A state district judge has thrown out the lawsuit of a State House candidate who wanted to be listed as both Democrat and Republican on the ballot. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (28)  “I’m Eric Gill”

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

Louisiana chef Jay Ducote was not the big winner last night on this season’s Food Network Star, but he remains optimistic about the future. Michelle Southern reports…:

CUT 2 (30)  “I’m Michelle Southern”

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

A state district judge has thrown out the lawsuit of a candidate for the State House of Representatives who wanted to be listed as both Democrat and Republican on the ballot. Houma attorney Damon Baldone filed the suit after the Terrebonne Parish registrar of voters listed his party affiliation as “other”. Baldone feels he has the Constitutional right to register with both parties…

CUT 3 (06)  “and Republican”

Baldone argues the registrar’s decision violates his freedom of speech and his right to associate with any group. In the judge’s dismissal of the suit, he stated that Baldone was not being deceptive; however, a double listing could confuse voters. Baldone disagrees with that claim…

CUT 4 (05)  “parties are”

Baldone plans to file an appeal with the State Supreme Court. He served in the State House as a Democrat from 2001 to 2012. Baldone says he wants to register under both parties as a sign that Democrats and Republicans need to work together…

CUT 5 (09) “with one plan”

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

The Terrebone Parish Sheriff’s Office says a woman is facing many charges after going on a tirade against her ex-boyfriend and several others in Houma. Captain Dawn Foret says they received 911 calls regarding 25-year-old Miranda Riley of Dularge ramming her vehicle into other cars and trying to fight with multiple people while armed with a knife:

CUT 6 (10)  “seven people”

Foret says as deputies detained Riley they learned from a neighbor that there was a fire on the front porch of the victim’s trailer which had not yet spread into the house…:

CUT 7 (10)  “residence”

Riley’s charges include arson and felony criminal damage to property. Foret says they also believe Riley started a fire at the victim’s trailer and bashed in all of the windows. She says it’s clear the woman was extremely upset about something…:

CUT 8 (10)  “seriously injured”

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

Louisiana chef Jay Ducote was not the big winner last night on this season’s Food Network Star, but he remains optimistic about the future. The title went to former NFL player Eddie Jackson. Ducote found out along with everyone else that he is the runner-up on the cooking competition’s 11th season. He says his first reaction was extreme disappointment…:

CUT 9 (09)  “dominated”

The Baton Rouge radio host had referenced his Louisiana and Cajun roots throughout the season and was successful during every challenge. He says before last night’s finale he received a congratulatory phone call from Lt. Governor Jay Dardenne…:(Ducote has also competed on Masterchef, Cutthroat Kitchen and Last Call Food Brawl.)

cut 10 (12)  “like that”

Ducote says he sees this is as just the beginning of a long promising career as a Louisiana chef and he may even end up with his own show on Food Network anyway. Hundreds of “Team Jay” fans throughout the state have been turning up for Food Network Star viewing parties to cheer on their fellow Louisianian. Ducote says his backing has been amazing..:

Cut 11 (10)  “journey”

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

State Police announce the arrest of a Houston man for allegedly using counterfeit money at a Lake Charles casino. Sgt. James Anderson says they were contacted by the casino about someone trying to buy into a table game using phony money…

cut 12 (10)  “and craps”

27-year-old William Jabour is charged with 49 counts of monetary instrument abuse. Anderson says casino personnel is well trained to detect counterfeit money and there are several precautions in place…

cut 13 (09)  “as a result”

He says their investigation uncovered several counterfeit $50 and $100 bills in Jabour’s possession and in his vehicle. Monetary instrument abuse is punishable by up to 10 years in prison, up to a million dollar fine, and the offender is required to make full restitution. Anderson says this is not something anyone should try to get away with…

cut 14 (09)  “appropriate action”

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

The state department of wildlife and fisheries is getting the word out about the recently created Catch and Cook Program. Emelie Gunn has more on what it’s all about…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

______________________________________

Legal experts anticipate the fight over the Confederate monuments in New Orleans will go on for years and years. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (28) “I’m Michelle Southern”

______________________________________

The Obama Administration has approved limited crude oil trading with Mexico. Scott Carwile get local reaction.

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Scott Carwile”

______________________________________

Three of the four major gubernatorial candidates support Governor Bobby Jindal’s decision to end Medicaid payments to Planned Parenthood. This decision came after controversial secretly taped videos showed Planned Parenthood officials talking about selling aborted fetus parts for medical research. Republican Scott Angelle says these videos are despicable…

cut 4  (10)  “of Louisiana”

Republican Jay Dardenne agrees with the governor’s decision, pointing out that there are over 130 community clinics across the state that provide the same services for women as Planned Parenthood…

Cut 5  (06)  “human life”

Democrat John Bel Edwards says a decision to defund Planned Parenthood should be based on the result of the investigation into the videos. He thinks Jindal failed to plan for the impact of his choice…

Cut 6 (14)  “patient population”

Republican David Vitter supports Governor Jindal’s move and says this issue is not new to him…

CUT 7 (09)  “even surfaced”

______________________________________

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is promoting the Catch and Cook Program, which allows anglers to bring their catch to a local restaurant and be prepared by a chef. Franklin Senator Bret Allain says this is a great opportunity to promote Louisiana’s recreational fishing industry.

