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.

LRN AM Newscall November 27

The Louisiana economy is looking up according to one economist, Colleen Crain has the story…

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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You still have a chance to receive up to a 10-thousand dollar grant that can be used to  fortify your roof against hurricane or wind damage. The fourth round of the application period opens at noon today. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 2 (33)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Ballots for the Heisman Trophy go out today and LSU plans to blitz voters with information on why Tigers quarterback Jayden Daniels should get college football’s most prestigious award. Jeanne Burns has more…

Cut 3 (32) “…I”m Jeanne Burns”

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According to University of Louisiana at Lafayette economist, Doctor Gary Wagner, Louisiana’s economy is chugging right along for most of the state. He says it’s been more than 15 years since we’ve seen this kind of job growth…

Cut 4 (11) “…pandemic months.”

Wagner is predicting Louisiana will gain another 30-thousand jobs over the next 12 months. He says job growth is expected to be strong in the Lafayette, New Orleans, Monroe and Alexandria areas. But Wagner is expects the Houma/Thibodeaux area will continue to struggle, because of two major factors…

Cut 5 (10) “…recover from that.”

As Far as the Louisiana housing market is concerned, Wagner says while some areas of the country are seeing a decline in prices he hasn’t seen that here in Louisiana and doesn’t expect to in the near future…

Cut 6 (06) “…relatively flat.”

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Louisiana Fortify Homes Program will open its fourth round of grants today at noon. 750 grants will be awarded to all homeowners on a first-come, first-served basis. Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon says interested homeowners should register at LDI dot LA dot GOV slash FORTIFYHOMES.

Cut 7 (11) “…the IBHS.”

The LFHP began with enough funding to award an estimated 3,000 grants. Donelon says residents will have to meet certain requirements to be eligible for upgrading their roof standard including…

Cut 8 (12) “…rare exception.” 

Grant funds are paid directly to contractors. Homeowners are financially responsible for all costs beyond the full grant amount. Grant funding is limited to construction costs.

Donelon says homeowners are required to create a profile in the LFHP system. He says once a profile has been created…

Cut 9 (12)  “…dollar grant.”

Interested residents are urged to apply at www.ldi.la.go/fortifyhomes. 

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Tigers quarterback Jayden Daniels has made his case to win the Heisman Trophy. Ballots go out today to the over 900 voters of the prestigious award. Daniels does not play this Saturday, but to keep his Heisman buzz going the LSU Sports Information Department will unveil a website that informs voters of all of his accomplishments. LSU SID Michael Bonnette…

Cut 10 (08) “…about Jayden.”

Daniels is trying to become the third player in LSU history to win the Heisman, joining Billy Cannon and Joe Burrow. Bonnette says anyone in Purple and Gold are doing what they can to tout Daniels’ candidacy…

Cut 11 (11) “…will listen” 

Daniels will not play in a conference championship game this Saturday like his main competition, Oregon quarterback Bo Nix and Washington signal caller Michael Penix will face each other in the Pac-12 title. Bonnette says voters will watch that game, but he also hopes they check out Daniels’ Heisman website for more information on the fifth-year senior from California…

Cut 12 (05) “…on the field” 

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Nearly 7500 mailed-in ballots in the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s race will be rescanned today to determine if the winner is Republican John Nickelson or Democrat Henry Whitehorn. Nickelson demanded a recount after losing to Whitehorn by only one vote. Caddo Parish Clerk of Court Mike Spence….

Cut 13 (10) “…days gone”

Whitehorn who served as the head of the Louisiana State Police, received 21,621.

In Louisiana, Spence says in order to initiate the process a candidate has to request a recount.

Cut 14 (05) “…done correctly.”

According to the Clerk of Court, it was discovered that two people inadvertently voted twice.

Spence says more than 43,000 votes were cast in the race. As it relates to early voting ballots and votes cast on Election Day…

Cut 15 (11) “…mail in.”

A winner will be certified at noon today at the Caddo Parish Courthouse in downtown Shreveport. If a tie occurs after the recount, there will be another election held Dec. 10.

