Tragedy in Delphi as a selfless healthcare worker dies in a house fire attempting to save her paraplegic patient. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “  I’m Matt Doyle”  

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Tomorrow is Small Business Saturday, and many are depending on your business more than ever. Jeff Palermo has more.

cut 2 (30) … I’m Jeff Palermo.”  

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While so many are working from home and more school-age students are back to virtual learning another problem 2020 presents is keeping packages a secret this holiday. Amazon spokesperson Alysa Bronikowski says they are offering a variety of ways to receive packages for the holidays.

Cut 3 (10)  “…Amazon hub”

Bronikowski says if you are having a gift sent directly to a friend or family member follow these steps when checking out online so the gift will remain a secret until they open it.

Cut 4 (12)   “…the package.”  

If you won’t be home to those to keep the gifts you’ve ordered a surprise from family members or you don’t have a secure location for packages to de dropped off, Bronikowski says Amazon also offers a pick-up option.

Cut 5  (12) “… up package.” 

If you have sneaky children or roommates, don’t worry about Alexa giving away a description on your order either, she’ll only give delivery notifications if you mark the order as a gift during the holidays.

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A heroic home health worker dies in a Delphi home fire while trying to save her 71-year-old paraplegic patient.

Fire Marshal’s spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says as the house fire broke out 64-year-old Gwendolyn Theus attempted to wheel her patient out of the house. When that failed she dragged the patient out of bed and was trying to pass them through the window to the neighbors…

Cut 6 (10) “..that point.”

Firefighters arrived soon after, recovering the patient who was still alive. The patient is expected to make a full recovery.

Rodrigue says Theus put her patient’s life before her own when she could’ve saved herself.

Cut 7 (09) “..workers.”

The home did have functioning smoke detectors but the survivor indicated the fire spread rapidly after it began.

The cause of the fire has not yet been determined. Rodrigue says that’s largely because the home smoldered and burned for days after the incident.

Cut 8 (08) “..rubble.”

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It was ten years ago when American Express launched Small Business Saturday, a day to bring about awareness of the small mom and pop shops of Main Street. NFIB State Director Dawn Starns says they were asked to partner with the promotion and this year it’s more important than ever.

Cut 9 (12) “…a movement.”

With the pandemic, many small businesses have become inventive and added new ways for customers to shop, via online, thru Instagram and other social media outlets, and provide curbside service. Starns says many have had to think out outside the box in 2020.

Cut 10 (09) “….we were.”

Starns says many small businesses in the past two months report foot traffic back to almost pre-pandemic levels and are hopeful it continues despite Modified Phase Two adjustments reducing capacity. Starns says PPP loans have kept many small businesses afloat along, with determination.

Cut 11 (11) “…their dream.”

_____________________________________

The Saints are set to play Denver on Sunday, but the Broncos closed their practice facility today after one player and two staff members tested positive for COVID-19. As of now, the game is still set to be played. Coach Sean Payton says it’s businesses as usual for them…

Cut 12 (13) “..speed ahead” 

The Saints bring a seven-game winning streak to Denver and the defense is playing its best football of the season. Linebacker Kwon Alexander has been a nice addition. Payton says Alexander’s ability and personality allowed him to fit in well…

Cut 13 (11) “…any team”

Taysom Hill is also set to make his second straight start at quarterback. Offensive tackle Ryan Ramcyzk says Hill is doing a good job of leading the offense in Drew Brees’ absence…

Cut 14 (10) “..so far” 

Modified Phase Two restrictions are forcing many Louisiana couples to alter their wedding plans. Brooke Thorington gets advice from a local wedding planner

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The pandemic changes shopping trends for the fourth quarter, but will it help retailers end up in the black. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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Louisiana Christmas tree farmers anticipate this could be their biggest year in more than a decade. Matt Doyle has the story…

Cut 3 (29)  “…Matt Doyle”  

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When Governor Edwards announced Modified Phase Two restrictions this week, gatherings were reduced from 150 to 75. Many couples had already chosen to delay their weddings to the end of the year while others postponed until 2021. New Orleans area wedding planner Samantha Capone says the new restrictions are forcing some couples to alter their plans again.

Cut 4 (12) “…adjust plans.”

While many couples had to shrink their guest list down to 150 already, the latest restrictions cut that in half and some couples are being forced to uninvite wedding guests. Capone says it’s awkward, but most guests are understanding.

Cut 5 (11) “…safety.”

Capone says some catering contracts will allow you to change your menu, for example, if you have a required minimum to be spent, you can add more types of food for the event, just alter the amount.

Another alternative for couples who must reduce the guest list is live-streaming their nuptials. Capone says many companies now offer this service and it helps when you’re forced to uninvite loved ones.

