Yahoo reports Louisiana has the second most lightning strikes in the country right after Florida. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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A UCLA Williams Institute study finds same sex marriages could bring millions into Louisiana. Scott Carwile speaks with the study author to find out how…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Scott Carwile”

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Louisiana appears to be the only state still fighting the Supreme Court’s decision on same-sex marriages. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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In Louisiana Radio Network’s ongoing gubernatorial Q&A, we asked the four major candidates about agriculture. We asked, if elected, would you propose a budget that keeps funding levels for the Department of Agriculture and the LSU and Southern AgCenters at least at their current level? Lt. Governor Jay Dardenne says it’s important to keep funding these entities because agriculture has a $12 billion economic impact on the state…

cut 4  (08)  “our culture”

Democratic Amite Representative John Bel Edwards says he’s committed to maintain funding to the AgCenters. He says, since 2008, state funding for the LSU AgCenter has been cut 23-percent and Southern’s AgCenter funding has dropped by 30-percent…

Cut 5  (10)  “state’s economy”

US Senator David Vitter says it’s important to stabilize the budgets for these entities. He says since 2008, the number of full-time employees at the LSU AgCenter has decreased by 31-percent…

Cut 6 (12)  “reverse that” 2X

Public Service Commissioner Scott Angelle says he’s committed to continue funding at current or higher levels. He says as as goes Louisiana’s farming, in a lot of ways, so goes Louisiana’s economy as a whole…

CUT 7 (10)  “development plan”

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A report by Yahoo says Louisiana has the second most lightning strikes a year in the country.  Louisiana trails Florida but is just ahead of Mississippi. State Climatologist Barry Keim says we average about 827,000 strikes a year and lightning has caused 142 fatalities since 1959, or about 2.5 deaths a year.

Cut 8  (07)  “time outdoors” 

Keim says Louisianians spend most of our time hunting, fishing, and participating in other outdoor activities which increases our vulnerability to lightning strikes. He also debunks a myths about what happens when lightning hits.

Cut 9 (09)  “by lightning”

According to State Farm, Louisiana ranks 4th in the nation for lightning claims. In 2014, State Farm paid 6.5 million for more than 13-hundred insurance claims related to lightning stikes in Louisiana. Keim advises people to get in a car or go inside if lightning gets bad during a thunderstorm and no matter what, don’t hide under a tree. He says be careful when touching metal objects when lightning can be seen.

Cut 10 (07) “to be”

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According to a UCLA Williams Institute study, same sex marriages in Louisiana could mean a 28 million dollar boost to the economy over the next three years. Study author Lee Badgett says many small businesses will thrive if this estimate proves true.

cut 11 (11)  “and florists”

Badgett says there are about 4,000 gay couples living in Louisiana and it is expected that half will get married within the next three years. She says they used the US census to calculate the economic impact these marriages could have on the state.

cut 12 (10)  “different factors”

Badgett says this will also increase the amount of jobs available in the wedding fields. She says the state government will find sales tax revenue from hotels and restaurant meals.

Cut 13 (11)  “and families”

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Despite a ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court, Louisiana is still not recognizing same-sex marriages. The Jindal Administration has said they are waiting on the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals to rule on a case involving Louisiana’s same-sex marriage ban. Loyola University law professor Dane Ciolino says the state is fighting an uphill battle…

Cut 14 (12) “marriage licenses”

Clerks of Court are holding off on issuing marriage licenses until a 25-day period concludes where Supreme Court decisions can be challenged. State Attorney General Buddy Caldwell says the decision has no mandate or order from the highest court that makes the decision final. Ciolino says this statement sends the message  Louisiana intends to fight the federal government over a civil rights issue…

Cut 15  (06)  “perhaps baffling”

Now that the Supreme Court has ruled that states must recognize same-sex marriage, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals will likely move forward with its case on gay marriage. The ruling by the appeals court will most likely be a formality, and Ciolino says the state won’t have to wait long for its decision…

Cut 16  (03)  “days or weeks”

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According to 24-7 sports, LSU football’s 2016 recruiting class is ranked number one in the country. With national signing day still several months away, the Tigers have 17 verbal commitments, including two five-star prospects, cornerback Saivion Smith from Florida and St. Thomas Aquinas defensive tackle Edwin Alexander from Hammond. 24-7 sports, Shea Dixon, says Coach Les Miles has hired some great recruiters…

Cut 17 (17) ” in the country” 

Dixon says not only is LSU receiving verbal commitments from some talented football players, they are also filling positions of need, especially on the defensive side of the ball

Cut 18 (12) “outside linebacker”

Ten of LSU’s commitments are from Louisiana. Dixon says the Tigers are also doing the well in Texas, as four of their verbal pledges are from the Lone Star state