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LSU Quarterback Jayden Daniels threw four touchdown passes as he made his final case for the Heisman Trophy in a come-from-behind 42-30 win over Texas A&M on Saturday in Tiger Stadium. Daniels threw for 235 yards and rushed for 120 yards. Tigers Coach Brian Kelly says Daniels made a strong closing argument for college football’s most prestigious award…

Cut 16 (16) “..for the Heisman.”

Daniels was held in check in the first half as he only threw for 52 yards and rushed for 59.

Early in the fourth quarter, LSU linebacker Greg Penn intercepted a pass setting up the Tigers’ offense at the Aggies’ 39-yard line. Three plays later, Daniels connected with Brian Thomas Jr. on a 23-yard TD pass as he made the grab over a defender. Daniels says that play got the offense going…

Cut 17 (16) “..coming out of halftime.”

Daniels will find out if he’s a Heisman finalist next Monday. The team will find out on Sunday their bowl game destination and opponent.

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A very frustrating loss for the Saints on Sunday as they fell to the Atlanta Falcons 24 to 15. Kicker Blake Grupe was responsible for all of their points as the rookie made five fields goals. New Orleans was 0 for 5 in the red zone. Coach Dennis Allen thought they had solved their red zone woes that hurt the team earlier in the year…

Cut 18 (13)  “…that’s a problem.” 

The Saints defense kept New Orleans in the game as safety Tyrann Mathieu had two interceptions. The Honey Badger says with a 5-and-6 record they are at least tied with Atlanta for first place in the NFC South

Cut 19 (13) “…right now” 

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The Ragin Cajuns are bowl-eligible for a sixth consecutive season after defeating in-state rival ULM 52-31 on Saturday. Quarterback Chandler Fields threw for two touchdowns and ran for another as the 52 points were the most U-L Lafayette has ever scored against ULM in a home game. Coach Michael Desormeaux is proud of his team for achieving bowl eligibility…

Cut 20 (20) “…for our program” 

LRN AM Newscall November 22

The holiday season is here and there’s no better way to start the holidays than by giving back to your local food bank. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Teiko Foxx”

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Triple A says 55 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more this Thanksgiving… Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The Holidays are a wonderful time for family and friends but can be a challenge for our four-legged friends. Colleen Crain has more…

Cut 3 (29) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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Inflation is up and the increasing cost of food has many families turning to local food banks for the holidays. Director of Feeding Louisiana Pat Van Burkleo says there’s a growing need for donations to food banks because many families don’t have extra money in their budget.

Cut 4 (12) “…those families.”

More than 683 thousand people in Louisiana live with food insecurity. That’s the total populations of Shreveport, Baton Rouge, and New Orleans combined.

Burkleo says the cost of food items is up about 5 percent from this time last year. He says the cost of a turkey and all the sides are up due to inflation and donations are down.

Cut 5 (12) “…to give.”

Burkleo says there are many individuals who continue to donate, and they are extremely grateful for their assistance. He urges the public to donate during the Thanksgiving holiday.

Cut 6 (11) “…be outstanding.”

To support Louisiana food banks, visit FeedingLouisiana.org.

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If you’re hearing this chances are you’re among the 55.4 million Americans traveling 50 miles or greater for Thanksgiving. Triple A says it’s the third-highest Turkey Day travel forecast since 2000. Spokesperson Don Redman says just over two percent more people are traveling this year for their holiday feast.

Cut 7 (08) “…on the road.”

And motorists can expect to pay around 40-cents less for a gallon of regular gas compared to last year.

4.7 million travelers will take to the skies for Thanksgiving, an increase of almost seven percent from last year. Redman says four percent more Louisiana residents are choosing to fly for the holiday this year.

Cut 8 (07) “…behind the wheel.” 

Today is the busiest travel day for Thanksgiving and Redman says the sooner you start your journey better…

Cut 9 (12)  “…on Sunday.”

Among the most popular out-of-state destinations for Louisiana residents this year are Orlando, Tennessee, Vegas, and New York.

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Family and Friends are visiting and connecting over the holidays and the LSU Vet School wants us to keep our 4 legged friends safe during all our celebrations. Spokesperson Ginger Guttner says to use caution because foods safe for us are toxic for dogs and cats…

Cut 10 (09) “…dogs and cats.”

