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”

______________________________________

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”

Louisiana State Police says the police chief in the town of Rosepine is under arrest for allegedly stalking his estranged wife. Sgt. James Anderson says 49-year-old Chief James Parrot is accused of stalking his wife and another man and calling her employer requesting that she be fired. He says Parrott picked up the malfeasance in office charge for allegedly using department equipment to extend the crime…

cut 5 (06) “male companion”

Anderson says once the suspect bonded out on a $1000 bond in Vernon Parish he was also booked in Beauregard Parish on a $15,000 bond for the same charges.

State Police say the man who drove through a house in Schriever and caused the death of a 2-year-old baby in June was drunk at the time according to blood-alcohol tests. Trooper Evan Harrell says a routine toxicology sample was taken from 20-year-old Tony Milligan…

cut 13 (06) “the legal limit”

Milligan remains jailed on vehicular homicide and several other charges.

A 57-million dollar construction project is set to begin on US 90 in Lafayette Parish as crews will expand that highway from four to six lanes from Ambassador Caffery to Albertsons Parkway. State Department of Transportation spokesperson Deidra Druilhet says US 90 will remain open during construction…

cut 7 (12) “as possible”

Estimated construction time is three years.

Forecasters with NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center have updated their hurricane season forecast and now say there is an increased chance it will be below-normal. Lead seasonal forecaster Gerry Bell says conditions across the tropical Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea are incredibly unfavorable for hurricane development…

cut 10 (11) “major hurricanes”

He says the outlook issued today calls for a 70% chance of a below normal season.

The Police Chief in Rosepine was arrested Wednesday on stalking charges according to state police. Michelle Southern has that…:

CUT 1 (32) “reporting”

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

Forecasters with NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center have updated their forecast for the 2014 Atlantic Hurricane Season and now say there is an increased chance it will be below-normal. Michelle Southern has that…:

CUT 2 (32) “reporting”

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

Louisiana State Police say the police chief in the Vernon Parish town of Rosepine is under arrest for allegedly stalking his estranged wife. Sgt James Anderson says they received the complaint about 49-year-old Chief James Parrott and began the investigation last month…:

CUT 3 (09) “in office”

Anderson says once the suspect bonded out on $1000 bond at Vernon Parish he was also booked in Beauregard Parish on a $15,000 bond for the same charges. He says detectives determined Parrott had trouble leaving his wife alone…:

CUT 4 (05) “following her home”

Anderson says Parrott allegedly followed his wife and another man around and also called her employer requesting that she be fired. He says Parrott picked up the malfeasance in office charge for allegedly using the police department’s equipment to extend the crime…:

CUT 5 (06) “male companion”

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

A 57-million dollar construction project is set to begin on US 90 in Lafayette Parish as crews will expand that highway from four to six lanes from Ambassador Caffery to Albertsons Parkway. State department of transportation spokesperson Deidra Druilhet says they are upgrading US 90 to interstate standards as part of a larger plan to extend I-49 South…

CUT 6 (10)  “job growth”

Estimated construction time is three years, but Druilhet says US 90 will remain open during that time…

CUT 7 (12) “as possible”

Druilhet says once construction is completed on the one-point-six mile stretch of roadway, motorists will see less traffic congestion and the wider highway should lead to economic growth. She says precautions have been taken to limit headaches during construction, but the 40-thousand motorists who use the road daily will see some changes…

CUT 8 (08) “as well”

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

Forecasters with NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center have updated their forecast for the 2014 Atlantic Hurricane Season and now say there is an increased chance it will be below-normal. Lead seasonal forecaster Gerry Bell says the outlook issued today calls for a 70% chance of a below normal season…:

CUT 9 (05) “has increased”

Bell says the atmospheric and oceanic conditions across the tropical Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea are incredibly unfavorable for hurricane development…:

CUT 10 (11) “major hurricanes”

Bell says this outlook is for overall activity and does not apply to a landfall forecast. He encourages Gulf Coast residents to remain prepared throughout the season…:

CUT 11 (06) “to be struck“

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

State Police say the man who drove through a house in Schriever and caused the death of a 2-year-old baby on June 27 was extremely drunk at the time according to blood-alcohol tests that came back this week. Trooper Evan Harrell says during the incident, 20-year-old Tony Milligan of Houma rear-ended another car then fled the scene…:

CUT 12 (09) “a two year old child”

Harrell says Milligan remains in jail on a vehicular homicide charge among many others and is being held on $300,000 bond. He says impairment was suspected at the time of the crash, but a routine toxicology sample was taken…:

CUT 13 (06) “the legal limit”

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

A Baton Rouge man who is accused of beating to death his 77-year-old roommate then burying him in a tomato garden was indicted Wednesday for second degree murder. The suspect is 54-year-old Douglas Studeman. East Baton Rouge Parish District Attorney Hillar Moore on the indictment…:

cut 14 (06) “proceed forward”

Moore argued Chester Oakley opened his home to the suspect earlier this year in exchange for some help around the house. Police found the victim’s bludgeoned body wrapped in bed sheets under some fresh dirt in the garden at the house. Moore says the evidence against the suspect is substantial…:

cut 15 (08) “to go forward”

As summer winds down and we look toward the fall, it looks like another banner year for the film industry in Louisiana. Eric Gill has the story…

CUT 1 (30) “reporting”

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The death toll from the Ebola outbreak in west Africa now stands at 932, according to the World Health Organizations.  Should people in Louisiana be concerned?  Eric Gill has more…

Cut 2 Audio (30) “reporting”

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As most kids head back to the classroom this week State Police is reminding motorists that cell phones are now banned, by law, in a school zone. Scott Carwile has that…:

Cut 3 Audio   (30) “reporting”

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A new 14-million dollar laboratory for animal and food science research is open for business on the LSU Baton Rouge campus. LSU Ag Center Associate Vice Chancellor Phil Elzer says the state-of-the-art research and teaching facility has spacious labs and three-million dollars in new equipment…

Cut 4  (08)  “United States”

Elzer says the renovated animal and food science laboratory will help LSU attract more students and faculty who want to perform cutting edge research…

Cut 5  (11) “international grants”

State funding helped revitalized the two-story, 49-thousand square foot building. Construction began in early 2012. He says the facility is unique because it brings veterinary, animal and food sciences all under one roof…

Cut 6 (13)  “Taste testing”

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The death toll from the Ebola outbreak in West Africa now stands at 932, according to the World Health Organizations.  Medical Director for the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals Dr. Frank Welch says there is no real threat of an outbreak in Louisiana, but residents should educate themselves on the seriousness of this Ebola outbreak…

CUT 7 (15)   “1700 cases”

CUT 8 (10)   “level of alert”

Welch says the Ebola virus is spread by very close personal contact with an infected person through their bodily fluids.  He says that’s why many cases now are health care workers caring for patients with Ebola.  Welch says you cannot contract Ebola very easily like, for example, the flu…

CUT 9 (07)  “of getting that”

______________________________________

As summer winds down and we look toward the fall, it looks like another banner year for the film industry in Louisiana. Jurassic World, Pitch Perfect 2, Terminator 5, and a new Fantastic Four movie were all filmed here this year. Executive Director of Louisiana Entertainment, Chris Stelly, says there are more movie productions scheduled for the Bayou State…

cut 10 (13) “The Runner”

Stelly says we’re currently in a standard industry lull following a busy spring and summer. He says things are certainly coming in for the last few months of the year. Stelly says a couple of major television shows are in production in Louisiana, too…

cut 11 (12)  “the winter” 

Stelly says the number of projects filmed in Louisiana have steadily increased over the past few years. He says the future of the film industry in Louisiana looks bright…

cut 12 (07) “of strengthening”

______________________________________

As most kids head back to the classroom this week State Police is reminding motorists that cell phones are now banned, by law, in a school zone. Trooper Jared Sandifer says using your hand held cell phone at all in a school zone is now illegal…:

Cut 13 (10)  “too and from school”

