A Shreveport fireman will appear on Sunday’s episode of Guy’s Grocery Games on Food Network at 7 p.m. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Today roughly 40 cyclists are riding across south Louisiana into Baton Rouge to honor the three officers who were killed in an ambush almost one year ago. Michelle Southern has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Toledo Bend is in the top five bass fishing lakes in the Central United States. Halen Doughty has more….

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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A Shreveport firefighter will appear on this Sunday’s episode of Guy’s Grocery Games, which will air on Food Network at 7 p.m. Mark Myers, Jr. cooks for private parties and does meal preparation for clients, all while laying his life on the line as a fireman. Myers says on this “American Heroes” episode, he faces off against a police officer, EMT, and military veteran.

Cut 4  (10) “as well”

The 30-year-old has been a fireman for 10 years and says he’s always had a passion for spending time in the kitchen. Myers says the competition involves running through a grocery store, picking out ingredients and cooking a meal all within 30 minutes. He says Guy also includes an added challenge.

Cut 5  (09)  “every round”

Myers says he’s a self-taught chef through trial and error and learning from YouTube videos. He says he started his catering company, Remarkable Foods, all through encouragement from friends a little over year ago.

Cut 6 (11) “like wildfire”

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About 40 cyclists will ride into Baton Rouge today to honor fallen law enforcement officers. The ride from Dallas to the Capitol City comes ahead of the one year anniversary of the ambush attack on Baton Rouge police, just 10 days after officers were attacked in Dallas. Texas Brotherhood Ride president Tim Dunn says this is about honoring those fallen officers.

Cut 7 (10)  “as well”

Dunn says the group consists of 26 firefighters, EMTs, and police officers, as well as 12 other riders. But he says the ride isn’t about the cyclists, it’s about those who made the ultimate sacrifice and their families. He says people from around the country are coming together to show they never forget.

Cut 8 (10) “line of duty”

The 500 mile ride began in Dallas on July 9, two days after the anniversary of the Dallas attack. From there, the riders made stops in Corsicana, Palestine, Lufkin, Maryville, and Eunice. Today, riders are wrapping up the six day trip in Baton Rouge. The ride ends with a ceremony at BRPD headquarters.

Cut 9 (08)  “never forget”

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The Toledo Bend Reservoir has earned a spot in the top five bass fishing lakes in the Central U.S. Sabine Parish CVB Director Linda Curtis Sparks says this is the third time Toledo Bend has been in the best lakes to bass fishing in the country in recent years. She says it’s an extremely positive time in the area with all the visitors…

Cut 10 (10) “we’re happy”

Toledo Bend is located in Sabine Parish along the Louisiana-Texas border. In addition to being named the number 4 bass fishing lake in the central part of the country, the Lt. Governor’s office also recently launched the Louisiana Bass Trail. Sparks says it showcases the great fishing that can be done in north Louisiana.

Cut 11 (10) “seen before”

Toledo Bend was named the top bass fishing lake in the country in 2015 and 2016 by Bassmaster Magazine. Sparks says the structure of the lake makes Toledo Bend so special. She credits their great success to the very active stocking program plus with natural spawning.

Cut 12 (11) “million”

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It’s been one month since House Majority Whip Steve Scalise was shot at a Virginia ballpark. The Jefferson Parish Congressman continues to recover from a gunshot wound to the hip sustained in a shootout on members of Congress. Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves says he’s been in touch with Scalise and his family throughout this ordeal.

Cut 13 (09) “likely occurrence”

Graves says anytime an infection comes into play, it does cause some concern. Scalise was moved out of the ICU Wednesday, according to MedStar Washington hospital. He underwent surgery yesterday for the recent infection. Graves says Scalise has a long road ahead.

Cut 14 (09) “his family”

Scalise did get some prayers from his favorite football coach, LSU’s Ed Orgeron. Coach O says the prayers of Tiger Nation are with the congressman.

Cut 15 (09) “like a Tiger”

The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund reports there’s been a 30 percent increase in police killed in the line of duty since last year. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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12 out of 24 Louisiana beaches have beach advisories after traces of dangerous bacteria have been detected. Emelie Gunn has more on what these advisories mean…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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So far this year, 65 law enforcement officers have died in the line of duty, a 30 percent increase over the same period last year, according to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund. President and CEO Craig Floyd says the leading cause of officer deaths is traffic fatalities.

Cut 3 (10) “single vehicle crashes”

Floyd says Louisiana saw one such incident, when Ouachita Parish Deputy Justin Beard was killed in a crash responding to a call. The other two Louisiana officers killed this year were shot, for a total of three cops who died this year.

Cut 4  (09) “with three”

This report comes just days ahead of the one-year anniversary of the ambush on police officers in Baton Rouge, which took the lives of three and left three others wounded. Floyd says unfortunately, we’re seeing more and more attacks on police. He says nationwide 23 officers were killed in firearms-related fatalities.