Cut 8  (10)  “caught it” 

The Catch and Cook Program started last year as a result of a bill authored by Allain. He says the way the program works, if you catch a fish, clean it and bring it to a participating restaurant within six days of being caught.  He says the dish will only be served to the person who brought the catch in and their guests.

Cut 9 (11) “want it cooked”

The department of wildlife and fisheries says they have 14 restaurants who have signed on to the program including Galatorie’s in the French Quarter. Allain says it doesn’t cost a restaurant anything to participate in the program and they can charge the guest any amount they choose for the prepared dish.

Cut 10 (09) “tourism”

______________________________________

Legal experts anticipate the debate over the Confederate monuments in New Orleans will go on for years and years. The legislative process of removing 4 statues from their current location has started. New Orleans Attorney Tim Meche says there are several legal impediments to taking the monuments down…:

cut 11 (08) “move the monuments”

Meche says not only will there be legal issues with moving the monuments, but political grandstanding will also play a heavy hand in the direction of this matter. He says, in addition, there’s the question of how much this will cost and who is going to pay for it…:

cut 12 (09) “monument”

Mayor Mitch Landrieu started the conversation about moving the Robert E Lee statue from Lee Circle during a national conversation about Confederate symbols in late June. Governor Bobby Jindal opposes taking the monuments down saying he’s looking into the Heritage Act to see if he has the legal authority to stop it. Meche doesn’t think so…:

Cut 13 (08)  “campaign issue”

______________________________________

The Obama Administration has approved limited crude oil trading with Mexico. President of the Louisiana Oil and Gas Association Don Briggs says this is good for the industry because it helps with the balance of trade after the banning of crude oil exports since the 70’s.

Cut 14 (09) “for us”

Briggs says this is a good step forward to possibly opening the doors to the US trading with other countries. He hopes this could be a reaction from the Obama administration due to oil prices being so low and the high demand to allow for exporting crude oil.

Cut 15  (09)  “of prices”

Briggs says there is no reason for the US to be excluded from trade and it’s time to be involved in the open and free market. He says this would have a tremendous impact on oil and gas companies in the country.

Cut 16  (11)  “the industry”

______________________________________

Through the first major scrimmage of LSU’s fall camp, Brandon Harris has the lead over Anthony Jennings in the battle for starting quarterback. Coach Les Miles says Harris received more of the snaps with the first unit during a scrimmage on Saturday night. Harris says the game has slowed down for him as he enters his second season at LSU

Cut 17 (14) “over think things” 

Harris appeared in nine games last season, but didn’t see many significant snaps in final few games. It’s been speculated that Harris had a hard time learning playbook. The Bossier City native says he’s been all business since the team reported nearly two weeks ago

Cut 18 (12) “ultimately go”

LSU offensive coordinator Cam Cameron says Harris is more comfortable with the offense this season, which should lead to better results

Cut 19 (16) “just play”

Cameron is also encouraged by the work Harris put in during the offseason, by adding about 20 pounds of muscle to his six-foot-three frame

Cut 20 (11)  “that’s important”

The Plaquemines Parish Sheriff’s Office has arrested a Gretna truck driver accused of the rape of a 14-year-old girl. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (30)  “I’m Eric Gill”

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State lawmakers learn next fiscal year’s Louisiana budget shortfall already projects at 713 million dollars. Jeff Palermo has more…

CUT 2 (30)  “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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

The Plaquemines Parish Sheriff’s Office says a Gretna truck driver is charged in the rape of a 14-year-old girl. Commander Eric Becnel says 29-year-old Peter James Wilson III arranged to meet the girl through a smartphone app last month. He says after meeting up, Wilson took the girl to the Naval Air Station in Belle Chasse where he was making a delivery…

CUT 3 (09)  “of the truck”

He says Wilson forced the victim to perform sexual acts in the sleeper compartment of his truck. Becnel says Wilson dropped the victim off the following morning at the same location where they met. He says it took a few days for the girl to come forward…

CUT 4 (08)  “an investigation”

Wilson is charged with forcible rape. He claims that he has never seen the victim in person. Becnel says it took a little time to capture Wilson because they wanted to make sure their investigation was thorough…

CUT 5 (09) “juvenile victim”

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

State Police say a young girl was killed in Grant Parish after being involved in a high speed collision. Master Trooper Scott Moreau says, 26-year-old Kristopher Silk of Pollock, was speeding when he crashed into the back of an 18-wheeler going in the same direction on Hwy 165.

CUT 6 (10)  “the road”

7-year-old Adrein Silk was pronounced dead. Moreau says the driver, Kristopher Silk received minor injuries. He says crashes like this are highly uncommon.

CUT 7 (10)  “speed limit”

Moreau says they’re unsure if Silk was under the influence of drugs or alcohol during the accident but routine toxicology tests and charges are pending. He says if the child was properly restrained, her life might’ve been saved. The crash investigation is ongoing.

