LRN AM Newscall Feb 3

In the 2026 U.S. Senate race, State Treasurer John Fleming seeks an early endorsement from the Louisiana Republican Party as he attempts to knock off the incumbent Bill Cassidy. Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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New Orleans is getting ready to welcome the world to the city for the Super Bowl. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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It’s believed to be a first-of-its-kind indictment in the United States. The case involves a Louisiana woman who bought abortion pills from an out-of-state medical company. Colleen Crain has more…

Cut 3 (36) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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State Treasurer John Fleming is seeking an early endorsement from the Louisiana Republican Party in his challenge to Senator Bill Cassidy, who is up for re-election next year.  La-politics-dot-com publisher Jeremy Alford says Fleming asked for the endorsement when he ran for State Treasurer after Governor Landry successfully got the endorsement.

Cut 4 (06) “..for the U.S. Senate.”

This move follows the strategy of Governor Jeff Landry, who secured his party’s backing early in his campaign. LAGOP Chair Derek Babcock has said Fleming is free to seek endorsement, though few have been officially granted so far. Alford says the timing is interesting.

Cut 5 (09) “…his political career.”

Currently, Fleming is the only declared challenger, but State Sen. Blake Miguez is considering a run, and Public Service Commissioner Eric Skrmetta is seen as another potential candidate.  Alford says the race is shaping up to be a heated battle within Louisiana’s GOP.

Cut 6 (05) “…interesting dynamics to it.”

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The City of New Orleans is ready to roll out the welcome mat to visitors from all around the world for the Super Bowl. Kelly Schulz (“Shultz”) with New Orleans and Company says New Orleans’ layout makes it very easy for visitors to take in everything the city has to offer…

Cut 7 (11) “…Super Bowl experience.”

Schulz says there are many events for Super Bowl visitors to take in throughout the week.

Cut 8 (08) “…throughout the city.”

Schulz says this is the time for the city to put its best foot forward.

Cut 9 (12)  “…athletes as well.”

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The Caesars Superdome in New Orleans is designated a “No Drone Zone” for Super Bowl LIX, with drone restrictions also extending to the downtown area in the days leading up to the event.  FAA Drone Expert Kevin Morris says this ensures the airspace stays safe.

Cut 10 (07) “…up to it.”

Morris says before Game Day, Feb. 3-8, drone restrictions apply within 1.5 nautical miles of Lafayette Square up to 2,000 feet.

Cut 11 (08) “…at various times.”

On Game Day, Sunday, Feb. 9, restrictions begin at 1:30 p.m. within 1.5 nautical miles of the stadium up to 2,000 feet. Morris says from 4:30 to 10:30 p.m., restrictions expand to a 30-nautical-mile radius and 18,000 feet.  Morris says enjoy the game and leave your done at home.

Cut 12 (08) “…Super Bowl Sunday.”

Unauthorized drone operators risk confiscation, fines up to $75,000, and potential criminal charges.

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A New York doctor is facing criminal charges in Louisiana after prosecutors say he prescribed an abortion drug that terminated a Port Allen teenager’s pregnancy. West Baton Rouge Parish District Attorney Tony Clayton says it is illegal to send abortion pills into this state…

Cut 13 (12)  “…of abortion”

A West Baton Rouge grand jury has indicted Doctor Margaret Carpenter and the 39-year-old mother who allegedly gave the pills to her teenage daughter.

Most abortions have been illegal in Louisiana since the U-S Supreme Court overturned Roe versus Wade in the summer of 2022. Clayton says that includes abortion medication…

Cut 14 (10) “…to that.”

Clayton says he is not prosecuting the minor who took the drugs. He says last April her mother instructed her daughter to take the pills that were shipped in from the New Paltz clinic in New York. Doctor Carpenter has been practicing family medicine for more than 20 years.

Clayton says it’s the first criminal indictment of its kind in Louisiana…

Cut 15 (08) “…in Louisiana.”

If Carpenter and the 39-year-old mother are convicted, they face a prison sentence of up to five years.

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The second-ranked LSU baseball team has four different catchers who are battling for playing time. They are Indiana State transfer Luis Hernandez, Dayton transfer Edward Yasmin, Merdian College transfer Blaise Preister, and true freshman Cade Arrambide. Assistant coach Josh Jordan says Arrambide has all the tools…

Cut 16 (25) “…special.”

Hernandez hit 23 home runs and drove in 76 runs at Indiana State last season. The native of Puerto Rico is excited about playing for the Tigers this season…

Cut 17 (17) “…come true for me.”

Six-foot-eight right-hander Chase Shores could be the Tigers Friday night starter. Pitching coach Nate Yeskie says Shores is developing well…

Cut 18 (24) “…a little mean.”

