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”  

_________________________

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”  

_________________________

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.”

__________________________________

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.

The statewide average price of regular gasoline in Louisiana is pennies away from hitting the three-dollar mark.  Dave Brannen reports it’s been seven years since that happened.

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Dave Brannen.”

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Days after the fatal shooting of Master Trooper Adam Gaubert in Ascension Parish questions remain as to why it took 15 hours to find his body. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (43)…I’m Brooke Thorington.”  

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Gas prices across Louisiana are up about seven cents a gallon compared to last week, and Patrick DeHaan, senior petroleum analyst with Gas Buddy, says the ballooning prices can be blamed on the upswing in oil prices.

Cut 3 (09) “….a half-percent.”

The average price of regular has now climbed to about two-97 a gallon.

DeHaan says there was a chance that oil prices could have been rolled back, but OPEC put a halt to that with a blockage on additional crude production.

Cut 4 (08) “…of oil jumping.”

DeHaan says in the very near future drivers in Louisiana could be shelling out an average price of three-dollars a gallon for regular.

Cut 5 (09) “…and over with.”

__________________________________

The widow of former Governor Edwin Edwards spoke publicly today about her decision to have his body exhumed and cremated last month. The Cajun Prince died on July 12^th and was buried days later. Trina Edwards says she was not allowed to bury him at the original plot he purchased, and she was forced to make a quick decision about his burial and soon regretted it.

Cut 6 (13) “…what I did.” 

Trina Edwards made the comments on Jim Engster’s Talk Louisiana radio show Monday.

In the process of having his body moved she faced criticism that she was having him cremated to destroy evidence. Edwards says however she’s comfortable with her choice to bring his remains home for now.

Cut 7 (11) “…allowed to do that.”  

As for the final resting place for the Silver Fox, Edwards hints that perhaps she’d like to have him placed next to another Louisiana governor and political legend Huey Long at the state capitol.

Cut 8 (07) “…about that.”

But in the meantime, his ashes will remain at the home they shared in Gonzales. Edwards says soon as she brought him home, she had an overwhelming sense of relief.

_____________________________________

Two days after the fatal shooting of Master Trooper Adam Gaubert in Ascension Parish, State Police is not sure why it took 15 hours before he was found dead in his patrol vehicle. Colonel Lamar Davis says they believe 31-year-old Matthew Mire killed Gaubert early Saturday morning, but he was found dead that afternoon…

Cut 9 (13) “….just that” 

Davis says Gaubert was killed during Mire’s shooting rampage that left a total of five people shot in two parishes, two of them dead.  Davis says in an incident like this, it’s standard procedure to limit radio traffic, and officers checking in with dispatch is not a priority.

Cut 10 (08)  “…is communicated.” 

Davis says Gaubert was in his vehicle entering an unrelated crash report in Ascension Parish and his last entry into the computer system was at 2:21 am. Surveillance footage shows Mire in the area around 2:30 am and the suspect turned off the vehicle’s lights.  Davis says it was another trooper that eventually found Gaubert 15 hours later but they also received a call about the officer.

Cut  11 (11)  “…unresponsive.”  

Flags are being flown at half-staff today in memory of Trooper Gaubert.

_________________________

Many Louisianans with National Flood Insurance Program coverage are alarmed at potentially huge premium hikes under FEMA’s new Risk Rating 2.0 plan. State Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon says this COULD stimulate competition from private insurers. Donelon says the rate in increases will be devastating to homeowners and the Louisiana economy at large…:

Cut 12 (12) “.federally backed mortgage ”  

For those living in flood-prone areas, the increases in coverage could be literally unaffordable. Donelon says this leads to the possibility that private insurers could step up to compete with the FEMA-run National Flood Insurance Program…:

Cut 13 (12) “..government is proposing”

Donelon says it cannot hurt for disgruntled property owners to try shopping around for lower-cost flood insurance

Cut 14 (12) “..has had” 

New NFIP rates take effect right away for new flood coverage, and in April 2022 for existing policies.

An 18-year old Covington High School student is being held in St Tammany Parish Detention Center after a video of her attacking a disabled teacher went viral. Brooke Thorington has more

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

______________________________________

State Police have arrested a Donaldsonville man after he hit a nine-year-old boy who just got off of a school bus. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (31)…I’m Jeff Palermo.”  

