If the current track holds, the National Hurricane Center forecasts Hurricane Delta will be a Category Three storm when it hits the Louisiana coast on Friday.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (32) “   I’m Kevin Barnhart”

________________________________

A bill goes before the House Education Committee today to address the suspension of a fourth grader for having a BB gun in his bedroom during virtual class. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Brooke Thorington” 

__________________________________________

Mike Foster, Louisiana’s 53^rd governor, is being laid to rest today in his hometown of Franklin.  Kevin Barnhart spoke with former Governor Bobby Jindal about Foster’s legacy.

Cut 3 (29)  “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

_______________________________

The National Hurricane Center is now anticipating Hurricane Delta will be a Category Three storm as it approaches the Bayou State on Friday. National Weather Service New Orleans Director Ben Schott says the impacts of Delta when it comes onshore will be significant

Cut 4 (12) “surge”

Delta will cross over the Yucatan today and Schott says once it gets past the peninsula, the forecast models should have a better idea of a potential landfall. Schott says forecasters do expect the storm to weaken as it approaches the Gulf Coast, but

Cut 5 (13) “…life threatening impacts”

Governor John Bel Edwards admits Delta is another difficult challenge for the state, but that should not prevent us from getting prepared

Cut 6 (13) “right now”

_______________________________

A bill addressing the suspension of a 4^th grader in Jefferson Parish for having a BB Gun in his bedroom during virtual class will be heard today in the House Education Committee. The author of the proposal, Jennings State Representative Troy Romero, wants to establish a separation between the classroom and home.

Cut 7 (12) “school environment”

Romero says in a school setting the school has full control of the environment, but in a virtual setting, which can include a private home, there are differences.

Cut 8 (11) “…that distinction”

And allow parents to appeal both a suspension or an expulsion of the student.

Originally in the case of the BB Gun in the home, Jefferson Parish School Board expelled the 4^th grader and later reduced it to a suspension. Romero believes they overreacted to the situation.

Cut 9 (09) “I’m concerned”

________________________

The Regeneron experimental monoclonal antibody treatment that was administered to President Trump following his COVID-19 diagnosis is actually being studied in Shreveport with clinical trials at Willis-Knighton Clinical Research.  Principle investigator Dr. Bocchini (Bo-keenee) says so far there is a lot of good evidence from the studies that it’s a safe approach.

Cut 10 (08) “…patients with COVID-19”

Bocchini says the idea is that the lab-grown antibodies are giving to a patient in an effort to combat the virus from continue to replicate within someone’s body.

The antibodies are administered intravenously.

Cut 11 (10) “…to take place.”

The treatment has been cited by experts as one of the most promising tools in combatting COVID-19.  Bocchini’s reaction to hearing the treatment was being administered President?

Cut 12 (09) “…to the hospital.”

______________________________________

Louisiana’s 53^rd governor, Mike Foster, is being laid to rest today in his hometown of Franklin.  Foster was at the helm of the state for two terms from 1996 through 2004.  Former Governor Bobby Jindal served in the Foster administration and remembers Foster as a down to earth guy.

Cut 13 (08) “…he came from.”

90-year-old Foster died Sunday.

Jindal says Foster was early to bed, early to rise.  If you tried to call him at the office of the Governor’s mansion too late in the afternoon, you could expect a wake-up call the next day.

Cut 14 (12) “…this is Mike.”

Jindal says he recently met with Foster when it became clear that he was nearing the end of his life.

Cut 15 (11) “…to lose weight.”

Private services will be held at his home, Oaklawn Manor, at 11 a.m. followed by a public graveside service at 12:30 p.m. at Franklin Cemetery, complete with a military send-off.
______________________________________

The Ragin Cajuns are back in the Top 25 AP and coaches polls, even though they didn’t play last Saturday. They come in at number 23 as they get ready for Saturday’s home game against Coastal Carolina. Coach Billy Napier says hopefully the ranking motivates his players to perform at a higher level

cut 16 (24) “…keep winning.”

Saturday is a matchup between two undefeated teams. Coastal Carolina leads the Sun Belt in scoring and they rank second in the league in total defense. Napier says Coastal has improved its personnel on defense…

cut 17 (20) “good job’

________________________________________________

A break out star on LSU’s defense this season has been junior college transfer Ali Gaye, who has emerged as the Tigers best pass rusher. Gaye transferred in from Garden City Community College and says coaching has allowed him to take his game to a different level

cut 18 (20) “.on me” 

Gaye leads the SEC in quarterback pressures through two games. Gaye says he didn’t think he would be a starter right away, but wants to be one of the defensive linemen in the country…

cut 19 (24) “.a temmate’

Hurricane Delta is a Category 4 storm, but is expected to weaken to a Cat 2 before a projected Saturday landfall in southeast Louisiana.  Kevin Barnhart has more.

Cut 1 (29) “   I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

____________________________

Still too early to say the exact impacts Hurricane Delta will bring to Louisiana, but state and local governments are getting prepared. Jeff Palermo has the story…

cut 2 (31) “I’m Jeff Palermo”  

_____________________________

Hurricane Delta is now a Category 4 storm and once again Louisiana is in the crosshairs of this major hurricane.  National Weather Service New Orleans meteorologist Kevin Gilmore says before it becomes an issue for the northern Gulf Coast on Saturday, it’ll make an initial landfall in Mexico.

Cut 3 (09)  “…it is now.”  

Gilmore says the current forecast shows the storm weakening to a Cat 2 before the projected landfall in southeast Louisiana, but says the impacts will still be a major concern.

Cut 4 (09) “day on Saturday.”

Gilmore says the impacts of the storm extend beyond storm surge.