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The LSU men’s basketball team dropped to 1-and-7 in Southeastern Conference play with an embarrassing 89 to 58 loss to Texas at home. LSU is in 15th place in the 16-team league and Coach Matt McMahon is hitting the reset button…

Cut 19 (17) “…better chance.”

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Louisiana Tech completed a 3-0 homestand with an overtime victory over Sam Houston on Saturday. The Bulldogs are 5-and-4 in league play and is in a six-way tie for third place. Sean Newman led the way in the win over Bearcats with 22 points…

Cut 20 (12) “…we are going to finish.”

LRN PM Newscall

The City of New Orleans is stepping into the global spotlight as it gets set to host Super Bowl 59 next Sunday. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (37) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Following his suspension over alleged inappropriate remarks in the classroom, a judge has ordered LSU to promptly reinstate law professor Ken Levy. Sean Richarson has more…

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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The City of New Orleans steps into the global spotlight next week as it gets set to host its 11th Super Bowl. Michael Hecht, the CEO of Greater New Orleans Inc., says the global impact of hosting this game is off the charts.

Cut 3 (10) “…be much greater.”

Hecht says Greater New Orleans Inc. will be giving VIP visitors a tour of the city.

Cut 4 (09) “…a VIP experience.”

Hecht says the city is putting the final touches on welcoming thousands of people to one of the most popular sporting events in the entire world.

Cut 5 (14) “…around the city.”

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A Baton Rouge judge has ordered LSU to reinstate law professor Ken Levy after suspending him for alleged inappropriate classroom statements. Levy’s Attorney Jill Craft says the temporary restraining order prevents LSU from infringing on Levy’s free speech and due process rights or retaliating against him.

Cut 6 (13) “…why it’s illegal.”

Levy sued LSU, arguing the suspension violated his constitutional rights. The suspension followed a Jan. 17 letter citing student complaints about Levy’s comments during a criminal law class, where he criticized Gov. Jeff Landry by saying “F*** the governor” jokingly, and shared his political views. Craft says the complaints were inaccurate.

Cut 7 (09) “…how funny it was.”

Levy also made unflattering comments about President Donald Trump on the first day of the 2025 spring semester.

A court hearing is set for Feb. 10. Levy’s attorney called the case a crucial free speech issue, while LSU vowed to continue its investigation, emphasizing respect and professionalism in the classroom.

Cut 8 (11) “…feelings hurt.”

On Friday, private attorneys hired by LSU have asked courts to either stay or dissolve the temporary restraining order. In a court filing, LSU says its investigating Levy after receiving student complaints about inappropriate, vulgar, and potentially harassing conduct in the classroom.

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The Jimmie Davis Bridge replacement project in the southern part of Shreveport-Bossier City is close to reaching a milestone. Department of Transportation spokesperson Erin Buchanan says work on a temporary trestle bridge will be completed next month and once that structure is completed, they can move large equipment onto the water to allow for construction of the new bridge…

Cut 9 (05)  “…very exciting.” 

The 360-million dollar new bridge will be built next to the existing structure and Buchanan says once a temporary trestle bridge is completed in mid to late February, construction on the new bridge will ramp up…

Cut 10 (06) “…for construction.”

Buchanan says the new bridge is still on track to be finished by early 2027.

The state department of transportation says they are about two-thirds done with the I-20 major rehab project in Bossier Parish. DOTD spokesperson Erin Buchanan says next Wednesday and Thursday nights, traffic will be swapped on I-20 eastbound from the outside travel lanes to the newly constructed inside lanes from the Red River Bridge…

Cut 11 (13) “…rebuilding back.”

The work on I-20 is expected to be completed late this year or early next year.

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Louisiana high school principals overwhelmingly voted down a proposal to allow student-athletes the one-time ability to transfer to another school and not have to sit out a year. LHSAA executive Director Eddie Bonine (Bo-nine) says  Louisiana will expand its voucher program in the coming years and they wanted to see where schools stood on the issue and they got their answer…

Cut 12 (08) “…again.”

The vote was 273 to 66 against the one-time transfer rule.

LHSAA baseball schools have voted to push back the end of the season. But the new scheduling will not be in place until the 2028 season, because their contract with the host site of the state championships, Sulphur Parks and Recreation, goes through 2027. LHSAA Director Eddie Bonine says the baseball state championships currently fall on graduation weekend…

Cut 13 (12)  “…now and then.”

High schools who sue the LHSAA over sanctions the association has imposed on them will no longer be allowed to participate in postseason play in the sport in which the lawsuit is filed. It’s a reaction to what happened this fall when University High filed a lawsuit against the LHSAA who stripped most of their wins away from them for using ineligible players. LHSAA Director Eddie Bonine says the suit threatened to push back the playoffs for every school…

Cut 14 (07) “…cleans that up” .”

