07:30 LRN Newscast, August 16th

If you haven’t walked outside yet you’re in for a treat…:
Cut 3 (29) “I’m Brooke Thorington”

The Baton Rouge businessman accused in a 2015 murder-for-hire plot against his ex-wife has been found guilty of first-degree murder. The jury reached the verdict for Hamid Ghassemi after a trial that lasted several days in Baton Rouge. He hired 3 people to kill his ex-wife, Tahera Ghassemi, and get rid of her body. Prosecutors said he did this over a $1.1 million dollar divorce settlement. A sentencing date for the man is set for Tuesday, September 19th.

The state treasury department is partnering with LA Wallet to help reconnect Louisianans with their unclaimed property. The app now features a search function enabling users to effortlessly check for unclaimed assets in their name. Director of Unclaimed Property Kathleen Lobell…:
Cut 4 (12) “to search”
It is reported that one in six Louisiana residents have unclaimed property.

Findings in a first-of-its-kind survey on violence in the state show some alarming results that will be presented before the Louisiana Women’s Policy and Research Commission meeting today in Baton Rouge. The study out of Tulane was spearheaded by Anita Raj who says they found one in 14 Louisiana adults have experienced physical violence in the past year. She hopes policymakers will start talking about this:
Cut 9 (06) “societal issue”

06:45 LRN Sportscast, August 16th

We’re 18 days away from the start of the highly anticipated LSU football season, and here in the Tigers final week of camp, quarterback Garrett Nussmeier told the media why he decided to finish what he started in Death Valley. There was no shortage of speculation that he’d transfer since he’d be backing up Jayden Daniels, but Nussmeier set the record straight…:
CUT 16 (09) “that I’m in”
Cornerback Duce Chestnut also spoke to the media. Before Chestnut played for LSU, he was with Syracuse, but always had his eyes on the Tigers…:
Cut 19 (11) “on tv”
The Top 10 matchup between LSU and Florida State in Orlando kicks off at 6:30 pm Sunday, September 3rd.

ESPN is reporting the Saints have released wide receiver James Washington as the team prepares to Sunday’s preseason road game against the Los Angeles Chargers. Washington played just 26 snaps in the Saints’ preseason opener against the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday and saw just two targets. He was one of only two active Saints receivers who didn’t record a catch.

The New Orleans Pelicans inaugural NBA in-season tournament schedule has been announced in the upcoming 2023-24 season which includes all 30 teams. The in-season tourney will consist of two stages, Group Play and the Knockout Round. Teams were randomly drawn into groups of five within their conference based on win-loss records from last season. The Pels will match up against the Dallas Mavericks, the Denver Nuggets, The Houston Rockets and the LA Clippers in Group play beginning Friday November 10th.

06:30 LRN Newscast, August 16th

It is delightful outside this morning compared to temperatures the state has been dealing with this summer. That’s because a cold front has settled over and humidity is way down…:
CUT 10 (10) “out there”
That’s State Climatologist Barry Keim who says enjoy it while it lasts because high humidity and triple digit temperatures will return Friday into this weekend.

It just got a lot easier to search for any unclaimed property in your name thanks to a new feature on the LA Wallet app. Director of Unclaimed Property Kathleen Lobell says there is a lot of cash just sitting out there…:
CUT 6 (10) “for you”
To see if some of that is yours you can now do a search through the LA Wallet app.

A new survey by Tulane University gives more insight into the prevalence of violence in Louisiana. Newcomb Institute Executive Director Anita Raj led the survey and says of the 1,000 adults who took part, more than half have been physically or sexually assaulted:
Cut 7 (08) “in childhood”
Findings from the study will be shared at the Louisiana Women’s Policy and Research Commission meeting today in Baton Rouge.

And even though there is slight break in the oppressive conditions today, Louisiana is still in a state of emergency due to extreme heat. That’s why Louisiana Public Service Commissioner Davante Lewis is asking utility companies not to disconnect anyone’s power right now:
Cut 13 (10) “and life”
He’s making the request at today’s PSC meeting.

Updated LRN AM Newscall for August 17

Finding unclaimed cash in your name has been made simpler with a new search feature on the LA Wallet app. Teiko Foxx has more.

Cut 1 (32)  “….I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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A recent survey of one thousand adults in Louisiana gives an in-depth look at the prevalence of violence in the Bayou State. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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 If you haven’t walked outside yet you’re in for a treat weather-wise, Brooke Thorington.

Cut 3 (29)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The State Treasurer’s Office is making it easier for residents to check for unclaimed money through a new easy-to-use search on the LA Wallet app. Director of Unclaimed Property Kathleen Lobell says it simplifies the process for citizens to reclaim their lost funds.

