A recent study of the housing market in Louisiana finds nearly 45 percent of renters are rent stressed. Matthew Doyle reports…

CUT 1 (32) “reporting”

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

The Jindal administration has pegged the shortfall for next year’s budget at one-point-two billion dollars. Jeff Palermo has the story…

CUT 2 (32) “reporting”

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

A Slidell woman has been charged with medicaid fraud after she allegedly used her dead sister’s name to receive medical treatment at Slidell Memorial Hospital. Slidell Police detective Daniel Seuzeneu says hospital officials became aware of 26-year-old Diondre Jones’ scam after her false name was entered into the computer

CUT 3 (07) “had been deceased”

Seuzeneau says a bizarre twist to this crime is that Jones was wearing a memorial T-shirt in honor of her deceased sister when a police officer caught up to her in the hospital parking lot….

CUT 4 (10) “as a memorial”

Seuzeneau says Diondre provided her sister’s name to hospital staff in an attempt to avoid having to pay any medical bills…

CUT 5 (09) “got caught”

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

A recent study of the housing market in Louisiana finds nearly 45 percent of renters are rent stressed. Rent stress is defined as paying more than 35 percent of your monthly income in rent. LSU Economist Jim Richardson says in 2000 the number was around 29 percent…

CUT 6 (05)  “percent increase”

The national average of “rent stressed” renters is around 43 percent. The percentage of rent stressed Louisianians has grown by nearly 15 percentage points since 2000. Richardson says the stress comes in when you have limited resources left over to provide other necessities…

CUT 7 (11) “that angle, yes”

The report did not look at household incomes of rent stressed people. Richardson says now that they have this data, the next step is to determine why this number has risen so high…

CUT 8 (13) “of the analysis”

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

The long-time leader of the LSU alumni association, Charlie Roberts, has resigned from his post as he faces a lawsuit from a former employee, who claims there was financial arrangement to keep their sexual relationship secret.  Roberts attorney, Mary Olive Pierson, says the resignation should not be taken as an admission of guilt

CUT 9 (11) “kind of silly”

Kay Heath is the person who filed the lawsuit against the 78-year-old Roberts and the LSU alumni association. Pierson says a main reason for Roberts resignation is Heath’s public statement she would drop the alumni association as party to the suit when he would resign

CUT 10 (05) “dragged into this”

Heath alleges in the lawsuit she got her job at the alumni association because of her personal relationship with Roberts and a deal was reached that she would receive monthly hush money after she resigned. Pierson says now that Roberts has resigned, he looks forward to telling his side of the story in court

CUT 11 (11) “was supporting her“

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

The Jindal administration told lawmakers who sit on the budget committees that the shortfall for next year’s budget is one-point-two billion dollars.  Publisher of Lapolitics-dot-com, Jeremy Alford, says the news is not a surprise to legislators and some have already discussed rolling back some tax exemptions as a way to raise revenues

CUT 12 (08) “tax increase”

Financing used to balance the budget this year, will not be available for next fiscal year, which is why there’s a huge shortfall. Alford says some lawmakers will look to raise taxes and reduce tax exemptions as a way to close next fiscal year’s budget gap, but Governor Jindal will fight it

CUT 13 (08) “override it”

Jindal will propose a budget for next fiscal year to lawmakers early in 2015. Alford expects the governor to come up with some creative ways on how to handle this huge shortfall…

cut 14 (12) “next year”

The brand new SEC Network, which promises to air more than 1,000 live events in its first year, will officially launch today at 5pm. Michelle Southern reports…:

CUT 1 (35) “reporting”

______________________________________

A federal judge has approved a 48-million dollar class action settlement for Bayou Corne residents affected by a sinkhole that was discovered two years ago. Scott Carwile has more…

Cut 2 Audio (32) “reporting”

______________________________________

A warning from the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals alerts travelers, beach goers, and fisherman about two diseases, vibrio vulnificus (vul-nif-ick-us) and the chikungunya (chik-un-gun-yuh) virus. Eric Gill reports…

Cut 3 Audio  (29) “reporting”

______________________________________

The long anticipated SEC Network, which promises to air more than 1,000 live events in its first year, will officially launch today at 5pm. Herb Vincent, who is a former leader within the athletic department at LSU, is the associate commissioner of communications for the Southeastern Conference. He says the SEC Network will broadcast 24 hours a day, 7 days a week all year, all SEC all the time…:

Cut 4  (06)  “a lot of action”

Vincent says the SEC Network will also feature several daily shows similar to what you’d see on Sportscenter -and- “The SEC Storied” series which is similar to ESPN’s 30 on 30. He says you’ll see stories from all 14 schools in the Southeastern Conference…:

