The Shreveport City Council is slated to vote today on whether or not to move forward with the necessary steps to build a more than $100 million dollar mixed-use complex. Jeff Palermo reports…:

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

______________________________________

The Kaplan Police Chief has been arrested on charges of theft and malfeasance in office after a legislative audit that looked into the department’s finances. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

______________________________________

After 9-11, Louisianans raised 1.2 million dollars as part of the “Bucks for Trucks” campaign. The money went towards new firetrucks for the New York City Fire Department. Jeff Palermo has more on where those trucks are now…

Cut 3 (26) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

___________________________________________________

The Shreveport City Council is slated to vote today on whether or not to move forward with the necessary steps to build a more than $100 million dollar mixed-use complex along the Cross-Bayou Corridor. It’s expected this would solidify the efforts of the city to attract the New Orleans Pelicans’ development league. Tyler Comeaux, managing member of a campaign in support of that effort called Shreveport for Pelicans, calls the idea a “slam dunk”…:

Cut 4  (11) “to Shreveport”

The mayor has pledged to commit up to $30 million dollars to build the complex subject to city council approval. Some have argued that the investment is more than what Shreveport can handle, but Comeaux says that’s coming from a fund that was designated for the purpose of developing the river front..:

Cut 5  (10)  “as well”

The campaign includes a website: Slam-Dunk-For-Shreveport-dot-com. Comeaux says it’s important to note that the city council’s vote today is only on the intent to move ahead with negotiations. He also adds this is only if Tom Benson’s organization selects Shreveport and all parties agree on terms…:

Cut 6 (10) “legislation”

________________________________________________________

Kaplan Police Chief Boyd Adams has been arrested on charges of theft and malfeasance in office after an investigation by the Legislative Auditor’s Office. Director of the Investigative Audit Roger Harris says there were no records to support the expenditure of over 19-thousand dollars.

Cut 7 (09)  “warrant”

The report finds Adams was unable to provide receipts of records documenting his use of the funds from May 2010 to May 2015. Harris says even after a chance to explain the expenses, Adams was unable to.

Cut 8 (07) “start with”

Some of the discrepancies involved a failure to disclose off-duty security details to the worker’s compensation insurer and Chief Adams ordering professional services without authorization. Harris says the Legislative Auditors received a complaint into the Kaplan Police Department and that’s what stemmed the investigation, which was completed last September

Cut 9 (08)  “figures”

____________________________________________________

After 9-11 , former Governor Mike Foster started the “Bucks for Trucks” campaign, where Louisianans donated money to purchase a new firetruck for the New York City Fire Department. Enough money was raised to build four firetrucks at Ferrera Fire Apparatus in Livingston Parish.  Former owner, Chris Ferrera says 1.2 million dollars was raised and all of the trucks are still in use 16 years later.

Cut 10 (10) “New York”

Ferrera says one truck was actually sent to New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina and is currently in use by the Louisiana Fire Marshal’s Office.

Cut 11 (09) “on it”

Ferrera says it’s so amazing that the people of the Bayou State came together and the legacy continues. He says the first firetruck went on a tour before ending up in New York City.

Cut 12 (11) “New York”

__________________________________________________________

Another Saints season is off to a rough start, as the Black and Gold lost to Minnesota 29-19 last night. New Orleans had trouble scoring touchdowns after getting into the redzone and Vikings Quarterback Sam Bradford picked up apart the Saints defense for 346 yards and three touchdowns….

Cut 13 (18) “they did”

Saints Quarterback Drew Brees threw for 291 yards and one touchdown, but the Black and Gold could not establish a ground game. They rushed for just 60 yards. Adrian Peterson had 18 yards on six carries in his Saints debut and the cameras caught A-P yelling at Payton and staring his coach down. But Payton denies there was a heated exchange with the future Hall of Famer…

Cut 14 (14) “being honest”

So for the fifth time in the last six years, the Saints start the season with a loss. They host the Super Bowl champion New England Patriots on Sunday, but Payton says the mistakes made on Monday night need to be corrected first….

Cut 15 (17) “do it”

____________________________________________

LSU’s best pass rusher is expected to play on Saturday night in Starkville when the Tigers take on Mississippi State. Key missed the first two games as he finished recovering from offseason shoulder injury. Head Coach Ed Orgeron says he’s fired up to see Key play on Saturday, but they are not sure how many snaps he’ll get…

Cut 16  (20)  “his condition”

LSU is anticipating a hostile crowd on Saturday as Mississippi State is also 2-0 on the year. Orgeron says they’ll begin preparing for the sound of cowbells and Bulldog fans today…

Cut 17 (16)  “cowbells”

In LSU’s 45-10 win over Chattanooga, quarterback Danny Etling was 8-of-14 from 227 yards and a score. He connected on five passes of 25 yards or more. But Orgeron says LSU could have been more productive through the air, if Etling was more accurate….

