LSU researchers found the Gulf of Mexico has some of the highest concentrations of microplastics in the world. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Health officials urge the public to protect themselves against mosquitos after an Alexandria man died from West Nile Virus. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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A newly formed PAC supporting cops in the state is trying to get the word out about who they are, and what they’re all about. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Researchers found the Gulf of Mexico is home to some of the highest concentrations of microplastic in the world. The Great Pacific Garbage Patch is a well-known area in the central Pacific where plastic accumulates because of the current. LSU oceanographer Mark Benfield says in that region, plastic concentrations can be as much as several particles per cubic meter. But the concentration in the Gulf was much higher.

Cut 4  (11) “in the world”

With the Louisiana coast being mostly wetland with low population density, researchers started to ask where all the microplastic could be coming from. Benfield says the Mississippi River was the obvious candidate.

Cut 5  (12)  “Gulf of Mexico”

The plastic is very small, about the size of a Mardi Gras bead down to the microscopic level. Benfield says they’re concerned the plastic is being consumed by marine life. That’s a big problem because chemicals can stick to the surface of plastic.

Cut 6 (10) “into the animal”

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It’s been two months since congressional leaders were the target of an attack at a Virginia ball park. House Majority Whip Steve Scalise continues to recover from a gunshot wound to the hip. Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves says it’s a miracle no one was more seriously injured.

Cut 7 (10)  “that is amazing”

The Jefferson Parish congressman has undergone numerous surgeries since the shooting. Graves says his recovery has been complicated because he has both skeletal injuries in the hip and leg, as well as soft tissue and organ damage in the abdomen. But he’s optimistic Scalise will be back at work when Congress reconvenes in September.

Cut 8 (10) “very high”

Despite the severity of his injuries and the high risk of infection, Scalise has made remarkable strides in his recovery. Graves says he’s been discharged from MedStar Washington hospital and moved into rehabilitation.

Cut 9 (08)  “of recovery”

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An Alexandria man has died after contracting the West Nile Virus, and health officials are urging the public to protect themselves against mosquitos. Dr. David Holcombe with the Office of Public Health says the virus is transmitted by household mosquitos that are common in Louisiana. But there are ways people can keep the pesky bugs away.

Cut 10 (10) “they’re outside”

Seventy-one-year-old Donald Austin died last Tuesday. His family says he got sick about two weeks ago, but they thought it was the flu. Holcombe says that’s not surprising because for most people, West Nile Virus is completely asymptomatic.

Cut 11 (10) “are asymptomatic”

Holcombe says about nine percent of people get a low fever, and one percent get a neuro invasive disease that can be deadly. Most of the people who get the fatal illness are elderly. So far this year, 19 cases of West Nile have been reported in Louisiana. Holcombe says that could mean we’ll have a more active season this year.

Cut 12 (08) “than last”

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A newly formed PAC supporting cops in the state is trying to get the word out about who they are, and what they’re all about. Chris Stewart is the Executive Director of the Louisiana Law Enforcement PAC. He says their group plans to tackle matters that affect police officers statewide…:

Cut 13 (08) “that they have on them”

Stewart says they independently support law enforcement in the sate by promoting candidates for elected office and policies that help officers serve and protect communities more safely and effectively. He says there are many things that need to be addressed to deal with a recruiting problem.:

Cut 14 (10) “to it”

You can find out more online at LLEPAC.com. Stewart says 20 years ago, for example, the Baton Rouge Police Department would have three or four hundred applicants for 30 positions, and now they are lucky to get 75. He says it’s a national problem when it comes to police perception, and tactics…:

Cut 15 (10) “way too much lately”

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LSU Football Coach Ed Orgeron says the offense dominated in the team’s second preseason game of training camp on Saturday. Derius Guice rushed for 102 yards and a touchdown, while Darrel Williams added 76 yards and a couple of touchdowns. Quarterbacks Danny Etling and Myles Brennan each threw for over 100 yards. Orgeron says there were some standout performers on defense too….

Cut 16 (23)  “very, very well”

Orgeron says the defense also did a good job at putting pressure on the quarterback. Etling threw for 114 yards and a pair interceptions, while Brennan had 107 yards passing and a touchdown. Orgeron says Etling is still the starting quarterback right now…

Cut 17 (20)  “on offense”

Orgeron says he likes the depth he has at running back. Freshman Clyde Edwards-Helaire has looked good, and Coach “O” says Nick Brossette has also performed well…

Cut 18 (14) “for us” 

First Lady Donna Edwards is teaming up with the Department of Children and Family Services to launch a new program supporting foster parents. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Louisiana’s budget deficit for the fiscal year that starts next July is now up to one-point-five billion dollars. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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It’s been a wet couple of weeks in the Bayou State, and State Climatologist Barry Keim says it’s not showing any signs of stopping. He says the wet pattern is caused by summer fronts crossing Louisiana and stalling along the coast. He says that’s what led to the downpour in New Orleans, and now there’s another front heading our way.

