LRN PM Newscall December 5

LSU Pennington Biomedical Research Center receives a grant of more than $13 million to find the best way to help childhood obesity in minority and rural communities.

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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Drivers who travel across the Jimmie Davis Bridge in Shreveport connecting Caddo and Bossier Parishes will notice activity at the base of the bridge. Teiko Foxx explains….

Cut 2 (34)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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LSU Pennington Biomedical Research Center has received a more than $13 million grant to help fight childhood obesity among minorities and those in rural communities. Associate Professor Amanda Staiano says the grant will allow them to find the best approach to deliver their 26-hour evidence-based obesity program.

Cut 3 (09) “…time period.”

Staiano says participants will be under the guidance of their physician and have access to a nutritionist. And while they recognize the program isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach, a social worker is also assigned to the family…

Cut 4 (11) “…they need.”

The outreach study among minority children and those in rural backgrounds is in conjunction with Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Staiano says both Louisiana and Tennessee have similar obesity rates, especially among minorities and children in rural areas.

Cut 5 (11) “ …of families.”  

In the US about 22 percent of Hispanic and 20 percent of Black children have obesity compared to 14 percent of white children. In rural areas, the childhood obesity rate increases to 22 percent.

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The Louisiana Department of Transportation has started preliminary site work for the new $361 million dollar Jimmie Davis Bridge connecting Bossier and Caddo Parishes. Spokesperson Erin Buchanan says drivers may notice workers clearing debris and vegetation near the foot of the bridge.

Cut 6 (08) “…extensive.”

Buchanan says major construction on the four-lane bridge is still about a year away as design work continues. She says the design phase also includes transforming the existing structure into a linear park.

Cut 7 (10) “…each side.” 

Buchanan says crews are assembling a trestle bridge to be used during construction on the new bridge. She says it’s a design-build project so larger parts of the development may not be seen for some time…

Cut 8 (08) “…great sign.” 

The entire project is expected to be completed in around five years.

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State Police have arrested a teenager driver involved in a fatal hit and run crash that occurred last week involving a bicyclist in Lafourche Parish. Trooper Ross Brennan says 19-year-old Isabelle Nguyen was traveling north on LA Highway one when she struck 66-year-old Henry Savoie of Larose

Cut 9 (10) “…that vehicle” 

Savoie died over the weekend from his injuries. Brennan says Nguyen was arrested yesterday and charged with hit and run driving with serious injury or death…

Cut 10 (06) “…of the crash”  

According to the police report, while Troopers were at the scene of the crash, Nguyen went to a sub station of the sheriff’s department. That’s when she was interviewed about her involvement in the crash. Brennan says Nguyen should have contacted authorities immediately

Cut 11 (07) “…here”

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Three people have died in three separate house fires in Louisiana over the last two days. Two of the fatal fires were in Avoyelles Parish. State Fire Marshal spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says the first fatal fire that occurred in Avoyelles occurred in the southern part of the parish…

Cut 12 (08)  “…inside”  

Rodrigue says there was second fatal fire in Avoyelles Parish this morning…

Cut 13 (09) “…man inside”

Rodrigue says they are also investigating a fatal fire that took place in St. Tammany Parish…

Cut  14 (11) “…accident there”

LRN AM Newscall December 5 2023

The Ragin Cajuns will once again make a short drive to compete in a bowl game as they’ll face Jacksonville State in the New Orleans Bowl. Teiko Foxx has more with the bowl director…

Cut 1 (27) “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Outgoing BESE President Holly Boffy (bow-fee) defends her initiative to allow students to appeal their scores on the state’s standardized graduation exam. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (33)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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It’s official! Jayden Daniels is a Heisman finalist. Colleen Crain has the story

Cut 3 (31) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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The Ragin Cajuns will make their seventh R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl appearance against the Jacksonville State Gamecocks on December 16. Bowl director Billy Ferrante says this matchup is considered one of the more compeitive bowl games

Cut 4 (12) “…Rich Rodriguez.”

The Ragin Cajuns are six-and-six overall, while Jacksonville State is 8-4.

This is the 23rd annual R-and-L Carriers New Orleans Bowl and everytime, U-L Lafayette is in the game, there’s more interest locally…

Cut 5 (12) “…0f market.”

The Cajuns are 5-and-1 in the New Orleans Bowl. Ferrante says the coaches, players and fans will enjoy this year’s experience.

Cut 6 (12) “…as well.”

The game will air on ESPN at 1:15 pm on December 16.

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Seven people have been arrested in a home invasion, false imprisonment, and second-degree battery of a female in Vidalia last week. Deputies are still looking for one more person who allegedly participated. Brandy Spears with Concordia Parish Sheriff’s Office says Friday,  a woman walked into a Vidalia pharmacy asking for help.

Cut 7 (08) “…night before..”

Spears says the female was inside a residence when eight individuals entered without permission. During the home invasion, she says the suspects then assaulted the victim.

Cut 8 (08) “…pepper spray.” 

