In addition to the US Senate and Congressional races, Tuesday’s ballot features 14 Constitutional Amendments. Eric Gill has more…

CUT 1 (29) “reporting”

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Promoters announce the opening of Taylor Swift’s brand new “1989” tour will kick off in Bossier City next year, then headline Bayou Country Superfest in Baton Rouge. Michelle Southern reports.

CUT 2 (30) “reporting”

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In addition to the US Senate and Congressional races, Tuesday’s ballot features 14 Constitutional Amendments. Public Affairs Research Council President Robert Travis Scott says Amendment 1 protects the financial system that has been set up for nursing homes and care facilities, that are matched by Medicaid, to reimburse them for the care they give…

CUT 3 (09)  “this new amendment”

Scott says Amendment 2 would give hospitals in the state tax money, that they would be able to match with Medicaid dollars, to help compensate for the care they give to the uninsured…

CUT 4 (13)  “budget priorities”

Another amendment on the ballot deals with disabled veterans. Scott says Amendment 7 gives an extra homestead exemption for disabled veterans… (You can get more information on the amendments at parlouisiana-dot-org)

CUT 5 (12)  “all in there”

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Site Selection magazine names Louisiana number two in the nation in it’s Top Business Climate list for 2014. Editor-In-Chief Mark Arend says the list is compiled based on a survey of corporate real estate executives and the magazine’s proprietary New Plant Database…

CUT 6 (12)  “this year”

Georgia ranked number one in this year’s list. Arend says a big reason for Louisiana ranking second is that it finished sixth in a separate survey of business executives…

CUT 7 (06) “very impressive”

Lousiana economic development officials say the state is set to enter an industrial boom and Arend says their ranking reflects that…

CUT 8 (09) “going on there”

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State Police report a single vehicle crash in Assumption Parish has claimed the life of a 4-year-old boy. Trooper Evan Harrell says the wreck happened last night when a vehicle, driven by 22-year-old Toniska Willoughby of Napoleonville, went off the road into a ditch and struck a culvert…

CUT 9 (5)  “a child seat”

4-year-old Cason Willoughby was pronounced dead at the scene. His aunt was the driver and she suffered moderate injuries. Harrell says Toniska will be found at-fault in the crash…

CUT 10 (08)  “crime lab”

Harrell says their investigation revealed that Cason was sitting in the front seat using only the lap portion of the seat belt for restraint. He says this is another tragic reminder to follow safety procedures when children are in a motor vehicle…

CUT 11 (12)  “12-years-old“

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Louisiana got some big celebrity news today as promoters announce the opening of Taylor Swift’s brand new “1989” tour will kick off in Bossier City next year, then headline Bayou Country Superfest in Baton Rouge. The Century Link Center show will be May 20th, then Swift plays the May 22nd Friday night show in Tiger Stadium. Visit Baton Rouge President Paul Arrigo…:

CUT 12 (11) “years ago”

The seven-time Grammy Award winning artist will also be making stops in Europe, Australia and Asia in 2015. Arrigo says it’s huge that she’s making her first two stops in Louisiana…:

CUT  13 (04) “probably”

Tickets for the North American leg of Swift’s tour will go on sale to the general public on November 14th. Arrigo says Louisiana gets huge acts like this because the Lt. Governor’s Office and the different CVB’s throughout the state have done a good job labeling The Bayou State as a travel destination…:

cut 14 (06) “2015”

A University of New Orleans Survey Research Center poll shows that a majority of respondents feel the state is moving in the wrong direction. Scott Carwile reports…

CUT 1 (31) “reporting”

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The state education department decides students will take the Common Core tests next spring on paper, instead of on a computer. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (28) “reporting”

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For many motorists their afternoon commute could be the dark as the end of daylight savings time means the sun will go down just after five o’ clock. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (27) “reporting”

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A University of New Orleans Survey Research Center poll of nearly 600 registered Louisiana voters shows that a majority of respondents feel the state is moving in the wrong direction. 52-percent disapproved when asked about the current direction of the state. UNO political science professor Ed Chervenak says people are unhappy regardless of race, gender, or party affiliation…

Cut 4  (07)  “of the state”

Respondents were given the opportunity to provide a “free response” as to what they thought was the biggest problem facing the state. Chervenak says the number one response was education…

Cut 5  (07)  “with Common Core”

Chervenak says this poll also shows Louisiana residents are not happy with Governor Bobby Jindal’s job performance. He says 53-percent of voters disapprove of what the governor is doing…

Cut 6 (05)  “national campaign”

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The Louisiana Highway Safety Commission is asking motorists to be more alert now that Daylight Savings Time is over and it will get dark much earlier. Spokesperson Elaine Rougeau says the chance of an accident increases as darkness falls earlier…

CUT 7 (07)  “travel environment”

Rougeau says there are no hard statistics that show there’s an increase in accidents in the days following a time change, but highway safety officials do see more accidents at night