Turkey bones can also be a source of obstructions in the esophagus and stomach.

Guttner says, you know your pet and what’s normal for it but If you think your pet gets into a food or plant that is toxic or you are concerned Guttner has advice…

Cut 11 (09) “…to someone.” 

Guttner also says, it’s a good idea to find out if your Vet will be open or available during the holidays and what you should do in case of emergency

Certain foods and extra people in the home can be challenging for your pets and Guttner says the holidays bring a few other concerns you should consider…

Cut 12 (10) “…chew on those.” 

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A front moving through Louisiana has brought us cooler weather for the Thanksgiving holidays. This morning State Climatologist Barry Keim says temperatures are in the 40s across most of the state and lows are in the 50s towards the coast. Highs will reach the upper 50s up north and the low 60s in southern parishes.

Cut 13 (07) “…of rain.”

It will be a bit cooler for Thanksgiving tomorrow. Keim says lows will be in the mid-30s in the northern parishes and 40s in the southern parishes, with highs reaching into the 50s.

Cut 14 (10) “…with family.”

The outlook for Friday and through the weekend, lows will be in the 40s in northern parishes and in the low 50s in the southern half of the state. Keim says highs will reach into the 60s.

Cut 15 (11) “…bundled up.”

With plenty of clouds, Keim says you’ll want to dress accordingly for any outdoor football games this weekend as well.

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LSU’s Malik Nabers and Brian Thomas Junior are among the ten semifinalists for the Bilenikoff, which recognizes college football’s best receiver. Nabers and Thomas have combined to catch 135 passes for 2,445 yards and 26 touchdowns. Aggies interim head coach Elijah Robinson says they are a big part of quarterback Jayden Daniels’ success…

Cut 16 (14) “..forward to it.”

Nabers leads the nation in receiving yards with 1,424 yards and his 12 touchdowns rank fourth nationally. Thomas leads the FBS college football with 14 touchdowns. That’s one more than Ohio State’s Marvin Harrison Junior, who is discussed to win the Heisman. LSU Coach Brian Kelly believes Nabers and Thomas also should be Heisman candidates…

Cut 17 (22) “..that conversation.”

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The Ragin Cajuns and ULM meet on Saturday to close out the regular season. A win for U-L Lafayette and they will qualify for a bowl game, while the Warhawks are trying to snap a nine-game losing streak. Cajuns Coach Michael Desormeaux was asked about playing down to a team that’s lost nine in a row…

Cut 18 (03)  “…lightly.” 

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The Saints have placed wide receiver Michael Thomas on injured reserve with a knee injury he suffered in the team’s last game. Ross Jackson, host of the Locked on Saints Podcast, says the team expects Thomas will return this season…

Cut 19 (18) “…ready to go.” 

Thomas is third on the team in receptions with 39 catches for 448 yards and one touchdown. Jackson says Thomas’ absence gives others a chance to produce…

Cut 20 (19) “…career touchdown.” 

The Saints are at Atlanta on Sunday.

LRN PM Newscall November 21

LSU women’s basketball coach Kim Mulkey continues to not provide any details on why Angel Reese is not with the team. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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Jazz Fest is hoping 2024 will be the year they finally get some Satisfaction. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (34)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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The seventh-ranked LSU women’s basketball team easily defeated Texas Southern 106-47 last night but for the second consecutive game All-American forward Angel Reese was not with the team. The Bayou Barbie was last seen a week ago in uniform in a game where she did not play in the second half. Coach Kim Mulkey is tight lipped on why Reese is missing..

Cut 3 (04) “….to know.”

Mulkey says Reese is still a member of the team and expects her to return to the court sooner than later. But the coach is not going to give any details on why she’s not playing…

Cut 4 (08) “…always”

Reese averaged 23 points and 15 rebounds as she led the Lady Tigers to their first national championship last season. In four games this season, she’s averaging 17 points and ten rebounds. The Hall of Fame coach says this is a locker room issue and it’s not going to slow down her team

Cut 5 (09) “ …coaches do”  

LSU’s next game is Friday in the Cayman Islands against Niagara.

