LRN AM Newscall October 9

With election day coming up on Saturday, candidates have only a few more days to energize their base and get undecided voters on their side. Jeanne Burns has the story…

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Jeanne Burns”

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With so many scary movies available this month, you might wonder why some are into them more than others and when is your child old enough to watch them. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington”

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National Fire Prevention Week is underway and the American Red Cross of Louisiana offers safety tips on avoiding fires. Teiko Foxx has more.

Cut 3 (32) …I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Election Day is Saturday and candidates are vying for voter’s attention through political ads and technology in the final push. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says more candidates are blowing up voters’ phones with campaign text messages than phone calls.

Cut 4 (09) “…more people.”

Pinsonat says candidates are more focused on getting their message out to registered voters. He says mudslinging ads this late in the game are less impactful.

Cut 5 (10) “…far back.”

Pinsonat points out that in this final stretch, registered voters will see more campaign ads, hear more radio ads, and receive more text messages from candidates.

Cut 6 (09) “…five days.”

Election Day is October 14th.

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October is prime viewing for frightening flicks, and you might have noticed some individuals are into scary movies more than others. Chair of Psychiatry at LSU Health New Orleans Dr. Rahn Bailey says risk-takers are more likely to be attracted to horror movies and for others it’s a matter of finding a sweet spot…

Cut 7 (11) “…lose control.”

When it comes to the best age for young people to watch a scary movie, Bailey says it’s a matter of emotional maturity not necessarily a number when it comes to age.

Cut 8 (11) “…they’re ready.” 

Most adults can recall the first movie that frightened them as a child, and for some that experience was traumatic. Bailey says parents should be mindful if their child is having trouble processing a horror movie and look out for subtle clues.

Cut 9 (12)  “…time ago.”

Bailey says children who have magical thinking, or trouble processing what’s real versus make-believe, are not ready to watch frightening movies.

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It’s National Fire Prevention Week. Ed Bush Director of the American Red Cross of Louisiana says now is the time to make sure your smoking alarms are working…

Cut 10 (12) “…for free.”

Cooking and kitchen equipment fires are the leading cause of home fires nationally, according to the National Fire Protection Association. Bush reminds Louisianans to never anything that produces heat or fire like dryers, stoves, and candles unattended. He says as temperatures begin to tumble – heating causes one out of every six home fires.

Cut 11 (10) “…their house.”

In 2022, there were 72 home fire fatalities reported in Louisiana, according to the National Fire Incident Reporting System. Bush says having a fire evacuation plan could save lives.

Cut 12 (11) “…of smoke.” 

To receive information about free smoke alarms, visit redcross.org/louisiana.

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The Savannah Bananas are making a stop on their 2024 world tour at LSU’s Alex Box Stadium. And if you aren’t familiar with the Bananas imagine if the Harlem Globetrotters were a baseball team. Laura Cating with Visit Baton Rouge says it’s a perfect fit for the capital city’s culture and the Banana’s first-ever collegiate stadium…

Cut 13 (12) “…of baseball.”

They’ll be in town for three nights, March 14th through the 16th and if you want tickets, Cating says you’ll have to enter a lottery at TheSavannahBananas.com/tickets.

Cut 14 (10) “…months out.”

The Savannah Bananas have a huge following on social media and Cating says the team is also known for featuring celebrity guests, like Johnny Damon and Hunter Pence.

Cut 15 (11) “…the community.”

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LSU’s beleaguered defense forced a couple of turnovers and quarterback Jayden Daniels willed the Tigers to a 49-39 victory over Missouri to keep the Bayou Bengals alive for an SEC West Championships. Daniels injured his ribs in the fourth quarter, but he still ended up throwing for 259 yards and three touchdowns, he also rushed for 130 yards and a touchdown. Coach Brian Kelly says it was an unbelievable performance…

Cut 16 (12) “…indvidudally.”

LSU fell behind 22-7, but the Tigers defense played better in the second half, only allowing 14 points. Kelly hopes his “D” has turned a corner…

Cut 17 (15) “…make some plays .”

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The Ragin Cajuns rallied back from a nine-point fourth quarter to beat Texas State 34-30 for a big win over the Bobcats. Zeon Chriss threw three touchdown passes and the UL Lafayette forced a couple of turnovers in the second half. Coach Michael Desoremaux’s team is now 4-2, 1-1 in the Sun Belt…

Cut 18 (16) “…with them.”

