LRN PM Newscall Friday October 17

A close call for one South Louisiana sheriff, as he was shot at by a suspect during a call. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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An assistant police chief in Richland Parish finds himself on the other side of the law after allegedly selling firearms that belonged to the police department. Andre Champagne has more…

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Andre Champagne.”

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With its famous namesake on hand, Southeastern Louisiana University officially opens its new Robin Roberts Broadcast Media Center. President Dr. William Wainwright says it includes a newsroom, a film studio and a multimedia studio, giving students experience in all facets of broadcasting.

Cut 3 (13) “…also digital media.”

Wainwright says the university is proud to have the name of one of its most prominent graduates affixed to its new broadcast media center, and she’s a main catalyst behind its construction.

Cut 4 (11) “…state facility renovation.”

The Robin Roberts Broadcast Media Center is part of the renovation and expansion of D. Vickers Hall, adding an additional 33-thousand square feet to the 80-thousand-square-foot facility. Wainwright says it’s a building for the entire student body.

Cut 5 (15) “…Broadcast Media Center.”

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A close call for the sheriff of Assumption Parish, as he’s shot by a shooting suspect he was confronting. Sheriff’s spokesman Lonny Cavalier says Sheriff Leland Falcon was close to the scene when the call for assistance came down, so he responded and encountered the suspect.

Cut 6 (08) “…the left torso.”

While Sheriff Falcon never fired his weapon, one of his deputies returned fire and hit the suspect. Cavalier says that suspect and the victim of the original shooting that led to the 911 call were taken to hospitals.

Cut 7 (14) “…with moderate injuries.”

Cavalier says one deputy suffered minor injuries and was treated at the scene, while Falcon was grazed by the suspect’s bullet and was briefly hospitalized.

Cut 8 (08) “…of the process.”

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You can vote for America’s Best Haunted Destination on The 64-dot-com. Site founder Jason Woo says two Louisiana destinations are among the 64 in the field – The Myrtles in St. Francisville and the LaLaurie Mansion in New Orleans.

Cut 9 (04)  “…and different things.”

The Myrtles has long been recognized as one of the spookiest places in Louisiana, and Woo says he’s not at all surprised at that.

Cut 10 (05) “…quite a bit.”

Woo says the voting is in the form of a six-round single-elimination tournament, until one emerges as the most haunted destination in the country. 

Cut 11 (07) “…the next round.”

First round voting is underway right now, and it ends Saturday.

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A northeast Louisiana assistant police chief finds himself on the other side of the law. State Police arrested Rayville Assistant Police Chief Czyz (“chizh”) Williams for theft and malfeasance in office. Trooper Ryan Davis says Williams was selling department property and pocketing the money.

Cut 12 (08) “…for personal gain.”

Davis says all those police department firearms Williams had sold have since been recovered. And Davis says that’s not all Williams allegedly did.

Cut 13 (12)  “…crime prevention programs.”

Davis says none of the money that Williams collected for these nonexistent crime prevention programs went to the Rayville Police Department – he kept the money himself. He says it’s unclear whether any of that money has been recovered and returned to the donors. Davis says having a member of the law enforcement community do these things erodes trust.

Cut 14 (04) “…we’re held to.”

According to the Rayville Police Department’s website, Williams is still employed by the department.

LRN PM Newscall

LSU announces enhanced security measures for football home games for the rest of the season. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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A new survey finds strong support for more federal funding for afterschool programs. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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For the remainder of the football season, those going to LSU home games can expect beefed-up security following a pair of shootings outside the stadium last week. Scott Ballard, the chairman of the LSU Board of Supervisors, says there will be additional police presence – not only those you can see, but also those you CAN’T see.

Cut 3 (09) “…behavior very quickly.”

Part of that surveillance support includes the use of drones. Ballard says accessibility to campus will be restricted for those who do not have gameday parking permits.

Cut 4 (07) “…have interior permits.”

Highland Road runs parallel to Burbank Drive, which is one of the main routes to get to Tiger Stadium. Ballard says law enforcement is also cracking down on the use of marijuana, which people have complained about for a while.

Cut 5 (09) “…on the spot.”

Ballard says people have even been smoking marijuana inside the stadium. Those who are caught doing so will be ejected; and if they’re season ticket holders, their tickets for the next home game will be forfeited. Ballard is also reminding fans that LSU is a firearm-free campus, and no one except law enforcement should be bringing firearms onto campus.

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About four in five Louisiana children are missing out on afterschool programs according to a survey conducted by the Afterschool Alliance. Afterschool Alliance executive director Jodi Grant says 48-percent of Louisiana parents say the programs are too expensive…

Cut 6 (10) “…programs.”

Grant says the survey also found that 44-percent say afterschool programs are unavailable in their community…

Cut 7 (08) “…long waiting list.”

Grant says they conducted this study in response to the Trump Administration withholding funds Congress appropriated for afterschool and summer learning programs. After a huge public outcry, the Trump administration released the one-point-four billion dollars this past summer, but federal funding going forward is uncertain. Grant says their study found that parents support more public funding for these programs…

Cut 8 (12) “…huge difference.”