The woman escaped the next day and was able to identify eight people ranging in age from 23 to 43 involved in the home invasion.

Although the investigation is ongoing, Spears says during a search warrant narcotics were found. She says deputies are working to arrest two other persons involved.

Cut 9 (08)  “…black male.”

Anyone with leads should contact the Concordia Sheriff or call 911.

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BESE President Holly Boffy continues to defend her efforts to allow students who fail the state’s standardized graduation exam to file an appeal. Boffy filed an emergency rule for the process to be implemented sooner but after political pushback, it will go into effect on December 20th.

Cut 10 (11) “…a distraction.”

Boffy says it was never her intent for the issue to become a political distraction, but the December 20th date still allows for December graduates.

Louisiana is one of eight states that require passage of the graduation exam but is the only state without an appeal. In just over two weeks, Boffy if a student is unable to pass a portion of LEAP, they can appeal to local educators to determine if they should be allowed to graduate….

Cut 11 (12) “…at students.” 

Boffy says it involves several steps and the students’ grades are also considered along with any hurdles they might be facing. She gave examples of students who are undergoing chemotherapy, or who have severe test anxiety.

She says an appeal is not the same as a waiver, which was used during the pandemic when they were unable to administer LEAP tests.

After serving 12 years on BESE, Boffy feels her initiative to allow for the appeals process in Louisiana will be among her proudest achievements. She’s optimistic a new board won’t reverse the appeals option, but if they do…

Cut 12 (08) “…state law.” 

Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley and Governor-elect Jeff Landry have been outspoken opponents of the appeal process.

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The list of Heisman finalists is out and Jayden Daniels is one of four players’ up for the award. Tiger Rag Editor Todd Horne says the oddsmakers believe Daniels will be LSU’s third Heisman Trophy winner…

Cut 13 (09) “…overwhelming favorite.”

Daniels leads college football in most offensive categories including yards per rush at 8.4 yards a carry. Horne says that sets Daniels apart from the other two quarterbacks up for the award….

Cut 14 (11) “…at quarterback.”

Some have mentioned LSU’s 9-3 record and its potential to hurt Daniels’ chances win the Heisman but Horne says, that shouldn’t matter…

Cut 15 (09) “…out there.”

The other finalists are Oregon quarterback Bo Nix, Washington quarterback Michael Penix Jr and Ohio State wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. The Heisman Trophy winner will be announced Saturday night.

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Saints quarterback Derek Carr has suffered another concussion from a hard hit he took in Sunday’s loss to the Lions. It’s the second head injury for the 32-year-old in a month. He also sustained a concussion on November 12th in a loss to the Vikings. Coach Dennis Allen says the concussion is not the only injury Carr has…

Cut 16 (15) “…will be.”

The Saints season is slipping away as they’ve lost three in a row and they are 5-5 on the season. Atlanta is in first place in the NFC South with a 6-6 record and they own the tiebreaker over New Orleans. Allen says they need a win this Sunday against Carolina…

Cut 17 (13) “…we can control.”

Kick-off between New Orleans and the Panthers in the Superdome on Sunday is at noon.

LRN PM Newscall December 4

One of the largest private owners of timberland in the world, Weyerhaeuser, will invest 96 million dollars in its Dobson lumber mill in Winn Parish to reduce carbon emissions. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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16 high school football teams are left standing and they will play in the Prep Classic that begins Thursday in the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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Weyerhaeuser, one of the largest private owners of timberland, will spend 96 million dollars to modernize and decarbonize its Winn Parish lumber mill. Spokesperson Deano Orr says the upgrade will increase safety, productivity, and reliability.

Cut 3 (12) “….dry kilns.”

Governor John Bel Edwards set a goal to reduce GHG emissions to net zero by 2050.

Orr says the Dodson facility will add a new trimmer, sorter, and stacker to improve mill efficiencies and help reach production targets. He says the technology will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and waste, in addition to…

Cut 4 (11) “…as well.”

Weyerhaeuser has eight locations in Louisiana including Hammond, Ruston, and Winnfield. The investment for facility and equipment upgrades in Winn Parish will continue to make an economic impact and retain nearly one hundred sixty jobs.

Orr says the company is committed to rural communities in the Bayou State. He says earlier this month the company announced the Thrive project…

Cut 5 (13) “ …first beneficiary.”  

The first two CDKs are expected to be installed by the end of next year.

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California will face off against Texas Tech in the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl in Shreveport on December 16th.  Bowl spokesperson Erik Evenson says it’s their first power-five match-up since 2016 and the game will be a three-hour commercial for Shreveport-Bossier City.

Cut 6 (12) “…the game.”

Both teams are six and six for the season. Cal has a big win over UCLA and Evenson says they have a dynamic running back with Jaydn Ott. Texas Tech has big wins over Kansas and UCF and a leading running back with Tahj Brooks. Evenson says it will be a great match-up…

Cut 7 (10) “…play too.” 