Cut 4 (12)  “…to search.”

Unclaimed cash comes from uncollected funds from payroll checks, old bank accounts, utility deposits, insurance claim payments, interest payments, stock certificates, or life insurance proceeds. Lobell says one in six individuals in Louisiana has unclaimed property.

Cut 5 (11)   “…our search.”

Lobell says the app-based solution securely harnesses the power of technology and the new feature assists in returning money to their rightful owners…

Cut 6 (10)  “…for you.”

To find out if you have unclaimed property, go to the LA Wallet app, search LaCashClaim.org, or call 888-925-4127.

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A new survey by Tulane University gives more insight into the prevalence of violence in Louisiana. Newcomb Institute Executive Director Anita Raj led the survey and says the findings were alarming. Of the 1,000 adults surveyed, more than half have been physically or sexually assaulted.

Cut 7 (08) “…in childhood.”

One in 14 Louisiana adults has experienced physical violence in the past year.

Raj says the nature of the violence differs among genders.

Cut 8 (09) “…an intimate partner.”

The survey found that 42% of women have experienced physical and/or sexual violence from a partner, with about one in 10 of these women reporting that their partner threatened or harmed them with a gun.

Raj says most researchers can only analyze crime statistics and data, but yet the survey is able to dive deeper, because many crimes, like sexual assault, aren’t always reported. The number is as high as 90% of people who experienced violence never formally reported the assaults.

Findings from the study will be shared at the Louisiana Women’s Policy and Research Commission meeting today in Baton Rouge.  Raj hopes policymakers will review the findings and work towards creating initiatives to prevent violent crime.

Cut 9 (06)  “…societal issue.”

The study also found that those who are victims of violence reported negative consequences, which include anxiety and depression, thoughts of suicide, and absenteeism.

Another common theme among the findings was gun violence. Raj says about one in five Louisianans have been threatened or harmed with a gun in their lifetime. To read the full report https://newcomb.tulane.edu/LaVEX

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We’ll get a slight reprieve from the heat today and tomorrow. A cold front moved through Louisiana and State Climatologist Barry Keim says humidity levels are lower…

Cut 10 (10) “…out there.”

Lows this morning in the northern parishes were in the 60s, and in the mid to upper 70s in the southern parishes. Highs today will be in the low to mid-90s which Keim says is typical for this time of year.

Cut 11 (10) “…less than triple digits.”

Keim says the break from the humidity and oppressing heat indices will be short-lived so take advantage of it…

Cut 12 (09) “…roof again.”

Despite two days of lower humidity and dewpoints, Louisiana remains under a State of Emergency due to the extreme heat until September 9th, unless terminated beforehand. The statewide burn ban remains in effect.

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Louisiana Public Service Commissioner Davante Lewis plans to ask the state’s utility companies to delay customer disconnections for non-payment while the governor’s declared state of emergency because of the heat is active. Lewis says prolonged heatwave is deadly and no one should go without power in these conditions.

Cut 13 (10) “…and life.”

Lewis says there’s currently a heat advisory disconnection policy in place that if it’s over a certain temperature customers cannot be disconnected. The Democrat represents 10 parishes, that include Baton Rouge and New Orleans. He’ll make the request at today’s PSC meeting.

Cut 14 (12)  “…has issued.” 

While it is common for electric utilities to pause disconnects following natural disasters and other emergencies, Lewis believes utilities should understand now is not the time to turn off the power because of non-payment…

Cut 15 (11)  “…for them.”

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LSU football had another media availability and quarterback Garrett Nussmeier was one of the players that took questions. There was heavy speculation that he was going to transfer because he was going to be the backup, but he set the record straight.

Cut 16 (09) “…that I’m in.”

Quarterback Jayden Daniels is expected to be the starter for the team this season, and Nussmeier says he’ll be ready whenever his name is called.

Cut 17 (12) “…that works.”

He also says the team has gotten better with second-year head coach Brian Kelly.

Cut 18   (10) “…come in.”

Cornerback Duce Chestnut also spoke to the media. Before Chestnut played for LSU, he was with Syracuse, but always had his eyes on the Tigers.

Cut 19 (11) “…on tv.”

Chestnut says he prefers playing in the Southeastern Conference.

Cut 20 (11) “…to be drafted.”

5:30 LRN Newscast Aug 15

Firefighters in Sabine Parish have brought the wildfires near the village of Florien under control, though the flames still smolder. So far, 14 structures have been damaged or destroyed, plus about 20 vehicles and over 2000 acres have been burned. Ashley Rodrigue, with the state Fire Marshal’s Office, says they are helping local firemen any way they’re able…:

CUT 10(10)      “…first responders.”

