Insured losses from the 2020 hurricane season have reached $10.6 Billion in Louisiana. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Centenary College in Shreveport has not had a football team since 1941, but that change will soon. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30)…I’m Jeff Palermo.”  

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A subdued confirmation Tuesday that Mardi Gras 2022 will happen in New Orleans is drawing criticism from the likes of Arthur Hardy, publisher of the annual Mardi Gras Guide. A mayoral spokesman made the announcement, but Hardy says a big deal should have been made of the fact.

Cut 3 (11) “….out of this.”

Mardi Gras was canceled in the Big Easy last year because of the COVID-19 pandemic and concerns of the parades being super-spreaders of the virus.

Hardy says the question will remain until next year just where the parade routes will be as New Orleans deals with the status of COVID then and police availability.

Cut 4 (11) “…or we can.”

Hardy says he expects strong efforts will be made to ensure that the major parades, such as Endymion, are allowed to use their traditional routes

Cut 5 (11) “…be done safely.”

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The most recent tally on insured losses from the 2020 hurricane season in Louisiana has reached $10.6 billion to cover claims from hurricanes Laura, Delta, and Zeta. Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon says it was one for the record books.

Cut 6 (11) “…$27 billion.” 

The $10.6 billion figure for 2020 is what insurers have paid or in reserve to pay to cover claims. Donelon says they receive reports quarterly and over 325,000 claims have been filed.

Cut 7 (08) “….$9 billion.”  

Followed by Delta and then Zeta.

This is the last quarterly report of claims paid, and reserves that will have to be submitted for 2020 damage to the state. Donelon says they have had to field about 1800 formal complaints against insurance companies.

Cut 8 (08) “…small percentage.”

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Centenary College hasn’t played a football game since 1941, but today the Shreveport school announced plans to return to the gridiron and compete on the football field in 2024. Centenary School president Christopher Holman says they’ve already received fantastic support…

Cut 9 (10) “..(applause)”

Centenary played its first football game in 1894 and over the next couple of years they’ll make improvements to Mayo Field so that it can host football games. Athletics Director David Orr says one of the first steps they’ll take is finding a leader for the football program…

Cut 10 (11)  “…early in 2022.”

Also, applications to join a conference will begin immediately. Centenary will celebrate its bicentennial in 2025 and Board of Trustees Chairman Archer Frierson says bringing back football will only enhance the higher education experience at Centenary…

Cut  11 (11)  “…the community.”  

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Entergy Louisiana is looking to increase its green power-generating portfolio. Jonathan Bourg, director of resource planning for the utility, says Entergy will seek to purchase several hundred megawatts of solar power by around 2024.

Cut 12 (10) “…located in Louisiana.”  

Bourg says that will be in addition to the 50 megawatts of solar the company is already purchasing through the Capital Region Solar plant in West Baton Rouge. Those four solar facilities will need construction approval from the state Public Service Commission.

Bourg says the four new solar facilities are important in Entergy’s efforts to provide clean energy.

Cut 13 (07) “…an affordable manner.”

The new solar facilities will be located in Allen, St. James and Washington parishes.

The goal of purchasing 475 megawatts of power will rely on regulatory approval from the PSC to construct the four solar facilities.

Cut 14 (09) “..service in 2024.” 

Entergy Louisiana says it currently has about 240 megawatts of renewable power which began delivering power to its grid in October of last year.

Former St. Tammany Parish Sheriff Jack Strain was found is guilty on all charges and faces a mandatory life sentence for raping and molesting multiple children Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The vote count is in for early voting ahead of this Saturday’s November 13^th election and, as Dave Brannen reports, they are somewhat surprising.

Cut 2 (30)…I’m Dave Brannen.”  

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Former St. Tammany Parish Sheriff Jack Strain faces a mandatory life sentence after it took five hours for a jury to convict him on eight charges of sex crimes involving several juveniles dating back to the 1970s. District Attorney Warren Montgomery credited his staff for their hard work…

Cut 3 (05) “….prosecution”

A jury of six men and six women found him guilty of four counts of aggravated rape, two counts of aggravated incest and one count of sexual battery, and one count of indecent behavior with a juvenile.

The jury deliberated for more than five hours yesterday over the charges the former sheriff of 20 years faced. Montgomery says the guilty verdict is important because it reminds the public that everyone must be held accountable.

Cut 4 (09) “…works.”

Montgomery says has as hard the trial process was for the prosecutors, the jury to hear the evidence, and especially the five victims who testified, he hopes the verdict will bring Strain’s victims peace.

Cut 5 (10) “…their lives.”

Strain will be formally sentenced on January 18^th however the charges that he’s been found guilty of require a mandatory life sentence.