Cut 5 (10) “…of the storm.”
_________________

2020 continues to be an extremely difficult year for most and an active hurricane season is another straw to the camel’s back. Hurricane Laura was devastating for southwest Louisiana and now Hurricane Delta is on track to strike the state. LSU Health New Orleans Clinical Psychologist Dr. Michelle Moore says understanding that an increased level of stress is a normal reaction is the first step towards coping.

Cut 6 (11)“…that stress”

Prepping for disaster and a storm’s failure to impact the state is another added stressor. But Moore says to decrease the anxiety you should always take action by preparing.

Cut 7 (08) “…anxious feelings.”

2020 has brought about multiple ongoing complex issues from COVID, to job losses, and political bickering. Moore says we shouldn’t forget that coping with hurricanes does incorporate a sense of finality.

Cut 8 (10)…unknowns to the hurricane.”

Moore also recommends focusing on self-care during difficult times and to reach out to a professional for assistance with your mental health.

______________________________________

Louisiana’s entire coastline is in the cone of uncertainty for Hurricane Delta which could make landfall on Saturday. The five-day forecast shows a potential landfall near St. Mary Parish. St. Mary Parish Emergency Preparedness Director David Naquin says they are anticipating Delta to weaken before getting to Louisiana…

Cut 9 (10) “…a bit.”

Naquin says his biggest concern is St. Mary Parish gets hit with a huge storm surge and several inches of rain. He says sandbagging operations are underway

Cut 10 (10) “…up now.”

Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness spokesperson Mike Steele says just because it’s October doesn’t mean Delta can not do major damage, so prepare now

Cut 11 (10) “…go away.”

This is the sixth time Louisiana has been in the cone of uncertainty during this busy hurricane season.

Steele says they are in contact with the coastal parishes to assess their needs

Cut 12 (07) “…evacuation orders.”

____________________________________________

Private funeral services for Former Louisiana Governor Mike Foster will take place tomorrow morning at his Oaklawn Manor Home. A public military graveside service will be held afterward. Foster was not a career politician as he says in this 2010 interview, he waited until his late 50s before he ran for the state senate

Cut 13 (11) “…I ran”

Foster was a millionaire businessman who served as the state’s governor from 1996 to 2004. His grandfather, Murphy Foster Senior, served as governor from 1892 to 1900. Mike Foster said in this 2010 interview he didn’t think much about politics for most of his life

Cut 14 (07) “…I ran.”

There were tense arguments in a House committee yesterday as members approved legislation that would strip state funding from municipalities or universities that cut police budgets by 10 percent or more. Matt Doyle covered it…

Cut 1 (30) “   I’m Matt Doyle”

________________________________

A House committee approves a resolution that would block the State Fire Marshal from enforcing COVID health codes on businesses. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

__________________________________________

The ninth hurricane of the 2020 Atlantic season has formed with the intensification of Hurricane Delta and, once again, it appears to be heading for the Louisiana coast.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 3 (30)  “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

_______________________________

Lawmakers sparred in a House committee Monday over legislation that would potentially strip state funding from localities or universities that cut their police budgets by ten percent or more.

Alexandria Representative Lance Harris authored the bill. He says the “Defund the Police” movement risks the safety of more than just the people living in areas that cut police budgets…

Cut 4 (11) “safety”

The bill would require municipalities and schools to submit an annual report to the Joint Legislative Committee of the Budget detailing the status of their police budgets. Entities that cut more than ten percent of that budget must prove the cut would not have a “significant and harmful effect on public safety” or risk being ineligible for new capital outlay funding in the next fiscal year.

New Orleans representative Gary Carter says if cities feel it is right to move money from law enforcement to services like mental health in an effort to lower crime, they should be able to…

Cut 5 (10) “…Congress”

Prairieville Representative Tony Bacala says the state is already one of the most crime-ridden in the nation and cutting police budgets would exacerbate that.

Cut 6 (10) “for me”

Bastrop representative Frederick Jones says the bill is insulting to African Americans. He says while he disagrees with the “Defund” movement…

Cut 7 (11) “crying out”

The bill heads to the full House next.

_______________________________

A resolution that would suspend the State Fire Marshal’s ability to enforce COVID health guidelines on businesses clears a House committee.

House Republican Caucus Chair Blake Miguez says business owners should be free to make their own decisions about how, or if they should open given the current COVID risk level.

Cut 8 (11) “…businesses”

If passed the resolution would stay in place until the adjournment of the 2021 regular session.

Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry backs the resolution. Civil Division director Angelique Freel says the Legislature has not given the Fire Marshal the authority to shut down businesses for non-compliance.

Cut 9 (10) “in it”

Governor Edwards has tasked the Fire Marshal with COVID code enforcement, citing his broad authority during a declared public health emergency.

The committee vote was 12 to 5 in favor. One of those in dissent was New Orleans Representative Royce Duplessis who says the resolution infringes on the Governor’s constitutionally awarded public health authority.

Cut 10 (07) “…authority”

The resolution moves to the House floor where it is expected to pass much like a series of other bills did last week that targeted the Governor’s public health orders and powers.

________________________

Among the accomplishments being remembered about the late Mike Foster’s time as Governor is the establishment of the Louisiana Community and Technical College System. LCTCS President Monty Sullivan says Foster’s stressed importance of the access to gaining skills for the workforce was clear.

Cut 11 (10) “…what drove him.”

90-year-old Foster passed away over the weekend.

Sullivan says prior to 1998, the state had four community colleges and one technical college. That has since grown to a system of twelve colleges.

Cut 12 (11) “…last 20+ years.”