Cut 5  (08)  “shot and killed”

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12 Louisiana beaches have been placed under a health advisory as the water at these sites contain high amounts of bacteria. The state Department of Health takes water samples from 24 beaches to determine the levels of the enterococci bacteria. Dr. Fred Lopez with the department of infectious diseases at LSU Health New Orleans says warm water allows this bacteria to thrive.

Cut 6 (08) “illnesses”

The enterococci bacteria is found in sewage and the human intestine. Lopez advises swimmers that if you do decide to get into the water, you’re swimming at your own risk.

Cut 7 (10)  “infected”

Lopez says people with weak immune systems are more susceptible to contracting infections by the bacteria found in the water.

Cut 8 (10) “their risk”

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Entering the second of three days of qualifying for the October elections, three candidates had joined the race to fill Scott Angelle’s vacated public service commission seat in Distrcit 2. The governor appointed longtime Democrat Damon Baldone to occupy the spot in the interim, and Baldone signed up Wednesday to be the permanent choice as a Republican…:

Cut 9 (09)  “drop the Democrat”

District 2 includes Baton Rouge, much of Acadiana and most of the bayou regions. Typically the interim commissioner didn’t run for the election, but Baldone says he’s had his eye on the race since last year and he never told the governor he wasn’t going to run…:

Cut 10 (11) “in the country”

The five elected PSC commissioners set electricity rates and regulate phone companies. Also in the race is Republican Craig C Greene from Baton Rouge, and Lenar Whitney, a Houma Republican. Whitney, who served 4 years in the state House, says as commissioner she is going to be someone that’s always looking out for customers…:

Cut 11 (05) “lowest”

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Saints and LSU superfan, Jarrius “JJ” Robertson, received The Jimmy V Perseverance Award last night at the ESPYS. Robertson is 15 and has had two liver transplants, but he’s never let his health keep him from going to games and following his favorite teams. When accepting the award last night on ESPN, Robertson gave thanks to all the people who have helped him achieve his dreams…

Cut 12 (10) “Saints team”

Saints owner Tom Benson has given $25,000 to Robertson to assist with expenses associated with his continuing medical care. JJ has undergone 13 surgeries and two liver transplants. He said on ESPN that being the Saints “hype man” for the past few years has been a blessing, and he’s grateful to the team for opening up so many doors for him…

Cut 13 (06) “myself”

The honor is given to a deserving member of the sporting world who has overcome great obstacles. Robertson said on ESPN that receiving the Jimmy V award is totally unexpected and he lives by Valvano’s words of, “don’t give up, don’t’ ever give up.”

Cut 14 (08)  “amazing”

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The long term rate of Louisiana’s wetland loss is slowing, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Monroe is the next Louisiana city to get the Waitr food delivery app. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Childhood trauma can impact people in more ways than one, according to experts at LSU Health New Orleans. Michelle Southern has more…

Cut 3 (30) “Michelle Southern”

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The U.S. Geological Survey has found the long term rate of Louisiana wetland loss is slowing. Research Geographer Brady Couvillion says analysis finds rates of land area loss have continued to decrease since the 1970s. He says one possible reason for this is the lack of major hurricane activity over the past 8 years.

Cut 4  (11) “tropical activity”

About half of the county’s wetlands have been lost over the last 200 years, with the greatest losses in Louisiana where an area the size of Delaware has been lost since the 1930s. Couvillion says one possible reason for the long term decrease in loss is the relocation of the oil and gas industry inland or offshore.

Cut 5  (12)  “wasn’t necessary”

The report does point out that these findings do not indicate that coastal wetland loss has ceased to be a serious issue. Coastal wetlands in Louisiana are vulnerable to natural and human influenced processes like sea-level rise and subsidence. Couvillion says research discovered that coastal restoration efforts are paying off when it comes to saving wetlands.

Cut 6 (09) “loss rates”

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The Waitr app is making its debut in Monroe today. The food delivery service has become wildly popular in south Louisiana and other states after its 2015 launch in Lake Charles. Co-founder and Launch Director Addison Killebrew says after adding new markets like Baton Rouge, they’re thrilled to put another Waitr location on the map.

Cut 7 (09)  “on our radar”

Killebrew says there will be a launch party at SQ’s on the Ouachita tonight at 5 p.m. He says SQ’s is also one of the first restaurants to offer their food for delivery and carryout through the Waitr app. He says other businesses are also expressing interest.

Cut 8 (09) “20 restaurants”

Killebrew says they’re eager to expand their options in Monroe, and they hope to have over 100 restaurants in the system in the near future. He says they’re also creating jobs, as Waitr expects to hire 150 food delivery drivers by the end of the year.

Cut 9 (12)  “in Monroe”

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Experts say trauma can impact children and their health in more ways than one. Joy Osofsky, Professor of Pediatrics and Psychiatry at LSU Health New Orleans, says when children are exposed to negative experiences, it impacts both their mental and physical health. She says stress can lead to physical health problems for young children.

