The Nation Federation of Independent Business isn’t pleased with the sales tax discount weekend.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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A federal lawsuit alleges two Orleans Parish inmates were held in jail for five months after completing their sentences, and they are seeking restitution. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is not pleased that crawfish have been found in one of their lakes and a retention pond. Jeff Palmero has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Today and tomorrow, Louisianans will be able to purchase school supplies and other items at a reduced state sales tax rate of 3-percent, compared to the normal 5-percent. National Federation of Independent Business State Director Dawn Starns says she hopes small businesses will see an increase in business but it was more beneficial for retailers when the law allowed for tax free weekend.

Cut 4  (10) “discount”

Starns says it’s difficult for retailers to get the message out to shoppers about the discount. She says they are disappointed to see what this holiday has become as it was so successful in the past.

Cut 5  (10)  “from taxes”

Starns says some small businesses are promoting this weekend the best they can. She says they hope legislators will one day change it back so consumers can have a couple of days to purchase items tax free.

Cut 6 (08) “the consumer”

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A federal lawsuit filed in Baton Rouge alleges two Orleans Parish inmates were kept in jail for five months after their sentences were served. Attorney Emily Washington with the Macarthur Justice Center says Jessie Crittindon and Leon Burse were eligible for release in August 2016, but they stayed in the River Bend Detention Center in Lake Providence until January 2017.

Cut 7 (09)  “five months”

The suit alleges constitutional and state law violations were made against the two inmates. The Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office, the East Carroll Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the state Department of Corrections are named in the suit. Washington says officials knew these men were supposed to be released, but they took no action to do so.

Cut 8 (11) “did nothing”

This was both men’s first criminal conviction, and both of them are fathers. Washington says they’re seeking restitution for the inmates and a declaration from the court that what these agencies did was against the law.

Cut 9 (08)  “in custody”

ECPSO says they are reviewing the suit. An attorney for OPSO says they will vigorously defend this matter. DOC has not issued a comment.

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Crawfish have been found in Michigan and that state’s Department of Natural Resources is not happy. They say the red swamp crayfish damage earthen structures and compete aggressively for food and habitat, disrupting the food chain for many species in the water. LSU AgCenter Aquaculture Specialist Greg Lutz says while crawfish are well adapted to our geography…

Cut 10 (08) “introduced”

Red swamp crayfish are a prohibited species in Michigan. Lutz says their DNR is probably concerned about the white spot syndrome, which is a viral disease seen in Louisiana crawfish ponds.

Cut 11 (10) “like Michigan”

Crawfish are extremely fertile and can lay up to 600 eggs at a time and reproduce twice a year. Lutz says that means, there could be the chance of a Red Swamp Crayfish population becoming established in Michigan.

Cut 12 (11) “in Louisiana”

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Researchers say bold new approaches need to be taken to shrink the dead zone in the Gulf of Mexico. Eugene Turner co-authored a report on the oxygen-deprived area that cannot support marine life. He says a lot of nitrate is coming down the Mississippi River from agricultural land use. By reducing the amount of nitrate, they could shrink the dead zone. One way to do that would be to plant perennial crops like wheat in farms that runoff into the Mississippi.

Cut 13 (09) “as well”

Turner says farmers could even make some money by selling the wheat. Other methods include altering fertilizer application rates and improving nutrient management. He says the amount of nitrates coming down the river is directly proportional to the size of the dead zone.

Cut 14 (08) “proportional response”

To shrink the dead zone from the size of New Jersey down to the size of Delaware would require a 59 percent reduction in the amount of nitrogen runoff. Turner says it will take policy changes on the state, local, and federal level to make that happen.

Cut 15 (08) “nitrogen released”

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After missing all of last season while recovering from his third torn ACL injury, Saints edge rusher Hau’oli Kikaha (ha-OH-lee key-KAH-hah) is ready to make a big impact on the Black and Gold defense.  He’s battling with veteran Alex Okafor for starting weak side defensive end. Kikaha says he’s making progress…

Cut 16 (20)  “we’re advancing”

Starting left guard Andrus Peat is entering his third season. Peat says he’s trying to help out first round pick Ryan Ramczyk, who could be the starting left tackle for the injured Terron Armstead…

Cut 17 (15) “that aspect

Five-foot-seven Tommylee Lewis is fighting for a roster spot. The second-year wide receiver from Northern Illinois caught seven passes last year. Lewis is also hoping to become the team’s primary punt returner…

Cut 18 (14 “great competition” 

Could you survive in the forests of Belize “Naked and Afraid?” Halen Doughty has more from the West Monroe man who did just that…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Shreveport officials made a heartbreaking announcement about the 7-year-old who was swept away in a storm drain. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (28) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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A West Monroe man survived in the wilderness of Belize completely naked. Dustin Campbell will appear on tonight’s episode of “Naked and Afraid” on Discovery Channel. He says it was a challenge completing the stretch without clothes. He says bugs never bit so hard and nights have never been so long.