CUT 8 (10)  “the vehicle”

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

State lawmakers have learned the budget shortfall for the next fiscal year is already projected at 713 million dollars. Director of the Louisiana Budget Project Jan Moller says it’s not a surprise that we’re looking at a big deficit but we’re in better shape than we were a year ago, when the deficit reached 1.6 billion dollars.

CUT 9 (10)  “next legislature”

Moller says this is another sign that the next governor and legislature have big fiscal problems to deal with next year. He says all the four gubernatorial candidates have emphasized the importance of budget reform.

cut 10 (08)  “the state”

At today’s joint legislative budget committee meeting, lawmakers also raised concerns that the current budget might need to be cut to make up for low oil prices. Moller says that’s not a surprise either since, mid-year budget cuts have become the norm in recent years.

Cut 11 (09)  “the budget”

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

Calcasieu Parish Sheriff Tony Mancuso says the crime scene authorities had been searching under the I-10 bridge this week was related to a body dumping case — but it’s now clear. He says no human remains were found, but the search began after a credible informant told authorities that 35-year-old Gammion McCloud of Phoenix Arizona killed someone then tossed them over the bridge…:

cut 12 (09)  “informant”

Mancuso said they already had a warrant for rape out on McCloud in connection with a 2014 incident in which he allegedly continually raped and beat a woman at a local motel in front of a young child. He says there is plenty of evidence that McCloud dumped a body in 2013 but it could have been washed away…:

cut 13 (07)  “and bones”

McCloud, who was arrested in Oregon this week on unrelated charges, will be extradited back to Calcasieu and arrested with one count of aggravated rape, 1 count of aggravated incest and 2 counts of second degree battery. He says even though no body was found, they still believe the informant’s claims about the murder…:

cut 14 (08)  “factual”

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

The political feud between US Senator David Vitter and New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu ramped up this week. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Eric Gill”

______________________________________

A survey finds Louisiana citizens are becoming more dissatisfied with the direction the state is going. Emelie Gunn has more. ..

Cut 2 (27) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

______________________________________

Severe drought conditions are now present in southwest and northwest Louisiana. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 3 (27) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

______________________________________

The political feud between US Senator David Vitter and New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu ramped up this week. Vitter criticized Landrieu for holding public meetings concerning the removal of Confederate monuments in the city. Political analyst Clancy Dubos feels this is a calculated move by Vitter to improve his poll numbers…

cut 4  (10)  “the metro area” 2X

Recent polls have shown that Vitter’s support is slipping. Dubos says it should not have come as a surprise that the senator would lash out at Landrieu…

Cut 5  (11)  “of his M.O.”

He says the Confederate monument issue is one that appeals to conservatives across the state. Dubos says Vitter picking up this issue can help his campaign by creating a diversion from issues that may not help his cause…

Cut 6 (09)  “coastal erosion”

______________________________________

A study from Tulane raises concerns about adverse side effects when taking statins, which is known to lower cholesterol and help patients with cardiovascular disease. Dr. Eckhard Alt, director of cardiovascular research for Tulane, says he’s found how statins could lead to memory loss, muscle problems and an increased risk for diabetes.

CUT 7 (11)  “to statins”

Alt says statins prevent stem cells from growing into beneficial bone and cartilage cells. He says they also increase stem cell aging and death rates, diminishing their DNA repair abilities which cause these side effects.

Cut 8  (12)  “the market” 

Alt says by studying what statins do to stem cells gives researchers a new explanation for those problems. He says patients thinking of using stains should first evaluate the benefits and the risks carefully.

Cut 9 (05) “more critical”

______________________________________

A survey from the LSU Public Policy Research Lab finds Louisiana residents are becoming more disgruntled over the direction the state is heading. Researcher Michael Henderson says in January 45% of the respondents said the state is moving in the wrong direction, they asked that question again this summer and now the percentage is up to 59.

Cut 10 (08) “session itself”

Henderson says when we have a new governor, he’s sure we’ll see more citizens saying Louisiana is moving in the right direction. He says they’ll have to wait and see if right direction outweighs the wrong but he’s seen this trend before.

cut 11 (04) “see that” 

Henderson says when you break it down further, 62% of registered voters surveyed said the state is heading in the wrong direction. He says it’s hard to tell if this will result in a higher voter turnout for the governor’s election.

cut 12 (07) “governor’s election”

_____________________________________________

A large portion of southwest Louisiana has been designated as having severe drought conditions by the US Drought Monitor. The area of severe drought covers Calcasieu, Lafayette and into Iberia, St. Mary and Terrebonne parishes. Donovan Landreneau, with the National Weather Service in Lake Charles, says after a wet spring it’s been a dry and hot summer

Cut 13 (06)  “dry out”

Landreneau says since the fourth of July, there’s been very little rainfall…

Cut 14 (07) “the 30th”

Portions of Caddo and DeSoto parishes also have severe drought conditions. Landreneau says rain chances do go up at the start of next week, but it will be another few weeks before we see any real relief

Cut 15  (10)  “couple of months”

