A rise in chronic conditions is putting more Louisiana residents at risk for colorectal cancer.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (33) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”

_____________________________________

The Main Street Recovery Program application process opens at 9 AM today and State Treasurer John Schroder encourages small business owners not to wait on their chance at up to 15,000 dollars…

Cut 2 (29) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

___________________________________________

The Imperial Heath Urgent Care Center in Moss Bluff is seeking COVID-positive patients to participate in a nationwide clinical trial testing the effectiveness of a new COVID treatment. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 3 (30)  “…I’m Matt Doyle  

______________________________

According to a study from the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, a rise in chronic conditions is putting more Louisiana residents at risk for colorectal cancer.  Medical Director at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Louisiana Dr. Jeremy Wigginton says there has been a substantial uptick in cancer cases for those with inflammatory colon conditions.

Cut 4 (11)_ “…of the nation.”

Diabetes and diagnosed obesity are also contributing factors and Louisiana saw significant increases in all of these major risk factors in the study period between 2014 and 2018.

Wigginton says someone with a history of such conditions should talk to a doctor about when to get screened.  Wigginton adds that the screening process has become much easier in recent years and people just need to get it done.
Cut 5 (10)  “…not getting screened.”

Wigginton says early detection is key, and many times during colonoscopies, preventative measures can be taken during the screening.

Cut 6 (13) “…even becomes cancer.”

_________________________

Starting at 9 AM today businesses with fewer than 50 people can begin applying for Main Street Recovery Grants through the State Treasurer.

Eligible businesses can receive up to 15,000 dollars in no-strings-attached cash, but Treasurer John Schroder expects the limited fund will be exceeded in seven days.

Cut 7 (11) “…Louisiana.”

Applicants should visit Louisianamainstreet.com.

Schroder says this is different from the PPP Loans handed out by the feds earlier in the pandemic…

Cut 8 (10) “…that black”

Businesses must have a brick and mortar location, and only businesses that did not receive federal assistance will be given money during the first 21 days.

Schroder says while the program isn’t coming directly from the federal government, the cash is.

Cut 9 (10) “…million.”

The program was controversial when first proposed in the Legislature. Opponents noted it took money away from funds designated to help local governments.

__________________________

If you have COVID and you live in the Lake Charles area the Imperial Heath Urgent Care Center in Moss Bluff would like you to participate in a clinical trial for an experimental new treatment.

Facility Director Dr. Jason Morris says if you present at the urgent care with COVID-like symptoms you’ll be given a quick test and if positive asked to join the trial. If you do…

Cut 10 (07) “…paitent.”

The initial infusion will take about an hour, and you’ll be monitored for several hours afterward.

Morris says you’ll then be enrolled in an 85-day trial and asked to monitor your symptoms and be available to have blood work done on you.

Cut 11 (07) “…commitment.”

Morris says several patients have already seen positive outcomes from the treatment at Imperial.

Morris says they want to really nail down how much of the treatment they need to administer for it to be effective.

Cut 12 (07) “…around.”

The study has already enrolled 20 of the 40 participants it is seeking.

_______________________

The Acadiana area is seeing the addition of nearly 400 new jobs as educational software company SchoolMint announces it will be moving their headquarters from San Francisco to Lafayette.  Governor John Bel Edwards was on hand for the announcement has says this is further evidence of the state’s economic growth for the 21^st century.

Cut 13 (12) “…ecosystem for Louisiana.” 

The move comes following SchoolMint’s acquisition of Lafayette-based Smart Choice Technologies in 2019.  The company will retain the 13 existing jobs at the Lafayette office as well as consolidating offices located in New York and Miami to the area.

Edwards says SchoolMint will create 178 direct new jobs.

Cut 14 (10) “…indirect new jobs.”

The company will make a capital investment into new facilities at just over a half-million dollars.

Edwards says the decision to come to Lafayette is based on several factors.

Cut 15 (12) “…of local talent.” 

_________________________________________

Veterans on the Saints report for training camp today but it will be a few days before they get on the field. Players must pass three COVID tests during a four-day period before they can enter the team’s training facility in Metairie. NFL analyst Mike Detillier says the Saints are positioned well to handle this unique season

Cut 16 (25) “…have to handle.” 

The NFL and its players’ association have agreed to an extensive list of health and safety protocols and players will be tested often. But Detllier says there will be hiccups along the way and players will still test positive

Cut 17  (17) “…in the NFL” 

There will be no preseason games this year and training camp rosters are 80 players, instead of 90. Detillier says it will be harder for coaches to evaluate players on their own team and they also don’t have tape on players from other teams…

Cut 18  (29) “…that now”   

Padded practices will not start for the Saints until August 17th.

