Powerball fever is back as tonight’s jackpot is a whopping 422-million dollars. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (27) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Pro-life Democrats will honor Governor John Bel Edwards today at the Democratic National Convention with the Governor Casey Whole Life Leadership Award. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Former state legislator and Grambling State University alumnus Rick Gallot has been selected to be the university’s new president. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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It’s been a hot summer and it appears there’s no relief in sight. The Climate Prediction Center predicts above average temperatures for the next three months. State climatologist Barry Keim says 2016 has a chance to be one of the warmest on record…

cut 4  (10)  “than normal”

Keim says the long-range prediction also calls for less rainfall from August to October…

Cut 5  (12)  “3 months”

Keim says 2015 was the warmest on a record dating back the 1880s. But he says 2016 could be another record breaker…

Cut 6 (07) “right now”

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Tonight’s Powerball Jackpot is a whopping 422-million dollars. Louisiana Lottery Spokesperson Kim Chopin says this jackpot has been growing since May 7^th when it was last hit at 430 million dollars, which was the 5^th largest Powerball jackpot…

CUT 7 (08)  “really like”

The cash value for tonight’s grand prize is 291-million dollars. Chopin says even if you don’t win the jackpot, there are other Powerball prizes to be won. She says you can win a prize just for matching the red Powerball number.

Cut 8  (11)  “million dollars”

Chopin reminds players who are buying a large number of tickets, with coworkers or friends, there are some good guidelines to follow. She says have a written record that shows who’s in and how much they contributed….

Cut 9 (10)  “in advance”

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Today at the Democratic National Convention, pro-life Democrats, will honor Governor John Bel Edwards with the Governor Casey Whole Life Leadership Award. Executive Director of Democrats for Life, Kristen Day, says Governor Casey was a pro-life governor of Pennsylvania who also advocated for women’s rights and higher minimum wage, so Governor Edwards was a clear choice for the award.

Cut 10 (08) “all life”

Day says Edwards is the only Democratic governor in the south, and she thinks that has a lot to do with him being pro-life. She says one in three Democrats identify as pro-life, but there are even more who support pro-life policies and want to see abortion safe, legal and rare.

cut 11 (08) “the country”

Day says Edwards’ election last fall shows that Democrats can get behind pro-life candidates. She says Southern states lean towards the Republican Party, but Democrats like Edwards, who are pro-life, can help strengthen the Democratic Party in the South.

cut 12 (09) “Democrats”

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The University of Louisiana System Board of Supervisors has chosen former state legislator and attorney Rick Gallot as the new president at Grambling State. Gallot replaces Willie Larkins, who resigned nearly a month ago. Gallot says he’s looking forward to bringing a sense of community back to the university. He says the connections he made as a legislator could help the university tremendously.

Cut 13 (07) “of difference”

The Grambling alumnus replaces Willie Larkins, who resigned nearly a month ago. Gallot says one of the first things he wants to do as president is to restore the university’s undergraduate nursing program, which lost its temporary approval status in 2015.

cut 14 (09)  “into decline”

Grambling has had somewhat of a revolving door when it comes to its presidents in the past few years, as there have been 10 presidents in the past 25 years. But Gallot says he plans on staying with the university for a long time.

Cut 15 (06) “going anywhere”

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The Saints report to training camp today as they look to avoid a third straight losing season. New Orleans defense has been among the worst in the NFL the last couple of seasons. Dennis Allen is the defensive coordinator this year, but NFL analyst Mike Detillier says the team lacks quality pass rushers on the roster….

Cut 16  (12)  “big question mark”

Detillier says one of the big camp battles will be along the offensive line. He says last year’s first round pick Andrus Peat, Senio Kelemete and Tim Lelito will battle for starting positions at right and left guard…

Cut 17 (12)  “two guard spots”

Detillier likes what the Saints did during the NFL draft, which could help team be more competitive in the NFC South. He expects first round pick and defensive lineman Sheldon Rankins will play right away and quarterback Drew Brees has raved about second round pick, wide receiver Michael Thomas…

Cut 18 (12) “nickel situation”

A record number of Louisiana students have achieved an ACT score of 18 or higher that will allow them to go to college. Halen Doughty reports…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The nationwide average for a gallon of gas is at a 12 year low, according to AAA. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Eddie Bonine remains the executive director of the LHSAA. Emelie Gunn has more details…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Disabled veterans will see an increase in their compensation beginning next year thanks to a bill by Congressman Ralph Abraham that has just been signed into law. Abraham says the bill will adjust the amount of compensation veterans receive for disability, dependents, and clothing allowance, as well as compensation for surviving spouses.

cut 4  (08)  “all together”

Abraham says the increase is tied to the social security increase, so we won’t know how much more money these vets will get until the end of November.

