The Louisiana PTA and Learning Heroes are partnering to provide parents with 2017 Super 5 Back-to- School Power Moves, as parents are showing a disconnect with judging their kid’s academic performance.

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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After failing to raise the gas tax during this year’s session, Baton Rouge Representative Steve Carter says it’s time to look at other options for funding highway construction. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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More women than ever are heading to court, as the American Bar Association finds an uptick in women becoming attorneys. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 3 (31) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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A survey finds most parents’ believe their children are performing better than what their test scores actually show.  Nine in 10 parents believe their children are or above grade level, but data shows the number is really closer to one-third. Public Relations Chair for the Louisiana PTA Stacey Simpson…

Cut 4  (07) “at level”

Simpson says with the school year about to start, review your student’s test results.

Cut 5  (10)  “help them”

Simpson says to help improve your child’s academic achievement make sure you stay involved.

Cut 6 (10) “everyday life”

For a full list of the Super 5 Back-to-School Power Moves visit bealearninghero.org.

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The author of the failed gasoline tax increase proposal says the state needs to look at other ways to repair the state’s decrepit roads and bridges. Baton Rouge Representative Steve Carter recommended a 17-cent gas tax hike, but the support was not there in the legislature. Carter says one way to put more funds to highway construction would be to include transportation in the general budget.

Cut 7 (10)  “gasoline tax”

Carter sought a higher gasoline tax in the past legislative session to fund a new Mississippi River bridge to address traffic congestion in the Capitol City. He says if the state legislature isn’t willing to raise the gasoline tax statewide, there’s another possibility.

Cut 8 (10) “the infrastructure”

Carter says next year’s session is general and no tax bills can be filed. The following year is a fiscal session, but taxes are unlikely to pass during an election year. He says until lawmakers find a way to fund the state’s growing infrastructure needs, the problems will only get worse.

Cut 9 (11)  “a priority”

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LSU has found a tiger that could become Mike VII. Ginger Guttner with the LSU Vet School says the prospect is a nine-month-old, 160 pound male tiger. She says there’s still a lot up in the air, especially with the tiger habitat on campus still undergoing renovations.

Cut 10 (08) “in August”

Guttner says the prospective Mike VII is a rescue from a tiger sanctuary in Florida. The tiger would be donated by the Wild at Heart Wildlife Center in Okeechobee, Fla., because the facility is rehoming some of its animals. She says LSU has not paid for a tiger since Mike III in 1958.

Cut 11 (10) “our tiger”

The new tiger could arrive in mid-August, but he will be kept in the night house for about a week and not visible to the public during that time. If that goes well, he will be let out into his yard and declared Mike VII. Guttner says fans shouldn’t get too excited just yet.

Cut 12 (08) “in August”

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More and more women are heading to court, as the American Bar Association finds an uptick in the number of female attorneys. Women account for 35 percent of lawyers in the state, a 7 percent jump since 2004. President of the Louisiana State Bar Association, Dona Renegar (Doh-na, not Donna) credits a more accommodating environment for female attorneys with family responsibilities.

Cut 13 (09) “that family”

Baton Rouge is slightly ahead of the national average with females representing 38 percent of attorneys in the city. Renegar says women often have to overcome obstacles in the workforce that they’re male counterparts don’t.

Cut 14 (08) “to have children”

Renegar is also the fourth female president of the LSBA since 2006. She says as gender roles change over time, society has become more accepting of women in positions of power. She says networking and supporting young women is crucial to continuing the trend.

Cut 15 (11) “before me”

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LSU Quarterback Danny Etlin says he feels a lot better than he did in the spring. Etling underwent a back procedure earlier this year and the senior from Indiana says he’s close to 100-percent…

Cut 16 (15)  “better and better”

Etling says he had trouble keeping his back loose during games last season and it caused a lot of pain. He says he felt immediately better after surgery. The signal caller also likes the progress the offense has made when it comes to learning offensive coordinator Matt Canada’s offense…

Cut 17 (19) “good about ourselves”

Starting right tackle Toby Weathersby is also coming back from an injury that forced him to miss all of spring practice due to an unspecified offseason surgery. Weathersby says he feels good and the younger guys working behind him are also doing well…

Cut 18 (14 “are ready” 

Two Minnesota teenagers will be the youngest team to travel the entire Mississippi River by kayak. Emelie Gunn has more on the pair that is approaching New Orleans…

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Governor John Bel Edwards says they’re seeing an uptick in enrollment in the federally funded homeowner assistance program. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Two teenagers from Minnesota are attempting to be the youngest team to kayak the entire Mississippi River. 19-year-old Matt Rens and 18-year-old Jesse Richard are on day 49 of their journey from Itasca to the Gulf of Mexico and are approaching New Orleans. Rens says the pair is making this journey on behalf of LifeWater International.

Cut 3 (11) “clean water”

The pair has raised a little over 4-thousand dollars and their goal is to raise 12-thousand, which sets up full sanitation for a village. Rens says they have encountered some unexpected things while on the Mississippi River, like getting poison ivy.