The Cajuns are off this Saturday and they’ll host Georgia State on October 21st.

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The Saints took advantage of a not-so-good New England Patriots team by blanking the Pats 34-0 to snap a two-game losing streak. Derek Carr threw two touchdown passes and Alvin Kamara rushed for 80 and a touchdown. He’s now the Saints franchise leader in touchdowns with 73. A-K expressed his displeasure last week with the performance of the offense and is glad he spoke up…

Cut 19 (19) “…to play.” 

Tyrann Mathieu started the scoring with an interception return for a touchdown and Blake Grupe made two field goals beyond 50 yards. Coach Dennis Allen says all three phases played well…

Cut 20 (16) “…results showed” 

LRN PM Newscall October 5

New campaign finance totals for the governor’s race continue to show Attorney General Jeff Landry leading his opponents with $4.5 million in cash on hand. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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The former Tangipahoa Parish P.E. teacher accused of third-degree rape of a student and giving birth to his child is out on bond. Brooke Thorington has more…

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

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A state Department of Revenue investigation results in the arrest of a Jennings tax preparer for submitting more than 200 fraudulent state income tax returns. L-D-R spokesperson Byron Henderson says Anthony Candler was booked into the East Baton Rouge Parish prison

Cut 3 (11) “…tax refunds.”

Henderson says Candler claimed deductions for his clients in 2020 and 2021 for more than 400-thousand dollars in fabricated business expenses.

Cut 4 (09) “..their knowledge.”

Henderson says the state takes fraud schemes like this one seriously…

Cut 5 (08) “ …General Office”  

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Louisiana Congressman Steve Scalise and Ohio’s Jim Jordan are the top candidates to replace ousted Kevin McCarthy as Speaker of the House. There have been questions about Scalise’s health and if he’s up to the job, as he undergoes treatment for Multiple Myeloma. The Advocate’s Mark Ballard, who’s in DC, believes Scalise’s health is not an issue.

Cut 6 (07) “…right now.”

Both men have been strongly aligned with former President Donald Trump. As for where they might differ, Ballard says Jordan has been very outspoken against aid for Ukraine, compared to Scalise who hasn’t been as vocal on the issue.

Cut 7 (13) “…border security.” 

Even though Jordan denies knowledge of a sexual abuse scandal while he was an assistant wrestling coach at Ohio State University, Ballard says when you compare the two, Scalise has an advantage…

Cut 8 (07) “…for him.”

In the meantime, House members have been sent home until Tuesday night when they are set to hear from Scalise and Jordan and their bid for Speaker and vote the following day.

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With the October 14th gubernatorial primary right around the corner, Attorney General Jeff Landry has $4.5 million in cash on hand and none of his opponents have a million dollars. Political Analyst Bernie Pinsonat says every poll has shown Landry with a big lead, which is making it hard for his competitors to raise money…

Cut 9 (10) “…to win.” 

Treasurer John Schroder has $992 thousand in cash on hand. The main Democrat, former state transportation secretary Shawn Wilson reported $721 thousand in cash-on-hand, while Hunter Lundy has $827 thousand in cash on hand.

Republican Stephen Waguespack and  Slidell Senator Sharon Hewitt both reported under $300 thousand in cash on hand. Pinsonat says this puts Landry in a strong position for the runoff if there is one.

Cut 10 (11) “… spend it.”

Landry received the backing of the state GOP before other Republicans jumped in the race and multiple endorsements followed. While polls report a runoff between Landry and Wilson, Pinsonat says Landry has a huge advantage in dollars over Wilson.

Cut 11 (12) “…to spend.”

Early voting runs through Saturday. The primary is October 14th.

LRN PM Newscall October 4

According to Economist Dr. Loren Scott, the Bayou State is expected to add nearly 81 thousand new jobs over the next two years. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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Louisiana’s Republican House delegation is upset Kevin McCarthy has been voted out as House Speaker. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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Economist Dr. Loren Scott predicts the state will add nearly 81 thousand jobs over the next two years. Scott says the industrial industry will see a growth in employment due to a large number of projects in south Louisiana…

Cut 3 (10) “…boom coming.”

Those job gains are forecasted in the New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and Lake Charles regions which have $154 billion worth of industrial construction projects in queue.

