Monroe born and Alto based Congressman Ralph Abraham says he’s a conservative Republican, and he’s running for governor, and intends to win. He says he’s been concerned about the direction the state since Democratic Governor John Bel Edwards took over in 2015, the same year he was elected to Congress.

Cut 9 (12) “to thin”

He joins Baton Rouge businessman Eddie Rispone as the only two Republicans to have officially joined the race.  Pollster Bernie Pinsonat says be on the lookout for a few more candidates to rise to the challenge.

Cut 4 (10) “…running for Governor.″

Governor Edwards responded by releasing a statement saying:  “I welcome this debate. I’ve got a consistent record of working across the aisle to get things done for Louisiana.”

Former President of the Shaw Group Jim Bernhard says he is ready to back the loan needed to build a new bridge across the Mississippi River this morning on AM Baton Rouge.  The bridge does come with a hefty price tag and that’s money but the prominent businessman and one of the wealthiest people in Baton Rouge, Bernhard says his company is willing to underwrite the bonds for the project.

Cut 13 (08) “…prepared to do it.”

It’s the tenth year of the George Rodrigue Foundation art scholarship contest, and the namesake foundation of the famed Louisiana artist who created the iconic “Blue Dog” art featuring the state dog, the Catahoula is seeking submissions. Spokesperson Christine Dunaway says it’s been an important program for art students in it’s over decade of existence.

Cut 7 (08) “51 students”

Congressman Ralph Abraham is running for governor.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”

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A prominent Baton Rouge businessman says he’s ready to finance a bridge over the Mississippi River.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 2 (26) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

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This morning, Republican Congressman Ralph Abraham has announced he’s entering the 2019 Governor’s race.  Pollster Bernie Pinsonat says North Louisiana hasn’t elected someone to the Governor’s mansion in many decades and Abraham has quite the task on his hand if he hopes to buck that trend.

Cut 3 (07) “…that well known.”

Abraham’s announcement makes him the first Republican candidate to announce that already holds an elected position to enter the race.  Baton Rouge Businessman Eddie Rispone is in the race under the GOP banner as well and has already pledged $5 million of his own money to his campaign.  Pinsonat says be on the lookout for a few more candidates to rise to the challenge.

Cut 4 (10) “…running for Governor.″

Pinsonat says Abraham did what he should do by making his announcement as soon as possible following the news that Senator John Kennedy would not be entering the race.

Cut 5 (10)  “…10 months or so.” 
Governor Edwards responded to the announcement by releasing a statement saying:

“I welcome this debate. I’ve got a consistent record of working across the aisle to get things done for Louisiana.”

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It’s the tenth year of the George Rodrigue Foundation art scholarship contest, and the namesake foundation of the famed Louisiana artist who created the iconic “Blue Dog” art featuring the state dog, the Catahoula is seeking submissions. Spokesperson Christine Dunaway says high school students from across the state can compete, with an interesting theme this year, inspired by Rodrigue’s hurricane art.

Cut 6 (11) “…express themselves”

Last year the 15 finalists were awarded 45,000 dollars in college scholarships, and had their art displayed professionally. Dunaway says it’s been an important program for art students in it’s over decade of existence.

Cut 7 (08) “51 students”

The school with the top number of submissions will win a 1,000 dollar art kit.

Dunaway says the program is way to emphasize the importance of art classes in public education, and to show the public that those classes are not just “fluff”. She says with limited scholarship opportunities for these kinds of students, the award goes a long way.

Cut 8 (05) “…access too”

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Monroe born and Alto based Congressman Ralph Abraham says he’s a conservative Republican, and he’s running for governor, and intends to win. He says he’s been concerned about the direction the state since Democratic Governor John Bel Edwards took over in 2015, the same year he was elected to Congress.

Cut 9 (12) “to thin”

The former veterinarian has serves the sprawling 5^th district in Congress that runs from Monroe to Alexandria, and over to Bogalusa.

The Congressman says the state has been mired in poor growth since Edwards took over, and says the Governor’s policy is driving young people out of the state.

Cut 10 (10)   “…the future”

The LSU alum and former National Guard Helicopter pilot has spent most of his career outside of south Louisiana, but looks forward to introducing himself to constituents outside of his district that incorporates pieces of 26 parishes.