Cut 10 (10) “related to stress”

Osofsky says too often people try to discount the impact of stress by suggesting young children will not remember the trauma, but she says that’s not the case. She says it can also impact a child’s behavior and mental health at the time and later in life.

Cut 11 (10) “they have”

Osofsky says the brain isn’t fully developed at a young age, and its development can be hindered by negative experiences. That’s why she says young children need support when they’re exposed to trauma to prevent problems in adulthood.

Cut 12 (12) “later on”

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Three out of four farm recovery grant program meetings are scheduled for today for farmers and ranchers who suffered losses as a result of the March and August 2016 floods. Agriculture Commissioner Dr. Mike Strain says during these meetings, the guidelines and application process for receiving recovery grant money will be discussed.

Cut 13 (10) “program dollars”

The meetings take place today in Welsh, Crowley and Opelousas and more information can be found on the Department of Agriculture’s website. Strain says meetings in North Louisiana are in the process of being scheduled. He says this money was granted to us by the hard work from out legislative leaders in Washington.

Cut 14 (10) “Restore Louisiana”

Strain says he wants to make sure Louisiana farmers have the information they need to get as much assistance as they are eligible to receive and this is not a loan.

Cut 15 (11) “dollars”

The next meeting is tomorrow in Hammond.

US Senator John Kennedy is glad Majority Leader Mitch McConnell agreed to delay the Senate’s August recess by two weeks. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Today candidates qualified for the open state treasurer seat. Michelle Southern reports on the major race in the October 14 election…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Senate leaders have delayed the August Congressional recess, and US Senator John Kennedy is thrilled lawmakers will work the first two weeks of next month. He says the Senate hasn’t accomplished as much as he would like, and he would feel guilty about taking an entire month off work.

Cut 3 (10) “August off”

Kennedy and others requested that Majority Leader Mitch McConnell cancel the four week recess all together, but the former-State Treasurer says he’ll settle for meeting halfway. He says federal leaders still have to implement tax reform, address the national deficit, approve plans for infrastructure, and of course, create a new federal healthcare system. Kennedy says he’s eager to repeal and replace Obamacare.

Cut 4  (09) “vote for it”

The Senate has been gridlocked on plans to alter the federal healthcare system. Kennedy says that’s because Democrats have a plan of their own – a single payer system. He says the far left wants the government to regulate healthcare, doctors, and hospitals like utilities. But he doesn’t think that’s what the American people want.

Cut 5  (11)  “Democrats want”

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The state Department of Education announces 33% of students scored mastery on LEAP tests in 2017, which is the same as last year. Superintendent John White says this is still an improvement of four percent since 2015 in ELA, math and science combined, so it’s good news that those gains have remained steady this year…:

Cut 6 (10) “science scores”

English results have risen five percentage points in the past two years, while math and science saw a 2 point jump. White added these results keep showing that more must be done to close gaps between advantaged students and historically disadvantaged students, because it’s not shrinking…:

Cut 7 (09)  “poor students”

45 percent of white students achieved mastery this year compared to 19 percent for black students, a gap of 26 percentage points. White says now the question is what do we do with these results?…:

Cut 8 (12) “2025”

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State Officials are extremely serious about crimes when it comes to enforcing wildlife laws, and now a man is going to spend 45 days in federal prison and pay a $2500 fine for killing a whooping crane in 2014. Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries spokesman Adam Einck says the accused is 21-year-old Lane Thibodeaux of Vermilion Parish…:

Cut 9 (10)  “euthanize it”

Einck says LDWF agents were able to catch Thibodeaux after putting up a 10-thousand dollar reward for information leading to an arrest. He says multiple informants came forward which is exactly why big rewards like this are offered…:

Cut 10 (10) “his arrest”

Einck says Thibodeaux also faces charges amid allegations he threatened people who reported him. He says one of the arguments Thibodeaux made in court was that he didn’t know he was shooting at the protected whooping crane, but that didn’t fly…:

Cut 11 (11) “would apply”

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The race is on for the open state treasurer seat, as candidates qualified today for the position vacated by US Senator John Kennedy. The field is full of capable candidates, like Republican Colombia Senator Neil Riser. He says his 20 years of banking experience makes him uniquely qualified. He notes he also chaired the Senate Committee on Revenue and Fiscal Affairs and sat on the Bond Commission.

Cut 12 (12) “to do so”

Former Republican Covington Representative John Schroder says he’s in the race because he wants to fight for the people of Louisiana. He says he’s got a history of doing just that for a decade in the state legislature and in the military. He believes he can address the state’s spending problem.

Cut 13 (12) “too much money”

Former Republican Commissioner of Administration Angele Davis is also in the running. She says the financial problems facing the state need someone with qualifications and experience. After working under two different administrations, she says she has the know how to address Louisiana’s fiscal woes.

Cut 14 (09)  “of government”

The lone major Democrat, New Orleans attorney Derrick Edwards, notes he is the only candidate in the race with both a bachelor’s and a master’s in accounting. He says he’s running on a platform of transparency and accountability.

