Early A.M. News Script

Mon 20-MAY-2013 Early A.M. News Script

-------- The 8:25 News Scripts Follow ------------

1} STOLENBUS6_MAPOC

Police say he stole a school bus and a Chocolate Lab....now an alleged Northeast Kingdom thief is behind bars. Police say 22-year-old Adam Page-- of Newport-- stole a Newport Elementary School bus. He drove it to Morgan -- where police say he broke into a woman's house and stole her dog. After crashing the bus, he allegedly stole a truck from another home in Morgan. Page faces numerous charges -- including leaving the scene of an accident, driving with a criminally suspended license, and burglary. The dog was not harmed.

2} WOODCHUCKS6_VO

A battle is brewing in Vermont over a woodchuck. Last week-- company officials from Woodchuck Hard Cider filed a trademark infringement lawsuit against the South Burlington-based Woodchuck Coffee Roasters. The dispute is over the word "woodchuck." The Middlebury company says it spent substantial money building brand awareness for its Hard Cider since 1991. They say the Woodchuck Coffee Roasters' logo is also strikingly similar to its own. Officials with the 2-year-old coffee company say their logo is not a copy of the better-known cider company.

3} SCHOOLLOANS6_VO

New York's junior Senator is tackling the issue of student debt this graduation season. Kirsten Gillibrand announced a new bill she says would allow student-borrowers currently repaying their federal student loans to refinance at a lower fixed rate of 4 percent. The Democrat says the majority of federal student debt is set at an interest rate higher than 6 percent. In New York, there are 2.7 million borrowers-- 37 million nationwide.

4} UVM3_W_FONT

10-thousand-people helped send off the University of Vermont's class of 2013. In all, more than 32-hundred graduates received diplomas today at UVM. Jazz musician Wynton Marsalis delivered the commencement address for the undergraduates.

5} INDEPENDENCEAM_VO

farmers struggling to keep up with their finances are trying out some new ideas -- like opening up their farms to the public. in Orwell at Independence Farm they turned dairy barn into a petting farm. When milk prices dropped, they were force to sell their herd, but the stocked up on a different herd. It's a chance to get up close and personal with your favorite 4-legged friends, and learn about their purpose on a farm. Corey D'Avignon admits, at first the idea sounded a little off.

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(( 12:48 Corey: what the hell? People are not going to pay to come here because everybody grew up on a farm but that's now true. Things have changed over the last 10-15 years.)) they open their doors to visitors 7 days a week -- while still haying on their 100 acres of land, and selling their own syrup, meat and canned goods.

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

1} ROOSTERAM_SOT

Good morning it's 5:00 -- I'm ... And I'm ... Gary Sadowsky

2} WX_INTRO

weather intro (anchors thank in 3-shot-transition to lead story)

3} FATAL11_MAP

A car crash claimed the life of a Lyndonville woman this weekend. Police say 85-year-old Eleanor Machell of Lyndonville died after the car she was riding in flipped in Lyndon. Police say the driver -- 76-year-old Gerda Blaszczyk of St. Johnsbury -- swerved to avoid an animal Saturday. Her car travelled up an embankment and flipped on it's roof. The driver suffered unknown injuries.

4} KAYAKDEATH6_MAP

A kayaking accident claimed the life of a Berlin New Hampshire man. It happened on a stretch of the Upper Ammonoosuc River in the town of Dummer. Officials say 58-year-old Keith Whitten was paddling with his wife when the kayak capsized. His wife was able to get him to shore and begin CPR, but he was pronounced dead after police and rescue crews arrived. Officials suspect that Whitten suffered a medical emergency before the accident.

5} UVMGRADUATION6_FONT

College graduates across our region are celebrating as they begin the next chapter of their lives. At the University of Vermont over the weekend -- 10-thousand people helped send off the class of 2013 at the school's 211th commencement ceremony. In all, more than 32-hundred graduates received diplomas. Nearly 26-hundred bachelor's degrees were handed out. More than 4-hundred students received master's degrees. And- 1-hundred-22 PHD's were honored. Jazz musician Wynton Marsalis delivered the commencement address for the undergraduates. UVM also honored the state's newest doctors.

6} MEDICAL6_W_SOTVO

(( :05 UP FULL Nats singing ...for amber waves of grain.")) As is customary, "America the Beautiful" filled the Ira Allen Chapel on UVM's campus to begin the commencement ceremony for the new doctors. A total of 1-hundred-6 diplomas were awarded from the College of Medicine. Pediatrics is the most popular specialty this year. Proud parents and friends packed the chapel as the new doctors reflected on the day.

