8:30 LRN Newscast

State lawmakers will spend this week in Baton Rouge for a special session centering around one piece of legislation. Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon is proposing a 45-million dollar incentive fund aimed at bringing new insurers to the state, giving more options to homeowners seeking private property insurance policies. Donelon says a similar incentive worked after Katrina & Rita caused companies to exit the state, and he believes it will work again…but lawmakers must act quickly…:
Cut 8 (10) “…insurance marketplace.”
There are some skeptical lawmakers, but Marrero Representative Kyle Green says he supports Donelon’s plan…
cut 10 (08) “….be voting for it”
The special session must end by Sunday night.

Louisiana’s own Archie Williams, whose story of redemption and voice amazed the judges of America’s Got Talent in 2020 will perform again tonight.
Cut 3 (33) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

ULM will introduce new Athletics Director John Hartwell this afternoon. Director of Student-Athlete Success Carmen Wright says they are thrilled their search led them to Hartwell….
cut 4 (0(0 “…for ULM”
Hartwell previously served as the AD at Utah State and Troy University.

7:30 LRN Newscast

Starting today in Baton Rouge, a special legislative session begins aimed at bringing property insurance relief to thousands of struggling homeowners…:
Cut 2 (36) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

New Orleans Police have announced the arrest of 19-year-old Andrew Skinner, who allegedly fatally shot a teenage girl. Skinner has been charged with one count of negligent homicide and two counts of negligent injuring.

After being wrongfully convicted and spending 36 years in Angola, Archie Williams captured the hearts of fans and judges on America’s Got Talent in 2020. And tonight, Williams is competing in AGT All-Stars. There wasn’t a dry eye in the house after his memorable performance of “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me.”
Cut 11 (08) “…was Elton John.”
While in Angola, Williams watched America’s Got Talent and dreamed of being a contestant.

Former Utah State and Troy athletic director John Hartwell will be introduced as the new A-D at U-L-M this afternoon. ULM Director of Student-Athlete Success Carmen Wright says Hartwell’s comprehensive experience with similar schools is ideal for the Warhawks…
cut 5 (13) “…focused”
Hartwell also served in athletic administration at Ole Miss.

6:45 LRN Sportscast

Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs held off Joe Burrow and the Cincinnati Bengals in an epic AFC Championship game last night. K-C kicked a field goal in the final seconds to win 23-20 to advance to the Super Bowl for the third time in four years. Burrow gives the Chiefs credit…
Cut 16 (09) “…down too”
Burrow threw for 270 yards and a touchdown. But he was also intercepted twice and sacked five times.

The Chiefs will face the Eagles in Super Bowl 57 in Glendale, Arizona. Philadelphia beat San Francisco 31-7 as former Louisiana Tech star and Zachary native Boston Scott scored a touchdown for the Eagles.

Former Saints coach Sean Payton says we should know a lot more this week on whether he’ll return to coaching. Denver, Indianapolis, Arizona and Houston are still looking for coaches.

The Pelicans losing streak is up to eight eight games after losing to Milwaukee 135 to 110 last night. New Orleans played without C-J McCollum and Brandon Ingram. The Pels have dropped to eighth place in the Western Conference and they’ll visit Denver on Tuesday. The Nuggets have the best record in the West.

The Ragin Cajuns men’s basketball team’s win streak is up to eight games after beating Georgia Southern 94-87. U-L Lafayette is tied for first place in the Sun Belt with Southern Miss. The Cajuns host Texas State on Thursday.

Tonight’s game between the fourth-ranked LSU women’s basketball team and Tennessee is a sell-out as the Lady Tigers look to improve to 21-0 overall, 9-0 in the SEC. The Lady Vols are also undefeated in conference play. LSU’s Angel Reese says they enter tonight’s game with the right mindset
Cut 14 (10) “…to win”
Tip off is at 6 PM.

6:30 LRN Newscast

State lawmakers convene a special session today, aimed at alleviating the state’s current property insurance crisis. Since the hurricane hits of 2020 and ’21, more than 20 private property insurers have either gone insolvent or left the state; forcing tens of thousands of property owners to the state’s last-resort insurer Louisiana Citizens. Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon says lawmakers will consider creating a $45-million incentive fund to help attract new insurers to write policies here…:
Cut 7 (07) “…immediate fix..”
Not all state legislators support Donelon’s plan. Jonesboro Representative Jack McFarland (R) says the post-Katrina incentive fund brought the state only five new private insurers and two of them are no longer operating in Louisiana…:
Cut 9 (10) “…for hurricane damage.”

