LRN Am Newscall Feb 1 ### Corrected version

As experts predict another above average hurricane season in 2022, the Louisiana Department of Education is taking steps to get schools ready for what comes before and after the storm. David Grubb has more.

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m David Grubb.”

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State lawmakers begin the task of Redistricting Louisiana later today; a task that comes around once every ten years. More from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.” 

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Governor Edwards’ office issues a statement in regard to a media report he was aware of Ronald Greene’s death in May 2019. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (38) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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The Louisiana Department of Education is getting proactive when it comes to hurricane preparedness with the launch of the Protect Louisiana Schools: Hurricane Preparedness Commission. State Superintendent Dr. Cade Brumley believes now is the time to bring together as many bright minds as possible to put a comprehensive plan in place for our schools.

Cut 4 (14) “…back into classrooms.” 

Dr. Brumley says that district leaders are faced with a wide number of problems, ranging from communications to infrastructure to getting cafeterias restocked with supplies. With the input of experts from the government, educational, and private sectors, he wants to provide leaders with best practices for preparation and recovery.

Cut 5 (11) “…much as possible.”

The commission will get to work immediately, and Brumley expects to have recommendations in place by the time districts begin their planning for what is expected to be a very active hurricane season.

Cut 6 (12) “…next hurricane season.”

For more information visit ProtectLaSchools.org

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It appears online sports wagering got off to a big start over the weekend. And while he doesn’t have exact figures yet, State Gaming Control Board Chairman Ronnie Johns says when you compare activity for the inaugural weekend to other states Louisiana is not an underdog.

Cut 7 (11) “…weeks ago.”

It was a big sports weekend for online sports betting to debut with the NFL playoffs and with several former high profile LSU players on the gridiron, there was even more motivation to place a wager. Technical-wise Johns says everything went off without a hitch.

Cut 8 (12)  “….rolled out.”

Johns says he doesn’t have an amount yet of how much the state profited opening weekend he does believe Louisiana covered the spread.

Cut 9 (07)  “…hoped for.”

Six sports betting platforms were online for opening weekend and Johns says to expect even more in the coming weeks.

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State lawmakers are off to Baton Rouge to begin the 20-day special legislative session for redistricting Louisiana. The House & Senate must agree on new boundaries for the legislature, Public Service Commission, state courts and six U.S. Congressional seats. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says he believes the latter – U.S. House districts – will be addressed right up front…:

Cut 10 (11) “…or NOT override a veto.”

The Governor and black leaders say the state needs to have a second majority minority district, and that is liable to be fuel for some disagreements within the Capitol. Pinsonat says better to get that settled early on, before moving on the more local matters; like redrawing in-state House & Senate boundaries…:

Cut  11 (10)  “…related to that.”  

A number of districts in areas surrounding cities like Baton Rouge, New Orleans and Lafayette are currently represented by African-American members, but those districts have lost population and will have to redrawn. Some members could lose their seats, because district lines have moved away from where they reside. Pinsonat says Redistricting is great political theater that only comes around every ten years…:

Cut 12 (09) “…have no other choice.”

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Governor John Bel Edwards’ office issued a statement in response to the Associated Press story that he was notified by State Police Head Kevin Reeves in May 2019 regarding an unnamed motorist who died in their custody. The motorist was Ronald Greene, and ULM Political Science Professor Dr. Joshua Stockley says this could prove volatile for Edwards.

Cut 13 (12) “…reelection.”

Edwards was campaigning for his second term at the time, where he narrowly defeated Eddie Rispone in the run-off.

Edwards’ office says it is standard procedure for the governor to be notified when someone dies in state police custody, but Edwards did not see video of Greene’s repeated beating by officers until October 2020. Stockley says so far there’s no evidence that Edwards was involved in a coverup…

Cut 14 (11)  “…or investigation.”

Edwards will meet with the Legislative Black Caucus today. Stockley says the Black community deserves to know what Edwards knew and his immediate response. He says the governor needs the support of the Legislative Black Caucus entering a redistricting session and then a regular session…

Cut 15 (06)  “…accomplished.”

After the meeting, Edwards is expected to take questions from the media.