7} SCHOOL6_SOTVOOC

((Haddon Pantel/Windsor: "I am looking forward to my future. I had a great time here at UVM for the last four years. And I am looking forward to the opportunities. Just advancing my training and seeing new and interesting things.// A lot has to do with my mom. She's a diabetic so growing up I saw how important medical care was to her. And, I've always loved science so I think it is a great way to integrate using science and helping people.")) ((Delia Horn/Shrewsbury: "Ever since I was a small child I have been interested in medicine. I was sick when I was a kid and there are a lot of really good doctors in this state. They helped me and my family a lot and I have always wanted to give back and help others.//Incredibly excited. It's been a really long road and lots of years of training and I'm really excited to finally be a doctor.")) Fourteen of the new graduates will be doing their residencies here in Vermont. The others will be heading to hospitals and medical centers across the country. Also on hand -- former Governor Madeline Kunin -- one of the parents welcoming a new doctor into the family. And Governor Peter Shumlin gave the commencement address at Marlboro College.

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It's a road rally in Chelsea that tests drivers' whit -- rather than their skills behind the wheel. Deanna LeBlanc got some insight into this decades long tradition.

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They come from all over the state -- ((nat hit: i love it.)) and wait in line for hours -- ((Ed Sayers/Corinth: 1:07:06 it's become sort of a yearly event for us we've been doing it for 8 or 9 years now -- we're having a blast. 1:07:12)) It's the 20th annual Chelsea Road Rally -- Drivers decipher a series of clues dreamt up by Chelsea Native Will Gilman -- that take them for drive thru Orange County's Back roads for hours. ((NAT: 1:18:02 the answer to the clue is going to tell you whether to go left, right or straight.1 :18:06.)) ((Will Gilman: 1:46:51 once people try it, they really get hooked. It's sort of like a detective story and so once you really get into it it's really tough to give up on. 1:47:01)) Gilman's game has become a mainstay in the town over the years -- He was involved in a motorcycle accident in 1976 that left him paralyzed -- and those who know him say his injuries have never slowed him down. ((Gail Isham: 1:02:25 will is one amazing person who would never want recognition but certainly deserves it. 1:02:31)) ((WILL GILMAN: 1:45:51 you only have one life to live so you do it anyway. 1:45:57)) And he does -- Gilman spends 20 to 30 hours on the road creating the clues -- that start out as simple plays on words -- ((Gilman: 1:38:18 so there may be a red door in the barn way back to your left and it says 'put the red door in your rear view' 1:38:25)) But grow more difficult as the day goes on -- Beginners often get lost and give up -- but many say they come back the next year better prepared. ((Penny Carpenter: 1:20:20 we have our dictionary, we have the volume library -- we have an atlas 28)) ((GILMAN: 1:48:21 i have to outsmart them somehow. they need to make a mistake -- if i had 10 cars without making a mistake, how do you decide who wins? 1:48:27)) Every car gets a number -- and nickname -- ((11231 we got out name because we'll end up going the wrong way and we'll say oops 35 Anthony Brock/Sixth )) And each participant pays 7 dollars for fun that -- for some who get lost -- can last at least five hours. The funds raised go toward a local baseball organization --and pays for dinner for everyone. ((Gilman: 1:42:02 we have quite a cook out at the end -- they get their money's worth just in hamburgers, hotdogs and baked beans and salads and all 1:42:10)) 2013 was a record setting year -- 70 teams participated in the 20th annual rally -- which Gilman says is the biggest turnout yet. ((see ya at the cookout)) DL ch 3 news, Chelsea.

10} WEATHER_GREEN

(anchors introduce gary)

11} FORECAST

Today: AM showers Then partly sunny Highs: 72 to 78 Wind: SSW to NW 10 to 15 mph Tonight: Mostly cloudy Chance for showers Lows: 53 to 60 Wind: Light Tuesday: Showers, possible t-storms Highs: 72 to 78 Wind: Variable 5 to 10 mph Extended: Wednesday: Showers, possible t-storms Lows: 50s Highs: 70s Thursday: Showers, t-storms Lows: 55 to 65 Highs: 70s Friday: AM clouds Then clearing Turning cooler Lows: 45 to 55 Highs: 60s Hyper-Extended: Saturday: Partly cloudy Lows: 35 to 45 Highs: 60s Sunday: Partly cloudy Lows: 35 to 45 Highs: 60s

12} WEATHERAM_INTRO

Deadly storms tore through the midwest -- and dozens of tornadoes touched down, leveling homes in Oklahoma. And as Susan McGinnis reports -- for half of the country in the danger zone -- the severe weather isn't over yet.

