.

Cut 15  (07)  “for tickets”

_____________________________________________

Coming off a win over FIU at Joe Aillet Stadium, the Bulldogs are back at home this Saturday to host U-L Lafayette, a team they beat 48-20 last year. Tech quarterback Jeff Driskel says they look at the Cajuns as a rival and would like to beat them again

Cut 16  (15)  “any other game”

Louisiana Tech comes into this game leading Conference USA in total offense, as they are averaging 523 yards a game. But Driskel says there’s room for improvement….

Cut 17 (17) “they are there” 

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So far this season much of LSU’s offensive production is coming from one man. Running back Leonard Fournette has 647 all-purpose yards, which accounts for 45-percent of the Tigers total yards. LSU offensive coordinator Cam Cameron says they are seeking to get more touches for the other skill position players…

Cut 18 (15) “even more”

In LSU’s three games, they’ve only thrown 47 passes. But Cameron says they are running the ball a lot, because that’s what opposing defenses are giving them…

Cut 19 (15) “backwards”

A group of businessmen called Blueprint Louisiana are urging the next governor to raise the gasoline tax, expand Medicaid and alter the TOPS program. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (30)  “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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A recent Clarus Research Group poll on Louisiana’s governor’s race reveals that 44-percent of voters view Republican David Vitter unfavorably. Eric Gill has more…

CUT 2 (29)  “I’m Eric Gill”

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The American Civil Liberties Union is accusing the Bossier Parish School Board of violating the US Constitution by allowing the Fellowship of Student Athletes to set up prayer boxes at Airline High School in Bossier City. Loyola Law Professor Dane Ciolino says this does appear to go against the First Amendment’s Establishment of Religion Clause…

CUT 3 (09)  “particular Christianity”

The Louisiana ACLU sent a letter to the School Board asking them to immediately remove the prayer boxes from the school. The School Board will discuss the situation at their next meeting Thursday. Ciolino says it won’t serve the public well for Bossier Parish School officials to take this issue to court…

CUT 4 (11)  “Supreme Court”

In response to the letter, Governor Bobby Jindal says this is an example that the war on Christianity has gone too far. Ciolino says that although school prayer is something that the public seems to strongly favor, the nation’s highest court stands firm with the Constitution…

CUT 5 (09) “the Constitution”

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A group of businessmen and executives that are part of Blueprint Louisiana is calling on the next governor to raise the gasoline tax, expand Medicaid and change TOPS, so it no longer covers the full cost of tuition. Blueprint Chairman Dr. Phillip Rozeman says our roads need about one billion dollars a year to improve our transportation and raising the taxes on gasoline could help defer this cost.

CUT 6 (09) “our roads“

Rozeman says there is a need for Medicaid coverage expansion so working residents that normally make too much to qualify and not enough to buy their own insurance will be included. He says the group doesn’t necessarily agree with the Affordable Care Act but an expansion of Medicaid could save the state 165 million dollars over five years…

CUT 7 (10)  “this state”

Rozeman says TOPS is a great program but needs to be altered so it doesn’t automatically include the full cost of tuition and becomes more like a scholarship. He says this way it could be used more in the community and technical college system.

CUT 8 (08)  “our state” 

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A recent Clarus Research Group poll on Louisiana’s governor’s race reveals that 44-percent of voters view Republican David Vitter unfavorably. The poll was paid for by The Advocate and WWL-TV. UL-Lafayette Political Science Professor Pearson Cross says, during Vitter’s years in public office, it appears the Senator has managed to alienate some voters…

CUT 9 (09)  “don’t like you”

The survey also shows that over 40-percent of voters could not give a favoribility rating to any of the other three major candidates, Republicans Jay Dardenne and Scott Angelle and Democrat John Bel Edwards. Cross says this is a sign that voters are not quite fully engaged with the election…

cut 10 (08)  “known candidates”

Cross doesn’t think this is a sign that Vitter should abandon his campaign. He says just because Vitter’s unfavorability rating is high, it doesn’t mean he can’t be elected governor…

Cut 11 (08)  “of two evils”

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The Iberville Parish Sheriff’s Office is searching for a convicted killer who was released from prison due to a computer glitch. 32-year-old Benjuiel Johnson was serving 40 years in prison after pleading guilty to manslaughter and other charges in the 2010 death of Cordies Gales. Major Ronnie Hebert says Johnson was sent to East Feliciana Parish to face some prior charges…

cut 12 (09)  “he was released”

