11:30 LRN Newscast Oct 31

After the fatal shooting of Northwestern State football player Ronnie Caldwell, the season was canceled. But Sophomore tight end Travon Jones has started a petition to change that. On the Natchitoches Parish Journal Podcast, Jones said players were never asked about ending the season.

Cut 6 (06) “…to everyone.”

You can find the petition at change-dot-org “We Want to finish our 2023 season out.”

Trick or Treaters will have to bundle up tonight as this will be one of the colder Halloweens we’ve experienced. State Climatologist Barry Keim says the wind can cut right through if you don’t have enough layers on…

Cut 11 (10) “…temperatures falling.” 
The gusty winds and low humidity also produce dangerous fire weather conditions.

LSU Associate Athletics Director Taylor Jacobs provided an update on N-I-L and what’s next in the world of college athletics. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

 

Two starters on LSU’s defense will be missing Saturday when the Tigers take on the Crimson Tide. Cornerback Zy Alexander and defensive tackle Mekhi Wingo are out due to injuries. Wingo will also miss the remainder of the season after undergoing surgery.

10:30 LRN Newscast Oct 31

Last October was one of the deadliest on Louisiana roadways since 2008 and because many adults will be celebrating with alcohol for Halloween, Gregory Fisher with The Louisiana Highway Safety Commission urges you to make good choices.

Cut 6 (09) “…a taxi.”

He also reminds parents to walk against traffic while trick-or-treating with your children, stay in a group and wear bright colors.

 

You’ll definitely feel a change in the air with the cooler temps today, and summer is finally over in Louisiana.  State Climatologist Barry Keim

Cut 10 (12) “…through here.”
Highs today will only be in the 50s and it will also be breezy. The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for central and south Louisiana, which means dangerous fire conditions have returned.

The state says there are about 65 hundred homeowners possibly eligible for federal grant dollars that had damage during the 2020 and 21 hurricanes but have yet to turn in an application and today is the application deadline.

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

 

And with a change in the weather the National Fire Protection Association urges you to be extremely careful when using a space heater. Space heaters are the most common cause of home fires. Never leave it unattended when in use, place it away from flammable objects and plug the cord directly into an outlet never use an extension cord.

 

9:30 LRN Newscast

It will be a cold and a blustery Halloween. State Climatologist Barry Keim says expect the next few days to be chilly as we’ll experience our coldest morning temperatures in several months…
cut 12 (09) “…even Friday”
A freeze warning is in effect for tonight as low temperatures are expected to dip into the upper 20s for some parts of the state.

Today is the last day for homeowners who suffered damages in the 2020-21 hurricanes and the May 2021 severe storms to apply for funding that can be used to repair your home. Director of the Louisiana Office of Community Development, Pat Forbes, says there are about 65-hundred homeowners who have completed the initial survey, but not submitted applications…
Cut 7 (10) “…repair of their home.”
Homeowners can submit their application at restore-dot-la-dot-gov.

LSU athletes have agreed to almost two-thousand name, image, and likeness deals since the NCAA allowed college athletes to receive endorsements. The NIL era began in July of 2021 and LSU associate athletics director, Taylor Jacobs, says the athletes are using their NIL money in a variety of ways…
cut 3 (10) “….home”
Jacobs says Tiger athletes have partnered with Nike, Puma. Raising Canes and Taco Bell to name a few.

The Sugar Bowl has been a college football staple since 1935. But with the expansion of the college football playoffs looming, it’s in danger of losing its clout. Sugar Bowl CEO Jeff Hundley says they are actively raising money and hoping the business community will help out.
Cut 13 (09) “…compete there.”
Hundley says several cities that do not have a major bowl game are lining up massive dollars to bid to host future quarterfinal, semifinal and championship games.

8:30 LRN Newscast

Trick or Treaters will have to bundle up tonight as this will be one of the colder Halloweens we’ve experienced. State Climatologist Barry Keim says the wind can cut right through if you don’t have enough layers on…
cut 11(10) “..temperatures falling”
The gusty winds and low humidity also produces dangerous fire weather conditions.

Louisiana Highway Safety Commission spokesperson Greg Fischer says drivers need to be extra vigilant as Trick or Treaters will be out tonight…
cut 5 (06) “….trick or treating”
Fischer says trick or treaters should walk against traffic, wear bright colors and you’re safer in a group.