___________________________

LSU Coach Les Miles says quarterback Brandon Harris continues to take snaps with the first team as the Tigers get ready for the 2015 season.  Miles continues to say both Harris and Anthony Jennings are getting better. But don’t expect him to make a big announcement on who will be the starter against McNeese State

Cut 16  (20)  “always secondary”

Another position battle is at field goal kicker. Colby Delahoussaye was the place kicker for much of the 2014 season, but struggled late in the year. Miles says Trent Domingue from Mandeville is battling Delhoussaye for that role…

Cut 17 (18) “it’s still Colby’s job” 

There’s a concern going into the season about depth along the defensive line. Miles says one guy that has impressed him is sophomore defensive tackle Frank Herron from Memphis

Cut 18 (11) “really good”

The Jindal administration announces that GPS tracking devices will be installed on over 10,000 vehicles owned by state government agencies. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (29)  “I’m Eric Gill”

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

A statewide survey finds few Louisiana voters are paying attention to the governor’s race. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 2 (29)  “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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

The Jindal administration has begun installing GPS tracking devices on over 10,000 vehicles owned by state government agencies. The devices will follow routes, monitor speeds, and chart driving habits in state vehicles. Jan Cassidy, assistant commissioner for procurement, believes the program will result in big cost savings for the state…

CUT 3 (08)  “with the fleet”

The program is expected to save the state $30 million over the next five years in fuel, maintenance, and insurance cost reductions. The installation of the devices is expected to be complete by November. Cassidy says other states use GPS tracking devices on vehicles, but on a much smaller scale…

CUT 4 (05)  “at this time”

The Department of Agriculture has used GPS tracking on their vehicles since 2010 and saw a nearly 29-percent drop in fuel usage in the first year. The installation of the devices is expected to be complete by November. Cassidy believes these GPS devices will make state workers more responsible drivers…

CUT 5 (08) “premiums go down”

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The Louisiana Lottery Corporation’s revenue is up for the 5^th consecutive year as it ended its 2015 fiscal year with 453 million dollars in revenue which is more than 3 million dollars from the prior year. Lottery Spokesperson Kim Chopin says they’re excited about this progress because it benefits the state.

CUT 6 (08)  “million dollars”

Chopin credits the increase in part due to scratch offs that have offset slow Powerball sales. She says the big games are less popular because the number of players has grown throughout the country and jackpots are getting hit faster and more frequently.

CUT 7 (07)  “big jackpots”

Chopin says scratch offs do so well because they’re now using their unclaimed prize fund to bump out payouts and when people win more, they want to play more. She hopes with future changes to Powerball and Mega Millions, revenue will go up even more next year.

CUT 8 (09)  “forward to that”

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

According to a survey conducted by LSU’s Public Policy Research Lab, less than one third of voters in Louisiana are paying attention to the governor’s race. The poll, was conducted between July 7th and August 3rd, shows just 29% of citizens in the state are following news related to the election. Research Director Mike Henderson…:

CUT 9 (11)  “not crunch time”

Henderson says their survey also found that Republican US Senator David Vitter is the most well-known, as he has the highest favorable and unfavorable ratings in the race…

cut 10 (11)  “Edwards yet”

Henderson says interest in the race is only slightly up as 25% of voters said they were following about five months ago.He says Jay Dardenne leads in net favorability at plus 21, followed by Vitter with plus 15…

cut 11 (08)  “they are”

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The Louisiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence is warning against telling women to arm themselves as a form of protection from abuse. In response to the recent Geismar murder of Monica Johnson allegedly at the hands of her estranged husband, some have advocated that battered women get guns. LCADV Executive Director Beth Meeks says that raises risk…:

cut 12 (10)  “the woman”

Meeks says studies have found that over 70% of battered women had been threatened with a gun, while only 7% had used a gun successfully in self-defense. She says as many as 90% of women that are in prison are there for killing their intimate partner…:

cut 13 (06)  “never works”

Meeks says communities across the nation have seen dramatic reductions in domestic homicide rates through practices like  intensive monitoring of offenders and greater risk assessment. She says beyond statistics, even when necessary, taking another life creates deep emotional trauma with long lasting effects…:

cut 14 (09)  “all homicide”

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

A 3 million dollar oyster hatchery opened its doors in Grand Isle. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (29) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

______________________________________

GOP gubernatorial candidate David Vitter is the latest to strike in the fued between he and New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu. The US Senator has issue with Landrieu’s public hearings today on Confederate statues. Michelle Southern reports..:

Cut 2 (28) “I’m Michelle Southern”

______________________________________

In a CNN/ORC survey conducted after last week’s debates of Republican voters in Iowa, just 2% said they’d choose Governor Bobby Jindal as the GOP presidential candidate. Scott Carwile reports…:

Cut 3 (31) “I’m Scott Carwile”

______________________________________

Louisiana shrimpers continue to show their anger over a lack of federal regulations that is flooding the market with cheap imported shrimp and damaging the industry in the US. The Louisiana Shrimp Association led a protest in New Orleans outside the venue where the Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council is holding meetings this week. President Clint Guidry says the future of the shrimp industry hangs in the balance…

cut 4  (07)  “more restrictions”