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The EPA has returned the Smitty’s Supply site back to the company and the Tangipahoa River and connecting ponds back to the State of Louisiana. EPA Region Six Administrator Scott Mason says this is the result of the cleanup progress following the explosion at the chemical plant in August. Mason says the EPA, however, is not going away.

Cut 9 (10)  “…are being met.”

Mason says while it’s handed what’s left of the facility back to Smitty’s, there is still some cleanup left to go.

Cut 10 (11) “…prevent further releases.”

Mason says there will be a coordinated approach with Smitty’s handling the facility cleanup and the state leading the river and pond cleanup under EPA oversight, with Tangipahoa Parish serving as the local coordinator.

Cut 11 (08) “…this case, Smitty’s.”

LRN PM Newscall October 15

The Supreme Court hears oral arguments over Louisiana’s congressional map that could have a profound effect on the 1965 Voting Rights Act. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Much needed rain is in the forecast for this weekend. But Jeff Palermo reports we are not looking at a drought buster…

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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The Supreme Court heard oral arguments this morning on Louisiana’s congressional map that could have a profound effect on the Voting Rights Act across the country. At issue is the creation of the state’s second majority Black district. Janai Nelson, the head of the NAACP’s Legal Defense Fund, says a third of the state’s eligible voters are Black, therefore Black voters in two of the state’s six Congressional districts should have the ability to elect the candidate of their choice…

Cut 3 (11) “…process is constitutional.”

Nelson says the creation of the state’s second majority Black congressional district was not done with the purpose of achieving a certain outcome.

Cut 4 (08) “…not party discrimination.”

But Solicitor General Ben Aguinaga (ahg-yee-NYA-gah) argued for the State of Louisiana and says race should not be the main factor in determining the districts of a Congressional map…

Cut 5 (13) “…their voting strength (2x).”

Aguinaga rejects Nelson’s assertion that the creation of a second majority Black district was done without regard to political preference.

Cut 6 (10) “…same political candidates.”

While the Supreme Court normally issues its rulings in June, the court is expected to rule on this case in the next two to three months, so that if a new map needs to be drawn, it can be done in time for the 2026 elections.

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Baton Rouge Police have arrested a 16-year-old in connection with Saturday night’s shooting on the LSU campus that wounded two people. Lt. L’ Jean McKneely Jr. says not only was there a football game at Tigers Stadium, but many people were also on campus for an unsanctioned event that was canceled by university officials. McKneely says as they were moving the crowd off campus, shots were fired.

Cut 7 (08) “…their investigation.”

McKneely says thanks to good detective work they identified the shooter and released a photo of the suspect seeking the public’s help in finding him…

Cut 8 (11) “…juvenile detention.”

The 16-year-old faces several charges, including two counts of attempted first-degree murder. McKneely says the shooting stemmed from a prior altercation between the involved parties…

Cut 9 (09)  “…gun fire.”

District Attorney Hillar Moore says the 16-year-old suspect arrested could be tried as an adult. He’s being held without bond.

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Eleven parishes have outdoor burn bans in place because of the dry conditions. State Climatologist Jay Grymes says for more than a third of the state, the fire danger is rated as High. Grymes says there is relief in sight as a cold front will boost rain chances this weekend

Cut 10 (08) “…much rain.”

Grymes says much of the northern half of the state could see one inch or more, while southern parishes could get a half inch of rain or less

Cut 11 (09) “…of the drought”

Grymes says the state has not seen much rain since late August and expects more parishes will issue outdoor burns this week…

Cut 12 (14) “…go up.”

Grymes says after the rain this weekend, the state will revert back to a dry pattern next week and the long-range forecast is not very promising when it comes frequent to precipitation.

AM Newscall Monday October 13

Former Governor John Bel Edwards has made it official. He will not run for U-S Senate next year. Jeff Palermo has the story

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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The Climate Prediction Center has issued a La Nina Advisory, what does that mean for Louisiana’s weather. Colleen Crain has the story…

Cut 2 (29) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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Tenth ranked LSU is getting ready to face 17th ranked Vanderbilt this Saturday in Nashville. Andre Champagne has more on the Tigers’ preparations…

Cut 3 (34) “…I’m Andre Champagne.”

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It’s day 14 of the federal government shutdown. The U-S Senate is expected to vote again today on a House-passed measure to fund the government. The funding proposal has already failed seven times as Senate Republicans have not been able to get enough support from Democrats. LSU Political Science Professor Robert Hogan says the House is not in session, so the Senate does not have another option…

Cut 4 (07) “…to compromise.”

House Speaker Mike Johnson from Bossier Parish warns this could be the longest government shutdown in U-S history. Hogan says Republicans and Democrats are at odds over whether to extend healthcare subsidies that millions of Americans rely on to purchase health insurance policies through the Affordable Care Act…

Cut 5 (10) “…doing anything.”

