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As COVID-19 spreads, workers question safety

Wed, 04/01/2020 - 12:37pm

By LEO HONEYCUTT

BATON ROUGE — Coronavirus numbers continue to skyrocket both in the country and in Louisiana. Worldwide, Coronavirus cases are zooming past 800,000. Close to 40-thousand have died.
The United States is far and away the leader in the pandemic, partly because Americans are far more mobile and testing has ramped up.
Confirmed deaths: 2,467 Americans which will top 3,000 by late Tuesday.
In Louisiana, Department of Health numbers Tuesday noon exploded by 1,212 cases overnight with 54 more deaths, the most yet in a 24-hour period. Fatalities were twice the day before which was twice the day before that. The escalating figures mean Louisiana remains an epicenter of the Coronavirus outbreak, particularly in New Orleans.
In his daily press conferences at the Governor’s Office on Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness, Gov. John Bel Edwards remains emphatic that people stay home and out of circulation, keep scrubbing their hands -theirs and their childrens’- and, if someone has to go out, they should wear masks and latex gloves.
But thousands don’t have the option to stay at home. Medical personnel, those delivering food and medicine, transportation workers, banks, gas stations, and even baristas at coffee shops are all considered essential. Many of those workers are beginning to question how to balance their own personal safety with keeping their jobs. Monday, thousands delivering food for the delivery service “Instacart” went on strike while other strikers walked out at an Amazon warehouse in New York because they say the companies are not doing enough to protect their health. Tuesday, workers at Whole Foods called for a sick out. They want paid leave, hazard pay and more testing for Covid-19, the coronavirus.
“When people have to go to work,” said Edwards, “the way they conduct themselves is the only thing that should give them peace of mind. They should practice social distancing and all the other safeguards we’ve talked about -hand sanitizing, face masks. But just because you have to get out and go to work every day doesn’t mean you have to stop at every establishment on the way home.
"Just because you can go to the store doesn’t mean you should go every day and it doesn’t mean everybody in your household ought to be going.”
That’s little comfort to one north Louisiana registered nurse. Her mother posted on Facebook that her daughter had to quit her medical facility because of the lack of protective gear.
“My daughter is an RN,” she posted. (We are protecting her identity.) “She has to give her notice. Not enough protective gear. Doesn’t want [to take] this virus home to her family.”
The Food and Drug Administration Monday approved a new coronavirus test that gives results within fifteen minutes. The new test is now in trials in Detroit but officials say they can ramp up rapidly. Currently, getting results from coronavirus testing can take days.
But the new test may be too little too late for workers who are now faced with the dilemma of keeping their health while keeping their jobs.

Legislators meet briefly, then suspend session

Wed, 04/01/2020 - 12:32pm

By DAVID JACOBS, The Center Square

The Louisiana Legislature convened for about an hour Tuesday before suspending their session once again because of coronavirus concerns.
Their brief meeting followed news that one of their own, state Rep. Ted James, was hospitalized with pneumonia and COVID-19, the illness caused by the new coronavirus.
James, a Baton Rouge Democrat and attorney who chairs the House criminal justice committee, is 37 years old.
“I hope my constituents and the people of Louisiana look at my experience and understand that this virus does not know age, race, health, or socioeconomic status,” James said in a prepared statement.
The regular session opened March 9 and was first suspended March 16. It will end June 1, though a special session could be held immediately afterward. Spending bills must be approved before the fiscal year begins July 1.
This year’s scheduled session is non-fiscal, meaning most tax matters are off the table, though a special session could have a broader scope. Either the governor or a majority of legislators can call a special session.
Tuesday was the last day to introduce bills for the regular session. Attendance was light, and lawmakers gave each other extra space. After reading in the last batch of proposed legislation, lawmakers adjourned without setting a return date.
House Speaker Clay Schexnayder and Senate President Page Cortez agreed to “keep it open-ended until we see a clear path to come back,” Schexnayder said. “That will give us the flexibility to determine the best time to be here.”
Almost two dozen bills mentioning coronavirus or COVID-19 have been filed. James has filed two resolutions urging temporary suspension of utility disconnections and certain legal deadlines. Other measures would suspend standardized testing in schools, require health insurers to cover COVID-19, or exempt federal relief payments from from seizure by a creditor.