Cut 19 (20) “…Erick Fowler “

It is now illegal in Louisiana to post or share nude images of people on the internet without their consent. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (29) “I’m Eric Gill”

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Same sex couples are celebrating the US Supreme Court’s landmark decision that legalizes gay marriage. Michelle Southern has more…

CUT 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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It is now illegal in Louisiana to post or share nude images of people on the internet without their consent. Governor Bobby Jindal signed Kenner Representative Julie Stokes’ “revenge porn” bill into law. Stokes says she is not surprised the governor signed the measure…

CUT 3 (07)  “things like this”

The new law makes it a crime to share an explicit image of someone on the internet without their permission. Stokes says she’s read and heard about many people who have had this happen to them…

CUT 4 (10)  “that they’re used”

She says there are numerous cases of “revenge porn” that has caused irreparable damage to victims. Violators of the law could face up to two years in prison and a $10,000 fine. Stokes says this legislation sends a strong message…

CUT 5 (12)  “the line somewhere”

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Same sex couples across Louisiana are celebrating today’s historic Supreme Court ruling that legalizes gay marriages in every state. Matthew Patterson, with Equality Louisiana, says it’s hard to put into words what this decision means to gay and lesbian couples…

CUT 6 (09)  “actually happen”

But Gene Mills, with the Louisiana Family Forum, says the Supreme Court has stripped all Americans of the freedom to debate and decide marriage policy through the democratic process

CUT 7 (08) “policy”

Patterson says the Supreme Court made the right decision in this case, because individual liberties should not be left up to individual voters or states to protect…

CUT 8 (10)  “to be married”

Mills says the Supreme Court has created a litigation rich environment, because there will be churches who will seek to stand by their religious belief that marriage is only between a man and a woman…

CUT 9 (11)  “wave of litibation”

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On the heels of the Supreme Court’s landmark decision legalizing same-sex marriage, Clerks of Court offices in Louisiana are initially holding off issuing marriage licenses to gay couples. Louisiana Clerks of Court Association Executive Director Debbie Hudnall says they will not issue licenses until the Supreme Court challenge period is over…

cut 10 (11) “or decision” 

Hudnall says Supreme Court rules allow for a 25-day challenge period for any judgement or decision. She says clerks are going to do what they’re legally required to do, but for right now, same-sex couples are not able to get a marriage license in Louisiana…

cut 11 (09)  “any license”

(A statement from the Attorney General’s Office said that it has found nothing in today’s decision that makes the Court’s order effective immediately. Therefore, there is not yet a legal requirement for officials to issue marriage licenses or perform marriages for same-sex couples in Louisiana. The AG’s Office will be watching for the Court to issue a mandate or order making today’s decision final and effective and will issue a statement when that occurs.)

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The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is taking part in Operation Dry Water this weekend. The operation calls for increased patrols on the water to check for boaters driving while drunk. LDWF Spokesperson Adam Einck says they’ve participated in this federal event since 2009.

cut 12 (11)  “for DWI”

Einck says we’re getting close to the 4th of July and the boating season is in full force. He says LDWF’s boaters safety course has helped to keep fatalities on the water lower than ever.

cut 13 (09)  “do so”

Einck says patrols will be checking the hot spots for drinking this weekend. He says many people aren’t aware that DWI laws on the water are the same as if you were driving a car.

cut 14 (07) “9 yards”

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The Louisiana Peach Festival begins today and there are plans to create the worlds largest peach cobbler. Emelie Gunn has more on how they made the big cobbler…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Two events benefiting Governor Bobby Jindal’s presidential campaign, that involve some pretty big names, will take place in Baton Rouge Saturday. Scott Carwile has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Scott Carwile”

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As temperatures continue to rise this summer it’s a good idea to remember your pets require special care to avoid heatstroke. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 3 (29) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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The 65th Annual Louisiana Peach Festival begins today and there are hopes to make a little history. Festival Organizer Brandon Sutherland says they plan to set a Guinness World Record for the largest peach cobbler.

cut 4  (10)  “metric ton”

Sutherland says it’ll take over 800 pounds of peaches to create the cobbler. He says businesses all over Ruston donated ingredients and materials to achieve the goal.

Cut 5  (08)  “Ruston Brick”

Sutherland says festival goers will be able to get a taste of the worlds largest peach cobbler. He says there will be no charge for a piece, but there will be a donation bucket.