According to candy-store-dot-com, Lemonheads are the most popular candy in Louisiana. A bit of a surprise if you ask me. Reese’s Cups are the most popular candies in the U-S, followed by M-and-M’s.

The Sugar Bowl is actively seeking money from the business community to make sure the annual bowl game remains one of the upper tier bowl games when the college football playoff expands to 12 teams next year. Sugar Bowl CEO Jeff Hundley says the Sugar Bowl is only guaranteed to host a quarterfinal game following the 2024 and 25 seasons, beyond that it’s unknown…
cut 15 (10) “….would matter”
For more information go to supportthesugarbowl.com.

LSU Coach Brian Kelly says starting defensive tackle Mekhi Wingo and starting cornerback Zy Alexander will not play this Saturday against Alabama. Also corners Duce Chestnut and Denver Harris remain inactive. Kelly says several freshmen corners need to be ready…
cut 16 (16) “…win championship”
Kick-off is at 6:45.

7:30 LRN Newscast

Today will be one of the colder Halloweens we’ve experienced. Brooke Thorington has more…
cut 3 (29) “…I’m Brooke Thorington”

According to the National Retail Federation, Halloween spending is up. NRF Vice President of Industry and Consumer Insights, Katherine Cullen, says people will spend on average 108-dollars, up eight dollars from last year…
cut 21 (09) “…several years”

The Louisiana Highway Safety Commission is urging motorists to watch out for pedestrians and trick-or-treaters tonight. Also don’t mix alcohol and driving with your Halloween celebrations…
cut 4 (08) “…in Louisiana”
That’s Louisiana Highway Safety Commission Spokesperson Gregory Fischer says last October, 94 people were killed in roadway crashes, one of the deadliest months on record since 2008.

The Allstate Sugar Bowl is celebrating its 90th anniversary, but bowl organizers are concerned about losing its clout when college football expands to a 12-team format next year….
cut 14 (11) “….Las Vegas”
The Sugar Bowl will be a quarterfinal site for the first two years of the expanded playoff, but after that it’s unclear what role the Sugar Bowl will have. That’s why the bowl game is looking for private financial support and have a website supportthesugarbowl.com.

6:45 LRN Sportscast

Two starters for LSU on defense will not play in Saturday night’s SEC showdown against Alabama in Tuscaloosa. Coach Brian Kelly says defensive tackle Mekhi Wingo will miss the next six weeks after undergoing surgery and cornerback Zy Alexander remains out with a leg injury.

Meanwhile LSU’s top ranked offense faces its biggest test against a Crimson Tide defense that features two great pass rushers. Coach Brian Kelly on Bama’s D…
cut 18 (18) “…run and hit”

In basketball…Steph Curry went off for 42 points as Golden State handed the Pelicans their first loss of the season, 130 to 102 at the Smoothie King Center. Brandon Ingram did not play for the Pels because of knee soreness. Zion Williamson had 19 points and 5 boards.

There’s a lot of talk about how well the Saints offense played in Sunday’s win over the Colts. But the Saints defense came up with one of the biggest plays of the game. Paulson Adebo’s interception in the end zone. Coach Dennis Allen says Adebo had a big game…
cut 20 (19) “…..passing game”
The Saints will face back-up quarterbacks the next two weeks. Tyson Bagent will start for the injured Justin Fields this Sunday for the Chicago Bears. In two weeks, New Orleans travels to Minnesota, but Vikings starter Kirk Cousins is out with a torn Achilles. Rookie backup Jaren Hall is now the Vikings starter.

The Rangers defeated the Diamondbacks three to one in Game 3 of the World Series. Texas leads the series two games to one. Game four is tonight in Arizona.

6:30 LRN Newscast

When you step outside today, be prepared….it’s no longer summer. State Climatologist Barry Keim
cut 10 (12) “….through here”
High temperatures today will only be in the 50s and it will also be breezy. The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for central and south Louisiana, which means dangerous fire conditions have returned.

Today is the last day to turn in an application to be eligible for grant dollars to help make home repairs if you received damage during the 2020 and 21 hurricanes or the May 2021 severe storms. Director of the Louisiana Office of Community Development Pat Forbes says there are about 65-hundred homeowners who completed the initial survey but not yet submitted applications…
cut 8 (09) “…..big push’
For more information go to restore.la.gov.