Scott says Lake Charles is primed for growth following Hurricanes Laura and Delta. That region could gain 7,200 jobs through seven LNG projects.

Cut 4 (10) “…dollar projects.”

Alexandria is predicted to increase employment by 4,200 jobs over the next two years. With two multi-billion dollar projects on the table, Scott says Alexandria will get a much-needed kick after losing jobs over the last several years.

Cut 5 (13) “ …methanol plant.”  

Louisiana’s rural regions are projected to add nearly 25 hundred jobs over the next two years.

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The U-S House is without a speaker. Representative Matt Gaetz of Florida led a successful effort to oust Kevin McCarthy as House Speaker by getting a handful of Republicans to back him and every Democrat also voted for his removal. Baton Rouge Republican Congressman Garret Graves calls it a bone-headed move…

Cut 6 (12) “…quickly.”

New Orleans Congressman Troy Carter says he voted for the motion to remove McCarthy because the speakership has been dysfunctional since day one and Americans deserve better.

Graves says McCarthy was an accomplished Speaker who pushed a Conservative agenda and Gaetz forced him out…

Cut 7 (10) “..a conservative.” 

Graves says Gaetz is only interested in raising his status as it’s been his desire to become a celebrity Congressman…

Cut 8 (10) “…paid for it.”

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Today is Energy Efficiency Day, so it’s ideal for Cleco to launch their newly designed online energy-savings store, ClecoMarketplace-dot-com. Marianne Addy with Cleco says the store allows their customers to purchase energy-efficient products and receive savings even sooner.

Cut 9 (11) “…and affordable.” 

Because energy efficiency can be hard to understand, Addy says they help simplify the process and all of their products are guaranteed by the marketplace and manufacturers.

Cut 10 (10) “… the customer.”

Addy says being smart about your energy usage is worthwhile, for example, LED bulbs use 80% less power than traditional light bulbs. She says using less energy is what energy efficiency is all about…

Cut 11 (02) “…money.”

The website ClecoMarketplace.com is available for residential Cleco customers.

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Thirty-three-year-old Ian Howard accepts a plea deal that will spare him the death sentence, but he will spend the rest of his life in prison for fatally shooting Lafayette Police Corporal Michael Middlebrook in 2017. Lafayette District Attorney Don Landry says it was a long road to get here…

Cut 12 (12) “..the family”  

Middlebrook was gunned down in the line of duty when responding to shots fired at a convenience store. Howard also shot two store employees and another officer. Landry says Howard received a life sentence for a killing an officer, but also gets 50 years each for shooting three others…

Cut 13 (09) “…the public.”

Howard was set to stand trial in March and he earlier pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity. But Assistant District Attorney Alan Haney says Howard was aware of his action on that night…

Cut  14 (09) “…right and wrong”

LRN AM Newscall October 4

A settlement is reached that could prevent several death row inmates from receiving a clemency hearing. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Jeff Palermo

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A former Tangipahoa school teacher faces third-degree rape charges after she had an alleged affair with a now 17-year-old student who possibly fathered her child. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (28)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The playoff format for high school school athletics is not changing after a vote by high school principals. Brooke Thorington has the story…

Cut 3 (32) …I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The Environmental Defense Action Fund has launched a six-figure television ad calling on all Louisiana gubernatorial candidates to champion coastal priorities during their campaigns. Director of Federal Affairs Cathleen Berthelot says voters hold favorable opinions toward coastal resilience and lawmakers who support restoring the state’s coastal wetlands.

Cut 4 (12) “…strong action.”

Bethelot points out Louisiana voters, especially those living in coastal areas, recognize the impact coastal land loss will have on them and their families. She says 80 percent of coastal projects are funded by BP oil spill settlement funds, and that money will dry up.

Cut 5 (12) “…the issue.”

Berthelot says it’s critical for the state’s next governor to invest in Louisiana’s working coast and protect coastal communities.

Cut 6 (11) “…the voters.”

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At one-twenty this afternoon, FEMA is testing its Wireless Emergency Alert and the Emergency Alert systems. You should hear alerts on your cellphone, television, and radio. FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell says in disasters seconds count, so they are conducting tests to make sure the alert systems work properly.

Cut 7 (13) “…you informed.”

Criswell says wireless providers who participate in the Wireless Emergency Alert system are required to deliver the test message to cellphone users, which is accompanied by a unique tone and vibration. Criswell says the message will read: This is a test of the National Wireless Emergency Alert System.