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SIRENS WAILED WARNING OKLAHOMA RESIDENTS TO HEAD FOR COVER AS TORNADOS RIPPED THROUGH THE CENTRAL PART OF THE STATE. (nats) "We've got to to go soon!" THIS POWERFUL TWISTER ...MEASURING A HALF-MILE WIDE AT TIME ...TORE THROUGH A MOBILE HOME PARK IN THE TOWN OF SHAWNEE, LEVELLING HOMES. (nats) "It's just total devastation right through here." RESCUE WORKERS RUSHED TO THE SCENE TO HELP THE INJURED. AT LEAST ONE PERSON DID NOT SURVIVE THE STORM. SHERIFF'S OFFICIALS CONFIRM A 79-YEAR-OLD MAN WAS FOUND DEAD IN THE RUBBLE. THIS WOMAN GOT OUT JUST MOMENTS BEFORE THE TORNADO HIT HER HOME. (SOT: MOS) "It just hit and all we could see is a big water funnel and we turned around and come back and it was all gone." THE OKLAHOMA TWISTERS WERE PART OF THE SAME STORM SYSTEM THAT STRETCHED FROM TEXAS TO MINNESOTA. THIS WHIP-LIKE TWISTER HIT VIOLA, KANSAS JUST OUTSIDE OF WICHITA. IN IOWA... BARNS WERE RIPPED APART AND SHEET METAL WAS SCATTERED ACROSS LAWNS AND FARMS. (SOT: Jeff Berardelli/WFOR Meteorologist) "This has been the most significant outbreak of storms that we've seen all spring." 26 TORNADOS WERE REPORTED SUNDAY. AND IT MAY NOT BE OVER YET. (SOT: Jeff Berardelli/WFOR Meteorologist) "The greatest risk for severe weather and the possibilities of tornadoes exist once again, in and around the Oklahoma City area, northeast into Tulsa. Also into Joplin, Missouri." THE THREAT OF SEVERE WEATHER IS LIKELY THROUGH MID-WEEK AS THE STORM SYSTEM SLIDES EAST. SUSAN MCGINNIS, CBS NEWS.

14} AMTRAKAM_VO

Train service between Boston and New York has been suspended indefinitely following a train crash. On Friday a train traveling from New Haven Connecticut to New York city derailed -- crashing into another train headed in the opposite direction. 70 people had to be taken to the hospital. A fractured part of the track has been sent to DC for forensic analysis. Transportation officials say it could be weeks before service is back up and running.

15} HATECRIMEAM_VO

Police are investigating a hate crime that broke out on the streets of New York City on Saturday 32-year-old Marc Carson was gunned down on the corner of 6th avenue and west 8th street -- and police believe it was because he was gay. Authorities say he was allegedly yelling homophobic slurs -- when he ran into 2 gay men. The suspect pulled out a silver revolver and shot the victim in the face. He was arrested a few blocks away. New york police say this is the third violent attack in two weeks believed to be motivated by anti-gay bias.

16} SCHOOLLOANS6_VO

17} WEBWATCH_VO

Before heading out for the day -- many people turn to their phones for updates -- and if you suffer from allergies, there may be some apps to help you predict your day! yes, like many apps out there -- its kind of like having a doctor in your pocket? The WebMD Allergy app is as close as you're going to get to this concept. This app will give you the daily weather and pollen forecast while describing exactly what allergens are in the air on that particular day. Set up the app to give you notifications when allergen levels reach a certain point and read tips for minimizing symptoms. This free app is only available for iPhone users. Android users are not being left to suffer alone though Allergy Alert from Pollen.com can give you the daily forecast for the local pollen count. Also handy is the 4-day forecast so you can look ahead and better schedule your week. If you really want to fight back about those alergies you can download Pollen Popper LITE. It wont help with your runnynose, but it might just make you feel better popping the pollen grains and clearing the air.

18} HEALTHWATCH_GREEN

Ginger may have a new medical use -- helping asthma patients breathe easier. Vinita Nair has that and more in this morning's healthwatch.

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-People who suffer from sleep apnea AND who are pre-diabetic may be able to improve their blood sugar levels if they wear a CPAP mask at night. A continuous positive airway pressure mask keeps the airway open and prevents sleep interuptions. Researchers supervised 39 adults in a sleep lab for two weeks and found those who wore the mask were better able to use their body's insulin. The study suggests as many as two-thirds of type 2 diabetic patients may not realize they have sleep apnea. -New research in the journal Pediatrics suggests boys who are diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, should be monitored for long-term risk of obesity. NYU researchers looked at men who had ADHD as children...and found them twice as likely to struggle with their current weight because they lack impulse control and have poor planning skills. -And the purified components of ginger may help asthma patients breathe easier. Researchers from Columbia University found the spicy root can enhance the airway relaxing effects of most asthma medications.

