Louisiana has the highest adult obesity rate in the country, according to a new report from Trust for America’s Health. Don Molino has more…

CUT 1 (28) “I’m Don Molino” 

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Construction begins today on 15 homes covered by the Shelter at Home Program. Emelie Gunn spoke with one of those homeowners…

CUT 2 (30)  “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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A new report from Trust for America’s Health finds Louisiana has the highest adult obesity rate in the country, at 36-percent. Bob Johannessen with LDH says it might be a new report, but it’s certainly not new news. He says studies dating back to 2008 have shown Louisiana as one of the heaviest states in the nation.

CUT 3 (09)  “on this”

Johannessen says healthy living practices start when you’re a child and unfortunately in Louisiana many of our kids are doing enough to stay in shape. He says Louisiana suffers from the lack of sidewalks in neighborhoods, in some cases limited outdoor activity options and there’s also less access to physical activity in school.

CUT 4 (08)  “might expect”

Johannessen says they recommend that everyone eat at least five fruits and vegetables a day and eliminate sugary drinks from their diet. He says they also encourage two hours a day or less of sitting in front of a TV or computer and getting at least one hour of physical activity.

CUT 5 (10)  “young people”

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It’s Labor Day weekend, which means it’s time for fun with friends and family, but State Police are warning drivers not to drink and drive. Trooper Dustin Dwight says there will be checkpoints and extra police out on the roadways to protect the motoring public. He says driver impairment is the leading factor in fatal crashes across Louisiana.

CUT 6 (10) “weekend”

Dwight says they are also looking for motorists that are speeding, driving recklessly or distracted. He advises people on the road this holiday weekend to utilize the 511 app.

CUT 7 (09) “location”

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Additional criminal charges have been filed against the driver of the bus who crashed into emergency vehicles in St. John Parish, causing the death of three people including the fire chief. The third victim succumbed to injuries on Thursday. Melissa Matey says Denis Yasmir Amaya Rodriguez, an illegal alien, faces multiple charges…:

CUT 8 (10) “can do”

It’s reported that Amaya Rodriguez claimed his breaks went out when he slammed into the fire truck and other vehicles, but Matey said they are still working on the details of how the crash happened…:

CUT 9 (10) “speed is a factor”

One of the fatal victims was District Chief Spencer Chauvin with the St. John the Baptist Fire Department. 33-year-old Vontarous Kelly of Moss Point, MS, a passenger in a vehicle that was hit, died Thursday. 21 year old Jermaine Starr of Moss Point, MS was was pronounced dead on scene. Matey says the feds are investigating the bus company…:

cut 10 (08)  “that crash”

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Crews with the Shelter at Home Program started construction on 15 homes today. Patricia Lee’s home was one of thousands flooded during the historic rain event and contractors are currently working on her house. Lee says the workers are fixing a bedroom and a bathroom so she can live in the home while the rebuilding process continues.

Cut 11 (08) “and everything”

Lee says she hasn’t been at work since the flooding but hopes now with the Shelter at Home Program that she’ll be able to return. She says she’s thankful for this program, because they are doing work that she and her family don’t have to do.

cut 12 (08) “and everything”

To register for the program call 1 (800) 927-0216 or online at shelter-at-home-dot-la-dot-gov (shelterathome.la.gov). It pays up to 15-thousand dollars in repairs so the home can at least be livable. Lee says she applied for the program on Monday and workers are already fixing her home.

Cut 13 (10)  “the insulation”

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Disaster unemployment benefits are available for flood victims. Director of the Unemployment Insurance Program, Renita Ward Williams, says anyone who is unemployed or who has had their job interrupted because of the recent flood can apply for this program through October 14th.

cut 14 (10)  “to apply”

Williams says people can see if they are eligible and apply at LaWorks.net. She says over 57-hundred people have already applied for the program. She says unemployment will not replace someone’s full income.

cut 15 (11) “person’s income”

Williams says the money some people are getting from FEMA and insurance doesn’t cover an electric or water bill. She says this program can help people fill some of the income gaps.

cut 16 (09) “of life”

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Tomorrow’s game between LSU and Wisconsin means the start of the season for many fans, and also some much needed relief for flood victims. Jeff Palermo has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Construction starts today on 15 homes that have qualified with the Shelter at Home program. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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After a rough summer for Louisiana with shootings and flooding, the state can enjoy some LSU football on Saturday. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The Second Amendment Sales Tax Holiday begins today and lasts through Sunday. Department of Revenue Spokesperson Byron Henderson says many sportsmen are eager to purchase new supplies with hunting season right around the corner. He says this year, shoppers will get a two percent discount on the state sales tax for eligible items…

cut 4  (10)  “vehicles”

Henderson says also animal feed and apparel are eligible. He says anyone interested can find the entire list of items included in the sales tax holiday online.

Cut 5  (04)  “flood insurance”

Go-carts, dirt bikes, and other motorized vehicles that can legally be driven on the road are not included in the exemption. Henderson says this sales tax holiday is not completely tax free this year, after it was amended during the 2016 Legislative Session.

