There are three amendments on the December 10^th ballot, Brooke Thorington has the breakdown from the Public Affairs Research Council.

Cut 1 (32) “I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Endorsements are made in the December 10^th Shreveport Mayoral runoff election, and some come as a bit of a surprise. Kevin Gallagher reports…:

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher”

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The 2022 Hurricane ends today with 7 fewer storms than predicted. Whitney Thomas Reports.

Cut 3 (33) “…I’m Whitney Thomas.”

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There are three constitutional amendments on the December 10^th ballot, the first one concerns voting, and the other two require senate confirmation of the governor’s appointees to the State Civil Service Commission and the State Police Commission.  Public Affairs Research Council President Steven Procopio says while it’s already state and federal law that US citizens aren’t allowed to vote…

Cut 4 (11)  “…in the future.”

Procopio says the State Civil Service Commission and State Police Commission are each made up of seven-board members, of which six are appointed by the governor. The proposed change would require the Senate to confirm the governor’s appointees. Currently, those appointees are nominated by six major private universities in Louisiana.

Cut 5 (10) “…reduce politics.”

In November there were eight constitutional amendments on the ballot and for the December 10^th election, there are only three for consideration. Procopio says there was concern from the Secretary of State’s Office that the ballot was getting too long.

Cut 6 (10)  “…at once.” 

The six major private universities that submit nominations to the commissions are Centenary College, Dillard University, Louisiana Christian University, Loyola University, Tulane University, and Xavier University.

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Governor John Bel Edwards endorses Democrat state Senator and Shreveport Mayoral candidate Greg Tarver to be that city’s next leader. He made the announcement Tuesday in Shreveport; backing Tarver over Republican runoff challenger Tom Arceneaux. Political analyst (and Shreveport area native) Roy Fletcher says the endorsement was expected, but nevertheless good for Tarver…:

Cut 7 (11) “…moving up here.”

Tarver is a black Democrat. Arceneaux is a white Republican. Fletcher says any endorsement from a sitting governor is a good thing, but Shreveport is a majority black, majority democrat city and Edwards’ endorsement is probably unnecessary…:

Cut 8 (10)  “…getting black votes.”

In a twist Tuesday, three Black Democrats – two former and the current mayor – all endorsed Arceneaux in the race. Those were former mayors Ollie Tyler, Cedric Glover, and current mayor Adrian Perkins (who placed 4^th in the November election). LSU-Shreveport political science professor Jeff Sadow says all three have a negative history with Tarver…:

Cut 9 (11)  “…politicians in Shreveport.”

Both Sadow and Fletcher feel Tarver has the advantage in the December 10th runoff.

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In addition to having dire consequences for the country, a potential rail strike next month could also severely impact the state’s chemical industry. Greg Bowser President of the Louisiana Chemical Association if trains aren’t transporting chemicals like chlorine, it could have serious repercussions.

Cut 10 (08) “…a standsill.” 

And it’s not just water systems, Bowser says the state’s agriculture industry could be affected by a rail strike because if they aren’t able to receive fertilizer that in turn will impact the nation’s food supply.

Cut 11 (07)  “…as well.”

And because Louisiana is one of the country’s largest chemical producers, Bowser says a rail strike could hurt the state’s economy. He says the chemical industry produces $52 billion in revenue each year.

Cut 12 (09) “…losing jobs.”

Bowser is hopeful Congress will intervene so a rail strike can be avoided altogether.

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The 2022 hurricane season ends today and although 21 named storms were predicted by NOAA only 14 came to fruition, and eight were hurricanes. State Climatologist Berry Keim says in July and August Saharan dust from Africa stabilized the Atlantic atmosphere.

Cut 13 (11) “…storm formation.”

In 2020 there were 30 named storms and last year 21. Keim says Hurricane Ian will go down as the signature hurricane this season after making landfall in Fort Myers Florida…

Cut 14 (08)  “…big deal.”

Six weeks later Hurricane Nicole made landfall in the sunshine state. Keim says Nicole was the fourth hurricane on record to hit the U.S. towards the end of the season…

Cut 15 (11)  “…insult to injury.”

Kiem says although the season has come to an end there is still a potential for December storms. If so they’d be included as part of the 2022 season.

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LSU will face undefeated Georgia in the SEC Championship game. The Tigers lost to Texas A&M to eliminate them from playoff contention. LSU Defensive End BJ Ojulari says that’s not the level they play at and plan to use the performance as motivation heading into Championship weekend…

Cut  16 (18)  “…to play UGA.”

The Tigers have had an up-and-down season. After dropping their opener against Florida St, LSU won 4 straight before losing 40-13 to Tennessee at home. The Tigers then bounced back to defeat two top-ten opponents in Ole Miss and Alabama and claim the SEC West title with hopes for the CFP until their final loss to the Aggies… Running Back Josh Williams knows this team’s resilience will shine this week as it has all season…

Cut 17 (19) “…positive mindset.”

LSU will appear in the SEC Championship for the first time in 3 years in the first season under Head Coach Brian Kelly. After an offseason of turnover and speculation, senior Linebacker Micah Baskerville says the team didn’t focus on this success down the road during the summer…

Cut 18 (20) “…and be prepared.” 

