The Ruston High Bearcats are getting a new logo after a request from Rutgers University to do so. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”

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Saturday marks 50 years since Hurricane Camille ravaged the north-central Gulf Coast. Matt Doyle spoke with State Climatologist Barry Keim about the storm’s legacy.

cut  2 (28) I’m Matt Doyle”  

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The Ruston High Bearcats are getting a new logo after Rutgers University asked the school to change it.  Both use an identical block R, but Rutgers holds the trademark.  Principal Dan Gressett says the university was not mean spirited in their cease and desist request.

Cut 3 (09) “…ready to roll.”

Gressett says the school is not seeing much pushback from the community as the block R logo has only been in use for the last ten years.

Cut 4 (08) “…I’ve been here.”

Gressett says the high school and the university has a memorandum of understanding over the logo’s use, but no one is going to court over the issue.

Cut 5 (07) “…was totally false.”
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The President’s decision to delay implementing a new 10 percent tariff on a range of items from China likely spares Krewe members increased prices on beads.

The tariffs were set to take effect on September 15^th, but that sparked fears Christmas shoppers could have sticker shock. December 15^th is the new date, and Beads by the Dozen president Dan Kelly says…

Cut 6 (10) “…imposed”

Kelly says a ten percent tariff would have translated to about a seven percent increase on retail prices for customers. That can really add up for big throwers…

Cut 7 (10) “…merchandise”

If the tariff schedule had not changed, a majority of the beads available for retail would have been slapped with the increases.

Cut 8 (10) “…fifteen”

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Saturday marks the 50th anniversary of Hurricane Camille’s devastating landfall along the Mississippi coast in 1969. Before Hurricane Katrina, Camille was the Gulf Coast’s defining storm. State Climatologist Barry Keim says Camile certainly had Katrina beat in terms of hurricane-force winds

Cut 9 (09) “…per hour.”

Camile formed in the Caribbean just south of Cuba before heading to the north-central Gulf Coast.

Keim says the impact was so devastating that it led to the creation of the Saffir-Simpson Scale, which categorized hurricanes in a way regular people could understand.

Cut 10 (09) “…told”

The system is one of only four Cat 5s to make landfall, those being the Labor Day Hurricane of 35’, Camile in 69’, Andrew in 92’, and Michael last year.

Camille had a limited impact on Louisiana outside of the far eastern coastlines due to it’s unusually small size, but Keim says it was still a memorable event for those in the way…

Cut 11 (11) “…Louisiana.”

Camille is thought to be responsible for 259 deaths, and 9.7 billion dollars’ worth of damage adjusted for inflation. It cut a swath from the coast all the way up to Virginia where it dumped 31 inches of rain.

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Cops are stepping up patrols to get impaired drivers off the road with the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” national law enforcement campaign.  Louisiana Highway Safety Commission Executive Director Lisa Freeman says you can expect to see more officers doing their part to combat drunk and drug-impaired drivers between now and Labor Day.

Cut 12 (07) “…for road users.”

Recent stats indicate 376 people died in traffic crashes around the country during the Labor Day holiday.  Freeman says efforts to curtail inebriated drivers in the bayou state are making an impact.

Cut 13 (07) “…numbers at bay.”

Freeman says between cabs, rideshare services, and designated drivers, there is no excuse for getting behind the wheel if you’ve had anything that could impair your driving.  Beyond the risk of hurting yourself or others, there will be legal ramifications.

Cut 14 (09) “…are beefed up.”

The Louisiana Bond Commission gives approval to a 450-million dollar plan to upgrade the Superdome. Jeff Palermo has more

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The investigation into alleged repeated misuse of funds by former State Police Superintendent Mike Edmonson ends without action being taken. Matt Doyle spoke with the former Colonel’s attorney…

cut  2 (30) I’m Matt Doyle”  

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Former Lake Charles Police officer Robert Hammac has pleaded guilty in a federal courtroom to using excessive force during a police chase in 2017. U-S Attorney David Joseph says when the chase ended, Hammac ran to the front passenger door and grabbed the defendant

Cut 3 (09) “…additional times”

Joseph says the victim was not resisting in any way or posing a threat. He says the Department of Justice supports police officers, but Hammac’s actions betray the badge and the public’s trust

Cut 4 (09) “…in general”

Hammac will be sentenced in November and Joseph says the 45-year-old faces up to ten years in prison

Cut 5 (09) “…accountable”

Hammac pleaded guilty to a single count of deprivation of rights under color of law.