Cut 8 (12) “…monthly tests.” 

Criswell says the test is scheduled for 1:20 Central Standard Time this afternoon.

Cut 9 (11)  “…you love.”

In case today’s test is postponed, due to widespread severe weather or other significant events, the backup testing date is next Wednesday, Oct. 11

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Clemency hearings for death row prisoners scheduled to begin next week will likely not happen after a settlement was reached between district attorneys and the Louisiana Pardon Board. East Baton Rouge DA Hillar Moore led a legal effort to stop the hearings, and he says this settlement means only a handful of death row inmates would be eligible for a hearing…

Cut 10 (11) “…be placed.”

The settlement comes after Moore filed an injunction to suspend hearings for prisoners in response to the Board’s decision to hear 20 of the 56 clemency applicants, requested by Governor John Bel Edwards an opponent of the death penalty. Moore objected to the hearings because the death row inmates were not eligible for hearing and that hearing will likely not happen…

Cut 11 (12) “…even ineligible.”

The first date for clemency hearings for the five potential prisoners was scheduled next. Moore says two big reasons why they are not eligible for clemency, it’s been more than a year since their last appeal and an execution date has not been set…

Cut 12 (10) “…was made.” 

Lawyers representing the inmates are planning to appeal the settlement.

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33-year-old Morgan Freche, a former Tangipahoa Parish teacher, faces third-degree rape charges in connection with an alleged sexual relationship with a now 17-year-old student. A police report alleges the student fathered Freche’s child.  Legal analyst Franz Borghardt says even if the sexual relationship was consensual, it’s still considered rape. He says it’s not always as simple as yes or no….

Cut 13 (09) “… third-degree-rape.”

Freche is also charged with four counts of Felony Carnal Knowledge of Juvenile and one count of Oral Sexual Battery. Borghardt says in Louisiana there are a group of sexual crimes in which consent is not relevant. He says the more serious crime of Third-Degree Rape, carries a prison sentence of up to 25 years…

Cut 14 (11) “…rape charge.”

As to the question of whether the student is the father of Freche’s child, Borghardt says a paternity test would confirm if the juvenile is the biological father or not.

Cut 15 (04) “…the victim.”

The allegations of sexual misconduct, investigators say, date back approximately two years.  The TPSO says the initial report of an alleged student-teacher relationship was taken on September 24th.

A statement from the Tangipahoa Parish School System says they are cooperating with law enforcement and that neither they nor the Board will not tolerate improper behavior.

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LHSAA member schools overwhelming approved the definition of a select school during a special meeting in Baton Rouge. 68-percent of the schools agreed with the definition the LHSAA executive committee adopted last year. Co-host of the Louisiana Prep Scoreboard show, Todd Black, says Tuesday was a good day for LHSAA executive director Eddie Bonine…

Cut 16 (16) “…these days.”

Bonine and the LHSAA Executive Committee changed the definition of a select school last year in an effort to make postseason play more competitive and to level the playing field. Black says public schools that select students outside of their traditional attendance zone, should be considered select…

Cut 17 (18) “…their school.”

Nine schools that are considered public schools filed a lawsuit challenging the process that LHSAA took to change the definition of the select. They felt it should be left up to a vote of the membership. Black hopes the lawsuit will go away as LHSAA have spoken…

Cut 18 (15) “…to have.”

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ULM looks to bounce back after a heart breaking one point loss to Appalachian State when they host South Alabama on Saturday. Warhawks Coach Terry Bowden says the defeat was very difficult to accept, but he’s encouraged by the play of quarterback Jiya Wright who threw four touchdown passes and ran for another…

Cut 19 (19) “…back-up quarterback.” 

ULM lost to South Alabama by a touchdown last year in Mobile. Bowden says the Jaguars produced 615 yards of offense that day…

Cut 20 (15) “…last year.” 

LRN PM Newscall

The Louisiana Treasury announced more than 80 thousand names of unclaimed property owners in every parish will be published beginning today through Friday. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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Louisiana is one of 20 states to receive $10 million to better prepare high school students with disabilities for careers or even the transition to college. Brooke Thorington has more.

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

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Beginning today, nearly 81 thousand new names of unclaimed property owners have been published in local newspapers. State Treasurer John Schroder says they are committed to reconnecting residents with money received by the Louisiana Treasury.