LSU and Georgia kickoff at 3:00 p.m. Saturday in Atlanta

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Southeastern beat Idaho last week 45-42 to advance to the second round of the FCS playoffs. The Lions will visit Samford Saturday in Birmingham. SLU has made two second-round playoff appearances in the last three years, but Coach Frank Scelfo and the Lions haven’t managed to make it to the quarterfinals.

Cut 19 (15) “…through this game.”

In losses in 2019 and 2021 to Montana and James Madison, the Lions lost by a combined score of 132-48. Southeastern gave up 5 turnovers in the loss to James Madison last year and Sclefo is emphasizing limiting mistakes this year against the Bulldogs…

Cut 20 (21) “…out the stadium.”

 Kickoff is at 2:00

A statewide survey finds a majority of GOP voters support former President Donald Trump over Florida Governor Ron DeSantis for the Republican presidential nomination in 2024. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1(31)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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It was a very happy ending Monday night in St Tammany Parish, where two missing girls and their dog were found safe after a massive search. Marsanne Golsby has more

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Marsanne Golsby.”

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A new statewide poll finds a majority of Louisiana Republicans support former President Donald Trump over Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. Trump has already announced his presidential candidacy and political pundits expect DeSantis to be Trump’s main competition. Pollster Ed Chervenak conducted the survey for Edgewater Research

Cut 3 (10) “…nomination.” 

The poll asked Republicans who is their choice for the GOP’s presidential nomination in 2024, Chervenak says 56-percent support Trump’s candidacy while 36-percent would like to see DeSantis win the Republican nomination.

Cut 4 (10)  “…particular time” 

Trump received 58-percent of the vote from Louisiana voters in the 2020 presidential election. Chervenak says Trump continues to get strong support among Louisiana Republicans, but he believes the survey results are a positive for DeSantis

Cut 5 (12) “…Donald Trump has”

The survey was conducted two weeks ago and 474 registered Republicans in Louisiana were selected. Chervenak says eight-percent of those polled are undecided.

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Senator Bill Cassidy is among a group of Republicans who’ve criticized former President Donald Trump for having dinner with Kanye West who’s faced backlash for his anti-Semitic remarks. Cassidy’s tweet said hosting racist anti-Semites for dinner encourages other racist anti-Semites.

Cut 6 (07)  “…say something.”

Cassidy’s tweet also said entertaining such persons is not reflective of the Republican party.

The Senate will vote on the Respect for Marriage Act which grants federal protections for same-sex and interracial couples. Cassidy says three amendments will be presented prior to the vote. Twelve Republicans are expected to give bipartisan support for the bill, Cassidy is not among them

Cut 7 (04)  “…will pass.”

Cassidy did give bipartisan support to the Biden Administration’s Infrastructure Law and touted its ability to help finance the extension of passenger-rail service through Mississippi and Louisiana along the I-20 corridor. Cassidy says there’s already a line that goes to Dallas and another to Atlanta.

Cut 8 (07)  “…or Dallas.“

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A massive search effort for two missing girls and their dog resulted in good news last night in  rural St. Tammany Parish. Sheriff Randy Smith said the girls – ages 4 and 7 – got lost with their dog around 5 pm yesterday while playing on their parents’ property.

Cut 9 (08 “…the house.” 

Smith says the girls were found safe with their dog Artemis around 10 pm. Hundreds of volunteers, numerous law enforcement agencies, two helicopters participated in the grid-by-grid search. But Smith says it was a dog that found the pet dog, and the girls.

Cut 10 (09) “…the kid.” 

In a Facebook post, the girls’ parents, Mary and Justin Bourg, thanked everyone involved for the happy outcome. Sheriff Smith said the girls were in good spirits.

Cut 11 (11)  “…little bit.”

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A large portion of Louisiana is under a tornado watch until seven o’ clock tonight. It covers northeast Louisiana and central Louisiana. LRN Meteorologist John Wetherbee says the greatest threat is along and north of I-20

Cut 12 (10) “…long track tornadoes.” 

Wetherbee says make sure you have several ways to get alerts…

Cut 13 (10) “…of the Mississippi”  

Louisiana’s digital driver’s license app is hugely popular, with 1.5  million users and growing. Marsanne Golsby has more on a new feature for L-A Wallet…

Cut 1(30)  “…I’m Marsanne Golsby”

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It’s the busiest online shopping day of the year. Brooke Thorington talks to the Better Business Bureau about how to shop safely on Cyber Monday.

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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If you have LA Wallet, you can now add your conceal carry permit. Calvin Fabre (FAY-BREE) is the president of Envoc, the creator of the wallet.

Cut 3 (07) “…permit.” 

LA Wallet is the app best known as a way to show Louisiana driver’s licenses. It’s used by a million and a half people.  Fabre says what’s added to the app is influenced by requests in polls on the website, LA Wallet dot com.

Cut 4 (09)  “…votes.” 

Fabre says 300,000 people have added their hunting or fishing licenses to the app. Fabre says the third-ranking poll asks about adding insurance and vehicle registration cards.

Cut 5 (10) “…your couch.”

Fabre says that the feature will go live in about a month. You can also add your child’s COVID vaccination status. LA Wallet is legal in Louisiana and some other southern states but it is not accepted as a legal federal ID to enable you to board an airplane.

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It’s Cyber Monday, one of the busiest online shopping days of the year. Carmen Million, president of the Central-Louisiana Better Business Bureau, says before you enter your payment information, do your homework and make sure it’s a legitimate website.