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The State Bond Commission has approved a 450-million dollar financing plan to pay for renovations to the 44-year-old Superdome. The state will spend 90-million dollars on the project, the Superdome Commission 210-million dollars and the Saints will put up the rest. Saints President Dennis Lauscha

Cut 6 (08) “…150-million”

Renovations will begin after this football season and take four years. Lauscha says the planned improvements will benefit the fan, expanded concourses, more concession stands and replacing the ramps with escalators and elevators….

Cut 7 (08) “…be comfortable”

Superdome Commission Chairman Doug Thornton says these renovations are designed to improve an iconic facility…

Cut 8 (12) “…annual basis”

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Former St. Tammany Sheriff Jack Strain pleads not guilty to charges of aggravated rape, aggravated incest, indecent behavior with a juvenile, and sexual battery.  Loyola law professor Dane Ciolino says despite the fact that some of the accusations date back to when 56-year-old Strain was 17, there is no statute of limitations.

Cut 9 (08) “…enough timely brought.”

The most recent accusations are fifteen years old.  Ciolino says the centerpiece of the defense will likely be the age of the charges as well as putting the criminal background of one of the accusers on trial.

Cut 10 (10) “…are four victims.”

Ciolino expects Strains’ legal defense to also lean on his years of public service.

Ciolino says at this point the trial moves into discovery as the defense tries to get a hold of police reports and evidence.

Cut 11 (08) “…perhaps psychological experts.”

The allegations carry up to a mandatory life sentence.

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Former State Police Superintendent Mike Edmonson has been cleared in an investigation into his alleged repeated misuse of department funds during his tenure.

A Legislative auditor’s report detailed a department funded “side trip” to Las Vegas for troopers, Edmonson living rent-free at the state police compound, and other violations.  Edmonson Attorney Gray Sexton spoke with LRN about the decision.

Cut 12 (08) “…report”

According to the report the long-time Superintendent was also having his vehicles repaired by state workers.

Edmonson left State Police two years ago after coming under fire for the audit’s findings. Sexton says any actions his client did take did not meet the threshold of an ethics violation.

Cut 13 (12) “inquiry”

Current State Police Colonel Kevin Reeves agreed with the findings of the Auditor’s report two years ago when it was released.

Sexton says if his client had violated any ethics laws during his tenure, he’s confident that the Louisiana government or the feds would have pursued charges.

Cut 14 (12) “…misconduct”‘

Edmondson served from 2008-2017.

A new poll shows nearly all Louisianans want action on coastal restoration, and a strong majority would support higher taxes if it meant saving our coast. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle”

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The man accused of punching comedian Andy Dick outside a New Orleans nightclub early Saturday morning has been arrested. I’m Brooke Thorington…

cut  2 (28) I’m Brooke Thorington”  

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A poll shows near unanimous support for coastal restoration efforts, strong majority support for sediment diversion projects, and majority support for taxes dedicated to funding the projects. The poll shows 98 percent of Louisianans want the government to tackle coastal erosion. Pollster Bernie Pinsonat says no other state issue has that much support.

Cut 3 (10) “…the boards”

77 percent of respondents believe coastal erosion will impact them within the next ten years.

Authorities believe diverting large amounts of sediment from the Mississippi River into the wetlands is the best policy. 55 percent of Louisianans are familiar with that concept, and…

Cut 4 (09) “…new land.”

That’s pollster Greg Rigamer who says support for sediment diversion is even above 60 percent in coastal parishes whose fishing industries would be impacted.

63 percent said they would support a state tax dedicated to coastal restoration projects. Pinsonat says 2/3rds support for a tax is a crucial number for the Legislature…

Cut 5 (08) “…payers”

Support levels varied from region to region, with only 49 percent of north Louisianans supporting a coastal restoration tax.

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Saints Quarterback Drew Brees has teamed up with Governor John Bel Edwards to help get the word out about the state’s new Veterans First Business Initiative. The two shot a P-S-A together and Edwards says the program will promote veteran-owned businesses through certification…

Cut 6 (08) “…your business”

The goal is to encourage consumers to do business with Louisiana’s veteran-owned firms. In the P-S-A, Brees encourages the public to visit l-a-veterans-first-dot-org to search for Louisiana veteran-owned businesses

Cut 7 (06) “…their team.”

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Two Eunice men, 21-year-old Logan Bertrand, and 18-year-old Carlos Juan Flores, have been arrested for setting fire to a neighboring mobile home. State Fire Marshal spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says the home had recently been vacated and there were two separate attempts to burn the structure down.

Cut 8 (06) “…as being involved.”

The two have been charged with simple arson and criminal trespassing. Rodrigue says no motive was discovered in when the suspects were questioned.

Cut 9 (10) “…with our deputies.”