The game is usually held closer to Christmas which made it difficult for fans to travel but this year it will be primetime and on a Saturday. Evenson says it’s a win-win for visiting fans and locals to enjoy the festivities leading up to kickoff.

Cut 8 (10) “…on Monday.” 

The Pac-12 Golden Bears will play the Big 12 Conference Red Raiders on Saturday, December 16th at 8:15 on ESPN. For tickets and more information visit RadianceTechnologiesIndependenceBowl.com

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Sixteen teams are getting ready to play in the state high school football championships. Opelousas will play in its first state title game since 1956 and coach Jimmy Zachery says there’s a big buzz inside the St. Landry Parish town…

Cut 9 (09) “…all the time” 

Opelousas will play Cecilia in the Division two non-select state title game on Friday at noon in the Caesars Superdome. Cecilia Coach Dennis Skains has the Bulldogs playing for its first state title game since 1995…

Cut 10 (10) “…with that”  

Union Parish will make their fourth straight state championship game appearance when they face St. James on Friday afternoon. Farmers Head Coach Joe Spatafora says they want to win it all this year after finishing as a runner-up the last three seasons…

Cut 11 (11) “…last three”

The Prep Classic gets underway with Division Four state title games….Riverside versus Southern Lab and Haynesville against Oak Grove.

LRN AM Newscall December 4

Louisiana is seeing a decline in new HIV diagnoses. Colleen Crain has the details.

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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Louisianans will get an up-close view of the amazing craftsmanship and architecture of the State Capitol in a new LPB documentary premiering tonight at 7:00 pm. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 2 (33)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Louisiana lawmakers anticipate an extremely busy 2024 right out of the gate after Governor-elect Jeff Landry is sworn in. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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At one time Louisiana led the nation in HIV cases but Sam Burgess with The Louisiana Department of Health says, Since 2018, the Bayou State has seen an 11% decrease in new cases of HIV. Burgess says the improvements were possible through the efforts of many…

Cut 4 (11) “…public health partners.”

In spite of the disruptions to healthcare during the pandemic, Louisiana HIV patients continued to receive care and new cases fell. Close to 23,000 Louisianans are living with HIV and Burgess says the key to living healthy is sticking to the right plan and fortunately there are more options today…

Cut 5 (09) “…anymore.”

Burgess says we have come far since the dark days of the mid 90s when he began his work with HIV and AIDS and he can now imagine an end to the epidemic…

Cut 6 (11) “…together on it.”

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A new documentary called “A Tall Order: The Louisiana State Capitol” debuts tonight on Louisiana Public Broadcasting at 7 PM. LPB Senior Producer Dorothy Kendrick says the 90-minute program will give viewers a new perspective of the 450-foot-tall building that features amazing art and architecture.

Cut 7 (07) “…the top..”

The documentary looks at how Governor Huey P. Long led the construction of the tallest capitol building in the country, designed after Nebraska’s state capitol.

In 1930, Kendrick says Long first proposed a measure to fund the construction of the 27-story structure but it failed in the regular session. She says after Long was elected to U-S Senate after being impeached, later that year…

Cut 8 (12) “…a depression.” 

The film also provides a glimpse at the blueprints of the great memorial hall and the friezes depicting the Bayou State history on the 450-foot structure.

Kendrick says viewers can see the architects who designed the soaring tower. They will also view commissioned artists who provided the adornments and craftsmanship.

Cut 9 (12)  “…the capitol.”

After 14 months of construction, the Louisiana State Capitol opened in May 1932. The building cost $5 million to complete.

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With a GOP super-majority in the legislature and a Republican governor about to be sworn in, leaders from both sides of the aisle are weighing in on issues they’ll address in 2024. Newly-elected chair of the House Democratic Caucus, and New Orleans Representative Matthew Williard says the first item they’ll address is the state’s congressional map.

Cut 10 (12) “…for sure.”

New Iberia Senator-elect and former House GOP leader, Blake Miquez expects Governor-elect Jeff Landry will call a special session to address crime before the regular session in March.

Cut 11 (08) “…our governor.” 

Willard says one of the biggest concerns is rising property insurance premiums and legislators are eager to see what ideas the new insurance commissioner will present to lawmakers…

Cut 12 (11) “…special session.” 

In addition to addressing crime and the state’s insurance crisis, Miquez says improving education is another vital factor in attracting individuals and businesses to the state and keeping young people from leaving Louisiana.

Cut 13 (09) “…come about.”

Lawmakers and the Governor-elect Landry will be sworn in on January 8th.

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The Saints fell behind by three touchdowns to the Detroit Lions, but got back into the game in the second half only to lose 33-28. The defeat drops New Orleans record to 5-and-7, as they have now lost three in a row. Coach Dennis Allen believes his team is still confident they can make a run for a playoff spot…

Cut 14 (10) “…break through”

Derek Carr threw for 226 yards and a touchdown. But his first pass of the game was intercepted and he left the game in the fourth quarter after taking a huge hit. Jameis Winston was just two of five for 41 yards.

