530 PM LRN News

Over 1,200 people are now confirmed to have died of COVID-19 in Louisiana as the state tallies another 57 fatalities. Despite the growing loss of life the spread of the virus appears to be slowing consistently as ventilator use and hospitalizations are down.

This will be a good weekend for social distancing with some nasty weather headed our way.  State climatologist Barry Keim says the rain potential is up to about an inch and a half, which will be a relief for south Louisiana…

Cut 5 (09)  “…a bigger problem.”

The Louisiana Hospitality Foundation is raising money to help bar owners stay afloat and keep your favorite local watering hole alive through the COVID Crisis. LHF Executive Director Jennifer Kelley says, unfortunately, bars have a very unusual business model, and federal stimulus isn’t well suited for it…

Cut 7 (11) “sense”

The Governor toured the PMAC today.  The home of LSU basketball is playing host to a giant operation to create PPE for frontline healthcare workers.  Interim LSU President Thomas Galligan credits the ability of departments to work in unison to get the job done.

Cut 11 (11) “…as a team.”

In the near future, Galligan believes the operation will be outputting 1000 gowns a day.

The Trump Administration issues guidelines to states on how to reopen their economies in three “phases”. Phase one continues to encourage social distancing but allows activities like limited dine-in access to restaurants. The Pelican Institute is calling on Louisiana to implement Phase One May 1st.

Cut 12 (07) “recommended”

That’s VP of Policy and Governmental Affairs Renee Amar.