20} HEADLINES_FONT

In our headlines this morning -- an alleged school bus thief caught after a crime spree... Castleton grads get some advice from a familiar face... And Rutland's Paramount Theater could get some help from the city.

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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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24} CASTLETON6_INTRO

This weekend -- several schools across the state celebrated graduations -- and students at Castleton State College gots some words of encouragement and inspiration from a familiar face here at channel 3. Melissa Sheketoff was there.

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Saturday marked a new beginning for Castleton State College students. ((10:50 David Carrier/CSC Graduate: Were all gathered here, getting fired up, having a good time. 10:57)) The 500 graduates had bittersweet feelings moving on to the real world -- leaving their campus behind. ((08:22 Erica Bilodeau/CSC Graduate: I don't know what I feel about leaving here, this has been my home 08:24)) Sending them off... a familiar face. At Channel 3 and Castleton State-- graduate of the Class of 1995. ((04:28 Dave Wolk/CSC President: they asked me to find somebody who would be inspiring, entertaining and brief. 04:35)) Vermonters welcome Darren Perron into their living rooms every night. ((Darren looks at mark 18:19-18:23)) ON this day- he addressed the Class of 2013 in person. ((04:01 Dave Wolk/CSC President: well Darren's our pride and joy. 04:03)) ((00:49 Darren Perron/CSC Commencement Speaker: I'm thrilled to be back at castleton it's like coming home. 00:55)) ((USE COVER FOR FIRST BITE)) ((01:22 Darren Perron/CSC Commencement Speaker: I'm hoping to inspire the students and entertain the parents since they footed the bill for the last 4 years. 01:30)) Perron spoke about the importance of making mistakes, learning from them, and making a difference in the world -- regardless of the career path. ((01:49 Darren Perron/CSC Commencement Speaker: success is not based on how big your paycheck is, how high your ratings are, or how many awards you made but your own total sense of self. 01:59)) Oh yeah, and a couple more key points. ((39:28 Darren Speech Clip: clean up your Facebook and twitter pages and remember your boss' jokes are always funny ...(laughter) 39:34)) Besides great advice and a handful of laughs, President Wolk says he hopes Perron's address and the Castleton experience will guide students to carry the values they learned at school into the next chapters of their lives. ((06:04 Dave Wolk/CSC President: the important thing is to make a difference in the college and the community then make a difference in the world. 06:11)) Bringing back an old face to encourage the newest class of Castleton alumni. Melissa Sheketoff, Channel 3 News, Castleton.

26} RUTLANDAM_VO

The Paramount Theater in Rutland, is looking at diversifying their shows -- and the city may help cover the costs. The theater is in the works of purchasing a high-definition projector and other equipment -- to have live broadcasts of the Metropolitan Opera and other shows. The Community and Economic Committee has recommended funding the 75-thousand dollar project with money from the Zamias (zah-my-us) Fund.

27} PARAMOUNTAM_SOTVO

((Dave Allaire / Rutland City Board of Aldermen "what they want to do is obviously fill up the theater and give a greater variety of shows and opportunities for people to come in and enjoy the paramount theater. Which is an economic driver for the downtown and all of us here in the city of Rutland.")) Allaire says the project is based on the success of a Middlebury Theater that began broadcasting live shows several years ago. The full board of alderman will vote on the recommendation this evening.

28} INTERSTATE_WHITE

We've got a traffic alert for you this morning -- on Interstate 89 in Waterbury. Vtrans says the exit 10 southbound off-ramp will be closed until 6 this morning for paving. They're asking drivers to use Exit 9 instead.

29} CLICKIT6_VO

Once again, police are warning: Click It or Ticket. State Police say 77 people were killed on Vermont roads last year -- nearly half of those were people not wearing seat belts. Officers statewide will be strictly enforcing seatbelt laws through the busy Memorial Day Weekend.

30} WEATHER2_GREEN

(anchors introduce gary)

31} MARATHON6_INTRO

The bombs triggered by terrorists at the Boston Marathon -- sent the city into a state of emergency -- and meant many of the runners could not finish the race. But as Ali Freeman reports -- this tragedy has not stopped their desire to compete.