Cut 6 (11) “…different way.”

Capone says most wedding vendors have added verbiage to contracts as a result of the pandemic but advises reviewing them carefully before signing.

________________________

Holiday shopping presents a unique situation with the pandemic this year. LSU Marketing Professor Dan Rice says online sales increased 32 percent in the second quarter of 2020 whereas overall sales for all retail are down for the first few quarters of the year. Rice says it’s difficult to predict end of year sales.

Cut 7 (11)  “…their stores.”

Rice said a retail trend that has been spurred by the pandemic this year is starting Black Friday sales before Thanksgiving along with retailers hoping to get the most out of sales or better sales by being open fewer hours. For example, more stores were closed on Thanksgiving Day than before.

Cut 8 (12) “…before.”

While the National Retail Federation is cautiously optimistic for fourth-quarter sales, Rice believes retailers with a good online presence and stores like bicycle shops and DIY outlets that have seen an increase in business due in part to the pandemic will continue to do well.

Cut 9 (10) “…really knows.”

Rice says Small Business Saturday is this weekend where many local businesses offer incentives for shoppers.

_____________________________________________________

Louisiana has been approved for an additional 234 million dollars in BP Oil Spill funds that will be used to facilitate five different coastal projects.

Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority Deputy Director Greg Grandy says the Louisiana Trustee Implementation Group’s decision to release the money is fantastic news.

Cut 10 (12) “…Louisiana”

LA TIG has approved 900 million dollars for restoration projects in total for 2020.

Two of the biggest projects are the Plaquemines Parish Grand Chenier Marsh Creation Ridge, which will create over 600 acres of marsh, and the Terrebonne Basin Ridge and Marsh Creation Project…

Cut 11 (08) “..habitat”

The Grand Chenier and Terrebonne Basin projects will cost 65 and 157 million dollars respectively.

3.1 million dollars will go towards the Terrebonne Houma Navigation Channel Island Restoration. Grandy says it will provide a habitat for nesting birds that were impacted by the spill.

Cut 12 (02) “.birds”

The other project included is the Birds Foot Delta Hydrologic Restoration, a six million dollar dredging project.

_____________________________________________________

Christmas tree farmers are expecting a banner year as COVID has families desperate to bring a little holiday cheer to their homes.

Southern Christmas Tree Association head Kevin Steele Sr. says that expectation is based on early demand and he thinks this could be their best year since 2005.

Cut 13 (12) “…tree.”

Steele is confident the supply is there to meet the huge expected demand. He recommends going with the iconic Leyland cypress.

Cut 14 (09) “…growers” 

Up north of the Mason-Dixon Steele says growers are facing Christmas tree shortages due to a decision to reduce supply during the economic downturn a few years ago. That shouldn’t be an issue in the warmer, wetter south, however.

Steele asks you to check out your local Christmas tree farm instead of going with plastic from a big-box retailer.

Cut 15 (10)“…this year” 

Steele also owns and operates Steele Christmas Tree Farm in Angie.

_______________________

The LSU Tigers look to pull off the upset on Saturday when they visit 5th ranked Texas A-and-M. The Aggies rank number one in the SEC in total defense and second in rushing defense, holding opponents to 96 yards on the ground. LSU Center Liam Shanahan says they ran the ball well last week at Arkansas and they want to establish the rushing attack tomorrow…

Cut 16 (16) “..this Saturday.”

The Aggies are 5-1 and they rank second in the SEC in rushing the football as Isaiah Spiller is averaging over 100 yards a game. A&M Coach Jimbo Fisher says the run game has been a key to their offensive success..

cut 17 (17) “….good to have.”

_________________________________________________

The 23rd ranked Ragin Cajuns head to Monroe to face the winless ULM Warhawks. Louisiana-Monroe is 0-8 and they’ve yet to hold a lead in any of their games. Cajuns offensive tackle Max Mitchell on trying to avoid the upset…

cut 18 (18) “…rivalry game.”

ULM has made a change in quarterback as Jeremy Hunt has taken over for Colby Suits who has entered the NCAA transfer portal. Cajuns safety Kam Pedescleaux says they’ll be ready for Hunt, even though they don’t have much tape on him….

cut 19 (16) “…we’ll be ready”

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The Saints will visit the Denver Broncos on Sunday as they look for their eighth straight win. Playing in Denver means playing at a higher altitude, but Coach Sean Payton says leaving early would not help them…

cut 20 (20) “…rather than Friday”

New coronavirus restrictions go into effect as the state moves into a modified Phase two. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (31) “  I’m Jeff Palermo”  

_______________________________________

Modified Phase Two restrictions mean restaurants must reduce capacity from 75 to 50 percent. What does this mean for the already struggling industry???

cut 2 (31) … I’m Brooke Thorington.”  