Taysom Hill was the Saints’ leading rusher with 59 yards and a touchdown. He scored on a one-yard touchdown run in the third quarter and that got New Orleans within three points, but could not complete the come back

Cut 15 (14) “…keep fighting”

But it was another slow start for the Saints defense as they allowed Detroit to march down the field on the opening drive of the afternoon. The Lions scored two more touchdowns in the first quarter. Safety Tyrann Mathieu says they’ve identified the issues that’s resulted in slow starts

Cut 16 (14) “…score game”

New Orleans is 5-7, Atlanta is in first place with a 6-6 record after beating the Jets 13-8. The Saints host the Panthers this Sunday, who has just one win on the season.

LRN PM Newscall December 1

After a four-game absence, LSU women’s basketball star forward Angel Reese made a powerful return to the court last night but felt her time off was necessary to recharge and refocus. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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If you’re looking for the perfect festival to get you in the holiday spirit and knock out some of your shopping, you need to head to downtown Alexandria. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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LSU All-American forward Angel Reese scored 19 points and had nine rebounds last night as the 7th-ranked Lady Tigers defeated ninth-ranked Virginia Tech 82-64. After a four-game absence, the Bayou Barbie says it felt good to be back.

Cut 3 (11) “….with them.”

For unknown reasons, Reese missed a home game against Texas Southern. She also missed games at SLU and two contests in the Cayman Island Classic.

Reese says she used her time away to reset and refocus. She says LSU legend Shaquille O’Neal was her daily motivator.

Cut 4 (15) “…I am.”

Reese made 9 of 16 free throws against the Hokies which contributed to Coach Kim Mulkey’s 700th career victory. Mulkey feels Reese’s return was good for Reese, the team, and Tiger Nation.

Cut 5 (13) “ …she’s comfortable.”  

The Lady Tigers take a break for final exams and will play again on December 10th when they host the Lady Cajuns.

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Alexandria’s favorite Winter Festival is back for the seventh year and there’s plenty of free-family-friendly entertainment. AlexWinterFete event manager Cathy Spiller says they even have an ice-skating rink with real ice, Santa Claus, a petting zoo, plenty of inflatables for the kids, and more….

Cut 6 (09) “…shopping vendors.”

Spiller says the ice-skating rink is a crowd favorite and you can buy a $10 fast pass that allows you to wait in a shorter line.

Cut 7 (12) “…don’t get” 

AlexWinterFete, which attracts an average of 30 thousand attendees, is a companion festival to the city’s spring event RiverFete. Spiller says WinterFete also has live music, and the festivities continue rain or shine…

Cut 8 (10) “…F-E-T-E.” 

The hours on Friday in downtown Alexandria are four to ten and on Saturday 10 am until 10 pm.

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Louisiana residents can now request an “Autism Spectrum Disorder” or a “Needs Accommodation” decal for their vehicle at no cost from the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles. Spokesperson Matthew Boudreaux says the decal will indicate to law enforcement that an individual has a disability.

Cut 9 (13) “…the stop.” 

The sticker will be placed on the rear window of the occupant’s vehicle.

Boudreaux says customers must provide a statement from a qualified health professional verifying their diagnosis. But if you already have a driver’s license or identification card with Autism or Needs Accommodation indicator…

Cut 10 (09) “…the decal.”  

He says the indicator can removed at any time without documentation. Boudreaux says this will have a great effect on people on both sides.

Cut 11 (07) “…huge impact.”

To make an appointment with OMV, visit expresslane.org.

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A ruling is not expected until next week in Caddo Parish Sheriff candidate John Nickelson’s lawsuit challenging the result of the November election. Nickelson lost by one vote, to Henry Whitehorn. Political analyst Scott Hughes says Nickelson’s attorneys presented the judge with some compelling evidence…

Cut 12 (12)  “…proper form”  

Retired Louisiana Supreme Court Justice Joseph Bleich is hearing the case. He’s asked the attorneys for both candidates to provide more written evidence. Hughes says Whitehorn believes he’s the undisputed winner, but NIckelson’s attorneys believe they’ve uncovered some questionable ballots…

Cut 13 (12) “…determine the winner.”

Retiring sheriff Steve Prator’s term does not end until June 30th. Hughes says if Judge Bleich rules another election should take place, it would occur in March…

Cut  14 (09) “…very difficult.”

LRN PM Newscall November 30

A hearing in Caddo Parish today will decide if the election results by a single vote margin stand in the Sheriff’s race or if another runoff will be held. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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A federal judge is giving state lawmakers a little more time to redraw a Congressional district map that must have two majority-minority districts to comply with the Voting Rights Act. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (29)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

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Louisiana Agriculture and Forestry Commissioner Dr. Mike Strain says he’ll ask lawmakers next year to approve 43 million dollars for new firefighting equipment and personnel after the state’s worst wildfire season in history. Strain says he has prioritized a list of equipment.

