6:30 LRN Newscast

Governor John Bel Edwards has announced new restrictions that could be in place through April 13th. All bars, gyms, movie theathers and casinos are closed, and all restaurants are limited to drive-thru, pick-up and delivery service in an effort to reduce the spread of the coronavirus. Louisiana has 136 COVID-19 postive cases and three people have died. Edwards also called for the mobilization of 400 guardsmen…
Cut 10 (13) “…week.”
Doctor Catherine O’Neal an infectious disease specialist at Out Lady of the Lake Hospital, says they expect the infection will spread across the state, so take the proper precations…
cut 13 (11) “…remotely”

The American Veterinary Medical Association is asking those infected with COVID-19 to hand their pets over to family. Matt Doyle on what the C-D-C is saying…
Cut 1 (31) “I’m Matt Doyle”

AM Newscall 03/16/2020

The American Veterinary Medical Association is asking those infected with COVID-19 to hand their pets over to family. Matt Doyle spoke with Ag commissioner Strain about the guidelines…

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Matt Doyle”

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The state is mandating all resturants provide carry out only, and all bars and gyms close until April 13th to bolster social distancing efforts. Matt Doyle has the story…

Cut 2 (50) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

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LSU Athletics Director Scott Woodward says the coronavirus pandemic raises plenty of questions on the impact on LSU sports. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 3 (28)  “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

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Ag Commissioner Mike Strain is asking Louisianans not to abandon their pets during the COVID-19 crisis and if you do get infected, to hand them over to friends or family.

Strain says unless you absolutely cannot care for your pet, don’t turn it over to the state, or set it loose.

Cut 4 (05)_ “pet.”

These recommendations come from the American Veterinary Medical Association.

Strain requests that if you are diagnosed with COVID-19 that you allow a family member to care for the pet, and if no one is available to keep a safe distance from your pet while washing frequently.

Cut 5 (11)  “…body.”

If you are hospitalized and cannot find family assistance in housing your pet, call your local animal shelter or vet clinic.

If you receive a pet from an infected family member, Strain says you need to disinfect it.

Cut 6 (08) “…reccomended.”

Strain says wear gloves, a facemask, and immediately change your clothes after bathing the potentially contaminated pet.

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After the recommendations of the CDC, the Louisiana Legislature has adjourned until at least March 31.  Lafayette Republican Stuart Bishop spoke to the House and says mathematically, there is no way to get business done if following CDC guidelines.

Cut 7 (11) “…to pass anything.”

Lake Charles Republican Phillip Tarver objected to the adjournment saying it is the wrong message to send to citizens and it is the duty as leaders of the state to conduct business.

Cut 8 (08) “…citizens to do.”

The resolution of adjournment was adopted a 100 to 1 vote.    Bishop says the move is in the best interest of the handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Cut 9 (09) “…people of Louisiana.″

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Governor Edwards announces that through April 13th, all bars and gyms must close, and all restaurants must go to carry out as Louisiana hits 136 COVID-19 cases, and sees it’s third death.

Edwards also called for the mobilization of 400 guardsmen…

Cut 10 (13) “…week.”

The Governor also tried to allay fears that groceries are running out of food, saying the supply chain is intact and efficient…

Cut 11 (13) “…of time”

Edwards noted the April 13th timeline could be extended another 13 days depending on how the situation develops.

Edwards made the announcements yesterday at his afternoon press conference, where he introduced Our Lady of the Lake Infectious Disease specialist Dr. Catherine O’Neal who says nearly everyone will be infected over the next few months, but…

Cut 12 (09) “…lives.”

But she noted that 80 percent can still infect those in risk groups, like those who have comorbid health problems.

O’Neal says to save your vulnerable friends and family, you need to put COVID-19 on your calendar…

Cut 13 (11) “remotely.”

O’Neal says if we do not observe social distancing our medical system will be inundated with too many cases to provide adequate care to everyone.

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LSU Athletics Director Scott Woodward is assuring Tiger fans that everyone will be back together again in due time, but the most important thing is the collective effort to stop the spread of COVID-19.  Woodward says there are still many unknowns revolving around how this could impact fall sports.

