12:30 LRN Newscast Oct 22

Saturday marks the 21st edition of the DEA’s Drug Takeback event. Brian Singleton of the agency says you’ll be able to drop off a variety of unwanted prescription drugs at the time, no questions asked.

Cut 4 (07) “…out of it.”

The event will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday and for a list of locations Visit takebackday.dea.gov

 

Louisiana is the only state where the percentage of Blacks vaccinated for COVID is higher than whites. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation 51-percent of Blacks are vaccinated compared to 49-percent of whites. Assistant Secretary of the Louisiana Department of Health Kim Hood says their hard work to remove barriers for minorities to get vaccinated has shown results.

Cut 9 (07) “…proud of it.”

But Hood says their work is far from over due to the state’s overall low vaccination rate.

A planned 450-million-dollar renovation to the Ceasars’ Superdome in the Big Easy is at least temporarily hobbled financially. The state has only committed two-point-five-million of 90-million dollars in funding for the project, leaving State Treasurer John Schroder looking for direction from the legislature.

Cut 6 (09) “…of New Orleans.” 

He says so far there’s no definitive answer to that question, though the door was left open earlier by the Edwards administration to funnel that much state money into the project.

And the state reports 681 new OCIVD-19 cases and 342 hospitalizations.

 

11:30 LRN Newscast Oct 22

The U.S. Senate has passed a recovery and relief bill; amended to be beneficial to Louisiana by our own Senator John Kennedy. He says the bipartisan bill gives states billions for pandemic fiscal relief. Kennedy says Louisiana will get about $4.8-billion of the nearly $2-trillion funded within the bill, but his amendment gives Louisiana choices as to how the federal dollars are spent…:

Cut 6 (09) “…the handcuffs are off.”

 

When the widow of late Governor Edwin Edwards stated she wanted the former-four term governor to have his final resting place near Huey Long at the State Capitol, it brought to light proposed legislation that’s in the works to allow other former governors to be buried at the capitol. Monroe Representative Michael Echols plans to submit his bill in the 2022 regular legislative session and he welcomes input from state historians and others so the memorial is done properly.

Cut 12 (11) “…appropriate.”

 

Saturday marks the 21st edition of the DEA’s Drug Takeback event. Brian Singleton of the agency says you’ll be able to drop off a variety of unwanted prescription drugs at the time, no questions asked.

 

Cut 3 (08) “….a proper way.”

 

The Drug Takeback event will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. Visit www.takebackday.dea.gov for a list of locations.

 

If you like your winters cold and wet in Louisiana, you may not get your wish in the coming months. State Climatologist Barry Keim says NOAA is out with its latest predictions showing that a La Nina weather pattern is now in control of what’s to come, a warmer, drier winter is expected. Keim says there’s some potentially bad news about the formation of the La Nina weather pattern when it comes to the final weeks of Hurricane Season that officially wraps up November 30th.

Cut 15 (09)  “…of the season.”

 

Though Keim says any future hurricanes this season should be more of a threat to the east coast rather than the Gulf states.

11:40 LRN Sportscast

The Cajuns won their sixth straight football game last night, but it was not easy as U-L Lafayette held off Arkansas State 28-27. The Red Wolves led by six late in the third quarter, but Cajuns running back Chris Smith ran 74 yards for a touchdown and the following PAT was the winning score. Coach Billy Napier is glad to escape Jonesboro with a victory…
cut 28 (15) “….mental toughness”
The Cajuns rushed for 424 yards and Smith finished with 238 yards, the fifth most in program history.

Tomorrow, LSU is at 12th ranked Ole Miss, Louisiana Tech hosts 24th ranked UTSA. On the F-C-S level, ninth-ranked Southeastern Louisiana is at Northwestern State for a 3 PM kick-off on ESPN-plus.

The Saints are getting ready to face a 2-and-4 Seahawks team on Sunday that’s without quarterback Russell Wilson, who is recovering from finger surgery. Geno Smith will start at quarterback and New Orleans Safety Marcus Williams says the Seahawks still have receivers D-K Metcalf and Tyler Lockett…
cut 17 (13) “…ball out”
Alex Collins is Seattle’s leading rusher, 225 yards on 48 carries and two touchdowns.