Cut 5  (09) “specific to LSU”

Vincent says tonight’s feature show is called “The Stars Are Aligned” which profiles 14 famous figures who will each represent their team in the Southeastern Conference. He says the first show on at 5 will be a special 3 hour “SEC Now” which will spotlight live shots from each of the 14 campuses. Vincent says what’s most impressive about the SEC network is that it it’s available to more than 90 million homes on launch day. He says the schools also worked really hard to make this happen…:

Cut 6 (13)  “SEC Network is”

______________________________________

A federal judge has approved a 48-million dollar class action settlement for Bayou Corne residents affected by a sinkhole that was discovered two years ago. The lawsuit was brought against Texas Brine which was operating a salt mine that is believed to have caused the sinkhole. One attorney for the plaintiffs, Larry Centola, says they are happy with the judge’s approval…

CUT 7 (09)  “the next chapter”

The settlement will compensate 269 residents who lived in the area. They will receive payments for their property and damages. The exact amounts will be determined by a Special Master. Centola says residents should begin to see some settlement money within the next few months…

CUT 8 (09)   “late as January”

CUT 9 (12)  “fair settlement”

______________________________________

The Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals issues a warning for travelers, beach goers, and fisherman about two diseases, vibrio vulnificus (vul-nif-ick-us) and the chikungunya (chik-un-gun-yuh) virus. State Health Officer Dr. Jimmy Guidry says vibrio vulnificus is one of the flesh-eating bacteria found in brackish or saltwater…

cut 10 (12)  “put it off”

He says vibrio vulnificus can be fatal, but it is treatable if you catch it early. DHH says the flesh-eating bacteria has infected 8 people in Louisiana this summer. Guidry says the chikungunya virus is usually transmitted by mosquitoes in the Caribbean. He says initial symptom of this virus resemble the flu…

cut 11 (13)  “your physician” 

There is no vaccine or specific treatment for the chikungunya virus. Louisiana has confirmed eight travel-related cases. Guidry says the virus is not fatal, but it can be painful. He says if you think you’ve come in contact with either of these, you should see a doctor quickly. Guidry says these warnings are intended to keep the public informed about these diseases…

cut 12 (06) “with these issues”

______________________________________

The former chief financial officer at the Catahoula Sheriff’s office faces theft and malfeasance charges after he allegedly gave himself two unauthorized pay increases. State Police Trooper Albert Paxton says the Louisiana Legislative Auditor’s office provided the evidence that led to the arrest of 61-year-old George Tosspon of Jonesville

Cut 13 (09)  “didn’t work”

Paxton says the state audit revealed Tosspon received over 22-thousand dollars in excess wages from August 2009 to November 2013. He says Tosspon surrendered to investigators…

Cut 14 (09)  “dollars”

Paxton says Tosspon faces up to 15 years in prison if convicted. He says last May, Cathahoula Parish Sheriff James Kelley requested that the Louisiana State Police Bureau of Investigations look into accusations that Tosspon stole public funds…

Cut 15  (09)   “everything done”

______________________________________

The battle for the starting quarterback position at Louisiana Tech is heating up between senior Cody Sokol and sophomore Ryan Higgins. Head Coach Skip Holtz says the competition between the two is tight…

Cut 16  (07)   “right now”

He says there is maybe a one percent difference in completion percentage between Sokol and Higgins. Holtz is pleased with the work both quarterbacks have put into practice…

Cut 17  (11)   “going along well”

______________________________________

The LSU Tigers are optimistic that defensive tackle Quentin Thomas will soon be able to fully participate in practice soon. It was reported last week Thoms could miss the season, because of a biceps injury. But Head Coach Les Miles says Thomas is not as serious as once thought

Cut 18 (13)  “he can be”

If Thomas is healthy for the start of the regular season, expect to see him get a lot of playing time, because he has the most experience out of any defensive tackle on the team.  As far as the battle for starting quarterback between Anthony Jennings and Brandon Harris, Miles is not saying who is leading that competition, but they are giving great effort

cut 19 (20)  “go easy”

Louisiana will hold another tax amnesty period this fall. Jeff Palermo has the details

CUT 1 (32) “reporting”

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

Lafayette Police arrest a 27-year-old mother in connection with the death of her three-year-old child. Jeff Palermo has the story..

