7:30 LRN Newscast

The state’s three abortion clinics remain closed today after a New Orleans judge refused to extend a temporary restraining order that allowed clinics to operate for a short-time after a trigger law that bans abortions went into effect. The judge also ruled the case must be heard in state court in Baton Rouge. Gene Mills with the Louisiana Family Forum expects the ban will remain in effect…
cut 3 (07) “….effective date”
Loyola Law Professor Dane Ciolino says if the case reaches the Louisiana Supreme Court, he expects the state’s highest court will side with pro-life advocates.

A new law taking effect August 1st will allow military veterans to carry a concealed weapon without a permit. UL-Lafayette political science professor Pearson Cross says this is an idea gaining popularity in “red states”…:
Cut 7 (08) “….lots of veterans.”

The World Horseshoe Pitching Tournament Championship begins today at the Monroe Civic Center as 649 athletes from the U-S, South Africa, Norway and Canada are competing in nine different divisions. President of the National Horseshoe Pitchers Gary Roberts says Horseshoe pitching is a sport rich in history and it’s special because you’re never really out of a match….
Cut 15 (11) “…the game.”
The tournament runs through July 23rd.

The LSU School of Veterinary Medicine’s new Stephenson Pet Clinic has started receiving patients on the Baton Rouge campus. LSU Vet School spokesperson Ginger Guttner says the new 40-thousand square foot facility frees up more space in other hospitals…
cut 11 (09) “…for our students”

6:45 LRN Sportscast

The LSU football program continued building on its 2023 recruiting class over the weekend. On Friday night, five-star wide receiver Jalen Brown from Gulliver Prep in Miami, Florida announced his verbal pledge for the Tigers over Florida State, Michigan, Texas A-and-M and Miami. 24-7 sports ranks Brown as the fourth best wide receiver in the country.

And then on Saturday, LSU added its 14th verbal commitment for the class of 2023 with a verbal pledge from three-star linebacker Whit Weeks from Watkinsville, Georgia. He’s the younger brother of LSU linebacker West Weeks, who transferred to LSU after appearing in 11 games for Virginia last season. Their father, David West, is a former three-year starter on the offensive line for Georgia in the early 1990s.

According to 24-7 sports, LSU’s 2023 recruiting class is ranked as the ninth best in the country and there’s possibility the Tigers will pick up a coupe more commitments this week.

The Pelicans will face the Atlanta Hawks in NBA Summer League action tonight. The game is scheduled to tip off at 5 PM in Las Vegas and you can watch it on NBA TV. The Pels first round pick Dyson Daniels is not expected to play in the rest of the Summer League after he rolled his ankle in the Summer League opener on Saturday. Daniels scored just one point in eight minutes. X-rays on the ankle were negative.

The 2022 World Horseshoe Pitching Tournament Championship begins today at the Monroe Civic Center. President of the National Horseshoe Pitchers Gary Roberts says the tournament brings people from more than 40 states, four foreign countries and he equates it to a big family reunion.
Cut 13 (10) “…all of us.”
The tournament is divided into a plethora of divisions including the elders, senior, junior and cadet divisions, highlighting how the sport is played by all ages. The tourney lasts until July 23rd.

6:30 LRN Newscast

The ban on abortions in Louisiana is in effect after a New Orleans judge lifted the restraining order but decided to let a Baton Rouge judge hear the complaint that the new trigger laws are too vague.
Cut 1 (36) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

We are expected to hear today an override veto session for 2022 is canceled. Legislative leaders have said there is not enough support for lawmakers to come back to Baton Rouge to override any of the 27 bills the governor vetoed.

Set to become law on August first is legislation that would allow veterans to carry a concealed weapon without a permit. The measure overwhelming passed in the regular legislative session in another bill approved by lawmakers to affirm Second Amendment rights, but U-L Lafayette Political Science Professor Pearson Cross says there are others who say now is not time to expand gun rights…
cut 9 (10) “…..fuel on a fire”

LSU’s School of Veterinary Medicine has doubled the number of exam rooms at its facility on the Baton Rouge campus. LSU Vet school spokesperson Ginger Guttner says their new 40-thousand square foot facility also has separate waiting rooms which Guttner says can help calm animals already in distress. For example, one for dogs, another for cats and also one for exotic animals.
Cut 12 (09) “…waiting.”

