President of the Louisiana Restaurant Association says a majority of those eligible to receive assistance from the Restaurant Revitalization Fund did not. Brooke Thorington has more

Cut 1 (30) “ …I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

____________________________________

The state health department reports a child under the age of one has died from COVID-19. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (31)…I’m Jeff Palermo.”  

______________________________________

President of the Louisiana Restaurant Association Stan Harris says the industry is still struggling and eateries in the state failed to receive their fair share of funding from the Restaurant Revitalization Fund.

Cut 3 (11) “…get funded.” 

Harris says originally restaurants asked Congress for $120 billion but only received $28.6-billion. Stipulations were also added to the funding that women-owned, veteran-owned, and socially and economically disadvantaged restaurants were given priority.

Harris says for the Bayou State there are almost 3,000 restaurants, bars, craft brewers, and entertainment venues still in need.

Cut 4 (10) “…business alive” 

Harris says the National Restaurant Association has asked Congress for more funding to be added to the RRF to offer relief for pending applications. In Louisiana, Harris says 62-percent of applicants didn’t receive any funding, and as the industry continues to face pandemic hurdles and a worker shortage…

Cut 5 (07) “…my bills.”

Harris says while they’ve received positive feedback from the Louisiana Congressional delegation, they fear the length of time it would take to receive funding will only force more owners to close their doors.

__________________________

State health officials say 31-percent of newly reported COVID-19 cases in Louisiana were in children younger than 18. Everyone age 12 and older is eligible for the COVID vaccine. Physician in Chief at Children’s Hospital New Orleans Dr. Mark Kline says clinical trials to make the vaccine available for kids under 12 are ongoing.

Cut 6 (09) “…October.” 

Kline says that means the Pfizer vaccine could be available for 5 to 11 year-olds before the end of the year. He says emergency use authorization for this age group can not come soon enough.

Cut 7 (07) “…age group.”  

Kline believes the COVID vaccines can be as effective in children as adults…

Cut 8 (11) “…looking for”

Until the vaccines are approved for those under the age of 12, Kline encourages all ages to wear masks to help protect those who cannot be vaccinated yet.

_______________________

Caddo Parish Sheriffs made arrests yesterday in two separate incidents where students threatened school shootings on social media.

Spokesperson Cindy Chadwick says one of those arrested was 18-year-old Raybon Marter who threatened to do a school shooting at Southwood High School on Snapchat.

Cut 9 (11) “…arrested.”

Marter was charged with terrorizing.

In another unrelated event, a 15-year-old posted a picture of himself on Instagram putting a gun in his backpack and a separate picture of himself walking to the Woodlawn Leadership Academy campus.

Cut 10 (13) “…magazine”

The teen was arrested for having a gun on campus and terrorizing.

Chadwick says these days it’s not just the public who is reporting school shooting threats from social media, it’s the social media companies themselves…

Cut  11 (10) “…investigate”  

_____________________________

Louisiana SPCA animal shelters are nearly 100 percent past capacity and the organization is hoping to make room by offering adoptions for only 25 dollars through September 19^th. Spokesperson Alicia Vial says housing challenges and pandemic economic troubles are driving a big uptick in owner surrenders.

Cut 12 (06) “…pet” 

Vial says another issue is owners who worked from home are now having to return to the office and feel that they don’t have the time to spend with a pet anymore. There’s also another odd trend…

Cut 13 (12) “…started”

If you are considering surrendering your pet Vial encourages you to contact the LSPCA first. The organization may be able to provide aid in keeping your pet with you.

The 25 dollar adoption fee applies to all cats over six months old and large dogs. Vial says it’s a real bargain…

Cut 14 (13) “..training”

Vial says if you don’t want to make a long-term commitment right now they’d greatly appreciate help fostering pets.

You’ll need proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test to get into Tiger Stadium for LSU football games this season. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “ …I’m Matt Doyle.” 

____________________________________

After hearing cries from a well on his property in Washington Parish, the owner call for help. Brooke Thorington has more on the three-day rescue.

Cut 2 (32)…I’m Brooke Thorington.”  

______________________________________

LSU will require proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test to enter Tiger Stadium for football games this season.  LSU Infectious Disease Specialist Dr. Catherine O’Neal says this added layer of protection means those who are fully vaccinated can feel pretty safe going to the game.

Cut 3 (11) “…environment.” 