Cut 6 (10) “sales tax” 3x

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Tomorrow is the big game between LSU and Wisconsin, and Madison-based American Family Insurance is partnering with Wisconsin athletics to raise money that will go towards American Red Cross’ flood relief efforts in Louisiana. Judd Schemmel, with American Family Insurance, says they are encouraging football fans to donate to the Red Cross by texting “LAFLOOD” to 90999.

CUT 7 (08)  “to help”

Schemmel says they will match every donation made on game day up to $50-thousand. He says helping others is what their organization is all about.

Cut 8 (08) “people’s dream” 

Saturday’s game between LSU and Wisconsin is one of marque games during the opening weekend of college football. Schemmel says they want to use all of the media attention around the contest to remind fans across the country that there are flood victims in Louisiana that can use some help.

Cut 9 (09)  “on-going need”

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Construction begins today on 15 homes that have been approved for the Shelter At Home Program. The Governor’s Deputy Chief of Staff Julie Baxter Payer says they’re moving as quickly as possible to get flood damaged homes ready to live in. She says they’ve received nearly 15-thousand applications and the number keeps growing.

Cut 10 (12) “rebuild”

Flood victims can register for the program at shelter-at-home-dot-la-dot-gov. Payer says once a flood victim applies, an inspector visits the home and if approved, a local contractor is contacted.

cut 11 (10) “family’s home” 

The Shelter at Home Program pays up to 15-thousand dollars in repairs to make a flooded home livable, while additional repairs are completed. Payer says they plan on ramping up construction on other homes next week and the response so far has been great.

cut 12 (10) “we can”

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Louisiana has received an additional 40-million dollars in federal highway funding. State Department of Transportation Secretary Shawn Wilson on how the state received this cash….

Cut 13 (10) “spend”

Wilson says this grant money will go towards the I-10 widening project between I-49 and the Atchafalya Basin. He says the state has already received 60-million in federal dollars for this project, so this additional 40-million, will free up funds to improve the access into Barksdale Air Force Base in Bossier City….

cut 14 (09)  “of I-20”

Wilson says an environmental study needs to be completed first, before they can put bids out for the Barksdale Air Force Base. He says at least 100-million dollars will be spent along I-10 in the coming years, including a project to alleviate severe congestion just past the Mississippi River Bridge in Baton Rouge..

Cut 15 (04) “early 18”

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Louisiana Tech will start redshirt freshman J’mar Smith at quarterback tomorrow afternoon against the Arkansas Razorbacks. Senior wide receiver Trent Taylor says the former three-star high school prospect from Mississippi made great strides during preseason camp…

Cut 16  (13)  “come around”

Louisiana Tech won nine games a season ago and they’ve notched 22 victories over the last three seasons. Taylor says the Bulldog players look forward to the opportunity to knock off a team from the SEC…

Cut 17 (08)  “make it happen “

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What could be a very memorable football season in the history of LSU football kicks off tomorrow as the 5th ranked Fighting Tigers face the Wisconsin Badgers at Lambeau Field in Green Bay. Many college football analysts believe LSU has enough talent to play in the College Football playoff. Junior defensive tackle Davon Godchaux (duh-Von God-chaw) believes LSU could have the best defense in the country

Cut 18 (13) “special”

LSU’s defense will face a quarterback that will make his first collegiate start. Bart Houston is a fifth-year senior for the Badgers. Safety Jamal Adams anticipates Houston will play well…

Cut 19 (09) “a challenge”

August of 2016 was certainly a wet one for the entire state of Louisiana. Jeff Palermo has more…

CUT 1 (28) “I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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Around 135-thousand people have applied for FEMA assistance since the flood, and many have been denied. Michelle Southern has more on a new hotline offering legal advice to these victims…

CUT 2 (31)  “I’m Michelle Southern”

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August of 2016 goes down as the wettest recorded August in Louisiana. State Climatologist Barry Keim says data shows the state averaged 12 and a half inches for the month, crushing the previous record of 9.71 inches back in August of 1940. However, he says this August was only the ninth wettest month ever when looking at all the months of the year…

CUT 3 (08)  “ago”

Keim says August 2016 was the wettest month ever in Baton Rouge, recording a little over 30 inches in the Capital City. He says that’s also the case for the Acadiana region and the Felicianas that were hammered by the recent rain event.

CUT 4 (11)  “24.74”

Keim says the majority of the rainfall this August came over a three to four day period…

CUT 5 (10)  “of rain”

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As flood victims are working to repair their homes and get as much federal assistance as possible, volunteer attorneys are offering legal advice to those who are denied by FEMA. New Orleans attorney Graham Ryan says they’ve established a hotline to provide quick answers. He says people can call 1-800-310-7029, and there are other ways to reach these volunteers.

CUT 6 (08) “affected areas”

Ryan says some of the denials can easily be reversed. He says one common problem is that the name on the deed of the flooded home didn’t match the name on the application, like when people move into their deceased parent’s home.