Rodrigue says the fire is one of two to rock the Eunice community in recent days, including an unrelated blaze in a fourplex that displaced the families that lived there.

Cut 10 (09) “…other as well.”

No one was injured in the fires.

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Medical marijuana may be legal but it’s still against the law to drive while under the influence of the substance, even if you have a prescription.

State Police Lt. Nick Manale says you can be charged a DWI under any type of impairment that causes a driver to operate their vehicle in an unsafe way.

Cut 11 (10) “…different.”

A legal analyst suggests keeping your medical marijuana prescription, or proof of your prescription with you when you travel if you use it.

Medical marijuana is designed to not include some of the psychoactive properties of recreational pot, but Manale says the substance can still impact your perception.

Cut 12 (07) “…ability”

Due to the effects of THC, employers still have a legal right to deny you work if you test positive, even if you have a prescription.

If you are using medical marijuana Manale says know that officers are now required to issue blood tests in more than just fatal crashes, and the results could be used against you in court.

Cut 13 (12) “or not”

Marijuana can stay in your system for up to 90 days.

Be prepared for dangerous heat levels over the next couple of days. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Matt Doyle has the story on why you should wake up early tomorrow morning and to watch the famed Perseid Meteor shower…

cut  2 (32) I’m Matt Doyle”  

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The National Weather Service has issued its first excessive heat warning of the year for the northern half of the state until Tuesday night. Meteorologist Gary Chatelain says heat indices will climb over 110-degrees

Cut 3 (09) “…gets soaked”

99-degrees is the forecasted high for Shreveport and Monroe. Tomorrow, Alexandria could see a heat index of 110-degrees. Chatelain says heat-related issues can develop quickly when heat indices get this high…

Cut 4 (10) “…it quickly.”

The southern half of the state is under a heat advisory. Heat indices could range from 105 to 113 degrees along the I-10-I-12 corridor. Chatelain says winds out of the southwest are helping to produce the dangerous heat levels. He says we could see a break from the extreme heat on Wednesday

Cut 5 (13) “…rainfall”

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Louisiana is one of only three states in the nation where drivers can buy gas for under $2 a gallon.  The statewide average for a gallon of gasoline has dipped 8 cents over the last week to $2.24.  GasBuddy.com spokesperson Patrick Dehaan says some stations around the capital city are bringing down the average.

Cut 6 (09) “…at one station.”

About two dozen stations in Louisiana are selling gas for less than $2.  Texas and Oklahoma are the other two states where gas can be purchased for under $2.

Dehaan says the escalating trade tensions between the US and China can take credit for the relief at the pump.

Cut 7 (09) “…goes down anyway.”

Dehaan says it is possible the statewide average for a gallon could drop to below $2 by Thanksgiving, but there are factors that could hinder that.

Cut 8 (12) “…go back up.”

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Tomorow morning will be your best chance to catch the famed annual Perseid meteor shower. Best viewing will be just after 4AM until sunrise.  LSU Astronomy Professor Brad Schaefer says for best viewing find a wide-open space away from light pollution and give your eyes at least ten minutes to adjust to the darkness.

Cut 9 (11) “…do it”

With optimal conditions, you can see one meteor a minute with the dashes of light emanating from the Perseid constellation.

The brilliant display comes courtesy of the Comet Swift-Tuttle’s yearly voyage around the sun. Schaefer says every year around August 12^th the Earth’s orbit intersects with the trail of sand grains the comet leaves behind as it travels through the solar system.

Cut 10 (08) “…ice ball.”

Schaefer says it’s unknown just how long the shower has existed, but Arabic records indicate it could be at least 800 years old.

The meteorites are hurtling through the solar system at 25-30 miles a second. Schaefer says the “shooting stars” are formed from the friction of the speeding objects crossing the Earth’s atmosphere…

Cut 11 (06) “…can see.”

________________________________

Louisiana sees a 59 percent decrease in the number of wildfires when comparing 2018 to 2008.

State Agriculture and Forestry Commissioner Mike Strain says Louisiana had 1,638 wildfires in 2008, but only 676 wildfires last year. He credits the substantial decrease to a successful public education campaign.

Cut 12 (04) “…on fire”

The commissioner also credits a successful effort to do some controlled burns across the state for keeping light sparks from turning into massive infernos.

Cut 13 (08) “the ground”

The Department of Agriculture runs outreach programs that help landowners learn how to properly do a prescribed burn.

Arson cases are also down 82 percent, going from 893 in 2008 to 160 in 2018. Strain credits a cooperative effort between his department and the Fire Marshal for putting pyromaniacs behind bars.

Cut 14 (10) “…of arson”‘

Strain says those 25 arson arrests were linked back to 5,240 acres of burned timberland.