Cut 14 (12) “…is being discussed.”

Woodward says there are about 120 student athletes remaining on campus, but that number is dropping.

Cut 15 (09) “…to go down.”

Woodward says the financial impact of sports cancellations are not a concern, adding that ticket holders will see money coming back for games that were not played, it just may take a little time.

Cut 16  (08)  “…refund your tickets.” 

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Legislative Report

After the recommendations of the CDC, the Louisiana Legislature has adjourned until at least March 31.  Lafayette Republican Stuart Bishop spoke to the House and says mathematically, there is no way to get business done if following CDC guidelines.
Cut 7 (11) “…to pass anything.”
Lake Charles Republican Phillip Tarver objected to the adjournment saying it is the wrong message to send to citizens and it is the duty as leaders of the state to conduct business.
Cut 8 (08) “…citizens to do.”
The resolution of adjournment was adopted a 100 to 1 vote.    Bishop says the move is in the best interest of the handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Cut 9 (09) “…people of Louisiana.″

Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says initially the plan was for the session to continue, with social distancing enforced and to check those who enter the Capitol for a fever but it’s the right call because it only would have taken one positive test to shut down the Capitol…

Cut 10 (11) “situation.”

Pinsonat says the compressed schedule is likely going to result in non-essential legislation being abandoned. However a budget will still need to be passed by July 1st, but…

Cut 11 (08) “budget.”

5:30 PM Newscast

Louisiana is up to 136 positive COVID-19 cases, and is now reporting it’s third death, a victim at a New Orleans area nursing home. One of those new cases was the first in the Capital Region, found in Ascension Parish. Governor Edwards has also issued a new series of business restrictions, calling for the closure of gyms and bars, along with the closure of dining rooms for restaurants. Restaurants will be confined to providing curbside pickup take out options until April 13th, with a 13-day extension possible. All gatherings of 50 or more people are banned by the state, while are gatherings of ten or more are not recommended by the CDC. Casinos in Louisiana will be ceasing gaming operations tonight at midnight for at least the next two weeks as the coronavirus continues to impact Louisiana.  Chairman of the Louisiana Gaming Control Board Ronnie Jones says the casinos were notified this was likely to happen, adding owners have been very supportive.

Cut 7 (13) “…of everything else.”

Legislative leaders have decided to temporarily adjourn the 2020 session until March 31st due to COVID-19 concerns.  Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says it’s the right call because it only would have taken one positive test to shut down the Capitol…

Cut 10 (11) “situation.”

Pinsonat says the compressed schedule is likely going to result in non-essential legislation being abandoned.

Many people are finding ways to work from home in an attempt to slow the spread of the coronavirus.  Tech Gumbo host Haggai Davis says the internet infrastructure is there to handle the influx of web traffic, but other hurdles remain with equipment availability and other tech issues. Davis believes a lot more people are going to become more comfortable with working from home as it is becoming an easier process.

Cut 4 (09)_ “…handle this capability.”

430PM LRN News

Louisiana is up to 136 positive COVID-19 cases, and is now reporting it’s third death, a victim at a New Orleans area nursing home. One of those new cases was the first in the Capital Region, found in Ascension Parish.

Governor Edwards has also issued a new series of business restrictions, calling for the closure of gyms and bars, along with the closure of dining rooms for restaurants.

Restaurants will be confined to providing curbside pickup take out options until April 13th, with a 13 day extension possible. All gatherings of 50 or more people are banned by the state, while are gatherings of ten or more are no recommended by the CDC.

The Senate has also agreed to a House resolution to suspend the 2020 legislative session until March 31st. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says it’s the right call

Cut 9 (11) “…contact″

Casinos in Louisiana will be ceasing gaming operations tonight at midnight for at least the next two weeks as the coronavirus continues to impact Louisiana.  Chairman of the Louisiana Gaming Control Board Ronnie Jones says the decision comes after discussions with the Governor’s staff throughout the weekend.

Cut 6 (11) “…public health standpoint.”

