LRN PM Newscall September 18

We all remember how the pandemic impacted the automobile supply chain, but could it happen again with the United Auto Workers’ strike? Brooke Thorington has more.

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

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The St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office says a man wanted on child rape charges in North Carolina attempted to fake his own death in Louisiana. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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Will Green President of the Louisiana Automobile Dealers Association says local car dealerships already ordered extra parts and vehicles in anticipation of the United Auto Worker’s strike, which began Friday, but if the strike lingers beyond a few weeks…

Cut 3 (04) “…of parts.”

Green says while the supply chain of car parts and vehicles is still catching up from the pandemic, a lengthy strike could result in another significant shortage. He says the strike is impacting Ford, Stellantis, and GM plants.

Cut 4 (09) “…in Detroit.”

According to the LADA, Louisiana’s new car and heavy truck dealers generated more than $19 billion in total sales in 2022 and supported more than 36,000 direct and indirect jobs. Green says the automotive industry has several benefits and it can be lucrative also.

Cut 5 (08) “ …a year.”  

As the current strike enters its fourth day, the last UAW strike in 2019 lasted 40 days.

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Another evacuation order has been issued for residents near Singer in Beauregard Parish after firefighters lost containment of the Tiger Island Fire due to wind and dry conditions. Beauregard Parish Sheriff Spokesperson Shannon Burgess says approximately 200 acres burned where the fire breached and crossed the highway.

Cut 6 (12) “…in danger.”

Air tankers are being used to drop water on the flames located south of La. 110 between Singer and Merryville. Four scooper planes and dozers from the Hwy 113, Elizabeth and Lions Road fires are also en route to assist. Burgess says the highway was reclosed out of caution for motorists in the area.

Cut 7 (11) “…in Singer” 

Engines remain in the area to patrol and observe the fire. Burgess believes a significant chance of danger remains.

Cut 8 (12) “…we can.”

A voluntary evacuation has also been ordered for residents on the west side of La. 27 to Juanita.

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The Louisiana Agriculture and Forestry Department announces the arrest of a Rapides Parish man for allegedly setting wildfires in Grant Parish last week. Commissioner Mike Strain says 32-year-old Michael Setliff of Flatwoods set several wildfires off Highway 500 and W-W Melton Road…

Cut 9 (09) “…multiple homes” 

Strain says thanks to the rapid response of local and state firefighters, the fires remained small in size and impact…

Cut 10 (12) “…acre each.”

Setliff faces three counts of simple arson for the fires set in Grant Parish. Strain says he faces several years in prison if convicted…

Cut 11 (10) “…15 years”

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State Fire Marshal investigators believe a deadly fire that tragically killed a mother and her two children last week in St. John the Baptist Parish started in the kitchen area of the home. Spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says the fire is still under investigation.

Cut 12 (10) “…the home”

38-year-old Quintella Chopin was found in the bathroom area of the home. Chopin’s seven-year-old daughter was found in a bedroom and her two-year-old son was located near the exit door at the top of the stairwell. Rodrigue says there were no working smoke alarms found in the home.

Cut 13 (11) “…escape safely.”

Families in need of a fire alarm can get help through the Operation Save-A-Life program which provides free fire alarm installation through local fire departments.

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LRN AM Newscall September 18

Ochsner MD Anderson in New Orleans is the only hospital in Louisiana to treat adult patients using the groundbreaking CAR T cell therapy. Teiko Foxx has more.

Cut 1 (30)……I’m Teiko Foxx”

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A major construction project gets underway today on I-20 in the Shreveport-Bossier area and it will result in lane closures for the next two years. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (29)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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The first round of grants of up to 10 thousand dollars for a homeowner to fortify their roof will be available on October 2nd. Jeff Palermo has the story..

Cut 3 (30) …I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Ochsner MD Anderson Cancer Center in New Orleans is the first medical facility in Louisiana to treat adult patients using CAR T cell therapy. Cellular Therapy Specialist Dr. Clark Alsfield says the treatment is also effective against certain types of blood cancers like leukemia.

Cut 4 (12) “…these lymphomas”

Recent studies show CAR T cell therapy was successful in certain cancer patients with non-Hodgkin lymphoma after one treatment. Alsfield says the therapy uses the patient’s immune system to target and destroy cancer cells.

Cut 5 (11) “…to us.”

A patient’s eligibility depends on the type of cancer and previous treatments they have received. Some patients must have gone through multiple unsuccessful treatments.

A New Orleans patient who received CAR T cell therapy in June is in full remission. Alsfield says the federal government has approved the therapy for its safety and efficacy.

Cut 6 (12) “..another frontier”

An additional patient has started the treatment process and three others are being evaluated to receive treatment by this fall.

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A major construction project gets underway today on I-20 in Bossier and Caddo Parishes as crews will replace the pavement that’s been there since the 1960s. DOTD spokesperson Erin Buchanan says the work will result in lane closures on I-20 in Bossier City for the next two years. She says local motorists can expect delays on I-20 and on the surface roads

Cut 7 (09) “…twice a day.”