O’Neal says those who are elderly or immunocompromised should not go to the game even if vaccinated. She says crowds won’t be safe for those individuals until more people are vaccinated.

O’Neal says if you are not vaccinated you can go get one today and have some additional protection entering the stadium. For those who choose not to get vaccinated but are otherwise healthy…

Cut 4 (07) “…zero” 

Unvaccinated individuals must produce a negative PCR test result that was taken within 72 hours of the game.

O’Neal says venues that require proof of vaccination or a negative test allow people to get closer to a sense of normalcy while remaining relatively safe…

Cut 5 (09) “…stop.”

Season ticket holders who want a refund must email tickets@lsu.edu by Friday.

__________________________

Jameis Winston made a strong case that he should be the starting quarterback for the Saints in last night’s preseason win over Jacksonville. Winston threw for 123 yards and two touchdowns and just one incompletion on ten attempts. Coach Sean Payton is not providing a timeline on when he’ll announce a starter…

Cut 6 (10) “…next week” 

Winston got the start after coming off the bench last week. It was the first game he started since 2019 when he was with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Cut 7 (06) “…fun stuff”  

Second-year wide receiver Marquez Callaway also had a big game in front of a national TV audience. Callaway caught two touchdown passes including a spectacular one-handed grab. Callaway says he was just doing his job

Cut 8 (11) “…to be”

_______________________

Five puppies are now safe and sound after spending days at the bottom of a 65-foot dry well in Washington Parish. Director of the Humane Society of Louisiana Jeff Dorson says responders were forced to get creative in order to save the five pitbull mix puppies.

Cut 9 (12) “…would work.”

Dorson says they tied leashes together to form a type of webbing, enticed puppies with food into the webbing, and pulled them to safety.

In his 33 years in the field, Dorson says he’s never seen such an operation. Overall Dorson says the puppies are in great shape considering and crews kept them fed and watered throughout the rescue.

Cut 10 (11) “…no idea”

The puppies were transported to Mandeville Animal Hospital where they are being treated for parasites and minor skin issues.

Dorson says the rescue is reminiscent of when several children were tapped in a cave. He’s very relieved the story has a happy ending and grateful for all the local first responders who assisted their crew and provided support, like the Franklinton Fire Department and Washington Parish Sherriff’s Office.

Cut  11 (09) “…extraordinary.”  

All five puppies and their mother who stayed with responders during the three-day rescue once cleared will be transported to a shelter and put up for adoption.

_____________________________

Ag Commissioner Mike Strain implores Louisianans not to take Ivermectin for COVID.

Strain says there was some evidence at one point that the anti-parasitic might be effective against COVID but those studies were retracted by reputable medical journals due to irregularities…

Cut 12 (10) “…audit” 

Other studies have been cited showing Ivermectin, in large doses, reducing COVID in a petri dish but no similar, peer-reviewed studies have found that to be the case in humans yet.

Strain says Ivermectin can have really nasty side effects, especially if taken improperly.

Cut 13 (09) “…cycle.”

Strain says for some Ivermectin can even be fatal. That’s because some people genetically don’t have the right protein to stop Ivermectin from crossing the blood-brain barrier.

Cut 14 (09) “..antidote”

The FDA gives the Pfizer COVID vaccination full backing, Brooke Thorington talks with a Tulane epidemiologist about the pandemic milestone.

Cut 1 (31) “ …I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

____________________________________

13-year New Orleans Police Officer Everett Briscoe was fatally shot Saturday at a Houston restaurant during an apparent stick-up. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 2 (30)…I’m Matt Doyle.”  

______________________________________

The Food and Drug Administration grants full approval for the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccination which many physicians hope will lead to more vaccine mandates. Tulane Epidemiologist Doctor Susan Hassig says the Pfizer vaccine is now fully approved for ages 16 and up.

Cut 3 (11) “…their staff.” 

Two-point-two million people in Louisiana have started the vaccination series. That is 48-percent of the state’s population and 40-percent of the state’s residents are fully vaccinated. Hassig hopes full approval will increase vaccination rates.

Cut 4 (12) “…medication” 

Moderna and Johnson and Johnson vaccines have yet to receive full approval but, Hassig anticipates they will follow the EUA timeline and receive full approval within a month and three months respectively. But Hassig says there’s plenty of the Pfizer vaccine available in the US.

Cut 5 (09) “…to do that.”