Cut 15 (12) “politicians responsible”

Election Day is October 14.

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Qualifying for the October 14^th election begins today and one of the big races is for New Orleans Mayor.  Emelie Gunn has more on the seat being vacated by Mitch Landrieu…

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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On October 14 voters will choose a new state treasurer, but qualifying begins today. Halen Doughty has more on what to expect from the race…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Three Walmart stores in south Louisiana saw substantial losses after a string of arsons in Tangipahoa Parish. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 3 (30) “Jeff Palermo”

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Qualifying begins today for the October 14^th statewide and municipal elections. One of the big races is for the seat being vacated by New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu. Political Analyst Clancy Dubos says the biggest surprise with this election is the big names that have decided not to run. He says typically when the incumbent cannot seek reelection because of term limits, you see a very large field.

Cut 4  (10) “Cantrell”

Dubos says two other candidates have announced but they are much less known because they have never held political office. He says big names like, Speaker Pro-Tempore Walt Leger, and State Senators JP Morell and Karen Carter Peterson have decided not to run for the post.

Cut 5  (09)  “a surprise”

Dubos says a big reason for a smaller pool of candidates is the lack of donors giving money. He says the entire world is going to be watching this election as New Orleans is an iconic city and being the mayor of a big city is a very hard job.

Cut 6 (07) “elsewhere”

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Qualifying begins today for the state treasurer race, after John Kennedy vacated the office to become a US Senator. UL-Lafayette political science professor Pearson Cross says this is the first time this post has been open since 2000, so it should be interesting. He says the fact that Kenner Representative Julie Stokes dropped out, could open it up to other contenders.

Cut 7 (09)  “in the race”

Cross says many politicians see this office as a stepping stone to higher positions, as Kennedy did when he moved to the US Senate. He says that makes it a coveted position, and things could get heated. He says Colombia Senator Neil Riser and former Covington Representative John Schroder will be candidates to watch.

Cut 8 (12) “this seat”

Cross says this will be a competitive race that will likely end with a runoff. He says the real question, however, will be how many voters will turnout at the polls. He says many don’t even know there is an election, much less who is running.

Cut 9 (09)  “come out ahead”

The election is Saturday, October 14.

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It looks as though with year will be a good one for the brown shrimp harvest in the Gulf of Mexico. According to NOAA’s annual forecast, the harvest is expected to yield 44.2 million pounds, which is above the predicted value for the last two years. Dr. Rick Hart with the National Marine Fisheries Service says many factors in the water are adding up to lead to a productive season.

Cut 10 (08) “for harvest”

Although the predicted harvest is up from the last two years, it’s below the historical 56-year average of 56.2 pounds. Hart says moderate salinities combined with strong, consistent southerly winds have increased available nursery area and allowed for the greater distribution of juvenile shrimp.

Cut 11 (08) “shrimps”

The prediction covers the period from July 2017 through June 2018 for state and federal waters off Louisiana and federal waters off Texas. Hart says the U.S. heavily relies of Gulf caught shrimp.

Cut 12 (08) “the Gulf”

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An Amite Walmart that was set on fire last weekend sustained over a million dollars in damage. That’s according to Sheriff Daniel Edwards, who says much of the damage was to the inventory in the store, not structural damage to the building. He says 45-year-old Larry Schouest of Hammond combined chemicals to start the fire.

Cut 13 (13) “a fire”

Edwards says the chemical smoke from the fire ruined all of the contents in the building. Schouest is accused of setting a string of fires in south Louisiana Walmart’s, beginning in Ponchatoula on June 27. From there, Schouest allegedly set fire to the Amite Walmart and one in Hammond on Saturday.

Cut 14 (09) “from the store”

Edwards says they suspect the Hammond store may have sustained similar losses. He says Schouest is facing two counts of aggravated arson, six counts of felony theft, and charges of criminal damage to property. More charges could be filed as the investigation is ongoing.

Cut 15 (09) “drug habit”

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LSU will resume its rivalry with Florida on October 7th. The Gators have yet to decide on a starting quarterback for the 2017 season. They have several options including former LSU commitment Felipe Franks and Notre Dame transfer Malik Zaire. At SEC Media Days, Florida Coach Jim McElwain talked about what he’s looking for from his starting Q-B…..

Cut 16 (19)  “fall camp”

LSU’s SEC opener is September 16th at Mississippi State. Nick Fitzgerald returns as the Bulldogs starting Q-B. The last time he played, Fitzgerald had 258 rushing yards, two rushing TDS and three passing touchdowns in a blowout win over Ole Miss. State Head Coach Dan Mullens is excited to see what Fitzgerald can do this year…

Cut 17 (18) “last year”

Qualifying for the October 14^th election begins today and one of the big races is for New Orleans Mayor.  Emelie Gunn has more on the seat being vacated by Mitch Landrieu…

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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On October 14 voters will choose a new state treasurer, but qualifying begins today. Halen Doughty has more on what to expect from the race…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Three Walmart stores in south Louisiana saw substantial losses after a string of arsons in Tangipahoa Parish. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 3 (30) “Jeff Palermo”

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Qualifying begins today for the October 14^th statewide and municipal elections. One of the big races is for the seat being vacated by New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu. Political Analyst says the biggest surprise with this election is the big names that have decided not to run. He says typically when the incumbent cannot seek reelection because of term limits, you see a very large field.

