Author Archives: LRN News

07.05.23
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9:30 LRN Newscast

The waiting list for seniors and in-home services should start to dwindle due to legislation passed in the most recent session. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (30)  “….I’m Brooke Thorington.”

KSLA in Shreveport is reporting a 4th of July mass shooting at a block party that has claimed the lives of 3 people and wounded several others. Shreveport PD is still on the scene. We’ll have more on this as it develops.

Governor John Bel Edwards has vetoed anti-LGBTQ legislation and there’s growing speculation whether state lawmakers will seek to override his vetoes.  Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat believes majorities of Republican lawmakers will choose to come back to the Capitol…:

Cut 9 (11)  “…not the Republicans.”

The bills passed with two-thirds majority votes in both chambers…

Scorching temperatures could limit the yields for some of the state’s key crops, like rice. Louisiana Rice Specialist Ronnie Levy (Lee-Vee) with the LSU Ag Center says the full impact the heat has had on the rice crop won’t be known until harvest which hasn’t started yet. He says there are advantages to the hot, dry weather…:

Cut 5 (09)   “as well”

Levy says the bigger concern is the impact drought conditions have on other crops like soybeans, sugarcane, and corn.

 

 

07.03.23
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4:45 LRN Sportscast July 3

It’s been a quiet offseason for the Pelicans so far. After extending restricted free agent Herb Jones on a four year 54 million dollar deal, the front office doesn’t have much cap space to work with, but they were able to add depth at center after losing Jaxson Hayes to the Lakers. The Pels signed former No. 4 overall pick Cody Zeller. The Heat signed Zeller at the All-Star break last season where he averaged 6-and-a-half points and 4 rebounds through 15 games before helping Miami make a run to the NBA finals. The 10-year vet signed to a one-year deal worth $3.1 million. The deal brings the Pelicans above the luxury tax threshold, so the team could be looking to make some cost-cutting moves soon. Reports have identified New Orleans as one of many teams to call Portland about all-star Damian Lillard. 

Two former Tigers will tip-off in tonight’s NBA Summer League Salt Lake City games. Free agent Rookie KJ Williams will be suiting up for the Thunder while guard Javonte Smart plays with the 76ers. Williams earned all SEC honors at LSU last season, and Smart was a key player for the Tigers from 2018-2021. The two will have a chance to face off Thursday night before the rest of the Summer League tips off Friday.

The College World Series Champion LSU Baseball team isn’t done winning, Paul Skenes Dylan Crews, and Tommy White were named first team all-americans and Skenes brought another individual award to Baton Rouge. Crews may have taken home the Golden spikes but Skenes was named d1 Baseball’s national player of the year. He says the Tigers knew they could be this dominant this season but it still hasn’t set in…

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Skenes was also named the SEC Pitcher of the year, College World Series Most Outstanding Player, Collegiate Baseball National Player of the year, and brought home the Dick Howser trophy.

The Tigers will be losing director of Baseball operations Josh Simpson to pitching Coach Wes Johnson’s new staff in Georgia. Johnson announced before the postseason he’d be taking the Head Coaching job for the Bulldogs after just one season in Baton Rouge. Simpson, who was a scout for the Texas Rangers, will be filling out his staff as recruiting coordinator.

07.03.23
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12:30 LRN Newscast

People in Louisiana who want to stop smoking can now take advantage of a six-month smoking cessation treatment provided by health insurers under a new law signed by Governor John Bel Edwards. During testimony on the bill, Cancer Advocacy Group Executive Director Chad Landry said the availability of treatment will help a large population of smokers in Louisiana

Cut 6 (11)  “…there is.” 

The new law applies to both private carriers and Medicaid. 

State Police are investigating a single-vehicle crash that claimed the life of 37-year-old Sara Marshall of Prairieville after her car was submerged in the Amite River. Trooper Christian Reed says they were contacted around ten-thirty Saturday night about the incident in Livingston Parish.

Cut 3 (10) “…Amite River.”

The cause of the crash remains under investigation and toxicology samples were collected.

The Supreme Court’s ruling that President Biden overstepped his authority on student loan debt forgiveness receives criticism. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

 

07.03.23
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11:40 LRN Sportscast July 3

The accolades keep rolling in for LSU pitcher Paul Skenes who was named D1 Baseball’s National Player of the year. Skenes put together a historic season for the Tigers with a 1.69 ERA and an SEC record 209 strikeouts this season. He along with teammates Dylan Crews and Tommy White were named first team All-Americans after leading LSU to its 7th national championship. In addition to his on the field achievements, Skenes has helped to make an impact off the field. The Air Force Transfer pledged funds for each of his 209 strikeouts to benefit non-profit Folds of Honor. Skenes along with LSU fans helped to raise over $50,000 for the organization. Skenes says it was a great way to give back to his military community…

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Skenes spent two years at Air Force and had two teammates that died in service. Their families and many others will benefit from the numerous donations.