Cut 4  (10) “unknown things”

Rens says it’s expected they will be in New Orleans by tonight and plan to make it to Pilottown if the pair can find a boat to bring them back. He says during the journey they’ve only taken three days off, one due to a serious infected rash that came from the kayak and the water and they are mostly sleeping on the banks.

Cut 5  (09)  “people”

Nearly one year after flood waters ravaged south Louisiana, one flood victim is getting ready to go home. Lillie Gumm of Baton Rouge was one of the first people to complete the flood recovery survey. Her home will be the third to be completed through the state’s homeowner assistance program, which she says turned out to be even better than she expected.

Cut 6 (10) “gone through”

Gumm’s home is about 90 percent complete, after taking on three to four feet of water last year. She is one of 37,000 flood victims to complete the online survey at restore-dot-la-dot-gov, which gets the ball rolling on helping flooded homeowners repair their homes. She says throughout this ordeal, she has learned to be patient.

Cut 7 (09)  “turned around”

Gumm says the whole process took about three months from start to finish. Gumm is currently staying in a FEMA mobile home while repairs wrap up on her home. She encourages everyone impacted by the flood to complete the survey without delay.

Cut 8 (11) “the survey”

Money from the homeowner assistance program, which was funded by Congress, is first going to the elderly, disabled and low-income individuals, and the state is beginning to expand the program to all income levels in the most impacted parishes.

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As of today, smoking is no longer permitted in Lafayette bars. Robin McMillan owns McMillan’s Pub in Lafayette, and she’s afraid the new ordinance will affect her business since about 80 percent of her patrons are smokers. She says they may start going to other bars because the smoking ban is only within the city limits.

Cut 9 (08)  “not coming”

McMillan says she’s been working for the past few weeks to accommodate her smoking customers. She says she’s bringing in lumber and construction workers to build a deck outside of her bar. But she says the task hasn’t been easy or cheap.

Cut 10 (08) “as it seems”

McMillan says the change is frustrating because she has owned the building her bar is in for years. She says with both smoking and nonsmoking bars throughout the city, bar goers already had options. At this point, she says she is hopeful nonsmokers will help keep her in business.

Cut 11 (08) “my business”

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More victims are now covered under Louisiana’s domestic violence laws. Two laws take effect today that expand the statutes to include same-sax couples and dating partners. Executive Director of the Louisiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence Mariah Wineski says this extends legal protections to more victims.

Cut 12 (10) “domestic abuse battery law”

Wineski says this means that abusers in same-sex or unmarried relationships would not be held accountable for their crimes. She says in the past many would only face simple battery charges, but one of the new laws creates the crime of battery of a dating partner.

Cut 13 (11) “dating partners”

Wineski says these new laws provide more protection for more victims, which could help reduce the domestic abuse homicide rate. She says that is invaluable because domestic violence occurs in all types of relationships.

Cut 14 (12) “through the cracks”

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A new law will put an end to speeding tickets that show up in drivers’ mailboxes without warning. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The state Department of Education announced the Teacher and Principal of the Year. Jeff Palermo has more on the teacher from the Baton Rouge area and the Acadiana principal.

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A new law goes into effect today that will no longer allow most juvenile killers to be eligible for life sentences without the chance of parole. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 3 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Drivers should no longer receive speeding tickets in the mail from hidden speed cameras thanks to a new law that goes into effect today. New Orleans Senator Troy Carter’s legislation requires signs to be posted ahead of speed enforcement camera in order to collect on the fine. He says if the goal of these cameras is really to stop speeders, municipalities should have no problem posting warning signs.

Cut 4  (07) “moment”

The law requires the signs to be clearly visible between 250 and 500 feet ahead of the speed camera. Carter says in the past drivers who received tickets from these cameras simply had to pay it because they had no recourse. But his law gives motorists that due process.

Cut 5  (10)  “no ticket”

Carter hopes this will put an end to drivers being greeted with surprise tickets in their mailboxes. He says safety should always be a priority on the road, but tricking people into paying tickets isn’t the way to improve safety.

Cut 6 (11) “money grab”

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A school teacher from the Baton Rouge area and a principal from Acadiana are the Louisiana State Teacher and Principal of the Year, which is awarded annually by the state Department of Education.  Kimberly Eckert, a 9^th grade English teacher at Brusly High School in West Baton Rouge, received the teacher of the year honor. She says her kids make being a teacher so worthwhile.

Cut 7 (09)  “them stronger”

This fall, Eckert will enter her 10^th year of teaching. Eckert has received numerous different grants to benefit her school and classroom and says she’s always able to see what is needed for her students.

Cut 8 (11) “further them”

Tommy Byler, the principal of North Vermilion High School, received the honor of Principal of the Year. Byler says it’s amazing to be an ambassador for public education.

Cut 9 (10)  “my success”

Byler has been in education for 26-years. He says seeing his students from a starting point to an ending point is the best part of his job.