He says the US government is doing a poor job inspecting imported shrimp and that in turn means millions of pounds are coming into the country driving prices down. The group has seen nearly a two-thirds drop in dockside shrimp revenue so far this year. Guidry says, unless the federal government steps in, an industry that has thrived for generations will be destroyed…

Cut 5  (07)  “thousands of jobs”

The group led a protest in New Orleans outside the venue where the Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council is holding meetings this week. Guidry says the public can help by contacting their congressman about the problem and making sure they aren’t purchasing imported shrimp…

Cut 6 (09)  “demand it”

______________________________________

The State Department of Wildlife and Fisheries has cut the ribbon on a new 3 million dollar oyster hatchery in Grand Isle that will more than double production of the larvae used to seed oyster grounds. Statewide Oyster Program Manager Patrick Banks says they’ve seen major decreases in oysters since the BP oil spill and this will be an important component to boosting the oyster population.

CUT 7 (09)  “of Louisiana”

Banks says the money came as part of the BP oil spill settlement. He says the facility will build back up the oyster industry by providing young oysters to damaged reefs and will help mimic the natural reproduction process.

Cut 8  (09)  “heal herself” 

Banks says the primary purpose of the hatchery is a rehabilitation strategy to get more oysters on public grounds. He says they’re not sure how many will survive once released but the facility is capable of producing one billion oyster larvae per year.

Cut 9 (05) “those reefs”

______________________________________

New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu is holding public hearings today on the removal of Confederate statues in the city, but Senator David Vitter says Landrieu should be more concerned about murder than monuments. Vitter says this is a response to Landrieu’s criticism of his performance in Washington when it comes to federal aid for cops…:

Cut 10 (11) “in history”

Vitter, who is running for governor, said during a State Police forum last weekend he feels there should be a whole new troop in New Orleans focused on the French Quarter and funded by local revenue and tourism pledges. He says there is a crisis in the Crescent City and New Orleans needs a leader focused on the crime problem instead of monuments…:

cut 11 (08) “not monuments” 

Landrieu says our state needs a governor who will unite citizens and focus on solutions to move us forward and not Washington rhetoric. But Vitter says the crime problem in New Orleans is personal to him…:

cut 12 (08) “priorities”

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In a CNN/ORC survey conducted after last week’s debates of Republican voters in Iowa, just 2% said they’d choose Governor Bobby Jindal as the GOP Presidential candidate. The Donald still leads at 22% followed by Ben Carson at 14%. UL-Lafayette Political Science Professor Pearson Cross says this isn’t good news for Jindal..:

Cut 13 (07)  “setback”

Cross says Jindal has been snubbing his nose at national polls saying that he’s doing well where it counts, including Iowa, so this latest survey can’t be good for the campaign. He says even though most people say Jindal did well in the debate a week ago, it didn’t get a lot of national recognition…:

Cut 14 (08) “much traction”

The poll was conducted among 544 Republican likely Iowa caucus voters from August 7th to 11th and 66% said they are still trying to decide who they would vote for. Cross says Donald Trump could flake out at any moment and that 22% support would have to go somewhere. He says Jindal is not going to give up based on this poll…:

Cut 15  (07)  “anytime soon”

___________________________

Tonight the Saints will face the Baltimore Ravens in the preseason opener. NFL analyst Mike Detillier says the coaches are looking for a cleanly played game that doesn’t feature a lot of mental mistakes or penalties, especially with your first unit

Cut 16  (10)  “at the Greenbrier”

Detillier says for players on the bubble to make the roster, they’ll need to make plays on special teams

Cut 17 (17) “return game” 

A big position battle in camp is at wide receiver as their are 12 pass catchers trying to make the team. Brandin Cooks and Marques Colston are the starters. Detillier says Brandon Coleman is trying to be that number three wide out…

Cut 18 (13) “impressive”

Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon says Louisiana’s insurance market is stronger and more competitive today than it was before Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (31)  “I’m Eric Gill”

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

BESE approves a plan to increase funding to send more children of low income families to daycare. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 2 (30)  “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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

Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon says Louisiana’s insurance market is stronger and more competitive today than it was before Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Donelon says one indicator is the number of insurance companies active in Louisiana…

CUT 3 (09)  “in 2005”

He credits the creation of a mandatory statewide building code and the legislature passed incentives encouraging homeowners to strengthen their properties against storms in helping the insurance market recover. In fact, Donelon says in 2014 Louisiana homeowner’s rates rose by just 2.8-percent on average…

CUT 4 (10)  “or five years”

He says that’s the lowest average rate increase since 2005. Many major insurers pulled out of coastal regions after the storms, allowing smaller, more regional insurance companies to move in. Donelon says the tripling of the state’s Guaranty Fund Protection has given consumers confidence to purchase coverage from these smaller companies…

CUT 5 (07) “five hundred thousand dollars”

