_______________________________________________

For the last decade, more than one million Entergy customers throughout the state have been paying charges to cover the cost of repairs to damage from Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.  Public Service Commissioner Foster Campbell says he’s got good news for those feeling the pinch on the power bill.

Cut 3 (07) “…rate reduction in September.”

Former Entergy Louisiana customers will see an average monthly reduction of $5.44.  Former Entergy Gulf States will see an average reduction of $3.14 to their bill.  The two companies merged in 2015.  Campbell says it’s welcomed savings at this time of the year.

Cut 4 (06) “…rates go down.”

Campbell says some in the northern portion of the state, who are not typically effected by hurricanes, didn’t understand why they were being hit with the storm fees over the years.

Cut 5 (09) “…for our ice storms.”

_____________________________________________

A Morning Consult poll shows Governor John Bel Edwards’ approval rating slipped under 50 percent during the brutal legislative sessions between April and June. Edwards’ has generally maintained one of the highest approval ratings for a Democratic governor, but ULM Political Science Professor Dr. Joshua Stockley says it appears the threats to public services during the sessions took their toll.

 

Cut 6 (10)  “at that.”

Despite the slip in total approval rating, the Governor’s unfavorable rating is still 15 points lower at 35 percent.

Political analysts have noted that average approval ratings for all elected officials tend to take a dive during heated legislative battles like the ones taking place at the capital. Stockley says it’s important to note that the poll may not be giving us the full picture.

Cut 7 (07)  “decline”

But with the legislative session in the rear view mirror and the government fully funded for the year, Stockley says don’t be surprised to see those numbers rebound in the coming months.

Cut 8 (10) “were averted”

_________________________________________________

Alexandria is playing host to all nine divisions of the Dixie Girls Softball World Series, which is estimated to bring in over five thousand visitors.  The Alexandria/Pineville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau estimates the week-long event will have quite the economic impact to the area.  CVB Executive Director, Sherry Ellington…

Cut 9 (08)  “so that’s huge.”

Ellington says the community has experience hosting the event.

Cut 10 (05) “largest one so far”

Ellington says the event comes at a great time of the year for the area.

Cut 11 (09) “restaurants and shopping.”