CUT 7 (07) “FEMA benefits”

Ryan says it’s important for people to know these attorneys are not taking on cases, just offering legal advice. But he says there are plenty of organizations around the state that will take up a flood victim’s case.

CUT 8 (10) “can do”

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Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon says he’s been told the August flood event will be the fourth most costly event for the National Flood Insurance Program.

CUT 9 (10) “insurance program”

Donelon says there have been 28-thousand claims filed with the N-F-I-P and expects the number to grow past 30-thousand. He says most of the calls they are getting lately are from people who thought their homeowners insurance covered flooding. He says people should know what they’re covered for and what they’re not.

cut 10 (10)  “my house”

Donelon says Louisiana has the third most flood insurance policies in the nation, at 450-thousan policies. He says people are also benefitting from comprehensive coverage on their vehicles. He says State Farm has already reported 18-thousand claims have been made for flooded vehicles.

Cut 11 (10) “those vehicles”

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Shreveport Police are searching for burglary suspects who stole a service animal. Cpl. Marcus Hines says police were called to a home after the residence had been forcefully entered and items were taken, including “Major, a Rottweiler service dog, who is trained to understand sign language.

cut 12 (10) “his chest”

Hines says if anyone has information on where Major could be, call Crime Stoppers. He says they’re unsure why someone would take the dog but hope to reunite Major with his owner as soon as possible.

Cut 13 (09)  “doing it”

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The Louisiana Highway Safety Commission is reminding motorists about their responsibilities on the road when approaching an upcoming accident. The plea comes in the wake of the tragic crash that killed two people, including a district fire chief in St. John Parish. LHSC spokeswoman Jessica Bedwell says drivers need to move away from crashes…:

cut 14 (10)  “first responders”

Bedwell says the recent crash illustrates why drivers must exercise caution when encountering parked emergency vehicles on the roadway. She says Louisiana law mandates that motorists safely change lanes when approaching emergency vehicles parked on or near the highway…:

cut 15 (09) “the area”

The Senate Homeland Security Committee is set to hear from the agencies involved in the flood recovery, and hopefully get some answers for flood victims. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 1 (27) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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About 12-hundred Tiger Fans leave for Green Bay today for Saturday’s season opener against Wisconsin. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (27) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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FEMA is encountering a lot of problems trying to get manufactured homes set up for flood victims. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 3 (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The Senate Homeland Security Committee will once again hear from disaster response agencies in the hopes of getting some answers for flood victims. Chairman and Baton Rouge Senator Bodi White says they still don’t know whether or not homeowners whose houses received damage worth more than half the value of their home will have to elevate their house before they rebuild.

cut 4  (08)  “to do”

White says he’s invited mayors from the greater Baton Rouge area to see what their plans are for building permits. He says the Commissioner of Insurance is also expected to attend to answer questions about flood insurance for these homes in the future.

Cut 5  (08)  “flood insurance”

White says he’s heard of people getting different answers from different agencies. He has some advice for people meeting with FEMA administrators or even their personal insurance agents.

Cut 6 (11) “something completely different”

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About 12-hundred Tiger fans are headed to Lambeau Field this morning with the LSU Alumni Association to watch LSU take on the Wisconsin Badgers for the 2016 season opener. Rhett Butler with the Alumni Association says they have chartered six planes and rented out four hotels in Green Bay for the big game….

CUT 7 (10)  “ever done”

LSU officials are projecting around 30-thousand Tiger fans will attend the game. Butler says most of the fans making the trip for the game have always wanted to see a game in Lambeau Field…

Cut 8 (10) “engagement team” 

Butler says they’ve set up tours at Lambeau Field on Friday and tailgating will begin as soon as they wake up on Saturday for the 2:30 kickoff. He says unfortunately some flood victims had to cancel and can’t go…

Cut 9 (06)  “new folks”

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St. Amant High School lost everything during the floods, including their band equipment. The St. Amant Gators got a surprise this week when the Northwestern State band loaned them nine snare drums, four sets of tenor drums, and five bass drums. Northwestern Director of Bands Dr. Jeff Mathews says they wanted to help others during this difficult time.

Cut 10 (10) “these drums”

Craig Millet is the St. Amant Director of Bands and says they can’t put into words how much this gesture means. Mathews says Northwestern State has been reaching out to their students who were affected by the flooding.

cut 11 (10) “the other”

Mathews says the band at Northwestern State was so pleased to have this opportunity to help another marching band.

cut 12 (08) “down south”

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Getting FEMA mobile homes set up for flood victims is proving to be more difficult than anyone anticipated. It was a significant part of the conversation during a legislative hearing at the state capitol. FEMA Coordinating Officer Gerard Stolar told legislators a lot goes into setting up these new HUD approved manufactured homes.