PAT DAIGLE AUCOIN

Wed, 04/01/2020 - 12:29pm

September 15, 1955 — March 28, 2020
Pat Daigle Aucoin, 64, a lifelong resident of Pierre Part, passed away Saturday, March 28, 2020, at Ochsner St. Mary.
Pat was born September 15, 1955, in Morgan City, the daughter of Joseph Daigle Sr. and Alice Daigle.
Pat was a very simple woman; she enjoyed being a fisherman’s wife, picking crab meat and crawfish that her husband brought home, and cooking all the wild game he hunted. Pat loved seafood, anything salty, and her Cokes. The last year of her life was spent at Morgan City Health Care where Pat made many friendships. She participated in everything that the nursing home had; crafts, getting her hair and nails done, any outings like the movies and going to restaurants, but Pat’s favorite was Bingo. Pat always put everyone else before herself, especially her grandson.
She will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by her son, Gary Martin and wife Jennifer of Pierre Part; siblings, Roy Daigle and wife Debra “Lola” of Patterson, Linda Alleman of Pierre Part, Debra Borque and husband Nathan Sr. of Houma, and Rita Domingue of Pierre Part; and grandson, Seth Martin.
Pat was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Alice Daigle; husband, Gilbert Aucoin; and siblings, Dudley Daigle, Blanche Verdin, Irine Rebardi, Joseph “Butch” Daigle Jr. and Theresa Michel.
Due to the recent health concerns and the restrictions in accordance with limited gatherings, the graveside services for Pat will be held privately by the immediate family. Friends are encouraged to view and leave a memory of Pat on our website, www.twincityfh.com. The family thanks everyone for their understanding during this difficult time.

Danos Foundation gives to nonprofits

Wed, 04/01/2020 - 12:22pm

The Danos Foundation announced 13 nonprofit organizations will be awarded funding as part of its 2020 Danos GIVES program. In total, the Foundation will distribute $52,745 to the various groups located in New Orleans, Houma and Lafayette, Louisiana, as well as New Braunfels and Lubbock, Texas.
“Our company purpose is ‘Honor God. Develop great people to solve big challenges for our customers and communities,’” said company wwner Mark Danos. “The Danos Foundation allows us to live out that purpose by providing financial assistance to groups who are solving some of the many challenges our communities face.”
Launched in 2017, t the foundation has awarded grants to non-profit organizations through Danos GIVES, the foundation’s grant giving program.
To date, more than $150,000 has been distributed to nonprofits throughout south Louisiana, west Texas and Pennsylvania, areas where the company has operations.
Receiving funding for 2020 are: Boys Hope Girls Hope of Greater New Orleans; Catholic Community Center of Houma; Comal County Senior Citizens Foundation of New Braunfels; Dulac Community Center; Free NOLA, Inc.; Hope Extreme of Houma; New Orleans Mission, Inc.; Refuge Services of Lubbock; Second Harvest Food Bank of South Louisiana; St. Mary Outreach of Morgan City; The Famcore Foundation of New Orleans; The Salvation Army of Houma; and The Salvation Army of Lafayette.
Danos GIVES accepts applications from 501(c)3 or 170(b) nonprofit organizations that benefit education, healthcare, environmental or welfare initiatives in areas where the company conducts business. Special consideration is given to projects targeting community welfare needs. Applications are due by August 31. Employee and company contributions provide funding for Danos GIVES, as well as Danos WORKS, a program that contributes money to qualified organizations where Danos employees volunteer their time. To learn more about the Danos Foundation, visit www.danos.com/foundation.

Three more COVID-19 cases in St. Mary; state count up by another 23%

Wed, 04/01/2020 - 12:11pm

Three new positive tests in St. Mary Parish were reported at noon Wednesday, bringing the total to 26. The statewide case count grew by another 23% Wednesday to 6,424.

St. Mary officials reported 23 case Tuesday. No deaths have been reported here, and the number of tests performed on parish people rose to 129.

St. Martin's case count grew to 41 after only 73 tests. Assumption's total i snow 25 after 73 tests.

Statewide, the number of positive tests rose to 6,424, up by 5,237 Tuesday, the Louisiana Office of Public Health said.

Hospitals are now treating 1,498 COVID-19 patients in Louisiana, including 490 on ventilators.

Thirty-four Louisiana people have died from COVID-19-related illness since Tuesday, bringing the death toll to 273.

This story has been edited to correct the percentage growth in state cases.

Wildlife and Fisheries: Fishing fine posts are a hoax

Wed, 04/01/2020 - 11:48am

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries says social media posts warning of coronavirus-related fines for those caught fishing are just an April Fool's joke.