Cut 3 (11) “how you feel”

The show thrusts two strangers into the wild with no clothes, no food, and no water for 21 days. The team has to survive with only one survivalist tool each and their wits. Some participants are expert survivalists with years of training, but Campbell says he’s just a good ole boy who lives in the woods.

Cut 4  (10) “I went”

Campbell is the second Ouachita Parish man to complete the challenge, after Jeremy McCaa appeared twice on the show last year. But he says he’d never swam with a crocodile before or tried some of the bizarre foods the Belize forest had to offer.

Cut 5  (10)  “they’re nasty”

Campbell says you’ll have to watch the episode tonight at 8 p.m. to see if he made it through the whole 21 day challenge.

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The state Department of Transportation will host a public meeting tonight at the Lake Charles Civic Center to discuss replacing the Calcasieu River Bridge. Deidra Druilhet with DOTD says the purpose of the open-forum is to give the community a chance to see the future plans and receive feedback. She says the construction would extend from the I-10/I-210 interchange on the west side river to the interchange on the east side.

Cut 6 (09) “enhance safety”

Druilhet says the 66 year old bridge is eligible to be on the National Registration of Historic Places and they hope to get feedback from the public on this, as well. She says at this time there is no money available for a new bridge, but it’s time to build a new one with today’s standards.

Cut 7 (10)  “shoulders”

The meeting is from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the Contraband Room. Druilhet says the proposed project would improve connectivity, congestion and bridge deficiencies.

Cut 8 (09) “the roads”

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Parents stocking up on back-to-school supplies can save a few dollars this weekend during the annual sales tax holiday. Byron Henderson with the state Department of Revenue says most purchases are only subject to three percent of the state sales tax this Friday and Saturday. He says that’s a significant savings over the usual five percent rate.

Cut 9 (10)  “school supplies”

Henderson says the tax break does not apply to vehicle purchases, food in restaurants, or taxable services. He says for items that are eligible, the two percent savings applies to the first $2,500 of the purchase price of each item.

Cut 10 (12) “state sales tax”

Henderson says not only can customers realize savings on the front end, there are dollars to be saved on the back end as well. He says parents should keep their receipts for any back-to-school purchases including supplies, uniforms, and equipment that’s required by the school.

Cut 11 (12) “and home schools”

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Shreveport Fire Chief Scott Wolverton held a news conference today to discuss how they located the body of 7-year-old Daysean Combest who was swept away in a storm drain Tuesday afternoon. He says railroad contractors called firefighters around 7:30 this morning…:

Cut 12 (07) “railroad trestle”

Wolverton says the body was recovered by the Caddo Parish Coroner and will be sent in for an autopsy. Shreveport Mayor Ollie Tyler was also present for the announcement, and expressed sorrow for the child’s mother, Mary Edmond…:

Cut 13 (09) “love and support”

Daysean was last seen playing near a ditch not far from the Louisiana State Fair Grounds, just before heavy rains lashed the city. Hundreds of workers and volunteers took part in the search that included helicopters, boats and K9s. Tyler says this is every parents worst nightmare…:

Cut 14 (10) “and support”

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The state Department of Transportation is looking at possibly widening I-12 in St. Tammany Parish between Mandeville and Covington. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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The dead zone in the Gulf of Mexico is the biggest one ever measured. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The lawmakers who will sit on the TOPS task force have been announced. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 3 (31) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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An expecting mom’s diet can have huge impacts on the health of her baby. Dr. Nick Broskey with the LSU Pennington Biomedical Research Center says a mom’s lifestyle can impact their baby’s metabolism and lifelong risk for obesity and other chronic diseases.

Cut 4  (08) “in life”

Broskey says a recent study found that soda consumption during pregnancy increased the risk of childhood obesity for her baby. He says that’s why it’s important for moms-to-be to stay healthy.

Cut 5  (09)  “health outcomes”

Between 5 and 14 percent of expecting mothers are diagnosed with gestational diabetes. Broskey says their IMAGINE study will assess whether these moms give birth to babies with a higher risk for diabetes and obesity. He says they’re recruiting women with gestational diabetes for the study.

Cut 6 (11) “or diet”

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The state Department of Transportation is discussing the possibility of widening Interstate 12 in the western part of St. Tammany Parish between Mandeville and Covington. Jennifer Branton with DOTD says there are two proposals in the works to add one lane to the east and westbound lanes.

Cut 7 (10)  “projects”

The plans were presented at a public meeting last week. Branton says currently, the cost of the project is over 100 million dollars, including expanding lanes on the bridge running over the Tchefuncte River. She says this expansion is necessary because of the recent increase in people commuting through the area.