_____________________________

Tougher coronavirus restrictions go into effect today as the state is seeing a third surge of COVID-19 cases. The modified Phase Two will result in bars closing, fewer people inside restaurants and gyms, and new limits on the size of gatherings. Assistant State Health Officer Doctor Joseph Kanter says they are once again concerned about capacity at hospitals…

Cut 3 (12)  “…opened up”

Kanter says COVID hospitalizations have doubled since early October. He says the new restrictions are not just because we are entering the holiday season…

Cut 4 (09)   “…take some action”  

Governor Edwards says his latest public health emergency order will remain in effect through December 23rd and he does not expect restrictions to loosen in time for Christmas, based on the reports he’s receiving from health experts…

Cut 5  (07) “..around the country” 

_____________________________________________

Former LSU football player and Baton Rouge staple Ruffin Rodrigue has passed away.  Rodrigue played offensive line for the Tigers from 1986-89, earning All-SEC honors in 1988.  LSU coach Ed Orgeron remembers Rodrigue’s time in the purple and gold.

Cut 6 (10) “…we’re all crushed.”

Rodrigue also owned Ruffino’s Restaurant in Baton Rouge and Lafayette, which is a hotspot for locals.  Orgeron had a friendship with Rodrigue, as they both grew up in the same area.

Cut 7 (09) “..supported LSU.”

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Modified Phase Two restrictions that go into effect today means restaurants will once again have to make major adjustments and just as we approach the holiday season. President of Louisiana Restaurant Association, Stan Harris, predicts 20 to 30 percent of restaurants in the state will close permanently as a result.

Cut 8 (12) “..financial peril.”

Restaurants must reduce maximum capacity from 75 to 50-percent and the new order essentially closes most bars across the state.

Harris says the struggling industry wants the Louisiana Department of Health to show them actual data indicating a direct connection of restaurants and bars spreading the virus. Harris says LDH contract tracing data shows industrial settings topping the list and feels the restaurant industry is being unfairly targeted.

Cut 9 (10) “…Tiger Stadium.”

Harris says the type of restaurants that are impacted the most are sit-down venues as opposed to fast-food restaurants and he feels the outlook on receiving any aid is bleak.

Cut 10 (10) “….right now.”

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An effort to deliver turkeys to residents in the beleaguered City of Lake Charles is a big success, with the “Mayor’s Turkey Challenge” bringing over 2,000 birds to needy residents.

Mayor Nic Hunter says after the town got smashed by Hurricanes Laura and Delta they found a lot of folks in need of help for Thanksgiving. They set a modest goal, and blew right past it…

Cut 11 (12) “….**laugh**”

The drive saw people donate money to the United Way of Southwest Louisiana to help buy the birds. Hunter says one out of state business in particular made a big impact.

Cut 12 (11) “..succsess” 

Hunter says the United Way determined who was most in need and made sure they had their turkeys in time to start defrosting them ahead of tomorrow’s festivities.

Cut 13 (06) “…in need”

Senator Bill Cassidy tweets “I voted for President Trump, but Joe Biden won. The transition should begin for the sake of the country.” Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “  I’m Matt Doyle”  

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Many are trying to get a rapid COVID test before Thanksgiving dinner and forgo advice from health officials to not gather outside their immediate household. Brooke Thorington has more

cut 2 (29) … I’m Brooke Thorington.”  

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It’s the time of year when many are traveling over the river and thru the woods to gather for Thanksgiving, and those traveling via automobile are seeing the lowest gas prices in five years. AAA spokesperson Don Redman says the average price for a gallon of regular gasoline in Louisiana is $1.84 at the pump.

Cut 3 (07)  “…by vehicle.”

Redman says it’s all about demand, which is much less than in years past for Thanksgiving, due to the pandemic and fledgling economy.

Cut 4 (10)   “…pretty low.”  

Redman expects gas prices to keep dropping, as prices in December in January tend to be the best for gas. As for next spring, when demand typically increases, predicting prices at the pump are questionable.

Cut 5  (12) “…get to it” 

_____________________________________________

Senator Bill Cassidy becomes the first member of the Louisiana Republican Congressional Delegation to publicly acknowledge President-elect Joe Biden’s win.

Cassidy tweeted “I voted for President Trump, but Joe Biden won. The transition should begin for the sake of the country.” ULM Poli Sci Professor Joshua Stockley says Cassidy has always been pragmatic.

Cut 6 (09) “…pragmatism.”

Cassidy also tweeted that the Trump campaign has not presented the kind of evidence of mass voter fraud needed to change the results of the election.