It’s reported that when Johnson’s name was checked through the Department of Corrections computer system, the manslaughter conviction did not show up, so Johnson was released on bond. Hebert says they’re doing all they can to track down Johnson…

cut 13 (05)  “this problem”

The US Marshals Office is assisting with the search. If you see Johnson, you are asked to immediately call 9-1-1. Hebert says details are limited as to where Johnson may have fled…

cut 14 (04)  “at this time”

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LSU President F. King Alexander hopes the next governor reverses the trend of fewer state dollars going towards higher ed.  Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Authorities are still trying to figure out why a mother in Eunice may have shot and killed her two daughters before setting their house on fire then turning the gun on herself. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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The US Department of Veterans’ Affairs announces it has awarded a least for a permanent Veterans Clinic for Lake Charles. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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LSU President F. King Alexander is concerned about the continuing decline in state funding for higher education. Alexander says if trends keep continuing, Louisiana will become the second state to not pay a penny on higher education by the year 2027. Alexander hopes the trend reverses with the next governor…

cut 4  (10)  “to ask”

During a speech at the Baton Rouge Press Club, Alexander also called on for more state dollars to conduct research. He says it would be a wise investment for the state….

Cut 5  (11)  “other areas”

Alexander says public colleges and universities have one billion dollars in deferred maintenance on the campuses. He says there is no consistent source of funding to address the problem.

Cut 6 (08)  “backlog”

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Authorities are still trying to figure out why a mother in Eunice may have shot and killed her two daughters before setting their house on fire then turning the gun on herself. The mother is identified as 39-year-old Carla Watford and her two deceased daughters are 16-year-old Julia Watford and 9-year-old Tayla Watford. State Fire Marshal Butch Browning…:

CUT 7 (08)  “her own death”

Browning says they recovered the weapon they believe was used in the murder suicide and also chemical accelerant that was used to set the fire. Eunice Police Chief Randy Fontenot said the family wants the public to know that Carla Watford was a good person, and what lead her to do this we may never know…:

Cut 8  (08)  “in this community” 

Browning says investigators have learned the fire started near the master bedroom, and they also found a note believed to have been written by Carla Watford…

Cut 9 (05) “murder-suicide” 

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A 16-year-old is behind bars after wielding a shotgun while committing a series of armed robberies in the Uptown area, according to New Orleans Police. Mayor Mitch Landrieu spoke out about violence in the city and says he is dedicated to stopping this trend.

Cut 10 (09) “higher priority”

Extra police patrolling the area arrested the teenage while riding a bike. Landrieu says we continue to aggressively recruit more police officers and are investing thousands of dollars to advance protection for the people of New Orleans.

cut 11 (09) “behind bars”

Authorities found five smart phones, similar clothes described by victims and a lever action rifle inside a chair bag while searching the suspect’s home. Landrieu says we must do everything we can to build a city of peace.

Cut 12 (08) “remain safe”

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After months of wrangling, the US Department of Veterans Affairs announces it has awarded a lease for a permanent Veterans Clinic in Lake Charles. Lafayette Congressman Charles Boustany has been applying pressure on the V-A to get this done

Cut 13 (04)  “progress now”

The permanent Lake Charles veterans’ clinic will be on a 4.5 acre site on Gerstner Memorial Parkway. Boustany is glad to see progress, but more work is needed to ensure quality healthcare needs for veterans living in southwest Louisiana

Cut 14 (10) “our veterans”

Boustany says it’s been a long journey to get this point. He says the 24-thousand square foot building is expected to be ready for use by 2017….