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Some surprising numbers from early voting in Louisiana for the November 13^th election.  Pollster John Couvillon tells us the figures far exceed those of 2017.

Cut 6 (06) “…or by mail.” 

He says almost exclusively driving this increase is those choosing the mail-in option of voting. Couvillon says at this point four years ago only 92-thousand votes had been cast in early voting for that election, the mail-in volume almost triple what it was in 2017.

Couvillon says that while early voting numbers are significantly higher than four years ago, he doesn’t expect that to translate to an overall turnout increase for the election in the same percentage.

Cut 7 (11) “….read them literally.”  

All in all, Couvillon does not expect an overall rush to the polls statewide this Saturday since in most cases the only thing on the ballot in many parishes are the four constitutional amendments.

Cut 8 (08) “…the same time.”

He expects the statewide turnout to total about 16 percent of the state’s registered voters, while the turnout in Orleans Parish alone should be in the ballpark of 35 percent.

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Northwestern State University’s new president, Marcus Jones, has now dropped the interim title he had held since July after the UL System Board of Supervisors appointed him Monday permanently to the post. Jones seems humbled by the move and looking forward to moving the school forward.

Cut 9 (10) “…to the institution.”

He says he owes part of his success to being able to compromise after being reared in a family where he was the 18th of 20 siblings.

Jones has a goal of further globalization of Northwestern State’s educational efforts for its students.

Cut 10 (08)  “…through student exchanges.”

Jones says as Northwestern State’s 20^th president and first African-American to lead the school he would like to be known for his progressive leadership, and just not in a global way, but in service to the community it serves.

Cut  11 (08)  “…of the region.”  

UL System President Jim Henderson calls Jones a leader possessing character, integrity and vision.

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Construction is underway on the Houma Navigation Canal Lock Complex in Terrebonne Parish. It’s part of the state’s effort to provide Terrebonne and Lafourche parishes with 100-year storm surge protection. Terrebonne President Gordon Dove says the H-N-C Lock complex will be critical during storm surge and high water events…

Cut 12 (08) “…Terrebonne Parish.”  

The project will consist of dredging over one-million cubic yards of material which will create 178 acres of marshland. He says actual construction on the structure will take place next spring

Cut 13 (11) “…five years.”

State officials have also announced the construction of the 147-foot Grand Bayou Floodgate has been completed. Dove says there’s now a continuous levee segment stretching 47 miles from Gibson in Terrebonne Parish to the town of Lockport in Lafourche Parish

Cut 14 (11) “..not flooding.” 

New Orleans Congressman Troy Carter and Senator Bill Cassidy are the only members of Louisiana’s congressional delegation that supported the $1.2 trillion infrastructure bill. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Louisiana Department of Health officials reveal a new business plan for “Building a Stronger LDH and a Healthier Louisiana.” More on that from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.” 

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Former St. Tammany Parish Sheriff Jack Strain could be looking at life in prison following his trial on accusations that he raped multiple children. More from Dave Brannen.

Cut 3 (33) “…I’m Dave Brannen.” 

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The state Department of Health releases its first new business plan in nearly a decade. It’s called “Together: Building a Stronger LDH and a Healthier Louisiana.” Health secretary Courtney Phillips says the plan calls for achieving 17 initiatives and over 40 goals; all under four major commitments…:

Cut 4 (14) “…accountability and compliance. “

She says the plan was drawn up after much research and discussions with health partners, stakeholders, and Louisiana families. In laying out some of the 17 initiatives in the plan, Phillips says attention will be given to improving care for persons with serious mental illness…:

Cut 5 (11) “…pregnancy to childhood.“

Phillips says the plan places emphasis on better access to dental care, an opioid treatment program, a crisis care response team, and more. She says the details may be viewed online at “ldh.la.gov”. Phillips says this is a one-year plan that will be revisited at the end of its term for review of progress made and fine-tuning. She says a lot of fine minds came together to forge the program…:

Cut 6 (10) “…most importantly.”

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The house passed the $1.2 trillion infrastructure bill Friday night and Louisiana Democratic Congressman Troy Carter says the bill is life-changing and will finally put funding towards severely overlooked projects like expanded broadband and the upkeep of our roads and bridges that can’t be ignored any longer.

Cut 7 (06) “…US Senate.”

Carter says he’s proud to stand with Republican Senator Bill Cassidy, who co-authored the bipartisan bill in the Senate. Cassidy says passage of the bill is a major victory for Louisiana and the nation.

Cut 8 (13) “…flood resiliency.”

Carter and Cassidy are the only two members of the Louisiana delegation that supported the bill. Republican Congressman Clay Higgins issued a statement claiming the bill is socialist garbage and says the bill will cost nearly $4 trillion. Carter says otherwise.