The Louisiana Gaming Control Board has approved a license for FanDuel to operate in parishes that approved online fantasy sports. When will casinos offer sports gambling? Gaming Control Board Chairman Ronnie Johns says they are getting closer, but it’s not happening this weekend despite the rumors…
cut 30 (12) “…right way”
Currently, only Paragon Casino in Marksville is taking legal sports bets.

10:30 LRN Newscast Oct 22

Senator John Kennedy says a massive disaster relief & economic recovery bill passed by the Senate is amended to benefit the Bayou State. More from Kevin Gallagher.

Cut 1 (29) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

If you like your winters cold and wet in Louisiana, you may not get your wish. State Climatologist Barry Keim says NOAA’s latest predictions show a La Nina weather pattern is in control.

Cut 13 (09) “…with less precipitation.”

Open enrollment is underway for Medicare beneficiaries if they want to switch their plans for next year. Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon urges Louisiana residents to take advantage of the federally funded Senior Health Insurance Information Program to get unbiased advice on the best plan for them.

Cut 7 (12) “…through December 7th.”

For more information visit ldi.la.gov

Monroe Representative Michael Echols plans to file legislation that would allow governors to be buried on the grounds of the State Capitol next to the statue of Huey Long. Echols says he came up with the idea months ago…

Cut 10 (07)  “…around the campus.” 
The widow of Edwin Edwards wanted the former four-term governor buried next to Huey. Trina Edwards eventually decided to have Edwin Edwards cremated.

9:30 LRN Newscast Oct 22

It’s open season for changing your Medicare coverage should you want to move in that direction.  More from Dave Brannen.

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Dave Brannen.” 

 

In an effort to curb crime in the City of Shreveport Mayor Adrian Perkins has set a curfew for juveniles that goes into effect tonight. Weekend curfew hours are Midnight to 5 AM and weekdays 10 PM to 5 AM. Parents could face a fine or jail time for any violations.

The U.S. Senate has passed a recovery and relief bill; amended to be beneficial to Louisiana Senator John Kennedy. Kennedy says the Fiscal Recovery, Infrastructure and Disaster Relief Act is a huge step in helping states hit hard by the COVID pandemic and suffering economic hardship.

Cut 5 (12) “…billion dollars of that.”

Kennedy says the amendment gives Louisiana choices as to how to spend the federal dollars.

Monroe Representative Michael Echols is working on legislation to allow Louisiana governors to be buried on the grounds of the capitol. Echols says the recent passing of several former governors also inspired the legislation.

Cut 11 (11) “…opportunity.”.

 

Trina Edwards the widow of Edwin Edwards wants to have his ashes placed at the capitol, but legislation is needed to do so.

 

8:30 LRN Newscast October 22

Huey Long is the only former governor to be buried on the grounds of the state capitol but that could soon change. Brooke Thorington explains.
Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

Legislative leaders are reluctant to approve a 63-million dollar debt forgiveness plan for the Louisiana Stadium and Exposition District, which oversees the Superdome. The Edwards administration is pushing for passage of the debt forgiveness plan to help cover the state’s share for the 450-million dollars to improve the Superdome.

NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center is predicting La Nina climate conditions for this winter. State Climatologist Barry Keim says that means a drier and warmer winter for the south…
cut 14 (12) “…across the country”
Keim says a La Nina can also help tropical storm development, but the tropics are currently quiet.

Medicare Open Enrollment is underway and it will last through December seventh. Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon says the Medicare choices are important since not all, such as Medicare Advantage Plans, offer coverage for your particular doctors or other medical providers that you prefer.
Cut 9 (09) “…by traditional Medicare.”
Donelon encourages Medicare beneficiaries to take advantage of the Senior Health Insurance Information Program

7:30 LRN Newscast

Senator John Kennedy says Senate-approved legislation contains an amendment that he authored which would allow states to use unspent pandemic relief funds on disaster recovery…
cut 4 (13) “…in the state”
The legislation still needs House approval and Kennedy hopes that will come soon.