Cut 8 (06)   “falls earlier”

Rougeau says fatigue from drivers is another concern with the time change…

Cut 9 (08)  “to adjust” 

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Third through eighth grade students in public schools will take Common Core exams next spring on paper, instead of on a computer as originally planned.  State Education Superintendent John White says this decision was made so that teachers can concentrate on making sure students are prepared for the more rigorous tests…

Cut 10 (06)  “issues later”

About 300-thousand students will take the Common  Core tests in March and there’s a second session in May. It replaces the LEAP and I-Leap exams. White says even though they will use a paper exam in 2015, the substance of test will not change

cut 11 (12)  “think independently”

There have been concerns some schools are not equipped to handle computerized testing. White says most schools have made the necessary technology upgrades, but after talking with teachers, he thought it was best to go with a paper-and-pencil exam for the first year

cut 12 (09)  “student achievement”

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The Ragin Cajuns and Louisiana Tech are still undefeated in conference play in their respective leagues after winning homecoming match-ups on Saturday. U-L Lafayette beat South Alabama 19-to-9 to improve to 4-0 in the Sun Belt. The Cajuns were led offensively by Elijah McGuire who had 90 yards receiving and 116 yards rushing and a touchdown. Coach Mark Hudspeth had high praise for McGuire after the game…

Cut 13 (13)  “football games”

The Cajuns did not allow any points in the 2nd half and they held the Jaguars to 66 yards rushing. South Alabama was also just 4-of-15 on third downs. Hudspeth says it was an impressive performance by the defense

Cut 14 (11)  “big hits”

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Louisiana Tech is now 5-0 in Conference USA after a 59-10 win over Western Kentucky. The Hilltoppers came into the game as one of the highest scoring teams in the country. Bulldogs Coach Skip Holtz says the gameplan coming into the game was to beat em in a shootout…

Cut 15  (11)  “high scoring game”

It turns out the Bulldogs didn’t have to score many points as they gave up just one first quarter touchdown to Western Kentucky. Holtz saw his defense hold the Hilltoppers to less than 300 yards of total offense and they forced five turnovers…

Cut 16  (20)   “all of the above”

A new Glascock Group survey reveals some good news for Republican candidate Garret Graves in the 6th District Congressional race. Eric Gill has more…

CUT 1 (28) “reporting”

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The driver of the pickup truck that slammed into three Breaux Bridge girls who were on their way to school is facing vehicular homicide charges. Jeff Palermo has the story…

CUT 2 (30) “reporting”

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A new Glascock Group survey of voters in the 6th Congressional District shows Republican candidate Garret Graves moving into the second spot. The poll shows Graves the leading Republican with 22-percent, trailing Democrat Edwin Edwards with 34-percent. Pollster Darrell Glascock says it appears momentum is on Graves’ side…

CUT 3 (08)  “Dietzel and Graves”

Fellow Republican candidate Paul Dietzel narrowly trails Graves in the poll with 19-percent. Glascock predicts Edwards to be a lock for a spot in the December runoff, with Dietzel and Graves battling for that second spot. Glascock says this poll shows there may be hope for Edwards in a runoff…

CUT 4 (09)  “over 47”

Glascock admits that, while this poll shows hope for Edwards, it’s still a longshot that he’ll win the runoff. He says as we approach the Tuesday election, it appears that name recognition is very important…

CUT 5 (05)  “at this point”

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State Police announced today that the driver who struck and killed two girls in Breaux Bridge yesterday will be charged with two counts of vehicular homicide. Lt. J-B Slaton says 32-year-old Jeremy Abraham was traveling at a high rate of speed when his pick-up truck collided with the victims

CUT 6 (10)  “occurred”

A 15-year-old and 14-year-old were killed, while 13-year-old Niya Flugence is in stable condition at a Baton Rouge hospital.  Abraham is still in a Lafayette hospital being treated for injuries. Slaton says a blood sample was taken from him to see if he was impaired when the crash occurred

CUT 7 (10) “Abraham’s system”

Slaton says the three girls who were hit by Abraham’s vehicle were on their way to school. He says they’ve determined that Abraham was driving twice the speed limit…

CUT 8 (05) “the investigation”

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The Office of Motor Vehicles will begin a “Senior Day” pilot program Saturday at various OMV offices in the state. Sgt. Nick Manale says this program is designed for senior citizens aged 60 and older…

CUT 9 (12)  “wait times, altogether”

Manale says the goal of the program is to alleviate the wait seniors face at the OMV during the typical weekday. Select OMV offices will be open Saturday from 8AM until 12 Noon. Initially, “Senior Day” will occur one Saturday a month for the next six months. Manale says “Senior Day” participants will be able to take advantage of various OMV services…

CUT 10 (10)  “wait for”

A list of locations is available on the OMV website. Manale says feedback is encouraged and they will be closely monitoring the success of the “Senior Day” program…