Cut 9 (12)  “…their share.”

Republican Congressman Mike Johnson issued a statement saying House Democrats have connected this bill with their separate bill to spend trillions more taxpayer dollars on programs they’ve yet to define. Cassidy however says the bipartisan bill only focuses on much-needed infrastructure.

Cut 10 (10)  “…we need.” 

The bill now goes to the president’s desk for signature.

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It will be much darker on your drive home from work this evening thanks to the time change. Triple-A spokesperson Don Redman says with rush hour traffic in the dark now you’ll need to be extremely mindful on your drive home, and the time change can also impact your sleeping patterns.

Cut 11 (11) “…drowsy.”

Not only will drivers in Louisiana have to contend with darkness on the commute home now, but Redman says drivers also need to be aware of wildlife in both rural and metropolitan areas during the hours of dusk and dawn as temperatures begin to cool.

Cut 12 (08) “…most active.”

Redman also reminds motorists to check their headlights now that they are driving in the dark more. He says with 50-percent of crashes happening in the evening, yellowing and deterioration of headlight bulbs can decrease your visibility at night.

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Closing arguments are set to begin today in the child rape trial of former St. Tammany Parish Sheriff Jack Strain. Five male accusers took the stand, leveling graphic charges of sexual assault against him while they were children. Loyola Law Professor Dane Ciolino:

Cut 13 (07) “…about and reject.”

Strain did not take the stand in his defense and if convicted could face life in prison.

Ciolino suspects the defense will counter in their closing arguments that the allegations against Strain are not to be taken for granted.

Cut 14 (11)  “..an ulterior purpose.”

Ciolino says it’ll be difficult for the jury to diminish the damning testimony against Strain since it has come from five accusers and not just one or two.

Cut 15 (09)  “…and over again.”

Ciolino can’t predict how long it’ll take the jury to reach a verdict, but that the panel is being sequestered and was told by the judge to bring extra clothing as they work to determine Strain’s fate.

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The LSU football team nearly pulled off one of the biggest upsets in program history on Saturday night in Tuscaloosa as the Tigers nearly defeated Alabama. But the Crimson Tide survived with a 20-14 victory over the Bayou Bengals. LSU had a chance to take the lead in the fourth quarter, but failed to score when they had it first and goal from the eight. Coach Ed Orgeron says the coaches didn’t help the players…

Cut  16 (14) “..to win”

The Tigers defense played their heart out, holding Alabama to just six rushing yards and it’s the first time the Tide had not scored more than 30 points in 34 straight games, which is an FBS record. LSU will play its final three games at home, starting this Saturday night against Arkansas. Orgeron says he wants to see similiar effort the rest of the way…

Cut 17 (16) “ ..play well” 

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The Saints nearly pulled off an unbelievable come from behind victory on Sunday but Atlanta kicked a game-winning field goal on the final play of the game for a 27-25 win in the Caesars Superdome. New Orleans scored 22 fourth-quarter points to rally back from a 24-6 deficit, but Coach Sean Payton says their sloppy play during the first three quarters is what cost them the game…

Cut 18 (22) “..starts with me” 

The Saints committed ten penalties and turned the ball over once. Plus there were numerous dropped passes. Payton says he was pleased with starting quarterback Trevor Siemian’s performance as he threw for 249 yards and two touchdowns…

Cut 19 (24)  “..frustrating” 

The loss drops the Saints to 5-and-3, a full game back of Tampa Bay for first place in the NFC South. There are nine games left as New Orleans is at Tennessee this Sunday. Safety Malcolm Jenkins says the team needs to be more consistent during the second half of the season…

Cut 20 (30) “…losing obviously” 

Federal lawsuits are flying as President Biden moves towards mandating COVID-19 shots for many employees. More from Dave Brannen.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Dave Brannen.”

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The state recorded its lowest number of hospitalizations Friday since spring of 2020 with 226. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (31)…I’m Jeff Palermo.”  

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Drugmaker Pfizer says their experimental antiviral pill for COVID cuts the rates of hospitalization and death by nearly 90-percent in high-risk adults. Dr. Julio Figueroa, Chief of Infectious Diseases at LSU Health New Orleans says if the data holds true the drug is noteworthy.

Cut 3 (12) “….significant, very significant.”

Pfizer will reportedly be asking the FDA to authorize use of the pill as soon as possible. A similar drug, by Merck, targeted at the same demographic has already been approved in the UK. Figueroa says for the Pfizer pill to be effective high-risk adults need to begin taking the medication early in their COVID diagnosis.

Cut 4 (10) “…would fit.”