Monroe Representative Michael Echols plans to file legislation that would allow governors to be buried on the grounds of the State Capitol next to the statue of Huey Long. Echols says he came up with the idea months ago…
cut 10 (07) “…around the campus”
The widow of Edwin Edwards wanted the former four-term governor buried next to Huey. Trina Edwards eventually decided to have Edwin Edwards cremated.

Interim Lafayette Police Chief Wayne Griffin is on administrative leave because he’s been accused of sexual harassment. Mayor-President Josh Guillory has called for an investigation and Major Monte Potier will lead the L-P-D until further notice. He’s the fifth police chief to serve during Guillory’s administration.

It’s open season for changing your Medicare coverage should you want to move in that direction. More from Dave Brannen.
Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Dave Brannen.”

6:45 LRN Sportscast

The Saints are getting ready to make a trip to the Pacific Northwest to play the Seattle Seahawks on Monday night. Coach Sean Payton says it’s difficult to produce explosive plays on offense against the Seahawks defense…
Cut 16 (16) “drives”
A couple of starting offensive linemen have returned to practice. Terron Armstead and Erik McCoy were limited yesterday, but Deonte Harris and Taysom Hill did not practice. Harris has a hamstring injury and Hill is trying to recover from a concussion.

LSU Coach Ed Orgeron says wide receiver Deion Smith and starting right guard Chasen Hines are doubtful for Saturday’s game against 12th ranked Ole Miss. Marlon Martinez is expected to start if Hines can’t go. Kick-off is at 2:30.

The Ragin Cajuns rushed for 424 yards last night and they needed every one of those yards as U-L Lafayette held off upset-minded Arkansas State 28-27. Chris Smith rushed 238 yards, which is the fifth-most rushing yards in a single game in program history. Montrell Johnson rushed for 150 yards and got most of those yards on a 99-yard touchdown run.

21st ranked SMU trounced Tulane 55-26 as the Green Wave fall to one and six.

It’s homecoming for Louisiana Tech who will host undefeated and 24th ranked UTSA. Bulldogs Coach Skip Holtz says the Roadrunners are a senior-laden team…
Cut 18 (19)”…protecting the football.”
It’s the first time the Roadrunners have been ranked in program history.

6:30 LRN Newscast October 22

Senator John Kennedy says a massive disaster relief & economic recovery bill passed by the Senate is amended to benefit the Bayou State. More from Kevin Gallagher…:
Cut 1 (29) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

Lake Charles Mayor Nic Hunter says between 300 to 400 commercial buildings damaged by Hurricane Laura are being condemned or marked for demolition.

In New Orleans, Mayor LaToya Cantrell is considering holding all Mardi Gras parades on St. Charles Avenue as the city is concerned about the lack of available first responders.

Monroe Representative Michael Echols is working on legislation that would allow former governors to be buried on the State Capitol grounds next to the final resting place of Huey Long. Echols says his legislation is for the 2022 legislative session and he welcomes input from historians and others…
cut 12 (11) “….appropriate”
Trina Edwards, the widow of former Edwin Edwards, wanted the former four-term governor buried next to Huey Long’s statue, instead, Edwards was cremated.

Medicare Open Enrollment ends December seventh and Louisiana Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon is urging Medicare beneficiaries to use the Senior Health Insurance Information Program to help navigate the Medicare Open Enrollment Period…
cut 8 (10) “…their individual’s situation”
Medicare beneficiaries can contact SHIP by visiting i-d-i-dot-la-dot-gov.

AM Newscall Oct 22

Senator John Kennedy says a massive disaster relief & economic recovery bill passed by the Senate is amended to benefit the Bayou State. More from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 1 (29) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

___________________________________

It’s open season for changing your Medicare coverage should you want to move in that direction.  More from Dave Brannen.

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Dave Brannen.” 

_________________________________________

Huey Long is the only former governor to be buried on the grounds of the capitol but that could soon change. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 3 (32)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

___________________________________________

The U.S. Senate has passed a recovery and relief bill; amended to be beneficial to Louisiana by our own Senator John Kennedy. He says the bipartisan bill gives states billions for pandemic fiscal relief, but his amendment gives Louisiana more flexibility with what to do with its share…:

Cut 4 (13) “…in my state.”

