Good morning, Baton Rouge.

The Salvation Army and Walmart partnered in Baton Rouge to launch a school supply drive that helps families during back-to-school season.

Donations can be dropped off at the Salvation Army office on 7361 Airline Highway — the drive is part of the Pathway of Hope program to help break cycles of poverty.

Tickets are on sale for the Angola Prison Rodeo scheduled for October as local officials prepare further event details (update on performers and schedule expected soon).

Eight people died in five house fires across Louisiana this week, including a 65-year-old man who died early today in Denham Springs and four who were killed in a home fire in Raceland on July 24th — state fire officials stressed that testing smoke alarms can alert occupants in time to escape, urging residents to replace batteries or ask for help if needed.

A Baton Rouge woman—26-year-old Alexeia Hammond—was arrested early Saturday after she allegedly attempted first-degree murder by firing a shot that shattered the glass at Eat 'N' Geaux on Airline Highway during a phone dispute with her mother and now faces charges including illegal use of weapons and property damage.

A Charlie Brown Christmas Live On Stage will take place on Nov.

19 at the River Center Theatre in Baton Rouge, featuring the Peanuts gang with music from the original TV special—complete with festive costumes and dancing. Tickets will go on sale Aug. 1 at the River Center box office.

Three local educators from the Capital area have been named as Louisiana’s top teacher, principal, and new teacher of the year for 2026 at the Excellence Gala—an honor that recognizes their leadership and commitment in education.

The Louisiana Department of Education honored top educators Saturday night at The National WWII Museum in New Orleans.

Regena Hartley Beard of Copper Mill Elementary in Zachary was named Teacher of the Year — Justin Wax of Denham Springs Junior High was recognized as Principal of the Year.

Louisiana lawmakers passed Act 143 to lower the light transmission allowed in front side windows from 40% to 25% starting Aug.

1—this change, sponsored by Rep. Daryl Deshotel, aims to help drivers with medical photosensitivity and aligns state regulations with neighboring areas.

The Central Private Redhawks are aiming for a winning record after finishing 5-5 last year and have brought back six offensive plus six defensive starters—head coach Cole Holden said their experienced secondary will be a key strength when they open at home against North Iberville on Sept. 4.

LMHS Band Jumpstart Camp

2:32 p.m. — 1105 Lee Drive, Baton Rouge, LA — Cost Info Not Provided — Experience a memorable summer with the Powerhouse of the South.

DIZZY! Live Performance

7 PM – 1 AM — Bin 77 Bistro & Sidebar — Check venue for cover — Enjoy an evening with DIZZY!, the alternative pop funk band bringing fresh sounds from Baton Rouge and New Orleans.

Baton Rouge Gem & Mineral Show

9 a.m. - 4 p.m. — Lamar Dixon Expo Center — Admission details not specified — Discover stunning gems and minerals at this vibrant show.

Monthly RING Meeting

6:30-8:00 p.m. — Title2land, LLC — $10 voluntary contribution — Gather insights and network with local real estate enthusiasts at the monthly meeting.

Casa's for CASA Fiesta

6-9 p.m. — Red Stick Social — Support for children in foster care — Celebrate with Capital Area CASA at their annual fiesta event.

Reception & Awards: FELT Summer Contemporary

Time to be confirmed — Glassell Gallery — Free entry — Celebrate the creativity of 31 featured artists in a vibrant summer showcase.