10:30 LRN Newscast

In a little less than four months, voters will head to the polls to have the final say on certain aspects of the tax reform law that the legislature passed in the special session. Steven Procopio, the president of the Public Affairs Research Council of Louisiana, says PAR will release a voter guide on the amendment vote, but it will take a couple months to sift through everything.

Cut 6 (11) “…all the details.”

The election is slated for March 29th.

Woman’s Hospital in Baton Rouge releases its annual list of the most popular baby names for 2024. Hospital spokeswoman Laurel Burgos says while many names are more traditional, some more modern trendy names made it onto the list.

Cut 14 (09) “…more trendy.” 

The number-one name for boys is Noah; the most popular name for girls is Amelia.

The holiday season can be a difficult time for many, marked by stress, loneliness and depression. LSU Medical Center Trauma Psychologist Sandy Hyatt says by prioritizing mental health and redefining the holidays on personal terms, people can find joy and connection beyond the season.

Cut 9 (15)  “…this time of year.”

Hyatt says seeking social connections, expressing emotions through journaling or conversations, and setting boundaries to avoid over-commitment are also effective.

A 93-year-old former Catholic priest pleads guilty to all counts in his long-delayed rape trial. Lawrence Hecker admitted to suffocating a teenage boy until he was unconscious and raping him in a New Orleans church back in 1975. Hecker had previously confessed to molesting several boys in the 1960s and 1970s. Hecker will be sentenced later this month.

9:30 LRN Newscast

On March 29th, voters will once again head to the polls – this time to decide on some aspects of the tax reform package passed in the special session. Steven Procopio, the president of the Public Affairs Research Council of Louisiana, says among other things, the rewritten law includes options for local governments.

Cut 5 (09) “…effects of that.” 

PAR will release a voter guide on the amendment vote, but it will take a couple months to sift through everything.

Today is Giving Tuesday in Louisiana. It’s the day when people are urged to support charitable causes and to engage in acts of generosity. United Way Southeast Louisiana CEO Michael Williamson says donating one dollar can have a 14-dollar impact on our communities.

Cut 11 (16) “…14-dollar impact.”

The Holidays should be a time for joy and happiness; but for many it’s a difficult time marked by stress, loneliness, and depression. Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 2 (35) “…Sean Richardson.”

Meet the new boss – same as the old boss. McNeese tapped Matt Viator (VEE-uh-tore) as its new – make that returning – head football coach. Viator previously coached the team from 2006 to 2015, racking up 78 wins, four Southland Conference titles and five playoff appearances.

8:30 am Newscast

We all know the holiday season can be a difficult time…marked for many by stress, loneliness and depression at a time when everyone expects us all to be cheerful.  Experts recommend setting realistic expectations and focusing on connection instead of perfection. LSU Medical Center Trauma Psychologist Sandy Hyatt.

Cut 8 (08) “…isolated and low.”

Today is Giving Tuesday in Louisiana, a day for individuals, businesses, and organizations to unite in addressing community needs and driving positive change. United Way Southeast Louisiana CEO Michael Williamson says it’s amazing to see how many people are willing to give.

Cut 12 (14) “…helps accomplish that.”

——————————–

The Ragin Cajuns are gearing up to host the Sun Belt Championship game on Saturday night. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (31) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

The worst fears regarding Saints utility man Taysom Hill’s knee injury are confirmed. He has a torn ACL and will miss the rest of the season. Interim head coach Darren Rizzi…

Cut 15 (13) “…step up.”

7:30 am Newscast

Today is Giving Tuesday in Louisiana, encouraging residents across the state to support charitable causes and engage in acts of generosity. Taking place on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, United Way Southeast Louisiana CEO Michael Williamson says Giving Tuesday provides a chance for all of us to unite to address community needs and drive positive change.

Cut 10 (15) “…make that happen.”

Speaking of change, some aspects of the Louisiana’s new tax reform package needs voter approval and that election is set for March 29th. Steven Procopio, the president of the Public Affairs Research Council of Louisiana, says citizens will vote on what is essentially a rewrite of the tax and spending section of the state constitution.

Cut 4 (10) “…rainy day fund.”

——————————

The Holidays should be a time for joy and happiness, but for many it’s a difficult time marked by stress, loneliness, and depression. Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 2 (35) “…Sean Richardson.”