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It’s time to start defrosting that frozen turkey if you want it ready for Thanksgiving Day. The Department of Agriculture wants to encourage food safety tips to prevent dangerous foodborne illnesses. When it comes to defrosting your turkey, USDA Food Safety Expert Meredith Carothers recommends that you do so in the refrigerator, never leave it out to thaw on the kitchen counter.

Cut 6 (12) “…fully thawed.”

More than 46 million turkeys will be cooked this Thanksgiving according to USDA. 

The traditional way to cook a turkey is in the oven but many Louisianans prefer to cook it in a deep fryer. Carothers urges Louisianans to make sure the turkey is fully thawed before it goes in a deep fryer.

Cut 7 (08) “…bubble over.” 

USDA doesn’t recommend stuffing a turkey due to the increased risk of cross-contamination. A stuffed turkey also takes longer to cook.

But if you decide to stuff your turkey, Carothers suggests placing the turkey in the oven right away especially when using hot stuffing.

Cut 8 (12) “…cooking process.” 

If you have any food safety questions you can call the USDA hotline weekdays from 10 am to 6 pm and on Thanksgiving Day from 8 am until 2 pm at 1-888-674-6854 or chat live at ask-dot-usda-dot-gov.

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Prices at the pump are considerably lower than they were this time last year. According to Triple A fuel analyst Don Redman the statewide average for a gallon of regular gas today is $2.85.

Cut 9 (09) “…(x2)time last year.” 

And when you compare Louisiana to the national average for a gallon of regular gas at $3.30, it’s 45 cents cheaper to travel in the Bayou State this Thanksgiving.

It’s welcome news, especially for those traveling over the river and through the woods to grandmothers for their turkey dinner. But Redman says despite the break at the pump this year…

Cut 10 (07) “…personal economy.” 

Overall Redman says things appear to be much easier on your wallet this Turkey Day…

Cut 11 (07) “…grocery store.”

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You can’t always get what you want but the New Orleans Jazz Fest is hoping to get what you need. The Rolling Stones has announced plans to play at Jazz Fest on Thursday May 2nd. Times-Picayune and NOLA.com music writer Keith Spera says this is at least the third time the legendary rock band from England has scheduled a concert during the popular musical festival…

Cut 12 (09)  “…Jazz Fest.”  

Jazz Fest will be the second stop in the U.S. for the Stones in support of their new album, Hackney Diamonds.

After kicking off in Houston they’ll roll over to Crescent City. Spera says The Stones obviously want to play Jazz Fest, even after being rebooked several times before…

Cut 13 (09) “…line-up.”

Besides fans in Louisiana, Spera believes this stop on the Hackney Diamonds tour will attract Stones fans from all corners of the globe because it’s their only non-stadium show.

Cut  14 (12) “…the fairgrounds.”

Presale tickets for Louisiana residents will be available November 29th, visit NOjazzfest.com for more information.

Updated LRN AM Newscall November 21 #sports copy changed#

Saturday’s election results mean for the first time Louisiana elected its first female as Attorney General and Secretary of State. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Teiko Foxx”

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When Secretary of State-elect Nancy Landry takes office, she’ll have to tackle the purchase of new voting machines. Brooke Thorington has more…

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Louisiana’s current first family met with the future first family to discuss the transition and daily demands at the Governors Mansion. Colleen Crain has more…

Cut 3 (31) “…I’m Colleen Craine.”

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Louisiana voters made history by electing the state’s first females to top state offices. Republicans Liz Murrill and Nancy Landry were elected as Attorney General and Secretary of State. Founder of Louisiana Woman Lead Rene Amar says Louisianans chose two amazing women to help shape Louisiana politics…

Cut 4 (07) “…unparallel.”

Landry received 68 percent of the vote against her opponent while Murrill had 67 percent. Amar says the state has made great strides to have women at the policy-making table.

Cut 5 (08) “…just phenomenal.”

Amar says voters typically perceive men as better candidates for political offices than women. She says for these two women to be able to be elected on a statewide level is huge.

Cut 6 (12) “…just phenomenal.”