Meanwhile the statewide open burn ban, and an official state of emergency declared by the Governor, remain in effect.

A three-vehicle crash last night on U.S. 61 in St. James parish took the life of a Grammercy woman. State Police Trooper Chris Reed says it’s yet unknown if 31-year-old Destiny Scott was wearing a seatbelt…:

CUT 07(06)      “…the crash.”

It remains under investigation.

 

Deputies in Concordia Parish arrest a Natchez, Mississippi man; accused of illegally video recording women using the restroom at Walmart stores in the area. 40-year-old William Fisk was arrested for two counts of video voyeurism. The investigation is ongoing.

If you’re considering earning your master’s degree, UNO is launching six graduate programs online for adults who would like to earn a degree on their own schedule in a short time…:

CUT 01(32)      “…Teiko Foxx.”

4:45 PM Sportscast

LSU football had another media day today and had interviews from four players, including quarterback Garrett Nussmeier. There were many speculations that Nussmeier was going to leave after being in a heated quarterback competition with Jayden Daniels, but Nussmeier says why he stayed with the Tigers.

Cut 26 (18) “…what we started.”

Daniels is expected to be the starting quarterback for the offense. Even if Nussmeier is not on the field for LSU’s offensive snaps, he says he is a big contribution to the team.

Cut 27 (12) “…in the room.”

The Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame is partnering with the LPB to broadcast the Hall of Fame ceremony for Louisiana residents to see all of their favorite athletes and coaches be honored as a new member of the 2023 class. LPB’s Linda Midget says more on what will be on the two hour show.

Cut 19 (12) “…real of it.”

The broadcast will air tonight at 7 pm CT on LPB.org and on the LPB app, and if you enjoy it, you can expect another one just like it next year.

Cut 20 (11) “…new direction.

For more information go to the TigerRag.com and listen to the latest Tiger Rag Radio broadcast.

4:30 LRN Newscast Aug 15

Wildfires in Sabine Parish have destroyed at least 14 structures, nineteen vehicles and damaged hundreds of acres east of Florien. State Fire Marshal’s Office spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says they’ve been assisting local fire departments. She says the fire is contained but still active, and crews are keeping an eye on the fire lines surrounding the blaze…:

CUT 09(12)      “…contained.”

Rodrigue says donations of water, food and other resources for fire crews are extremely appreciated.

A three-vehicle crash in St. James Parish claims the life of 31-year-old Destiny Scott of Gramercy. Trooper Christian Reed says just before 5 PM Monday a Toyota Camry traveling behind Scott’s Hyundai SUV on Highway 61 south struck the victim’s car from behind sending it into oncoming traffic, where she was hit by a pickup…:

CUT 06(11)      “…them roadway.”

 

Public Service Commission member Davante Lewis plans to ask Louisiana utility companies to suspend all customer disconnections during the state of emergency due to the extreme heat. Lewis says this is a dangerous situation in which no one should go without power. He will make the request at tomorrow’s Public Service Commission meeting.

The University of New Orleans will launch six online graduate programs designed to meet the needs of working adults looking for an alternative to traditional on-campus education. Associate Vice President of Graduate School Nancy Biggio says the master courses can be completed in as little as one year; allowing students to get a leg up on the job search…:

CUT 04(12)      “…a year.”

3:30 LRN Newscast Aug 15

Evacuations were ordered for those in the path of wildfires in Sabine Parish, Monday night. The blaze is contained, but it is still burning. Brooke Thorington has more…:

CUT 02(32)      “…Thorington”

The assistant principal at Ville Platte Middle School has been terminated as he is investigated for alleged inappropriate contact with a female student. Patrick Guillory’s firing was announced Monday. Police are still investigating the allegations.

 

State Police say a Grammercy woman died in a three-vehicle crash Monday evening on U.S. 61 in St. James Parish. LSP says her car was hit from behind and forced into oncoming traffic lanes, where she was hit by pickup. Trooper Chris Reed says it’s yet unknown if 31-year-old Destiny Scott was wearing a safety belt…:

CUT 08(08)      “…in a crash.”

The accident happened on Highway 61 just north of LA 3274.

The Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame is partnering with the LPB to broadcast the Hall of Fame ceremony, so folks can see their favorite athletes and coaches be inducted as honorees. LPB’s Linda Midgett describes what viewers can expect…:

CUT 12(11)      “…reel of it.”

The program will air tonight on your local PBS station at 7 pm and can also be viewed on LPB.org.