The vote was 180 to 159 in favor.

LRN AM Newscall January 28

Nationally, egg prices surged nearly 38-percent in the past year, with the average price of a dozen eggs reaching $3.65 compared to $2.14 a year ago.  Sean Richardson has more

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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Five people are arrested for allegedly using drones to smuggle contraband into the federal prison in Grant Parish. Colleen Crain reports.

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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A breakthrough N-I-L deal in Louisiana – and he’s a high school sophomore! Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 3 (36) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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The spread of bird flu has caused egg prices to rise and shelves to empty. Nationally, egg prices surged nearly 38-percent in the past year, with the average price of a dozen eggs reaching $3.65 compared to $2.14 a year ago, according to USDA data. LSU AgCenter agent Will Strickland says the holidays also added to the price jump.

Cut 4 (10) “…egg inventory.”

Strickland says although Louisiana’s commercial chicken populations remain unaffected, prices rose due to a shortage of egg-laying birds in supplier states like California and the Midwest.

Cut 5 (10) “…pricing even here.”

Strickland noted egg prices likely won’t drop soon due to the slow process of replenishing flocks. He assured consumers that eating eggs is safe, as USDA protocols prevent contaminated products from entering the food supply, and cooking eliminates the virus.

Cut 6 (13) “…safe for consumption.”

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An alleged shoplifter shot by an off-duty Rapides Parish Sheriff’s deputy has died. Sheriff Mark Wood says the deputy was working off-duty detail at Academy Sports and Outdoors on Friday night in Alexandria when he attempted to stop an alleged shoplifter

Cut 7 (16) “…his injuries .”

Authorities have not identified the person who the deputy fatally shot. The officer involved is on paid leave. Wood says it’s a sad situation…

Cut 8 (13) “…do that.”

The Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation for the Central Louisiana Critical Incident Response Team. Wood says findings will be turned over to the Rapides Parish District Attorney’s Office to determine if the shooting was justified.

There are some in the community who claim the person fatally shot was in the parking lot when he was shot in the back. But Wood says the shooting occurred in the store….

Cut 9 (13)  “…gets you killed”

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Five people from Houston are arrested for allegedly using drones to smuggle contraband, including drugs and cell phones, into the federal prison in Pollock. Grant Parish Sheriff Steven McCain says Immigration and Customs Enforcement is also involved.

Cut 10 (09) “…that’s here illegally.”

That person is 35-year-old Laura Martinez, and ICE has a detainer on her. Sheriff McCain says this has been going on a while.

Cut 11 (12) “…to two years.”

The sheriff’s office and the Rapides Area Drug Enforcement seized about 12-thousand dollars. McCain says they’re working on ways to combat the use of drones in smuggling contraband into federal prisons.

Cut 12 (08) “…federal prison here.”

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He doesn’t graduate from high school for more than two years, but Elijah Haven, the star sophomore quarterback for Dunham High School in Baton Rouge, already has an N-I-L deal. He’s been brought aboard as a spokesman for the Matt Bowers Auto Group. Matt Bowers says he’s known Elijah and his family for a long time, and he couldn’t think of anyone better to represent his company.

Cut 13 (13)  “…you root for.”

Bowers says he has known the Havens for a long time.

Cut 14 (10) “…to come see.”

Haven led Dunham to an undefeated regular season and an appearance in the Division Three select title game at the Prep Classic, where they lost to Catholic-New Iberia. Despite having two years of high school football in front of him, Haven already has scholarship offers from LSU, Ole Miss, Michigan, Florida and Miami, among others. Bowers is an Ole Miss alumnus, but he insists that this N-I-L deal is not a way to convince him to sign with the school.

Cut 15 (12) “…their friends.”

Bowers did not disclose how much Haven’s N-I-L deal is worth.

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The second-ranked LSU baseball team will have an entirely new weekend rotation this year as the Tigers’ top three starters from last year, Gage Jump, Luke Holman, and Griffin Herrin are in professional baseball. LSU has several pitchers, including Kade Anderson, who could pitch on the weekends. The sophomore left-hander from Madisonville appeared in 18 games last year, started half of them, and went 4-and-2 with a 3.99 ERA. Anderson would be honored to be the Friday night starter or if he had a bullpen role…

Cut 16 (12) “…for it.”

LSU first baseman Jared Jones has the potential to lead the Southeastern Conference in home runs this season. Jones hit 28 homers last year, but he came back his junior season to become more of a complete hitter…

Cut 17 (14)  “…highlighted.”

Junior right-handed pitcher Gavin Guidry will wear the coveted number eight jersey at LSU. It goes to the upper classman who exemplifies LSU baseball. Guidry says he’ll wear the number with pride and use this leadership position as an opportunity to lead by example…

Cut 18 (15)   “…what that looks like.”

