Governor Edwards has a 3 p.m. press conference today. With COVID numbers declining, will he end the statewide mask mandates? Kevin Gallagher has more…:

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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Data from the Moderna COVID vaccine clinical trial indicates the vaccine is both safe and effective for ages 6 to 12. Brooke Thorington has more

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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While there may be no shortage of students in the state’s classrooms, it’s a different story when it comes to someone to educate them.  More from Dave Brannen.

Cut 3 (31)  “…I’m Dave Brannen.” 

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Governor John Bel Edwards is expected to announce today whether or not he will continue the mask mandate. Stephen Procopio (pro-COH-pee-oh), Policy Director for the Louisiana Public Affairs Research Council (PAR) – who’ve been tracking the pandemic numbers – says they won’t speculate what the Governor may decide, but the figures suggest the co-called Fourth Wave could be winding down…:

Cut 4 (09) “…height of all this.”

Governor Edwards re-enacted the COVID mask mandate on august 4^th. While many are OK with being asked to wear masks in public, many others cannot wait for the mask order to end. Procopio says there’s more to putting COVID behind us than just heeding the Governor…:

Cut 5 (14) “…in the country.”

The Governor will announce his decision on coronavirus precautions during a press conference scheduled for 3 p.m. Procopio says PAR is carefully watching the Department of Health data for any sign of a Fifth Wave, as is the Governor’s Office…:

Cut 6 (10) “…hospitalizations too.”

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Moderna released data claiming their COVID vaccine is both safe and effective for children ages 6 to 12. Dr. Danial Hsia (Shaw) who is overseeing a section of the Moderna trial in children at LSU’s Pennington Biomedical Research says Moderna is expected to seek emergency use authorization soon and the 50-microgram dosage used in children is comparably effective.

Cut 7 (12) “… 100 micrograms.”

As for side effects with the Moderna vaccine in children, Hsia says they are comparable to those seen in adults, like muscle aches, fatigue, and low-grade fever.

Cut 8 (09) “…or less.”

Pennington is one of three healthcare centers in Louisiana taking part in the Moderna clinical trial for children. Hsia says their participation is vital in helping curb COVID cases among children which are currently responsible for 25-percent of daily cases right now.

Cut 9 (11)  “…kids’ vaccinated.”

Hsia says they expect to be submitting data by mid-November and depending on the FDA Advisory panel’s schedule for the holidays, they hope to have EUA by the first of 2022 or sooner for the Moderna vaccine for children ages 6 to 12.

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The teacher shortage in Louisiana is continuing to worsen because there are fewer education students and teacher retirements are on their way up. Michael Faulk, who heads up the Louisiana Association of School Superintendents, says it’s a trend that started years ago.

Cut 10 (10)  “…of six years.” 

As an example, the number of students in the LSU School of Education has plummeted by 57 percent over the past decade.

Faulk doesn’t see the teacher shortage problem being remedied anytime soon in Louisiana.

Cut 11 (10) “…years from now.”

Faulk says there are teachers who seem dismayed about the profession because of their lack of input into the curriculums they have to abide by.

Cut 12 (12) “…of the process.”

Data amassed by the Teacher Retirement System of Louisiana shows that school personnel retirements, including teachers, increased by 25 percent from 2020 to 2021.

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Governor John Bel Edwards travels to Scotland this week for the international Race to Zero climate change summit put on by the United Nations. He says it’s an important step in addressing global concerns about carbon footprints to the benefit of Louisiana.

Cut 13 (12) “…that will decarbonize.”

Edwards says that no other state in the nation has been more affected by climate change than Louisiana, but also in a better position to be part of the solution.

Edwards says the meeting will be important for his delegation as they compete to attract new investment in Louisiana related to climate change issues.

Cut 14 (13)  “…in the country.”

Edwards says the current oil and gas industry workforce could transition to the clean energy manufacturing being proposed, ranging from solar projects to wind farms.

Cut 15 (08)  “…Block Island wind farm.”

Edwards and members of his cabinet, staff, and Climate Initiatives Task Force are scheduled to leave for Scotland on Thursday for the summit that takes place Sunday through November 4^th.

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It was a tough day for LSU starting quarterback Max Johnson in Oxford as he threw for only 146 yards in Saturday’s loss to Ole Miss. Johnson was also intercepted once and sacked four times. In the fourth quarter, freshman Garrett Nussmeier led LSU on two scoring drives, but Orgeron says Johnson is still their starter

Cut  16 (17) “we will”

Johnson will have a chance to rest this week as LSU does not have a game on Saturday. The Tigers’ next game is November sixth at third-ranked Alabama. Orgeron believes his team is still motivated to win ball games…

Cut 17 (20) “ .prove themselves” 

LSU linebacker Damone Clark is playing as well as anyone on this Tigers team. Clark had 18 tackles, a sack and a forced fumble in the loss to the Rebels, one shy of a school record for a game. Orgeron says the senior from Baton Rouge worked hard in the summer to become a better player…

Cut 18 (25)”…football game”

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It wasn’t pretty but the Saints won a hard fought game on the road last night beat Seattle 13-10. New Orleans got a couple of clutch field goals from new kicker Brian Johnson and the defense was stingy as they sacked Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith five times. Linebacker Demario Davis had two sacks, four tackles for a loss and ten tackles. Coach Sean Payton says it a great game from Davis

Cut 19 (25)  “…was tough”

The offense only scored one touchdown as it came during a two-minute drill to end the first half. Alvin Kamara caught four passes on that drive including a 13-yard touchdown catch. He finished with 10 catches for 128 yards. Payton says the Seahawks were leaving Kamara open…

Cut 20 (20)  “second half” 

Gas prices across Louisiana keep moving higher with no indication they are about to reverse course. More from Dave Brannen.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Dave Brannen.”