She advises motorists to use 1-220 as an alternate route, because of the I-20 lane closures through Bossier City…

Cut 8 (11) “…the reconstruction”

The project costs 118-million dollars. Between 70 to 100-thousand vehicles per day use I-20 in this area and Buchanan says it’s time to replace the pavement that’s been there since the interstate was constructed in the 1960s….

Cut 9 (06)  “…get it started”

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Louisiana Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon announces the first round of grants of up to 10-thousand dollars for homeowners to repair or replace their roofs will be available on October 2nd. Donelon says this program is  modeled after a successful program that Alabama has been running for a few years…

Cut 10 (08) “…30-million before this year”

Donelon says a fortified roof can lower your homeowners insurance costs and increase the value of your by home by an estimated seven percent…

Cut 11 (10) “…property”

500 grants will be available in this first round of grants at noon on October 2nd.

Donelon says the Louisiana Fortified Homes Program has enough funding to award about three-thousand grants, so there will be additional rounds of funds distributed as year goes on. He says the first half of those grants will be limited to Citizens policyholders

Cut 12 (11) “…their insurance” 

Those interested in the program are encouraged to register before applying for a grant. They can do that l-d-i-dot-la-dot-gov-slash-fortifyhomes.

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The two front-runners in the governor’s race to make a November run-off were attacked multiple times in Friday’s televised debate. Republican John Schroder pointed out Jeff Landry’s campaign took a donation from a trial attorney whose firm was fined two million dollars for participating in a fraud scheme against hurricane victims….

Cut 13 (13) “…how does that happen.”

Landry says a campaign donation would not stop his attorney general’s office from investigating someone who breaks the law…

Cut 14 (12) “…my job.”

Landry is the front-runner in the polls and Democrat Shawn Wilson is in second place, well ahead of the other candidates fighting to get in the run-off. Wilson describes him as pro-life, but says the government should not stand in the way of a woman seeking an abortion…

Cut 15 (10) “…those positions”

Independent Hunter Lundy says the Legislature did the right thing by passing a law that prohibits abortion in most cases…

Cut 16 (08) “…pro life”

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The LSU Tigers put together a dominating performance on Saturday beating Mississippi State 41-14. On this day, the Bayou Bengals looked like a team that could compete for an SEC title. Coach Brian Kelly liked how his team approached its second road trip of the season…

Cut 17 (20) “…Florida State”

Quarterback Jayden Daniels was on point from the beginning, completing his first 13 passes of the game and was 30-of-34 for 361 yards and four total touchdowns. He went to wide receiver Malik Nabers early and often as Navbers finished with a career-high 13 catches for 239 yards and two touchdowns. Kelly says Daniels took advantage of one-on-one coverage on Nabers….

Cut 18 (14) “…getting him the ball.”

And LSU’s defense was outstanding as well. Allowing just 79 yards in the first half. Kelly says the players on defense asked the coaching staff to push them harder…

Cut 19 (10) “…people believe”

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Despite scoring 23 points in the fourth quarter, Louisiana Tech fell to North Texas as the Mean Green made a field goal with three seconds left to beat the Bulldogs 40-37. A key stat in this game was third. North Texas converted 11 of 18 times, while the Bulldogs were just 5 of 14. Tech head coach Sonny Cumbie

Cut 20 (17) “..his feet” 

Tech is 2-and-2 on the season and will visit Nebraska next week.

LRN PM Newscall September 15

New campaign finance totals are out for the gubernatorial candidates and Republican Jeff Landry still has a sizable lead in campaign cash on hand. Jeff Palermo has more

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

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For the second year in a row, wildlife officials are seeing successful hatchings of the endangered Kemp’s ridley sea turtle on the Chandeleur Islands, which is off the coast of southeast Louisiana. Jeanne Burns has more…

Cut 2 (33)  “…I’m Jeanne Burns”  

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New campaign finance totals for the governor’s race were released today by the state Ethics Board and Republican Jeff Landry continues to have a huge advantage in dollars over his opponents. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says it’s easier for Landry to raise money…

Cut 3 (06) “…investing in him.”

Landry is reporting six-point-six million dollars in cash on hand. Republican John Schroder is reporting one-point-six million dollars, while Stephen Waguespack and Hunter have just over one-million dollars. Democrat Shawn Wilson has just 879-thousand dollars on hand.

Pinsonat says Wilson’s campaign campaign finance number is disappointing

Cut 4 (10) “…he will”

Pinsonat says the dynamics of this race has not changed since it started, Landry has all of the momentum because of the huge fundraising totals that he has over his opponents…

Cut 5 (06) “ …biggest obscacle”  

The primary is October 14th. Early voting is September 30th.

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Wildlife officials are encouraged by successful hatchings of the endangered Kemp’s ridley sea turtle on the Chandeleur Islands, which is off the southeastern coast of Louisiana. Coastal Resources scientist manager with LDWF, Matt Weigel, says the sea turtles were first spotted on the island last year and now there are over 100 sea turtle crawls on the island…

Cut 6 (07) “…big news.”