Cut 5  (09)  “adjustments”

Abraham has been an advocate for veterans since he was elected to Congress in 2014. He says veterans have been failed in a lot of areas by the Department of Veterans Affairs. He says the VA has got to get better.

Cut 6 (12) “really are”

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More students than ever have achieved ACT scores that allow them to go to college, according to State Superintendent John White, who says the state’s composite ACT score has increased nearly a half a point since 2013. He says over 25-thousand students in the Class of 2016 scored an 18 or higher on the ACT.

CUT 7 (08)  “since 2012″

White says he credits this to the 2012 “ACT for All” initiative that allows students to take the exam at no cost, which he says gives more students access to the test. He says they also saw a record number of students qualify for the TOPS scholarship.

Cut 8  (10)  “life opportunity”

Since 2012, over 4-thousand more students have qualified for the TOPS Opportunity scholarship, and more than 2-thousand more earned the TOPS Performance award. White says this growth is good news for Louisiana students.

Cut 9 (07)  “our state”

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According to AAA, nationwide gas prices are at a 12 year low. Spokesperson Don Redman says the current statewide average for a gallon of regular gas is about $1.98.

Cut 10 (08) “a gallon”

Redman says the price of oil is also down to around $40 a barrel. He says drivers could see prices at the pump go down even more before the end of the summer.

cut 11 (07) “$1.84”

Redman says abundant supply has driven prices down. He says refineries have kept up with the supply surprisingly well considering the high demand.

cut 12 (10) “summer travel”

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After a nearly 4-hour meeting, the LHSAA Executive Committee decided Eddie Bonine will remain the executive director of the organization. Bonine referred to the LHSAA as a “proverbial dumpster fire” in a report to the N-F-H-S, which led to the special meeting that went into executive session. LHSAA President Vic Bonnaffee couldn’t elaborate what went into the decision to keep Bonine.

Cut 13 (10) “no comment”

Bonine says moving forward, he will be the executive director of LHSAA until the remainder of his contract which is up in 2019. He says it will be a tough task mending fences with some of the executive members…

cut 14 (10)  “point further”

Before the meeting went behind closed doors, Bonine apologized for his dumpster fire comment. He also talked about his frustrations over not being able to come up with a solution to end the public-private playoff split.  Bonine says after the airing it out session, he believes the board is fully behind him.

Cut 15 (09) “at hand”

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UL Lafayette football coach Mark Hudspeth says he’s looking forward to the compeitition at quarterback when fall camp begins next month. Jordan Davis, who played in four games, will have a chance to start this season, but Hudspeth says he’ll need to beat out former LSU quarterback Anthony Jennings…

Cut 16  (25)  “each day”

Hudspeth says even though there’s uncertainty on who will start at quarterback, he believes the offense can still put up big numbers thanks to senior running back Elijah McGuire…

Cut 17 (12)  “make plays”

New Warhawks Head Football Coach Matt Viator made his first appearance at Sun Belt Media Day. He was asked if the rebuilding job he faces at ULM was similar to one he faced at McNeese when he took over as the Cowboys Head Coach ten years ago…

Cut 18 (20) “to do”  (2x)

ULM won just two games a season ago, but senior wide receiver AJalen Holley says the players are determined not to have another bad season….

Cut 19 (12) “get better”

According to House Transportation Committee chairman Kenny Havard, lawmakers will likely consider increasing the state’s gasoline tax during the 2017 session. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 1 (30)  “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The last of the final goodbyes to the three recently slain Baton Rouge Police officers took place today as Corporal Montrell Jackson is laid to rest. Michelle Southern reports..:

CUT 2 (30)  “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Tragedy hit the Sabine River this weekend when a father and his two sons drowned in Beauregard Parish. Sheriff Rick Mosely says 51-year-old Harlin Powell’s 12-year-old son Dale Powell and stepson Robbie Merritt were swimming in the river when they began to struggle.

CUT 3 (09)  “unsuccessful”

Mosely says by the time his deputies arrived at the scene, it was already too late. He says they recovered Mr. Powel from the river, who was pronounced dead at the scene. He says search teams then began trying to locate the two boys.

CUT 4 (10)  “last night”

Mosely says it’s been about five years since anyone has drowned in that part of the river. He says the Sabine River is a popular swimming spot, but the current is stronger than it looks.