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More families are now in travel trailers after being displaced by Hurricane Ida. Brooke Thorington has more on the new state program intended to speed up the process.

Cut 2 (31)…I’m Brooke Thorington.”  

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If you have a 337 or 504 area code you now have to dial all ten digits when calling locally. FCC Spokesperson Paloma Perez says it’s because those area codes have 988 exchanges which will be used in the future for a national suicide hotline.

Cut 3 (09) “….intended for.”

Perez says the change is being implemented now so callers in the 337 and 504 area codes will be in the habit of dialing all ten digits well before the July 2022 launch of the 988 national counseling phone line.

Cut 4 (06) “…noble cause.”

But in the meantime, the national suicide hotline is fully operational by dialing 1-800-273-TALK. Perez says it’s only next year that the number will be shortened to 988.

Cut 5 (08) “…mental health crisis.”

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If your wallet’s banking on seeing a drop in gas prices sometime soon, Don Redman, field analyst for Triple-A, says that doesn’t seem to be in the cards this fall for drivers in Louisiana or elsewhere.

Cut 6 (12) “…the immediate horizon.” 

The statewide average price of regular has climbed to three-15 a gallon, up eight cents from a week ago, while crude oil prices have jumped to 85 dollars a barrel, with some speculation they could shoot to 100 dollars a barrel.

Redman says the higher gas prices not seen is seven years are being fueled by no uptick in oil production by OPEC.

Cut 7 (10) “….more than anything.”  

Redman says the high pump prices in Louisiana is not because there’s a lack of gasoline and oil in Louisiana.

Cut 8 (07) “…of crude oil.”

He says there’s no indication as of now on when gas prices in the state might start dropping again.

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More trailers are now occupied by those who’ve registered with the state’s new program to help those displaced by Hurricane Ida to remain on their property. Mike Steele is the spokesperson for the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness…

Cut 9 (11) “…purchased.”

Steele says the IdaShelteringLA.com program not only has to process registrations, but the newly created program has to purchase trailers, which have been short supply since the pandemic, and perform inspections to be sure there is power, water, and sewage at the prospective site where the travel trailers will be placed.

Cut 10 (11)  “…RV park.” 

The newly created program has come under lots of criticism from some, due to the length of time it’s taking to get those displaced in trailers. Steele says it’s the first time the state has been involved with acquiring trailers, otherwise FEMA placing individuals in trailers wouldn’t start until November.

Cut  11 (11)  “…daily basis.”  

Steele says while they understand it’s never soon enough for someone seeking assistance but they hope things can go faster now that the program is established. Steele says the Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA) program which places individuals in hotels along with shelters are still options for those waiting on trailers.

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State Treasurer John Schroder will stop in Alexandria, Columbia, Monroe and Shreveport to promote the ten-million-dollar Louisiana Loggers Relief Grant Program. Schroder says loggers are eligible for a one-time grant of up to 25-thousand dollars, but they’ve only allocated one-point-two million dollars…

Cut 12 (11) “…on it.”  

The state legislature established the grant program with federal coronavirus aid. Louisiana Forestry Association Executive Director Buck Vandersteen says the money is for master loggers who have experienced recent revenue losses….

Cut 13 (12) “…in their process”

Vandersteen says the logging industry worked through the pandemic, but many mills were closed to help slow the spread…

Cut 14 (09) “..2019” 

For more information got to the State Treasurer’s website or call the Louisiana Forestry Association.

Booster shots are now available and depending on which one you got, your age and or medical conditions dictate if you need one. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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More federal dollars are headed to Louisiana to help address what Congressman Garret Graves sees as Louisiana’s highest priority transportation projects.  More from Dave Brannen.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Dave Brannen.” 

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Early Voting for the November 13^th election starts on Saturday. Governor Edwards has come out in favor of two of the four amendments on the ballot. Kevin Gallagher has more…:

Cut 3 (28)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.” 

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COVID vaccine booster shots have been authorized for both the Moderna and Pfizer two-dose vaccines now and State Immunization Director Dr. Frank Welch says a booster should be given six months or more after the second dose of your vaccine to provide additional protection.

Cut 4 (08) “…severe illness.”

The booster is recommended for those 65 and older, or persons 18 and older with an underlying health condition or who work and/or live in a setting that puts them at greater risk.

Welch says if you had the one-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine the booster shot is highly recommended for you, regardless of age or preexisting health conditions.

Cut 5 (08) “…first shot.”

