LRN AM Newscall September 15

LSU AgCenter researchers are looking into the benefits of crawfish, other than just a springtime treat. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Starting with tonight’s games, several Louisiana high schools are taking in part in “Touchdowns Against Cancer,” which benefits St. Judes. Michelle Southern reports..:

Cut 2 (28) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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House Appropriations Chairman Cameron Henry says get ready for threats from the governor because of the state’s budget situation. Michael Farrar has the story…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Michael Farrar”

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LSU AgCenter Researchers are studying the benefits of crawfish, as more than just a tailgating treat. Researcher and food processing and engineering professor Subramaniam (Sue-bruh-muniam) Sathivel (Sat-ee-vawl) says currently, the tail meat from a crawfish is what is consumed. But he says they wanted to see what could be done with the undersized mud bugs, which have virtually no economic value.

Cut 4  (09) “minced meat”

The minced meat, which is collected though a deboning machine, could be used for crawfish patties or crawfish flavoring. Sathivel says they are also researching how an antioxidant from the crustacean could help with Alzheimer’s disease.

Cut 5  (11)  “beta-carotene”

Sathivel says in addition, this antioxidant can help with obesity related to stress and diabetes. He says this development will not only provide significant health benefits but…

Cut 6 (08) “a key”

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Starting with tonight’s games, several Louisiana high schools are taking in part in “Touchdowns Against Cancer,” an initiative which directly benefits St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Ascension Episcopal in Lafayette is one of those, and Blue Gators Head Football coach Matthew Desormeaux says the campaign lets their fans pledge a donation for every touchdown scored…:

Cut 7 (07)  “to help them out”

The effort is in support of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, and runs through September 30th. Desormeaux says this gives them just another reason they have to score as many touchdowns as possible…:

Cut 8 (06) “do over there”

St. Jude leads the way in how the world understands, treats and defeats childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases. Desormeaux says he hopes this fundraiser gets a lot of attention so more varsity coaches in Louisiana will join next year…:

Cut 9 (07)  “jumping on”

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An 18-year-old LSU freshman from Georgia has died in what university officials are calling a possible hazing incident at Phi Delta Theta Fraternity House. LSU System President F King Alexander says the death of Maxwell Gruver is tragic and untimely….

Cut 10 (10) “utmost seriousness”

Gruver was pronounced dead at a local hospital and Alexander says it is believed alcohol is involved. Alexander says hazing will not be tolerated at LSU….

Cut 11 (11) “thorough investigation”

Phil Delta has been suspended by the school and national organization. Alexander says a young man’s life was cut short on Wednesday night and it didn’t need to happen…

Cut 12 (09) “period”

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House Appropriations Chairman Cameron Henry says get ready to hear scare tactics coming from the governor’s office. In a video posted to his Facebook page, the Republican from Metairie says he expects Governor Edwards to start threatening cuts to important programs like TOPS

Cut 13 (12) “in Louisiana”

The state is facing a fiscal cliff, because a billion dollars in temporary sales taxes expire in July. The governor has been holding meetings with business leaders to come up with ways to make up for the loss of state revenue. Henry says the governor should be asking executives how the state can help their business grow, instead of what kind of taxes they can afford

Cut 14 (08) “more money”

The governor’s Deputy Chief of Staff, Richard Carbo, says Henry is intent on continuing partisan gridlock in the House. Carbo says the governor is working with the House Speaker to come up with a bipartisan plan that doesn’t raise new revenue. But Henry says the governor is looking to keep a temporary one-cent state sales tax, instead of reducing state spending

Cut 15 (09) “cop out”

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Louisiana Tech jumps into league play tomorrow by facing the defending Conference USA champion Western Kentucky Hilltoppers. W-K-U is led by senior quarterback Mike White, who is considered one of the top quarterbacks in the country….

Cut 16  (16)  “he’s done”

These two teams met twice last year. Tech won at home 55-52 and then lost in the Conference USA title game. It’s the eighth meeting between the two teams and Tech leads the all-time series four to three. The home team is undefeated in the series. Holtz says the last three times these schools have met, conference championship complications have been on the line…

Cut 17 (16)  “championship week”

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LSU gets its first test in the SEC tomorrow night when they visit Mississippi State. The voice of the Tigers, Chris Blair, believes this game will be won in the trenches….

Cut 18 (20) “the field” 

Blair says the goal for LSU’s defense is to keep State Quarterback Nick Fitzgerald in the pocket…

Cut 19 (20)   throw it away“

LSU had success throwing the football down field last week and Blair anticipates the Tigers opening up the playbook even more tomorrow night….