Murrill and Landry are set to take office on January 8th.

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Among the tasks facing Secretary of State-elect Nancy Landry when she takes office is the purchase of new voting machines. After the 2020 presidential election, voter fraud became a point of contention and new state laws require extra steps for more transparency.

Cut 7 (11) “…be attacked.”

Landry says it’s a controversial procedure because it’s a large contract and in the request for proposal process, there are winners and there are losers…

Cut 8 (10) “…the T.” 

For the last three years, Landry says the legislature has passed laws to give the Secretary of State additional authority, beyond canvassing to clean up voter rolls. But she says each time it was vetoed by Governor John Bel Edwards. But with a new administration and a GOP super-majority Landry feels those laws will finally be enacted.

Cut 9 (11)  “…respond.”

Among the requirements for new voting machines will be a paper record and multiple checks and balances to protect against hacking.

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After winning the Lafayette mayoral race, and defeating incumbent Josh Guillory, Monique Blanco Boulet promises to have an administration that’s open, accessible, and transparent to the public and press. Boulet says she wants to foster an environment that’s not politically polarized and build a community for everybody.

Cut 10 (08) “…a new way.”

Boulet says she will call for a public accounting of legal and financial decisions made by the Lafayette Consolidate Government, to build trust and increase transparency.

Cut 11 (07) “…can be.” 

Incumbent Guillory came under fire for a number of controversies related to drainage projects, public records, and his legal practice.

Goulet believes her proven track record and her experience as CEO of the Acadiana Planning Commission led to her victory.

Cut 12 (10) “…in Lafayette.” 

Guillory issued a statement that he plans to work with Boulet for a smooth transition.

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The classic matchup between two Louisiana HBCUs – Grambling State University and Southern University at the 50th annual Bayou Classic kicks off Thursday through Saturday. Grambling State President Rick Gallot says the Classic is a celebration of football and family surrounding Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

Cut 13 (12) “…higher education.”

More than 200,000 people travel to New Orleans to attend the big game and events. The Bayou Classic is an annual rivalry that dates back to 1974 when the game was first held in New Orleans. Gallot says it drives attention from across the country on what happens in New Orleans the Saturday after Thanksgiving.

Cut 14 (10) “…Bayou Classic.”

Traditionally fans expect a Greek Show, a Battle of the Bands, a fan festival, and a Classic parade. Gallot says game sponsorship provides a financial impact for each prospective university toward advancing higher education.

Cut 15 (12) “…respective institutions.”

Tickets for the 50th Annual Bayou Classic can be purchased at www.mybayouclassic.com.

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LSU Football Coach Brian Kelly believes quarterback Jayden Daniels is pulling away from the other contenders for the Heisman Trophy.  Daniels has 4,591 passing and rushing yards combined. That’s nearly 1,000 more than Washington QB Michael Penix and Oregon signal caller Bo Nix, his two main contenders for the Heisman.

Kelly says Daniels ability to throw the deep ball and produce big plays with his legs sets him apart from Penix and Nix

Cut 16 (20) “…taking hits”

Daniels also has 36 touchdown passes, one more than Nix and six more than Penix Junior.

Daniels and LSU’s offense will get a good test in the regular season finale on Saturday against a Texas A-and-M defense that’s only allowing 287 yards a game, eighth lowest in FBS football. Kelly says Aggies defensive coordinator D.J. Durkin is an aggressive play caller…

Cut 17 (17) “…negative plays”

Defensive line coach Elijah Robinson is serving as the interim coach for the fired Jimbo Fisher. Kelly says he’s not worried about A-and-M’s mindset heading into the game, he’s more concerned about LSU’s preparation…

Cut 18 (17)  “….success” 

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The Saints are back from the bye week and getting ready to visit the Atlanta Falcons this Sunday. The Dirty Birds have one of the best rush offenses led by Bijan Robinson who has 612 rushing yards. Coach Dennis Allen on the Atlanta run game…

Cut 19 (24) “…account for” 

The Saints have a 5-and-5 record as they’ve had an up and down season. Allen is looking for the Black and Gold to play more complementary football in the final seven games…