Cut 3 (11) “…new data.”

Unclaimed Property consists of abandoned financial assets like checking and savings accounts, unpaid wages, life insurance payouts, proceeds from safety deposit boxes, and more.

Due to changes in addresses or other reasons, people may not always be aware of money owed to them when businesses attempt to return the property to the owners. Schroder says they’ve been able to identify tens of thousands of recipients who are owed money, but it could also include relatives.

Cut 4 (12) “…be anybody.”

To find the list of Unclaimed Property owners, Schroder encourages residents in every parish to check the Legal Notices section in their local newspaper. He says this is a crucial step in reuniting residents with unclaimed funds.

Cut 5 (06) “ …return it.”  

Residents can also visit LA Wallet or visit LACashClaim.org to check names for unclaimed property.

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The Louisiana Department of Education is one of 20 states to be awarded $10 million to improve career opportunities for students with disabilities. Superintendent of Education, Dr. Cade Brumley says it’s part of the US Department of Education’s Pathway to Partnerships to help prepare these students for life after high school.

Cut 6 (11) “…(x2) students with disabilities.”

Brumley says the funding will enable them to focus on life after high school for students with disabilities. For example, how to transition to a career in transportation or prepare for college.

Cut 7 (10) “…and beyond.” 

Brumley says the program parallels their overall approach of being more deliberate with all students about the handoff after high school and what’s next in a student’s life.

Cut 8 (08) “…position possible.”

The funds for the state’s special education transition program will be distributed over a five-year cycle.

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With two full days of early voting for the October 14th gubernatorial primary election in the books, voters appear to be less motivated. JMC Analytics Pollster John Couvillon says 118-thousand people casted a ballot on Saturday and Monday, down from 122-thousand for the same time period in 2019 and more Republicans than Democrats…

Cut 9 (07) “…to happen.” 

The state has 2.9 million registered voters and registered Democrats outnumber Republicans by 146-thousand. But Couvillon says through two days of early voting more registered Republicans are showing up to the polls than Democrats

Cut 10 (12) “… more Democratic.”

The Secretary of State’s office says voter turnout for a gubernatorial primary is usually in the mid-40s, but Couvillon says based on the first two days of early voting, the turnout could be lower than that…

Cut 11 (13) “…mid thirties.”

LRN PM Newscall October 2nd

After one of the most oppressive summers on record, fall-like temperatures are on the horizon, just a little later than normal. Brooke Thorington has more.

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

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There are a lot of questions about the Saints offense after they fail to score a touchdown in a 26-9 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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It’s officially fall but it sure still feels like summer in Louisiana. Highs Sunday reached into the 90s, but State Climatologist Barry Keim says we should start to see autumn-like temperatures into the weekend.

Cut 3 (12) “…taste of fall.”

Keim says the fall-like weather is arriving late for Louisiana, usually by mid-September we’ll experience our first drop in temperatures signifying that autumn has arrived.

Cut 4 (12) “…right here.”

For football and any outdoor activity this weekend, Keim says you’ll definitely feel a chill in the air, especially compared to the oppressive summer temperatures that have been relentless.

Cut 5 (06) “ …finally arrives.”  

Lows on Saturday will be in the lower 60s and upper 50s.

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Tonight’s Powerball jackpot is a staggering $1.04 billion with a cash value of $478 million, making it the fourth-largest jackpot in the history of the game. Louisiana Lottery Spokesperson Dustin Annison says sales normally pick up when there’s a jackpot of this size because of the excitement.

Cut 6 (11) “…one million.”

Jackpot winners can either take the cash value of $478 million in one payment or the billion-dollar jackpot in annual payments over 29 years. Annison says players can win prizes from the lottery without matching all six numbers.

Cut 7 (12) “…your numbers.” 

It’s the second largest jackpot this year and the 9th largest U-S jackpot. Annison says the odds of winning the jackpot is one in 292 million but the odds of winning any prize is one in 25. Although players are excited, he urges people to play responsibly.

Cut 8 (09) “..to win.”

Tickets must be purchased by 9 p.m. to qualify for tonight’s drawing.

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Investigators with the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry Enforcement Division have arrested 30-year-old Zachary Faulk of Merryville. Commissioner Mike Strain says Faulk faces one count of negligent burning and one count of violating the state burn ban after he allegedly started a fire on his property on August 17th…

Cut 9 (11) “…several days.” 