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After responding to a residence for a medical emergency Wednesday night police in Lafayette found a woman suffering from a gunshot wound. Lafayette P.D. Corporal Bridgette Dugas says they are now investigating a homicide at an Essie Street home.

Cut 3 (09) “….gunshot wound.”

The gunshot victim was taken to a local hospital where she was pronounced dead and police say she was only shot once.

Cut 4 (08) “…the shooter.”

Dugas says the shooting happened shortly after 9 pm Wednesday night in the 100 block of Essie Street. She says the area is not known for high crime and they are asking anyone who might have seen something out of the ordinary to contact them.

Cut 5 (12) “…crimestoppers.”

The name of the victim is being withheld pending notification of next of kin.

__________________________________

A disturbing viral Tik Tok video of an 18-year old Covington High School student and teacher is making the rounds. Covington Police Sgt. Edwin Masters says they got involved after the Wednesday afternoon altercation in which the female student attacked a 64-year old disabled teacher which caused her to go to the hospital.

Cut 6 (11) “…assault people.” 

In the video, you can see the teacher sitting at her desk when a student who has been identified as Larrianna Jackson approaches. There is a brief discussion, you can’t hear them, but you can hear students who are filming say they are going to run if she goes through with it. Moments later the students scream as Jackson punches the teacher repeatedly.

Masters says during the investigation they learned of the video challenge and because of recent legislation which can also hold a person who knowingly films a crime responsible, the female student directly involved in the altercation might not be the only one charged.

Cut 7 (07) “…forthcoming.”  

Masters gives a stark warning for residents in Covington even thinking about participating in such a challenge that involves violence and/or destruction of property.

Cut 8 (07) “…accountable.”

Jackson is charged with felony Battery of a School Teacher and is being held at the St. Tammany Parish Jail. The school teacher has been released from the hospital.

_____________________________________

The Louisiana Coastal Protection Restoration Authority says it has completed a multi-million-dollar project to enhance the presence of the Brown Pelican on Rabbit Island in Southwest Louisiana. Project Manager Todd Baker tells us the effort has been much more successful than expected.

Cut 9 (09) “….next this year” 

The Brown Pelican is Louisiana’s state bird and Baker says of the nests observed on the island, there are 11-hundred-50 Brown Pelican nests on the island. A total of 12 species have been observed on the island, ten of them listed as “species of greatest conservation need.

CPRA Project Manager Todd Baker tells us how important the restoration project, paid for with Deepwater Horizon oil spill money, is to preserve the Brown Pelican in the state.

Cut 10 (12)  “…and flooded out.” 

Baker talks about the importance of the Brown Pelican, in addition to it being the official state bird of Louisiana.

Cut  11 (11)  “…for those guys.”  

A portion of the 16-point-four-million dollars allocated to the project will help maintain the restoration effort in the years to come.

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A nine-year-old boy in southeast Louisiana suffered serious injuries after he was hit yesterday by a dump truck after getting off the school bus in Belle Chasse. State Police Trooper Ross Brennan says 61-year-old Gregory Valentine of Donaldsonville approached the rear of a school bus that had its stop signs extended and flashing lights activated

Cut 12 (09) “..nine  year old child”  

Brennan says the child continues to receive treatment at a local hospital. He says they do not suspect impairment on the part of Valentine, but he still faces several charges

Cut 13 (06) “..suspended license”

Brennan says they also do not suspect speed was a factor…

Cut 14 (11) “..school bus” 

Governor John Bel Edwards has now received his annual flu shot and a booster for his previous two Pfizer Covid-19 shots.  More from Dave Brannen.

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Dave Brannen.”

___________________________________

A Baton Rouge military veteran and commercial pilot says he wants to put the state first before partisan politics unlike his opponent. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 2 (29) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

_________________________________________

Legal betting on sports events makes its Louisiana debut. More from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 3 (32)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.” 

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Attorney General Jeff Landry is announcing some of the details important to a legal settlement with several pharmaceutical firms over the manufacturing and marketing of opioids.  Louisiana’s share of the 26-billion-dollar agreement is just over 325-million-dollars.  But, Landry says there is a catch.

Cut 4 (12) “…agree and participate.”

The funds will be used to mitigate the damage to the state’s citizens from opioid abuse and to help treat those in need.

