11:30 AM Newscast

A 77-year-old Baton Rouge man turned himself in Tuesday. Ellesworth Hull is charged with second-degree murder in the beating death of his special needs son 40-year-old Derrick Christophe. Baton Rouge Police Sgt L’Jean McKneely says when officers arrived on the scene Friday, they found the victim in the bathtub.
Cut 7 (11) “…results”
Autopsy results revealed his son died as a result of internal bleeding on Valentine’s Day.
Three people are under arrest after over $600,000 in drugs are found during a Rapides Parish traffic stop on US Highway 165 near Woodworth. Trooper Casey Wallace says while the area does see drug busts throughout the year…
Cut 4 (09) “…been having lately.”
37-year old Archie Louis Carter, Jr. and passengers 31-year old Isiah Jones and 33-year old Anthony Manuel were arrested and charged with possession with intent to distribute.

If you’re taking your kids with you to Mardi Gras this year download the FBI Child ID app before you leave in the unfortunate event you and your kid are separated. The app gets you to build a profile of your child, including photo, height, weight, age, and your contact number. FBI New Orleans spokesperson Craig Betbeze says the app abides by all child privacy laws.
Cut 15 (10) “…FBI.”
If your child is missing, just press a button, and it alerts law enforcement. The app is free and available for Android and IPhone devices.

LSU’s annual Spring Football Game will be April 18th but it will not take place in Tiger Stadium. Instead, LSU will hold the scrimmage at Southern University’s Mumford Stadium. Executive Deputy Athletic Director Verge Ausberry says that’s because they are replacing the turf inside Death Valley…

Cut 16  (14)  …be completed”  

10:30 LRN Newscast Feb 19

A 77-year-old Baton Rouge man turned himself in to authorities Tuesday once autopsy results revealed his special needs son died as a result of internal bleeding on Valentine’s Day.  Ellesworth Hull is charged with second-degree murder in the beating death of his son 40-year-old Derrick Christophe. Baton Rouge Police Sgt L’Jean McKneely says Friday’s beating was not the first.

Cut 6 (12) “then died”

A National Federation of Independent Business poll of Louisiana members shows the top issue facing small businesses in the state is the “quality of labor.” Workforce concerns were at the top of the list, above even tax issues for 23 percent of members. NFIB State Director Dawn Starns says it boils down to two issues.

Cut 7 (08) “…be there.”

In Rapides Parish, a joint traffic stop on Saturday with Louisiana State Police and the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s office resulted in the seizure of a large number of illegal narcotics and three arrests. Trooper Casey Wallace.

Cut 3 (12)  “…thousand dollars.” 

37-year old Archie Louis Carter, Jr. and passengers 31-year old Isiah Jones and 33-year old Anthony Manuel were arrested and charged with possession with intent to distribute.

If you’re taking your kids with you to Mardi Gras this year download the FBI Child ID app before you go just in case. The app allows to build a profile of your child. Then FBI New Orleans spokesperson Craig Betbeze says if your child is missing, just press a button…

Cut 13 (09) “…station.”

 

9:30 LRN Newscast Feb 19

Heads up parents, before checking out the parades this weekend with the little ones, check out this free app from the FBI…

Cut 3 (30)  “…I’m Matt Doyle.”  

In Acadia Parish the search continues for 89-year old James Gunnels, Junior who went missing when he an assisted living facility in Alexandria Thursday evening. The Navy-Air Force Veteran suffers from dementia and never returned when he left to go to the store. Volunteers and officials with the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries are assisting in the search.

A National Federation of Independent Business poll of Louisiana members shows the top issue facing small businesses in the state is the “quality of labor.” Nearly 80 percent of respondents say they would like the state to do more to prepare workers coming out of high school for employment. NFIB State Director Dawn Starns says even entry-level jobs need technical and people skills.

Cut 9 (08) “…skills″

A report shows over 22,000 texters in Louisiana have reached out to the Crisis Text Line since it launched in August 2013.  The report indicates that three-quarters of the texters are under the age or 25, with 82% of them identifying as female.  However, men are more likely to die from suicide.  Crisis Text Line spokesperson Ashley Womble says sometimes, a conversation is not enough, and someone needs to step in.

