6:45 LRN Sportscast

Saints running back Alvin Kamara now knows he’ll miss the first three games of the season for violating the NFL’s personal conduct policy. Kamara was charged with battery for his role in a Feburary 2022 fight in Las Vegas. He later pleaded no contest to a misdemeanor charge of breach of peace. The 27-year-old says he definitely made a bad decision…
cut 18 (11) “…some people”
2022 was a tough season for Saints kicker Will Lutz as he was just 22 of 31 on field goals. Lutz knows he has the leg strength, consistency is what he’s searching for…
cut 21 (18) “…long ones’
Lutz has missed just three kicks this year.

Former LSU wide receiver Jontre Kirklin is getting a chance with the Saints. Kirkland played well this past spring for the XFL’s Houston Roughnecks, catching 15 passes for 253 yards and four touchdowns in five games. Kirklin was a also a standout player at Lutcher.

The Green Bay Packers have released former LSU quarterback Danny Etling. He was on the Packers practice squad all of last season.

LSU has received a commitment from four-star wide receiver Jelani Watkins. He’s from Houston and the five-foot-ten, 160-pounder also wants to run track at LSU. He’s ranked by ESPN as the 105th best player in the 2024 recruiting class.

Both Dylan Crews and Gavin Dugas hit home runs Fredericksburg yesterday. The two former LSU Tigers are playing for the Nationals Class-A team.

And Lee Hedges Stadium in Shreveport will be closed this fall for renovations, which means Byrd and Captain Shreve will have to find another venue to play football games, Independence Stadium and Northwood High School are the other options.

6:30 LRN Newscast

A new study from the Consumer Federation of America finds that safe drivers with bad credit pay an average of 905 dollars more than drivers with excellent credit scores. Director of Real Reform Louisiana Ben Riggs says non-driving related factors should not determine auto rates…
Cut 4 (10) “…excellent credit.”
According to CFA, State Farm charges people in Louisiana with fair credit a 78 percent surcharge over the premiums charged to excellent credit drivers and a 224 percent surcharge for people with poor credit. But Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon believes credit is an accurate predictor of the likelihood of loss for a policyholder…
Cut 5 (10) “…good credit.”

If you’ve never attended the University of Louisiana at Lafayette’s Operation Smoke Sheaux, tonight’s your chance to get a behind-the-scenes look on the Food Network’s BBQ USA. Brooke Thorington has more.
Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

It’s back-to-school time as most students return to class this week. Louisiana Highway Safety Commission spokesperson Gregory Fischer says that means the return of school zone speed limits.
Cut 11 (07) “…in the afternoon.”

10:30 LRN Newscast Aug 5

It wasn’t the jackpot, but a million-dollar MegaMillions ticket was sold in Hammond. The ticket matched five numbers from Friday night’s drawing and was sold at the Quick Way on University Drive. So, you might want to go check your ticket if you purchased one there.

So, let’s pretend you win the jackpot, you have the option of a cash value one-time payment, or the entire jackpot paid overtime. Financial advisor Fred Dent says if you have the discipline to invest you might want to select the one-lump payment…
cut 14 (09) “…over time.”

No one can claim the Jackpot, that rolls over for Tuesday’s night drawing at an estimated $1.5 billion.

Saints pro bowl running back Alvin Kamara has been for suspended for 3 games stemming from his arrest in Las Vegas in 2022. He eventually pled no contest after appearing in court for a misdemeanor charge from an event that knocked a man unconscious. Kamara regrets what happened.

Cut 17  (09) “…bad decision.”

Kamara will miss games against Tennessee, Carolina, and Green Bay.

A dozen chefs from across the country are facing off tonight to win the crown at the 2023 Great American Seafood Cook-off in New Orleans. Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says every year chefs representing their state get to display their incredible talent and showcase their seafood creations…
Cut 6 (11) “…to Louisiana.”.

AM LRN Newscast Aug 7

A new report from the Consumer Federation of America finds on average a motorist with poor credit has to pay twice as much for auto insurance as a driver with excellent credit, even if their driving safety history is the same.  Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (31)  “….I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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If you’ve never attended the University of Louisiana at Lafayette’s Operation Smoke Sheaux, tonight’s your chance to get a behind-the-scenes look on the Food Network’s BBQ USA. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

_______________________________________________

This week, campaign season for the fall elections officially gets underway as qualifying begins on Tuesday. Brooke Thorington has more…

Cut 3 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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A new study from the Consumer Federation of America finds that safe drivers with bad credit pay an average of 905 dollars more than drivers with excellent credit scores. Director of Real Reform Louisiana Ben Riggs says non-driving related factors should not determine auto rates…

Cut 4 (10)  “…excellent credit.”