The LCTCS is now in 53 parishes and Sullivan says the system is where it is today because of the vision of Foster. Prior to Foster, the opportunity was limited by geography to access to education in a way that puts people in jobs.

Cut 13 (07) “…two-year college education.”

______________________________________

Louisiana is once again bracing for the impact of another hurricane as Hurricane Delta approaches.  The storm is the ninth hurricane of the 2020 Atlantic season.  State climatologist Barry Keim says the storm is currently in the Caribbean and is expected to enter the Gulf on Wednesday morning.

Cut 14 (13) “…on Friday afternoon.”

Keim says conditions are extremely favorable for strengthening with very low wind shear and very warm sea surface temps.  The storm is expected to hit major hurricane status.

Cut 15 (11) “…hurricane at landfall.” 

Delta is forecast to have winds of 120 miles per hour in a couple of days.  If that forecast comes to fruition, it would become the strongest Greek named hurricane in the Atlantic on record, breaking the old record set in 2005 by Hurricane Beta, which had 115 mph max sustained winds.

Keim says if this track holds, this will be the fourth landfalling storm in Louisiana this season.

cut 16 (06) “…any single season.”

The only other years to have four landfalling storms are 2002 and 1923.

_______________________________________________

One-fourth of the NFL is complete and the Saints have a 2-and-2 record heading into a Monday night matchup with the Los Angeles Chargers. The Chargers are 1-3, but rookie quarterback Justin Hebert has played well. Coach Sean Payton on preparing for a quarterback they’ve never faced before…

cut 17 (20) “on tape’

In Sunday’s win over Detroit, the Saints got great contributions from their two running backs, Alvin Kamara and Latavius Murray. The two combined for 202 yards from scrimmage and three touchdowns. Murray on feeding off of Kamara

cut 18 (20) “.the field” 

______________________________________________________

LSU Quarterback Myles Brennan looked more comfortable in the pocket in Saturday’s win over Vanderbilt. Coach Ed Orgeron says they worked Brennan’s pocket presence prior to last Saturday’s game…

cut 19 (20) “.the money’

After giving up over 600 passing yards in the season-opening loss to Mississippi State, LSU held Vanderbilt to 113 passing yards. The 17th ranked Tigers are also getting back starting defensive tackle Glen Logan after a two-game suspension. Orgeron says he’s been practicing every day…

cut 20 (23) “..I’m excited”

Former two-term Governor Mike Foster is being remembered fondly today after passing away at the age of 90. Jeff Palermo spoke to his former chief of staff…

Cut 1 (31) “   I”m Jeff Palermo”  

____________________________

Bayou Classic officials announced today the annual football game will be played in Shreveport next Spring, not New Orleans. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

cut 2 (30) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

_____________________________

The state is mourning the death of former two-term Governor Mike Foster, who passed away in Franklin at the age of 90. The Korean War vet and businessman from St. Mary Parish created Louisiana’s  Community and Technical College System. His former chief of staff, Stephen Perry, says Foster knew the importance of a two-year college degree…

Cut 3 (12)  “…employable.”  

Perry says Foster also helped expand TOPS and directed one-point-seven billion dollars to higher education

Cut 4 (12) “…educating people..”

Foster was a democrat when he was elected to the Louisiana Senate in 1987. But when he qualified to run in the 1995 governor’s race he switched to Republicans. Perry says it was the start of a movement in Louisiana…

Cut 5 (12) “…become Republican.”

Foster helped launched former Governor Bobby Jindal’s political career when he named Jindal his Health Secretary when he was just 24 years old.

_________________

President Donald Trump will be released from the hospital Monday afternoon and allowed to continue recovering from COVID-19 at the White House.

Congressman Mike Johnson says the President is a high-energy and healthy individual who should be able to shake off the disease…

Cut 6 (09)“…illness”

Reports indicate the President was suffering from some severe symptoms Friday and Saturday and was treated with a cocktail of experimental treatments, Remdesivir, and a powerful steroid.

The weekend saw a series of often conflicting reports about the President’s condition, including revelations that he was sicker than officials first let on, but Johnson says…

Cut 7 (10) “…they’ve been.”

The President has filmed several videos from within Walter Reed Hospital and Sunday had the Secret Service drive him around the facility to wave at fans from within the vehicle.

The infection of the President and 11 prominent Republicans is reportedly linked to a ceremony celebrating the nomination of Judge Amy Coney Barret. Johnson disagrees with that assumption.

Cut 8 (08) “White House.”

Video and pictures from the Rose Garden celebration show many of the now confirmed infected individuals having close, unmasked contact with a number of other dignitaries at the event.

______________________________________

Tropical Storm Delta is strengthening over the northwestern Caribbean Sea and is expected to become a hurricane on Tuesday.  National Weather Service New Orleans meteorologist Kevin Gilmore says the storm appears to be on track for a Friday morning landfall.

Cut 9 (04) “…that may change.”

Gilmore says the current projected path has Louisiana in the crosshairs for that landfall, but the cone of uncertainty is much wider.

Cut 10 (06) “…Panama City Beach, FL.”

Gilmore says coastal residents should not rest on this storm just because it is threatening this late in the season as the northern Gulf Coast has a history of notable storms.

Cut 11 (07) “…in October too.”

___________________________________

The Bayou Classic football game between Southern and Grambling traditionally held Thanksgiving weekend in New Orleans is getting a new home for 2021 as it moves to Shreveport. The 47^th annual game will take place April 17. Shreveport Mayor Adrian Perkins says it’s a big win for the city.

Cut 12 (11) “…state of Louisiana.”