Cut 10 (11) “pushing them”

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U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy met with White House officials Monday afternoon to discuss proposals to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act. Before the meeting started, Cassidy said he’s not giving up on repealing the current federal health care law, because it fails the Jimmy Kimmel test

Cut 11 (06) “individual market”

The Jimmy Kimmel test is in reference to the late night talk show host, who said no family should be denied medical care, because they can’t afford it. Cassidy and South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham are pushing a health care bill to replace Obamacare, which is why Cassidy received an invite to meet with Health Secretary Tom Price and President Trump’s top aides…

Cut 12 (05) “lack coverage”

Politico reports the Cassidy-Graham proposal would maintain protections for individuals with pre-exisiting conditions, keep most of the taxes connected to the Affordable Care Act, send federal health care funds to state in block grants, but end the requirement all Americans must buy health insurance or pay a tax. Cassidy says the individual mandate hurts poor people

Cut 13 (11) “lower income Americans”

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Most juvenile killers will no longer be eligible to receive life sentences without the chance for parole, as a new law goes into effect today. Baton Rouge Senator Dan Claitor says the law was needed because the US Supreme Court ruled in 2015 that murderers convicted as juveniles could not be sentenced to life without parole. He says the argument was made because of young people’s capacity to change.

Cut 14 (11) “mind development”

Claitor notes that just because a lifer is given a chance for parole, it doesn’t mean they will be released. The purpose of this law is simply to bring the state in line with the Supreme Court decision. He adds not all killers convicted as juveniles will be granted parole eligibility.

Cut 15 (08) “of the worst”

Claitor says the District Attorneys will decide who is the worst of the worst and use that provision sparingly. He says if they don’t, it could open up the state to more litigation.

Cut 16 (08)  “in court”

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LSU will have two number 18s on the field this season as both defensive end Christian LaCourture and fullback J.D. Moore will wear number 18 on their jersey. At LSU, the number 18 is synonymous with success, both on and off the field. LaCourture was presented his 18 jersey in the spring and Head Coach Ed Orgeron says Moore was given received his jersey at a team meeting to kick off preseason camp…

Cut 17 (13) “he’s it”

LSU’s first practice of preseason camp was Monday afternoon. Orgeron says senior quarterback Danny Etling looks healthy following back surgery….

Cut 18 (08) “very healthy” 

Orgeron says creating more turnovers is a focus on defense this year…

Cut 19 (18) “last year”

Moore says he’s honored to wear number 18 at LSU….

Cut 20 (15) “number 18”

New litter laws take effect tomorrow. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Slidell Police say a domestic disturbance lead to a fatal stabbing Sunday evening. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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New laws take effect tomorrow that seek to curb the litter problem in Louisiana. One law lowers the fine for littering from $1,000 to $900. Fines for littering were doubled in 2015, which triggered jury trial provisions that made enforcement less likely. Executive Director of Keep Louisiana Beautiful, Susan Russell hopes reducing the fine will lead to better enforcement of litter laws.

Cut 3 (11) “throwing them out”

The law also increases the community service penalty for littering. First offense penalties double from 8 to 16 hours, and second offense increase from 16 hours to 20 hours. Russell hopes requiring litterers to pick up trash will discourage them from littering again.

Cut 4  (11) “the problem is”

Another law requires litter prevention to be taught in schools from kindergarten through fifth grade. Russell says educating our youth is a great way to address the litter problem. She says the younger generation has to deal with waste management in ways that older people never have.

Cut 5  (11)  “growing up”

The U.S Environmental Protection Agency has proposed adding the American Creosote Deridder, an environmentally contaminated site in Deridder, to the Superfund National Priorities Site. Greg Langley with the state Department of Environmental Quality says once this Beauregard Parish site is added to the list, it’s in line to receive federal funding that can go towards cleanup efforts.

Cut 6 (08) “water too”

The state currently has 27 other Superfund sites. Langley says they don’t know when the funds will become available but this is a step in the right direction for getting the area cleaned up. He says the creosote was originally used on the timber to make it last longer and protect it from insects but…

Cut 7 (09)  “the soil”

The federal Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry links Creosote to blisters on the skin, damage to vital organs and stomach pains. Langley says the site in Beauregard Parish was used to treat lumber from the 1920s to the 1940s. He says it took decades to realize the negative impact of the creosote.

Cut 8 (07) “began”

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Slidell Police say a domestic disturbance lead to a fatal stabbing Sunday evening. Detective Daniel Seuzeneau says officers learned that the suspect, 25-year-old Joseph Thibodeaux of Pearl River, was arguing with his fiance, and threatening to stab others in the house..:

Cut 9 (12)  “multiple times”

Seuzeneau says the uncle died at the scene, and Thibodeaux fled to Mississippi where he was caught last night…:

Cut 10 (09) “more charges”

Seuzeneau says the message here remains that domestic violence is a very serious issue…:

Cut 11 (08) “domestic related issues”

(Thibodeaux was booked with second degree murder and more charges are expected to be filed.)