Stockley says there’s little political downside to conceding at this point.

Cut 7 (09) “..legitimately.”

Cassidy strolled to reelection for another six-year term on November 3^rd, winning 59 percent of the vote.

Stockley says as more states certify their results and Biden’s electoral vote lead grows it’s only a manner of days, or at most weeks before most of the rest of the delegation joins Cassidy.

Cut 8 (11) “..same.”

Biden appears set for 306 electoral votes, and a popular vote lead somewhere north of four percent.

___________________________________________

As Thanksgiving approaches many are attempting to get tested in advance for COVID so they can enjoy a traditional holiday gathering, however, Assistant State Health Officer Dr. Joe Kanter says nothing is foolproof when it comes to the coronavirus.

Cut 9 (12) “…still risk”

Kanter says while there are several types of rapid tests available for COVID, even in one of the most secure places in the US with access to the most significant testing, the virus is still able to spread.

Cut 10 (09) “….on testing.”

Dr. Kanter believes the best thing for Thanksgiving is to celebrate with immediate household only and he’s following his own advice.

Cut 11 (13) “….next year.”

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Governor Edwards says due to the state’s surging COVID case numbers we will be moving back to a “modified” Phase Two.

Edwards says the new restrictions are very similar to what we had for most of the summer.

Cut 12 (11) “..maximum” 

A maximum of 75 people will be allowed at indoor events, with a maximum of 150 people allowed at outdoor events.

Bars will be banned from operating in any parish with a greater than five percent positivity rate, down from the current ten percent limit. Edwards also says stadium capacity will be coming down…

Cut 13 (07) “…required”

Stadiums in some parishes had been allowed to increase their capacity up to 50 percent. This change particularly impacts high school football playoff games set to begin Friday.

The order takes effect Wednesday and will last until at least December 23^rd, but Edwards warns he’s likely to extend the order through the end of the year.

Cut 14 (13) “..before us” 

School restrictions will remain unchanged, and any new restrictions will be left up to the local districts.

Some school system leaders are frustrated with the state’s policy of quarantining any student who has “close contact” with a confirmed COVID case for two weeks. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 1 (28) “…I’m Matt Doyle.”

________________________________

The governor along with healthcare providers are asking you to not gather around the table with Thanksgiving unless it’s only with immediate household members. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

__________________________________________

A New Orleans super krewe invents a virtual way to let the good times in 2021, Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 3 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington”  

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Some school system leaders say the state’s policy of 14-day quarantines for students who had “close contact” with someone who tested positive for COVID goes too far. Rapides Parish Superintendent Jeff Powell told a House committee they’ve had 227 students test positive out of 22,000l, but those cases have resulted in 4,000 students quarantined.

Cut 4 (11) “…home.”

“Close contact” is defined by 15 minutes of exposure at less than six feet of distance from a confirmed positive case. Mask usage is not considered under this policy.

Powell says they’ve had five percent of their staff test positive, but due to current rules, every one of those 102 positive cases has resulted in an average of 40 students and staff quarantined.

Cut 5 (09) “…postive.”

The superintendents of West Baton Rouge, Ascension, and Livingston school systems also spoke against the policy.

Bossier City Representative Raymond Crews says the over-zealous policy is detrimental to a student’s long-term education and social health.

Cut 6 (09) “…school”

A Louisiana Department of Health statement says LDH is not recommending any changes to policy, particularly when the state is seeing a third surge in cases.

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The governor along with health care providers are pleading with residents to hold Thanksgiving gatherings with immediate household members only, otherwise, they fear a post-holiday spike as the state is already seeing increased hospitalizations due to COVID outbreaks. Our Lady of the Lake Pulmonologist Dr. Abdulla Moosa…

Cut 7 (11)  “…to spikes.”

Thanksgiving is traditionally is one of the largest travel periods in the US when families gather around the table, however, this year the gathering increases the chances of spreading COVID to family members, and it could be fatal for those that are vulnerable. In addition to post-holiday spikes, Dr. Moosa says in-home gatherings are also responsible.

Cut 8 (10) “…people’s houses.”

Dr. Moosa says while it’s hard to envision yet another holiday out of the norm, it’s critical that we all work together and abide by mitigation efforts until the population is vaccinated.

Cut 9 (11) “…community effort.”

_____________________________________________________

Baker native and LSU grad Linda Thomas-Greenfield has been tapped to be President-elect Joe Biden’s Ambassador to the United Nations, pending Senate approval next year.

The 35-year veteran diplomat, who is black, was born in Baker in 1952. Famed Democratic political consultant James Carville, a fellow LSU alumnus, celebrates the announcement.

Cut 10 (12) “…accountable”

In an interview from 2019, Thomas-Greenfield said when she was a child it was common for the KKK to burn crosses in the yards of local Black families.