Cut 5 (11)  “…happened 240 times.”

8:30 LRN Newscast Feb 19

A survey of small business owners in Louisiana shows the top concern from owners is the workforce.

Cut 2 (29) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

Allies of Governor Edwards have formed an outside organization to promote his agenda as the Governor prepares for the first legislative session of his second term. The nonprofit political organization known as A Stronger Louisiana does not have to disclose donors to funding its mission. The group’s creation was announced Tuesday by Edwards reelection campaign and stated the nonprofit is committed to supporting bipartisan solutions to move the state forward.

Swell of the Pearl River from heavy rain in central Mississippi is catching the attention of officials over flooding issues downstream in Washington and St. Tammany parishes. National Weather Service Slidell meteorologist Gavin Phillips forecasts near-record levels in the coming days around the town of Pearl River.

Cut 10 (10) “…I-59 gauge.”

The Crisis Text Line report on the State of Mental Health in America shows over 22,000 texters in Louisiana have reached out for help since launching in August 2013.  60 percent of those using the Crisis Text Line are those seeking help for the first time.  Depression is the top reason linked to usage, followed closely by relationship issues, then anxiety and stress.  Crisis Text Line spokesperson Ashley Womble says the number one form of self-care among texters is music.

Cut 6 (09) “…in less crisis.”

7:30 LRN Newscast

National Federation of Independent Business state director Dawn Starns says the number one issue facing small businesses, quality of labor. Starns says many of their members find it difficult to find workers who are committed to the job…
cut 8 (10) “….face”
Starns says the N-F-I-B would like to see Louisiana do more to provide workplace skills and technology training for students who do not plan to attend college.

A new report shows over 22,000 texters in Louisiana have reached out to the Crisis Text Line since it launched in August 2013. Crisis Text Line spokesperson Ashley Womble says counselors have prevented 465 individuals from committing suicide…
Cut 4 (08) “…within 24 hours.”
To reach the Crisis Text Line, text the word “Home” to 741-741.

In central Mississippi, hundreds of homes are flooded because of the Pearl River, which flows into Washington and St. Tammany Parishes in Louisiana. The Pearl is expected to crest at 19 feet near Slidell on Sunday and Deputy Director of the Governor’s Office of Homeland Secretary and Emergency Preparedness Casey Tingle says they are monitoring the situation closely…
cut 12 (11) “…be ready”
The river crests for both Bogalusa and the town of Pearl River are expected to be their highest levels since 2016.

Dozens of Mardi Gras parades will take place this weekend and the F-B-I is encouraging to parents to download their child ID app which allows you to build a profile of your child if he or she gets lost in the large crowds. FBI New Orleans spokesperson Craig Betbeze says the app also has information on what to do if your child is lost…
cut 14 (08) “….missing”
The app is available through app stores for both Android and Iphones.

Corrected 6:45 LRN Sportscast

LSU basketball lost for the fourth time in the last five games as 10th ranked Kentucky defeated the Tigers 79-76 in the PMAC last night. The Wildcats made just two three-pointers in the first half, but hit seven 3s in the second half and they shot 74-percent from the field. Tigers Coach Will Wade says he keeps seeing the same mistakes over and over again…
cut 30 (11) “….options”
LSU is on the road for the next two games, at South Carolina Saturday and Florida next Wednesday.

Saul Garza had three hits, including his second home run of the season and drove in four runs as the 11th ranked LSU baseball team defeated Southern eight to three.

Also last night, Louisiana Tech improved to 4-0 with a 7-4 win over McNeese. And the Ragin Cajuns won its first game, beating Southeastern Louisiana nine to six.

Saints Quarterback Drew Brees is coming back for a 20th season. The 41-year-old will need a new contract, but the future Hall of Famer’s decision likely means the end of Teddy Bridgewater’s time in the NFL. The versatile Taysom Hill who has expressed a desire to be a franchise quarterback, says he’s happy Brees is returning. Hill said on ESPN reporter Adam Schefter’s podcast that he would love to play with Drew again.