Guidry will be given the opportunity to start this season after pitching out of the bullpen the last two years.

LRN PM Newscall Jan 24

A&E is bringing back Duck Dynasty this summer, and the revival should bring tourism to northeast Louisiana.  Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 1 (36) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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This arctic blast did a number on plants throughout the state. Andrew Greenstein has some tips on how you can deal with the damage.

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Duck Dynasty is making a comeback. A&E has announced a new series, Duck Dynasty: The Revival, premiering this summer. The revival is already generating excitement beyond the Robertsons’ lives. Sheila Snow, Vice President of Marketing at the Monroe-West Monroe Visitors Bureau, anticipates a boost in tourism similar to the surge seen after the original series aired in 2012.

Cut 3 (13) “…Duck Commander warehouse.”

Snow says the Robertson family has done a great job expanding their warehouse and offering visitors more.  Now they have added retail space and a new attraction for visitors.

Cut 4 (07) “…cool things set up.”

The new series will feature 20 one-hour episodes across two seasons, Snow says in addition to the show returning Monroe expects fans of the show to visit the twin cities as well.

Cut 5 (04) “…really excited.”

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This arctic blast has certainly done a number on our plants. LSU Ag Center horticulturist Jason Stagg says when assessing damage to your plants, wait a week.

Cut 6 (06) “…green and living.”

Stagg says the parts of the plant that have died will be easy to distinguish from the parts of the plant that are still alive and growing. If you scrape the stem with a knife or pruners and you see green, that means it’s still alive. Stagg says while many winter plants likely survived, don’t expect a lot of color for the time being.

Cut 7 (09) “…the plant’s dead.”

Stagg says when cutting back your plants, don’t cut them all the way to the ground, because you’ll leave them more vulnerable in future freezes.

Cut 8 (09) “…to the ground.”

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State Police say a Hammond woman died a day after the snowstorm when she crashed head-on into a pickup truck driven by a Mississippi man who was allegedly impaired. Trooper Marc Gremillion says the two-vehicle crash occurred on Louisiana Highway 22 in Ponchatoula and 65-year-old Peggy Williams did not survive

Cut 9 (07)  “…her injuries.”

Gremillion says slick roads may have contributed to the crash…

Cut 10 (08) “…the crash.”

Gremillion says the impaired driver has been identified as Kody Lacour of Picayune, Mississippi….

Cut 11 (11) “…court order.”

Neither driver was buckled up, but Lacour only suffered minor injuries.

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A significant catalyst for regional growth in Richland Parish is the upcoming Meta AI Data Center in Rayville, which is expected to drive economic activity and create jobs in the area. Monroe Mayor Friday Ellis highlights the city’s commitment to economic development

Cut 12 (13) “…till 2030.”

Ellis emphasizes Monroe’s rich history as a foundation for future progress, promoting the city as a hub of opportunity. Key efforts include community development, creating a business-friendly environment, and infrastructure improvements.

Cut 13 (12)  “…leader in AI.”

Ellis underscores the importance of collaboration between local government, businesses, and residents to ensure Monroe thrives as a vibrant, forward-looking community.

Cut 14 (07) “…working great together.”

PM Newscall Jan 23

Should Louisiana invest in snowplows after a snowstorm that left major roadways closed for multiple days? Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Oral arguments today before the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals in the ongoing lawsuit over the state’s Ten Commandments law. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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As the state thaws out we are getting a look at the damages caused by the freezing temperature to Louisiana crops. The sugarcane industry can breathe a sigh of relief as Agriculture and Forestry Commissioner, Dr. Mike Strain says fortunately most sugarcane was under snow.

Cut 3 (11) “…the cold weather.”

Strain says other crops are not in the ground yet, but for winter pastures rye grass is likely lost and until mid to late march rely on hay for feed. Strain says some good news is the long term freeze likely killed the Pine Beetles.

Cut 4 (06) “…that are problematic.”

Strain says the cold is a double edged sword when dealing with crops and pests.

Cut 5 (12) “…natural control mechanism.”

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Work continues today on the reopening of major highways closed because of snow and ice. Large portions of I-10 and I-55 are closed as well as U-S 90 in Terrebonne and Lafourche Parishes. DOTD spokesperson Rodney Mallett says they’ve been chipping away on six inches of ice on elevated portions of our highway system, and they expect major progress today

Cut 6 (13) “…the sun.”

Mallett says the sun has been a major ally is the thawing of our roads, but he also credits the extensive work done by DOTD crews…

Cut 7 (12) “…block of ice”

Louisiana Transportation Secretary Joe Donahue says they expect the I-10 Atchafalaya Basin Bridge and the I-10 Mississippi River Bridge to reopen today, but the I-10 Twin Spans and the Bonnet Carre spillway will likely not re-open until Friday.