Weigel says it’s one of the highest-density nesting beaches in the northern Gulf of Mexico.

Cut 7 (06) “…nesting out there” 

Weigel says 300-thousand birds also rely on the islands during the course of the year. But he says the Chandeleur Islands are disappearing and design plans to restore the islands are underway.

Cut 8 (10) “…few decades.”

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A fatal disease known as lethal bronzing is killing off thousands of palm trees across south Louisiana. LSU Ag Center Plant Doctor, Raj Singh says the disease is wiping out 16 different types of palms across the state.

Cut 9 (11) “…phytoplasma disease.” 

The palm tree killer has been detected in Orleans, Jefferson, St. Bernard, East Baton Rouge, West Baton Rouge, and Iberia Parishes. Singh says the disease is transmitted by a small insect known as a planthopper but there’s no cure.

Cut 10 (09) “…that insect.”

The antibiotic treatments are $50 to $100 per treatment and are not available to the average homeowner. What can you do? Singh says you can remove the dead palms and…

Cut 11 (08) “…that match.”

Once a tree is infected, its decline is noticeable in about three months.

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The state Office of Juvenile Justice says it has moved the youth juvenile offenders housed at a temporary facility at Angola to a new juvenile justice facility in Jackson Parish. A federal judge ruled last week the state needs to relocate the youth from the grounds of an adult prison. The lead plaintiffs attorney David Utter is happy to see O-J-J act…

Cut 12 (09) “…juvenile justice systems”

Utter filed the lawsuit to have the youths moved to another facility. He says juveniles were placed in solitary confinement and not getting the necessary rehabilitative treatment. The O-J-J denies those claims, but Utter says the court evidence is clear…

Cut 13 (09) “…children there”

The state moved 15 juvenile offenders from Angola to a new juvenile justice facility in Jackson Parish. Utter says they’ll wait to see how the youths are treated before deciding if they will continue with the civil rights lawsuit…

Cut  14 (07) “…to tell”

The O-J-J moved the youth to Angola after a series of escapes and violent episodes at other juvenile justice facilities. The eventual plan is to house high-risk juveniles at a new state-run facility near Monroe, but it’s still under construction.

LRN PM Newscall September 14

Democrat Shawn Wilson releases his first TV ad in his bid to become governor. Brooke Thorington has more…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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St. Helena College and Career Academy, the site of a fatal school on Tuesday, will remain closed for the rest of the week. Jeff Palermo has more..

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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Democrat Shawn Wilson launches his first TV ad in his bid to become governor. The former transportation secretary touts his ability to build bridges literally and figuratively. LSU Political Science Professor Robert Hogan believes the ad is a success because Wilson is able to introduce himself to voters and…

Cut 3 (10) “…together.”

Earlier this month the National Republican Governors Association launched an ad blaming Wilson for the state’s poor road conditions. Hogan says in Wilson’s 30-second spot the Democrat highlights his accomplishments at DOTD.

Cut 4 (07) “…already.”

The ad also expresses the Lafayette native’s desire to move the state forward. Hogan says Wilson’s calling to end political divisiveness is a common theme that voters say they want.

Cut 5 (10) “ …several years.”  

Polls indicate Wilson will most likely face front-runner Jeff Landry in a runoff.

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The Louisiana Department of Health is launching a new website and social media marketing campaign to promote their 988 suicide and prevention helpline. State Suicide Prevention Coordinator Robyn Thomas says the new website is Louisiana 9-8-8-dot-org.

Cut 6 (08) “…zoom backgrounds.”

Since its launch in July of 2022, call volume for 988 has increased by 11 percent. In-state answer rate rose from 64 percent to 87 percent. Thomas says the goal is to reach vulnerable populations including Blacks, Indigenous and People of Color, LGBTQ people, and veterans.

Cut 7 (13) “…crisis situations.” 

LDH hopes to remove the stigma of mental illness and encourage Louisiana residents to reach out if they are in a mental health crisis. Thomas hopes Louisianans will be able to connect with the campaign

Cut 8 (12) “…crisis centers.”

There are five parishes they are particularly targeting with this campaign, Evangeline, Avoyelles, St. Landry. Livingston and Calcasieu. Those are the parishes with the highest suicide rates.

If you are in need of mental health services, call the 988 or visit Louisiana988.org.

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The state’s four largest wildfires continue to burn but are more than 50 percent contained. State Ag and Forestry Commissioner Mike Strain says things are looking better and the Tiger Island Fire is now 80 percent contained.

Cut 9 (09) “…fighting fire.” 

More than 1,200 emergency responders from 120 agencies and 26 states have fought wildfires across the state. Strain says it took additional personnel and special equipment to contain fires.

Cut 10 (11) “…drop water.”

The Highway 113 Fire is 89 percent contained, the Lion’s Camp Road Fire is 88 percent contained, and the Elizabeth Fire is 73 percent contained. No injuries or deaths have been reported, but at least 20 structures have been damaged or destroyed. Strain urges Louisianans to continue to respect the burn ban.

Cut 11 (08) “…that match.”

