After 17 years, the Road Home program comes to an official end, and also lawsuits against those accused of misspending rebuilding grants. More from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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A $1.17 million settlement with protestors after the death of Alton Sterling has been reached with the East Baton Rouge Metro Council.

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The white Shreveport police officer involved in the shooting death of an unarmed Black man has been arrested and charged with negligent homicide. Brooke Thorington has more…

Cut 3 (35) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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The state says it will drop lawsuits against thousands of people accused of misspending grants for elevating their homes after hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Many used the grant money from the Road Home Program to make repairs instead, then were faced with government legal action; attempting to claw that money back. New Orleans Congressman Troy Carter says the suits threatened the American dream for many homeowners…:

Cut 4 (10)  “…protect that dream.”

The event was held to herald the official closure of the $10-billion Louisiana Road Home Program; a problem-fraught recovery plan that did its best to make homeowners whole again after the twin storms destroyed their homes 17 years ago. Governor John Bel Edwards says over 3000 persons were sued over allegedly misspending Road Home elevation grants…:

Cut 5 (12) “…these grants anyway.”

Congressman Carter and Governor Edwards say all lawsuits seeking recovery of alleged misused grant dollars are officially being dropped with the official end of Road Home…:

Cut 6 (07)  “…collection efforts.” 

Carter says a ”long bad dream” is over for thousands of south Louisiana homeowners.

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Fourteen protesters arrested during the 2016 protest of Alton Sterling’s police shooting death will receive $1.17 million. The East Baton Rouge Metro Council approved the settlement accusing Baton Rouge law enforcement of violating their First Amendment rights and using of excessive force. Protester, Blaire Imani, says the accountability from the city is a success.

Cut 7 (08) “…is really big.”

The protesters were imprisoned, strip-searched and a 17-year-old protester was also detained at the adult prison. Among the 14 protesters were two reporters. One was Cherri Foytlin, who recalls the humiliation.

Cut 8 (13)  “…that happened there.”

Foytlin says Governor John Bel Edwards should also take accountability for his comments to the media.

Cut 9 (12)  “…be expecting an email.”

The settlement still has to be approved by US District Judge John deGravelles who is presiding over the trial.

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Alexander Tyler, the 23-year-old white, Shreveport Police officer involved in the shooting death of 43-year-old Alonzo Bagley, is charged with negligent homicide. Investigators say Bagley was unarmed, but Tyler’s attorney Dhu Thompson says body camera footage shows Bagley reaching for something seconds before he jumped from a balcony and ran.

Cut 10 (10)  “…his direction.”

An attorney for the Bagley family, Ron Haley says Bagley, a Black man, was not a threat to anyone if anyone he was a threat to himself. Haley says Bagley was only armed with a bottle before he ran from officers.

Cut 11 (09)  “…happened here.”

Thompson says during Tyler’s bond hearing there was testimony his client had only seconds to respond to what was a perceived threat when Bagley came towards him.

Cut 12 (12) “…in the case.”

Alonzo Bagley’s brother says he’s proud of state troopers for the role they’ve played in the investigation, and he hopes his brother’s death will mean something.

Cut 13 (09)  “…no threat there.”

The Bagley family has filed a $10 million federal lawsuit against Tyler for excessive force. The investigation remains active.

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The Lafayette area welcomes all comers for Mardi Gras festivities that kick into high gear starting tonight. Joe Giglio (pronounce “GIG-leo”) is Parade Chairman of the Greater Southwest Louisiana Mardi Gras Association. He invites everyone to visit Lafayette tonight as they kick off the big weekend…:

Cut 14 (11)  “…fairs and festival.”

He says Lafayette Mardi Gras is a much more family-friendly affair, and Saturday’s parades begin with the Children’s Parade; made up entirely of youthful float riders. Giglio says that parade rolls at 12:30 pm…:

Cut 15 (13)  “…typical Mardi Gras.”

Sunday is a day of rest in Lafayette, and on Monday – Lundi Gras – the city hosts the annual Queen’s Parade at 6 pm, with representatives from 11 area krewes. Giglio says it all leads up to Fat Tuesday, with three parades rolling, beginning at 10 am…:

Cut  16 (13)  “…Tuesday afternoon.” 

Lafayette Mardi Gras wraps up Tuesday night, with the big Grand Ball, at 8 o’clock, at the Heymann Performing Arts Center.

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The LSU Baseball season opens today against Western Michigan. The Tigers have dominated the preseason polls as the number one-ranked team in the country under second-year Head Coach Jay Johnson. LSU had both the top-ranked recruiting class and transfer class in the nation this offseason along with a strong roster of returning players. Junior first baseman Tre Morgan has been a star for the Tigers since arriving in Baton Rouge and has noticed a shift in the locker room ahead of this season. He says the team isn’t running from the expectations…

Cut 17 (18) “…all the way.” 

Johnson announced the starting rotation for opening weekend. Air Force transfer and top pitching prospect Paul Skenes will open the season for the Tigers today while left-handed junior Riley Cooper is set to start Saturday and freshman right-hander Chase Shores will close out the weekends. Johnson says this one was an easy decision…

Cut 18 (16) “…not close.” 

Johnson made it a point not to underestimate Western Michigan but also sees this weekend as an opportunity to evaluate the loaded roster.  He says they plan to test out some different looks opening weekend…

Cut 19 (20) “…doing that.”

The first pitch has been moved up to 3:00 this afternoon due to concerns about the weather.

A 23-year-old Shreveport Police officer has been arrested for negligent homicide for shooting an unarmed black man during a foot chase. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (37)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The upcoming retirement of DOTD Secretary Shawn Wilson has only fueled speculation he’s running for governor. Brooke Thorington has more.