Mallett says not only sun has been an ally in their efforts to clear the snow and ice off the roads, so have the crews and equipment from the Arkansas Department of Transportation. He says they have much more experience when it comes to winter weather

Cut 8 (11) “…had worked.”

Mallett says the Arkansas Department of Transportation brought with them 16 snowplows that also had salt spreaders.

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A three-judge panel at the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals heard oral arguments this morning over the state’s Ten Commandments law. The law requiring the Ten Commandments to be displayed in all public school classrooms statewide is currently on hold in five parishes – East Baton Rouge, Livingston, Orleans, St. Tammany and Vernon. Solicitor General Ben Aguinaga (ah-gheen-YAH-ga) argued for the state that what makes the law constitutional is that the Ten Commandments are placed amid other historical context on specially-designed posters.

Cut 9 (11)  “…important historical documents.”

Aguinaga says the posters were designed with Supreme Court precedent in mind.

Cut 10 (15) “…that exact concept.”

During Aguinaga’s 20-minute argument, Judge Catharina Haynes expressed skepticism that posting the Ten Commandments is truly about teaching American history.

Cut 11 (16) “…the First Amendment.”

Jonathan Youngwood followed with his own 20-minute argument on behalf of the plaintiffs. Reading directly from the posters, Youngwood argued that the law is all about promoting Christianity in public schools.

Cut 12 (10) “…Gods before me.”

Youngwood said since the posters would be required to be in every public school classroom, kids would be subject to constant religious indoctrination.

Cut 13 (09)  “…every single day.”

The three judges will issue their ruling at a later date; regardless of what it is, it will almost certainly be appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court.

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Louisiana is beginning to thaw out. LRN Meteorologist Bill Jacquemin says who would have ever thought that 50-degrees would feel so good…

Cut 14 (10) “…and tomorrow.”

Jacquemin says temperatures will get below freezing again tomorrow morning and Saturday for much of the state and then the warm-up really gets going…

Cut 15 (11) “…lower 60s”

LRN PM Newscall Jan 22

Below freezing temperatures are cold for Louisiana, but this morning we nearly saw temperatures below zero. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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The highest snowfall total recorded in Louisiana happened in Chalmette, 11.5 inches.  Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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New all time record lows were set this morning. National Weather Service Meteorologist Stacey Denson says single digit temperature readings were recorded across southwest Louisiana…

Cut 3 (13) “…in Lafayette.”

Denson says they are still finalizing snowfall totals, but a large portion of southwest Louisiana saw more than a half foot of snow…

Cut 4 (07) “…in Acadia Parish.”

Eight-inch snowfall totals were recorded in Jennings, Opelousas, Lafayette, Jeanerette and even in Morgan City. Denson says the wind was so strong and the snowfall was coming down so fast, the National Weather Service in Lake Charles  issued its first ever blizzard warning on Tuesday morning….

Cut 5 (15) “…light snow.”

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Who got the most snow yesterday? Looks like the winner is Chalmette as the New Orleans suburb recorded 11.5 inches of snow. St. Bernard Parish Director of Homeland Security John Rahaim (ram) says it was a once-in-a-lifetime occurrence.

Cut 6 (09) “…left Colorado.”

Rahaim says the snow as beautiful to look at, unfortunately there were a few people injured while performing dangerous stunts.

Cut 7 (15) “…shouldn’t be doing”

Rahaim says the historic snowfall was great, but he’s ready for it go to away.

Cut 8 (11) “…here pretty soon.”

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Since the start of the storm, DOTD has worked around the clock to treat roadways with salt and brine. Spokesman Rodney Mallett says that work continues today and beyond.

Cut 9 (11)  “…tonight and tomorrow.”

For now, all Interstate freeways throughout South Louisiana from Lake Charles eastward remain closed. Mallett says it’s unclear when they will reopen.

Cut 10 (10) “…need to be.”

Mallett says one challenge with the Interstates is that many of them have long stretches where they go over water, and bridges always freeze first, making for extremely dangerous driving conditions.

Cut 11 (07) “…in the south.”

To stay up to date on road conditions, go to 511la.org.

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Get used to this snow; it’s going to be around for a few more days. LSU Public Health Climatologist Barry Keim says while it will be warmer tomorrow, it won’t warm up to the point to cause any significant melting.

Cut 12 (09) “…into the weekend.”

Keim says furthermore, despite the slightly warmer temperatures, we will not be out of the woods with dangerous conditions just yet.

Cut 13 (09)  “…block of ice.”

But Keim says if you can just survive tomorrow, we will see significant melting starting Friday.

Cut 14 (11) “…will be gone.”