Louisiana small businesses can begin applying for a grant worth up to 15,000 dollars tomorrow as part of the Main Street Recovery Program. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle  

____________________________

Former Vernon Parish Sheriff and former State Representative Frank Howard has died at the age of 81 due to complications from COVID-19. Jeff Palermo has more.

cut 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo.”  

_____________________________

Application for a state-run grant program for small businesses impacted by the pandemic begins tomorrow.

Eligible businesses can receive up to 15,000 dollars in reimbursement for expenses incurred during the shutdown. State Treasurer John Schroder calls it no strings attached, and expansive…

Cut 3 (06)  “…operate”  

Businesses must have a brick and mortar location and fewer than 50 employees to be eligible.

The program kicks off tomorrow at 9 AM. Schroder says the application process is online only.

Cut 4 (10)_ “dot com”

The money will be sent out on a first-come-first-served basis.

Schroder says the 275 million dollar program isn’t a lot of money in a state of 457,000 small businesses…

Cut 5 (10)  “…interest.”

For the first 21 days, the program will only disburse funds to businesses that did not receive federal assistance or insurance payments.

______________________

The Department of Agriculture and Forestry is warning residents of mystery seeds being delivered through the mail that may contain some sort of plant pest or disease.  Ag Commissioner Mike Strain says the seeds have been received via unsolicited packages by people across the US, including Louisiana.

Cut 6 (08) “…appears eastern Europe.”

Strain says he’s been in contact with the United States Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service about the issue.  He adds if you receive a mystery package, don’t hesitate to contact authorities.

Cut 7 (07) “…Ag and Forestry..”

Strain says authorities will come to you to handle the disposal of the mystery seeds.

Cut 8 (05) “…up these seeds”

___________________________________________

New Orleans Mayor Latoya Cantrell orders all locations of Willie’s Chicken Shack closed due to violations of the city’s ban on to-go drinks.

Cantrell says the there was ample evidence of non-compliance at the locations and a task force was dispatched to investigate.

Cut 9 (12) “…that’s it”

Willie’s released a statement saying patrons refused to comply with the order and they support the city’s public health efforts.

Details were limited but the Mayor indicated it will be a lengthy closure for the non-compliant business.

Cut 10 (10) “…there”

Cantrell says the shutdown sends the message that the city is serious about enforcing its COVID health guidelines and orders.

Cut 11 (07) “comply”

___________________________

Former Vernon Parish Sheriff and former State Representative Frank Howard has died at the age of 81 due to complications from COVID-19.  Howard was Sheriff for 24 years.  Current Vernon Parish Sheriff Sam Craft remembers his predecessor as one to constantly be involved in the community.

Cut 12 (09) “…best he could.” 

Following a few years of retirement from law enforcement, Howard was elected to be a state representative and served three terms in that position before being termed out in 2019.  Craft says Howard became a fixture in the area’s political circle.

Cut 13 (11) “…in our area.” 

Craft says Howard had a soft spot in his heart for the elderly community.  As Sherrif, Howard started the triad program to assist seniors with their health transportation needs.

Cut 14 (12) “…for the public.”

Governor Edwards will order flags to be flown at half-staff in honor of Howard at the State Capitol and other state buildings the day he is laid to rest.

If you feel a law enforcement officer treated you unfairly based on your race, the ACLU would like to hear from you. Matt Doyle has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”

_____________________________________

A study indicates more than one in six Louisiana workers hate their boss.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart” 

___________________________________________

 NFL players report for training camp this week and plan to kick-off the regular season on time. But what about college football?  Kevin Barnhart has more…

Cut 3 (29)  “…I’m Kevin Barnhart  

______________________________

The ACLU is looking for Louisianans who feel they were the victim of racist policing to help them file lawsuits challenging discriminatory policies. ACLU Louisiana Legal Director Nora Ahmed says due to the statute of limitations they’re seeking individuals who’ve suffered that kind of incident on or after May first…

Cut 4 (10)_ “some way”

This includes racially motivated traffic stops, searches, seizures, detainments, and incidents where police dogs were used to assault people on racial grounds.

Ahmed says they’re looking to compile data and to use those racially-based law enforcement interactions to challenge discriminatory departments in court.

Cut 5 (12)  “…policing”

The recruitment initiative is part of ACLU Louisiana’s Justice Lab project that includes the participation of 35 law firms and 14 law schools working together to challenge racist criminal justice policies.

Ahmed says if you are concerned about coming forward because it could lead to retaliation from law enforcement, your initial statement will remain confidential…

Cut 6 (09) “..fears”

Interested participants can reach out via email at Justicelab@LAACLU.org.

_________________________

With schools set to resume soon, state health officials are concerned many children are not up to date on their vaccinations. During the early portion of the pandemic, many elective medical procedures were put on hold and State Immunization Director Dr. Frank Welch says that dropped the rate of vaccinations.

Cut 7 (05) “…had a pandemic.”