The statewide burn ban remains in effect.

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St. Helena Parish is still in shock over Tuesday’s fatal shooting as school was letting out at St. Helena College and Career Academy in Greensburg. A 16-year-old student was killed and the suspected gunman, a 14-year-old student, is in a juvenile detention center. St. Helena Parish School Superintendent Doctor Kelli Joseph…

Cut 12 (15) “…its core”

Joseph says they originally planned to re-start school tomorrow, but they’ve decided classes will resume on Tuesday…

Cut 13 (04) “…what’s happen”

Southeast Community Health System is providing counseling for teachers and will be on campus when students return Tuesday. Authorities say bullying may have led to Tuesday’s tragic shooting. Joseph says they do look for instances of bullying but a lot of it happens on social media…

Cut  14 (12) “…we are not aware”

Authorities plan to release more information about the shooting next week.

LRN PM Newscall September 13

A school shooting in St. Helena Parish has left one person dead and left two others wounded. Jeff Palermo has the details…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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Louisiana Congressman Garret Graves gave us his thoughts on the announcement of an impeachment inquiry of President Biden. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”  

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The investigation continues today into yesterday’s fatal shooting at a high school in Greensburg. Joe Chaney with the St. Helena Parish Sheriff’s Office says a student started shooting in the parking lot at St. Helena College and Career Academy…

Cut 3 (09) “…in the gunfire”

The gunman, a 14-year-old boy, was taken into custody and Chaney says he’s facing several charges for fatally shooting one person and injuring two others as school was dismissing for the day…

Cut 4 (10) “…free zone”

A relative has identified the deceased victim as 16-year-old Vernon Gordon a football player. Chaney says the shooting has left St. Helena Parish stunned…

Cut 5 (07) “ ..local schools”  

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Baton Rouge Police has charged 30-year-old Douglas Brown with murder for allegedly shooting his father, 79-year-old John Brown. John Brown was found dead on Saturday morning inside the home the two shared. Lt. L’Jean McKneely says Douglas Brown may have had an ulterior motive for killing his father.

Cut 6 (08) “…the shooting.”

Douglas Brown was booked on counts of second-degree murder, obstruction of justice, and possession of a firearm by a person convicted of certain felonies.

McKneely says tips and evidence, including surveillance video led to Douglas Brown’s arrest.

Cut 7 (08) “…apprehended him.” 

McKneely says Douglas Brown was booked in the East Baton Rouge Prison.

Cut 8 (08) “…convicted felon.”

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US Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy announced he will begin an impeachment inquiry of President Biden in an effort to seek financial records of the president and his son Hunter Biden. Republican Louisiana Congressman Garret Graves says an inquiry doesn’t automatically mean an impeachment hearing is a sure thing.

Cut 9 (12) “…an investigation.” 

Graves says over the past few months, serval committees, like Judiciary, Oversite, and Ways & Means, have all done investigations and requested information concerning the Bidens and they’ve found questionable items.  For example, Hunter Biden has been paid $20 million by countries like Ukraine and Russia to name a few.

Cut 10 (11) “…20-million dollars.”

Graves says whistleblowers are coming forward from the FBI, IRS, and others that have linked President Biden to some of the countries, and potentially even official actions carried out that could be the President using his office to benefit his son’s clients.

Cut 11 (10) “…lines.”

Graves reiterates it’s not an impeachment hearing, it’s simply an investigation. He hopes the committee will follow the evidence and thoroughly develop a case before jumping to impeachment hearings.

Democrat and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, says the decision to open an impeachment inquiry is quote “absurd.”

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A mother and her two children were tragically killed in a house fire in the Mount Airy community of St. John the Baptist Parish this morning. State Fire Marshal spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says they believe the deadly blaze started in an upstairs apartment over a vacant home.

Cut 12 (09) “…was inside”

Rodrigue says the home was engulfed when firefighters responded to the scene. 38-year-old Quintella Chopin and her two children ages seven and two were found in different areas of the home.

Cut 13 (10) “…bedroom area”

While the investigation is still active, the State Fire Marshal was unable to locate any working smoke alarms in the home. The cause of the fire remains unknown.

LRN AM Newscall September 13

For the first time in school history, LSU has surpassed 400-million dollars in research spending. Jeff Palermo has the story.

Cut 1 (31)……I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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East Baton Rouge District Attorney was joined by NFL star Warrick Dunn as he filed an injunction to stop upcoming clemency hearings for death row inmates. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Extreme heat and drought conditions are taking a toll on the state’s wildlife, according to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 3 (30) …I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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For the first time ever, LSU has surpassed the 400-million dollar mark in research activity. Vice president of research and economic development at LSU, Robert Twilley, says the university is reporting 428-million dollars in total research activity in one year, up 16-percent from the previous year. Twilley says their research initiatives are gaining momentum…

Cut 4 (11) “… President Tate.”

Twilley says an increase in research dollars shows the university’s commitment to solving pressing problems for Louisiana. He says it also creates an estimated one-point-two billion dollar economic impact on Louisiana…

Cut 5 (09) “…buy food.”