Cut 13 (10) “with that”

Stolar says first they have to get someone out to inspect the area, then a contractor has to come set it up and connect the utilities, so ideally it’s a 5 to 7 day process. He says a possible alternative to setting up the mobile home on a person’s property is to put a lot of units on a large piece of land.

cut 14 (11)  “to accomodate”

Only one FEMA mobile home has been installed on a flood victim’s property. After Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, thousands of displaced residents lived in FEMA trailers, but they were heavily criticized because they were small and toxic with formaldehyde. But Shreveport Representative Cedric Glover says these bigger units are not feasible either.

Cut 15 (12) “trailer would”

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After rushing for nearly two-thousand yards last season, LSU running back Leonard Fournette enters this season as one of the favorites to win the Heisman Trophy. Fournette is considered one of the most talented players in college football, but the junior from New Orleans says there’s outstanding talent across LSU’s roster…

Cut 16  (12)  “so much better”

Fournette also likes the level of confidence starting quarterback Brandon Harris is showing….

Cut 17 (14)  “tremendous change “

Fournette needs nearly 16-yards on the ground this season to become LSU’s all-time leading rusher. But he says individual success is not what’s driving him….

Cut 18 (10) “a lot”

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The final tune-up before the regular season is tonight as the Saints host the Baltimore Ravens. New Orleans is 0-3 in the preseason and the Black and Gold have not looked good, which is why the starters are expected to play tonight. Offensive tackle Zach Strief understands the urgency to play better…

Cut 19 (10) “the garbage”

The Saints offensive line has not looked good and Coach Sean Payton said this week they may move last year’s first round pick Andrus Peat to left guard. Strief says maybe a move like that can help the o-line gel…

Cut 20 (10) “perform well”

The Baton Rouge Area Foundation has donated over 1.6 million dollars in flood relief and plans to give even more. Michelle Southern has the story…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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An Ascension Parish lawmaker wants FEMA to move faster in providing manufactured homes for flood victims. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 2 (31)  “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The Baton Rouge Area Foundation has given over 1.6 million dollars to help those affected by the historic flooding that tore through south Louisiana. Director of Communications Mukul Verma says they’ve given dozens of grants to local nonprofits working in the field of flood relief. He says a lot of this money comes from online platforms where people from around the country donate money.

CUT 3 (10)  “million”

Verma says companies around the region have donated about a million dollars to BRAF. He says 600-thousand dollars have been distributed to schools and education organizations to assist with new classroom supplies and restoring water logged schools.

CUT 4 (09)  “on track”

Verma says donations aren’t coming in as quickly like after Hurricane Katrina, for which they raised 10 million dollars in the same amount of time. He says donations have slowed again but they are raising about 20-thousand dollars a day in online donations and a lot of other people are raising money too.

CUT 5 (10)  “relief fund”

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State lawmakers grilled a FEMA administrator today in the House Homeland Security Committee meeting, asking why it’s taking so long to get assistance to flood victims. FEMA Coordinating Officer Gerard Stolar says there are 23-hundred FEMA personnel working on this disaster.

CUT 6 (08) “this disaster”

Stolar says 131-thousand people have registered for federal aid, and $315 million has been approved for FEMA. He says over 111-thousand home inspections have been ordered, but only 56-thousand have been completed.

CUT 7 (09) “hundred”

Stolar says $289 million has been dispersed to flood victims. He says 2-thousand flood survivors are still in hotels, and more than 15-hundred are in shelters. Gonzales Representative Clay Schexnayder express frustration that FEMA is not moving fast enough to help flood victims return to a normal everyday life…

CUT 8 (08) “their homes” 

Stolar says 200 households have been approved for FEMA manufactured homes, but only one of the trailers has been set up in Louisiana. He says local ordinances are creating a road block to getting these homes set up. Schexnayder says he doesn’t care how it happens, but the process needs to be expedited.

CUT 9 (08) “at all”

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State Treasurer John Kennedy told lawmakers today that they should consider suspending the one cent sales tax increase for flood victims rebuilding their homes. He said the state should not reap a financial windfall from people’s tragedy, when they’ll have to pay an extra penny on items needed to rebuild their lives…:

cut 10 (09)  “the extra penny”

But New Orleans Senator JP Morrell, who chairs the Senate Revenue and Fiscal Affairs Committee, says this is not something that Kennedy should be proposing as feasible on the fly, because it’s not…:

Cut 11 (08) “we’re in session”

Kennedy says the increase in the sales tax should be revisited, even if it means calling a special session. He says Morrell is entitled to his opinion:

cut 12 (09) “more money”

Morrell says Kennedy has been in government for years, and he should know that the state’s tax code just doesn’t allow lawmakers to immediately suspend a tax for certain people…:

Cut 13 (12)  “sound bite”

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Mandeville police have arrested a former employee at an assistant living facility on a charge of first degree rape. Officer Beck White says 58-year-old Jerry Kan, who worked as cook at Beau Provence Memory Care, was booked after authorities received a call about inappropriate behavior between Kan and a 78-year-old resident.

cut 14 (03)  “the facility”