Cut 3 (10) “a few days”

Keim says we can expect to stay in a wet pattern at least through the weekend. But he says fortunately, the rain clouds are bringing down the soaring temperatures, and the wet ground is helping to cool things off during one of Louisiana’s hottest months of the year.

Cut 4  (10) “creeping up”

The downside, however, is that rain makes things even more muggy than usual. Keim says all that moisture in the air is pushing humidity levels way up. But at least it’s not as hot.

Cut 5  (10)  “any day”

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The Department of Transportation says it’s been given the all clear to go ahead with the project to widen I-10 from Highland Road in Baton Rouge, to LA 73 in Ascension Parish. DOTD Secretary Shawn Wilson says motorists should start seeing activity before the end of the year…:

Cut 6 (04) “of 2018”

Wilson says it will take around two and a half years to widen the interstate by one lane in each direction. He says it’s very exciting that this major improvement to infrastructure is being made on such a heavily traveled thoroughfare…:

Cut 7 (08)  “on a regular basis”

The $72 million project is being funded through a combination of state and federal dollars. The design-build process allows a designer and contractor to bid and collaborate on the project together, which results in quicker completion. Wilson wants the public to know that DOTD is committed to being as productive and innovative as possible…:

Cut 8 (08) “and paying attention”

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Louisiana foster parents can find support thanks to a new website launched by First Lady Donna Edwards. Louisiana-fosters-dot-la-dot-gov connects parents with businesses, church groups and nonprofits to help meet the child’s needs. Department of Children and Family Services Secretary Marketa Garner Walters says these groups can provide parents with assistance that DCFS can’t offer.

Cut 9 (08)  “to be supported”

At any given time, there are about 4,300 children in foster care in Louisiana. DCFS served over 7,800 children during the 2017 fiscal year. Walters says it takes more than government to raise a child. That’s why this program gets the community involved to help.

Cut 10 (08) “little bit of respite”

First Lady Edwards says the program is all about meeting the immediate needs of these families and providing support services. Louisiana Fosters seeks to start new partnerships between community organizations and foster families.

Cut 11 (08) “come together”

Edwards says they’re looking for mentors who want to be involved in a foster child’s life, as well as organizations who can provide much needed supplies. She says 4-H is one organization that’s stepped up to the plate providing bags for when foster children are moved, and they’re asking more groups to make that commitment.

Cut 12 (10) “foster parents”

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The state’s budget deficit for fiscal year 2018, which begins next July, is up to one-point-five billion dollars. Most of the shortfall is due to the loss of temporary taxes. But rising costs and inflationary expenses also make up the budget gap. But Jonesboro Senator Jim Fannin questions why inflationary costs are included in the fiscal cliff deficit

Cut 13 (07) “scares everybody”

Fannin made his comments during Friday’s joint legislative budget committee. Barry Dusse, with the governor’s budget office, responded that inflationary dollars are added to the budget deficit projection, because state law requires them to do so…

Cut 14 (07) “look like”

The previous budget deficit estimate was one-point-two billion dollars. Fannin questions why the deficit has been increased to one-point-five billion dollars, when legislators do not have to fund inflationary costs …

Cut 15 (11) “this year”

(An agreement between the governor and legislators on how to close the budget gap has yet to be reached and it will likely take a special session to do so.)

Cut 16  (08)  “to everybody”

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Governor John Bel Edwards joined New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu today to discuss the possibility of more flooding on the east bank of the city. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Louisiana Congressman Clay Higgins says he’s glad President Donald Trump is taking a stand against continued threats from North Korea. Jeff Palermo reports..:

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Baton Rouge Police have made an arrest in the fatal armed robbery that cost a Tennessee truck driver his life. Sgt. L’Jean McKneely says they identified the suspect, 18-year-old Landry Carter, from his involvement in other robberies.

Cut 3 (11) “those crimes”

McKneely says they issued a warrant for Carter’s arrest for those robberies. He says both video surveillance and witness testimony were essential to bringing in the suspect. He says they spoke with witnesses who saw the tragic event.

Cut 4  (11) “Mr. Odom”

Keith Odom of Tennessee was robbed and fatally shot while fixing a flat tire in a parking lot Tuesday morning. Carter is charged with four counts of armed robbery and one count of first degree murder. McKneely says the hard work of BRPD detectives got this man off the street before anyone else could be hurt.

Cut 5  (11)  “shooting them”

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A Walker woman is in critical condition after she jumped from a moving vehicle on I-12. Captain John Sharp with Walker Police says last night 26-year-old Whitney Cotton was riding with her fiancé, 27-year-old Matthew Roberts, when she leapt out of the pickup truck.

