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.

Legislation is introduced that would take funding away from local governments and universities that attempt to reduce police budgets for political reasons. Matt Doyle spoke with the author…

Cut 1 (33) “I’m Matt Doyle”

________________________________

The Main Street Recovery Program which assists small businesses with pandemic recovery losses puts the breaks on applications. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Brooke Thorington” 

___________________________________________

The House Committee on Education and Committee on Health and Welfare are set today to discuss occupancy caps for spectators at athletic events. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 3 (33)  “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

_______________________________

The schools of the UL System are participating in an initiative aimed at connecting McNeese State students displaced by Hurricane Laura with resources from other system institutions.  UL System President Jim Henderson says more than 200 McNeese State students have registered for the Cowboy Relief Effort that helps with a variety of needs.

Cut 4 (06) “…cases, to housing.”

Henderson says it is a rewarding effort for the other schools of the UL System to step up with assistance and says the message to McNeese State students is clear.

Cut 5 (05) “…to help you.”

Henderson says so far the response has been tremendous from students relieved to hear this type of help is available.

Cut 6 (11) “…is left behind.”

_____________________

Alexandria Representative Lance Harris introduces legislation that would punish universities, municipalities, and parishes for cutting police budgets.

Harris says he’s highly concerned with the growing “Defund the Police” movement and defund efforts he’s read about in other states. He wants the Legislature to make sure nothing like that happens in Louisiana.

Cut 7 (07) “…pressure”

Under the bill, any university or local government entity that cuts a police budget by at least 10 percent would have to report it to a Legislative committee that would then review the reasoning behind the cut…

Cut 8 (12) “…deduction”

Harris says the Legislature has a duty to intervene in this local budgeting issue because defunding the police in one jurisdiction could imperil regional public safety and business interests.

Cut 9 (11) “…municipality”

_______________________________________

The Main Street Recovery Program aimed to assist Louisiana small businesses with pandemic recovery is no longer accepting applications. State Treasurer John Schroder says the original amount of $275-million that the legislature set aside for the program is almost allocated.

Cut 10 (12) “…as backups.”

The Main Street Recovery Program assists businesses with less than 50 employees recover losses due to the pandemic. The average payout per business so far has been over 10,000 dollars. Schroder says they even pulled advertising for the program because they received so many applications in the last 20 days.

Cut 11 (10) “…on Thursday.”

Since the program began accepting applications July 28^th, Schroder says they’ve issued approximately 6-thousand checks. Schroder says he knows businesses need the funds as quickly as possible, but it is not an instantaneous process.

Cut 12 (11) “…a little time.”

Schroder says business owners who have submitted applications but have yet to receive a grant or a denial can continue to use the portal to check the status of their applications.

____________________________________________________

The House Committee on Education and Committee on Health and Welfare are set today to discuss occupancy caps for spectators at athletic events. Chalmette Republican Ray Garafalo says lawmakers want more answers as to why outdoor athletic events have a more strict occupancy cap of 25% than indoor restaurants who are capped at 75%.

Cut 13 (13) “…that question yet.”

Garafalo says high school football games are a comradery builder and social event, adding that it is owed to the students to allow as many spectators as safely possible.

Cut 14 (06) “…into these issues.”

Governor Edwards has issued a statement saying the proclamation is based on scientific data and guidance from health experts and the White House Coronavirus Task Force in order to ensure the safety of Louisianans. Garafalo believes there is something deeper than that motivating the cap.

Cut 15 (13) “…show the public.”

________________________________________

LSU Center Liam Shanahan says Saturday’s loss to Mississippi State was a wake up call for the Tigers and there are no excuses for their performance. During a zoom conference with reporters, Shanahan was asked if the unusual preseason was a factor in the 10-point defeat to the Bulldogs…

cut 16 (20) “…I’m confident”

LSU safety Jacoby Stevens says they can’t let Saturday’s loss linger…

cut 17 (17) “…press on there’

There were some bright spots from Saturday’s loss. Graduate transfer Jabril Cox played well in his first game in an LSU uniform after a standout career at FCS power North Dakota State. Cox had a pick six for LSU’s first score…
cut 18 (20) “…myself.