Figueroa says being able to treat COVID patients outside of the hospital with the convenience of a pill versus the current option is a huge advance in treatment.

Cut 5 (07) “…those patients.”

Pfizer data indicates of the 775 adults in the study, those who received the drug, along with another drug after showing symptoms had an 89-percent reduction in their combined rate of hospitalization and death after a month compared to those taking a placebo.

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Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry is leading a multi-state lawsuit to derail President Biden’s executive vaccine mandate order for federal contractors and a separate suit challenging the vaccine mandate for businesses with more than 100 employees. Landry pulls no punches in his opposition to the requirement.

Cut 6 (08) “…but vastly overreaching.” 

Landry says the mandate will directly impact the Bayou State, noting that about 60 percent of the state’s budget is federal money, impacting both local governments and institutions of higher learning.

Landry says when he first heard President Biden’s vaccine mandate announcement, he thought perhaps Biden had forgotten that we are a republic and not a monarchy.

Cut 7 (07) “….his to make.”  

Landry says that as the state’s chief legal officer, he’s suing to forbid the federal government from making medical choices for the state’s residents.

Brian Trosclair, who employs nearly 500 people at 15 grocery stores he owns in Louisiana and Mississippi, is among those suing in federal court to strike down the Biden vaccine mandate on private-sector employees. He notes those workers were hailed as heroes during the height of the pandemic.

Cut 8 (08) “…for their families.”

Trosclair says the vaccine mandate goes beyond the federal government intervening in the health choices of his workers and potentially losing employees because of the mandate.

Cut 9 (10) “…gonna get worse.”

The Biden Administration says the mandatory vaccine requirement for many businesses and federal contractors will result in more people getting vaccinated, which will help end the pandemic.

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The state marked another critical COVID milestone today, the lowest number of hospitalizations since spring of 2020. On Thursday the lowest was 235 and today it’s 226. Chief of Hospital Medicine at Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport, Dr. Mike Sewell says he believes an increase in vaccinations is largely responsible.

Cut 10 (10)  “…contributed.”

Sewell says it’s been difficult to care for non-COVID patients, especially acute ones, like heart attacks, strokes, and traumas when the hospital is at max capacity with COVID patients.

Cut  11 (10)  “…COVID patients.”  

In the past the state has noted an increase in COVID cases after major holidays, Sewell says that’s most likely a combination of gatherings and an emergence of new variants. With Thanksgiving only weeks away Sewell says he’s cautiously optimistic that this holiday season with the vaccine we won’t see a surge and thus keep hospitalizations down.

Cut 12 (10) “…surge arise.”  

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The winner of last Saturday’s one-point-three million-dollar Louisiana Lotto drawing is from Laura-devastated southwest Louisiana. So says lottery spokesman Dennis Annison who says the lucky ticketholder came forward Monday.

Cut 13 (08) “…thousand after taxes.”

No word on what the winner plans to do with his winnings.

Annison says the store that sold the ticket won its largest commission ever for selling the winning ticket.

Cut 14 (10) “…the jackpot prize” 

Annison says the store was very happy with the more than 13-thousand-dollar commission it’s receiving.

Cut 15 (08) “…operating the store.” 

Open enrollment is now underway through January 15 for those seeking health coverage under the Affordable Care Act. More from Dave Brannen.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Dave Brannen.”

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If you’ve tested positive for COVID you might want to have your dog or cat tested too. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 2 (33)…I’m Brooke Thorington.”  

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Open enrollment is now underway for health coverage under the Affordable Care Act Plans.  Christine O’Brien, executive director of United Health Care of Louisiana, says when considering coverage keep in mind more than just the cost of a plan.

Cut 3 (12) “….in the network.”

Open enrollment continues through January 15 and more information can be found at Healthcare.gov.

O’Brien says these healthcare exchanges are designed for those who can’t get coverage under traditional routes.

Cut 4 (09) “…Medicare and Medicaid.”

The Louisiana Department of Insurance says rates for coverage are up an average of four-point-nine-percent.

O’Brien says that with the American Rescue Plan that was created as a result of COVID, seekers of insurance for 2022 on the exchanges may find help with paying their premiums.

Cut 5 (10) “…through the exchange.”

Five health insurance issuers are offering individual marketplace plans for 2022: Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Louisiana, Vantage Health Plans, United Healthcare, Christus Health Plan of Louisiana and Louisiana Healthcare Connections (also known as AmBetter).

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The Louisiana Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory in conjunction with the Department of Public Health is encouraging pet owners who believe their dog or cat might have been exposed to COVID to have them tested. Alma Roy, a consultant with the lab says the testing is free.

Cut 6 (11) “…be done.” 