CUT 2 (30) “reporting”

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

The US Coast Guard says they are investigating a multi-vessel collision that happened on the Mississippi River near Gretna last night which caused some oil to be spilled into the water. Spokesman Jonathan Lally says a ship carrying grains lost power and control and crashed into another vessel and barge that was fueling up…:

CUT 3 (08) “into the river”

Lally says fuel was being transferred from the barge when it broke free causing some oil to be discharged into the water from the transfer hose…:

CUT 4 (09) “that was spilled”

Lally says no injuries were reported in the incident. He says about 588 gallons of marine grade fuel was spilled into the river and the Gretna water intake was shut off as a safety precation…:

CUT 5 (12) “the sheen went”

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

New research provided to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries shows Louisiana Black Bear populations are making great strides toward recovery. Large Carnivore Program Manager, Maria Davidson, says they don’t have an official count on how many black bears are in the state, but they’ve learned there are at least 250 female bears, which is a good number…

CUT 6 (09)  “hear from them”

The hope is to have the Louisiana Black Bear removed from the endangered species list. The US Fish and Wildlife Service will make that determination. Davidson says the future of the black bear is looking good…

CUT 7 (07) “a hundred years”

LDWF has worked many years to rebuild the population of the Louisiana Black Bear. In the 1950s, there were only 100 black bears in the state. Davidson says it appears that female black bears are beginning to breed on a more regular basis…

CUT 8 (13) “for the bears”

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

The Louisiana Department of Revenue says the state will hold another tax amnesty period from October 15th to November 14th.  Revenue Secretary Tim Barfield says new to this amnesty program is the option that delinquent taxpayers can pay their debt owed to the state through payments

CUT 9 (08) “amount due”

Barfield says the state held an amnesty program last year and Louisiana collected 452-million dollars in back taxes, but the goal this year is only 100-million

CUT 10 (09) “as much”

During the tax amnesty period all penalties will be waived and the taxpayer only owes 50-percent of the interest that’s due. Barfield says a payment plan is new to the amnesty program and that will allow a noncompliant taxpayer to pay their overdue taxes over a six month period…

CUT 11 (10) “back taxes“

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

A Lafayette mother is facing negligent homicide charges in the death of her three-year-old child. Lafayette Police corporal Paul Mouton says 27-year-old Sara Leblanc told investigators the child was sick for a couple of days, and their investigation revealed the child went 25 hours without food or fluids during her illness

CUT 12 (07) “dehydration”

Mouton says on the day the child died, the little girl went to sleep at around six A-M. Leblanc allegedly did not check on her until seven that night and also left the home during that time to get some fast food

CUT 13 (09) “negligent homicide”

An autopsy report has determined the cause of death can be attributed to hypothermia and dehydration. Leblanc was charged with negligent homicide. Mouton says the investigation remains ongoing

cut 14 (11) “investigation”

Yet another cold front has settled over Louisiana. Scott Carwile reports.

CUT 1 (30) “reporting”

______________________________________

The recent death of actor-comedian Robin Williams has opened a discussion about suicide across the country. Eric Gill has more…

Cut 2 Audio (31) “reporting”

______________________________________

In one week, candidates will begin signing up for the November federal election. Jeff Palermo looks at how the races are shaping up…

Cut 3 Audio  (32) “reporting”

______________________________________

State Climatologist Barry Keim says we’ve had northerly breezes move into Louisiana causing the humidity levels to drop dramatically. He says the weather outside is feeling much more comfortable that what you’d expect in The Bayou State for the middle of August…:

Cut 4  (07)  “over the weekend”

Keim says this is the fourth major front we’ve had pass through Louisiana in the last six weeks…:

Cut 5  (08) “in the humidity”

Keim says this blast of Canadian air isn’t dropping the temperatures all that much, but it’s brought in a noticeable drop in the humidity. He says we’ve been seeing this pattern set up this year over the Eastern United States that’s causing the humidity to push down into the Gulf of Mexico…:

Cut 6 (06)  “this time of year”

______________________________________

The recent death of actor-comedian Robin Williams has opened a discussion about suicide across the country. The death of the 63-year-old entertainer has been officially ruled a suicide. LSU Mental Health expert, Dr. Howard Osofsky, says the actor showed several risk factors for suicide…

CUT 7 (11)  “from suicide”

Williams was said to have been battling severe depression as of late. That along with his history of alcohol and substance abuse made the actor susceptible for suicide. Osofsky says, after a suicide, friends and family are often left wondering if they could have done something to prevent it. He says if you notice a loved one’s behavior changing, you may want to seek help…

CUT 8 (15)   “get them treatment”

CUT 9 (13)  “aware of this”

______________________________________

We’re a week away from the start of the three-day qualifying period, where candidates officially sign up to run in the November election. Political Analyst Bernie Pinsonat does not expect any surprise candidates to enter the US senate race….

cut 10 (13) “before now”

Pinsonat says democratic incumbent Mary Landrieu will face two main republican challengers, Bill Cassidy and Rob Maness. A large field of candidates is expected in the six district congressional race. He says former governor Edwin Edwards is the favorite to make a run-off…

cut 11 (12)  “after qualifying” 