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

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The Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office is asking for your help in locating 32-year-old Trey Rentrop of Raceland. LPSO Captain Brennan Matherne says after an iPad was discovered in the home of a woman with two children recording them.

Cut 3 (11) “…aware of it.” 

Matherne says Rentrop is charged with video voyeurism, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and failure to register as a sex offender in Assumption Parish.

Cut  4 (05)  “…for rape.” 

The suspect is a known acquaintance of the victim and Matherne says they also located a rifle belonging to Rentrop in the woman’s home.

Cut 5 (11) “…possess a firearm.”

You are asked to call Crimestoppers if you have any information about his whereabouts.

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Don’t let the good times impair your judgment during carnival season. Louisiana Highway Safety Commission announces its Drive Sober Or Get Pulled Over campaign. LHSC spokesman Mark Lambert encourages everyone to have a good time and be safe.

Cut 6 (11)  “…after you’ve been drinking” 

According to a recent report from the Center for Analytics and Research in Transportation Safety at LSU, a sizable number of highway crashes involving people killed or injured during carnival season were alcohol-related.

Cut 7 (14)  “…destructive decisions.” 

Lambert encourages everyone to become a designated driver and stop others from driving impaired.

Cut 8 (15)  “…if you do that” 

The campaign ends at midnight, Tuesday-Mardi Gras, February 21.

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Shreveport Police Officer Alexander Tyler has been charged with negligent homicide in the shooting death of 43-year-old Alonzo Bagley, an unarmed black man. The incident happened on February third as officers chased Bagley after he jumped from a second-floor apartment. State Police released Tyler’s body camera video today

Cut 9 (13) “…No, No”

Officers were called to the apartment complex after receiving a 9-1-1 call from Bagley’s wife, who said her husband was extremely impaired and threatening others at the home.

Tyler and another officer were in pursuit of Bagley before he was shot. An unidentified officer immediately rendered first aid to Bagley who was shot in the chest….

Cut 10 (10) “…respond” 

Bagley was rushed to a nearby hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Here’s State Police Lt. Melissa Matey describing what happened when Tyler fired his weapon…

Cut 11 (12)  “…the chest”

Matey says Crime Lab Technicians with the L-S-P Crime Lab processed the crime scene and no weapons were located on or near Bagley. Officer Tyler is 23-years-old and started with Shreveport P-D in May 2021. He’s on administrative leave.

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After State Transportation Secretary Shawn Wilson announced his March 4^th retirement it’s only increased speculation that he’ll run for governor. Wilson who’s been secretary for seven years has more than 25 years in public service.

Cut 12 (07) “…next chapter.”

And while the New Orleans native wouldn’t say if he is or isn’t running for governor, he did hint that an announcement is forthcoming.

Cut 13 (12) “…a public servant.” 

Since 1987, Wilson has lived in Lafayette with his wife and children and he’s commuted to Baton Rouge for more than twenty years working in state service. We asked Wilson if he did run for governor what makes him the best candidate, the Democrat says his career path and how he’s already served the state.

Cut 14 (13)   “…those ideas.”

The transportation secretary says he is a bridge builder, literally and figuratively. To date, six others have declared their candidacy for governor and only one Democrat.

The effort to recall New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell has one week until its petition signature deadline, and they say they are very close…:

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The Violence Policy Center ranks Louisiana second in the country for overall gun death rates. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30)  “….I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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Legislation to require parade organizations to pay for clean-up has been filed for the upcoming legislative session. West Monroe Representative Foy Gadberry says the litter control group, Ouachita Green, asked him to allow parishes and municipalities the ability to charge parade groups for clean-up.

Cut 3 (06) “…to do so.” 

Gadberry says litter across the state is an ongoing problem and parades are only making it worse. He says businesses along parade routes are also negatively impacted.

Cut  4 (12)  “…of thing.” 

Gadberry says he’s received positive feedback from fellow lawmakers on the legislation and that House Bill 23 would allow each municipality to create its own ordinances to establish fees for permits.

Cut 5 (12) “…their needs.”

The regular session begins on April 10^th.

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The effort to recall New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell has one more week to gather the petition signatures needed, and says they are very close. On Tuesday, “No LaToya” reports needing just over 1000 names. Group organizer Eileen Carter says New Orleans residents who want change in their city need to take action…:

Cut 6 (11)  “…NoLaToya.org.” 

Carter says a large number of New Orleanians seek to replace Mayor Cantrell because they are not satisfied with her office’s handling of city services, like trash collection, street maintenance, drainage, sewers and police protection. Carter says when confronted with complaints, the mayor often goes on the offensive…:

Cut 7 (08)  “…across the board.” 

The “No LaToya” group must hand in over 49-thousand signatures to the Orleans Registrar of Voters by a week from today. They must then all be verified before the petition goes to the governor. Carter says they will succeed in getting their signatures and they hope Governor Edwards will schedule the recall with all due haste…:

Cut 8 (09)  “…an immediate way” 

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Another round of severe weather will impact the state today and tomorrow. LRN Meteorologist John Wetherbee says north, central and southwest Louisiana are under a slight risk for severe weather starting this afternoon into tomorrow morning

Cut 9 (08) “…impact Louisiana”

Mardi Gras parades rolling in the New Orleans area should be fine tonight, but the threat for severe weather exists tomorrow in southeast Louisiana…

Cut 10 (09) “…day tomorrow” 

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The Violence Policy Center says based on 2021 CDC data Louisiana ranks second in the country for having a gun death rate of 28.42 per 100-thousand people. V-P-C executive director Josh Sugarmann says Louisiana consistently ranks in the top every year…

Cut 11 (08)  “…unintentional deaths.”