Cut 20 (20) “…better results” 

 

LRN PM Newscall November 20

In Saturday’s election, John Fleming, Nancy Landry, and Liz Murrill won giving Republicans every statewide office. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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If you ever thought your vote didn’t matter, well think again. The Caddo Parish Sheriff’s race came down to a single vote. Brooke Thorington has more…

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

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In 2024, the GOP will occupy every statewide office for the first time since 2015. On Saturday night, Republican candidates, John Fleming, Nancy Landry and Liz Murrill won their races for treasurer, secretary of state, and attorney general. Political Analyst Bernie Pinsonat says the Democratic Party will have very little influence on state government over the next four years…

Cut 3 (13) “….zero power.”

Republican Governor-elect Jeff Landry will replace Democratic Governor John Bel Edwards in January. Republicans will also continue to hold a supermajority in the House and Senate. Pinsonat says it will be up to the GOP to address the major issues facing the state.

Cut 4 (09) “…produce results.”

Pinsonat says Saturday’s election will shape the state’s future. He says the GOP leadership will have to find sound solutions to reversing issues that have been in existence for the last four decades.

Cut 5 (11) “ …but themselves.”  

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Much of Louisiana is under a tornado watch until seven PM tonight. LRN meteorologist John Wetherbee says isolated tornadoes are possible, plus some straight line winds…

Cut 6 (09) “…heavy rainfall”

Wetherbee says this is the first significant severe weather threat we’ve seen this fall…

Cut 7 (10) “…what’s going on” 

After this front moves through, it will be cool and mostly dry for the rest of the week.

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In the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s race, a single vote gave Democrat Henry Whitehorn a victory over Republican John Nickelson. Political analyst Scott Hughes says they knew it would be a close race in the politically divided parish. He says Whitehorn was up about 2,000 votes but when the final northern rural precincts came in overwhelmingly for Nickelson…

Cut 8 (06) “…Saturday night.” 

In Louisiana, a candidate has to request a recount to initiate the process and Hughes says it predominantly involves the mailed-in hand-voted ballots.

Cut 9 (12) “…in number” 

Hughes says hand ballots that were perhaps torn or in which both candidates received votes will be re-examined, and then the race will be certified.

In the primary, ironically in Caddo Parish, Hughes says there was a recount for a legislative race that came down a 32-vote difference. That recount found an additional three votes, but it didn’t change the outcome of that race.

Cut 10 (06) “…is certified.” 

Current Sheriff Steve Prator’s term ends June 30th.

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Three of the four teens charged in the 2022 carjacking death of 73-year-old Linda Frickey of Westwego have reached a plea deal that’s resulted in them receiving a 20-year prison sentence. Legal analyst Dane Ciolino says this is a good result for everyone…

Cut 11 (10) “…20 years in a jail”

In March 2022, Frickey was parked along the side of a road in the New Orleans’ mid-city. Surveillance video shows a person pulling her out of the vehicle and beating her. Authorities say as the car sped away, Frickey was dragged and her arm severed in the brutal death.

Because of the nature of Frickey’s death, the teens were charged as adults. Ciolino says Briniyah Baker, Lenrya Theopile and Mar’qel Curtis took the plea deal.

Cut 12 (09) “…these, these individuals”  

18-year-old John Honore is still set for trial as jury selection is underway in the case. Ciolino says while Honore’s three co-defendants plead guilty to manslaughter charges, Honore could be convicted of a murder…

Cut 13 (10) “..their friend”

LRN PM Newscall November 17

Beginning tomorrow through next Saturday, extra law enforcement will be patrolling the roads and looking for seat belt violations during the statewide Click It or Ticket campaign. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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Three statewide races, Attorney General, Secretary of State, and Treasurer will be decided in the runoffs Saturday. Brooke Thorington has more on the predictions.

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

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The Louisiana Highway Safety Commission Click It or Ticket campaign begins tomorrow (Saturday) and goes through the Thanksgiving weekend. Spokesperson Greg Fischer says state troopers and local law enforcement will be on the lookout to see if drivers are buckled up…

Cut 3 (11) “….the road.”