CUT 11 (06)  “locations, also“

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A 16-year-old student from Sam Houston High School in Lake Charles is dead after he fell off the roof of an S-U-V. Commander James McGee, with the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s office, says Kaleb Franks and another teen were sitting on top of the S-U-V, with their feet on the inside of an open sunroof, when the driver made a quick jerking motion with the steering wheel

CUT 12 (09) “head injuries”

McGee says Franks fell after the driver made a quick jerking motion with the steering wheel. He was taken to a local hospital with head injuries and pronounced dead on Thursday night. He says the driver was 15-year-old and an unlicensed  driver…

CUT  13 (09) “the investigation”

The S-U-V belonged to one of the male’s parents. McGee says based on their investigation the teens were goofing around and unfortunately it led to a child’s death…

cut 14 (06) “they would”

It looks like the coldest weather, so far, this fall will hit Louisiana this weekend. Scott Carwile reports…

CUT 1 (30) “reporting”

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A University of New Orleans political survey shows one-in-five voters are undecided about the US Senate race. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30) “reporting”

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A vigil took place last night for the three girls that were struck by a pick-up truck on their way to school Thursday morning. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (30) “reporting”

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State Police say charges are pending against the driver of the truck who struck and killed two teenage girls, who were walking to school in Breaux Bridge Thursday morning. The driver has been identified as 32-year-old Jeremy Abraham of Breaux Bridge and the mayor of the town, Jack Delhomme, is upset this would happen in his city…

Cut 4  (11)  “are decease d”

A third victim, a 13-year-old girl, has serious injuries and is in a Baton Rouge hospital. The driver of the truck is also hospitalized in Lafayette. State Police say Abraham may have been impaired. Delhomme says it’s a tragic situation

Cut 5  (09)  “ran over em”

Delhomme says two of the victims were walking to the middle school, to catch a bus to Breaux Bridge High School….

Cut 6 (11)  “on em”

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It looks like the coldest weather, so far, this fall will hit Louisiana this weekend. CS Ross, with the National Weather Service in Shreveport, says a cold front is moving through the Bayou State today…

CUT 7 (11)  “reporting frost”

He says overnight lows this weekend could dip into the thirties in some sections of the state. Ross says the cooler air mass coming with the cold front could produce the first frost of the season in some portions of the state. Ross says these cooler temperatures are coming in a little ahead of schedule…

Cut 8 (08)   “northern Louisiana”

Ross says afternoon highs should be in the sixties across Louisiana Saturday and Sunday. He suggests you enjoy the nice jacket weather while you can…

Cut 9 (05)  “of the week” 

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A new poll on the US Senate race conducted by the University of New Orleans Survey Research Center shows 21-percent of the voters are undecided heading into the November fourth election. UNO political science professor Ed Chervenak says it’s a sign voters are not happy with the two main candidates, Senator Mary Landrieu and Republican challenger Bill Cassidy…

Cut 10 (09)  “or not”

Chervenak says the telephone poll of nearly six-hundred registered voters in Louisiana shows Landrieu winning the November primary over Cassidy and Rob Maness, but losing to Cassidy in the December runoff

cut 11 (09)  “on top”

Chervenak says his poll also shows that attitudes towards President Obama and the health care law he helped create are influencing voter preference…

cut 12 (10)  “affordable care act”

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Louisiana State Police will phase out additional patrols in the French Quarter following the Halloween weekend. The one hundred additional troopers have been assisting with patrols following a mass shooting on Bourbon Street in June. Superintendent Colonel Mike Edmonson says the phase out is really a result of economics…

Cut 13 (10)  “these troopers”

Edmonson says his budget hasn’t changed in the four months since the additional patrols began and it’s time to redeploy those troopers. Edmonson says those additional patrols have been busy in the Quarter…

Cut 14 (12)  “1500 charges”

State Police will continue assist in the French Quarter during holidays and major events. Edmonson says, on a daily basis, 44 troopers are working in New Orleans and this is not a sign that State Police is abandoning the Big Easy…

Cut 15  (10)  “to be successful”

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It’s homecoming weekend on the campus of U-L Lafayette and Louisiana Tech. The Ragin Cajuns, who are undefeated in the Sun Belt, will face conference rival South Alabama, who has just one loss in league play. Coach Mark Hudspeth says there’s a lot of great events around campus celebrating homecoming, but his players have to worry about the game

Cut 16  (20)   “ready to play”

The Cajuns lost 30 to 8 to South Alabama last year. But Hudspeth’s team enters this Saturday’s game on a roll as they’ve won three in a row

Cut 17  (19)   “being homecoming”

Louisiana Tech’s homecoming game against Western Kentucky will get underway at two o’ clock. The Hilltoppers are 1-and-3 in Conference USA play, but they are second in the league in scoring, averaging 46 points a game. Bulldogs defensive coordinator Manny Diaz is looking forward to the challenge

Cut 18 (14) “on Saturday”