LRN AM Newscall January 22

The Red Cross is lending a helping hand during this arctic blast. Andrew Greenstein reports

Cut 1 (29) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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The governor is urging you to stay home not only today, but tomorrow as well. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Yesterday was not just a sneaux day, it was a day where lifelong memories were made. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (35) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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The Red Cross is supporting warming centers throughout South Louisiana. Micah Nicholas, the executive director of the Capital West chapter of the American Red Cross, says they’re supporting 35 warming centers across 30 parishes.

Cut 4 (08) “…disaster to them.”

Nicholas says the Red Cross could use all the help it can get in supporting these warming centers.

Cut 5 (07) “…disasters like this.”

Nicholas says the Red Cross’ work goes far beyond the warming centers themselves.

Cut 6 (13) “…as they arise.”

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What will the 2025 snowstorm and cold temperatures mean for the upcoming crawfish season? LSU AgCenter crawfish expert Mark Shirley says the mudbugs will bury themselves as deep into the mud as they can…

Cut 7 (11) “…of crawfish.”

Some seafood restaurants have started selling crawfish and Shirley says it will be limited this weekend, but all it takes is warm weather and farmers can begin harvesting again…

Cut 8 (08) “…quite a bit”

Shirley says farmers are putting in a lot of effort to bring crawfish to the market. He says despite this winter storm, they are still predicting a better crawfish season this year…

Cut 9 (11)  “…in the catch.”

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The snow has subsided, but not the danger. Road conditions will be much worse this morning than they were yesterday. During a news conference, Governor Landry pointed out that thanks to the frigid overnight lows, the roads will be extra slick.

Cut 10 (15) “…extremely, extremely dangerous.”

As such, state offices will be closed not just today, but tomorrow as well. Landry is urging you to stay off the roads; he says the more you do, the faster things can get back to normal.

Cut 11 (09) “…the weather improves.”

State Climatologist Jay Grymes says temperatures will begin below the freezing point and will stay that way.

Cut 12 (07) “…of the day.”

Joe Donahue with DOTD says crews are out in full force tending to the roadways.

Cut 13 (09)  “…treatment with salt.”

Donahue says all designated priority routes are open and are expected to remain open.

Cut 14 (13) “…north to south.”

State Police Superintendent Colonel Robert Hodges says the record snowfall kept troopers busy.

Cut 15 (13) “…the cold conditions.”

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LRN Meteorologist Bill Jacquemin (JACK-quim-in) says if you thought yesterday morning was brutal, this morning is even worse.

Cut 16 (07) “…in the teens.”

Jacquemin says the weather will warm up a little today, only to give way to another frigid night tonight.

Cut 17 (12)  “…and 20s tonight.”

And Jacquemin says after a brutal overnight tonight into tomorrow morning, things will start to get back to normal before a very mild weekend.

Cut 18 (10)   “…60s on Sunday.”

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The snowstorm has delayed the Saints head coaching search. New Orleans was set to meet in person with Giants offensive coordinator Mike Kafka yesterday and Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver today. Those two interviews have been pushed back to later in the week. Ross Jackson is the host of the Locked on Saints Podcast and he says the 44-year-old is an intriguing candidate…

Cut 19 (14) “…very well.”

As many were enjoy the snow outside, Saints running back Alvin Kamara took the social media site “X” to express his support for interim head coach Darren Rizzi to get the job on a permanent basis. Jackson says Rizzi is in the mix, but there are other candidates who might have a better chance at getting the job…

Cut 20 (20) “…team captain.”

LRN PM Newscall January 21

South Louisiana is experiencing weather conditions normally reserved for the northern half of the United States. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Louisiana’s highway system is no match for this historic winter storm. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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South Louisiana is experiencing weather conditions normally reserved to regions of the country much farther north. LSU Public Health Climatologist Barry Keim says areas of South Louisiana are being blanketed by snow not seen in decades.

Cut 3 (11) “…seven in Slidell.” 

On the rare occasion that it snows in South Louisiana, the snow will stick to the ground for maybe a few hours. This time, it will linger for a few days. Keim says that’s because overnight lows will be bone-chillingly cold.

Cut 4 (10) “…but still frigid.”

While those temperatures are certainly cold, they’re not record-breakers. Keim points to the December 1989 storm in which it got down into the single digits in some places. If these brutal temperatures are too much for you to handle, Keim says take solace in the fact that they will return to normal by this weekend.

Cut 5 (09) “…in certain locations.”

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State officials are urging people to stay off the roads as this rare snow event is making travel very difficult. Governor Jeff Landry suggests that you cook yourself a big pot of gumbo instead…

Cut 6 (13) “…eat again.”