The only other time the game has not been played in New Orleans was 2005, when it was played in Houston due to Hurricane Katrina.

Perkins says the city is excited for the opportunity to welcome students, alum, and fans from both universities and assures that the city and its partners will make it a spectacular event.

Cut 13 (11) “…in the world.”

Perkins says while the game will take place in April, plans are already being put into place to ensure the game is compliant with COVID-19 spread mitigation efforts.

Cut 14 (07) “…of this event.”

_______________________

Louisiana teachers earn about 4,000 dollars a year less than their southern regional counterparts according to a new report. Matt Doyle has the story

Cut 1 (28) “   I’m Matt Doyle”

________________________________

A Pennington Biomedical Research Center researcher says a recent study shows uncontrolled blood sugar levels for type 2 diabetics can lead to long-term cognitive issues. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Brooke Thorington” 

___________________________________________

Louisiana has lost one of its favorite governors as Mike Foster has passed away at the age of 90. Kevin Barnhart has more on Foster’s legacy…

Cut 3 (33)  “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

_______________________________

A new report shows Louisiana teachers make an average of 4,000 dollars a year less than their peers in other southern states. Last year the gap was just 2,300 dollars but Louisiana Federation of Teachers President Larry Carter says nearby states approved significant pay hikes. Now state teachers are stuck with pandemic workloads at low pay.

Cut 4 (09) “people.”

This comes despite a 1,200 dollar raise passed last year. Carter says while Louisiana was busy catching up other nearby states were busying pushing further ahead.

Carter says there’s real reason to be concerned that the pay gap will result in Louisiana teachers leaving. He says we already see it within the state where pay varies significantly from parish to parish.

Cut 5 (07) “…doing”

Carter says given the current economic climate it will be difficult to close that gap unless the feds come through with another pandemic bailout package for states…

Cut 6 (12) “dollars”

_____________________

A Pennington Biomedical Research Center researcher says type 2 diabetics can improve brain function with consistent control of blood sugar levels versus only losing weight and increasing exercise. Director of Biomedical Imaging, Owen Carmichael says type two diabetes doubles your risk of developing cognitive impairment and dementia, including Alzheimer’s.

Cut 7 (11) “…blood sugar”

Carmichael says many people think once you are diagnosed with diabetes it’s just a matter of taking medication, but in reality, it’s a lifestyle change, and controlling your blood sugar is not as easy as it sounds.

Cut 8 (08) “…get as well”

Carmichael says this news is imperative to reducing the long-term cognitive issues and losing weight and exercising after cognitive issues have begun might not restore verbal learning skills and overall memory.

Cut 9 (06) “…under control”

The study examines 11-hundred participants and cognitive tests were conducted between 8 and 13 years after they started the study.

_______________________________________

Former two-term Governor Mike Foster passed away Sunday at the age of 90 at his home in Franklin. Foster started in politics when he was elected as a state senator for St. Mary Parish in 1987 at the age of 57. Eight years later he was elected governor and political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says education was Foster’s main focus…

Cut 10 (09) “…community colleges”

Foster also rose teacher pay. According to his former press secretary, Marsanne Golsby, during Foster’s eight years in office, the average teacher received 11,500 in raises, a 43-percent increase.

Pinsonat says Foster was one of the state’s more popular governors. He says when his second term concluded in 2004 that popularity spread across Republicans and Democrats

Cut 11 (08) “…and universities.”

Foster was one of 16 individuals who ran for governor in 1995. The ballot also included former Governor Buddy Roemer, future U-S Senator Mary Landrieu and at that time Congressman Cleo Fields. But Pinsonat says Foster ran a fantastic campaign

Cut 12 (12) “…public’s imagintion.

Foster died from age-related illnesses. Funeral details have not been announced.
______________________________________

The House and Senate appear to be at odds over how to handle the Governor’s public health authority and business restrictions just one week into the special session.

LaPolitics.com Publisher Jeremy Alford says the first week showed how each chamber is feeling about the Governor’s handling of the pandemic…

Cut 13 (09) “…approach.”

The Senate passed legislation that would require the Governor to notify Legislative leaders seven days ahead of time of any public health emergency extensions, and explain why it was necessary. The House has passed everything from a complete repeal of his declaration to bills allowing lawmakers to pick and choose what restrictions should be upheld.

The Senate passed one signature bill addressing public health authority last week, but Alford says the House approved nine different items tackling questions of gubernatorial emergency powers…

Cut 14 (04) “…making.”

Alford says there’s a mix of resolutions and bills that would strip the Governor of his public health powers in play, but the resolutions are only temporary, and any bills are likely to be rejected…

Cut 15 (05) “…authority.” 

________________________________________

Despite missing several starters because of injuries, COVID-19 concerns in the middle of the night and falling behind 14-0 early, the Saints still came away with a victory in Detroit beating the Lions 35-29. Quarterback Drew Brees threw an early interception but played well the rest of the way to snap a two-game losing streak

cut 16 (24) “..close it out”

Brees threw for 246 yards and two touchdowns. Emmanual Sanders had six catches for 93 yards.

There was a concern the game would be postponed because fullback Michael Burton tested positive for COVID-19, but it turned out to be a false positive. However, several players were up into early Sunday morning waiting on another round test results. Sanders says they would not use that false-positive test as an excuse…

cut 17 (17) “.we did”‘

Coach Sean Payton says no one was going to feel sorry for them

cut 18 (18) “..did that” 

New Orleans next game is a week from tonight against the Los Angeles Chargers, who lost to Tampa Bay. The Buccaneers are still in first place in the NFC South with a 3-1 record. The Saints are 2-and-2.