LSU junior wide receiver Terrace Marshall also picked up where he left off last season as he caught eight passes for 122 yards and two touchdowns. This Saturday, LSU visits Vanderbilt, who held Texas A-and-M to 17 points in a loss. Marshall expects to be successful on Saturday…
cut 19 (16) “…the same’

A House bill from Covington Republican Mark Wright aims to limit the amount of time a state of emergency declaration can go without legislative approval. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”

________________________________

With kids spending more time in front of screens these days the number of reported cases of potential online sexual predation of minors was up 200 percent from April to June. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 2 (30) “…Matt Doyle” 

___________________________________________

A UL Lafayette biologist is conducting vegetable research with NASA and launching radishes to space on Thursday. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 3 (31)  “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

_______________________________

The second special session of 2020 began last night and bills have been filed that seek to scale back the governor’s authority during an emergency. House Republican Mark Wright of Covington aims to limit the amount of time a state of emergency declaration can go without legislative approval. Wright proposes that any emergency declaration extended beyond 30 days should see more input than just the governor.

Cut 4 (13)“ …of these orders.” 

Republican lawmakers did not consult with the governor before calling this 30-day session. Governor Edwards has said you can’t respond to a public health emergency by committee. But Wright says his legislation could result in future emergency orders being more effective, because it will have the backing of the legislature as well.

Cut 5 (12) “…we have now.”

Wright calls the legislation an additional layer of checks and balances and says similar consultation with lawmakers exists at the federal level as well.

Cut 6 (09) “…to declare war.”

_____________________

According to the Louisiana Attorney General’s Office, there’s been a 200 percent increase in online sexual predator cases during the pandemic.

Louisiana Internet Crimes against Children Commander Corey Bourgeois says the increase appears to be linked to the fact that kids spent more time online due to the stay at home order.

Cut 7 (12) “…minors”

Despite that increase in activity Bourgeois says the number of total arrests for online predation will likely not be notably higher at the end of the year.

Bourgeois says parents must be the frontline of defense against online predators and keep a close eye and limits on their young children’s internet usage despite pressure not to do so…

Cut 8 (12) “…children”

Bourgeois says nationwide there have been 16 million cases of potential online predation reported by social media companies between April and June to watchdogs, 743 of those were in Louisiana.

Cut 9 (12) “…office”

_______________________________________

Radishes from UL Lafayette will soon be growing in space.  UL Lafayette vegetable researcher Dr. Karl Hasenstein says the research has been in the works for three years but needs to be tested in space to advance cosmic exploration.

Cut 10 (13) “…moon or Mars.”

Seeds will travel to the International Space Station via a rocket launch on Thursday from a NASA facility in Virginia.

Hasenstein says radishes were selected for their ability to be grown rapidly with a greater quantity in a smaller amount of area.  The usefulness of the plants also extends beyond the ability to be a food source.

Cut 11 (09) “…consumed by humans.”

Two batches of 20 radishes will be grown in space, then upon harvest will be sent back to earth for further research, including a comparison to radishes grown on earth at the same time.

Cut 12 (12) “…do the analysis.”

____________________________________________________

The 250 dollar Frontline Worker Rebate Program has processed about 65 percent of the over 240,000 applications received.

Louisiana Revenue Secretary Kimberly Robinson says they’re confident they will give away all of the money by the October 31^st application deadline.

Cut 13 (10) “…available”

Eligible workers have to earn less than 50,000 dollars a year and have worked in a specifically listed frontline job for a certain amount of hours during the pandemic.

Robinson says they only have about 22 million dollars left to give out from the 50 million dollar pot, and over 110,000 eligible workers have received their money.

Cut 14 (03) “rebates”

Robinsons says they still have thousands of people who need to respond to requests for additional information before they can get their cash.

Cut 15 (07) “…information”

________________________________________

LSU Football Coach Ed Orgeron admits they should have had a better plan in place on both sides of the ball this past Saturday when they lost to previously unranked Mississippi State 44-34. LSU allowed 623 passing yards and the Tigers offense allowed seven sacks. Coach Ed Orgeron says he looks forward to getting back on track this Saturday at Vanderbilt

Cut 16 (22) “…fixing it” 

Myles Brennan threw for a bunch of yards in his first start, but he was also intercepted twice and brought down behind the line of scrimmage seven times. Orgeron says Brennan needs to make quicker decisions…

Cut 17 (17) “…quarterback would” 

Cornerback Derek Stingley Junior could return to practice as early as today. He missed the season opener after suffering a non-COVID illness on Friday night that sent him to the hospital. Orgeron hopes Stingley can play on Saturday.