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The LSU Tigers have tumbled all the way to 25th in the AP rankings after dropping four of their last five games. LSU is back home in the P-MAC tonight as they host Ole Miss. The Rebels are just 2-6 in SEC play but are allowing opponents to score only 66 points per game with their multiple defenses, something Will Wade says the Tigers will have to adjust to.

Cut  16 (22)  “…do a great job.”

Injuries have been a major factor for the Tigers, dating back to the loss of Adam Miller before the season began. Only center Efton Reid has been able to start all 21 games, and several players are still fighting injuries. Wade says he’s hopeful the team’s health will improve, but is preparing for if it doesn’t.

Cut 17 (18) “ …back healthy again.” 

It wasn’t that long ago that the Tigers were challenging for a top-4 seed in the NCAA tournament, but Wade is far more concerned with the games remaining on the SEC schedule, which has not been kind so far.

Cut 18 (8) “ …get to work.” 

Tip-off is scheduled for 8 p.m.

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5:30 LRN Newscast January 31

Republican House Speaker Clay Schexnayder is calling for an investigation to find out if Governor John Bel Edwards possibly participated in a cover-up of Ronald Greene’s death, a black motorist who died after he was beaten by State Troopers during a traffic stop in 2019. La-Politics-dot-com publisher Jeremy Alford says Republicans want to know if Edwards helped keep the details of Greene’s death quiet for political reasons. Alford says many legislators want to hear the governor’s side of the story…

Cut 5 (11) “…same as well.”

The governor’s office released a statement that Edwards did not learn of the allegations surrounding Mr. Greene’s death until September of 2020, and that he had only been notified of the arrest and death of an unnamed individual in May of 2019. It goes on to state that the governor did not see, nor was he aware of, the video of the arrest until October of 2020.

The Louisiana Legislative Black Caucus has called for a meeting with Governor Edwards to discuss the case and, according to Chairman-elect Vincent Pierre, “how to move forward in our mission of obtaining justice for the family of Mr. Greene.

The State Fire Marshal’s Office said home fires have killed 15 people in the month of January. It’s the deadliest month the state has experienced in five years. Spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says 2018 was the last time the state had that many and average temperatures were below normal. Saturday afternoon firefighters responded to an RV fire in New Iberia.  Rodrigue says first responders located the body of a 50-year-old woman in the bedroom.

Cut 10 (12) “…every outlet.”

Kayla Giles faces life in prison after a Rapides Parish Jury found her guilty in the murder of her estranged husband, Thomas Coutee Junior. Giles fatally shot Coutee in a Walmart parking lot in September of 2018 during a custody exchange. Giles’ attorney said he wouldn’t be surprised if the verdict was overturned on appeal because the prosecution was allowed to use other crimes as evidence. But Landry says prosecutors presented a strong case…

Cut 13 (05) “…for her life.”

4:30 LRN Newscast January 31

Republican leadership in the state legislature calls for an investigation into whether Governor Edwards took part in any cover-up of the May 2019 death of Ronald Greene, after a beating by state troopers and other LEOs. According to an Associated Press report, Edwards was informed the day after Greene died that he was involved in a violent struggle with troopers, while Green’s family was told for nearly two years he died in a car crash. “LAPolitics.com” publisher Jeremy Alford says Edwards has faced numerous challenges during his time in office, but this one is unique for his administration…:

CUT 04(12)      “…honor code.”

Alford says Republicans want to know if Edwards helped keep the details of Greene’s death quiet for political reasons, as that was a re-election year. The Governor’s office issued a written statement this afternoon stating Greene’s name was not provided in the initial email from LSP and that Mr. Edwards (quote) “did not see, nor was he aware of,” the videos of Greene’s arrest until October 2020. It also states that the Governor has never intervened in any criminal investigation.

 

In Rapides Parish over the weekend, a jury convicted 35-year-old Kayla Giles of gunning down her estranged husband, Thomas Coutee Jr., in a Wal-Mart parking lot during a child custody exchange back in September 2018. State Attorney General Jeff Landry says, based upon statements made by Coutee’s family, they’re pleased with the verdict…:

CUT 12(12)      “…what we did.”

Giles faces probable life in prison when sentenced in late March.