CUT 5 (11)  “safe spot”

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Lawmakers will likely consider a bill to increase the state’s gasoline tax, when they meet for the 2017 fiscal session. That’s according to Representative Kenny Havard, who serves as chairman of the House Transportation Committee and sits on the newly-formed Transportation Taskforce. Havard says the state’s gasoline tax has not been raised in over 20 years and there is not enough funds to address the $12 billion backlog for transportation maintenance, much less any new projects.

CUT 6 (10) “afloat”

Louisiana’s 20-cent gas tax ranks 41 in the nation, and only 16-cents of it goes to the transportation trust fund. Havard says he doesn’t really want to raise any taxes, but the state needs the revenue to address the problems with our roads and bridges.

CUT 7 (11) “pay for it”

The 18 member taskforce must come up with suggestions for the 2017 session by January 1. Havard says he is open to any other ideas to fund transportation projects, including tolls and public-private partnerships.

CUT 8 (09) “infrastructure”

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The final of the three Baton Rouge law enforcement officers slain in an ambush on cops was laid to rest Monday. Thousands turned out for the funeral of BRPD’s Corporal Montrell Jackson, a 32-year-old 10-year veteran of the department who leaves behind a wife and baby boy, Mason. Governor John Bel Edwards says we have to make this world a better place for Mason:

CUT 9 (10) “his father”

Edwards says Jackson was a pillar of this community and used God’s gifts to make a difference for Baton Rouge and Louisiana. Jackson’s younger brother, 24-year-old Kendrick Pitts, spoke to Montrell and said he was loved by everyone…:

cut 10 (10)  “the whole world loves you”

Baton Rouge Mayor Kip Holden says law enforcement from throughout the country have been pained by the deaths of the three cops, but he’s confident they will come out of it stronger people…:

Cut 11 (12) “quality of life”

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LSU kicker Colby Delahoussaye returns to New Iberia today after surviving a fatal wreck in Wisconsin. Nebraska punter Sam Foltz and former Michigan State punter Mike Sadler died in the one-vehicle crash, when the driver apparently lost control on wet pavement and struck a tree. Delahoussaye’s coach at New Iberia High, Rick Huston, says Delahoussaye suffered injuries that require more medical attention

cut 12 (09) “from the accident”

Delahoussaye was in the back seat of the car at the time of the accident. The kicker is heading into his senior season at LSU and has a chance to be the starting kicker after losing that job to Trent Domingue, who has since transferred to Texas. Hutson says Delahoussaye bleed purple and gold…

Cut 13 (04)  “played or not”

Delahoussaye was in Wisconsin to participate in the Kohl’s Kicking Camp. He was participant in the camp last week and was scheduled to serve as a camp counselor this week. Hutson says Delahoussaye has attended that camp since high school and he’s thankful his former player only suffered minor injuries..

cut 14 (04)  “survived”

The LHSAA executive committee meets today to discuss negative comments made by executive director Eddie Bonine. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (27) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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A Louisiana record 24 candidates are on the ballot in the November US Senate race. Jeff Palermo looks at how the race shapes up…

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Fifty-nine Louisiana delegates are at the Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 3 (31) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The LHSAA Executive Committee has a special meeting this afternoon where the only item on the agenda is to discuss the comments made by executive director Eddie Bonine that referred to the LHSAA as a “proverbial dumpster fire.” Executive committee member and Doyle High School Principal Tommy Hodges says they’ll discuss the controversial statement in a report submitted to the NFHS.

cut 4  (06)  “the state”

Hodges says to his knowledge they will not seek to buy out Bonine’s contract and was shocked by media reports that suggested that is the reason for today’s meeting. He says the objective is really to clear the air…

Cut 5  (08)  “happen again”

Bonine signed on to be the LHSAA’s executive director last year. Hodges says he honestly does not see the LHSAA buying Bonine’s contract out.

Cut 6 (09) “or fashion”

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A record 24 candidates will appear on the November ballot for the US Senate seat being vacated by David Vitter. UL-Lafayette political science professor Pearson Cross says State Treasurer John Kennedy is leading in the early polls. But Cross says Kennedy is going up against some big names.

CUT 7 (12)  “around us”

Republicans Congressmen Charles Boustany and John Fleming, Col. Rob Maness, and former KKK leader David Duke are also big names in the race. Public Service Commissioner Foster Campbell and attorney Caroline Fayard are the major Democrats on the ballot. Cross says if a Democrat can pull most of the party vote, they will have a good chance at making the runoff.

Cut 8  (08)  “the floor”

Cross says Duke’s entrance into the race means national media coverage, and with this many candidates, there will also be quite a bit of money spent. He says with this many candidates on the ballot, the high vote getter in the primary might only have 23-percent of the vote.