Johnson says he is willing to discuss the health care issue with Democrats before the subsides expire at the end of the year. But he first wants Democrats to agree on a funding bill that reopens the government. Hogan says public outcry about the shutdown has yet to get loud…

Cut 6 (08) “…they are doing.”

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Former Governor John Bel Edwards says he will not be a candidate in next year’s U-S Senate race. Edwards, who served eight years as governor from 2016 to 2023, says this is not the right time to re-enter public office. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says Edwards’ announcement is not surprising, since it’s very difficult for a Democrat to win a statewide race…

Cut 7 (08) “…Donald Trump.”

Since leaving the governor’s mansion, the former governor has returned to practicing law.

Republican Bill Cassidy is up for re-election next year and he has formidable challengers from his own party. Treasurer John Fleming, state senator Blake Miguez, Public Service Commissioner Eric Skrmetta and St. Tammany Parish Councilwoman Kathy Seidan.

Pinsonat says the next big development in this race is an announcement from Congresswoman Julia Letlow, who could get in the race…

Cut 8 (07) “…will be.”

Pinsonat says the Louisiana Democratic Party will have a candidate in this race that they will support. But he says that candidate will not get the needed financial support from the national Democratic Party…

Cut 9 (10)  “…lots of money.”

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The Climate Prediction Center has issued a La Nina Advisory. LSU Health Climatologist Barry Keim says the advisory means La Nina conditions are present and expected to continue. Keim says when there is a La Nina, the tropics are more conducive for storm development…

Cut 10 (10) “…busier than normal.”

Keim says a La Nina also means we could see less precipitation this winter…

Cut 11 (10) “..across the Midwest.”

Keim says this is expected to be a weak La Nina, but still have an impact on our weather…

Cut 12 (12) “…doesn’t happen.”

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Fallen Iberville Parish Deputy Charles Riley was laid to rest on Monday. The 33-year-old Riley and another deputy were shot last week while interviewing a suspect at the Iberville Parish Courthouse. Riley, a U-S Navy veteran, who served with the Iberville Sheriff’s Office for six years. His best friend and fellow deputy, Jordan Eric Ward, spoke about Riley’s bravery at the funeral…

Cut 13 (11)  “…faithful night.”

The other deputy shot is the son of Iberville Sheriff Brett Stassi Senior. Deputy Brett Stassi Junior continues to recover from his injuries, while the suspect in the shooting, 27-year-old Latrell Clark, died from a gunshot wound during the altercation. Sheriff Stassi says Riley was a great family man and public servant…

Cut 14 (11) “…his community.”

Deputy Charles Riley leaves behind his wife and two daughters. Sheriff Stassi says Riley served his community with compassion…

Cut 15 (08) “…never fade.”

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LSU’s defense will have to face another dual-threat quarterback this week with Vanderbilt’s Diego Pavia. Head coach Brian Kelly says that the Tigers have to take Pavia’s ability to run out of the game to make him one-dimensional so that he becomes more predictable throughout the game.

Cut 16 (22) “…the run.”

LSU sophomore right tackle Weston Davis has struggled throughout his first five starts, but he did not allow a sack when he faced South Carolina’s Dylan Stewart. Kelly says the Tigers are sticking with Davis at right tackle and says it’s key for him to continue to play so that he can continue to develop.

Cut 17 (18) “…to play.”

LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier had his fair share of ups and downs in the 20-10 win over South Carolina. Nussmeier threw the ball better against the Gamecocks, but still threw two interceptions. Kelly liked the way that Nussmeier attacked but says they need to limit his mistakes.

Cut 18 (21) “…uncharacteristic mistakes.”

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UL-Lafayette head coach Michael Desormeaux (DEZ-er-moe) announced that junior quarterback Walker Howard will return to practice fully this week after missing the last six weeks after suffering an oblique injury that required surgery. Desormeaux says Winfield is still the Cajuns’ starting quarterback, but says Howard is glad to be back.

Cut 19 (23) “…been through.”

Despite UL-Lafayette’s 2-4 record, the Cajuns can still mathematically win the Sun Belt West Division. Desormeaux says everything the team wants is in front of them and believes his group can get it done but says they will have to find a way to finish the close games more consistently.

Cut 20 (17) “…for you.”

LRN PM Newscall

Exciting times at Southeastern Louisiana University as it celebrates an historic milestone. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Governor Jeff Landry wants to see security beefed up around Tiger Stadium when LSU is hosting a football game. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Exciting times at Southeastern Louisiana University as the school celebrates its 100th anniversary this homecoming week. S-L-U President Dr. William Wainwright says the school has achieved its highest enrollment in more than a dozen years, with a student body of almost 16-thousand.

Cut 3 (10) “…degree from Southeastern.”

Wainwright says Southeastern has recently been designated as a “Research College” by the American Council on Education, reflecting a research investment of almost three-million dollars.

Cut 4 (12) “…of our graduates.”