 

The man accused of killing former New Orleans Saint Will Smith, in April of 2016, will face re-trial in the Crescent City, after a defense motion for change of venue was denied. Cardell Hayes earlier conviction for Smith’s death was overturned by the state Supreme Court last year. Smith was shot and killed – and his wife shot and wounded – during a fight over a fender-bender. Hayes says he acted in self-defense. His re-trial begins April 4th.

4:45 LRN Sportscast January 31

The search for the next head coach of the Saints is picking up steam. NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport says the team has already spoken with former Eagles head coach Doug Pederson and plans this week to meet with former Dolphins coach Brian Flores Tuesday, Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn on Wednesday, and current Saints defensive coordinator Dennis Allen on Thursday. Pederson, Flores, and Allen all have prior head coaching experience, with Pederson leading the Eagles to a win in Super Bowl 52.

Former LSU wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr is one of five Tigers who will be playing in Super Bowl 56. After a rocky few seasons that put his career in question, Beckham is back on top. Beckham had nine catches for 113 yards for the Rams in their NFC Championship win over the 49ers.  Advancing to the Super Bowl was a surreal experience for the player once considered a superstar, who had been traded, injured, and released before finding a home in LA.

Cut 7 (10) “…an amazing moment.”

And the Pelicans visit the Cavs tonight, looking to complete a season sweep of their 2-game series.

25th-ranked LSU men’s basketball has received another major commitment, as Coach Will Wade has added a second five-star prospect to the 2022 class. 6-10 forward/center Yohan Traore is rated as one of the top 20 players in the country and joins five-star forward Julian Phillips and four-star wing Devin Ree to give the Tigers the 11th-ranked recruiting class for next season.

On the diamond, four Tigers have been named Preseason All-Americans by Baseball America. Dylan Crews and Jacob Berry were selected for the first team, with Tre Morgan and Cade Doughty earning second-team honors. Berry may be the headliner after batting .352 with 17 home runs and 70 RBI as a freshman at Arizona. Coach Jay Johnson says the switch-hitting Berry has a simple approach.

Cut 18 (18) “…both sides.”

And Tulane guard Jalen Cook has earned American Athletic Conference Player of the Week honors for the second time this season.

3:30 LRN Newscast January 31

It’s been a deadly month for house fires in Louisiana and two more lives were lost Saturday. Brooke Thorington looks at “why so many?”…

CUT 02(32)      “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

The Southern University campus, in Baton Rouge, was locked down this morning after a bomb threat. No device was found. No one was hurt. It was one of six threats made against a number of HBCU’s across the country today. Federal authorities are investigating. Classes return to normal at Southern tomorrow.

 

Republican House Speaker Clay Schexnayder calls for an investigation into if Governor John Bel Edwards possibly participated in a cover-up of Ronald Greene’s death, a black motorist who died after he was beaten by State Troopers during a May 2019 traffic stop. LAPolitics.com publisher Jeremy Alford says Schexnayder uses the term “gross misconduct” in his written statement…:

CUT 03(10)      “…impeachment proceedings.”

Greene’s family was told he died in a car crash.

 

Kayla Giles faces life in prison after a Rapides Parish Jury found her guilty Saturday of the murder of her estranged husband, Thomas Coutee Jr. Giles fatally shot Coutee in a Walmart parking lot in September of 2018 during a custody exchange. The case was prosecuted by the Louisiana Attorney General’s Office. Here is A.G. Jeff Landry…:

CUT 11(06)      “…justice to victims.”

Giles is expected to get life when her sentencing comes up in late March.

2:30 LRN Newscast January 31

House Speaker Clay Schexnayder and the Louisiana Republican Party are calling for an investigation to see what Governor John Bel Edwards knew about the State Police custody death of Ronald Greene. Jeff Palermo has more…:

CUT 01(30)      “…Jeff Palermo.”

A Florida man is under arrest in Houma for shooting a worker at a local business. Police say 18-year-old Max Leon, of Orlando, started a disturbance at the Main Street business. When an employee offered to escort him out, he shot the man several times. The victim is expected to pull through. Leon is charged with attempted murder.

 

Fifteen people have been killed in house fires across Louisiana this month; making January one of the most fire-deadly months in five years. In the most recent case, another home in Bastrop caught fire killing a 58-year-old man. State Fire Marshal’s spokesperson Ashley Rodgrigue says it’s believed an overloaded extension cord was the probable source..:

CUT 09(06)      “…of the origin.”