32} MARATHON6_PKG

((Amy Sullivan / Ran in Boston Marathon "Awesome - I lost it when I finished I have to say. But it was great. It was great.")) Amy Sullivan was all smiles, as her and 4-hundred 50 other runners crossed the finish line to the 3rd annual Shires Marathon. The scenic course winds through the mountains from Bennington to Manchester -- and despite course difficulty, participation is on the rise. ((David Durfee / Race Co-Director "We started out at about 360 the first year, and similar last year -- and now we are up to 450. And as word gets out and people hear what a nice course it is, we hope the numbers will continue to grow.")) And despite top performances from male and female winners ((nats crossing finish line)) many were there to cheer on special guests. ((David Durfee / Race Co-Director "We had about 35 runners from Boston who had gotten part way through the course but weren't able to complete it. And hopefully they are finishing the course today.")) Running partners and Massachusetts natives, Amy Sullivan and Chris Russell were among those running on the day of the Boston bombings. Neither were able to complete the race, and say coming so close to the finish line was discouraging. ((Chris Russell / Ran in Boston Marathon "it would have been my 15th Boston, and I was having a really bad day, so I was more concerned about my friends and the people involved -- than me finishing the race since I have done it so many times.")) Russell says they jumped on the open invitation to run for free in Sunday's marathon. And for Sullivan, she was finally able to complete a personal and ONLY best. ((Amy Sullivan / Ran in Boston Marathon "today was my first time finishing a marathon. I didn't get to finish boston -- so they let us come up here and finish what we started. So today was my first official marathon.")) Mile after mile the runners pushed on. And for some who never finished in Boston -- crossing the finish line was rewarding and emotional. ((Amy Sullivan "try not to cry, but I had a hard time. Try not to cry finishing, but I was just happy to see my husband at the finish line and give him a hug. I am so happy -- I finished my first marathon.")) Ali Freeman, Channel 3 News in Manchester.

33} SPORTSWRAP_GREEN

The Yankees and Blue Jays were rained out yesterday. No make-up date has been scheduled. The Red Sox had weather issues yesterday as well. Scott has the highlights in the sportswrap.

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The Red Sox looking for the series sweep of the Twins in Minnesota. Top of the second, Boston's will middlebrooks blasts a solo home run. A pretty good road trip for the third baseman. 1-0 sox. John Lackey looked good today, 6 innings allowing just one run on one hit. He had 5 strikeouts. It's 2-0 in the 5th when mike napoli comes through with the RBI single. His 35th run batted in this season. 3-0 Boston. Then the rains invade target field. A three hour delay, Daivd Ortiz tweeting that he couldn't believe they didn't called the game. Back to action, top of the ninth, Dustin Pedroia goes deep to left. It just clears the wall for a 2 run homer. The Sox go on to the 5-1 win, sweeping the Twins winning and winning their 5th straight. It's on to chicago tomorrow. --- The Bruins and Rangers in game 2 of the eastern conference semifinals at the TD Garden. Boston once again playing three rookie defenseman, but it's been so far, so good. First period, watch Boston's Torey Krug actually put this between the skates before beating Henrik Lundquivst. His second straight game with a goal. 1-0 Boston. The Rangers were equal to the challenge most of the day. A minute after the Bruins made it 2-1 in the second, check out Rick Nash using his speed to beat Zdeno Chara and he breaks in for his first playoff goal. It's 2-2. Later in the second, the teams skating 4 on 4, Boston's Patrice Bergeron sets the screen enable this Johnny Boychuck shot to find the back of the net. 3-2 Bruins after 2. 26 seconds into the third period, Bergeron finds Brad Marchand. It looks just like the overtime winner from Thursday. Bruins go on to the 5-2 win. Boston takes a 2-0 series lead with game 3 Tuesday at Madison square garden. ---- Woodstock's Keegan Bradley saw a one stroke lead turn into a 4 stroke defect in the final round of the Byron Nelson Championship. Bradley did get within 2 sinking the parr putt on 9. On 15, Bradley would get a share of the lead at 12 under with the birdie putt. But on 16, Bradley rims out the birdie putt putting him one shot back. He ends up in second, falling to Sang Moon Bae by 2 strokes. I'm Scott Fleishman, and that's the sportswrap.)))

35} SHORT_WX_DESK

36} WOOF6_INTRO

Saturday was a day of celebration and fundraising for our furry friends. Especially those who need a home. Kyle Midura takes us to woofstock 20-13.

