A Louisiana Tech freshman is 3-D printing a contraption for medical personnel intended to relieve the pressure on the ears from the elastic bands on face masks. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (33) “I’m Kevin Barnhart.”

_____________________________________

Ten years ago today, the Deepwater Horizon drilling rig off the coast of Louisiana exploded, killing eleven workers and spewing nearly five million barrels of crude oil into the Gulf of Mexico. Matt Doyle reports many of the species impacted still haven’t recovered…

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

___________________________________________

High School seniors and juniors are missing out on spring graduation and ring ceremonies, but that’s not stopping them from getting their caps, gowns, and rings. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 3 (30)  “…I’m Matt Doyle”  

____________________________________________

A Louisiana Tech freshman is 3-D printing ear guards for medical personnel.  Mechanical engineering major Avereigh Barras says she was inspired to start creating the devices after seeing a Canadian boy scout’s invention intended to relieve the pressure of elastic bands from masks on the ears.

Cut 4 (12)_ “…it would be.”

With the contraption, the bands no long touch the ears.  The mask bands hook to the device behind the head.  Barras says as of now, she’s created just over 1,600 and hopes to hit the 2,000 mark in the first two weeks of manufacturing.

Cut 5 (13)  “…some bigger hospitals.”

Barras recently started a GoFundMe campaign to help cover the cost of the shipping and manufacturing which she says has seen an abundance of support.

Cut 6 (07) “…do add up.”

______________________________

Today marks ten years since the BP Oil Spill ravaged the Gulf of Mexico ecosystem, and environmental scars exist still to this day.

National Wildlife Federation Gulf of Mexico Restoration Director David Muth says the critically endangered Kemp’s ridley sea turtle was recovering as a species before 2010 but since then…

Cut 7 (09) “…effects.”

Muth says Coastal bottlenose dolphins have seen their successful birthrate remain less than a quarter of what it was before their habitat was poisoned by the spill.

Cut 8 (11) “…dolphins”

The spill also killed off 17 percent of the Gulf’s Bryde whales, an impact that’s seen them be added to, and remain on the endangered species list since.

Muth says the overall ecological impact remains horrific, but the one silver lining to result from the calamity was the more than 16 billion in fines that paid for coastal restoration projects like…

Cut 9 (05) “…restored″

Muth says Louisiana received over eight billion dollars in payments as a result of the spill.

____________________________________

Some schools are organizing drive-through pickup for caps, gowns, and class rings for juniors and seniors who are missing out on some of the seminal events of their high school years.

Jostens sales rep Jim Rabb says his company is working with schools to establish drive-by locations where parents can bring their kids to get some semblance of pomp and circumstance.

Cut 10 (09) “possible.”

For many kids, these drive-throughs are the first time they’ve seen their fellow students and teachers in person, and Rabb says most of them are run by a familiar face…

Cut 11 (10) “…again.”

Rabb says they’ve taken precautions to maintain social distancing and all employees are wearing at least gloves. He says it’s not mandatory, but if you do come he asks you to put on a mask…

Cut 12 (10) “possible.”

_________________________________

The state health department says I-C-U doctors should receive credit for helping to lower the number of COVID-19 patients who need ventilators. On April 4th, the state reported 571 of their COVID-19 patients needed ventilators, now that number is 349. Assistant state health officer Joe Kanter

Cut 13 (09) “…the country”

Kanter says the mortality rate for someone placed on a ventilator in Louisiana is between 40 and 60-percent, while New York and Seattle are over 80-percent. He says are I-C-U doctors have learned how to better treat the disease

Cut 14 (07) “…fluid.”

Kanter says critical care specialists are also finding success in having sickest coronavirus patients lay on their stomach because it helps to increase the amount of oxygen into their lungs

Cut 15 (14)“…working well”

He says it takes a sophisticated ICU team to pull it off to prevent sores and prevent injury to their head and neck. He says they are not sure if this method works with patients before they go on the ventillator.