Pinsonat says the fifth district congressional race will also have a large field  as challengers see Vance McAllister as a vulnerable incumbent, because he was caught kissing a married staffer…

cut 12 (10) “will race”

______________________________________

The New Orleans Police Department is still searching for the gunman who opened fire on a house in the Lower Ninth Ward that killed two and left five people injured. 33-year-old Terrance McBride and 16-year-old Jasmine Anderson were killed in the shooting. Mayor Mitch Landrieu says it is vitally important that citizens help police identify the shooter…

Cut 13 (09)  “doesn’t happen again”

Alanna Romain and her two children, both under the age of 5, remain in critical condition. Police Chief Ronal Serpas says they now believe they know who was in the vehicle with the shooter…

Cut 14 (09)  “of the shooter”

A 13-year-old injured in the shooting remains under evaluation. The fifth victim was treated for injuries and released. The investigation is ongoing. Serpas says McBride was a felon in posession of a firearm facing charges of that and distribution of heroin. He says, at this time, this case does not appear to be a gang member involved event…

Cut 15  (05)   “involved event”

Jefferson Parish President John Young announces he’s joining the 2015 race for Lt. Governor. Michelle Southern has that..:

CUT 1 (33) “reporting”

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

Oyster production has been on a downward spiral since the 2010 BP oil spill. Jeff Palermo has the story…

CUT 2 (32) “reporting”

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

Jefferson Parish President John Young announces he’s running for Lt. Governor in 2015. Young joins already announced candidates Baton Rouge Mayor President Kip Holden and Plaquemines Parish President Billy Nungesser. The seat is being left open by Jay Dardenne who intends to run for Governor next year. Young says the Office of Tourism is a major growth industry for Louisiana…:

CUT 3 (09) “in the world”

Young says, if elected, a major focus would also be on economic development and creating jobs and opportunity for our children and grandchildren. He says a top priority as Lt. Governor is making sure funds are secure to continue to market Louisiana…:

CUT 4 (09) “the entire state”

Young says he wants to be an ambassador for economic development and the film industry…:

CUT 5 (07) “in Louisiana”

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

Since the BP spill, oyster production along Louisiana’s coast has reached lows that have not been seen in decades. That’s according to Louisiana Oyster Task Force Chairman John Tesvich, who says it’s a challenging time for the industry

CUT 6 (06)  “haven’t come back”

Prior to the BP spill, Louisiana public reefs would produce three to seven million pounds of oyster meat a year. Last year, just under a million pounds was produced and Tesvich says early numbers for 2014 are only slightly better than last year…

CUT 7 (08) “speak of”

A statement from BP says government studies indicate conditions other than the oil spill have led to the decline in oyster populations. Tesvich says recent hurricanes and an influx of fresh water are other possible factors. He says in the meantime, oystermen can only hope conditions get better

CUT 8 (10) “it yet”

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

So in addition to the big super-moon we’ve got in the sky right now, the most explosive meteor shower of the year is underway. Lee Sawyer is the director of chemistry and physics at Louisiana Tech. He says the peak of the every-August Perseid meteor shower will happen early tomorrow morning…:

CUT 9 (09) “season”

Sawyer says if you’d like to see some beautiful shooting stars, early tomorrow morning when it’s still dark out would be the best time…:

CUT 10 (07) “couple of seconds or so”

Sawyer says sometimes the meteors will look like little fireballs. He says the annual Persei meteor shower lasts for several days…:

CUT 11 (11) “really the peak“

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

The Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s office says a teenage girl is under arrest for allegedly stealing the pizza delivery guy’s car. Spokesman Glenn Springfield says the accused is 17-year-old Shaquillea Hunter of Monroe. He says they got a report of the stolen vehicle and they easily spotted the car with the Pizza Hut sign on top…:

CUT 12 (11) “and handcuff em”

Springfield says once they got Hunter in custody, they got the Pizza Hut employee to come make an identification and give a statement…:

CUT 13 (08) “he called us”

Springfield said when Hunter was questioned about the incident, she told the deputy to just take her to jail. He says she was booked into the Ouachita Correctional Center…:

cut 14 (03) “and resisting an officer”

How would you like to add an LSU Jell-O mold to your tailgate this year? Well now you can. Michelle Southern has that…:

CUT 1 (31) “reporting”

______________________________________
The first legal hearing in the dispute over Common Core occurs today in a Baton Rouge courtroom. Matthew Doyle has more…

Cut 2 Audio (34) “reporting”

______________________________________

Louisiana State Police is investigating an officer involved shooting yesterday in Crowley that has left one man dead. Eric Gill has more…

Cut 3 Audio  (26) “reporting”

