LRN AM Newscall December 3

With the legislature passing a comprehensive tax reform package, some aspects will require voter approval, and that will happen in March. Andrew Greenstein reports.

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The Holidays should be a time for joy and happiness, but for many it’s a difficult time marked by stress, loneliness, and depression. Sean Richardson has more.

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The Ragin Cajuns are gearing up to host the Sun Belt Championship game on Saturday night. Jeff Palermo has the story…

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Some aspects of the tax reform package passed by the legislature will need voter approval, and that election is slated for March 29th. Steven Procopio, the president of the Public Affairs Research Council of Louisiana, says citizens will vote on what is essentially a complete rewrite of Article 7 of the state constitution – the tax and spending section.

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Procopio says the rewritten article also includes options for local governments.

Cut 5 (09) “…effects of that.” 

Procopio says PAR will release a voter guide on the amendment vote, but it will take a couple months to sift through everything contained in the proposal.

Cut 6 (11) “…all the details.”

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The holiday season can be a difficult time for many, marked by stress, loneliness, and depression. Common triggers include societal expectations of cheerfulness, financial pressures, unrealistic ideals, grief, and seasonal affective disorder. LSU Medical Center Trauma Psychologist Sandy Hyatt says these factors can magnify feelings of inadequacy and sadness, making the holidays challenging.

Cut 7 (08) “…much time with.”

Strategies to combat holiday-related sadness include setting realistic expectations and embracing imperfections to focus on connection rather than perfection. Hyatt says seeking social connections, expressing emotions through journaling or conversations, and setting boundaries to avoid over-commitment are also effective.

Cut 8 (08) “…isolated and low.”

Hyatt says embracing mindfulness, gratitude, and the acceptance of emotions, including tears, can foster resilience and hope. By prioritizing mental health and redefining the holidays on personal terms, individuals can find joy and connection beyond the season.

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Today is Giving Tuesday in Louisiana, encouraging residents across the state to support charitable causes and engage in acts of generosity. Taking place on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, United Way Southeast Louisiana CEO Michael Williamson says it provides an opportunity for individuals, businesses, and organizations to unite in addressing community needs and driving positive change.

Cut 10 (15) “…make that happen.”

In Louisiana, the day often highlights the unique culture, challenges, and spirit of its communities. Nonprofits, schools, and faith-based organizations across the state participate by organizing fundraisers, volunteer events, and awareness campaigns. Williamson says donating one dollar can have a 14-dollar impact on our communities.

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Coming off Black Friday and Cyber Monday, William says it’s been amazing to see how much Giving Tuesday has grown over the years and having a day where people are grateful and willing to give…

Cut 12 (14) “…helps accomplish that.”

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Woman’s Hospital in Baton Rouge, has released its annual list of the most popular baby names for 2024.   Vice President of Marketing and Communications Laurel Burgos says leading the list for boys is a name that’s been very popular for the last few years…

Cut 13 (05)  “…top of the boys list.”    (Noah is number one for boys, followed by Liam, Henry and John.)

For girls, Amelia was the most popular name at Woman’s Hospital, while Charlotte and Olivia landed at the second and third spots.

While many names are more traditional, Burgos says some more modern trendy names made it on the list.

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Woman’s Hospital is the largest single delivery service in Louisiana.

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The worst fears regarding Saints utility man Taysom Hill’s knee injury are confirmed. He has a torn ACL and will miss the rest of the season. Hill was carted off the field in Sunday’s loss to the Rams. Interim head coach Darren Rizzi says you can’t replace Hill’s versatility…

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Hill is the Saints second leading rusher. But a young running back could be available to play this Sunday against the Giants. Second year back Kendre Miller could be removed from injured reserve. The 22-year-old is trying to come back from a second hamstring injury. He also had an injury plagued rookie season. Rizzi says he wants to give Miller a shot…

Cut 16 (16) “…staying healthy.”

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Redshirt senior Chandler Fields will make his third start at quarterback this Saturday when U-L Lafayette hosts Marshall on Saturday night in the Sun Belt Championship game. Fields has played well for the injured Ben Woolridge and Coach Michael Desormeaux is not surprised…

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Desormeaux is leading his alma mater to the conference championship in his third season as head coach. His first two seasons were six and seven campaigns, but knew it would eventually come together…

Cut 18 (18)   “…for those things.”

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Southern will battle Jackson State in the SWAC title game on Saturday afternoon in Jackson, Mississippi. The Jaguars leaned on their defense to win the western division title with a seven and one record and that side of the football will need to be at its best for them to beat the Tigers. Coach Terrance Graves…

Cut 19 (12) “…take the ball away.”  

Southern’s defense is led by Ckelby Givens, who leads the F-C-S in tackles for a loss and he’s eighth in the nation in sacks. Graves says Givens has put in the work to become a great player…

Cut 20 (17) “…co-defensive player of the year.”

Grambling State linebacker Andrew Jones is the other SWAC co-defensive player of the year. Jones led the conference in tackles with 122.