______________________________________________

The NFL draft is this week as the Saints have the 24th pick in the first round on Thursday night. Mike Triplett covers the Black and Gold for ESPN says New Orleans is in position to take the best player available

Cut 16  (18)  “…player’s grade” 

The Saints are known to trade up in the first round. Triplett says New Orleans is in a win-now mode, so it’s a possibility they could do that again on Thursday…

cut 17  (18) “…will though” 

Triplett says the Saints do not have a second-round pick, which probably reduces the chance they move up in the first round. Many mock drafts have New Orleans selecting Oklahoma linebacker Kenneth Murray. Triplett says Murray and LSU’s Patrick Queen would bring more athleticism to that position

Cut 18  (24) “…the draft”   

Louisiana could see another round of severe weather on Sunday. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

____________________________

Phase One of federal guidelines on reopening the economy call for limited access to dine in restaurants and gyms, reopening of elective surgical centers, and more. Matt Doyle has local reaction…

Cut 2 (29) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

_____________________________

Dangerous weather conditions are expected with the arrival of two cold fronts into the state this weekend. State climatologist Barry Keim says the first front will roll in late Friday night into Saturday morning.

Cut 3 (10)  “…severe weather potential.”  

The forecaster puts the portion of Louisiana between I-10 and I-20 in the slight to an enhanced risk category for severe weather. Keim says the potential for severe weather is not as great as it was last weekend, but it could still be a bumpy ride and is still worth monitoring.

Cut 4 (12)_ “…across into Georgia.”

Keim says the rain potential is up to about an inch and a half, adding that it is much needed in south Louisiana.

Cut 5 (09)  “…a bigger problem.”

__________________________________________

The Louisiana Hospitality Foundation is raising money to help bar owners stay afloat and keep your favorite local watering hole alive through the COVID Crisis.

LHF Executive Director Jennifer Kelley says all bars are closed and unlike restaurants, they don’t have the option of takeout or delivery.

Cut 6 (10) “…bills”

Many small businesses are keeping the lights on by taking advantage of federal programs like the CARES Act. Kelley says, unfortunately, bars have a very unusual business model…

Cut 7 (11) “sense”

Kelley says locally officials could help bars by expanding alcohol delivery laws.

To contribute or to seek aid visit LHF’s website and look for the South Louisiana Bar Owner Relief Fund.

Cut 8 (06) “…plan”

___________________________________________________

The Governor toured the PMAC today.  The home of LSU basketball is playing host to a giant operation to create PPE for frontline healthcare workers.  Interim LSU President Thomas Galligan says the operation started in the garage of Wayne Newhauser, the head of LSU’s Medical Physics department.

Cut 9 (08) “…an arena operation.″

Galligan says the makeshift PPE factory has produced gowns from donated billboard vinyl.

Cut 10 (08) “…first three days.”

In the near future, Galligan believes the operation will be outputting 1000 gowns a day.

Galligan credits the ability of departments to work in unison to get the job done.

Cut 11 (11) “…as a team.”

________________________________________________

The Trump Administration issues guidelines to states on how to reopen their economies in three “phases”.

Phase one continues to encourage social distancing but allows activities like limited dine-in access to restaurants. The Pelican Institute is calling on Louisiana to implement Phase One May 1^st.

Cut 12 (07) “recommended”

That’s VP of Policy and Governmental Affairs Renee Amar.

Phase One reopenings are being left to local governments with recommendations of implementation on a parish by parish basis. Amar says the phase-ins are effective because they’re flexible…

Cut 13 (10) “…place”

Governor Edwards says any implementation of these phased reopenings will be done on the advice of his Resilient Louisiana Commission that will study the potential tradeoffs of opening the economy.

Cut 14 (10) “…die”

LSU Health Shreveport now has the ability to conduct serology tests that check to see if a person has coronavirus immunity. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle.”

_____________________________________

 For the first time in its 50-year history Jazz Fest will not happen. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

___________________________________________

The Department of Education has provided guidelines for local districts in student advancement.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 3 (30)  “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

____________________________________________

LSU Health Shreveport is bringing testing online that will allow them to check people’s blood for antibodies that may indicate they are immune to coronavirus.

But Immunology Professor Matthew Woolard says it’s not just enough to know if you have anti-coronavirus antibodies, we need to know how effective they are, and how many are needed to be effective.

Cut 4 (08)_ “…standard.”

If a person is found to have effective antibodies they could return to a normal life without fear of getting themselves or others sick.

Woolard says their work will also be to document over time the rate at which a person loses antibodies by retesting a person’s blood every so often…

Cut 5 (09)  “…infection.”