Cut 18 (18) “in that area” 

Louisiana is deploying a major effort to help with Hurricanes Irma and Harvey response and recovery in Florida, Georgia and Texas. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

______________________________________

The statistical peak of the 2017 Atlantic Hurricane season is now behind us but we can still expect an active season. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

______________________________________

The Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness is deploying employees and coordinating assistance from other state agencies for Hurricane Irma and Hurricane Harvey response and recovery efforts. GOHSEP spokesman Mike Steele says there is a wide range of needs right now in Florida and Georgia, and ongoing cleanup in Texas, and the state is happy to help.:

Cut 3 (11) “and rescue teams going”

Steele says the state-to-state system was developed after Hurricane Andrew in 1992. He says Louisiana has a lot of experience in what to do after a storm hits…:

Cut 4  (07) “as well”

Steele says GOHSEP’s Deputy-Director is also in the Lone Star State to help develop potential temporary housing options based on the Shelter at Home Program. He says officials in Texas are considering the program with some of the improvements recommended by Louisiana…:

Cut 5  (10)  “that housing crunch”

________________________________________________

We’ve have moved past the statistical peak of what has been a very active 2017 Atlantic hurricane season. State Climatologist Barry Keim says there’s already been 11 named storms…

Cut 6 (10)”this season”

Twenty-two named storms would rank among the second busiest in history, falling short of the 2005 record of 28. Keim says it’s likely we will proceed earlier predictions of this hurricane season. But he says right now, it looks as if things are calming down compared to last week.

Cut 7 (11)  “or two”

Keim says even with Irma turning into a tropical storm and Jose not looking like much of a threat, we cannot let our guard down.

Cut 8 (08) “of us”

________________________________________________________________

A Christmas Tree farm in St. Tammany Parish has been hit by vandals for the about the 20th time, and the owner is not happy. Clarke Gernon heads up Shady Pond Tree Farm in Pearl River and says nobody has ever been caught destroying the trees..:

Cut 9 (08)  “a living thing”

Gernon says it’s been difficult for him to express to law enforcement the idea that these are more than just trees…:

Cut 10 (09) “than animal abuse”

Gernon says because of the physical size of the 50 acre farm, it’s very difficult to put in an effective security system. He says the 9 trees that were recently destroyed may not seem like much when you consider they have about a 14,000 inventory…:

Cut 11 (10) “bad thing”

______________________________________________________________

Louisiana is on their way to help once again in the wake of Hurricanes Irma Harvey. Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says in 2005, people from around the country raced to help in the aftermath of Katrina and it’s our turn to give back. He says residents sign up through volunteerlouisiana.com…

Cut 12 (09) “partnership”

Nungesser says volunteers also partner with GOHSEP and the well-known Cajun Navy. He says the Louisiana residents who donated their time in the Harvey shelters in Alexandria and Shreveport really care about those they are helping.

Cut 13 (10) “feel good”

Nungesser says when you lose everything in a flood, it means so much that someone from another state put their life on hold to lend a helping hand.

Cut 14 (10) “effort”

Congress passed a bill to reauthorize the National Flood Insurance Program, which was set to expire on September 30. Halen Doughty has the story…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

______________________________________

The state Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is asking sportsman to limit the transport of Roseau cane, as a non-native tiny insect is consuming the plant. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

______________________________________

During LSU’s 45-10 win over Chattanooga on Saturday night, the Tigers showed the ability to throw the football down the field. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

___________________________________________________

75 Soldiers from the Louisiana National Guard’s 165^th Combat Sustainment and Support Battalion are set to deploy to Afghanistan. Bossier Parish Community College gymnasium will hold a deployment ceremony at 11 AM for family and friends to bid farewell. Col. Ed Bush says these troops will be overseas for about a year.

Cut 4  (08) “they need”

The 165^th has served during numerous hurricanes and helped with commodity distribution during last year’s floods. Bush says the 165^th also mobilized in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and this mission is very similar.

Cut 5  (10)  “as well”

Bush says the 165^th also provided support in Operation Desert Storm and Operations Enduring Freedom. He says after their sendoff party today, they undergo training at Fort Hood in Texas…

Cut 6 (08) “11 months”

________________________________________________________

Congress approves a measure to reauthorize the National Flood Insurance Program for the next 90 days, as federal lawmakers work on a long-term solution for the program. US Senator John Kennedy says while this was not his first choice, he’s glad congressional leaders didn’t let the clock run out on the program that expires September 30.