__________________________

A 13-year New Orleans Police veteran was shot and killed Saturday in Houston during a stick-up at a restaurant, while he was dining on the patio with friends.

New Orleans Councilman Jay Banks knew Officer Everett Briscoe well…

Cut 6 (11) “…citizen” 

Cops say two people entered the restaurant just after 5 PM and began demanding people hand over their valuables. A witness says everyone complied and it is not confirmed why one of the assailants then opened fire, fatally striking Briscoe and wounding another person. One witness claims one of the assailants lost their composure when they saw Briscoe’s firearm while he was lying on the ground.

Banks says Briscoe leaves behind a loving family that is in shock.

Cut 7 (13) “…tie”  

Briscoe was in Houston on a trip with fellow members of the Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club.

Banks says this surge in violence sweeping the nation has to end.

Cut 8 (11) “…tell me.”

_______________________

UL System students will either need to provide proof of vaccination or claim a personal exemption the next time they register for classes, to enroll at the system’s nine schools. President Jim Henderson says their request to add fully FDA-approved vaccines to their immunization schedule was approved by the Louisiana Health Department

Cut 9 (08) “…institutions.”

LSU spokesperson Ernie Ballard says now that Pfizer has full FDA approval they will begin communicating the logistics of the campus’s vaccine mandate “soon”. He says they need to fully review the approval and the President plans on implementing the mandate with more details to come.

Henderson says it is important to note that this isn’t really a “vaccine mandate” beyond the paperwork. Louisiana is one of 15 states that allow for philosophical exemption from immunization requirements.

Cut 10 (08) “…dissent”

LSU Board of Supervisors Chairman Robert Dampf echoed similar concerns about the mandate’s lack of teeth in an interview with Jim Engster on Talk Louisiana in July.

Henderson says they can’t force students to take the vaccine but he hopes full FDA approval will push more of them off of the fence. He says they’ve tried to convince students to get the shot…

Cut  11 (07) “…approval.”  

College students who get the shot can receive 100 dollars through the Shot for 100 program.

_____________________________

Beginning today the multistate Powerball game will draw numbers three times a week as opposed to only two. Louisiana Lottery Spokesperson Kim Chopin says with Powerball drawings are now Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday nights, and Megamillions on Tuesday and Friday…

Cut 12 (12) “…covered” 

Chopin says adding a Monday night drawing to the multistate game will hopefully be a cure for the Monday Blues for Powerball players, a game that has already made more than 80 Louisianans members of the millionaire’s club.

Cut 13 (09) “…that’s Monday.”

Chopin says we are long overdue for a Powerball Jackpot winner in Louisiana. The last time there was a Powerball Jackpot winner in the Bayou State was March of 2018, but if numbers hit tonight for someone in Louisiana…

Cut 14 (12) “..October 2017.”

Louisiana’s unemployment rate is now down 2.3 percent from this time last year. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle”

___________________________________

Scenes out of Afghanistan have been especially disturbing for U-S veterans who served in the Middle East. Brooke Thorington has more

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

_________________________________________

An LSU fishing poll shows that pandemic isolation led to anglers taking millions of additional fishing trips compared to pre-pandemic years. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 3 (28)  “…I’m Matt Doyle.” 

_______________________________

Louisiana added another 12,700 jobs from June to July and ended the month up 58,200 jobs year-to-year. Louisiana Workforce Commission spokesperson Chris Fiore says moving in the right direction despite the 4^th COVID wave, but the only way to keep this momentum going is by getting more people vaccinated.

Cut 4 (11) “…masks.”

New Orleans and Baton Rouge led the pack in new month-to-month job gains at 3,700 and 3,00 respectively. Shreveport and Houma were the only markets to see month-to-month job losses.

Fiore says the biggest sector gains were in leisure and hospitality and education and health services at 27,000 and 13,000 more jobs year to year respectively. Fiore says we can do even better.

Cut 5 (08) “…hired.”

Business services gained 12,000 jobs over the year.

Fiore says if you are unemployed visit laworks.net to find a job near you.

Cut 6 (07) “…right now.”

_____________________

If you’re in the market for a new vehicle according to AAA research don’t be surprised if that new car or pickup costs more than you anticipated. AAA spokesperson Don Redman says remember upkeep and costs associated with a vehicle go well beyond your monthly car note.

Cut 7 (10) “….insurance.”

The most significant part of the average $10 thousand annually Redman says that vehicle owners neglect to anticipate when purchasing a new vehicle is depreciation.