Back to school time means the need for vaccines is going up.  Welch says not every kid needs a vaccine every year and the best thing to do is to ask your child’s pediatrician what may be needed.

Cut 8 (06) “…up to date”

Welch says at the start of the school year gets closer, expect to see more reminders about the importance of staying up to date.

Cut 9 (11) “…of routine care.”

__________________________

A study from the career website Zippia polled 2,000 people nationwide to find out how likable their bosses are and the top things they hate about their bosses.  Head of content at Zippia Kathy Morris says in Louisiana, 18-percent of workers disliked their boss.

Cut 10 (10) “…bosses in Louisiana..”

Nationally, the most disliked traits about bosses were micromanaging, never being available, and incompetence.

Morris says 59% of workers have quit a job because of a bad boss, which is one of the biggest expenses in hiring and adds Louisiana has one of the higher monthly quit rates in the nation.

Cut 11 (12) “…soon in Louisiana.”

Morris says the study also indicates physical proximity is a factor as the further away a boss is, there is an increased chance that a worker will dislike them.

Cut 12 (10) “…hate your boss.”

_______________________

SEC presidents and athletic directors will hold a series of virtual meetings this week to discuss fall sports plans. College football insider Brett McMurphy says because so many states are struggling to contain the coronavirus, it’s unlikely the college football season will kick off Labor Day weekend

Cut 13 (07) “…early October” 

Voluntary workouts for college football teams began in June and some teams were hit with an initial cluster of cases, while other schools have reported very few cases among their student-athletes. But McMurphy says there’s a concern for community spread when students return to campus

Cut 14 (09) “…live in a bubble.”

The PAC-12 and Big 10 have already made the decision to play conference only football schedules this season. The SEC has said they plan to make a decision in late July. McMurphy expects the ACC, Big 12 and SEC to decide on a shorter schedule, filled mostly with conference games

Cut 15 (08) “…to ten” 

SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey said earlier this month that the league will make an announcement in late July on whether it can start the season on time.

The state’s senior Senator was in Baton Rouge today signing up to run for a second six-year term in office. Matt Doyle was there…

Cut 1 (29) “…I’m Matt Doyle  

____________________________

Hospitals in Louisiana are facing staffing shortages due to COVID-19 and having trouble filling the void. Brooke Thorington has more.

cut 2 (30) “I’m Brooke Thorington”  

_____________________________

Tropical Storm Hanna is eyeing a landfall near Corpus Christi, Texas tomorrow, but it’s helping to produce showers and thunderstorms across south Louisiana. But State Climatologist Barry Keim is not expecting significant flooding

Cut 3 (11)  “…handle it.”  

Hanna will produce numerous thunderstorms and some rain bands in Louisiana. Keim says it will hinder some outdoor activities….

Cut 4 (10)_ “activity .”

A coastal flood advisory is in effect until tonight as minor coastal flooding is expected. Tides will also be one to two feet above normal levels. Keim says coastal parishes will also see the highest rain totals

Cut 5 (12)  “…possible.”
______________________

Senator Bill Cassidy filed his papers today in Baton Rouge to run for a second term in office.

Cassidy’s opponents took turns digging at this record since qualifying began Wednesday, but the state’s senior Senator says he’ll stand behind his work over the past six years.

Cut 6 (11) “…debate that”

The state Democratic Party and Shreveport Mayor Adrian Perkins have slammed the Senator, accusing him of being M-I-A during the pandemic. Cassidy says he’s been in daily contact with constituents.

Cut 7 (10) “received it”

Perkins is the most prominent opponent to sign up to run against Cassidy. He has reportedly received backing from national Democrats and is hiring a professional campaign team.

The Senator says he plans to connect with voters during his campaign, even though there will not be a lot of personal interaction…

Cut 8 (08) “…people”

___________________________________________

As hospitals across the state reach capacity with COVID-19 patients, some healthcare facilities have enough beds, but they are having staffing issues to provide adequate care for patients.  Governor John Bel Edward asked FEMA for approximately 700 healthcare workers.

Cut 9 (09) “…their staff.”

Louisiana received zero hits from FEMA in its staffing request.

As daily case counts continue to set records across the state with community spread, Our Lady of the Lourdes C-M-O Doctor Henry Kaufman in Lafayette says they are seeing their staff contract COVID as a result.

Cut 10 (07) “…our physicians.”

Kaufman says the public needs to understand when a healthcare worker contracts COVID it creates a large absence in the workplace.