Wainwright says the university has a series of events planned as it celebrates its centennial.

Cut 5 (16) “….athletic training”

The Lions football team hosts Northwestern State this Saturday for homecoming.

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A Lyft driver from Lake Charles is dead and authorities say they have arrested a Lafayette man in her murder and a second suspect died while trying to run from the cops. Calcasieu Parish Sheriff Stitch Guillory says their investigation started on Friday when 62-year-old Lawanna Lewis’ body was found in a ditch in Westlake…

Cut 6 (08) “…says a lot.”

Guillory says once they identified Lewis as the victim, they realized her vehicle had been stolen.

Calcasieu Parish Sheriff Office detectives put out a BOLO, and the vehicle was spotted in a parking lot in the Houston area. Guillory says when Harris County Sheriff deputies approached the vehicle, two men inside fled, one was caught, the other ran into the roadway…

Cut 7 (07) “…multiple cars”

Twenty-three-year-old Ethan Bush of Boyce was pronounced dead after he was struck by traffic. Guillory says 26-year-old Tristan Bush of Lafayette is facing second degree murder charges. The sheriff says his condolences go out to the Lewis family…

Cut 8 (08) “…advantage of her.”

Tristan Bush’s bond has been set at 2.5 million dollars.

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Democrat Helena Moreno will take over as the mayor of New Orleans in 90 days. Moreno beat 11 other candidates to win the mayoral election, without the need of a run-off. John Couvillon of JMC Analytics and Polling says Moreno, who was born in Mexico, did very well with white voters and received a good number of votes from Republicans and Democrats…

Cut 9 (11)  “…progressive friendly”

Moreno’s two strongest opponents, Royce Duplessis and Oliver Thomas are both Black, but Couvillon says Moreno still got 30-percent of the Black vote.

Cut 10 (12) “…name recognition.”

Moreno will be sworn in on January 11th and promises to get work right away in improving city services, the city’s infrastructure and supporting small and minority owned businesses. Couvillon says Moreno’s experience as a state lawmaker and city councilwoman gives her a chance to be successful

Cut 11 (08) “…head start”

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The Saints are 1-5 after their 25-19 loss to the Patriots on Sunday. Despite moving the ball well, New Orleans had to settle for field goals as the offense couldn’t find the end zone for most of the game. Quarterback Spencer Rattler says he feels like the Saints played good enough on offense.

Cut 12 (10) “…those plays.”

The Saints offense had multiple chances to win the game on Saturday, but they came up short after a Juwan Johnson fumble and a turnover on downs on the last drive. Rattler says that New Orleans is better than their record shows and that the offense has to do a better job of making the most out of its opportunities.

Cut 13 (09)  “those games.”

LRN AM Newscall October 13

LSU defeated South Carolina 20-10 on Saturday as the offense showed signs of progress, despite three turnovers. Jeff Palermo has a recap…

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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For the third consecutive year, Louisiana Tech has seen an increase in enrollment, with more than 12,000 students enrolled. Andre Champagne has the story…

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Andre Champagne.”

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If you love hot sauce, then you’ll want to check out the Louisiana Hot Sauce Trail. Colleen Crain has the story…

Cut 3 (31) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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Helena Moreno is the next mayor of New Orleans. The city councilwoman received 55 percent of the vote on Saturday to avoid a run-off election and will be sworn in on January 10th. Moreno says she looks forward to growing opportunities in the city…

Cut 4 (18) “…it deserves.”

Moreno is 48 years old. She was born in Mexico and grew up in Texas. She came to New Orleans as a TV journalist in 2001 and won an Emmy for her coverage of Hurricane Katrina.

In 2008, Moreno ran for Congress but lost. She was elected as a state representative in 2010, and in 2018, Moreno was elected to the city council.

Moreno says she plans to focus on the city’s services in her first 100 days in office…

Cut 5 (19) “…itself together.”

Moreno defeated state senator Royce Duplessis and fellow councilmember Oliver Thomas. She will replace LaToya Cantrell, who was indicted last August for allegedly using taxpayer dollars to help foster a romantic relationship with her former bodyguard.

During the campaign, Moreno said she would improve public safety, enhance economic development, and improve city services…

Cut 6 (12) “…New Orleans home.”

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Louisiana Tech’s enrollment of just over 12 thousand students for the 2025 Fall Quarter is the highest since 2018. The freshmen class of 24-hundred students is the largest domestic class in the school’s more than 130-year history. Louisiana Tech president Dr. Jim Henderson says there’s been more of an emphasis on recruiting students from the I-10 corridor

Cut 7 (11) “…the country.”

Henderson says Louisiana Tech’s nursing program has seen a 20-percent increase in students…

Cut 8 (15) “…hospital setting.”

Henderson says the Aviation management program has seen significant increase at 46 percent. He says the school also continue to attract a lot of engineering students…

Cut 9 (11)  “…success.”

Freshmen in the Honors College increased by 22 percent and boast an average ACT score of 31.

