Early A.M. News Script

Fri 11-MAY-2012 Early A.M. News Script

-------- The 5:00 News Scripts Follow ------------

1} CELEBRATIONAM_VO

Good morning it's 5:00 -- I'm Keagan Harsha. And I'm Gary Sadowsky. weather intro Well it's friday -- and as is tradition -- that means we begin with a look at the weird and the wacky -- and here's something you don't see everyday. Babies -- being tossed off roof tops. It's all part of a centuries old ritual in southern India -- where toddlers are tossed from the roof of a temple onto a large cloth below. Priests and others defend the religious act -- saying its performed to make the babies stronger.

2} FRAT11_INTRO

A scandalous survey question about rape rocked the UVM campus -- and closed a fraternity. Five months later -- we still still don't know how it happened. Or who may be responsible. Some students say the university has dropped the ball on the investigation. Education reporter Keith McGilvery has more.

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December 2011. A Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity survey at the University of Vermont asking students who they would rape if they could went public-- and so to did cries for action. ((protest rally nats)) The story made national headlines and within days Sig Ep's national offices sent frat brothers packing and shut down their chapter. UVM's Associate Vice President Annie Stevens supported the move and promised an investigation of her own. ((Annie Stevens, UVM Associate Vice President for Student Life Dec. 2011 "We believe we still have more information to find out for our own processes and holding the appropriate organization or individuals accountable.")) But five months after the incident and this interview with Channel 3 there are more questions than answers. Like who was behind the hate-filled survey, how will they be held accountable, and what's taking the University so long to figure it out. Juliet Critsimilios was outraged by the survey and organized this year's Take Back the Night Rally to highlight the problem of sexual violence on campus. ((Juliet Critsimilios, UVM Take Back the Night Organizer 0628 "It's hard to feel like you're fighting a battle you know you're screaming and no one's really listening.)) The senior says University officials have failed in their responsibility to handle the investigation in a timely manor and to use the opportunity to educate everyone on campus. ((Juliet Critsimilios, UVM Take Back the Night Organizer 0141 "I was really disappointed that they just disbanded the frat entirely and they were just like okay this problem is gone now were just kind of going to wash our hands of it and have not really talked to the community about it and talk about how these ideas affect students.")) In a statement to WCAX Associate Vice President Stevens says ((Annie Stevens, UVM Associate Vice President for Student Life While the investigation may not have happened as quickly as some would like, our goal from the beginning has been to be as fair and painstakingly thorough as possible.)) Stevens goes on to say that the University has steps it can take to hold graduating seniors accountable .... ((Annie Stevens, UVM Associate Vice President for Student Life "...from keeping a student conduct record on file, which would impact law, medical, and graduate school applications and, potentially, employment, to revoking a graduate's degree.)) ((nats: campus)) UVM says four university departments are involved in the investigation and that they will work together on it over the summer but would not comment on what they've learned or what's left to do. I spoke with a member of the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity off camera this afternoon. He tells me he too is waiting for some kind of resolution-- pointing out that his brothers have done a lot of good in the community and that a number of them have suffered from actions they were not a part of. KM C3 News Burlington.

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A campus wide email has been to students at UVM -- following a graffiti incident at the college. Authorities tell the Burlington Free Press that a student spray painted a highly visible, racist message on the side of a dorm. Police have apprehended a suspect -- and charges are likely. In his letter to students -- interim UVM president John Bramley called the act despicable and repulsive. The student's name has not been released.

5} SAFETYAM_INTRO

' A new app is out to help keep kids safe on college campuses across the country. And it was created by a former police chief at UVM. Molly Smith is here to tell us more about it. The "Campus Sentinel" app has been out for about 3 weeks and has seen roughly 500 downloads so far. The technology highlights a major concern for many families as their kids head off to college.

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Long before the creation of the ipad or the smart phone schools have been required to report on-campus crime to the department of education. ((GM Whether they be parents or students or employees of institutions were made aware of the kinds of crimes happening on college campuses and it was the result of the murder of Jeanne Cleary at Leigh university.)) but for the most part the information stayed with the department of ed, until now. Smart phone users can look at alcohol and drug violations -- as well as property and violent crimes at schools across the country. ((GM the app became an opportunity to use the technology of today's and use this enormous amount of information and do something useful with it)) welcome news for families with kids in college. ((LS we read these headlines about hazing and love drugs things like that but I don't know too many parents who would sit down and do the research on their own)) But theinformation available through this app is not limited to college campuses. (( GM we built resources into the app on topics that we know are relevant to the college experience. If you are traveling overseas or they're going on spring break or moving into an apartment off campus)) Parents say it is a tool to help start the conversation about safety -- while doing your own research. ((LS you are coming from a position of knowledge which is better than just sounding like an over worried parents who is overreacting to something they heard on the news))

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not every school responds and reports information the same way, so it is not always an apples to apples comparison, but developers say it is a step in the right direction.