Twilley says LSU’s Scholarship First Agenda is focusing its research investment in agriculture, biomedicine, the coast, cybersecurity, and energy, with a focus on carbon capture and underground storage…

Cut 6 (10) “..the future.”

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East Baton Rouge District Attorney was joined by NFL star Warrick Dunn as he filed an injunction to stop clemency hearings for death row inmates. Dunn, whose mother, Baton Rouge police corporal Betty Smothers was gunned down 30 years ago, says it’s not fair that her killer, Kevan Brumfield is still alive.

Cut 7 (09) “…disrespectful.”

Dunn says while Brumfield has been fed and housed by taxpayers’ dollars for years, his family continues to mourn the loss of his mother.

Cut 8 (09) “…with that.”

After Governor John Bel Edwards publicly stated he opposed the death penalty, all but one inmate on death row filed for clemency. Dunn says commenting the sentences of these inmates is disrespectful to the victims’ families and in his case, law enforcement also.
Cut 9 (12)  “…that fair?”

Executive Director of the Louisiana Capital Appeals Project, Cecelia Kappel says the lawsuit filed by Moore is another baseless attempt to block the Pardon Board and Governor Edwards from taking a close look at Louisiana’s broken death penalty system.

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Optimism among small businesses declined for the month of August as inflation continues to drive costs higher. NFIB State Director Dawn McVea says the optimism index decreased 0.6 last month to 91.3, for the 20th consecutive month below the 49-year average of 98.

Cut 10 (10) “…of months.”

McVea says small business owners are reporting that they feel like they are losing sale opportunities whether it’s because of inflation or the lack of labor.

Cut 11 (11) “…lost sales.”

As for future optimism, fewer small business owners have a positive outlook for the next six months. McVea says that’s unfortunate because typically retailers look for a strong 4th quarter with promotions like Small Business Saturday.

She says it’s so important that consumers shop locally versus big-box retailers.

Cut 12 (10) “…tax dollars.” 

Forty percent of small business owners reported job openings that were hard to fill.

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LDWF says the wildlife is being impacted by the drought conditions and excessive heat. State Wildlife Veterinarian Dr. Jim Lacour says the limited availability of water results in ducks and other animals having to travel for alternative water sources.

Cut 13 (12) “…or ditches.”

When drought puts stress on plants, there’s a negative ripple effect on deer and other wildlife that depend on vegetation in large quantities. He says when plants die, deer miss out on nutrition that plants provide..

Cut 14 (11) “…everything else.”

Many animals eat insects to build fat reserves for migration. Lacour says a decrease in water sources and lower plant growth can reduce insect populations. He says birds like quails and turkeys rely on mast crops and insects to feed their newborn.

Cut 15 (09) “…later on.”

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Mississippi State is gearing up to host 14th ranked LSU on Saturday. The Bulldogs are 2-0 after beating Southeastern Louisiana 48-7 in the season opener and then holding off Arizona 31-24 in overtime last Saturday. First year head coach Zach Arnett liked the improvement he saw from his team from week one to week two…

Cut 16 (16) “…anybody”

LSU beat State 31-16 last season.  Jayden Daniels threw for 210 yards and ran for 93 against the Bulldogs in that game. Arnett was M-S-U’s defensive coordinator last season and knows how difficult it is to defend Daniels…

Cut 17 (20) “…of a game”

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After winning their first two games at home, ULM heads on the road this Saturday to face Texas A-and-M. Warhawks Coach Terry Bowden says his players are looking forward to the trip to College Station…

Cut 18 (17) “…to play”

ULM leads the Sun Belt in rushing as they’ve rushed for 492 yards in their first two games, but they are last in the league with just 95 yards through the air. Bowden says they came into the season wanting to run the ball…

Cut 19 (15) “…second half especially”

Redshirt freshman James Smith had 2.5 sacks last week. Bowden says Smith has great length and athletic skills…

Cut 20 (17) “…better team”

LRN PM Newscall September 11

Saints linebacker Demario Davis helped lead New Orleans to a season-opening 16-15 win over Tennessee on Sunday. Jeff Palermo reports after the game Davis told an inspiring story about prayer and faith…

Cut 1 (29)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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In addition to the insurance crisis plaguing Louisiana, there’s a movement among insurers to drop natural disaster coverage in areas across the country. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (34)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”  

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Saints linebacker Demario Davis helped lead New Orleans to a 16-15 season opening victory over Tennessee. Davis says knew Sunday would go well after his prayers were answered as his four-year old daughter was hospitalized on Friday with a serious seizure. Davis says she was better than ever on Saturday…

Cut 3 (10) “…sharper than before”

Davis says this was his daughter’s third epileptic seizure, but this was the worst one. She stopped breathing twice on the way to the hospital.

The veteran linebacker says people who suffer from epilepsy usually need a few days to get back to normal after a seizure, but he says thanks to the power of prayer his daughter was playing with her friends on Saturday…

Cut 4 (09) “…care of itself”

Davis had ten tackles on Sunday as New Orleans’ defense kept Tennessee out of the end zone.