Cut 20 (23)  “gonna see” 

PM Newscall September 14,2017

St. Tammany Sheriff Randy Smith says a fire chief has been cleared his wife’s death. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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TOPS for grown ups? The leader of the Louisiana Community and Technical College System likes the idea. Emelie Gunn has the story…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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St. Tammany Parish Sheriff Randy Smith says Fire Chief Steve Krentel has been cleared in the murder of his wife Nanette, who was found in burned home with a gunshot wound to the head in July. Smith says Steve Krentel was their initial primary person of interest…

Cut 3 (09) “from the beginning”

The St. Tammany Corner officially ruled Nanette Krentel’s death as a homicide. Smith does not dispute the ruling, but is concerned about the timing of the announcement, because there’s more to determine in this case…

Cut 4  (11) “from the scene”

Smith says they have worked this case as a homicide since day one and will continue to do so…

Cut 5  (12)  “our exhausted”

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An arrest has been made in the murder of a St. Martin Parish woman who was eight months pregnant. Major Ginny Higgins says authorities arrested 32-year-old Toni Trimble Thomas and she is charged with one count of first degree murder and one count of first degree feticide. She says the investigation is ongoing to determine why Ashley Nicole Meche was murdered.

Cut 6 (06) “continuing”

Higgins says at one point, Thomas’ brother Mark Trimble was questioned then released. She says Mark Trimble was the boyfriend of the victim.

Cut 7 (07)  “what occurred”

Higgins says this is very unfortunate as the life of a baby and mother were lost.

Cut 8 (10) “very sad”

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The president of the Louisiana Community and Technical College System wants the state to pursue a scholarship program for adults so they can attend two year schools . Monty Sullivan likes the idea of a TOPS for grown folks…

Cut 9 (12)  “their families”

The average community and technical college student in Louisiana is 27.5 years old, so that means most their students are not eligible for TOPS. Sullivan their adults who want to attend a two-year college, but can’t because they don’t have the money…

Cut 10 (10) “of education”

Sullivan says it would be a wise investment, if the state provided financial assistance for a working mother of two who is only making eight bucks an hour, but with education and training can make 18-dollars an hour…

Cut 11 (09) “their family”

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Neville High in Monroe has been named the most beautiful public high school in Louisiana by Architectural Digest. Dana Jefferson (pronounced Dan-A; not Dain-A), Executive Director of the school’s Alumni Association, says Neville has undergone many renovations to preserve the 86-year-old building…:

Cut 12 (06) “to come”

Jefferson says Neville is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and that’s something the students and staff are really proud of. She says they are glad they chose to renovate instead of tear down and build a new school:

Cut 13 (10) “convenient places”

Architectural Digest recently chose one public high school from all 50 states. Jefferson says they are very proud that Neville has been able to hold on to its location…:

Cut 14 (10) “to this historic school”

LRN AM Newscall September 14

Louisiana remains one of the most business-friendly states in the nation, ranking No. 5 in Area Development magazine’s annual Top States for Doing Business survey. Michael Farrar reports…:

Cut 1 (29) “I’m Michael Farrar”

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Higher Education Commissioner Joe Rallo says the first LaSTEM council meeting was a success. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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One month from today is the general election for the State Treasurer’s Race. Jeff Palermo reports the candidates are becoming more active..

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The Oil and Gas Industry is helping with recovery efforts in Texas in the wake of Hurricane Harvey. President of the Louisiana Mid-Continent Oil and Gas Association Chris John says when Harvey hit, it knocked out about 12-percent of the refining capacity for this nation. He says when times are tough, the oil and gas sector steps up to the plate.

Cut 4  (06) “efforts”

Exxon Mobil led the way by donating 9.5 million dollars to the Red Cross and the United Way of Houston. John says the oil and gas industry is such a big part of the Gulf Coast and Louisiana, but many times goes unrecognized for its good deeds.

Cut 5  (11)  “our country”

John says they are making progress with getting Texas refineries back on line. He says Louisiana has tried to produce as much product as possible while Texas plants are recovering.

Cut 6 (09) “months”

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Louisiana remains one of the most business-friendly states in the nation, ranking No. 5 in Area Development magazine’s annual Top States for Doing Business survey. LED Secretary Don Pierson says this is a great third party endorsement they can reference to show that Louisiana is a great place to do business, for many reasons…:

Cut 7 (10)  “in the nation”

This is the second year in a row the publication has ranked Louisiana No. 5. Pierson says they really like the LED FastStart workforce development program. He says with the help of post-secondary education institutions, these workforce development programs screen, select, and train the workforce any company needs:

Cut 8 (10) “on day one”

Another category in which Louisiana got high marks was the new economic development fund it created with a large donation from Cleco. Pierson feels that also speaks to the great partnership the state has with its utilities.:

Cut 9 (09)  “looking for”

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Higher Education Commissioner Joe Rallo says the first LaSTEM Advisory Council meeting was successful in discussing how to increase the amount of students who will succeed in the areas of science, technology, engineering and math. Rallo says right now, if we don’t engage, Louisiana will not catch up with neighboring states when it comes to STEM jobs.

