4:30 PM Newscast

Louisiana small businesses can begin applying for a grant worth up to 15,000 dollars tomorrow as part of the Main Street Recovery Program. Matt Doyle has the story.

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Over 2,300 new COVID-19 cases have been reported by the state today to bring Louisiana’s grand total to just shy of 110-thousand cases. Fatalities increase by 23.  Hospitalizations are at 1600.  Daily percentage of positive tests: 8.8%.

Former Vernon Parish Sheriff and former State Representative Frank Howard has died at the age of 81 due to complications from COVID-19.  Current Vernon Parish Sheriff Sam Craft says Howard had a soft spot in his heart for the elderly community.  As Sherrif, Howard started the triad program to assist seniors.
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Governor Edwards will order flags to be flown at half-staff in honor of Howard at the State Capitol and other state buildings the day he is laid to rest.
The Department of Agriculture and Forestry is warning residents of mystery seeds being delivered through the mail that may contain some sort of plant pest or disease.  Ag Commissioner Mike Strain says if you receive a mystery package, don’t hesitate to contact authorities.
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Strain says authorities will come to you to handle the disposal of the
mystery seeds.