Attorneys for the family of Alton Sterling, who was fatally shot by former Baton Rouge Officer Blane Salamoni, release a report alleging disturbing behavior by the officer at a crime scene in 2014…

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Matt Doyle”

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Baton Rouge has been selected to host the College Baseball Hall of Fame’s Induction Ceremony and it’s possible the college baseball hall of fame could re-locate to the Capitol City. Jeff Palermo has the story…

cut  2 (31) I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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A teenager riding in the back of an SUV in Terrebonne Parish is dead after a fatal crash and the vehicle’s adult driver has been charged with her second DWI. State Trooper Jesse LaGrange says 35-year-old Reva Hood of Houma drove her GMC Yukon ran off the road, directly into a tree…

Cut 3 (10) “…crash”

Hood was also been charged with Obstruction, Careless Operation, and Interfering with an Officer.

The victim, 16-year-old Makayla Gregoire of Houma, was unrestrained while riding in the back seat. LaGrange says riding in the back can give passengers a false sense of security.

Cut 4 (11) “…that force”

The accident occurred on LA 57 near Canebrake Avenue north of Dulac.

Authorities say Hood blew a .126 blood-alcohol level on the scene, above the .08 legal limit. LaGrange says that’s unacceptable, and a devastating loss for the community that could have been avoided.

Cut 5 (10) “…you are”

Ridesharing was legalized for statewide operation in the last Legislative session.

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A report accuses former Baton Rouge cop Blane Salamoni, who fatally shot Alton Sterling in 2016, of preventing EMS from saving a shooting victim In 2014.  The report was released by Sterling family attorneys and is a complaint filed by an EMS worker who says Salamoni delayed the team, telling them the victim had died, while he was reportedly still writhing on the ground.

Cut 6 (08) “…too long.”

That’s Attorney Chris Stewart, who is representing the family in a civil case against the city of Baton Rouge.

Stewart says after misleading EMS about the patient’s status, Salamoni became hostile to the responding paramedic…

Cut 7 (09) “…the patient.”

The attorney adds it’s just one of several disturbing incidents that should have resulted in Salamoni’s earlier termination.

Salamoni was reportedly not disciplined for his actions in 2014. Stewart says it’s an indictment against those who still support the former officer.

Cut 8 (12) “…this case.”

If the family’s civil suit against the city is not settled the case will go to trial in 2020.

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A 40-year-old woman from Rapides Parish was killed in a U-T-V crash in Natchitoches Parish on Sunday. State Police Trooper Scott Moreau says a 16-year-old was driving the U-T-V and the juvenile lost control…

Cut 9 (09) “…16-year-old”

The juvenile received minor injuries, while the passenger, 40-year-old Amanda Preble, died from her injuries. The wreck occurred on Cunningham Camp Road. Moreau says it’s illegal to operate A-T-Vs or side-by-sides on a public roadway…

Cut 10 (07) “…it’s unsafe”

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The National College Baseball Hall of Fame will hold its 2019 induction ceremony in Baton Rouge and the Hall could build a new museum in the Capitol City. Governor John Bel Edwards says Louisiana residents are passionate about college baseball, so it would be a natural fit…

Cut 11 (08) “…in Baton Rouge”

The 2019 induction ceremony will take place on November 2nd at the Raising Cane’s River Center in downtown Baton Rouge. President and CEO of the College Baseball Foundation, Mike Gustafson, says Baton Rouge is a candidate to land the Hall of Fame, because of its support of LSU baseball

Cut 12 (12) “…for a reason.”

The 2006 inaugural Hall of Fame class included legendary LSU baseball coach Skip Bertman. Ceremonies have been in Lubbock, Texas, but the foundation is looking for a new home. Sports B-R President Patrick Coogan says a new College Baseball Hall of Fame in Baton Rouge would be more than just old uniforms and baseballs

Cut 13 (12) “…can do”

Medical marijuana products are being distributed by LSU and GB Sciences to the nine dispensary pharmacies across the state on Tuesday. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (29) “I’m Kevin Barnhart ”

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Qualifying for the fall statewide elections begin tomorrow, and so far very few incumbents look set to face a competitive race to keep their seats…

Cut 2 (30 ) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

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There were two more mass shootings in the United States over the weekend. Jeff Palermo has reaction from elected officials in Louisiana..

Cut 3 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Medical marijuana products will be delivered to nine licensed pharmacies across the state on Tuesday. In order to be able to purchase the product, a patient will need to be diagnosed as having one of the qualifying conditions and have a prescription from a physician. Pharmacist at Medicis in Lafayette James Thibodeaux says the process is similar to filling other prescriptions.