8} BROWNAM_VO

A former world leader is paying a visit to our region. British prime minister Gordon Brown will give a public lecture at Dartmouth College. Brown is scheduled to speak May 15th on campus. He served as british prime minister from 2007 to 2010.

9} WEATHER_GREEN

10} FORECAST

Today: AM showers Then partly sunny Breezy Highs: 57 to 64 Wind: NW 10 to 20 mph Tonight: Clear and cold Scattered frost Lows: 32 to 38 Wind: NW 5 to 10 mph, diminishing Saturday: Mostly sunny Increasing clouds late, north Highs: 68 to 75 Wind: SW 5 to 15 mph Extended: Sunday: Mother's Day! Partly sunny Lows: 40s Highs: 65 to 72 Monday: Partly cloudy Lows: 40s Highs: 70s Tuesday: Partly sunny Lows: 40s Highs: 70s Hyper-Extended: Wednesday: Mostly cloudy Chance for showers Lows: 40s Highs: 65 to 75 Thursday: Partly sunny Lows: 40s Highs: 65 to 75

11} MAYESAM_INTRO

The Mississippi man accused of killing a mother and daughter -- and kidnapping her other two girls -- is dead. But police say the two girls he took are safe. Danielle Nottingham has the details.

12} MAYESAM_PKG

THE FBI SAYS 35-YEAR OLD ADAM MAYES SHOT AND KILLED HIMSELF THURSDAY EVENING AFTER SWAT TEAMS MOVED IN TO ARREST HIM NEAR NEW ALBANY, MISSISSIPPI. Sot - Daniel McMullen/FBI "Preliminary reports indicate he shot himself in the head and was later pronounced dead at an area hospital." MAYES HAD BEEN ON THE RUN SINCE APRIL 27TH, WHEN HE DISAPPEARED WITH 31-YEAR OLD JO ANN BAIN, AND HER THREE DAUGHTERS - 14 YEAR OLD ADRIENNE, 12 YEAR OLD ALEXANDRIA AND 8 YEAR OLD KYLIYAH (keye-LEE-uh). THE BODIES OF JO ANN AND ADRIENNE BAIN WERE FOUND IN SHALLOW GRAVES ON MAYES' PROPERTY IN NORTHERN MISSISSIPPI LAST WEEK ... MAYES' WIFE TOLD POLICE HE KILLED THEM SO THAT HE COULD KIDNAP THE YOUNGER GIRLS. TERESA AND HER HUSBAND WERE CHARGED WITH FIRST-DEGREE MURDER. MAYES WAS SEEN THREE DAYS AFTER THE KILLINGS ON A CONVENIENCE STORE SECURITY CAMERA. HE WENT ON THE F-B-I'S TEN MOST WANTED LIST, AND ELUDED POLICE IN THREE STATES UNTIL A TIPSTER SPOTTED HIM. SOT - "the girls were found alive and appear to be unharmed" THE TWO BAIN GIRLS WERE TAKEN TO A LOCAL HOSPITAL FOR OBSERVATION. DANIELLE NOTTINGHAM, CBS NEWS.

13} PASSENGERAM_VO

A U.S. Airways jet had to made an emergency landing in boston last night -- after a passenger tried to open the cockpit door mid-flight. The plane was headed from portland, maine to philadelphia -- when witnesses say 40 year old Michael Ensalaco got up from his seat and tried to crack in to the cockpit. A flight attendant kept the North Carolina man at bay until the pilot could land the plane. Massachusetts state police then arrested Ensalaco -- they say he was was disoriented at the time -- and thought the cockpit was the bathroom.

14} XMAN_WHITE

Police in Epping, New Hampshire have arrested a man for a bizarre assault. 43 year old Michael Masterson is accused of carving an "x" into a relative's head. The man was hospitalized with serious injuries. He tells police the last thing he remembers is arguing with Masterson about family matters -- and then waking up in a pool of blood. Masterson is now charged with first degree assault.

15} HEIST5_VO

Dozens of law enforcement agents swarmed the home of a reputed mobster in Connecticut yesterday. Authorities believe 75-year-old Robert Gentile has information about an infamous, unsolved art heist in Boston. The agents have been seen digging in his back yard -- and removing evidence from inside the home in Manchester. The FBI believes he was involved in the 1990 heist at Boston's Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. Thieves stole works by Rembrandt, Vermeer and others -- worth more than a half a billion dollars. Gentile is currently behind bars on drug and weapons charges.

