Daily
Baton Rouge
Wednesday, December 31st, 2025
Good morning, Baton Rouge. Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 31st of December.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Walker native Chief Petty Officer Melvine Golmond serves with the Navy expeditionary force based in Virginia Beach, protecting coastal waters and ports while celebrating his promotion to chief (crediting his family's support and an early Navy dream after 17 years of service). The Advocate
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Richard Manship led WBRZ through decades of evolution—his family launched the station in 1955 and he earned Broadcaster of the Year in 1998 before passing control to his nephew Jake in 2023; earlier this year, he shared his journey at his home along False River. WBRZ
- ➤ Amite native John Foster (American Idol runner-up) will perform at the 2026 Rose Parade on Jan. 1 in Pasadena as Louisiana’s float—with a giant pelican chef stirring a flavorful gumbo—prepares to roll. He and Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser joined 2une In from California to finalize details. WBRZ
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ Louisiana drivers see relief as gas prices dropped to their lowest since 2021 at an average of $2.48 a gallon, roughly 20 cents cheaper than last year. Lower pump prices are expected to bring more commuters on the road today. WBRZ
- ➤ Gas prices in Louisiana dropped to their lowest level since 2021 as the statewide average reached $2.48 a gallon, about 20 cents cheaper than last year — prompting more drivers to head out on the roads before the New Year. WBRZ
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Pre-K students at Bains Lower Elementary are learning drawing, labeling, and early writing in Writers' Workshop today. Teachers Sammantha Heath and Caroline McKnight guide lessons that build creative skills + boost classroom confidence. The Advocate
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Louisiana Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority completed a $2 million upgrade on Bayou Pigeon Boat Launch off La. 75 by adding five boat launches, ADA parking and floating piers for better access. The project is part of CPRA’s Fiscal Year 2027 plan to ease congestion and boost public use. The Advocate
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Local blood donation centers are urging community members to donate blood in tribute to 14 lives lost almost a year ago in New Orleans. They are calling for donors before + after New Year's Day at various local centers as part of Blood Donor Awareness Month. WBRZ
- ➤ CDC data from Tuesday, Dec. 30 shows rising flu activity nationwide as holiday travel and gatherings extend the season - health officials note 4.6 million infections and urge everyone aged six months and older to get a flu shot to curb the spread. WBRZ
- ➤ CDC data shows very high flu activity in Louisiana as holiday gatherings and travel boost infection spread. Health officials advise vaccines (for eligible residents) to help curb the surge. WJBO
- ➤ A family from DeRidder has launched a nonprofit called Lainey Jayne’s Wings of Hope to support families coping with pregnancy loss. The group will host a rodeo benefit in March (donations are welcomed) to raise funds for its efforts. WAFB 9
- ➤ Louisiana is set to receive over $208 million from the $50 billion Rural Health Transformation Program to upgrade rural health care — the funds will update equipment, boost cyber security, and support recruiting health care workers in local parishes. WJBO
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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.
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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.
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Louisiana Marathon 2026
7 a.m. — Louisiana Marathon — Check for registration fees — Experience the thrill of running in the heart of Baton Rouge.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Medical Records Supervisor (Release of Information)
The Medical Records Supervisor is responsible for the day to day operations the medical records department and supervising staff. Must be able to work within an electronic medical records system, interpret and enforce release of information laws, and ensure collection on invoices for records.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Art should comfort the disturbed and disturb the comfortable.
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