Cut 6 (10) “moving vehicle”

Sharp says no foul play is suspected in this incident. He says Cotton was taken to a local hospital with critical injuries.

Cut 7 (07)  “head injuries”

Sharp says detectives are looking into the matter. He asks that anyone who saw the incident to contact police.

Cut 8 (10) “talk to them”

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Governor John Bel Edwards joined New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu today to discuss the possibility of more flooding in the city, as a turbine caught fire overnight forcing a pumping station to move to last resort power. Landrieu says this outage has the potential to compromise the capacity of drainage on the East Bank of New Orleans…:

Cut 9 (09)  “National Weather Service”

Landrieu says that crews are on site now working to repair the downed turbine, and securing backup power to the pumping stations. He added that if all of the power from Entergy continues, the city will be able to handle a typical rainfall situation. Governor Edwards said he signed a declaration of emergency for Orleans Parish….:

Cut 10 (08) “as quickly as possible”

All Orleans Parish schools are closed today due to the flood risk, and people in the affected areas are being asked to park their cars on the neutral ground. Ladrieu said the city will be vulnerable over the next 24 to 48 hours, as four out of five turbines are out of service. Edwards stressed that while this is a serious situation…:

Cut 11 (11) “without undue problems”

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Louisiana Congressman Clay Higgins says he’s glad President Donald Trump is taking  stand against continued threats from North Korea. The Cajun John Wayne says previous administrations have dealt with aggressions from North Korea with a, “kick the can down the road” type mentality, but it’s about time to get serious…:

Cut 12 (06) “the real world”

Earlier this week, Mr. Trump warned that North Korea would “face fire and fury like the world has never seen” if Pyongyang keeps threatening the US. North Korea’s response was to say it’s seriously examining a plan to launch a missile strike targeting an area near the US territory of Guam. Higgins says this is completely unacceptable…:

Cut 13 (11) “over a decade”

Higgins believes Mr. Trump is carefully targeting exactly what would need to be hit, and hit hard….:

Cut 14 (08) “underground bunkers”

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The Edwards Administration is getting the word out about the ramifications if the state goes over the so-called fiscal cliff.

Cut 1 (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Tensions are rising between the US and North Korea. Halen Doughty has more on what this means from Congressman Ralph Abraham…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The Baton Rouge Area Foundation launches a new website that aims to help Louisiana parents of autistic children. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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State officials are starting the conversation about how to address the looming fiscal cliff in 2018 when more than a billion dollars in temporary taxes expire. Commissioner of Administration Jay Dardenne has been spreading the word at meetings around the state to bring the issue to the public’s attention. He says lawmakers are facing some stark options.

Cut 4  (11) “been reduced”

Dardenne says if lawmakers decided against replacing the $1.3 billion in revenue that is set to go away in July, the administration would be forced to reduce funding by 20 percent for every area of state government. He says that would be drastic for higher education, healthcare, prisons, and public schools.

Cut 5  (10)  “their hands on”

Dardenne says the state does not have an extra billion dollars to make up for this lost revenue when temporary taxes expire next year. He says there are ways to mix and match cuts and revenue to reach a balanced budget, if lawmakers are willing. That’s why he and the governor are trying to elevate the discussion and gather public input.

Cut 6 (09) “state government”

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As tensions run high between the US and North Korea, some are concerned a nuclear war could be in the making. President Donald Trump recently said North Korea will be met with fire, fury, and power if threats persist against the US. Louisiana Congressman Ralph Abraham sits on the Armed Forces Committee and says the president is trying to send a message around the world.

Cut 7 (12)  “loud and clear”

The United Nations Security Council voted to impose coal sanctions on North Korea. Abraham says coal makes up about 10 percent of North Korea’s gross domestic product and 40 percent of the exports. Abraham says China could bring North Korea to its knees by imposing additional sanctions.

Cut 8 (10) “couple of weeks”

Just hours after the President’s statement, the North Korean military announced it’s considering a missile strike on Guam, a US territory in the Pacific Ocean that’s home to thousands of American military personnel. Abraham says while the US has missile defense systems in place, it’s important to consider our allies as well.

Cut 9 (13)  “to be maintained”

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Despite a slight decrease in revenue, the Louisiana Lottery reported its third best year ever. Lottery spokesperson Dustin Annison says the corporation brought in nearly $455 million in revenue for the 2017 fiscal year.

Cut 10 (06) “in 1991”

This year, the lottery saw a $53 million decline in revenue from the previous year. Annison says increased sales for the record Powerball jackpot of more than a billion dollars helps boost revenue last year. He says a number of other factors contributed to the slight dip this year.

Cut 11 (08) “prize pool”

Annison says scratch off tickets are the top seller, accounting for $206 million in sales. Powerball tickets come in second, bringing in $85 million last year. He says the lottery exists to maximize revenue for the state. The Louisiana Lottery transferred nearly $160 million to the state treasury for public education for 2017.

