Good morning, Baton Rouge.

Planet Fitness opened in Zachary on Dec.

22 and held a ribbon-cutting on Jan. 6 with city officials and chamber board members in attendance.

The new Louisiana Impact Fund (launched in 2025 by investors) has raised $23.4 million and will target companies valued between $10M and $50M to help keep decision-making in the state.

Fund managers plan a second fundraising round this summer as they work toward a $100 million goal by 2027.

The Baton Rouge Jewish Film Festival kicks off today at Manship Theatre with a 7 p.m. screening of Fantasy Life, a romantic dramedy.

The event continues through Sunday with documentaries and a comedic film, and tickets cost $14.50 per screening or $25.50 for a festival pass.

St. Francisville student Jared Lane received the Congressional Award Bronze Medal for his commitment to community service, educational initiatives, and volunteer work in Baton Rouge — he completed over 200 hours in public service, personal development, and physical fitness.

LSU students are facing a surge of AI cheating claims that have created a backlog at the university’s Student Advocacy & Accountability Board.

One student said she received a zero on an assignment and admitted using AI to protect her scholarship.

EPA orders Smitty’s Supply to address hazardous waste violations after inspectors found over 200 spills, 250 damaged containers, and more than 300 unlabeled containers at its Roseland facility during an Oct.

7-9 inspection (following cleanup efforts after a fire on Aug. 22). The company was required to correct these issues within 60 days.

LifeShare Blood Center is offering $25 gift cards to Type-O blood donors during mobile drives on Thursday, Jan.

22 and Friday, Jan. 23 at its site (5755 Essen Lane). The center needs these donations to help patients urgently and encourages donors to schedule an appointment.

Sonny’s BBQ introduced a new protein-packed menu at its Baton Rouge and Gonzales locations on Jan.

13 that features Power Plates with smoked pork, turkey, or chicken for fewer carbs—starting at $10.99—and a Create-Your-Own 3-Meat Bundle for groups, along with a Zero Proof lineup for Dry January.

LSU confirmed Monday that transfer quarterback Sam Leavitt has joined the Tigers after visiting Miami, Tennessee, and Kentucky.

The rising redshirt junior recorded 4,652 passing yards, 816 rushing yards, and 46 touchdowns during previous seasons — a performance that strengthens LSU’s transfer class.

LSU Athletic Director Verge Ausberry, who spent nearly 40 years preparing for this role, discussed his new plans and the hiring of football head coach Lane Kiffin in a 30-minute interview on Oct.

31 (2025). He outlined his vision for the department's future as he begins his tenure.

Prairieville Hurricanes girls basketball team has a 16-3 record and ranks No. 2 in Division I non-select thanks to seniors Rhian Comery (20 points, nearly 10 rebounds) and Marly Gatlin (13 points, five assists) as coach Chase Delrie prepares for a district championship in late January.

The Louisiana Marathon

8 AM – 1 PM — A. Z. Young Park — $25-$170 — Celebrate 15 years of Louisiana spirit with a vibrant marathon experience featuring various race categories.

Louisiana Marathon 2026

7 a.m. — Louisiana Marathon — Check for registration fees — Experience the thrill of running in the heart of Baton Rouge.

La Zenda Norteña Concert

9 p.m. — Avanti Night Club — Ticket prices available — Experience a high-energy live performance by La Zenda Norteña De Mario Madrigal in a vibrant setting.

11th Home & Remodeling Show with Ralph's Market Food Fest

10 AM - 5 PM — Lamar Dixon Expo Center — $6 admission, free for kids under 13 — Discover home innovations and savor delicious food samples from Ralph's Market.

Mississippi State Bulldogs vs. LSU Tigers Basketball

6-8 p.m. — Pete Maravich Assembly Center — Tickets starting at $3 — Catch the thrilling college basketball matchup between the Bulldogs and the Tigers.

Honey Gold: Immersive Audiovisual Experience

5:30-7:30 p.m. — City Club of Baton Rouge — Light snacks and mocktails available — Experience a transformative audiovisual journey designed to foster meditation and creativity.

CHERUB Concert

8-11 p.m. — Chelsea's Live — Tickets available through Ticketmaster — Experience the unique sounds of CHERUB in Baton Rouge.

It's Carnival Time Celebration

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Louisiana Art & Science Museum — Cost info not provided — Celebrate the vibrant culture of Louisiana with a musical and visual concert experience in the planetarium.