Landry says local governments will decide how to allocate the funds in their particular area but the distribution must meet a certain criteria.

Cut 5 (08) “…treatment on addicts.”

Landry considers this settlement another step towards assisting Louisiana in curbing the damage done by opioids in Louisiana.

Cut 6 (06) “…this crisis.”

A crisis that Landry indicates has been all too deadly.

_____________________________________

Governor John Bel Edwards traveled to Baton Rouge General Hospital to receive his annual flu shot and Pfizer Covid-19 booster shot Wednesday. He’s urging Louisiana residents to follow his example, noting that getting your flu shot has one of the same benefits the COVID shot has.

Cut 7 (12) “…fact had Covid.”

Edwards says it’s been several years since the Bayou State experienced a bad outbreak of flu.

Cut 8 (10) “…flu that year.”

The governor says despite the deadly flu season four years ago, last year’s was not as bad because of some of the steps taken to ease the spread of COVID.

Cut 9 (10)  “…light flu season.”

_________________________

Baton Rouge commercial pilot and Navy veteran Luke Mixon is running for Senate in an effort to unseat the state’s junior senator John Kennedy in 2022. Mixon says he’s frustrated with the partisan politics in DC and Louisiana is not getting their fair share of natural disaster assistance.

Cut 10 (12)  “…bickering (x2).” 

42-year old Mixon was raised in Avoyelles Parish and graduated from the naval academy. He also completed four deployment supporting missions in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Syria. Even though he’s running as a democrat, Mixon says he feels most voters are more concerned with the candidate versus party.

Cut 11 (11) “…their party.”

When asked about Senator Kennedy’s lack of support for the infrastructure bill, Mixon says it was a bipartisan bill where 69 senators compromised and developed a plan to help everyone, not just their party.

Cut 12 (12) “…natural disasters (x2).”

When not working as a commercial pilot Mixon says he will be out campaigning.

___________________________________

Legalized last year by the state legislature, sports betting has come to Louisiana, as Paragon Casino in Marksville opens its Vegas-style “Draft Room” sports book facility. Paragon General Manager Marshall Ray Sampson says they have partnered with Betfred Sports to offer sports book in our state…:

Cut 13 (08) “…the right direction.”

Sampson says being out in front of legalized gaming is nothing new for them, as they were the state’s first legal casino 20 years ago. He says Paragon’s Draft Room will offer over a hundred big screen TVs and a comfortable atmosphere…:

Cut 14 (11)  “…square feet.”

Native American casinos got first dibs on legal sports book in Louisiana, but other casinos are soon to follow suit. Sampson says Paragon offers gaming enthusiasts the chance to bet on most any sporting event…:

Cut 15 (14)  “…be offered.”

(Former Saints receiver Joe Horn made the first bet at Paragon; a seven-game parlay)

________________________________________________

The Saints are getting ready to play the Washington Football Team this Sunday.  Both teams are 2-and-2. Coach Sean Payton says W-F-T has a good defensive line and playmaker at running back by the name of J-D McKissic who is excellent out of the backfield as a pass-catcher

Cut  16 (19) “…in Heinicke”

The Saints are coming off a tough home loss to the Giants. Payton says they want to avoid a two-game losing streak

Cut 17 (20) “..improvement from.” 

The Saints have made a change at kicker as Cody Parkey replaces Aldrick Rosas. Payton says they are glad to have Parkey

Cut.. 18 (20)”…mentally tough.”

______________________________________________________

After a tough start to the season with Hurricane Ida and playing some tough opponents, Nicholls has moved back into the Stats Perform FCS Top 25. The Colonels are ranked 25th after home victories over North Alabama and Houston Baptist. Nicholls coach Tim Rebowe says his team has improved in recent weeks…

Cut 19 (16)  “…every week” 

The Colonels close out a three-game homestand this Saturday when they host 14th ranked Southeastern in the River Bell Classic. The Lions are led by the reigning Walter Payton Award winner, Cole Kelley. The senior from Lafayette has thrown for nearly 16-hundred yards and 13 touchdowns in four games. Rebowe says Kelley gets everyone involved…

Cut 20 (16)  “…our defense” 

More healthcare workers in Louisiana are choosing to battle Covid-19 vaccine mandates by their employers.  More from Dave Brannen.

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m  Dave Brannen.”