Cut 4 (08) “…when it’s ready.”

Thibodeaux says at first the product will come in a droplet form that goes under the tongue with three different strengths to choose from. Other variations of the product are expected in the near future.

Cut 5 (11) “…anything but smokable.”

Medical marijuana products are not covered by insurance. Thibodeaux says the going price for a bottle is between $90 and $200.

Cut 6 (09) “…with the cost.”

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Tomorrow is qualifying for the fall election, and while most eyes are on the governor’s race there are some undercard competitions for other statewide offices to keep an eye on.  The most competitive appears to be Insurance Commissioner, where incumbent Jim Donelon is taking on Tim Temple, who has invested 800-thousand dollars in his own campaign. Political analyst Clancy Dubos…

Cut 7 (09) “thing”

Before last week it appeared Ag Commissioner Mike Strain could be vulnerable to a candidate who hammered him on medical marijuana delays, but the product will be hitting shelves on Tuesday…

Cut 8 (12) “that.”

Strain faces Democrats Margee Green and Charlie Greer.

No major contenders seem interested in taking on Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser or Attorney General Jeff Landry despite their high-profile offices, but DuBos says anything could happen until the 4:30PM Thursday deadline to sign up…

Cut 9 (10) “…never know”

Secretary of State and Treasurer will also be on the ballot.

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New Orleans attorney Randy Boudreaux files a lawsuit against the Louisiana Supreme Court and the Louisiana State Bar Association saying attorneys are unconstitutionally forced to pay bar fees. General Counsel at the Pelican Institute James Baehr says the association does not handle regulation like similar organizations in other states.

Cut 10 (11) “…of trade associations.”

The Supreme Court mandates that to practice law, attorneys must pay dues to the private group.  Baehr says another aspect of the suit focuses on free speech as the association will use the dues towards lobbying for issues that might not but representative of the members that are footing the bill.

Cut 11 (09) “…of those issues.”

Baehr says other states do not have a mandatory bar membership if they are not a regulatory part of the legal landscape.

Cut 12 (07) “…way to do it.”

The Louisiana State Bar Association says it’s in compliance with the law and denies the allegations that are contained in the lawsuit.

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After a four-decade plus wait, Delhi native Johnny Robinson is finally in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Robinson was a standout safety for the Kansas City Chiefs. He played in three A-F-L title games and two Super Bowls. Robinson’s last game was in 1971 and wondered why he didn’t get elected into the Hall of Fame sooner but learned God had another plan…

Cut 13 (15) “…on life ”

Former Leesville and LSU star Kevin Mawae was also enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame after a 16-year career in the NFL, in which he made eight Pro Bowls. During his acceptance speech, Mawae thanked numerous former teammates and coaches, including his first offensive line coach at LSU, Kenny Ferro…

Cut 14 (10) “…love you coach”

Former Destrehan star Ed Reed also gave an emotional speech on Saturday night as his bust was unveiled. Reed was born in Charity Hospital in New Orleans and later moved to St. Rose. He says that’s where it really began for him…

Cut 15 (14) “…interceptions.”

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LSU is expecting a big season from K’Lavon Chaisson, after missing all but one game last season because of a torn ACL. Chaisson has expectations for himself, like breaking LSU’s single season sack record…

Cut 16  (19) “…get it done”   

Chaisson is expected to be a big piece of another solid defense at LSU. Safety Grant Delpit is expected to lead the way. Chaisson on what makes Delpit a great teammate…

cut 17 (29) “like that” 

Chaisson will wear number 18, which goes each year to one of the team leaders. The five-star recruit out of Houston on the type of leader he is…

Induction ceremonies are Saturday night for the 2019 Pro Football Hall of Fame class and three of the inductees have strong connections to Louisiana. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Two of the three men on the ballot for the Governor’s race portrayed two contrasting images of the state at the Louisiana Municipal Association convention in Monroe.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

cut  2 (31) I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

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The state appears to have a surplus for the third year in a row, as Louisiana may have collected 300 million more in taxes last fiscal year. Legislative Fiscal Office Chief Economist Greg Albrecht says the surplus is mostly due to two things, one of them is the impact of the Congressional tax reform law

Cut 3 (09) “…paid”

Albrecht says the other reason is the steady elimination of a series of corporate income tax deductions over the past four years, which increased state revenue.

Cut 4 (11) “…tax”

Governor Edwards says the surplus is an example of the state’s improving economy, but Albrecht says the state’s slowly improving outlook isn’t the primary reason why revenue is up.

Cut 5 (12) “…side”

Albrecht notes the state has added money to its budgetary forecast to try and compensate for the increased revenue, but their estimates have turned out to be too conservative.