16} FOODDRIVEAM_VO

There's a chance to help stamp out hunger this weekend. The Stamp Out Hunger Letter Carriers' Food drive is this Saturday. It is a nationwide effort, but they expect to collect about 6-thousand pounds of food collected locally to go to the Chittenden Emergency Food Shelf in Burlington. Those wishing to donate can put a bag of non-perishable food by their mailboxes before their Saturday mail delivery.

17} NEWSVAULT_TECH

Today marks 20 years since Vermont State Police Sgt. Gary Gaboury drowned searching for the body of a drowned victim at Huntington Gorge.

18} GABOURY_VO

20 years ago today was a devastating day for Vermont State Police and rescue agencies across Vermont. Kevin Brown had drowned at the gorge 5 days earlier, so Sgt. Gary Gaboury and the state police search team was sent in to find his body. The gorge is notorious for extremely strong currents, jagged rocks and close calls. Sgt. Gaboury was tied up and by teams of police to go in the dangerous water and rescue the body, but something went wrong, and he got too close to the current and was sucked under a rock where he too drowned.

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20} STROKE6_INTRO

Watch the salt. Researchers say people consuming more than the recommended daily allowance -- are nearly three times more likely to suffer a stroke. Bridget Barry Caswell has the details.

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Bill Rasmussen's life has changed dramatically since suffering his first stroke more than seven years ago. Besides his need for a wheelchair, doctors suggested some major changes to his diet. (91:03) ((Bill Rasmussen/Stroke Survivor: They wanted me to have a more balanced diet, stay away from salty food, prepared food, hot dogs)) That's because salt can increase your blood pressure -- one of the risk factors for stroke. But now, a new study suggests salt plays a more direct role in stroke risk. Researchers in Florida looked at nearly 27-hundred people. (3:02) ((Dr. Chris Commichau/FAHC Neurologist: About 90-percent of all the people in the study were over the recommended amount of sodium intake, which is about 15-hundred milligrams, which equals less than a third of a teaspoon of salt.)) That's not a lot of salt, yet those who consumed more than that Heart Association guideline of 15-hundred milligrams per day -- faced a significantly higher risk. (4:11) ((Dr. Chris Commichau/FAHC Neurologist: The association with stroke in this study was even stronger than with cardiovascular disease, heart attack -- so for neurologists this is a very important study looking specifically at the risk of stroke -- which for patients in this study resulted in almost two and a half times greater risk over a 10 year period -- that is a tremendous public health burden.)) And that greater risk goes for everyone -- the general public -- not just those who already have risk factors -- and other health issues such as diabetes. But the remedy isn't simple. You can't just put away the salt shaker at home because 80-percent of the salt we consume each day is already in our food -- in packaged foods and restaurant food. Commichau calls it a major public policy issue. (3:45) ((Commichau: I think it's really important for the public to know that they should really pay attention to the labeling and really to keep track of how much salt they're taking in.)) That's exactly what Bill Rasmussen did. (2:10) ((Reporter: You used to eat out a lot before? Yes, at least five times a week. And now? Once a week - tops.)) Big changes as researchers learn more about the food we eat and its role in America's number three killer -- strokes. BBC, Ch. 3 News, Btn

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Still to come as the news continues this morning -- a bellows falls man is accused of assaulting three police officers.// Burlington wins big in a parking lot lawsuit. plus a mega contract -- means big news for plattsburgh.

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But before we get to those stories -- let's take a quick look at how the weather is shaping up this morning.

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Montreal's metro system is back up and running this morning -- after a smoke bomb scare. Police say four smoke bombs were tossed onto the the tracks Thursday morning -- at various metro stations across the city. It's the third time someone has detonated smoke bombs inside the subway system in recent weeks. All have happened at the height of the morning rush hour. Fortunately -- no one has been injured. Police are still trying to identify suspects.

25} ASSAULTAM_MAP

A Bellows Falls man is behind bars -- after a violent and destructive night. It started with several complaints from drivers in Saxtons River -- who reported seeing an injured man was standing in the middle of Main street disrupting traffic. Authorities arrested 23 year old Frank Foster. Foster then allegedly kicked out the back window of the state police cruiser and tried to escape -- and then assaulted to troopers who tried to subdue him. Once he arrived at police barracks -- Foster then allegedly bit ANOTHER trooper in the leg. He's now facing multiple charges and is being held for lack of 25-thousand dollars bail.

26} PARKINGLOT11_VO

It was a good day in court for the City of Burlington. A jury awarded the city 695-thousand dollars. Burlington sued a parking lot operator -- for cheating the city. Curt Heniger of Florida had a contract to run the park and ride lot at the Burlington airport. But airport officials say for about 9 months at the end of that contract - Heniger collected fees from people who parked in the lot - but never paid the city its share. A judge still needs to ok the jury award - and Heniger could still appeal.