______________________________________

LSU announces star cornerback Derek Stingley Junior had surgery on his foot and there’s no timetable on his return. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (31)…I’m Jeff Palermo.”  

______________________________________

As recovery efforts continue in Lafourche Parish after Hurricane Ida, Sheriff’s spokesman Brennan Matherne says things are getting better for some, while others are still struggling with little things that are piling up. That includes educational needs.

Cut 3 (12) “….a half weeks.”

And Matherne says a concern on that issue includes parents worrying about how to get uniforms for their children. He says fortunately a non-profit is helping out with that.

There are still a lot of people without their original homes in Lafourche Parish and having to deal with temporary housing, if not having to find more permanent arrangements for a residence.  Sheriff’s spokesman Brennan Matherne on the number of homes lost to Hurricane Ida.

Cut 4 (10) “…else to go.”

He says while a number have acquired travel trailers or the like, Matherne says a large number of residents are still waiting for FEMA to roll temporary housing into the parish, rather than just having a congregate shelter.

Lafourche Sheriff’s spokesman Brennan Matherne tells us today that more than five weeks after Hurricane Ida, only about one-third of the debris from the storm has been picked up. It’s one of the frustrations that residents are facing.

Cut 5 (09) “…or vice versa.”

Matherne says huge piles of debris along the parish’s highways are still causing issues, including for motorists.

__________________________________

Sixteen hospitals in the state that deliver babies have met new standards designed to improve the state’s poor maternal death rate. Medical Director of the Louisiana Perinatal Quality Collaborative Dr. Veronica Gillespie-Bell says they are working to reduce maternal death rates in which hypertension and hemorrhage are the leading causes.

Cut 6 (11) “…and outcomes.” 

The collaborative was launched in 2018 joining healthcare providers and community advocates to improve birthing outcomes. Gillespie-Bell says they began with 31 hospitals and have grown to 42 which covers 95-percent births in the state, and they’ve seen a 35-percent reduction in adverse outcomes

Cut 7 (06) “…procedures.”  

So, of the sixteen hospitals that are meeting the collaborative’s standard should expectant mothers forgo undesignated birthing hospitals in Louisiana?  Gillespie-Bell says not necessarily.

Cut 8 (10) “…outcomes.”

For a listing of hospitals visit Louisiana Radio Network.com

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Healthcare workers in Shreveport and Monroe are taking Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport, St Mary Medical Center and Ochsner LSU Health Monroe to court over mandates by those facilities to be vaccinated. Jimmy Faircloth, an attorney for the plaintiffs, says the suits filed today are part of an employee’s fight for medical freedom.

Cut 9 (12) “…don’t get vaccinated.” 

The suit seeks to enforce the affirmative right under Louisiana law to refuse medical treatment.

Faircloth says there is no legal backing for the vaccine mandate for healthcare workers and hospital staff.

Cut 10 (09)  “…own healthcare decisions.” 

Attorney Faircloth says the lawsuits filed today request a temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction to enjoin the Ochsner vaccine mandate.

Cut  11 (09)  “…to opt out.”  

He says Ochsner’s vaccine mandates are “an unlawful forced choice; not a free choice.”

_________________________

Louisiana has joined the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change’s “Race to Zero” campaign. It’s a global effort that involves thousands of governments, higher education institutions, and businesses committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Governor Edwards says Louisiana must do its part because it’s on the front lines of climate change

Cut 12 (08) “..more severe”  

Last year, Edwards signed an executive order that commits the state to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to net-zero by 2050. The governor has also launched a Climate Initiatives Task Force…

Cut 13 (12) “..get there”

Edwards says investments have already been made in Louisiana by companies looking to develop renewable energy and he says there’s interest in using the Gulf of Mexico to produce wind energy…

Cut 14 (11) “…already have” 

National Fire Prevention Week is being marked in Louisiana through Saturday and officials are noting the importance of having working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.  More from Dave Brannen.

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Dave Brannen.”

______________________________________

The Powerball drawing tonight has already made the record books and is poised to break more records. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 2 (32)…I’m Brooke Thorington”  

______________________________________

Louisiana is taking part in National Fire Prevention Week through this Saturday.  Ashley Rodrique with the State Fire Marshal’s Office says the theme this year is to “Learn the Sounds of Fire Safety” such as when a smoke alarm goes off.