Not only is there multiple inches of snow in south Louisiana and into the Alexandria area, but we are looking at cold temperatures. The Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness is urging the public to practice space heater safety. GOHSEP chief of staff Scott Adams…

Cut 7 (09) “…to bed.”

Adams says it’s best to hunker down and stay at home today and make sure your house can handle these cold temperatures…

Cut 8 (09) “…covered.”

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State Department of Transportation officials are on the highways in south Louisiana and the driving experience is very difficult. DOTD spokesperson Rodney Mallett says on some roadways, you can’t see the curb or the edge of the street or the highway…

Cut 9 (12)  “…not easy.”

Mallett says visibility is also difficult when the snow is falling, it’s certainly very unique to Louisiana…

Cut 10 (10) “…the moment.”

Mallett says several major roads and bridges are closed…

Cut 11 (08) “…ice over.”

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It’s completely understandable that drivers in Louisiana are not used to these road conditions. State Police Trooper Marc Gremillion (GREM-ee-ahn) says they’ve had to respond to a lot of vehicles that had slid off the roadway.

Cut 12 (11) “…struck from behind.”

Gremillion says not only do you need to greatly reduce your speed, you’ll also need to adjust the way you come to a stop.

Cut 13 (07)  “…a lot farther.”

And if you start skidding, stay calm and by all means, do not steer away from the skid initially.

Cut 14 (11) “…out of it.”

LRN PM Newscall January 20

DOTD is prepping roadways for tomorrow’s snowstorm. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (29) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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South Louisiana Braces for a winter storm that is expected to start tonight and end tomorrow night.  Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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Governor Jeff Landry has issued a state of emergency as two to six inches of snow is expected to fall across much of central and south Louisiana. Landry says once of the winter precipitation starts falling, stay off the roads…

Cut 3 (12) “…to travel.” 

Landry is also urging outdoorsmen not to hunt during the snowstorm…

Cut 4 (13) “…proper shelter.”

Louisiana is also expecting the coldest temperatures of the winter with temperatures dropping into the teens Tuesday night into Wednesday. A homeless man died from hypothermia earlier this month when Louisiana experienced cold temperatures. Landry is encouraging local governments to open warming shelters…

Cut 5 (14) “…safe as well.”

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Needless to say, while not unprecedented, snow and ice are not things that Louisiana is accustomed to. Rodney Mallett with DOTD says crews have been busy prepping the roads for severe driving conditions.

Cut 6 (14) “…across the state.”

Mallett says while prep work started yesterday, it will continue throughout the day today.

Cut 7 (14) “…to ice over.”

Since there are no snowplows anywhere in the State of Louisiana, DOTD is bringing in help from Arkansas to perform those tasks as needed. A 14-mile stretch of I-49 in Rapides Parish is closed due to the incoming storm, and conditions may force additional Interstates closures, but Mallett says he hopes it doesn’t come to that.

Cut 8 (09) “…during this storm.”

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South Louisiana is under a winter storm warning as residents prepare for a rare heavy snow event expected to begin tonight. According to LSU Public Health Climatologist Barry Keim, this is a   generational storm for South Louisiana.

Cut 9 (18)  “…major snow here.”

Keim says it’s expected to snow most of the day on Tuesday and prepare for more than just flurries.

Cut 10 (16) “…in this particular case.”

Keim says the snowfall will end tomorrow night, but Wednesday will be brutally cold, and the snow will stick around. He advises residents to stay off the roads if possible and take necessary precautions to stay warm and safe.

Cut 11 (12) “…hang around in your neighborhood.”

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Louisiana State Police are getting ready for the winter storm. Trooper Shelby Mayfield says they’ve been getting ready for the last several days.

Cut 12 (12) “…or any emergencies”

Trooper Mayfield says when the snow starts falling, if you do not have to be out on the roadways, stay off them.

Cut 13 (14)  “…have to be.”

Mayfield says if you absolutely have to be on the roadways, use common sense.

Cut 14 (06) “…cruise control on.”

 

LRN AM Newscall January 20

President-elect Donald Trump gets inaugurated today. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (36) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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The Humane Society of Louisiana urges pet owners to provide extra protection from the cold.  Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Sean Richardson”

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TikTok’s days in the U.S. could be numbered. Colleen Crain reports.

Cut 3 (36) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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Today is the day when the 45th President officially becomes the 47th President. Donald Trump takes the oath of office at 11 this morning. When Trump begins his second non-consecutive term, he will do so with a Republican-controlled House and a Republican-controlled Senate. Speaker Mike Johnson says he hopes that will lead to the passage of some of his key agenda items, like renewing his tax cuts from his first term.

Cut 4 (13) “…Trump tax cuts.”