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Hot sauce is a big part of the Louisiana cuisine and there are several factories that make spicy sauce. The state Office of Tourism is trying to capitalize on that by launching the Louisiana Hot Sauce Trail. Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says the trail features several places in Louisiana where hot sauce fans can get their taste buds buzzing…

Cut 10 (09) “…hot sauce.”

The Hot Sauce Trail launch coincided with National Gumbo Day, which was yesterday.

The trail can be downloaded digitally on Louisiana-Hot-Sauce-Trail-dot-com. Nungesser says featured stops on the trail can be found all over the state and will continue to expand with new locations.

Cut 11 (12) “…in Louisiana.”

Nungesser says the new trail is part of the state’s Year of Food campaign, showcasing Louisiana food as a top reason for traveling to the state…

Cut 12 (10) “…for food.”

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The 10th-ranked LSU Tigers improved to 5-1 on Saturday with a 20-10 win over South Carolina. The Bayou Bengals’ struggling offense had 420 yards of total offense, but two turnovers at the one-yard line prevented this game from being a blowout. Coach Brian Kelly…

Cut 13 (11)  “…right direction.”

The Tigers’ defense was outstanding on Saturday night as they held South Carolina quarterback LaNorris Sellers to 124 passing yards. He was intercepted once and sacked five times, and only had 19 yards rushing. Kelly says they got after Sellers…

Cut 14 (08) “…of the game.”

AJ Haulcy led the defense with 11 tackles and Trey’Dez Green led the offense with eight catches for 119 yards and a touchdown. The Gamecocks had trouble defending the six-foot-seven tight end…

Cut 15 (05) “…every time.”

Quarterback Garrett Nussmeier threw for 254 yards, the most passing yards he’s had this season against an FBS opponent. But Nussmeier was also intercepted twice. Kelly didn’t like the turnovers, but overall he was encouraged by his performance…

Cut 16 (07) “…for him.”

LSU is at Vanderbilt this Saturday. Kick off is at 11 AM.

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The Saints once again came up a little short yesterday as they fell to the New England Patriots 25-19 to drop to 1-5 on the season. It’s the third time this season New Orleans has lost a game by fewer than seven points. Coach Kellen Moore says they failed to make enough plays…

Cut 17 (16) “…little margins.”

The Saints scored just one touchdown and had to settle for four field goals. The defense got off to another slow start, giving up two touchdowns in the first quarter. Safety Justin Reid says they made too many mental mistakes…

Cut 18 (18) “…over with.”

Former LSU star and Patriots receiver Kayshon Boutte had 5 catches for 93 yards and two touchdowns.

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ULM dropped to 3-3 overall, 1-1 in the Sun Belt after losing to Coastal Carolina 23-8 in rainy conditions in Conway, South Carolina. ULM struggled to do much offensively as most of their drives lasted just five plays or fewer. Coach Bryant Vincent is not happy with his team’s execution…

Cut 19 (12) “…get there.”

Quarterback Aidan Armenta was 14 of 28 for 176 yards and a touchdown. He was also intercepted once. The Warhawks committed seven penalties, and Vincent is upset they went 1-for-13 on third down…

Cut 20 (16) “…that’s simple.”

LRN PM Newscall October 10

Banana Ball is coming to New Orleans as the Savannah Bananas are bringing their unique brand of baseball to the Caesar’s Superdome March 14th and 15th. Andre Champagne reports.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Andre Champagne.”

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LSU fans are hoping to see the Tigers offense find its groove against South Carolina on Saturday night. Jeff Palermo has a preview…

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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The Landry administration has stopped another sediment diversion project. The Mid-Breton Sediment Diversion Project would have used Mississippi River water and sediment to build wetlands on the east bank of Plaquemines Parish. A similar project called the Mid-Barataria Sediment Diversion was also cancelled this year. Charles Sutcliffe with the National Wildlife Federation is disappointed…

Cut 3 (12) “…anti-transparency.”

Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority Director Gordon Dove says both projects have become too expensive. But Sutcliffe says the state planned on using BP Oil Spill settlement money. And he says these projects were essential to the long-term health of the coast…

Cut 4 (07) “…no sense.”

Sutcliff says every scientific study, planning document and engineering effort have confirmed the need for large-scale sediment diversion projects, but the Landry Administration believes they know better…

Cut 5 (12) “…sea level rise.”

The commercial fishing industry applauds the cancellation of these projects as they expressed concern about large volume of freshwater flowing into the sound. Dove says there are smaller diversion projects that can be successful and he also says there’s a land-building projects in that same area using dredged sediment, including the Lake Borgne Marsh Creation project.

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The Savannah Bananas have released their 2026 schedule, and they will play two games at the Caesar’s Superdome on March 14th and 15th.  Jay Cicero, the president and CEO of the Greater New Orleans Sports Foundation is pumped that Banana Ball is coming to the Big Easy

Cut 6 (08) “…really incredible.”