27} BOMBARDIER11_VO

A mega contract for Bombardier in Plattsburgh. The Bay Area Rapid Transit Authority in San Francisco-- announced on its website -- it's spending nearly 900 MILLION dollars -- for hundreds of new rail cars being made by Bombardier. The new contract is the second major one for Bombardier recently. In March -- the Plattsburgh facility landed a 600-million contract to build cars for New York City.

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29} FORECAST2

30} NORTHCOM11_INTRO

A major promotion for our Major General. The leader of the Vermont National Guard -- is expected to leave the state --after President Obama picked him for a top military job. Gina Bullard reports.

31} NORTHCOM11_PKG

He's well know to Vermonters, especially military families, the leader of nearly four thousand Green Mountain Boys. ((nat)) Major General Michael Dubie has been Vermont's senior guard leader for the past 5 years. Now he's getting a major national promotion. He's set to become deputy commander of Northern Command in Colorado -- which was established after the 9-11 terror attacks to help protect the United States. It's known as NORTHCOM. (57:53:27) ((Col. Stephen Pomeroy Ret./Norwich University "they're primarily responsible for 3 main areas, homeland defense civil support and disaster relief")) The news was celebrated at his alma mater -- Norwich University where he got his masters degree in international relations. (1:05:23:29) ((Col. Stephen Pomeroy Ret./Norwich University "its good news for vt")) General Dubie has overseen massive deployments of Vermont soldiers to Iraq and Afghanistan -- the largest call up since World War II. And the transformation of the army guard's mission. Under Dubie's watch the Vermont Air Guard is being considered for the next generation F-35 fighter jet. Now his focus will be on national security elsewhere -- in a top U-S post. There are only nine Deputy Commanders in the country. (56:58:29) ((Col. Stephen Pomeroy Ret./Norwich University "their area of responsibility is north america. continental us, hawaii, alaska and the costal waters")) The elite position at NORTHCOM has only ever been filled by a national guard leader once before. (1:03:16:29) ((Col. Stephen Pomeroy Ret./Norwich University "a lot of the forces that are going to respond to a national emergency or disaster will be local guard forces and having a guardsman dealwith local forces really makes sense"))

32} YOUR_TAKE_TECH

Major General Michael Dubie has been tapped by the President for this position, and while so many people are proud of him they are sad to see such a great leader go. Raylene Codling A big congrats to him, but at the same time a BIG loss for Vt. Emily Weaver Congrats to MG Dubie! I agree, if so, it will be a sad goodbye for Vermont to a great man, leader and his amazing wife. other people are celebrating for him, but also saying it is a huge thing for Vermont to have someone in such a high rank. Gregory Audette Vermonters should be very proud !!! Roland Descoteaux MG Dubie is a Good man and A Vermonter for the Job does the state Proud! My late Dad who retired as a CSM from the VT Guard would have loved to have heard this. He loved Vermont and the Guard.

33} SPORTSWRAP_GREEN

After coming up short Tuesday in Atlanta, the Celtics had a second chance to close out the Hawks in Game Six of their first round playoff series last night. Mike has the highlights in our sportswrap.

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Paul Pierce playing the game with a sprained ligament in his right knee...Avery Bradley also hurt but playing...dealing with a sprained rotator cuff... --- This was a game of big runs...in the second ...Boston puts together a 16-0 run to turn a six point deficit into a ten point lead...Kevin Garnett and Rajon Rondo leading the way ...C's up six at the break... --- They'd be up nine in the fourth when Atlanta goes on a 14-2 run...Al Horfords off balance runner giving the Hawks a three point lead with under three minutes to go... --- Boston answers by going to Garnett...a turn back the clock game for KG...28 points, 14 rebounds, 5 blocks and 3 steals... --- closing seconds... Atlanta looking to tie but Pierce comes up with the big block on Joe Johnson...Horford would miss a big free throw with three seconds to go and Pierce hits two to seal an 83-80 win. Boston takes the series in six games. They'll face Philly in the second round. The Sixers knocking off top seed Chicago last night. Game One of that series is Saturday night in Boston. ---------------------- ------------- Josh Beckett was awful as the Red Sox opened a four game set with Cleveland at Fenway. Just a day after it was reported Beckett was playing golf one day after missing his last start due to a sore back muscle, Beckett coughed up seven runs in two and a third innings as Boston fell 8-3. ---------------------- ------------- Meanwhile, in the Bronx, C-C Sabathia pitched like an ace should...eight innings, two runs, ten strikeouts, leading New York to a 5-3 win over Tampa Bay.