Cut 7 (11)  “permanent re authorization”

Kennedy filed a bill to reauthorize the program for the long term that he says has bipartisan support. He says he wants to establish integrity in the NFIP while also not undermining the purpose of the program by causing premiums to skyrocket.

Cut 8 (09) “a bus”

Kennedy says he’s trying to strike a balance between sustainability and affordability. He says his bill and others are on the table for discussion, and extending the deadline for the short-term gives lawmakers a chance to look at all their options.

Cut 9 (09)  “the program”

____________________________________________________

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is asking the public to limit the transportation of Roseau cane, as the species is rapidly dying off. The plant helps to protect the Mississippi River delta and the coastal region. LDWF Biologist Manager Vaughn McDonald says the Roseau cane scale, which is a bug, is killing off the beneficial plant life.

Cut 10 (11) “from there”

The bug is mostly found in 11 of the state’s most southern parishes. McDonald urges fisherman to fill out a survey on the LDWF website if they notice the Roseau cane scale. He says sportsman should take precautions after being around phragmites.

Cut 11 (10) “soapy water”

McDonald reminds duck hunters to not tie their boats up to the cane. He says phragmites stands up well during tropical storm events and the scale impacts the health of our coastal marshes.

Cut 12 (11) “together”

__________________________________________________________

The LSU football team is 2-0, but the Tigers still have a lot to work on as they head into this Saturday’s SEC opener versus Mississippi State in Starkville. Between Jack Gonsoulin and Connor Culp, the Tigers have missed three field goals. Head Coach Ed Orgeron says it’s an issue…

Cut 13 (10) “we can”

While kicking field goals have been a problem, quarterback Danny Etling has looked sharp. Through two games, he’s completed 71-percent of his passes for nearly 400 yards, one touchdown and zero interceptions. Orgeron says Etling looks like a different player this season…

Cut 14 (19) “do it”

_______________________________________________________

An intriguing matchup to start the season for the Saints as they visit the Minnesota Vikings to kick-off the 2017 campaign. New Orleans led the NFL in total offense last year, while the Vikings had the league’s third-ranked defense, and return most of their starters from 2016. Saints Quarterback Drew Brees says it’s a tough match-up to start the season….

Cut 15 (12) “absolute best”

New Saints running back Adrian Peterson gets a chance to stick it to his old team. Peterson rushed for 11,747 yards in 10 seasons in Minnesota. The 32-year-old says he would like to have a big game that leads to a victory…

Cut 16  (10)  “New England”

The Vikings have two pro bowlers in their secondary, safety Harrison Smith and cornerback Xavier Rhodes. Brees says Rhodes is a top tier corner in the NFL…

Cut 17 (12)  “good reason”

__________________________________________________________

Louisiana could be a contender for Amazon’s new corporate headquarters as the online retail giant plans to spend five billion dollars on a second headquarters. Don Molino has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Don Molino”

______________________________________

If North America wins the bid host the 2026 FIFA World Cup in soccer, New Orleans would like to host a few matches. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

______________________________________

Amazon seeks a location for new corporate headquarters, as the online mega retailer plans to open a second corporate location. State Economic Development Secretary Don Pierson says Louisiana has a lot of strengths to offer should we throw our hat in the ring, and its likely we will…

Cut 3 (10) “office space”

Amazon is reportedly looking for a metropolitan area with more than a million people near an international airport with access to mass transit. New Orleans could be a perfect fit. Pierson says the number one rated LED Fast Start program can also offer skilled employees.

Cut 4  (08) “in Louisiana”

Pierson has said a prime location could be between Baton Rouge and New Orleans. He says the Bayou State has a lot of unique features to offer, like plenty of transportation infrastructure with two major interstates and particularly the I-10 corridor.

Cut 5  (11)  “for commerce”

________________________________________________

North America is bidding against Morocco to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup and New Orleans wants to get in on the action. Jay Cicero, CEO of the Greater New Orleans Sports Foundation, says the Crescent City has already hosted 10 Superbowls, six men’s Final Fours and the World Cup would be a perfect addition. But he says the competition is fierce.

Cut 6 (10)”put forth”

U.S. Soccer plans to announce in the fall a list of potential 25 host cities in America. Cicero says if selected, they would add natural grass to the Mercedes Benz Superdome.

Cut 7 (10)  “it out”

The Superdome currently has 72-thousand seats. Cicero says to be considered for an opening or final match, the stadium must hold 80-thousand people and that could happen after the next rounds of renovations. He says the Big Easy has so much to offer.

Cut 8 (10) “to Louisiana”

________________________________________________________________

The state department of transportation is raising awareness about construction zone safety. DOTD reports a shocking uptick in accidents along I-10 in Acadiana, where crews are working to widen the interstate in each direction. Deidra Druilhet with DOTD says work zones come with different driving conditions.