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It was a deadly weekend in Baton Rouge, as multiple people have died from violence in the Capitol City. Sgt. Don Coppola with the Baton Rouge Police Department says two teens were killed when a drug deal went wrong on Sunday evening.

Cut 12 (10) “his injuries”

The victims are identified as 19-year-old Kenyi Kolok and 18-year-old Orenthean Daniels. Coppola says police are working to determine if a third suspect was involved.

A woman was found stabbed to death in a home on Sunday morning. Coppola says detectives are working to identify a suspect in the death of 41-year-old Sara Hernandez.

Cut 13 (07) “in the home”

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact authorities.

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A former Livingston Parish teacher admits to having a sexual relationship with a teen a student. 33-year-old Lynsie Pendarvis pleaded guilty to all charges against her and sentenced to five years. But District Attorney Scott Perrilloux says Pendarvis might not serve any time in jail…

Cut 14 (10) “15 years”

Perrilloux says Pendarvis is also required to participate in a two year program for sexual offenders offered by the Department of Corrections. He says because Pendarvis pleaded guilty, the victim is not required to testify in court.

Cut 15 (08) “her actions”

Pendarvis was arrested last June when police discovered her relationship was with a 15-year-old student at Walker Freshman High School. Perrilloux says she pleaded guilty to all charges.

Cut 16  (10)  “case”

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A report by the Center for American Progress finds a gun is stolen from a private owner every 67 minutes in Louisiana. Emelie Gunn has more on this shocking statistic….

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Tomorrow, Lafayette becomes the 11^th Louisiana city to prohibit smoking in bars, clubs and public places as the ban takes effect. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (28) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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LSU returns to the practice field this afternoon as the first full season with head coach Ed Orgeron at the helm begins. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A gun is stolen from a private owner every 67 minutes in Louisiana, according to the Center for American Progress. The non-profit’s Vice President of Guns and Crime Policy, Chelsea Parsons, told the Jim Engster Show that Louisiana is in the top 15 states for the most firearms stolen.

Cut 4  (08) “in Louisiana”

Data from the FBI finds from 2012 to 2016, 718 guns were stolen from firearms dealers in the state. Parsons says there are some common sense policy changes that could help prevent these thefts. She says right now, the ATF has no authority to require a dealer to put a lock on their store and…

Cut 5  (10)  “happen”

The report also finds the majority of states who see the most gun thefts are located in the southern part of the country. Parsons says between 2012 and 2015, 31-thousand guns were stolen from individuals in Louisiana. She says the ATF is extremely worried about this growing problem and hopes to implement new protections.

Cut 6 (11) “can find”

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Research from LSU Health New Orleans suggests walnuts may promote health by helping good bacteria grow in your gut. Lead researcher Dr. Lauri Byerley says walnuts can help promote good bacteria growth in your digestive organs.

Cut 7 (10)  “potentially”

Byerley says walnuts in the diet increase the number of microbes present in the bowels. She says they also noticed the types of bacteria present were related to probiotics. She says a more diverse bacteria community in the gut can lead to better health.

Cut 8 (08) “type bacteria”

Byerley says walnuts are linked to better health outcomes because they contain antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids. But she says that doesn’t mean eating more walnuts will lead to better health. She says one explanation would be that people who have more walnuts in their diets tend to eat healthier.

Cut 9 (11)  “inflammatory bowel disease”

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Beginning tomorrow, smoking will no longer be permitted at bars in Lafayette, as a ban approved by the city-parish council goes into effect. CEO of the Smoking Cessation Trust Mike Rogers calls the new ordinance a victory. He hopes this will help more people kick their smoking habit.

Cut 10 (11) “quit for real”

Opponents to the ban call it government overreach. But Rogers says as more and more smoking bans are enacted around the state, they’re seeing more smokers put down their packs. He says as people run out of places to smoke, the Smoking Cessation Trust will be there to help them stop smoking for good.

Cut 11 (10) “call it quits”

Lafayette is the 11^th Louisiana city to ban smoking in bars. But not everyone is thrilled about the new rule, as bar owners in particular say it could be bad for business. Rogers says it’s more about health. He hopes as smokers run out of places to light up, they’ll decide to quit.

Cut 12 (11) “smoking purposes”

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Another LSU football season is underway as the Tigers have reported for preseason camp and they’ll practice for the first time today. Ed Orgeron is beginning his first full season as the head coach and he’s excited about a lot of things with his team, especially with his offensive coordinator

Cut 13 (12) “the season”

LSU returns 11 starters from last year’s team, six on offense and five on defense. It’s unclear who will emerge as the Tigers top wide receivers behind senior D.J. Chark. There’s also big position battles at linebacker and safety and how much has Danny Etling improved at quarterback. Orgeron says he’s ready to see it come together

Cut 14 (11) “ready to do work”

LSU’s leading pass catcher is Chark who grabbed 26 passes last year. There’s a lot of experience with the wide receiver unit. Orgeron says he’s waiting for several guys to step up, including six-foot-three sophomore Drake Davis…

Cut 15 (23) “great work ethic”

A rally being held in Monroe on Saturday will help get guns off the streets. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Two are dead after an inmate at David Wade Correctional Center walked away from a work assignment and a wild episode ensued. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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The Mermentau (Mer-men-tow) Chief of Police is behind bars on theft charges. Master Trooper Brooks David says in June, the Acadia Parish District Attorney’s Office contacted State Police in reference to a complaint about Chief Amos Crader making withdrawals from the police association’s bank account, which he opened.