An 87 year old grandmother is dead and fie others are inured after an explosion in Avondale yesterday.  According to investigators, the explosion happened after a construction truck ruptured a nearby gas line.  87 year old Delores Gabriel died in the fire.  Five other family members, including a two year old and a four year old, were treated for burn-related injuries.

6:45 LRN Sportscast

The worst fears regarding Saints utility man Taysom Hill’s knee injury are confirmed. He has a torn ACL and will miss the rest of the season. Interim head coach Darren Rizzi says you can’t replace Hill’s versatility…

Cut 15 (13) “…step up.”

Hill is the Saints second leading rusher. But Rizzi said running back Kendre Miller can return for Sunday’s game against the Giants. Miller is currently on injured reserve with a hamstring injury.

Three LSU Tigers were named players of the week. Linebacker Whit Weeks received defensive player of the week honors for his 17 tackles, Aaron Anderson is the Special Teams Player of the Week for his 100-yard kickoff return for a touchdown and Dominick McKinley is the Freshman of the Week after recording two sacks in the win over Oklahoma.

________________________________________________________

Southern will battle Jackson State in the SWAC title game on Saturday afternoon in Jackson, Mississippi. The Jaguars leaned on their defense to win the western division title with a seven and one record and that side of the football will need to be at its best for them to beat the Tigers. Coach Terrance Graves…

Cut 19 (12) “…take the ball away.”  

Kick off is at 1 PM on ESPN Two.

Former McNeese Coach Matt Viator is returning to Lake Charles to be the head coach for the Cowboys once again. Viator is the school’s all-time winningest coach with 78 victories and led the Pokes to four Southland Championships from 2006 to 2015. He’ll be re-introduced tomorrow.

A couple of big men’s college basketball games tonight. LSU hosts Florida State in the SEC-ACC Challenge. And McNeese hosts Santa Clara in a mid-major showdown.

Last night ULM lost to UT Arlington 84-70 and and the Pelicans dropped their ninth straight, falling to the Atlanta Hawks.

6:30 am Newscast

Some aspects of Louisiana’s new tax reform plan will require voter approval.  And that’ll be on the ballot in March.  Here’s Andrew Greenstein.

Cut 1 (33)“…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

Woman’s Hospital in Baton Rouge, has released its annual list of the most popular baby names for 2024.   Vice President of Marketing and Communications Laurel Burgos says leading the list for boys is a name that’s been very popular for the last few years…

Cut 13 (05)  “…top of the boys list.”

The most popular names for girls, Amelia, Charlotte and Olivia.

——————————-

The holiday season can be a difficult time for many, marked by stress, loneliness, and depression. Common triggers include societal expectations of cheerfulness, financial pressures, unrealistic ideals, grief, and seasonal affective disorder. LSU Medical Center Trauma Psychologist Sandy Hyatt …

Cut 7 (08) “…much time with.”

Today is Giving Tuesday in Louisiana, so be on the lookout for ways you can help those in need. Nonprofits, schools, and faith-based organizations across the state participate organizing fundraisers, volunteer events, and awareness campaigns. United Way Southeast Louisiana CEO Michael Williamson says donating just a little can make a big difference.

Cut 11 (16) “…14-dollar impact.”

LRN AM Newscall December 3

With the legislature passing a comprehensive tax reform package, some aspects will require voter approval, and that will happen in March. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (33)“…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

_____________________________________________

The Holidays should be a time for joy and happiness, but for many it’s a difficult time marked by stress, loneliness, and depression. Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 2 (35) “…Sean Richardson.”

_____________________________________________

The Ragin Cajuns are gearing up to host the Sun Belt Championship game on Saturday night. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (31) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

_____________________________________________

Some aspects of the tax reform package passed by the legislature will need voter approval, and that election is slated for March 29th. Steven Procopio, the president of the Public Affairs Research Council of Louisiana, says citizens will vote on what is essentially a complete rewrite of Article 7 of the state constitution – the tax and spending section.

Cut 4 (10) “…rainy day fund.”

Procopio says the rewritten article also includes options for local governments.

Cut 5 (09) “…effects of that.” 

Procopio says PAR will release a voter guide on the amendment vote, but it will take a couple months to sift through everything contained in the proposal.

Cut 6 (11) “…all the details.”