Cut 8 (08) “…depreciation.” 

A major reason new vehicle prices have increased is the ongoing computer chip shortage that has caused a delay in the manufacturing of new vehicles. Redman says with each passing year there’s additional technology added to motor vehicles prices which also increases prices.

Cut 9 (10) “…much technology.”

The average price of a new vehicle for 2021 is $32,900 which is almost five percent higher than last year.

________________________________________

While the scenes out of Afghanistan are horrifying as US Troops are withdrawing from the war-torn country after providing stability for more than two decades, the situation is extremely upsetting to US Afghanistan vets.  Louisiana Veterans Affairs Secretary Colonel Joey Strickland says they’ve been contacted by several veterans who served in the Middle East.

Cut 10 (10) “…country.” 

Strickland says the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs has several venues to offer counseling and assistance for veterans who are experiencing PTSD and other issues. Especially during this critical time when some veterans feel the withdrawal has discounted their service. Strickland says they’ve been meeting with veterans at places like the VFW.

Cut 11 (12) “…the time.”

Strickland says this issue hit close to home, it reminds him of his experience in Vietnam and now his son who served in Afghanistan, so he’s familiar with the emotions veterans are dealing with in response to the withdrawal. Strickland says the LDVA also has a crisis line.

Cut 12 (12) “…experiencing.”  

For more information visit the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs website.

_____________________________

An LSU survey finds people took a lot more fishing trips in the spring of 2020 compared to 2019, seemingly due to pandemic era isolation policies.

LSU Oceanography and Coastal Sciences Professor Stephen Midway says traditionally fishing is used as a social bonding experience, but their poll found the reasons anglers gave for heading out are changing…

Cut 13 (09) “…pandemic.”

Midway says their poll found four out of five anglers took as many trips as they had the year before, and one out of five took at least one extra trip…

Cut 14 (10) “…2020.”

An estimated 44 million Americans consider themselves anglers.

Midway says the increased number of fishing trips, assuming that people are assuming by regulations, should not be an ecological stressor. In fact, it may be the opposite…

Cut 15 (12)“…management.”

________________________________________

Preseason game number two is tonight as the Saints host the Jaguars. Another opportunity for Taysom Hill and Jameis Winston to win the starting quarterback spot. Running back Alvin Kamara on what he sees from Hill

Cut 16 (15) “…offense.”

Coach Sean Payton on how’s evaluating quarterback battle…

Cut 17 (13) “…that position.”  

_________________________________________________

LSU backup quarterback Garrett Nussmeier threw for 303 yards and three touchdowns in the second scrimmage of preseason camp. Starter Max Johnson was 11 of 17 for 125 yards and one touchdown. Coach Ed Orgeron says Nussmeier made some nice plays…

Cut 18 (25)”…dynamite”

The offensive line did not play well in the first scrimmage. Orgeron says he saw improvement with the o-line on Saturday…

Cut 19 (20)  “…we’ll be fine” 

Junior running backs Ty Davis-Price and John Emery Junior did not participate in the second scrimmage because of nagging injuries. So sophomore Josh Williams led all rushers with 66 yards on the ground and a touchdown. True freshman Armani Goodwin had six carries on 25 yards. Orgeron says hopes Davis-Price and Emery return soon…

Cut 20 (10)  “…some consistency” 

Governor John Bel Edwards says 28-percent of all new COVID cases are children, which he says points to the reason why face coverings are required in schools. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (31) “ …I’m Jeff Palermo” 

____________________________________

Ochsner reports monoclonal antibody treatments have been highly effective in limiting COVID-related hospitalizations and deaths. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 2 (30)…I’m Matt Doyle.”  

______________________________________

The state reported nearly six thousand new COVID-19 cases on Friday. Governor Edwards says for the last couple of days 28-percent of all new cases are in children and this is troubling with schools re-opening

Cut 3 (15) “…of last year” 

Edwards says transmission among children is very high which is why a mask mandate is in place for schools…

Cut 4 (11) “…in our schools” 

Two public meetings in Baton Rouge this week were disrupted by anti-mask protesters, upset their children are forced to wear a mask, calling it child abuse. But Edwards says everyone has a role to play in slowing the spread of COVID and failing to do so can have lethal consequences

Cut 5 (11) “…that simple”

__________________________

Ochsner has administered about 9,700 monoclonal antibody treatments to COVID patients across New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and the Northshore.  Ochsner CEO Warner Thomas says the treatments have been highly effective.