Cut 3 (08) “….then call 911.”

Statistics from 2020 show there were 77 fire-related deaths and only about a dozen structures had working smoke alarms.

As Louisiana marks National Fire Prevention Week, Rodrigue also says the State Fire Marshal’s Office is stressing that residents have a working carbon monoxide detector in the home, noting that the fumes are odorless.

Cut 4 (08) “…ever wake up.”

She says a carbon monoxide alarm involves four continuous loud beeps and that you should open doors and windows, leave your residence, and call 911.

The improper placement of generators during hurricanes or power outages has been among the issues involving carbon monoxide poisoning, sometimes resulting in deaths. Rodrique notes that’s just one of the reasons to have an operating CO alarm in your home.

Cut 5 (08) “…the proper place.”

Some CO alarms are combined with smoke alarms and it’s important to keep them working properly, with a single chirp every 30 to 60 seconds meaning the battery needs to be changed and that the alarms need to be changed every ten years.

_____________________________________

It’s been early June since a Powerball Jackpot was won and tonight’s drawing could be significant for a ticketholder if their numbers are drawn and for the lottery, if it isn’t. Louisiana Lottery Spokesperson Kim Chopin says the jackpot is at $685.5-million.

Cut 6 (12) “…Powerball record.” 

Chopin says there’s been no other jackpot that’s rolled this many times without a winner for Powerball.

It could also be the first time a Monday night Powerball-winning ticket is ever drawn. On August 23^rd the multistate lottery added a third night in addition to Wednesday and Saturday nights. Chopin says that’s added even more rollovers to the game in a short time, but ticket buyers in the Pelican State are plentiful.

Cut 7 (11) “…in Louisiana”  

Chopin is hopeful the winning Powerball numbers will be drawn tonight for a ticketholder in Louisana because it’s been three years since the state has had one, but Louisiana has proved to be lucky in the past with 17 Powerball Jackpot winners.

Cut 8 (11) “…number 18.”

She also says don’t toss your ticket in the trash too quickly if you don’t hit all six numbers. Chopin says there are prizes for choosing just the Powerball Number.

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Houma Representative Tanner Magee says the state launched its own sheltering assistance program today as it could be until November before  FEMA sets up trailers on the property of homes that are severely damaged by Hurricane Ida. Magee says this state-run program will get trailers to hard-hit areas much sooner

Cut 9 (10) “…trailer.” 

Magee says a website has been set up at ida-sheltering-la.com.  He says if the trailer can’t fit on the property of a person’s home, they are looking at two sites in Terrebonne Parish to set up dozens of mobile homes. He says the actual structure for the temporary housing could vary

Cut 10 (11)  “…for discussion” 

Magee has been pushing the need for temporary housing in Terrebonne and Lafourche Parishes and says the state’s sheltering program is a good first step. He says it’s heartbreaking to see how some hurricane victims are living after Ida destroyed their home…

Cut  11 (12)  “…troubling”  

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It was a tough weekend for Louisiana’s two most popular football teams as LSU and the Saints both lost at home. The Bayou Bengals lost to Auburn on Saturday for the first time in Tiger Stadium since 1999. Coach Ed Orgeron says several aspects of their game have to improve

Cut 12 (13) “..tackle quarterback”  

The Saints had an eleven-point lead with 12 minutes left, but lost to the Giants 27-21 in overtime. Linebacker Demario Davis says they couldn’t get that one-stop they needed in the fourth quarter and O-T…

Cut 13 (11) “..next week.”

The loss drops the Saints record to 2-and-2. Coach Sean Payton says it’s a game they will never get back. Quarterback Jameis Winston says they have to learn from this defeat…

Cut 14 (07) “…from this” 

The COVID vaccines are getting all the headlines, but state health officials say do not forget about getting your annual flu shots. More from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 1 (27) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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Drugmaker Merck says it’s produced a pill that can help keep people sick with COVID-19 out of the hospital. Dave Brannen has more.

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Dave Brannen.” 

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Owning a restaurant in Louisiana that’s been slammed by hurricanes and a continuing Covid pandemic is a tough go.  Dave Brannen reports.

Cut 3 (30)  “…I’m Dave Brannen.” 