Sandifer says the law prohibits the use of any wireless device for engaging in a voice call, accessing, reading or posting to a social media site and/or writing, sending or reading a text message. He says cops will be out enforcing this law…:

Cut 14 (11)  “for that”

Sandifer says a first violation of the cell phone school zone ban is a $175 fine and subsequent violations can be up to $500. He says when you’re having any type of interaction on your phone you may think that you’re focused on the road but you’re not…:

Cut 15  (07)   “task of driving”

The Morgan City Police Department is looking for other people who may be involved in neglecting a 54-year-old disabled woman. Michelle Southern has that…:

CUT 1 (32) “reporting”

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

There’s more legal action today in the dispute over Common Core. Jeff Palermo has more…

CUT 2 (32) “reporting”

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

The Morgan City Police Department says more arrests could be coming in the cruelty to the infirm case which put a 22-year-old woman behind bars this week. Assistant Chief Mark Griffin says detectives began the investigation in January when they got a complaint from a family member regarding people living with a 54-year-old disabled woman…:

CUT 3 (08) “and dehydrated”

Griffin says they identified one suspect, Bethany Daigle, who is also accused of using the victim’s debit card…:

CUT 4 (11) “dehydrated conditions”

Griffin says they believe Daigle and the victim were roommates and there were other people living in the home they are currently trying to locate. He says Daigle is charged with cruelty to the infirm, exploitation of the infirm and felony unauthorized use of an access card. Griffin says the suspect and victim were not related…:

CUT 5 (06) “possibly pending”

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

Governor Jindal wants a judge to rule Louisiana’s public schools can NOT use testing material tied to the Common Core education standards. Attorney Jimmy Faircloth filed the petition in state court today on behalf Jindal. Faircloth says the governor’s argument is the Common Core test is an illegal attempt to federalize education in the state..

CUT 6 (11) “federal program”

At one time Jindal was a supporter of Common Core, but now describes the controversial education standards as an attempt by the federal government to interfere with local education. Faircloth says the Constitution prohibits such interference…

CUT 7 (09) “10th amendment”

Faircloth’s argument is that standardized testing associated with Common Core allows the federal government to decide what is taught in Louisiana public schools and that violates the law…

CUT 8 (09) “curriculum”

(This issue also has a lawsuit from the other side, filed by parents and teachers who say Jindal violated the constitution when his administration suspended the testing contract tied to Common Core.)

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

A recent poll asking consumers how they feel about their cell phones shows that most people are tired of gimmicks, but want improvements to things like batteries and GPS. We asked these Louisianans what improvements they’d like to see on their phone…:

CUT 9 (10) “faster”

Poll respondents named “ease of use” as their number one concern with 29% of the vote. Coming in next was better reception, the battery life followed by apps. Just 3% of people said they cared about quirky, unique features such as Samsung’s eyeball-tracking technology. These Louisianans are keeping it simple with their preferred upgrades…:

CUT 10 (11) “money making app”

The survey found that a phone with a better battery life would be purchase by 89% of those polled. A waterproof body and zoom camera lens were also among improvements consumers would like to see to their phones. We asked these Louisianans what improvements they’d like to see…:

CUT 11 (11) “all that well“

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

The Cameron Parish Sheriff’s office says after an overnight search, an inmate who escaped from the jail there last night is back in custody. Sheriff Ron Johnson says 45-year-old James Lacombe went missing around 9:30pm last night…:

CUT 12 (13) “in the wall”

Johnson says Lacombe overpowered a guard and slipped through a door then kicked in a weak spot in the wall to escape. He says the man did not act alone in this…:

CUT 13 (11) “this morning”

Johnson says Lacombe had a long criminal history including armed robbery, carnal knowledge of a juvenile and had even been convicted on some violent crimes so they are glad this man is back behind bars. He says they believe human error led to the escape…:

cut 14 (07) “unlocked”

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

An invasive species is threatening one of Louisiana’s most popular trees. Matthew Doyle has more…

CUT 1 (34) “reporting”

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The Louisiana Department of Education has released the “High School Student Planning Guidebook: A Path to Prosperity for Every Student”. Eric Gill reports…

Cut 2 Audio (33) “reporting”

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A new poll shows incumbent Vance McAllister in a very competitive race for the 5^th congressional district seat. Jeff Palermo has more.