Cut 4  (10) “Cantrell”

Dubos says two other candidates have announced but they are much less known because they have never held political office. He says big names like, Speaker Pro-Tempore Walt Leger, and State Senators JP Morell and Karen Carter Peterson have decided not to run for the post.

Cut 5  (09)  “a surprise”

Dubos says a big reason for a smaller pool of candidates is the lack of donors giving money. He says the entire world is going to be watching this election as New Orleans is an iconic city and being the mayor of a big city is a very hard job.

Cut 6 (07) “elsewhere”

________________________________________________________

Qualifying begins today for the state treasurer race, after John Kennedy vacated the office to become a US Senator. UL-Lafayette political science professor Pearson Cross says this is the first time this post has been open since 2000, so it should be interesting. He says the fact that Kenner Representative Julie Stokes dropped out, could open it up to other contenders.

Cut 7 (09)  “in the race”

Cross says many politicians see this office as a stepping stone to higher positions, as Kennedy did when he moved to the US Senate. He says that makes it a coveted position, and things could get heated. He says Colombia Senator Neil Riser and former Covington Representative John Schroder will be candidates to watch.

Cut 8 (12) “this seat”

Cross says this will be a competitive race that will likely end with a runoff. He says the real question, however, will be how many voters will turnout at the polls. He says many don’t even know there is an election, much less who is running.

Cut 9 (09)  “come out ahead”

The election is Saturday, October 14.

________________________________________________________

It looks as though with year will be a good one for the brown shrimp harvest in the Gulf of Mexico. According to NOAA’s annual forecast, the harvest is expected to yield 44.2 million pounds, which is above the predicted value for the last two years. Dr. Rick Hart with the National Marine Fisheries Service says many factors in the water are adding up to lead to a productive season.

Cut 10 (08) “for harvest”

Although the predicted harvest is up from the last two years, it’s below the historical 56-year average of 56.2 pounds. Hart says moderate salinities combined with strong, consistent southerly winds have increased available nursery area and allowed for the greater distribution of juvenile shrimp.

Cut 11 (08) “shrimps”

The prediction covers the period from July 2017 through June 2018 for state and federal waters off Louisiana and federal waters off Texas. Hart says the U.S. heavily relies of Gulf caught shrimp.

Cut 12 (08) “the Gulf”

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An Amite Walmart that was set on fire last weekend sustained over a million dollars in damage. That’s according to Sheriff Daniel Edwards, who says much of the damage was to the inventory in the store, not structural damage to the building. He says 45-year-old Larry Schouest of Hammond combined chemicals to start the fire.

Cut 13 (13) “a fire”

Edwards says the chemical smoke from the fire ruined all of the contents in the building. Schouest is accused of setting a string of fires in south Louisiana Walmart’s, beginning in Ponchatoula on June 27. From there, Schouest allegedly set fire to the Amite Walmart and one in Hammond on Saturday.

Cut 14 (09) “from the store”

Edwards says they suspect the Hammond store may have sustained similar losses. He says Schouest is facing two counts of aggravated arson, six counts of felony theft, and charges of criminal damage to property. More charges could be filed as the investigation is ongoing.

Cut 15 (09) “drug habit”

____________________________________________________

LSU will resume its rivalry with Florida on October 7th. The Gators have yet to decide on a starting quarterback for the 2017 season. They have several options including former LSU commitment Felipe Franks and Notre Dame transfer Malik Zaire. At SEC Media Days, Florida Coach Jim McElwain talked about what he’s looking for from his starting Q-B…..

Cut 16 (19)  “fall camp”

LSU’s SEC opener is September 16th at Mississippi State. Nick Fitzgerald returns as the Bulldogs starting Q-B. The last time he played, Fitzgerald had 258 rushing yards, two rushing TDS and three passing touchdowns in a blowout win over Ole Miss. State Head Coach Dan Mullens is excited to see what Fitzgerald can do this year…

Cut 17 (18) “last year”

The National Federation for Independent Business’ monthly Index on Small Business Optimism finds a decline in job openings and job creation for June. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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A survey by Kars4Kids finds Louisiana motorists are the 4th rudest in the country. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Small business optimism dipped in June, according to the National Federation for Independent Business. State director Dawn Starns says they saw increased optimism at the beginning of the year entering the new administration, but that has since dwindled due to gridlock in Congress. She says there’s a lot of uncertainty surrounding the federal healthcare bill.