Cut 6 (12)  “big cobbler”

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Two events benefiting Governor Bobby Jindal’s presidential campaign, that involve big names like Tom Benson, Les Miles, and Sean Payton, will take place in Baton Rouge Saturday. First there will be a fundraising event at a local hotel, hosted by Benson, shipbuilder Boysie Bollinger, former Congressman Bob Livingston and others. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says it’s not a surprise that Jindal would begin raising funds for his campaign in Louisiana…

CUT 7 (08)  “so to speak”

The second is an invitation only event at the Governor’s Mansion featuring honorary hosts LSU head football coach Les Miles and Saints head coach Sean Payton. Pinsonat says these events are a smart way for Jindal to begin his campaign…

Cut 8  (04)  “fund raising efforts” 

But he says the governor will have to raise a lot of money from a lot of different places to be competitive in this race. Pinsonat says this is probably Jindal’s best and last chance to raise money in Louisiana…

Cut 9 (05)  “or 40 days”

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As temperatures continue to rise this summer it’s a good idea to remember your pets require special care to avoid heatstroke. The LSU Veterinary School says they have already seen two fatal cases of heatstroke this month. Associate professor and veterinarian Dr. Kirk Ryan dogs can’t tolerate scorching temperatures and extreme exercise..:

Cut 10 (09) “related illness”

Ryan says dogs cannot tell us when they feel hot, so it’s our responsibility to ensure that our pets have sufficient shelter from the sun. He says one of the most important things you can do is always make sure your pet has plenty of water…:

cut 11 (09) “these conditions”

Ryan says puppies, kittens, older dogs and cats and animals with short snouts or muzzles such as pugs and bulldogs are at increased risk. He says heatstroke is an absolute emergency and needs to be treated immediately by cooling off with a water hose and going to a vet…:

cut 12 (12)  “as well”

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Former NFL stars headline the 2015 Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame class that will be inducted this weekend in Natchitoches. Former Saints and Panthers quarterback Jake Delhomme is part of the eight member class.  The Breaux Bridge native was a record-setting QB for the Ragin Cajuns and led Carolina to the Super Bowl during the 2003 season. Delhomme credits former Saints offensive coordinator and current Packers head coach Mike McCarthy for the success he had in the NFL

Cut 13 (14)  “right team”

While Delhomme missed out on winning a Super Bowl, former LSU Tiger Kevin Faulk won three Super Bowl rings as a running back for the Patriots. The former Cancrencro standout and three-time all-SEC selection is also going into the hall this weekend. Faulk says his football career took off in New England

Cut 14 (11) “just playing”

The 2015 class also includes former St. Aug High School Football Coach Otis Washington, former McNeese State defensive back Leonard Smith, New Orleans native and former NBA player/coach, Avery Johnson, former Cajuns and LSU softball coach Yvette Girouard, horse trainer Frank Brothers and former Northeast Louisiana University coach Pat Collins, who led the Monroe school to a Division 1-AA national championship in 1987. Collins credits the staff he had at N-L-U

Cut 15  (08)  “high school”

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The US Supreme Court upholds tax subsidies under the Affordable Care Act which supporters say preserves health care for thousands of Louisianians. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Eric Gill”

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New Census figure shows the country’s population is more diverse.  Emelie Gunn has a look at what’s happening in Louisiana.

CUT 2 (28) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Monsanto announces possible plans to make a 1 billion dollar expansion to their Luling plant.  The addition would produce a new product line to help  soybeans, cotton and corn. St. Charles Parish President V.J. St. Pierre says this is very exciting and Monsanto has always been a great industrial partner…

CUT 3 (09)  “of Louisiana”

St. Pierre says the plant would create 95 direct, 450 indirect, and 1,000 construction jobs. He says the final decision to expand the plant will be in the early part of 2016.

CUT 4 (09)  “project”

St. Pierre says Monstano is one of the biggest employers in St. Charles. He says plant employees are always involved in the community and often help out with different charity events.

CUT 5 (12)  “plant people”

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The US Supreme Court upholds tax subsidies under the Affordable Care Act which supporters say preserves health care for thousands of Louisianians. Opponents argued subsidies should not be available in the 34 states that did not set up their own health insurance marketplace, which includes Louisiana. US Senator Bill Cassidy is disappointed by the court’s ruling…

CUT 6 (08)  “must continue”

This is the second time the Supreme Court has ruled in favor of the Affordable Care Act. Executive Director of the Louisiana Democratic Party, Stephen Handwerk, says this ruling is a victory for the people of Louisiana…

CUT 7 (06) “health care”

The Court voted 6-3 to uphold the subsidies. Cassidy says the Supreme Court’s decision doesn’t repeal the problems with “Obamacare”, which includes insurance premiums increasing up to 60-percent per year on the marketplace…

CUT 8 (08)  “as un-American”

6.4 million people nationwide were at risk of losing their health insurance subsidies because their state did not set up its own exchange. Cassidy says the fight against “Obamacare” will continue. Handwerk says Chief Justice John Roberts’ majority opinion explains the Court’s decision best…

CUT 9 (08)  “exactly that”

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New census figures show the nation’s population is becoming  more diverse and Millennials now outnumber babyboomers. Demographer Greg Rigamer says Louisiana is following the national trend, as the state’s Hispanic population has increased increased since 2010.