Cut 3 (10) “….and transports.”

Wildfires in the Bayou State charred 62 thousand acres and destroyed $71 million in forestland from August through October.

Strain says crews from other states would bring their forestry bulldozers and other special equipment. He says a big ticket item to add to the agency’s inventory is air tankers.

Cut 4 (13) “…these fires.”

Strain says funding is critical in preparing for possible wildfires in the future. He says forestry-made bulldozers will also help crews to fight wildfires efficiently.

Cut 5 (11) “ …and engines.”  

The next legislative session begins in March.

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Every parish in the state should see rain today as a wet weather pattern begins, especially for the southern half of Louisiana. LRN Meteorologist John Wetherbee says there’s a slight risk for flash flooding in central and southwest Louisiana…

Cut 6 (06) “…embedded thunderstorms”

Southwest Louisiana is also under a slight risk for severe weather. Most of the rest is under a marginal risk. Wetherbee says heavy rainfall appears to be the biggest threat from this storm system that’s receiving energy from the Gulf of Mexico…

Cut 7 (09) “…big problem” 

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A retired state Supreme Court Justice is hearing a lawsuit today filed by Caddo Parish Sheriff candidate John Nickelson who lost the election by one vote. During the recount, Nickelson says the Board of Election Supervisors only rescanned mail-in ballots instead of a hand count…

Cut 8 (10) “…is counted.” 

In the runoff and the recount, Henry Whitehorn was declared the winner. He says the results should stand. The Democrat says he’s always been told the person with the most votes wins whether it’s by 1,000 votes or even just one…

Cut 9 (11) “…this election.” 

Whitehorn says the lawsuit is asking the court to disregard the election process.

Nickelson says the will of the people must be respected and that’s why he’s filed the lawsuit…

Cut 10 (08) “…ber certified.”  

Whitehorn says if he had lost the recount he wouldn’t have sought legal action and the lawsuit filed by his opponent is asking the court to disregard the election process and it….

Cut 11 (12) “…doesn’t matter.”

Retired Supreme Court justice, Joseph Bleich, is hearing the case and is expected to deliver a ruling tomorrow.

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A federal judge is now giving the Louisiana Legislature until January 30th to redraw the state’s congressional map to include a second majority-minority district. It’s a two-week extension from the previous deadline of January 15th. Political Analyst Bernie Pinsonat says this still presents a challenge for lawmakers

Cut 12 (07)  “…probably create.”  

Under Louisiana law the earliest a special session can take place would be January 15th. Pinsonat says U-S District Judge Shelley Dick should realize January 30th is not enough time…

Cut 13 (09) “…like this.”

Dick has scheduled a February fifth trial date to hear the merits of the current map.

The Congressional districts of Republicans Julia Letlow and Garret Graves most at risk, as a result of a new map.

Pinsonat says this leaves a supermajority of Republicans to redraw a minority seat that would benefit Democrats. He’s unsure if new lawmakers can create a second majority-black district.

Cut  14 (09) “…very difficult.”

Governor-Elect Jeff Landry and new lawmakers will be sworn in on January 8th.

LRN PM Newscall November 29

DeSoto Parish  “Spirit of DeSoto Tree” located behind Stonewall Government Plaza is believed to be the tallest Christmas tree structure in the world. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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Governor-elect Jeff Landry announces his choice to serve as the next Superintendent of State Police and a partnership to help reduce crime in New Orleans. Brooke Thorington has more…

Cut 2 (29)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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If you want to see the world’s tallest Christmas tree structure, just make your way toward north Louisiana to DeSoto Parish which now holds the world record with its 300-foot-tall tree structure. Sheriff Jayson Richardson says the idea hit him last year while looking at Christmas lights with his family.

Cut 3 (13) “….exceeded that.”

The 28-story tall structure is a communications tower covered with more than 10 thousand LED lights behind Stonewall Government Plaza. Transforming the tower into the $30 thousand “Spirit of DeSoto Tree” was paid for by donations from sponsors and donors.

Richardson says local businessman Perry Thompson helped bring the vision to life. He says construction of the massive festive structure began earlier this year.

Cut 4 (09) “…Christmas tree.”

Richardson says the tree is lit from 6:30 pm to 10:30 pm every night. He says hundreds of people have already come to Stonewall to see the light setup.

Cut 5 (13) “ …the community.”  

The Christmas display will remain lit until the first week of January.

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An 11-year-old girl has been arrested for the murder of a 36-year-old man. Iberia Parish Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Katherine Breaux says the girl, a former resident of Iberia Parish, was taken into custody by the Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office…

Cut 6 (06) “…Lafayette Detention Center”

Breaux says she’s accused of killing Kameran Bedsole on November 14th. Bedsole died from several gunshot wounds. His body was found in the 47-hundred block of Jasper Road in New Iberia. Breaux says the sheriff’s office is not providing any other details at this time…

Cut 7 (04) “…are expected.” 