Carville says it’s a moment that should make every LSU grad proud, and gives LSU students a fantastic role model.

Cut 11 (09) “…accountable.”

Thomas-Greenfield graduated from LSU with a bachelor’s in Political Science in 1974.

Thomas-Greenfield joins Congressman Cedric Richmond in the Biden Administration. Carville says she joins the long list of Louisiana political luminaries…

Cut 12 (12) “…our programs.”

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The Krewe of Bacchus will roll virtually in 2021 and fans of the big New Orleans parade will be able to follow along on February 14th on an app that will also allow them to catch throws. Bacchus captain Clark Brennan on how the free smartphone app will entertain revelers

Cut 13 (09) “…silver doubloons.”

Brennan says after you catch throws virtually, you’ll collect your stash in person, even utilize curbside pick-up.

Cut 14 (09) “…the den.” 

The app, which was conceived by a Bacchus member and developed by another, will allow users to even trade virtual throws each Sunday during Carnival season and then on February 14^th, Bacchus goes virtual with their parade. Brennan explains what to expect.

Cut 15 (12)“…playing music.” 

The “Throw Me Something Bacchus!” mobile smartphone app will be available on Jan. 6th.

____________________________________________________

Saints Coach Sean Payton would not say whether Taysom Hill will start at quarterback this Sunday when New Orleans travels to Denver. Payton says Hill played well and was complimented by good play from his teammates…

Cut 16 (22) “…football team.”

A lot of football analysts thought Payton was making a mistake by starting Hill over Jameis Winston as Hill was making his first NFL start at QB, while Winston has started 20 games. Payton on why he thinks there was so much negative reaction after it got out that Hill would start

cut 17 (30) “….what it is.”

______________________________________________

After getting a much-needed win against Arkansas last weekend, LSU is now preparing for fifth-ranked Texas A-and-M, who they play this Saturday in College Station. Quarterback Kellen Mond has led the Aggies to a five and one record. Coach Ed Orgeron says their goal is to get pressure on Mond…

cut 18 (14) “…contain him.”

Despite the win over the Hogs, LSU’s much-maligned defense still allowed 13 yards per pass play. Orgeron says they have to limit the large chunk plays…

cut 19 (13) “…knows that.”

Orgeron says Texas A-and-M has a great running attack

cut 20 (26) “…this year.”

The American Farm Bureau Federation says based on its survey the cost of a home-cooked Thanksgiving dinner is about two dollars cheaper this year. Taylor Sharp spoke with Louisiana Farm Burea Association spokesperson Avery Davidson

Cut 1 (31) “  I’m Taylor Sharp”  

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In the spring, state lawmakers will likely debate a bill that would raise 300 million dollars a year for road and bridge work by increasing the gas tax. Matt Doyle has more.

cut 2 (30) … I’m Matt Doyle.”  

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A national survey conducted by the American Farm Bureau Federation finds the cost of the Thanksgiving dinner is slightly lower this year. Louisiana Farm Bureau spokesperson Avery Davidson says the cost of a Thanksgiving dinner at home will cost you two dollars less…

Cut 3 (08)  “…4-percent.”

A reason for the decline is that turkeys are a little cheaper this year…

Cut 4 (09)   “…other items.”  

Even though the overall cost is down, Davidson says there are some side dishes that could cost more than normal.

Cut 5  (07) “…16-cents.” 

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Car dealers were bracing for a rough year, however, president of the Louisiana Automobile Dealers Association Will Green says it was not as bad as anticipated. Green says they’ve sold more vehicles than expected because consumers bought cars to avoid public transportation and dealers offered great incentives.

Cut 6 (09) “…we thought.”

Green says dealers adjusting to serve customers in the pandemic made a difference, like offering more incentives and low-interest rates along with improving the digital retail experience of automobiles.

Cut 7 (12) “…anticipated year.”

Green says many don’t understand the domino effect of auto sales, for example, if a plant or parts center is not operating at full capacity due to the pandemic, you’ll see fewer cars on the lot for sale.

Cut 8 (12) “..levels go.”

___________________________________________

Ragin Cajuns Coach Billy Napier says he’s feeling better after testing positive for COVID-19 last week. The school says Napier began to exhibit symptoms on Tuesday night and the 41-year-old says it got worse on Thursday

Cut 9 (09) “…couple days”

Napier says Friday is the last day of isolation and he plans to travel separately from the team to Monroe for Saturday’s game against the ULM Warhawks. The coach says he now feels like a million bucks, but remains away from the team…

Cut 10 (12) “….or staff.”