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Three former Louisiana football stars are among the eight that will be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame on Saturday. Former Baltimore Ravens safety Ed Reed went to Destrehan High School. His defensive coordinator at Destrehan and current Wildcats head coach Stephen Robicheaux says it’s a well-deserved honor

Cut 6 (09) “…another level.”

Reed spent 12 years in the NFL and holds the record for interception return yards. Robichaux says Reed is an even better person away from the field as he hosts football camps and he’s raised money to build a park in his hometown

Cut 7 (11) “…the community.”

Two former LSU Tigers are also part of the 2019 Hall of Fame Class, Johnny Robinson and Kevin Mawae. Executive Deputy athletics director Verge Ausberry says what an honor for two LSU legends…

Cut 8 (11) “…played at LSU.”

Robinson was an All-SEC running back on the Tigers 1958 national championship team. While Mawae was an all-conference performer on the offensive line for the Tigers in the early 1990s. Mawae played 16 years in the NFL and was a finalist for the Pro Football Hall of Fame for several years. Ausberry say Mawae is a class act…

Cut 9 (08) “…to your institution”

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Governor Edwards and Congressman Ralph Abraham painted two very different pictures of the current status of state at the Louisiana Municipal Association convention in Monroe.  Edwards touted his hard work in pulling the state out of its largest budget deficit and an economy that was deep in the ditch.

Cut 10 (09) “…to a better path.”

Edwards says no state in the nation has exceeded Louisiana’s rate of decline in unemployment in the last 12 months, adding the economy is the strongest in the state’s history.

Cut 11 (10) “…historic low unemployment.”

But Abraham says the state has so much more potential.

Cut 12 (10) “…better than that.”

Abraham says if elected, he’s moving the state in a new direction.

Cut 13 (10) “…of leaving Louisiana.”

The third man currently on the ballot in the Governor’s race, Eddie Rispone, was absent from the event.

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The LSU/GB Sciences medical marijuana product has been approved for distribution by the Department of Agriculture and nine licensed pharmacies will have access to it on Tuesday. Ag Commissioner Mike Strain says the treatment has undergone extensive testing for contaminants and consistency…

Cut 14 (11) “…28”

The Advocate reports the product will cost about 90 to 200 dollars a bottle at the Baton Rouge-based pharmacy.

Only those with a specific set of diseases approved by the Legislature will be allowed access to medical marijuana. Strain says that includes HIV, intractable pain, cachexia…

Cut 15 (11) “…dystrophy.”

And you can only get those prescriptions from physicians who have been approved by the Louisiana Board of Medical Examiners.

Cut 16 (08) “…pharmacy.”

Strain says you can get the list of participating doctors and pharmacies online at the board’s website

The top cop in Baton Rouge apologizes for the hiring of Blane Salamoni, the former officer accused in the shooting death of Alton Sterling. Kevin Barnhart has more on the settlement they reached with Salamoni

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”

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 A series of new laws take effect today. Brooke Thorington spoke with the lawmakers who authored two of the new additions…

cut  2 (31) I’m Brooke Thorington”  

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Congressman Ralph Abraham picks up another endorsement from a Republican lawmaker in his bid to defeat Democratic Governor John Bel Edwards this fall.  Winnfield Representative Jack McFarland says the state needs a bold conservative leader. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says the endorsements help Abraham, who has yet to launch a statewide TV ad

Cut 3 (07) “…Congressman Abraham”

Fellow GOP contender Eddie Rispone has a television ad running that touts his support for President Trump, while Abraham has yet to get on statewide TV. Pinsonat says the recent endorsements for Abraham help the U-S Representative

Cut 4 (09) “…where he is”

Governor Edwards is in the front-runner in the polls heading into the October 12th primary. Abraham is in second place, while Rispone is in third, but Rispone has a huge money advantage over the Congressman. Pinsonat says for now the endorsements help to offset Rispone’s large advantage in campaign dollars

Cut 5 (08) “…spend money”

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Baton Rouge police announce that Blane Salamoni, the officer who fired six shots into the body of Alton Sterling, will never work as a B-R-P-D officer as part of a settlement reached. Salamoni will be allowed to voluntarily resign retroactive to March 2018, instead of being fired. Police Chief Murphy Paul says Salamoni should have never been hired…

Cut 6 (10) “…process, we are sorry.”

The department has learned that Salamoni had an arrest record that he did not disclose to police when he applied to be an officer. That should have prevented him from being hired. The shooting of Sterling led to days of protest and civil unrest. Paul says the healing process continues…

Cut 7 (11) “…our officers experience.”