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

State Police say they are looking for a driver they believe is at fault in a fatal hit and run crash in St. Mary Parish Tuesday evening in Bayou Vista. Trooper Dustin Dwight says the preliminary investigation revealed 31-year-old Mark Montie Jr. of Pineville was pulling out of the Wal-Mart on US 90 and failed to yeild to an oncoming motorcycle…:

CUT 6 (06)  “the crash”

Dwight says after the crash, Montie stopped at the scene and then fled on foot. He is being sought by law enforcement throughout the state at this time. He says the deceased motorcyclist is identified as 22-year-old Jerome Rudolph Jr. of Patterson…:

CUT 7 (08)  “in this case”

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

State Police say a suspect who was shot by a Union Parish Sheriff’s Deputy and a trooper Tuesday night is in serious condition. Troop F spokesman Michael Reichardt says the sheriff’s office was called out to a disturbance around 10:30pm in Downsville regarding a man who was apparently threatening family members with a firearm…:

CUT 8 (11)  “all their commands”

Reichardt says charges are pending against the suspect pending his release from a Shreveport hospital where he is now in serious condition. He says they believe the man did not listen to cops when they told him to put his weapon down…:

CUT 9 (10)  “by air”

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

The Board of Elementary and Secondary Education approves a plan that will help more low income families receive federal assistance so they can send their young children to daycare. State Superintendent of Education John White says today’s action provides 10 million dollars in subsidies to assist impoverished parents….

cut 10 (06)  “good things”

The program is called the Child Care Assistance Program. At one time there were about 40-thousand children enrolled, now there are only 15-thousand. White says hopefully this federal assistance can get more kids in daycare…

cut 11 (08)  “working families”

White says because of the additional 10-million dollars, the maximum annual subsidy to send a child to day care will increase from 17-hundred dollars to four-thousand dollars…

cut 12 (05)  “for families”

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

A Jefferson Davis Parish Sheriff’s deputy is being called a hero today after rescuing three people who were sleeping inside a burning home in Lacassine. Sheriff’s Office Spokesperson Chris Ivey says Deputy Josh Bienvenu used his quick thinking after driving by the burning house at around 3:40 Tuesday morning while on duty.

cut 13 (08)  “the family up”

Ivey says when Deputy Bienvenu arrived on the scene, the front of the residence was completely engulfed in flames up to the roof. He says Bienvenu was able to enter the home and locate three occupants sleeping.

cut 14 (05)  “any injury”

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

A state panel continues to look at the cost of the death penalty in Louisiana. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (29) “I’m Eric Gill”

______________________________________

Those who love spicy foods are in luck, a study finds spicy foods can add more years to your life. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

______________________________________

According to United Way of Acadiana, nearly $250,000 collected for the victims of the tragic Lafayette Theater shooting last month. Scott Carwile has more…

Cut 3 (31) “I’mScott Carwile”

______________________________________

A state panel continues to look at the cost of the death penalty in Louisiana. New Orleans Senator JP Morrell says the purpose of the Capital Punishment Fiscal Impact Commission is to determine whether the public believes that enforcing the death penalty is worth the cost. Morrell says the legislature has noticed that it takes several years to implement capital punishment…

cut 4  (07)  “a single person”

Morrell says some say it could cost tens of millions of dollars to execute a single person, especially when you factor in the cost of the numerous appeals that are associated with the process. He says a big problem they are having is determining what costs should be included in the overall figure…

Cut 5  (09)  “near there, yet”

He says the commission report is due to the legislature during the next legislative session. Morrell says the ultimate goal is to present these figures to the public and let them decide if it is worth having the death penalty in Louisiana…

Cut 6 (09)  “higher education”

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Southerners are in luck, a new study claims eating spicy foods can add more time to your life. The study conducted by the Harvard School of Public Health and the Chinese Academy of Medical Science found people consuming spicy foods six to seven times a week lived longer than those eating spicy foods just once a week. Dr. Herbert Muncie, Professor of Family Medicine at the LSU School of Medicine in New Orleans says these benefits could be due to a couple reasons.

CUT 7 (05)  “fewer calories”

Muncie says capsaicin, which is an ingredient in chili peppers, has been associated with health benefits and is an anti-inflammatory often used with arthritis. He says it’s helpful for people to know this information but more research needs to be done on the topic.

Cut 8  (06)  “this point” 

Muncie says it makes those who eat spicy foods frequently feel a little better about their diet and advises patients to go ahead and add more spices to their meals.

Cut 9 (06) “like that”

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According to the United Way of Acadiana, about $250,000 has been raised for the 11 victims of last month’s Lafayette theater shooting. President and CEO Margaret Trahan says most of the money was raised by businesses and retailers who have sold t-shirts, yard signs and jewelry.