Cut 6 (11) “..vaccinated” 

At Ochsner’s Lafayette facility Thomas estimates they are administering about 300 to 400 treatments a week.

Ochsner Chief Medical Officer Dr. Robert Hart says they’ve received additional help from paramedics in running their infusion suites, and can now offer the treatment within a day or two of qualification.

Cut 7 (08) “…down”  

System Hospital Quality Director Dr. Sandra Kemmerly says the treatment is a passive immunotherapy that can prevent hospitalizations and deaths but is not a permanent solution.

Cut 8 (12) “..sustainable.”

Governor Edwards says 176 providers are administering this treatment statewide.

_______________________

While there’s lots of focus on being vaccinated for COVID, healthcare professionals are also reminding the public to remember to get their annual flu shot. In order to make the process for both as convenient as possible Walmart Market Health and Wellness Director Mohamed Salem says you can do both at any of their stores.

Cut 9 (10) “…Louisiana.”

Salem says another convivence the store has added is the ability to schedule an appointment for your shots and it’s only a click away.

Cut 10 (08) “…a computer.”

Salem says while flu season typically peaks in the winter months, it is hard to think flu season in the dog days of summer but it’s best not to procrastinate.

Cut  11 (11) “…flu shot.”  

Salem says they are observing COVID protocols and pharmacists are administering the doses. He says most flu shots are free per your health insurance and all COVID vaccinations are free.

_____________________________

We’ll see some of the highest heat indexes of the year this weekend with temps around 110 degrees in South Louisiana.

State Climatologist Barry Keim says we’ve been lucky to hate some recent storms keep the temperatures down but that won’t be the case for the next few days.

Cut 12 (12) “…sun” 

Heat indexes in north Louisiana will be lower due to the lack of humidity, but still at or over 100 degrees.

It’s brutal weather but Keim says at least this high-pressure system is pushing tropical storm systems away from the Gulf of Mexico.

Cut 13 (11) “…temperatures”

Until this heatwave passes Keim says be careful, and be safe because this level of heat and humidity combined can be very dangerous.

Cut 14 (11) “..clothing.”

The state’s largest healthcare system notes a slight decrease in COVID hospitalizations, but the situation remains dire. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (31) “ …I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

____________________________________

A 28 million dollar line of credit for Superdome renovations was paused by the State Bond Commission in retaliation of the Saints’ vaccine ticket policy. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 2 (40)…I’m Matt Doyle.”  

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There’s some positive news from Ochsner Health, during their Wednesday conference call they indicated a small decline in COVID hospitalizations. CEO Warner Thomas says this week they have 1028 COVID patients across their hospital systems.

Cut 3 (12) “…in New Orleans.” 

Thomas says 89-percent of their current hospital patients are unvaccinated.

Even with a slight decline in hospital patients, Thomas says nonemergency surgeries are still having to be postponed but they aren’t all elective, they are procedures impacting those with cancer and heart disease, and those needing organ transplants.

Cut 4 (09) “…our system” 

Thomas says they have had to redeploy approximately 800 staff throughout the system to handle the influx of COVID patients which is another reason for canceling procedures.

As the fourth surge continues, Thomas says they have seen the number of children with COVID at Ochsner more than double in the last month which is alarming.

Cut 5 (12) “…seen there”

__________________________

The Louisiana Gaming Control Board approves emergency rules that would allow casinos to offer sports betting to their patrons possibly as early as mid-September. Chairman Ronnie Johns says the goal all long was to make sure legal sports wagering in Louisiana was up and running prior to the start of the football season…

Cut 6 (10) “…this quickly” 

The emergency rules approved by the board will give riverboat and land-based casinos and racetracks the ability to take sports bets starting on Monday. A month ago, Johns was named chairman of the Gaming Control Board and the number one question he’s been asked is when is legal sports betting coming to Louisiana???

Cut 7 (06) “…it’s coming”  

Last year, voters in 55 parishes said yes to legalized sports betting in their parish. Sports betting began in Mississippi in August of 2019 and Louisiana casino operators have complained about missing out on revenue. But Johns says sports betting is now a reality in Louisiana…

Cut 8 (11) “…very quickly”

The emergency rule goes into effect Monday, which allows casinos to apply for a sports betting license, It will take a few weeks for regulators to approve the application.