A Baton Rouge man who spent 36 years in prison for a crime he did not commit performs tonight on America’s Got Talent All-Stars. Archie Williams is a talented singer who first performed on the popular NBC show in 2020 and Williams is also helping others who are wrongfully convicted….
cut 13 (06) “….in prison”
Williams was convicted of rape and attempted murder in 1983 and was released in 2019 thanks to the hard work of the Innocence Project.

Tonight’s game between the fourth-ranked LSU women’s basketball team and Tennessee is a sell-out as the Lady Tigers look to improve to 21-0 overall, 9-0 in the SEC. The Lady Vols are also undefeated in conference play. LSU’s Angel Reese says they enter tonight’s game with the right mindset
Cut 14 (10) “…to win”
Tip off is at 6 PM.

LRN AM Newscall January 30

ULM’s new Director of Athletics will be formally introduced today. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

_______________________________________________

Starting today in Baton Rouge, a special legislative session aimed at bringing property insurance relief to thousands of struggling homeowners…:

Cut 2 (36)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

_______________________________________________

Louisiana’s own Archie Williams, whose story of redemption and voice amazed the judges of America’s Got Talent in 2020 will perform again tonight. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (33) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

_____________________________________________

The University of Louisiana at Monroe will introduce its new Director of Athletics John Hartwell this afternoon. ULM Director of Student-Athlete Success Carmen Wright says Hartwell’s resume, which includes stops as the AD at Utah State University and Troy University, and accomplishments speak for themselves.

Cut 4 (09)  “…for ULM.”

In addition to Utah State and Troy, Hartwell also served in the athletic administration at Ole Miss. Wright says Hartwell’s comprehensive experience with similar schools is ideal for the Warhawks.

Cut 5 (13) “…focused.”

After their months-long search to fill the position, Wright says when they spoke with individuals who’ve worked with Hartwell, it sealed his fate to lead ULM athletics. Wright says Hartwell will hit the ground running overseeing facility upgrades.

Cut 6 (08)  “…across campus.” 

Hartwell will be officially introduced at a 3:00 PM press conference at the ULM Library.

_____________________________________________

State lawmakers convene a special session today, aimed at alleviating the state’s current property insurance crisis. Since the hurricane hits of 2020 and ’21, more than 20 private property insurers have either gone insolvent or left the state; forcing tens of thousands of property owners to the state’s last-resort insurer Louisiana Citizens. Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon says lawmakers will consider creating a $45-million incentive fund to help attract new insurers to write policies here…:

Cut 7 (07) “…immediate fix..”

Donelon says a similar incentive worked after Katrina & Rita caused companies to exit the state, and he believes it will work again…but lawmakers must act quickly…:

Cut 8 (10)  “…insurance marketplace.”

State legislators are of different minds on Donelon’s plan and how well it might work. Jonesboro Representative Jack McFarland (R) says the post-Katrina incentive fund did work, but brought the state only five new private insurers and two of those have already left. He says that begs questions…:

Cut 9 (10)  “…for hurricane damage.”

But Marrero Representative Kyle Green (D) says he supports Donelon’s incentive package…:

Cut 10 (08)  “…be voting for it.”

The insurance incentive plan is the sole item on the special session agenda. The session opens today and ends Sunday.

_______________________________________________

After being wrongfully convicted and spending 36 years in Angola, Archie Williams captured the hearts of fans and judges on America’s Got Talent in 2020. And tonight, Williams is competing in AGT All-Stars. There wasn’t a dry eye in the house after his memorable performance of “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me.”

Cut 11 (08)  “…was Elton John.”

While in Angola, Williams watched AGT and dreamed of being a contestant. That dream came true and his amazing story of redemption after being imprisoned for more than half of his life bought about much-needed hope during the pandemic.

Cut 12 (08) “…today.”

Williams’ life story and performance also inspired, the show’s most critical judge, Simon Cowell, to become a spokesperson for Innocence Project; the organization that helped free Williams. The Baton Rouge crooner is also focused on helping others who are wrongfully convicted.

Cut 13 (06)  “….in prison.”

You can watch him tonight on America’s Got Talent on NBC.