Cut 6 (11)  “…that purchase.”

Million says to also check that your anti-virus software is up to date on your computer and/or phone before you make an online purchase.

And when making an online purchase use your credit card, not a debit card.

Cut 7 (09)  “…pay for it.”

And while there are plenty of bargains to be found today, Million says you might get an even bigger discount if you sign up for loyalty programs with some retailers.

Cut 8 (07)  “…rewards.“

Million says when you do sign up for loyalty or rewards programs know that you will be on their email lists.

She also advises that you understand return policies, just in case, before you complete your purchase.

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Covington Police are investigating an apparent double homicide where two people were burned beyond recognition. Sgt. Edwin Masters says they were found in an alleyway behind a glass company this morning. The victims have not been identified yet.

Cut 9 (06 “…burned they were.” 

Masters says two people were brought in for questioning this morning.

Cut 10 (05) “…of interest.” 

Masters says police have help from the St. Tammany Sheriff’s Department and federal authorities, to help solve a crime that has the small  community in shock.

Cut 11 (08)  “…like this.”

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A frustrating Saints season hit a new low on on Sunday with a 13 to nothing loss to the 49ers in San Francisco. It’s the first time New Orleans has been shutout in an NFL regular season game since 2002.  The Black and Gold are now four and eight and NFL analyst Mike Detillier says…

Cut 12 (07) “…to lose it.” 

A missed field goal by kicker Will Lutz and running back Alvin Kamara fumbled twice in the game for the first time in his career. Detillier says it’s a problem when you’re better players are underperforming…

Cut 13 (10) “…for you either”  

Unless the Saints win their remaining five games, they’ll finish with a losing record in Coach Dennis Allen’s first season. Will Allen see a second season? Detillier says changes are likely coming….

Cut 14 (10)   “…same old same old.” 

It was a Louisiana set and based film that kicked off the Hallmark Christmas movie season on Thanksgiving. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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A new Louisiana company has received FDA clearance to provide its chemo-rated nitrile gloves to the U.S.’s huge health care industry. Marsanne Golsby has more on the significant accomplishment by Safe Source Direct…:

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Marsanne Golsby.”

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The Third District PSC election is one of the major races on the December 10th ballot as early voting is underway. Jeff Palermo has more on this race that will be decided by voters in southeast Louisiana…

Cut 3 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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An Alexandria man is convicted of planting bombs at three businesses in Monroe and Alexandria in 2019 and 2020. A federal jury found 40-year-old Daniel Aikens guilty of 3 counts of Making a Destructive Device, 3 counts of possession of bombs and more. Brandon Brown is the U.S. Attorney for the state’s Western District and he’ll push for a long sentence…:

Cut 4 (08)  “…as long as possible.”

Aikens set off a bomb at a Monroe beauty school in September 2019. Three months later he planted a bomb at an Alexandria gas station. A third device went off in January 2020 at an Alexandria payday loan office. Brown says Aiken called some of the businesses afterward to extort cash to prevent another bombing…:

Cut 5 (05) “…by greed. By money.”

Brown credits the prosecutors in his office for working with the FBI to put together a tight case against Aikens, a good amount of forensic evidence and C.S.I. work to nab Aikens. Aikens sentencing is scheduled for March 3^rd of next year. Brown says Aikens is a bad person and needs to do serious jail time…:

Cut 6 (07)  “…40 years max.” 

Aikens is set for sentencing in December and faces up to 40 years. He also faces a murder charge in Grant Parish from a 2017 homicide.  He’s accused of killing one of his former employees who died from carbon monoxide poisoning.

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Fans of Hallmark Christmas movies are getting an added spice of Louisiana holiday traditions this year with “My Southern Family Christmas.” Ascension Parish native and filmmaker Daniel Lewis says it’s a sweet film about a family that was set and filmed in Sorrento.

Cut 7 (05) “…tradition.”

But it’s not your typical Hallmark movie. Lewis says it revolves around a Dallas reporter who ends up covering a story about Sorrento’s newest Pere Noel who happens to be her father who left when she was an infant.

Cut 8 (07)  “…about a family.”

With more than 50 films to his credit, it’s not the first production Lewis has shot in the Bayou State. Lewis says working with trained film crews in the area is always an added benefit along with the economic boost it brings to shooting locations.

Cut 9 (09)  “…mass audience.”

My Southern Family Christmas film kicked off the Hallmark Holiday season with a primetime premiere on Thanksgiving.  On December 3^rd Lewis’ film A New Orleans Noel set in New Orleans and filmed in Natchez debuts on Lifetime.

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A Louisiana company has received FDA clearance for its chemo-rated nitrile exam gloves to be used in health care. SafeSource Direct partner Steve Mott says the approval positions the company to meet the demand to help keep healthcare workers safe.

Cut 10 (11) “…protected.” 

SafeSource is located in Broussard. Mott says the company was founded in January 2021 as a joint venture between Ochsner Health and Trax Development in response to disruptions in the worldwide supply chain.

Cut 11 (09)  “…at risk.”

Mott says more than 90 percent of medical grade nitrile gloves are manufactured outside the US. He says SafeSource can  produce 108,000 gloves per hour, and the expansion will mean it will produce more than 2 billion gloves annually. He says the FDA approval will mean the addition of more than 13-hundred jobs to the facility, which already employs more than 850 people.