______________________________________

LSU fans will be able to add a little something extra to their tailgate or football parties for the upcoming season…An LSU Jell-O mold. Emilie Fitch is the brand manager for Jell-O. She says these college team Jiggler kits are just another way fans can show how passionate they are about their team…:

Cut 4  (12)  “across the country”

Fitch says she realizes that people make Jell-O shots but they do not advocate that behavior or promote recipes that include alcohol. She says the LSU Jiggler-Kit contains four Jell-O boxes…:

Cut 5  (13) “as well as tigers”

Fitch says the college Jiggler kit is available now at local retailers and they are going fast. She says you can also buy it online at Amazon.com. Fitch says they are working toward marketing their brand to the young family…:

Cut 6 (08)  “into the franchise”

______________________________________

The dispute over Common Core heads to court today. A hearing is set in Judge Todd Hernandez’s courtroom over a lawsuit filed by parents and educators who accuse Governor Jindal of overstepping his authority when he blocked tests associated with Common Core. Council For a Better Louisiana President Barry Erwin says hopefully the judicial system can end this stalemate.

CUT 7 (07)  “in a court”

It’s possible a resolution will take months, because of potential appeals. But Erwin says they hope Judge Hernandez provides some clarity with an initial ruling.

CUT 8 (10)   “for the foreseeable future”

CUT 9 (12)  “on the merits”

______________________________________

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries will hold a series of public meetings across the state to provide an update on black bear research. The results of a recently completed University of Tennessee PhD project will be presented. Large Carnivore Program Manager, Maria Davidson says the project pulls together population estimates of three different sub-populations of black bears…

cut 10 (12) “into the future”

Meetings are scheduled in Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Ferriday, and Tallulah. If the population numbers are strong enough, the Louisiana Black Bear could be taken off of the Endangered Species list. Davidson says this information will be passed to the US Fish and Wildlife Service…

cut 11 (12)  “off the list” 

The US Fish and Wildlife Service will determine if the Louisiana Black Bear meets the criteria to be removed from their endangered species list. Davidson says the purpose of these public meetings is to keep citizens informed about what is happening with the black bear…

cut 12 (07) “shock to them”

______________________________________

Louisiana State Police is investigating an officer involved shooting yesterday in Crowley that has left one man dead. Master Trooper Brooks David says Crowley Police officers were responding to a disturbance call when a male subject began to shoot at the officers…

Cut 13 (08)  “subject’s death”

David says subsequently officers returned fire and struck the man an unknown number of times. He was pronounced dead at the scene. David says four Crowley Police officers were at the scene…

Cut 14 (07)  “if there were two”

The investigation is ongoing. David says this type of situation shows how dangerous it is to be a law enforcement officer…

Cut 15  (09)   “yourself safe”

______________________________________

One of the biggest spotlights at LSU’s preseason camp has been the intense battle for the starting quarterback position. Sophomore Anthony Jennings and Freshman Brandon Harris both have stated their intentions to be the man to lead Tigers next season. LSU Offensive Coordinator Cam Cameron says regardless of who wins, everyone has to be ready to run the offense…

Cut 16  (12)   “gotta be ready”

The position is still up for grabs, and could be up until the start of the season. Cameron expects Harris or Jennings will eventually grab hold of the starter’s role…

Cut 17  (11)   “be his quarterback”

Either of the two potential starters would be among the youngest quarterbacks to start for the team in several years, with both being under 20 years old. Cameron says the pressure cooker of a competition is good for everyone involved…

Cut 18 (16)  “under here everyday”

According to the finance firm Bankrate.com, Louisiana is the second-most expensive state for motorists. Michelle Southern has that…:

CUT 1 (33) “reporting”

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

The lead character in the Baton Rouge based reality show “Sons of Guns” was arrested this weekend and booked for child molestation. Michelle Southern has that.

CUT 2 (30) “reporting”

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

The New Orleans Police Department says they’re trying to figure out what led up to a shooting at a hotel on Canal Street Sunday that left one man dead and another injured. Officer Frank Robertson III says officers responded to reports of gunfire at the Westin around 6:30 am…:

CUT 3 (09) “at our officers”

Robertson says once cops encountered the armed man they retreated and called for back up. He says after hours of negotiation they finally got into the room…:

CUT 4 (05) “right now”

The room was occupied by four men reportedly from the Lafayette area. Apparently the 20-year-old deceased individual shot his 24-year-old friend in the chest before turning the gun on himself. Robertson says the swat team moved in and they were able to make contact with someone inside…:

CUT 5 (05) “on the scene”

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

According to the finance firm Bankrate.com, Louisiana is the second-most expensive state for motorists. Spokesman Chris Kahn compiled the research for the study. He says they looked at gas, insurance and repairs and found that drivers in Louisiana pay about $2,555 a year just on things dealing with their car…:

CUT 6 (12)  “in the country”

Kahn says they found that Louisiana motorists pay an average of $1277 a year on insurance which is the highest in the nation. He says that’s the cost that really hurts our ranking in this report…:

CUT 7 (09) “the national average”

Kahn says there are lots of things people in Louisiana can do to reduce their insurance rates and one of those things is making sure you have a good credit score. He says many people don’t realize insurance companies do pull your credit report when setting your premium…:

CUT 8 (06) “may affect your premium”

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

The St. Martin Parish Sheriff’s office says a man from New Iberia is under arrest for allegedly shooting at a car he was trying to pass while traveling on a roadway. Spokeswoman Major Ginny Higgins says they got a call from a motorist that he was being tailgated by another vehicle on Highway 182…:

CUT 9 (10) “at the vehicle”

Higgins says the suspect is identified as a 30-year-old Jeroswaskie Collette. She says he was allegely driving erratically when he just opened fire on the other vehicle…:

CUT 10 (07) “no one was hurt”

Higgins says Collette is charged with assault by drive by shooting…:

CUT 11 (09) “gentleman was driving“

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

5th District Congressman Vance McAllister has only 233 dollars in available campaign dollars for his re-election bid. That’s based on the last report McAllister filed with the Federal Elections Commission on August 2nd. ULM Political Science Professor Joshua Stockley says that’s a disappointing grand total

CUT 12 (10) “or by fundraising”

It’s expected the Congressman will self-finance much of his campaign. But Stockley says it still sends a signal that there might not be that much support for McAllister among voters…

CUT 13 (08) “in the community”

While McAllister is struggling to raise cash, three republican challengers have raised over 200-thousand dollars, based on campaign finance reports filed earlier this month. They are Zach Dasher, Harris Brown and Doctor Ralph Abraham. Stockley says they are a legitmate threat to McAllister

cut 14 (09) “from the community”

Now that schools are in session across the state, teachers are in classrooms with no idea what assessment test will be given this year. Michelle Southern repors.

CUT 1 (32) “reporting”

______________________________________

Farmers across the state are beginning to harvest another rice crop after a record harvest last year.  Eric Gill has more…

Cut 2 Audio (28) “reporting”

______________________________________

The Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals confirms the state’s second West Nile virus death this year. Eric Gill Reports…

Cut 3 Audio   (34) “reporting”

______________________________________

Farmers across the state are beginning to harvest another rice crop.  There was a phenomenal crop last year yielding a statewide average of 7,500 pounds per acre.  LSU AgCenter Rice Specialist, Dr. Johnny Saichuck (SAY-chuck), says we shouldn’t expect those same numbers with this year’s crop…

Cut 4  (09)  “had last year”

Saichuck says this year’s rain and cloud cover has affected this year’s rice crop.  He thinks the crop is running about two weeks behind what it was last year.  Saichuck says last year’s rice crop was special…

Cut 5  (06) “on everything”

He estimates this year’s yield to come in at around 6,500 pounds per acre.  Saichuck says so far yields are okay, but he’s not ready to give up on this year’s crop…

Cut 6 (08)  “expect yieldwise”

______________________________________

With school starting around the state, teachers are educating kids in the classroom with no idea what assessment test will be given this year. Louisiana Federation of Teachers President Steve Monaghan says educators are frustrated and angry about all of this…:

CUT 7 (06)  “very political process”

Monaghan says most teachers are irritated about being in the middle of a political battle between BESE and the Department of Education and Governor Bobby Jindal over Common Core. The two sides head to court this week. Monaghan says these political forces need to make this year about teaching…:

CUT 8 (06)   “on the backburner”

CUT 9 (11)  “that folks are teaching”

______________________________________

A crop duster crash in Iberia Parish has claimed the life of an experienced pilot. Lieutenant Jeremy Kelley, with the Iberia Parish Sheriff’s office, says a Bell 47 helicopter crashed near a cane field north of US 90 Sunday morning

cut 10 (12) “coroner’s office”

The pilot has been identified as 60-year-old Kenneth Squires of Jeanerette. The Federal Aviation Administration is conducting an investigation into why the helicopter crash. There were some storms that rolled through south Louisiana on Sunday, but Kelley says it doesn’t appear the weather had anything to do with this crash

cut 11 (12)  “for certain” 

Kelley says Squires was a long-time pilot…

cut 12 (11) “type of work”

______________________________________

The Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals confirms the state’s second West Nile virus death this year. The death occurred in the Capital Area Region 2 which consists of East and West Feliciana, East and West Baton Rouge, Pointe Coupee, and Ascension Parishes. Medical Director for the Office of Public Health in central Louisiana, David Holcombe, says there are now 29 cases of West Nile in Louisiana…