Cut 11 (07) “than that”

___________________________

New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell announces that starting on Saturday bars and restaurants will be prohibited from selling takeout alcoholic beverages. Cantrell says this means bars will be closed throughout Orleans Parish…

Cut 12 (09) “…large gatherings” 

The city is also reducing the size of indoor social gatherings to no more than 25 people. Outdoor gatherings are limited to 50 people. New Orleans Health Director Doctor Jennifer Avegno says the city has seen an unfavorable trend when it comes to its COVID-19 data

Cut 13 (12) “…community transmission” 

Avengo says shutting down bars completely and limiting social gatherings is a necessary step to slow the spread of COVID-19 community transmission

Cut 14 (10) “…back to school”

Healthcare capacity in the Acadiana region is running low as coronavirus spreads through the community like wildfire. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Matt Doyle”

_____________________________________

Louisiana hit the 100,000 COVID case milestone Thursday. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 2 (28) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

___________________________________________

Senator John Kennedy believes the next coronavirus relief package advancing from the House to the Senate will extend unemployment benefits that are about to expire. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 3 (31)  “…I’m Kevin Barnhart.”  

______________________________

Healthcare officials in Acadiana warn the public that they are running out of regional healthcare capacity due to COVID-19 case growth.

Lafayette General Health Chief Medical Officer Dr. Amanda Logue says their system hospitals and ICUs are full of COVID patients.

Cut 4 (11)_ “of them”

As of Thursday, the Lafayette General Health system had 143 COVID patients. That number was only 20 six weeks ago.

Our Lady of the Lourdes CMO Dr. Henry Kaufman says their healthcare workers have seen a 300 percent increase in cases in this second wave compared to the first wave.

Cut 5 (11)  “…an issue.”

Governor Edwards once again turned on the Bat-Signal for former medical workers to come out of retirement to relieve frontline healthcare workers who are overworked and catching the virus.

Logue and Kaufman told reporters Thursday that both systems have ceased doing elective surgeries.

Cut 6 (11) “…differed”

But Logue did add that all emergency operations are still happening and if you have an emergency do not hesitate to go to the hospital due to COVID.

_________________________

Local governments have been reimbursed 127 million dollars so far as part of the CARES Act.

Commissioner of Administration Jay Dardenne says the money did not reimburse revenue losses for local governments and only paid for COVID-related expenditures.

Cut 7 (11) “…pandemic”

Other professional services and contracts for things like mental health counseling and financial consulting also applied.

Dardenne says the bulk of the money reimbursed so far has gone to southern parishes hit hard in the early days like Orleans and Jefferson Parishes.

Cut 8 (10) “…parish”

Dardenne says it is interesting to note that 12 rural northern Louisiana parishes have not submitted an application for any reimbursements.

Cut 9 (11) “…parishes”

The funding comes from a 524 million dollar fund for local governments.

__________________________

Louisiana surpassed 100,000 total confirmed COVID positive cases since the pandemic began Thursday as the count continues to grow at a rapid pace.

Governor Edwards says that grim accomplishment should inspire residents to redouble their spread mitigation efforts.

Cut 10 (09) “…check.”

The state has also administered 1.1 million tests as well.

A conspiracy theory questioning whether that figure includes multiple tests from one person is gaining steam. Edwards called it a disinformation campaign aimed at minimizing how serious the situation is.

Cut 11 (09) “…saying”

Edwards’ Phase Two order will be extended Friday for another two weeks with added restrictions on bars and the mask mandate. He says it’s the only way we can get back to a sense of normalcy.

Cut 12 (10) “…part” 

_______________________

The U-S Senate is about to begin debating the fifth coronavirus relief package, which will likely come with a trillion-dollar price tag.  Senator John Kennedy expects there will be additional help for unemployment compensation, but it will not be at the same $600 per week level that it has been at.

Cut 13 (12) “…in their job.” 

Not all Republican lawmakers are in agreement with the latest relief effort as some feel the cost is too much with a national debt that continues to climb.

Kennedy anticipates there will also be additional money for helping reopen K-12 schools in a safe manner, but he doesn’t believe students should be forced back into the classroom.

Cut 14 (11) “…be forced to (x2).”

Kennedy is pushing a measure for local and state governments who have previously money in past coronavirus relief bills, to have more autonomy with how that money is spent, including use for operating expenses not linked to COVID-19.

Cut 15 (09) “…get 90+ votes.” 

_________________________________________

After winning three games last season, expectations are not high for Northwestern State to have a big season on the football field this year. The Southland Conference preseason poll has the Demons finishing 10th in the eleven team league. Northwestern will start a new quarterback, but Coach Brad Laird says he has three talented players that can win the job

Cut 16 (23) “…leadership standpoint.” 