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Governor-elect Jeff Landry has announced the next leader of State Police when he takes office in January. Major Robert Hodges, a 28-year veteran of LSP and a New Orleans native will be the next superintendent of the state’s leading law enforcement agency.

Cut 8 (08) “…state safe.” 

Landry made the announcement at the Caesars’s Superdome in New Orleans and that he’s created a partnership with Orleans Parish District Attorney Jason Williams that would allow the state attorney’s office to prosecute any case led by State Police…

Cut 9 (09) “…deserve.” 

The governor-elect says he will bring in as much of a law enforcement presence into the city as necessary to keep the entire city safe…

Cut 10 (08) “…be there.”  

Landry says he’s also met with Mayor LaToya Cantrell and he pledges to work with her on his security and safety plans for the city. He says it’s vital that crime numbers come down with New Orleans set to host the Super Bowl in February 2025.

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The Department of Children and Family Services is urging EBT cardholders to immediately change their PIN. DCFS fraud director Rhonda Brown says EBT cardholders should take this action, because multiple skimming devices at various retailers have been discovered around the state

Cut 11 (08) “…a victim”

A skimmer is a device installed on card readers that allows a thief to steal a customer’s information, including their PIN number.

Brown says if you need help changing your EBT card PIN,  you can visit life-in-check-EBT-dot-com and there’s also a toll free number…

Cut 12 (12)  “…EBT.”  

Brown urges EBT card holder to regularly review their card transactions using the Life  In Check EBT mobile app or visit their website…

Cut 13 (10) “…for months.”

LRN AM Newscall November 29

Tickets to check out Rock legends The Rolling Stones at the 2023 Jazz Festival go on sale today at 1 pm. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Governor Elect Jeff Landry is talking safety and security in New Orleans today. Colleen Crain has the story

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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The Louisiana Department of Health has met more than 90 percent of its 45 Fiscal Year 2023 goals. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The Rolling Stones are coming to the New Orleans Jazz Festival and Louisiana residents get the satisfaction of purchasing tickets first. Festival producer Quint Davis says Louisianans can purchase tickets at N-O-Jazz-Fest dot com starting at 1 pm today.

Cut 4 (12) “…a presale.”

Louisiana residents can snag up to six pre-sale tickets. Davis says the Stones want to play in the Big Easy. He says the festival will be the second stop on their US tour.

Cut 5 (12) “…here everything.”

There will be a limited number of one-day tickets. After being rebooked several times, Davis says the Stones will play on Thursday, May 2nd.

Cut 6 (09) “…real one.”

Tickets for the general public will go on sale December 1 at 10 am. The full lineup will be released around January 15.

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Governor Elect Jeff Landry is holding another transition press conference Wednesday on Louisiana State Police Appointments and other Safety and Security Appointments but this press conference won’t be in Lafayette. LA Politics Dot Com Publisher Jeremy Alford says there’s a reason for that…

Cut 7 (07) “…in New Orleans.”

Alford says, Landry has been open about his opinion of the issues he sees in the state’s largest city. And though he cannot act on his appointments until he takes office next year, Alford believes Landry will make his plans clear…

Cut 8 (11) “…to be problems.” 

Landry will have many issues to tackle when he takes office. He’s talked about special sessions to address some of them and Alford says, there may be more sessions in Landry’s first year…

Cut 9 (07)  “…in 2024.”

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The Louisiana Department of Health says they met 91 percent of their 45 goals set for Fiscal Year 2023. Deputy Secretary Tonya Joiner says instead of having competing multiple goals they create a framework that allows them to concentrate on specific health issues for the year….

Cut 10 (09) “…those goals.”

Among the biggest challenges facing the state are chronic diseases, maternal health, behavioral health, and overall access to quality healthcare. For maternal health, Joiner says focused on improving early childhood nutrition

Cut 11 (08) “…WIC program.” 

Another goal that made great strides this year, is increasing access to behavioral health. With the launch of the 9-8-8 nationwide suicide and mental crisis hotline in July of 2022, Joiner says they wanted to make sure in-state callers are assisted by local counselors.

Cut 12 (11) “…that call.” 

Joiner says they also increased screening rates and risk assessments for chronic disease through outreach partners in the state.

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Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy says he’s working with lawmakers in Hawaii on Disaster Mitigation legislation. He says the bill would help reduce the impact of future storms on the Bayou State and elsewhere in the country.

Cut 13 (13) “…next disaster.”

The state’s senior senator says in the military it’s called a “Hot Wash.” Right after a conflict, you review what worked and didn’t work….

Cut 14 (09) “…the country.”

Cassidy gave examples of how Louisiana has learned from past storms, like pre-positioning fuel trucks where people were evacuating so gas stations could quickly be refueled and prepositioning generators.

Cut 15 (12) “…other natural disasters.”

He says it’s part of his broader commitment to make sure Louisiana is as prepared as possible for future natural disasters.