This research will be done using blood donated to the lab from the LifeShare Blood Center for plasma therapy trials.

The federal plan to reopen the economy uses wide-scale coronavirus testing, but Woolard says their work is important because basic testing can only provide so much information.

Cut 6 (11) “…does”

______________________________

The cancellations of Jazz and Essence Fest will pummel New Orleans’ expected 2020 tourism revenue, with more festivals likely to announce similar decisions in the near future.

CEO of New Orleans and Company, the city’s convention and visitor’s bureau, Mark Romig says the loss of those iconic events is a blow, but they’ll be back.

Cut 7 (08) “…2021.”

Jazz Fest had previously announced it was postponing until fall.

475,000 visitors attended Jazz Fest last year for an estimated 400 million dollar total economic impact. Romig says that money, and money from other festivals is not easy to replace.

Cut 8 (10) “…with that”

An estimated 12 million total visitors stayed overnight in New Orleans in 2018.

Romig says they’re pushing to avoid a total loss. He says large gatherings may be off the table this year but the city still offers other tourism opportunities, but one sector must reopen for that to happen…

Cut 9 (11) “…vacuum″

New Orleans Mayor Latoya Cantrell has called for the cancellation of all large events, including sporting events, for the remainder of 2020.

____________________________________

Historically, school systems have had assessments to determine promotion for students.  In the absence of those assessments this year, Assistant state superintendent Ken Bradford says the Department of Education is advising districts use other tools on the local level to make the determination as to a student’s advancement.

Cut 10 (09) “…went on throughout the year.”

If a student is borderline on their ability to advance, Bradford says there needs to be a sit-down discussion between the parents, teachers, and counselors to hammer out how they can be caught up in time for next school year.

Cut 11 (07) “…through the summer.”

Bradford says the districts can have the freedom to allow teachers to break away from the traditional time restrictions that are normally in place during a regular school year.

Cut 12 (10) “through the summer.”

_________________________________

A group dedicated to delivering meals to children in Southeast Louisiana is granted $50,000 to continue its operations through the summer from the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana for Community Crisis and Disaster Response.  Operation Manager for The Three O’clock Project Jeff Landry says has hired more than 350 workers to prepare and distribute the meals.

Cut 13 (10) “…case may be.”

Many of the workers might not have an income during the pandemic, but Landry believes that they’ve created a business model that helps both workers and children and it could be something other organizations could adopt.  Landry adds they are about to expand operations too.

Cut 14 (10) “…as we speak.”

Landry says the group has seen a major uptick in demand, with the group setting a single-day meal distribution high this week.

Cut 15 (10)“…it was 36,000.”

For the first time in its 50-year history, the New Orleans Jazzfest has been canceled. The event had initially been postponed until the fall, but festival organizers officially pulled the plug on the event today. The news comes following the recommendation of New Orleans Mayor Latoya Cantrell to cancel all festivals for the remainder of 2020 in an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19.
Baton Rouge Representative Ted James stint in the hospital with the virus has given him a unique outlook on the illness for a lawmaker. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

Governor Edwards announces the creation of a commission tasked with producing guidelines that would allow parts of the economy to reopen. Governor Edwards says the Resilient Louisiana Commission and its task forces will begin engaging stakeholders in various sectors of the economy, asking them…
Cut 6 (11) “…spike.”
The Commission Co-Chairs are Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser, Economic Development Secretary Don Pierson, and healthcare executive Terrie Sterling.
Congressman Steve Scalise has been appointed to President Trump’s Task Force on Reopening the Economy.  Scalise spoke at the Governor’s daily press conference and touted the quickness of federal response and the impact of the Paycheck Protection Program.

Cut 9 (12) “…out of money.″

Baton Rouge Representative Ted James stint in the hospital with COVID-19 caused pneumonia has given him a unique outlook on the virus for a lawmaker. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

____________________________

The Paycheck Protection Program is out of money.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart” 

_____________________________

Baton Rouge Representative Ted James has mostly recovered from COVID-19 but says his recovery was grueling and the disease should not be taken lightly.

The 37-year-old Democrat says he became symptomatic March 22^nd when he woke up in a pool of sweat, and a week later he was suffering in a hospital with pneumonia.