Napier says the hardest part is not being able to attend practice. The coach believes he caught the virus while coaching the Cajuns to a win over South Alabama on November 14th…

Cut 11 (11) “….of problems.”

_____________________________________

Winnfield Representative Jack McFarland will introduce legislation in next year’s session to raise money to fix state roads and bridges via a gas tax increase.

McFarlands’ bill would raise the gas tax ten cents a gallon initially, and two cents per year until 2033, ultimately raising about 300 million dollars. McFarland says he needs the public’s trust.

Cut 12 (11) “..revenue” 

Senate President Page Cortez has voiced skepticism that any gas tax increases will pass during his four-year term. The state gas tax currently sits at 20 cents a gallon, the 7^th lowest in the nation as of July according to the Tax Foundation. Passage would require approval from two-thirds of the House and Senate.

The bill is called the Government Reform and Transportation Act. McFarland says along with raising the taxes it also seeks input from lawmakers on ways to reform DOTD.

Cut 13 (08) “…as well”

McFarland says Louisiana’s crumbling roads and bridges are driving new and existing businesses away, and without new funds, DOTD is set to run out of money.

Cut 14 (10) “..applicable” 

Louisiana currently has a 14 billion dollar backlog of road and bridgework. Within the last year Arkansas, Texas, and Mississippi have all passed tax increases of one kind or another aimed at funding road work.

Governor Edwards blames the House GOP members for creating confusion with their petition to overturn COVID restrictions for the recent increase in cases, the Speaker of the House thinks otherwise.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

________________________________

Louisiana’s new State Police superintendent promises accountability as he looks to lead a law enforcement agency involved in controversy. Don Molino has more…

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Don Molino” 

__________________________________________

Louisiana’s Click It or Ticket Campaign is underway and you can receive a 50-dollar fine for not being properly restrained. Taylor Sharp has the story.

Cut 3 (31)  “…I’m Taylor Sharp”  

_______________________________

Governor John Bel Edwards has said the House of Representative’s petition that attempted to cancel his coronavirus restrictions has helped lead to a third surge in coronavirus cases. But House Speaker Clay Schexnayder disagrees with the governor’s opinion.

Cut 4 (10) “…at all.”

Schexnayder says the legislature never informed the public that restrictions had been lifted after the petition was signed, but Attorney General Jeff Landry did…

Cut 5 (12) “…were done.”

In an interview with WWL radio, Schexnayder says he supports Governor Edwards’ efforts in handling the coronavirus pandemic but wishes there was more communication with legislators…

Cut 6 (11) “…people of Louisiana”

_____________________________

It was March when the state reported its first coronavirus case and many Louisiana residents are dealing with pandemic fatigue. Louisiana Department of Health Region Six Medical Director Doctor David Holcombe says it’s okay to feel that way…

Cut 7 (11)  “…prolonged stress.”

Holcombe says humans can only endure so much bad news and then it begins to affect them not only psychologically but physically as well. Holcombe says we are social creatures and social distancing has caused some to rebel.

Cut 8 (12) “…the society.”

Holcombe says ways to cope with pandemic fatigue are to eat a healthy diet and get plenty of rest and recognize that fatigue is a form of burnout.

Cut 9 (12) “…that point.”

_____________________________________________________

New State Police Superintendent, Colonel Lamar Davis, promises to hold the men and women who work at the law enforcement agency accountable. Davis says he has no problem stepping in making a change if he believes a trooper is not representing the badge well…

Cut 10 (12 “…accountable”

The Army veteran takes over while the L-S-P is under investigation for the death of a black man while in police custody and a recent Associated Press article that found at least a dozen cases of employees forwarding racist e-mails. Davis says he will not tolerate any racism or sexism

Cut 11 (09) “…accountable.”

Davis can not discuss the May 2019 death of Ronald Green, who died following a high-speed chase that ended in Union Parish. Evidence shows Green was tased and choked by police before he died. The 50-year-old says he’s reviewing all aspects of the department to make sure the agency takes care of the public and keeps them safe…

Cut 12 (12) “…our programs.”

___________________________________________________

Louisiana’s Click It or Ticket campaign is underway as the holiday season begins this week. Louisiana Highway Safety Commission spokesperson Mark Lambert says not wearing a seat belt can save you money and save your life.

Cut 13 (12) “…motor vehicle”

Louisiana law says all drivers and passengers in a motor vehicle must wear a seat belt and children must be in an age and size-appropriate safety seat. Lambert says a first-time offender can be fined 50-dollars for a violation…

Cut 14 (13) “..much much greater.” 

Lambert says this campaign is important because seatbelt users in Louisiana are slightly lower than the national average.

Cut 15 (11)“…national average.” 