_______________________

The State Bond Commission voted to pause funding on a 28 million dollar line of credit for renovations to the Superdome due to the Saints’ vaccination policy.

This morning the Saints backtracked on not allowing refunds for unvaccinated season ticket holders, but if fans cancel they lose their season ticket position. Attorney General Jeff Landry says he won’t support releasing these funds until that policy is changed.

Cut 9 (08) “…were in.”

Landry says he spoke with a man who has owned season tickets since 1969 and just wants the option to opt-out for this year, the same policy that was in place last year.

Cut 10 (10) “… the entire time.”

The vote was 10-2 in favor of pausing the funding. The two votes against came from Edwards Administration members. One of those was Edwards’ Executive Counsel Matthew Block…

Cut  11 (09) “…at all.”  

The commission also voted in favor of withholding financing for New Orleans hospitals, schools, roads, and other construction projects tapped for funding by the Legislature.

The Commission refused to comment as to why but it was obvious enough that it was retaliation for the citywide vaccine-proof policy. Block noted it’s not just the city that isn’t getting paid….

Cut 12 (11) “…moment” 

_____________________________

Governor Edwards visited the U-L Lafayette campus this afternoon to get an update on the state’s Shot for 100-dollar COVID-19 vaccine initiative. The first 75-thousand students who are vaccinated on a college campus receive a 100-dollar VISA card. Edwards says it’s very important to get this age group vaccinated

Cut 13 (11) “…too”

Edwards visited the U-L Lafayette campus on a day in which the health department reported a slight decline in coronavirus patients hospitalized statewide. But the governor says the Acadiana region is seeing a high positivity rate and an increase in hospitalizations…

Cut 14 (08) “..Lafayette General.”

Today is in move-in day for U-L Lafayette students. The school’s vice president for research, innovation, and economic development, Ramesh Kolluro, says this program will help vaccinate thousands of students…

Cut 15 (09) “…pick up.” 

BESE voted to adjourn today’s meeting where members were expected to vote on allowing school districts to set their own masking policy. Matt Doyle has more on the raucous occasion…

Cut 1 (38) “ …I’m Matt Doyle.” 

____________________________________

During his monthly call-in radio show, Governor John Bel Edwards defended his public health order that requires masks in schools. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (32)…I’m Matt Doyle.”  

______________________________________

Senator John Kennedy slams the Biden Administration’s handling of the Afghanistan withdrawal.

President Biden defended the decision, saying while the collapse of the government was faster than anticipated it was clear the people weren’t willing to fight to defend that government. Kennedy says the withdrawal empowers global jihadists…

Cut 3 (09) “…all saw.” 

Kennedy says Biden’s hasty withdrawal was an attempt for Biden to win some political points…

Cut 4 (10) “…way” 

Biden disagrees, saying in his experience there is no good time to withdraw but that there was clearly no longer a national security interest in staying in the country

Kennedy accuses the Biden Administration of not having a proper exit strategy and leaving thousands of American allies behind Taliban lines.

Cut 5 (10) “…refugees.”

__________________________

Anti-mask protestors shut down this morning’s BESE meeting where members were expected to vote on whether or not to allow individual school boards to accept or reject the Governor’s mask mandate.

The meeting began in chaos and after it became clear many attendees refused to put on a mask BESE member Holly Boffy moved to adjourn…

Cut 6 (15) “…*incoherent screaming*”

The vote was 8-2, and as of now the Governor’s statewide mask mandate still applies to all K-12 schools.

BESE member Ronnie Morris asked the unruly crowd to please cooperate and put on a mask so that the meeting could continue…

Cut 7 (10) “…time” 

That request provoked outrage from the audience.

Before the meeting was adjourned there were frequent interruptions from audience members repeating misinformation about standard masks not being effective against COVID transmission.

Cut 8 (11) “…*shushing*”

Central Pastor Tony Spell, who was once arrested for refusing to cease his services during the pandemic, was also in attendance and briefly seized control of the room at one point. He led the crowd in anti-mask chants.

_______________________

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is alerting residents of a fake social media post with their logo claiming you won’t be able to obtain a hunting license if you can’t show proof of vaccination. LDWF Spokesperson Ed Pratt says it’s not true and the misinformation that’s being spread is most unfortunate.

Cut 9 (09) “…like this.”

Pratt says there are lots of emotions around mask and vaccine mandates at this time and having the agency placed in the midst of the ongoing debate is not fair.