The Bananas game will be the first baseball game to be played in the Superdome since 2002, when LSU played Tulane. Cicero says since then, the Dome has been renovated a couple of times, and the stands can no longer move to configure into a traditional baseball field. He says they’ll leave it up to the Bananas’ creativity on the dimensions.

Cut 7 (15) “…baseball stadium”

Tickets to watch Banana Ball will be sold exclusively through the Bananas’ official lottery system. If you are chosen, tickets start at $40 while meet and greet tickets begin at $125. Cicero says buying tickets to watch the Bananas isn’t like your normal sports teams.

Cut 8 (07) “…slash ticket.”

Registration for the lottery closes on October 31.

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With no end in sight to the federal government shutdown, President Donald Trump says furloughed federal workers may not get back pay. However, Louisiana Senator John Kennedy says that’s not Trump’s call.

Cut 9 (07)  “…read the constitution”

Kennedy says Congress has always made sure that federal workers have been taken care of following government shutdowns, and this time will be no different.

Cut 10 (10) “…in my opinion.”

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LSU has had two weeks to fix an offense that ranks near the bottom in the SEC for points scored. Coach Brian Kelly on what he wants to see from his offense when they host the South Carolina Gamecocks tomorrow night…

Cut 11 (12) “…within our offense”

The Tigers defense is focused on South Carolina quarterback LaNorris Sellers. Last year, Sellers rushed for two touchdowns against LSU, including a 75-yarder. Defensive end Jimari Butler says they want to bottle up Sellers…

Cut 12 (12) “…get home.”

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Saints fans will be glad to know that defensive end Chase Young will make his season debut against the Patriots on Sunday after missing the first five games of the season with a calf injury. Head coach Kellen Moore says Young earned his opportunity to play this week through an impressive recovery.

Cut 13 (13)  “…juice too.”

The Saints’ offense ranks 28th in the NFL in scoring, averaging just over 18 points a game. Veteran running back Alvin Kamara says that New Orleans is still trying to figure out its offense, especially with so many players involved.

Cut 14 (14) “…they can.”

Kick off Sunday in New Orleans is at noon.

LRN PM Newscall October 8

The attorney for former LSU receiver Kyren Lacy welcomes an investigation by the Attorney General’s Office into State Police’s decision to charge Lacy with negligent homicide. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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The race for the Republican nomination for U.S. Senate in Louisiana has just become more crowded. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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The attorney for former LSU receiver Kyren Lacy says the video released by State Police that shows Lacy driving at a high rate of speed and passing multiple vehicles in a no-passing zone moments before two cars collided head-on in Lafourche Parish last December does not change his position that Lacy did NOT cause that fatal crash. Matthew Ory was a guest on “After Further Review,” on ESPN Baton Rouge radio…

Cut 3 (05) “…criminal case.”

Ory says the video shows Lacy was back in his proper lane before the two cars collided on Louisiana Highway 20.

State Police claims Lacy’s reckless driving, which included driving at a high rate of speed in a lane facing oncoming traffic, forced a driver to swerve to their left to avoid Lacy’s Dodge Charger, which resulted in the fatal collision.

But Ory says the Lafourche Parish District Attorney’s Office’s own investigation determined Lacy was over 70 yards behind the cars involved in the crash, therefore too far away for him to be considered responsible.

Ory told ESPN Baton Rouge radio that the evidence released by State Police didn’t change a thing…

Cut 4 (03) “…didn’t do anything.”

The State Police video report shows two witnesses at the scene of the crash blaming Lacy’s Dodge Charger for causing the fatal crash. Ory said in his interview on ESPN Baton Rouge Radio, there’s still more evidence out there…

Cut 5 (08) “…you tell me.”

Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill says the Lafourche District Attorney appropriately was bringing the matter to a grand jury, so that the grand jury could review the facts and decide the appropriate charges to indict on, if any. Murrill says she’s continuing to review the entire file from State Police and will release a more detailed statement at the conclusion of that review. Ory told ESPN Baton Rouge he welcomes the investigation by the A-G’s office on how State Police handled this case…

Cut 6 (09) “ let’s see what they got.”

Lacy’s Dad, Kenny Lacy, was part of the interview on “After Further Review” with Matt Moscona on ESPN Baton Rouge. The grieving father had this message for the public…

Cut 7 (12) “…fatal crash.”

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Senator Bill Cassidy has yet another Republican challenger, and his first female challenger. St. Tammany Parish Councilwoman Kathy Seiden (SIGH-den) has entered the race for the Republican nomination in the 2026 U.S. Senate race. ULM political science professor Pearson Cross says Seiden has a very tall mountain to climb to win the nomination.

Cut 8 (13) “…around very long.”

In her announcement, Seiden says she’s running because Washington has lost touch with the real challenges families face every day; and as a mother of four, she experiences those challenges. Cross says since Seiden is an unknown, she may have entered the race too late to mount any serious challenge.

Cut 9 (11)  “…kinds of things.”

