8:30 LRN Newscast February 26

It’s the final weekend before Fat Tuesday, and Governor John Bel Edwards says he’s excited Mardi Gras parades and celebrations are back in full force this year, but he doesn’t want the Carnival season to contribute to the state’s litter problem. Edwards is asking revelers to take responsibility for their own garbage.

Cut 3 (11) “…when you’re celebrating”

Edwards recently launched a Statewide Litter Abatement and Beautification Task Force which will provide policy solutions this summer to address the state’s litter issue.

While Mardi Gras is synonymous with New Orleans, Carnival celebrations continue to grow throughout the state. Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser says his office will continue to make efforts to draw more attention and in turn more visitors to those areas.

Cut 10 (12) “…all over Louisiana.”

Louisiana’s congressional delegation is ready for the United States to intensify its stance against Russian President Vladimir Putin after the invasion of Ukraine. Senator John Kennedy says that Putin should be expelled from the international community, and called for a freezing of Russian financial assets. Senator Bill Cassidy is also calling for tougher sanctions than those imposed by the Biden Administration.

Cut 8 (13) “…fell apart”

Cassidy does not support sending U-S troops to Ukraine but would strengthen those forces already in NATO countries.

An experienced military commander and Louisiana native says Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine is a costly mistake that everyone BUT Putin will have to bear the cost for. Major General Ron Richard (USMC-Retired) says Putin’s seeming worries of Ukraine joining NATO, were never really going to happen.

Cut 12 (12) “…to be a member.”

7:30 LRN Sportscast February 26

The New Orleans Pelicans return from the All-Star break on a winning note, after beating the Phoenix Suns, 117-102 on Friday night. CJ McCollum led all scorers with 32 points and is averaging 29 points per game since being traded to the Pels. Brandon Ingram added 28, and Jonas Valanciuanas picked up another double-double with 18 points and 17 rebounds. New Orleans pulled back to within a game of the tenth seed in the Western Conference with the win. The Pelicans wrap up their quick, two-game road trip in Los Angeles on Sunday night against the Lakers.

LSU got seven strong innings out of Blake Money and Dylan Crews homered, tripled, and drove in four runs, as the Tigers beat Towson 6-0 Friday night at The Box. Money allowed only two hits while striking out seven on his way to his second victory of the season. Crews smacked a two-run home run to left field in the bottom of the first to drive in Trey Morgan, giving LSU an early 2-0 lead. He closed out the scoring with a triple to right in the third that brought in two more. The 4-1 Tigers host Southern at 1:30 pm this afternoon, followed by a Sunday doubleheader.

John Curtis won its sixth consecutive state championship with a 67-47 victory over McKinley in the Division I state girls title game. Eighth-grader Chikae Desdunes scored 23 points to pace the Patriots, and sophomore Heaven Jordan earned Most Outstanding Player honors, and her third state championship, with 15 points, seven steals, six assists, and five rebounds.

The U-L Ragin Cajuns baseball squad fell to sixth-ranked Stanford, 5-1 in its first game at the Karbach Round Rock Classic in Texas. In a tough, three-game set, the Cajuns will take on Indiana today before facing number two Arkansas on Sunday.

On the Softball diamond, U-L bounced back from a tough loss to Alabama to grab a pair of wins Friday night on day one of Youngsville’s Mardi Gras Mambo. The 15th-ranked Ragin Cajuns topped Eastern Illinois 3-2 in the opener before shutting out St. Thomas 10-0 in game two. Freshman Sam Landry struck out 11 on the way to completing the first no-hitter of her career.

In other baseball scores from around the state, Louisiana Tech beat Tulane 6-1 in the first game of their three-game series.

And in softball, number 24 LSU grabbed a pair of wins, topping Stephen F. Austin 10-4, and beating Drake 12-4 in five innings.

5:30 LRN Newscast February 25

U-S Senator John Kennedy says it’s time to make Russian President Vladimir Putin a pariah. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

Major General Ron Richard (USMC-Retired) served in Vietnam, commanded Camp Lejeune, and much more. He has seen his share of military action and intrigue. During an appearance on “Talk Louisiana” with Jim Engster, Richard said Putin’s decision to go into Ukraine was ill-informed, unfounded, but unexpected nevertheless…:

Cut 13 (07) “…western allies.”