_____________________________________________

The holiday season can be a difficult time for many, marked by stress, loneliness, and depression. Common triggers include societal expectations of cheerfulness, financial pressures, unrealistic ideals, grief, and seasonal affective disorder. LSU Medical Center Trauma Psychologist Sandy Hyatt says these factors can magnify feelings of inadequacy and sadness, making the holidays challenging.

Cut 7 (08) “…much time with.”

Strategies to combat holiday-related sadness include setting realistic expectations and embracing imperfections to focus on connection rather than perfection. Hyatt says seeking social connections, expressing emotions through journaling or conversations, and setting boundaries to avoid over-commitment are also effective.

Cut 8 (08) “…isolated and low.”

Hyatt says embracing mindfulness, gratitude, and the acceptance of emotions, including tears, can foster resilience and hope. By prioritizing mental health and redefining the holidays on personal terms, individuals can find joy and connection beyond the season.

Cut 9 (15)  “…this time of year.”

_____________________________________________

Today is Giving Tuesday in Louisiana, encouraging residents across the state to support charitable causes and engage in acts of generosity. Taking place on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, United Way Southeast Louisiana CEO Michael Williamson says it provides an opportunity for individuals, businesses, and organizations to unite in addressing community needs and driving positive change.

Cut 10 (15) “…make that happen.”

In Louisiana, the day often highlights the unique culture, challenges, and spirit of its communities. Nonprofits, schools, and faith-based organizations across the state participate by organizing fundraisers, volunteer events, and awareness campaigns. Williamson says donating one dollar can have a 14-dollar impact on our communities.

Cut 11 (16) “…14-dollar impact.”

Coming off Black Friday and Cyber Monday, William says it’s been amazing to see how much Giving Tuesday has grown over the years and having a day where people are grateful and willing to give…

Cut 12 (14) “…helps accomplish that.”

_______________________________________________________

Woman’s Hospital in Baton Rouge, has released its annual list of the most popular baby names for 2024.   Vice President of Marketing and Communications Laurel Burgos says leading the list for boys is a name that’s been very popular for the last few years…

Cut 13 (05)  “…top of the boys list.”    (Noah is number one for boys, followed by Liam, Henry and John.)

For girls, Amelia was the most popular name at Woman’s Hospital, while Charlotte and Olivia landed at the second and third spots.

While many names are more traditional, Burgos says some more modern trendy names made it on the list.

Cut 14 (09) “…more trendy.”

Woman’s Hospital is the largest single delivery service in Louisiana.

_______________________________________________________

The worst fears regarding Saints utility man Taysom Hill’s knee injury are confirmed. He has a torn ACL and will miss the rest of the season. Hill was carted off the field in Sunday’s loss to the Rams. Interim head coach Darren Rizzi says you can’t replace Hill’s versatility…

Cut 15 (13) “…step up.”

Hill is the Saints second leading rusher. But a young running back could be available to play this Sunday against the Giants. Second year back Kendre Miller could be removed from injured reserve. The 22-year-old is trying to come back from a second hamstring injury. He also had an injury plagued rookie season. Rizzi says he wants to give Miller a shot…

Cut 16 (16) “…staying healthy.”

_____________________________________________________________

Redshirt senior Chandler Fields will make his third start at quarterback this Saturday when U-L Lafayette hosts Marshall on Saturday night in the Sun Belt Championship game. Fields has played well for the injured Ben Woolridge and Coach Michael Desormeaux is not surprised…

Cut 17 (15) “…his today.” 

Desormeaux is leading his alma mater to the conference championship in his third season as head coach. His first two seasons were six and seven campaigns, but knew it would eventually come together…

Cut 18 (18)   “…for those things.”

__________________________________________________

Southern will battle Jackson State in the SWAC title game on Saturday afternoon in Jackson, Mississippi. The Jaguars leaned on their defense to win the western division title with a seven and one record and that side of the football will need to be at its best for them to beat the Tigers. Coach Terrance Graves…

Cut 19 (12) “…take the ball away.”  

Southern’s defense is led by Ckelby Givens, who leads the F-C-S in tackles for a loss and he’s eighth in the nation in sacks. Graves says Givens has put in the work to become a great player…

Cut 20 (17) “…co-defensive player of the year.”

Grambling State linebacker Andrew Jones is the other SWAC co-defensive player of the year. Jones led the conference in tackles with 122.