Cut 12 (06) “…them here.”

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Early voting is underway and one of the big items on the ballot is the third district Public Service Commission Race as New Orleans Democrat Lambert Boissiere seeks a fourth term, but is facing a significant challenge from Davante Lewis. Boissiere has been on the P-S-C since 2005 and he says he’s kept utility rates in check

Cut 13 (11) “…they want”

But Lewis says utilities like Entergy used their monopoly power to generate record profits without making the necessary investments. He says utilities use campaign contributions to buy their way out of regulation

Cut 14 (09)  “…same entities”

Lewis says he’s refused to accept donations from industries regulated by the PSC. But Boissiere denies claims that utility companies can buy his vote…

Cut 15 (08)  “.  utility companies”

Lewis says the state’s electrical grid is crumbling and depends on outdated infrastructure and dirty, volatile energy sources. He says he’ll push for utilities to speed up the adoption of clean, renewable energy sources…

Cut  16 (09)  “…the state”

Boissiere says he’s championed wind and solar energy production in Louisiana.

The third PSC district covers Orleans and Jefferson Parishes, plus the River Parishes and sections of the Baton Rouge area.

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For the first time since 2002, the Saints were shut out in a regular season game as New Orleans failed to score any points in a 13-0 loss to the 49ers in San Francisco. Coach Dennis Allen says it was a disappointing loss…

Cut 17 (18) “…advantage of them…

It was not a surprise to see the Saints offense struggle. San Francisco leads the NFL in fewest yards per game given up. But New Orleans had some chances, but kicker Will Lutz missed a field goal, Alvin Kamara fumbled twice for the first time in his career and Allen says there were some passes that could have been caught…

Cut 18 (25) “…you have to make” 

The Saints are at Tampa Bay next Monday.

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Disappointing end to what was a great regular season for the LSU Tigers as they lost on Saturday to Texas A&M 38-23 in Bryan-College Station. The Aggies rushed for 274 yards and a Jayden Daniels fumble in the third quarter that led to a scoop and score for A&M resulted in the upset. Coach Brian Kelly

Cut 19 (19) “…didn’t have it”

So LSU finishes the regular season with a 9-3 record and the SEC West champs will face Georgia in the SEC title game on Saturday in Atlanta. Kelly says his team learned a valuable lesson in the loss to the Aggies…

Cut 20 (19) “…on the road”

Tomorrow is Black Friday and Jeff Palermo has the latest trends for one of the biggest shopping days of the year…

Cut 1 (32) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Holiday shopping online? An LSU Cybersecurity Expert has some tips to keep your money out of the hands of scammers. Kevin Gallagher has more…:

Cut 2 (29) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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The nonprofit Troops Direct is asking for help to provide critical supplies to American service members. Aaron Negherbon (NEAR-BON) says Troops Direct is unique.

Cut 3 (12) “…deployment”

Negherbon says they do not supply care packages. They supply items such as medical kits, GPS units, sleeping bags, helmets, and even K-9 care kits.

Cut 4 (11)  “…government”

He says due to the specialized nature of what they supply, they are asking for cash donations only.  He says their overhead is only about 9 to 10 percent of their overall budget.  There are four people on staff and one is a Marine Corps veteran.

Cut 5 (08) “…possibly can”

He says the need is year-round, not just during the holidays. To donate, go to Troopsdirect.org

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Tomorrow is the one of the busiest shopping days of the year as shoppers will look for great deals to complete their Christmas shopping list. Jill Gonzales with the personal finance website, Wallethub-dot-com says based on their research, J-C Penny, Belk and Macy’s have the best Black Friday deals…

Cut 6 (12)  “…65-percent off” 

Gonzales says if you’re looking for great deals to buy a new computer or phone, Black Friday usually doesn’t provide great value…

Cut 7 (12) “…shop for”

Gonzales says if you don’t want to shop, there are always gift cards…

Cut 8 (13)  “…Chik-fil-A”

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With holiday shopping in full swing, security professionals have a few tips on how to have a safe one when making online purchases. LSU Cybersecurity Expert Abe (BAH-gil-lee) Baggili to use a credit card for those purchases versus a debit card so you can get your money back if it proves to be a scam.

Cut 9 (08)  “…shopping.”

And if the price sounds too good to be true it probably is. Knock-off websites tend to have more of a security risk, so avoid them. Baggili says to also read online reviews about the product and or vendor before you enter payment information. And also, be mindful of the wi-fi connection you’re using.

Cut 10 (08) “…you know.” 

Baggili says to also never reveal too much personal information when making purchases, or in general to avoid identity theft.  And be sure to check your credit card statements that you use to make online purchases…

Cut 11 (10)  “…a message.”

Another safety tip Baggili says when shopping at a store in person, is to use your phone to make purchases so your card number is not revealed.

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Looking for some post-Thanksgiving fun? You may want to check out the Louisiana Renaissance Festival; now in its 23^rd year. Festival CEO Alvon Brumfield says it’s a celebration and re-creation of European culture of the Middle Ages, and loaded with fun and entertainment…:

Cut 12 (12) “…shows that go every day.”