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36} ZUTANO6_GREEN

We continue our series -- Capturing a Moment -- and today we focus on fashion photography. Dealing with some models can be tough -- as Gina Bullard found out.

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((nat)) Cabot. A picturesque town... with plenty of beautiful images. But there's more then just landscapes here -- inside this barn -- there's no shortage of natural beauty. ((nat shoot)) Welcome to Zutano. ((nat)) Where it's all about kids....photography and fashion. ((nat)) The husband wife duo -- Michael and Uli Belenky started Zutano almost 25 years ago. It's a whimsical clothing line -- started after their first daughter was born. ((nat)) The couple lived in New York City - but moved to Cabot to be closer to family - grow the company and settle down. ((nat)) Their daughter was one of the first models .... and they soon needed more. The kids are the face of the business -- and what inspires the couple. Now every other week Zutano brings in fresh baby faces -- to model clothes -- and capture personalities. (23:09:06) ((Michael Belenky/Zutano "i think we think of it more as portrait studies, i mean its important to see the clothes but its much more about the babies than the clothes")) The photos are used on Zutano's website, social media sites and in catalogs. (24:16:21) ((Michael Belenky/Zutano "good naps and full bellies is a good way to start")) Michael went to the International Center of Photography -- and focused on portrait and editorial photography. He shot for many years for the New York City newspaper the Village Voice and magazines like Forbes. (22:30:26) ((Michael Belenky/Zutano "i really love photographing babies its so interesting to see the diversity of children")) A photo shoot can be intense for anyone -- let alone a baby. With new surroundings -- flashes in their face -- not to mention constant outfit changes... ((nats Uli)) ... some kids get overwhelmed. From happy one minute to upset the next -- Michael has to connect with them through all of this. (24:40:28) ((Michael Belenky/Zutano "its great when we can get a direct connection where the eyes are connected to the camera so we often try to keep the parents and mothers from jumping up and down")) With faces -- sounds -- ((nat)) songs -- and the occasional game of peek-a-boo -- ((nat)) Michael connects with kids by becoming one when trying to get the perfect shot that tells a story. (24:29:03) ((Michael Belenky/Zutano "we're looking for a spark kids that have a twinkle and a curiosity")) The Zutano crew is incredibly patient -- going with the flow. Never forcing anything -- and knowing when to stop. (25:57:29) ((Michael Belenky/Zutano "not all kids are ready for it and you can kind of work through but you have to know when to say okay lets try this another day")) Michael says six to nine month old babies are his favorite to photograph -- they are old enough to sit up -- but can't run away just yet -- they are also curious -- but usually not shy. Older kids -- can get stage fright -- and stick to parents. ((nat)) The company doesn't look for model looks -- embracing every baby as beautiful. Whether it's bright red hair or big ears -- interesting babies are what they look for that can represent a real image of kids. (46:18:01) ((Uli Belenky/Zutano "it underlines the unique clothing and unique personalities that each baby has")) Capturing growing personalities on camera. Gina Bullard Channel 3 News Cabot.

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1} FATALAM_MAP

A man was killed early this morning in a fatal crash in Lyndon. It happened at around two o'clock. Authorities say Timothy Goodhue drove off of brook road and into a small stream. The 23 year old's body was found behind the wheel -- and submerged in the water. A female passenger also suffered minor injuries. Authorities say speed and alcohol were both factors in the crash.

2} FRAT10X_VO

Some students at UVM -- say the school dropped the ball -- following a fraternity controversy. The Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity made national headlines in December -- when a pledge survey went public -- because it asked about raping women. Administrators promised a thorough investigation. But exams end Friday. And the school has not said what exactly happened -- who was involved -- and if any student is being punished. The national fraternity shut down the UVM chapter voluntarily.

3} CONTROVERSY10X_SOTVO

((Juliet Critsimilios, UVM Take Back the Night Organizer 0141 "I was really disappointed that they just disbanded the frat entirely and they were just like okay this problem is gone now were just kind of going to wash our hands of it and have not really talked to the community about it and talk about how these ideas affect students.")) UVM released a statement saying the University takes the issue seriously and the investigation will continue into the summer.

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5} BALSAMS11_VOFONT

You can own a piece of hotel history. Just about everything at the Balsams Resort in Dixville Notch is up for auction this Saturday. The new owners are selling the contents of the resort -- from 300-bedroom sets -- to baking equipment -- to antiques and a ski lift. Another will be held tonight. Sharon Meyer and Darren Perron will be there -- with live reports -- and a history lesson -- on the Channel 3 News at six.