Sugarmann says Mississippi leads the nation in overall gun death rate, following by Louisiana, New Mexico, Wyoming and Alabama. He says all five states have weak gun violence prevention laws

Cut 12 (09) “…gun laws”

Sugarmann says on the flip side, the states with the lowest gun death rates have strong gun laws that ban certain types of firearms, ban large capacity magazines and restrict sales and possession for certain individuals. He says local governments in Louisiana looking to reduce gun violence have their hands tied…

Cut 13 (11) “…do anything” 

Massachusetts leads the nation with a gun death rate of 3.54 per 100-thousand. In Louisiana, household gun ownership is at 47-percent.

After a 40-year wait, victims of a flood in Tangipahoa Parish – caused by I-12 road work – will soon see compensation. Kevin Gallagher reports…:

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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A grand jury meets today to hear evidence of the three men suspected of raping LSU student Madison Brooks shortly before she was killed by a car. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley has launched a campaign for the White House. Kevin Gallagher talks with a Louisiana politico on her chances of being the country’s first female president…:

Cut 3 (31) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.” 

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After waiting 40 years for an answer, victims of a 1983 flood in Tangipahoa Parish, caused by the construction of Interstate 12, will soon see compensation. A judge this week gave final approval to a $101-million class action settlement. Plaintiffs’ attorney Jean-Paul Layrisson says this final approval is great news for the 1200+ people and businesses who were flooded in 1983…:

Cut 4 (11)  “…the right amounts.”

In April of 1983, heavy rains were aggravated by the ongoing construction of I-12, which caused water to back up into the city of Ponchatoula and hundreds of homes and businesses. The area had never flooded before. Layrisson says there have been several legal maneuverings and appeals to delay an outcome in the case…:

Cut 5 (06) “…a long ride.”

State District Judge Jeff Johnson’s ruling means litigation is finally over, and the process of getting compensation from the state Department of Transportation to the over 1,000 families businesses, and individuals affected can begin…:

Cut 6 (10)  “…their lawful heirs.” 

The construction of I-12 also came under fire after the flood of August 2016, as residents in Livingston Parish blame the highway for holding flood water from running off; flooding many homes and businesses.

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A grand jury convenes in Baton Rouge today to hear evidence against three of the four men arrested in the alleged rape of LSU student Madison Brooks. Legal analyst Franz Borghardt says he would be shocked if the grand jury doesn’t issue an indictment if the DA is actively seeking one.

Cut 7 (08) “…an indictment.”

A fourth suspect who’s 17 years old his case will be handled in juvenile court.

A failure to indict could mean their charges are dismissed or the grand jury could choose to upgrade the charges. Borghardt says the DA’s office has stated they are actively pursuing first-degree rape charges…

Cut 8 (07)  “…get it.”

Borghardt says third-degree rape is rape based on impairment and it carries a lower sentence.

Cut 9 (04)  “…life a prison.”

Defense attorneys maintain their clients’ innocence and claim video evidence will prove they had consensual sex with Brooks.

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Former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley is running for President in 2024. Haley, a Republican, ran the Palmetto State from 2011 to 2017, then was appointed U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations by then-President Donald Trump. LSU-Shreveport political science professor Jeffrey Sadow says Haley wants voters to remember her ties to the former President…:

Cut 10 (11)  “…and among republicans.” 

In 2021, Haley said she would not run against Trump if he ran again in 2024. Then she said she would support his second bid for the White House. Sadow says a lot has changed for Haley and for Trump in recent years…:

Cut 11 (10)  “…his personality.”

Sadow says Haley could have a real chance of winning the nomination in ’24. He says she has the qualifications and the appeal to conservative voters…:

Cut 12 (11) “…kind of candidacy.”

Sadow says Haley could make a good showing in Republican primaries next year, but if Florida Governor Ron DeSantis enters the race, her chances will diminish.

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Lake Charles Police announce the arrest of two men who were allegedly involved in a fatal shooting at The Doll House nightclub in January 2000. L-C-P-D Police Chief Shawn Caldwell says his department re-opened the cold case over 13 months ago by reviewing all existing evidence and reconstructing the crime scene…

Cut 13 (13)  “…two suspects”

Three people were shot at the Doll House, and 27-year-old Allen Babineaux died from his injuries.

Caldwell says forensic technology and witness statements led to the arrests of 46-year-old Marvin Kyer of Douglasville, Georgia, and 49-year-old Terrance Malvo of Sulphur. Deputy Chief Franklin Fondel responded to the scene in 2000 and is glad to give closure to the Babineaux family…

Cut 14 (07)  “…waiting for healing”

Kyer is charged with one count of second-degree murder, principal. Malvo has also been charged with one count of second-degree murder. Calcasieu Parish District Stephen Dwight says they will present their evidence to a grand jury next week…

Cut 15 (07)  “…in the making”

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Ragin Cajuns baseball head coach Matt Deggs announces Jake Hammond is his opening night starter when U-L Lafayette opens its season on Friday with a weekend series at Rice. Deggs says Hammond is a team captain and a guy he can depend on last season…

Cut  16 (11)  “…strike zone.” 

The Cajuns are led by Carson Roccaforte who was named to the Golden Spikes Preseason Watch List which goes to the best player in college baseball. The Texas native led the team in hitting, home runs, and RBIs last season. Deggs expects Roccaforte to have another great season, but he’s looking for others to step up as well…

Cut 17 (17) “…one guy.” 