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State health officials are urging folks to not forget about getting an annual flu vaccine shot, as well as the COVID vaccine. LDH resident flu expert Dr. Frank Welch says last year saw a record low number of Louisiana flu cases, and coronavirus precautions were a big contributor…:

Cut 4 (o7) “…when they were sick.”

(However, he says flu has NOT gone away and we should be sure to get immunized)

Dr. Welch says flu shots are needed every signal year to minimize the chances of catching flu, transmitting it to others, or getting very sick if you do catch it. He say the reason for annual shots is the flu viruses have a tendency to frequently mutate…:

Cut 5 (05) “…best protection.”

The flu vaccine is readily available at most doctor’s offices, walk-in clinics, pharmacies and parish health centers. Welch says in a normal year thousands can die from common influenza, and some groups are more susceptible to the virus than others…:

Cut 6 (09) “…diabetes, obesity…”

(Welch says pregnant women are especially at risk from flu, and should be sure to get their flu shot.)

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The Chief of Infectious Diseases at LSU Health New Orleans is weighing in on a Covid-19 pill that manufacturer Merck says will reduce hospitalizations and cut in half the number of deaths in people recently infected with the coronavirus.  Dr. Julio Figueroa:

Cut 7 (12) “…the hospital yet.”

But, Figueroa says the impact of using the pill to address Covid will first be subjected to an emergency use authorization for further study that could then lead to FDA approval of the drug as an alternative medicine for treating the virus.

Dr. Figueroa says when it comes to treatment for Covid-19, the Merck experimental pill will likely be more successful the earlier it’s ingested after the virus is discovered.

Cut 8 (06) “…the most effect.”

Figueroa says the experimentation results being touted by Merck about the anti-Covid 19 pill that’s taken eight times a day for five days can’t be ignored, but have to be proven further.

Cut 9 (07)  “…that’s substantial.”

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Louisiana’s restaurant industry continues to face hardships from a lack of business because of the continuing Covid pandemic.  Stan Harris heads up the state’s restaurant association and tells us, Big Easy eateries continue to suffer financially..

Cut 10 (11)  “…at top line.” 

Harris says most restaurants surveyed in the state don’t expect to ever return to the pre-pandemic normal.

Harris says when it comes to the bottom line, restaurants in Louisiana aren’t drawing in the business they need.

Cut 11 (08) “…their more profitable.”

Harris says there’s a lot of pressure on restaurant businesses across Louisiana to succeed.

Cut 12 (11) “…lot of stress.”

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U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy is unhappy with huge premium increases coming for those on the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). FEMA’s Risk Rate 2.0 – which took effect October 1^st – will mean huge increases in the cost of flood coverage for those who live closest to water, and for many who do not. Cassidy says the hikes are unrealistic and about 20% of those covered under NFIP just cannot afford it…:

Cut 13 (08) “…dropping their coverage.”

Cassidy says some will see flood insurance increases of 100-percent or more. He says the result will be fewer NFIP holders at lower risk to spread costs over, meaning those at higher risk pay even more and quite likely drop the coverage. He says it’s the law of diminishing returns…:

Cut 14 (07)  “…becomes non-sustainable.”

The senator says NFIP has been criticized as “federally subsidized insurance for millionaires’ beach homes”, which he says is far from the truth. Cassidy says NFIP data shows the majority of covered homes range in value from $220-thousand to $400-thousand. He says the cost increases are injurious to homeowners and impractical…:

Cut 15 (11)  “…actuarial death spiral.”

(Cassidy and other Senate Republicans brought legislation to delay the NFIP hikes for a year, but it failed to gain traction)

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For the first time since 1999 LSU has lost a home football game to Auburn. The Fighting Tigers let a 13-point lead slip away and lost to the War Eagles on Saturday night 24-19. A nonexistent running game is one reason why the Tigers failed to preserve the lead as Ed Orgeron’s team rushed for just 29 yards

Cut  16 (19) “…one on one.”

Auburn started its rally in the second quarter when quarterback Bo Nix scrambled around for several seconds, avoiding a sack on multiple occasions, and threw a touchdown pass touchdown. He also ran for a touchdown. LSU linebacker Damone Clark…

Cut 17 (14) “…missed tackles.” 