Last week, the Bulldogs limited Southern Miss to negative 31 yards rushing. Diaz on the improvement of his front four…

Cut 19 (17)   “line of scrimmage”

No major winners or losers in last night’s US Senate debate, according to one political journalist. Jeff Palermo has the story…

CUT 1 (30) “reporting”

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A new study, by the advocacy group Oceana, shows a mislabeling of shrimp across the United States. Eric Gill has more…

CUT 2 (31) “reporting”

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In last night’s US Senate debate, Democratic Senator Mary Landrieu was on the receiving end of criticism from her two Republican challengers. The three debated issues like Medicaid expansion, immigration, and Social Security. Jeremy Alford of La-politics-dot-com says Bill Cassidy  may have benefited from Rob Maness attacks against Landrieu….

CUT 3 (07) “Rob Maness”

Last night’s televised debate was the final one before the November fourth election. Alford says it’s unlikely that any of the candidates won over a bunch of new voters, because their remarks were mostly scripted

CUT 4 (08)  “spontaneity”

Alford says the most intense part of the debate occurred when the candidates discussed the minimum age a person should be allowed to collect full benefits….

CUT 5 (07)  “both parties”

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A new study, by the advocacy group Oceana, shows a misrepresentation of shrimp across the United States. The report used DNA testing to examine 143 shrimp products and found that 30-percent were falsely labeled in 111 grocery stores and restaurants. Louisiana Shrimp Association President Clint Guidry says that 90% of the shrimp eaten in the US is imported…

CUT 6 (11)  “imported shrimp”

The most common substitution in the study was farmed whiteleg shrimp being sold as “wild” and “Gulf” shrimp. Guidry says there are laws requiring “Country of Origin” labeling of seafood products for stores, but the laws do not extend down to the restaurant level. He says there are loopholes in the law…

CUT 7 (14) “labeling law”

Guidry says it is frustrating that so much shrimp and other seafood is mislabeled. He says the government needs to take action on this issue…

CUT 8 (09) “on the books”

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Two children were killed and a third child was seriously injured while walking to school this morning in the St. Martin Parish town of Breaux Bridge. State Police trooper Jared Sandifer says for an unknown reason a vehicle ran off the road, striking three children who were on their way to school….

CUT 9 (07)  “here in Baton Rouge”

The deadly crash took place on a residential street in Breaux Bridge at around 8:00 this morning. Sandifer says it was a pick-up truck that hit the children and they are not sure what happened…

CUT 10 (12)  “into custody”

Sandifer says one of the children was pronounced dead at the scene, the other on the way to the hospital. The child who survived the wreck, was airlifted to a hospital in Baton Rouge. He says investigation is ongoing and impairment is suspected on the driver’s part…

CUT 11 (09) “this situation“

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There’s plenty to do in the Bayou State with this being Halloween weekend. Jacques Berry with the Lt. Governor’s office, says Louisiana is becoming more and more of a Halloween destination. Berry says there’s plenty of Haunted Houses to visit. He says 13th Gate in Baton Rouge is ranked as one of the nation’s best….

CUT 12 (09) “for those”

Berry says if Haunted Houses are not your thing, then one of the most popular music festivals takes place this weekend at New Orleans’ City Park. He says headliners of this year’s Voodoo Fest are Foo Fighters, Outkast and Artic Monkeys

CUT  13 (08) “Halloween weekend”

And what’s a holiday weekend in Louisiana without parades. Berry says Krewe of Boo rolls tonight in New Orleans…

cut 14 (10) “every year”

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The final televised US Senate debate before the November fourth election saw the three main candidates taking shots at each other. Michelle Southern reports.

CUT 1 (28) “reporting”

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With kids hitting the streets tomorrow night for trick-or-treating, State Police urge concerned parents to find accurate information regarding the presence of sex offenders and predators in their neighborhoods.  Scott Carwile has more…

Cut 2 (29) “reporting”

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The Department of Health and Hospitals says the state has banned another compound that is used in synthetic marijuana. Michelle Southern reports.

Cut 3 (31) “reporting”

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The final televised US Senate debate before the November fourth election saw the three main candidates taking shots at each other. US Senator Mary Landrieu continued to tout her clout in Congress but Retired Air Force Col Rob Maness was prepared for that argument…:

Cut 4  (11)  “breaking the law”

Landrieu says the biggest difference between she and Congressman Bill Cassidy is their stance on retirement. The incumbent says Cassidy has voted four times to raise the social security age to 70 and he said it will not hurt anyone….