Cut 12 (07) “public education”

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Louisiana parents of autistic children have a new resource after the Baton Rouge Area Foundation helped to launch a website full of information about benefits and resources. Director of civic leadership initiatives Lauren Jumonville says they hope to help point parents in the right direction.

Cut 13 (09) “developmental disability”

Jumonville says they went around the state cataloging all the resources that exist for people with disabilities. She says the website La.ExceptionalLives.org offers a variety of resources, including traditional ones like physicians and therapists, as well as others.

Cut 14 (11) “great opportunities”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate one in 68 children are born with autism every year. Jumonville says there are a lot of great organizations that help families of people with disabilities, but parents need to find those resources, which is why BRAF launched the site.

Cut 15 (10) “able to do”

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No surprise as LSU head football coach Ed Orgeron says Danny Etling remains his starter at quarterback, but the battle to be his primary back-up continues. Orgeron says all of the quarterbacks on the roster have shown flashes…

Cut 16 (20)  “in the spring”

Orgeron says true freshman Myles Brennan from Mississippi is getting a few snaps with the first team, but not a lot because he doesn’t know all of the plays. Coach O says Brennan is one of several freshmen who has looked good at camp…

Cut 17 (20)  “….number one quarterback”

There is some good news with the banged up offensive line. Orgeron says starting offensive linemen Will Clapp and Toby Weathersby are still out with undisclosed injuries, but starting left tackle K.J. Malone is back…

Cut 18 (21 “be okay” 

NOAA predicts there could be as many as 19 named storms this hurricane season. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The State Department of Education announced today that students in public schools increased average ACT scores for the 4th year in a row. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Baton Rouge authorities are searching for the gunman who fatally shot a Tennessee truck driver, while he was changing a tire on his 18-wheeler yesterday morning. Sgt. Don Coppola says this is another tragic incident that claimed the life of 49-year-old Keith Odom.

Cut 3 (10) “robbed him”

Detectives believe Odom was making a delivery at a Florida Boulevard warehouse. He was shot in the parking lot of the Longbow shopping center. Coppola says after being robbed, Odom’s encounter with the suspect turned deadly.

Cut 4  (09) “by the robber”

Coppola says Odom was transported to a local hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries. He says detectives are still trying to identify a suspect in this case, and they’re seeking the public’s help.

Cut 5  (12)  “a call”

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NOAA has increased its projected total of named storms for this hurricane season. In May, government forecasters predicted 11 to 17 named storms, now they believe we’ll see anywhere from 14 to 19 named storms. NOAA lead hurricane season forecaster Gerry Bell….

Cut 6 (09) “extremely active”

He says this could be the most active season since 2010. That year there were 19 named storms, 12 hurricanes and five major hurricanes. But only Tropical Storm Bonnie as a remnant low made landfall in Louisiana. Bell says they anticipate an extremely active season, because wind patterns are conducive for storm development and sea surface temperatures are well above normal…

Cut 7 (06)  “will persist”

There’s been six named storms this season. Bell says the chance of an El Nino weather pattern forming has dropped significantly, which is another factor why they raised the storm total..

Cut 8 (06) “wind shear”

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The State Department of Education announced today that students in public schools increased average ACT scores for the 4th year in a row, from 19.1 in 2013 to 19.6 today. Superintendent of Education John White said there is also a substantial rise in the number of students achieving college acceptable scores….:

Cut 9 (10)  “college benchmark”

The average score last year was 19.5, so it’s only up slightly for 2017. Leading the state in ACT scores this year is the St. Tammany Parish School District with an average of 22. White says the number of students who qualify for TOPS also grew at every level of the award this year…:

Cut 10 (10) “than did in 2012”

There were also gains among African Americans who scored an average of 17.5 this year. The overall national average was 20.8 in 2016. White says even though Louisiana remains below the nation, the steady gains are significant…:

Cut 11 (09) “expectations high”

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Kids are heading back to school, which means school buses are getting back on the road. Kip Diggs with State Farm reminds drivers to be extra cautious when a bus is stopped for loading and unloading. He says it is never safe to pass a stopped school bus.

Cut 12 (09) “hit a child”

Louisiana law requires vehicles to stop 30 feet away when children are getting on or off the bus. Diggs says motorists should always drive with caution and slow down when the encounter a school bus on the road. He says if there’s a bus on the road, school children are guaranteed to be nearby.

Cut 13 (09) “kill a child”

Diggs says buses usually move a little slower than regular traffic. Reduced speed zones are also in effect near schools and buses. He says drivers should consider that and leave a little earlier because if you get stopped behind a bus, all you can do it wait.