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Action Network college football reporter and Heisman Trophy Voter, Brett McMurphy knows that his job this year is not about comparing Oregon and LSU as teams, but Bo Nix and Jayden Daniels as individual players and the accomplishments that they have achieved this year. McMurphy says that while Conference Championships are important, players’ statistical data is much more influential to the vote.

Cut 16 (23) “..anybody else.”

McMurphy says that the final PAC-12 Championship game between Oregon and Washington will ultimately help decide whether or not Bo Nix will win the Heisman this year. As unfortunate as it is for Daniels to be sidelined this week with LSU’s 3 losses, McMurphy also says that Daniels could benefit from a poor performance by Nix this weekend.

Cut 17 (18) “…benefit Jayden.”

McMurphy knows that both Bo Nix and Jayden Daniels are having sensational seasons, but he has one statistic that stands out to him in particular when looking at Daniels and the Tigers Offense. That statistic is first downs.

Cut 18 (12)  “…first down.” 

Daniels or “the human first down” has helped lead LSU’s offense to 309 total first downs this season and LSU’s offensive statistics lead Oregon in almost every non-passing statistic this year.

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After two seasons, Hue Jackson is out as the head coach of Grambling State. Jackson went 3-and-8 in his first season at Grambling and then 5-and-6 this season. Grambling Athletics Director Trayvean Scott says he decided to make a move after a couple of sleepless nights following the loss to Southern in the Bayou Classic…

Cut 19 (18) “…moving forward” 

Co-offensive coordinator John Simon has been elevated to interim head coach. Scott hopes to name a permanent head coach in seven to ten days and he says Simon will be considered. The Grambling A-D was asked what he’s looking for in a head coach…

Cut 20 (20) “…that’s significant.”

LRN AM Newscall November 28

After losing to Southern Illinois 35-0 on Saturday the Nicholls State football team got stranded in the airport for 22 hours. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Black Friday holiday shopping has ended and numbers show shoppers spent nearly $10 billion in online sales in the U.S. on Black Friday. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 2 (33)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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If you have an old Google account, make sure to log in this week. Colleen Crain has the details…

Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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After losing to Southern Illinois on Saturday, the Nicholls State football team was stranded in a small airport for 22 hours. Nicholls’ Athletic Director Jonathan Terrell said first it was a pilot issue with the chartered flight, then the next flight was canceled. But he says they made the best of it and finally made it home Sunday night.

Cut 4 (11) “…that happened.”

Terrell says the restaurants closed overnight in the small airport, they had no transportation and were unable to book a hotel last minute due to the size of the party.

Cut 5 (10) “…140 people.”

The players, cheerleaders, and staff ended up sleeping on the floor and in chairs at the small airport.  Terrell says it was a frustrating situation made worse when they weren’t able to get any answers from Eastern Airlines, the charter flight company.

Cut 6 (10) “…for us.”

The team arrived back to campus Sunday night just before 9:30.

Because it was a playoff game the NCAA is in charge of coordinating travel.

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Black Friday sales show online holiday shopping increased by seven percent growth compared to last year. Holiday shoppers spent nearly $10 billion in online sales in the U-S on Black Friday. LSU Marketing Professor Dan Rice says holiday shopping is starting to normalize following post Pandemic surge in shopping.

Cut 7 (12) “…percent -ish.”

The National Retail Federation predicted a three to four percent growth. Consumers appear to be planning on spending more this holiday season but buying less in terms of the number of items according to the NRF.

Rice says many large retailers marketing use to excite shoppers to begin Black Friday shopping at midnight for the best prices. But now marketing trends encourage pre-Black Friday shopping.

Cut 8 (11) “…one day.” 

Online revenue growth during the next two months is expected at nearly five percent compared to a year earlier which is well below the average annual rate of 13 percent growth before the pandemic according to Adobe Analytics.

Rice says Cyber Monday is a bigger spending day compared to Black Friday. But he points out that more shoppers still enjoy the experience of brick-and-mortar stores.

Cut 9 (09)  “…bigger online.”

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Republican John Nickelson, a candidate for Caddo Parish Sheriff, has filed a lawsuit seeking a new runoff election against Democrat Henry Whitehorn, who won after a recount by one vote. Political Analyst Scott Hughes says a district court judge is set to hear the case Thursday and a ruling could be made the next day.

Cut 10 (10) “…in court.”

Out of more than 43 thousand votes, 7 thousand mail-in ballots were rescanned by the Caddo Board of Elections. After recounting all the ballots, an additional three ballots were tallied for each candidate.

Hughes says mail-in votes did not arrive until the Friday before election day He says at least two voters who voted absentee went to check on Election Day and they were allowed to vote a second time…

Cut 11 (13) “…legal challenge.” 

If the district court’s ruling is appealed, Hughes says the case will be heard by the 2nd Circuit Court of Appeal. He says attorneys for both candidates and several members of the public watched the recount in person.

Cut 12 (11) “…Mr. Whitehorn.” 

If the appellate court’s opinion is appealed, the case would advance to the Louisiana Supreme Court.