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((nats)) On a sun-soaked Saturday, Karen Trayah and her dogs enjoyed the sights, sounds, and of course smells of a festival for fidos. ((1:59:59 - :05 Jackie Rose - Homeward Bound it's called Woofstock, however, this is our 1st year doing it here at the Basin Harbor Club and what a beautiful day it is.)) The event is the largest fundraiser of the year for Homeward Bound Animal Welfare Center - formerly known as the Addison County Humane Society. Shelter Executive Director Jackie Rose says they hope to raise 25-thousand of the 400-thousand dollars necessary to run the facility. ((2:00:41 - 53 with that money we serve over 1,000 animals a year, through our shelter we handle all the cruelty cases in Addison County and we have a feral cat program - we have lots of serves we're providing to the community and we do all of that on about 400k)) Pooches sporting red-bandanas Saturday are former shelter residents that now have homes. Karen's dog Buddy is one of those pups. ((2:08:00 - :06 Karen Trayah we had lost a dog of 14 years and after about nine months we were ready to get another dog)) Karen says she and her family went as far as Boston in their search for the perfect companion. Turns out, they didn't need to leave their own community, spotting an ad for Buddy last October. ((2:08:21 - :24 Karen so we went in, met with him and it was love at first sight)) ((2:08:42 - :47 - Karen Buddy's definitely a work in progress, he's my naughty little angel, but he's coming along very well)) The festival offers good food, fun and games, even a beach for the dogs to soak up some rays or those who get too close before a shake. But Karen says it's the sense of community that keeps bringing her back year after year. ((2:09:08 - :16 - Karen I love just seeing all the other dogs socializing together, getting to see the rescue dogs, I purposely go out of my way to meet with the rescue dogs and ask them how it's going and what their story is)) The dogs didn't comment, but their body language seems to indicate they're enjoying themselves as well. KM, Ch.3 Vergennes.

-------- The 7:26 News Scripts Follow ------------

1} SHUMLIN3_VO

The end of the road for the end of life choices bill. Governor Peter Shumlin will sign Vermont's new end of life legislation into law today -- nearly 10 years after advocates started their push. Once signed, the law takes effect immediately. Several Vermont hospitals say it will take them at least several weeks to create internal procedures for prescribing the lethal medication to terminally ill patients who wish to end their own lives.

2} RUTLANDAM_VO

The Paramount Theater in Rutland, is looking at diversifying their shows -- and the city may help cover the costs. The theater wants to buy a high-definition projector and other equipment -- to have live broadcasts of the Metropolitan Opera and other shows. The Community and Economic Committee is recommending funding the 75-thousand dollar project with money from the Zamias (zah-my-us) Fund.

3} PARAMOUNTAM_SOTVO

4} CLICKIT6_VO

5} GASPRICES3_W_FONT

Approaching the holiday weekend -- gas prices are up 11 cents in two weeks. Gas Buddy says the average price of a gallon of regular is 3-67. Here in Vermont, the statewide average is 3-52 a gallon, while the burlington area is 3-59.

-------- The 7:56 News Scripts Follow ------------

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2} CAMPAIGNAM_VO

We've spent much of the last week covering the bills that will soon be law. But, one big bill stalled at the very end of the session -- campaign finance reform. The bill aimed to tighten restrictions and create greater transparency, but -- amendments were added that one of the bill's sponsors says ultimately killed it. Representive Kurt Wright of Burlington, says an add-on that created caps for super PAC donations would have sent the state of vermont -- into court.

3} FINANCEAM_SOTVO

(("when you have the attorney general calling it a "risky court case" -- and he has to defend it in court and Cheryl Hanna from the Vermont Law School saying that, and the language from the second circuit court of appeals saying it's a very high hurdle for a state to pass to put these limits on -- we're talking about millions of dollars of court costs to the taxpayers of vermont".")) Wright says he thinks -- next session -- a version of the bill could pass, without what he calls the "poison pill" of super-PAC limits.... but he says the legislation most likely would NOT apply to the next election cycle.

4} DEERHEARINGSAM_VOFONT

Hunters who want to weigh in on the state's deer hunting season have two more chances to share their opinions. The hearings cover the state's deer management plan, last year's deer season, the severity of the winter on the herd -- and other topics, including antlerless permits. The next hearing is tomorrow in Lyndonville. And the final hearing will be June 5th in Manchester.

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on Tuesday we check out this week's made in Vermont company and we get an update on road projects that could affect travel through the state this summer. See you starting t 5!

6} PROMO

on Tuesday we check out this week's Made in Vermont company and we get an update on road projects that could affect travel through the state this summer. See you starting t 5!