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Longtime assistant basketball coach Bob Starkey says the late Sue Gunter would be proud but also embarrassed about her name joining Dale Brown’s on the court in the Maravich Center. Starkey was an assistant coach for both Brown and Gunter and knew Gunter before he arrived at LSU in 1990…

Cut 18 (20) “..done before” 

The LSU Board of Supervisors voted last week to add Gunter’s name to the court despite pleas from Brown supporters who believe it takes away an honor given to Brown. Starkey says Brown’s accomplishments are undeniable, but Gunter did a lot with fewer resources than the men’s program…

Cut 19 (25) “…the shore”

Senator Bill Cassidy says the White House botched the handling of a suspected Chinese spy balloon that crossed the USA last week. More from Jeff Palermo…:

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Upon word that their beloved alligator Hardhide could be euthanized, the town of Ponchatoula rallied to keep her alive. Brooke Thorington explains.

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

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Louisiana’s senior Senator Bill Cassidy says the White House botched the handling of a suspected Chinese spy balloon that flew over the whole USA last week. During his weekly press teleconference, Cassidy says President Biden should have ordered the balloon intercepted far earlier than he did…:

Cut 3 (08) “…our southern border.” 

Cassidy feels the president’s failure to react to the first balloon makes us look vulnerable to foreign powers, and places our national security at risk…:

Cut  4 (09)  “…to our airspace.” 

Cassidy and other senators were briefed by the Defense Department on the balloon last week, as well as four other unidentified objects shot down in the days since. He says, at least U.S. air defenses are much more alert to such incursions going forward…:

Cut 5 (07) “…pick up these objects.”

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Mandeville Representative Paul Hollis has filed a bill for the upcoming regular session that he calls the Public Library Accountability Act. Hollis says his legislation gives power to municipalities and parishes to make sure their library system operates the way they want it to…

Cut 6 (09)  “…not be.” 

Hollis says he wants to give local governments the ability to remove individuals from library control boards…

Cut 7 (11)  “…local communities” 

State Attorney General Jeff Landry issues a legal opinion stating local governments have the authority to remove members of Library Control Boards. But Hollis says 21 years ago the attorney general at that time, Richard Ieyoub, issued an opposite opinion on that question.

LGBTQ advocates say the efforts to control the type of reading material found in libraries is an effort to censor certain books dealing with homosexuality and gender identity. But Hollis says taxpayer money should not be used to acquire some of the books he’s seen in libraries

Cut 8 (12)  “…your mind” 

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A silent alarm at the Rapides Area Drug Enforcement unit building, Sunday night, alerted deputies of a break-in. Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Tommy Carnline says when they inspected the RADE unit nothing was taken but the backdoor was propped open. Then they heard a noise at a nearby building.

Cut 9 (11) “…use the restroom.”

The RADE building houses individual offices and evidence rooms.  Matthews was taken into custody and Carnline says she faces several charges.

Cut 10 (09) “…run free.” 

The dog was impounded.  As for a motive, Carnline says the suspect told them she thought the building was a Sheriff’s Office substation. He says the door where the suspect entered is never used and serves as a fire exit.

Cut 11 (07)  “…happening again.”

Matthews is being held at the Rapides Parish Detention Center.

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After a complaint to state wildlife and fisheries the Strawberry Capital of the World went into a frenzy upon news that their beloved alligator Hardhide could be put down. Owner T-Mike Kliebert (Klee-bear) says she was hatched by his grandfather in 1957 and she’s lived at the Ponchatoula Country Market for 13 years.

Cut 12 (10) “…could do.”

Kliebert says he’s very thankful that Hardhide will be moving to the family farm after inspections and permits were cleared. The controversy even spawned a Facebook group “Save Old Hardhide.”

The nine-foot 350-pound gator has become somewhat of a mascot for Ponchatoula. Kliebert says the community rallied for Hardhide to keep her from being euthanized. He says many questioned why she couldn’t be released back into the wild instead.

Cut 13 (11) “…not an option.” 

The average life span of an American alligator is 30 to 50 years and up to 70 years in captivity. Kliebert says he along with the community is relieved that she’ll be able to spend her golden years where she was born on the family farm.

Cut 14 (05)   “…her life.”

At the request of the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, her retirement date is not being released to avoid crowds during the retrieval process.

The National Retail Federation says spending on Valentine’s Day gifts will exceed last year’s $23.9 billion. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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A St. Mary Parish man face numerous charges for illegally taking nutria, to profit from the state’s bounty program. More from Jeff Palermo…:

Cut 2 (33)  “….I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

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Tomorrow is Valentine’s Day and while you’ll probably witness some last-minute shopping today, overall shoppers are predicted to spend a whopping $25.9 billion in the US this year. Katherine Cullen with the National Retail Federation says that’s up from $23.9 billion spent last year and the second highest on record.

Cut 3 (11) “…last year.” 

52% of consumers plan to make purchases for their Valentine’s this year.

And while the majority of those purchases are for significant others and family members, Cullen says the reason for the increase is more consumers showing appreciation for others in their life.

Cut  4 (07)  “…even pets.” 

A third of Valentine’s Day shoppers will make their purchases online this year and Cullen says the rest will purchase gifts at department stores, discount stores, or specialty stores like florists.

Cut 5 (11) “…for a loved one.”

Among the most popular gifts are candy, flowers, and greeting cards. Cullen says consumers are also planning to splurge on an evening out or even jewelry. Consumers are expected to spend $4.4 billion on an evening out and more than $5.5 billion on jewelry this year.

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State Wildlife & Fisheries agents arrest a Patterson man for illegally taking nutria, to collect bounties for the invasive species. LDWF spokesman Adam Einck (EYE-nk) says their investigation began with them being alerted to videos posted on social media that showed the cruel acts…:

Cut 6 (11)  “…who was doing it.” 