cut 10 (13) “African American population” 

Rigamer says Louisiana and the nation’s population is more diverse because people are not afraid to leave one state for another in search of better employment.

cut 11 (09)  “in history”

The U.S. Census says there are now 83 million people who are considered millennials, people born between 1982 and 2000 and their size exceeds that of babyboomers. Rigamer says you can see that trend happening here in Louisiana.

cut 12 (08)  “in Louisiana”

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A man wanted for the murder of his estranged wife in Calcasieu Parish has been added to the F-B-I’s Most Wanted fugitive list. Forty-seven-year-old Joe Matthew Constance has not been seen since he shot and killed Mary Duhon on June 5th, 2011. Calcasieu Sheriff Tony Mancuso says they hope the F-B-I’s help can bring Constance to justice…

cut 13 (09)  “us out”

Mancuso says now that the F-B-I is involved, they receive better tips on whether he is outside the country or in a different state. He says there is a reward for information leading to Constance’s arrest.

cut 14 (08) “he is”

Mancuso says Constance forced himself into Duhon’s home and demanded the residents inside tell him where his ex-wife was, he found her in another area of the residence and shot her. He says Constance was charged with first degree murder, aggravated assault and aggravated burglary the day he killed Duhon.

cut 15 (11) “murder”

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Fidelity Investments’ 2015 Couples Retirement Study finds a disconnect between couples on finances and retirement planning issues. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (29) “I’m Eric Gill”

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Not many are giving Governor Bobby Jindal much of a chance to win the republican presidential nomination. Emelie Gunn speaks with a political analyst who thinks Jindal can prove doubters wrong…

Cut 2 (28) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Governor Bobby Jindal is officially a candidate for governor. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Fidelity Investments’ 2015 Couples Retirement Study finds a disconnect between couples on finances and retirement planning issues. The study shows that 43-percent of respondents don’t know how much their partner makes. Tulane University Business Professor, Dr. Mark Rosa, says that doesn’t surprise him. He says when you talk about pay, it can get complicated rather quickly…

cut 4  (08)  “the income is”

The survey also shows that 48-percent of respondents have no idea how much money they need to save to maintain their current lifestyle in retirement. Rosa says there is no excuse to not know how much money you need for retirement since there are free online tools that will show you if you’re on the right course…

Cut 5  (07)  “for retirement”

Although these numbers do not come as a shock to him, Rosa says people should more interest in their finances because, after all, it is your own money…

Cut 6 (07)  “to the investor”

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There are many people who do not think Governor Bobby Jindal has much of a chance to win the Republican Presidental nomination, but ULM Political Science Professor John Sutherlin says Jindal can emerge as one of the favorites.  Jindal is the 13th announced Republican candidate but he can distingish himself by telling American voters that as Governor he didn’t raise taxes , he reduced the size of the budget and reformed ethic laws.

CUT 7 (07)  “national level”

A recent poll showed that Jindal is less popular in Louisiana than Democratic President Barack Obama. But Sutherlin says that will not matter on the Presidential campaign trail.

Cut 8  (12)  “campaign on” 

Sutherlin says if Jindal is competitive  in the Iowa caucus and in the New Hampshire primary that could lead to a really good showing in South Carolina. He says Jindal has a history of being a good campaigner.

Cut 9 (10)  “very competitive”

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The National Weather Service says, due to rains from Tropical Storm Bill, northwest Louisiana should be aware that the Red River will crest again next week. But Marty Mayeaux with the NWS in Shreveport says it won’t be as bad as the flooding we saw earlier this month…:

Cut 10 (06) “two weeks ago”

Mayeaux says the Red will crest at 32 and a half feet on July 1st which is about 4 and a half feet lower than the June 9th crest…:

cut 11 (10) previous flood”

Officials say if your property flooded this month in Caddo/Bossier parish, you should take the necessary precautions. Mayeaux says it will mostly affect low lying areas and some farm land…:

cut 12 (11)  “those roads flooding”

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Governor Bobby Jindal is on the campaign trail today meeting with voters in New Hampshire as he’s joined a long list of candidates seeking the 2016 Republican presidential nomination. The governor kicked off his campaign in Kenner yesterday, by touting his accomplishments as governor and portraying himself as a man who gets things done

Cut 13 (09)  “doer”

Jindal says his top priorities will be to grow the private sector economy, rebuild America’s defenses and push forward a better health care policy…

Cut 14 (13) “cheering”

Jindal enters the race as a long-shot in receiving the republican presidential nomination. The governor says if he gets to the White House, he plans on making big changes…

Cut 15  (13)  “cheering”

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Two former LSU basketball players are expected to be selected in tonight’s NBA draft. Former Tiger hoops star and current color analyst on the LSU Sports Radio Network, Ricky Blanton, says Jarrell Martin and Jordan Mickey coudl be selected late in the first round, but he says Martin’s stock has fallen since he’s not participated in a lot of five-on-five and three-and-three workouts