A LHSC report found at least 55 percent of adults killed in a vehicle crash in the Bayou State last year were not properly wearing their seat belts.

Fischer says a first offense for anyone not wearing a seatbelt is $50 and $75 for repeat offenders. He says their latest observational survey found fewer than 15-percent of people in Louisiana go unbuckled…

Cut 4 (09) “…every year.”

During Thanksgiving weekend last year, there were 10 fatalities and more than 100 accidents with serious injuries.

Freeman says the state’s passenger safety law requires everyone in a vehicle whether they’re driving or in the back seat to be properly restrained. He says a ticket is better than a tragedy.

Cut 5 (12) “ …for you.”  

The campaign runs through next Saturday.

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Three statewide races will be decided Saturday in the run-off for Attorney General, Secretary of State, and Treasurer. After a voter turnout of only 36 percent in the October primary, political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says it could be even lower for the runoff. He says Republicans are favored to win all three.

Cut 6 (08) “…will increase.”

For areas with legislative or local races in the run-off, Pinsonat expects voter turnout will be higher. For example, the mayor’s race in Lafayette. Incumbent Josh Guillory is in a heated race with the daughter of former Governor Kathleen Blanco, Monique Blanco Boulet…

Cut 7 (06) “…name Blanco.” 

Both Guillory and Boulet are Republicans.

Another contentious runoff is the Shreveport-Bossier City senate race between two current state representatives, Democrats Cedric Glover, and Sam Jenkins. Pinsonat says it’s just too close to call…

Cut 8 (08) “…big question.” 

Polls open at 7 AM and close at 8 PM. For poll locations and a sample ballot use your GeauxVote app.

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Governor-elect Jeff Landry has concerns about the potential cost of Louisiana’s new policy that allows state workers who welcome a new child to receive six weeks of paid leave. The state has 70-thousand employees and the benefit begins January 1st. Landry questions whether the state can afford it…

Cut 9 (07) “…pay for it” 

Metairie Republican Cameron Henry is expected to be the new House Speaker and Eunice Republican Phillip Devillier the new Senate President. Landry says he’s asked for the financial details of this new policy….

Cut 10 (08) “…a look at it” 

The Louisiana Budget Project says Tennessee, Georgia, Texas and South Carolina have adopted a similar family leave policy for its employees in recent years.

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Despite the rain this week, the latest drought monitor indicates 99 percent of the Bayou State is still in drought and 88-percent is either in extreme or exceptional drought. Which state climatologist says are the worst two classes of drought.

Cut 11 (10) “…those rains.”

Since August 1st Keim says Louisiana has received 6-point-four inches of rain, but 15-point-seven inches would be considered normal for that time period. He says that’s only about 40 percent of the normal rainfall amount.

Cut 12 (09) “…really change.”  

But he says there’s some hope rain-wise for the state. On Monday a warm front will move through the state and be quickly followed by a cold front that will produce widespread rain across the state. Keim says some areas could see upwards of one to two inches of rain.

Cut 13 (06) “…we’re in.”

LRN AM Newscall November 17

New Orleans po-boy shop owner Mike Serio will attend his 500th consecutive LSU game on Saturday night. Colleen Crain has more…

Cut 1 (40) “…I’m Colleen Crain”

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Along with the fentanyl crisis, there’s a growing number of overdoses linked to nitazines. Brooke Thorington has more on this deadly synthetic opioid.

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Saturday is Election Day and voters will decide on candidates for three vacant statewide offices including Secretary of State. We talked to both candidates competing for the office. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 3 (31) “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Election Day is this Saturday. Three statewide elections, four constitutional amendments, several legislative races and other local races will be decided. Joel Watson with the Secretary of State’s office says they provide sample ballots…

Cut 4 (07) “…Eight PM.”

Fortunately, most people are able to vote without any issues. When there are problems, Watson says the Secretary of State’s office and other officials can help…

Cut 5 (10) “…to go.”

While you exercise your right to vote, Watson says you can dedicate that vote to someone who has served to ensure your right…

Cut 6 (10) “…to them.”

Go to SOS.LA.GOV and search Honor Vets Vote to let the Secretary of State’s office know the name of the veteran you want to honor.