Paul says the Sterling shooting followed a pattern of unprofessional behavior shown by Salamoni…

Cut 8 (11) “…change the future.”

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A suite of new laws took effect today, including an effort to prevent the harassment of refs in amateur and high school sports, and an expansion of judge’s abilities to order chemical castrations.

Metairie Representative Cameron Henry’s law would allow officers to remove, and possibly arrest people who threaten physical violence against those amateur refs, but…

Cut 9 (09) “…prevail”

Jail time and fines may be a possibility if you’re arrested under this law.

Henry says he brought the legislation on request from his local playground, which was tired of dealing with raging parents…

Cut 10 (10) “…flag football”  (2x)

The law does not apply to college or professional sports environments.

Marrero Representative Patrick Connick’s bill would allow judges to sentence those who commit sexual battery to chemical castration. He says previously that wasn’t an option.

Cut 11 (09) “…in there.”

Connick says he was surprised to hear about the loophole when he was contacted by a local judge who said the option was not available in his case…

Cut 12 (12) “…battery.”

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Beginning this month Cleco customers will see an average savings of $14 a month on their power bill over the next year. Cleco spokesperson Jennifer Cahill explains why customers are now seeing a reduction.

Cut 13 (09) “…to customers”

President Trump’s federal tax law lowered corporate tax rates for utility companies. The Louisiana Public Service Commission had to approve Cleco’s plan to distribute the savings. Cahill explains how customers will see the credit on their bill.

Cut 14 (10) “…bill credit”

The power company saved $84 million in taxes. The savings benefit that Cleco customers are now receiving stems from the 2017 Congressional Tax Cuts and Jobs Act which reduced corporate tax rates across the nation. Cahill explains

Cut 15 (10) “…required to pay.”

The average Cleco customer will be credited $168 over the next year on their bill.

The Saints and Michael Thomas have reportedly agreed to a new contract that makes him the highest-paid receiver in NFL history. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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An emotional press conference took place today outside of the West Baton Rouge courthouse as family members are seeking justice in a fatal police shooting that happened last week. Matt Doyle has the story…

cut  2 (31) I’m Matt Doyle”  

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The Saints and Michael Thomas agree to a contract that makes the wide out the highest-paid receiver in NFL history. Sources say the deal is worth 100-million dollars over five years. The Voice of the Saints, Zach Streif, says it’s a huge contract, but it should not prevent the team from re-signing some of its other young stars

Cut 3 (12) “…each era”

Thomas led the NFL with 125 catches last season and no player in NFL history has caught more passes in his first three seasons in the NFL than Thomas. Streif says the contract numbers are eye-popping, but its the cost of doing business in the NFL

Cut 4 (08) “…in the city”

Thomas has been a training camp holdout. He’s been pushing for a new contract as he was set to make just over one-million dollars this year. Streif says it’s obvious Thomas outperformed his rookie deal and a new massive contract was justified…

Cut 5 (11) “…of it”

The Saints are off from training camp today but expect to see Thomas back on the practice field tomorrow with his teammates.

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Delhi Senator Francis Thompson is term-limited in the Senate but will attempt to continue his four-decade tenure in the legislature with his announcement that he’s running for the House.

Thompson says if elected he’s looking forward to returning to the more fiscally focused lower chamber, where he can use his decades of experience to help taxpayers get the most bang for their buck.

Cut 6 (11) “…is”

The Democrat could potentially be the longest actively serving member now that Senate President John Alario has decided not to attempt to return to the Legislature.

There are some concerns that the chamber flipping is against the spirit of the state’s term limit law, but Thompson says the Capitol is at it’s best when it has a few people who know all the ins and outs.

Cut 7 (11) “…was”

Thompson voted for the term limit law back in the 90s.

He’s one of north Louisiana’s more prominent lawmakers, and the 77-year-old says he’s still got plenty of gas left in the tank to maintain his stay in the Legislature.

Cut 8 (07) “…to go.”

Thompson previously served in the Louisiana House from 1975 to 2007.

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The family of a black man killed last week during an encounter with a West Baton Rouge Sheriff’s deputy is demanding justice. An autopsy shows 38-year-old Josef Richardson was fatally shot in the back of the neck. Authorities say deputies were serving a warrant at a motel near Port Allen when Richardson was shot. Richardson’s daughter says her dad didn’t deserve to die

Cut 9 (09) “…not right”

State Police says they are conducting a thorough and impartial investigation. Neither L-S-P or the West Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Department has released the identity of the deputy involved in the shooting. Richardson’s daughter says she does not want her dad’s death to go down as an unsolved crime…

Cut 10 (09) “…no peace”  (2x)

Richardson was in the motel room with his girlfriend, who is facing drug charges. But investigators have not released any information on why the deputy fired his weapon. Richardson’s nephew says Josef was not a violent person…

Cut 11 (07) “…what happened.”