Cut 16  (12)  “I don’t know”

Martin is six-foot-ten, 240 pounds and averaged nearly 17 points and nine rebounds a game last season. But Blanton says another thing going against Martin is that it’s hard to say what position he’ll play in the pros

Cut 17 (12) ” embrace it” 

Most mock drafts have Mickey as a second round pick. But Blanton says Mickey’s stock has been on the rise, because of good pre-draft workouts and NBA scouts appreciate his skill set…

Cut 18 (08) “he’s young”

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State Attorney General Buddy Caldwell announces the arrest of 36 suspected child predators as a result of a multi-agency effort to protect Louisiana’s children. Eric Gill has more…

CUT 1 (29) “I’m Eric Gill”

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The St. Martin Parish Sheriff’s office says three people are dead, including a 3-year-old little girl, after a fatal domestic situation. Michelle Southern reports…:

CUT 2 (28) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Bogalusa authorities are investigating a double homicide. Assistant Police Chief Gene Crosby says they received a call yesterday about a shooting…

CUT 3 (10)  “of town”

One of the victims has been identified through the media as Shannon Hudson, a Baton Rouge rapper known as Young Ready. Crosby says incidents like this don’t usually happen in Bogalusa . He says they’re not releasing many details at this point.

CUT 4 (06)  “their job”

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A man wanted for stealing his father’s identity has turned himself into Baton Rouge authorities. Cpl. Don Coppola says 29-year-old  Gabadiah McClay of Plaquemine was booked on charges of Forgery and Identity Theft.

CUT 5 (10)  “his father”

Coppola says McClay took out an auto loan and a personal loan, which totaled around 69,000 dollars. He says McClay’s father suspected his son and alerted authorities after he noticed accounts had been opened in his name.

CUT 6 (08)  “personal information”

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State Attorney General Buddy Caldwell announces the arrest of 36 suspected child predators as a result of a multi-agency effort to protect Louisiana’s children. “Operation Broken Heart” was a two month initiative between the Attorney General’s Cyber Crime Unit and other law enforcement agencies across the state. Caldwell says he’s pleased with the results of the operation…

CUT 7 (07) “national average”

Caldwell says the 36 arrests made during “Operation Broken Heart” is double the national average. He says the initiative was part of a coordinated nationwide effort to apprehend those who engage in child sexual exploitation. Caldwell adds that 20 of those arrests came from the AG’s Cyber Crime Unit…

CUT 8 (09)  “with juveniles”

He says the 20 arrests from his office resulted in a total of 704 sex offenses. The Attorney General’s Cyber Crime Unit has made 95 total arrests in the last 12 months. Calwell says the effort to protect children from online predators is vitally important…

CUT 9 (09)  “else matters”

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The St. Martin Parish Sheriff’s office says three people are dead, including a 3-year-old little girl, after a fatal domestic situation. Spokeswoman Ginny Higgins says they received a frantic 911 call from one of the victims, 72-year-old Leola Blanchard, who advised that she’d been shot by her husband, 58-year-old Clifford Blanchard…:

cut 10 (10) “been shot by Clifford” 

Higgins says it appears that Clifford Blanchard fatally shot his wife Leola and also shot and injured his son, 32-year-old Scott Blanchard..:

cut 11 (10)  “fatal gunshot wound”

(Higgins says Clifford Blanchard apparently also shot and killed his 3-year-old granddaughter before being fatally shot by his son, 32-year-old Scott Blanchard who was also injured. The investigation is ongoing. Scott Blanchard remains hospitalized.)

Higgins says deputies arrived on scene and discovered a third victim who had been shot to death, 3-year-old Ashlynn Blanchard, the granddaughter of the apparent gunman…:

cut 12 (09)  “at all”

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Governor Bobby Jindal has made it official, he announced on Twitter that he is running for President. On his campaign website, BobbyJindal.com, the governor posted a video of him telling his three children about his big decision.

cut 13 (11)  “like that”

The children seemed excited about their father’s run for President. One of their of their requests is a puppy if they get a chance to move into the White House.

cut 14 (12) “care of him”

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A study determines that Louisianans lead the country for paying the highest percentage of annual income for insurance costs. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Governor Bobby Jindal’s Presidential Announcement is slated to happen this afternoon at 4pm at the Ponchatrain Center in Kenner. Michelle Southern reporting….