Cut 3 Audio   (32) “reporting”

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Crape myrtles in Louisiana are under attack from a new invasive species. Crape myrtle barkscales, the invasive bug, are infesting trees across north Louisiana, and feeding off of the popular summer flowering tree. LSU AgCenter horticulturist Allen Owings says the bug first arrived from overseas…

Cut 4  (10)  “Metroplex Of Dallas”

The resilient bug has spread from Texas into several neighboring states, and the barkscales seem to be resistant to less comprehensive methods of removal. Owings says they even appear to be more resistant to weather…

Cut 5  (06) “Winter This Year”

The bugs don’t pose an imminent threat to the life of the trees, but given time, could severely weaken their flowering output and vibrancy. Owings says gardeners should look for the signs of a barkscale infection…

Cut 6 (14)  “The Summer Months”

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Top officials with Cleco are expected to appear today at the Public Service Commission meeting to answer questions regarding a possible sale of the utility company. Commissioner Eric Skrmetta says if Cleco is considering a sale, he just wants to be sure of two things…:

CUT 7 (09)   “of Cleco”

CUT 8 (10)   “before approving”

Skrmetta says Cleco is a public utility and they can do whatever they want, but whatever it is has to be approved by the PSC. He says they believe there are some companies that want to purchase the utility because they are a valuable asset…:

CUT 9 (12)  “want to purchase”

______________________________________

The Louisiana Department of Education has released the “High School Student Planning Guidebook: A Path to Prosperity for Every Student”. It’s a comprehensive guide for parents and school personnel, detailing pathways to opportunities for students after high school. Assistant Superintendent for the Office of Content, Ken Bradford, says the guide is divided into five chapters…

cut 10 (08) “three years”

In the past three years, college opportunities have expanded for students in Louisiana, as well as opportunities to achieve meaningful career credentials through the Jump Start initiative and the related Course Choice program. Bradford says the guide will be helpful whether a student wants to go to a four-year university or community college…

cut 11 (07)  “in the guide”

The comprehensive guide details policies and programs of “Louisiana Believes”, including the Jump Start TOPS Tech Career Diploma and the TOPS University Pathway, as well as related funding and accountability changes. Bradford says the guide references their statewide Counselor Assistance Center which is staffed with certified professional school counselors…(The guide can be found at www.louisianabelieves.com.)

cut 12 (07) “their questions”

______________________________________

According to a new poll, US Representative Vance McAllister’s challengers are within single digits in the race for the 5^th congressional seat. The survey, conducted by the Glascock group out of Pineville, shows McAllister at 27 percent, with democrat and Monroe Mayor Jaime Mayo at 21 percent and Republican Ralph Abraham at 18 percent. ULM political science professor Joshua Stockley says the race is wide open…

Cut 13 (09)  “Striking Distance”

Mayo is the only announced democrat in this race. But Stockley says the poll shows Mayo has some work to do to make the runoff…

Cut 14 (08)  “Congressional Candidate”

Incumbency has historically been favorable to candidates, but recent scandals, and a lack of support from fellow republicans has weakened McAllister’s standing. Stockley says he’ll have to overcome a number of issues…

Cut 15  (13)   “Always Vulnerable”

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Saints training camp continues in West Virginia and defensive coordinator Rob Ryan likes what the defense has accomplished so far. Ryan admits the run defense did not perform well in Saturday’s scrimmage. He says since then, they have put some good practices behind them…

Cut 16  (10)   “and we will”

Ryan is impressed with what he’s seen out of cornerback Keenan Lewis. He thinks that Lewis is a on the cusp of being an annual Pro-Bowl player. In fact, Ryan thinks Lewis should have made the Pro-Bowl last year…

Cut 17  (13)   “knows that”

As the team heads into Friday’s first preseason game at St. Louis, Ryan wants to see continued improvement in his defense. He says they have a lot to work on, but the coaching staff needs to make sure the Saints “D” plays up to its potential…