Cut 5  (16)  “get nothing back”

Cassidy also dismissed Landrieu’s claim that her seniority is good for Louisiana…:

Cut 6 (13)  “she’s not very powerful”

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With kids hitting the streets tomorrow night for trick-or-treating, State Police urge concerned parents to find accurate information regarding the presence of sex offenders and predators in their neighborhoods.  Sgt. Nick Manale says you can find this information online at lsp-dot-org…

CUT 7 (12)  “avoid that house”

Their online Sex Offender Registry link provides parish by parish information on registered sex offenders in communities and neighborhoods.  You can also sign up to be automatically notified if a sex offender moves within a specified location of your residence.  Manale says Louisiana law prohibits sex offenders from engaging in any type of Halloween activity…

Cut 8 (08)   “around children”

Manale asks that everyone keep safety in mind this Halloween.  He encourages drivers to be especially careful considering the increase in pedestrian traffic expected tomorrow night…

Cut 9 (12)  “of that child” 

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The Department of Health and Hospitals says the state has banned another compound that is used in synthetic marijuana. They say the designer drug, sold under the names “Mojo” and “Spice,” has been blamed for the hospitalization of more than 125 residents in the Baton Rouge area since October 3rd. Louisiana Poison Control Director Mark Ryan:

Cut 10 (12)  “just yet”

Gov. Bobby Jindal said in a statement that law enforcement in Louisiana will stop at nothing to protect the people here and prosecute to the fullest extent of the law anyone who is selling these drugs. Ryan says “MAB-CHMINACA” is a very new drug that’s putting some users in the intensive care unit. He says they are finding it in various places:

cut 11 (10)  “vapor shots”

Ryan says these synthetic drugs are in no way natural or safe and they are specifically designed to be abused…:

cut 12 (09)  “pay the price”

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With mid-term elections days away, a survey of small business owners shows a lack of confidence that Washington D.C. will be able to fix the countries economic problems. State Director of the National Federation of Independent Business Dawn Starns says 6/10 small business owners believe there is too much uncertainty in the economy for their business to grow…:

Cut 13 (09)  “the backbone”

Starns says the survey also found that the smaller businesses were the most pessimistic. She says 76% of small business owners expect that either politics are policies will make things worse for them…:

Cut 14 (11)  “main problem”

Starns says almost all candidates running claim to care about small business but there’s a clear sense among small business owners that Washington isn’t listening to their needs…:

Cut 15  (10)  “environment”

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The Saints will look to repeat their terrific performance against the Packers when they visit NFC South rival Carolina tonight. Last Sunday, Quarterback Drew Brees threw for 311 yards and three touchdowns, while running back Mark Ingram rushed for a career-high 172 in a 44-23 win over Green Bay. Brees says Ingram’s strong game opened up plays for the passing attack

Cut 16  (20)   “those matchups”

The Saints have had trouble winning on the road. New Orleans last regular season road victory came against Atlanta on November 21st. But Brees says there’s confidence they can get the job done tonight

Cut 17  (12)   “our game”

A win for the Saints and they can move into first place in the NFC South. The Panthers have failed to win their last three games, but they should get a boost with the return of running back DeAngelo Williams, who has missed the last six games because of injuries. Defensive End Cam Jordan on the challenges Williams brings to the defense

Cut 18 (14) “about us”

According to statistics released this morning, over 236,000 registered voters took advantage of early voting. Eric Gill has more…

CUT 1 (31) “reporting”

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A sports information and wearable technology company has developed a mouth guard with a chip that logs information about how hard a football player is hit and LSU is the only college using them this year. Michelle Southern reports.

CUT 2 (30) “reporting”

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According to statistics released this morning, over 236,000 registered voters took advantage of the early voting period that ended yesterday. Secretary of State Tom Schedler says the final day saw 47,000 casting an early ballot…

CUT 3 (07) “what that means”

Statistics show Orleans led the way with over 23,000 early voters followed by East Baton Rouge Parish with over 22,000 participating. Schedler says this year’s totals are short of the 356,000 early voters that turned out for the 2012 election…

CUT 4 (08)  “voter turnout”

The 2012 Presidential election had a 68-percent voter turnout. Schedler had predicted a 45 to 50-percent voter turnout for Tuesday’s election, based on historical data. Now that he has figures for this year’s early voting, he thinks turnout could go up to 54-percent. Schedler hopes voters prove his prediction wrong on November 4th…

CUT 5 (06)  “for the country”

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Weekend temperatures across the state are expected to be the coolest so far this season. A cold front is moving across the state today, but Chris Nuttall, with the National Weather Service in Shreveport, says not to expect cooler temperatures just yet…

CUT 6 (10)  “during the weekend”

A second cold front will bring cooler air and temperatures will begin to drop. Friday night overnight lows are expected to drop into the 40s across most of the state, with some locations possibly having lows in the 30s. Saturday, afternoon highs will be in the 60s statewide. Nuttall says these temps are unusually low…

CUT 7 (06) “below normal”

Nuttall says to enjoy the cooler temperatures while they last…

CUT 8 (07) “into the seventies”

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A sports information and wearable technology company has developed a mouth guard with a chip that logs information about how hard a football player is hit and LSU is the only college using them this year. i1 (eye-one) Biometrics CEO Jesse Harper says not only does the chip log the intensity of the impact, but also where they were hit…:

CUT 9 (13)  “and check on him”

Harper says the data can show the severity and location of impact which can assist in proper decision making by the training staff should they decide to remove the player from the field of play for further medical evaluation. Harper says they are working to make the sport of football safer for players…:

CUT 10 (08)  “these players are taking”

Harper says this technology can also measure things like the difference in head impacts on turf versus grass. He says about 30 LSU players have been using this mouth guard since practice began this year and the feedback from the trainers has been phenomenal…:

CUT 11 (11) “like we wanted“

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Republican Texas Senator Ted Cruz has endorsed Calhoun Republican Zach Dasher in Louisiana’s 5th District Congressional race. Cruz, who is considering a presidential run in 2016, is a favorite among the tea party movement. ULM Political Science Professor Joshua Stockley says this is a significant endorsement for Dasher…

CUT 12 (11) “has received”

A recent poll by the Glascock Group shows Dasher gaining ground with a week to go until election day. Stockley says you don’t need a poll to know that Dasher is a strong contender in this election…

CUT  13 (06) “in the runoff”

Stockley says the endorsement from Cruz and the support Dasher has from the “Duck Dynasty” family has given him momentum going into November 4th. Stockley says this is a last minute attempt for Dasher to rally Republican voters to his side…

cut 14 (05) “trying to do”

The final televised US Senate debate before the November 4th election takes place tonight. Scott Carwile reports…

CUT 1 (30) “reporting”

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Governor Bobby Jindal has reportedly gained 13 pounds over the past several months. Could this be a Presidential move? Jeff Palermo reports.

Cut 2 (25) “reporting”

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A new poll on the 5th District race shows incumbent US Senator Vance McAllister failing to make the runoff. Michelle Southern reports.

Cut 3 (31) “reporting”

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Democratic Senator Mary Landrieu will face off with Republican challengers Congressman Bill Cassidy and retired Air Force Colonel Rob Maness in a televised US Senate debate tonight. LSU Political Science Professor Robert Hogan says this will be voters’ last chance to see all three major candidates before Election Day…

Cut 4  (07)  “their campaigns”

He says none of the three candidates have enough support to win the election outright next Tuesday. Hogan thinks Landrieu will be aggressive towards Cassidy during the debate…

Cut 5  (12)  “see as problematic”

Hogan says it will be interesting to see whether or not Maness will use this debate to differentiate himself from fellow Republican candidate Cassidy. The debate will begin at 7PM. Check your local listing for stations airing the debate. Hogan says Cassidy will keep tying Landrieu to Democratic policies and President Obama…

Cut 6 (09)  “to most voters”

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Is Governor Bobby Jindal packing on the weight to prepare for a possible Presidential campaign? National Review Online says a Jindal source reported the Louisiana governor has gained 13 pounds over the past few months. UL-Lafayette political science professor Pearson Cross says Jindal has always been small and skinny…:

CUT 7 (08)  “gain a few pounds”

Cross says usually when a politician is preparing a possible Presidential run they will work to lose weight to get ready for the campaign trail. In Jindal’s case it would be to gain weight. Cross says voters take appearance into account…:

Cut 8 (11)   “way too skinny”

Cross says this is probably a sign that someone has told Jindal it might be a good idea to beef up if he intends to seek Presidency…:

Cut 9 (07)  “to voters” 

______________________________________

A new poll on the 5th District race shows incumbent US Senator Vance McAllister failing to make the runoff. The Glascock survey of 500 respondents has the incumbent with 15.7%, trailing Republican Ralph Abraham at 24% and Democrat Jamie Mayo at 18%. Pollster Darrell Glascock says these results were surprising…:

Cut 10 (12)  “would not make the runoff”

Glascock attributes this latest change in the numbers to the Duck Dynasty crew and their support of family member Republican Zach Dasher who got 15.1% in this poll…:

cut 11 (13)  “for second spot”

Glascock says according to his numbers Dr. Abraham is almost guaranteed a spot in the runoff. He says if Jamie Mayo keeps up his numbers and can get Democrats and minorities out to the polls, then he’s got the second spot…:

cut 12 (10)  “of Jamie”

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The state of Louisiana has filed a lawsuit to get the US Army Corps of Engineers to spend $3 billion dollars to repair coastal wetlands that were damaged as a result of the Mississippi Gulf River Outlet or “Mr Go.” Jerome Zeringue, chairman of the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority says the Corps argues the state should pay 35% of the three billion…:

Cut 13 (09)  “Federal expense”

“Mr Go” is now closed and Zeringue says it’s Louisiana’s interpretation that the Corps would pay 100% of the wetlands damage created by the restoration canal. He says this process has been in a stalemate for the last couple of years and they’ve filed the lawsuit to move things along…:

Cut 14 (12)  “of projects”

Zergingue says they’ve repeatedly tried to negotiate an agreement with the Corps to no avail. He says this is not the kind of suit that is seeking damages but it needs to be resolved…:

Cut 15  (10)  “we appreciate that”

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For the third time this season, ULM will play a team out of the S-E-C this weekend. The Warhawks are at Texas A-and-M for an 11 A-M kickoff Saturday morning. Coach Todd Berry says whether it’s a team out of the SEC or Sun Belt, he wants his team to prepare the same way

Cut 16  (17)   “teammates”

The Aggies have lost three in a row and they are considering a change at quarterback. But despite all of that, Texas A-and-M leads the SEC in total offense and passing offense. Berry says he’s impressed with the Aggies offensive line….