While the vaccines continue to be highly effective in reducing severe disease, death, and hospitalizations, Welch says their efficacy does wane after time, so boosters are recommended. Now the CDC allows you to mix and match doses for example if you first had the Pfizer vaccine you can receive a Moderna booster.  But Welch says if you are confused about the vaccines or booster shots…

Cut 6 (10) “…hotline.”

For more information, you can call the Louisiana COVID-19 vaccine hotline at 1-855-453-0774.

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An additional 65-million-federal-dollars are being allocated to Louisiana for transportation and infrastructure projects. That word comes from Congressman Garret Graves.

Cut 7 (09) “…state of Louisiana.”

Graves says that over the past few years, he’s worked to secure over one billion dollars in federal funds, and believes “the flexibility of these specific funds will help solve real transportation needs in our community immediately.” Some of the money will be earmarked for elevating sections of LA-1 that are prone to frequent flooding.

The congressman talks about how he expects the money will be used to improve the state’s transportation infrastructure.

Cut 8 (12) “…work on I-12.”

Graves says this new money will be helpful in addressing the state’s transportation needs.

Cut 9 (07)  “…are right now.”

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There are four constitutional amendments on the November 13^th statewide ballot, and Louisiana’s governor says he’s all for two of them. Amendment One would authorize a centralized state tax collecting authority. Currently, there are numerous such Authorities in different cities across the state. Governor John Bel Edwards says he would like to see the amendment pass…:

Cut 10 (10)  “…their support for this.” 

Edwards says he is also in favor of Amendment Two on the ballot. If passed by voters, it would actually LOWER the maximum allowable rate of state income tax and authorize a state tax deduction for federal income taxes paid…:

Cut 11 (12) “…that’s what this does.”

The Governor says under the current tax structure, the federal government – in effect – determines how much tax Louisianans pay. He feels it’s better to trade tax exemptions for lower tax rates…:

Cut 12 (09) “…volatility in Louisiana.”

Early voting for the November 13^th election starts this Saturday. Many voting districts will only have the amendments on their ballot. The Governor did not comment on Amendments 3 or 4.

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Tickets go on sale today for the Fall Arts and Crafts Show at the Louisiana State Penitentiary set for December 4^th. Since the Angola Prison Rodeo has been canceled for the last two years due to the pandemic, Corrections Secretary Jimmy Le Blanc says they wanted to give inmates an opportunity to show and sell the crafts even without the rodeo.

Cut 13 (09) “…are ready.”

The bi-annual prison rodeo is traditionally held in April and October and was called off far in advance when COVID cases were on the rise, but LeBlanc says now that COVID numbers are more stable they wanted to hold a scaled-down event to boost morale and give attendees a chance to buy one-of-a-kind goods.

Cut 14 (08)  “…exposed to.”

Handmade items like jewelry, leather goods, paintings, and furniture will be for sale at the festival. Tickets are five dollars for the 9 am to 2 pm event and right now attendees must be ages 14 and older and bring proof of vaccination.

With anticipated shipping delays for holiday gifts this year LeBlanc says this is the perfect opportunity to complete your shopping locally and be sure you have plenty of space in your vehicle to carry them home.

Cut 15 (08)  “…the make.”

You can purchase tickets at AngolaRodeo-dot-com or at the gate on the day of the festival.

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The Saints return to action tonight after a bye week to face the Seattle Seahawks. Steady rain is expected tonight in the Emerald City and New Orleans will also have to contend with 12th man, Seattle’s vocal fan base. Wide receiver Marquez Callaway says they know it will be a challenge

Cut  16 (18) “should be special”

The Saints will not face Seattle quarterback Russell Wilson as he’s out with a finger injury. Geno Smith will start at the quarterback. But the Seahawks still have two terrific receivers DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett. Cornerback Pauslon Adebo gives us a scouting report, starting with Metcalf…

Cut 17 (17) “ ..cover him.” 

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LSU started strong but faded in Oxford in a 31-17 loss to Ole Miss on Saturday. The Tigers scored the game’s first touchdown in the first quarter, but didn’t score again until the fourth quarter. LSU Coach Ed Orgeron says the offense failed to execute during that scoring drought

Cut 18 (18)”…down field.”

The loss drops LSU’s record to 4-and-4, 2-and-3 in the SEC heading into a bye week before a road game against Alabama. Center Liam Shanahan says the team is still motivated to win…

Cut 19 (25)  “…invested so”

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ULM pulled off another upset victory over the weekend as the Warhawks outscored South Alabama 41-31. Warhawks Quarterback Chandler Rogers had a big game, as he threw for 369 yards and four touchdowns. Coach Terry Bowden says they knew Rogers could run, but he’s showing off his ability to throw…

Cut 20 (20)  “hitches” 

The Warhawks are underdogs again this Saturday as they will visit Appalachian State.

The DEA is holding its 21^st Drug Takeback event this Saturday, a time when you can clear your home of unwanted prescription drugs. More from Brooke Thorington.

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Louisiana Treasurer John Schroder wants to see the legislative leadership make a  decision on how the state plans to contribute financially to the proposed improvements to the Superdome. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (33)…I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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Saturday marks the 21^st edition of the DEA’s Drug Takeback event. Brian Singleton of the agency says you’ll be able to drop off a variety of unwanted prescription drugs at the time, no questions asked.