LSU Director of baseball operations Josh Simpson will be following pitching coach Wes Johnson to Georgia. Johnson announced earlier this year he’d be taking the head coaching job at Georgia after one season with the Tigers. Simpson, a former scout with the Texas Rangers, will be joining Johnson’s staff as recruiting coordinator. LSU Coach Jay Johnson announced he’ll be replacing his former pitching coach with Texas A&M Assistant head coach Nate Yeskie. Yeskie spent two seasons with Johnson in Arizona and has reached the College World Series with three different teams. He earned a national title with Oregon St in 2018 and was named d1 Baseball’s Assistant Coach of the Year in 2017. 

Two former LSU players are set to face off in the NBA’s Salt Lake City Summer League games this week. Rookie free agent KJ Williams will join a talented OKC roster while guard Javonte Smart, who spent the last season on the Pels G-League affiliate Birmingham Squadron, will suit up for the 76ers. Games will be played Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday before the Summer League Competition in Las Vegas tips off Friday. Other LSU players set to be featured in the offseason tournament are last year’s 17th overall pick Tari Eason and LSU vet Darius Days who will both be playing for the Rockets.

 

07.03.23
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10:30 LRN Newscast

The US Supreme Court’s rejection of President Biden’s student loan plan to erase portions of their loans is receiving criticism. New Orleans Congressman Troy Carter says it sends the wrong message to students who’ve worked hard to get their college degrees.

Cut 7 (07) “…provide help.”

Carter says the federal government regularly forgives the debt of businesses, industries, and even small countries and students deserve the same. 

Caddo Parish Sheriff Steve Prator says he will not run for re-election due to a recent diagnosis of a treatable heart condition. Prator says he will continue to serve as sheriff for the next 12 months.

Cut 14 (12)  “…in Caddo Parish.”

At the end of his current term, he will have served 24 years.

A new poll in the Governor’s race shows GOP candidate Stephen Waguespack moving into 3rd place, but is it an accurate representation of voter preference? Kevin Gallagher reports…:

Cut 3 (32)  “….I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

 State Police have identified the woman who was killed after her car crashed into the Amite River in Livingston Parish on Saturday night. They say for unknown reasons, 37-year-old Sara Marshall of Prairieville ran off the road and into the river. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

 

 

 

06.30.23
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5:30 LRN Newscast

Governor Edwards has restored $100 million that was cut from the state budget for the health department, but will it prompt a veto override session? Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

An Excessive Heat Warning is once again posted for most of the state today, with no significant changes expected in our weather, according to forecasters. Afternoon highs will range from the upper 90’s to around 102.

Louisiana Congressman Steve Scalise met with Brian Kelly, Nick Saban, and other SEC officials to discuss potential legislation surrounding college athlete NIL deals. The NCAA made it legal for athletes to profit off their name image and likeness in July of 2021 in a  controversial decision among college sports fans, and many athletes have been able to benefit from the new rules. Scalise shared his hope to protect both students and the future of college athletics…

Cut 11 (14)  “…in jeopardy.”

The Independence Day holiday weekend means busy highways, and the state’s “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign is underway. Greg Fischer, with the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission, says July the 4th is among the worst holidays for DWI mishaps…:

Cut 13 (11) “…impaired drivers.”

“Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” runs now through Wednesday night, July 5th.

06.30.23
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11:30 LRN Newscast

If you plan on hitting the water this 4th of July weekend, expect to see an increased presence from the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. It’s called Operation Dry Water – a national effort to raise awareness about the dangers of boating under the influence. Boating Education Coordinator Lt. Garret Kimble says agents will be in force.

Cut 3 (09) “…and checks.”

Louisiana reported 29 boating fatalities in 2022, with alcohol playing a role in five fatalities or 17 percent. As of May this year, Louisiana has reported four fatalities.

Governor Edwards has line-item vetoed the state budget and restored $100 million to the health department. The adjustment removed $125 million that conservatives earmarked to pay down retirement debt. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says the legislature deserves all the criticism they are receiving over the budget.

Cut 6 (09)  “…themselves.” 

The governor also restored $7.5 million to early childhood education.

Travel for the 4th of July holiday could break previous records. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

An Excessive Heat Warning is once again posted for most of the state today, with no significant changes expected in our weather, according to forecasters. Afternoon highs will range from the upper 90s to near 100 degrees, with heat index values climbing to 110-115.