He says it hurt that Stingley’s replacement Jay Ward missed a couple of weeks during the preseason because of an injury. LSU’s other starter at corner Cordale Flott got picked on a lot. Orgeron says they still have confidence in this group

Cut 18  (15) “…and practicing” 

___________________________________________________________________

The Saints made Alvin Kamara one of the highest-paid running backs in the league just before the season started and so far that investment is paying off.

Through three games he has 153 rushing yards on nearly five yards a carry and 285 yards through the air with six total touchdowns. Coach Sean Payton highlighted his 52 yard TD catch in Sunday night’s loss…

Cut 19  (15) “…later on”    

Just days before the season opener against the Bucs Kamara signed a five year, 75-million dollar extension with the team. Only Panther’s QB Christian McCaffery makes more at 16 million a year.

In that 52 yard explosion against Green Bay Kamara broke six different tackles off a short line of scrimmage dump-off pass. Payton says he’s just a tough player to keep down…

cut 20 (16) “..tackle”

One month has passed since Hurricane Laura’s landfall on southwest Louisiana and the impacted communities have been working nonstop to get the area back to normal. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (28) “…Kevin Barnhart.”  

____________________________

Louisiana’s Republican Congressional Delegation has nothing but good things to say about President Trump’s nomination to the Supreme Court, Metairie native Amy Coney Barrett. Jeff Palermo has the story…

cut 2 (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”  

_____________________________

The Saints have their first two-game losing streak since 2017 as they lost to Green Bay 37-30 last night. A Taysom Hill fumble in the fourth quarter turned the momentum in the Packers favor, plus New Orleans committed eight penalties. Coach Sean Payton says his team is facing a bit of gut check

Cut 3 (08)  “the truth”  

Alvin Kamara had a huge game for the Black and Gold with 197 yards from scrimmage, including a 52-yard touchdown catch that saw him break five tackles. Quarterback Drew Brees threw for 288 yards and three touchdowns, but he says mistakes keep costing them

Cut 4 (12)“ opportunities” 

It’s the second straight week the Saints defense gave up more than 30 points. They failed to force a turnover last night, only had one sack and gave up a couple of big passing plays. Saints Safety Malcolm Jenkins says the mistakes they are making can be corrected…

Cut 5 (12)  “haven’t been” 

_________________

It has been one month since Hurricane Laura made landfall, bringing widespread destruction to southwest Louisiana.  President of the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury Tony Guillory says most people have gotten electricity back, but the next big hurdle is getting people housed.

Cut 6 (08) “…next biggest issues.”

Hurricane Laura made landfall as a Category 4 storm around 1AM on August 27^th.

Guillory says streets are cleared of debris, with much of it being pushed to roadsides.  About 120 trucks are being utilized for debris pickup.

Cut 7 (09) “…back through again.”

Guillory says the blue roofs are now a normal site around the area, a constant reminder to locals of the damage done, long after the national spotlight has moved on.

Cut 8 (12) “…forget about you.”

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Enrollment at Natchitoches based Northwestern State University is up five percent this year to a record 11,447 students.

Demons President Nick Maggio says the 136-year-old institution is thriving and seeing gains across the board.

Cut 9 (10) “classes”

Maggio says prospective students are responding well to the University’s focus on promoting a curriculum that prepares them for in-demand jobs, and jobs of the future…

Cut 10 (12) “…sciences”

Maggio says Northwestern was well prepared for pandemic due to its robust online class offerings that have been a big hit with non-traditional students.

Cut 11 (07) “…levels”

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Louisiana’s Republican Congressional delegation is thrilled with President Trump’s decision to nominate Metairie native Amy Coney Barrett for a seat on the U-S Supreme Court. Senator Bill Cassidy says Barrett is incredibly well-qualified and she walks the talk and D-C Democrats fear that

Cut 12 (11) “…besides themselves”

Cassidy’s main opponent in the US Senate race, Shreveport Mayor Adrian Perkins, has said the Senate should not vote on a justice nominee until next year. But Cassidy says the Senate should move forward since the American people elected a Republican President and the Senate has a Republican majority

Cut 13 (10) “…to do”

Benton Congressman Mike Johnson met Barrett at a student leadership event in 1988 when they were high school. Johnson says Judge Barrett is a female version of Justice Antonin Scalia, who served on the court for 30 years until his death in 2016

Cut 14 (12) “…same mold”

The second special session of the year begins this evening with lawmakers authorized to tackle a wide range of topics over the next 30 days. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”

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A Jefferson Parish fourth grader’s suspension for having a BB gun in view of his web camera during a virtual class has drawn the attention of Attorney General Jeff Landry. Matt Doyle spoke with the A-G…

Cut 2 (31) “…Matt Doyle” 

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Hurricane Laura is estimated to be the costliest storm in Entergy Louisiana’s history, $1.4 billion dollars in damage to the company’s infrastructure. Brooke Thorington has more.