Roy says this is part of a larger research program called One Health, that’s investigating the transmission of diseases between animals, humans, and the environment.

She says the test is not invasive whatsoever for your dog or cat and if you suspect they have symptoms or have been exposed, typically by their owner, call your veterinarian and ask to have them tested.

Cut 7 (06) “….PCR test.”  

Roy says it typically takes 48 hours for results.

While COVID in pets is not common, Roy says however they want to understand more about the disease and its relationship with our four-legged friends.

Cut 8 (07) “….animal tested”

Roy says they began testing July 1^st and they haven’t seen an increase in positive cases, but they want to gather more samples in order to use all their resources from the CDC.

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An extensive manhunt is underway for 36-year-old Barry Rigsby, a suspect in a triple homicide in Shreveport. Shreveport Police Sergeant Angie Willhite says a woman conducting a welfare check on her son at a home in the Cedar Grove neighborhood found three deceased individuals, including a 12-year-old child…

Cut 9 (12) “…shot to death”

Willhite says detectives arrived at the murder scene just before 2 AM .  She says based on physical and video evidence collected, it’s been determined the homicide was the result of a domestic dispute and Rigsby is responsible for the murders…

Cut 10 (08)  “..three people”

Rigsby is considered armed and dangerous. Willhite says his vehicle was located in Franklin Parish about 150-miles away from where the murders took place…

Cut  11 (08)  “.our jurisdiction”  

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A cotton farmer in northeast Louisiana describes this year’s cotton harvest as better than average. Edward Greer grows 22-hundred acres of cotton in Richland and Ouachita Parishes and expects to see more cotton planted in the state next year because of the higher than normal price for cotton…

Cut 12 (04) “..cotton prices.”  

Greer says because of the cost of inputs next season, he expects it will cost him about 200-dollars more an acre to grow corn versus cotton, which will likely lead to an increase in cotton production…

Cut 13 (12) “…next year.”

Greer says agriculture is like most other industries, supply issues are causing problems, which is concerning…

Cut 14 (11) “…lots of stuff” 

State health officials are urging parents to have children ages 5 to 11 vaccinated against COVID now that it’s been approved by the CDC. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Saints fans were hoping all-pro wide receiver Michael Thomas would return soon and now he’s not coming back at all this season. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (31)…I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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State Police investigators say a man fatally shot by cops in Houma on Monday had a screwdriver in his hand. Trooper Ross Brennan says after officers arrived at the home to check on a disturbance, a man charged at them with a screwdriver…

Cut 3 (10) “….and Magee.”

The suspect has been identified as 36-year-old Johnny MaGee of Houma. Brennan says Magee kept moving towards the responding officers and did not respond to commands to stop

Cut 4 (07) “…service weapon.”

Magee’s mother told New Orleans TV stations her son suffered from a mental illness and pleaded with the cops not to shoot him.  He died from his injuries at a nearby hospital. Brennan says the police shooting remains an active investigation…

Cut 5 (08) “…later on.”

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In a few days, pediatric doses of the Pfizer COVID vaccine should be available to vaccine providers in Louisiana. On Tuesday the CDC approved the vaccine for 5- to 11-year-olds. State Health Officer Doctor Joe Kanter says the two-dose vaccine, given 21 days apart, is the same as the adult vaccine just a third of the dosage.

Cut 6 (11) “…the adult dose.” 

Kanter says children get infected with COVID at the same rate as adults if not more, but on average they haven’t gotten as sick as adults, so convincing parents to have their children vaccinated is going to be an uphill battle.

Cut 7 (11) “….your family.”  

Kanter also noted there have been more than 200 cases of Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children and we are just now learning about Long-COVID.

Even with daily case counts below three hundred in Louisiana now, from October 21^st through the 27^th ages 5 to 17 made up the majority of new cases at 21-percent. Kanter says even though most children don’t get severely ill from COVID they can carry it home to a loved one who could be more susceptible.

Cut 8 (11) “….those kids”

Parental consent is required for any minor to be vaccinated in Louisiana. If you have questions or concerns about the vaccine, you can call the vaccine hotline at 1-855-453-0774 or visit LDH.la.gov/COVID for more information.

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Saints wide receiver Michael Thomas announces he will miss the remainder of the season as he’s suffered a setback after undergoing ankle surgery in June. Thomas made the announcement on Twitter and Coach Sean Payton told reporters that the setback is surgically related…

Cut 9 (11) “…procedure done”

Thomas’ injury news comes two days after it was announced starting quarterback Jameis Winston will miss the rest of the season with a knee injury. Payton says their opponents will not feel sorry for them…

Cut 10 (10)  “..this week.”