Cut 3 (07)  “…wiped out”  

James suspects his history of asthma and sinus issues may have contributed to his severe case despite his young age and generally good health.

James says it’s been frustrating to see a rising chorus of legislators calling for the rapid reopening of the state before conditions are safe.

Cut 4 (11)_ “TORT reform”

Cutoff Representative Reggie Bagala died last week of COVID-19.

The Legislature does not have a firm date to return, but James says his experience has convinced him that when they do return the session must be laser-focused.

Cut 5 (06)  “…budget”

James made the statements earlier today on Talk Louisiana.

__________________________________________

Governor Edwards announces the creation of an 18-member panel tasked with producing guidelines that would allow parts of the economy to reopen. Edwards says the Resilient Louisiana Commission will reach out to stakeholders in various sectors of the economy, asking them…

Cut 6 (11) “…spike”

The Commission Co-Chairs are Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser, Economic Development Secretary Don Pierson, and healthcare executive Terrie Sterling.

Pierson says the real work of the Commission will be handled by 15 task forces dedicated to various economic sectors.

Cut 7 (09) “…a look.”

Edwards says the Governor’s office has the sole power to make reopening calls on a case by case basis for each business sector, but…

Cut 8 (11) “…stand up”

___________________________________________________

Congressman Steve Scalise has been appointed to President Trump’s Task Force on Reopening the Economy.  Scalise spoke at the Governor’s daily press conference and touted the quickness of federal response and the impact of the Paycheck Protection Program.

Cut 9 (12) “…out of money.″

Scalise says there are still thousands of additional businesses in Louisiana that need that relief that did not get it prior to the program’s funding running dry, adding that the President is asking for an additional $251 billion.

Cut 10 (12) “…next few days”

Scalise says he’s been on many calls with everyone ranging from local restauranteurs to the heads of some of the biggest companies in the world on taking steps to safely come back.

Cut 11 (12) “…to do both.”

In addition to Scalise, Congressman Mike Johnson has also been added to the President’s task force, along with Senators John Kennedy and Bill Cassidy.

________________________________________________

Food banks are seeing an increase in demand as more people continue to seek assistance due to rising unemployment and Second Harvest that serves 23 parishes across southern Louisiana is no exception. Spokesperson  Jay Vise says they’ve had to change how they distribute goods, with help from the National Guard.

Cut 12 (12) increase”

Vise says Second Harvest, along with other food banks across the state, need donations and there are several ways you can help.

Cut 13 (11) “…can provide”

Vise says anything that you would normally buy at the grocery store is what they need for donations, from cleaning supplies to feminine hygiene products.

Vise says they have disturbed a million extra pounds of food in the last month compared to a year ago.

Cut 14 (10) “…out there”

If you are in need of assistance call 211 to find your local food bank or visit NoHunger.org

___________________

The Louisiana Office of Student Financial Assistance is urging the class of 2020 to complete applications for federal student aid. Brooke Thorington has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Brooke Thorington.”

_____________________________________

Students will continue education via remote learning for the remainder of the school year as K-12 public schools will remain closed to students. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart” 

___________________________________________

Governor Edwards says more and more planning is being put into what the state might look like as we transition out the potential end of the shelter in place order…

Cut 3 (30)  “…I’m Matt Doyle”  

____________________________________________

 The Louisiana Office of Student Financial Assistance is urging the class of 2020 to complete applications for federal student aid as part of the newly launched FAFSA Now campaign.  LOSFA spokesperson Tyana Daquano says the FAFSA form can feel like a daunting task, but they are now offering virtual assistance with completing the paperwork.

Cut 4 (08)_ “…for my education.”

The assistance tool can be found at MyLOSFA.LA.gov.

Daquano says the FAFSA application will not only help unlock federal aid but state and institutional aid for students as well.

Cut 5 (06)  “…stay in school.”

Daquano says the FAFSA application is the first step to ensuring that a college student finds some relief from the long term burden of education debt.

Cut 6 (10) “…member of society.”

______________________________

K-12 public schools will remain closed to students for the remainder of the school year.  However, students will continue education via remote learning.  Acting State Superintendent Beth Scioneaux says the local districts will be tasked with the decision on criteria that will determine a student’s advancement in grade level.

