Good morning, Baton Rouge.

Residents and their pets gathered at Rally Cap Brewing Company on Sunday, Oct.

4 for Barktoberfest, a fundraiser and adoption event benefiting Capital Area Animal Welfare Society. The event featured pet trick competitions, costume contests and refreshments+food.

Livingston Parish first responders are painting patrol cars pink to raise awareness and donations for breast cancer, a campaign that began in 2022 and now spans nearly a dozen departments.

The drive runs through Oct. 31 and uses QR codes for contributions to the Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Survivorship Center.

A 2025 report by the Common Ground Alliance found that underground utility damage cost Louisiana ratepayers $515.5 million in repairs, with nearly $500 million attributed to phone, internet and cable lines.

The report recorded 5,054 incidents statewide out of nearly 214,000 nationwide.

LSU has been awarded $20 million from the National Science Foundation to build the Laboratory for Next-Generation X-ray Science and Technology (LaNeXT) on Jefferson Highway.

The university will use this facility to capture rapid natural processes and boost research in Baton Rouge.

Nanette Burbank, a Baton Rouge breast cancer survivor, made over 100 handmade rose pins to offer hope to patients after her diagnosis in February 2025 and treatment that included surgery, reconstruction, and radiation.

She now works from home making jewelry to inspire others on their cancer journey.

East Iberville Fire Department is promoting Fire Prevention Week's 'Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging is a Superpower' campaign, joining other fire departments in sharing battery charging safety tips.

Officials advise residents to use approved chargers + follow manufacturer instructions to prevent fire hazards.

LSU football posted a win over McNeese on October 4 at Tiger Stadium, with analysts noting enhanced defense and offensive adjustments that promise better play in upcoming games (improved teamwork impressed local fans).

LSU volleyball snapped a two-game slide with a 3-2 win over Missouri on Sunday as senior Jurnee Robinson led with 23 kills and 16 digs at home.

The team will face No. 3 Kentucky on Friday, Oct. 9 at 7:00 p.m. (the game will challenge their SEC comeback).

Guard King Gibson, a five-star recruit in the 2027 class, committed to LSU on ESPN2, giving coach Will Wade his first top prospect since his previous tenure; he was ranked No. 1 by Rivals + chose the Tigers over offers from Arkansas, Louisville, and Providence.

Rob Haswell, a former LSU professor from South Africa, established LSU Rugby in 1970 to unite students beyond racial lines — his innovative club fostered community and later won a national championship, creating lasting pride in Baton Rouge.