Cut 9 (10)  “those areas”

Druilhet says signs are in place indicating reduced speed limits from I-49 to the Atchafalaya Basin Bridge. She says speed trailers are in place displaying speed limits and clocking drivers as they pass, as well as a queue detection system and message boards indicating delay times.

Cut 10 (11) “construction zone”

Druilhet says they’re also putting a solid line through the construction zone to deter motorists from changing lanes. She encourages motorists to stay alert, minimize distractions, be patient, and heed all warnings and speed zones.

Cut 11 (09) “that’s there”

______________________________________________________________

Louisiana utility crews are heading to Georgia to help with any potential power outages as Hurricane Irma tracks north towards the US. Cleco spokesperson Jennifer Cahill says crews are meeting at the St. Tammany Service Center Monday to make the trip to Macon, Georgia.

Cut 12 (11) “Hurricane Irma”

Cahill says Cleco is a member of the mutual assistance program called the Southeastern Electric Exchange. She says members offer restoration support after major outage events. Cleco assisted Georgia Power after Hurricane Matthew.

Cut 13 (08) “electrical systems”

Georgia Power services about 2.5 million customers in Georgia. Cahill says Cleco crews will be on hand as needed to make sure those residents have their power restored right away.

Cut 14 (10) “electrical systems”

__________________________________________________________

CSRA in Bossier City is setting up a call center to connect Harvey victims to recovery resources. Don Molino has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Don Molino”

______________________________________

A statewide blood drive is being held today in the hopes of replenishing a short supply following Hurricane Harvey. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

______________________________________

Louisiana’s two US senators were among the 80 who voted to support federal funding for Hurricane Harvey recovery efforts. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

___________________________________________________

In the coming weeks and months, Harvey victims will need help navigating the red tape to getting federal aid, and Louisianans are coming to the rescue. CSRA was enlisted by the feds to establish a call center for helping disaster victims. Spokesperson Mimi Hedgcock says 500 of those call agents will be based in Bossier City.

Cut 4  (09) “within FEMA”

A $95 million grant will fund the temporary call center. Hedgcock says CSRA hosted a job fair at the Bossier City location to fill the part-time and full-time positions. She says they were shocked at the incredible turnout.

Cut 5  (10)  “Louisiana”

Hedgcock says the call center will open early next week after the new agents receive the proper training. She says this facility will be vitally important to affected families who are trying to put their lives back together.

Cut 6 (09) “as possible”

________________________________________________________

The Governor’s Office is holding a statewide blood drive today amid a supply shortage following Hurricane Harvey. Tina Martinez with LifeShare Blood Centers says because of the hurricane’s destruction, many communities have not been able to donate blood to support the medical needs of local patients.

Cut 7 (07)  “donations daily”

Blood drive locations have been set up in all the major Louisiana cities, and donors can also go by any LifeShare location to donate. Martinez says this is a great way for people to help those affected by the storm, and it doesn’t cost a thing.

Cut 8 (11) “to someone”

Martinez notes there’s no other source for blood. It can’t be manufactured, so it has to be donated. She says about 40 percent of the population is eligible to donate, and all blood types are needed.

Cut 9 (11)  “the process”

____________________________________________________

Both of Louisiana’s US Senators voted to appropriate 15-billion dollars in disaster aid for victims of Harvey, which nearly doubles what President Donald Trump requested. Junior Senator John Kennedy says this federal funding will help our neighbors grapple with the destruction Harvey left behind.

Cut 10 (09) “happened to em”

Kennedy says without this federal support, many disaster victims won’t be able to rebuild their homes and businesses. He says unfortunately, many Louisianans can relate to the hopeless feeling that comes from losing everything in a disaster. He has a message for those struggling to find hope.

Cut 11 (10) “think you won’t”

Kennedy says although it hasn’t always been the case, FEMA is doing a good job lately, especially with Administrator Brock Long at the helm. He says the rest will be up to them, since his job ends with providing the funds.

Cut 12 (08) “different”

The vote was 80-17 in the Senate and now heads to the House for their approval.

__________________________________________________________

Louisiana Tech is gearing up for a big home game this Saturday as the Bulldogs will host Mississippi State from the SEC. The last time these two teams met in Ruston, Tech defeated State 22-14 in 2008. Coach Skip Holtz says hosting an SEC team is a great opportunity for their football team, but this game does not make their season….