Governor John Bel Edwards says he’s excited Mardi Gras parades and celebrations are back in full force this year, but he doesn’t want the Carnival season to contribute to the state’s litter problem. Edwards is asking revelers to take responsibility for their own garbage…

Cut 3 (11) “…when you’re celebrating”

The governor also wants people to focus on reducing litter at Mardi Gras parades…

Cut 5 (03) “…don’t pollute”

Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser is glad to welcome back the thousands of visitors to the state after last year’s COVID-forced hiatus. Louisiana is expected to generate more than $1 billion in revenue during Carnival season. Louisiana’s tourism industry as a whole has taken a hit over the last couple of years due to the pandemic as well as multiple major storms. While others have predicted a slow and steady return to normal, Nungesser believes the state is poised to make a big comeback over the next few months.

Cut 11 (10)   “…to those numbers.”

4:45 Sportscast LRN February 25

The New Orleans Pelicans begin the stretch run of the season on the road tonight against the Phoenix Suns. With the Pels sitting 12th in the Western Conference standings, a game and a half behind 10th place Portland, the focus should be on the court. But the biggest topic of discussion lately has been Zion Williamson and his future with the team. Williamson has appeared in only 85 games since 2019 but will be eligible for a $190-million extension this offseason. NOLA-dot-com Pelicans beat writer Christian Clark expects Zion to re-sign but says he’ll have to show the front office he’s healthy and ready to commit to the franchise.

Cut 18 (15) “…take the max.”

Fresh off their big win over LSU, Louisiana Tech opens up a three-game series against Tulane at JC Love Field Friday night. Tech is 4-0 after sweeping Wichita State and beating the Tigers. Tulane is also 4-0 with a series win over UMASS-Lowell and a 7-5 victory over Nicholls on Wednesday.

Led by Khayla Pointer, number eight LSU narrowly defeated Alabama at the P-MAC on Thursday night. Pointer scored 23 points, grabbed nine rebounds, and handed out eight assists for the Tigers who assured themselves of a second-place finish in the SEC. After earning nine wins all of last season, the Tigers have 11 conference wins heading into Sunday’s regular-season finale at Tennessee. Kim Mulkey is impressed and says you should be too.

Cut 21 (12) “…still number 2.”

The men play will be looking to snap a two-game losing streak when they host Missouri Saturday night. This will be the first meeting between the teams this season. Mizzou is 2-9 over its last 11 games and 3-10 away from home so far. LSU needs to win two of its final three games to finish .500 in the SEC. The Tigers haven’t had a losing conference record since Will Wade’s first season.

Former Saints head coach Sean Payton is currently engaged in negotiations with Fox Sports to join them as an analyst according to reports. It has yet to be decided whether Payton would be in-studio or in the booth, but there are rumors he could succeed Troy Aikman as the network’s lead analyst.

4:30 LRN Newscast February 25

Louisiana U-S Senator John Kennedy says it’s time to expel Russian President Vladimir Putin from the international community for attacking Ukraine. Kennedy says it’s time to stand up to Putin’s aggression…:

CUT 06(06)      “…that’s Hitler.”

Kennedy is calling for a stop to all exports to Russia and the U-S should not only sanction Russian banks and government officials but also rich business leaders who keep Putin in power.

A Louisiana native and veteran military commander says Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine was whole un-necessary and will put the world in turmoil. Major General Ron Richard (USMC-Retired) says Putin’s seeming worries of Ukraine joining NATO were never really going to happen…:

CUT 12(12)      “…to be a member.”

 

Baton Rouge Police are investigating a fatal drive-by shooting this afternoon very near the city’s Mall of Louisiana; an area not known for violent crime. BRPD reports several people were hit by gunfire and two persons are dead.

It’s the final weekend before Mardi Gras, which means big fun and hopefully big revenues for Louisiana. David Grubb has more…:

CUT 02(33)      “…David Grubb.”

As part of his anti-litter campaign, Governor Edwards is asking all parade-goers this weekend to please pick up your own trash and dispose of it properly. If you can haul away your beads and cups, you can haul away your trash.