Kaleb Fletcher, Bryce Rivers and Zachry Clement are the three guys battling to be the starter in 2020. On defense, Northwestern State will be led by senior linebacker Ja’Quay Pough, who recorded 101 tackles last season. Pugh has told his teammates to have fun

Cut 17  (21) “…fall into place” 

________________________________________________

Nicholls has shared the conference title the last two season and they are picked to finish third this year. Senior linebacker Evan Veron says he wants to complete his collegiate career with an outright Southland title

Cut 18  (14) “…all ours”   

Nicholls is also searching for a new quarterback. Coach Tim Rebowe says he has four Q-Bs on the roster who will compete to replace the school’s all-time leading passer Chase Fourcade. Rebowe says they also have a lot of talented skill position players to surround their new quarterback

cut 19 (18) “…can do”  

Shreveport Mayor Adrian Perkins officially qualified for the U-S Senate race today, providing Republican incumbent Bill Cassidy with a serious challenger. Kevin Barnhart has more.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

____________________________

The status of high school sports in the fall is on the mind of many. Jeff Palermo reports the LHSAA does not have a plan yet, but they’ve reached one conclusion…

cut 2 (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”  

_____________________________

Shreveport Mayor Adrian Perkins officially qualifies to challenge Senator Bill Cassidy.  Perkins, a Democrat says his decision to run rose from the concerns he has about how Congress is handling the coronavirus pandemic and this moment calls for strong, decisive leadership in DC.

Cut 3 (11)  “…to happen again.”  

Perkins says DC is moving too slow in helping families and cites legislation sent from the House to the Senate over two months ago that would have provided much-needed relief to working families.

Cut 4 (11)_ “that they have.”

Perkins was asked where he stands on abortion.

Cut 5 (12)  “…within that snapshot.”
______________________

A tropical depression in the gulf that’s headed for Texas is expected to dump a lot of rain on south Louisiana. State Climatologist Barry Keim says the soon-to-be Tropical Storm Hannah will make for a wet next few days.

Cut 6 (06) “…days”

Keim says as the system moves south of us, it will increase wind speeds in south Louisiana.

Cut 7 (08) “right now”

Keim says the potential tropical storm could produce about an inch of rain for central Louisiana through Monday, two to four inches along the I-10 corridor and four inches along the coast…

Cut 8 (09) “…umbrella’s handy”

The National Hurricane Center projects the depression will strengthen into a tropical storm tomorrow morning and make landfall on Saturday between Houston and Brownsville, Texas.

___________________________________________

LHSAA executive director Eddie Bonine has sent a letter to parents and student-athletes letting them know they have no intention of canceling fall sports, unless the pandemic dictates it’s not safe to play. Bonine says they are committed to conducting fall sports

Cut 9 (12) “…not acceptable.”

Bonine says they are discussing their options based on the guidelines that have been established by the state legislature and BESE. He also says it’s important to get school started and then figure out the athletics part

Cut 10 (12) “…format.”

Bonine has said the state needs to move beyond Phase 3 of its reopening for high school football games to be played. He encourages the public to follow the safety guidelines that have been established to prevent the spread of the virus

Cut 11 (08) “fall sports”

___________________________

Ochsner plans to double its COVID testing capacity over the next six weeks in an effort to reduce test result wait times to 24 hours.

Ochsner Chief Medical Officer Dr. Robert Hart says they’re currently running 2,500 to 3,000 tests a day, but it’s taking two to four days to get results back to patients.

Cut 12 (10) “…a day” 

The state health department reports one-point-one million tests have been completed since the pandemic started.

Hart says the new testing equipment will be coming in a variety of packages.

Cut 13 (10) “…minutes” 

Hart says the surge in demand for COVID tests that is creating the backlog is partially due to the increase in a-symptomatic patient testing, but…

Cut 14 (12) “…virus.”

A-symptomatic testing is being conducted at Ochsner community sites, while only symptomatic patients are being tested in Ochsner ERs and urgent cares.

Shreveport Mayor Adrian Perkins will officially qualify for the US Senate race today, challenging incumbent Bill Cassidy.  Brooke Thorington has more

Cut 1 (29) “I’m Brooke Thorington.”

_____________________________________

Seven candidates for Louisiana’s 5^th Congressional District seat qualified on Wednesday. Kevin Barnhart recaps some of those that got on the ballot.

Cut 2 (44) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart” 

___________________________________________

A poll of 3,600 Louisianans shows bipartisan support for the statewide mask mandate and the public health emergency declaration. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 3 (30)  “…I’m Matt Doyle.”  

______________________________

Democratic Shreveport Mayor Adrian Perkins will challenge Republican Senator Bill Cassidy in the November 3rd election. Before he got into politics, Perkins served in the Army and is a former student body president at West Point and Harvard. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says Cassidy can not underestimate Perkins.

Cut 4 (09)_ “…to campaign”

Perkins says Washington’s poor handling of the coronavirus outbreak persuaded him to jump into the Senate race. Pinsonat says Perkins is a qualified candidate, but running as a Democrat for a statewide office is a challenge in the Bayou State.

Cut 5 (12)  “…uphill climb.”

Perkins announced his candidacy on the first day of qualifying and he’s expected to file his paper with the Secretary of State’s office today. It was unknown if Democrats would have a serious challenger. Pinsonat says Perkins entry into the race is good for voters.