Cut 13 (11) “after this one”

Both teams won their season openers. Tech handled in state foe Northwestern State 52-24, while Mississippi State crushed Charleston Southern 49-0.  Holtz is very impressed with how State won its season opener…

Cut 14 (11) “college football”

_______________________________________________________

12th ranked LSU is coming off a dominating performance over BYU and will host Chattanooga at 6:30 in the home opener for the Tigers. LSU is a heavy favorite to beat the FCS School, but Head Coach Ed Orgeron says they have a great deal of respect for the Mocs

Cut 15 (08) “but a battle”

In the Tigers shutout win over BYU in the season opener, LSU allowed just 97 total yards and held BYU to negative five rushing yards. Linebacker Devin White led the team in tackles that night and expects more dominate performances…

Cut 16  (14)  “need to be”

LSU graduates have higher early- and mid-career earnings than other grads, according to a new report. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

______________________________________

For the first time in nearly a decade, three hurricanes are moving through the Atlantic Basin at the same time. Michelle Southern reports…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

______________________________________

A recent report finds LSU graduates have higher early- and mid-career earnings than graduates of other Louisiana universities. Among the 50 flagship universities in the country, LSU ranks 21^st in early career earnings and 18^th for mid-career earnings. President F. King Alexander credits the hard work of the University for getting students ready for the workforce.

Cut 3 (10) “career ready”

Alexander says LSU students are leaders who aren’t afraid of hard work. When looking at public SEC peers, LSU is third behind only Texas A&M and Florida for early career earnings and the Baton Rouge school ranks fourth in mid-career earnings. He notes many of the universities below LSU on the list charge higher tuition and have more student debt.

Cut 4  (12) “LSU degree”

LSU grads have early career earnings of more than $52,000 and mid-career earnings of over $100,000. Alexander says this is a testament to the value of an LSU degree. He hopes this report will encourage more Louisiana students to choose LSU for their degree and attract more out of state students.

Cut 5  (11)  “worth it”

________________________________________________

Cleco and Entergy are teaming up to increase reliability to customers in southeast Louisiana. Cleco Spokesperson Jennifer Cahill says construction is already underway for a new storm-hardened transmission line from Gray to Patterson that can withstand winds of 150 miles per hour.

Cut 6 (10)”restoration times”

It’s expected the project will be completed by the fall of 2018. Cahill says this is a great example of two utility companies working together to benefit customers. She says Cleco and Entergy are splitting the cost and Entergy expects to spend 65-million dollars on 24 miles of the project.

Cut 7 (09)  “dollars”

Cahill says this project and partnership are so important because the first thing customers want after a storm is to have their power restored.

Cut 8 (08) “Louisiana”

________________________________________________________________

Three hurricanes are churning in the Atlantic Basin. Hurricane Irma, which is expected to hit Florida on Sunday, Jose is trailing Irma in the central Atlantic, and Katia is a hurricane in the southwestern Gulf. State climatologist Barry Keim says having three hurricanes simultaneously is definitely unusual, but it’s not unprecedented or record-breaking.

Cut 9 (11)  “1998”

Keim says the Atlantic hurricane season is off to a roaring start this year. He says we’ve already seen 11 named storms, and we haven’t reached the peak of the season.

Cut 10 (09) “right now”

Keim says although we’ve seen two storms make landfall, the state has been pretty luck so far this season. He says Tropical Storms Cindy and Harvey both landed in Louisiana, but they didn’t do much damage in the Bayou State.

Cut 11 (08) “unscathed”

______________________________________________________________

The state Department of Transportation has started a major project on Arkansas Road in Ouachita Parish. DOTD Secretary Dr. Shawn Wilson says with a big boom in residents in West Monroe, there is a serious need for a wider road. He says this construction will increase the traffic capacity in the area.

Cut 12 (10) “signals”

The project is expected to cost about 33-million dollars. Wilson says sidewalks will also be installed along the road so pedestrians can travel safely. He says West Monroe is growing and this project will eliminate huge congestion problems.

Cut 13 (10) “this corridor “

Over 18-thousand vehicles pass through this stretch of Arkansas Road from North 7^th Street to Caldwell Road every day. Wilson says the project is expected to take about three years and will be finished in the spring of 2020. He says it will be slightly uncomfortable during construction but…

Cut 14 (09) “Louisiana”

__________________________________________________________

The TOPS Task Force met for the first time today to discuss the future of the scholarship program. Michelle Southern has more…

Cut 1 (25) “I’m Michelle Southern”

______________________________________

Governor John Bel Edwards is pushing for changes in the federal disaster grant program. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Halen Doughty”

______________________________________

Today the TOPS Task Force met for the first time, as state leaders take a closer look at the scholarship program. Jennings Senator Blade Morrish authored the legislation that created the group. He says almost no changes have been made to TOPS in the past 20 years, but a lot has changed in higher education…:

Cut 3 (11) “and we do now”

Morrish says they want to see where TOPS is going, what needs to be done, and what the legislative intent is of the scholarship program. He says the goal is to collect all the information available on TOPS so lawmakers can make decisions about the future of the program.