___________________________________________________

LSU played much better on Saturday night and it resulted in a 41-7 win over the Vanderbilt Commodores. Quarterback Myles Brennan looked more decisive and comfortable and he ended up throwing 337 yards and four TD passes. Brennan credits a lot of drill work leading up to the game

cut 19 (14) “.saw improvement’

The defense also had a much better showing. The Commodores were held to 266 yards of offense and intercepted Ken Seals twice and sacked him three times. Safety Jacoby Stevens had eleven tackles

cut 20 (19) “..good game”

The House approves a number of items that would significantly limit, if not overturn the Governor’s ability to set pandemic public health restrictions. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 1 (32) “…Matt Doyle”  

____________________________

Two are dead after a State Police trooper rear-ends a vehicle in Ouachita Parish. Jeff Palermo has the story…

cut 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”  

_____________________________

The 2020 Census is less than a week away from its October 5^th deadline and census workers are hitting the streets to cover the remaining the 5% of Louisiana households that have not yet responded.  Assistant regional census manager Marilyn Stephens says there are three ways to participate.

Cut 3 (10)  “…interview by phone.”  

Stephens says the greatest concentration of homes that have not responded to the census is in the northern portion of the state.

Cut 4 (04) “…into Shreveport..”

Stephens says elected officials are emphasizing the importance of this year’s participation because the 2010 census was not looked at as a complete census for Louisiana.

Cut 5 (09) “…a major difference.”

_________________

The Louisiana House passed several proposals today that would either eliminate Governor John Bel Edwards’ COVID-19 public health orders or give lawmakers more authority.

Speaker Clay Schexnayder’s resolution to terminate the pandemic emergency declaration after the session ends won approval. Haughton Representative Doddie Horton…

Cut 6 (10)“…to be”

Supporters of the resolution say the Legislature would then have time to craft their own pandemic public health policy.

Covington Representative Mark Wright’s bill would create an automatic process for the Legislature to approve or reject an emergency declaration extension by the Governor.

Cut 7 (12) “…to us.”

30 days after the declaration is first made if either the Upper or Lower Chamber rejects the extension or aspects of the extension, it would not go into place.

Abita Springs Representative Larry Frieman brought a bill that would allow the Legislature to either terminate entire emergency orders, or just parts of one.

Cut 8 (08) “in place.”

Frieman says this bill was in response to concerns from colleagues that the wholesale elimination of a public health emergency declaration would result in the loss of federal funding.

None of the bills approved had enough votes to override a governor’s veto. The resolution to suspend the governor’s order doesn’t need the governor’s signature.

______________________________________

An 11-year old and an 18-year-old are dead after a southbound State Police Trooper rear-ended another vehicle while responding to a separate crash last night in Ouachita Parish on Highway 165. Trooper Michael Reichardt says the trooper involved in the crash is Kaleb Reeves, the son of State Police Superintendent, Colonel Kevin Reeves.

Cut 9 (07) “…driver’s side door.”

Reeves was en route to an 18-wheeler crash in Caldwell Parish.

Reichardt says the trooper was not injured in the crash, but the other driver involved, Kenneth Lindsey, was taken to a hospital with moderate injuries.

Cut 10 (06) “…were pronounced dead.”

The deceased have been identified as 11-year-old An-Janne Lindsey and 18-year-old Kajenne Lindsey, both of Monroe.

Reichardt says it has not yet been determined if Trooper Kaleb Reeves will be put onto administrative leave.

Cut 11 (08) “…two young individuals.”

___________________________________

Governor Edwards says the current restrictions on bars are necessary to keep COVID-transmission low and save lives.

Bars in parishes that can open can only serve until 11 PM, can only do table service, and are limited to 25 percent capacity. Edwards says these aren’t arbitrary rules.

Cut 12 (09) “task force.”

Those under 21 are now not allowed to enter bars.

Only bars in parishes with lower than a five percent positivity rate on new COVID tests may open. Edwards says that’s because areas with higher rates just have too much community spread.

Cut 13 (10) “…positivity.”

About a third of parishes are still blocked from allowing bars to reopen.

Edwards Administration staff have frequently repeated that bars create environments conducive to the spread of coronavirus, and Edwards says we can’t risk more youth cases with colleges now reopened.

Cut 14 (06) “…cases.”

The 24 million dollar emergency rental assistance program has been streamlined with the hope of getting more money out to struggling low-income renters, and faster…

Cut 1 (32) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”

________________________________

Governor Edwards expressed frustration with Legislative criticism that he doesn’t speak with lawmakers before extending public health orders. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

___________________________________________

Louisiana registered its all-time lowest motor vehicle fatality rate in 2019, despite the number of severe crashes remaining virtually the same. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington”  

_______________________________

The Louisiana Housing Corporation says the emergency rental assistance program has been streamlined to process applications faster and get more money out to struggling low-income renters.

LHC director Keith Cunningham says the program has been burdened by a lot of red tape. One of those bureaucratic hurdles has been getting buy-in from landlords…

Cut 4 (10) “payment.”

The program offers aid to struggling low-income renters who’ve lost income due to the pandemic and initially had a surge of 40,000 applications before the application process was closed just days after opening. Cunningham estimates the 24 million dollar program has the funds to help about 7,500 to 8,500 families.

Cunningham says another problem is that unlike CARES Act funds, these came with burdensome federal paperwork and eligibility requirements that take time to process.

Cut 5 (10) “…has been”

As such, the 24 million dollar program has only distributed about half a million dollars so far to 160 renters, but Cunningham says seven million total dollars have been obligated, if not yet paid.

Cunningham says they’re hosting public events across the state, and set up a call center to connect with applicants and help them clean up their paperwork so they can begin getting their rent help.