Cut 9 (07)  “exciting race”

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The Democratic National Convention begins today in Philadelphia with 59 Louisiana delegates in attendance. Michael McHale is one of the delegates says and the Lake Charles resident expects this convention to be much different than last week’s Republican convention.

Cut 10 (11) “Hillary Clinton”

McHale says Clinton is the most qualified candidate we’ve ever seen run for president in the US. He is confident that she can move the country forward.

cut 11 (10) “those roles”

McHale says Louisiana supported Bill Clinton both times that he ran for president, and he thinks the Bayou State could do the same for Hillary.

cut 12 (08) “Louisiana”

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The funeral for fallen Baton Rouge Police Corporal Montrell Jackson will be held today. Jackson was a 10 year veteran of the BRPD and the father of a new baby boy. Baton Rouge Police Chief Carl Dabadie says when he was academy director, he served as Jackson’s instructor…:

Cut 13 (07) “this community”

The 32 year old was gunned down along with two fellow officers in an ambush on police. Two weeks before he was killed on the job, he made a post on Facebook pleading for people not to let hate infect their hearts — in the aftermath of the death of Alton Sterling during a confrontation with cops. Dabadie says after the Sterling shooting, he went to talk to BRPD officers:

cut 14 (11)  “our department”

Dabadie says Jackson is a true hero, loving husband and father…:

Cut 15 (10) “was my everything”

The first of the three officers killed in the police attack in Baton Rouge has been laid to rest. Jeff Palermo has more on the funeral of Officer Matthew Gerald…

CUT 1 (30)  “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Ex-KKK leader and former state legislator, David Duke, officially put his name on the November ballot for the open US Senate seat in Louisiana…

CUT 2 (30)  “I’m Don Molino”

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A man is behind bars for threatening Caddo Parish Sheriff Steve Prator on Facebook. Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Cindy Chadwick says 25-year-old Michael Evans made a disturbing post on July 20.

CUT 3 (10)  “flat line”

Chadwick says Evans was charged with terrorizing. She says he was picked up during a traffic stop in Sacramento, California, on a warrant issued by Judge John Mosely.

CUT 4 (09)  “last night”

Chadwick says threatening someone is always illegal, but police have to be extra cautious in light of the recent attacks on police officers in Dallas and Baton Rouge. She says the extradition process will begin to bring Evans back to Caddo parish.

CUT 5 (06)  “on Facebook”

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The owner of a Mandeville snowball stand has been arrested for inappropriate sexual behavior with some of his juvenile employees. Captain Gerald Sticker with the Mandeville Police Department says the owner of Shiver Shack, 56-year-old Anthony Fortune, was receiving sexual favors and in exchange he would pay his victims cash and supply them with illegal narcotics.

CUT 6 (08) “the job”

Sticker says currently, there are four victims but advises anyone with any additional information to come forward. He says Fortune conducted indecent behavior with his juvenile employees for about two months…

CUT 7 (09) “into it”

Fortune faces numerous charges including possession of a schedule I narcotic, carnal knowledge of a juvenile, and child trafficking for sexual purposes. Sticker says this is a very disturbing case because it’s a business that hires kids and caters to kids.

CUT 8 (07) “that personally”

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A tearful goodbye was given today to the first of three law enforcement officers killed on Sunday’s police ambush. Thousands attended the funeral service of Baton Rouge Police Officer Matthew Gerald. Baton Rouge Mayor Kip Holden was one of the speakers and said it’s time for the community to come together. He says we need to put aside our differences and start to understand respect.

CUT 9 (10) “respect them”

Baton Rouge Police Chief Carl Dabadie got emotional when describing his worst fear coming true and remembering his fallen officer. He says Gerald served his country with honor and is proud of the man everyone gathered to mourn. Dabadie says Gerald fought a good fight and finished his course.

cut 10 (10)  “very good”

Director of Training at the Baton Rouge Police Department Lt. J.D. Leach says even though Officer Gerald had only been on the force a few months, he set an example for the younger members training to become a police officer. He says Matt had a simple answer when asked why he became an officer.

Cut 11 (04) “community”

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Former state legislator and ex-Klansman David Duke has entered the race for the open Senate seat in Louisiana. He says he will run on the same campaign principles he has for decades and standing up for the rights of European Americans.

cut 12 (11) “Merry Christmas” (2x)

Duke says he does not think his former affiliation with the KKK will negatively impact his campaign. He says plenty of other elected officials have associations with similar groups.