According to CFA, State Farm charges people in Louisiana with fair credit a 78 percent surcharge for excellent credit drivers and a 224 percent surcharge for people with poor credit. But Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon believes credit is an accurate predictor of the likelihood of loss for a policyholder…

Cut 5 (10)   “…good credit.”

Riggs says it’s time Louisiana stops allowing auto insurance companies to penalize good drivers, just because their credit score is not good. He says this practice allows insurance providers to pad their profits…

Cut 6 (11)  “…good drivers”

Riggs says three states have passed laws to prohibit using credit scores in setting insurance prices, California, Hawaii, and Massachusetts. He points out all three states have cheaper auto insurance than Louisiana. But Donelon says insurance companies have seen people with poor credit try to use minor accidents to improve their financial situation…

Cut 7 (10) “…pay more.”

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Tonight’s episode of “BBQ USA” on the Food Network is entitled “Battle on the Bayou” and it will feature the University of Louisiana at Lafayette’s Operation Smoke Sheaux. Ryan Gonzales, assistant director of Veteran and Military Students at the university says the Food Network is showcasing their annual fundraiser Operation Smoke Sheaux.

Cut 8 (08) “…first one.”

Gonzales says their first event was one of the largest BBQ competitions in the state. So big that it grabbed the attention of the Food Network, and they filmed the annual event back in April. Gonzales says the episode follows six competitors throughout the contest.

Cut 9 (09)  “…ceremony.”

And while he wouldn’t reveal the winner of the competition, Gonzales is thrilled about the national exposure the fundraiser will receive and hopes even more contestants come to the Bayou State to showcase their skills next year.

Cut 10 (09) “…in April.”

Funds raised from the event aid student veterans facing extreme hardship and that includes health issues or natural disaster recovery. The episode airs at 9 PM tonight on the Food Network.

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It’s back-to-school time as most students return to class this week. Louisiana Highway Safety Commission spokesperson Gregory Fischer says that means the return of school zone speed limits.

Cut 11 (07) “…in the afternoon.”

Louisiana law prohibits drivers from using handheld cell phones while driving through an active school zone. A first-time violation can cost a driver up to 500 dollars. Every subsequent violation will result in up to a one-thousand-dollar fine and a 60-day suspended driver’s license.

Fischer says drivers should also watch for school buses that are making multiple stops along neighborhood streets…

Cut 12 (10) “…on the road.”

Fischer says it’s up to us to be vigilant drivers in areas where children are present…

Cut 13 (06) “..little world.”

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The fall election season will ramp up this week as a three-day qualifying period begins tomorrow for candidates to sign up for the elected position they would like to serve. There are seven major candidates in the governor’s race. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says we’ll know by the end of the business day on Thursday if all seven will actually have their name on the ballot…

Cut 14 (07)  “…have the names.” 

Pinsonat says at the moment, there have been seven candidates actively campaigning for governor, but there’s a chance one of two of them will look at the political landscape and decide not to qualify…

Cut 15 (10)  “…to win.”

Pinsonat says there’s still time for a surprise entrance into the governor’s race. He says it’s unlikely, but still possible, especially if that person has deep pockets and can self-finance much of their campaign.

Voters will also be choosing new statewide elected officials, or re-electing in some cases. Pinsonat expects the race for Attorney General, State Treasurer and Secretary of State will be hotly contested, even though there is not as much money in those races…

Cut 16 (10) “…election system safe.”

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Saints pro bowl running back Alvin Kamara has been for suspended for 3 games stemming from his arrest in Las Vegas in 2022. He eventually pled no contest after appearing in court for a misdemeanor charge from an event that knocked a man unconscious. Kamara since regrets what happened.

Cut 17  (08) “…bad decision.”

Kamara will miss games against the Tennessee Titans, Carolina Panthers, and Green Bay Packers. He can return to the team’s active roster as soon as the following day of the week 3 matchup. Kamara also said that it has also affected him off the field.

Cut 18 (11) “…some people.”

Kamara took responsibility for his actions before the suspension came down…

Cut 19 (08) “…going forward.”

 

Cut 20 (10)  “…they’ve proven it.”  

9:30 LRN Newscast Aug 5

While no one is waking up a billionaire with a MegaMillions Jackpot there was a million-dollar winning ticket sold in Hammond, they matched five numbers. That ticket was sold at Quick Way on University Drive. But let’s pretend you did hit the jackpot, what is the wisest course of action? Fred Dent with Dent Wealth Advisors says to sign the back of your ticket, take a high-resolution photo of both sides of your ticket, and put it in a secure place.

Cut 13 (10) “…advantage.”

And if you want to donate any of your winnings to your favorite charity Dent recommends forming a foundation for the best tax advantage of your windfall.

Auto insurers have been given the green light to increase rates by the Insurance Commission. Among the top two is State Farm with a 17-percent increase followed by Progressive at 10 percent.