The L.R.F. is located just minutes off I-12 near Hammond. It’s open tomorrow, Saturday and Sunday…and will be open for two more weekends after that. Visitors can see live jousting, a birds of prey exhibit, sing along with minstrels and pirates, play games of skill, enjoy many delicious foods and shop dozens of vendors selling hand-made works. Brumfield says this year’s festival has been a terrific success…:

Cut 13 (07) “…time you get here.”

The Louisiana Renaissance Festival is good fun for the whole family. There is stuff for children and things more geared for adults. Brumfield says it’s smart to buy your tickets online before you leave the house. Do that at “larf2022.org/tickets”…:

Cut 14 (07)  “…rain or shine.”

Rain is predicted to end Friday, so don’t let that stop you. The Louisiana Renaissance Festival closes for the year December 11th.

If you’re hitting the road for Thanksgiving, AAA says it’s expected to be the third busiest travel period on record since 2000. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (32) “I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Once again this year, Louisiana will have its Celebration Gator float in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York. Kevin Gallagher has more…:

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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Tickets for the 49th Annual Bayou Classic are selling fast bringing many fans to the City of New Orleans Whitney Thomas tells that story..

Cut 3 (33) “…I’m Whitney Thomas”

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According to AAA, just under 55 million people will travel for the Thanksgiving holidays, either by plane, train, or automobile but the majority will be on the road. AAA spokesperson Don Redman says that’s up 2 percent from last year.

Cut 4 (07)  “…busy time. ”

Redman estimates just under 49 million motorists will be traveling in the US for Thanksgiving, and he says to expect about 5 million of them to be in the Louisiana region which includes Arkansas, Texas, and Oklahoma. So if you’re driving to grandmother’s today…

Cut 5 (03) “…8 o’clock in the morning.”

Or wait until after 8 PM, he says the hours of 11 AM to 8 PM are the worst hours to travel by car.

If you’re traveling by air, arrive at the airport two hours early and pack a change of clothes and any medicines in your carry-on in case your flight is delayed.

Redman says if you’re driving for a long distance, take a break every couple of hours to walk around to prevent road fatigue.

Cut 6 (11)  “…every two hours.” 

And because chances are you’ll get stuck in traffic for prolonged periods Redman says never let your fuel get below a quarter of a tank.

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For the second year in a row, Louisiana will be on display to the world this week, as part of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City. Lt. Governor Bill Nungesser says the 60-foot Celebration Gator is a huge and elaborate animated float…:

Cut 7 (08) “…represent Louisiana.”

The Celebration Gator from Louisiana appeared in the Macy’s parade last year, and also had a Feed Your Soul float in the Tournament of Roses Parade on New Year’s Day. Nungesser says it’s a great way to get people thinking about visiting Louisiana…:

Cut 8 (08)  “…is incredible.”

The Celebration Gator float will feature New Orleans’ own Trombone Shorty and a host of Louisiana good will ambassadors. Nungesser says this is the 2^nd of 3-year agreement for Louisiana to be in the parade. He said any float from HAD to have a “wow factor”…:

Cut 9 (09)  “…of this gator.”

You can watch the parade on your local NBC station, starting at 8 am Thanksgiving Day.

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As folks are preparing for their Thanksgiving feast, there are some tips to make sure you don’t overdo it when it comes to overeating. LSU AgCenter Registered Dietitian Jennifer Duhon says when fixing your plate make sure at least half of your plate is fruits and vegetables.

Cut 10 (07) “…decrease those calories” 

And with plenty of delicious food to consume, Duhon says to go easy on the sauces…

Cut 11 (10)  “…sodium as well.”

One way to cut calories is it use plan-Greek yogurt as a replacement for those cream-based recipes. And instead of having everything on the buffet, Duhon says to choose two to three of your all-time favorites.

Cut 12 (09) “…calorie options.”

And another way to spend time with the family is to take a few walks around the block before or after your meal and monitor your steps while you’re out shopping on Black Friday and Small Business Saturday.

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The 49th Annual Bayou Classic is this weekend and President and CEO of  New Orleans Convention Company, Inc. Dottie Belletto says more than 200,000 people will travel to New Orleans for the weekend and more than 50,000 – 60,000 people will attend the Bayou Classic game and events.

Cut 13 (12) “…the billions.”

Traditionally fans expect The Battle of the Bands, Fan festival, and a Classic parade, but this year Belletto says they are kicking it up a notch by giving out scholarships and hosting different new events that cater to the students and are free to the public. 

Cut 14 (14)  “…inspirational speakers ..”

Tickets for the 49th Annual Bayou classic can be purchased at www.mybayouclassic.com, Ticketmaster, and the New Orleans Arena Box Office. Kick-off is at 1 PM. 

Grambling State, who has a losing record, is playing for bragging rights, but a win for Southern and they will play in the SWAC Championship game against Jackson State. First year Jaguars coach Eric Dooley was a wide receiver at Grambling and knows what this rivalry is all about…

Cut 15 (12)  “.opposite shirts..”

The Bayou Classic rivalry is tied at 24 since the series began in 1974.

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ULM closes out the season on Saturday by hosting Southern Miss at Malone Stadium. The Warhawks are four and seven and Coach Terry Bowden says a win on Saturday will give them one more victory than they had last season…

Cut  16 (20)  “…football game ever.”