Cut 6 (11) “assisted”

_____________________

At his Thursday press conference, Governor Edwards responded to Legislative efforts to limit his public health authority and criticisms that he doesn’t communicate with lawmakers.

A Senate-approved bill would require him to consult with Legislative leaders before extending a public health emergency, but Edwards says he already does, they just don’t like what he says.

Cut 7 (07) “…being made”

The bill by Senate President Page Cortez would mandate the Governor, or his staff, answer questions about why a public health order is being extended and when it may end seven days before that order is set to take place. However, it does not hamper the Governor’s authority to issue the order.

Edwards attacked a House resolution that, in its current form, would undo all of the Governor’s COVID-related public health orders. He says those orders are saving lives and not up for debate.

Cut 8 (11) “…in place”

The resolution, by Speaker Clay Schexnayder, would fully suspend the public health emergency 30 days after the special session ends.

Edwards indicated he’s a bit frustrated by the Legislative efforts to interfere in his administration’s work fighting the pandemic.

Cut 9 (10) “…to do”

Edwards says if legislation makes it to his desk that he believes would hamper pandemic public safety he will veto it.

_______________________________________

The Louisiana Highway Safety Commission reports the highway fatality rate dropped to a record low in 2019. Executive Director Lisa Freeman says based on data from the LSU Center for Analytics and Research in Transportation Safety, 727 people died on Louisiana highways in 2019, a decrease of 46 fatalities from 2018, reversing a five-year trend

Cut 10 (08) “…incredible news.”

Data shows that 727 people died on Louisiana Highways in 2019, a decrease of 46 from 2018.

Freeman credits safer cars being on the road and an increase in car restraint usage.

Cut 11 (08) “…that’s huge.”

In 2019 Eighty-eight percent of Louisianans used their seatbelts.

Another factor Freeman points out is that Louisianans are getting the message not to drink and drive.

Cut 12 (11) “…previous years.

However, Freeman does point out that the number of distracted driving fatalities increased in 2019 by 158.

______________________________________

A new report from the American Hotel & Lodging Association indicates 38% of Louisiana hotel jobs have been lost because of the coronavirus pandemic.  Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says some of the gaps in the hotel business has been partially patched due to in-state travel.

Cut 13 (09) “…around the state.”

Nungesser says the state is already doing its part to market the area to incoming conventions and conferences by incentivizing organizers with free Louisiana seafood and Louisiana musical performers for their events.

Cut 14 (11) “…not come back.”

The worry about cancelling Mardi Gras and other events in 2021 continues to grow with some, but Nungesser says that he is still hopeful that Carnival season will still take place.

Cut 15 (08) “…I’m cautiously optimistic.” 

________________________________________

Louisiana Tech is at 22nd ranked BYU tonight in a matchup of two teams who are trying to go 3-0 on the season. The Cougars own two blowout victories over Navy and Troy and they are averaging 622 total yards of offense. Bulldogs Coach Skip Holtz says BYU can move the ball by running it or passing it

cut 16 (14) “..right now”

La Tech has victories over Southern Miss and Houston Baptist. Bulldogs Quarterback Luke Anthony is coming off a six-touchdown performance against the Huskies. But Holtz says Anthony has more room to grow…

cut 17 (19) “.get better”‘

___________________________________________-

Saints wide receiver Michael Thomas was limited at practice for a second straight day as he tries to return to the field this Sunday when New Orleans visits the Detroit Lions. Quarterback Drew Brees says Thomas is moving around well…

cut 18 (20) “…from there” 

The Saints have their first losing streak since 2017 and Quarterback Drew Brees is receiving some criticism. But running back Alvin Kamara still has full confidence in Drew

cut 19 (25) “.shut up’

The Saints are tied with Dallas for second-most penalties in the NFL. Safety Malcolm Jenkins says some of the flags are unavoidable…

cut 20 (15) “..live with”

A House committee advances a resolution by the House Speaker that would suspend all COVID public health orders by the Governor for 30 days after the special session ends. Matt Doyle has the story…

Cut 1 (30) “…Matt Doyle”  

____________________________

A bill is advancing that would require four members of the state legislature to sit on the Louisiana High School Athletic Association executive board. Jeff Palermo has more…

cut 2 (33) “I’m Jeff Palermo”  

_____________________________

Don’t let the fall weather fool you. Hurricane season is not over. State climatologist Barry Keim says it’s too early to let your guard down because the history books reflect that storms can make a Louisiana landfall in October.

Cut 3 (10)  “…of the month.”  

The records date back to 1851.

While many of the state’s October landfalls may be frontloaded, Hurricane Juan made landfall on October 29, 1985, looped around, and made a second landfall on October 31.  Keim says it may not have been the most powerful hurricane, but its stationary nature pummeled south Louisiana.

Cut 4 (12) “…end of October.”

Juan is the latest into a season that a hurricane has made landfall in Louisiana.  Keim says that means no storm has made a Louisiana landfall in the last month of hurricane season.

Cut 5 (08) “…are not zero.”

_________________

A House committee approves a resolution that would suspend the Governor’s COVID public health emergency order for 30 days after the current special session ends. House Speaker Clay Schexnayder says his resolution would eliminate all COVID public health restrictions established by the Governor, and give the Legislature time to craft their own.

Cut 6 (04) “…better”

The session is expected to end in late October.

Much of the discussion at the committee centered on the damage done to businesses by the ongoing orders. Sulphur Representative Les Farnum says the restrictions exacerbated Laura’s economic hit…

Cut 7 (09) “…punch.”