Because a new turf and drainage system is going in at Tiger Stadium, LSU will play its spring game on April 19th at Southern University’s Mumford Stadium. LSU Executive Deputy Athletic Director Verge Ausberry says to play the Spring Game at Southern, LSU had to get permission from the SEC…
cut 17 (14) “…thing to do”
Spring practice for LSU begins March 7th.

6:30 LRN Newscast

A National Federation of Independent Business poll of Louisiana members shows the top issue facing small businesses in the state is the “quality of labor.” Workforce concerns were at the top of the list, higher than tax issues for 23 percent of members. NFIB State Director Dawn Starns says it boils down to two issues.
Cut 7 (08) “…be there.”

Central Mississippi has been dealing with major flooding along the Pearl River and all of that water is making its way south towards Washington and St. Tammany Parishes. But National Weather Service meteorologist Gavin Phillips says the biggest threat in Louisiana is for those who live along the Pearl and in low lying areas or have fish camps in the area…
cut 11 (08) “….higher than that”

The Crisis Text Line releases data showing over 22,000 texters in Louisiana have used the service since its launch in 2013. Kevin Barnhart has details on who is using the service.
Cut 1 (32) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”

LRN AM Newscall February 19

Crisis Text Line releases data showing over 22,000 texters in Louisiana have used the service since its launch is 2013. Kevin Barnhart has details of who is using the service.

Cut 1 (32) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”

_____________________________________

A survey of small buisiness owners in Louisiana shows the top conern from owners is the workforce. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

___________________________________________

Heads up parents, before checking out the parades this weekend with the little ones, check out this free app from the FBI…

Cut 3 (30)  “…I’m Matt Doyle.”  

____________________________________________

The Crisis Text Line report on the State of Mental Health in America shows over 22,000 texters in Louisiana have reached out for help since launching in August 2013.  Crisis Text Line spokesperson Ashley Womble says in that time, 465 times they have been able to de-escalate someone in Louisiana who was thinking about suicide.

Cut 4 (08) “…within 24 hours.”

The report indicates that three-quarters of the texters are under the age or 25, with 82% of them identifying as female.  However, men are more likely to die from suicide.  Womble says sometimes, a conversation is not enough and someone needs to step in.

Cut 5 (11)  “…happened 240 times.”

Using the Crisis Text Line is the first time seeking help for 60% of those who use it.  Depression and sadness is the top reason linked to usage, followed closely by relationship issues, then anxiety and stress.  Womble says the number one form of self-care among texters is music.

Cut 6 (09) “…in less crisis.”

The Crisis Text Line can be accessed by sending the word “HOME” to 741-741

____________________________

A National Federation of Independent Business poll of Louisiana members shows the top issue facing small businesses in the state is the “quality of labor.” Workforce concerns were at the top of the list, above even tax issues for 23 percent of members. NFIB State Director Dawn Starns says it boils down to two issues.

Cut 7 (08) “…be there.”

Starns says there’s concerns about state workers’ technical qualifications, but with the tightening labor market and low unemployment, it can be difficult to find workers who are committed to the job.

Cut 8 (10) “…face.”

Nearly 80 percent of respondents say they would like the state to do more to prepare workers coming out of high school for employment. Starns says even entry-level jobs need technical and people skills.

Cut 9 (08) “…skills″

____________________

Pearl River swelling from heavy rain in central Mississippi is catching the attention of officials over flooding issues downstream in Washington and St. Tammany parishes. National Weather Service Slidell meteorologist Gavin Phillips forecasts near-record levels in the coming days around the town of Pearl River.

Cut 10 (10) “…I-59 gauge.”

Near Bogalusa, the river is expected to crest at 22.5 feet on Saturday, causing flooding east of Highway 21 along the Bogalusa Creek.

Interstate commuters shouldn’t be too concerned. Phillips says the higher river levels may pose an issue for those that live along the river and low lying area or have fish camps in the area.

Cut 11 (08) “…higher than that.”

Near Slidell, the crest is expected Sunday at 19 feet. Deputy Director of the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness Casey Tingle says they are monitoring the situation closely.

Cut 12 (11) “… to be ready.”

The river crests for both Bogalusa and the town of Pearl River are expected to be their highest levels since 2016.

_____________________________________

If you’re taking your kids with you to Mardi Gras this year download the FBI Child ID app before you leave in the unfortunate event you and your kid are separated.