Cut 3 (06) “personal gain”

David says they were able to secure an arrest warrant for Crader this month. He says the chief was taken into custody on multiple charges.

Cut 4  (09) “awaiting trial”

David says no matter who breaks the law, authorities will always hold them accountable.

Cut 5  (08)  “are filed”

A rare summer cold front is expected to move through the state tomorrow. State Climatologist Barry Keim says this cool air coming in from Canada will bring an increased chance for thunderstorms but a brief break from the normal heat and humidity we feel in July.

Cut 6 (11) “on this”

Keim says Sunday into Monday we’re going to feel a significant reduction in humidity as drier air settles across the state. He says while the temperature will still be hot, there will be a noticeable difference.

Cut 7 (10)  “your garden”

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Community leaders in Monroe are hoping to clean up the streets with a Gun Buy-Back Rally at Charles Johnson Park on Saturday. Rally coordinator Pastor Vance Price says they’re hoping to reduce violence in the city, after three young people have died as a result of gun violence. He says if we can get these guns off the street, lives could be saved.

Cut 8 (10) “out of the way”

Price says from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m., gun owners can drop off their legal weapons at the rally. No ID is required, but weapons must be securely wrapped in a package that is clearly visible when carrying. He says all attendees have to do is speak with one of the police officers at the rally, and they’ll start the process.

Cut 9 (08)  “gift card”

Price says this event is about starting a dialogue in the community about ending gun violence. He says there will be a safe, family friendly atmosphere at the rally. He says the theme is Family Fun: Save a Life, Turn in a Gun.

Cut 10 (08) “walks of life”

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Two people are dead after a trustee at David Wade Correctional Center walked away from a work assignment and kidnapped the assistant warden’s step daughter. Claiborne Parish Sheriff Ken Bailey says 39-year-old Deltra Henderson stole a vehicle Thursday and abducted 19-year-old Amanda Carney on the prison grounds…

Cut 11 (09) “correctional center”

The Sheriff says Henderson wrecked the vehicle and stole another one before crashing it too. Bailey says the inmate’s life eventually ended during a standoff on prison property….

Cut 12 (09) “was killed”

Carney graduated in May from Summerfield High and planned to attend Southern Arkansas University. Summerfield principal Shane Lee says it’s a tough time for the entire community.

Cut 13 (08) “right now”

Henderson was sentenced for the convictions of attempted armed robbery, aggravated burglary and distribution of cocaine and was set to be released from prison in 2025.

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Southwest Electric Power Company is now in the wind business, as the company announces the Wind Catcher Energy Connection Project that will provide new wind energy to SWEPCO customers. Company spokesperson Scott McCloud says SWEPCO will own 1,400 megawatts of a 2,000 megawatt wind farm currently under construction in Oklahoma.

Cut 14 (10) “in the future”

McCloud says this is the largest single site wind project in the US. SWEPCO serves 230,000 customers in northwest and central Louisiana. He says this project will save all SWEPCO customers more than $5 billion over the 25 year life of the windfarm.

Cut 15 (08) “power cost”

The company will also save dollars through renewable energy tax credits and more cost-effective delivery of the wind energy through the new dedicated power line. McCloud say construction on the windfarm began in January, and customers will start to see savings in the years to come.

Cut 16  (08)  “in 2021”

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There is a lot of talk this week about a new study which found brain damage in 99 percent of participating former NFL players. Jeff Palermo reports some are skeptical of the findings…:

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A report from an independent consulting firm finds the University of Louisiana at Lafayette had a $379 million economic impact for FY-15. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Authorities say a suspected drunk driver has claimed the life of a 17-year-old girl and injured another teen in Red River Parish. Emelie Gunn on the Wednesday evening crash.