______________________________________________

Tonight’s game between the fourth-ranked LSU women’s basketball team and Tennessee is a sell-out as the Lady Tigers look to improve to 21-0 overall, 9-0 in the SEC. The Lady Vols are also undefeated in conference play. LSU’s Angel Reese says they enter tonight’s game with the right mindset

Cut 14 (10)  “…to win”

LSU is one of two teams still undefeated in women’s college basketball. Mulkey says she’s been impressed with how her team has bought into the value of rebounding and playing defense

Cut 15 (14)  “…can defend”

______________________________________________

Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs held off Joe Burrow and the Cincinnati Bengals in an epic AFC Championship game last night. K-C kicked a field goal in the final seconds to win 23-20 to advance to the Super Bowl for the third time in four years. Burrow gives the Chiefs credit…

Cut  16 (09)  “…down too” 

Burrow threw for 270 yards and a touchdown. But he was also intercepted twice and sacked five times. The loss denied Cincinnati a second straight trip to the Super Bowl. Joey B expects to be in the hunt again next year…

Cut 17 (19) “…come back stronger” 

_______________________________________________

The top-ranked LSU baseball team has started full squad practices. It’s year number two for head coach Jay Johnson. Last year LSU really had to piece together a pitching staff as they lacked strong starting pitching. Johnson says this year he has a more well-rounded group…

Cut 18 (25) “…right now” 

The expectation is that this team will win LSU’s first national championship since 2009. Center fielder Dylan Crews says what others are expecting from this team is not added pressure for them…

Cut 19 (18) “..for sure”

One of the big additions to this team is third baseman Tommy White, who slugged 27 home runs last season at North Carolina State. White says this offense could generate a lot of runs…

Cut 20 (12)  “…get people on base” 

10:30 Newscast January 28th

Attorneys representing the suspects accused of participating in a rape of LSU student Madison Brooks, before she died, say she was not raped. Attorney Ron Haley says Brooks consented to have sex with two individuals in a vehicle before she was dropped off

Haley says there’s also video of a conversation from inside the car after Brooks and two men engaged in sexual activity that will show a rape did not occur.

Cut  4 (06)  “…very clear” 

A plan to streamline COVID vaccination protocols is under consideration. And because it doesn’t look like COVID is going away anytime soon Hassig feels an annual COVID booster that targets the newest variants and like flu shots will also remove confusion. Advisors also recommend removing the name-brand confusion. Hassig says when you go in for your flu shot you aren’t worried who about who produced it.

Cut 13 (10) “…every year.” 

Somebody missed out on 50-thousand dollars. The Louisiana Lottery says the deadline to claim a Powerball ticket worth 50-thousand dollars expired Thursday. The ticket was purchased at Fisherman’s One Stop on L-A 22 in Ascension Parish. Louisiana Lottery spokesperson Dustin Annison says it’s common for prizes to go unclaimed

Cut 6 (10)  “…larger ones” 

The President of Southeastern Louisiana University, in Hammond, says he will retire at the end of the current school year. 

During his 14 years at Southeastern, Crain has led the university through setbacks from state budget cuts, multiple hurricanes (most recently Ida) and the pandemic. He’s also seen it through the launch of new degree programs, numerous facility upgrades and advances in academic achievement and sports…:

Cut 10 (10) “…you’re proud of.” 

A plan to streamline COVID vaccination protocols is under consideration. The FDA advisory panel is recommending a transition to an annual vaccination routine similar to flu shots. Tulane epidemiologist Doctor Susan Hassig says such a plan could encourage those skeptical of the vaccine to get protected. And because it doesn’t look like COVID is going away anytime soon Hassig feels an annual COVID booster that targets the newest variants and like flu shots will also remove confusion. Advisors also recommend removing the name-brand confusion. Hassig says when you go in for your flu shot you aren’t worried who about who produced it.

 

9:30am Newscast January 28th

Attorneys representing the four men facing rape charges in the alleged sexual assault of LSU student Madison Brooks say there’s video evidence that will show their clients are innocent.

Cut 1(30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

A plan to streamline COVID vaccination protocols is under consideration. The FDA advisory panel is recommending a transition to annual vaccinations. Tulane epidemiologist Doctor Susan Hassig says annual boosters tailored to protect against specific variants, similar to how flu shots work.

Cut 14 (12)   “…step forward.”