Cut 13 (07)  “for the same period”

Not much is known about the latest victim other than it was a person over the age of 75. The state’s first death from West Nile was reported in Caddo Parish last month. Holcombe says to protect yourself from West Nile, you must protect yourself from mosquitoes…

Cut 14 (10)  “mosquito repellent”

DHH reports 14 new cases of West Nile, bringing the state total to 29. Holcombe says you should also protect your home from mosquitoes should eliminate standing water or any area where mosquitoes could breed. He says the threat of West Nile and mosquitoes will last, at least, until we get cold weather…

Cut 15  (09)   “very precipitously”

______________________________________

Sunday was LSU media day and the first opportunity for reporters to speak with members of the Tigers second ranked recruiting class. True freshman Quarterback Brandon Harris is battling with sophomore Anthony Jennings for a starting spot and a decision on who will start the season opener is not expected anytime soon. Even Harris admits there’s not much separating himself with Jennings…

Cut 16  (13)   “don’t know”

Most of the hype with this freshmen class is center around running back Leonard Fournette. The former St Aug star has high expectations for his freshmen season

Cut 17  (07)   “Heisman candidate”

Fournette says the media attention he’s receiving both locally and nationally is not bothering him….

Cut 18 (14)  “right now”

Another young player on offense is Malachi Dupre. The former John Curtis standout says offensive coordinator Cam Cameron has them believing they can have a good season, despite the youth at the skill positions

cut 19 (14)  “of his past”

The President of the LSU Alumni Association has decided to go on annual leave amidst a lawsuit claiming he paid a former female employee hush money. Michelle Southern has more…

CUT 1 (36) “reporting”

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The Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency preparedness is sending a team to assist with storm efforts in Hawaii as they endure two separate systems. Michelle Southern has that.

CUT 2 (32) “reporting”

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The Baton Rouge Police Department says a Fed Ex man is under arrest for allegedly stealing packages he was supposed to deliver to businesses. BRPD spokesman L’Jean McKneely says they believe 50-year-old Nathaniel Smith would lie by saying he delivered goods he’d kept for himself.

CUT 3 (09) “in office”

McKneely says surveillance video from a victim shows the suspect delivering only part of an order including one package of more than $1200 worth of cigarettes.

CUT 4 (05) “following her home”

McKneely says Fed Ex launched an investigation and that’s when they interviewed Smith and booked him for felony theft…:

CUT 5 (05) “make the arrest”

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Louisiana farmers will see minimal impact from Russia’s decision to ban food imports from the United States for one year. That’s according to LSU AgCenter economic Kurt Guidry, who says over the past five years, Russia has been a relatively minor customer for most US ag products…

CUT 6 (09)  “US export”

Russia’s “full embargo” on food imports from the US, Europe and other western countries is in response to sanctions over its crisis in Ukraine. Guidry says for major row crop commodities, Russia has represented less than one percent of total US sales

CUT 7 (10) “if at all”

Guidry says Russia is a bigger player in the livestock and poultry markets, which could lead to some short-term effects to poultry and livestock prices…

CUT 8 (07) “the state”

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The President of the LSU Alumni Association has decided to go on annual leave amidst a lawsuit claiming he paid a former female employee hush money. Mary Olive Pierson says her client, Charlie Roberts, admits to having a sexual relationship with Kay Heath but didn’t do anything unethical…:

CUT 9 (08) “sex for money thing”

Health’s attorney, Jeffry Sanford, says the two entered into a contractual financial agreement that was terminated by Roberts without notice in July…:

CUT 10 (06) “quit paying”

The lawsuit alleges Roberts asked Heath to quit her job and promised to pay her money similar to her salary with the Association for the rest of her life.  Pierson says Roberts was completely shocked by this lawsuit and is taking time off work so that he’s not distracted. But Sanford calls it “paid leave” and says Health will completely drop the lawsuit if Roberts resigns or is fired because he is a continuing threat to all women at the LSU Alumni Association…;

CUT 11 (08) “in this case“

Pierson says Roberts is not going to respond to Health’s threats but right now the focus is on winning the lawsuit…:

CUT 12 (04) “or get fired”

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A potential starter on LSU’s defensive line is reportedly out for the season with a torn biceps. Junior defensive tackle Quentin Thomas from Breaux Bridge was expected to be on the first team this season after starting in the bowl game against Iowa. Tiger Rag Editor Robert Stewart says the injury comes at a position where they didn’t have much experience…

CUT 13 (12) “that line”