Cut 18 (12)  “ever been around”

US Senator Mary Landrieu agrees to four televised debates against her republican opponents before the November fourth election. Jeff Palermo has the story…

CUT 1 (30) “reporting”

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

Saints owner Tom Benson was taken to a hospital in West Virginia during practice today. Michelle Southern has that…:

CUT 2 (27) “reporting”

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

The Plaquemine Parish Sheriff’s office says they are investigating an industrial incident in which two men got trapped into some equipment which caused extensive damage to their legs. Spokesman Commander Eric Becnel says deputies responded to the scene of the accident at Daybrook Fisheries around 6pm Monday…:

CUT 3 (08) “raw take”

Becnel says the two men got stuck in equipment during maintenance work and had to be extricated by the fire department which took about 30 minutes for the first man and about three hours for the second man. He says the first individual sustained severe injuries to one of his legs and was taken to a local hospital…:

CUT 4 (11) “lower extremities”

The victims have been identified as 28-year-old Manuel Hernandez of Harvey and 30-year-old Raymond Carrasquillo of Terrytown. They remain hospitalized in stable condition. The accident remains under investigation. Becnel says each men had severe mangling to their legs as the drum they were trapped in was similar to a huge washing machine with blades…:

CUT 5 (06) “that equipment”

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

Democratic incumbent senator Mary Landrieu agrees to participate in four televised debates before the November fourth election. The first one will be in New Orleans on October 2nd. UL Lafayette Political Science Professor Pearson Cross says debates are a great way to educate the voter, but they have little impact on the election

CUT 6 (08) “watch the debate”

No word if republican challenger Bill Cassidy will participate, while tea party candidate Rob Maness says he’ll be at the first three for sure.  Cross says debates usually don’t help a candidate, but they can sometimes have negative consequences

CUT 7 (08) “hurt themselves”

Cross says challengers usually like multiple debates, so they can build their name recognition. He anticipates Cassidy will agree to participate in these forums and expects him to do well against Landrieu

CUT 8 (11) “that regard”

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

Flying Tiger Aviation, a flight school based in northeast Louisiana, has announced a massive expansion that will create a contemporary flight training center for for aerial applications in agriculture and other industries. Owner Mo Rolfs says their school has grown so much they needed to expand and there is already a training facility at the Bastrop airport…:

CUT 9 (07) “initiate the program”

Rolfs says at the Bastrop airport, the company will construct 20,000 square feet of hanger space and a 150,000 square foot expansion of the tarmac. He says the project will create 21 new direct jobs and retain 14 existing jobs…:

CUT 10 (09) “and aerial application”

The Louisiana Economic Development Department says Flying Tiger Aviation is a leader in agricultural aviation training with 90 percent of its students coming from other states and even international locations. Rolfs says they offer many different types of training…:

CUT 11 (09) “instrument qualifications“

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

Baton Rouge Mayor Kip Holden criticizes Governor Jindal’s trip to the US-Mexico border. Holden made the comments as a guest on the Jim Engster Show on WRKF. He doesn’t understand why the governor would visit an area thousands of miles away, when Louisiana has its own problems

CUT 12 (10) “Texas border”

Jindal, along with State Police Colonel Mike Edmonson and House Speaker Charles Kleckley also went to the US-Mexico border yesterday. Afterwards the governor blamed the Obama administration for not doing more to keep illegal immigrants out of the US. Holden, who plans on running for Lieutenant Governor, says Jindal should worry about Louisiana’s issues…

CUT 13 (11) “about Mexico”

Holden says he would rather see Governor Jindal do something about the crime problems in Louisiana, rather than what’s happening along the US-Mexico border…

cut 14 (05) “exception of him”

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

The American Automobile Association says the gas price is dropping fast as the current statewide average is now $3.30 and it’s been falling about a penny everyday for the past couple of weeks. Matthew Doyle has that.