They arrested 45-year-old Harris DeHart last week. He is seen in the videos catching nutria by gassing them, cutting off their tails and letting them go; impaired and badly injured. Einck says he faces a long list of charges…:

Cut 7 (11)  “…that’s not allowed.” 

Einck says the state pays a bounty for the invasive animals, and they pay by how many tails one turns in. However, he says the manner in which DeHart was getting the tails was cruel and in violation of state law for how nutria are to be legally taken. He says DeHart was, in essence, cheating the nutria bounty system…:

Cut 8 (09)  “…been taken away.” 

If convicted, DeHart could face stiff fines and serious jail time of up to ten years.

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Baton Rouge Representative Scott McKnight who’s so far the only candidate running for State Treasurer addressed the Press Club of Baton Rouge this afternoon. The insurance executive has been in the legislature since 2020.

Cut 9 (10) “…State Treasurer.”

The Republican says the legislature approves the budget, and the treasurer holds onto the funds and makes sure it’s allocated and goes where and when it is needed. As for the remaining funds, McKnight says it’s the treasurer’s job to invest those funds.

Cut 10 (10) “…the economy.” 

McKnight complimented current Treasurer John Schroder on his job performance and says he plans to mirror his tenure and his leadership role on the Bond Commission.

Cut 11 (11)  “…with there.”

Treasurer Schroder is not seeking re-election and is running for governor.

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Bad news for the Pelicans as All-Star forward Zion Williamson will miss several more weeks after he re-aggravated his right hamstring. Pelicans executive vice president David Griffin says Williamson was set to return soon, but re-injured himself at practice…

Cut 12 (13) “…hard to navigate.”

Williamson first suffered the injury on January 2nd and has missed 28 games this season. Zion missed all of last season, but still made the playoffs, so Griffin is confident the team can still play at a high level without their all-star…

Cut 13 (09) “…mentality means.” 

New Orleans is 12 and 16 in games without Williamson this season. They are 29-28 overall and in seventh place in the Western Conference. Williamson has played in 114 games and missed 169 since he was the first pick in the 2019 draft. Coach Willie Green says all they can ask from him is to work hard to get back…

Cut 14 (08)   “…the rehab”

New Orleans is at Oklahoma City tonight.

February is American Heart Month and heart disease is the leading cause of death in Louisiana. Do you know what your risk factors are? Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Want to eat healthy? LSU’s Pennington Center in Baton Rouge says “consider eating more potatoes.” Kevin Gallagher reports…:

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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State Democratic Party chair Katie Bernhardt says she’s not running for governor after a TV spot resembling a campaign ad featured her. Brooke Thorington has more

Cut 3 (31) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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February is American Heart Month, a time to focus on how to improve your cardiovascular health. LSU Health New Orleans Cardiologist Dr. Frank Smart says the idea that chest and heart pain have to be on your left side and left arm to be considered an attack is not always true.

Cut 4 (06)  “…having a heart attack.”

Smart says to be mindful of recurring symptoms as an indicator of heart disease, especially when it happens with exercise or exertion. If so, talk to your physician, and if you have a family member who had a heart attack or stroke before the age of 60 for men and 65 for women you should also speak to a physician.

Cut 5 (09) “…do something.”

Smart says for example a 20-something female runner who has chest pain on their left side should mention it to her physician, whereas someone in their 60s who’s overweight with high blood pressure should act immediately.

But for women, Smart says they are more likely to exhibit atypical heart disease symptoms. Instead of complaining about chest pain, he says women are more likely to notice they are fatigued or complain they can’t do what they used to do a few months ago.

Smart says know the risk factors, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, and family history.  There are treatments for blood pressure, and cholesterol, and to stop smoking.

Cut 6 (05)  “…your doctor.” 

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in Louisiana and the United States.

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If you want to eat healthy, consider eating more potatoes. Many people avoid potatoes because it’s believed the starchy vegetable can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes. But scientists at the LSU Pennington Biomedical Research Center  say they are largely misunderstood. Assistant Professor Candida Rebello says, when cooked correctly, ‘taters are a great source of potassium and fiber…:

Cut 7 (12) “…starch component.”

Rebello says their research study shows that potatoes do not negatively impact blood glucose levels. She says study participants actually lost weight while eating a potato-rich diet…:

Cut 8 (10)  “…in America.”

Participants in the study ate meals in which potatoes were used to replace some of the meat content. They reported feeling full faster; often not even cleaning their plate. Rebello says the data suggests that potatoes have been getting a bad dietary reputation…:

Cut 9 (08)  “…like I said: healthy.”

Rebello says – as with any kind of food – moderation is the key to maintaining good health and weight.

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Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon announces a 30-day application period is open for the Insure Louisiana Incentive Program. Donelon says the incentive program will offer matching grants to incentive new and existing insurance companies to write residential and commercial policies

Cut 10 (08)  “…64 parishes” 

Donelon says 12 insurance providers have expressed interest in the program that he believes will decrease the number of home and business owners who rely on Louisiana Citizens, which is raising rates by an average of 63 percent this year. Donelon says a similar program after hurricanes Katrina and Rita reduced the number of Citizens policies by 40-thousand…

Cut 11 (08)  “…they’re facing.”

Donelon encourages Louisiana homeowners who have Citizens or are unable to find affordable insurance to contact an insurance agent and ask for as many quotes as possible in the coming months. He says they are moving quickly to get new insurers writing residential and commercial policies in the coastal areas…

Cut 12 (05) “…expeditated basis.”

Donelon says participating insurance companies must meet solvency standards and the insurers will be also subject to enhanced solvency monitoring.