Cut 11 (12) “…my heart”

He joins Baton Rouge businessman Eddie Rispone as the only two Republicans to have officially joined the race.

_____________________________

Former President of the Shaw Group Jim Bernhard says he is ready to back the loan needed to build a new bridge across the Mississippi River this morning on AM Baton Rouge.  He says there is much infrastructure work that needs to be done prior to the bridge being built.

Cut 12 (08)   “…get another bridge.”

The bridge does come with a hefty price tag and that’s money but the prominent businessman and one of the wealthiest people in Baton Rouge, Bernhard says his company is willing to underwrite the bonds for the project.

Cut 13 (08) “…prepared to do it.”

Republican Congressman Ralph Abraham is now the second Republican in the 2019 governor’s race. Monroe born and Alto based Congressman Ralph Abraham says he’s a conservative Republican who’s concerned with the Democratic Governor’s policy of tax and spend. The LSU alum and former National Guard Helicopter pilot has spent most of his career outside of south Louisiana, but looks forward to introducing himself to constituents outside of his district that incorporates pieces of 26 parishes.

Cut 11 (12) “…my heart”

Pollster Bernie Pinsonat says North Louisiana hasn’t elected someone to the Governor’s mansion in many decades and Abraham has quite the task on his hand if he hopes to buck that trend.

Cut 3 (07) “…that well known.”

Governor Edwards responded to the announcement by releasing a statement saying:

“I welcome this debate. I’ve got a consistent record of working across the aisle to get things done for Louisiana.”

It’s that time of year when businesses start planning their holiday parties, parties which have the potential to go horrifically wrong if things get out of hand, or the company does a poor job planning and preparing. National Federation of Small Business State Director Dawn Starns says before any party takes place, make sure your harassment policy is up to date, and if you don’t have one, you should get on that right now.

Cut 15 (06) “…handle that”

She says you can help keep workers from going too hard by employing professional bartenders who refuse to serve folks who look too drunk.

A $25 million dollar bond has been set for a Ponchatoula man accused of possession of child pornography.  The FBI New Orleans Child Exploitation Task Force, which includes State Police, arrested 59-year-old Edd Scafidel Jr.  Senior Trooper Melissa Matey says the public plays an important role in these types of cases.

Cut 12 (10)   “…other electronic devices.”

This morning, Republican Congressman Ralph Abraham announced he’s entering the 2019 Governor’s race.  Monroe born and Alto based Congressman Ralph Abraham says he’s a conservative Republican, and he’s running for governor, and intends to win. The Congressman says the state has been mired in poor growth since Edwards took over, and says the Governor’s policy is driving young people out of the state.

Cut 10 (10)   “…the future”

The former veterinarian has serves the sprawling 5^th district.

Pollster Bernie Pinsonat says Abraham did what he should do by making his announcement as soon as possible following the news that Senator John Kennedy would not be entering the race.

Cut 5 (10)  “…10 months or so.” 
Governor Edwards responded to the announcement by releasing a statement saying:

“I welcome this debate. I’ve got a consistent record of working across the aisle to get things done for Louisiana.”

It’s that time of year when businesses start planning their holiday parties, parties which have the potential to go horrifically wrong if things get out of hand, or the company does a poor job planning and preparing. National Federation of Small Business State Director Dawn Starns says  make sure the event is voluntary, just in case someone at your business isn’t interested in some afterhours fraternizing.

Cut 14 (09) “…in one.”

She also recommends hiring Ubers for your employees if alcohol will be involved.

Republican Congressman Ralph Abraham, a Monroe born and based veterinarian, has served in Congress since 2015, and sports a consistently conservative voting record. The Congressman has often been at odds with Governor John Bel Edwards over state policy, and says he’s running to bring a more responsible fiscal approach to the state.

Cut 9 (12) “to thin”

He joins Baton Rouge businessman Eddie Rispone as the only two Republicans to have officially joined the race.  Pollster Bernie Pinsonat says be on the lookout for a few more candidates to rise to the challenge.
Cut 4 (10) “…running for Governor.″
Governor Edwards responded by releasing a statement saying:  “I welcome this debate. I’ve got a consistent record of working across the aisle to get things done for Louisiana.”