The Golden Eagles will come to Monroe on a three-game losing streak. They are one win away from becoming bowl eligible. Bowden says he’s impressed with Southern Miss and how they do not give away points…

Cut 17 (15) “…well coached”

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The Saints will return to the practice field today to prepare for Sunday’s game at San Francisco. The 49ers have won three in a row and Coach Dennis Allen says they are a physical team…

Cut 18 (18) “…extremely hard.” 

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Texas A-and-M does not have much to play for when the Tigers visit the Aggies on Saturday. But last week Aggies wide receiver Jalen Preston said he’s looking forward to ruining LSU’s chances of getting into the college football playoff. LSU Coach Brian Kelly says he’s not paying attention the possible bulletin board material…

Cut 19 (25) “…on that”

Texas A-and-M Coach Jimbo Fisher says he’s been impressed by the play of Tigers quarterback Jayden Daniels…

Cut 20 (17) “…critical moments”

The state Department of Transportation is mourning the stabbing death of a Motorist Assistance Patrol worker on Interstate 10 in West Baton Rouge Parish yesterday. Marsanne Golsby has more..

Cut 1(28)  “…Marsanne Golsby”

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The former First Gentleman of Louisiana and longtime University of Louisiana at Lafayette administrator Raymond “Coach” Blanco died over the weekend at the age of 87. Jeff Palermo has the story

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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State Department of Transportation Secretary Shawn Wilson says he’s sickened by the Sunday death of a Motorist Assistance Patrol worker who authorities believe was fatally stabbed by someone he was trying to help.

Cut 3 (09) “…service mission” 

Retired BRPD officer Darrell Guillory was helping the driver around noon. Witnesses called the West Baton Rouge Sheriff’s deputies, who killed the attacker. Wilson says Guillory joined DOTD in 2017.

He says the Motorist Assistance Patrol is one of the DOTD’s most popular services.

Cut 4 (14)  “…an accident” 

Wilson says Guillory received lots of compliments for the way he did his job.

Motorist Assistance Patrols operate throughout the state. Their services include changing a flat tire, jump-starting, filling a radiator with water, cell phone use, and providing one gallon of gas.

Cut 5 (09) “…very seriously”

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Former first gentleman and the husband former governor Kathleen Blanco, Raymond “Coach” Blanco, has passed away at the age of 87. Coach Blanco was the vice president of student affairs at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette for decades. Current school president, Doctor Joe Savoie, says Coach felt it was his moral obligation to listen to students…

Cut 6 (10)  “…exists today.”

Coach Blanco served as the school’s vice president of student affairs from 1974 to 2009. Savoie says there are hundreds of stories about his larger-than-life exuberance…

Cut 7 (12)  “…unique individual”

Raymond Blanco joined the football coaching staff in 1963 and then entered university administration in 1969. Savoie says Coach Blanco hired him in 1978 at the university after the two got to know each other while he was a student and a fraternity president…

Cut 8 (10)  “…student organizations“

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Holiday travel means more traffic and that means more accidents. AAA wants to remind motorists to “Slow Down and Move Over” for emergency crews. Those crews include law enforcement, ambulances, and tow truck operators. Spokesperson Don Redman says failure do so in Louisiana can cost you $200.

Cut 9 (11)  “…slow down.” 

Redman says nearly a quarter of those surveyed aren’t aware of the Move Over law. And it’s not just emergency responders who are injured, since 2015,  1,600 people have been struck or killed while outside of a disabled vehicle in the US.

Cut 10 (11) “…distracted.” 

In addition to cellphone usage when you’re behind the wheel, Redman says when traveling familiar roadways motorists tend to daydream and get distracted. One way to avoid that is to follow what you’re told in driver’s ed and check your mirrors every three to five seconds.

Cut 11 (08)  “…you’re driving.”

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Louisiana gas prices continue to fall, now down to a statewide average of $3.09 a gallon ahead of the busiest travel week of the year. This comes in just below last year’s Thanksgiving average of $3.10/gallon making Louisiana one of the only states to see a decrease from last year. GasBuddy.com petroleum analyst Patrick Dehaan says prices have been steadily dropping…

Cut 12 (07) “…for Thanksgiving.” 

Dehaan credited the decreasing price of oil for the price drop. The ongoing lockdown of China’s economy and decreased oil consumption combined with refineries returning to production from maintenance have helped to decrease the price at the pump. Dehaan says the price has fallen substantially in the last few weeks…

Cut 13 (11) “…a barrel.”  

Dehaan predicts that, at least for the next few weeks, prices will continue to fall. He says there’s no certainty when dealing with gas prices but things are looking good heading into December…

Cut 14 (12)  “…December for now.” 

Federal labor data shows Louisiana with another record low in unemployment. Jeff Palermo has more…:

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The World Cup kicked off over the weekend and today Team USA faces off with Wales. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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State Police has released video footage of the fatal deputy involved shooting of 45-year-old Derrick Kittling of Alexandria. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (40) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A state department of transportation motorist assistance patrol unit employee is dead and so is the man who authorities say attacked him during a bizarre incident on Interstate 10 in Port Allen just before noon yesterday. State Police Trooper Christian Reed says West Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff Deputies were the first to respond

Cut 4 (12)  “…stopping the threat”

A witness told a Baton Rouge TV station the DOTD worker was stabbed. Reed says responding deputies shot the suspect as the attack was ongoing…

Cut 5 (09) “…their arrival”

The MAP roadside assistance worker ahs been identified in media reports as Darrell Guillory, a retired Baton Rouge police officer. Reed says State Police is the lead investigating agency…

Cut 6 (10)  “…appropriate time” 

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New labor statistics show Louisiana has again posted a new record low unemployment rate. Louisiana Workforce Commission Supervisor for Employment Statistics Mark Jones says the numbers are tremendous news…:

Cut 7 (09) “…the unemployment rate.”