Strain says the blaze that Faulk was arrested in connection to was adjacent to and part of the Tiger Island Fire, but the big battle was to save the town of Merryville…

Cut 10 (10) “…court of law.”

Faulk surrendered himself on September 25th to the Beauregard Parish Jail. (Bond was set at $50,000)

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It was a rough weekend for LSU and Saints fans as their teams suffered disappointing losses. The Fighting Tigers gave up a school record 706 yards in 55-49 loss to Ole Miss. Many fans are putting defensive coordinator Matt House on the hot seat, but Coach Brian Kelly says everyone needs to pick up their game..

Cut 11 (12) “…play better.”

On Sunday, the Saints failed to score a touchdown in a 26-9 defeat to Tampa Bay. New Orleans has scored 21 or fewer points in ten consecutive games. Quarterback Derek Carr threw for only 127 yards in yesterday’s loss…

Cut 12 (08) “..right now” 

LRN AM Newscall October 2

The Louisiana Civil Rights Museum will open its doors to the public in New Orleans at the Ernest Morial Convention Center on Sunday. Teiko Foxx has more

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Teiko Foxx”

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Now that it’s October, that means only two official months left of hurricane season. So far it’s been quiet for Louisiana. Jeanne Burns has more…

Cut 2 (29)  “…I’m Jeanne Burns.”

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Amendment 3 on the October 14th ballot would increase the percentage of state surplus dollars to pay off state retirement debt of $17-billion. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (30) …I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The LSU AgCenter and the U.S. Department of Agriculture National Institute of Food and Agriculture have received a nearly $800,000 grant to bring drone education to high school students. Louisiana 4-H STEM Coordinator Brian Gautreau says the training will provide students with knowledge about how drones and other agriculture technologies.

Cut 4 (08) “…are needed.”

Students are also prepared to take the Federal Aviation Administration Part 107 certification which will allow them to fly drones commercially. Gautreau says he’s working with farmers to get students hands-on field experience on agricultural sites.

Cut 5 (11) “…other drones.”

The grant will also fund the Agriculture Career Exploration with Drones camp which is a year-long course for 4-H students across the state. Students will receive the Trust Advance certification which is needed for recreational flight in the state. Gautreau says the course will introduce youth to careers using drones and teach them to program drones.

Cut 6 (12) “…agricultural careers.”

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More than 30 years in the making, the Louisiana Civil Rights Museum will officially open to the public inside the Ernest Morial Convention Center in New Orleans on Sunday. Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says the museum is part of a continued effort to educate visitors about Louisiana’s place in the Civil Rights Movement and the real-life activists like Leona Tate…

Cut 7 (13) “…on forever.”

The five thousand-square-foot exhibit includes information about lunch counter sit-ins, Southern University students marching to the Capitol in 1960, swim-ins leading to the desegregation of public pools, and more. Nungessor says the museum serves as a way to learn about the past.

Cut 8 (11) “…incredible museum.” 

The two-million-dollar exhibit will be the first in the state dedicated to memorializing events and honoring Louisiana heroes of the Civil Rights Movement. Nungesser says the ‘dream cube’ will give the public the ‘wow factor’.

Cut 9 (09)  “…were there.”

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Even with officially two months left in hurricane season, State Climatologist Barry Keim says if we can get through the next few weeks without a named storm in the Gulf, it’s highly likely Louisiana will be unscathed this season. Statistically, the latest storm on record to threaten the Bayou State was Halloween 28 years ago.

Cut 10 (07) “…in general.”

So far, this Atlantic Hurricane Season there have been 18 named storms; six were hurricanes and three were major hurricanes. The average is 14 named storms.

And now that we’ve reached the next to last month of hurricane season, Keim says on average one named storm forms in the North Atlantic Basin in October…

Cut 11 (10) “…of October.”

Zeta made landfall as late as October 28, 2020, and in 1985 Hurricane Juan showed up late to the party and was still hanging around the Louisiana coast on Halloween day.

Keim says even with a few late-season named storms in our history we’re not out of the woods just yet…

Cut 12 (08) “…major hurricane.” 

For the last 175 years, Keim says a hurricane has never made landfall in Louisiana during the month of November. Hurricane Season ends November 30th.