From 2016 to 2019 Thomas was one of the NFL’s top receivers, named the NFL Offensive Player of the Year in 2019. He suffered an ankle injury in last season’s season opener, came back to play nine games, and had surgery last June. Payton says they have other players who can step up…

Cut  11 (12)  “.Tre’ Quan’s back”  

The Saints are second to last in pass offense, averaging 181 yards a game through the air.

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Elections held in parts of the nation Tuesday were won mostly by Republicans, and that may not bode well for Democrats in next year’s mid-term elections. Louisiana Pollster John Couvillon on what likely drove the results in favor of GOP candidates.

Cut 12 (07) “..on economic issues.”  

In one of the most-watched races, Republican Glenn Youngkin defeated Democrat Terry McAuliffe in Virginia’s governor’s contest, becoming the first Republican to win a statewide office in the commonwealth since 2009.

Couvillon says Democrats should not be feeling good about next year’s mid-terms after last night’s election results that favored in large part GOP candidates.

Cut 13 (12) “…be very worried.”

Couvillon says the outcome of Tuesday’s elections aren’t likely to impact Louisiana’s major mid-term races.

Cut 14 (10) “…of political trouble.” 

A website’s data study ranks Louisiana last among states in which to own an electric car. More from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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An LSU climate change expert says it’s a positive Governor Edwards is at the International Climate Change Conference in Scotland, but it remains to be seen how beneficial it will be. Dave Brannen reports.

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Dave Brannen.” 

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The 2^nd Circuit Court of Appeal in Shreveport ruled Ochsner Health cannot discipline unvaccinated employees until a lawsuit filed on the behalf of employees is heard. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 3 (33)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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A new study from the website “Jerry,” ranks Louisiana the worst state to own an electric car. Lakshmi Iyengar (LUCK-shmee EYE-en-gar) is a data scientist for the auto insurance shopping help site. She says Louisiana has virtually NO infrastructure – fewer than 8 ports per 100-thousand people, which causes range anxiety…

Cut 4 (09) “…of you.”

The top three states in which to own an electric car are Massachusetts, Vermont and California. All have a fleshed-out charging infrastructure and offer owners lots of incentives for driving non-polluting cars. Iyengar says Louisiana only offers electric owners two or three tax breaks or incentives…:

Cut 5 (11) “…parking free, et cetera.”

Iyengar says, if electric cars are not catching on faster in the Bayou State, it’s likely a “chick-or-the-egg” type conundrum…:

Cut 6 (13) “…out of that cycle.”

(Read more about it at “GetJerry.com”)

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Governor John Bel Edwards is in Scotland this week. LSU climate change policy expert Edward Richards says the governor’s appearance at the United Nations Climate Change Conference shows Louisiana is beginning to take climate change seriously.

Cut 7 (11) “…gas driven state.”

But Richards says that as long as Louisiana is primarily identified with the oil and gas industry, it’ll be hard to convince people that the state is serious about climate change.

Richards says the state appears to deny the existence of climate change through expenditures on coastal restoration projects, money he says that should go elsewhere, such as…

Cut 8 (12) “…increasing coastal risk.”

In addressing the issue of climate change, Richards says it would be nice if Louisiana could attract green industries, something he believes the governor is hoping to do while in Scotland.

Cut 9 (10)  “…a fresh start.”

Richards says the governor is interested in luring solar arrays to Louisiana and offshore wind farms.

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A day before Ochsner Health’s deadline for employees to be vaccinated or face dismissal the 2^nd Circuit Court of Appeal in Shreveport ruled unvaccinated employees can’t be fired while the mandate is being challenged in court.  Jimmy Faircloth, an attorney representing Ochsner employees, says it was a surprising move.

Cut 10 (11)  “…a favor.” 

On October 5^th State District Judge Craig Marcotte threw out the case file by dozens of employees at Ochsner’s Shreveport facility. But on October 28^th a three-judge appellate court ordered a hearing on the case and ruled no employees can be terminated until the case is heard. The deadline for employees to be vaccinated was Friday.

Faircloth says the ruling sends a clear message about vaccine mandates.

Cut 11 (11) “…or terminate.”

While the ruling only pertains to Ochsner healthcare facilities in the second circuit which is predominately north Louisiana, Faircloth says until the case is heard he feels it wouldn’t be wise for Ochsner to discipline any unvaccinated employees.

Cut 12 (12) “…to lose.”

Ochsner Health CEO Warner Thomas says the ruling from the 2nd Circuit Court of Appeals is disappointing and they will appeal. Thomas says their employee vaccination requirement outside of north Louisiana will move forward.

Faircloth says he believes the case will be heard within the next two weeks in Shreveport.