Cut 3 (10) “so hard”

That’s why job openings and job creation plans saw declines in the NFIB’s monthly Index of Small Business Optimism. Expectations for better business conditions and expected sales also dropped. Starns says businesses can’t plan for the future because of all the uncertainty on the federal level.

Cut 4  (10) “rest of the year”

On the positive side, the index found an uptick in inventory satisfaction among small businesses, as well as plans to increase inventory. Starns says that’s a promising sign.

Cut 5  (11)  “part of the year”

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A recent survey finds Louisiana drivers are the 4^th rudest in the country. The survey by Kars4Kids is a driving awareness campaign that promotes courteous driving. Spokesperson Ari Finkelstein says they asked drivers around the country questions about different driving scenarios. He says Bayou State motorists are not too keen on waiting in lines…

Cut 6 (10) “that scenario”

Finkelstein says Louisianans also ranked 43 in the country when it comes to using turn signals. He says a lot of southern states performed poorly when it came to being courteous while driving.

Cut 7 (11)  “Georgia”

Louisiana did rank fairly well when it came to being considerate of other motorists when merging. Finkelstein hopes letting the public know about this bad rating will encourage them to realize they share the road with other humans, not just cars.

Cut 8 (09) “stressful roads”

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The girlfriend of the man who was shot and killed by an Evangeline Parish Sheriff’s deputy has hired a lawyer who disputes information released by State Police on the incident. Authorities say 27-year-old Dejuan Guillory was shot in a struggle with the deputy, and that the girlfriend, 21-year-old Dequince Brown, attacked the cop. But Brown’s lawyer, Joe Long, said his client was trying to keep the deputy from killing her boyfriend:

Cut 9 (11)  “three more times”

State Police say Guillory struck the deputy in the head, knocking him to the ground, which started the physical confrontation. Long claims Guillory was begging for his life because he has three kids, but the deputy was out to kill. He says the deputy was also acting unprofessionally which escalated the situation..:

Cut 10 (12) “shoot you”

State Police say they have the deputy’s dash cam which they are analyzing, and there is a lot of work to be done on this investigation. Brown has been charged with attempted first degree murder of a police officer for jumping on the deputy’s back and biting him. Long says the charge is outrageous…:

Cut 11 (10) “not attempted murder”

Long made the comments in an interview with PenPoint News Publisher Daniel Bangeul (Bain-Gal). Brown was released from the Evangeline Parish jail Tuesday after a judge set her bond at $75,000.

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Elio Motors in northwest Louisiana has been fined over half a million dollars by the Louisiana Motor Vehicle Commission who says the three-wheel car making company violated state law. Commission spokesman Keith Marcotte told KEEL in Shreveport that vehicle makers or sellers in Louisiana have to have a manufacturers and dealers license..:

Cut 12 (10) “either of those”

Elio has yet to produce a vehicle, but they have a pre-purchase program which the commission says is breaking laws against car companies selling directly to consumers. Attorneys for Elio said they view their system as taking reservations for vehicles…:

Cut 13 (09) “separate arrangement”

The $545,000 fine was handed down Monday. The production, which was supposed to take place in the former GM plant in Shreveport, has been delayed since 2013 due to lack of funding. Marcotte says he has no problem with Elio, but they need to follow the same rules as everyone else…:

Cut 14 (10)  “of a large nature”

The U.S Senate is back from its July Fourth recess. Don Molino spoke with GOP Senator Bill Cassidy on the prospects of the Senate passing a health care reform bill…

Cut 1 (27) “I’m Don Molino”

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The state’s largest health insurer has a new tool to help its members find  the lowest-cost when it comes to common medical procedures. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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LSU Football Coach Ed Orgeron likes his team as it heads into the 2017 season. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (30) “Jeff Palermo”

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The U.S. Senate is waiting on Majority Leader Mitch McConnell to make revisions to proposed legislation that would repeal and replace the nation’s health care law. Republican Bill Cassidy says the initial Senate healthcare plan doesn’t have enough support, so he hopes McConnell uses some of the ideas the senior Senator from Louisiana suggested months ago…

Cut 4  (12) “Obamacare”

Senate Democrats have called on McConnell to work with them on coming up with legislation to improve America’s Health Care system. Cassidy says since there are 52 Republicans in the US Senate, they need to come up with a bill that has the support of some Democrats…

Cut 5  (11)  “$6,000 deductibles”

President Donald Trump is urging Congress to pass a health care bill before they leave for the August recess. Cassidy says if they can’t agree on a complete health care overhaul, federal lawmakers should at least do something about rising premiums…

Cut 6 (07) “later action”

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The Louisiana Department of Health and the Louisiana Workforce Commission will host a series of workforce summits as they seek to hire qualified individuals to work with people with developmental and intellectual disabilities. Executive Management Officer for the Office of Citizens with Developmental Disabilities Tiffany Dickerson says the goal is to become a conduit for healthcare providers.