Cut 15  (09)  “getting started”

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LSU’s Leonard Fournette is on his way to a record breaking season as he already has 631 rushing yards through games. He’s getting a chance to carry the football over 20 times a game and opposing defenses are keying on him. Coach Les Miles was asked about if he plans on changing Fournette’s running style to avoid some punishment from opposing tacklers

Cut 16  (15)  “would want”

Miles would like to see his team cut down on penalties. They’ve been flagged 28 times and they are averaging 86 penalty yards a game, which is the seventh highest in the country. The head coach says penalties will be a focus in practice this week…

Cut 17 (10) “to do” 

LSU is last in the SEC in pass offense, averaging just 100 yards through the air a game. But Quarterback Brandon Harris is completing 62-percent of his passes and has not turned the ball over. Miles expects the passing game will become more explosive…

Cut 18 (16) “getting it done”

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The Saints are one of four teams in the NFL that are winless. Coach Sean Payton says there is no way to sugarcoat it, they are in hole and they have to find a way to get their first win of the season

Cut 19 (15) “good week”

The Saints host Dallas this Sunday and Payton is looking forward to ending the losing streak….

Cut 20 (16)  “so its important”

A new Advocate/WWL-TV poll shows Democrat John Bel Edwards and Republicans Scott Angelle and Jay Dardenne each defeating Republican David Vitter in a potential runoff in Louisiana’s governor’s race. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (26)  “I’m Eric Gill”

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The state Department of Revenue announce the 50th arrest under a statewide crack down on tax fraud. Eric Gill has more…

CUT 2 (29)  “I’m Eric Gill”

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A new Advocate/WWL-TV poll shows Democrat John Bel Edwards and Republicans Scott Angelle and Jay Dardenne each defeating Republican David Vitter in a potential runoff in Louisiana’s governor’s race. The survey, conducted by Clarus Research Group, shows Edwards and Vitter tied at 24-percent heading into the primary. Political analyst Clancy Dubos says this is bad news for the Senator who was polling at 38-percent this spring…

CUT 3 (10)  “a runoff”

The poll shows Angelle and Dardenne with 15-percent and 14-percent respectively. Dubos says the spring polls were largely based on name recognition, but now voters are taking notice of the gubernatorial candidates…

CUT 4 (10)  “large numbers”

The poll shows Vitter losing to Edwards in a potential runoff by four points, Angelle by five points, and Dardenne by seven points. Dubos says this survey doesn’t mean that Vitter won’t make the runoff, but he will be an underdog if he does. He says this poll does bring up an interesting question…

CUT 5 (08) “the runoff”

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The State Fire Marshal’s Office believes the fatal fire in Eunice where a mother and her two children died, was the result of a murder-suicide. Fire Marshal Butch Browning says they are still working to determine the cause of the early Sunday morning massive blaze…:

CUT 6 (08) “to this fire”

Browning says Eunice cops and fire investigators are working to determine how the blaze was started and what might have happened…:

CUT 7 (07)  “it is suspicious”

Authorities have identified the mother as 39-year-old Carla Watford. They believe she shot her two children, 16 year old Julia Watford and 9-year-old Layla Watford before starting the fire then turning the gun on herself. Browning says autopsies on the three are planned…:

CUT 8 (07)  “cause of death” 

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The Bayou State is ranked among the top states in the country where Hispanics have adapted to the American mainstream. The WalletHub study ranks Louisiana fourth for all states for Hispanic assimilation. Manny Blanco, President of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Foundation, says Louisiana’s Hispanic population is a varied group…

CUT 9 (07)  “and Mexico”

The study ranked states on Cultural & Civic, Education, and Economic assimilation. Blanco says the state’s Hispanic unemployment and poverty rates are concerning…

cut 10 (09)  “accomplish that”

The state’s “Veteran Status for Hispanics” is 10th in the country, which Blanco says is a source of pride within the community. He has high hopes for the future of the Hispanic community in Louisiana…

Cut 11 (10)  “our communities”

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The state Department of Revenue announce the 50th arrest under a statewide crack down on tax fraud. Joyce Gaines of Harvey, owner of Tax Town, is accused of filing false income tax returns for hundreds of clients. Barry Kelly, Director of Criminal Investigations, says teaming up with the Attorney General’s Office is a key to the success of the crack down…

cut 12 (07)  “to do alone”

Gaines, along with two of her employees, are charged with filing or maintaining false public records and illegal transmission of monetary funds. Kelly says this type of tax fraud case is not unusual…

cut 13 (09)  “don’t even own”

Gaines’ scheme resulted in more than $250,000 in fraudulent state income tax refunds. LDR has saved tax payers more than $50 million through various anti-fraud programs since 2014. Kelly says this is a reminder for residents to do some research and be careful about who they select to prepare their taxes…

cut 14 (08)  “are bound to”

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