Cut 7 (12) “…to move forward.”

Scioneaux says the hurdles created by a lack of widespread technological infrastructure is something that will be overcome with a mix of high-tech and low-tech distance learning practices.

Cut 8 (11) “…regards to technology.”

Scioneaux says how to grade students will also be left in the hands of the districts.

Cut 9 (10) “…recommend pass/fail.″

____________________________________

New Orleans Mayor Latoya Cantrell files to extend the citywide shelter in place order to May 16^th.

Governor Edwards says that declaration does not guarantee he will extend the statewide order past April 30^th. He says it’s clear some regions are still more heavily impacted by coronavirus than others.

Cut 10 (09) “same thing”

About 50 percent of the state’s confirmed positive cases have been found in Jefferson and Orleans Parishes.

Edwards says when the shelter in place order is lifted statewide, he’d like to see people wearing masks whenever they go out in public to shop, but he likely wouldn’t mandate it.

Cut 11 (09) “…mask on”

Any return to normalcy won’t be complete without the return of sports, but Edwards warns even once the order is lifted things like sporting events could be logistically difficult…

Cut 12 (11) “checked”

Cantrell previously mentioned there would be no large events in New Orleans for the rest of 2020, but the Saints organization says it’s planning operations under the assumption there will be games.

_________________________________

Louisiana has seen a slight increase in fatal accidents during this time compared to last year despite the fact roads are a lot less traveled these days.

State Police Lt. Nick Manale says this is not a good time for you to get into a wreck and have to visit a hospital.

Cut 13 (11) “…actions.”

Manale says they have seen a noticeable decrease of drivers on the roads, and that’s good to see, but the increase in careless or distracted driving is not.

Cut 14 (10) “travel for.

Manale says just because you may have the roads to yourself does not mean you can start neglecting your basic driver safety.

Cut 15 (10)“…seatbelt.”

Republican lawmakers are concerned that Secretary of State Kyle Ardoin’s plan for Louisiana’s presidential primary is too broad, allowing anyone over the age of 18 to vote by mail. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart” 

____________________________

16 residents at a veterans’ home in Reserve that tested positive for COVID-19 have died, an outbreak that is driving St. John the Baptist Parish’s high per capita death rate. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

_____________________________

The Senate Governmental Affairs Committee has asked Secretary of State Kyle Ardoin to revise his plan for the July 11th presidential primary over concerns that his proposal that expands mail-in voting gives that option to too many people. Shreveport Senator Barry Milligan is concerned about voter fraud…

Cut 3 (06)  “…than ever”  

The emergency election rule would allow anyone to mail in an absentee ballot if they are concerned they could be exposed to the coronavirus. Ardoin says, unfortunately, it’s necessary so that register voters have the constitutional right to vote. Milligan asks Ardoin if the wording of the rule can be changed…

Cut 4 (12)_ “…not valid”

On a five to one party-line vote, the Senate Governmental Affairs Committee has asked Ardoin to bring another emergency election proposal to them that would lower the number of people would be eligible to vote with a mail ballot. Milligan pushed for a new proposal

Cut 5 (11)  “…same way”

Ardoin says he needs legislative approval of his emergency election plan by April 26th in order for the presidential primary to take place in July.

__________________________________________

St. John the Baptist remains one of the highest county/parishes per capita in COVID-19 deaths largely because of an outbreak at a veterans’ home in Reserve that’s killed 16.

Deputy Secretary for the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs Julie Baxter-Payer says the facility saw its first resident show symptoms March 19^th, and…

Cut 6 (12) “…homes.”

The statewide stay home order was put into place on March 22^nd.

Baxter-Payer says the facility has 26 positive tests so far, and those who’ve been infected are all in the high-risk group.

Cut 7 (09) “…seeing.”

The state’s other four homes in Jackson, Jennings, Monroe, and Bossier have not reported any COVID-19 cases.

Baxter-Payer says all of their facilities have been inspected by state and federal health officials, and they are doing everything they can to keep residents safe while supporting them emotionally.

Cut 8 (12) “…day.”

Four veterans have recovered of the 26 who tested positive so far. Seven employees have been able to return to work after testing positive.