Cut 7 (10)  “workforce commission”

The first summit is today in New Orleans at the Jefferson Parish East Bank Regional Library from 9 am to 3 pm. Dickerson says there is a high rate of turnover in this industry as employees are often paid minimum wage or slightly above. She says the summit is designed to benefit healthcare providers when it comes to recruiting individuals to work with those with disabilities and the aging population.

Cut 8 (10) “their organization”

Additional summits are scheduled to take place Thursday in Lafayette and Friday in Alexandria. Dickerson says the outcome of the summits is to streamline and improve the hiring practices of providers, bring down onboarding costs and identify training opportunities.

Cut 9 (11)  “with supporting”

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Blue Cross Blue Shield of Louisiana has a new way for its members to make an informed decision when it comes to getting a medical procedure. It’s called Smart Shopper and David Hochheiser (Ho-heiser) says it’s available on the Blue Cross website…

Cut 10 (11) “or live”

Hochheiser says for example, if a Blue Cross member is told they need a colonoscopy, SmartShopper, can help the customer see how much it costs at nearby hospital or clinics….

Cut 11 (10) “will be”

Hochheiser says if a customer needs an MRI they can use SmartShopper and they’ll likely notice a wide range in costs for the same medical service. He says this tool will help patients make an informed decision…

Cut 12 (08) “10-thousand dollars”

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LSU Football Coach Ed Orgeron says Quarterback Danny Etling is nearly 100-percent after undergoing back surgery, but he’s not ready to name him the starter for the season opener against BYU. Orgeron says he wants the other Q-Bs on the roster to compete for the job and get an evaluation from new offensive coordinator Matt Canada…

Cut 13 (08) “you like em”

Incoming freshmen Lowell Narcisse, sophomore Justin McMillan, redshirt freshman Lindsey Scott and true freshman Myles Brennan will compete against Etling for starting Q-B. Orgeron says if the season started today, Etling would be the starter. At SEC Media Day, Orgeron was asked about Florida naming the LSU game on October 7th as its homecoming game…

Cut 14 (09) “be a battle”

LSU lost a lot of talent off of last year’s defense. Orgeron says younger have to step up, including former North Caddo star Devin White, who could be a starter at middle linebacker…

Cut 15 (09) “need to do”

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A report on Louisiana voter registration finds a decline in white Democrats and steady gain of Republican and Independent voters. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A Kenner teen has been arrested for allegedly beating an elderly couple with a hammer in their home. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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There’s been a large decline in the number of whites registered as Democrats since 2001. JMC Analytics and Polling analyst John Couvillon says when President George W. Bush took office in 2001, white Democrats comprised 35-percent of the Louisiana electorate or 951-thousand voters. Today, the percentage of white Democrats is 18-percent…

Cut 3 (05) “registered Democrats”

Couvillon says there’s been a steady gain in registered Republicans and Independents. 22-percent of the electorate consisted of registered Republicans in 2001, now the percentage is up to 30-percent. He says the percentage of registered Independents is also up eight-percent since 2001…

Cut 4  (11) “major parties”

Couvillon says Louisiana’s electorate has also become more diverse since 2001. He says Black voter registration comprised 29-percent of the electorate at the beginning of the Bush administration and is 31-percent today and there are substantial gains with other race groups…

Cut 5  (07)  “66-percent”

Of those currently registered to vote in Louisiana, 44-percent are Democrat, 30-percent Republican and 26-percent Independent.

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A 16-year-old has been arrested after allegedly beating an elderly couple with a hammer inside their Kenner home. Police responded after a 70-year-old woman walked to her neighbor’s home covered in blood asking for help for she and her 89-year-old husband. Kenner Police Lt. Brian McGregor says the teen also stole the victims’ vehicle and they learned he drove to Baton Rouge…

Cut 6 (07) “Baton Rouge”

McGregor says the juvenile was arrested in Baton Rouge. He says the brutal attack happened Sunday afternoon after a petty argument between the juvenile and the elderly couple.

Cut 7 (09)  “said no”

The hammer used to beat the senior citizens was found inside the home with blood and hair on it. McGregor says the 16-year-old did odd jobs around the victims’ home. He says the couple remains in critical condition.

Cut 8 (08) “hospitalized”

McGregor says the juvenile’s name has not been released and he faces charges of two counts of attempted first degree murder, theft of a motor vehicle, and aggravated burglary.

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The number of high school seniors filling out financial aid forms for post-secondary education is up 7 percent over last year. Senior Educational Technology consultant, with the state department of education, Stephanie Marcum says they have made a big push to let students know that FAFSA isn’t just for students going to traditional college…:

Cut 9 (11)  “to pay for”

65% of students are submitting FAFSA paperwork this year compared to 58% last year, an increase of 3100 kids. Marcum says when people hear “financial aid” they think loans, but she says that’s a very small aspect of what you find out through FAFSA…:

Cut 10 (09) “TOPS award”

Marcum says they also saw an increase in financial aid applications when TOPS wasn’t fully funded last year. She says they expect the numbers to continue to go up when filling out FAFSA becomes a requirement for seniors next year…:

Cut 11 (05) “they’re eligible”

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Governor Bobby Jindal’s ex-budget chief, Angele Davis, joins the pool of candidates running for state treasurer. Republican state senator Neil Riser, Republican former state representative John Schroder and Democratic attorney Derrick Edwards are the others seeking the post vacated by U.S. Senator John Kennedy. Political Analyst Bernie Pinsonat says none of the candidates are known statewide.