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Passage of Amendment 3 on the October 14th ballot would require lawmakers to use 25 percent of any state surplus to pay state retirement debt. President of the Public Affairs and Research Council Steven Procopio says this would increase the current minimum of ten percent to 25 percent.

Cut 13 (08) “…around 2029,”

Procopio says when there is a state surplus of dollars, it’s a matter of do voters want to a portion towards paying off retirement debt…

Cut 14 (10) “…and roads.”

The four major retirement systems (Teachers, State Employees, School Employees, and State Police, have a combined $17 billion gap between how much they need to pay in benefits and their investment assets.

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The Saints failed to find the end zone in a disappointing 26-9 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in a battle of first-place teams in the NFC South. Despite the return of running back Alvin Kamara, New Orleans only had 197 yards of total offense. Coach Dennis Allen says it was an unacceptable performance…

Cut 15 (15) “…very good”

Despite a banged-up shoulder, Saints quarterback Derek Carr threw for just 127 yards. Allen was asked about Carr’s performance…

Cut 16 (14) “…we had”

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ULM lost an absolute heartbreaker on Saturday night as Appalachian State kicked a 54-yard field with no time left to beat the Warhawks 41-40. ULM failed to score on third and goal earlier in the quarter and couldn’t run out the clock late in the fourth quarter. Coach Terry Bowden is sick to his stomach over his loss…

Cut 17 (14) “…a long time”

ULM hosts South Alabama this Saturday.

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The LSU Tigers defense gave an all-time bad performance on Saturday night in Oxford as the Rebels outscored the Bayou Bengals 55 to 49. LSU gave up a school record 706 yards and Coach Brian Kelly says everyone should be mad….

Cut 18 (11) “…acceptable”

LSU’s defense has been a source of frustration all season and on Saturday night they made some personnel changes. Cornerbacks Ashton Stamps and Laterrance Welch saw their most playing time of the year, linebacker Omar Speights returned to the starting line-up. They used a number of defensive linemen. But the scheme, the personnel, and the tackling were flat-out bad. Kelly says they will continue to coach this unit up…

Cut 19 (12) “…ever week” 

The loss drops LSU’s record to 3-2 overall, 2-1 in the SEC. Getting into the college football playoff is a pipe dream, even repeating as the SEC West champs is a long shot. Kelly says it’s very disappointing, but they can’t give up…

Cut 20 (20) “..get better” 

 

9:30 am Newscast

The new fiscal year starts tomorrow which means Congress is running out of time to avoid a government shutdown Senator Bill Cassidy says we would see little impact here at home if that happens.(:13) Cut 9 (10) “…pay claims”

Just one day after four Baton Rouge Police officers were placed on administrative leave, they’ve all been arrested in connection to an arrest two years ago. Chief Murphy Paul says body cameras were activated during an excessive force strip search, but when a supervisor saw the footage, that’s when the cover-up began. (:16) Cut 4 (06) “…body camera.”

The chief saying corruption and misconduct will not be tolerated. (:06)

After a six-year hiatus, Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey is back with a newly reimagined “Greatest Show on Earth” that opens tonight in Bossier City. Performer Wesley Williams says there will be no animals but their goal is to enhance the total experience with technology and amazing wow moments. (:16) Cut 6 (11) “…this experience.”

The cast will of the reimagined all-human show features 75 talented people from 18 countries. (:06)

Big game tonight in Oxford, Mississippi as the # 13 LSU Tigers try to improve to 3 and o in SEC play.

LSU Coach Brian Kelly says his defense will need to keep an eye out for Ole Miss running back Quinshon Judkins. (:14) Cut 15 (11) “…best players”

Kick off tonight is at five.

8:30 am Newscast

If Congress doesn’t reach an agreement by midnight tonight, the federal government will shut down. (:08) Cut 2 (29) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

Nearly 600 orphaned wells have been plugged so far this year. That’s thanks to money from the federal government and the U-S Fish and Wildlife Service. Governor John Bel Edwards says those wells can leak methane and contribute to global warming. (:12) Cut 12 (10) “…doing this”

Four Baton Rouge Police officers including the Deputy Chief have been arrested following an investigation into physical abuse and misconduct in the arrest of a man two years ago. Chief Murphy Paul says officers used tasers and one officer struck the man during a strip search. (:14)

Cut 3 (12) “…was activated.”