LSU also burned multiple time-outs on offense as they were trying to audible before the play clock hit zero. Orgeron says the coaches have to do a better job of getting the plays in…

Cut.. 18 (15)”…that point”

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The Saints squandered an 11-point fourth-quarter lead and lost to the previously winless New York Giants 27-21 in overtime. The frustrating loss drops New Orleans record to 2-and-2. Coach Sean Payton hopes they learn from this tough loss

Cut 19 (19)  “…those emotions.” 

The Saints had 405 yards of total offense, but it was the Black and Gold defense that struggled in this one as they allowed Giants quarterback Daniel Jones to throw for 402 yards. A 54-yard touchdown pass to Saquon Barkley started the rally. Safety Malcolm Jenkins says they allowed too many chunk plays……

Cut 20 (14)  “…down the field.”

Lake Charles Mayor Nic Hunter is thankful the state will get some of the 28-billion-dollars in disaster relief funding approved by Congress, but says it falls far short of what southwest Louisiana needs. More from Dave Brannen.

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Dave Brannen.”

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Louisiana has expanded its shot for 100-dollar campaign to anyone who gets a COVID shot in the month of October. Don Molino has the story…

Cut 2 (31)…I’m Don Molino”  

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You won’t find Lake Charles Mayor Nic Hunter jumping for joy with the supplemental disaster relief bill signed into law yesterday.  That’s because only a small fraction of the 28.6-billion dollars earmarked for disaster recovery nationwide will ever make it to southwest Louisiana.

Cut 3 (09) “…10 months ago”

Hunter is not optimistic that the recovery needs after hurricanes Laura, Delta and Zeta will ever be met as time marches on.

Cut 4 (09) “…a year ago.”

Mayor Hunter appears disheartened by the lack of attention paid the feds have paid to the destruction and misery his town and southwest Louisiana have gone through since last year.

Cut 5 (12) “…on our side.”

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Louisiana food stamp recipients are receiving a historic increase in their monthly benefits. That word comes from Shavana Howard, DCFS Assistant Secretary for Family Support.

Cut 6 (07) “…dollars per person.” 

Howard says that would push the maximum payout for a family of three to 658-dollars a month. The increase is the first cost adjustment by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to its Thrifty Food Plan in 45 years.

Howard says upping the monthly maximum for SNAP benefits will give recipients a better shot at affording the cost of a healthy diet and dealing with higher food prices overall.

Cut 7 (08) “…cost more money”  

Howard says this increase in SNAP benefits will help out a lot of people in Louisiana.

Cut 8 (08) “…age of 18”

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Louisiana is expanding the Shot for 100 Campaign. Kim Hood, Assistant Secretary for the state Office of Public Health, says during October,  unvaccinated individuals will receive a 100-dollar Visa gift card after receiving their first COVID vaccine shot.

Cut 9 (07) “…you like.” 

This limited-time offer for the general public will end on October 30th. Hood says patients must receive the vaccine at participating community-based sites listed at “shotfor100.com”…

Cut 10 (11)  “…first dose.” 

This campaign was first offered to college students back in August and federal coronavirus relief funds are paying for this initiative. Hood says minors are also eligible for the cash incentive…

Cut  11 (11)  “…incentive”  

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For the first time since November 2019, over 90-thousand fans will file into Tiger Stadium to watch LSU take on an SEC opponent. The Bayou Bengals will host 22nd ranked Auburn at 8 PM on Saturday. Coach Ed Orgeron is looking forward to an electric atmosphere

Cut 12 (12) “..be loud”  

LSU has not lost at home to Auburn since 1999. The War Eagles have yet to announce a starter at quarterback. It could be either Bo Nix or former LSU Tiger TJ Finley from Ponchatoula. LSU defensive coordinator Daronte Jones says are ready for either one…

Cut 13 (08) “..athletic.”

Finley started five games at quarterback for LSU last season, but announced in May he was transferring after finding himself third on the depth chart. Orgeron has nothing but respect for TJ…

Cut 14 (14) “…we compete”  (2x)

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The jackpot for Saturday night’s Powerball drawing is the 10th largest in U-S history. Louisiana Lottery spokesperson Kim Chopin says the top prize is an estimated 635-million dollars with a cash value of 450-million dollars. Chopin says it’s been nearly four months since someone won the Powerball grand prize

Cut 15 (06) “…summer long” 

The odds of winning the jackpot are one in 292-million. Chopin says as the jackpot grows, more players get involved…

Cut 16 (12) “..as well”