Cut 4  (07) “on it”

The task force will meet twice a month for the next four months before issuing their report in February. Morrish says the purpose of today’s meeting is to get a general overview of the taxpayer funded scholarship program.

Cut 5  (12)  “costing us”

________________________________________________

The National Hurricane Center says the eye of Cat-5 Irma is closing in on the Virgin Islands, but most models still show it shifting east and staying away from Louisiana. NHC Meteorologist David Zelinsky says the 5 day cone of probability currently shows Irma impacting Florida…:

Cut 6 (11)”does shift”

Zelinsky says encourages people not to focus on the exact forecast track, especially at longer ranges. He says there is a mid-level trough that is causing Irma to turn…:

Cut 7 (04)  “actually occur”

Zelinsky says atmospheric conditions and sea surface temperatures will likely keep the storm a major hurricane as it heads towards the Bahamas and southern Florida. He says Irma is going to hit Puerto Rico this afternoon or tonight:

Cut 8 (10) “and The Keys”

________________________________________________________________

Major refineries in Texas are starting to come back online, and gas prices across the nation are finally starting to level off. Senior Petroleum Analyst with GasBuddy.com, Patrick Dehaan says, the Bayou State saw a 16 cent increase at the pump over the last week. The current statewide average is $2.39. He says we can blame this spike on Hurricane Harvey.

Cut 9 (11)  “higher”

Dehaan says it seems like gas prices have begun to peak and Louisiana is already seeing subtle decreases.

Cut 10 (05) “plateau”

Dehaan says Louisiana’s average, although it has increased by 16 cents, it’s lower than the national average of a 21 cent jump.

Cut 11 (10) “unscathed”

______________________________________________________________

In the wake of devastating storms with more on the way, Governor John Bel Edwards hopes to change the way disaster grants are awarded to impacted homeowners. Richard Carbo with the governor’s office says SBA loans are the only funding available immediately after a disaster, but they may not be the best option.

Cut 12 (11) “Restore Louisiana program”

Carbo says a provision called a “duplication of benefits” prohibits families who took out loans from receiving any federal funding. He says the problem is FEMA almost insists that homeowners apply for these loans without telling them what that will mean down the road.

Cut 13 (08) “to pay back”

Carbo says the governor is pushing to end that provision and allow disaster victims to receive any assistance that’s available. He says the loan program isn’t fair to homeowners because they can be punished for taking out a loan, whether or not they use it.

Cut 14 (13) “just approved for”

__________________________________________________________

Lafayette Sheriff Mark Garber’s daughter and babysitter were found safe this morning following an all-night search for the missing girls. Don Molino has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Don Molino”

______________________________________

State Officials got together today to discuss Louisiana’s response plan should another storm hit us, while our neighbors are recovering. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

______________________________________

The daughter and babysitter of Lafayette Sheriff Mark Garber have been found safe after the two went missing in a canoe overnight. John Mowell with the sheriff’s office says the 21-year-old Juliana Brooks took 7-year-old Cora Garber canoeing in the sheriff’s pond, which is adjacent to a swamp.

Cut 3 (10) “right now”

Mowell says when the sheriff saw the babysitter’s phone and car at his home and no sight of the girls, he immediately deployed search and rescue teams. He says local law enforcement agencies joined in the effort, along with volunteers in canoes who searched throughout the night before finding the girls in the Lake Martin area near an oil well.

Cut 4  (11) “precautionary measure”

Mowell says the girls used mud from the swamp to protect themselves from mosquitos. He says the babysitter is a skilled kayaker with survival skills, which came in handy during the long night in the swamp.

Cut 5  (11)  “good judgement”

________________________________________________

State Officials got together today to discuss Louisiana’s response plan should another storm hit us while portions of the Gulf Coast region are still recovering from prior events. Mike Steele with the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness says we are still in the heart of hurricane season, and resources in Louisiana could be strained:

Cut 6 (09) “Houston and in Texas”

Steele says Texas has historically been one of our strongest allies during an emergency, but much of that support may not be available now while their Hurricane Harvey recovery begins…:

Cut 7 (08)  “things in place”

Steele says not only is the state dealing with it’s own recovery from Harvey impacts, there are many Louisiana residents still living in temporary housing from the 2016 floods. He says even if Irma doesn’t hit Louisiana, there are other storms already starting to stack up…:

Cut 8 (11) “headed your way”

________________________________________________________________

Hurricane Irma is a potentially catastrophic Category 5 storm heading toward the Leeward Islands. National Hurricane Center Forecaster Chris Landsea says Irma will reach the Lesser Antilles today…

Cut 9 (12)  “south Florida”

The models show Irma turning north once it reaches south Florida and not impacting Louisiana, but Landsea says Louisiana should not let it’s guard down….

