11:30 LRN Newscast July 31

US Senator Bill Cassidy officially endorses Attorney General Jeff Landry for Governor. Landry is the perceived front-runner in the race and is one of five Republicans who’ve declared their intent to run. Cassidy issued his support this morning.

Cut 3 (09) “…of the state.” 

Cassidy says Landry also supports coastal restoration, green energy, and better access to mental health services.

And speaking of elections, Have you received a text message from a candidate running for office this fall? This is becoming more and more common and LSU Political Science Professor Robert Hogan says it’s an easy way to get your name out there:

Cut 13 (11) “…name recognition”
The FCC says political text messages can be sent without permission as long as the sender does not use auto-dialing technology.

Despite a decrease in demand, the cost of gasoline in the Bayou State jumped up fifteen cents since last week. Today’s statewide average for a gallon of regular gasoline is $3.36 according to AAA. Fuel analyst Don Redman says supply is pushing prices higher.

Cut 7 (11)  “…weakening supply.” 

Redman says prices for crude were at 67 dollars a barrel last month.

Construction for a new warehouse for Second Harvest Food Bank in Houma will get underway in August. President of the food bank Natalie Jayroe says after Katrina they opened a facility in Lafayette, and they hope to have a total of four after the expansion.

Cut 11 (09)  “…resilient hubs.”

Second Harvest serves the southern half of the state.