06.30.23
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11:40 LRN Sportscast June 30

NBA free agency opens today. The offseason has already gotten off to a hot start with blockbuster trades moving stars like former Hornet Chris Paul, Bradley Beal, and Kristaps Porzingis. The Pelicans management have been adamant that the team will not be looking to make any major changes to the roster this offseason after the signs of success a healthy Pelicans squad showed last year, but some NBA execs expect the Pelicans to make major moves before next season. New Orleans declined defensive specialist Herb Jones’s $1.8 million team option for this season. He’ll become a restricted free agents where the Pels will hope to extend him on a longer deal worth closer to $50 million. New Orleans also declined center Willy Hernangomez’s team-option and failed to extend a qualifying offer to center Jaxson Hayes, but they could look to bring Hayes back. Reports have pointed towards the team shopping former 13th overall pick Kira Lewis. The guard made a return from a season ending ACL injury last year but struggled to find playing time in a crowded backcourt. The free agency window opens at 5:00 this evening.

McNeese broke ground on a new press box for Cowboy Stadium yesterday. Much of southwest Louisiana was devastated by Hurricanes Delta and Laura in 2020. The former press box like much of the Lake Charles area sustained significant damages and a complete overhaul was required. Now, three years later, Director of Facilities Kevin Martin says this project is about more than just a football stadium. Recovery from Hurricane Laura has taken longer than expected for many, including the university, but Martin says the new box will be a return of a local landmark and symbol of progress for many in the area…

Cut 19 (13)  “…as a whole.”

 

The new box will be over 28,000 square feet, house 25 suites and a 17-hundred square foot sky club and extend goal line to goal line. It is expected to open for the 2025 season.

06.30.23
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10:30 LRN Newscast

Governor John Bel Edwards has vetoed a senate-approved measure to phase out Louisiana’s corporate franchise tax. Senator Bret Allain II -the bill’s author – says his bill would have meant real tax reform for Louisiana, and he regrets the Governor’s decision…:

Cut 9 (08)  “…disagree with it.”

Allain is term-limited, so he cannot bring the bill back next year but hopes his successor will consider filing it in the next fiscal session in 2025.

With more scorching hot temperatures over the weekend, Health officials remind parents to keep kids hydrated. Chief Medical Officer of UnitedHealthcare Dr. Kevin Stephens urges parents to avoid allowing kids to play long hours in extreme heat and to keep an eye out for symptoms.

Cut 12 (13)    “… soiling diapers.” 

Stephen says if you think your child may be suffering from heat illness, hydrate them and consult a physician.

The Supreme Court’s decision to strike down college affirmative action programs will have little impact in Louisiana. That’s according to Higher Education Commissioner Dr. Kim Hunter Reed. She says it is important to affirm and reaffirm the importance of diversity at higher learning institutions in Louisiana.

Cut 14 (11)  “…race and ethnicity.”

The cases heard before SCOTUS pertained to admissions at Harvard and the University of North Carolina.

If you plan on hitting the road for the 4th of July Weekend, AAA estimates it will be one of the busiest traveling holidays with close to 51 million Americans who will venture 50 miles or more away from home this Independence Day. Triple-A spokesperson Don Redman…

Cut 4 (11)  “…the holiday.”

Redman says with gas prices are almost $1.10 less than this time last year is one reason more people can travel for the holiday.

06.29.23
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4:45 LRN Sportscast June 29

Hundreds of LSU fans braved the oppressive heat to pack the box and celebrate the LSU Baseball team’s seventh national championship in program history. Paul Skenes put together one of the greatest seasons ever by a college baseball pitcher and set a new SEC record with 209 strikeouts this season surpassing LSU legend Ben McDonald. Skenes was at Air Force the last two seasons and made the decision to transfer LSU so he can improve as a pitcher and win a natty…

Cut 17 (17) “…came here.”

The national championship winning baseball team along with a women’s basketball title and top 10 finishes in gymnastics, beach volleyball, and both men’s and women’s outdoor track, helped LSU earn a ninth-place final ranking in the Director’s Cup. The cup measures the overall success of an institution’s athletic programs, awarding points based on NCAA Championship finishes for a maximum of 19 sports. LSU’s ninth-place finish is its highest since it was ninth in 2009.

During last night’s celebration many players had the opportunity to speak to fans a they reflected on a historic season. Coach Jay Johnson says he didn’t spend much time working on his speech as he is already preparing for the 2024 season. But Johnson says he’ll never forget this group of players and the focus they played with in the NCAA Tournament….

Cut 18 (19) “…2023 (applause).” 

Many of the players were apart of Johnson’s first team when he arrived at LSU. Johnson helped lead the group to a national title in just his second season in Baton Rouge.

The NFL confirmed Saints rookies will report to training camp on July 18th with their veteran teammates arriving a week later on the 25th. Open practice dates are yet to be announced.