Cut 10 (10) “meet that”

Rallo says the council will meet once a month. He says the council agrees STEM education needs to be a pipeline, starting in Kindergarten and continuing through high school.

Cut 11 (10) “that occurred”

The council was developed from legislation approved during the 2017 legislative session. Rallo says there is also a push to get more woman into STEM careers. He says women can really excel in these jobs.

Cut 12 (09) “wage gap”

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One month from today is the general election for State Treasurer. Three Republican candidates are raising money. There’s also a Democrat and Libertarian on the ballot. Publisher of La-politics-dot-com, Jeremy Alford, says Columbia Senator Neil Riser has been the most active in televising advertising…

Cut 13 (09) “another commercial”

Ex state legislator John Schroder and former Commissioner of Administration Angelle Davis are the other Republicans fundraising. But Alford says none of the candidates have enough money to run TV commercials statewide, which will lead to a low voter turnout on October 14th…

Cut 14 (06) “less than 20-percent”

Alford says expect to hear more from these candidates in the coming weeks as Early Voting begins September 30th. He says even though it’s a statewide race, the candidates have not raised a lot of money, so they’ll have to be creative…

Cut 15 (09) “name recognition”

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Two weeks into the season and the Ragin Cajuns defense ranks as the third worst out of the 129 F-B-S teams. UL Lafayette has allowed nearly 12-hundred yards. But Head Coach Mark Hudspeth says their is a great desire to turn things around…

Cut 16  (23)  “of the ball”

The Cajuns gave up 66 points in a loss to Tulsa last week and Hudspeth says it was disappointing not to see improvement from week one to week two… (UL Lafayette is at Texas A&M on Sat.)

Cut 17 (20)  “don’t miss”

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ULM takes on Southern Miss for its home opener on Saturday. Warhawks Coach Matt Viator says this is an important game for his program…

Cut 18 (22) “have come” 

Southern Miss is coming off a 45-0 victory over Southern. Viator is impressed with the Golden Eagles skill position players…

Cut 19 (17)    to call it“

PM Newscall September 13,2017

The St. Tammany Parish Coroner has ruled the death of the fire chief’s wife in July, as a homicide. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 1 (29) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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The Shreveport City Council voted 6 to 0 against a multi-million dollar project to build a sports complex and downtown arena. Emelie Gunn has more on why….

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Louisiana’s Senior U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy is a co-author of the last ditch effort by Republicans to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act. Cassidy says this proposal takes Washington out of the decision making and instead each state receives an annual block grant to determine how to help individuals pay for health care….

Cut 3 (08) “about the same”

Cassidy says the legislation also repeals individual and employer mandates that are part of the Affordable Care Act and it gets rid of the medical device tax.  The Republican says their proposal also eliminates the inequity in which three states receive 37-percent of Obamacare funds…

Cut 4  (12) “10-percent”

Senators Lindsey Graham, Dean Heller and Ron Johnson are the fellow co-authors. Meanwhile, Democrat Bernie Sanders is proposing to expand Medicare to cover all U-S residents. Graham says their approach of the block grant funding to the states gives the power back to the patients

Cut 5  (12)  “vote for”

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The St. Martin Parish Sheriff’s Office have located a brother and sister wanted in connection with the death of a woman who was 8 months pregnant. Major Ginny Higgins says 29-year-old Mark Trimble and his 32-year-old sister Toni have not been charged with anything but are now in custody. She says this is a homicide investigation.

Cut 6 (06) “the victim”

The victim, 24-year-old Ashley Nicole Meche, was found dead Tuesday afternoon. Higgins says Mark Trimble was located in the Loreauville area of St. Martin Parish and Toni Trimble was found of in the Bayou Fuselier area. She says the investigation is ongoing into what happened to pregnant victim.

Cut 7 (07)  “investigation process”

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A homeowner shot and killed an alleged intruder in LaPlace last night. St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff Mike Tregre says the homeowner told detectives he heard voices in his yard and went to investigate. Tregre says when he opened the back door, he was face-to-face with the intruder

Cut 8 (08) “killing him”

Tregre says no charges have been filed against the homeowner and the whole episode was captured on the home’s video surveillance camera…

Cut 9 (07)  “back door”

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The entire Shreveport City Council voted no to a multi-million dollar project to build a sports complex and downtown arena. Councilman Oliver Jenkins says he voted against the Cross Bayou Project because there was not a lot of visible public support. He hopes they can go back to the drawing board because partnering with a Tom Benson company is a great opportunity.