Cut 3 (08) “….a proper way.”

Singleton says the collection points will not be accepting illegal drugs, such as marijuana, and syringes and liquids will not be accepted either. The Drug Takeback event will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. Visit www.takebackday.dea.gov for a list of locations.

Singleton talks about the kind of prescription meds and one other thing that you’ll be able to turn in during the Drug Takeback event.

Cut 4 (07) “…out of it.”

Singleton says turning in unwanted opioids could help avert someone else getting their hands on them.

Cut 5 (11) “…for these opioids.”

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A planned 450-million-dollar renovation to the Ceasars’ Superdome in the Big Easy is at least temporarily hobbled financially. The state has only committed two-point-five-million of 90-million dollars in funding for the project, leaving State Treasurer John Schroder looking for direction from the legislature.

Cut 6 (09) “…of New Orleans.” 

He says so far there’s no definitive answer to that question, though the door was left open earlier by the Edwards administration to funnel that much state money into the project.

Schroder says it’s been difficult on the Superdome funding issue for a variety of reasons, including whether the facility is even a state asset.

Cut 7 (09) “….used a lot.”  

Schroder says that although the 90-million-dollars isn’t needed just yet from the state for the Superdome upgrades, the clock is ticking before the project may have to be scaled back due to the possible decrease in state funding.

Cut 8 (09) “…them some direction.”

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Louisiana is the only state where the percentage of Blacks vaccinated for COVID is higher than whites. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation 51-percent of Blacks are vaccinated compared to 49-percent of whites. Assistant Secretary of the Louisiana Department of Health Kim Hood says their hard work to remove barriers for minorities to get vaccinated has shown results.

Cut 9 (07) “…proud of it.”

When vaccines were first available there was much hesitancy among minorities, so outreach was focused to change that but while Hood says they are celebrating a victory, their work is far from over due to the state’s low overall vaccination rate.

Cut 10 (11)  “…to do.” 

Hood says it’s going to take multiple conversations to change the mind of an individual who’s hesitant about the vaccine and they are working on a person-by-person approach versus changing a demographic.

Cut  11 (11)  “…step of the way.”  

The October breakdown of 43 states by the Kaiser Foundation indicates 49% of Whites are vaccinated in Louisiana, 51% of Blacks, 56% of Hispanics, and 84% of the Asian population are vaccinated.

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Congressman Garret Graves is calling out the Biden Administration as gas prices continue to increase across the nation. Graves says it makes no sense with the President asking OPEC and other oil-exporting nations to increase production instead of here at home.

Cut 12 (08) “…in America.”  

In terms of a resolution with the Biden Administration on energy production in general, Graves feels they are very far off because the administration is more focused on renewable energy at the moment.

Cut 13 (07) “…get better.”

Graves says they continue to work with the Biden Administration and demonstrate that the facts behind their energy policy of focusing on renewable energy are not in the best interest of the country right now.

Cut 14 (10) “…resources,” 

Graves also criticized the Biden Administration for canceling the Keystone pipeline in North America but at the same time supporting efforts for the Nord Stream Pipeline in Russia.

Houma Representative Tanner Magee didn’t mince words when calling out GOHSEP for their slow progress in setting up trailers for Hurricane Ida victims. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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If you’re having trouble settling with your insurance company after Hurricane Ida, there’s a new way to try and resolve disputes.  More from Dave Brannen.

Cut 2 (32)…I’m Dave Brannen”  

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Houma Representative Tanner Magee sent a blistering letter to the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness criticizing the agency for the slow progress in setting up temporary trailers for Hurricane Ida victims who can’t live in their damaged homes. Magee says over 11-hundred trailers have been purchased…

cut 3 (02) “….this point”

Magee also blames the contractor the state hired. GOHSEP says they are beefing up staff as there are many steps that need to take place to get the trailers in place. Magee says contractor APTIM is not being held accountable for timelines and producing results.

Cut 4 (05) “…acceptable.”

In addition to not meeting adequate timelines, Magee says the contractor is not communicating whatsoever with applicants. He says there’s no excuse especially for those applicants who are in such a vulnerable state after losing their homes.

Cut 5 (09) “…from people.”

The Edwards administration estimates there are nearly 13,000 households that could be in need of sheltering assistance from Ida.

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State Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon says a voluntary mediation program to help settle residential damage claims stemming from Hurricane Ida is being set up through his office.  He says two mediation firms will help resolve damage disputes of up to 50-thousand-dollars at a cost of 600-dollars to the insurer or the policyholder.

Cut 6 (08) “…and their insurers.” 

You can contact the Louisiana Department of Insurance for further information.

Donelon says the mediations will take place with either reps from Mediation & Arbitration Professional Systems in Metairie or Perry Dampf Dispute Solutions in Baton Rouge.

Cut 7 (10) “….$600 fee.”  

If only a partial settlement is reached after the 90-minutes, additional costs will apply for a more prolonged meeting. The program runs through June 30^th of next year.

He says insurers, as well as policyholders, are likely to appreciate the ability to resolve their disputes through this voluntary mediation effort.

Cut 8 (11) “…are in dispute.”

Donelon says the $50,000 cap on the dispute mediation was chosen because of the costs and complexity of trying to resolve claims above that amount.