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The LSU football team reports for preseason camp tomorrow with expectations as high as they’ve been in several years. The media has picked LSU to finish second in the SEC West and the Tigers are expected to be ranked in the Top 10 in the preseason polls. Coach Ed Orgeron says he’s told his team not to listen to the hype

Cut 12 (11) “…that’s it.”

LSU has been plagued by inconsistent play on offense, but Orgeron believes in starting quarterback Joe Burrow and the Tigers return their leading receiver from last season, Justin Jefferson

Cut 13 (12) “…Trey Palmer”

A West Monroe man is in jail after pretending to be a woman online and convincing another man to drive from California to Ouachita Parish.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”

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The two Republicans in the governor’s race have made some big moves this week. Matt Doyle has the story.

cut  2 (31) I’m Matt Doyle”  

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48-year-old James William Eaton of West Monroe is in jail after posing online as a woman and luring another man to drive from California to Ouachita Parish thinking he was marrying that woman.  Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Glen Springfield says the victim claims to have sent Eaton a total of $1000.

Cut 3 (10) “…other gifts too.”

When questioned, Eaton allegedly told deputies he did not know the victim and never received anything from him. But Springfield says investigators found a box mailed to Eaton’s alter ego “Rose Williams” from the victim.

Cut 4 (13) “…in the box.”

Springfield believes Eaton thought he’d never end up actually meeting the victim and says this case is another reminder to be careful with who you interact with online.

Cut 5 (13) “…was a scam.”

It is unclear how long the relationship had been going on.

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The GOP side of the governor’s race is starting to heat up with Eddie Rispone opening a substantial statewide advertisement blast and Congressman Abraham securing a major endorsement.

Abraham may be behind his fellow Republican in funding, but he continues to snag party endorsements, this time from a legislative heavyweight, House Republican Chairman Lance Harris.

Cut 6 (09) “…with him”

Harris says he’s seeing a lot of support for Abraham in his Alexandria based district.

After the Alexandria Republican’s attempt in the last session to roll back a 2018 sales tax failed, he got a call from the Congressman, who vowed, if elected, that he would get that effort over the finish line.

Cut 7 (06) “…pay it”

The Rispone campaign adds they too would make it a priority to repeal the sales tax.

The Congressman may be scoring GOP endorsements, but Rispone’s camp is beginning to utilize its significant financial advantage by putting the candidate’s face on TVs across the state…

Cut 8 (11) “…Louisiana.”

That’s Rispone campaign communications director Anthony Ramirez who says expect to see the candidate’s message on everything from nightly news to Monday Night Football.

The Baton Rouge businessman may be trailing Abraham in name recognition, but his camp is planning to use that five million dollars plus ad buy, to send a clear message to a lynchpin GOP constituency.

Cut 9 (10) “…electorate”

The primary will be held October 12^th, and if no candidate cracks 50 percent of the vote, a run-off will be held November 16^th.

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Three people are dead including a toddler, all from Olla, after an 18-wheeler rear-ended the Ford Fiesta they were traveling in, causing the vehicle to overturn. State Trooper Scott Moreau says no one was properly restrained in the Ford being driven by a 17-year-old girl, the only survivor in the vehicle.

Cut 10 (09) “…on the scene.”

The two of the deceased were identified as 45-year-old Vicki Sears, 24-year-old Brittany Martin, and the toddler was unnamed. The driver of the Ford sustained moderate injuries. Moreau says this wreck is another reminder that not wearing a seatbelt remains the number one cause of death in vehicle crashes.

Cut 11 (06) “…control over.”

Moreau says some of the worst accidents for troopers to see are those involving small children. On Thursday, a new car seat law goes into effect aims to reduce child injuries and fatalities.

Cut 12 (09) “…time for us.”

The driver of the 18-wheeler was Joseph Pardue, who was wearing his seat belt and he sustained moderate injuries. The crash remains under investigation.

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The St. John Sheriff’s Office is investigating a double homicide. Sheriff Mike Tregre says the victims are cousins, 18 and 20-years old and they were found in a vehicle on West Airline Highway and East 22nd Street in Reserve. Tregre says they are looking for the suspects

Cut 13 (06) “…executed”

The deceased individuals have been identified as 18-year-old Kerell Sanders and 20-year-old Kyron Perrilloux. Both were from Reserve. Tregre says violence like this involving young men is far too common

Cut 14 (07) “…in my parish”

Tregre is confident his deputies will make an arrest

Cut 15 (07) “…these victims.”