When he met with the media postgame, he read a passage from Revelations about opening the door for the Lord when he comes knocking…

Cut 5 (09) “ …going to be there”  

The Saints next game is a week from tonight against Carolina.

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When it comes to raising the state’s minimum wage of $7.25, of the five candidates who participated in a televised debate last week, their responses were mixed. Republican and Slidell Senator Sharon Hewitt’s answer was maybe.

Cut 6 (06) “…conversation.”

Fellow Republican Stephen Waguespack and former Louisiana Association of Business and Industry president responded with a resounding no. A surprising answer to the question came from Republican, Treasurer John Schroder who said yes.

Lake Charles attorney and Independent Candidate Hunter Lundy believes it’s time to raise the state’s minimum wage.

Cut 7 (02) “…wage.” 

Democrat and former state transportation secretary Shawn Wilson said it’s time to increase the state’s minimum wage.

Cut 8 (03) “…seven-twenty-five.”

Republican front-leader Jeff Landry, who didn’t participate in the debate, stated on Talk Louisiana with Jim Engster in June he’s against raising the minimum wage.

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A recent Washington Post article says major insurers have told the National Association of Insurance Commissioners they plan to cut out coverage for areas prone to natural disasters. Ben Riggs with Real Reform Louisiana says it’s a huge concern because wind, hail, and wildfire coverage would cost extra.

Cut 9 (09) “…supplemental policies.(x2)” 

Of the major insurers who plan to cease natural disaster coverage, Riggs says they cover about 80 percent of property owners in the country.

Riggs says the move to end natural disaster coverage has nothing to do with tort reform and policyholders suing over coverage disputes.

Cut 10 (12) “…a scapegoat.”

Riggs says the move is an example of someone wanting to be able to point the finger and claim they are doing something, when in reality what they are doing is taking savings out of your policy and turning it into a junk policy…

Cut 11 (12) “…accountable.”

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Grambling State linebacker Jaquavis Richmond needed emergency surgery after he was carted off the field in Saturday night’s loss to LSU at Tiger Stadium. Grambling says Richmond suffered an injury to the head-neck area. LSU Coach Brian Kelly says the doctors at Our Lady of the Lake took good care of him…

Cut 12 (10) “…hopeful”

Richmond prepped at Woodlawn-Shreveport High School. He’s listed as a redshirt sophomore. Kelly says he’s received word the surgery went well…

Cut 13 (13) “…successful outcome”

LRN AM Newscall September 11

We’ve made it to the statistical peak of the hurricane season. Jeanne Burns has an update with what’s going with the tropics…

Cut 1 (31)  “….I’m Jeanne Burns”

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Gubernatorial candidates who participated in the televised debate Thursday were asked if they think the voters should decide if abortion should be legal or not in Louisiana. Brooke Thorington has more…

Cut 2 (36)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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 We’ve hit the statistical peak of the 2023 hurricane season and state climatologist Barry Keim says it’s been an active year with 13 named storms….

Cut 3 (12) ..kind of an interesting”

Early projections for the 2023 hurricane season were for a below normal season, because of an El Nino. But Keim says the warm sea surface temperatures are winning out over the shear that an El Nino can create…

Cut 4 (10) “… busy season.”

Keim says El Nino’s intensity is expected to pick up, which should help suppress tropical activity…

Cut 5 (12) “…of the season”

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The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana will host their Second Annual Rural Economic Development Summit along with Southern University Law Center in Marksville at Paragon Casino today and tomorrow. Chief of Staff Megan Guillot says the goal of the summit is to connect rural communities with local, state, and national leaders, as well as Native American Country.

Cut 6 (10) “…and resources.”

The summit started in 2019 but was paused due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Guillot says the summit returns at a critical time for small business owners who are trying to build or rebuild their businesses. She says there will discussions on topics to improve  business relationships with tribal governments.

Cut 7 (12) “…funding resources.”

In 2023, the tribe has secured more than $70 million in grants to assist in stabilizing and propelling its citizens through workforce development training, increased access to the internet, and various small business supports. Guillot says this will be a great networking conference for small business owners.

Cut 8 (08) “…very excited.”

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In a televised debate, five of the seven major candidates for governor were asked if they believe in a ballot initiative to allow voters to decide if abortion should be legalized or not. The three Republicans and one Independent say the Legislature adequately represented the pro-life stance of Louisianans. They are against letting voters decide the issue at the polls. Republican Stephen Waguespack…

Cut 9 (14)  “…as well.”

Republican state Senator Sharon Hewitt, who sponsored legislation to make it illegal for companies to send abortion pills through the mail in Louisiana, is against a ballot initiative.

Cut 10 (10) “…the books.”

Republican Treasurer John Schroder agrees the legislature’s abortion ban is reflective of what voters in the state want and he’s against a ballot initiative.

Cut 11 (10) “…and Senate.”

Independent Hunter Lundy…

Cut 12 (15) “…agree with them.” 

Democrat Shawn Wilson is the only candidate who supports a ballot initiative on abortion…

Cut 13 (14) “…in jeopardy.”

