An Interfaith service is underway at St Joseph’s Cathedral in Downtown Baton Rouge honoring former Governor Kathleen Blanco. After the service Blanco’s casket will be escorted by Louisiana State Police to the state Capitol. Her former protective service detail will carry her casket up the front steps which will be lined by members of her cabinet and staff. She will then lie in state for public viewing from 1 until 6pm.
Commissioner of Higher Ed and former Blanco Aide Kim Hunter Reed says they’ve received interest in the public ceremonies from people young and old from across the state.
Governor Edwards has ordered flags be flown at half-staff until Blanco’s funeral ends Saturday night in Lafayette.
Instead of choosing one of the two major Republicans running for Governor against incumbent Democratic Governor Edwards, the business lobbying group LABI (LA-BEE) is supporting both Congressman Ralph Abraham and businessman Eddie Rispone. In 2015 the LABI did not endorse anyone in the primary because their candidate lost to Edwards in the runoff.
After a five-year-old was found with a bag of cocaine and two bags of crack at a Slidell school Wednesday, two adults are under arrest. Detective Daniel Seuzeneau says they searched the child’s home and arrested 51-year-old Ellis Cousin and 23-year-old Angelica Stanley. They are charged with Possession with Intent to Distribute, Paraphernalia, and Cruelty to a Juvenile. Suezeneau says thankfully no one was exposed to the bag’s contents.
Steps have been taken to ensure the child’s well-being.