Cross says with a Republican candidate field that includes John Fleming, Blake Miguez and Eric Skrmetta and could still potentially include Julia Letlow and Julie Emerson, Seiden’s strategy has to be to clinch second place in the April primary.

Cut 10 (10) “…in the air.”

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The whole state is going to be in for some gorgeous conditions outside for the next several days. LSU Health Climatologist Barry Keim says a cold front is going to come across Louisiana tonight, and that’s going to make it a lot more comfortable to be outside.

Cut 11 (10) “…bit like fall.”

Keim says depending on where you’re at in the state, you might need to break out that windbreaker as you head into work at the end of the week – assuming your company is not on a four-day work week.

Cut 12 (08) “…in the state.”

Keim says the best part is it will be a lot less humid than what we had been dealing with all summer long.

Cut 13 (14)  “…been experiencing recently.”

LRN AM Newscall October 8

Now that State Police released a wide-angle video of the crash involving late LSU star Kyren Lacy, how does that change the narrative? Andrew Greenstein got some insight from a legal analyst.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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One Louisiana Congressman is upset over the lack of negotiations as the federal government shutdown enters its eighth day. Jeff Palermo has the story.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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While a Saints superstar was trying to help his team to victory last month, a real fearsome foursome was helping itself to his belongings. Andre Champagne reports.

Cut 3 (34) “…I’m Andre Champagne.”

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Medicaid provider reimbursements are up in Louisiana. State Health Secretary Bruce Greenstein (green-steen) delivered the news in a press conference yesterday.

Cut 4 (07) “…applicable Medicare rate.”

(Providers are currently being reimbursed 85-percent of the applicable Medicare rate.) Greenstein says this is up significantly from a couple years ago.

Cut 5 (16) “…in the aggregate.”

Greenstein says this is a direct result of the Department of Health and Medicaid improving efficiencies, resulting in savings to the state.

Cut 6 (14) “…for Medicaid themselves.”

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Now that State Police have released new video that showed Kyren Lacy’s role in last December’s fatal crash in Thibodaux, does that change things? Late last week, Lacy’s lawyer suggested that video taken from a different angle exonerated the late LSU star of any wrongdoing. But the new video clearly shows him speeding left of center in a no-passing zone, leading to an oncoming driver to swerve left to avoid hitting him and instead crashing head-on into an SUV, killing that vehicle’s driver. Legal analyst Franz Borghardt says based on the new video, he has no issue with how State Police investigated and charged Lacy.

Cut 7 (10) “…of an arrest.”

Borghardt says even though it’s a moot point since Lacy has since died, proving that he caused the crash beyond a reasonable doubt might have been a tall task for prosecutors.

Cut 8 (14) “…been shared responsibility.”

Borghardt says he disagrees with any notion that Lacy’s civil rights were violated, and he’s the first to call out any police wrongdoing.

Cut 9 (11)  “…the grand jury.”

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It’s day eight of the federal government shutdown, and one Louisiana congressman is frustrated over the lack of negotiations. Measures to fund the government continue to fail in the Senate, and New Orleans Democrat Troy Carter says that’s not a surprise because Republicans and Democrats are not exchanging ideas.

Cut 10 (10) “…the differences are.”

Carter says this kicking our heels into the ground and refusing to talk is irresponsible, reckless and childish.

Cut 11 (13) “…the American people.”

The last government shutdown, which started in 2018 and ended in 2019, lasted 35 days. Carter says it cost the American people 11-billion dollars.

Cut 12 (06) “…to be different?”

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While Cam Jordan was leading the Saints defense against the 49ers in the Superdome last month, a quartet of burglars were helping themselves to his belongings. The longtime Saints star’s Metairie home was broken into during the September 14th game. Jefferson Parish Sheriff Joe Lopinto says deputies developed a vehicle of interest – a rental vehicle connected to the Atlanta area.

Cut 13 (12)  “…City of Conyers.”

Lopinto says his department worked with Conyers Police to quickly solve the case. 

Cut 14 (12) “…that next day.”

The two suspects in custody are 28-year-old Donald Robinson of Stockbridge, Georgia, and 19-year-old Jadon (jah-DON) Brown of Conyers. The two other suspects still on the loose are 20-year-old Jahaun Suber and 19-year-old Devell Ortiz, both of Conyers. Lopinto says this is the latest in a string of incidents in which NFL stars’ homes have been burglarized – other recent victims include Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce and Joe Burrow.

Cut 15 (05) “…a home game.”

Lopinto says it’s unclear whether the fact that the suspects were from the Atlanta area had anything to do with them targeting a star player from the Saints. Still, he says he hopes Jordan takes his anger out on the Falcons when the two teams face each other this season.

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South Carolina football has had a disappointing 3-and-2 start to the season. The Gamecocks have the number-91 scoring offense, averaging just 24.8 points per game. Head coach Shane Beamer says his struggling offense needs to do a better job this weekend, especially with the run game.

Cut 16 (17) “…what we have (2x).”