White says Kan has worked at Beau Provence since April of this year. She says the incident occurred on August 21 inside the resident’s room, and Kan resigned two days later.

cut 15 (04) “incident”

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Today the Public Service Commission will hear Entergy’s plan to build a new $869-million natural gas powered plant in St. Charles parish. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The Salvation Army warehouse in Lafayette was burglarized, and donations are needed so they can continue to assist flood victims. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Free counseling is available to children and youth struggling with depression after the recent floods, thanks to a partnership between FEMA and the state Department of Health. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Today the Public Service Commission will discuss Entergy’s plan to build a new natural gas powered facility in St. Charles parish. Commissioner Eric Skrmetta says Entergy is seeking to build an 869-million state of the art generator, so they can retire several older plants.

cut 4  (08)  “more efficient”

Skrmetta says Entergy claims their proposed facility will use natural gas more efficiently than other plants. The utility company says that the new St. Charles plant would save about $1.3 billion during the first 30 years of the facility’s operation. But he says Entergy customers will foot part of the bill for construction.

Cut 5  (09)  “a month”

Skrmetta says even with the new facility, there will be gaps in the demand for electricity in a few years. He says there is opposition to Entergy’s proposal from those who believe there may be other ways to produce power to meet customers’ demand without building an $869-million plant.

Cut 6 (09) “go in”

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The House Committee on Homeland Security meets today and will hear from FEMA, the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness, The Small Business Administration and the Department of Children and Family Services. Committee Chairman and Baton Rouge Representative Franklin Foil says people want information on what options are available for flood victims.

CUT 7 (10)  “flood insurance”

The maximum disaster aid amount flood victims can receive from FEMA is 33-thousand dollars, but US Rep. Garret Graves says the highest he’s heard of is 8-thousand dollars. Foil hopes they can provide answers, so homeowners can start to see what their options are.

Cut 8 (09) “members” 

Foil hopes Congress will assist homeowners with additional funding, because what we have in place right now isn’t enough.

Cut 9 (08)  “the flooding”

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The Salvation Army in Lafayette was robbed, and the charity organization is trying to restock their supplies as they continue to assist flood victims in the area. Commanding Officer of the Lafayette Salvation Army, Maj. Mel James, says the thieves stole a variety of things from the warehouse.

Cut 10 (09) “of food” 2x

James says the items taken can be replaced, but the loss of food is the biggest problem. He says despite the crime, they are still trying to bring hot meals to flood victims in the Lafayette area.

cut 11 (09) “these folks”

James says monetary donations can be sent to The Salvation Army, P.O. Box 3504, Lafayette, and items can be dropped off at their location at 212 6^th Street in Lafayette. He says there are no security cameras in the building, but there were no signs of forced entry.

cut 12 (10) “the place”

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The state Department of Health is partnering with FEMA to offer free counseling to children and youth struggling with depression and anxiety after the recent floods. Assistant Secretary for the Office of Behavioral Health, Dr. Jim Hussey, says parents should be aware of strange behaviors their children may be exhibiting after this traumatic flood.

Cut 13 (11) “about this”

Hussey says children may appear aggressive, withdrawn, or hyperactive. He says it’s important to give these kids a sense of normalcy as much as possible, and parents should also model good behavior.

cut 14 (08)  “they’re safe”

Hussey says if parents notice these changes in their kids, they can call the Spirit Crisis Line at 866-310-7977. He says they can also take their children to a private practitioner or a state behavioral health clinic.

Cut 15 (08) “group therapy”

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Matt Viator era at ULM kicks off Saturday night at Malone Stadium in Monroe as the Warhawks hows the Southern Jaguars. The Jags were 6-5 in 2015 and Viator says they provide a good challenge for his team

Cut 16  (20)  “go along”

ULM is coming off a 2-and-11 campaign. The Warhawks defense will have a different look this season under defensive coordinator Mike Collins. Viator says there’s a lot of new guys on that side of the ball and he’s interested to see how that group plays

Cut 17 (17)  “this week”

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After a disappointing 2015 season, the Ragin Cajuns look to start 2016 with a big win over Boise State on Saturday afternoon at Cajun Field. Running back Elijah McGuire is back for UL Lafayette and he’s the only player in the naion with three-thousand yards rushing and one-thousand receiving yards during his career. Cajuns Coach Mark Hudspeth says they are expecting more big things from their senior…

Cut 18 (16) “our team”

Boise State’s quarterback is Brett Rypien. In the 10 games he played last season, the Broncos averaged 42 points a game. Hudspeth on how they plan to slow down Boise’s offense…

Cut 19 (16) “will be”

The Cajuns-Boise state game will kick-off at 11 AM. Hudspeth says it will be interesting to see how the Broncos can perform in the south Louisiana heat…

Cut 20 (18) “than anything”

The Governor’s Office announces 63-hundred people registered for the Shelter At Home Program during the first day of registration. Michelle Southern has more…

CUT 1 (28) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Two plane crash victims have been pulled from Lake Pontchartrain along with the aircraft’s wreckage. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 2 (31)  “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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According to the Governor’s Office, 63-hundred people applied for the Shelter At Home Program on the first day of registration. The Governor’s Deputy Chief of Staff, Julie Baxter Payer, says the program awards up to $15-thousand for basic homes repairs, so people can get back into their homes as quickly as possible.