When Roe v Wade was overturned, the state’s trigger laws banning abortion in most cases went into effect. Early voting for the October 14th primary begins Saturday, September 30th.

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LSU’s offense nearly had a perfect performance on Saturday night in a 72-10 win over Grambling State. It’s the first time they scored 70 in regulation time of a game since a 70-14 win over Arkansas State in 1991. Coach Brian Kelly is pleased with what he saw on offense.

Cut 14 (14) “…very often.”

Quarterback Jayden Daniels threw for a career-high five touchdown passes.

But the defense struggled early on. Grambling had 173 yards of offense in its first two possessions and scored ten points. For the night, Kelly’s defense gave up 320 total yards.

Cut 15 (15) “… too many tackles”

Kelly promised more playing time for receiver Chris Hilton and he caught two passes for 53 yards including a 47-yard touchdown catch where he burned the defense on a post pattern.

Cut 16 (16) “…sick this week”

Also, freshman right tackle Lance Heard got playing time in the second series and there’s a chance we could see more of Heard this Saturday in Starkville against Mississippi State.

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The Saints started  the 2023 season with a 16-15 victory over the Tennessee Titans yesterday. The two teams traded field goals in the first half, but New Orleans finally got in the end zone in the third quarter as Rashid Shaheed caught a TD pass. The Saints turned it over twice, but New Orleans defense intercepted Ryan Tannehill three times and only allowed them to convert on third down twice. Coach Dennis Allen is pleased with the win…

Cut 17 (16) “…divisional opponent”

In his first game as a starter for the Saints, quarterback Derek Carr threw for 305 yards and a touchdown. He was intercepted once and sacked four times. The ten-year vet says this was one of the most physical games he’s ever played in…

Cut 18 (11) “…the way.”

Carr says it was a solid win against a good opponent…

Cut 19 (13) “…the win”

LRN PM Newscall September 8

A federal judge has told the state it must remove the 15 juvenile offenders that are housed at the State Penitentiary in Angola by September 15th .Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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Grambling will battle LSU for the first time ever on the football field Saturday night in Tiger Stadium.  Teiko Foxx spoke with the University’s President about what this means.

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”  

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A federal judge has ordered that the dozen or so violent juvenile offenders housed at the State Penitentiary at Angola must be removed by September 15th. In her ruling, Judge Shelly Dick said the facility screams prison and the youth are not getting rehabilitation they need. The lead attorney for the plaintiffs is David Utter…

Cut 3 (09) “…for a kid”

The state created the Bridge City Center for Youth at Angola last summer after several violent episodes at other youth facilities. This is only a temporary set up, until a new facility opens at Monroe this fall. Utter says Judge Dick agreed with them that housing youths at Angola will only hardened them…

Cut 4 (11) “…harmed.”

Utter says at last report the state was housing 15 juvenile offenders at the former Death Row facility at Angola. Utter says the state broke several promises when it came to how they would be treated. He says they have evidence that some kids were in solitary confinement for 23 hours….

Cut 5 (12) “ … happen” 

The Louisiana Office of Juvenile Justice says it disagrees with the ruling and will appeal. They also plan to explore other options that ensures the safety of staff, the public and youth in their care.

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It’s going to be the battle of the tigers this weekend in Baton Rouge. Grambling State will face LSU on the football field for the first time tomorrow night. GSU President Rick Gallot says this is a great opportunity for the school and football team.

Cut 6 (11) “…football too.”

The historic Grambling Tigers have won 15 national titles and 26 SWAC Conference Championships. Gallot says the football team is used to playing in big venues across the country.

Cut 7 (12) “…college football.” 

Kick-off is set for 6:30 p.m. Gallot says GramFam will make their presence known.

Cut 8 (12) “…death valley.”

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Among the topics in the first statewide televised debate with five of the seven major gubernatorial candidates, was the state’s property insurance crisis. Four of the candidates say they would call for a special session immediately after taking oath. Slidell Senator Sharon Hewitt says how the state regulates the industry needs to be changed.

Cut 9 (14) “…portfolio.” 

Former Louisiana Business and Industry president, Stephen Waguespack…

Cut 10 (14) “…should be.”

The sole Independent candidate Hunter Lundy says multiple hurricanes and the court system being shut down due to COVID only exacerbated the problem and there was little legal recourse.

Cut 11 (11) “…homeowner’s program.”

Democrat Shawn Wilson says he’s for legislation that requires insurers to make payments in a certain time period, so policyholders receive the coverage they paid for.

Cut 12 (12) “…things done”

Treasurer John Schroder says he would call for a summit with several entities to discuss the best way to address the crisis.

Cut 13 (14) “…the other”

Frontrunner Republican Jeff Landry did not participate in the debate. Representative Richard Nelson’s polling numbers kept him from being invited to debate.