CUT 1 (35) “reporting”

__________________________________

Studies on eating habits in America consistently show Louisiana to be among the most obese states in the nation.  The Dare To Be Healthy initiative is working to change that.  Eric Gill has more…

Cut 2 Audio (34) “reporting”

______________________________________

Drivers across the state are now seeing gas prices around $3.30 for a gallon of regular. That’s a good deal lower from where they were last month, and have been dropping at a steady rate of about one cent a day over the last week or so. American Automobile Association fuel analyst Don Redman expects that will continue this month…

Cut 3 Audio   (14) “last year as well”

International political instability historically has a direct correlation to the prices Louisiana customers pay at the pump. Redman says two things in particular kept prices high over the summer…

Cut 4  (12)  “falling apart of Iraq”

Prices tend to trend up near the end of summer, but Redman says this year, that’s not the case…

Cut 5  (06) “to our benefit”

______________________________

Over 190 new people have joined a lawsuit designed to stop the implementation of common core in Louisiana. The additions, mostly concerned Louisiana parents, joined the lawsuit over a less than 48 hour period. Jeremy Alford with LApolitics.com says the interest seems to be organic…

Cut 6 (12)  “Gravitated toward them”

The number of lawsuits in involving common core has sky rocketed over the last month, with both sides gearing up for some lengthy litigation. Alford says it appears that negotiations have failed…

CUT 7 (12)   “to the courts”

CUT 8 (05)   “next two weeks”

______________________________________

An interactive map showing the wealthiest person in each state of the United States lists Saints and Pelicans owner Tom Benson as the richest person in Louisiana.  The map, by real estate website Movoto, lists Benson’s net worth at $1.5 billion.  Tulane business professor Mark Rosa says that’s a lot of money for a state like Louisiana…

CUT 9 (07)  “for himself”

Benson’s ownership of the New Orleans Saints makes up a large portion of his wealth.  But Rosa says Benson’s net worth is more than just the football team…

cut 10 (06) “where he sits”

The map shows Microsoft founder Bill Gates as the richest person in America with a net worth of $80 billion.  Rosa says owning the Saints has been good for Benson and now that he’s added ownership of the Pelicans, it could pay off big.  But Rosa says sports team ownership can be a double-edged sword…

cut 11 (12)  “of his worth”

______________________________________

Studies on eating habits in America consistently show Louisiana to be among the most obese states in the nation.  One reason the state’s obesity rate is so high is because we eat out at restaurants, a lot.   Dare To Be Healthy Program Coordinator Janice Ackley says they are working to combat the obesity rate…

cut 12 (10) “on restaurant menus”

The Dare To Be Healthy initiative has launched “Eat Healthy SWLA” to help people make healthier choices at restaurants.  Entree options must be under 600 calories, less than 800 milligrams of sodium, and less than 10 percent saturated fat to get the Eat Healthy SWLA stamp of approval.  Ackley says her group enlists the help of registered dietitians to work with restaurants…

Cut 13 (06)  “local restaurant”

The initiative is funded by a grant from Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Louisiana Foundation.  Ackley says they are also educating the public on how to eat healthier when they eat out.  She says they are encouraging people to build healthier salads, cut out the salt, and use portion control when ordering at a restaurant…

Cut 14 (12)  “home for later”

————————————————————

The University of Louisiana at Lafayette football team is entering the 2014 season with extremely high hopes as they return 14 starters including quarterback Terrance Broadway. The Cajuns are big favorites to win a second straight Sun Belt Conference title and head Coach Mark Hudspeth says he’s excited to see what the season will bring..:

Cut 15  (13)   “our current staff”

The Ragin Cajuns play Southern on August 30th. There is work happening on a new UL-Lafayette athletics facility and Hudspeth says the team is practicing around that construction which is a slight challenge. He says that’s a good problem to have….:

Cut 16  (16)   “love hearing those things”

Hudspeth says fans are asking questions about tailgating spots and tickets and making plans to attend big games. He says he LOVES hearing that…:

Cut 17  (18)   “in our program”

The massive sinkhole in Bayou Corne happened 2 years ago and resident frustrations over the massive disaster continue.  The collapsed salt dome caused the evacuations of 350 people.  Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (31) “reporting”