Also Saturday a New Iberia woman died when her RV caught fire. Neither home had a working smoke detector.

A Bossier City man is under arrest for allegedly abusing his 4-month old child. Authorities say the baby was brought to an ER non-responsive and barely breathing. Upon examination doctors found multiple lesions, bleeding inside the child’s head, multiple rib fractures, a wrist fracture and bleeding around his eyes; all indicative of physical abuse. 25-year-old Corey Jackson is being held pending a $350-thousand bond.

LRN PM Newscall January 31

House Speaker Clay Schexnayder and the Louisiana Republican Party are calling for an investigation to see what Governor John Bel Edwards knew about the State Police custody death of Ronald Greene. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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It’s been a deadly month for house fires in Louisiana and two more lives were lost Saturday. Brooke Thorington has more

Cut 2 (32)…I’m Brooke Thorington.”  

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Republican House Speaker Clay Schexnayder is calling for an investigation to find out if Governor John Bel Edwards possibly participated in a cover-up of Ronald Greene’s death, a black motorist who died after he was beaten by State Troopers during a traffic stop in 2019. La-Politics-dot-com publisher Jeremy Alford says Schexnayder uses the term gross misconduct in his statement…

Cut 3 (10) “…impeachment proceedings.”

According to an Associated Press report, Edwards was informed the day after Greene died that he was involved in a violent struggle with troopers, while Green’s family was told for nearly two years he died in a car crash.

Greene’s death was in 2019 the same year he was up for re-election. Alford says Edwards has faced numerous challenges during his time in office, but this one is unique for his administration…

Cut 4 (12) “…honor code.”

Alford says Republicans want to know if Edwards helped keep the details of Greene’s death quiet for political reasons. Alford says many legislators want to hear the governor’s side of the story…

Cut 5 (12) “…same as well.”

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Former LSU wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr is one of five Tigers who will be playing in Super Bowl 56. OBJ has been big for the Rams since joining them at midseason, and that continued in the playoffs. Beckham had nine receptions for 113 yards in the win. Now, Beckham has found a home with the Rams and is 60 minutes from realizing a dream come true.

 Cut 6 (13) “…keep going.” 

After a rocky few seasons that put his career in question, Beckham is back on top. Advancing to the Super Bowl was a surreal experience for the player once considered a superstar, who had been traded, injured, and released.

Cut 7 (1o) “…an amazing moment.” 

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The State Fire Marshal’s Office said home fires have killed 15 people in the month of January. It’s the deadliest month the state has experienced in five years. Spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says 2018 was the last time the state had that many and average temperatures were below normal.

Cut 8 (11) “…in their homes.”  

Two more lives were taken over the weekend. Early Saturday morning, the Bastrop Fire Department responded to a house fire where a 58-year-old man was found dead in a bedroom. She says excessive use of extension cords was a factor.

Cut 9 (06) “…the origin.”

And Saturday afternoon firefighters responded to an RV fire in New Iberia.  Rodrigue says first responders located the body of a 50-year-old woman in the bedroom.

Cut 10 (12)  “…every outlet.” 

Rodrigue says in both incidents a working smoke detector was not located. She urges you to practice space heater safety and if you need a smoke detector to contact visit Louisiana State Fire Marshal’s Office website.

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Kayla Giles faces life in prison after a Rapides Parish Jury found her guilty in the murder of her estranged husband, Thomas Coutee Junior. Giles fatally shot Coutee in a Walmart parking lot in September of 218 during a custody exchange. The case was prosecuted by the Louisiana Attorney General’s Office, A-G Jeff Landry…

Cut  11 (06)   “….to victims”  

Giles was convicted on her 35th birthday. She’s expected to be sentenced to life in prison March 28th. Landry says based on the statements made by Courtee’s family after the trial, they are happy with the verdict…

Cut 12 (12) “…what we did.”  