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Chair of the state Democratic Party, Katie Bernhardt tells The Advocate she’s not running for governor. And while her recent TV ad received widespread criticism from party members, La Politics-dot-com publisher Jeremy Alford says she never declared her candidacy for any office in the ad, only that help was coming.

Cut 13 (11)  “…to run.”

Some party members saw Bernhardt’s ad as self-serving instead of promoting the party. Alford believes her announcement is indicative of something else.

Cut 14 (09)  “…for governor.”

Alford says that could be either Department of Transportation and Development Secretary Shawn Wilson or East Baton Rouge District Attorney Hillar Moore.

But for Bernhardt, Alford says her poll to run for governor and TV ad, even though she never announced her candidacy, could continue to haunt her.

Cut 15 (06)  “…discuss.”

Alford says chairs of both the state’s Democratic and Republican parties have received pushback from members. Bernhardt for self-promotion and Louis Gervich for endorsing Jeff Landry before any other Republican announced their candidacy.

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The third-ranked LSU Lady Tigers were overmatched in their highly anticipated game against top-ranked South Carolina yesterday. The Gamecocks jumped out to a 16-point lead early in the first quarter and LSU never could recover and lost 88-64 at Colonial Life Arena. Coach Kim Mulkey says the game got off to a rough start…

Cut  16 (19)  “…big rebound” 

It was LSU’s first loss of the season and South Carolina has won 31 in a row. Mulkey now knows how her team stacks up against the best team in women’s basketball…

Cut 17 (19) “…as well” 

LSU is now 23-and-1 and in second place in the SEC. The Lady Tigers have four games left in the regular season and Mulkey doesn’t want Sunday’s loss to impact their game Thursday at home against Ole Miss or any of their remaining games…

Cut 18 (20) “…nothing more” 

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Six-foot-six right-hander Paul Skenes is expected to start on the mound when the top-ranked LSU baseball begins the 2023 season on Friday night. Skenes says one of his biggest strengths is his competitive desire…

Cut 19 (23) “…in here.”

Skenes played the last two seasons at Air Force. Last season he recorded a 2.96 ERA and 96 strikeouts in 85.2 innings in 15 starts. Skenes believes learning from LSU pitching coach Wes Johnson will only make him better

Cut 20 (17)  “… a huge blessing.” 

The LSU Board of Supervisors votes to add former women’s basketball coach Sue Gunter’s name to Dale Brown court at the PMAC. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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After blocking a Twitter user from her account, Monroe Senator Katrina Jackson faces a lawsuit. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 2 (33)  “….I’m Brooke Thorington” 

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The LSU Board of Supervisors voted today to rename the Dale Brown Court at the Maravich Assembly Center; adding former women’s basketball coach Sue Gunter’s name. Both coaches won over 400 games at LSU. Former Lady Tiger Delia Taylor urged the Board members to vote for the name change

Cut 3 (13) “…up others” 

Critics of the vote say by adding Gunter’s name to the court, they are taking away an honor from Coach Brown, who led the Tigers to two Finals Fours. Former LSU baseball and basketball player Ben McDonald suggested to the board to name the practice facility or the scoreboard after Gunter

Cut  4 (09)  “…another” 

Freelance writer Jeffrey Marx of Baton Rouge based on his own investigating reporting, political pressure has resulted in several Board members changing their minds and now wanting to add Gunter’s name to the court…

Cut 5 (10) “…conversations”

In September 2021, the LSU Board of Supervisors rejected a proposal to have the court named after both Brown and Gunter.

No one at the Board spoke on why there’s been a change of heart, but board member James Williams rejected the idea that someone is twisting their arm

Cut 6 (12)  “…what to do” 

Governor John Bel Edwards told the USA Today Network that Gunter’s accomplishments are worthy enough to have her name on the court too.

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Monroe Senator Katrina Jackson faces a lawsuit after blocking a Twitter user from commenting on her page. Tulane First Amendment Law Clinic Director Katie Schwartzmann says the courts consider the internet a public forum and when a public official blocks a constituent from commenting it’s a First Amendment violation.

Cut 7 (09)  “…that conversation.” 

Schwartzmann says the goal of the lawsuit is the prevent censorship of these types of discussions in the future.

Cut 8 (05)  “…moving forward.” 

In addition to the plaintiff, Schwartzmann says other users have also claimed that Senator Jackson has blocked them.

As a public official, Scwartzmann says Jackson signed up for debate and dialogue when she ran for office and over the past five years in similar cases, the precedent has been set that social media is a public forum and blocking a user from a public official’s page is a First Amendment violation.

Cut 9 (05) “…various contexts.”

Jackson released a comment that free speech is not a blank check and that no public official nor any internet user should be subjected to bullying or abusive language. She also said her Twitter account shows no record of the plaintiff by name.

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A Jefferson Parish lawmaker has filed legislation that would crack down on thieves who break into people’s cars, by stiffening their minimum sentence. Metairie Republican state Representative Laurie Schlegel says her House Bill 16 would impose stiffer penalties on persons who commit a string of burglaries or any burglary within a mile of any fair, festival, entertainment or sports event or parade…:

Cut 10 (06) “…for this behavior.” 

Schlegel brings the bill as the number of motor vehicle burglaries grows statewide, but especially in cities like New Orleans. At a recent Pelicans game, as many as 30 cars and trucks were broken into while folks were watching the event. She says there’s a real danger involved in such cases…:

Cut 11 (12)  “…trying to do here.”

Current law calls for sentencing of zero-to-12 years. Schlegel says her bill would add mandatory jail time with a conviction…:

Cut 12 (09) “…you’re goin’ to jail.”