CUT 3 (11)  “taken care of”

Payer says people can apply at ShelterAtHome.la.gov or call 1-800-927-0216. She says the program will not repair someone’s home completely, but it will make it livable so families can come home while they continue making repairs.

CUT 4 (08)  “your rebuilding”

Payer says this program can be used with flood insurance, FEMA assistance, and SBA loans. She says the program is open to single-family owner-occupied homes. She says although this program will not work for everyone, she encourages all flood victims to apply.

CUT 5 (11)  “case basis”

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Tropical Depression 9 in the Gulf of Mexico is expected to become Tropical Storm Hermine by this evening. Alek Krautmann with the National Weather Service says right now the area of low pressure is not expected to have an impact on Louisiana, expect for high tides along the coast in southeast Louisiana.

CUT 6 (11) “Florida coast”

Krautmann says currently the tropical depression is moving at about 7 miles per hour to the north, northwest but later tonight we’ll see a gradual turn to the northeast. He says a ridge of high pressure is pushing it towards Florida.

CUT 7 (11) “Florida coast”

Krautmann says the current forecast anticipates this will remain a tropical storm as it moves toward Florida but the Hurricane Center brings it right up to 60 mile per hour strength before landfall on Thursday…

CUT 8 (07) “two days” 

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The state Department of Health has confirmed more mosquito-borne illnesses in Louisiana, including Zika and West Nile Virus. Louisiana Medical Director for the Center for Community Preparedness, Dr. Frank Welch, says there have been 14 cases of West Nile Virus so far this year. But he says these cases are not flood related.

CUT 9 (08) “recent flooding”

Welch says right after the flood we see a decrease in mosquito populations because they drowned. But he says we could see more West Nile cases soon, as mosquitoes will come back in higher numbers because of all the standing water from the flood.

cut 10 (08)  “this point”

Welch says there have been three more cases of Zika in Louisiana, bringing the total number of cases to 26, and all of them are travel-related. He says local transmission of Zika is more likely in the parishes around Lake Pontchartrain. But he encourages all Louisianans to tip and toss.

Cut 11 (07) “and enviornment”

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The bodies of two missing people along with the plane wreckage of a small sightseeing plane were pulled out of Lake Pontchartrain this morning. The Cessna went down Saturday night and the Director of Aviation at the New Orleans Lakefront Airport Ben Morris says a large crane brought the bodies and aircraft out of the water…

cut 12 (10) “the accident”

Authorities have yet to identify the victims. But media reports say a passenger Briana Davis escaped and was rescued that night, but the pilot and Davis’ boyfriend, Baton Rouge tattoo artist and rapper Reginald Hilliard Jr., died in the crash. Morris says the couple chartered the airplane to do a nighttime tour of New Orleans Saturday night. He says the plane hit a thunderstorm during its approach to the airport.

Cut 13 (07)  “the water”

Morris says the cause of the crash is still under investigation. He says the families were very worried about recovering the bodies.

cut 14 (10)  “closure”

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Registration is now open for the Shelter At Home Program. Jeff Palermo has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Today is the 11th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, and right now south Louisiana is experiencing a similar aftermath and recovery from flooding: Michelle Southern reports…:

CUT 2 (30)  “I’m Michelle Southern”

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The Governor’s Office announces registration is now open for the Shelter At Home Program. Communications Director Richard Carbo says people can register at ShelterAtHome.la.gov or call 1-800-927-0216. He says the program awards up to $15-thousand for home repairs so that people can get back into their homes quickly.

CUT 3 (07)  “this process”

Carbo says registering for FEMA does not register someone for the Shelter At Home Program. He encourages everyone to register for federal aid, but reminds people they need to apply for this program separately.

CUT 4 (09)  “dot gov”

Carbo says the program covers repairs such as removing debris, replacing water heaters, and making sure there’s a working bathroom and air conditioning. He says people who do not qualify for this program do have other options.

CUT 5 (10)  “for you”

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Tropical Depression 9 is in the southeastern Gulf of Mexico and the latest forecast track has the developing storm moving towards Louisiana, but eventually turning and making landfall on Thursday in Florida. State climatologist Barry Keim says the National Hurricane Center has the depression strengthening into a tropical storm, but admits forecasters are having trouble predicting its intensity.

CUT 6 (08) “wide range”

Keim says the depression could become a tropical storm by the end of today or overnight and it should move into the center of the Gulf by tomorrow. He says it will basically be aimed at Louisiana, but a front should push the storm to the northeast.

CUT 7 (10) “Florida”

Keim says the storm is being steered by an area of high pressure. He says although it’s not certain yet, it looks like Tropical Depression 9 will be Florida’s problem, not Louisiana’s.