The chief says corruption and misconduct will not be tolerated in his department and anyone involved will face prosecution. :(:07)

It’s a top 20 matchup tonight between 13th-ranked LSU and number-20 Ole Miss. LSU’s defense has had trouble stopping teams on third down. But Coach Brian Kelly says they’ve been focused on fundamentals (:12)

Cut 14 (11) “…third down”

Kick off is set for five.

LRN PM Newscall September 29

After a six-year hiatus, Ringling Brothers. and Barnum & Bailey kicks off their North American tour in Bossier City with four performances this weekend at the Brookshire Grocery Arena. Teiko Foxx has more on the reimagined “Greatest Show on Earth”…

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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 If Congress doesn’t reach an agreement by midnight Saturday, the federal government will shut down. Brooke Thorington has more

Cut 2 (29)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”  

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Four Baton Rouge Police officers including the Deputy Chief have been arrested following an investigation into physical abuse and misconduct of officers involving a man arrested two years ago. Chief Murphy Paul says officers used tasers and one officer struck the man to get him to comply with their requests during a strip search.

Cut 3 (12) “…was activated.”

When the officers deployed their tasers, their body cameras were also activated.

Paul says a supervisor viewed the footage and determined that the officers were in violation of the department’s use of excessive force policy. He says a decision was then made to destroy the evidence.

Cut 4 (06) “…body camera.”

Paul reassures the public that corruption and misconduct will not be tolerated in his department and anyone involved will face prosecution.

Cut 5 (08) “ …we’re doing.”  

The arrests come a day after officers were placed on administrative leave after being exposed to a secretive BRPD “Brave Cave” warehouse where it is alleged some suspects were beaten and illegally interrogated.

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After a six-year hiatus, Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey are back with a newly reimagined “Greatest Show on Earth” that opens today at the Brookshire Grocery Arena in Bossier City. Performer Wesley Williams says there will be no animals but their goal is to enhance the total experience with technology and amazing wow moments.

Cut 6 (11) “…this experience.”

The reimagined all-human show features spectacular acts including Criss-Cross Flying Trapeze, Extreme Box Jump Trampoline, and more. Williams says there will be an amazing triangular highwire performance.

Cut 7 (09) “…a pin.” 

The cast will have 75 talented humans from 18 countries.  Williams points out that his three-story unicycle performance will be an incredible back-and-forth experience.

Cut 8 (12) “…magical thing.”

The show will run in Bossier City today through Sunday.

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Congress is running out of time and the possibility of a government shutdown is looming with the new fiscal year beginning Sunday. US Senator Bill Cassidy says for the most part there will be little impact on day-to-day life for Louisianans.

Cut 9 (10) “…pay claims” 

If you do need to contact a federal agency for an issue, however, Cassidy says you might encounter some delays. The state’s senior senator says his office will be on call and to reach out to his Baton Rouge office if needed.

Cut 10 (10) “…cassidy.senate.gov”

Lawmakers have until midnight Saturday to reach an agreement to avoid a federal government shutdown. Cassidy, a Republican, blames the Biden administration.

Cut 11 (08) “…good faith.”

During a shutdown, federal employees will be furloughed and those who work in the military and Transportation Security Administration are forced to work without pay.

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Nearly 600 orphaned wells have been plugged since the beginning of the year thanks to money from the federal government and the U-S Fish and Wildlife Service. Governor John Bel Edwards says it’s important abandoned wells get sealed because they leak methane which scientists say contributes to the earth’s warming….

Cut 12 (10) “…doing this” 

Edwards says the federal money is the result of the Infrastructure Law approved by Congress in 2021. The governor says they expect to get more money from the federal government to address this problem…

Cut 13 (10) “…we can.”

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13th ranked LSU is at 20th ranked Ole Miss on Saturday for a 5 PM kick off in Oxford. The Fighting Tigers have struggled on defense and they’ve had trouble stopping teams on third down. Coach Brian Kelly says at practice this week, they harped on the fundamentals…

Cut  14 (11) “…third down”

The Rebels have been explosive on offense, but they have yet to get their top running back, Quinshon Judkins, going. Kelly says they know Judkins is a talented back that’s capable of having a big night…

Cut 15 (11) “…best players”

A win for LSU and they will improve to 3-0 in the SEC. The Rebels are trying to avoid a second consecutive loss.