Cut 10 (08) “premature”

Landsea says Irma is the strongest Atlantic Ocean hurricane on record with maximum sustained winds of 185 miles per hour….

Cut 11 (09) “gonna produce”

______________________________________________________________

CEOWORLD magazine ranks UL-Lafayette’s petroleum engineering department the seventh best in the nation and thirteenth in the world. Department Head Dr. Fathi Boukadi (Fah-tee Boo-kah-dee) says this is the result of years of hard work by students, faculty, and staff. He says it’s an honor for the program to be ranked among the best in the world, and he hopes to continue to improve the department.

Cut 12 (09) “our students”

Job placement rate and recruiter feedback were key factors in the report. Boukadi says his students aren’t having much trouble finding work. He notes even in the face of a struggling oil and gas industry, UL-Lafayette students are holding down jobs in the field.

Cut 13 (08) “during the downturn”

Boukadi says students in his department get lots of hands on experience from the local oil and gas sector, which makes UL-Lafayette students even more competitive in the sector. He hopes this ranking and a rebounding oil market helps attract more students to the program.

Cut 14 (10) “in the South”

__________________________________________________________

A report from Trust for America’s Health finds Louisiana has the fifth highest obesity rate in the nation. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

______________________________________

Many are asking what they can do to help those affected by Hurricane Harvey. Halen Doughty has the answer from the Red Cross…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

______________________________________

A Baton Rouge doctor is one of the first in the nation to perform a new stroke prevention procedure. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 3 (28) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

___________________________________________________

Louisiana has the fifth highest obesity rate in the country, according to a report from Trust for America’s Health. President and CEO John Auerbach says that doesn’t come as a big surprise because the Bayou State is more or less where it’s been for the past few years in terms of the obesity rate.

Cut 4  (10) “same level”

Louisiana is one of just five states with an obesity rate over 35 percent. Auerbach says that’s concerning because being overweight is linked to a plethora of health problems, including diabetes, heart disease, asthma, and certain cancers.

Cut 5  (11)  “associated with that”

Perhaps even more troubling is the finding that Louisiana ranks fourth in the country for childhood obesity of 10- to 17-year-olds, at 21 percent. Auerbach says that growing rate can be addressed with policy changes in schools, like providing healthy lunch options and limiting access to junk food.

Cut 6 (10) “empty calories”

________________________________________________________

Relief efforts are ongoing amid the devastation left by Hurricane Harvey, and many are asking how they can help those affected. Chairman of the Board for the Greater Baton Rouge Red Cross, Desiree Lemoine says donating money is the easiest way to give because the Red Cross can buy in bulk.

Cut 7 (11)  “them monetarily”

Some have questioned how they will know what efforts their dollars will support. Lemoine says Red Cross always honors the donor’s intent. She says those who wish to donate can specify what they want their donation to go towards.

Cut 8 (09) “to Harvey relief”

Lemoine says the Red Cross delivers 91 cents of every dollar donated to the charity. She says another way to give back is to become a Red Cross volunteer. She says they have a skilled team of volunteers from all over the country.

Cut 9 (09)  “who volunteer”

To donate or volunteer, go online to RedCross.org.

____________________________________________________

A Monroe-native is launching a new streaming TV network next month. Ro Wright says CONGO TV launches online on October 1. He says the network will be available through a variety of streaming options, which he calls the future of broadcast because so many people are turning away from cable.

Cut 10 (09) “streaming devices”

Wright says he hopes to help local actors showcase their talent in feature films. He says the network will also feature local program based on where users log in, as well as original films and reality shows. He says they’re already racking up submissions.

Cut 11 (09) “our network”

Wright says one show in the works is set to be filmed in Louisiana. He says the show will follow a group of black students who have decided not to attend HBCUs because they don’t see the importance of them in this day and age.

Cut 12 (11) “our own state”

__________________________________________________________

A Baton Rouge General Doctor is one of the first physicians in the country to perform a successful new stoke prevention procedure. Dr. Vince Weaver says this is a minimally invasive procedure that reverses the blood flow through the brain to divert blood clots and plaque away from the brain to prevent blockage and stroke.