Cut 10 (12) “…in the state.”

LDWF learned of the post with their logo this week after someone in Mississippi called and notified agents. Pratt says they want to nip the misinformation in the bud and remind the public that your vaccination status is not linked to the purchase or renewal of your hunting license.

Cut  11 (09) “…seen that.”  

________________________________________

On his monthly Ask the Governor’s show, Governor Edwards defended the need for masks inside schools

Cut 12 (10) “…understand that” 

The state reported 66-hundred new coronavirus cases today and state officials say 28-percent of all new COVID cases are children. But those numbers didn’t stop a crowd of anti-maskers from allowing a debate to occur at a BESE meeting over masks in schools. Edwards says there are some who are not listening to the information from the state department of health…

Cut 13 (08) “…numbers”

39-percent of the state’s population is now fully vaccinated against COVID-19. That’s up from 33-percent a month ago. Edwards says the state is making progress in getting more people vaccinated…

Cut 14 (11) “..go.”

Since the approval of a booster dose for the immunocompromised now there’s discussion of a third shot for the general public who are fully vaccinated. Brooke Thorington has more…

Cut 1 (32) “ …I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

____________________________________

Ochsner encourages people who are moderately or severely immunocompromised to get their third COVID vaccine shot. Matt Doyle has more…

Cut 2 (32)…I’m Matt Doyle.”  

______________________________________

Days after the FDA approved a third COVID vaccine booster shot for the immunocompromised, the Biden Administration is reportedly developing a plan for a third shot for those who were fully vaccinated, eight months ago or longer. Infectious Disease Specialist for LSU Health New Orleans Dr. Fred Lopez says it remains to be seen who will be prioritized..

Cut 3 (06) “…first.” 

The immunocompromised makeup about three percent of the population, individuals who are being treated for cancer and organ transplant patients who take certain medications. Lopez says he anticipates the booster shot rollout will mirror the original rollout of healthcare workers and nursing home residents.

Cut 4 (08) “…conditions” 

Lopez says those chronic conditions include heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, thyroid disease, and obesity.

Approximately four months ago Pfizer lobbied for a third booster shot and their efforts were denied by the FDA. Lopez says amidst the fourth surge it appears the mindset amongst government officials has done a 180.

Cut 5 (11) “…last dose.”

__________________________

Critical hospital personnel who have children under the age of 12 can receive childcare subsidies thanks to a new Department of Education program.

Deputy Assistant Superintendent for Early Childhood Operations Lisa Brochard says this program could help get more hospital workers back to understaffed facilities…

Cut 6 (09) “…Louisiana”

This subsidy program applies to a range of hospital personnel working in Tier 1 or 2 hospitals. Brochard says all of those workers are desperately needed in our near-capacity hospitals.

Cut 7 (07) “…nature” 

Brochard says the subsidies take a lot of forms including having childcare workers watch the night staff’s kids. She says it should help make childcare much more accessible for those workers.

Cut 8 (11) “…amount”

Applications will be accepted through October 31st. Upon approval, the subsidy will be good for 12 months.

_______________________

The fourth COVID-19 surge is bringing down the state’s economy. That’s according to Gulf Coast Bank and Trust president Guy Williams who says with the state reporting thousands of new cases every day, it’s keeping many people from going to work…

Cut 9 (08) “…enough workers”

Today, the Natchitoches Meat Pie Festival, the Shrimp and Petroleum Festival in Morgan City, and the Beignet Fest in New Orleans City Park announced they had to cancel their upcoming events. Williams says they add to the growing list of cancellations…

Cut 10 (15) “…gone away”

Louisiana ranks second to Florida for daily average cases. Williams says that’s a big concern for our tourism-dependent economy…

Cut  11 (08) “…neighboring states.”  

Williams says health officials have told him this fourth surge could last another seven weeks.

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Ochsner is now administering third COVID vaccine shots to Moderna and Pfizer patients who are moderate to severely immunocompromised.

Pharmacy and Population Health Director Matthew Malachowski says you can visit their website or call 844-888-2772 to set up an appointment for your third shot.

Cut 12 (11) “…dose.” 

Patients should wait at least 28 days after receiving their second dose to get a third dose. Johnson and Johnson vaccine recipients currently are not eligible.

Dr. Katherine Baumgarten says there is evidence suggesting that a disproportionate number of vaccine breakthrough hospitalizations are those who are immunocompromised.