Cut 10 (10) “for it”

Jenkins says 30 million of the city’s dollars would be used along with 139 million in private finances. He says they would like to present this project to the public in a different light because many people didn’t know the project could bring in a major G-league basketball team.

Cut 11 (11) “afterthought”

Jenkins says surprisingly, there was not much support from the business community. He credits the failing to pass this project to the public not having faith in government’s decisions.

Cut 12 (11) “constituents”

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The St. Tammany Parish Coroner has ruled the death of the fire chief’s wife in July, as a homicide. The body of Nanette Krentel, wife of Fire District 12 Chief Stephen Krentel, was discovered in the rubble of the couple’s home which had burned to the ground on July 7th. Coroner Charles Preston said it was determined from the start Mrs. Krentel died from a gunshot wound…:

Cut 13 (03) “before the fire started”

The Sheriff’s Office said in a media advisory that it does not necessarily support the coroner’s conclusion, and will provide an update on the investigation during a news conference tomorrow. Preston says, following an initial autopsy, the remains were sent to the LSU FACES Lab…:

Cut 14 (08) “will happen”

Preston says three autopsies were conducted on the body, and those along with the report from LSU all reached the same conclusion. He says they wanted to give this case the utmost attention and thoroughness…:

Cut 15 (10) “of death”

LRN AM Newscall September 13

How to get more students interested in science, technology, engineering and mathematics is the goal of a 29-member council that meets for the first time in Baton Rouge today Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Senator Billy Cassidy and Congressman Mike Johnson are trying to bring a Shreveport man back home after he was arrested in Guatemala in March while on a mission trip. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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A new study finds that Louisiana’s lawsuit climate is the worst in the nation. Don Molino reports…:

Cut 3 (28) “I’m Don Molino”

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A 29-member panel meets today in Baton Rouge to discuss ways to get more students interested and improve achievement in the areas of science technology, engineering and math also known as STEM. Slidell Senator Sharon Hewitt is behind this effort to grow STEM programs in schools…

Cut 4  (11) “is exploding”

Hewitt says major employers, like Amazon who is looking to build a second headquarters, are seeking workers who can perform STEM related jobs.  She says its essential Louisiana does what it can to produce more STEM talent and that includes women…

Cut 5  (11)  “the girls”

Hewitt says the objective of the Louisiana Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Advisory Council is to make sure education and industry are aligned with workforce needs to increase the number of students who have a STEM degree…

Cut 6 (10) “to invest in”

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Louisiana lawmakers are working to free a Shreveport man from a Guatemalan jail after he was arrested in March for bringing hunting ammunition in his luggage. U.S. Representative Mike Johnson and U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy met with the country’s ambassador to discuss the case of Zachary Wilson. Johnson says Wilson suffers from ulcerative colitis…

Cut 7 (10)  “awaits trial”

Wilson’s family says it is extremely difficult to ship his medication to Guatemala and he is running out of his prescription. Johnson says they understand Guatemala is a sovereign nation and respect the rule of law but the charges brought against Wilson are not justified.

Cut 8 (10) “their system”

Ulcerative colitis is a condition that can be life threatening if left untreated. Johnson says he and Senator Cassidy are committed to this time sensitive matter and will continue to work with the Guatemalan government to ensure Wilson’s return.

Cut 9 (09)  “people there”

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A new study finds that Louisiana’s lawsuit climate is the worst in the nation, and also showed this ranking is not good when it comes to attracting new businesses. Harold Kim is the executive vice president of the U.S. Chamber Institute for Legal Reform. He says the survey found that 85% of company attorneys said a state’s lawsuit climate is likely to impact decision making:

Cut 10 (06) “more jobs”

Kim says the areas Louisiana ranked poorly were the in the competence and impartiality of its judges, the fairness of its juries and quality of appellate review. Kim says the poll of more than 1300 attorneys or leaders in companies also asked what they thought the worst jurisdictions were in the US:

Cut 11 (07) “certainly contributed”

Kim says this could hurt Louisiana’s chances at talking new industries into expanding and growing here…:

Cut 12 (10) “resolved fairly”

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 Northwestern State University’s fall enrollment has reached its highest ever in the school’s 133-year history, with 10,572 students. NSU President Dr. Chris Maggio says this is one of the most meaningful milestones in the school’s long history. He credits this achievement to the university’s academics.

Cut 13 (11) “northwestern”

A number of renovations to dormitories on the main campus have made NSU more appealing to students. Maggio says they have worked hard over the last few years to improve their strategic vision at the university. He says also partnering with business and industry has helped to boost enrollment.

Cut 14 (11) “located in”

Maggio says NSU’s online program is included in the enrollment number and has been extremely successful.

Cut 15 (09) “education”

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The Saints spent Tuesday breaking down the tape of Monday night’s 29-19 loss to Minnesota. Head Coach Sean Payton says it was not a fun exercise, because of how poorly the team played….