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November marks the last official month of the Atlantic hurricane season.  State Climatologist Barry Keim expects the month will be quiet when it comes to tropical systems.

Cut 13 (08) “…occurred in 1861.”

Thus far this year there have been seven hurricanes, four of them major with Ida ripping parts of Southeast Louisiana to shreds in late August.

Keim believes Louisiana’s hurricane season is basically over, except for the possibility of a few bouts of stormy weather before the end of the month.

Cut 14 (07)  “…can get storms.”

Keim is cautionary about writing off the possibility of more hurricanes occurring before the end of the month because a La Nina is rearing its ugly head as the season ends, the same as happened last year.

Cut 15 (13)  “…here in Louisiana.”

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What a win for the Saints on Sunday, but it came at a cost as New Orleans knocked off the defending Super Bowl champion Tampa Bay Buccaneers 36-27. Saints played much of the game without starting quarterback Jameis Winston as he went down with a knee injury and Trevor Siemian came in and threw for 159 yards and one touchdown. Coach Sean Payton says Siemian was calm and handled the situation well…

Cut  16 (20) “of energy.”

The Saints had a 23-7 lead in the third quarter, but Tom Brady led Tampa Bay back and the Bucs took a one-point lead in the fourth quarter. The Saints took the lead back on a Brian Johnson field goal and then P-J Williams iced the victory with a 40-yard interception return for a touchdown…

Cut 17 (25) “ .it was great.” 

The Saints defense intercepted Brady twice and forced a fumble. But there’s a chance the Saints will play the rest of the season without Winston. Payton says the initial prognosis is not good…

Cut 18 (18)”…a little concerned”

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In the Ragin Cajuns 45-0 Homecoming win over Texas State, U-L Lafayette Quarterback Levi Lewis became the school’s all-time passing touchdown leader, surpassing Jake Delhomme. Lewis threw three touchdown passes and the Baton Rouge native now has 65 for his collegiate career. Coach Billy Napier calls Lewis a heck of a football player

Cut 19 (19)  “…his team”

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Louisiana Tech is on a four-game losing streak after tough 23-20 loss to Old Dominion. The Bulldogs lost on a 46-yard field goal as time expired. Prior to the game winning field goal Tech had the ball at the 45-yard line and it was fourth and three. Coach Skip Holtz elected to go for it, but J-D Head’s deep ball down the sideline sailed out of bounds

Cut 20 (18)  “do it.” 

Tech, who is 2-and-6,  is at UAB this Saturday.

It’s that time of the year and delivery companies are finding themselves in need of seasonal workers to get holiday packages to people on time. More from Dave Brannen.

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Dave Brannen.”

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The state has ordered 148-thousand doses of the COVID vaccine in anticipation of the CDC’s recommendation for ages 5 to 11 to be vaccinated. Brooke Thorington has more

Cut 2 (30)…I’m Brooke Thorington.”  

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The reality of children being vaccinated for COVID reached a major milestone this week after an FDA Advisory panel recommend the vaccine for children ages 5 to 11. State Health Officer Dr. Joe Kanter anticipates that age group could begin receiving doses within the next two weeks.

Cut 3 (09) “….time around.”

On Tuesday the governor removed the statewide indoor mask mandate for 28 days but not for K-12 schools. Schools however can choose not to mask if they follow CDC quarantine guidelines. Kanter says the sooner children are able to get vaccinated the more likely they can stay in the classroom.

Cut 4 (10) “…asymptomatic.”

Currently, ages 5 to 17 make up the majority of new COVID cases in the state at 22-percent.

Kanter encouraged parents to discuss the vaccine with their pediatrician and if they have an upcoming visit scheduled…

Cut 5 (10) “…family chooses.”

A CDC committee is scheduled to meet next Tuesday and Wednesday and if they vote to recommend the vaccine for ages 5 to 11, the vaccine could be available the following week. Approximately 421,000 in Louisiana would then be eligible to be vaccinated

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UPS is going on a hiring spree as the holiday season approaches. Marc Shannon with the delivery firm’s talent acquisition team says the company is looking to hire 100-thousand seasonal workers nationwide, with more than one thousand of them in Louisiana alone.

Cut 6 (08) “..lot of opportunities” 

For more information and to apply for a position visit the website UPSjobs.com.

Shannon says oftentimes, a temporary position at UPS has turned into a career for these seasonal workers.

Cut 7 (11) “….career at UPS.”  

Shannon says the peak season that necessitates a larger workforce, albeit temporary, usually lasts into January.

Cut 8 (08) “..things like that.”

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A powerful line of thunderstorms is moving through the state that’s associated with the strongest cold front of the fall. Megan Williams with the National Weather Service in Slidell says most of the state is under a tornado watch until 4 PM…

Cut 9 (07 ) “…as well.”