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Senate Commerce Chairman Rick Ward says the state is still waiting on AT-and-T to explain why phone service went down in the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Ida. Ward says they will bring AT-and-T officials back to the Capitol to get an explanation and assurances a similar outage will not happen in the future…

Cut 9 (11) “..looked at.”

Ward says he’s also yet to hear from utility companies on how much of a surcharge customers will pay for the repair and in some cases the rebuilding of the power distribution system following Hurricane Ida. Entergy Louisiana has said the damages from 2020 hurricanes is two-point-one billion dollars and Ward says Entergy and Cleco are still tabulating Ida damages

Cut 10 (10)  “…pass on” 

Ward is 39-years-old and a Republican from Port Allen. He says he is talking with his family about running for governor in 2023. Ward says his ability to work with both major parties could make him an attractive candidate

Cut  11 (08)  “..right thing”  

Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser and Attorney General Jeff Landry have also indicated they may run for governor in two years.

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Senator Bill Cassidy said on the HBO documentary news series, Axios, that he would not vote for Donald Trump if he ran for President in 2024. Cassidy says he made that statement because during the Trump presidency Republicans lost the White House, the U-S House and blames the former President for losing the Senate…

Cut 12 (11) “..Herbert Hoover.”  

Cassidy says Donald Trump not winning in November has resulted in a Biden Administration that’s resulted in a bad economy for the American people…

Cut 13 (12) “…win elections.”

Trump has responded by calling Louisiana’s Senior Senator a Republican in Name Only and also said “Wacky Bill Cassidy” could not be elected dog catcher in Louisiana. During a conference call with reporters, it sounded like Cassidy doesn’t think Trump could win in 2024

Cut 14 (08) “…going forward,” 

Homecoming activities took a fatal turn on the campus of Grambling State early Sunday morning, the second deadly shooting since Wednesday. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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LSU is searching for a new football coach after it was announced this will be Ed Orgeron’s last season. Jeff Palermo on who might replace Coach O…

Cut 2 (31)…I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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AARP has a new website tool up and running that is there to assist veterans access health care in the state.  Troy Broussard with AARP-Louisiana says of the more than 300 thousand vets in the state only a fraction have used their VA health care benefits.

cut 3 (11) “….after their service”

The website address for vets to learn about health care benefits available to them is AARP.org/VetsHealthNavigator.

Broussard says the 28-page navigator on the web provides a lot of information about benefits vets may not realize they are entitled to.

Cut 4 (08) “…department of defense.”

Broussard says the VetsHealthNavigator contains a significant amount of detailed information about benefits available to nearly 60 percent of all veterans.

Cut 5 (12) “…VA benefits process.”

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An early Sunday morning shooting on the campus of Grambling State leaves one dead and seven others wounded. It’s the second shooting fatality in a matter of days on the campus, prompting a decision to cancel classes today and tomorrow and enforce a curfew. University President Rick Gallot says student safety is their priority.

Cut 6 (10) “…safety.” 

A 9:30 PM to 6 AM curfew has also been set until further notice.

The two fatal shootings, Sunday and Wednesday fell during Homecoming week and both fatality victims were not students. State Police has issued an arrest warrant for 18-year-old Jatavious “Rabbit” Carroll of Delhi in connection with the Wednesday shooting and Trooper Michael Reichardt says they continue to investigate Sunday’s incident.

Cut 7 (10) “….doing now.”  

Homecoming events scheduled for Sunday were canceled along with classes today and Tuesday. Gallot says the school is offering counseling for students and faculty and like other communities, the GramFam is not immune to violence.

Cut 8 (10) “…as well.”

A viral video shows what appears to be young people fighting early Sunday morning and then gunshots are heard off-camera prompting those on campus to flee the scene.

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Now that the coaching future of Ed Orgeron has been decided, LSU begins the search for a new football coach. Tiger Rag Editor Ron Higgins says Atheltic Director Scott Woodward will have a lot of candidates to consider…

Cut 9 (12) “..Michigan State.”

Penn State’s James Franklin, Carolina Panthers offensive coordinator Joe Brady, Ole Miss Coach Lane Kiffin, and Michigan State head coach Mel Tucker are among the top names that LSU will consider.

Higgins says LSU is looking for a coach that wins and has no off-field baggage

Cut 10 (09)  “…Somebody” 

USC is the other big-name school that has a vacancy. Higgins says announcing Orgeron’s fate in October should help in the search for his replacement…

Cut  11 (07)  “…you got”  

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A mounted patrol has returned to Beauregard Parish in southwest Louisiana. Sheriff Mark Herford says the seven-member team has already proven its worth to the community.

Cut 12 (08) “…of the fair..”  

Herford says it’s been about 14 years since they had officers on horseback, with this new group of horses going through training so they perform well when sirens are blaring and large crowds are assembled.

Herford says the mounted patrol is unique to the Beauregard Parish area and talks about the focus of its use.

Cut 13 (06) “…at large events.”

Herford says officers have been training with the horses now for several months.

Cut 14 (07) “…very regularly,” 

Drug overdose deaths in Louisiana are way up since the Covid-19 pandemic invaded the state.  Details from reporter Dave Brannen.