Thursday was the deadline to claim a $50-thousand prize from a July 30th Powerball drawing. It was sold in Ascension Parish. Louisiana Lottery spokesperson Dustin Annison says once prize money is expired it’s deposited into an unclaimed prize fund…

Cut 8 (11)  “…second chance drawings” 

One of the suspects arrested for the alleged rape of  LSU student Maddison Brooks is now facing a first- degree rape charge in Livingstion Parish for a seprate a;;eged incident that took place in walker in 2020. Detectives with the walker police department issued a warrant for Kavion walker friday jan 27th, after a witness came foward about the alleged incident. Washington turned himself in to the livingston parish detention center friday night. He’s now facing a first degree rape charge.

 

8:30 Newscast January 28th

Attorneys representing the suspects accused of participating in the rape of LSU student Madison Brooks, before she died, said she was not raped. Attorney Ron Haley says Brooks consented to have sex with two individuals in a vehicle before she was dropped off

Cut 3 (13) “…factually inaccurate.” 

Haley says there’s a video of Brooks leaving the vehicle unharmed and in good health.

Haley says there’s also a video of a conversation from inside the car after Brooks and two men engaged in sexual activity that will show a rape did not occur.

The President of Southeastern Louisiana University, in Hammond, is retiring at the end of the current school year. Dr. John Crain says he announced his retirement now, so a proper search could be done to find their next president…:

Cut 11 (07)  “…academic year.”

Crain has been president since 2009, and a faculty member for over 35 years.

 

An FDA advisory panel is proposing a plan to simplify COVID vaccines. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (31)  “….I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

The LHSAA Convention ended with a decision by high school principals to hold another meeting in June to discuss the definition of select and non-select schools. The playoff formats for basketball, baseball, and softball will go on as planned, which means for basketball there will be five divisions for select schools and five for non-select schools

 

7:30 LRN Sportscast

The Pelicans and Tigers look to break long losing streaks on the hardwood today, while the Ragin Cajuns look to keep their winning streak going. The Pels host the Wizards tonight as New Orleans has lost six in a row. Washington brings a 22-26 record into the Smoothie King Center.

LSU men’s basketball has lost seven in a row as they host Texas Tech at 1 PM. Coach Matt McMahon….
cut 17 (12) “…game”

Tonight in the Cajundome, the Ragin Cajuns look to extend their winning streak to eight games as they host Georgia Southern, who is 5-and-4 in the Sun Belt. U-L Lafayette is tied for first in the conference with Southern Miss.

ULM is one game back and the Warhawks wrap up a four-game road trip by visiting James Madison. Tip off is at 4 PM.

La Tech is at UTSA, who is 1-and-10 in Conference USA.

Ryan Nielson who served as a co-defensive coordinator for the Saints has left the Black and Gold for divisional rival the Atlanta Falcons to be the Dirty Birds new defensive coordinator. Nielsen has been with the Saints for the last six seasons. He started as the team’s defensive line coach in 2017.

LSU Heisman-winning quarterback Joe Burrow and the Bengals visit the Chiefs in the AFC Championship tomorrow. The two teams met earlier this year in a 27-24 Cincinnati win. Burrow says the team needs to be prepared to face a familiar opponent…
Cut 15 (17) “…for anything.”
Burrow threw for almost 300 yards and 2 touchdowns in the regular season matchup and the Bengals beat the Chiefs in last year’s AFC Title game.

5:30 LRN Newscast Jan 27

Attorneys representing the four men facing rape charges in the alleged sexual assault of LSU student Madison Brooks say there’s video evidence that will show their clients are innocent.

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

The family of 55-year-old Shelia Jean Baker is asking for help to locate her. Baker was in Lafayette for the holidays and on Christmas day was driving to Lake Charles to visit her mother but never arrived. She was last seen driving on I-49 north in Rapides Parish, driving a 2008 Toyota Yaris with Florida plates.

The President of Southeastern Louisiana University, in Hammond, is retiring at the end of the current school year. Dr. John Crain says he announced his retirement now, so a proper search could be done to find their next president…:

Cut 11 (07)  “…academic year.”

Crain has been president since 2009, and a faculty member for over 35 years.

Somebody missed out on $50-thousand. The Louisiana Lottery says the deadline to claim a Powerball ticket worth 50-k expired Thursday. The ticket was purchased at Fisherman’s One Stop on L-A 22 in Ascension Parish. Louisiana Lottery spokesperson Dustin Annison it’s possible the player gave up hope after seeing they didn’t match all the numbers…:

Cut 7 (10)  “…way to win”