Cut 10 (12) “or injured”

Pixus Printing raised the most significant amount of money, about $215,000, to be donated to the victims. Trahan says after those injured are taken care of, they want also create funds for those in the theater who suffered mental and emotional trauma from witnessing the massacre.

cut 11 (09) “for that” 

Trahan says she’s extremely proud of the donations, which were mostly raised locally. She says the funding would be to defray costs and help with immediate expenses, like income losses, medical bills and funeral costs, that resulted from this incident.

cut 12 (10) “this tragedy”

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A 54-year-old man from East Feliciana Parish charged with a hate crime, now faces a felony cruelty charge for allegedly pulling at the pants of a 12-year-old boy and using a racial slur. The incident was caught on video inside a gas station last month. District Attorney Sam D’Aquilla says the victim was not physically injured, but…

Cut 13 (09)  “pain and suffering”

A grand jury in East Felicana Parish handed down the cruelty indictment against Ronnie Barnes of Clinton. The felony charge has been added to the simple battery and hate crime charges the East Feliciana Sheriff’s office issued at the time of the incident. D’Aquilla says he plans on prosecuting Barnes on all three charges

Cut 14 (06) “2015”

According to authorities, the victim’s pants were sagging a little bit and the child also wore dread locks. D’Aquilla says they believe a factor into why the incident started is because the 12-year-old is black

Cut 15  (10)  “may have”

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No practice today for the Saints. That’s because they are getting ready for tomorrow night’s preaseason game at Baltimore. It’s the first of four exhibition games and Coach Sean Payton is glad they have four preseason games before it starts for real

Cut 16  (15)  “four is perfect”

Many NFL fans have suggested that there should only be two preseason games. But Payton says guys like, former Saints running back Pierre Thomas, may not have made the team, if there were only two preseason games

Cut 17 (20) “two game exposures” 

Thursday’s preseason game is important for players like safety Vinnie Sunseri, who is on the bubble to make the team. Sunseri has been able to get more reps because fellow safety Jairus Byrd remains on the physically unable to perform list…

Cut 18 (19) “really easy”

Cut 19 (09) “good portion of them”

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A family cat was found sliced in half on a golf course in Covington. Emelie Gunn has more on this gruesome dismemberment…

CUT 1 (30)  “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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The Office of Alcohol and Tobacco Control announce that they issued over 800 citations to Louisiana establishments for selling alcohol and tobacco to minors during their 2015 Summer Crackdown. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 2 (29)  “I’m Eric Gill”

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A beloved family cat was found mutilated on a golf course in Covington. Charlie was a friendly, 2-year-old cat, adopted last year from the St. Tammany Humane Society by the Worthington family. The family contacted the police but are still unsure of who committed this crime. Becky Worthington says they’re positive Charlie wasn’t killed by another animal.

CUT 3 (12)  “innocent animal”

Cat slicing has become an epidemic around the country, not just in St. Tammany Parish, according to the Louisiana Humane Society. Executive Director Jeff Dorson says they’re concerned this crime is being copied and shared around social media. He believes this is a bigger problem than authorities think it is.

CUT 4 (10)  “a felony”

Dorson says they’re turning to social media to get animal rights activists to take a stand against cruelty and call the sheriff’s office. He says these cases should be fully investigated to ensure it stops and doesn’t become a gateway to bigger crimes.

CUT 5 (06) “other violence”

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State Police say an unrestrained infant is dead after a single vehicle crash in Morehouse Parish. Trooper Michael Reichardt says 23-year-old Shatora Hall of Bastrop lost control of her vehicle, ran off the roadway, and struck a tree…

CUT 6 (09)  “of her injuries”

He says 1-year-old Aniyia Worsham, who was riding in the lap of a front seat passenger, was ejected from the vehicle and died from her injuries. Worsham was the only person in the vehicle who was not restrained. The five other people in the car survived the crash with only minor injuries. Reichardt says the vehicle was overcrowded…

CUT 7 (09)  “in that car”

He says Hall has been charged with reckless operation and a no child restraint violation. Reichardt says this is a terrible situation that could have been easily averted…

CUT 8 (06)  “child restraint”

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The Office of Alcohol and Tobacco Control announce that they issued over 800 citations to Louisiana establishments for selling alcohol and tobacco to minors as a result of their 2015 Summer Crackdown operation. ATC Commissioner Troy Hebert says nearly 5,500 compliance checks resulted in 821 citations statewide. He says these numbers are consistent with previous years…

CUT 9 (11)  “underage operatives”

The summer initiative is an attempt by ATC to prevent access of alcohol and tobacco to underage persons. Violators face fines up to $5,000 and are subject to criminal and/or administrative charges. Hebert says, more importantly, it jeopardizes a business’s ability to sell tobacco and alcohol in the state…

cut 10 (09)  “doing so responsibly”

Of the citations issued, 460 were issued for alcohol sales to a minor and 361 for tobacco sales. Hebert says they will continue to educate businesses across the state to get the compliance rate higher. He says nothing good can come out of selling alcohol and tobacco to someone underage…

cut 11 (09)  “somebody else”

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Slidell Police released video today of a 50-year-old motorcyclist who survives a horrific accident with an 18-wheeler.  Public Information Officer Daniel Seuzeneau says usually when you hear of an accident like this you assume the worst but it’s a miracle he survived.

cut 12 (12)  “the ditch”

Seuzeneau says the driver of the 18-wheeler, 56-year-old Timothy Duimstra of Michigan, apparently passed out at the wheel when he made a hard right hitting the motorcycle waiting to turn onto the main road. He says Duimstra was found to be under the influence of both drugs and alcohol during the incident.

cut 13 (07)  “motor vehicle”

To view the video of the crash, visit louisianaradionetwork.com. Seuzeneau says the entire accident was caught on surveillance video by a local business. He says the driver of the motorcycle is still in serious condition but is expected to survive.

cut 14 (10)  “full recovery”

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A report by the Centers for Disease Control shows Louisiana’s average school start time of 7:40AM is the earliest in the country. Is it too early? Eric Gill has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Eric Gill”

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The Calcasieu Parish town of DeQuincy was named the safest place to live in Louisiana by an online study released recently.