Saints defensive end Cam Jordan signed a two-year contract extension that will keep him with the Black and Gold through the 2025 season. Jordan is the Saints all-time leader in sacks, but during a press conference, he made it clear that he only has one thing he wants before he ends his career…

cut 4 (11) “….of this deal”

The Great American Seafood Cook-off in New Orleans tonight. Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says it’s an event that highlights the quality and variety of domestic seafood…

cut 8 (11) “…these imports”
Representing Louisiana in the competition is Owen Hohl, who is the chef at Hot Tails in Ascension Parish.

8:30 LRN Newscast Aug 5

Eight-time pro bowler and three-time all-pro Cameron Jordan has agreed to a 2 year 27.5 million dollar extension with the New Orleans Saints.

Cut 3 (8) “…been here.”

Jordan says he has one thing he wants before he ends his career a second Super Bowl ring.

According to researchers, this year’s ‘Dead Zone’ in the northern Gulf of Mexico is the sixth smallest in 36 years. The decrease is due to water temperatures and low water flow on the Mississippi River. LSU Professor Nancy Rabalais says the waterway is moving less water and carrying fewer nutrients.

Cut 9 (10)  “…not stratified.”

Researchers say the region has shrunk nearly 3,000 square miles since July.

The Great American Seafood Cook-off is tonight in New Orleans. A dozen chefs from around the country are competing for the crown. Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says the love and passion the chefs put into each dish is incredible…
cut 7 (12) “….Louisiana seafood”
Louisiana will be represented by Owen Hohl who is the chef at Hot Tails in Ascension Parish.

The 2023 Cameron Fishing Festival got underway last night. They have live music, an auction, plenty of fun for the kids, and some fishing also. The blessing of the fleet is also a time-honored tradition for the event. A ceremony is held to honor fishermen, shrimpers, and the seafood industry. The festival wraps up tonight. Funds raised from the event go towards scholarships for Cameron High School seniors.

And an Extreme Heat Warning is in effect for the entire state until 9 this evening. So be sure to take extra precautions.

 

5:30 LRN Newscast August 4

The NFL has suspended Saints running back Alvin Kamara for three games for his role in a fight outside a Las Vegas nightclub in February 2022. Last month, Kamara plead no contest to a misdemeanor charge. Before the suspension was handed down, Kamara said he made a very bad decision that day.

But in more positive news, One of the Saints best defensive players has signed a contract extension. Pierson Luscy has more…
Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Pierson Luscy”

The dead zone in the Gulf of Mexico is smaller than normal, but it’s still nearly the size of Yellowstone National Park. So this year it covers more than three-thousand square thousand miles. LSU Professor Nancy Rabalais says the smaller hypoxia zone is attributed to low flow of the Mississippi River and the pollution that causes the dead zone has not been reduced…
cut 11 (10) “….the river”

Saturday night is the Great American Seafood Cook-off in New Orleans. Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says it’s an event that highlights the quality and variety domestic seafood…
cut 8 (11) “…these imports”
Representing Louisiana in the competition is Owen Hohl, who is the chef at Hot Tails in Ascension Parish.

4:45 LRN Sportscast

Breaking news out of the NFL, Saints running back Alvin Kamara has been suspended for the first three games of the regular season for violating the NFL’s personal conduct policy. The violation was from an arrest in February 2022 in Las Vegas, and Kamara will be eligible in all three of the Saints preseason games. He can return to the active roster on Monday September 25, which is the day after the Saints week 3 matchup against the Green bay Packers.

Kamara missed the previous practice after he visited Roger Goodell about the arrest and took responsibility.

Cut 26 (8) “… the NFL.

Saints star defensive end Cameron Jordan signed a 2 year 27.5 million dollar deal with the team which will lock him in with the team for the next 3 years. The 8 time pro bowler is the Saints all-time sack leader and says why he signed the deal with the team.

Cut 27 (8) …been here.”

LSU football head coach Brian Kelly announced a change to the team’s injury update protocol to limit the questions from the media about player injury status. This is not a typical procedure for college athletics, but he has no concern that it will give a competitive advantage to any of his opponents.
Cut 18 (10) “what you expect.”

Oregon and Washington are planning to leave the PAC 12 conference to join the Big 10. The two teams’ addition to the Big 10 will bring the conference’s total to 18 teams. Arizona also on the move to the Big 12 joining Colorado as teams that are leaving the PAC 12 for the Big 12, and both of the teams can be a part of the Big 12 as soon as 2024. With the moves around the country, there are now only 6 teams consisting of the PAC 12 conference. Arizona State could be another team leaving the PAC 12 after a board of regents meeting discussed their possibility, leaving the PAC 12 in serious doubts.

16:30 LRN Newscast

Tonight’s MegaMillions jackpot is the second largest in the history of the game. Would you know what to do if you won? Jeff Palermo has some tips
Cut 2 (31) “….I’m Jeff Palermo.”