Cut 17  (16)   “anymore”

The Saints head to Charlotte later today for tomorrow night’s NFC South match-up with the Carolina Panthers. New Orleans’ defense should have a little more confidence, after holding a good Green Bay team to two touchdowns and only one in the second half. Saints defensive coordinator Rob Ryan playing better later in games has been a point of emphasis

Cut 18 (14) “of it”

Last Sunday, the Saints defense had to deal with Aaron Rogers, tomorrow night it’s Cam Newton. Ryan says Newton is exciting to watch, but they need to get him on the ground…

Cut 19 (11)   “platter going”

Sasol announces they’ll move forward with plans to build an $8.1 billion dollar ethane cracker and chemical complex near its existing Westlake facility in Calcasieu Parish. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (30) “reporting”

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The storming of the field in Tiger Stadium was exciting, but crews are now working to repair the damage. Michelle Southern reports.

CUT 2 (31) “reporting”

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Sasol has announced plans to move forward with the building of an $8.1 billion dollar ethane cracker and chemical complex near its existing Westlake facility. Construction is set to begin next year. Governor Bobby Jindal says that Sasol’s investment doesn’t stop there…

CUT 3 (13) “nine billion dollars”

Jindal says this investment will create 500 direct new jobs with an annual salary of $88,000. Louisiana Economic Develpoment estimates that the project will create an additional 5,000 construction jobs and nearly 2,400 indirect jobs. Jindal says Sasol’s investment shows that Louisiana is open for business…

CUT 4 (09)  “Louisiana can compete”

This investment by the South African company could turn into a $22 billion dollar venture if a proposed gas-to-liquids plant is also built. Sasol President and CEO, David Constable says they are thrilled to expand their presence in Louisiana…

CUT 5 (09)  “energy infrastructure”

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According to the American Automobile Association, the average price for a gallon of regular gas in Louisiana is the lowest it’s been in four years. The Bayou State’s average price has fallen to $2.88 per gallon. AAA fuel analyst Don Redman says this is a surprising turn of events considering the geopolitical tensions around the world…

CUT 6 (07)  “since 2010”

Redman says current geopolitical tensions are not the current driver when it comes to the price at the pump. He says today it’s more of a fundamental driver, supply and demand…

CUT 7 (11) “$81 a barrel”

He says there is a healthy inventory of crude oil which is keeping gasoline prices down. Redman says, as we head into November and the holiday travel season, prices at the pump could continue to fall…

CUT 8 (07) “sometime November”

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LSU fans had a lot of fun storming the field on Saturday night after the thrilling victory over an undefeated top 5 Ole Miss team, but crews are now working to fix the damage. Assistant Sports Turf Manager Hunter Sexton says it wasn’t nearly as bad as they thought it would be…:

CUT 9 (08)  “from us”

LSU was fined $5000 by the SEC for allowing its fans to rush the field. Sexton says the biggest issue was people using keys and pocket knives to cut out sections of the field as a souvenir…:

CUT 10 (05)  “in their pockets”

Sexton says there were about a dozen spots where they needed to replace turf, but the other areas were filled in with sand just like after any game. He says the bi-week will help get the sod growing again and the field should be just fine before the Alabama game November 8th. Sexton says it was exciting and he’s glad fans got to experience that.

CUT 11 (11) “tear it up too bad“

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The Affordable Care Act was a hot topic during a televised US Senate debate last night, between Democratic incumbent Mary Landrieu and Republican challenger Rob Maness. Maness says if elected, he’ll seek to yank out Obamacare by the roots

CUT 12 (10) “flat wrong”

Landrieu supported the Affordable Care Act when it passed and says she would vote for it again, because it’s provided thousands of low-income families in Louisiana a chance at purchasing health insurance

CUT  13 (07) “affordable”

Maness disagrees with the notion that Obamacare is affordable, especially for small business owners

cut 14 (09) “create jobs”

Landrieu admits the Affordable Care Act is not perfect, but there are many good provisions in the law

(Cassidy was invited to last night’s debate, but elected not to show up.)

cut 15 (06) “for it”

The early voting period for the November 4th election ends today at 6PM.  Scott Carwile has more…

CUT 1 (31) “reporting”

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With a week to go before the November 4th election the debate rages on over who would be the better person to serve as Louisiana Senator, Bill Cassidy or Mary Landrieu. Michelle Southern reports.