The app gets you to build a profile of your child, including photo, height, weight, age, and your contact number. FBI New Orleans spokesperson Craig Betbeze says if your child is missing, just press a button…

Cut 13 (09) “…station.”

The app is free.

Along with helping get vital identification information to local authorities, Betbeze says it also helps you start piecing together info that could be critical to finding your lost offspring.

Cut 14 (08) “…missing ”

It also features a list of safety topics you should discuss with your kid before you head out on the parade route.

Betbeze says the app abides by all child privacy laws.

Cut 15 (10) “…FBI.”

The app is available through app stores for both Android and IPhone devices.

__________________________________________

LSU’s annual Spring Football Game will be April 18th but it will not take place in Tiger Stadium. Instead, LSU will hold the scrimmage at Southern University’s Mumford Stadium. Executive Deputy Athletic Director Verge Ausberry says that’s because they are replacing the turf inside Death Valley…

Cut 16  (14)  …be completed”  

Ausberry says to play the Spring Game at Southern, LSU had to get permission from the SEC to play the game there, because the league says you can’t play your spring game away from your home stadium unless you plan to play a regular-season game at the site of your spring game

Cut 17  (14) “thing to do” 

530PM LRN News

41-year-old Saints QB Drew Brees announces on his Instagram that he will return for the 2020 season after taking some time to consider retirement. Assuming the team resigns Brees, Saints analyst Mike Detillier says we’re almost certain to see backup QB Teddy Bridgewater, who led the team to five wins last year, leave in free agency.

Cut 8 (12)“…heavily”

Detillier says it’s likely the team will retain third-string backup QB Taysom Hill who is a restrictive free agent.

Shreveport Police has charged 37-year-old Gregory Jones for the Sunday night fatal shooting death of his girlfriend 43-year-old Tasha Mayberry.  Corporal Angie Willhite says Jones was shot in the chest after he pointed a gun at officers after fleeing from the scene, and Jones remains hospitalized

Cut 15 (07) “…him to recover.”

_____________________________________

President Donald Trump has pardoned former San Francisco 49ers owner Eddie DeBartolo Junior who pleaded guilty to giving 400-thousand dollars to former governor Edwin Edwards for a riverboat casino license.

cut  2 (31) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

After spending 52 days in the hospital, Wade Berzas is heading home. He’s the lone survivor of a December plane crash in Lafayette Parish that killed five people, including sports journalist Carley McCord. The plane was flying from Lafayette to Atlanta carrying passengers to watch the LSU Tigers compete in the Peach Bowl.

4:30 PM Newscast

41-year-old Saints QB Drew Brees announces on his Instagram that he will return for the 2020 season after taking some time to consider retirement. The season ended on an uncharacteristically poor home playoff performance for Brees and Saints analyst Mike Detillier says the captain needed some time to decompress, and consider other offers.
Cut 6 (08) “about it”
Detillier says we’re almost certain to see backup QB Teddy Bridgewater leave in free agency.
Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon breaks down the legislation he supports that are aimed at slicing auto insurance rates.  Donelon supports a provision lengthening the time to file suit.  Louisiana has the shortest time in the nation to file a lawsuit before losing the right to do so at one year versus many other states at two years.  Another provision looks to allow for a reduction in damages from collateral sources.
Cut 4 (09) “…of auto insurance.”
President Trump has pardoned former San Francisco 49ers owner Eddie DeBartolo Junior who in 1998 pleaded guilty to failing to report a felony when he paid 400-thousand dollars to former Louisiana Governor Edwin Edwards. Former U-S Attorney Jim Letten prosecuted the case and says he knew this day might happen…

Cut 10 (10) “…culpability”

DeBartolo avoided prison time but was fined one-million dollars and suspended by the NFL for a year.

Shreveport Police has charged 37-year-old Gregory Jones for the Sunday night fatal shooting death of his girlfriend 43-year-old Tasha Mayberry.  Corporal Angie Willhite says the two were arguing at an intersection in the Cedar Grove neighborhood…

Cut 13 (12) “…of the injuries.”

Jones fled the scene but was shot in the upper body by police while being apprehended. He is expected to recover.