Cut 8 (08) “to cross”

DOTD has said there is no money to move the I-12 expansion project forward as the Legislature did not pass any funding bills. Branton hopes funding will become available because a three lane interstate would mean so much to the Northshore.

Cut 9 (08)  “these days”

It’s estimated at least 80-thousand vehicles travel through this corridor every day.

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This year’s “dead zone” in the Gulf of Mexico is the biggest one yet. LSU scientist Nancy Rabalais says the oxygen-depleted region is about 8,800 square miles, which is about the size of New Jersey. She says many of the stations, especially those close to the shore, were close to no oxygen.

Cut 10 (08) “bottom area”

Rabalais says the area may actually be even bigger, but they had to stop mapping before reaching the western edge. She says as a scientist, she’s worried about nutrient cycling in an area that’s not fully oxygenated. Practically speaking, she says it’s also a problem for shrimpers.

Cut 11 (10) “those shrimp”

Rabalais says unfortunately the Gulf of Mexico is poised for dead zones. She says one problem is fresh water inflow that creates a layered system. That coupled with the nutrient-rich water coming down the Mississippi River from the Midwest creates a huge dead zone.

Cut 12 (09) “are decomposed”

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Membership has been announced for a task force that will examine the 350-million dollar TOPS scholarship program for the first time since it was established 20 years ago. Jennings Senator Blade Morrish will chair the committee. He says the panel consists of an array of lawmakers representing both parties and all corners of the state.

Cut 13 (09) “concerning TOPS”

Last year, the taxpayer funded scholarship program was only funded at 70 percent, a first since its inception in 1997. That’s one reason Morrish authored a resolution to create the bipartisan task force. He says another reason is to reexamine the program because a lot has changed in the last 20 years.

Cut 14 (11) “look at TOPS”

The task force’s first meeting is September 6. Morrish says there is a lot of misinformation surrounding the scholarship program, which makes it harder for lawmakers to decide how to alter it. He says the goal of the taskforce is to put together a report of accurate information.

Cut 15 (10) “is introduced”

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The indefinite suspension to Maea Teuhema leaves LSU with just eleven scholarship players on the offensive line. But starting left guard, Garrett Brumfield, says they have enough talent to still have a very good o-line…

Cut 16 (22)  “special happen”

With Teuhema away from the team, Lloyd Cushenberry from Dutchtown High School as taken Teuhema’s spot at starting right guard. Brumfield says Cushenberry has been waiting for his chance after taking a red-shirt last season….

Cut 17 (15) “you need him”

The projected starter at right guard for LSU has been suspended. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 1 (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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In Acadia Parish, the Esterwood Assistance Police Chief has resigned after posting racially charged remarks on his personal Facebook page. Michelle Southern reports..:

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Complications with sewage and drainage lines on Bourbon Street have caused extreme delays in construction. The project to rebuild the historic street began about three months ago and officials with the New Orleans Public Works Department say they are about two months behind schedule. Director Mark Jernigan says the weather is also making it difficult to complete the project.

Cut 3 (09) “weather delays”

Jernigan says work crews have also found that the exact location and size of almost all the utility lines underneath Bourbon Street were either missing or inaccurately depicted on their plans.

Cut 4  (11) “are buried”

Jernigan says space underneath Bourbon Street is even more limited than anticipated to support new lines and the condition of the ducts was severely worse than predicted. He says many businesses along with street are in violation of the state’s plumbing code.

Cut 5  (09)  “businesses”

The only homeless shelter in the Monroe area will close its doors later this month. On August 26, the Salvation Army will discontinue its overnight shelter services. Spokesperson Jon Kalahar says the shelter serves an average of 30 people each night.

Cut 6 (08) “for 2016”

Kalahar says it’s unclear when or if the overnight shelter will reopen. He says church services and weekly prayer meetings will continue at the Monroe location. He says they will also continue to offer basic social services.

Cut 7 (10)  “care program”

Kalahar says seven employees will be laid off when the shelter closes. He says the Salvation Army is bringing in a new officer to run the Monroe facility, and one employee will stay on for the transition. He says this was a decision that was not made lightly.

Cut 8 (12) “their donations”

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An arrest has been made in the case of a woman who was found stabbed to death in her home. Baton Rouge Police Sgt. Don Coppola says 42-year-old Miguel Lopez has been charged with murder in the death of 42-year-old Sara Hernandez.

Cut 9 (09)  “girlfriend”

Coppola says Lopez asked someone at the home to call police when he fled the scene. He says the body of the victim was discovered later inside her home.

Cut 10 (09) “12 hours”

Coppola says Lopez was booked into the East Baton Rouge Parish Prison on a charge of second degree murder. He says the suspect was found when he went to a medical center for treatment of his injuries.