Cut 3 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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There is a lot of talk this week about a new study which found brain damage in 99 percent of participating former NFL players. The report says CTE occurs after repeated blows to the head, and it causes things like memory loss, depression, and dementia. But Tulane Institute of Sports Medicine director Dr. Greg Stewart believes the report is a stretch:

Cut 4  (09) “way too simplistic”

The Tulane Institute of Sports Medicine is one of only four medical facilities in the nation chosen to take care of the physical and mental health of former pro-players. Stewart says one of the things they’ve seen is that once a player leaves the league and isn’t playing anymore, they stop taking care of themselves physically and mentally…:

Cut 5  (10)  “all of this”

CTE can not be diagnosed when you’re alive, so the research uses donated brains, and the study notes that relatives of the subjects probably already suspected something was wrong. The most common cause of death among those with mild stages of CTE was suicide. Stewart hopes people don’t think that everyone who plays football is going to kill themselves:

Cut 6 (10) “in this picture”

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UL-Lafayette had a statewide economic impact of $379 million in FY-15, according to a study by the New York-based consulting firm Appleseed. University president Dr. Joseph Savoie says the college offers about a 7 to 1 return on investment for the state.

Cut 7 (10)  “throughout the state”

Savoie hopes this will help higher education leaders make the case for increased state funding during difficult budget times. He says the university contributes to the economy in a variety of ways, from employing nearly two thousand people to buying local.

Cut 8 (12) “285 jobs”

Savoie notes UL-Lafayette’s support of the francophone and creole culture in Louisiana. The report also found community service work performed by students and faculty totaled more than 332,000 hours, which is valued at more than $7 million. But he says it’s all about giving back.

Cut 9 (11)  “for the students”

University, student, and visitor spending supported more than 5,500 jobs and had an overall economic output of $492 million in Lafayette Parish.

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A 17-year-old is dead and a 19-year-old was injured after a suspected drunk driver struck the girls as they were walking on LA 784 in Red River Parish. State Police Trooper Matt Harris says they responded to the crash Wednesday just before 6 p.m. and determined 47-year-old Kenneth Morse of Coushatta was impaired.

Cut 10 (07) “first offense”

Harris says Morse was not injured in the crash and was booked into the Red River Parish Jail. He says anytime you drink and drive, you put others and yourself at risk because your reaction time slows and your motor skills are affected.

Cut 11 (11) “young girl”

Harris says 19-year-old Lacy Ross sustained minor injuries and was transported to a local hospital, but 17-year-old Rachel Barnette of Coushatta was pronounced dead at the scene. He says in 2016, 52-percent of fatal crashes in the northwest Louisiana area involved drunk drivers.

Cut 12 (07) “to travel”

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It will be a fun-filled weekend across the Bayou State, as events are taking place in both north and south Louisiana. In Grand Isle, the Tarpon Rodeo is underway. Event president Barry Kern says it’s the oldest fishing tournament in the country in its 89^thyear. He says this year they’re letting the good times roll with a Mardi Gras theme, complete with a parade on Saturday night.

Cut 13 (10) “on the island”

Kern says there will be a drawing every night for attendees to win a ride on the Mardi Gras World float in the Krewe of Orpheus parade. He says even if you don’t want to participate in the rodeo itself, there’s still lots of things to enjoy in Grand Isle this weekend.

Cut 14 (09) “to see”

In north Louisiana, the 54^th annual Farmerville Watermelon Festival kicks off. Miss Louisiana Watermelon Festival Eva Edinger says between a golf tournament this morning followed by a treasure hunt that will run through Saturday, there’s lots of fun activities for families to enjoy.

Cut 15 (09) “eating contest”

Edinger says tomorrow night, she’ll pass on her crown to the next queen of the festival. She says the festivities will be ongoing all weekend long. She says the watermelon seed spitting contest in particular will be a sight to see.

Cut 16 (10)  “watermelon auction”

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During the first day of Saints training camp, rookie Ryan Ramcyk took first team reps at left tackle. It appears the rookie from Wisconsin is getting the first chance to start at that position for the injured Terron Armstead, who is recovering from a torn labrum. New Orleans Quarterback Drew Brees looks forward to Ramcyk developing over camp…

Cut 17 (20) “can have”

Brees is heading into the final year of his contract, but the 38-year-old says it’s a non-issue for him…

Cut 18 (18) “team win” 

Coach Sean Payton said Brees finished in the top two in Wednesday’s conditioning test. Brees says he takes pride in staying in great physical shape…

Cut 19 (16) “keep my edge”

Cajun musicians mourn the loss of local legend D. L. Menard, who passed away today at the age of 85. Michelle Southern has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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East Baton Rouge Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome calls comments made at yesterday’s Metro Council meeting hateful, offensive, and unacceptable. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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New ULM athletics director Nick Floyd laid out his vision for Warhawk athletics today during his introductory press conference. Floyd says his number one priority is to run an athletic program with the highest degree of integrity….

Cut 3 (12) “be accountable”

Floyd says takes over an athletic program that is known as the lowest funded in the country out of the 128 FBS schools. He says fiscal responsibility is just the nature of the business…

Cut 4  (12) “manner possible”

Floyd has 33 years in collegiate athletics management. Since 2004, he’s served as the executive associate director of athletics at East Carolina. Last school year ULM’s football, men’s basketball and baseball program all finished with losing records. Floyd says he wants to win at a high level…

Cut 5  (09)  “best experience possible”

The Cajun music community says goodbye to a legend, as D.L. Menard passed away at the age of 85. Executive Director of the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame, Mike Shepherd, says Menard was known as the Cajun Hank Williams. Menard even met the country music icon in 1951.