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1} DRUGSAM_VO

DEA agents have arrested a handful of young men and women in connection with a federal drug investigation in south burlington. Police swarmed a home on Proctor Avenue around seven this morning -- right near Rice High School. Neighbors say they have seen a lot of suspicious activity near the home. At least two of the people arrested in this case are expected to face federal charges. It's unclear exactly how many people were arrested. Police say school at nearby rice high school is unaffected, and teachers and students were never in danger. We expect more details to be released later today.

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3} SMOKEBOMBSAM_VO

Montreal's metro system is back up and running this morning -- after a smoke bomb scare. Police say four smoke bombs were tossed onto the the tracks Thursday morning -- at various metro stations across the city. It's the third time someone has detonated smoke bombs inside the subway system in recent weeks. Fortunately -- no one has been injured. Police are still trying to identify suspects.

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5} PROMO

Coming up next week on the channel 3 morning news -- the simple life. We'll be bringing you stories of vermonters who choose alternative ways of living as we begin a special series. And we meet a former professional wrestler turned author from newport.

-------- The 6:00 News Scripts Follow ------------

1} CELEBRATIONAM_VO

2} FRAT11_INTRO

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4} GRAFFITI_WHITE

5} SAFETYAM_INTRO

6} SAFETYAM_PKG

7} SAFETYAM_TAG

not every school responds and reports information the same way, so it is not always an apples to apples comparison, but developers say it is a step in the right direction.

8} BROWNAM_VO

9} WEATHER_GREEN

10} FORECAST

11} STOCKS

(stox font)

12} MONEYWATCH_INTRO

Believe it or not, gas prices are DOWN since last month -- and there's more good news for drivers: the prices are expected to continue to drop. Alexis Christoforous has more in our moneywatch.

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JP MORGAN CHASE IS WARNING OF HUGE LOSSES THIS QUARTER . (VO) THE NATION'S LARGEST BANK SAYS IT LOST AT LEAST 2 BILLION DOLLARS IN A SERIES OF BAD TRADES-- THAT WERE SUPPOSED TO HELP PROTECT THE BANK IN THE DIFFICULT ECONOMY. C-E-O JAMIE DIAMOND BLAMES THE LOSSES ON "QUOTE" MANY ERRORS, SLOPPINESS AND BAD JUDGEMENT. (VO) GASOLINE PRICES HAVE DROPPED 5 PERCENT SINCE PEAKING LAST MONTH. THE NATIONAL AVERAGE IS 3-74 A GALLON - DOWN ABOUT 20 CENTS SINCE HITTING A HIGH OF 3-93 EARLY LAST MONTH. DRIVERS ARE PAYING 21 CENTS LESS THAN THIS TIME LAST YEAR AND EXPERTS PREDICT THAT IF CRUDE OIL PRICES CONTINUE TO FALL, GAS COULD AVERAGE 3-50 A GALLON BY MEMORIAL DAY. (GRAPHIC) THE DOW BARELY SNAPPED A SIX DAY LOSING STREAK, UP 20 POINTS. THE NASDAQ DIPPED A POINT. (ON CAM) THE U-S GOVERNMENT HAS ITS FIRST BUDGET SURPLUS IN FOUR YEARS - (VO) TOTALING 59 BILLION DOLLARS BUT EXPERTS SAY THAT WON'T LAST. THE GOVERNMENT IS STILL ON TRACK FOR A TRILLION DOLLAR DEFICIT FOR THE FOURTH STRAIGHT YEAR. (VO) A GOVERNMENT WATCHDOG GROUP WANTS TO OVERHAUL SOME MORTGAGE-RELATED FEES. THE CONSUMER FINANCIAL PROTECTION BUREAU SAYS IT MIGHT BAN ORIGINATION FEES THAT VARY WITH THE SIZE OF THE LOAN. IT WANTS LENDERS TO CHARGE THE SAME FLAT FEE FOR ALL LOANS. (GRAPHIC) AND MORTGAGE RATES HAVE HIT YET ANOTHER RECORD LOW. THE RATE ON A 30 YEAR LOAN IS AVERAGE 3 POINT 83 PERCENT. (ANIMATION) THAT'S YOUR MW FOR MORE GO TO CBSMW.COM. (ON CAM) IN NY, I'M ALEXIS CHRISTOFOROUS.

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17} NEWSVAULT_TECH

Today marks 20 years since Vermont State Police Sgt. Gary Gaboury drowned searching for the body of a drowned victim at Huntington Gorge.

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This week's Super Senior is the most well known...but that doesn't mean Tony Pomerleau doesn't have a few surprises to share. Joe Carroll has the story of a Vermont businessman who's still living the American dream.