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Dave Brannen”

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Republican U.S. Senator John Kennedy reports he has raised $15-million for his 2022 re-election campaign. More from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.” 

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When LSU won a national championship in 2019, it seemed like Ed Orgeron would be the coach of the Tigers forever. But less than two seasons later, he’s out. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 3 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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Shocking statistics from the CDC show that drug overdose deaths in Louisiana shot up by 56-percent between March 2020 and March of this year. Dr. James Patterson, Clinical Director of the Louisiana Addiction Research Center at LSU-Shreveport, blames social isolation during the pandemic for the dramatic increase.

Cut 4 (06) “…on stress.”

According to the CDC, predicted drug overdose deaths totaled more than 21-hundred in the one-year period ending this past March.

Dr. Patterson says that a lack of interaction with other human beings during the pandemic has proven costly.

Cut 5 (08) “…on our society.”

Dr. Patterson says the impact of social isolation and overdose deaths are reflected in part in the way a large segment of grade school children in Caddo Parish are handling the pandemic.

Cut 6 (08) “…the past year.”

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Republican U.S. Senator John Kennedy reports he has raised $15-million dollars for his re-election campaign in 2022. Required campaign finance reports show Kennedy raised $3.25-million in the 3^rd quarter of this year, and that he has nearly $10-million cash on hand. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says the Kennedy figures are (quote) “amazing”….:

Cut 7 (09) “…working very hard.”

In a press release Friday, Kennedy said “Louisianans continue to humble me with their support” and vows to continue to fight the liberal/progressive agenda. Pinsonat says, with a year before he must run for re-election, Kennedy is so popular with constituents he could quite likely raise another $10-million dollars or more…:

Cut 8 (13) “…conservative idol up there.”

Pinsonat says a seated senator’s likelihood of being re-elected has a lot to do with the popularity of the man in the White House…:

Cut 9 (09)  “…a great position.”

(Pinsonat says if Kennedy runs without a highly popular Republican challenger, his chances of another term are quite good.)

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The app LA Wallet is being put to use in another convenient way. Bryan McClinton with the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries says that beginning today hunting and fishing licenses will also be displayed on the app.

Cut 10 (08)  “…the waterproof paper.” 

LA Wallet is also used to show driver’s licenses and Covid-19 vaccination confirmations.

McClinton says you don’t have to do anything to make sure your hunting or fishing licenses are actually incorporated with the LA Wallet app.

Cut 11 (13) “…pull it up.”

While you may choose to carry your physical hunting and fishing licenses with you, McClinton says it won’t be necessary from now on as long as you have a registered LA Wallet app on your smartphone.

Cut 12 (12) “…versions any longer.”

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Less than two years after a 15-0 season and a national championship, Ed Orgeron is out as head football coach of the LSU Tigers. Orgeron will continue to lead the program for the rest of the 2021 season, while the search for a new head coach is underway. After that glorious 2019 season. Orgeron’s Tigers have gone 9-and-8…

Cut 13 (11) “…was time”

Orgeron was asked why the program has fallen to mediocrity

Cut 14 (08)  “…(laughs)”

LSU athletics director Scott Woodward says it was time for a new direction based on the on-field results and the evaluation of the potential for future immediate success…

Cut 15 (11)  “..that standard.”

Orgeron currently has 15 high school football players in the Class of 2022 committed to LSU. He’s already met with two of them and plans to tell all of them to keep their commitment to LSU…

Cut  16 (14) “…will not change”

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In LSU’s upset win over Florida, the Tigers got a record-setting performance by junior running back Ty Davis-Price. The junior from Baton Rouge rushed for a school-record 285 yards on 36 carries and also had three touchdowns. Davis-Price credits his o-line…

Cut 17 (16) “.proud of em” 

LSU rushed for 321 yards, while one of the top rushing attacks in college football, Florida, was held to 138 yards. The defense also forced four turnovers, which resulted in 21 points. Senior linebacker Damone Clark had a game-sealing I-N-T late in the fourth quarter. Clark says a player’s only meeting led by injured defensive end Andre Anthony put the team in right mind frame…

Cut 18 (14)”…we did”

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Louisiana Tech failed to score a touchdown in a 19-3 loss to Texas-El Paso on Saturday. Bulldogs quarterback Austin Kendall threw for 164  yards and he was intercepted three times. Coach Skip Holtz says it was a disappointing performance…

Cut 19 (10)  “…consistently.” 

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ULM was a 32.5 point underdog heading into Saturday’s game against Liberty but the Warhawks put out the Flames with a 31-28 victory in Monroe. ULM trailed 14-0 at half but exploded for 28 passes in the third quarter. Chandler Rogers threw two touchdown passes. Coach Terry Bowden says Rogers is figuring it out after signing with the school in the summer

Cut 20 (20)  “with the football.” 

The Bayou State is no exception in the ongoing nationwide shortage of truck drivers as we hear in this report from Dave Brannen.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Dave Brannen.”

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Industrial gas supplier Air Products will build a $4.5 billion clean energy facility in Ascension Parish. Brooke Thorington has more on what this means for the state.

Cut 2 (31)…I’m Brooke Thorington.”  