Louisiana’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate is now at 3.3-percent, which is a new record low for Louisiana in Modern Times. What’s more the number of employed persons statewide increased by over 7000 during October. Jones says those jobs were mostly in education, health services, hospitality and manufacturing…:

Cut 8 (09)  “…proud about that.”

Jones says there was increased hiring in Lafayette, Alexandria and Lake Charles between October of last year and this past September, but two cities says much larger growth…:

Cut 9 (11)  “…over the year.”

Jones says there are over 14-thousand jobs posted on the LWC’s HIRE website (LAWorks.net). He says we are recovering from the pandemic and employers are ready to hire capable workers.

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World Cup fever is underway with the world’s premiere sporting event kicking off yesterday. So just how good is the U-S team? President of the Louisiana Soccer Association Sean Esker believes we might get an indication early on in their match against Wales today.

Cut 10 (10) “…that game.” 

That game begins at 1 pm Monday.

Because the World Cup is being played in Qatar, weather-wise its more ideal to play the matches in November and December instead of the summer.

US sports fans are typically focused on football this time of year, but Esker says with the tournament starting during Thanksgiving week and people off from work, it’s a good time to take in what the rest of the world refers to as football.

Cut  11 (07)   “…primed to do well.” 

The hype is building for Friday’s match between the US and England. Esker says there will be plenty of watch parties for the 1 PM kickoff

Cut 12 (07) “…the community.”

Because the US did not play in the 2018 World Cup, Esker says there’s plenty of excitement to see them return to the pitch.

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Authorities have released the police body camera and dash cam video of the fatal arrest attempt of 45-year-old Derrick Kittling of Alexandria on November sixth. Lt. Melissa Matey says the video shows a Rapides Parish Sheriff’s deputy involved in a scuffle with Kittling during a traffic stop and during the physical altercation Kittling gained possession of the deputy’s taser…

Cut 13 (11) “…to his injuries.”

State Police Colonel Lamar Davis says L-S-P is conducting a thorough investigation that will be done fairly and impartially…

Cut 14 (09)  “…this investigation”

Davis says Kittling’s vehicle was pulled over in a residential area due to a violation with his window tint and a modified exhaust. There have been a couple of peaceful protests since the shooting and the family has hired civil rights attorney Ben Crump. Davis says the family has seen the footage…

Cut 15 (11)  “…to comment on”

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On a day that saw several top-ranked college football teams play close games, the sixth-ranked LSU Tigers easily defeated UAB 41-10 in the final home game of the season at Tiger Stadium. Coach Brian Kelly says the Tigers performed well in a late-season game against a team they should beat..

Cut  16 (14)  “…has shown.”

LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels threw for 297 yards and a touchdown. He also rushed for 129 yards and a score. Kelly says it might have been Daniels’ best game of the season…

Cut 17 (17) “…this week”

Daniels struggled the week before against Arkansas and made sure he would have a bounce-back performance…

Cut 18 (14) “…late in the season” 

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The Saints ended a two-game losing streak as Quarterback Andy Dalton threw three touchdown passes in a 27-20 win over the Rams yesterday. Dalton threw for 260 yards and zero interceptions. He completed passes to nine different players as the offense finally got on track after a couple of subpar performances…

Cut 19 (19) “…win today”

The Saints used Taysom Hill a lot more at quarterback as he shared snaps with Dalton. Hill led the team in rushing with 52 yards. Coach Dennis Allen says the players executed the game plan well…

Cut 20 (20) “…when it works”

U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy announces he will not run for governor next year. Marsanne Golsby has more on the reaction.

Cut 1(28)  “…Marsanne Golsby”

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The Golden Band from Tigerland is the first to ever receive a Grammy nomination and it all happen after artist and band alum Sean Ardoin proposed the idea last fall. Brooke Thorington has more from LSU’s band director.

Cut 2 (34)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy announced this morning he won’t be running for governor of Louisiana.  ULM political science professor Pearson Cross says he isn’t surprised.

Cut 3 (11) “…decided to run” 

Cross says if Kennedy enters the race he will be the favorite. He won re-election to the Senate with 62 percent of the vote. Cross says he has also polled the highest of the potential candidates.

Cut 4 (09)  “…or Democrat” 

In his announcement, Cassidy pointed out he is the ranking Republican member in a powerful senate committee on health care, education, employment, and retirement policies. Cross says Cassidy’s history of bi-partisanship will also be helpful.

Cut 5 (09) “…divided government.” 

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There will be a wedding reception tonight at the Governor’s Mansion as John Bel Edwards youngest daughter Sarah Ellen marries her longtime sweetheart Christopher Bates from Benton. Governor John Bel Edwards will give Sarah Ellen away during a ceremony at St. Joseph Cathedral in downtown Baton Rouge…..