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

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Lawmakers will kick off the second special session of the year this evening at 6 PM.

The depleted unemployment trust fund, the Governor’s public health restrictions, and Hurricane Laura recovery are the three major stated reasons for the session but LaPolitics.com Publisher Jeremy Alford says a range of issues will be discussed over the next 30 days.

Cut 4 (10)“ …topics” 

Alford says traditionally hurricane response has been considered a federal-only issue but this Legislature has shown an interest in expanding their reach so we could see some state-level interventions in Laura recovery efforts…

Cut 5 (06) “area”

Frustration amongst some Republicans over COVID restrictions on businesses is reportedly a driving factor in the session being called. Parks Senator Fred Mills says the current restrictions will be discussed and input from all sides will be sought…

Cut 6 (13) “…possible”

Mills says lawmakers will hear from a range of experts and involved parties over how the state’s public health response could be improved.

Cut 7 (09) “…compromise”

Senate President Page Cortez says current laws dictating gubernatorial authority during public health crises didn’t imagine a situation as long-lasting as COVID. Cortez says lawmakers will consider whether some of that authority should be shared.

Cut 8 (11) “…involved”

The unemployment trust fund is expected to run out of money next week, triggering higher payroll taxes on businesses and reduced benefits for recipients starting next year. In response, some state leaders have suggested using money allocated to a small business grant program to sure up the fund, but Cortez says the State Treasurer John Schroder has put that idea to rest…

Cut 9 (09) “…trust fund”

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Attorney General Jeff Landry is investigating whether the Jefferson Parish School system violated the constitution by suspending a fourth-grader after a teacher saw the child move a BB gun during virtual instruction. Woodmere Elementary 4th grader Ka Mauri Harrison was suspended for six days.

Cut 10 (09) “…care.”

The nine-year-old’s brother had entered the room and tripped over the gun, at which point Harrison place the gun to the side, but still within view of his web camera. Harrison now has a weapons violation on his permanent record.

Landry says not only was it an overreaction, but it was also a violation of his constitutional rights, in this case, his 2^nd amendment rights.

Cut 11 (12) “…speech.”

Harrison returned to school Thursday after his suspension ended.

The case raises the question of whether schools can control what they see in a student’s web camera. Landry says at most virtual classes are public spaces, which don’t have the same restrictions as physical school property.

Cut 12 (08) “precedent”

The Jefferson Parish Public School System does not comment on a student’s individual record.

But they point to their policy that says the illegal carrying, possession, or use of a firearm or dangerous weapon within the boundaries of school property is a crime.

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Entergy Louisiana estimates the cost to restore power following Hurricane Laura is one-point-four billion dollars. CEO Phillip May says 18-hundred transmission towers were damaged or destroyed and the number of distribution poles lost is only second to Hurricane Rita.

Cut 13 (12) “…after the storm”

May says the company is exploring avenues to minimize as much as possible passing on recovery costs to Entergy customers.

Cut 14 (09) “our customers”

For a ten year period after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, Entergy customers had a surcharge on their bill to pay for those restoration costs..

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The defending national champion LSU Tigers have some soul searching to do after getting upset in the season opener by Mississippi State 44-34. Bulldogs Quarterback K.J. Costello threw for an SEC record 623 yards and five touchdowns. Safety Jacoby Stevens called in an embarrassing performance

Cut 15 (11) “…show up today”

Mississippi State had three players record at least 100 receiving yards. The Tigers played without All-American cornerback Derek Stingley Junior, because of a non-COVID illness that put him in the hospital on Friday. Coach Ed Orgeron says they tried to play man-to-man defense with an inexperience secondary

Cut 16 (20) “…obviously” 

The offense had its issues as well on Saturday. Coach Ed Orgeron called quarterback Myles Brennan’s performance inconsistent…

Cut 17 (16) “…beat up front” 

Brennan threw for 345 yards and three touchdowns, but he was also intercepted twice and sacked seven times as the Tigers new offensive line had trouble protecting him. Brennan says they don’t want to get used to losing

Cut 18  (18) “…move forward” 

LSU is at Vanderbilt on Saturday night.