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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The Louisiana chapter of the NAACP has written a letter to Governor Bobby Jindal asking that the “Sons of the Confederate Veterans” license plate be removed as an option here. Scott Carwile reports…:

Cut 3 (28) “I’m Scott Carwile”

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According to the consumer website nerdwallet, Louisianians pay the highest percentage of their annual salary for insurance in the country. Nerdwallet found that a Louisianian pays 7,300 dollars a year for homeowners, health, life and auto insurance. Researcher Jeffery Chu says thats about 18 percent of our median yearly earnings because of a couple of different aspects.

cut 4  (08)  “as well”

Chu says unfortunately they’ve discovered many people are overpaying on insurance. He says even though these costs are high and hard to avoid, there are a lot of ways to save money on insurance.

Cut 5  (07)  “to this”

Chu says homeowners insurance is so expensive here because Louisiana is in a location with a major risk for hurricanes and bad weather. He says auto insurance is also high because of the large amount of claim rates.

Cut 6 (08)  “high rates”

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Governor Bobby Jindal’s presidential announcement is slated to happen this afternoon at 4pm at the Ponchatrain Center in Kenner. It’s expected that Jindal will announce he’s seeking the Republican Nomination. UL Lafayette Political Science Professor Pearson Cross says even though Jindal’s polling low, he’s likely of the mind that you can’t win if you don’t run…:

CUT 7 (09)  “pick up”

Cross says Jindal has been putting his team in place and plotting strategy and the next step will be aggressively campaigning…:

Cut 8  (08)  “first goal” 

Jindal is one of many candidates with their eye on the White House and Cross says one of the biggest challenges from here will be raising money and getting his team together. He also says the Governor will need to ramp up his name recognition as there are many voters in the US who have no idea who he is or what he’s about…:

Cut 9 (08)  “a tragedy”

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Governor Jindal signs legislation into law that attempts to help law enforcement on college campuses investigate accusations of sexual assault. Both measures are sponsored by New Orleans Senator J.P. Morrell. He says one of the bills requires the board of regents to develop a uniform sexual assault policy that colleges must file when there is a report of sexual assault.

Cut 10 (13) “those campuses”

Morrell says this is the first instance in the country where a state has set up procedure for public colleges to follow when there’s a report of a sexual assault and how the victim can be helped….

cut 11 (09) “to them”

Morrell says the second bill will train college and university police officers on how to investigate a sexual assault case…

cut 12 (1)7  “assault case”

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The Louisiana chapter of the NAACP has written a letter to Governor Bobby Jindal asking that the “Sons of the Confederate Veterans” license plate be removed as an option here. The Office of Motor Vehicles says there are currently 160 of those plates, which feature a Confederate flag, on the road. LA-NAACP President Ernest Johnson…:

Cut 13 (10)  “in any form”

Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon says he sponsored the legislation creating the plate in 1999 at the request of a State Capitol employee. He says he has no comment on whether the state should stop selling it because he is no longer a policy maker. Johnson says there have been many major retail outlets who have stopped selling Confederate flags:

Cut 14 (11) “license plate”

Johnson says a Rebel Flag is a symbol best regulated to individual use and should not be sponsored by our state in any way…:

Cut 15  (10)  “in Louisiana”

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There’s a break down in talks between the Louisiana High School Athletic Association and referees over how much they should be paid. The Lousiaina High School Officials Association wants a raise prior to start of the 2015 school year, but L-H-S-A-A  director Eddie Bonine says an increase in pay can’t take effect, until it’s voted on by school principals in January…

Cut 16  (17)  “has to cash”

The Louisiana High School Officials Association says they’ve only received two pay raises over the last 25 years and they are seeking a pay increase in all sports. The referees say they are tired of promises, which is why they’ve rejected a proposal for any increase in pay to begin in 2016. Bonine says he can’t increase referee pay, only principals can…

Cut 17 (11) ” festered over time” 

Bonine says if the impasse is not resolved, they could have problems finding officials for high school athletic events when school begins in August. He hopes it doesn’t come to that

Cut 18 (05) “suffer here”

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Thibodaux Representative Dee Richard finally gets legislation signed by Governor Jindal that gives state lawmakers approval authority over state consulting contracts. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (29) “I’m Eric Gill”

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State Police say a 2-year-old child is dead after falling out of the window of a vehicle in Acadia Parish Monday night. Jeff Palermo has more…

CUT 2 (28) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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After several attempts, Thibodaux Representative Dee Richard finally gets legislation signed by Governor Jindal that gives state lawmakers approval authority over state consulting contracts. Jindal vetoed the measure last year. Richard says this year he decided to make a deal with the governor over the SAVE act to get his bill signed into law…

CUT 3 (11)  “he said yeah”

The new law will put most state consulting and professional services contracts worth over $40,000 up for review from the joint budget committee. Richard expects up to one-third of state contracts to be subject to review…

CUT 4 (07)  “that much money”

When asked if the legislation was signed in exchange for Richard’s vote, a Jindal spokesman says, in a statement, the governor signed the bill because it’s good legislation. Richard says this law will put an end to wasteful contracts in state government and help the state budget for years to come…