___________________________________________________

Governor Edwards says Louisiana will make more medical services available when the state begins the transition of reopening the economy. Elective surgeries such as colonoscopies and arthroscopic surgery are not allowed under the stay at home order, but the governor says you can only postpone those procedures for so long…

Cut 9 (09) “rather than later ″

The governor’s current stay at home order lasts through April 30th and Edwards has indicated he could extend it. He says when the green light is given to open up more businesses, social distancing will continue, along with other measures…

Cut 10 (09) “state”

Edwards says the new normal will also have reduced occupancy limits…

Cut 11 (10) “…go into this”

________________________________________________

Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says the state is working on a set of guidelines to potentially get restaurants and other service industry businesses open in May.

Nungesser says if it is safe to lift the stay at home order next month, restaurants could come back under strict guidelines…

Cut 12 (09) “mask”

But Nungesser warns that even if we do reopen next month an estimated 5.9 million tourism-related jobs will have already been lost nationwide.

Cut 13 (09) “…towards that”

And Nungesser adds that even if we start reopening service industry businesses, it’s unlikely we will see many out of state people coming to visit them for awhile.

Cut 14 (10) “…gone away”

Nungesser says polls show once the shelter in place order is lifted people are most likely to do “staycations” in their local area than to travel.

Louisiana gets sued by abortion-rights advocates for designating abortion services as non-essential and requiring those services to be shut down as part of the Governor’s stay at home order…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle.”

_____________________________________

The coronavirus pandemic is giving about 12-hundred non-violent inmates a chance for medical release. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart” 

___________________________________________

1,013 Louisianans have died of COVID-19 as of today, with a record 129 COVID deaths being reported yesterday. Matt Doyle has reaction from the Governor…

Cut 3 (30)  “…I’m Matt Doyle”  

____________________________________________

Congressman Ralph Abraham and the Aeroshell Aerobatic Team will take to the skies over Monroe and West Monroe in aerial tribute to first responders and healthcare workers.  Abraham says a team pilot contacted him about performing the tribute after the area was impacted by Sunday’s tornado outbreak.

Cut 4 (12)_ “…in the backseat.”

The flyover will take place at 1pm this afternoon.  Abraham says there is a chance that spectators could get a little bit more than just flying in formation.

Cut 5 (08)  “…that’s aerodynamically possible.”

Abraham says the team is one of the top aerial teams in the world, with four vintage aircrafts to put on the tribute.

Cut 6 (13) “…times, sometimes not.”
______________________________

The Center for Reproductive Rights is suing Louisiana for the state’s attempts to close abortion clinics as part of a shutdown of all services deemed non-essential.

President Nancy Northup says attempting to force clinic closures violates due process and equal protection. She says abortion services are time-sensitive and essential.

Cut 7 (09) “…services”

Ohio, Oklahoma, and Alabama have had similar suits filed against them.

Kathleen Pittman, administrator for the Shreveport Clinic, says her facility should not be closed because it is compliant with safety measures designed to restrict the spread of coronavirus.

Cut 8 (08) “…issued.”

Attorney General Jeff Landry says clinics are non-essential facilities and should not be in operation right now, but Northup says medical experts disagree.

Cut 9 (13) “…care″

____________________________________

The Department of Corrections has created a review panel that will determine if certain inmates nearing the end of their sentence should be released in an effort to reduce the spread of the coronavirus within jails.  1,200 inmates are eligible for the program.  Corrections Secretary Jimmy LeBlanc says the first group of inmates up for consideration have a pre-existing medical condition and meet certain criteria.

Cut 10 (10) “to receive them”

A second group without medical concerns will require the same criteria, plus having already served at least six months.

LeBlanc proposes a panel compromised of himself, Director and Executive Director of Probation & Parole Board, a victim’s advocate as appointed by the Governor, Executive Director of the Louisiana Sheriff’s Association, and Executive Director of the District Attorney’s Association or a designee of any of the panel members.

Cut 11 (12) “…public health emergency.”

The efforts to alleviate the crowding in jails locally mirrors the same actions being taken at the federal level based on the order of US Attorney General William Barr.

LeBlanc says if an inmate is furloughed, they will not have the same freedoms as someone being released.

Cut 12 (07) “of the furlough.”

Reviews begin Friday.