CUT 8 (09) “actually happen” 

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On this 11th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, many in south Louisiana recall similar storm recovery images of what can be seen on the roads today in the aftermath of The Great Flood of 2016. Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser was the Plaquemines Parish President in 2005. He says we’ve learned from Katrina that rushing cleanup is not a good idea…:

CUT 9 (11) “back up”

Overall, at least 1,245 people died in Hurricane Katrina and subsequent floods, making it the deadliest US hurricane since the 1928. 13 fatalities have been confirmed following the recent flooding, and Nungesser says it’s incredible that number isn’t higher…:

cut 10 (10)  “remarkably well”

Nungesser feels that FEMA is doing a great job this time around of getting to people quickly and providing information needed on what steps to take to make the rebuilding process go as smooth as possible. He says another thing that people can learn from Katrina just by looking at the affected parishes, is how possible it is to come back stronger than ever…:

Cut 11 (10) “after Katrina”

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Commissioner of Agriculture Mike Strain announces pets that were lost in the flood are being moved from the shelter at the River Center to a new shelter at the Dixon Correctional Institute in Baton Rouge. He says the move comes as a result of a donation from the Humane Society.

cut 12 (10) “at Dixon”

Strain says the River Center shelter was for short-term housing of these pets, and the new shelter will be better for long term care, as there will be a vet hospital on site.

Cut 13 (11)  “there daily”

Strain says shelter residents will still be able to see their pets once they move to the new pet shelter. He says the Department of Transportation will offer rides everyday beginning at 9 am.

cut 14 (07)  “their pets”

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Two people are dead, including a firefighter, after a party bus driven by an illegal citizen slams into several vehicles on Interstate 10 near LaPlace. Jeff Palermo has more…

CUT 1 (31) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Registration information will be announced today for the Shelter At Home Program. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (26) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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There was a huge population shift from New Orleans to Baton Rouge after Hurricane Katrina and many are concerned that something similar will happen after these historic floods. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Two people are dead and over 30 people injured after a party bus driven by an illegal resident smashed into a fire truck and other vehicles on I-10 in St. John the Baptist Parish near LaPlace. State Police Trooper Melissa Matey says the bus hit a fire truck that responded to an earlier single vehicle wreck…

cut 4  (09)  “Toyota Camery”

Matey says one of the fatal victims was District Chief Spencer Chauvin with the St. John the Baptist Fire Department…

Cut 5  (12)  “interstate”

The bus also hit two other vehicles during the crash. A passenger in of those vehicles was also killed, 21-year-old Jermaine Starr of Moss Point, Mississippi. Matey says the driver of the bus did not have a driver’s license and faces several charges, including negligent homicide…

Cut 6 (10) “country illegally”

Matey the passengers in the bus were headed to the Baton Rouge area seeking work in the flood recovery. Two people, including another fire fighter, suffered critical injuries. The other injuries have been described as minor to moderate.

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The Governor’s Office will announce today where flood victims can go to register for the Shelter At Home program. Julie Baxter Payer says this program seeks to get people back into their own homes as soon as possible.

CUT 7 (09)  “as possible”

Payer says people whose homes had less than two feet of water in them will be eligible, but applications will be assessed on a case by case basis. She says the program awards up to $15-thousand for basic home repairs.

Cut 8 (11) “that program” 

Payer says this program can be used in conjunction with FEMA assistance, flood insurance, and SBA loans. She says applying for federal aid does not register someone for Shelter At Home.

Cut 9 (09)  “this program”

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Today is the 11 year anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, and some who lost their homes in Katrina are once again dealing with another flood. Trauma psychologist with LSU Health New Orleans Dr. Jennifer Hughes worked at shelter in Baton Rouge earlier this month and spoke with several people, who moved to Baton Rouge and Lafayette after Katrina and they are once again re-living another disaster.

Cut 10 (09) “of nowhere”

Hughes says the images of this latest flood could be sparking symptoms of PTSD from current New Orleans area residents who are having flashbacks and hypervigilance. She says if anyone feels depressed, the first thing they need to do is reach out to family and friends.

cut 11 (08) “can help”

Hughes says the Capital Area Human Services District provides services to people dealing with PTSD, and community support will also help. She says for those who are personally impacted by these two devastating and life changing floods, this can be traumatizing.

cut 12 (07) “from this”

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After Hurricane Katrina there was a huge population shift from New Orleans to Baton Rouge, will we see this trend again after the Great Flood of 2016? Demographer Greg Rigamer expects flood victims to try and rebuild where they lived prior to the flood.

Cut 13 (08) “your home”

Rigamer says in the short term, we’ll see an influx of workers, some will be from out of state. But Louisiana won’t see any population gain because the oil industry continues to struggle.

cut 14 (07)  “either”

Livingston Parish was the hardest hit by the flood with close to 90-percent of the homes in the parish suffered flood damage. Rigamer says the recovery of Livingston will depend largely on what kind of government assistance flood victims can receive.