Jones estimates the lost state revenue will be about $1.6 million each day of the closure.

The Louisiana Department of Education will continue serving meals during the statewide school shutdown.  Assistant State Superintendent Catherine Pozniak says the food service is made possible by waivers from the federal government, adding that more schools are working out the details of exactly how to best serve food.

Cut 13 (12) “…to four days.”

4:45 LRN Sportscast

The legal tampering period for NFL free agency is underway and Saints unrestricted free agent quarterback Teddy Bridgewater is getting a lot of interest. The Bears have spoken to Bridgewater’s camp, but multiple reports say a deal is not likely. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are also an option for Bridgewater according to NFL insider Peter King. Meanwhile, New Orleans needs to sign Drew Brees to a new contract.

The Cowboys have used the exclusive franchise tag on quarterback Dak Prescott. That means Prescott can not talk to other teams and Dallas has until July 15th to work out a long-term contract.

The Falcons have released two-time Pro Bowl running back Devonta Freeman with three years and 21-million dollars left on his contract. The moves saves Atlanta 3.5 million dollars towards the salary cap.

And Major League Baseball said it’s a season, which was set to start on March 26th, will now begin in mid-May at the earliest, based on the CDC’s latest recommendations.

Pelicans and Saints owner Gayle Benson has donated one million dollars to create the Gayle Benson Community Assistance Fund. In a statement, Benson says she wants to assist those who have been impacted in the community from the COVID-19 pandemic. Benson says she will also establish an Arena Assistance Fund for those who are impacted by the NBA’s decision to suspend the season.

And when will the NBA return. ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski says owners and executives have been told to brace for a mid-to-late June return as a best-case scenario. And when games do return to the court, they might not have fans in the arena. The league has also asked owners to look into securing arena venues into the month of August.

LSU athletics director Scott Woodward expects in the next few days that the SEC will announce that the league’s baseball and softball tournaments are officially canceled. Woodward says the focus going forward is the school’s fall sports and the financial impact of no spring sports is not their major concern right now.

330PM LRN News

Louisiana now has 132 cases of positive tested COVID-19, per capita one of the highest rates in the nation. That growing threat has led to the temporary adjournment of the 2020 legislative session until March 31st, and Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says the compressed schedule is likely going to result in non-essential legislation being abandoned. However a budget will still need to be passed by July 1st, but…

Cut 11 (08) “budget.”

The Louisiana Department of Education will continue serving meals during the statewide school shutdown. Assistant State Superintendent Catherine Pozniak says the meals at designated sites are open to all children, regardless of where they are enrolled in school.

Cut 14 (11) “…age of 22.”

Schools will remain closed until April 13th.

For the first time in the state’s history, gaming operations for all 20 casinos in Louisiana will be closed for at least two weeks.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart” 

Ag Commissioner Mike Strain is asking Louisianans not to abandon their pets during the COVID-19 crisis and if you do get infected, to hand them over to friends or family. Strain says unless you absolutely cannot care for your pet, don’t turn it over to the state, or set it loose because shelters are beginning to fill up, and if you receive a pet from an infected family member, Strain says you need to disinfect it.

LRN PM newscall March 16

For the first time in the state’s history, gaming operations for all 20 casinos in Louisiana will be closed for at least two weeks.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart” 

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Lawmakers adjourn the legislative session until March 31st due to COVID-19 fears. Matt Doyle has the story.

cut  2 (25) “…I’m Matt Doyle”

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Many people are finding ways to work from home in an attempt to slow the spread of the coronavirus.  Tech Gumbo host Haggai Davis says the internet infrastructure is there to handle the influx of web traffic, but other hurdles remain.

Cut 3 (13)  “…into the network.”  

Davis believes a lot more people are going to become more comfortable with working from home as it is becoming an easier process.

Cut 4 (09)_ “…handle this capability.”

Davis says if you work from home, set a work schedule and designating a work area.

Cut 5 (13)  “…different office now.”