The Governor has called previous attempts to suspend the order irresponsible and says they would lead to an immediate loss of a substantial amount of federal funding under the Stafford Act.

Haughton Representative Doddie Horton says the orders infringe on resident’s liberty and need to be eliminated quickly. She says that starts with the mask mandate in schools.

Cut 8 (11) “…face.”

The resolution moves to the House floor.

______________________________________

The Senate Education Committee approves legislation that would require the Louisiana High School Athletic Association to have four state legislators serve on the executive board of the LHSAA. Monroe Senator Stewart Cathey says this will help keep lawmakers more informed on issues involving high school sports

Cut 9 (09) “…institutions.”

Cathey says during the summer when the LHSAA was trying to figure out how to play high school football during a pandemic, his phone was blowing up about the possibility that the season would be canceled…

Cut 10 (10) “…lit up.”

LHSAA Executive Director Eddie Bonine told the panel he communicates with several legislators already and is okay with lawmakers on the executive board, he just doesn’t think a law is needed

Cut 11 (11) “…and Speaker.”

The measure heads to the Senate floor for more consideration.

______________________________________________________

Senator Karen Carter Peterson expresses her displeasure with a lack of spread mitigation efforts from fellow lawmakers.  Peterson slammed those lawmakers who were not using masks.

Cut 12 (10) “…other members’ health.”

Peterson highlights that mask usage it the top recommendation of the White House Coronavirus Task Force.

Cut 13 (13) “…we should do.”

Peterson says the Capitol should hold itself to a higher standard that places like Walmart and Whole Foods who mandate masks while inside.  Peterson adds it is imperative that lawmakers are setting an example for constituents.

Cut 14 (11) “…help me somebody.”

The Senate unanimously approves legislation that will be heard in a House committee Thursday requiring the Governor to consult with Legislative leaders before extending emergency orders. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Matt Doyle”

________________________________

Relief groups in southwest Louisiana still need donations to help get people back into livable housing. Matt Doyle spoke to one group trying to make that happen…

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

___________________________________________

A Denham Springs man is in a Florida jail after he’s found hiding in a teenager’s closet and authorities estimate he’d been living in that closet for over a month.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 3 (33)  “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

_______________________________

Today a House Committee will consider Senate approved legislation that would require the Governor consult with Legislative leaders before extending an emergency order.

The legislation was brought by the Senate President and won unanimous approval in the Upper Chamber. Covington Senator Patrick McMath says it gives lawmakers a seat at the table.

Cut 4 (09) “…powerful.”

The bill creates a committee of legislative leaders that the Governor, or his staff, must report to and explain why an order had to be extended and when it could feasibly end. The Chief Justice of the State Supreme Court must also be informed.

If passed the Governor would have to give lawmakers seven days’ notice of his intentions to extend an order. Shreveport Senator Barry Milligan says that’ll save legislators a lot of heartburn…

Cut 5 (05) “…live.”

The legislation won support from Senate Dems but some, like New Orleans Senator Troy Carter, worry the bill could be amended to undercut the Governor’s public health authority in the House.

Cut 6 (09) “dangerous”

In its current form, the legislation does not block the Governor from setting restrictions during an emergency, it just requires his office to explain why the restrictions have been set.

_____________________

The pace of new donations to Hurricane Laura relief is slowing down, but advocates on the ground say more assistance is still badly needed. Community Foundation of Lake Charles CEO Sara Judson says their organization has raised six million dollars so far with that money focused on efforts that will get people back into housing.

Cut 7 (13) “…thing”

An estimated 12 to 14 billion dollars in damage was done to the region as a result of Laura’s landfall.

The Community Foundation is now about halfway to their final goal and has distributed one million of those dollars to local aid groups, but Judson says they still have a ways to go.

Cut 8 (08) “…to help”

Judson says donations have come into the Foundation from 48 different states and many different countries and from over 3,000 total individuals.

If you’d like to help Judson encourages you to donate at foundation-swla-dot-org, and they’d love to have your money or your time.

Cut 9 (10) “…volunteers”

_______________________________________

A House committee will take up a bill today by an Oil City Republican that aims to block the state from charging people who gather for religious activities against state orders during a declared emergency.

Representative Danny McCormick says the state’s restrictions on religious gatherings during the pandemic are unconstitutional, which is why he brought the bill.

Cut 10 (03) “…constitution.”

Earlier in the pandemic, all public gatherings, including religious gatherings, were banned. Currently, churches are limited in how many people they can have at a service, and how they have to be spaced out.

McCormick says the bill was in part inspired by the story of Central Pastor Tony Spell who was arrested and charged after holding services against state orders.

Cut 11 (10) “…liberty.”

The legislation also provides civil immunity related to religious gatherings during emergency orders.

Governor Edwards has stated that the restrictions on large gatherings were, and still are a vital part of the state’s pandemic mitigation plan, but McCormick is confident most legislators will take his side…

Cut 12 (03) “…this.

____________________________________________________

A Denham Springs man is arrested after he’s found hiding in a Florida teenager’s closet, where authorities estimate he’s been staying off and on for over a month.  Hernando County Sheriff’s Detective Tom Cameron says 36-year-old Johnathan Lee Rossmoine was found when the victim’s mother saw movement in her daughter’s bedroom.

Cut 13 (08) “…in the closet.”

The victim and the suspect had first met through a chatting app two years ago.  Police reports show the victim indicated initially she told Rossmoine she was 18, before admitting prior to meeting in person to actually being 15.

Cameron says Rossmoine had traveled from Louisiana to the victim’s Spring Hill, Florida home to have sex on several occasions.  The current stay had lasted about five weeks and the two kept it a secret from the parents.