5:30 PM Newscast Dec 2

Some aspects of Louisiana’s newly passed tax reform package will need voter approval on March 29th. Steven Procopio, the president of the Public Affairs Research Council of Louisiana, says citizens will vote on what is essentially a complete rewrite of Article 7, the tax and spending section of the state constitution.

Cut 4 (10) “…rainy day fund.”

Procopio says the rewritten article also includes options for local governments.

Monroe-area Congressman Julia Letlow has landed a spot on the Republican’s Steering Committee. Letlow says this powerful committee will have a major say on what the 119th Congress will look like…

Cut 7 (11) “…selections.”

New Orleans endured a weekend of intense gun violence, with eight shootings in less than 12 hours, leaving three adults and a 3-year-old child dead, and nine others injured. New Orleans Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick says group fights on Canal and Bourbon Streets led to three shootings on Saturday night and into early Sunday, wounding six people…

Cut 3 (14) “…settling their beefs.”

McNeese Football legend and Hall of Fame Coach Matt Viator is returning to McNeese. Athletic Director Heath Schroyer made the announcement today that the former head football coach will be the next Cowboys coach. Schroyer said he wanted a coach who embraced the expectations and standards of McNeese, and he said, they got the man who set them. Viator’s record at McNeese from 2006 to 2015 was 78 and 33 with two undefeated regular seasons and he was named SLC Coach of the Year in 2006,2007, and 2015 and was inducted into the McNeese Hall of Fame in 2021.

4:45 LRN Sportscast

The Saints mini two-game winning streak ended Sunday and the season is over for offensive utility man Taysom Hill. The Los Angeles Rams scored three second half touchdowns to beat New Orleans 21 to 14 and late in the fourth quarter, Hill was carted off the field with a knee injury. Tests confirmed today that Hill has a torn A-C-L. The 4-and-8 Saints visit the Giants this Sunday.

The LSU football team defeated Oklahoma 37-17 in the regular season finale on Saturday. Quarterback Garrett Nussmeier came back from an in-game injury to his shoulder to throw for 277 yards and three touchdowns. Nussmeier says he was determined to finish the game…

Cut 20 (15) “….out there”

Back-up quarterback Rickie Collins reportedly plans to enter the transfer portal. The former Woodlawn of Baton Rouge star is the Tigers third string quarterback.

Three Louisiana college football teams are involved in conference championship games this weekend. Tulane is at Army in the A-A-C title game, Southern faces Jackson State in the SWAC Title game and the Ragin Cajuns will host Marshall in the Sun Belt title game. U-L Lafayette beat ULM on Saturday 37 to 23. Running back Zylan Perry rushed for a career-high 150 yards and a two touchdowns. Perry was questionable for the game, Coach Michael Desormeaux…

Cut 17 (15) “…his today”

Louisiana Tech football coach Sonny Cumbie will return for a fourth season. The Bulldogs went 5-and-7 this past season after going 3-and-9 in Cumbie’s first two seasons in Ruston.

But Tim Rebowe is done after ten seasons as the head coach at Nicholls State. Rebowe announced his retirement on Sunday after leading the Colonels to four FCS playoff appearances and three Southland championships.

4:30 PM Newscast Dec 2

New Orleans endured a weekend of intense gun violence, with eight shootings in less than 12 hours, leaving three adults and a child dead. 3-year-old Rudy Ratliff died from a gunshot wound at a Willow Street home in Central City.  NOPD Sgt. Ron Howard says the child found a gun inside Tatisha Refuge’s home and accidentally killed himself.  Howard says Refuge is facing criminal charges…

Cut 5 (13) “…investigation on Ms. Refuge.”

Refuge turned herself into police custody today

There were 18 named storms in the 2024 Atlantic Hurricane season that ended Sunday. Louisiana saw damage from two hurricanes, Beryl made landfall in Texas and Francine made landfall in Terrebonne Parish. LSU Public Health Climatologist, Barry Keim…

Cut 14 (11) “…pretty good year.”

Another Louisiana representative is added to a powerful GOP committee. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

Despite three consecutive losing seasons, Louisiana Tech is bringing back football coach Sonny Cumbie for a fourth season. The Bulldogs went 5-and-7 this season and there are Bulldog fans who say athletics director Ryan Ivey kept Cumbie, because the buyout to fire him was too expensive but 97.7 Sports talk host, Sean Fox doesn’t see it that way

Cut 11 (13) “…a chance.”