Community Corner
🌱 Wrongfully Convicted Man Freed + Respiratory Infections Still Surge
The quickest way to get caught up on the most important things happening today in New Orleans.
Hey, New Orleans! I'm here in your inbox today to get you caught up on everything you need to know about what's going on around town, including news on:
- An unclear investigation into clothing purchases linked to the mayor
- More respiratory illnesses in kids
- Wrongfully convicted man freed
But first, today's weather:
Partly sunny and cool. High: 57 Low: 47.
Here are the top stories in New Orleans today:
- A New Orleans man who was wrongfully convicted for a 1983 shooting death and had served close to four decades behind bars was freed on Thursday after his prosecutors joined his defense team in asking the court to overturn his conviction. The legal team felt that there was inconsistent evidence along with eyewitness testimony that was kept from the jury that lead to his conviction. (WDSU New Orleans)
- Federal authorities are investigating clothing purchases linked to Mayor LaToya Cantrell, though it is unclear for exactly what. Cantrell's personal stylist and a clothing store she frequents, Ballin's LTD, are cooperating as purchases between the two entities are being looked into. Ballin's is not the target of the probe. (WAFB)
- The surge in RSV, flu cases and hospitalizations for respiratory illnesses in New Orleans kids continues, following the trend now seen across the country. Half of the current hospitalizations in the New Orleans Children's Hospital is due to respiratory illnesses. This heightened infection rate is likely part of the pandemic's aftermath, where kids who were previously protected from the illnesses by wearing masks are now encountering it for the first time. (WDSU New Orleans)
Today in New Orleans:
- Tulane University Women's Bowling vs University of Maryland Eastern Shore (All Day)
- Objects in Focus: Betsy Packard at the Newcomb Art Museum (12:00 PM)
- Simon Lott Trio at the New Orleans Jazz National Park (2:00 PM)
From my notebook:
- Visit City Park for a spin on Saturday at Jingle Bells & Beer! VIP tickets are now sold out, but you can book general admission now before you miss your ride! (New Orleans City Park via Instagram)
- Votes have been tallied and the New Orleans Film Festival has announced the winners of this year's Audience Awards! (New Orleans Film Festival via Facebook)
- New Orleans Family Justice Center is hosting yoga classes every Wednesday at noon for beginners to classes to stretch, move and open your body to healing energy. (New Orleans Family Justice Center via Facebook)
Alrighty, you're all caught up for today. I'll see you soon!
— Shannon Denney
Have a news tip or suggestion for an upcoming New Orleans Daily? Contact me at neworleans@patch.com