CUT 5 (10)  “of our businesses”

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The Shreveport Police Department says a one year old child died after a large item of furniture fell on top of her. Corporal Marcus Hines says cops were called out to an apartment complex shortly after 8pm Monday in reference to a toddler who was deceased inside…:

CUT 6 (08)  “this child”

Hines says the mother of the little girl was home at the time of the incident but she was asleep…:

CUT 7 (10) “tragic accident”

Hines says it appears that the toddler was playing with two other siblings in the room when the dresser tipped over and fell, pinning the child beneath. He says the mother is devastated…:

CUT 8 (09)  “and her family”

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East Baton Rouge Parish Coroner Dr. Beau Clark is still searching for the cause of death of a man shot with Taser guns by two Baton Rouge police officers. Clark says in the preliminary autopsy of Kevin Bajoie, he found other physical evidence along with wounds connected to the Tasers.

CUT 9 (08)  “still pending”

Bajoie died on Saturday after an altercation with police that lead to two officers tasing him. Clark says they are doing more tests to determine if the head trauma happened before or during the incident. He says every finding is important and necessary to determine how Bajoie died.

cut 10 (10) “histology” 

Clark says the results will come back in around three or four weeks and he will then have a clearer picture of what happened.

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State Police say a 2-year-old child is dead after falling out of the window of a vehicle in Acadia Parish Monday night. The incident claimed the life of little Mitchell Watson of Church Point. Master Trooper Brooks David says investigators are looking into what exactly happened…

cut 11 (09)  “passenger window”

David says it is believed that Mitchell made his way to the front seat and fell from the passenger front window. The child was transported to a local hospital where he later died from his injuries. Mitchell’s mother, 32-year-old Amber Watson was driving the vehicle at the time and David says impairment is not a suspected factor…

cut 12 (09)  “at all”

He says charges are pending against Amber depending on the outcome of the case. David says detectives are working on determining if Mitchell was properly restrained while in the vehicle…

cut 13 (11)  “at least two”

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US Representative Steve Scalise of Metairie endorses former US Representative Jeff Landry of New Iberia in his quest to become the state’s next Attorney General. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Eric Gill”

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Former Nicholls Baseball player and Baton Rouge native, Darryl Hamilton was found dead in an apparent murder-suicide in the Houston area. Emelie Gunn has more….

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Lt. Governor Jay Dardenne has leaned Disney-ABC has placed a moratorium on new projects in Louisiana as a result of the state’s changes to the film tax credit program. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 3 (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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US Representative Steve Scalise of Metairie endorses former US Representative Jeff Landry of New Iberia in his quest to become the state’s next Attorney General. UL-Lafayette Political Science Professor Pearson Cross says this endorsement, along with the endorsements from Congressman John Fleming and the Family Research Council, will certainly help his campaign…

cut 4  (10)  “Attorney General”

Landry faces fellow Republicans incumbent Attorney General Buddy Caldwell and 18th Judicial District assistant attorney Martin Maley in the race for the state’s top attorney. Cross says, clearly, Caldwell is an incumbent who conservatives believe could be replaced…

Cut 5  (10)  “true believer”

Cross expects this race to heat up as we get closer to the October 24th election. He thinks this will be one of the top races on the ballot…

Cut 6 (10)  “high profile”

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Nicholls State is mourning the death of one of its most famous alumnus, former Major League Baseball Player Darryl Hamilton. Police in suburban Houston say Hamilton was fatally shot by Monica Jordan, who was also found dead, in what appears to be a murder-suicide. Nicholls State baseball coach Seth Thibodaux says Hamilton will be terribly missed.

CUT 7 (10)  “to us”

Hamilton was born in Baton Rouge and graduated from U-High. Thibodaux says he played for the Colonels from 1984-1986 and lead the team in hitting in 1985 and still owns the school’s career stolen base record.  Thibodaux says he is likely the most successful baseball player to come out of the university.

Cut 8  (13)  “of fame” 

Hamilton was induced into the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame in 2008. Thibodaux says unlike a lot of big league players, he always put forth the effort to help out his college team. He says Hamilton was an amazing role model for young players.

Cut 9 (08)  “a tragedy”

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The St. Landry Parish Sheriff’s office is looking for a 17-year-old missing juvenile who they believe could be underage stripping. Alexandria Davis cut off an ankle bracelet that the court had placed on her and fled her home on February 11th according to Lt. Clay Higgins…:

Cut 10 (08) “erotic dancing”

Higgins says Davis was recently spotted at a gentleman’s club called “Lipstick” in Lafayette…:

cut 11 (08) “primary concern”

Higgins says Davis’s family is desperate to have her back home and safe. He says there is a message if the young girl can hear this…:

cut 12 (10)  “get you home safe”

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Lt Governor Jay Dardenne has learned Disney-ABC has placed a moratorium on new movie and film production in Louisiana as a result of changes made to the film tax credit program. Governor Bobby Jindal has signed into law a new 180-million dollar cap on credits redeemed. Dardenne says he’s concerned the state is chasing off a creative and growing industry.