Once a pair of Trump’s cabinet nominees are confirmed, Republicans will only have a 217-to-215 majority in the House, meaning the G-O-P cannot lose a single vote in the House to pass legislation without Democratic support until those vacancies are filled by way of special elections. Historically, the party in power almost always loses seats in the House in midterm elections, so Republicans may only have two years to pass some of Trump’s most ambitious goals. Congresswoman Julia Letlow says she’s not worried about that.

Cut 5 (08) “…I possibly can.”

Democrat Cleo Fields, who like Trump is making his return to Congress after being out of office, says both parties need to work together to pass common-sense legislation that will improve the lives of all Americans.

Cut 6 (07) “…care about education.”

Fields says with a House that’s split almost right down the middle, it’s more important than ever for the two parties to cooperate.

Cut 7 (04) “…to work together.”

Due to dangerously cold weather in Washington, DC, the swearing-in ceremony will take place in the Capitol Rotunda.

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With temperatures dropping into the 20s and 30s overnight across Louisiana, the Humane Society of Louisiana urges pet owners to provide extra protection from the cold. Pet owners should bring dogs and cats indoors.  Outdoor dogs should have fresh, dry straw in their shelters, and insulated plastic bins can serve as makeshift shelters for outdoor cats.

Cut 8 (12) “…your animals inside.”

Dorson says if bringing your pets indoors another option is moving them into a garage or storage area, but do so responsibly.

Cut 9 (12)  “…come to our state.”

To treat hypothermia, bring pets indoors, wrap them in warm blankets, and dry wet fur. Advanced care may include warm IV fluids, heated pads, or warm oxygen therapy. Dorson emphasizes that if you’re cold, your pets likely are too, urging owners to protect their animals from harsh weather conditions.

Cut 10 (10) “…the best policy.”

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TikTok could be on its last legs after the Supreme Court upholds a law that bans the popular app in the U.S. TikTok is owned by ByteDance, which the Chinese government controls. As such, the U.S. is concerned that the Chinese government has access to Americans’ data. LSU law professor Del Wright says ByteDance argued that the ban was about stifling free speech, and the Supreme Court rejected that.

Cut 11 (10) “…and national security.”

Last week, President Biden said he would not enforce the ban, essentially punting that task to his successor, Donald Trump. Wright says the law is still on the books regardless of what Trump does or does not do.

Cut 12 (15) “…by lawsuits.”

Wright says the Supreme Court’s ruling, however, isn’t necessarily the final nail in the coffin for TikTok. He says the law contains some out provisions.

Cut 13 (09) “…close the deal.”

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The biggest snowstorm in decades could take place in Louisiana tomorrow. The National Weather Service says four to six inches of snow could fall north of I-10 to south of Alexandria. Two to four inches could fall south of the I-10-12 corridor and one to two inches could fall between Alexandria and I-20. And NWS Meteorologist Donald Jones says temperatures Tuesday night into Wednesday will be in the teens for most of the state…

Cut 14 (13) “…like temperatures.”

But it’s the snow that everyone is talking about. Jones says predicted snowfall accumulation could fluctuate, but the current projection is four to six inches of snow along the I-10 corridor, but Alexandria, Bunkie, Houma, Morgan City, New Orleans, Hammond, and Slidell could see three inches and possibly more…

Cut 15 (13) “…verify.”

Jones says because temperatures will be below freezing for most of the day on Tuesday, freezing rain is less likely…

Cut 16 (16) “…freezing rain.”

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Jayden Daniels’ magical season for the Washington Commanders continues for at least another week. To the surprise of nearly everyone in the NFL world, perhaps except for Daniels himself, the Commanders ousted the NFC’s top seed, the Detroit Lions, 45-31, in the Divisional Playoffs. The Heisman Trophy-winning former LSU quarterback said the Lions didn’t go 15-and-2 in the regular season for nothing.

Cut 17 (06)  “…challenge for us.”

Daniels came up a yard short of 300 yards and threw two touchdown passes. Daniels says the game – just like the season – was a grind.

Cut 18 (13)   “…position like this.”

The Washington franchise will appear in the NFC Championship Game for the first time in 33 years. If the Commanders win next week, Daniels would be the first rookie ever to start at quarterback in the Super Bowl.

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The fifth-ranked LSU women’s basketball team improved to 20-0 with an 80-63 victory over Flroida. It’s the second time in program history the Lady Tigers won their first 20 games. Mikayla Williams had 22 points and Aneesah Morrow added 20 points and 10 boards. After allowing Florida to score 21 points in the first quarter, Coach Kim Mulkey’s team played much better defense…

Cut 19 (18) “…only six.”

The win sets up a huge matchup on Thursday night in Columbia, South Carolina as LSU will face the defending national champion Gamecocks. After Sunday’s game, Mulkey was not ready to talk about Thursday’s tilt…

Cut 20 (20) “…their place.”