Cut 13 (09)  “was right”

The Louisiana Republican Party has denounced Duke. Party chairman Roger Villere says Duke is not and has never been a true Republican. He says they will do everything they can to make sure Duke does not get elected.

cut 14 (09)  “David Duke”

Duke says this is not the first time the Republican Party has denounced him. He says being rejected by the party is the best endorsement he could get.

cut 15 (04) “against me”

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The Lafayette theater shooting that claimed the lives of two women and injured nine others, happened one year ago Saturday. Michelle Southern reports on how the community is doing today…:

CUT 1 (31) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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The AG’s office urges caution when donating to charities in lieu of the officers killed in the ambush in Baton Rouge. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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The first of three funerals for the fallen Baton Rouge officers is today. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Today is the first of three funerals that will be held for the fallen Baton Rouge officers. The memorial at the gas station where Sunday’s tragedy took place has grown tremendously, as mourners have placed flowers, balloons, and cards at that location. Chris Brown put three crosses he built in front of the memorial. He says it’s a token from his family to theirs.

cut 4  (10)  “as possible”

Elizabeth Kasulaitis (Kass-uh-light-us)  lives near the scene of the shooting. She says it’s heartbreaking this tragedy happened to the ones who serve and protect us.

Cut 5  (09)  “get better”

Lacey Rogers brought flowers to lay at the tribute. She she’s touched to see how much the memorial has grown over the past week. She hopes this will bring the community together.

Cut 6 (08) “we fall”

Funeral services for Matthew Gerald is today. Deputy Brad Garafola will be laid to rest on Saturday and Baton Rouge police officer Montrell Jackson’s services will be Monday. Officer Chris Wallace from Canton, Ohio, came to Baton Rouge to take part in all three funerals and is glad to see the community support for the men in blue.

CUT 7 (09)  “around us”

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Tomorrow it’ll be one year since a man opened fire during a showing of a movie at a Lafayette theater, killing two people and injuring nine others. Joey Durel was the mayor on July 23rd, 2015. He’s called the shooting a tragic anomaly, but it never meant that Lafayette and Acadiana are not safe communities…:

Cut 8  (08)  “and we did”

Durel said they couldn’t have moved on as easily if it weren’t for the love and support from people throughout the state, and the nation. He says one of the things that sticks out in his mind the most was a statement from an officer the next day who said, “All around the country people are throwing bricks at police, and here they are throwing food to us”…:

Cut 9 (11)  “and others”

Durel said, as Baton Rouge is dealing with the horrible tragedy of the police ambush by someone who was from out of state, he’s constantly reminded of the outpouring of support from the community to cops and first responders. He says when the shooting happened, the response from Louisianians was similar to what we see after hurricanes…:

Cut 10 (04) “play a role”

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The Attorney General’s Office urges consumers to be cautious when making donations in wake of the Baton Rouge shootings. Amanda Larkins with the A-G’s office says they want to make sure contributions truly go to the families of the law enforcement officers and actually reach those they intend to help.

cut 11 (10) “in need”

Larkins says don’t assume that charity posts on social media are legitimate. She warns consumers to make sure you do your research before sending any money.

cut 12 (07) “credit cards”

Larkins says to make sure an organization is legitimate you can check with the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance or Charity Watch. She says the Attorney General has also done homework on the groups raising money.

Cut 13 (10) “the webiste”

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State Police have made an arrest in the fatal hit and run crash that killed a skateboarder near the Southeastern Louisiana campus. Trooper Dustin Dwight says 37-year-old Vincent Young of Natalbany has been booked into jail…

cut 14 (09)  “that scene”

Young faces several charges including Felony Hit and Run. The incident happened in May on University Avenue in Hammond. Dwight says they believe Young’s vehicle was the second one that hit 26-year-old Erin Gerhard of Independence…

Cut 15 (07) “him again”

Dwight says the investigation continues as they are still looking for the first vehicle that hit Gerhard on the night of May 11th…

Cut 16  (08)  “fled the scene”

The 2^nd Congressional District race is already heating up, as verbal blows were exchanged between the candidates at qualifying. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 1 (30)  “I’m Halen Doughty”

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A former Texas police officer has custom made caskets for the three law enforcement officers who were killed in Sunday’s attack in Baton Rouge. Michelle Southern has more…

CUT 2 (30)  “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Verbal jabs have been thrown in the 2^nd Congressional District race that features two Democrats, US Representative Cedric Richmond and challenger Kip Holden. Holden has served as the mayor of Baton Rouge since 2005 and is term-limited. Holden is criticizing Richmond for not taking part in the discussions and recovery in the Capital City following both the Alton Sterling shooting and the ambush on police.

CUT 3 (07)  “Baton Rouge” 2x

The 2^nd Congressional district covers New Orleans, parts of the River Parishes and a portion of Baton Rouge. But Richmond says Holden is the one who has been missing in action.