Cut 14 (12) “in your day”

Students and teachers in Livingston Parish are heading back to school today and hoping for some normalcy this year. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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LSP in Troop C, which covers southeast Louisiana, is worried about the uptick in preventable traffic fatalities in the area. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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The controversy over how the pumps operated in the city of New Orleans during the weekend flooding event is not over. Michelle Southern reports..:

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Livingston Parish students and teachers are looking forward to a year of normalcy as they begin classes today just days ahead of the one year anniversary of the August flood. School superintendent Rick Wentzel says crews worked extensively on 8 flood damaged campuses throughout the summer. Three of those are complete, but five in the Denham Springs area will not be fully rebuilt for some time.

Cut 4  (11) “next summer”

That’s why three temporary campuses are still active. This year all students in the parish will receive free breakfast and lunch. Wentzel says the parish qualified for the program through the USDA because so many students were impacted by last year’s flood.

Cut 5  (11)  “our parents”

Last school year got off to a devastating start, as much of Livingston Parish was under several feet of water. Homes, schools, and businesses alike were shuttered for what many felt like would be forever. Wentzel says after dealing with all of that, many students are ready for life to get back to normal.

Cut 6 (10) “safe environment”

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State Police in the Troop C area, which covers parishes in the Deep South of Louisiana is concerned about the recent increases in preventable traffic fatalities in the area. Troop Commander Captain Frank Besson (Bay-sawn) says they have investigated 31 fatality crashes, resulting in 37 deaths, so far this year, up 35-percent in 2016. He says not wearing seat belts and impaired driving are the biggest factors.

Cut 7 (10)  “the crashes”

Troop C covers Terrebonne, Lafourche, Assumption, and parts of St. James and St. Charles parishes. Besson says these are extremely alarming numbers. He says they are working hard to provide the blanket of the security the community deserves but DWI arrests are up this year.

Cut 8 (10) “as well”

Besson says it’s easy to make good driving decisions, like wearing your seat belt and never driving under the influence and education starts at home with young drivers. He says they are cracking down on drunk drivers by upping check points and…

Cut 9 (09)  “get blood”

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Two suspects in a Lafayette kidnapping apparently drowned in the Intracoastal Canal after evading deputies in a chase. That’s according to West Baton Rouge Sheriff Mike Cazes, who says it all started when Iberville Parish deputies called for assistance in a chase down I-10.

Cut 10 (08) “his problem”

Cazes says the suspects’ van got stuck in the mud, and two black males fled on foot. He says his deputies made a shocking discovery when they searched the van the two men abandoned near LA 1.

Cut 11 (10) “manhunt started”

Cazes says the police dogs lost the suspect’s trail at the waters’ edge. Kids playing in the water found the first body and reported it around 3 p.m., and the second was seen by a tugboat a few hours later. The sheriff says he’s certain these are the two men they were looking for.

Cut 12 (10) “out that water”

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The controversy over how the pumps operated in the city of New Orleans during the weekend flooding event is not over. The city council called a meeting just before Sewerage & Water Board Executive Director Cedric Grant announced his retirement saying he’d learned his staff hadn’t been honest about the event. The board’s Superintendent, Joe Becker, said that the system is not designed to handle that much rain in a short period of time:

Cut 13 (11) “four and five hundred more pumps”

At issue was the initial response from the board which indicated all of the pumps had worked exactly as they were designed to do. When City Councilman Jason Williams asked Becker about that statement, Becker said, “all of the pump stations were working at their maximum capacity.” Rogers called that a fabrication and asked Becker to clarify…:

Cut 14 (10) “(angry crowd jeering)”

Becker said he would need six times the drainage that the city currently has to keep up with a rain event like what happened Saturday. The board originally said 7 pumps were out of service the night of the storm, but then came back and said 14, including 8 drainage pumps, were not working. Councilmember LaToya Cantrell asked why they were told everything was at capacity…:

Cut 15 (12) “city of New Orleans”

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LSU Senior Quarterback Danny Etling likes the progress the Tigers are making during preseason camp. The Bayou Bengals are in training camp mode for the rest of this week and next and then school starts on Monday August 21st. Etling says the goal is to get better every day

Cut 16 (19)  “game plans”

Head Coach Ed Orgeron says freshman running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire is the suprise of camp. “Clyde the Gide” played at Catholic High in Baton Rouge just like star running back Derrius Guice, who says he’s not surprised Edwards-Helaire is making plays on the practice field…

Cut 17 (21) “right nowt

Because of regular camp injuries, LSU started three freshmen along the offensive line for the first scrimmage on Saturday. Etling says Saahdiq Charles, Edward Ingram and Austin Deculus did well despite the lack of college football experience…

Cut 18 (20 “up as well” 

About 15,000 Louisiana teachers will face evaluations this year that are linked to student test scores. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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LDWF’s Coastwide Nutria Control Program is searching for landowners and hunters in south Louisiana to help trap the invasive rodent. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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This school year, some Louisiana teachers will face evaluations that are tied, in part, to student test scores. About 15,000 of the state’s 50,000 educators will be reviewed by the Value Added Model. Brigitte Neiland with the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry specializes in education policy. She says teachers need accountability to ensure the students are learning.