Cut 16  (16)  “hurt us”

Payton says mental errors hurt them on defense and offense they struggled at times in protection and not consistent enough in the running game….

Cut 17 (16)  “better job”

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A few of LSU’s young wide receivers had a chance to shine in last Saturday’s victory over Chattanooga. Stephen (STEF-ON) Sullivan and JaCoby Stevens each caught their first passes on the college level and Drake Davis was wide open when he caught his first TD Pass. Quarterback Danny Etling….

Cut 18 (19) “of practice” 

After two games, LSU is the most penalized team in the SEC, with 21. Quarterback Danny Etling says they have to play smarter football…

Cut 19 (16)     correct“

LSU is anticipating a loud atmosphere on Saturday night in Starkville. Etling says they have to be focused…

Cut 20 (20)  “we can be” 

LRN PM Newscall September 12

Residents in Texas and Florida are attempting to recover from two massive hurricanes. Recovery is also underway in Calcasieu Parish from Tropical Storm Harvey. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 1 (29) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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The Black and Gold Nation is not happy today after the Saints fell to Minnesota last night 29-19. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Michelle Southern reporting”

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Recovery is underway in Calcasieu Parish after Tropical Storm Harvey left major flood damage in some areas. Dick Gremillion, Director of the Parish Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness, says while the destruction is not as bad as Texas, 800 to a thousand structures in Calcasieu sustained water damage. He says they are waiting to see if they will be declared a Federal Disaster Area.

Cut 3 (08) “had damage”

If declared a federal disaster area that opens the door for flood victims to receive federal assistance. Gremillion says in the days before Harvey made landfall in Calcasieu, a torrential downpour left nearly 500 houses with some water inside. He says flooding also occurred when the Sabine River came out of its banks.

Cut 4  (07) “out there”

Gremillion says some homes in the parish have now flooded twice in the last two years. He says homeowners who are able to reach their houses have begun the gutting out process.

Cut 5  (11)  “to go”

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The Black and Gold Nation is not happy today after the Saints fell to Minnesota last night 29-19. We asked this fan what he thought went wrong…:

Cut 6 (11)”in the NFL”

New Orleans will look to turn this around at home this weekend against the Patriots. These fans couldn’t come up with anything nice to say about the game:

Cut 7 (09)  “running for his life”

The Saints ranked last in the NFL in pass defense last year, and these fans say it doesn’t look like much has changed…:

Cut 8 (12) “Drew at all”

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Hundreds of cancer patients and survivors around the country are in Washington D.C. today to urge Congress to help with the fight against cancer. Louisiana Lead Ambassador with the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network Amber Stevens says they will ask lawmakers to increase federal funding for cancer research.

Cut 9 (10)  “screening”

Stevens says they are asking to raise the funding for cancer research to 36 billion dollars, a two billion dollar increase. She says they also want to improve the quality of life for these patients and are urging them to support palliative care and hospice education training.

Cut 10 (11) “coordinated”

Stevens says colorectal cancer is the second most common cause of cancer deaths in the U.S. and fixing a current glitch in the Medicare system could save lives.

Cut 11 (11) “in cost”

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The Edwards administration has started the legal process to remove BRF as the operator of the state’s safety net hospitals in Monroe and Shreveport. Commissioner of Administration Jay Dardenne says a letter has been sent to Shreveport-based BRF that gives them 45 days to correct various problems….

Cut 12 (09) “gone unanswered”

Dardenne says the state has spoken with Ochsner Health System and the New Orleans based hospital company could help BRF run the hospitals or possibly replace BRF ..

Cut 13 (10) “of the hospital”

BRF says they anticipate resolving the contract disagreement without being ousted and they’ll use legal action if removed as operator of the two north Louisiana hospitals. Dardenne is also hopeful BRF can get the job done…

Cut 14 (08) “will happen”

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LRN AM Newscall September 12th

The Shreveport City Council is slated to vote today on whether or not to move forward with the necessary steps to build a more than $100 million dollar mixed-use complex. Jeff Palermo reports…:

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The Kaplan Police Chief has been arrested on charges of theft and malfeasance in office after a legislative audit that looked into the department’s finances. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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After 9-11, Louisianans raised 1.2 million dollars as part of the “Bucks for Trucks” campaign. The money went towards new firetrucks for the New York City Fire Department. Jeff Palermo has more on where those trucks are now…

Cut 3 (26) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The Shreveport City Council is slated to vote today on whether or not to move forward with the necessary steps to build a more than $100 million dollar mixed-use complex along the Cross-Bayou Corridor. It’s expected this would solidify the efforts of the city to attract the New Orleans Pelicans’ development league. Tyler Comeaux, managing member of a campaign in support of that effort called Shreveport for Pelicans, calls the idea a “slam dunk”…:

Cut 4  (11) “to Shreveport”

The mayor has pledged to commit up to $30 million dollars to build the complex subject to city council approval. Some have argued that the investment is more than what Shreveport can handle, but Comeaux says that’s coming from a fund that was designated for the purpose of developing the river front..:

Cut 5  (10)  “as well”

The campaign includes a website: Slam-Dunk-For-Shreveport-dot-com. Comeaux says it’s important to note that the city council’s vote today is only on the intent to move ahead with negotiations. He also adds this is only if Tom Benson’s organization selects Shreveport and all parties agree on terms…:

Cut 6 (10) “legislation”

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Kaplan Police Chief Boyd Adams has been arrested on charges of theft and malfeasance in office after an investigation by the Legislative Auditor’s Office. Director of the Investigative Audit Roger Harris says there were no records to support the expenditure of over 19-thousand dollars.

Cut 7 (09)  “warrant”

The report finds Adams was unable to provide receipts of records documenting his use of the funds from May 2010 to May 2015. Harris says even after a chance to explain the expenses, Adams was unable to.

Cut 8 (07) “start with”

Some of the discrepancies involved a failure to disclose off-duty security details to the worker’s compensation insurer and Chief Adams ordering professional services without authorization. Harris says the Legislative Auditors received a complaint into the Kaplan Police Department and that’s what stemmed the investigation, which was completed last September

Cut 9 (08)  “figures”

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After 9-11 , former Governor Mike Foster started the “Bucks for Trucks” campaign, where Louisianans donated money to purchase a new firetruck for the New York City Fire Department. Enough money was raised to build four firetrucks at Ferrera Fire Apparatus in Livingston Parish.  Former owner, Chris Ferrera says 1.2 million dollars was raised and all of the trucks are still in use 16 years later.

Cut 10 (10) “New York”

Ferrera says one truck was actually sent to New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina and is currently in use by the Louisiana Fire Marshal’s Office.

Cut 11 (09) “on it”

Ferrera says it’s so amazing that the people of the Bayou State came together and the legacy continues. He says the first firetruck went on a tour before ending up in New York City.

Cut 12 (11) “New York”

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Another Saints season is off to a rough start, as the Black and Gold lost to Minnesota 29-19 last night. New Orleans had trouble scoring touchdowns after getting into the redzone and Vikings Quarterback Sam Bradford picked up apart the Saints defense for 346 yards and three touchdowns….

Cut 13 (18) “they did”

Saints Quarterback Drew Brees threw for 291 yards and one touchdown, but the Black and Gold could not establish a ground game. They rushed for just 60 yards. Adrian Peterson had 18 yards on six carries in his Saints debut and the cameras caught A-P yelling at Payton and staring his coach down. But Payton denies there was a heated exchange with the future Hall of Famer…

Cut 14 (14) “being honest”

So for the fifth time in the last six years, the Saints start the season with a loss. They host the Super Bowl champion New England Patriots on Sunday, but Payton says the mistakes made on Monday night need to be corrected first….

Cut 15 (17) “do it”

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LSU’s best pass rusher is expected to play on Saturday night in Starkville when the Tigers take on Mississippi State. Key missed the first two games as he finished recovering from offseason shoulder injury. Head Coach Ed Orgeron says he’s fired up to see Key play on Saturday, but they are not sure how many snaps he’ll get…

Cut 16  (20)  “his condition”

LSU is anticipating a hostile crowd on Saturday as Mississippi State is also 2-0 on the year. Orgeron says they’ll begin preparing for the sound of cowbells and Bulldog fans today…

Cut 17 (16)  “cowbells”

In LSU’s 45-10 win over Chattanooga, quarterback Danny Etling was 8-of-14 from 227 yards and a score. He connected on five passes of 25 yards or more. But Orgeron says LSU could have been more productive through the air, if Etling was more accurate….

Cut 18 (18) “in that area” 

PM Newscall September 11,2017

Louisiana is deploying a major effort to help with Hurricanes Irma and Harvey response and recovery in Florida, Georgia and Texas. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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The statistical peak of the 2017 Atlantic Hurricane season is now behind us but we can still expect an active season. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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The Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness is deploying employees and coordinating assistance from other state agencies for Hurricane Irma and Hurricane Harvey response and recovery efforts. GOHSEP spokesman Mike Steele says there is a wide range of needs right now in Florida and Georgia, and ongoing cleanup in Texas, and the state is happy to help.:

Cut 3 (11) “and rescue teams going”

Steele says the state-to-state system was developed after Hurricane Andrew in 1992. He says Louisiana has a lot of experience in what to do after a storm hits…:

Cut 4  (07) “as well”

Steele says GOHSEP’s Deputy-Director is also in the Lone Star State to help develop potential temporary housing options based on the Shelter at Home Program. He says officials in Texas are considering the program with some of the improvements recommended by Louisiana…:

Cut 5  (10)  “that housing crunch”

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We’ve have moved past the statistical peak of what has been a very active 2017 Atlantic hurricane season. State Climatologist Barry Keim says there’s already been 11 named storms…

Cut 6 (10)”this season”

Twenty-two named storms would rank among the second busiest in history, falling short of the 2005 record of 28. Keim says it’s likely we will proceed earlier predictions of this hurricane season. But he says right now, it looks as if things are calming down compared to last week.