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The 27th ranked Ragin Cajuns are 3-0 for the first time since 1988 after squeaking out a 20-18 victory over Georgia Southern on Saturday at Cajun Field. The Eagles took a one point lead with 54 seconds left, but Cajuns quarterback Levi Lewis completed three passes to set up a 53-yard field and Nate Snyder nailed it. Coach Billy Napier on Snyder who missed four fields in three games before that remarkable kick…

Cut 19  (19) “…kick”    

The Cajuns won despite not having several starters and reserves available because of COVID-19 and injuries. Napier says this game will serve as a great learning tool for these young adults

cut 20 (25) “..game of football”

U-L Lafayette’s next game is a week from Wednesday, October 7th, at Appalachian State.

LSU begins defense of its national championship with a new quarterback, Myles Brennan. Jeff Palermo has more on the six-foot-four junior from Mississippi…

Cut 1 (31) “…Jeff Palermo”  

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Many central Louisiana Suddenlink customers still don’t have internet, phone, and TV service over a month after Hurricane Laura struck. Matt Doyle has the story.

cut 2 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”  

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After watching Heisman Trophy winner Joe Burrow break nearly every passing record last season, Myles Brennan gets a chance to show what he can do as the LSU starting quarterback when LSU hosts Mississippi State tomorrow. Brennan says he’s looking forward to writing his own story

Cut 3 (11)  “this season”  

Brennan has appeared in 17 games for the Tigers since 2017, mostly in mop up duty. The six-foot-four junior was asked how he’ll keep his emotions in check now that he’s the starter

Cut 4 (12)“ field first” 

LSU only returns two starters on offense and three starters on defense from last year’s national championship team. But Brennan says despite the inexperience they’ll be just fine

Cut 5 (11)  “calling us back ”

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Former President Barack Obama has endorsed Shreveport Mayor Adrian Perkins for U-S Senate. UL-Lafayette Poli Sci Professor Pearson Cross says an endorsement is never a bad thing, but he doesn’t feel it will sway white Louisiana voters at the polls since only 14-percent of them supported Obama in 2012.

Cut 6 (09)  “…Mr. Perkins”  

However, Cross says the endorsement does raise Perkin’s profile on a national level.

Cut 7 (12)“ go for those” 

Cross says there has not been much attention focused on the Senate race because Louisiana is perceived as a red state and it’s unlikely to flip.

Cut 8 (11)  “…being spent.” 

Perkins is running against incumbent Republican Bill Cassidy.

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State lawmakers approved the taxing rate for online fantasy sports betting in June, but players will have to wait until at least mid-November before they can legally use Fan Duel and Draft Kings. Crowley Representative John Stefanski says the Gaming Control Board still has to act…

Cut 9 (10) “…case”

Stefanski says when there’s a change to Louisiana’s gambling laws, there’s a lengthy wait for approval between the public input periods, the Gaming Control Board, and the Legislature…

Cut 10 (11) “…so chose”

Stefanski says online fantasy sports gaming is currently in a period of public comment under the Gaming Control Board. Once that period passes the issue will be shot back to the Legislature for final approval of rules, then back to the Gaming Control Board for potential finalization at a November 19^th meeting.

Despite passing legislation and parish-by-parish votes approving the activity,  Louisiana is one of only eight states where you can’t log onto FanDuel or Draft Kings and play. Stefanski explains the delay…

Cut 11 (11) “…have that”

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A month after Laura ripped through the state many central Louisiana Suddenlink customers are still without internet, phone, and television service.

Pineville Representative Mike Johnson says Cleco restored power to the region within ten days of Laura’s arrival, but Suddenlink is dragging their feet.

Cut 12 (08) “…competition”

Suddenlink CEO Dexter Goei reported that about 90 percent of customers had been restored but Johnson says the sheer volume of constituent calls and emails he gets puts that estimation into question.

Johnson says there are a lot of kids who can’t take their online classes, businesses who can’t operate, nursing home residents who are isolated, and clinics who can’t receive medical records.

Cut 13 (10) “…not right”

Suddenlink was purchased by foreign firm Altice in 2012. Johnson says since then Cenla customers have seen a drastic decline in the quality of their service, but unfortunately, Suddenlink is the only provider in the area.

Johnson says because of this incident and the company’s history of selling services they can’t provide they’re pushing the Attorney General to start using his power to intervene, and…

Cut 14 (06) “…consideration”