CUT 4 (11)  “has happened”

Holden defended his absence saying he has been in confidential briefings and says he’s been very active behind the scenes.

CUT 5 (07)  “I’m going”

Richmond says Holden entering the race is not fair to the Baton Rouge community because during these tough times, the city needs its leader. He says he welcomes Holden to the race, but he needs to resign as mayor.

CUT 6 (10) “full-time mayor”

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Very hot temperatures are expected this week, so the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness is urging everyone to take caution. GOHSEP Director Jim Waskom says it’s very important to drink lots of water and take frequent breaks in the shade…

CUT 7 (09) “those fluids”

Waskom says we’re expected to see temperatures reach the high 90s and even into the 100s. He says it’s important to monitor friends and loved ones who are homebound during this extreme heat.

CUT 8 (10) “periodically”

Waskom says forecasters predict this pattern to carry on into the fall as a heat dome is covering a large part of the country. He wants to remind drivers to look before you lock.

CUT 9 (08) “about any”

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A state record was set at the Secretary of State’s office during the first day of qualifying, as 52 people entered one of the federal races. Political analyst Clancy Dubos says open seats for high office always draw large fields. But he says it could be voter frustration as well that’s embodied by the Trump movement.

cut 10 (05)  “incumbents”

Dubos says it’s rare to have an open senate seat and two open Congressional seats in Louisiana. Qualifying ends Friday, and Dubos says we could see even more people join the race between now and then.

Cut 11 (07) “in Louisiana”

17 individuals have signed up for the state’s senate race. Dubos says it’s likely there will be a republican and a democrat who make the runoff. But he says with this many people, anything is possible.

cut 12 (09) “chopped up”

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A former Texas law enforcement officer is donating custom made caskets to the three officers who lost their lives in Sunday’s ambush in Baton Rouge. Trey Ganem is the owner of Trey Ganem Designs says he decided to make the caskets after watching a video featuring one of the fallen officers, Montrell Jackson.

Cut 13 (09)  “black casket”

Ganem says they also incorporated something unique about each officer on to the different caskets, one includes the Superman shield. He says he gets very emotional when designing each casket.

cut 14 (11)  “these caskets”

Ganem says he will have a full police escort to each funeral home as he delivers the three caskets to the funeral homes.

cut 15 (08) “family members”

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The State Department of Revenue announces the limit has been reached on the Louisiana solar energy tax credit program. Emelie Gunn has more on what this means…

CUT 1 (30)  “I’m Emelie Gunn”

================

The St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office has arrested a man accused of making threats against police officers on social media.

CUT 2 (30)  “I’m Michelle Southern”

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The State Department of Revenue has announced that the Louisiana solar energy tax credit program has already reached its limit. The LDR says consumers buying residential solar energy systems from this point on should not expect to receive any tax credits from the state. President of Solar Alternatives Jeff Cantin says this means around 2-thousand families will not get this credit now…

CUT 3 (11)  “gobbled up”

Cantin says even though future purchasers will not get any tax credits from the state, they can always look for federal tax credits…

CUT 4 (10)  “reliable program”

Cantin says families were really depending on the financial reimbursement after buying expensive equipment to utilize solar energy. He says this also hurts businesses who install solar products.

CUT 5 (09)  “of people”

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Over a dozen candidates filed paperwork to run for Louisiana’s open US Senate seat on the first day of qualifying. The two major Democrats in the race were among the first to qualify. New Orleans attorney Caroline Fayard says if elected, she’ll do what is right for the people of Louisiana.

CUT 6 (08) “can see”

Fayard says after the last two weeks of violence in Louisiana, the public needs someone in Washington who can help resolve the division that’s ripping communities apart.

CUT 7 (12) “both sides”

Public Service Commissioner Foster Campbell says he is running for office because he wants to represent the people’s interest instead of the special interest groups. He says Louisiana should be the richest state in the South, but we aren’t because politicians have done a poor job representing the people.

CUT 8 (11) “special interests”

Campbell says he is proud of the work he has done so far representing the people and wants to continue that. Governor John Bel Edwards recently endorsed Campbell in the race. Campbell says he wants to represent Louisiana in Washington.