Cut 14 (10) “…of the closet.”

Cameron says the victim is receiving counseling and checkups to make sure she is okay both physically and mentally

Cut 15 (07) “…boyfriend from her.”

The suspect is charged with four counts of lewd and lascivious behavior with a victim between 12 and 16, obscene communication, and travel to meet after use of a computer to lure child.  Additional charges are pending.  Bond is set at $25,000.

________________________________________

ULM is still in search of its first win and the Warhawks as its hosts  Georgia Southern on Saturday to complete a three-game homestand. All three of the Warhawks losses have been by double digits. Coach Matt Viator knows his team is better than this

cut 16 (20) “…disappointing”

The Eagles come into Saturday’s game with a one and one record as they lost by two points last week to the Ragin Cajuns. Southern runs an option offense, but Coach Matt Viator says they can throw the ball too

cut 17 (16) “..as well’

________________________________________________

After giving up 37 points in a loss to Green Bay on Sunday, Saints Coach Sean Payton wants to see his defense play with more discipline. He says it was disappointing to see how they played the boot leg on Sunday night

cut 18 (13) “…corrected” 

___________________________________________________

Saturday was a tough day for the LSU secondary as the Tigers defense allowed Mississippi state Quarterback KJ Costello to throw for an SEC record 623 passing yards. On the other side of the ball, the Tigers gave up seven sacks. After reviewing the tape, LSU Coach Ed Orgeron on the Tigers line play, starting with D-Line

cut 19 (20) “..better there’

Orgeron says he expects All American cornerback Derek Stingley Junior will be able to play this Saturday at Vanderbilt after missing the season opener with an illness. Commodores Coach Derek Mason says Stingley’s return will be a big boost for the Tigers defense

cut 20 (18) “..the field”

The State Health Officer issues a dire pandemic prediction to a Legislative committee. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30) “…Jeff Palermo”  

____________________________

Lawmakers questioned state health officials about the 25-percent cap on spectators at athletic events today in a House committee meeting.  Kevin Barnhart has more.

cut 2 (33) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

_____________________________

State Health Officer Dr. Jimmy Guidry warns a Legislative committee there will be another spike in COVID cases during flu season, and the spike will rival the numbers we saw in spring.

Guidry says his prediction is based on the 1918  Spanish Flu pandemic where a spring wave subsided only to be replaced by a much deadlier late fall outbreak.

Cut 3 (10)  “people”  

Committee members also questioned Guidry about the small number of totals deaths that were solely attributed to COVID. Guidry says that number is misleading because of the nature of COVID, which pushes people with manageable illnesses to death’s door.

Guidry expressed concerns about efforts to further relax public health restrictions. He says numbers may be low now, but they’re only low because of the ongoing mitigation measures.

Cut 4 (12)“at home” 

Governor Edwards has indicated the current Phase Three guidelines could be in place until a vaccine is publicly available.

Guidry says the current success in limiting outbreaks in schools is unlikely to last long. He expects as the semester continues students will slack off on prevention measures and the virus will spread.

Cut 5 (07)  “for us” 

_________________

The discussion over the 25-percent maximum capacity at athletic events took the spotlight at a legislative committee this morning.  Baton Rouge Republican Rick Edmonds says the inability to attend high school football is detrimental to families who feel it’s a time-honored tradition.

Cut 6 (10) “…of those families.”

Many high schools object to that number and point to the higher capacity that’s allowed inside restaurants and casinos.  Assistant state health officer Dr. Joe Kanter defended the current spectator cap by saying it isn’t the social distancing in the stands that is the area of concern.

Cut 7 (10) “…risk of transmission.”

Kanter says this extends beyond knowing and accepting the risk involved because coronavirus spreads even without any symptoms.

Cut 8 (13) “…without knowing it (x2).”

Edmonds tells state health officer, Dr. Jimmy Guidry, he wants the policy to be reviewed for possible amendments to allow more people in the stands.

Cut 9 (07) “…given to that.”

________________________

Attorney General Jeff Landry visits with the family of a Jefferson Parish fourth-grader who was suspended earlier this month after handling a BB gun in view of his webcam during a virtual learning session.  Landry says the punishment, including a weapons violation on his permanent record, is an overreaction.

Cut 10 (09) “…into their home.”

Woodmere Elementary 4th grader Ka’Mauri Harrison was suspended for six days.  His brother tripped over the gun when entering the room, at which point Harrison moved the gun, but still within view of his web camera.

Landry says after meeting with the family, it is clear the parents taught their children about accountability.

Cut 11 (07) “…to be accountable.”

The child was not given a chance to appeal his punishment.  Landry says legal action can often be a lengthy process, but he’s committed to seeing this through and getting justice for Ka’Mauri.

Cut 12 (09) “…be made whole.”

____________________________________________________

The House Governmental Affairs Committee heard several bills today that would give lawmakers more of a say when it comes to emergency orders. Most of the focus was on Jonesboro Representative Jack McFarland’s bill. It would create a Council of State to give input on whether an emergency order should go beyond 30 days

Cut 13 (07) “…line of communication”

The governor, state treasurer, attorney general, House Speaker, and Senate President would be members on the council  Democrats on the committee have concerns, including Shreveport Representative Sam Jenkins…

Cut 14 (10) “these decisions”

Bogalusa Representative Malinda White is also concerned McFarland’s measure will result in a public health emergency turning political

Cut 15 (07) “for direction” 

McFarland says if the Council of State wants to amend an emergency order, the governor will still have final say under his legislation

Cut 16 (10) “…they do” 

A vote on McFarland’s measure and the other bills heard by the committee could come as early as tomorrow.