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Casinos in Louisiana will be ceasing gaming operations tonight at midnight for at least the next two weeks as the coronavirus continues to impact Louisiana.  Chairman of the Louisiana Gaming Control Board Ronnie Jones says the decision comes after discussions with the Governor’s staff throughout the weekend.

Cut 6 (11) “…public health standpoint.”

Governor Edwards has banned gatherings of 50 people or more.  Jones says the casinos were notified this was likely to happen, adding owners have been very supportive.

Cut 7 (13) “…of everything else.”

Jones says the order is only applicable to a casino’s gaming operations.

Cut 8 (08) “…from local government.”

Jones estimates the lost state revenue will be about $1.6 million each day of the closure.

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Legislative leaders have decided to temporarily adjourn the 2020 session until March 31st due to COVID-19 concerns.  Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says initially the plan was for the session to continue, with social distancing enforced and to check those who enter the Capitol for a fever…

Cut 9 (11) “…contact″

Pinsonat says it’s the right call because it only would have taken one positive test to shut down the Capitol…

Cut 10 (11) “situation.”

Pinsonat says the compressed schedule is likely going to result in non-essential legislation being abandoned. However a budget will still need to be passed by July 1st, but…

Cut 11 (08) “budget.”

_________________________________

The Louisiana Department of Education will continue serving meals during the statewide school shutdown.  Assistant State Superintendent Catherine Pozniak says food operations will be modified to serve as many families as possible.

Cut 12 (10) “…nutrition and meals.”

Some areas are already providing the services today.  Pozniak says the food service is made possible by waivers from the federal government, adding that more schools are working out the details of exactly how to best serve food.

Cut 13 (12) “…to four days.”

Pozniak says the meals at these sites are open to all children, regardless of where they are enrolled in school.

Cut 14 (11) “…age of 22.”

2:30 LRN Newscast March 16

Governor John Bel Edwards took further steps today to reduce the spread of COVID-19 as he’s limiting gatherings to fewer than 50 people, closing casinos, bars and movie theaters and limiting restaurants to delivery and drive-through orders only. These changes are effective statewide at midnight. Operations may be able to resume on April 13th. Louisiana Gaming Control Board Chairman Ronnie Jones has more on the fact that casinos are closing at midnight tonight…
cut 8 (08) “…from local government”
Edwards says the state is up to 132 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and two people have died. The governor says he was on a call with President Trump and Vice President Pence for over an hour and he says they were very clear that we must significantly expand mitigation efforts to slow the progress of COVID-19 before there is more community spread. And action must be taken in areas where there are no confirmed reports.

Lawmakers adjourn the legislative session until March 31st due to COVID-19 fears. Matt Doyle has the story.
cut 2 (25) “…I’m Matt Doyle”

The Louisiana Department of Education will continue serving meals during the statewide school shutdown. Assistant State Superintendent Catherine Pozniak says food operations will be modified to serve as many families as possible.
Cut 12 (10) “…nutrition and meals.”
Check with your local school system for more information.

1:30 LRN Newscast

Governor John Bel Edwards is taking more aggressive steps to fight the spread of COVID-19. He says all casinos, bars and movie theaters will be closing at midnight tonight and restaurants will be limited to delivery and drive-thru orders. Edwards says he’s taking these steps to protect the health of Louisianans, especially those over the age of 60…
cut 15 (12) “…pronounced”
The governor is reporting there are 132 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Louisiana and two people have died.

Louisiana Gaming Control Board Chairman Ronnie Jones says casino operators are supportive of the move by the governor…
cut 7 (13) “…everything else”
The governor says operations may be able to resume on April 13th.

Legislative leaders have decided to temporarily adjourn the 2020 session until March 31st due to COVID-19 concerns. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says its the right call because it would have taken one positive test to shut down the Capitol…
cut 10 (11) “…situation”
Pinsonat says the compressed schedule is likely going to result in non-essential legislation being abandoned, but a budget must be approved by July 1st.

If you are one of the many who are now working from home as a result of the coronavirus outbreak. Tech Gumbo host Haggai Davis recommends that you have some structure in place, like setting a work schedule and designating a work area…
cut 5 (13) “….different office now”