Cut 15 (08) “the community”

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Game week arrives for the 5th ranked LSU Tigers as they are set to face Wisconsin in Green Bay at historic Lambeau Field. It’s the first time the legendary venue will host a college football game featuring two Division One teams. LSU safety Jamal Adams is excited to play in a stadium that has been home to some of the best players in football..

Cut 16  (14)  “leave our mark”

When Packer players score touchdowns at their home stadium, they leap into the stands and celebrate with their fans. It’s called the “Lambeau Leap” and Adams says he might do the Lambeau Leap if he returns an interception for a touchdown..

Cut 17 (11)  “out of me”

Wisconsin was 10-3 in 2015. The Badgers are not known for their passing attack, but their ground game is traditionally one of the best in college football. Adams calls Wisconsin a smart, well coached football team…

Cut 18 (12) “dialed in”

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There’s one more week left in the preseason and there’s still a lot to work on for the Saints. The team fell to 0-3 in exhibition action with a 27-14 loss to Pittsburgh on Friday. Coach Sean Payton says the play of offensive and defensive lines has him most worried..

Cut 19 (12) “very concerning”

The Saints have one more preseason game and that’s Thursday night at home against Baltimore. Payton says they have two weeks left before the first regular season game and there’s still time to correct the mistakes that are being made…

Cut 20 (19) “one game”

The massive flooding not only displaced thousands of families but ruined hundreds of millions of dollars worth of crops. Don Molino has more…

CUT 1 (27) “I’m Don Molino”

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If you had uninsured property destroyed by floodwaters this year, you’re entitled to a refund of the state sales tax on those items. Michelle Southern reports…:

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Celtic Studios in Baton Rouge was a shelter for displaced flood victims and now one of its properties near the movie studios has become a multi-agency disaster warehouse. Mike Steele with the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness says people making large donations should call ahead of time to make sure that someone is there to help unload.

CUT 3 (07)  “with them”

Steele says people can call 225-800-2227 to arrange a drop off any day between 9am and 5pm. He says they really need snow shovels, which are good for removing debris, but they are accepting a wide variety of items.

CUT 4 (07)  “a baby”

Steele says they also need blankets, cleaning supplies, flashlights, batteries, and new kitchen items. He says right now they do not need any new or used clothes.

CUT 5 (10)  “what’s needed”

Steele says people can find a complete list of needed items at emergency.la.gov, as well as an address to ship donations.

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Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies are now in the southern part of the state to assist officers after the historic flooding. Lt. Dave Faulk says they’ve been helping throughout the disaster by bringing in amphibious vehicles and boats. He says they want to help their fellow officers during a difficult time.

CUT 6 (10) “lost everything”

The flooding has impacted the homes of deputies in East Baton Rouge and Livingston Parishes, with many patrol cars flooded out. Faulk says they are really hurting for manpower right now…

CUT 7 (08) “smoothly”

Faulk says the deputies will patrol areas where there has been looting.

CUT 8 (06) “in place” 

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The historic flooding in the southern part of the state not only destroyed thousands of homes but greatly affected the agriculture business. Ag Commissioner Dr. Mike Strain says farming is a 13 billion dollar industry in Louisiana and 28 to 30 parishes were hurt by the massive rainfall.

CUT 9 (10) “soybeans”

Strain says those are preliminary numbers and expects total losses to be anywhere from $150 to $200 million, if the rain stops now. He says some farmers have crop insurance, but not all commodities or parishes allow insurance.

cut 10 (08)  “coverage”

Strain says livestock and crawfish are not covered under crop insurance. He says they don’t have the exact numbers on how many livestock died during the flooding, but they have aircraft working to connect lost livestock with their owners. The commissioner says the flooding has also caused a severe increase in the mosquito population.

Cut 11 (11) “encephalomyelitis”

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If you had uninsured property that was destroyed by floodwaters this year, you’re entitled to a refund of the state sales tax on those items. State Treasurer John Kennedy says this applies to the parishes that were federally declared disasters during the March and August floods…:

cut 12 (12) “property”

To learn more, visit latreasury.com and click on Sales Tax Disaster Relief. Kennedy says it may not seem like much, but every little bit helps and the money will really add up…:

Cut 13 (09)  “a lawnmower”

Claims should be filed with the Louisiana Department of Revenue. Kennedy says the secretary of that department can waive documentation requirements if original receipts are not available. He says right now people need all the help they can get…:

cut 14 (05)  “little bit helps”

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Tropical Wave 99-L remains poorly organized as it moves toward south Florida, but forecasters are concerned it could possibly develop into a named storm if it reaches the Gulf of Mexico. Alek Krautmann is with the National Weather Service in Slidell…

cut 15 (09) “of Mexico”

It’s possible the tropical wave could fall apart. But Krautmann says it’s worth keeping an eye on, especially if the cluster of thunderstorms can stay together as it continues to move in northwest direction…

cut 16 (11) “tropical storm “

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