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New Orleans po boy shop owner Mike Serio is the iron man of LSU fans as he’ll attend his 500th consecutive game tomorrow night when the Tigers host Georgia State. His incredible streak started in 1983 and there have been some close calls. In 2005 after Hurricane Katrina, Serio had to scramble after LSU’s home game against Arizona State was shifted to Tempe…

Cut 7 (11) “…pretty wild”

During the 2020 COVID season, Serio watched the LSU-Vanderbilt game from a parking lot in Nashville. He also had to quickly pivot in 2021, when LSU’s game against Missouri was moved to Columbia because of a hurricane.

Not only does Serio go to every game, but he stays until the end, except for one game during a dark time for LSU football, the Curly Hallman years…

Cut 8 (08) “…early Curly” 

Serio says his favorite trip in the SEC is Kentucky. He says LSU’s game at Washington was cool in 2009, but his favorite trip was to Green Bay in 2016…

Cut 9 (08)  “…Yankee Stadium”

The 72-year-old Serio doesn’t expect missing a game anytime soon and is looking forward to next year’s season opener in Las Vegas.

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Nitazines, a synthetic opioid, are being linked to a growing number of overdose deaths, and St. Tammany Parish Coroner Dr. Charles Preston says their potency is alarming…

Cut 10 (12) “…kinds of stores.”

In the last few years, the use of nitazines has spiked in Louisiana and other parts of the country. But Preston says it’s hard to know just how many are linked to the drug that’s being created in illicit laboratories…

Cut 11 (10) “…for them.” 

Preston says if they suspect someone has died from an overdose, but the toxicology is negative the case is sent to the DEA for further investigation for confirmation.

He says fentanyl test strips do not detect nitazines and if you do consume it, it could take multiple doses of Narcan to be revived.

Cut 12 (11) “…your body.” 

Preston says nitazines were developed in the 1950s but never received FDA approval because they can stop you from breathing.

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On the ballot, this Saturday is a runoff for Secretary of State between two women, Republican Nancy Landry and Democrat Gwen Collins-Greenup. Landry has served three terms as State Representative for Lafayette and Vermillion Parishes. Landry says serving as the First Assistant Secretary of State makes her the only candidate with experience running a statewide election…

Cut 13 (11) “…that election.”

Landry says if elected she plans to use federal and state dollars in new voting machines that produce a paper copy for voters.

Cut 14 (12) “…their ballot.”

Her opposition is the former clerk of court in East Feliciana Parish, Gwen Collins-Greenup. Collins-Greenup says her experience encompasses many dimensions as she’s also an attorney and an accountant. The Democrat says her first priority is replacing old voting machines and upgrading voter registration databases.

Cut 15 (12) “…are voting.”

Collins-Greenup says she wants to modernize business services, streamline the business filing process, expand business resources, and combat business identity theft. She plans to improve voter access and voter participation…

Cut 16 (13) “…to vote.”

On Saturday’s ballot, voters will also elect a new Attorney General and Treasurer. Voting polls open at 7 am and close at 8 pm.

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Saturday night’s matchup between 15th-ranked LSU and Georgia State is not a marque matchup on the college football schedule. But Heisman voters will be paying attention to quarterback Jayden Daniels’ performance. Tigers Coach Brian Kelly says Daniels has had little trouble with the increased media coverage that has been associated with his Heisman campaign

Cut 17 (14) “…a great job.”

Daniels’ main competition for the Heisman is Oregon’s Bo Nix or Washington’s Michael Penix Jr, who have similar numbers and better records, Kelly says some of Daniels’ best qualities can’t be measured by statistics or records.

Cut 18 (19) “…quarterback position”

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Louisiana Tech will close out the season tomorrow when they face Jacksonville State. The Gamecocks are 7-and-3 and have one of the best defenses in Conference USA. Bulldogs Coach Sonny Cumbie is impressed with their pass rush…

Cut 19 (19) “…identification.” 

Tech has lost five in a row and they have just three wins on the season. Cumbie says a victory on Saturday would be big…

Cut 20 (20) “…this program”