Cut 6 (11) “of him”

Born Doris Leon Menard, the zydeco music idol started playing music in the 40s. He picked up the guitar when he was 15 and began his professional career at 17. Shepherd says Menard’s 2010 album nominated for a Grammy for best Zydeco/Cajun album. He says Menard is best known for his hit song “The Back Door.”

Cut 7 (10)  “in 1952”

Shepherd says Menard is survived by his children. He says his son Larry plays in a Hall of Fame Band called Atchafalaya. He says Menard was always supportive of young artists and became a role model for many.

Cut 8 (10) “Cajun music”

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East Baton Rouge Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome condemns remarks made at a Metro Council meeting, where a community activist suggested the police ambush was justice for Alton Sterling. Arthur “Silky Slim” Reed told Mayor Pro-temp Scott Wilson justice has been served for Sterling.

Cut 9 (06)  “Gavin Long came”

Broome says these remarks in no way reflect the views of her administration or the people of Baton Rouge. Reed asserts no call was made to emergency services the night Sterling was fatally shot outside at Baton Rouge convenience store. He went on to say that Officer Blane Salamoni started the uproar when he shot Sterling.

Cut 10 (06) “officers killed”

Broome called Reed’s comments hateful, offensive, and unacceptable. She says the memories of the fallen officers should be honored and preserved. Reed says the justice system in Baton Rouge is being run by a bunch of criminals. He says he’s not anti-police, he’s anti-injustice.

Cut 11 (09) “to kill”

Wilson says several people had to be escorted out of last night’s heated meeting, and Reed was one of them. He says this was supposed to be a chance for members of the community to vent and express their frustrations, but things got out of hand.

Cut 12 (08) “that’s disrespectful”

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The state Department of Education announced today that for the 5^th straight year, advanced placement student results have increased dramatically in Louisiana. In 2017, there was a 10-percent jump from last year in high school students earning college credits. State Superintendent of Education John White says there is continuing pattern of significant academic progress.

Cut 13 (09) “five years”

White says African American students have also made great strides this year when it comes to Advanced Placement credits. He says the number of African Americans students earning college credits have increased 17-percent, earning a 3, 4, or 5 score.

Cut 14 (08) “accomplishment” 

White says the East Baton Rouge Parish School District has made the most noticeable gains when it comes to African American students receiving college credits. He says overall, these numbers show the dedication advanced placement teachers put in to teaching their students.

Cut 15 (09) “educators hold”

US Senator John Kennedy proposed an amendment to the healthcare bill that would require people to work in order to receive Medicaid. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The West Nile virus is ramping up in Louisiana as seven cases of the illness have been reported to the Office of Public Health. Emelie Gunn has more….

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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The Public Service Commission votes to approve Entergy’s plan to install new meters at every Louisiana customer’s residence. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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U.S. Senator John Kennedy proposes a new federal health care law should require abled bodied adults without children to work in order to receive Medicaid. That’s one of several amendments Kennedy filed as the debate continues over an effort to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act. He says he doesn’t want to take Medicaid away from those who need it. He just wants fewer people to need it.

Cut 4  (07) “a job”

Kennedy says the current Senate Health Care bill imposes a 20 hour a week work requirement for abled bodied adults without dependents. But it leaves it up to each governor’s discretion. Kennedy wants to remove the option for the governors.

Cut 5  (10)  “for Medicaid”

The amendment does exempt people under age 19, those in addiction treatment programs, and young adults in school or work training programs. Kennedy says he wants everyone to know the dignity of work, which is why he’s pushing for this nationwide requirement. He says this is about helping people transition off of welfare programs.

Cut 6 (10) “get a job”

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West Nile activity is picking up in Louisiana as the state Office of Public Health says seven individuals have been diagnosed with the mosquito borne disease this month. Three cases have been reported in the Baton Rouge area and the others are in in Bossier, Ouachita, Rapides and Morehouse. OPH Assistant Secretary Dr. Parham Jaberi says each year we’re seeing a decrease in cases from the year before…

Cut 7 (10)  “can become”

Two deaths were reported from the West Nile Virus in 2016 and none have been reported this year. Jaberi says mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, which Louisiana has seen a lot of after recent rainfall.

Cut 8 (11) “mosquito”

Jaberi says 90-percent of West Nile cases are asymptomatic. But he says a very small percentage of individuals who contract the virus will develop the neuroinvasive disease.

Cut 9 (10)  “status”

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A vote from the Public Service Commission means Entergy Louisiana customers will have upgraded meters at their homes by 2021. Entergy spokesperson Greg Guilbeau says customers will be notified when crews will change their meters, but they should not see a noticeable disruption in service.

Cut 10 (09) “the new meter”

Guilbeau says upgrading to these advanced meters will provide numerous benefits. He says customers will get more detailed information on energy use, so they can take control of their energy consumption.