Cut 6 (07)  “…Christopher Bates.”

Edwards says his daughter met her groom while the two were at LSU ten years ago. She now works in Washington D-C. The governor says Bates had to ask permission in order to take his daughter’s hand in marriage

Cut 7 (12)  “…marry Donna”

There’s a mystery on what song the governor has chosen for the father-daughter dance. The only clue Edwards gave was that the title of the song will include the name Sarah…

Cut 8 (08)  “…be surprised“

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There is a concern Twitter could go away soon after reports of mass resignations at the social media company recently purchased by billionaire Elon Musk. Haggai Davis the Third, co-host of the podcast Tech Gumbo, is not ready to predict the demise of Twitter

Cut 9 (11)  “…breaking soon” 

Davis says the loss of the engineers and staffers leaves the Twitter vulnerable to cybersecurity risks…

Cut 10 (07) “…terribly wrong.” 

The hashtag R-I-P Twitter is trending as users are concerned it could shutdown. Davis says the potential end of Twitter is forcing many users to contemplate the use of social media platform…

Cut 11 (09)  “…journalism”

In a Tweet on Thursday night, Musk said Twitter hit another all-time high in usage. He also said the best people are staying with the company, so he’s not super worried about the employees that left.

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The Golden Band from Tigerland is the first marching band to ever receive a Grammy nomination. The band recorded the album Full Circle with alum Sean Ardoin last spring, and it’s received a nod as Best Regional Roots Music Album. LSU Band Director Dr. Kelvin Jones says it’s historic.

Cut 12 (11) “…like this.” 

Jones says when Ardoin approached him about the idea he assumed it would be one song, but it ended up being an entire album. And now Ardoin is releasing a double vinyl album, that’s of course purple and gold and 15% of the proceeds will go to the band for scholarship and more.

Cut 13 (05) “…as well.”  

The 65th Grammy Awards will be presented on February 5^th and Jones says he plans on being there and fingers crossed he and Sean Ardoin will bring home some hardware. But in the meantime, Jones says just the nomination is a huge honor.

Cut 14 (09)  “…really excited.” 

You can find the album Full Circle wherever you download music and pre-order the double vinyl album at SeanArdoin.com

It’s felt more like January instead of November and the chilly weather is not going away anytime soon. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1(29)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell was combative with a reporter after being questioned about her time spent traveling, and use of a city-owned apartment with an NOPD officer. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Southeastern Louisiana University’s School of nursing has been named the Nursing School of the Year by the Louisiana Nurses Foundation.  Ann Carruth is dean of the College of Nursing and Health Sciences.

Cut 3 (06) “…graduation” 

This is the fifth year the school has won the award. The competition is evaluated by a panel of out-of-state judges. She says the school has very high passage rates on key nursing skills exams plus innovative teaching programs. They also do their clinical work all over southeastern Louisiana.

Cut 4 (10)  “…as well.” 

She says they have VIP programs to train veterans as nurses and a telehealth program funded by the US Department of Labor to help improve healthcare access in rural communities.

Cut 5 06) “…hospital to do.” 

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If you were hoping Louisiana would get a break from the chilly temps anytime soon, well you’re out of luck. State Climatologist Barry Keim says tonight will be the coldest of the current grip Old Man Winter has on the Bayou State with temps hovering around freezing.

Cut 6 (12)  “…next week.”

And the cold hits just keep on coming, Keim says on Friday night into Saturday morning there will be a reinforcing cold front.

Cut 7 (06)  “…into Thanksgiving.”

And with some getting a jump on travel this weekend for Thanksgiving, don’t forget to pack your winter coat. Keim says in Louisiana minimum temps will be in the 30s in north Louisiana, and the 40s in the southern part, with highs only reaching into the 50s.

Cut 8 (12)  “…obviously.“

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New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell answered questions Wednesday about issues surrounding her leadership. FOX 8 investigative reporter Lee Zurik questioned if Cantrell’s use of city-owned French Quarter apartment and excessive travel was a detriment to her leadership.

Cut 9 (06)  “…my opinion.

Zurik has been running a series of reports pertaining to Cantrell’s use of a city-owned apartment and has more than 600 hours of recordings of her entering and leaving the apartment. Cantrell was dismissive of Zurik when he asked a follow-up question.

Cut 10 (11) “…thank you very much.” 

Zurik also questioned the Mayor’s priorities for the Crescent City because of the amount of time she spends at the apartment and traveling with a New Orleans police officer assigned to her security detail. Cantrell refused to answer if she thought it was inappropriate.

Cut 11 (08)  “…unmatched.”

The city’s inspector general has also launched an investigation into whether the Mayor has used the apartment for personal use along with the police officer.

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We know that Republican Attorney General Jeff Landry is running for Governor next year, U-S Senators John Kennedy and Bill Cassidy could run as well along with a couple of other statewide elected officials and state lawmakers. Mandeville Representative Richard Nelson says he’s also planning to run…

Cut 12 (12) “…fundamental issues” 

Nelson is a supporter of eliminating the state’s income tax and replacing that lost revenue by eliminating or reducing certain tax breaks and expanding the sales tax base. He says if we want to move Louisiana forward get rid of the state income tax….

Cut 13 (10) “…last census”  

Nelson is 36-years-old and he believes that plays to his advantage…

Cut 14 (09)  “…do that”