Cut 6 (08) “…of issues.”

Qualifying ends on Friday.

_________________________

Seven candidates for Louisiana’s 5^th Congressional District seat qualified on Wednesday, looking to fill the position currently held by Ralph Abraham who is not pursuing an additional term.  Among them is Abraham’s Chief of Staff Luke Letlow, who says his campaign will not only run on the record and accomplishments of the current administration…

Cut 7 (09) “…sector as well.”

Republican Ouachita Police Juror Scotty Robinson announced his bid for the position last November and says the traits he has picked up in local government and constituent accessibility are what set him apart from his opponents.

Cut 8 (09) “…call me anytime.”

Clinical social worker, addiction counselor, and small business owner Candy Christophe lives in Alexandria and is running as a Democrat and says she’s in the race because now is the time for her to be the change that she wants to see.

Cut 9 (10) “…want to see.”

Chief Operating Officer of Grambling State University Martin Lemelle of Ruston enters the race as a Democrat with a focus on education and helping local small businesses impacted by the pandemic.

Cut 10 (09) “…through technology.”

Alexandria Representative Lance Harris, a Republican, says he sees a bunch of career politicians in DC and touts his balance of holding elected office and being a business owner as the reason voters should cast a ballot for him.

Cut 11 (09) “…and create jobs.”

Additionally, Allen Guillory of Opelousas and Matt Hasty of Pineville, both Republican, qualified on Wednesday.  The primary election is scheduled for November 3^rd.

___________________________

Tropical Depression eight has formed in the central Gulf and it could dump a good bit of rain on the southern portion of the state on its way to Texas. National Weather Service forecaster Donald Williams…

Cut 12 (13) “…state” 

Parts of Louisiana could see some impacts as soon as this afternoon.

Williams says the system is not expected to develop into a hurricane, and at most may become a weak tropical storm…

Cut 13 (11) “…coast” 

Williams says there’s a chance the depression produces some localized flooding in Louisiana but they are not projecting any wide-scale flooding events.

Cut 14 (07) “…moisture.”

_____________________________

A Remington Research Group poll commissioned by House Speaker Clay Schexnayder shows wide and bipartisan support for the Governor’s mask mandate and public health emergency declaration.

76 percent of those surveyed last weekend support a government mask mandate. UL Lafayette Poli Sci Professor Pearson Cross…

Cut 15 (08) “…result.” 

57 percent of respondents agreed with the way the state government has handled the pandemic so far, only 26 percent disapproved.

61 percent of Louisianans oppose canceling the public health emergency declaration while only 22 percent agree. Cross says that’s a blow to legislative efforts to accomplish that.

Cut 16 (11) “…seriousness.” 

The 3,600 person poll is comprehensive and tightly follows demographic and political affiliation according to census data. Cross says that gives it a margin of error of only two percent…

Cut 17  (09) “…board” 

________________________________________________

Southland Conference Commissioner Tom Burnett says they are planning to proceed with the upcoming football season as scheduled. Burnett says they expect a full slate of games will be played on Labor Day weekend. Burnett says university presidents and athletic directors continue to meet and the health and safety of the student-athletes is their top priority…

Cut 18  (15) “…looking at that”   

Burnett says how the pandemic is impacting cities where their schools are located is an important factor on whether the season can start on time. He says the conference will not have a policy on whether fans can attend football games

cut 19 (17) “…their state”  

The SWAC’s decision to move its football to the spring has created wholes in the schedule for some of their teams. Burnett says those schools are looking to replace those games…

cut 20 (22) “  lies”  

Shreveport Mayor Adrian Perkins announces he’s running for U-S Senate, giving Republican Incumbent Bill Cassidy a major challenger for the November 3rd election. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”  

____________________________

Statewide COVID hospitalizations are nearly triple what they were at our low point on June 13^th. Matt Doyle reports healthcare providers are worried about hospital capacity again

cut 2 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”  

_____________________________

The National Hurricane Center is giving a tropical wave in the central Gulf of Mexico a high chance to develop into a tropical cyclone over the next two days. State Climatologist Barry Keim…

Cut 3 (12)  “….of the tracking”  

But in the meantime, Keim says this disturbance will have a more immediate impact on the state.

Cut 4 (11)_ “of Louisiana”

Keim says if this system continues to develop, we could see some high winds and storm surge along the coastline.

Cut 5 (11)  “for us”

There’s also Tropical Storm Gonzalo in the Atlantic, which is expected to reach the Caribbean on Saturday.

______________________

Shreveport Mayor Adrian Perkins has announced he will run against Republican Senator Bill Cassidy in the November 3rd election. Perkins says he decided to run because America and Louisiana are at a crossroads

Cut 6 (10) “…head on”

Perkins gives Cassidy a major challenger from the Democratic Party, but Cassidy holds a huge fundraising advantage.