Williams says the severe weather risk is the result of the cold air behind the front clashing with warm air…

Cut 10 (09)  “..from the Gulf”

A tornado watch is in effect until 10 PM tonight for southeast Louisiana. The tornado watches that cover southwest, central and north-central Louisiana expire at 4 PM.  

The concern today is tornadoes and flash flooding, but Williams says once the front moves through, it will feel like fall for the Halloween weekend…

Cut  11 (12)  “…nice change.”  

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The announcement of the end of the statewide indoor mask mandate is welcome news to some business owners. State Director of the Louisiana chapter of the National Federation Independent Businesses Dawn McVea says they are pleased because members have had such a challenge with it the last few months.

Cut 12 (11) “…the enforcers”  

Governor Edwards chose not to renew the indoor mask mandate for the next 28 days due to declining COVID cases and hospitalizations. McVea says business owners are also hopeful the trend will continue.

Cut 13 (05) “…that way.”

However, the mask mandate and proof of vaccination and/or a negative test are still in effect for New Orleans. Outside of the state’s largest city though McVea says businesses are relieved they can focus holiday shopping versus policing masks.

Cut 14 (07) “..the deal.” 

A startling increase in suicide attempts has prompted pediatricians to call on prioritizing mental health among teens and children. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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President Biden is still struggling with his polling numbers, the latest Quinnipiac Poll showing that only 40 percent approve of his handling of the office. More from Dave Brannen.

Cut 2 (32)…I’m Dave Brannen.”  

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Stressors from the pandemic and a rising number of mental illness diagnoses among children have prompted pediatricians to say the kids’ mental health is a national emergency. Clinical Psychologist with LSU Health New Orleans Doctor Michelle Moore anticipates things will even worsen once the pandemic eases.

Cut 3 (10) “….place yet.”

Emergency room visits for suspected suicide attempts were up 51-percent between February and March of this year compared to the same period in 2019. Moore says social media and isolation are contributing factors.

Cut 4 (10) “…mental health issues.”

Moore encourages school leaders to provide more social and emotional learning instruction so children are able to communicate their feels and can learn proper conflict resolution techniques.

She also advises parents to ask their children more than just how they are doing and have a conversation about how they are feeling. And also find out what type of social media site your children are interacting with.

Cut 5 (06) “…technology.”

Moore also points out that if parents are having difficulty coping themselves, they should also seek help because their struggle sets an example of how their children should also manage stress.

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The Saints scored just one touchdown last night but it was enough to beat the Seahawks 13-10 in Seattle. Running back Alvin Kamara was productive as a receiver as he caught 10 passes for 128 yards and a touchdown. Kamara says the offense will continue to get better

Cut 6 (11) “..always working” 

New Saints kicker Brian Johnson kicked two clutch field goals in rainy and windy conditions, including the game-winner with less than two minutes left. Johnson says did not overthink it…

Cut 7 (11) “….so.”  

Johnson could be the kicker for the season as Will Lutz announced on social media he’ll sit out the year after suffering a setback during his rehab from a core muscle surgery.

The defense was stingy as they sacked Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith five times. Linebacker Demario Davis had two sacks

Cut 8 (12) “..get there.”

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More negatives than positives. That’s what New Orleans-based political analyst Ron Faucheux says President Biden is dealing with less than a year before the mid-term elections which may not bode well for Democratic candidates. Biden’s dropping poll numbers can be linked to those with strong views on issues.

Cut 9 (11) “…his, his position.”

The latest Quinnipiac University poll numbers put Biden’s job approval rating at 40 percent and disapproval at 53 percent.

Faucheux on the issues that are helping to bring down Biden’s polling numbers.

Cut 10 (12)  “…cutting against him.” 

Despite his falling poll numbers, Faucheux believes that Biden may still be able to push through his major agenda items related to infrastructure and social spending.

Cut  11 (09)  “…Manchin and Sinema.”  

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The Louisiana Workforce Commission reports the state lost nearly 30-thousand jobs from August to September. L-W-C’s Chief Economist Julian Hwang says Hurricane Ida is to blame for the reduction in the state’s workforce and the recovery takes some time

Cut 12 (12) “…as well”  

Over 41-thousand people filed unemployment claims from the time Hurricane Ida hit through the end of September. About 30-thousand jobs are available on the Louisiana Workforce Commission’s Hire website. so they hope they can regain the jobs that were lost as a result of Ida…

Cut 13 (09) “…surely””

Hwang says while the state overall lost jobs from August to September, there were some sectors of the economy that reported significant over-the-year gains…

Cut 14 (09) “..five thousand jobs” 

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”