_________________________________

Governor Edwards struck a somber tone yesterday as the state reported crossing the 1,000 COVID-19 death mark, but noted the curve of new infections has flattened.

A single day record 129 COVID deaths were logged yesterday, and while Edwards says much of the spike was the result of a reporting backlog, it is not any easier to process.

Cut 13 (10) “…anyone.”

But with the rate of new cases declining Edwards is looking forward to the loosening of some restrictions in the future. He says one of the first things is making more medical services available.

Cut 14 (08) “long.”

Many “non-essential” medical facilities were shuttered to conserve PPE and needed medical equipment, and to free up healthcare workers for a potential surge in cases.

Edwards says even if some services reopen this spring, schools will not be one of them so the state has to make an effort to expand access to distance learning.

Cut 15 (06)“…should.”

All physical school locations will be closed in the state through the term ending May 20^th.

______________________________________________

The PMAC at LSU has turned into a production facility for PPE. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Brooke Thorington” 

____________________________

National Weather Service indicates at least seven tornadoes ravaged north Louisiana and that number is expected to grow. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart” 

_____________________________

There’s activity underway again at the PMAC on LSU’s campus but it’s not the norm. Ashley Arceneaux, Chief of Staff for the LSU President says the university community is working together to support medical providers and the facility has become a production center for PPE, like reusable gowns from billboard vinyl with locally donated materials.

Cut 3 (10)  “…themselves.”  

Arceneaux says the vinyl is donated by Lamar Advertising and Circle Graphics.

Cut 4 (11)_ “…frontline.”

Also being manufactured are masks from materials donated by Baker Hughes. GOHSEP then takes the gowns and masks that are produced and distributes them to facilities in need.

For health and safety precautions no more than 40 employees can be in the PMAC at one time, but Arceneaux says it’s a joint effort of hundreds of employees and outside vendors coming together for the greater good.

Cut 5 (10)  “…operation works.”

Arceneaux says the project has brought together multiple experts at the university for example engineering, biomedical engineering, medical physics, facilities services and sewing machines from the theater department.

__________________________________________

The National Weather Service has confirmed at least seven tornadoes ravaged north Louisiana on Easter Sunday. N-W-S Meteorologist Brad Bryant says the most powerful twister started in West Monroe and traveled for about eight miles.

Cut 6 (10) “…low-end EF-3 damage.”

Bryant says tornadoes also impacted Northwest Louisiana in De Soto Parish.

Cut 7 (09) “…up embedded tornadoes.”

Unlike neighboring Mississippi, Louisiana had no fatalities from the storm activity.  Bryant says it is surprising that there was no loss of life in the state.

Cut 8 (11) “…it’s a win.”

___________________________________________________

LSU Health New Orleans has enrolled its first patient in a clinical trial that will evaluate the safety and effectiveness of hydroxychloroquine alone or with Azithromycin as a treatment for COVID-19. Infectious Disease Specialist Dr. Meredith Clement says they are enrolling patients who meet these criteria…

Cut 9 (11) “prior″

The study may enroll up to 600 at University Medical Center, if they have enough patients eligible.

Patients will be sorted into three groups that either get the treatment or don’t, and Clement says once admitted…

Cut 10 (09) “state”

Patients receiving the treatment will do so for five days.

Clement says the drugs are not without their side effects, so patients will be closely monitored.

Cut 11 (09) “…restoration.”

Hydroxychloroquine is an anti-malarial drug, and Azithromycin is an antibiotic. Clement says there is some evidence that these medications can shorten the disease and decrease the amount of virus in respiratory samples.

________________________________________________

Covington Representative Mark Wright joins Oil City Representative Danny McCormick in calling for the stay at home order to end April 30th as currently scheduled.

The Northshore Republican says businesses should be allowed to implement rules that allow for partial reopening, including dine-in options for restaurants.

Cut 12 (10) “economy”

He pointed to other examples like small retail stores allowing shoppers to enter one at a time.

Wright says those who are most vulnerable to the virus are aware of their risk factors and can make their own decisions.

Cut 13 (10) “…open”

Wright says the state needs to look at easing restrictions like our neighbors in Texas and Oklahoma and starting May 1^st reopen as much as possible.

Cut 14 (08) “…future”

Federal models call for the continuing of stay at home orders nationwide through May to avoid another major reoccurrence of COVID-19.