Here's the press release from Wildlife & Fisheries:

Recently, LDWF has had to respond to several fake news articles, one regarding increased fishing fines and, most recently, the supposed forced closure of hunting and fishing season because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

None of it is true.

Any valid information regarding LDWF actions is on our website at www.wlf.la.gov or our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/ldwffb/. Please verify the accuracy of any information at these sites before sharing it on social media.

“It is incredibly unfortunate that some individuals would go out of their way to spread false information with the intent of creating confusion for the wonderful people of Louisiana,” said LDWF Secretary Jack Montoucet. “At a time when we are pulling together to deal with a deadly health crisis, there are some who find such actions amusing.”

LDWF supports the recent comments by Gov. John Bel Edwards encouraging people “to go outside and to stay active during this time, as long as they practice social distancing when they are around their neighbors.”

It is essential to remember that people should not gather in groups of more than 10, that you practice social distancing – stay at least six feet apart - and that you strictly follow the state and local orders related to the pandemic.

We hope your families are well during these challenging days and have the opportunity to spend time outdoors together – whether relaxing in your backyard, biking in your neighborhood, hiking a nature trail, taking advantage of our upcoming turkey season, or going fishing near your home.

As always, you’ll need a valid fishing or hunting license and must follow all fish and game regulations for the state of Louisiana.

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is charged with managing and protecting Louisiana’s abundant natural resources. For more information, visit us at www.wlf.la.gov or signup to receive email alerts.

Evelyn Snellgrove Pontiff

Wed, 04/01/2020 - 10:19am

August 30, 1932 – March 27, 2020
Evelyn Snellgrove Pontiff, a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, and friend passed away on March 27, 2020 at Oschner St. Mary Hospital in Morgan City after a lengthy illness.
Evelyn was born on August 30, 1932 in the settlement of Bayou Chene in the Atchafalaya Basin. She was extremely proud of her heritage and loved to tell stories about her early childhood at the Chene.
She loved to read, work crossword puzzles, play pokeno, and follow LSU baseball. Her daily ritual was to “check in with the family” on the telephone. Evelyn was an amazingly talented cook and was known for her delicious Sunday dinners. You never left her home hungry and without a take home plate. During the week, there was always a fresh pot of coffee and dessert for her visiting friends.
Her greatest accomplishment in life was rearing an extremely happy and amazingly successful family. As a mother, she was strongly supportive and never faltering. Her love was never ending. The home was always open to take care of the needs of her family. As a grandmother and great grandmother, she was an award. Grammy leaves a treasure chest of memories for them. They were first and foremost to her, showering them with her love and undivided attention. If they were performing, she was there.
Evelyn is survived by her husband of 66 beautiful years, Donovan, three children, Sandra Clarke and her husband Dr. Jimmy, Kirk and his wife Roye, and Craig and his companion Andrea Ibert. Also surviving are her eight grandchildren, Dr. Jessica Leger and her husband Lance, Michelle Payne and her husband Nick, Dr. Mattie Guido and her husband John, Evelyn Pontiff, Blake Pontiff, Sarah Romero and her husband Cole, John Pontiff, Cacey Avet and her husband Timmy, nine great grandchildren and one step great grandchild.
Evelyn was preceded in death by her parents John Snellgrove and Goldie Curry Snellgrove.
The family would like to extend sincere thanks to Dr. Roland Degeyter for his above and beyond compassionate care, Franklin Foundation Hospital and special thanks to the wonderful nurses in ICU. A big thanks goes out to Rev. Sue Pugh for her many visits and guidance through these difficult times.
Due to the recent health concerns and advised limited attendance at gatherings, the immediate family will hold a private graveside service. The family would like to thank everyone for their understanding. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to First United Methodist Church, 920 Main Street, Franklin, LA 70538.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Ibert’s Mortuary, Inc., 1007 Main St., Franklin, LA 70538. Friends and family may view the obituary and express their condolences online at iberts.com.

RICKY DON BRADFORD SR.