Cut 2 (27) “reporting”

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Duck Dynasty’s Phil Robertson has cut two new commercials endorsing his nephew, Republican 5th Congressional District candidate Zach Dasher. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 3 (29) “reporting”

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The early voting period for the November 4th election ends today.  Voters can cast their early ballot from 8:30AM til 6:00PM.  Secretary of State Tom Schedler says, thus far, ealry voting in Louisiana has been brisk…

Cut 4  (08)  “30,000 a day”

Schedler says, if the pace continues, he expects in the neighborhood of 250,000 voters to take advantage of the early voting period.  He says this is a convenient way to vote and people can get it done relatively quickly.  Schedler says someone texted him and told him it only took two minutes…

Cut 5  (09)  “ten minutes”

Schedler encourages early voters to study the ballot before heading to the polls.  There are many candidates who have withdrawn from the election whose name will be on the ballot.  He says there are also 14 Constitutional Amendments and many local propositions, as well.  Schedler says it’s important to know about these so you can make an informed decision…

Cut 6 (09)  “familiar with them”

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With a week to go before the November 4th election the debate rages on over who would be the better person to serve as Louisiana Senator, Bill Cassidy or Mary Landrieu. The Congressman says Landrieu represents Washington D.C. politics…:

CUT 7 (08)  “Barack Obama”

Cassidy’s criticism of Landrieu has not changed throughout his campaign and he continues to say that the Senator votes with the President 97% of the time and would vote for Obamacare tomorrow if she could. He says Landrieu constantly takes credit for getting Federal aid for Louisiana but it wasn’t just her…:

Cut 8 (10)   “as well”

New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu says his sister has clout in Congress and will always push to get Louisiana it’s fair share

Cut 9 (09)  “Senator there” 

Mayor Landrieu says if we don’t send the incumbent back to Washington we’re going to be in a huge mess if another storm hits. He says getting money to rebuild is not possible without a big presence in Washington D.C….:

Cut 10 (06)  “of the state”

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There’s another huge Mega Millions jackpot tonight with a $252 million dollar grand prize. Louisiana Lottery spokeswoman Kimberly Chopin says the current run on Mega Millons has been rolling since August 26th…:

cut 11 (05)  “tonight’s drawing”

Chopin says neither Mega Millions or Powerball was hit over the weekend. The Powerball jackpot for tomorrow night’s drawing is $142 million. She says the cash value of the one-dollar Mega Millions ticket is massive…:

cut 12 (07)  “cash payout”

Chopin says this is just the second highest Mega Millions jackpot this year with the largest being $400 million in March. She says this is jackpot is in the Top 20 in the game’s history…:

Cut 13 (07)  “end of august”

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Duck Dynasty’s Phil Robertson has cut two new commercials endorsing his nephew, Republican 5th Congressional District candidate Zach Dasher. In the spot, Robertson says Bibles and guns are what brought us here, and Bible’s and guns will keep us here and Dasher believes in both. ULM Political Science Professor Joshua Stockley…:

Cut 14 (06)  “the big guns”

Dasher is up against Democrat Monroe Mayor Jamie Mayo and fellow Republican challengers including incumbent Congressman Vance McAllister, Ralph Abraham, Harris Brown and Clyde Holloway. Stockley says these ads certainly won’t hurt Dasher in the race because a lot of people still don’t know who he is…:

Cut 15  (10)  “name recognition”

Stockley says this is a close race so it’s hard to tell if these commercials, which will reportedly run through election day November 4th, will give Dasher a boost. He says they know there are a lot of voters in the district who are sportsman and very evangelical that will be warm to the ads…:

Cut 16  (12)   “Dasher’s direction”

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The Pelicans tip-off the NBA regular season tonight by hosting the Orlando Magic. New Orleans has aspirations of battling through the very difficult Western Conference and reaching the playoffs for first time since 2011. The Pels have bolstered their roster with the additions of Omer Asik, John Salmons and Jimmer Fredette and Coach Monty Williams says getting off to a fast start is important

Cut 17  (10)   “builds confidence”

Last season, a rash of injuries kept the Pelicans from competing for a playoff spot. But power forward Anthony Davis took major steps towards becoming a super star, averaging 21 points a game. New Orleans also has some guards who can score, Jrue Holiday, Eric Gordon and Tyreke Evans. Evans says hopefully they can put it all together this season

Cut 18 (11) “best of it”

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Louisiana Tech is 4-and-0 in Conference USA heading into Saturday’s homecoming match-up against Western Kentucky. Safety Kentrell Brice says the team is exicted they are undefeated in league action, but there’s more work to do…

Cut 19 (12)   “1-and-0”

The Bulldogs are doing an excellent job forcing turnovers as they’s produced 20 of them this season. Brice has an interception and three forced fumbles and the Ruston native gives credit to Tech’s defensive coordinator

Cut 20 (10)  “create so many turnovers”