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

1} ROOSTERAM_SOT

Good morning it's 5:00 -- I'm ... And I'm ... Gary Sadowsky

2} WX_INTRO

weather intro (anchors thank in 3-shot-transition to lead story)

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5} STOLENBUS6_MAP

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9} DARREN7X_VO

In Castleton family friends and educators were celebrating a final send off -- for the class of 2013. The 500 graduates had bittersweet feelings moving on to the real world -- leaving their campus behind. Lending some words of encouragement and inspiration for the graduates -- was none other than channel 3's own Darren Perron -- a graduate of Castleton State College, class of 1995. Perron spoke about the importance of making mistakes, learning from them, and making a difference in the world -- regardless of your career path.

10} WEATHER_GREEN

(anchors introduce gary)

11} FORECAST

12} STOCKS

(NEW stox font)

13} WORLDWATCH_GREEN

The world may find out Today -- who won this record breaking powerball lottery ticket that had millions of people lining up for the lucky numbers this weekend. Anne Marie Green has more in our world watch.

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-TORNADOES TOUCHED DOWN IN AT LEAST THREE STATES SUNDAY AS A POWERFUL STORM STRETCHED FROM TEXAS TO MINNESOTA. OKLAHOMA WAS THE HARDEST HIT WITH HOMES DESTROYED AND DOZENS INJURED. THE C-B-S AFFILIATE IN OKLAHOMA CITY IS REPORTING AT LEAST ONE PERSON DIED WHEN A TORNADO HIT A MOBILE HOME PARK IN SHAWNEE. TWISTERS ALSO HIT IN KANSAS AND IOWA. THE STORM IS NOW MAKING IT'S WAY NORTHEAST. -TODAY IS THE FIRST DAY THE WINNER OF THE LARGEST JACKPOT IN POWERBALL HISTORY CAN CLAIM THE PRIZE. OFFICIALS SAY ONE WINNING TICKET WAS SOLD AT A PUBLIX GROCERY STORE IN ZEPHYRHILLS, FLORIDA. THE TICKET IS WORTH MORE THAN 590 MILLION DOLLARS. PEOPLE IN 43 STATES AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA LINED UP THIS WEEKEND BUYING TICKETS FOR THEIR CHANCE TO WIN THE MILLIONS. BUT AT ONE IN ABOUT 175 MILLION...THE ODDS WEREN'T IN THEIR FAVOR. -AND YAHOO IS EXPECTED TO ANNOUNCE TODAY THAT IT IS PURCHASING THE BLOGGING SERVICE TUMBLR FOR MORE THAN A BILLION DOLLARS. THE CASH DEAL WAS APPROVED IN A MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS SUNDAY EVENING...AND IS THE LARGEST SOCIAL NETWORKING PURCHASE IN MANY YEARS. TUMBLR IS POPULAR AMONG TEENS AND YOUNG ADULTS WITH MORE THAN 108-MILLION BLOGS.

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Kurt Wright, R-Burlington, campaign finance reform -- didn't pass, what's the future of it

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In our headlines this morning... Changes to a tax program... Rutland's Paramount Theater could get some help from the city... And buckle up -- police plan to crack down on seatbelts laws for Memorial Day weekend.

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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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Changes to Vermont's "Tax Increment Financing" program are being applauded the state auditor. The so-called TIF's have allowed cities -- like Winooski -- to fund redevelopment and infrastructure improvements -- by borrowing money against the future growth in property tax revenue. Last year, then-Auditor Tom Salmon said some municipalities DID NOT handle their TIF districts properly -- and owed up to 6 million dollars to the state. The bill approved this session provides partial forgiveness to the towns of Burlington, Milton and Winooski. Current Auditor Doug Hoffer says the fixes issues in the law that likely contributed to the problems.

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(anchors introduce gary)

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The Yankees and Blue Jays were rained out yesterday. No make-up date has been scheduled. The Red Sox had weather issues yesterday as well. Scott has the highlights in the sportswrap.

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This morning 3 Minute Wrap. Getting you up to speed every morning -- in just 3 minutes.

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A Lyndonville woman is dead after a driver lost control swerving to avoid an animal in the road. Vermont State Police say 85-year-old Eleanor Machell of Lyndonville was killed Saturday afternoon -- when the car she was a passenger in went off Route 122 in Lyndon -- and flipped over. Machell, who was wearing a seat belt, was pronounced dead at the scene.

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Police arrested a school bus thief who they say is responsible for a number of other crimes. Police say 22-year-old Adam Page-- of Newport-- stole a Newport Elementary School bus. He drove it to Morgan -- where police say he broke into a woman's house and stole her dog. After crashing the bus, he allegedly stole a truck from another home in Morgan. Page faces numerous charges. The dog was not harmed.