A lot of news happening with the Saints today, defensive end Cam Jordan signed a two-year contract extension to remain with the Black and Gold through 2025. Also, the NFL has suspended running back Alvin Kamara for the first three games as a result of a fight outside of a Las Vegas nightclub.

The size of the Dead Zone in the Gulf of Mexico is the sixth smallest in 36 years. LSU Professor Nancy Rabalais says unfortunately it’s not because there’s a decrease in pollution that robs this part of the gulf of oxygen…
cut 10 (11) “…action plan”
Rabalais says the dead zone is smaller because the Mississippi River flow is not as high as usual, because of dry conditions across the central U-S.

A dozen chefs from across the country will face off for the crown at the 2023 Great American Seafood Cook-off in the Crescent City tomorrow. Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says every year chefs representing their state get to display their incredible talent and showcase their seafood creations…
Cut 6 (11) “…to Louisiana.”
Chef Owen Hohl from Hot Tails Restaurant in Ascension Parish is representing Louisiana.

LRN PM Newscall August 4

One of the Saints best defensive players in franchise history is not going anywhere anytime soon as he has a new contract that will allow him to retire as a member of the Black and Gold. Pierson Luscy has more…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Pierson Luscy” 

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Tonight’s MegaMillions jackpot is the second largest in the history of the game. Would you know what to do if you won? Jeff Palermo has some tips

Cut 2 (31)  “….I’m Jeff Palermo.”  

______________________________________

Eight time pro bowler and three time all pro Cameron Jordan has agreed to a 2 year 27.5 million dollars extension with the New Orleans Saints.

Cut 3 (08) “…been here.”

Jordan is the Saints franchise all-time leader in sacks with 115.5, but made it clear that he only has one thing he wants before he ends his career.

Cut 4 (11) “of this deal.”

He also thinks it is completely possible to reach that ultimate goal after what he has seen in camp so far.

Cut 5 (14) “to their offense.”

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A dozen chefs from across the country will face off for the crown at the 2023 Great American Seafood Cook-off in the Crescent City tomorrow. Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says every year chefs representing their state get to display their incredible talent and showcase their seafood creations…

Cut 6 (11)  “…to Louisiana.” 

The culinary showdown will be live-streamed with a celebrity panel of judges. Nungesser says the love and passion the chefs put into each dish is incredible…

Cut 7 (12)  “…Louisiana seafood.” 

2023 King of Louisiana Seafood winner Chef Owen Hohl of Hot Tails in Prairieville will represent the state this year.  Nungesser says the goal is to promote the quality and variety of domestic seafood found in the US.

Cut 8 (11)  “…these imports.” 

Opening ceremonies begin at 11:15 am Saturday.

______________________________________________

According to researchers, this year’s ‘Dead Zone’ in the northern Gulf of Mexico is the sixth smallest in 36 years. The decrease is due to water temperatures and low water flow on the Mississippi River. LSU Professor Nancy Rabalais says the waterway is moving less water and carrying fewer nutrients.

Cut 9 (10)  “…not stratified.”

The deadzone has shrunk nearly 3,000 square miles since July which is just over 13 times the size of Lake Pontchartrain, according to researchers. Rabalais says the flow of nitrogen in the river over the last two decades has resulted in less bottom water hypoxia.

Cut 10 (11)  “…action plan.”

The Environmental Protection Agency has made $60 million available for nutrient reduction projects through its Gulf Hypoxia Program – part of the 2022 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Rabalais says there remains a need for nutrient reduction to protect the health of the river and marine life.

Cut 11 (10)  “…the river”

Since records began in 1985, the largest dead zone was 8,776 square miles in 2017.

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Tonight’s MegaMillions jackpot is the second largest in the history of the game, at $1.35 Billion, with a cash value of $659.5 million. Dustin Annison with the Louisiana Lottery says jackpot fever in the Bayou State is as high as the temperatures outside…

Cut 12 (10) “…$3.9 million.” 

So, let’s pretend you did hit the jackpot after you catch your breath, what is the wisest course of action? Fred Dent with Dent Wealth Advisors says to sign the back of your ticket and take a high-resolution photo of both sides and put it in a secure place because it is a weekend.

Cut 13 (10) “…advantage.”

And with such a large jackpot Dent you want to put a portion of your winnings in a foundation so when you make donations to charities or other organizations you are doing so with the best tax advantage.

If you choose to take the cash value, Dent says if you have the discipline to invest it properly you might even do better versus taking the more than billion-dollar annuity.

Cut  14 (09)  “…over time.”

Annison says to sign your ticket after the purchase and even if you don’t hit all the numbers, you could still be a winner. He says just this current jackpot run alone there’s been one $20,000 winner and seven $10,000 winners in Louisiana.