2:30 LRN Newscast Aug 15

Wildfires in Sabine Parish have been brought under control, but not before destroying over a dozen homes, about 20 vehicles and burning up over 2000 acres of land. Ashley Rodrigue, with the state Fire Marshal’s Office, says the excessive heat adds another level of danger for firefighters…:

CUT 11(10)      “…first responders.”

The Village of Florien’s Facebook page is handling connecting residents with assistance.

Louisiana Public Broadcasting will air this year’s Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame ceremonies tonight at 7. LPB’s Linda Midgett says this IS a step out of the ordinary for LPB, but they’re trying something different…:

CUT 13(11)      “…new direction.”

 

Nearly a month after human remains were found near the East Feliciana Parish town of Clinton, sheriff’s deputies arrest a man in connection with the case. The remains were identified as those of Devante Petties, a known drug addict. A friend, 28-year-old Kenneth Muse, is under arrest for suspicion that he dumped Petties body after the man died from an overdose.

If you’re considering earning your master’s degree, UNO is launching six graduate programs online for adults who would like to earn a degree on their own schedule in a short time. Teiko Foxx has more…:

CUT 01(32)      “…Foxx.”

PM LRN Newscall Aug 15

If you’re considering earning your master’s degree, UNO is launching six graduate programs online for adults who would like to earn a degree on their own schedule in a short time. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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Evacuations were ordered for those in the path of wildfires in Sabine Parish, Monday night. The blaze is contained but ongoing. Brooke Thorington has more…

Cut 2 (30)  “….I’m Brooke Thorington.”  

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The University of New Orleans will launch six online graduate programs designed to meet the needs of working adults looking for an alternative to traditional on-campus education. Associate Vice President of Graduate School Nancy Biggio says this will allow the university to expand its current programs and meet working adults where they are.

Cut 3 (12) “…new goals.”

The university will offer programs in Engineering Management, Hospitality and Tourism Management Executive Track, Tax Accounting, Curriculum and Instruction, Educational Leadership, and Higher Education Administration. Biggio says the master courses can be completed in as little as one year. She says this allows students to get a leg up on the job at a faster pace.

Cut 4 (12) “…a year.”

Biggio says the university’s mission is to provide high-quality education and offer accessible online learning in an affordable way. She urge anyone interested to apply now to beat the deadline.

Cut 5 (11) “…next step.”

UNO spring semester begins January 8th.

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A three-vehicle crash in St. James Parish claims the life of 31-year-old Destiny Scott of Gramercy. Trooper Christian Reed says just before five PM Monday a Toyota Camry traveling behind Scott’s Hyundai on Highway 61 south struck the victim’s car from behind which sent the car into oncoming traffic. Then Scott’s car hit a Ford F-150 that was traveling north.

Cut 6 (11) “…the roadway.” 

Scott succumbed to her injuries at the scene. Reed says it’s not known if the victim was restrained at the time of the accident.

Cut 7 (06) “…the crash.” 

The accident remains under investigation and why the Camry struck Scott’s from behind has yet to be determined.  Reed says however impairment is not suspected, but routine toxicology samples were taken.

Reed reminds motorists that state law requires every person inside a vehicle to be properly restrained.

Cut 8 (08) “…in a crash.”

The accident happened on Highway 61 just north of LA 3274.

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Wildfires in Sabine Parish have destroyed at least 14 structures, nineteen vehicles and damaged hundreds of acres east of Florien. State Fire Marshal’s Office spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says they’ve been assisting local fire departments. She says the fire is contained but still active and crews are keeping an eye on the fire lines surrounding the blaze.

Cut 9 (12)  “…contained.”

Rodrigue says they are assisting local fire departments with assessments of their needs and helping them obtain them.

Cut 10 (10)  “…first responders.”

Rodrigue says donations of water, food and other resources for fire crews are extremely appreciated and she urges residents to understand that there is a statewide burn ban in effect. She says the excessive heat adds another level of danger for firemen.

Cut 11 (10)  “…first responders.” 

If you need assistance from the wildfires or would like to make a donation you can find up-to-date information at the Village of Florien’s Facebook page.

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The Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame is partnering with the LPB to broadcast the Hall of Fame ceremony for residents to see their favorite athletes and coaches be honored as new members of the 2023 class. LPB’s Linda Midgett describes what viewers can expect.

Cut 12 (11) “…reel of it.”

The program will air tonight on your local PBS station at 7 pm and can also be viewed on LPB.org. While LPB is not known for televised sports, Midgett says they are hoping to add another angle of the sports world for Louisiana viewers.

Cut 13 (11) “…new direction.

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Cut  14 (10)  “…vaccination immuniziation.”

Cut 15 (09) “…we’re ready.”

 

Cut  16 (08)  “…else does”