Cut 3 (10) “a student”

The review compares a student’s math, English, science and social studies scores from one year to the next to see if that child met expected gains. Some criticize the model as unfair because not all students perform equally on standardized tests. But Neiland says this model accounts for every different kind of student and their environments.

Cut 4  (12) “the same level”

Under the VAM, 35 percent of the teacher’s rating is from student test scores, 15 percent is based on learning targets, and 50 percent comes from classroom observations. A poor rating could cost teachers their tenure and even their job. Neiland says the principal will determine which teachers remain in the classroom.

Cut 5  (11)  “weaknesses lie”

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A man in Caddo Parish has been charged with cruelty to animals after allegedly fatally shooting his neighbor’s dachshund, because he thought it was an alligator. Caddo Sheriff’s Office Spokesperson Bobby Herring says the owners of the dog discovered their pet, Chloe, was missing and she was found in the yard of Tommy Collinsworth Jr’s residence.

Cut 6 (06) “alligator”

Herring says the 11-year-old dog has never been aggressive and did no damage to Collinsworth’s property. He says the dog was found in the pond with multiple gunshot wounds.

Cut 7 (07)  “on it”

Herring says the shooting of Chloe was in no way justified.

Cut 8 (08) “applied here”

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The state Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Coastwide Nutria Control Program is looking for south Louisiana landowners and hunters to help combat the invasive rodent. LDWF Biologist Catherine Normand says the goal is to reduce Nutria induced marsh damage by removing about 400-thousand rodents per season. She says these pests can cause serious damage to an already vulnerable coast.

Cut 9 (11)  “in place”

The program has removed nearly five million of these rodents since it was established 15 years ago. Normand says applications to become a trapper with the program are available online at nutria.com.

Cut 10 (09) “March”

The only requirement to become registered with the Nutria Control Program is the hunter must have a trapping license. Normand says nutria like to hang out in large groups, compounding the amount of damage they can do in a certain location. She says eradicating the rodent is impossible but…

Cut 11 (09) “manageable”

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Mandeville Police have arrested a 25-year-old man accused of brutally raping a 53-year-old woman inside her home. Chief Gerald Sticker says they were able to catch up with Ronald Moore Jr. of Lacombe at his home after releasing to the media a photo of him on surveillance video…:

Cut 12 (08) “of this rape”

Cops say the victim reported she was sleeping when she woke up to the suspect rubbing her body when an altercation ensued and she was overpowered then raped and beaten. Sticker says the victim is strong, but she’s still struggling with the traumatic event…:

Cut 13 (08) “emotionally as well”

Moore has been charged with first-degree rape, aggravated burglary and attempted first-degree murder. Sticker thanks the public for their priceless help in locating this man…:

Cut 14 (10) “as much as we did”

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Louisiana Lottery players have two shots at millions this week. Tonight’s Mega Millions jackpot is up to $350 million with a cash value of $218 million. Lottery spokesperson Dustin Annison says is the seventh largest jackpot in the game’s history. The Powerball jackpot is also soaring at $307 million.

Cut 15 (08) “same time”

Annison says so many people are rushing out to get their Mega Millions tickets that the value has climbed $4 million in just the past few hours. He encourages everyone to check their numbers right away and sign the ticket if it has any winning numbers.

Cut 16  (08)  “to everybody”

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Congress has recessed for the summer and many lawmakers are disappointed not much was accomplished. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says the coming of the inaugural Flambeau Fest in Ascension Parish, whose lineup was announced today, is another example of how tourism in Louisiana is alive and well. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Congress has recessed for the summer and many lawmakers are disappointed not much was accomplished. U.S Senator John Kennedy believes some good was done with the approval of Neil Gorsuch to the Supreme Court. But he says his biggest disappointment was the failing to repeal and replace Obamacare by one vote.

Cut 3 (08) “tax cuts”

Before the recess, the Senate approved a bill to fund the FDA. Kennedy says his plan for tax reform would be to cut everyone’s tax bracket by two-percent, which would benefit every social class but mostly the middle class.

Cut 4  (09) “fiscal side”

Kennedy says it’s time to get the economy growing at three-percent again because right now it’s at an embarrassing 1.8-percent. He says in the fall, Congress has a lot of work to accomplish.