Cut 7 (11)  “or two”

Keim says even with Irma turning into a tropical storm and Jose not looking like much of a threat, we cannot let our guard down.

Cut 8 (08) “of us”

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A Christmas Tree farm in St. Tammany Parish has been hit by vandals for the about the 20th time, and the owner is not happy. Clarke Gernon heads up Shady Pond Tree Farm in Pearl River and says nobody has ever been caught destroying the trees..:

Cut 9 (08)  “a living thing”

Gernon says it’s been difficult for him to express to law enforcement the idea that these are more than just trees…:

Cut 10 (09) “than animal abuse”

Gernon says because of the physical size of the 50 acre farm, it’s very difficult to put in an effective security system. He says the 9 trees that were recently destroyed may not seem like much when you consider they have about a 14,000 inventory…:

Cut 11 (10) “bad thing”

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Louisiana is on their way to help once again in the wake of Hurricanes Irma Harvey. Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says in 2005, people from around the country raced to help in the aftermath of Katrina and it’s our turn to give back. He says residents sign up through volunteerlouisiana.com…

Cut 12 (09) “partnership”

Nungesser says volunteers also partner with GOHSEP and the well-known Cajun Navy. He says the Louisiana residents who donated their time in the Harvey shelters in Alexandria and Shreveport really care about those they are helping.

Cut 13 (10) “feel good”

Nungesser says when you lose everything in a flood, it means so much that someone from another state put their life on hold to lend a helping hand.

Cut 14 (10) “effort”

LRN AM Newscall September 11

Congress passed a bill to reauthorize the National Flood Insurance Program, which was set to expire on September 30. Halen Doughty has the story…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The state Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is asking sportsman to limit the transport of Roseau cane, as a non-native tiny insect is consuming the plant. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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During LSU’s 45-10 win over Chattanooga on Saturday night, the Tigers showed the ability to throw the football down the field. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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75 Soldiers from the Louisiana National Guard’s 165th Combat Sustainment and Support Battalion are set to deploy to Afghanistan. Bossier Parish Community College gymnasium will hold a deployment ceremony at 11 AM for family and friends to bid farewell. Col. Ed Bush says these troops will be overseas for about a year.

Cut 4  (08) “they need”

The 165th has served during numerous hurricanes and helped with commodity distribution during last year’s floods. Bush says the 165th also mobilized in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and this mission is very similar.

Cut 5  (10)  “as well”

Bush says the 165th also provided support in Operation Desert Storm and Operations Enduring Freedom. He says after their sendoff party today, they undergo training at Fort Hood in Texas…

Cut 6 (08) “11 months”

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Congress approves a measure to reauthorize the National Flood Insurance Program for the next 90 days, as federal lawmakers work on a long-term solution for the program. US Senator John Kennedy says while this was not his first choice, he’s glad congressional leaders didn’t let the clock run out on the program that expires September 30.

Cut 7 (11)  “permanent re authorization”

Kennedy filed a bill to reauthorize the program for the long term that he says has bipartisan support. He says he wants to establish integrity in the NFIP while also not undermining the purpose of the program by causing premiums to skyrocket.

Cut 8 (09) “a bus”

Kennedy says he’s trying to strike a balance between sustainability and affordability. He says his bill and others are on the table for discussion, and extending the deadline for the short-term gives lawmakers a chance to look at all their options.

Cut 9 (09)  “the program”

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The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is asking the public to limit the transportation of Roseau cane, as the species is rapidly dying off. The plant helps to protect the Mississippi River delta and the coastal region. LDWF Biologist Manager Vaughn McDonald says the Roseau cane scale, which is a bug, is killing off the beneficial plant life.

Cut 10 (11) “from there”

The bug is mostly found in 11 of the state’s most southern parishes. McDonald urges fisherman to fill out a survey on the LDWF website if they notice the Roseau cane scale. He says sportsman should take precautions after being around phragmites.

Cut 11 (10) “soapy water”

McDonald reminds duck hunters to not tie their boats up to the cane. He says phragmites stands up well during tropical storm events and the scale impacts the health of our coastal marshes.