AM LRN Newscall July 11

The ban on abortions in Louisiana is in effect after a New Orleans judge lifted the restraining order but decided to let a Baton Rouge judge hear the complaint that the new trigger laws are too vague. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (36) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The National Hurricane Center is watching what may develop in the northern gulf coast a weakening front is expected to park offshore and develop into a surface trough.  LRN’s John Weatherby has more…

Cut 2 (31) “….John Weatherby.” 

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Abortion clinics were forced to stop procedures Friday after a New Orleans judge lifted the restraining order challenging the state’s abortion ban trigger laws. The judge also moved the challenge to a Baton Rouge courtroom. Pro-life advocate and President of Louisiana Family Forum, Gene Mills says in the end the ban will remain in effect and abortion clinics will close shop.

Cut 3 (07) “…effective date.”

New Orleans Representative and pro-choice advocate Aimee Freeman voted against the most recent legislation to ban abortions and says without exceptions for rape or incest…

Cut 4 (11)  “…horrific.”

Attorneys on behalf of a Shreveport abortion clinic and the Center for Reproductive Rights are challenging the ban on the grounds the laws are vague. And while the judge agreed she move the case to a Baton Rouge court where state laws are usually addressed. Mills says the laws are very clear.

Cut 5 (06) “…gotta go.”

Freeman says otherwise and the laws punishing physicians who perform abortions up to 15 years are insane. She also questioned portions of the law requiring two physicians to decide if a pregnancy is medically futile…

Cut 6 (07)  “…into the hospital.”

A court date for the case is to be determined.

________________________________________________

A new law taking effect August 1st will allow military veterans to carry a concealed weapon without a permit. The original bill was authored by West Monroe Senator Jay Morris. It passed with only one “no” vote and was signed by the Governor. UL-Lafayette political science professor Pearson Cross says this is an idea gaining popularity in “red states”…:

Cut 7 (08) “….lots of veterans.”

The new law applies to those that have served in any branch of the military, including the Louisiana National Guard and the Louisiana Air National Guard. They must have been honorably discharged from service and meet all eligibility requirements for CCP applicants, including a clean criminal record. Dr. Cross says many argue that veterans are often trained and proficient with weapons, and know to use them safely and sensibly…:

Cut 8 (12)  “…be around a gun.”

Cross says proponents of permit-less concealed carry for veterans say they deserve the consideration, and it’s a big step in affirming their Second Amendment rights…:

Cut 9 (10)  “…fuel on a fire.”

Cross worries the law will eventually be used to end concealed carry permit requirements for everyone.

_________________________________________________

Earlier this month LSU’s School of Veterinary Medicine opened the Stephenson Pet Clinic after a decade of planning and construction. The new 40-thousand square foot facility  houses what spokesperson Ginger Guttner says most people consider out-patient services.

Cut 10 (08) “…integrated medicine.”

Not only does the new building give students and patients an improved experience, Guttner says it also frees up more space in their other hospitals.

Cut  11 (09)  “…for our students.” 

The new building houses 15 exam rooms where the previous facility had seven. In addition to doubling the number of exam rooms the new clinic has separate waiting rooms which Guttner says can help calm animals that are already in distress. For example, one for dogs, another for cats and also one for exotic animals.

Cut 12 (09) “…waiting.” 

The only downside to the new facility faculty and staff find themselves getting lost due to its size.

___________________________________________________

The 2022 World Horseshoe Pitching Tournament Championship begins today at the Monroe Civic Center. President of the National Horseshoe Pitchers Gary Roberts says the tournament brings people from more than 40 states, four foreign countries and he equates it to a big family reunion.

Cut 13 (10) “…all of us.”

The tournament is divided into a plethora of divisions including the elders , open, senior, junior and cadet divisions highlighting how the sport is played by all ages. Roberts says the winner will take home about $3000 prize money along with trophies but first they need to defeat some distinguished competition.

Cut 14 (13)  “…that 26.”

Horseshoe pitching is a sport rich in history that’s finds its roots in the ancient roman days and was played through the American Revolution. Roberts says it’s special because you’re never really out of the game.

Cut 15 (11)  “…the game.”

The tournament will be held July 11th to the 23rd.

________________________________________

Cut 16 (12)  “…multiple championships.”

Cut 17 (23) “…very tough.” 

Cut 18 (19) “ …right now.” 

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Cut 19 (16) _“…when you know, you know.” 

Cut 20 (12) “ …in high school” 

LRN 10:30 Newscast July 9th

From the LRN I’m Erik Piccoli

Abortion clinics were forced to stop procedures Friday after a New Orleans judge lifted the restraining order challenging the state’s abortion ban trigger laws. Attorneys on behalf of a Shreveport abortion clinic and the Center for Reproductive Rights are challenging the ban on the grounds the laws are vague.