LSU junior linebacker Harold Perkins had three tackles and a fumble recovery in last season’s game against South Carolina. Beamer says that Perkins poses several challenges for the Gamecocks’ offense.

Cut 17 (19)  “…in the backfield.”

South Carolina starts a gauntlet of facing five straight top-ten teams with LSU this Saturday. Beamer is excited to play in Baton Rouge and says his team is doing all they can to simulate playing in one of the toughest environments in the country.

Cut 18 (18) “…in those environments.”

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UL-Lafayette football has had two of its three losses come on the road this season. As the Cajuns get ready to play James Madison in Virginia on Saturday, head coach Michael Desormeaux (DEZ-er-moe) says his team has the opportunity to make up for its early struggles on the road.

Cut 19 (17) “…product on tape.”

UL-Lafayette sophomore quarterback Lunch Winfield led his team to an impressive 54-51 overtime two weeks ago after coming off the bench and accounting for five touchdowns. Winfield is still dealing with an injury he suffered against Marshall, and Desormeaux says that the young QB is trending up, but he says the Cajuns must have a plan for both quarterbacks.

Cut 20 (16) “…plans for both.”

LRN PM Newscall October 6

Another company announces plans to invest in Lafayette. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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An attorney for former LSU wide receiver Kyren Lacy says video evidence disputes a State Police’s report that he caused a fatal crash in Lafourche Parish last December. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (40) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Saints fans at yesterday’s game at the Superdome were ecstatic to see their team pull off their first win of the 2025 season – a 26-14 come-from-behind win over the New York Giants.

Cut 3 (14) “…a good win.”

Not only is it the Saints’ first win of the season, and not only is it Kellen Moore’s first win as an NFL head coach – but it’s also Spencer Rattler’s first win as an NFL starting quarterback in 11 tries. Fans were thrilled for the former South Carolina Gamecock.

Cut 4 (09) “…get a win.”

When the Saints took a 16-14 lead as time ran out in the first half, that was their first lead all season long. The Saints will try to make it two in a row this Sunday at the Superdome against New England.

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Another company announces an investment in Lafayette. Baton Rouge-based electrical contractor MMR announces that it’s expanding its footprint in Louisiana by investing in a new assembly plant in Lafayette. Economic Development Secretary Susan Bourgeois says it’s a huge win for both Lafayette and the state.

Cut 5 (13) “…an industrial contractor.”

That will create 200 direct new jobs with an average annual salary of 85-thousand dollars a year, along with more than 300 indirect new jobs. This comes on the heels of Friday’s announcement of Houston-based drone manufacturer DMR moving into a facility in Lafayette that it’s currently renovating. Bourgeois says the drones DMR will be building will have several applications which are germane to Louisiana.

Cut 6 (11) “…economy is future-proofing.”

Bourgeois says the announcements by MMR and DMR are the latest examples of how Louisiana is becoming a technology hub for the country.

Cut 7 (12) “…kind of manufacturing.”

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The attorney for former LSU receiver Kyren Lacy says video evidence and other data collected show he was not responsible for a fatal crash that occurred last December in Thibodaux. State Police charged Lacy with negligent homicide, and other charges. But Matthew Ory says based on body camera footage and a report from the Lafourche Parish District Attorney, Lacy’s vehicle was far behind the fatal head-on collision…

Cut 8 (10) “..every painted.”

Ory made those comments on HTV 10 News on Friday. State Police released a statement that stands by their investigation, which alleges Lacy was swerving, passing cars and his reckless operation caused the series of crash events.

When Lacy was arrested in January, L-S-P issued a statement that says Lacy’s Dodge Charger illegally passed multiple vehicles, which caused a Kia Cadenza to swerve to avoid the Charger, which then crashed head on-with a Kia Sorrento. A passenger in the Sorrento, 78-year-old Herman Hall, died from his injuries.

Ory also provided evidence during the extensive HTV 10 News interview that driver number two, was eating Funyuns and tailgating before colliding with the other vehicle and was supposed to be cited…

Cut 9 (12)  “…taken away”

State Police also says Lacy drove around the crash scene and fled south on LA Hwy 20 without stopping to render aid, call emergency services, or report his involvement in the crash.

Ory made it clear during the HTV 10 interview the evidence he provided was collected by the Lafourche Parish District Attorney’s Office and the last statement of their report, contradicts what State Police has said…

Cut 10 (11) “…72 yards in front of him.”

Lacy took his life on April 12th in Houston, two days before a grand jury was set to hear the evidence against him.

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LSU coach Brian Kelly says quarterback Garrett Nussmeier is a go for Saturday’s game against South Carolina. Kelly says Nussmeier used the bye week to get more mental reps without having to put any pressure on his ab.

Cut 11 (14) “…the throwing.”

Brian Kelly has commented on the new evidence that was released over the weekend that shows former LSU wide receiver Kyren Lacy may not be at fault for a head-on fatal crash that occurred last December.

Cut 12 (12) “…loved after.”