Last year 49-percent of all drivers and passengers who died in a motor vehicle crash in Louisiana were not wearing a seat belt. So far in November, at least 10 people in Louisiana who were not wearing a seat belt have died.

____________________________________________________

The LSU Tigers got a much needed win on Saturday as the Bayou Bengals pulled off a 27-24 win at Arkansas. It was not pretty, as LSU was penalized nine times, lost its starting corners, one to injury, the other to an ejection and the defense once again gave up some big passing plays. But Coach Ed Orgeron liked how his team fought…

Cut 16 (14) “…build on.”

LSU easily won the time of possession as they possessed the ball for nearly 42 minutes. Running back Tyrion Davis Price rushed for 104 yards and a touchdown. It’s been a month since LSU’s last victory and Davis-Price says they wanted this one badly…

cut 17 (17) “….with the W.”

Freshman quarterback TJ Finley had a nice bounce back performance after turning it over three times in a loss to Auburn last time out. Against Arkansas, Finley threw for 271 yards and two touchdowns and led LSU on a game-winning drive in the fourth quarter. Coach Ed Orgeron says Finley is a cool customer…

cut 18 (18) “…at the end.”

______________________________________________

An effective Taysom Hill and a stout defense led to the Saints seventh straight win as New Orleans defeated its NFC South rival Atlanta 24-9. Hill filled in for the injured Drew Brees and threw for 233 yards and rushed for two touchdowns. Hill credits Brees for helping him to get ready for his NFL start…

cut 19 (19) “..best friends.”

The Saints defense might have been the bigger story. The Black and Gold intercepted Atlanta Quarterback Matt Ryan twice and sacked him eight times. New Orleans defensive end Trey Hendrickson had two more sacks and credits game plan and execution…

cut 20 (13) “…together.”

Pfizer is asking the Food and Drug Administration for emergency use of its COVID-19 vaccine. LSU says hundreds of Louisiana residents have participated in this trial. Jim Shannon has more…

Cut 1 (34) “  I’m Jim Shannon”  

_______________________________________

Early voting locations for the December 5th runoff are open. Don Molino has more on the final election of 2020…

cut 2 (30) … I’m Don Molino.”  

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Today and tomorrow, consumers will not have to pay the 4.45 percent state sales tax on most items, excluding vehicles and prepared meals. It’s the result of legislation passed in the last special session. House Speaker Clay Schexnayder authored the measure…

Cut 3 (09)  “…to help”  

If you buy an item worth more than 25-hundred dollars, you will not have to pay the sales tax on the first 25-hundred dollars of that purchase. Schexnayder says it’s been a rough 2020 and the Legislature wanted to do something to help people out

Cut 4 (08)   “..expenses”  

The Louisiana Legislative Fiscal Office says the holiday will cost the state about four-million dollars in tax revenues.

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Today the first coronavirus vaccine to apply for emergency approval from the FDA is Pfizer’s effort to fight the pandemic. Infectious disease specialist Dr. John Vanchiere at LSU Health Shreveport is also a principal investigator on the Pfizer Vaccine trial, and he says Pfizer’s effectiveness rate of 95-percent is remarkable.

Cut 5  (09) “…really good.” 

The proposed protocol for vaccine distribution is healthcare workers that treat COVID patients, then older adults that live in congregant setting such as nursing homes.  Vanchiere says in Louisiana 40-percent of COVID deaths were in nursing homes.

Cut 6 (10) “…side effects.”

Vanchiere says 44-thousand participated in the Pfizer clinical trial worldwide, including 231 people from the Shreveport Bossier area. He says any side effects from the injection means your body is responding to the vaccine building an immune response.

Cut 7 (06) “…be expected.”

Long term effects of the vaccine remain to be seen,  Vanchiere says we only have safety data on 30-thousand who received the vaccine and two months after the second injection.

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Monday’s USA Today investigative article that LSU mishandled sexual misconduct claims against students, including top athletes, was discussed at Governor John Bel Edwards COVID briefing Thursday. Edwards says he’s deeply troubled by the article

Cut 8 (10) “..that article.”

The article stated officials at LSU’s athletic department and other school administrators ignored repeated complaints against abusers and denied victims’ requests for protection. Edwards says this unacceptable.

Cut 9 (12) “…and abuse.”

Edwards says the ignored abuse was not only related to athletics at the university but included the Greek system and students not involved in athletics nor Greek life. Edwards says the matter should be investigated ASAP.

Cut 10 (11) “….do about it.”

Interim school president Thomas Galligan has hired the law firm Husch Blackwell to do an independent, comprehensive review of the school’s Title IX policies and procedures.

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Taysom Hill will reportedly start at quarterback for the Saints this Sunday when they host the Atlanta Falcons.  Saints Radio Network color analyst Deuce McAllister on why Hill gets the nod and not Jameis Winston.