Giles attorney said he wouldn’t be surprised if the verdict was overturned on appeal because the prosecution was allowed to use other crimes as evidence. But Landry says the criminal prosecutors from his office who worked on this case presented a strong case…

Cut 13 (05) “…for her life”

1:30 LRN Newscast January 31

House Speaker Clay Schexnayder is calling for an investigation into what Governor John Bel Edwards knew about the death of black motorist Ronald Greene, who died after he was beaten by State troopers in 2019. State Police told Greene’s family he died in a car crash, but an Associated Press report says Edwards learned of the violent struggle with Trooper the day after Greene’s death. LA Politics-dot-com publisher Jeremy Alford says legislators want to hear the governor’s side of the story…
cut 5 (12) “….same as well”
So far no statement from the governor’s office.

The State Fire Marshal’s Office says home fires have killed 15 people in the month of January. It’s the deadliest month the state has experienced in five years. Spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says 2018 was the last time the state had that many and average temperatures were below normal.
Cut 8 (11) “…in their homes.”
Two more lives were taken over the weekend.

Former LSU Tiger Joe Burrow is leading the Cincinnati Bengals to the Super Bowl and it’s helping his push to end hunger in southeast Ohio…
voicer 3 (32) “…I’m Brooke Thorington”

The Bengals will play the Rams in the Super Bowl. Former LSU Tiger wide receiver Odell Beckham Junior will play in his first Super Bowl after signing with Los Angeles during the regular season…
cut 7 (10) “…amazing moment”

12:30 LRN Newscast January 31

Republican House Speaker Clay Schexnayder is calling for an investigation to find out if Governor John Bel Ewards possibly participated in a cover-up of Ronald Greene’s death, a black motorist who died after he was beaten by State Troopers during a traffic stop in 2019. Greene’s death was in 2019, the same the governor was up for re-election. Alford says Edwards has faced numerous challenges during his time in office, but this one is unique for his administration…

Cut 4 (12) “…honor code.”

Lawmakers will return to the state capitol on Tuesday to begin a three-week redistricting session to redraw the political boundaries for the state legislature, the U-S House, BESE, the Public Service Commission and Louisiana Supreme Court. Public Affairs Research Council President Steven Procopio says there will be serious discussion over whether there should be a second minority-majority Congressional district…

Cut 14 (11) “…two out of those six.”

When Joe Burrow received his Heisman trophy, he talked about poverty where he grew up in Ohio. Since then, the Joe Burrow Hunger Relief Fund has been able to help those in need. Cara Brook President of the Foundation for Appalachian Ohio says it’s making a huge difference.

Cut 10 (11) “…what they could.”

Former LSU wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr is one of five Tigers who will be playing in Super Bowl 56. OBJ has been big for the Rams since joining them at midseason, and that continued in the playoffs. Beckham had nine receptions for 113 yards in the win over San Francisco. Now, Beckham has found a home with the Rams and is 60 minutes from realizing a dream come true.

Cut 6 (13) “…keep going.”

11:30 LRN Newscast Jan 31

Republican House Speaker Clay Schexnayder is calling for an investigation to find out if Governor John Bel Edwards possibly participated in a cover-up of Ronald Greene’s death, a black motorist who died after he was beaten by State Troopers during a traffic stop in 2019. La-Politics-dot-com publisher Jeremy Alford says Schexnayder uses the term gross misconduct in his statement…

Cut 3 (10) “…impeachment proceedings.”

According to an AP report, Edwards was informed the day after Greene died that he was involved in a violent struggle with troopers.

In March lawmakers will discuss the governor’s proposed teacher pay raises. Erath Representative Blake Miguez, whose wife is a teacher, understands their challenges but says he also wants to make sure the state can afford raises in the future…
Cut 9 (11)  “…across our state.”

A three-week redistricting session begins tomorrow at the state capitol. Lawmakers will attempt to pass new political boundaries for the legislature, the U-S House, BESE, the Public Service Commission. And they could also draw new district lines for the State Supreme Court. Public Affairs Research Council President Steven Procopio says the last time they were redrawn was 1997…

Cut 15 (11)  “…be tough.”

A federal judge in D-C has invalidated a Gulf of Mexico oil and gas lease sale that took place in November where a record one-point-seven million acres were sold. The judge expressed concern over environmental impacts, but Louisiana Oil and Gas Association President Mike Moncla says canceling the sale will result in more dependence on foreign oil….
Cut 5 (10) “…it’s frustrating.”