Cut 13 (07) “…dose”

Medical Director of Hospital Quality Dr. Sandra Kemmerly says not everyone who is technically immunocompromised currently qualifies for the third shot.

Cut 14 (12) “…supression.”

Those who are receiving active cancer treatment received an organ transplant, received a stem cell transplant within the last two years, have advanced or untreated HIV, or have a moderate or severe primary immunodeficiency.

The Louisiana Capitol was the site for a long and sometimes testy meeting where lawmakers, government officials, and parents discussed the use of masks against COVID-19. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (40) “ …I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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The Louisiana Nonprofit and Small Business Assistance program is now accepting grant applications, up to $25-thousand for eligible organizations and businesses. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (30)…I’m Brooke Thorington.”  

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There are three separate storm systems in the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic but none of them are currently a threat to Louisiana. State Climatologist Barry Keim says Tropical Storm Fred made landfall in the Florida Panhandle today, and Tropical Depression Grace, which is near Hispaniola, could be bound for Mexico.

Cut 3 (07) “…Mexico” 

A third system, which should form into Tropical Storm Henri (on-ree) later today, is forecasted to noodle around in the Atlantic and not make landfall in the US.

Keim says it may be peak hurricane season but we’re in the clear, for now…

Cut 4 (04) “…buisiness” 

Keim says a steering current is keeping the Louisiana coast safe from storms.

Cut 5 (08) “…goodness”

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A House Health and Welfare meeting at the state capitol had trouble started this morning when chairman Larry Bagley told the audience they had to wear a mask in order to be in the room. There was pushback from some…

Cut 6 (16) “…take off your mask.”

Capitol security had to remove several people from the room as lawmakers heard from the state’s top health official about the benefits of masks and vaccines in the fight against COVID-19. The meeting was interrupted several times, including when Natchitoches Representative Kenny Cox discussed getting the vaccine…

Cut 7 (12) “…get out of here.” 

Baton Rouge Representative Rick Edmonds asked the governor’s chief lawyer Matthew Block about whether the state might impose a vaccine mandate in order to enter a restaurant, bar, gym or entertainment venue but Block replied that’s not under consideration

Cut 8 (05) “…time”

Starting today, New Orleans is requiring a vaccine or a recent negative COVID test to enter most businesses.

Bossier City Representative Raymond Crews questioned the governor’s top lawyer on why the state is not promoting natural immunity. Crews says everyone in his household has had COVID except for him and he credits the vitamins he’s taking…

Cut 9 (12) “…among the people”

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The Department of Revenue is now accepting grant applications for the Louisiana Nonprofit and Small Business Assistance Program to support charities and small businesses who are providing COVID support and relief efforts. Secretary of Revenue Kimberly Lewis says each grant is up to $25,000.

Cut 10 (12) “…development activity.”

Lewis says workforce development includes basic education, job readiness, and job search training. They anticipate the first round of grants will go out in September and Lewis says they have a total of $10 million to distribute.

To be eligible Lewis says if your organization was in existence prior to 2020 you need to have filed tax returns for 2019 and 2020.

Cut  11 (08) “…actively operating.”  

The process is completely online and to assist applicants Lewis says there are checklists you can review to see if you are eligible as well as what you will need to file an application. Lewis says several nonprofits have provided much-needed services for Louisianans during this most difficult time.

Cut 12 (11) “…available.” 

For more information visit revenue.louisiana.gov

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During a House Health and Welfare Meeting at the capitol today State Health Officer Dr. Joe Kanter was questioned by Amite Representative and organ transplant recipient Robbie Carter about the department’s approval for a third booster shot of either the Pfizer of Moderna vaccine for the immunocompromised.

Cut 13 (13) “…came here.”

Representative Carter, who is a kidney transplant recipient, asked Kanter if he believes those like himself who are immune-compromised should seek a third dose, Kanter said yes because research indicates it can help them fight off a COVID exposure.

Cut 14 (12) “…another dose.”

Carter also pointed out during the meeting that several physicians have asked him when they will be eligible for a third shot of the vaccine. Kanter responded that the state health department will follow the lead of the FDA and CDC once approval is granted outside of those who are immune-compromised.

Cut 15 (12) “…everyday.” 

Kanter explained to Carter that once a vaccine receives full FDA approval physicians can then prescribe for off-label use, thus approving a third dose for any patient they deem necessary.