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In many ways the Follett House is like it's owner.... highly visible in Burlington, a pillar in the community and been around for a long time. (20:43) ((Tony Pomerleau/Super Senior, Everything is 100 percent the way it was in 1841.)) 94 year old Antonio Pomerleau....most people call him Tony, has restored the Pomerleau Agency's headquarters to it's former glory. (21:51) ((Tony Pomerleau/Super Senior, this was no money maker believe me.)) One of the few endeavors that hasn't made him money. The self made millionaire had a modest beginning. (6:10) ((Tony Pomerleau/Super Senior, somebody said to me, where you poor?? I said no..I didn't have any money.)) He was born in Quebec but his family moved to Newport when he was an infant. An accident when he was two almost killed him. Tony fell from upstairs into the basement and was in a body cast for 4 years. He got healthy and quickly turned into a wheeler and dealer. Cleaning cars as a kid to a shoe salesman at a young man. Always hustling.... he went on to start his own food market, that expanded to four. (4:42) ((Tony Pomerleau/Super Senior, how are you feeling? I am here every day! I make all kinds of deals every day. )) Now he deals in real estate. Owning dozens of shopping plazas in Vermont and New York. (19:22) ((Tony Pomerleau/Super Senior, what's your greatest accomplishment? my family. not the millions of dollars? Nahhh! )) He's been married to Rita for 65 years. They raised 10 children, two have passed away. (14:06) ((Tony Pomerleau/Super Senior, are you an emotional guy? yup! oh yeah, I cry a lot. laughs)) In order to understand Tony better, you need to go for a ride. (26:50) ((Tony Pomerleau/Super Senior, you still drive huh? of course! I'm your guy. )) We go up North Avenue, past the police station....the building he donated. To the New North End. (30:29 ) ((Tony Pomerleau/Super Senior, this is the first shopping center that I developed. )) way back in 1953...he saw the potential because so many homes were being built in this part of Burlington. (31:34) ((Tony Pomerleau/Super Senior, what's your greatest failure business wise? I have none. Come on. I have none. )) Some say he has a healthy ego, Tony thinks otherwise... just an ambitious man who's done well. All would agree, he's a very generous man. From an annual Christmas Party for area youth to a sizable donation to Saint Michaels College. (10:39) ((Tony Pomerleau/Super Senior, how much money do you figure you've given away through the years? Quite a few million.)) Last year alone he gave away 2 and a half million and just recently he gave away another million to help Vermont recover from Tropical Storm Irene. There was a ceremony in the Statehouse in his honor. (11:13) ((Tony Pomerleau/Super Senior, Your kids must be wondering where the inheritance is going? they got plenty! )) Back to the car we go. (33:52) ((Tony Pomerleau/Super Senior, now did you tell them I'm driving because I don't trust your driving?!! )) The man who has no intention of dying before a hundred doesn't hold back. (44:24) ((Tony Pomerleau/Super Senior, can you get over that? of course ...you must think I'm old! )) and there was a whiff of controversy in his long life it was here on the Burlington Waterfront. Back in the early 80's Tony wanted to put up high rises and a hotel, Mayor Bernie Sanders thought otherwise. (45:25) ((Tony Pomerleau/Super Senior, some people would argue it's just for the wealthy...of course not! We'll your talking about high end condos... yeah, yeah, they got to be somewhere. )) after much public opposition the project was scrapped. Tony says he doesn't hold grudges...it's all business. His motto .....In order to make money you got to do something the other guy isn't doing. Then move on to another venture. (47:33) ((Tony Pomerleau/Super Senior, and you can't stand still....time goes on! )) The man who has the energy of a teenager isn't planning on retiring. It's back to the Follett House for another deal. (47:37) ((Tony Pomerleau/Super Senior, there's a time limit for every business! or any person, except me.)) Joe Carroll Channel 3 News Burlington.

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In case you're wondering -- Tony was wearing a medal given to him from the national guard for his financial support of a vermonter who has served in iraq and afghanistan.

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Still to come as the news continues this morning -- a bellows falls man is accused of assaulting three police officers.// It's official. Vermont's attorney general has a primary challenger.// plus -- details on how you can own a piece of hotel history.

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But before we get to those stories -- let's take a quick look at how the weather is shaping up this morning.

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Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney is taking heat for alleged pranks he pulled in high school on a gay classmate. Danielle Nottingham has more in our worldwatch.