Cut 5  (11)  “infrastructure bill”

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Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says the coming of the inaugural Flambeau Fest in Ascension Parish, whose lineup was announced today, is another example of how tourism in Louisiana is alive and well. He says the October 7 & 8 shows could begin another tradition that eventually attracts visitors the way Jazzfest and Bayou Country Superfest do…:

Cut 6 (10) “to spend the weekend”

Sam Hunt, Hank Williams Jr., Lynyrd Skynyrd, Dustin Lynch, Chase Rice, Blackberry Smoke and Jacob Davis are only a few of the big name acts slated to perform. Nungesser says this is another way Louisiana is is branding itself as a state that is in love with music…:

Cut 7 (10)  “year after year”

Tickets went on sale today and you can get the link online at flambeaufest.com. It will take place at Ascension Fields in Gonzales, between New Orleans and Baton Rouge. Nungesser says another great thing about this event is that it’s highlighting a part of the state that normally wouldn’t be considered a big tourist destination…:

Cut 8 (08) “as well”

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City officials say the roughly 10 inches of rain that fell on New Orleans Saturday was too much for the city’s 24 pump stations to handle. Executive Director of the Sewerage and Water Board Cedric Grant says the pumps were running at full capacity, despite inches of water pouring into homes and businesses throughout the city.

Cut 9 (07)  “designed limits”

Grant says the system is designed to pump out one inch of water in the first hour and half an inch for each subsequent hour. He says they’ve estimated they should be spending $30 million a year on catch basin and subsurface drainage, but there’s not enough funding to make the necessary improvements.

Cut 10 (06) “and repair”

Grant says the pumps were operating at 100 percent pumping capacity throughout the weather event, but unfortunately it wasn’t enough. He says they did everything they could to prepare. But he says no one expected upwards of 10 inches of rainfall in only a few hours.

Cut 11 (10) “water came”

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Small business owners impacted by the 2016 floods are not completing the flood recovery survey as quickly as state officials had hoped. Economic Development Manager Lasonta Davenport with the Office of Community Development says they’re asking small business owners to complete the survey so they can assess the needs in the state.

Cut 12 (09) “loan program”

Davenport says 423 businesses have completed the survey so far. That’s far short of the 22,000 businesses who were notified. The small business loan program offers loans for $20,000 to $50,000 for flood impacted businesses. She says the survey will help shape the program.

Cut 13 (11) “changes to that”

The survey is online at restore.la.gov. Davenport says it will be quick and easy for small business owners to complete.

Cut 14 (12) “them personally”

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About 9,000 more students chose learning at home over the classroom in 2016 than in 2010, according to the state department of education. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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In exactly two years, qualifying will be underway for the gubernatorial race. Jeff Palermo has more on who might challenge Governor John Bel Edwards…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The Cajun Prince, former Governor Edwin Edwards turns 90 today. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 3 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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More students are getting their education at home instead of traditional classrooms. According to the state department of education, 26,000 students are homeschooled, while 4,000 more are enrolled in online charter schools. Superintendent for University View Academy Lonnie Luce (Lou-see) says many families enjoy the flexibility of at-home schooling.

Cut 4  (09) “certain families”

About 9,000 more students studied at home in 2016 than in 2010. Luce says that’s because parents have more options today than they did years ago. He says some families move a lot for work, so brick and mortar schools don’t work as well. He says others choose online learning to escape problems in school.

Cut 5  (09)  “their kids here”

Luce says if the student has a dedicated parent or learning coach, the schooling can be just as good online as it is in the classroom. He says they even help with socializing by organizing field trips, clubs, and even a prom.

Cut 6 (09) “their children”

The Coalition for Responsible Home Education has raised concerns about home schooling without any accountability.

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A letter US Senator John Kennedy sent to East Baton Rouge Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome has sparked an investigation by the legislative auditor’s office. The probe comes amid allegations federal funds for the Baton Rouge Area Violence Elimination, or BRAVE, program were not as they should be. Kennedy says if these federal dollars are being misused, he’s going to have something to say about it.

Cut 7 (07)  “taxpayers”

Funding for the BRAVE program is supposed to go towards reducing violent crime and supporting law enforcement. WAFB reports indicate $17,000 was used for transportation services, $9,900 went to Pink Blossom Alliance for two community outreach events, $23,000 for a poetry workshop, and $9,500 for two sports events. Kennedy says it’s downright repulsive how some of the funds are allegedly being spent.

Cut 8 (09) “policemen”

The mayor’s office says Broome welcomes any review from the legislative auditor and looks forward to the results. Kennedy says he’s not accusing anyone of anything, but the mayor needs to answer some questions.

Cut 9 (08)  “of this”

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Today is the 90^th birthday of former four-term Governor Edwin Edwards and he’s still going strong. During an appearance on Talk Louisiana, Edwards credits his long life to good genes, as two of his grandparents lived to be over 100-years-old. The Silver Fox says he’s lived a blessed and wonderful life.

Cut 10 (08) “no complaints”

A birthday bash for the former governor is planned for August 12^th at the Renaissance Hotel in Baton Rouge and those in attendance will receive signed memorabilia. Edwards says he fully expects to live to at least 100-years-old. He says growing up during the Depression, his family grew all of their own vegetables and raised chickens and cattle so he never ate foods with preservatives.