Wed, 04/01/2020 - 10:17am

Ricky Don Bradford Sr., 72, a resident of Richmond, TX and native of Morgan City, La., passed away peacefully on Friday March 27, 2020 in Richmond, TX.
In an effort to comply with the CDC recommendations to limit social interaction, individuals wishing to view the remains are invited to a walk-through viewing (with a limit of 10 persons at a time in the building) on Friday, April 3, 2020 at Jones Funeral Home 715 Street Morgan City, La. 70380 from 8 - 10 a.m.
Ricky was a Veteran of the United States Army receiving an Honorable Discharge
Memories of Ricky Sr., will forever remain in the hearts of: his children, Ricky Bradford, Jr. of Houma, La., Mrs. Spencer (Ricshika) Holt of Richmond, TX and Ryan Bradford of Dallas, TX; his four grandchildren: a great-granddaughter, his siblings, Kenneth (Betty) Bradford of Berwick, La., Cary (Pauline) Bradford of Sunnyvale, TX, William “Billy” (Yvonne “Dee”) Bradford, III of Houma, La., Neva Green of Morgan City, La., Shawn (Rose) Bradford of Wenatchee, WA, Mrs. Darrell (Dionne) Sanders of Schertz, TX and Corey (Fa’izah) Bradford of Des Moines, WA and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Ricky Sr. was preceded in death by his parents, William “Brad” Bradford, Jr. and Audrey “Deedy” Johnson Bradford.
Jones Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

Estelle runs last paper route

Wed, 04/01/2020 - 10:08am

The Banner-Tribune's longest tenured paper deliverer, Curless Estelle, was interviewed last week by Teche Talk's Diane Wiltz. Curless has been delivering the newspaper for 16 years. He is pictured again below with Circulation Manager Debbie Billiot. The Banner has converted to a mail only delivery system, and though Curless says he'll miss his customers, he's got plenty of work to do cutting grass and whatever other helpful jobs he can acquire.

Autism prevalence rises in areas monitored by CDC

Wed, 04/01/2020 - 9:40am

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has released information showing that 1 in 54 8-year-old children have been identified with autism. The information comes from an analysis of 2016 data published March 26 in CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report Surveillance Summary.
This is higher than the previous estimate from 2014 data that found a 1 in 59 prevalence among 8 year olds. The data come from 11 U.S. communities in CDC’s Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network. Data from 2016 also show that more children are being evaluated and identified with autism at younger ages. The latest findings draw on data from two separate reports on both eight-year-old and four-year-old children.
“Some of the increase in autism prevalence might be due to the way children are identified, diagnosed and receiving services in their communities,” said Stuart Shapira, M.D., Ph.D., associate director for science at CDC’s National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities. “The increase may also reflect reductions in racial differences in identification of autism, as this is the first ADDM Network report to identify black 8-year-olds with autism as having the same rates as white children.
Despite improvements in autism identification among black children, the analysis shows differences with other groups continue. Hispanic children are identified with autism at lower rates than black or white children. Also, black and Hispanic children identified with autism received evaluations at older ages than white children. This means black and Hispanic children with autism who do not have intellectual disability might not be identified at the same rates as white children.
Gender differences
Boys were more than four times as likely to be identified with autism as girls. However, girls identified with autism were more likely to have intellectual disability than boys (39% of girls vs. 32% of boys).
Geographic differences in autism prevalence
Autism prevalence in the 11 communities varied widely, from 1.3% in Colorado to 3.1% in New Jersey. This could be due to how autism is being diagnosed and documented. Some communities have a higher concentration of services for children with autism and their families. Also, some communities can review both health and educational records of children, which can lead to more children identified with autism.
Improvements in early identification of autism
A separate report looking at 4-year-old children finds substantial improvements have been made in the number of children who had their first developmental screening by the age of 36 months. According to the report, 84% of 4-year-olds had received a first developmental screening by 36 months of age compared to 74% in the previous report with 2014 data. This is important because the earlier children are identified with autism, the sooner they can be connected to services that can improve outcomes and lead to a better quality of life.
ADDM Network
CDC’s ADDM Network is a tracking system that provides estimates of the prevalence and characteristics of autism among more than 300,000 8-year-old children in 11 communities in Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Georgia, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, North Carolina, Tennessee and Wisconsin. Data on 4-year-old children come from the Early ADDM Network, which is a subset of communities in Arizona, Colorado, Missouri, New Jersey, North Carolina and Wisconsin.
The ADDM Network is the largest population-based program to monitor autism and the only autism tracking system that examines both health and education records. Because ADDM does not provide a representative sample of the entire United States, the combined prevalence estimates presented in today’s analysis cannot be generalized to all children aged 8 years in the United States.
What can parents do?
CDC’s “Learn the Signs. Act Early” program provides parents, childcare professionals and healthcare providers with free resources, in English and Spanish, to monitor children’s development. The program offers parent-friendly, research-based milestone checklists for children as young as 2 months of age.
CDC’s Milestone Tracker Mobile App can help parents track their child’s development and share the information with their healthcare providers. For more information visit www.cdc.gov/ActEarly.