Cut 12 (11) “together”

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The LSU football team is 2-0, but the Tigers still have a lot to work on as they head into this Saturday’s SEC opener versus Mississippi State in Starkville. Between Jack Gonsoulin and Connor Culp, the Tigers have missed three field goals. Head Coach Ed Orgeron says it’s an issue…

Cut 13 (10) “we can”

While kicking field goals have been a problem, quarterback Danny Etling has looked sharp. Through two games, he’s completed 71-percent of his passes for nearly 400 yards, one touchdown and zero interceptions. Orgeron says Etling looks like a different player this season…

Cut 14 (19) “do it”

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An intriguing matchup to start the season for the Saints as they visit the Minnesota Vikings to kick-off the 2017 campaign. New Orleans led the NFL in total offense last year, while the Vikings had the league’s third-ranked defense, and return most of their starters from 2016. Saints Quarterback Drew Brees says it’s a tough match-up to start the season….

Cut 15 (12) “absolute best”

New Saints running back Adrian Peterson gets a chance to stick it to his old team. Peterson rushed for 11,747 yards in 10 seasons in Minnesota. The 32-year-old says he would like to have a big game that leads to a victory…

Cut 16  (10)  “New England”

The Vikings have two pro bowlers in their secondary, safety Harrison Smith and cornerback Xavier Rhodes. Brees says Rhodes is a top tier corner in the NFL…

Cut 17 (12)  “good reason”

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LRN PM Newscall September 8

Louisiana could be a contender for Amazon’s new corporate headquarters as the online retail giant plans to spend five billion dollars on a second headquarters. Don Molino has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Don Molino”

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If North America wins the bid host the 2026 FIFA World Cup in soccer, New Orleans would like to host a few matches. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Amazon seeks a location for new corporate headquarters, as the online mega retailer plans to open a second corporate location. State Economic Development Secretary Don Pierson says Louisiana has a lot of strengths to offer should we throw our hat in the ring, and its likely we will…

Cut 3 (10) “office space”

Amazon is reportedly looking for a metropolitan area with more than a million people near an international airport with access to mass transit. New Orleans could be a perfect fit. Pierson says the number one rated LED Fast Start program can also offer skilled employees.

Cut 4  (08) “in Louisiana”

Pierson has said a prime location could be between Baton Rouge and New Orleans. He says the Bayou State has a lot of unique features to offer, like plenty of transportation infrastructure with two major interstates and particularly the I-10 corridor.

Cut 5  (11)  “for commerce”

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North America is bidding against Morocco to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup and New Orleans wants to get in on the action. Jay Cicero, CEO of the Greater New Orleans Sports Foundation, says the Crescent City has already hosted 10 Superbowls, six men’s Final Fours and the World Cup would be a perfect addition. But he says the competition is fierce.

Cut 6 (10)”put forth”

U.S. Soccer plans to announce in the fall a list of potential 25 host cities in America. Cicero says if selected, they would add natural grass to the Mercedes Benz Superdome.

Cut 7 (10)  “it out”

The Superdome currently has 72-thousand seats. Cicero says to be considered for an opening or final match, the stadium must hold 80-thousand people and that could happen after the next rounds of renovations. He says the Big Easy has so much to offer.

Cut 8 (10) “to Louisiana”

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The state department of transportation is raising awareness about construction zone safety. DOTD reports a shocking uptick in accidents along I-10 in Acadiana, where crews are working to widen the interstate in each direction. Deidra Druilhet with DOTD says work zones come with different driving conditions.

Cut 9 (10)  “those areas”

Druilhet says signs are in place indicating reduced speed limits from I-49 to the Atchafalaya Basin Bridge. She says speed trailers are in place displaying speed limits and clocking drivers as they pass, as well as a queue detection system and message boards indicating delay times.

Cut 10 (11) “construction zone”

Druilhet says they’re also putting a solid line through the construction zone to deter motorists from changing lanes. She encourages motorists to stay alert, minimize distractions, be patient, and heed all warnings and speed zones.

Cut 11 (09) “that’s there”

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Louisiana utility crews are heading to Georgia to help with any potential power outages as Hurricane Irma tracks north towards the US. Cleco spokesperson Jennifer Cahill says crews are meeting at the St. Tammany Service Center Monday to make the trip to Macon, Georgia.

Cut 12 (11) “Hurricane Irma”

Cahill says Cleco is a member of the mutual assistance program called the Southeastern Electric Exchange. She says members offer restoration support after major outage events. Cleco assisted Georgia Power after Hurricane Matthew.

Cut 13 (08) “electrical systems”

Georgia Power services about 2.5 million customers in Georgia. Cahill says Cleco crews will be on hand as needed to make sure those residents have their power restored right away.

Cut 14 (10) “electrical systems”

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