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THE MISSISSIPPI MAN ACCUSED OF KILLING TWO PEOPLE AND KIDNAPPING TWO OTHERS IS DEAD. THE F-B-I SAYS 35-YEAR-OLD ADAM MAYES SHOT AND KILLED HIMSELF AS SWAT TEAM MEMBERS MOVED IN. THEY BELIEVE MAYES KILLED JO ANN BAIN AND HER 14-YEAR-OLD DAUGHTER ADRIENNE AND THEN KIDNAPPED HER OTHER TWO DAUGHTERS... 12-YEAR-OLD ALEXANDRIA AND 8-YEAR-LD KYLIYAH (keye-LEE-uh). AUTHORITIES SAY THE MISSING GIRLS ARE NOW SAFE AND APPEAR TO BE UNHARMED. (WIPE VO) PRESIDENT OBAMA PARTIED THE NIGHT AWAY AT THE HOME OF GEORGE CLOONEY. THE ACTOR HOSTED A FUNDRAISER FOR THE PRESIDENT THAT REPORTEDLY PULLED IN NEARLY 15-MILLION DOLLARS. THE PRESIDENT WILL LEAVE L-A TODAY AND WILL HEAD TO RENO, NEVADA WHERE HE IS PLANNING A SPEECH URGING CONGRESS TO PUSH THROUGH MORTGAGE REFINANCE LEGISLATION. (WIPE VO) MITT ROMNEY IS APOLOGIZING FOR WHAT HE CALLS "STUPID" PRANKS HE PULLED IN HIGH SCHOOL. THE WASHINGTON POST REPORTED THAT ROMNEY AND SEVERAL HIGH SCHOOL CLASSMATES HELD DOWN A BOY THEY PERCEIVED TO BE GAY AND CLIPPED HIS LONGISH, DYED-BLONDE HAIR WITH SCISSORS. ROMNEY SAYS HE DOESN'T REMEMBER THE SPECIFIC INCIDENT...BUT APOLOGIZED FOR ANY PRANKS THAT MAY HAVE GONE TOO FAR. AND THOSE ARE SOME OF THE DAY'S TOP STORIES. I'M DANIELLE NOTTINGHAM, CBS NEWS, NEW YORK.

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You can own a piece of hotel history. Just about everything at the Balsams Resort in Dixville Notch is up for auction this Saturday. The new owners are selling the contents of the resort -- from 300-bedroom sets -- to baking equipment -- to antiques and a ski lift. The Balsams may be best know for hosting the presidential primary voting -- starting at midnight. An auction preview was held yesterday. Another will be held tonight. Sharon Meyer and Darren Perron will be there -- with live reports -- and a history lesson -- on the Channel 3 News at six.

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We have a developing story this morning out of South Burlington. Police and drug enforcement agents are blocking off roads near Rice High School. Molly Smith is on the scene and we will bring you the details as soon as they become available.

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The commander of the Vermont National Guard is getting a big promotion that will take him to Colorado. President Obama has nominated Major General Michael Dubie to be the deputy commander of the Northern Command -- which was created to help with homeland security after 9-11. Dubie has overseen large scale deployments of Vermont troops to Iraq and Afghanistan. If his nomination is approved by the U-S Senate, Dubie will be promoted to Lt. General and transfer to Peterson Air Force Base in Colorado Springs.

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((TRT :18)) Governor Shumlin issued a statement saying Dubie "richly deserves" the promotion. Shumlin says Dubie's -- quote -- "steady leadership and poise under pressure make him well-suited for the rank of Lieutenant General."

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Its official. Vermont Attorney General Bill Sorrell has a Democratic primary challenger. Chittenden County Prosecutor TJ Donovan has been holding campaign events for weeks -- but officially kicked off his run for AG last night in Burlington. Dozens of supporters turned out. He told the crowd it's time for new blood in the A-G's office.

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((TJ Donovan/Democrat for Attorney General: 6:09:25 this race is worth running, this debate is worth running. Cause it's time for a change in the Attorney General's office. After 15 years it's time for new ideas, new energy, and new engagements )) Both Donovan and Sorrell have deep family ties to the Democratic party in Burlington. This primary race will put those ties to the test. Bill Sorrell has not officially kicked off his re-election campaign.

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After coming up short Tuesday in Atlanta, the Celtics had a second chance to close out the Hawks in Game Six of their first round playoff series last night. Mike has the highlights in our sportswrap.

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Welcome back.

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DEA agents have arrested several people as part of federal drug investigation in south burlington. Molly Smith is just back from the scene, Molly what did you see? Keagan -- dozens of DEA agents and South Burlington Police were guarding a home right near the entrance of Rice High School -- and are still searching the vehicles with drug sniffing dogs. Police swarmed a home on Proctor Avenue around seven this morning -- Neighbors say they have seen a lot of suspicious activity near the home in recent months. Several young men and women have been taken into custody, At least two of them are expected to face federal charges. Police say school at nearby rice high school is unaffected, and teachers and students were never in danger. Those people arrested today may be in federal court as early as this morning. We will keep you updated. Keagan? Molly, thanks.

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