3:30 LRN Newscast February 25

An experienced military commander and Louisiana native says Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine is a costly mistake that everyone BUT Putin will have to bear. Major General Ron Richard (USMC-Retired) says Putin’s decision to go into Ukraine was ill-informed and unfounded, but nevertheless unexpected…:

CUT 13(07)      “…western allies.”

Police in Baton Rouge are investigating a drive-by shooting right in front of the Mall of Louisiana; an area of the city not known for violence or crime. Cops say multiple people suffered gunshot wounds, and two person are dead.

A Natchitoches man is behind bars after leading LEOs on a high speed chase and throwing a loaded semi-automatic rifle from the vehicle. 22-year-old Reggie Thompson is now a guest of the parish.

 

Governor John Bel Edwards says he’s excited Mardi Gras parades and celebrations are back in full force this year, but he doesn’t want the Carnival season to contribute to the state’s litter problem. Mr. Edwards is asking parade-goers not to leave their trash along the route…:

Cut 04  (09)      “…clean and tidy.”

Lt. Governor Bill Nungesser says hopes are high for a pretty full recovery for Mardi Gras, after the pandemic called it all off last year. While Mardi Gras is synonymous with New Orleans, Carnival celebrations continue to grow across the state. Nungesser says his office will continue to lend its support to draw more attention and in turn more visitors to those areas…:

CUT 10(12)      “…all over Louisiana.”

Louisiana’s tourism industry as a whole has taken a hit over the last couple of years due to the pandemic as well as multiple major storms.

2:30 LRN Newscast February 25

It’s the final weekend before Mardi Gras, which means big fun and hopefully big revenues for Louisiana. David Grubb has more…:

CUT 02(33)      “…David Grubb.”

If you’re going to parades between now and Fat Tuesday, Governor John bel Edwards has a message: pack out your trash. The Governor is happy to see Mardi Gras return as the pandemic winds down, but he’s concerned for the huge amounts of litter parades create. He just asks that you pick up your own and toss it in the trash.

 

U-S Senator John Kennedy says it’s time to expel Russian President Vladimir Putin from the international community for attacking Ukraine. Kennedy says it’s time to stand up to Putin’s aggression, and make him an international pariah. Fellow Senator Bill Cassidy says tougher sanctions than what President Biden has imposed are called for…:

CUT 08(13)      “…fell apart.”

A decorated Marine Corp general and Louisiana native shares his view of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Major General Ron Richard – now retired – says while we watch what Russia’s doing, we must also keep close watch and China and its aggression toward Taiwan. He worries the U.S. has “grown soft”…:

CUT 14(13)      “…a stark difference.”

LRN PM Newscall February 25

U-S Senator John Kennedy says it’s time to make Russian President Vladimir Putin a pariah. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

______________________________________

It’s the final weekend before Mardi Gras, which means big fun and hopefully big revenues for Louisiana. David Grubb has more…

Cut 2 (33)…I’m David Grubb.”  

______________________________________

Governor John Bel Edwards says he’s excited Mardi Gras parades and celebrations are back in full force this year, but he doesn’t want the Carnival season to contribute to the state’s litter problem. Edwards is asking revelers to take responsibility for their own garbage…

Cut 3 (11) “…when you’re celebrating”

Edwards is asking parade-goers not to leave their trash along the route…

Cut 4 (09) “…tidy”

Edwards recently launched a Statewide Litter Abatement and Beautification Task Force which will provide policy solutions this summer to address the state’s litter issue. The governor also wants people to focus on reducing litter at Mardi Gras parades…

Cut 5 (03) “..don’t pollute”

__________________________________________________

Louisiana U-S Senator John Kennedy says it’s time to expel Russian President Vladimir Putin from the international community for attacking Ukraine. Kennedy says it’s time to stand up to Putin’s aggression…

 Cut 6 (06) “…that’s Hitler.” 

Kennedy is calling for a stop to all exports to Russia and the U-S should not only sanction Russian banks and government officials but also rich business leaders who keep Putin in power…

Cut 7 (08) “…assets here.” 

Kennedy says Russia should also be removed from the SWIFT financial system, which is an international payment system.

Senator Bill Cassidy is also calling for tougher sanctions than what President Biden has imposed

Cut 8 (13) “…fell apart” 

Cassidy does not believe the U-S should send troops but strengthen U-S forces in NATO countries.