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The LSU Board of Supervisors has approved a new ten-year, 36-million dollar contract for Lady Tigers basketball coach Kim Mulkey. It’s richest contract in women’s college basketball and board member Remy Starns was happy to vote for it…

Cut  14 (04) “…basketball coach”

Only one board member voted against it and that was Jay Blossman, who would rather see coaches get huge bonuses for winning championships

Cut 15 (13) “…compensation”

Blossman says if a coach has a bad season, you can’t go back and ask for the money back.

Mulkey will make 3.15 million dollars in the upcoming season, slightly higher than fellow national championship coaches Dawn Staley and Geno Auriemma. Starns believes LSU has the best women’s college basketball coach in the country…

Cut  16 (09)   “…program”

LRN AM Newscall September 8

The Louisiana Office of Tourism kicks off a new ad campaign to attract tourists to the Bayou State. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (32)  “….I’m  Teiko Foxx”

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A new law that went into effect this year allows more students to receive free meals. Brooke Thorington has more…

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser and the Louisiana Office of Tourism launch a new ad campaign to bring more visitors to the state. The “My Louisiana” campaign promotes staycations and domestic and international travel. Nungesser says the campaign shows potential visitors that Louisiana has something for everyone.

Cut 3 (13) …over Louisiana”

The campaign will reach potential visitors in the media they use most for travel inspiration and planning. Nungesser says the ads will run on billboards, in major outlets, and through other formats.

Cut 4 (11) “… Louisiana is.”

The campaign will also use digital video, print advertising, streaming audio, still photography, visitor guide assets, and trade show assets. Nungesser says marketing will also include missions to feeder markets like Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, and Chicago.

Cut 5 (08) “…alternate routes.”

The Office of Tourism also launched a new website just months ago which nearly eight million people visited last year.

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Almost $12 million was won from lottery tickets in Louisiana last month, along with $877 thousand in fast-play winnings and more than $16 million in scratch-off winnings. And that’s not all, Louisiana Lottery spokesperson Dustin Annison…

Cut 6 (07) “…in August.”

And while the numbers vary month-to-month, Annison says things are off to a good start for the new fiscal year…

Cut 7 (08) “…so far.”

Annison says a ticket with the winning numbers for a Lotto prize of $1.85 million was sold in New Orleans last month. So far, no one has claimed the prize, but the winner has 180 days from the August 30th draw date to come forward.

Cut 8 (06) “…their check.”

Annison says scratch-off tickets are always their biggest seller.

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Five of the seven major candidates for governor appeared in the first statewide TV debate last night and the first question thrown at them was what will they do about the state’s crime problem if elected governor. Treasurer John Schroder, a former narcotics detective, says crime fighting isn’t always about putting someone in jail…

Cut 9 (13)  “…dealt with”

Slidell Senator Sharon Hewitt says fentanyl is the root cause of our crime problem…

Cut 10 (13) “…young people”

Former Louisiana Association of Business and Industry President Stephen Waguespack says the state needs more law enforcement on the street and he wants to use technology…

Cut 11 (13) “…retribution”

Independent Hunter Lundy says better-educated children would result in less crime…

Cut 12 (14) “…incarceration” 

Democrat Shawn Wilson used this question to take a shot at the front-runner in the race, Republican Jeff Landry, who decided to skip this event…

Cut 13 (11) “…be engaged.”

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A new law that went into effect this year allows more students to receive free meals. Rhonda Jackson, Director of No Kid Hungry Louisiana says there are three categories of school meals, free, reduced meals, and paid lunch.

Cut 14 (10) “…as well.”

The bipartisan legislation provides $860,000 in funding each year which allows 14,000 more students eligible for free meals, totaling 440,000 more meals for Louisiana students.

Jackson says there’s a common misconception about how dire the need is for students, especially when the state is known for such good food.

Cut 15 (05) “…reenter the classroom.”

By allowing more students access to free meals, Jackson is hopeful it will improve their lives and their ability to focus on their education.

Marrero Representative Kyle Green who sponsored the legislation says he plans to introduce legislation in the future that expands the program to include all students.

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After a poor performance last Sunday against Florida State, LSU returns to Tiger Stadium tomorrow night to face the Grambling Tigers. Quarterback Jayden Daniels says practices have been spirited this week.

Cut 16 (16) “…essentially.”

Some valuable lessons were had in the blowout loss to the Seminoles, but defensive tackle Maason Smith said you can’t dwell on it for too long.

Cut 17 (22) “…next opponent”

The G-Men lost its season opener to Hampton 35-31. Grambling allowed 279 rushing yards, so this should be a contest where LSU gets its running backs involved and gets the ground game going. Running back Noah Cain…

Cut 18 (14) “…on Grambling.”

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The Ragin Cajuns kick-off Sun Belt play on Saturday as they visit Old Dominion. U-L Lafayette won its season opener over Northwestern State 38-13. Senior QB Ben Woolridge threw for 223 yards and three touchdowns, but only completed 44-percent of his passes. Coach Michael Desormeaux is hoping they complete a higher percentage of their passes tomorrow…

Cut 19 (14) “…protect better”

The Monarchs lost their opening game to Virginia and they are picked to finish last in the East Division. But Desormeaux says they present some challenges…

Cut 20 (19) “…their too”