Cut 13 (09)  “the state”

Dardenne says the film industry is important to the state’s economy and it helps bring more visitors to the state. He says the new law sets the cap too low and movie producers are obviously displeased…

Cut 14 (07) “fix things”

Dardenne says another problem with the new law is that the credit is claimed on the “backend” which creates a level of uncertainty whether a credit will be honored by the state.

Cut 15  (09)  “in Louisiana”

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During an introductory press conference, new Pelicans head coach Alvin Gentry says he wants to see a parade down Canal Street in New Orleans after the team wins its first NBA title. Gentry says the pieces are in place to do that…

Cut 16  (15)  “try to do”

Gentry says he’s bringing an up tempo style of basketball to New Orleans and all-star Anthony Davis will be a big part of what they do…

Cut 17 (17) ” important also” 

Gentry is 60-years-old and this will be fifth his opportunity to be a head coach in the NBA. The North Carolina native says 60 is the new 40 and he’s ready to meet the challenge of trying to win an NBA Championship in New Orleans

Cut 18 (22) “they are too”

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LSU announces the new “Voice of the Tigers” will be Georgia Southern play-by-play man Chris Blair replacing Jim Hawthorne who retires after the 2015-16 men’s basketball season. Michelle Southern reports…:

CUT 1 (30) “reporting”

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Today is the first full day of Summer and State Climatologist Barry Keim says it has arrived, pretty much, right on time. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 2 (28) “I’m Eric Gill”

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As a result of Governor Bobby Jindal’s religious freedom executive order, IBM has reportedly cancelled today’s ribbon cutting for its new National Service Center in downtown Baton Rouge. Soon after the state legislature voted down the “Marriage and Conscience Act”, the governor issued an executive order that mirrored language in the bill. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says the move by Jindal is just politics…

CUT 3 (08)  “don’t agree”

Company executives wrote a letter to the governor saying the legislation opposes what IBM stands for, equal rights and opportunity for everyone and discrimination for no one. Pinsonat says Jindal’s executive order actually doesn’t carry much weight…

CUT 4 (07)  “does nothing”

Pinsonat says the governor’s executive order is purely symbolic, related to him running for president, and really does nothing. He says IBM has every right to cancel the ceremony, but most governors in most states don’t do everything a corporation wants…

CUT 5 (08)  “can make money”

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LSU announces the new “Voice of the Tigers” will be Georgia Southern play-by-play man Chris Blair replacing Jim Hawthorne who retires after the 2015-16 men’s basketball season. Blair says getting this huge gig is surreal…:

CUT 6 (10)  “absolutely amazing”

Blair begins calling at LSU starting with the 2016 LSU baseball season and his title will be Director of Radio Broadcasting. The 40-year-old is currently the GM and Voice of the Eagles at Georgia Southern Sports Properties. Blair says when he applied for Hawthorne’s job, he never imagined he’d be the man in that seat…:

CUT 7 (11) “hope and prayer”

The announcement was made by Athletic Director Joe Alleva on Saturday and Blair says he and his family felt embraced by LSU fans right away…:

CUT 8 (08)  “brand”

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A preliminary autopsy report could be released today on 32-year-old Kevin Bajoie of Zachary, who died after he was tased by two Baton Rouge police officers. Corporal Don Coppola says officers responded to a call involving a fight outside a home, when units arrived, Bajoie was lying on his back, he unexpectedly jumped up and attempted to attack an officer…

CUT 9 (11)  “tasers”

Coppola says at first, it was only one officer who used his taser against Bajoie, but a second officer also used his taser, when the now deceased man kept fighting…

cut 10 (09) “Bajoie” 

After Bajoie was taken into custody, he was transported to a local hospital, where he later died from unknown reasons. Coppola says the two officers involved were placed on paid administrative leave per standard procedure. He says officers are trained to use their tasers in incidents like this

cut 11 (12)  “tasers”

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Today is the first full day of Summer and State Climatologist Barry Keim says it has arrived, pretty much, right on cue. He says the wet weather pattern in the state for the past six weeks or so has kept temperatures down. But Keim says that pattern has changed and now the forecast is calling for more seasonal temperatures…

cut 12 (10)  “of the year”

Keim says the long term forecast for the summer season is calling for near normal temperatures with below normal rainfall. He says fewer afternoon showers will definitely be something people will notice…

cut 13 (06)  “in the afternoon”

He says before you know it, fronts will begin flying though Louisiana in September and all will be right with the world. Keim says there are a few precautions people should follow to make it though these hot summer months…

cut 14 (12) “well hydrated”

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