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The truck driver shortage continues nationwide leaving some store shelves nearly bare, and goods not getting to where they are needed.  Our state is no exception, says Renee Amar, CEO of the Louisiana Motor Transport Association.

cut 3 (08) “….on the road”

While there seems to be no silver bullet to solving the driver shortage, Amar says the LMTA is offering scholarships through its foundation to offset some of the expense for drivers to obtain their CDL licenses.

Amar says the truck driver shortage and the significant growth in e-commerce since the beginning of the pandemic is causing major problems in the delivery of goods.

Cut 4 (11) “…seeing right now.”

Amar says you should consider buying Christmas gifts, including specific toys, sooner rather than later, but not just because of the truck driver shortage that could lead to empty shelves.

Cut 5 (09) “…of the toys.”

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The industrial gas supplier Air Products will build a $4.5 billion clean energy facility in Ascension Parish. The plant will produce blue hydrogen which uses natural gas to create an alternative fuel.  Governor John Bel Edwards says it’s a tremendous step in clean energy.

Cut 6 (10) “…footprint.” 

The plant will also be able to capture carbon dioxide emissions and store them underground.

Edwards says this will be the world’s largest permanent carbon dioxide capture project to date. In addition to creating an alternative fuel, the complex will also feature carbon capture at the production source and store it underground.

Cut 7 (12) “…manufacturing base.”  

Air Products is not new to Louisiana, the company already employs 330 and the new plant is expected to create 170 new jobs. Air Products president Seifi Ghasemi (Say-fee Gah-sim-ee) says they share the governor’s vision to make Louisiana a leading player in the energy transition and a hub for clean energy production.

Cut 8 (12) “…kinds of projects.”

The facility is expected to be up and running by 2026.

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It’s been nearly seven weeks since Hurricane Ida made landfall and the recovery remains slow in the coastal town of Dulac in Terrebonne Parish. Former state representative Joe Harrison says the biggest need remains housing

Cut 9 (12) “…deal with” 

There has been movement on getting travel trailers to the hard-hit areas. They serve as a temporary place to live for families who have destroyed homes. Sherry Verdin lives in Dulac and says they are waiting on FEMA for assistance…

Cut 10 (11)  “…from nothing” 

Just over one thousand people live in Dulac, which is 17 miles south of Houma. Harrison says many families are eager to rebuild, but many residents are struggling to get an adjuster to come to their damaged home…

Cut  11 (10)  “…not here”  

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The attorneys for Ronald Greene and Aaron Bowman say Governor Edwards has not done enough to end a pattern of excessive force by State Troopers. There’s body camera video showing Greene and Bowman on the receiving end of beatings by State Troopers during arrests in 2019 in north Louisiana. Attorney Lee Merritt represents the Greene family

Cut 12 (13) “….specific action.”  

Greene died in police custody after he was repeatedly punched by Troopers. The governor’s office says the head of State Police, Colonel Lamar Davis, is working each day to implement reforms. But Merritt says the agency should be dismantled

Cut 13 (12) “…from himl”

Attorney Donecia Banks-Miley represents Bowman, a black man who was hit in the head 18 times with a flashlight. Trooper Jacob Brown is facing state and federal charges in connection with the Bowman incident. Banks-Miles is calling for significant changes to the L-S-P…

Cut 14 (09) “…expedite the change,” 

Governor Edwards told KNOE-TV says some changes have been made, but more are needed.

It’s hard to think about the holidays when it still feels like summer, but one economist suggests getting in the holiday mode asap unless you want to hear Bah humbug this year. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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There will be more money in the pockets of Social Security recipients come next year.  More from Dave Brannen.

Cut 2 (31)…I’m Dave Brannen.”  

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There’s cautious optimism as the sugarcane harvest ramps up in south Louisiana. LSU AgCenter sugarcane specialist Kenneth Gravois says the harvest is getting off to a soggy start as many fields are muddy as a result of a wet 2021

cut 3 (12) “….fields out”

2020 was a stellar year for the industry as the American Sugar Cane League estimates 463-thousand acres of cane were harvested, with an average of 85-hundred pounds of sugar produced per acre. Gravois expects the tonnage will be off this year because of a damp growing season…

Cut 4 (10) “…on the tonnage.”

Cooler and drier weather will enter the Bayou State this weekend and Gravois says it comes at a good time as there’s still a good chance for producers to make money off this crop…

Cut 5 (09) “…cane mature.”

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Shipping delays have been an ongoing issue for businesses due to the pandemic but with the holiday season just over two months away Economist Loren Scott says if you’re a last-minute shopper you really could end up being the Grinch this year.

Cut 6 (09) “…until November.” 

While Scott says he doesn’t see shelves being completely empty for retailers, he does however anticipate a problem if you are looking for a specific gift. So, parents might want to have their kids fill out their wish list from Santa sooner than later.

Cut 7 (12) “…smartest thing.”  

In the past retailers have saved money by ordering “just in time inventory,” which meant goods were brought in when they were absolutely needed. But with shipping delays and a backlog at ports, Scott says many retailers might adjust their business model.

Cut 8 (06) “…in the past.”

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Social Security benefits will increase by 5.9 percent with the Cost-of-Living adjustment announced today by the agency. Troy Broussard with AARP in Louisiana says it marks the largest increase in four decades.