It’s Halloween so the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission wants motorists to be on the look out for trick or treaters. Colleen Crain reports October is consistently one of the deadliest months of the year on Louisiana’s roads…
cut 1 (30) “…I’m Colleen Crane”

AM LRN Newscall Oct 30

October has consistently been one of the deadliest months of the year on Louisiana roadways. Colleen Crain has more…

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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The state says there are about 65 hundred homeowners possibly eligible for federal grant dollars that had damage during the 2020 and 21 hurricanes, but have yet to turn in an application. Jeff Palermo reports today is the application deadline.

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Halloween will be chilling… literally in Louisiana with temperatures dropping even more after sunset. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (29) “…I’m Brooke Thorington”

______________________________________________

 October 2022 was the deadliest on Louisiana roadways since 2008. Gregory Fischer with The Louisiana Highway Safety Commission says it’s not just last year…

Cut 4 (08) “…in Louisiana.”

LHSC urges Louisiana drivers to be cautious and avoid the fatal 4 which means wear your seatbelt, put your phone away, drive the speed limit, and don’t drive if you’ve been drinking.

Fischer has safety tips for trick-or-treaters. He says, to walk against traffic, wear bright colors, and you’re safer in a group. Fisher urges Drivers to be extra vigilant as Trick or Treaters will be out this evening…

Cut 5 (09) “…trick or treating.”

Many adults will be celebrating Halloween this year and Fisher says to have fun but be safe especially if your party includes alcohol…

Cut 6 (09) “…a taxi.”

_________________________________________________

Today is the last day for homeowners who suffered damages in the 2020-21 hurricanes and the May 2021 severe storms to apply for funding that can be used to repair your home. Director of the Louisiana Office of Community Development, Pat Forbes, says there are about 65-hundred homeowners who have completed the initial survey, but not submitted applications…

Cut 7 (10) “…repair of their home.”

Homeowners can submit their application at restore-dot-la-dot-gov, or call the Restore Louisiana Homeowner Assistance Program call center, or visit one of their mobile support locations. Forbes hopes those who have been invited to complete an application take advantage of this opportunity

Cut 8 (09) “…big push.” 

Forbes says since the program launched in February of 2022, more than 380-million in federal grant dollars has been distributed to 48-hundred homeowners. He says if a hurricane victim has already completed their repairs, they are still eligible…

Cut 9 (09)  “…those disasters.”

__________________________________________________

While it’s not going to necessarily be the coldest Halloween on record, State Climatologist Barry Keim says this Canadian cold front will be responsible for a significant drop in temperatures, in the 50s around 6 o’clock and then temperatures will begin to drop into the 30s and 40s.

Cut 10 (12) “…through here.”

The record cold for Halloween was in 1993, the lows were 30 degrees in Baton Rouge, 35 in New Orleans, and 28 in Shreveport.

Along with a ghoulish cold front, Keim says it’s not just cooler temperatures that will prompt the need for an extra layer or two for trick-or-treaters.

Cut 11 (10) “…temperatures falling.” 

And as we enter November, Keim says this cold front will stick around for a bit…

Cut 12 (09) “…even Friday.” 

One of the warmest Halloweens on record in Louisiana was in 2016 with highs in the upper 80s. In Shreveport, the high was 87, in Baton Rouge 88, and in New Orleans, it was 89.

__________________________________________________

The Sugar Bowl has been a college football staple since 1935 and in the last decade, it’s contributed $2.4 billion to the local economy. But with the expansion of the college football playoffs looming, it’s in danger of losing playoff status. Allstate Sugar Bowl CEO Jeff Hundley says they are holding a fundraiser and asking the business community to help out.

Cut 13 (09) “…compete there.”

In three years, it’s up in the air, Hundley says, if the Sugar Bowl will remain a significant bowl game…

Cut 14 (11) “…Las Vegas.”

This season’s game, a New Year’s Day national championship semi-final game, is already sold out. But next season 12 teams will vie for the championship and for the next two seasons the Sugar Bowl will be a quarterfinal game.

Hundley is hopeful they’ll be able to raise enough corporate funds and buy-ins from interested parties to keep the Sugar Bowl in the playoffs.

Cut 15 (12) “…would matter.”