Cut 11 (10) “into custody”

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In Acadia Parish, The Estherwood Assistant Police Chief has resigned from his position after posting racist remarks on his personal Facebook page. Police Chief Ernest Villejoin (Vee-jewan) says he immediately called Wayne Welsh when he was notified and Welsh admitted to making the posts. He says this is no reflection of the police department and Welsh has publicly apologized.

Cut 12 (08) “department”

Welsh posted multiple comments on his Facebook page referring to Muslim women as trash bags, as well as, a racially charged meme. Villejoin says on behalf of the Police Department, he is extremely sorry if Welsh’s posts offended anyone.

Cut 13 (10) “so he resigned”

Villejoin says he’s known Welsh his entire life and Welsh has been a police officer for the town for over two years.

Cut 14 (10) “it happened”

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

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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

Cut 3 (31) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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

Cut 4  (07) “at level”

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

Cut 5  (10)  “help them”

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

Cut 6 (10) “everyday life”

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

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

Cut 7 (10)  “gasoline tax”

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

Cut 8 (10) “the infrastructure”

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

Cut 9 (11)  “a priority”

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

Cut 10 (08) “in August”

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

Cut 11 (10) “our tiger”

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

Cut 12 (08) “in August”

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

Cut 13 (09) “that family”

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

Cut 14 (08) “to have children”

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

Cut 15 (11) “before me”

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

Cut 16 (15)  “better and better”

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

Cut 17 (19) “good about ourselves”

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

Cut 18 (14 “are ready” 

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

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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

Cut 3 (11) “clean water”

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

Cut 4  (10) “unknown things”

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

Cut 5  (09)  “people”

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

Cut 6 (10) “gone through”

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

Cut 7 (09)  “turned around”

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

Cut 8 (11) “the survey”

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

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

Cut 9 (08)  “not coming”

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

Cut 10 (08) “as it seems”

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

Cut 11 (08) “my business”

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

Cut 12 (10) “domestic abuse battery law”

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

Cut 13 (11) “dating partners”

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

Cut 14 (12) “through the cracks”

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

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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

Cut 3 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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

Cut 4  (07) “moment”

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

Cut 5  (10)  “no ticket”

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

Cut 6 (11) “money grab”

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

Cut 7 (09)  “them stronger”

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

Cut 8 (11) “further them”

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

Cut 9 (10)  “my success”

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

Cut 10 (11) “pushing them”

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

Cut 11 (06) “individual market”

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

Cut 12 (05) “lack coverage”

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

Cut 13 (11) “lower income Americans”

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

Cut 14 (11) “mind development”

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

Cut 15 (08) “of the worst”

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

Cut 16 (08)  “in court”

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

Cut 17 (13) “he’s it”

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

Cut 18 (08) “very healthy” 

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

Cut 19 (18) “last year”

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

Cut 20 (15) “number 18”

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

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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

Cut 3 (11) “throwing them out”

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

Cut 4  (11) “the problem is”

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

Cut 5  (11)  “growing up”

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

Cut 6 (08) “water too”

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

Cut 7 (09)  “the soil”

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

Cut 8 (07) “began”

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

Cut 9 (12)  “multiple times”

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

Cut 10 (09) “more charges”

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

Cut 11 (08) “domestic related issues”

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

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

Cut 12 (10) “his injuries”

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

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

Cut 13 (07) “in the home”

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact authorities.

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

Cut 14 (10) “15 years”

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

Cut 15 (08) “her actions”

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

Cut 16  (10)  “case”

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

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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

Cut 2 (28) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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

Cut 4  (08) “in Louisiana”

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

Cut 5  (10)  “happen”

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

Cut 6 (11) “can find”

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

Cut 7 (10)  “potentially”

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

Cut 8 (08) “type bacteria”

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

Cut 9 (11)  “inflammatory bowel disease”

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

Cut 10 (11) “quit for real”

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

Cut 11 (10) “call it quits”

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

Cut 12 (11) “smoking purposes”

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

Cut 13 (12) “the season”

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

Cut 14 (11) “ready to do work”

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

Cut 15 (23) “great work ethic”

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

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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

Cut 3 (06) “personal gain”

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

Cut 4  (09) “awaiting trial”

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

Cut 5  (08)  “are filed”

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

Cut 6 (11) “on this”

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

Cut 7 (10)  “your garden”

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

Cut 8 (10) “out of the way”

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

Cut 9 (08)  “gift card”

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

Cut 10 (08) “walks of life”

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

Cut 11 (09) “correctional center”

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

Cut 12 (09) “was killed”

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

Cut 13 (08) “right now”

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

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

Cut 14 (10) “in the future”

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

Cut 15 (08) “power cost”

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

Cut 16  (08)  “in 2021”

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