Cut 11 (08) “….that guy.”

McAllister believes that with Hill under center, the Saints will use a lot more rollout passes.

Cut 12 (12) “..on the edge” 

Hill is known for his ability to run, but does possess a strong arm.  However, McAllister says when it comes down to Taysom’s success through the air, throwing mechanics will be the biggest factor.

Cut 13 (11) “…footwork is good”

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Early voting is underway for the December fifth runoff. We saw long lines during early voting for the November election, but based on the first day of this early voting period, the lines will be much shorter. Secretary of State Kyle Ardoin still encourages all registered voters to cast a ballot…

Cut 14 (06) “..runoff election” 

Early voting will run from 8:30 AM to 6 PM through November 28th, except for Sunday, Thursday, and Friday of next week. The biggest item on the ballot is the fifth district Congressional run-off between two Republicans, Lance Harris and Luke Letlow. Ardoin says voters in 24 parishes will see that race on their ballot..

Cut 15 (06) “…in Washington” 

There’s also a Public Service Service Commission race in southeast Louisiana. and several local races. Ardoin says a sample ballot is located inside the Geaux Vote Mobile App…

Cut 16 (12) “…dot-com” 

After much speculation, New Orleans Congressman Cedric Richmond is leaving the U.S. House of Representatives to be a senior adviser to President-Elect Joe Biden. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (32) “  I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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With Moderna’s announcement that its COVID-19 shot provides strong protection against the coronavirus, there are now two experimental COVID-19 vaccines that are showing strong early results. Jim Shannon has more…

cut 2 (31) … I’m Jim Shannon.”  

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U-S Representative Cedric Richmond announced today that before January 20th he will resign as a member of Congress to become a senior adviser to President-Elect Joe Biden…

Cut 3 (09)  “…want it”  

The Second District Congressman says he’ll have an office in the West Wing and he says he’ll fight to bring much-needed federal resources to Louisiana.

Cut 4 (12)   “..have here”  

The 47-year-old was first elected to Congress in 2010 after serving as a state representative in the Louisiana Legislature. He says it was not an easy decision to leave Congress after he was just re-elected to a sixth term…

Cut 5  (12) “…Black and Gold” 

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In addition to drug maker Pfizer’s announcement last week that their COVID vaccine is 90-percent effective, on Monday, Moderna released news that their vaccine has a 95 percent effectiveness rate.

Associate Professor at Tulane’s School of Medicine Dr. Lisa Morici said the FDA indicated that the benchmark for success would be a 50-percent efficacy rate for a vaccination in stage three clinical trials.

Cut 6 (09) “…encouraging indeed.”

Morici says she’s cautiously optimistic as we are still waiting on safety and efficacy rates from a larger number of clinical trial participants, so far data that’s been submitted is from approximately 100 participants that have been assessed.

Cut 7 (07) “…very encouraging.”

Morici says at this time we don’t know if the vaccine prevents transmission of the virus once you’ve been vaccinated.

Cut 8 (11) “..been vaccinated”

Morici says they hope that the vaccine will remain effective for six months, a year or greater, but until time has passed the data is unavailable.

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The city of New Orleans’ website says there will not be any Mardi Gras parades in 2021. The announcement caught many by surprise.  Director of Communications for Mayor LaToya Cantrell, Beau Tidwell, says the mayor has been consistent that Mardi Gras 2021 will have to look different because of the pandemic…

Cut 9 (11) “…right now.”

Tidwell says they are asking for input on how carnival season can be celebrated under the current guidelines of no gatherings larger than 250-persons. Carnival krewe captains have been asked to submit detailed plans on how they will comply with COVID-19 guidelines to the city by December 5th and the city will accept public input until December 4^th.

Cut 10 (10) “….alternatives.”

Carnival season 2020 was noted as a super spreader event before a pandemic was declared and because of that Tidwell says Mardi Gras 2021 will feel different.

Cut 11 (12) “….be different.”

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The state health department reported an additional 25-hundred new coronavirus cases today as Louisiana continues to see a sharp uptick in cases. During a press conference in Calcasieu Parish, Governor John Bel Edwards says the state is experiencing another surge and we need to take covid seriously

Cut 12 (10) “..alive and well” 

The number of COVID patients in the hospital is up to 874. That’s a 121 patient increase in just four days. Edwards is asking residents to follow the mitigation measures in order to reduce transmission of the virus…

Cut 13 (11) “…anybody”

With the Thanksgiving holiday next week, Edwards is concerned about large family gatherings. The governor says he comes from a family with eight children and they are not getting together this year…

Cut 14 (11) “..very, very high.”