Those looking to support the Sugar Bowl are invited to visit SupportTheSugarBowl.com

___________________________________________________

The 13th-ranked LSU Tigers will be missing several cornerbacks and one of their top defensive linemen in Saturday’s SEC showdown with eighth-ranked Alabama. Coach Brian Kelly says Zy Alexander, Duce Chestnut, and Denver Harris are not available, so they will have to rely on several freshmen corners…

Cut 16 (16) “…win a championship.”

Kelly also announced defensive lineman Mekhi Wingo will miss the rest of the regular season after undergoing surgery. He’s expected to miss the next six weeks, but Kelly says they have enough depth on the D-line…

Cut 17 (19) “….very good.”

The intriguing match-up is LSU’s explosive offense against Alabama’s stout defense. Kelly says he’s impressed with the Crimson Tide linebackers…

Cut 18 (18) “…run and hit.” 

Alabama has held six of its last eight opponents to 20 points or less.

_____________________________________________________

The Saints had several offensive stars in Sunday’s win over Indianapolis. Quarterback Derek Carr had his best game as a Saints, Taysom Hill scored two touchdowns and receiver Rashid Shaheed also made some big catches. Coach Dennis Allen also liked what he saw from Andrus Peat, who made his second straight start at left tackle…

Cut 19 (20) “…this week” 

Cornerback Paulson Adebo also had a big game against the Colts, with three passes defensed and an interception. Allen likes the development of the third-year pro out of Stanford…

Cut 20 (19) “…passing game.” 

 

5:30 PM Newscast

Authorities have arrested 21-year-old Malik Flowers and charged him with 2nd degree murder in the death of 21-year-old Tyree Parker and attempted murder in the shooting of a second victim still fighting for his life after the double Friday night shooting a block from the Donaldsonville High School football game. Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Donovan Jackson says

Because the football game against Patterson was close by, the game was halted as a security precaution and the stadium needed to be utilized for air medics.

Cut 7 (06) “…control.” 

 

There has been an insurgence of annoying salt marsh mosquitoes in the Bayou State. LSU Ag Center Entomologist Kristen Healy says Salt marsh mosquitoes are a dusk brown color but unlike many other types of mosquitoes, they fly during the day. Healy says saltmarsh have adapted to fly extremely long distances for food sources.

Cut 4 (11) “…by piece.”

 

Halloween spending to reach a record $12.2 billion according to the National Retail Federation, exceeding last year’s record of $10.6 billion. But NRF Vice President of Industry and Consumer Insights, Katherine Cullen says the big headline is more people are celebrating the holiday than before…

Cut 9 (09) “…last year.” 

 

LSU has injury and availability concerns going into the game against Alabama this Saturday. Head Coach Brian Kelly says defensive tackle Mekhi Wingo had surgery and will miss at least six weeks. The Tigers will also be without some of their top cornerbacks, but a freshman from Rummel High School is available…

Cut 13 (07) “…practice today”

Kelly says he has confidence freshmen cornerbacks Jeremiah Hughes, Javien Toviano and Ashton Stamps can get the job done.

16:45 LRN Sportscast

The Saints had their highest scoring game of the season yesterday as they defeated the Indianapolis Colts 38-27. They had 511 yards of total offense, which is also a season-high. Coach Dennis Allen says it was a good game for the offense and the defense after a slow start….
cut 18 (18) “….to our place”
New Orleans is 4-and-4 and they have another winnable game this Sunday against the two and six Chicago Bears.

The 13th ranked LSU Tigers are gearing up for their big game against 8th ranked Alabama. Coach Brian Kelly announced today that defensive tackle Mekhi Wingo will miss the next six weeks after undergoing surgery and the Tigers will also be without some of their top cornerbacks…
cut 13 (07) “….practice today’
Alabama is a three-point favorite.

The LSU men’s basketball team has an exhibition game tonight against Louisiana Christian. The Tigers have a lot of new faces on this team including Carlos Stewart, who transferred in from Santa Clara. He played his high school basketball at Dunham in Baton Rouge. Coach Matt McMahon says Stewart is a terrific athlete who can knock down the three-pointer…
cut 19 (19) “….for his career”

Also tonight, the Pelicans look to go 3-and-0 on the season as they host Golden State. Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram combined to score 50 points in a win over Knicks on Saturday night.

Tonight is Game 3 of the World Series. The Diamondbacks and Rangers are tied at one game a piece.