Schlegel says convicted auto burglars would be assured of at least a year behind bars, which may be a sufficient deterrent. Her bill will be debated in the regular legislation session, which begins April 10^th.

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Kansas City Chiefs cornerback and Minden native, L’Jarius Sneed is expected to play in his second Super Bowl Sunday. Sneed’s Minden High School Coach Spencer Heard says watching the big game is even more fun when you have a personal connection.

Cut 13 (08) “…the occasion.” 

The former  LA Tech star has a knee injury but is expected to play.

Despite playing in the professional ranks, Heard says Sneed visits the Webster Parish city often to see family and friends and also spends time with elementary students in Minden.

Cut 14 (09)   “…person he is.”

Heard remembers Sneed fondly and says he started coaching at Minden during Sneed’s sophomore year. He says Sneed’s talent was clear and that he played both defense and offense in high school.

Cut 15 (08) “…the state.”

Sneed is one of five former Louisiana high school players playing in Super Bowl LVII (57). Chiefs’ safety Justin Reid played for Dutchtown High in Geismer, and running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire went to Catholic High in Baton Rouge. Eagles running back Boston Scott played at Zachary High and wide receiver DeVonta Smith attended Amite High School

The LSU Board of Supervisors is expected to vote tomorrow on a proposal to add the former women’s basketball coach Sue Gunter’s name to the basketball court in the Maravich Center. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (34)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A Jefferson Parish family of four is dead in an apparent murder-suicide this morning. More from Brooke Thorington…:

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

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The LSU Board of Supervisors is set to vote tomorrow on a proposal to add Sue Gunter’s name to the Dale Brown Court inside the Maravich Center. The idea has upset several people close to Brown who had the court named in his honor in 2021. Broadcaster Tim Brando of Shreveport says a vote to add Gunter’s name will stain Louisiana…

Cut 3 (10) “…great depression” 

In 2021, the LSU Board of Supervisors rejected a proposal to have Gunter’s name appear on the court next to Brown’s. But Brando says the Board has changed its mind, because Governor John Bel Edwards has gotten involved, because board member Mary Leach Werner is upset Gunter’s name is not on the court

Cut  4 (06)  “…happened here” 

Brown coached at LSU for 25 years, Gunter 22 years. Gunter, who passed away in 2005, won over 700-games. Brown won 448 games, four SEC titles and took the Tigers to the Final Four twice. He’s the only SEC Coach to make 15 straight NCAA Tournament appearances.

Brando says Werner opposes the idea of honoring the accomplishments of an older white man

Cut 5 (09) “…higher learning.”

Werner was a major financial contributor to Governor Edwards’ election campaigns. A statement from the governor says after reviewing the achievements of Brown and Gunter over the years, the governor believes her name certainly warrants inclusion in the name of the court.

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The Humane Society of Louisiana is once again helping horses purchased to ride in Mardi Gras parades find homes, so Carnival season isn’t their last. HSLA Director Jeff Dorson says when they learned that many of the horses were often sold for slaughter, they created the Mardi Gras Horses Adoption Program.

Cut 6 (12)  “…really well.” 

Since 2017 he says more than 70 horses have found new homes. Dorson says this is a small component of parade season that animal lovers look forward to and they want a horse that has the distinction of being a Mardi Gras horse.

Cut 7 (07)  “…really works.” 

Over the years horses have found homes in Mississippi, Oklahoma, and even Massachusetts. Dorson says even if you aren’t able to purchase a horse you can donate to the program.

Cut 8 (07)  “… appreciated.” 

You can find more information on their Facebook page at Humane Society of Louisiana’s Mardi Gras Horses Adoption Program.

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A family of four in Jefferson Parish is dead in what appears to be a murder-suicide. Jefferson Parish Sheriff Joe Lopinto says a call came in to 9-1-1 early this morning; giving the address in the city of Harvey, and offering a dire message…:

Cut 9 (09) “…we found, unfortunately.”

Deputies went to the address and found it in what Lopinto calls “deplorable condition.” Inside they found the bodies of an adult male, and adult female, and two young men ages 14 and 20. Lopinto says there is evidence the incident was, in fact, a case of murder-suicide…but are sorting through the crime scene to determine who exactly pulled the trigger…:

Cut 10 (09) “…for the parents.” 

The family dog was found alive in the back yard and taken to a shelter. As to a possible motive, Lopinto says the family had fallen upon extremely hard times…:

Cut 11 (08)  “…this morning.”

The investigation is ongoing. Lopinto says he’ll have updates and more is discovered. LRN has learned one victim was a former St. Charles Parish deputy. This shooting marks the second murder-suicide in less than 12 hours in Jefferson Parish. Two brothers are dead from an incident Wednesday in Marrero.

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U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg joined Governor John Bel Edwards and DOTD Secretary Shawn Wilson this afternoon to officially announce the $150 million federal grant to go towards the Calcasieu River Bridge. Buttigieg (Buddha-judge) says he understands southwest Louisiana has heard several promises over the years for the bridge that never developed.

Cut 12 (07) “…funding does.”

In addition to the 70-year-old bridge’s deficiencies, Buttigieg says because the bridge narrows from six lanes to four it’s also one of the primary traffic jams in the U.S. which impacts the nation’s supply chain.

Cut 13 (12) “…this work.” 

In addition to the $150 million federal funds, Wilson says there’s even more money allocated for the project.

Cut 14 (12)   “…contribution.”

Buttigieg says the project will create more than 60,000 jobs also.

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Officials are surveying damage in Tangipahoa Parish after a tornado damaged as many as 30 mobile homes last night. Parish President Robby Miller says since the light of day they’ve come across even more residences in the town of Tangipahoa that were impacted by the twister.