Stewart says an LSU spokesperson has confirmed Thomas suffered an injury, but they are not providing any other details. He says redshirt freshman Frank Herron could be the player that sees increased playing time because of Thomas’ injury…

cut 14 (11) “Maquedis Bain”

Stewart says having a significant player lost for the season at this position is a tough blow for the Tigers…

cut 15 (11) “last year”

The LSU Health Sciences Center New Orleans has been awarded a $5.6 million grant from the National Cancer Institute to build a regional cancer clinical trials network. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (35) “reporting”

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Governor Bobby Jindal is heading to Iowa again, potentially testing the waters for a 2016 presidential run. Eric Gill has more…

Cut 2 Audio (32) “reporting”

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New EPA regulations that would require the state to lower ozone pollution levels have some Louisiana business owners concerned about the impact on the state’s economy. Matthew Doyle  has more…

Cut 3 Audio   (35) “reporting”

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The LSU Health Sciences Center New Orleans has been awarded a $5.6 million grant from the National Cancer Institute to build a regional cancer clinical trials network. This program creates a network of physicians, nurses, and researchers to deliver the latest promising investigational treatments for cancer. Director of the Cancer Center, Dr. Augusto Ochoa, says this funding will provide the infrastructure for the network…

Cut 4  (12)  “major institutions”

Ochoa says a majority of cancer patients get treatment in their communities by local oncologists. He says the funding will help them offer cutting edge treatment to cancer patients closer to home. Ochoa says the funding will do more than just help set up the network…

Cut 5  (13) “in everybody”

The Center partnered with LSU Health Shreveport and Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center to successfully compete for the grant. The network currently includes 25 clinics covering 80 percent of the population of Louisiana and parts of the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Ochoa sees the network growing in the future…

Cut 6 (09)  “access to this”

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Bobby Jindal is scheduled to be in Iowa today and tomorrow, his third visit to the important presidential primary state in recent months. Early polls show muted interest in Jindal’s aspirations, a recent CNN poll even put him outside the top 7 candidates. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says that outside opinions will not sway the governor…

CUT 7 (09)  “listening to”

Along with a September trip to New Hampshire, another early primary state, this weeks trip to Iowa may show that Jindal is increasing his interest in the race. Pinsonat says the early primary states are highly influential for candidates looking to break through.

CUT 8 (10)   “see Jindal continue”

CUT 9 (07)  “two or three states”

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Louisiana State Police is now offering the sale of crash photographs online through their website. The purpose of the new system is to increase accessibility to crash photos and to streamline the purchasing process. Sgt. James Anderson the sale of crash pictures is not new to the department…

cut 10 (11) “is that way”

Attorneys and insurance firms are the police’s main clientele for crash scene photographs. Fatality photographs will not be available online. Crash photos are available online at lsp-dot-org…

cut 11 (06)  “then and there” 

Once on the website, just enter the pertinent information, make payment, and you can immediately print the photos. Photographs are $10 each. Anderson says they hope this speeds up the process in obtaining this evidence…

cut 12 (10) “we serve”

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The Louisiana Association of Business and Industry says the state will lose jobs and energy prices will rise if the EPA’s proposed ozone standards are enacted. The EPA is considering new regulations that will require the state to lower ozone pollution. LABI President Stephen Waguespack says a National Association of Manufacturers report indicates the regulations would hurt the state’s booming economy…

Cut 13 (07)  “manufacturing renniasance”

The report claims that customers could see as much as a 32% increase in natural gas, and a 15% rise in electricity prices across the country. Waguespack says the state could see other, costlier impacts as well…

Cut 14 (11)  “the timeframe”
EPA will finalize the new ozone regulations in December. The federal agency says history proves you can reduce pollution and grow the economy at the same time. But Waguespack disagrees…

Cut 15  (07)   “press the pause button”

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The LSU football team will go through its practice in pads this morning as the entire freshmen class will also be competing with the veterans for the first time. Coach Les Miles says based on yesterday’s practice, the defense is ahead of the offense

Cut 16  (10)   “good defense”

A question mark on defense this season is at defensive tackle as the Tigers must find two new starters. Miles says there is good depth at that position led by Christian LaCouture (Lock-uh-chur)….

Cut 17  (11)   “coming to play”

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The Saints kick off their preseason campaign tonight against the St. Louis Rams. Head Coach Sean Payton says he likes the current NFL preseason schedule of four games. He says it give players the opportunity to rise to the occasion…

Cut 18 (08)  “kicking game”

Payton hasn’t said how much or if quarterback Drew Brees will play in tonight’s game. Brees has been out of pads for about a week because of an oblique injury. Backup quarterback Luke McCown is expected to see plenty of action tonight. McCown says the preseason schedule is extremely important for a backup…

cut 19 (15)  “that way all week”