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Michelle Souther”

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The Louisiana Department of Education collected about 30,000 comments from an online portal about wanted changes to Common Core in the state. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Are Louisiana schools starting too early in the morning? According to a report by the Centers for Disease Control, early start times contribute to lack of sleep in teens, which negatively impacts their health and academic performance. Sleep expert, Dr. David Thomas of the Neuromedical Center, says this information is nothing new…

cut 4  (07)  “and-a-half”

Louisiana’s average school start time for public middle and high schools, 7:40AM, is the earliest in the country. The report states the national average is 8:03AM. Thomas says that extra sleep could have a positive effect on kids…

Cut 5  (09)  “to an hour”

The CDC recommends schools start their day at 8:30AM or later. Thomas says technology, like cell phones, is keeping people up later these days. He says it’s important for parents to ensure kids get the proper amount of sleep…

Cut 6 (07)  “for a teenager”

(Teenagers should get between 8.5 and 9.5 hours of sleep daily according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.)

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In an online study conducted by Only in Your State, the Calcasieu Parish town of DeQuincy was named the safest place to live in Louisiana. DeQuincy Mayor Lawrence Henagan says he is happy that his town of nearly 3,200 residents is a place with no violent crimes…

CUT 7 (05)  “very dedicated”

The study took statistics from the FBI crime reports in 2013 to rank the top 11 safest places to live in Louisiana. The statistics reported that DeQuincy had the highest population in the state with zero violent crimes. Mayor Henagan also credits the residents for this success…

Cut 8  (05)  “living here” 

Blanchard, Golden Meadow, Berwick and Haughton round out the top five in the online list of safest cities in the state. Henagan says that extra patrols at night help contribute to the safety of the people in the town on a larger scale.

Cut 9 (04) “at night”

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It’s much cheaper for teens to stay on their parent’s car insurance, rather than going out on their own. According to InsuranceQuotes.com, it costs 26 percent more for young adults to get their own car insurance policy in Louisiana than staying on their parent’s. Senior analyst Laura Adams says this number is eight percent higher than the national average.

Cut 10 (11) “own policy”

Adams says there are some advantages that mom and dad can pass on to their young driver, like having discounts because of multiple vehicles or good credit. She knows many parents want to push their teens to be on their own when it comes to insurance but suggests making an agreement.

cut 11 (08) “lower rate” 

Adams says even if a teen goes on their own policy, there are some ways to save on the cost of a young driver. She says young adults can qualify for a good student discount by keeping around a “B” average and staying proactive with sending in their results.

cut 12 (10) “best deal”

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The State Department of Education says they’ve collected nearly 30,000 comments on its online portal from people about possible changes to Common Core in Louisiana. The comments came from 723 people and 23 percent were parents. Regina Sanford, the chairperson of the standards review committee, says these opinions were collected from July 8^th through August 5^th.

Cut 13 (11)  “recommendations”

Sanford says the first public hearing on possible Common Core revisions is set for August 19^th. She says the work they’re going to do is very important for the students and faculty in the state.

Cut 14 (11) “move forward”

Sanford says BESE will make recommendations in March, which will then get legislative review and have to be approved by the next governor. Public comments will continue to be collected through the fall online at louisianabelieves.com.

Cut 15  (08)  “Louisiana students”

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The New Orleans Saints final practice of the week is today then they’ll fly out Wednesday to Baltimore for Thursday’s preseason game against the Ravens. They started the second week of training camp with a full pads practice at the Greenbrier in West Virginia and worked for a little over two hours. Coach Sean Payton says he likes what he’s seeing

Cut 16  (14)  “pretty well”

Payton says these first two weeks of training camp are about getting everyone up to speed…:

Cut 17 (13) “being Baltimore” 

LSU went through the first full squad practice of the fall and the battle for the starting quarterback position is far from over. Coach Les Miles said that sophomore Brandon Harris continues to get the first snaps, but if it will be he or Anthony Jennings that will start on September 5th against McNeese has not been decided.

Cut 18 (09) “to evolve”

Jennings started 12 games for the Tigers a year ago, passing for 1,611 yards and 11 touchdowns. Harris played in nine games with one start last year as a true freshman. He threw for 452 yards and six touchdowns and added another 159 yards and three scores on the ground. Miles says both guys continue to show improvement every day and there is not a certain person he has in his mind that will start at QB…:

Cut 19 (09) “good portion of them”