Cut 11 (12) “run it today”

Guilbeau says Entergy will start installing the new meters in 2019. He says this new technology will also help with outage detection. He says the new system will allow the company to know right away if a customer loses power.

Cut 12 (10) “back on”

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Can the Saints return to the playoffs this year? For the last three years, the Black and Gold have finished with a record of 7-and-9. Coach Sean Payton says he likes the additions they’ve made on defense and they are deep in the secondary, which should help out their offense….

Cut 13 (12) “equally as important”

Payton says there’s a lot of work ahead for this team, because they play in a tough division and the beginning of the schedule is difficult. He looks forward to progress they’ll make during training camp….

Cut 14 (09) “especially early”

Payton says some of the toughest position battles will take place along the defensive line….

Cut 15 (20) “battles shape up”

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Alabama Republican Congressman Mo Brooks is taking heat for a campaign commercial that uses audio from the Congressional baseball shooting. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Jefferson Parish Sheriff Newell Normand announced today he will retire to become a radio talk show host. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The 2017 NBA All-Star Game brought nearly $45 million to the state, according to a new LSU study. Co-author of the report Dr. Stephen Barnes says visitors spent a total of $24 million in the region over the weekend. He says people who attended the game spent an average of $1,400 per person, while visitors who did not attend the game spent around $800 each.

Cut 3 (09) “regional economy”

Barnes says the weekend event in mid-February brought hundreds of visitors, including international tourists. Those visitors tended to be more affluent and stayed for several days, which contributed to the increased spending. He says that’s what makes an event like this a real money maker.

Cut 4  (11) “amount of spending”

Barnes says the NBA spent over $18 million on the event, with media promotions adding another $1.4 million. Sponsors contributed almost $4 million. He says that combined with secondary impacts is nearly $83 million in total spending, which generated over $2 million in new sales and excise taxes.

Cut 5  (11)  “that event”

Alabama Republican Congressman Mo Brooks is making waves with a campaign commercial in which he uses audio from the shooting at the GOP baseball game that injured House Majority Whip Steve Scalise. The ad notes Brooks came to the aid of those wounded in the attack at a Virginia baseball park. Political analyst Dr. Silas Lee gives his take…:

Cut 6 (09) “in this attempt”

A staffer for Scalise had said some people have different ideas about what’s appropriate. Lee says advocates for gun rights may not be offended by the spot, but he feels most candidates would not use the audio from the shooting…:

Cut 7 (10)  “if that happened to him”

The ad touts Brooks’ support of the Second Amendment, and criticizes the media for asking questions about gun control after the shooting. Lee says the problem with a commercial like this is that there typically isn’t a grey area when it comes to gun advocacy, but it’s the middle of the road voters you have to think about…:

Cut 8 (06) “risky move”

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Both of Louisiana’s US Senators have voted in favor of debate on a healthcare bill. Senior Senator Bill Cassidy has authored amendments to the GOP replacement bill, but they haven’t gained much support.  UL-Lafayette Political Science Professor Pearson Cross says Cassidy’s proposals run against the most conservative elements in the Republican Party.

Cut 9 (08)  “now either”

Kennedy has proudly stated he will vote to repeal Obamacare even without a replacement. Cross says this is what got Kennedy elected to the position.

Cut 10 (10) “extraordinary”

The Edwards administration has raised concerns about repealing the current federal healthcare law. They say over 400-thousand Louisiana residents are insured because of the expansion of Medicaid. Cross says Cassidy, who has worked as a doctor in the state’s charity hospital system, understands the risks of taking away health insurance to thousands.

Cut 11 (11) “the gun”

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Jefferson Parish Sheriff Newell Normand announced his retirement today, as the most vocal sheriff in the state will soon take to the airwaves. After spending 10 years at the helm of JPSO, Normand says a good leader knows when it’s time to leave. He adds good leaders evaluate opportunities.

Cut 12 (11) “WWL Radio”

Mid-morning host Garland Robinette announced his retirement from WWL earlier this month. The sheriff joked that he’d be stepping across the line to the dark side and joining the media. But he’s excited to lead in a different way. He says that’s what intrigued him most about this opportunity.

Cut 13 (12) “as sheriff”

Normand will retire on August 31 and Chief Deputy and former state representative Joe Lopinto will be sworn in as the next sheriff of Jefferson Parish. Normand began his career in law enforcement in 1977 in Orleans Parish. He says although rewarding, it’s not an easy job.

Cut 14 (08) “on you” 

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A seven-year-old boy is dead after he was electrocuted by the neighbor’s fence in Winnsboro. Franklin Parish Sheriff Kevin Cobb says the boy was playing with his little sister and attempted to retrieve a ball that went over the fence…

Cut 15 (10) “hot wire”

Cobb says there was an electrical current along the fence line, because the neighbor was trying to prevent his dog from digging underneath the fence. He says the child was found unresponsive next to the fence…

Cut 16  (07)  “appropriate time”