Cut 9 (10) “…prescription drug costs” 

The increase takes effect in January, with benefit payments to reflect a 5.9 percent hike in the current benefit being paid out to each recipient.

Broussard says the COLA increase in Social Security benefits is something that will be welcomed by those who solely rely on SSI payments and those who don’t.

Cut 10 (10)  “…here in Louisiana” 

Broussard praises Social Security for realizing the need for such a significant increase in monthly benefits.

Cut  11 (10)  “…to do it”  

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A new COVID variant has been detected in the state. Dr. Krista Queen, Director of Viral Genomics and Surveillance at LSU Health Shreveport says they discovered the B 1.630 variant in samples from the Baton Rouge area which has mutations they are observing.

Cut 12 (11) “….low percentage.”  

At this point, the B 1.630 variant has not been found in large enough quantities to be given Greek letter moniker and Queen says it’s still too early to tell if the vaccines might need to be tweaked for this particular variant.

Cut 13 (12) “…best tool”

Queen says this is not the first time this variant has been sequenced, but it is a first for Louisiana. She says less than 100 cases of the B 1.630 variant have been detected in the U-S so far.

Cut 14 (10) “…watch closely,” 

Queen says they sequence samples of the virus regularly from across the state.

Crude oil prices have hit a seven-year high of 80-bucks a barrel and that’s not a good thing in a number of ways for Louisiana.  Dave Brannen reports.

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Dave Brannen.”

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Long-awaited travel trailers for those who’ve been displaced by Ida are beginning to roll in the state. Brooke Thorington has more from one of the biggest proponents for getting the program up and running.

Cut 2 (32)…I’m Brooke Thorington.”  

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With crude oil prices at their highest level in seven years, gas prices aren’t the only things fuel-related being impacted by the 80-dollar a barrel price.  LSU Professor David Dismukes says winter heating bills in Louisiana are expected to be impacted negatively.

Cut 3 (06) “….be concerned about.”

Dismukes, who is Executive Director of LSU’s Center for Energy Studies, says the rising price of crude is happening at the same time as natural gas prices head higher, and thus the cost of power generation in the state.

Dismukes says while the state is not that reliant on heating oil to keep homes and businesses warm during the winter, the price of crude still impacts the costs of other fuel options.

Cut 4 (10) “…prices are skyrocketing.”

While you might think that rising oil prices might be a positive thing for Louisiana’s oil and gas industry, Dismukes says that’s not necessarily the case given the Biden administration’s negative thoughts on fossil fuels.

Cut 5 (08) “…wells right now.”

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Almost a month and a half after Ida made landfall in southeast Louisiana travel trailers are finally beginning to roll into the state to help those who have been displaced by the storm. Houma Representative Tanner Magee has been extremely vocal about the delay and says he’s relieved for those people who’ve so desperately needed shelter.

Cut 6 (10) “…overjoyed.” 

Magee says more than five thousand requests for the trailers have been submitted to the state so far. The state is acting as the middleman in acquiring the trailers and will be reimbursed by FEMA. Magee says in the first sourcing request for trailers the state acquired roughly 700.

Cut 7 (12) “…up steam.”  

The state being involved in acquiring trailers is a pilot program for distribution and Magee says it’s an effort to reduce time and red tape for those in need of shelter. Magee says if a site is not able to support a trailer, then recipients have the option of a trailer park.

Cut 8 (11) “…basic overview is.”

To register for housing visit IdaShelteringLA.com

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After dealing with years of budget deficits during Governor Edwards’ first term in office, the state is reporting a billion-dollar surplus for the fiscal year that ended June 30th. Commissioner of Administration Jay Dardenne says the state’s economy outperformed economists projections

Cut 9 (10) “…surplus” 

Dardenne says some of the money will go into the Rainy Day Fund and towards other constitutional dedications. He says state lawmakers will have the ability to spend 450-million dollars of it on one-time projects…

Cut 10 (13)  “…in the state” 

Dardenne says when lawmakers gather for the 2022 session in March they’ll also have federal coronavirus relief dollars to spend. He says it’s an opportunity for the state to make some wise investments…

Cut  11 (07)  “…next year”  

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Matthew Mire the man accused of killing a state trooper, an Ascension Parish woman, and wounding three others Saturday in a multi-parish shoot spree was denied bond today. Legal Analyst Franz Borghardt says he’s not surprised. Borghardt says he says a defendant has a constitutional right to a bond determination…

Cut 12 (12) “….without bond ”  

Mire appeared in court via Zoom this afternoon and it was also revealed in court that the suspect is on lockdown and under suicide watch at the East Baton Rouge Prison. Borghardt says this is normally a precaution to protect a suspect and Mire could be on watch for a number of reasons.

Cut 13 (12) “…or others”

Because the string of shootings took place in three separate parishes Borghardt says prosecutors will most likely work together due to the seriousness of the crimes and he expects Mire will be assigned counsel that is prepared to handle a capital case.

Cut 14 (12) “…prosecute him” 

31-year old Mire faces several charges including first-degree murder of a police officer, attempted first murder of a police officer, and aggravated flight from an officer.