Cut 12 (07) “stand for”

State Representative Julie Stokes dropped out of the race after being diagnosed with breast cancer. Pinsonat says Davis has the experience to successfully fill this position…

Cut 13 (09) “knows it”

Both Schroder and Riser also have budget experience, because of their time in the state legislature. The election is October 14^th and qualifying begins Wednesday. Pinsonat says it’s a wide open race.

Cut 14 (06)   runoff”“

A new study finds our pets are getting bigger and bigger, and a local vet warns against letting your furry friend get too fat. Michelle Southern reports..:

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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21 young diamondback terrapins return home to the Louisiana barrier island. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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SEC Football Media Days begins in Hoover, Alabama today. Jeff Palermo reports the LSU Tigers are one of the first teams to appear at the annual media blitz…

Cut 3 (30) “Jeff Palermo”

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Have you ever thought of your pets as being fat or skinny? A Banfield Pet Hospital’s 2017 State of Pet Health report found Louisiana ranks No. 5 for non-obese dogs, and No.6 for slim cats. But Dr. Nancy Welborn with the LSU School Of Veterinary Medicine says while your pet may not be obese, even an overweight furry friend faces serious health risks…:

Cut 4  (10) “about the obese”

The Banfield report found that one in three pets who visited their facilities in 2016 was overweight or obese. Welborn says a healthy weight could prolong a pet’s life and delay chronic disease. She says pets are becoming more and more like members of the family, and the easiest way to show dogs and cats how much we love them is by giving them food…:

Cut 5  (11)  “Oreo cookies”

Welborn says another way to prevent too much weight gain in our pets is to read the recommendations on the bag of food, and use a measuring cup before dumping dinner into a bowl. She advises against ever feeding your pet from the table, and it’s a habit to never start because your pup or kitten won’t know the difference..:

Cut 6 (09) “like we do”

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A group of 21 11-month old diamondback terrapin turtles are back at a Louisiana Barrier Island after being moved to hatch. The turtle’s nests were dug up and moved to another location during the restoration of Cheniere Ronquille, after the 2010 BP spill. State Wildlife and Fisheries endangered species biologist Keri Landry says their actions are helping to protect the diamondback population.

Cut 7 (10)  “islands”

Landry says the diamondback terrapin is believed to be the only turtle to live in brackish water and can grow up to 10 inches long. She says the turtles had to be moved because they would not survive during the restoration project.

Cut 8 (08) “hatch out”

LDWF worked with NOAA and Louisiana’s Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority to release the 21 young turtles. The diamondback terrapin are listed as “near threatened” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Habitat loss is one reason why, so Landry says it was important to restore this barrier island northeast of Grand Isle.

Cut 9 (08)  “busy down”

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Abortions in the Bayou State have decreased by 4-percent from 2015 to 2016, according to numbers by the state Department of Health. Ben Clapper with Louisiana Right to Life says this is the second year in a row that abortion numbers have dropped.

Cut 10 (08) “our community”

Nearly 9-thousand abortions were performed in 2016 down from 93-hundred in 2015 and just over 10-thousand abortions reported in 2014. Clapper credits the decrease to more people valuing the life of an unborn child…

Cut 11 (10) “the womb”

According to the data, women categorized as “nonwhite” accounted for 70-percent of abortions performed in 2016. Clapper says many women who had abortions last year were unmarried and 35 girls under the age of 15 had an abortion.

Cut 12 (10) “adoption”

Louisiana Radio Network placed calls to Planned Parenthood and the Center for Reproductive Rights, but they went unreturned.

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LSU Football Coach Ed Orgeron returns to SEC Football Media Day today  in Hoover, Alabama. Orgeron’s last appearance was in 2007 as the head coach of Ole Miss. The Rebels went 3-9 that year and Orgeron was fired. Tiger Rag Editor Cody Worsham says Coach O will be asked numerous times today how he’s changed as a coach

Cut 13 (10) “receives him”

LSU running back Derrius Guice, wide receiver D.J. Chark and defensive end Christian LaCourture will join Orgeron at SEC Football Media Day. Worsham says we might get an indication of how Guice will be used in the Tigers new offense…

Cut 14 (11) “Derrius Guice”

Worsham says he’s interested to hear from Orgeron how LSU’s defense will be just as dominated as they were last year, despite losing so many impact players to the NFL….

Cut 15 (10) “Kendall Beckwith”

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