Perkins says he’s tired of the political games in Washington D-C and he wants to help create a government that serves everyone…

Cut 7 (04) “by them”

Cassidy says he’s done a lot during his five years in the U-S Senate and plans to run on that record…

Cut 8 (07) “…more to do”

Perkins will officially qualify tomorrow. John Paul Bourgeois from Gretna was the first person to sign up to challenge Cassidy. Bourgeois is an epidemiologist and public health librarian. The Gretna resident says he’s running against Cassidy because he tried to repeal the Affordable Care Act…

Cut 9 (12) “…not acceptable.”

Baton Rouge Democrat Antoine Pierce also signed up to run for US Senate on the first day of qualifying, Pierce says reducing poverty in Louisiana is his goal…

Cut 10 (12) “…cannabis.”

_______________________________

Louisiana has added nearly 1,000 COVID hospitalizations since moving into Phase Two June 5th.

Assistant Health Secretary Dr. Alex Billioux says that’s concerning healthcare providers who are already dealing with an influx of patients who weren’t being treated during the stay at home order.

Cut 11 (11) “hospital”

We now have 1581 COVID hospitalizations, nearly triple our low point of 542 June 13^th.

In response, Governor Edwards issued a statewide mask mandate and closed bars last Monday. Billioux says they’re hoping to see results from that as early as next week.

Cut 12 (09) “…systems” 

Some have argued that the recent wave is exaggerated due to increased testing numbers, but Billioux we’re seeing a steady rise in hospitalizations, and the state now has an over ten percent positive rate for COVID tests.

Cut 13 (09) “…tested” 

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Public Service Commissioner Foster Campbell files paperwork seeking a fourth term in the office representing northwest Louisiana.

Campbell is one of the state’s longest-serving elected officials, first elected to the State Senate in 1975. Campbell says he wants to continue his work serving the working people of the state.

Cut 14 (11) “…them.”

Campbell has made several attempts to run for federal and statewide offices but has not been successful, his most recent effort a loss to now-Senator John Kennedy in 2016.

The Louisiana Political Hall of Famer says if given another term he will continue to fight for more rural broadband access and against predatory utility practices.

Cut 15 (11) “…mind” 

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Qualifying for the November election begins today with election watchers keeping a close eye on who shows up for the Senate race and the open 5^th district Congressional seat. Matt Doyle has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle.”

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Louisiana will remain in Phase Two for an additional two weeks beginning Friday.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart” 

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Homeschooling is seeing a surge in interest as many parents are not comfortable sending their kids back to classrooms. Matt Doyle spoke with a homeschool advocate for some tips for first-time homeschoolers…

Cut 3 (29)  “…I’m Matt Doyle.”  

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Qualifying for the November 3^rd election begins today and federal candidates have until Friday afternoon to fill out their paperwork at the Secretary of State’s office in Baton Rouge. Will there be a Democrat to challenge Republican Senator Bill Cassidy? LSU Shreveport Poli Sci Professor Jeff Sadow says Shreveport Mayor Adrian Perkins is a rumored candidate

Cut 4 (10)_ “…years”

Antoine Pierce, a Baton Rouge progressive activist, and New Orleans teacher Peter Wenstrup are the two announced Democrats so far.

Sadow says if the party fails to find a candidate who can mount a substantial campaign they could risk demotivating Democrats from participating in future elections.

Cut 5 (10)  “…to win.”

The 5^th District Congressional seat held by the retiring Ralph Abraham should be competitive. ULM Poli Sci Professor Josh Stockley says there are three well-known Republicans running, Abraham’s Chief of Staff Luke Letlow, Alexandria Representative Lance Harris, and Ouachita Police Juror Scotty Robinson.

Cut 6 (11) “…Luke.”

Stockley says the jungle primary is most likely to produce one Republican and one Democrat for the run-off.

Grambling Chief Operating Officer Martin Lemelle highlights the Democratic side of the race. Stockley says Lemelle is a competitive candidate and is likely to win most of the Dem and Black vote.

Cut 7 (06) “…pool.”

Two other Democrats have also announced their intention to run, along with another independent candidate.

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Governor John Bel Edwards extends Phase Two by two more weeks. The current order is set to expire on the morning of Friday, July 24 and the new order will take its place.

Cut 8 (08) “…go from here.”

Not everyone is a fan of the announcement. The Louisiana Association of Business and Industry expressed their disappointment in the decision, saying in a statement they are just as concerned with the lack of a clearly articulated and creative pathway to a safe, reopened society, school system, and economy.

Edwards says the next order will also see the extension of the restrictions added on July 13.

Cut 9 (10) “…consumption of alcohol.”

Edwards cites the positivity rate of new tests as another red flag. As of July 15, all regions of Louisiana had a 7-day average positivity of new tests that was greater than 10 percent and the overall statewide positivity rate was 15.46 percent. The state’s goal is a rate to be below 10 percent.