While pro-life advocates such as President of Louisiana Family Forum, Gene Mills say the laws are very clear, pro-choice advocates such as New Orleans Representative Aimee Freeman say otherwise and the laws punishing physicians who perform abortions up to 15 years are insane. She also questioned portions of the law requiring two physicians to decide if a pregnancy is medically futile…

Cut 6 (09)  “…into the hospital.”

 

Dashcam footage was released today showing State Police Superintendent Col Lamar Davis driving at least 90 miles per hour along the I-10 Atchafalaya Basin Bridge last week. Davis was driving an unmarked SUV. LSP spokesperson Capt. Nick Manale…

Cut 12 (11) “…citation.”  

Col Davis has since apologized for his action.

 

This is news on LRN

+++++++++++++

Will they or won’t they? Lawmakers have until Monday to return their votes on having a veto override session. Kevin Gallagher has more…:

Cut 2 (29) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”  

 

And in Washington Parish Watermelons, which are a major crop in the area, are starting to ripen. Last year was not the best for Louisiana watermelons. Farmer Perry Tally says believe it or not wet weather is not conducive for producing a good crop, but this year the weather has been extremely cooperative.

Cut 15 (12) “…bit early.” 

 

For the LRN I’m Erik Piccoli

LRN 9:30 Newscast July 9th

From the LRN I’m Erik Piccoli
In New Orleans abortion clinics were forced to stop procedures Friday after a local judge lifted the restraining order challenging the state’s abortion ban trigger laws. New Orleans Representative and pro-choice advocate Aimee Freeman voted against the most recent legislation to ban abortions and says without exceptions for rape or incest…
Cut 4  (11) “…horrific.”

Attorneys on behalf of a Shreveport abortion clinic and the Center for Reproductive Rights are challenging the ban on the grounds the laws are vague but Pro-life advocate and President of Louisiana Family Forum, Gene Mills says the laws are very clear.
Cut 5  (06) “…gotta go.”

This is news on LRN
+++++++++++++
The state Department of Transportation is prepping for a future with more electric vehicles on the road and supplying power to those motorists. DOTD Secretary Shawn Wilson says they are using infrastructure dollars to help fund the effort.
CUT 16 (11) driven cars now
DOTD will create and submit an EV Infrastructure deployment plan by the end of the month; showcasing how they’ll use $74 million in federal funding
And of course, we all know Watermelons are a staple for the summer and when it comes to the beloved fruit in Louisiana, it’s just synonymous with Washington Parish. When asked what makes a Washington Parish watermelon so tasty, farmer Perry Tally gives credit to the soil.
Cut 14 (12)  “…quality melon.”

For the LRN I’m Erik Piccoli

LRN 8:30 Newscast July 9th

From the LRN I’m Erik Piccoli

Abortion clinics were forced to stop procedures Friday after a New Orleans judge lifted the restraining order challenging the state’s abortion ban trigger laws. The judge also moved the challenge to a Baton Rouge courtroom. Pro-life advocate and President of Louisiana Family Forum, Gene Mills says in the end the ban will remain in effect and abortion clinics will close shop.

Cut 3 (08) “…effective date.”

New Orleans Representative and pro-choice advocate Aimee Freeman voted against the most recent legislation to ban abortions and says without exceptions for rape or incest that quote “we are literally telling people that we are ok as a state with an 11-year-old child carrying a pregnancy to full term”.

And the department of transportation is gearing up to provide electric vehicles with the electricity they need to travel. DOTD will develop and submit an EV Infrastructure deployment plan by the end of the month; detailing how they will use $74 million in federal funding. DOTD Secretary Shawn Wilson says the federal government will then respond to the submitted plans this fall.

Cut 7 (11) “…across the state.” 

This is news on LRN

+++++++++++++

After being left in a hot vehicle covered with blanket outside of a Slidell Walmart a 16-day old child is remarkably alive. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

And dashcam footage was released today showing State Police Superintendent Col Lamar Davis driving at least 90 miles per hour along the I-10 Atchafalaya Basin Bridge last week. Davis was driving an unmarked SUV. SP spokesperson Capt. Nick Manale says the department has reviewed footage of the incident and would not comment any further on the matter.

Cut 13 (09) “…this time.”