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If you have an old Google account you want to keep, Haggai Davis of Tech Gumbo Podcast says you need to log in by the end of this week…

Cut 13 (08) “…delete that account”

Google’s updated inactive-account policy was announced in May and Google will begin a phased-approach beginning Friday

Davis says, if you’ve logged in to YouTube, g-mail, or your Google Drive associated with the account, you’re ok. He says, Google is concerned about security, not data space.

Cut 14 (09) “…security risk.”

If you have old accounts with other email and cloud providers, Davis says to watch for their inactive account policies to be updated as well.

Cut 15 (07) “…kind of thing.”

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After a bad loss on the road to Atlanta, the hot seat is getting warmer for Saints Coach Dennis Allen. New Orleans is 5-and-6 on the season and fans are expecting more and they would like to see more emotion from Allen, especially after the team plays poorly

Cut 16 (20) “..sense of urgency.”

Saints running back Alvin Kamara said after the game, the team does not have an identity and they are consistently inconsistent. But Allen has more of a glass-half-full perspective of the team’s identity.

Cut 17 (19) “…defense.”

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ULM Athletics Director John Hartwell is searching for a new head football coach after firing Terry Bowden following a two-and-ten campaign. Hartwell says after watching the Warhawks lose to the Ragin Cajuns on Saturday, he decided a culture change was needed…

Cut 18 (18)  “…to lose.” 

Hartwell hopes to hire the next head coach of ULM football within seven to ten days. He has this message to the players and recruits who might look elsewhere…

Cut 19 (18) “…to that.” 

ULM has the smallest athletic budget out of all FBS Schools and there are some who suggested the Warhawks should drop down to the FCS level. But Hartwell plans to compete for championships in the Sun Belt…

Cut 20 (16) “…what we all want.”

LRN PM Newscall November 27

ULM needs a new football coach as Terry Bowden has been fired after three seasons. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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After a recount, Democrat Henry Whitehorn remains the winner of the Sheriff’s race in Caddo Parish. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (28)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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If you plan on browsing the web looking for Cyber Monday deals, Carmen Million with the Better Business Bureau says shoppers should be on the lookout for scams. She says be aware of false advertising and before you enter your payment information, make sure it’s a legitimate website.

Cut 3 (10) “….this website.”

Million says to also check that your anti-virus software is up to date before you make an online purchase. She urges shoppers to avoid non-secure sites and when making an online purchase it’s best to use your credit card.

Cut 4 (12) “…return it.”

Million says many major retailers offer loyalty programs and suggest using them for special point offers that could add up. She also advises that you read the fine print and understand return policies before you complete your purchase.

Cut 5 (07) “ …the button.”  

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According to a Louisiana Fish Fry Products survey of more than 2,000 people across the country eight out of ten respondents crave fried chick at least once a month or more. Vice President of Marketing Caroline Gray says two in five desire it weekly.

Cut 6 (10) “…too expensive.”

The survey was conducted prior to the launch of their products to cook fried chicken at home. Gray says 60 percent of respondents cook fried chicken at home and they’re helping fill the void with their fried chicken tenders, wings, and sandwiches.

Cut 7 (11) “…for you.” 

Louisiana Fish Fry Products include Louisiana-inspired batters, coatings, seasonings, sauces, and boils.

And while inflation hasn’t diminished the craving for fried chicken, Gray says their chicken products make the southern staple accessible for connoisseurs.

Cut 8 (11) “…own home.” 

Based in Baton Rouge, Louisiana Fish Fry Products can be found regionally and at national grocers.

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ULM has fired head football coach Terry Bowden after winning just ten games in three seasons. The Warhawks finished the 2023 campaign on a ten-game losing streak. KNOE-TV Sports Director Aaron Dietrich says despite the losses, it seemed like Bowden had the support of athletics director John Hartwell…

Cut 9 (11) “…pink slip” 

Bowden went 4-and-8 in each of his first two seasons at ULM. This year the Warhawks started 2-0 including a victory over Army. Dietrich says there was a lot of hope heading into the season, but that hope went away as the losses mounted, so the A-D made a move…

Cut 10 (12) “…head coach”  

Dietrich says AD Jim Hartwell has a tough job in front of him, because the athletic department is stretched thin when it comes to finances…

Cut 11 (12) “…head coach on”

Former Grambling Head Coach Broderick Fobbs will serve as interim head coach.

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A recount of the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Race did not change the outcome as Democrat Henry Whitehorn remains the winner by ONE vote over Republican John Nickelson. Political analyst Scott Hughes says the Caddo Board of Elections rescanned the mail-in ballots only, which was about seven-thousand of the more than 43-thousand votes…

Cut 12 (10)  “…this point”  

Hughes expects the loser in the race, Nickelson, will file a lawsuit challenging the election results…

Cut 13 (06) “…the race”

Prior to Monday’s recount, Caddo Clerk of Court Mike Spence, said they found two instances of people inadvertently voting twice, once with a mail-in ballot, the other on election day.