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A Berlin New Hampshire man has died in a kayaking accident. Police say 58-Keith Whitten -- capsized on the Upper Ammonoosuc River in Dummer. His wife got him to shore -- and tried to revive him. Officials suspect that Whitten suffered what they're calling a medical emergency before his kayak flipped.

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Senator Bernie Sanders played tour guide this weekend -- showing off the Green Mountains to the Danish Ambassador to the U-S. The Ambassador and the Senator held a number of town hall meetings -- largly focusing on Denmark's healthcare, education and enviormental initiatives.

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And Castleton State College celebrated their newest five-hundred graduates. Sending them off... a familiar face. At Channel 3 and Castleton State-- WCAX's Darren Perron told the graduates of his alma mater to not be afraid to make mistakes.

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And here are the stories we're tracking for today.... Governor Peter Shumlin will sign Vermont's new end of life legislation into law today -- nearly 10 years after advocates started their push. Once signed, the law takes effect immediately. Several Vermont hospitals say it will take them at least several weeks to create internal procedures for prescribing the lethal medication to terminally ill patients who wish to end their own lives.

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Travel through much of the northeast is expected to be a mess -- by train and by car -- and could take weeks to be fixed... transportation officials say -- after Friday's train crash in Bridgeport Connecticut that injured 70 people. Crews have to rebuild 2-thousand feet of track on the nation's busiest train travel corridor.

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Approaching the holiday weekend -- gas prices are up 11 cents in two weeks. The Lundberg Survey says the average price of a gallon of regular is 3-66. Here in Vermont, Gas Buddy reports the statewide average is 3-52 a gallon, while the burlington area is 3-58.

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Florida Lottery officials say somebody that bought a Powerball ticket at this Publixs supermaket outside of Tampa -- won 590-million dollars. Today is the first day that person can come forward to claim Saturday's jackpot, the largest in Powerball history.

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And -- that's a wrap. Gary, over to you.

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When you first step foot onto Independence farm you feel like you're living in a children's book. You'll meet A lamb who spends his day snuggling with the bunnies. A blind hen -- who is kept company by her seeing eye duck and a sheep named ernie -- who thinks he's a dog. These are just a few of the characters at the farm, but this wasn't always the plot line Chrystal and Corey D'avinon saw for themselves. In fact their story is far from a fairytale. They ran and operated a dairy farm for 10 years -- but like many other farmers, they couldn't make ends meet. ((09:48 in 2008 we decided the price of milk is so up and down that I was going to open a petting farm to save the dairy cows.)) They filled their barn with friendly animals -- and invited visitors to stop by. Corey admits -- he was skeptical at first. (( 12:48 Corey: what the hell? People are not going to pay to come here because everybody grew up on a farm but that's now true. Things have changed over the last 10-15 years.)) But it wasn't enough to save the herd. ((19:01 for us those days are done. It took us 2 years to get over losing our dairy cows.)) -- since then another one has moved in. The milking barn quickly turned into a home for all walks of life. Inside you find feathered friends -- baby chicks and a few turkeys. Just around the corner -- a litter of piglets, and their mom who is still transitioning into life on the farm. One stall over 5 pregnant pygmie goats -- ((from the canadian border.)) Some animals belong to the D'Avignon's others are visiting from neighboring farms -- like these two mini ponies and donkey. These two twin goats -- mickey and goofey -- were born here this year -- and are the stars of the show. ((14:15 you need a variety of animals. You need baby animals. The more kids can pick up the better it is. You need to be here to tell them your story and about your life and to listen to them.)) It's a place for animal lovers of any age. Dusty the pig draws a lot of attention -- mostly for his size. ((he's going on weight watchers.)) The only rule around here is you have to be friendly. They say every animal has it's own personality, but not all are fit for the farm. ((15:11 you can't have anything around the kids that you have a question on. We have OUr strict insurance policy and we do not want to see anyone get hurt. That would be terrible.)) In a tough economy not everyone can afford to keep their critters. That's how they end up with things like -- chinchillas. ((I have a hard time saying no.)) These guys keep them busy -- but they still manage to hay their 100- acres of land, and sell their own syrup and canned goods. It's not the life they had planned for themselves, and every year is a challenge to keep their heads above water, but they admit it's hard to complain. ((17:29 sometimes you do take life for granted. We sit back and we are like we got it made! We love what we do we love where we are we don't work in a cubicle and we don't punch a time clock. )) every day a new adventure, a new chapter -- at Independence Farm.

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