Cut 13 (10) “it heals”

Three procedures have already been successful and several more are scheduled. Weaver says the previous procedure for high risk patients involved open surgery, which increases the risk of stroke and heart attack. He says this treatment option is significantly safer…

Cut 14 (11) “dislodged”

Weaver says the surgery is an hour long and patients are released the next day. He says certain criteria must be met before the procedure can be done…

Cut 15 (09) “both sides”

It’s Labor Day, so what is the state of employment in Louisiana? Jeff Palermo spoke with LSU economist Loren Scott…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

______________________________________

West Monroe-based Johnny’s Pizza House is celebrating 50 years in business this month. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (33) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

______________________________________

Elmer’s Island will get a face lift this month, as a team of volunteers is set to clean up the 2.5 mile stretch of beach on September 16th. The event is hosted in-part by the Barataria-Terrebonne National Estuary or BTNEP. Spokeswoman Alma Robichaux says the event is in coordination with the international coastal cleanup that happens every year in September…:

Cut 3 (10) “Saturday the 16”

Volunteers will keep track of the kinds of trash that is collected. Robichaux says they’ll record what they find to sue for education awareness, which can hopefully put an end to the littering problem on the island. She says the idea is to find the source of the pollution…:

Cut 4  (12) “marine debris”

The event, which is also hosted by the state Department of Wildlife and Fisheries and Nicholls State, takes place from 10am-1pm. Robichaux says people who wish to volunteer can visit btnep.org and they’re hopeful for a great turnout…:

Cut 5  (11)  “waste drain”

________________________________________________________

One of the most popular things do to on Labor Day is gather with family and friends for an outdoor Barbecue. CEO of the Cattle Producers of Louisiana Dave Foster says consumers can expect to see sales here and there on meat products, but the beef industry views this holiday as the last big high-demand time for their commodity until at least Christmas…:

Cut 6 (09) “we get to December”

Foster says when it comes to the impact on the beef industry from Hurricane Harvey, they’re seeing many restaurants and grocery stores placing orders for meat way ahead of the time they normally do….:

Cut 7 (08)  “that stuff”

Foster says if there does become any shortage in beef but they already know stores have prepared for that by stocking up in advance, he hopes the marketplace doesn’t take advantage of that…:

Cut 8 (09) “what happens”

____________________________________________________

Based on the latest data from the Louisiana Workforce Commission, one-point-nine million people are holding down a job in this state. That’s an increase of 12-thousand from this time last year. LSU economist Doctor Loren Scott says because of an industrial boom in Lake Charles and Baton Rouge, the construction sector continues to do well…

Cut 9 (10)  “right now”

The state workforce commission says 155-thousand people work in construction, which is an all-time high for Louisiana. But Scott anticipates a lag in employment next year…

Cut 10 (09) “coming back again”

Scott says the employment situation has improved in the oil and gas industry areas like Lafayette and Houma, but job losses are still continuing. But he says employment gains continue in two other areas….

Cut 11 (11) “of the state”

____________________________________________________

Johnny’s Pizza House celebrates 50 years in business this month. President and CEO Melvin DeLacerda says the company is in great shape, and he’s looking forward to another 50 years. He says Johnny Huntsman founded the company in Monroe after discovering his love for pizza while attending college in Iowa.

Cut 12 (10) “in this area”

DeLacerda says when Johnny opened his first store across from what was then Northeast Louisiana University, he had to sell other food too because people were not familiar with pizza. He says Johnny served hamburgers and spaghetti to keep the doors open, and he had other gimmicks as well.

Cut 13 (09) “popular spot”

DeLacerda says today Johnny’s has 44 locations spanning multiple states. He says not only did Johnny start a pizza restaurant, he also gave back to the community. He says it’s a tradition he plans to continue in the company.

Cut 14 (12) “continue to operate”

Johnny passed away in June after a battle with Alzheimer’s.

________________________________________________________

The 2017 season is off to a good start for the LSU Tigers. The Bayou Bengals blanked BYU 27-0 as the Tigers outgained the Cougars 479-to-97. Derrius Guice rushed for 120 yards and 2 touchdowns. Quarterback Danny Etling was 14-of-17 for 173 yards. Head Coach Ed Orgeron says offensive coordinator Matt Canada did a fantastic job calling plays…

Cut 15 (17) “offensive staff”

On the defensive side of the football, LSU held BYU to 97 total yards, negative five rushing yards. It’s the first time the Tigers have shutout an opponent since 2014 and first opening game shutout since the 2007 national championship team. Orgeron says it was a great performance…

Cut 16  (14)  “fantastic”

__________________________________________________________________

Not much defense was played last Saturday in Lafayette as the Ragin Cajuns outlasted Southeastern Louisiana 51-48. The Lions rushed for 343 yards. UL Lafayette Coach Mark Hudspeth says they were over pursuing on defense…

Cut 17 (17)  “next week”

Cajuns QB Jordan Davis was 12-of-23 for 162 yards and a touchdown in his first career start. Hudspeth says Davis had an effective performance…

Cut 18 (20) “week two”