It’s that time of year when businesses start planning their holiday parties, parties which have the potential to go horrifically wrong if things get out of hand, or the company does a poor job planning and preparing. National Federation of Small Business State Director Dawn Starns says harassment awareness is at an all-time-high, so don’t incentivize inappropriate behavior.

Cut 13 (09) “…decoration.”

A $25 million dollar bond has been set for a Ponchatoula man accused of possession of child pornography.  The FBI New Orleans Child Exploitation Task Force, which includes State Police, arrested 59-year-old Edd Scafidel Jr.  Senior Trooper Melissa Matey says the investigation is continuing as authorities seized more electronic devices.  Depending on what those devices may contain, the suspect’s already high bond may increase.

Cut 11 (11) “…on this case.”

Congressman Ralph Abraham has announced he’s entering the 2019 Governor’s race.  Pollster Bernie Pinsonat says North Louisiana hasn’t elected someone to the Governor’s mansion in many decades and Abraham has quite the task ahead of him.

Cut 3 (07) “…that well known.”

Abraham says he’s a conservative, and that he is running to win.

Governor John Bel Edwards responded, saying

“On Monday, Representative Abraham said he couldn’t launch a campaign for governor because it would distract him from important work on the farm bill, soy bean crisis, looming government shutdown, flood insurance expiration and other issues the people of Louisiana have entrusted him to handle on their behalf. None of those issues have been resolved. Now, just a few days later, he’s abandoning those responsibilities along with the congressional office he was re-elected to exactly one month ago. I welcome this debate. I’ve got a consistent record of working across the aisle to get things done for Louisiana.”

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The state football championships begin today in the Mercedes Benz Superdome as 18 teams will battle it over the next three days. Jeff Palermo has a preview…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

A $25 million dollar bond has been set for a Ponchatoula man accused of possession of child pornography.  The FBI New Orleans Child Exploitation Task Force, which includes State Police, arrested 59-year-old Edd Scafidel Jr.  Senior Trooper Melissa Matey says authorities received the information on the suspect last month.

Cut 10 (06)   “…pornography involving juveniles.”

Ralph Abraham has announced his intention to run for Governor of Louisiana. He says he will formally announce his candidacy next year. Abraham is a conservative Republican and has served in congress since 2015 as the U.WS. Representative for Louisiana’s 5th congressional district. It is the largest district in terms of area in the state and includes 24 parishes in north and southeast Louisiana.
As congressman, Abraham has worked on issues that affect all of Louisiana. He is a member of the armed services committee and has help secure funding and resources for Louisiana’s military installations at Fort Polk, Barksdale Air Force base and the Naval Air Station in Belle Chase.

A $25 million dollar bond has been set for a Ponchatoula man accused of possession of child pornography. The FBI New Orleans Child Exploitation Task Force, which includes State Police, arrested 59-year-old Edd Scafidel Jr. Senior Trooper Melissa Matey says the public plays an important role in these types of cases.
Cut 12 (10) “…other electronic devices.”

It’s that time of year when businesses start planning their holiday parties, parties which have the potential to go horrifically wrong if things get out of hand, or the company does a poor job planning and preparing. National Federation of Small Business State Director Dawn Starns says before any party takes place, make sure your harassment policy is up to date, and if you don’t have one, you should get on that right now.
Cut 15 (06) “…handle that”
She also recommends hiring Ubers for your employees if alcohol will be involved.

The National Federation of Small Businesses has some suggestions for business owners thinking of throwing a holiday party…
Cut 3 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”

The Avondale Scout Reservation in East Feliciana Parish has been closed after two boy scouts were hospitalized with histoplasmosis. It’s a flu-like illness that comes from soil contaminated with bat or bird droppings. State Epidemiologist Raoult Ratard says histoplasmois is a fungus and you can sick after breathing in the spores from the fungus. At least 15 campers were reportedly exposed to histoplasmosis. Ratard says symptoms can develop three to 17 days after exposure, but usually infected individuals recover quickly…
Cut 5 (08) “…goes away.”