__________________________________

The new school year is approaching and the Department of Heath and Hospitals is reminding parents to be sure your child is up-to-date on vaccinations. Michelle Southern has that…:

Cut 2 Audio (23) “reporting”

______________________________________

A University of Louisana at Lafayette professor is conducting research to keep astronauts healthy.  Dr. Ray Boudreaux’s research is focused on one of the hazards of extended space missions:  bone loss.  Eric Gill has more…

Cut 3 Audio   (30) “….reporting” 
______________________________________

The massive sinkhole in Bayou Corne happened 2 years ago and resident frustrations over the massive disaster continue.  The collapsed salt dome caused the evacuations of 350 people.  John Boudreaux, Director of the Assumption Parish Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness says most of those residents were offered a buyout from Texas Brine…

Cut 4  (07)  “these two years”

The sinkhole was created from a collapsed underground salt dome cavern operated by Texas Brine Company.  The company and property owners reached a settlement earlier this year to end damage claims and buy out their properties.  Boudreaux says even now, resident frustrations over the incident continue…

Cut 5  (06) “their lives”

He says the settlement should bring some closure to residents and help them move on with their lives.  Scientists believe the sinkhole is stabilizing, but Boudreaux is skeptical.  He does say it has been a while since any land has fallen into the sinkhole.

Cut 6 (07)  “the sinkhole”
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The new school year is approaching and the Department of Heath and Hospitals is reminding parents to be sure your child is up-to-date on vaccinations. State immunologist Dr. Frank Welch says not only is ensuring your child has received the proper vaccinations important, it’s also the law…:

CUT 7 (07)   “this year”

Welch says every child should be protected before heading to the classroom…:

CUT 8 (14)   “for their shot record”

Welch says vaccines have proven safe and effective in preventing illness and death from many infectious diseases…:

CUT 9 (12)  “within the classroom”
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A University of Louisiana at Lafayette professor is conducting research to keep astronauts healthy.  Dr. Ray Boudreaux’s research is focused on one of the hazards of extended space missions:  bone loss.  Boudreaux says the bone mass of astronauts is reduced by 1 to 2 percent each month they are in space…

cut 10 (07) “extraordinary bone loss”

Boudreaux’s research revealed astronauts bone-loss may be reduced with resistance exercise using pneumatic-powered equipment and by taking a bone-loss treatment drug.  Boudreaux says his research has earned him the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research’s Young Investigator Award…

cut 11 (09)  “strong bones”

He says the ultimate goal of this research is to get astronauts to Mars healthy.  Boudreaux says his research could also be helpful to help people who are bedridden for several months at a time or patients suffering from spinal chord injuries…

cut 12 (07) “on Earth”
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In a recently released ranking of the “50 Great Affordable College Towns in the US”, Monroe comes in at number 33 in the nation. Monroe is the only city in Louisiana to be ranked. ULM President Nick Bruno says Monroe offers great support to the university…:

Cut 13 (10)  “perspective”

The list was complied based on the cost of living index published by the Council for Community and Economic Research. Bruno says in these days of rising tuition costs, students consider things like cost of food, housing, utilities and transportation when choosing where they want to attend college…:

Cut 14 (07)  “on that list”

Bruno says this is great national exposure for ULM…:

Cut 15  (04)   “beyond our borders”

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LSU Head Coach Les Miles spoke with the media Sunday and said 103 players reported as fall training camp gets underway today. The Mad Hatter started off by saying he always loves this first meeting…:

Cut 16  (16)   “if you will”

The LSU roster will kick things off today with the veterans, and some freshman, going in the morning and the other freshman will take the afternoon session. Miles says two players will not be practicing…:

Cut 17  (12)   “go forward”

Miles says Trovonte Valentine is still awaiting clearance from the NCAA eligibility Center. Jalen Mills is still suspended for his arrest in May on second degree battery charges where he is accused of punching a woman in the face. Miles says he’s not sure what’s going on with at at the moment but he’s not pressing the issue…:

Cut 18  (10)   “his business”

Colorado State University researchers continue to predict a below average 2014 Atlantic Hurricane season. Michelle Southern has that…:

CUT 1 (33) “reporting”

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On the same day that smoking is banned from college campuses, drivers who throw cigarette butts out car windows face hefty fines. Michelle Southern reports.