Cut 15 (10) “…they shouldn’t”

Miller says even though some homes had significant damage, it’s fortunate no one was seriously hurt.

Cut  16 (12)  “…minor injuries.”

Miller asked the public to keep those who were impacted in their prayers. Assessments by the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness are ongoing along with those from parish officials and the Red Cross.

An Opelousas man has been arrested in connection with the burglary of a dozen squirrel monkeys from a Broussard zoo last month. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (29)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Free speech advocates are irked by Attorney General Jeff Landry’s efforts to keep adult material in public libraries out of the reach of kids. Kevin Gallagher reports…:

Cut 2 (33)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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More than 100,000 Tradespeople are now using BoomNation to connect with other skilled workers, showcase their credentials, and find jobs. Kace Kieschnick spoke with Co-CEO Brent Falvin on the  platform has grown exponentially…

Cut 3 (33) “…I’m Kace Kieschnick” 

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Police have arrested a man in connection with the burglary of a dozen squirrel monkeys last month from a Lafayette Parish zoo. Broussard PD Chief Vance Olivier says they’ve arrested 61-year-old Joseph Randell of Opelousas.

Cut 4 (10)  “…Correctional Center.”

Despite an arrest, the 12 monkeys were not recovered.

On January 29^th Broussard Police responded to a report of a burglary at Zoosiana in which several squirrel monkeys were taken from their habitat. Olivier limited his comments because it’s an ongoing investigation and says there could be more arrests.

A day after the Zoosiana burglary two emperor tamarin monkeys were stolen from a Dallas Zoo.   24-year-old Davion Irvin was arrested last week in connection with that burglary. Olivier says they have not ruled out that the two could be connected.

Cut 5 (05) “…theft as well.”

As for a motive in the Zoosiana burglary Olivier says it appears to be monetary value.

Cut 6 (06)  “…find out.” 

Randell faces burglary charges and 12 counts of Cruelty to Animals.

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Crime Stoppers of North Delta will pay up to $10,000 for information leading to the arrest of 18-year-old Isszvian Webb who is considered extremely dangerous. Monroe Police Chief Vic Zordan says Webb is wanted for three counts of attempted first-degree murder after a shooting at three officers Sunday multiple times with an AR-15-style rifle.

Cut 7 (11) “…going back.”

Zordan says Webb has evaded authorities for about a year after escaping from Green Oaks Juvenile Detention Center and the mugshot they have of Zordan is over a year old.

Cut 8 (05)  “…really does.”

Zordan says they are asking for the public’s help to locate Webb and they are on high alert and have notified law enforcement in the area to approach Webb with extreme caution.

Cut 9 (07)  “…any problems.”

If you have any information, you’re asked to call the Monroe Police Department or Crime Stoppers of North Delta.

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A Louisiana free speech advocacy group is concerned about Attorney General Jeff Landry’s efforts to curb what kids can access at public libraries. Landry unveiled his office’s Protecting Innocence Report; containing information and laying out guidelines for libraries to assure kids cannot access adult materials. Lynette Mejia, with Louisiana Citizens Against Censorship, says it is primarily up to parents to monitor what their kids read and see…:

Cut 10 (10)  “…legislation for that.”

Mejia (pronounced “meh-HEE-uh”) says most all libraries have tiered lending systems in place to prevent minors from viewing borrowing adult literature, and have adult materials out of their reach. She says Landry is creating “a solution in search of a problem”…:

Cut 11 (09)  “…to campaign on.”

Turkey Creek state Senator Heather Cloud has filed a bill that would require libraries to assure children cannot see or borrow adult materials. Mejia says that is censorship and not necessary, but Landry says no one intends to censor anything…:

Cut 12 (07) “…of children.”

Landry asks critics to download the report from his website, and read it…then decide for one’s self…:

Cut 13 (08)  “…for all children.”

Report is online at “AGJeffLandry.com”

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BoomNation announces more than 100,000 skilled workers are using the website to help connect with other tradespeople and find jobs. BoomNation connects tradespeople and employers and allows workers to showcase their skills and credentials. Co-CEO Brent Flavin says BoomNation provides a unique opportunity for skilled workers…

Cut 14 (14)  “…getting started.”

The Lake Charles native said that the skilled worker industry is one that really hasn’t changed since the 18^th century. Flavin hopes that his “LinkedIn for Blue Collar will help to innovate an outdated industry…

Cut 15 (12)  “…absolutely deserve.”

BoomNation has been doing just that…booming. With over 100,000 users, the platform has a cumulative year-to-year increase of over 457%. Flavin says the platform has also been effective in finding people jobs…

Cut  16 (12)  “…January 2023.” 

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The Louisiana Tech Baseball team are preseason favorites to win the Conference USA for the first time in school history. The Bulldogs won the conference tournament championship last year after finishing second in the regular season. Coach Lane Burroughs says they are still playing with a chip on their shoulder…

Cut 17 (16) “…feel about it.” 

The LA Tech baseball program has rebuilt and redefined itself under Burroughs, literally. The Bulldogs exploded onto the national stage in 2021 in their first season in their new stadium and hosted a super regional for the first time in program history. Burroughs says they’ve worked to build a culture of success and resilience exactly as he envisioned when he first arrived in Ruston…

Cut 18 (18) “…in that process.” 

Conference USA will see the most changes of any Division I conference over the next few years with Marshall, Old Dominion, and Southern Miss having already left for the Sun-Belt. Southern Miss boasted one of the strongest baseball programs in the conference, but Burroughs believes the league won’t see a drop-off in competition…

Cut 19 (17) “…I really do.”