_____________________

Louisiana hit a somber milestone today as it reported a single-day high 129 additional deaths from COVID-19, bringing the state’s death toll past a thousand to 1,013. Governor Edwards says the virus is nothing to mess with, so it’s incumbent that residents follow the Stay at Home order…

Cut 15 (06)“…the order”

The state health department says most deaths come eleven days after the onset of symptoms. Assistant Health Secretary Alex Billioux says if are someone in the high-risk group of individuals who can die from the coronavirus, take extra precautions…

Cut 16  (14)  …people” 

Oil producing nations agree to cut production by 9.7 million barrels in an effort to cool a worsening price war, but one expert warns it’s not nearly enough to save the state’s oil industry…

Cut 1 (29) “I’m Matt Doyle.”

_____________________________________

Governor Edwards says we will see a new wave of COVID-19 cases if people begin to take a flattening of the curve as an excuse to ignore social distancing orders…

Cut 2 (28) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

___________________________________________

The Governor indicates a proclamation is coming today to leave schools closed for the remainder of the school year.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 3 (32)  “…I’m Kevin Barnhart.”  

____________________________________________

OPEC and Russia reach an agreement with the US to cut production of 9.7 million barrels of oil a day in an effort to stop the ongoing rapid oil price collapse.

But LSU Center for Energy Studies Executive Director David Dismukes warns it’s just not enough of a reduction to save oil prices, and too little too late given the scope of the problem.

Cut 4 (08)_ “…million”

Russia and OPEC ramped up production earlier this year in a move that American oil companies say was a targeted attack on their interests.

After the announcement was made the price of a barrel of oil barely budged from its holding pattern in the low 20s, and Dismukes says that is because this may be the last “big” agreement we get for a while…

Cut 5 (09)  “…teens”

For every dollar below 55 dollars a barrel, the state budget stands to lose an estimated 11-12 million dollars.

Dismukes says the deal will likely not prevent a substantial reduction in investment in new oil projects in Louisiana or the loss of more oil sector jobs locally.

Cut 6 (11) “…effectively”

______________________________

Governor Edwards says the curve has now been flattening for at least a week, but it won’t stay that way if residents go out and ignore social distancing like they did over the Easter weekend.

Edwards says it appears as the rate of new infections slow, many people are taking that as an excuse to stop staying home. He says Unacast tracked resident’s movement patterns, and recently…

Cut 7 (11) “…moving.”

The Governor says he’s trying to set an example by wearing masks in public, and not doing his usual glad-handing with constituents, but that policy made his trip to the tornado-ravaged Monroe difficult.

Cut 8 (12) “…part.”

A storm system tore through north Louisiana Sunday, leaving many still without power and crippling the Monroe Regional Airport.

Edwards says you need to stay indoors at least until May 1^st. As to whether, or how the state will open after that, he’s leaving it up to experts.

Cut 9 (11) “…as well″

____________________________________

Governor Edwards indicates he will issue a proclamation today, keeping school campuses closed for the remainder of the school year and having education continue from home.  Council for a Better Louisiana President Barry Erwin says CABL is supportive of the school closures.

Cut 10 (11) “…kids as possible.”

Only 39 of the 69 school districts offer distance education.  Erwin says BESE and the Department of Education need to use a broader approach to continue the education experience for districts that struggle with a lack of online capabilities or other obstacles.

Cut 11 (12) “…into the home.”

Erwin says if kids start out behind in the fall, which he believes many will, steps need to be taken to help them catch up or they may face life long consequences.

Cut 12 (10) “…in the fall.”

_________________________________________

The beef industry is feeling the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic as processing plants are slowing down.  Chair of the Louisiana Beef Industry Council Amelia Kent says some of the slowdown is coming from sick workers while others are pausing operations to undergo deeper sanitation measures.

Cut 13 (08) “…lengths of time.”

Kent says the disruption is trickling back to the farm level as cattle are coming out of feed yards having no way to advance into harvesting.

Cut 14 (09) “…to do so.”

Much like toilet paper and disinfectant products, there has been a large consumer demand that has seen shoppers buying up all the meat at the store.  Kent says the slowdown at the processor level will only intensify meat shortages.

Cut 15 (11)“…ordinarily would be.”