CUT 2 (35) “reporting”

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This week’s state sales-tax holiday will be a big help to local businesses that have been struggling in this sluggish economy according to the National Federation of Independent Business Louisiana. Spokesman Todd Pack says weak sales continue to be a problem for your shops down the street…:

CUT 3 (09) “at small businesses”

The Louisiana Department of Revenue says the state sales-tax holiday, Friday and Saturday, applies to all consumer purchases of tangible personal property up to $2500, other than vehicles and meals. Pack says this is exactly the shot in the arm small businesses need…:

CUT 4 (12) “for small business”

Pack says when you shop at  mom and pops you’re helping your friends and your neighbors…:

CUT 5 (08) “in the community”

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On the same day that smoking is banned from public colleges and universities, motorists could face a much stiffer penalty if they throw a cigarette butt from a car window. The new law increases fines for the intentional disposal of a cigarette from a motor vehicle. Marrerro Representative Patrick Connick says littering has to stop:

CUT 6 (08) “on the street”

The new law increases first offense fines from $250 to $300, plus community service. Connick says he was inspired to write this legislation after participating in “clean up days” in his district…:

CUT 7 (08) “is a problem”

Under the new law, third and subsequent offense fines jump to $1,500 plus 80 hours of community service and suspension of your driver’s license for one year. Connick says the key to the success of this law is enforcement…:

CUT 8 (05) “cleaner state”

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Another one of the state’s 551 laws that go into effect today would grant an immediate divorce in domestic violence situations. New Orleans Senator JP Morrell says before today, even if you had tons of evidence that you were a victim of domestic violence, you’d still have to wait 6 months to a year before you get a divorce…:

CUT 9 (07) “healthcare”

Morrell says now if someone has reasonable proof that they’ve been abused and can show that in court, they will be able to divorce the abuser right away…:

CUT 10 (13) “at that time”

Morrell says also beginning today, abusers under a protective order are prohibited from possessing a firearm and those convicted of domestic abuse are banned from possessing a firearm for 10 years. He says Louisiana is one of the leaders in the nation when it comes to domestic violence situations that end in death so one of the major goals of the 2014 session was to pass sweeping anti-domestic violence legislation…:

CUT 11 (11) “both parties“

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The 11th Annual Great American Seafood Cook-Off is being held Saturday morning in New Orleans when 19 chefs from throughout the US will compete for the high honor of best seafood chef in the nation. Lt. Governor Jay Dardenne says this is a great opportunity to put the spotlight on Louisiana and gulf seafood…:

CUT 12 (14) “and blogger”

Dardenne says the competition takes place at the Convention Center in The Big Easy at 11:30am tomorrow and it is open to the public to come out and taste some amazing seafood. Dardenne says this event is all about promoting sustainable and domestic fisheries…:

CUT 13 (09) “which is obviously huge”

Dardenne says the 2013 Cook-Off Crown went to chef David Crews from Mississippi who prepared a Southern Nicoise Salad featuring lump crab meat and seared tuna. He says it doesn’t get much better than Gulf seafood…:(Tickets are just $5 in advance and $10 at the door.)

cut 14 (10) “of our product”

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Colorado State University researchers continue to predict a below average 2014 Atlantic Hurricane season. CSU Report Author Dr. William Gray says they are now calling for a total of 10 named storms with four becoming hurricanes and one to reach major hurricane strength. He says the storm deterring El Nino is still expected to arrive…:

CUT 15 (11) “Atlantic Basin”

Gray says the Atlantic Ocean itself has exceptionally unfavorable hurricane formation conditions…:

CUT 16 (13) “good season”

Gray says they predict this year will be a lot like last year where we had 13 named storms but only 2 minor hurricanes. He says that doesn’t mean residents along the Gulf Coast shouldn’t take the usual precautions because you just never know…:

CUT 17 (13) “extensive damage”