Kennedy says the Fiscal Recovery, Infrastructure and Disaster Relief Act is a huge step in helping states hit hard by the COVID pandemic and suffering economic hardship…:

Cut 5 (12) “…billion dollars of that.”

Kennedy says Louisiana will get about $4.8-billion of the nearly $2-trillion funded within the bill, but his amendment gives Louisiana choices as to how the federal dollars are spent…:

Cut 6 (09) “…the handcuffs are off.”

Kennedy hopes the House will pass the measure and send it to President Biden with all due haste. The bill let’s state lawmakers use up to 30-percent of the money for infrastructure needs and use up to 100% of it for disaster relief.

_____________________________________

Open enrollment is underway for Medicare beneficiaries who may or may not want to switch their plans for next year. Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon urges Louisiana residents to take advantage of the federally-funded Senior Health Insurance Information Program to get unbiased advice on the best plan for you.

Cut 7 (12) “…through December 7th.”

You can get in touch with SHIIP by calling 1-800-259-5300 or by visiting www.ldi.la.gov.

Donelon on why people turn to SHIIP for Medicare information.

Cut 8 (10) “…their individual’s situation.”

Donelon says the Medicare choices are important since not all, such as Medicare Advantage Plans, offer coverage for your particular doctors or other medical providers that you prefer.

Cut 9 (09)  “…by traditional Medicare.”

 

_________________________

When the widow of late Governor Edwin Edwards stated she wanted the former-four term governor to have his final resting place near Huey Long at the State Capitol, it brought to light proposed legislation that’s in the works to allow other former governors to be buried at the capitol. Monroe Representative Michael Echols says he began preparing his bill about six months ago.

Cut 10 (07)  “…around the campus.” 

Echols, who walks the capitol grounds frequently, says they are ideal to honor former state leaders. Suitable grounds and the recent passing of several former governors also inspired the legislation.

Cut 11 (11) “…opportunity.”

As for how Long’s remains were permitted to be buried on the grounds, Echols says it was a  resolution that was passed hours after the Kingfish died.  But he wants the burial of governors on the capitol grounds to become a permanent option.

Echols plans to submit his bill in the 2022 regular legislative session that’s scheduled to begin March 14th and he welcomes input from state historians and others so the memorial is done properly.

Cut 12 (11) “…appropriate.”

Trina Edwards recently had her husband’s remains exhumed and cremated and says she’d like to inter his ashes at the capitol grounds.

___________________________________

If you like your winters cold and wet in Louisiana, you may not get your wish in the coming months. State Climatologist Barry Keim says NOAA is out with its latest predictions showing that a La Nina weather pattern is now in control of what’s to come.

Cut 13 (09) “…with less precipitation.”

And if you like your weather cooler, forecasters say you’ll need to head to the Northwest and the northern Rockies this winter season.

Keim says La Ninas typically show up every three to four years, giving rise to the warmer, drier weather pattern in the most southern swath of states.

Cut 14 (12)  “…across the country.”

Keim says there’s some potentially bad news about the formation of the La Nina weather pattern when it comes to the final weeks of Hurricane Season that officially wraps up November 30th.

Cut 15 (09)  “…of the season.”

Though Keim says any future hurricanes this season should be more of a threat to the east coast rather than the Gulf states.

___________________________________________

The Saints are getting ready to make a trip to the Pacific Northwest to play the Seattle Seahawks on Monday night. Coach Sean Payton says it’s difficult to produce explosive plays on offense against the Seahawks defense…

Cut  16 (16) “drives”

The Seahawks are without starting quarterback Russell Wilson who is out after undergoing finger surgery. Safety Marcus Williams says Seattle can still be explosive with Geno Smith at QB…

Cut 17 (13) “ …ball out.” 

__________________________________________________

It’s homecoming for Louisiana Tech who will host undefeated and 24th ranked UTSA. Bulldogs Coach Skip Holtz says the Roadrunners are a senior laden team…

Cut 18 (19)”…protecting the football.”

UTSA Quarterback Frank Harris has thrown for 16-hundred yards and 14 touchdowns. Bulldogs Quarterback Austin Kendall only threw for 164 yards last week and he was intercepted three times. Holtz on the adjustments they plan to make with the passing game..

Cut 19 (18)  “…the quarterback”