 

For the LRN I’m Erik Piccoli

5:30 LRN Newcast July 8

After being left in a hot vehicle covered with blanket outside of a Slidell Walmart a 16-day old child is remarkably alive. Brooke Thorington has more…:

CUT 01(30)      “…Brooke Thorington.”

The Mayor of the Livingston Parish town of French Settlement has been arrested. Mayor Haley Unbehagen is charged with domestic abuse, aggravated assault & child endangerment, stemming from an incident that happened over a year ago. Livingston Sheriff Jason Ard says the investigation is ongoing.

 

Members of the state legislature have until Monday to return their votes on a possible veto override session. State law makes one automatic, unless a majority vote NOT to. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat thinks odds are high there will NOT be a veto session, and any bills the GOP majority lost on this year can always be reintroduced in the 2023 Legislature. He says that may be a better idea…:

CUT 11(11)      “…running for re-election.”

On a hot summer day, what is better than fresh watermelon and where better to get some than Washington Parish? Melon farmer Perry Tally says it’s the soil in Washington Parish that makes it so tasty. He says – believe it or not – wet weather is not conducive for producing a good crop, but this year the weather has been extremely cooperative…:

CUT 15(12)      “…bit early.”

6:45 LRN Sportscast

LSU Baseball Coach Jay Johnson has reportedly hired Josh Jordan as his new recruiting coordinator. Jordan has spent the last 11 seasons as Duke’s recruiting coordinator. Over the last six full seasons, Duke made it to the NCAA Tournament four times.

LSU’s latest football commitment comes from Jeremiah Hughes of Bishop Gorman High School in Las Vegas who committed to LSU over Arkansas, Washington and Utah. He’a a three-star prospect and said he wanted to play for D-B-U and is the 12th commitment for the Class of 2023.

But LSU missed out on five-star quarterback Dante Moore. The Detroit product has chosen Oregon over LSU, Michigan and Notre Dame.

La Tech and U-L Lafayette have agreed to play each other in football game. They will resume their series in Ruston in 2026 and play each other again at Cajun Field in 2029. The Bulldogs lead the all-time series 48-33 and 6.
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Louisiana Tech will hold a memorial service on Saturday for former football player Jaylon Ferguson, who died from a drug overdose. Former teammates, friends and loved ones will gather at 1 PM at the Davison Athletic Complex.

Pelicans guard Devonte Graham is facing a charge of driving while impaired. Police pulled over the 27-year-old in the early morning hours of Thursday in his hometown of Raleigh, North Carolina. Graham averaged 12 points a game last season and has three years left on a four-year deal.

The Pelicans begin play in the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas on Saturday night at nine o’ clock central time. They’ll face Portland in the summer league opener. It’s a game that can be seen at 9 PM. The Pels will play Atlanta on Monday, Washington on Wednesday and the Lakers next Friday night. New Orleans will also play a fifth game against a yet to be determined opponent on July 16th or 17th. The team’s last two first round picks will lead the team, Trey Murphy and Dyson Daniels.

4:30 LRN Newscast July 8

Thanks to a Slidell Walmart employee, a newborn baby was saved from possibly dying inside a hot car. SPD spokesman Dan Seuzeneau says that employee spotted 37-year-old Ashley Kennedy in the store and obviously VERY drunk and called cops. They found her 16-day-old baby in the car with HOT air blowing from the AC. The child was taken to a hospital and will survive. Seuzeneau credits that Walmart worker with helping save the child…:

CUT 05(09)      “…story today.”

Kennedy was arrested on numerous charges, including child endangerment – THIRD offense.

The state’s trigger abortion ban is back in effect, after a judge in New Orleans ordered the legal battle over it be sent back to a Baton Rouge court. It’s unclear when it may be heard in the Capital City. Meanwhile abortion clinics must close their doors.

 

Will they or won’t they? State lawmakers have until Monday to return mail-in votes on whether to have a veto override session. They happen automatically unless majorities in House & Senate vote “no.” Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat thinks there’s a good chance they’ll decline. He says the success of a veto session is not a sure thing, and many members may not feel it’s necessary to inject more work into their summer…:

CUT 10(14)      “…absolutely certain.”

Governor Edwards vetoed 28 bills passed this session, but Pinsonat says they can always be revisited next year.

Dashcam footage was released today showing State Police Superintendent Col Lamar Davis driving at least 90-miles-an-hour along the Atchafalaya Basin Bridge last week. Davis was driving an unmarked SUV. LSP spokesman Capt. Nick Manacle’s statement…?

CUT 12(12)      “…a citation.”

LSP has issued a written statement from Colonel Davis in which apologizes.