Edwards says his biggest concern is the hospitalizations per capita as, over the last couple of weeks, it has been in an upward trajectory in all regions of the state.

Cut 10 (12) “…motor vehicle accident.”

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Homeschool advocates say interest in homeschooling is surging with the fate of K-12 education still up in the air.

Coalition for Responsible Home Education Director Rachel Coleman says homeschool families must have a caregiver who can commit to homeschooling full time. If not, consider virtual enrollment through your district.

Cut 11 (11) “…happens.”

The Louisiana Department of Education does not provide funding or resources for homeschooling.

Coleman says if you’re committed to home school for the coming semester you need to submit a form to BESE and be approved.

Cut 12 (09) “…district” 

Coleman says you won’t have to worry about standardized tests, but you must, by law, offer a curriculum of quality at least equal to that offered by public schools of the same grade.

Cut 13 (12) “…school” 

Those guidelines can be found at Louisianabelieves.com/schools/home-study.

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Monroe has a new mayor with the swearing-in of Friday Ellis.  Ellis takes the position after defeating Jamie Mayo who held the position for 19 years.  Ellis says he is confident in his ability to tackle the issues voters have voiced their concerns about while on the campaign trail.

Cut 14 (11) “…honoring those commitments.”

Ellis says the city will now embark on a new journey that will create jobs and move the area forward.

Cut 15 (11) “…of its residents.” 

Ellis won the July 11^th election running as an independent and says it is an honor to get to serve in the role.

Cut 16 (06) “…serve you well.” 

The Southwestern Athletic Conference has decided to postpone its fall sports season to the spring. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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It’s been ten months since the Hard Rock Hotel collapse and the bodies of two workers might finally be recovered from the rubble within a matter of days.   Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 2 (25) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

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Qualifying for the November ballot begins at 8 AM tomorrow and as of now, Republican Senator Bill Cassidy does not face a major Democratic challenger. Outgoing State Democratic Party Director Stephen Handwerk says there’s time for a prominent Democrat to get in the race.

Cut 3 (11)  “…race”  

Shreveport Mayor Adrian Perkins’ name has come up as a possible challenger.

Handwerk says the party will consider endorsements once qualifying ends Friday afternoon and they know who is running.

Cut 4 (03)_ “yet”

Antoine Pierce, a Baton Rouge progressive activist, and New Orleans teacher Peter Wenstrup are the two announced Democrats so far.

Handwerk says there’s a lot of energy in the party right now. He noted more Democrats voted in the recent Presidential Primary than Republicans.

Cut 5 (08)  “…MIA”

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The Southwestern Athletic Conference has made the decision to move its fall sports, including football, to the spring. Grambling President Rick Gallot says the decision protects the health of their student-athletes

Cut 6 (10) “…deadly virus”

The SWAC is planning to have a seven-game football schedule that would include six conference games and one non-conference contest. Preseason camp would begin in January. But Gallot says the virus will dictate if football can be played

Cut 7 (09) “vaccine”

Southern University Athletics Director Roman Banks says by the time 2021 gets here, he hopes scientists are closer to a vaccine and there are fewer COVID-19 cases

Cut 8 (12) “…responsible”

Banks says the league is still deciding what the schedule will look like, but they know they’ll play Grambling and once a date is set, they’ll talk with Bayou Classic and New Orleans officials

Cut 9 (07) “…site.”

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New Orleans Fire Chief Tim McConnell says one of the bodies that has been trapped in the Hard Rock Hotel collapse site is likely to be recovered by the end of the week and the other by the middle of next week. McConnell says the rubble is very delicate and potentially dangerous to recovery workers.

Cut 10 (13) “…that could change.”

It’s been ten months since the construction site partially collapsed, killing three. McConnell says the length of the recovery has tested the patience of recovery workers.

Cut 11 (10) “…for a living.”

Rescue workers had thought that it was going to be possible to recover the two bodies last week, but more hurdles got in the way that could have an impact on the current timeline too… weather.

Cut 12 (09) “…with bad weather.” 

Starting tomorrow, the area will be deemed a no-fly zone to keep drones away.

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The National Hurricane Center has upgraded the chance of development for a tropical wave currently over western Cuba and making its way into the Gulf.

State Climatologist Barry Keim says there’s a medium chance the disturbance will develop into a tropical depression over the next five days.

Cut 13 (06) “…Mexico.” 

The system is set to enter the southeastern Gulf of Mexico later today, move into the central Gulf tomorrow, and the northwestern Gulf Thursday and Friday.

Keim says sea surface temperatures in the Gulf are prime for development.

Cut 14 (09) “…problem.”

That being said Keim does not expect the system to get to hurricane strength. At most he anticipates a depression or tropical storm…

Cut 15 (06) “     …wrong”