Good morning, Baton Rouge.

Louisiana Economic Development launched the $150 million FastSites fund to help local agencies turn land and infrastructure into project-ready sites.

Applications open Oct. 30 and a webinar is scheduled at 2 p.m. Oct. 27—projects must show measurable returns and begin construction within nine months.

A company backed by biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy will start building a $3 billion pig iron plant in Ascension Parish in 2027 that will begin operating in 2030.

The facility will turn iron ore pellets into pig iron — creating about 1,850 full-time jobs in its first phase with additional positions planned later.

St. Jude School in Baton Rouge and South Live Oak Elementary in Livingston Parish were named 2025 Louisiana Blue Ribbon Schools for strong academics and measurable progress.

The Department of Education will celebrate each school's award with local ceremonies, and school officials said the honors recognize hard work by students, teachers, and families + show continued commitment to education.

The Louisiana Construction Education Foundation invested $100,000 in LSU's new 148,000-square-foot construction and advanced manufacturing building to boost hands-on learning in construction management.

The donation is part of a $107 million project that has already received $40 million in private funds and $42 million in state support—helping to prepare students for industry roles.

LSU and two other local universities used NASA funds to study vitrimers—reprocessable polymers—for ultrasonic welding that could cut space structure assembly weight by 35% and costs by 50% while giving students hands-on research experience.

The project was led by associate professor Genevieve Palardy in collaboration with experts from Louisiana Tech and Southern University and A&M College.

LSU Interim President Matt Lee, LSU Board Chair Scott Ballard and local law enforcement talked about campus and gameday security at a Thursday morning news conference after Gov. Jeff Landry called for more safety following a shooting that injured two near LSU during homecoming.

LSU’s next football game will be held at 6:30 p.m. Saturday against Texas A&M.

Ruby Slipper is offering free meals to government workers impacted by the federal shutdown — workers must show their federal ID to receive a free entree valued up to $20 at the Baton Rouge restaurant along Perkins Road near Trader Joe's.

The offer comes as the shutdown continues into its third week.

Commuters experienced severe delays on Thursday morning along I-10 eastbound as the Department of Transportation kept the middle and right lanes closed near City Park Lake Bridge due to issues with concrete curing—extending backups into West Baton Rouge and keeping the Dalrymple Drive off-ramp closed. Officials said the repairs, originally scheduled to end at 5 a.m., will continue until work is completed.

All 15 library branches now serve as security checkpoints where domestic violence victims can file for protective orders via the 19th Judicial District Court.

The partnership—announced at the River Center Branch library—ensures that judges or commissioners will sign orders within one hour after filing, even after courthouse hours.

Louisiana Healthcare Connections will host a free tailgate event at Southern University’s homecoming tomorrow from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Swan Street between the nursing school and laboratory school — offering health resources, food, games, and giveaways for moms, young children, and expectant mothers.

Southern University is discussing homecoming week activities as it prepares for its Saturday game after a tough loss to Bethune-Cookman ended a 7-game win streak + the team struggles with a 1-5 record, marking its worst start since 1971.

Boo at the Zoo

All day — BREC's Baton Rouge Zoo — Check for ticket details — Experience festive photo opportunities and princess character meet and greets amidst Halloween-themed displays.

The Addams Family Musical

7:30-9:00 p.m. — River Center Theatre for Performing Arts — Ticket prices vary — Experience a devilishly delightful musical comedy featuring everyone's favorite creepy, kooky family.

Zoso: The Ultimate Led Zeppelin Experience

8-11 p.m. — Chelsea's Live — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate the iconic sounds of Led Zeppelin with a tribute experience marking their 30th anniversary.

Halloween Costume Party

8 PM — WingBar and Daiquiris — $5 General Admission — Enjoy a spooky night with wings, drinks, and a cash prize for the best costume.

An Evening with Josh Gates

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Raising Cane's River Center — Tickets available — Explore ghost stories, monsters, and thrilling adventures with the Emmy-nominated host.

Family Fright Night: Halloween Concert in the Cosmos

Spooky Concert in the Cosmos — Evening — Louisiana Art & Science Museum — Check event pricing — Enjoy classic Halloween movies and tunes with stunning visuals in the planetarium.

Blackberry Smoke Concert

7-9:30 p.m. — Raising Cane's River Center — Tickets available — Enjoy an evening with Blackberry Smoke, known for their soulful Southern rock sound.

Ozzmosis Tribute Event

7-10 p.m. — L'Auberge Casino & Hotel Baton Rouge — Tickets required — Experience the legendary music of Ozzy Osbourne performed by top musicians.

Louisiana Book Festival

09:00 AM-06:00 PM — State Library of Louisiana — Check Official Website — Celebrate literature with engaging activities, book signings, and discussions for readers of all ages.

Blippi: Join the Band Tour

2-3:30 p.m. — Raising Cane's River Center — Tickets available — Enjoy a family-friendly live music experience with Blippi and friends.

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