The high school state football championships kick-off today at the Superdome, as nine teams will be crowned champions before the prep classic concludes on Saturday night. Today at noon, Oak Grove goes after its first state title since 2001, when it takes on Kentwood.

Oak Grove is 13-0 on the year, while Kentwood is 11-and-2 and has won eight state titles in football. Oak Grove Coach Ryan Gregory says his big concern is the Kangaroos team speed…
Cut 8 (11) “…turn it over”

A $25 million dollar bond has been set for a Ponchatoula man accused of possession of child pornography. The FBI New Orleans Child Exploitation Task Force, which includes State Police, arrested 59-year-old Edd Scafidel Jr. Senior Trooper Melissa Matey says the investigation is continuing as authorities seized more electronic devices. Depending on what those devices may contain, the suspect’s already high bond may increase.
Cut 11 (11) “…on this case.”

State Police have dropped the hammer on a Ponchatoula man and set his bond at $25 million for allegedly possessing child porn. Kevin Barnhart has the story.
Cut 2 (28) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”

The Avondale Scout Reservation in East Feliciana Parish has been closed after two boy scouts were hospitalized with histoplasmosis. It’s a flu-like illness that comes from soil contaminated with bat or bird droppings. State Epidemiologist Raoult Ratard says histoplasmois is a fungus and you can get sick after breathing in the spores from the fungus
Cut 4 (08) “…those spores.″

The high school state football championships kick-off today at the Superdome, as nine teams will be crowned champions before the prep classic concludes on Saturday night. Today at noon, Oak Grove goes after its first state title since 2001, when it takes on Kentwood. Oak Grove Coach Ryan Gregory was a team captain the last time the Tigers brought home a trophy back to West Carroll Parish
Cut 7 (09) “…all year.”

It’s that time of year when businesses start planning their holiday parties, parties which have the potential to go horrifically wrong if things get out of hand, or the company does a poor job planning and preparing. National Federation of Small Business State Director Dawn Starns says harassment awareness is at an all-time-high,
And, she says make sure the event is voluntary, just in case someone at your business isn’t interested in some afterhours fraternizing.
Cut 14 (09) “…in one.”

Starns says you can help keep workers from going too hard by employing professional bartenders who refuse to serve folks who are a little over-served.

It was a fun night at the Smoothie King Center as the Pelicans defeated the Dallas Mavericks 132-106. Anthony Davis had 27 points and a career-high nine assists. Julius Randle also had 27 points and grabbed 18 rebounds as New Orleans improved to 13-and-13 on the season. The Pels will be back at home tomorrow against the Grizzlies.

The Saints are 7.5 point favorites this Sunday as they’ll visit the Tampa Bay Bucs. Tampa beat New Orleans in the season opener and they have won two in a row. Saints wide out Michael Thomas did not practice yesterday. But offensive tackle Terron Armstead was back at practice after missing the last three games.

Three state championship football games will be played today in the Mercedes Benz Superdome. At noon, Oak Grove goes for its first state title since 2001 when they face Kentwood. At 3:30…it’s Lafayette Christian versus Ascension Catholic. At 7 PM, it’s Notre Dame versus Catholic of New Iberia. All of the games can be seen on CST or streamed on the N-F-H-S Network.

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McNeese has named Sterlin Gilbert as its new football coach. The past two seasons, Gilbert was the offensive coordinator at South Florida. The Bulls averaged 444 yards of total offense and 32 points a game this past season en route to a 7-5 record. He’ll be introduced to the Lake Charles media on Friday.

Grambling State and its athletics director Paul Bryant have decided to go their separate ways. Bryant will leave the school at the end of the month and President Rick Gallot says the vice president for student affairs, David Ponton, will take over as A-D. Gallot says Bryant wants to explore other opportunities.

Louisiana Tech’s Jaylon Ferguson has been named Conference USA Defensive Player of the Year. The St. Francisville native set a school record with 15 sacks this year and is two sacks away from becoming the alltime sack leader in NCAA Football history.

On the hardwood, the Ragin Cajuns defeated Loyola University of New Orleans 97-84 as JaKeenan Gant had 21 points. Also, UNO over South Alabama 71-60 and Tulane topped Tennessee-Martin 87-74.