CUT 9 (09) “better hospitals”

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The St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office has arrested a man accused of making threats against police officers on social media. Sheriff Greg Champagne says they received reports on Monday, following the deadly rampage against officers the prior day in Baton Rouge, that a man by the name of Victor “Life of Crime” Pablo indicated he planned a similar ambush

cut 10 (10)  “gonna get it next”

Champagne says the suspect is being charged with terrorizing and threatening a public official, which carries up to a maximum of 15 years in prison. He says this type of hateful rhetoric, especially during such tense times, that will not be tolerated…:

Cut 11 (06) “and anxiety”

The post essentially read, “In a little while cops in St. Charles are going to be next. I hope they kill every last one of them.” Champagne says in light of the recent events in Dallas and Baton Rouge, the threat was not only considered serious and dangerous, but it is also a violation of law.

cut 12 (06) “statute”

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The Governor’s office will host a blood drive tomorrow in honor of the three law enforcement officers who lost their lives in the ambush in Baton Rouge on Sunday. Deputy Chief of Staff in the Governor’s Office of Programs and Planning Johnny Anderson says they wanted to show support and come together during this difficult time in our state. He says they wanted to provide a gift to the community.

Cut 13 (10)  “pressing times”

Governor John Bel Edwards will also be personally participating in the blood drive with LifeShare. Anderson hopes state employees and anyone in Baton Rouge will come out to the donation bus outside the State Capitol from 8:30 am until 2:30 pm.

cut 14 (10)  “donating blood”

Anderson says this is the first step in having the community come together as we try to heal.

cut 15 (09) “stronger community”

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Today candidates begin qualifying for the US Senate race for the seat being vacated by David Vitter. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Qualifying for the Congressional races kick-off today with the start of qualifying. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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The community faith-based organization Together Baton Rouge outlines their plan to move the Capital City forward following the tragic shootings of Alton Sterling and three Baton Rouge police officers. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 3 (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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There are plans to rebuild the Civil War-era Governor’s Mansion that was intentionally burned down a week ago today in Opelousas. Mayor Reginald Tatum is upset the original structure was destroyed, but he says the foundation of the old structure is still in good condition to rebuild. He says the building’s owners are seeking emergency funds to pay for a new mansion through the national trust for historic preservation.

cut 4  (10)  “of sponsors”

The Oldest Governor’s Mansion in Louisiana Foundation has created a GoFundMe account to help with the rebuilding. Tatum believes the cost of rebuilding the mansion could be expensive, because historic buildings have to follow certain guidelines. He says before the fire, the home was 3 weeks out from opening as a museum, but he’s optimistic the building will be finished before the city’s 300^thanniversary in 2020.

Cut 5  (07)  “it going”

Tatum says the State Fire Marshal’s Office is offering a reward to anyone with information as to who burned down the Civil War Era Governor’s Mansion and a started a fire at another historic building in Opelousas. He says security cameras have now been installed at the different sites.

Cut 6 (08) “our building”

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Qualifying for the US Senate race begins today. As many as eight well-known candidates are expected to file paperwork to put their name on the ballot, five republicans, two democrats and one independent. JMC Analytics pollster John Couvillion anticipates a Republican and Democrat will be the top two voters in the November open primary and advance to a December runoff.

CUT 7 (10)  “runoff spot”

Couvillion says Democratic Public Service Commissioner Foster Campbell and Republican State Treasurer John Kennedy are the front-runners for their respective parties. But Couvillion says Lafayette Congressman Charles Boustany poses a threat to Kennedy, because of his popularity in the Acadiana region.

Cut 8  (09)  “the state”

Couvillion says it will be interesting to see the campaigns heat up once qualifying ends Friday. He says we could see some pretty cutthroat adds similar to the ones we’ve seen in previous elections.

Cut 9 (08)  “the fall”

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The Congressional races in Louisiana officially kick-off today with the start of qualifying. Candidates will sign-up at the Secretary of State’s office between today and Friday. Pollster Bernie Pinsonat predicts the third congressional district seat will be the most competitive with some big names and heavily funded candidates trying to make it into the runoff…

Cut 10 (08) “Scott Angelle”

Former state representative Bret Geymann, law enforcement officer Clay Higgins and Lafayette businessman Gus Rantz are few of the other high-profile Republican candidates in the 3^rd district, which is currently occupied by Republican Charles Boustany who is running for Senate.

Pinsonat says there are also well known candidates in the 4^th congressional district and some wild cards like former State Senator Elbert Guillory who is a controversial African American right wing republican. He says out of the six candidates running there, two are doctors.

cut 11 (08) “good candidates”

The other well-known candidates in the 4^th district include Cardiologist Trey Baucum, businessman and lawyer Rick Johnson and Bossier City state representative Mike Johnson, all Republicans.

Pinsonat says the first congressional race should be interesting with Baton Rouge Mayor Kip Holden running against fellow democrat and incumbent Cedric Richmond. He says there has been word of former KKK member and former state senator David Duke eying the 2^nd congressional seat occupied by Steve Scalise.

cut 12 (09) “this race”

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The community and faith-based organization, Together Baton Rouge, lays out a plan on how to move the Capital City forward in the wake of the ambush on Baton Rouge police and the fatal shooting Alton Sterling. Rev. Lee Wesley says one of the first things that needs to be done is getting help to people who struggle with mental health problems.