_______________________________________________________

After a one-year hiatus due to COVID-19, Mardi Gras is back. As the head of the state’s tourism industry, the return of visitors and their wallets is a welcome sight for Nungesser, especially after Louisiana businesses missed out on millions last year due to the pandemic.

Cut 9 (13) “…incredible numbers.”

While Mardi Gras is synonymous with New Orleans, Carnival celebrations continue to grow throughout the state. Nungesser says his office will continue to lend its support to draw more attention and in turn more visitors to those areas.

Cut 10 (12)  “…all over Louisiana.” 

Louisiana’s tourism industry as a whole has taken a hit over the last couple of years due to the pandemic as well as multiple major storms. While others have predicted a slow and steady return to normal, Nungesser believes the state is poised to make a big comeback over the next few months.

Cut 11 (10)   “…to those numbers.”  

__________________________________________

An experienced military commander and Louisiana native says Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine is a costly mistake that everyone BUT Putin will have to bear. Major General Ron Richard (USMC-Retired) says Putin’s seeming worries of Ukraine joining NATO were never really going to happen…:

Cut 12 (12) “…to be a member.”  

In his career, Richard (pron: ree-shard) has served in Vietnam, commanded Camp Lejeune and much more. He has seen his share of military action and intrigue. During an appearance on “Talk Louisiana” with Jim Engster, Richard says Putin’s decision to go into Ukraine was ill-informed and unfounded, but nevertheless unexpected…:

cut 13 (07) “…western allies.”

Richard says recent events have made nations unfriendly to the West and to democracy bolder, and more likely to aggression. Richard says, while we watch what Russian will do, we must also keep close watch and China and its aggression toward Taiwan. He worries the U.S. has “grown soft”…:

Cut 14 (13)  “…a stark difference.” 

1:30 LRN Newscast February 25

After a one-year hiatus due to COVID-19, Mardi Gras is back. As the head of the state’s tourism industry, the return of visitors and their wallets is a welcome sight for Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser, especially after Louisiana businesses missed out on millions last year due to the pandemic.

Cut 9 (13) “…incredible numbers.”

Governor John Bel Edwards says he’s excited Mardi Gras parades and celebrations are back in full force this year, but he doesn’t want the Carnival season to contribute to the state’s litter problem. Edwards is asking revelers to take responsibility for their own garbage.

Cut 3 (11) “…when you’re celebrating”

Edwards recently launched a Statewide Litter Abatement and Beautification Task Force which will provide policy solutions this summer to address the state’s litter issue.

Louisiana U-S Senator John Kennedy says it’s time to expel Russian President Vladimir Putin from the international community for attacking Ukraine. Kennedy is calling for a stop to all exports to Russia and says the U-S should not only sanction Russian banks and government officials but also rich business leaders who keep Putin in power…

Cut 7 (08) “…assets here.”

An experienced military commander and Louisiana native says Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine is a costly mistake that everyone BUT Putin will have to bear. Major General Ron Richard (USMC-Retired) says Putin’s seeming worries of Ukraine joining NATO were never really going to happen.

Cut 12 (12) “…to be a member.”

Richard says recent events have made nations unfriendly to the West and to democracy bolder, and that while we watch Russia, we must also keep close watch on China and its aggression toward Taiwan.

12:30 LRN Newscast February 25

U.S. Senator John Kennedy says it’s time to make Russian President Vladimir Putin a pariah. Jeff Palermo has the story…:

CUT 01(31)      “…Jeff Palermo.”

Retired Marine Corps General and native Louisianan Ron Richard says Putin’s decision to go into Ukraine was ill-informed and unfounded, but nevertheless unexpected…:

CUT 13(07)      “…western allies”

 

The big Mardi Gras weekend means LOTS of parades all across our state, and while Governor John Bel Edwards is happy to see festivities back after the pandemic, he’s still worried about the trash we leave behind. Mr. Edwards recently launched a Statewide Litter Abatement and Beautification Task Force which will provide policy solutions this summer to address the state’s litter issues. The governor also wants US to be mindful of litter at Mardi Gras parades…:

CUT 05(03)      “…don’t pollute.”

..and now today’s markets…

Rain is moving out of the state, bringing us slightly warmer and more pleasant weather for parades Saturday. Look for highs in the 50’s and 60’s. Mardi Gras? Sunny and near 70.