Cut 11 (11) “don’t know”

The Cajun Prince has five children and has been married three times. Edwards says his youngest son, Eli, is four-years-old and keeps him on his toes. He says he has no plans to slow down any time soon.

Cut 12 (11) “very pleasant”

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Two years from today, candidates will be qualifying for the governor’s race. So who will challenge Governor John Bel Edwards? Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says Republicans are waiting to see what US Senator John Kennedy will do.

Cut 13 (11) “wide open”

Kennedy is 65-years-old. He’s in his first year as a U.S. Senator after easily defeating Democratic Public Service Commissioner Foster Campbell last December. Kennedy served 17 years as the state treasurer. Pinsonat says if Kennedy wants to run for governor, it’s now or never.

Cut 14 (09) “on his side”

If Kennedy doesn’t run, Pinsonat says Edwards’ chances of reelection look better. He says several congressmen, like Garret Graves, could raise plenty of campaign dollars, but he expects the back up front runner for the GOP would be Attorney General Jeff Landry.

Cut 15 (08) “do you”

LSU’s only Heisman Trophy winner, Dr. Billy Cannon, will be honored at the school’s Baton Rouge campus with a statue. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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With the new school year fast approaching, the Louisiana Department of Health reminds parents to make sure their kids are up to date on their vaccines. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The LSU Athletic Hall of Fame Committee has decided to honor football legend Dr. Billy Cannon with a statue on the Baton Rouge campus. Cannon graduated from the state’s flagship university in 1959 and is the school’s only Heisman Trophy winner. Cannon says receiving this honor is not something that you expect.

Cut 3 (10) “like me”

Cannon led the Tigers to the national championship title in 1958. The 80-year-old credits the erection of the statue to the work of his former teammates, Warren Rabb and Jimmy Fields and Athletic Director Joe Alleva.

Cut 4  (10) “fantastic”

Cannon says having a statue of him at his alma mater was the farthest thing from his mind. He hopes it looks like he did in his glory days, young with a lot of hair.

Cut 5  (09)  “represent him”

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Chefs from around the country will compete at the Morial Convention Center in New Orleans on Saturday for the chance to become the King or Queen of Seafood in the Great American Seafood Cook-off. Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says this is a chance for Louisiana to show off our fresh seafood. He says it’s a win-win for the state and the chefs.

Cut 6 (08) “or seafood”

So far 13 chefs have entered to compete for the coveted title. Louisiana’s representative is Bonnie Breaux of St. Martinville. Nungesser says other chefs are coming from as far away as Alaska, Massachusetts, and New Mexico. He says it’s always exciting to see the passion these cooks put into their dishes.

Cut 7 (07)  “to see”

Nungesser says the cook-off highlights the great seafood here in America, which he says is the best in the world. He says imported seafood just doesn’t compare to the fresh fish, crabs, and shrimp raised here in the Bayou State.

Cut 8 (09) “New Orleans”

Tickets are $10 at the door.

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The Louisiana Department of Health urges parents to make sure their children are vaccinated as school is just around the corner. State immunization director Dr. Frank Welch says vaccines are an important part of a child’s health and wellbeing, especially while they’re in school. He says children congregate in small classrooms, which makes it easier for vaccine-preventable diseases to spread.

Cut 9 (07)  “family members”

Welch says that’s why Louisiana law requires students to be vaccinated. Children must receive vaccines for polio, measles, mumps, hepatitis, and chicken pox. Students entering sixth grade also need a meningitis vaccine. He says kids have to get that shot before they’re exposed to the disease.

Cut 10 (07) “meningitis vaccine”

Welch says there is misinformation surrounding vaccines, but research has shown they do not cause things like autism. That concern was a big reason behind parents not vaccinating their kids. He encourages parents to get the facts about vaccines from their pediatrician.

Cut 11 (07) “from an expert”

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The hurricane forecast team at Colorado State has increased their storm prediction total by one and now anticipate 11 named storms for the rest of the season. State Climatologist Barry Keim says the total number of storms has been increased from 15 to 16. He says this isn’t a big change but it still shows conditions are conducive for an active season.

Cut 12 (10) “normal”

The forecast says eight of those eleven storms will become hurricanes. Keim says we’ve already had five named storms this season and 11 more are expected to come. He says 3 of the 8 predicted hurricanes are expected to be major.

Cut 13 (11) “breeding ground”

The National Hurricane Center is currently watching two tropical waves, one is way out in the Atlantic, while the other is in the central Caribbean. Keim says the next couple of months will be extremely active. He says the tropical Atlantic has been much warmer than normal and the absence of El Nino make perfect hurricane conditions.

Cut 14 (10) “to form”

There is a 38-percent chance a major hurricane will make landfall along the Gulf Coast.

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