Cut 13 (11)  “this nation”

Wesley says they also want to see more “community policing” in which police build a relationship with citizens. He says having an open dialogue between law enforcement and the public can help bridge the gap between them and improve relations.

cut 14 (05)  “the community”

Wesley says the group will hold “We the People” meetings over the next 6 months to allow people to voice their concerns on both sides. He says there also needs to be reform in police departments, particularly with evaluating people before they join the force.

Cut 15 (11) “a gun”

The Baton Rouge Area Foundation has set up a memorial fund to help the families of the fallen Baton Rouge officers. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 1 (30)  “I’m Halen Doughty”

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According to an analysis by WalletHub, three cities in Louisiana rank as the most stressed out in the nation. Michelle Southern reports.

CUT 2 (30)  “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Police officers around the state and across the country are reeling from the Sunday’s tragic ambush in Baton Rouge, and law enforcement now has to decide where to go from here. Pineville Police Deputy Chief and President of the Louisiana Fraternal Order of Police, Darrell Basco, says officers from all over the nation are doing everything they can to help, by sending money or officers to assist in Baton Rouge.

CUT 3 (07)  “fallen officers”

Basco says they are also seeing tremendous community support as well. He says people have taken to social media in particular to show love for law enforcement officers.

CUT 4 (09)  “Louisiana”

Basco says there is a fear that fewer people will want to become police officers after the recent violence. But he is confident there will always be people who feel called to help their community.

CUT 5 (08)  “the state”

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The autopsy findings of the three officers killed in the police ambush by Gavin Long have been released. East Baton Rouge Parish Coroner Dr. Beau Clark says each officer’s death was ruled a homicide due to multiple gunshot wounds. He says Long’s autopsy will be today.

CUT 6 (11) “those projectiles”

Clark says once the findings are all put in a report, which takes anywhere from 60 to 90 days, it will be turned over to the law enforcement investigating unit. He says this an incredibly sad case for him to work…

CUT 7 (09) “protect us”

The officers have been identified as East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Deputy Brad Garafola and Baton Rouge Police Officers Montrell Jackson and Matthew Gerald. Clark says it’s especially difficult for his office to perform autopsies on dead police officers, because they work so closely with them on many cases.

CUT 8 (05) “and sisters”

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After two weeks of tragedy in the south, the community is coming together to Back the Badge. The Baton Rouge Area Foundation has set up a web page for people to donate to a fund for the fallen Baton Rouge officers. BRAF Communications Director Mukul Verma says they have already raised over $33-thousand and more donations are still coming in.

CUT 9 (05) “24 hours”

Verma says East Baton Rouge Sheriff Sid Gautreaux is on the committee that decides how the money will be used to assist these families.

cut 10 (08)  “few days”

Verma says the East Baton Rouge First Responders Fund was established in 1988, and it has given over $150-thousand to families of officers who were killed or wounded in the line of duty. He says donations can be made at BRAF.org, and every contribution helps.

Cut 11 (07) “four thousand”

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There is some controversy that the speech Melania Trump made at the Republican National Convention last night sounded very similar to Michelle Obama’s 2008 speech at the Democratic National Convention. Former Jefferson Parish President and a Louisiana delegate at the convention in Cleveland, John Young, says if it’s true, the campaign needs to admit it and move on.

cut 12 (05) “in time”

Young says at the end of the day the Trump campaign needs to deal with the issue and move on but they might need to make some changes to the staff.

Cut 13 (07)  “general election”

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According to an analysis by WalletHub, three cities in Louisiana rank as the most stressed out in the nation. Shreveport is No. 6, New Orleans No. 8 and Baton Rouge came in at 13th. Michelle Moore is a Doctor of Psychology at LSU Health New Orleans. She says the report shows Louisianians have high anxiety about things like money, health, ability to cope and safety…:

cut 14 (06)  “our stress”

The study determined Detroit is the most stressed city, while Fremont, CA, is the least stressed. Moore says the report also found taht Baton Rouge has the fewest number of psychologists at 4 per 100,000 residents, compared to the highest which is 80…:

cut 15 (06) “in times of stress”

Shreveport was No. 3 on the list for the most work related stress, and No. 2 for fewest mental health providers. Moore says that, especially in the case of New Orleans, even though we’re known for having nonchalant attitudes, crime is probably one of the biggest factors in the ranking…:

cut 16 (05) “out of their house”