Good morning, Baton Rouge.

A Baton Rouge animal shelter is seeking permanent homes for 300 dogs and cats and will update its programs in the new year (including enhanced adoption support).

Scientists at LSU AgCenter are using liquid nitrogen to freeze and store genes from local fish, frogs and shellfish to guard against extreme weather.

The lab will share its open-source 3D-print designs (to help others build custom gene pools) for research and aquaculture support.

Residents in St. George and Ascension Parish have seen falling ash and haze today due to burning sugarcane fields in West Baton Rouge, and officials recommend limiting outdoor activity and keeping windows closed if you have respiratory issues — a precaution to lessen irritation.

Belle River Bridge was closed to marine traffic on Sunday, Dec.

28 because low water levels forced a shutdown; the Assumption Parish Sheriff's Office said north winds would likely worsen conditions (drivers were urged to slow down when crossing the bridge).

Louisiana native Paul Hollis was confirmed by the Senate on Dec.

18 as the 41st director of the U.S. Mint and will assume his position in January. The coin expert from Mandeville is set to oversee coins + gold reserves and help produce commemorative coins for the nation’s 250th anniversary.

Experts advise caution as New Year’s Eve celebrations approach, noting that while fireworks remain popular, injuries have risen.

They recommend keeping fireworks 200 feet from structures + flammable materials and supervising children when using sparklers.

LSU women's basketball beat Alabama State 109-41 on Sunday, Dec.

28, finishing a 14-0 nonconference slate. The Tigers will open conference play Thursday at the Maravich Center against No. 11 Kentucky.

On Sunday, Dec. 28, the Saints rallied in Nashville to beat the Titans 34-26 with Tyler Shough throwing for 333 yards as the team secured its fourth straight win; they will play Atlanta for the season finale at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

Surreal In The Stacks Craft Event

4:30-7:30 p.m. — East Baton Rouge Parish Library — Free entry — Get creative and craft your own surreal costume at this imaginative community event.

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.