225 Magazine [March 2024]

INSIDE:

FORMER STAR

SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY BASEBALL

PITCHER JORDAN HYMEL THREW SO HARD HIS FRESHMAN YEAR THAT HE DEVELOPED DEBILITATING STRESS FRACTURES IN HIS LUMBAR SPINE.   THE FRACTURES WOULD NOT HEAL WITH CONSERVATIVE METHODS. NOT WANTING TO GIVE UP ON HIS DREAM OF PLAYING COLLEGIATE BASEBALL, JORDAN UNDERWENT A LUMBAR FUSION WITH DR OBERLANDER AND SOON RETURNED TO THE MOUND TO THROW A NO-HITTER.

BACK ON THE MOUND

Whether it’s on the pitching mound or the carpool line, getting your back-BACK (and neck!)- is the goal. Dr. Eric K. Oberlander is an award-winning spine specialist who has developed one of the largest practices in the country.

As one of the few board certified neurosurgeons in Louisiana who has fellowship training in minimally invasive and complex spine surgery, his services are in high demand. Join the 7,000 patients that see Team Oberlander per year.

Eric Oberlander, MD Board Certified Neurosurgeon TheNeuroMedicalCenter.com

THUR MAR 14

SAT MAR 16

FRI MAR 22

SAT MAR 23

THUR MAR 28

FRI MAR 29

SAT MAR 30

MON APR 1

TUE APR 2

FRI APR 5

SAT APR 6

TUES APR 9

SAT APR 13

TUES APR 16

SAT APR 19

SUN APR 28

MON APR 29

WED MAY 1

SUN MAY 5

MON MAY 6

SAT MAY 18

SUN MAY 19

TUES MAY 21

THUR MAY 30

SAT JUN 1

WED JUN 12

TUE JUN 25

KARAOKE EVERY WEDNESDAY !

The Axes of Evil with Big Frank , Glacial Coffin & Pyrate

Emo Night Baton Rouge 2 Year Anniversar y w/ Paris Avenue

flipturn w/ Ritchy Mitch & The Coalminers

Rebir th Brass Band

Safe $ex Worldwide: A R&B Dance Par ty Snõõper w/ Skull Cul t & Steef

Bounce Night

Latin Night

Universal Language & f riends

Private Par ty

The Stew: A Local Music Showcase

Only Dans - The Hottest Steely Dan Tribute Band

Emo Night

Crowbar w/ Morbid Visionz

Alejandro Escovedo Nekroblikon

Safe $ex Worldwide: A R&B Dance Par ty

Allah-Las w/ Maston & Reverberation Radio

Red, Rock & Blue Spring Kick- off w/ The Atomic Punks & Helldorados

The Dip w/ Jeremie Albino

Taylor Swift Night: The Tor tured Poets Depar tment w/ Interstellar

Daniel Donato Cosmic Countr y

Daniel Donato Cosmic Countr y

All Them Witches

Kur t Vile & The Violators

Lords of Acid w/ Praga Khan

Giovannie & The Hired Guns

MIKE w/ 454 , Niontay & El Cousteau

Slater

Adeem The Ar tist

Obituar y

Mel t-Banana w/ Baby Baby_ Explores

MC Chris

Max Miller, author of OBOC 2024 selection, Tasting History

Features

15 What to expect from the second annual LA Tiki Fest

23 How a local nonprofit is serving grandparents around the state

71 Who has created their own custom sneaker

79 Where to find authentic Peruvian food in Baton Rouge

And much more…

Departments

15 What’s Up

23 Our City

31 I Am 225

32 Cover story

71 Style

79 Taste

91 Culture

101 Calendar

ON THE COVER

Green day HEADED TO THE Wearin' of the Green Parade on March 16? Look closely at the floats. In this month's cover story, we take a deep dive into how these parties-on-wheels are constructed. 225 Staff Photographer Collin Richie captured this elaborate Raising Cane's float on the route in 2022. Turn to page 32 for our full guide to this year's St. Patrick's Day festivities, from food to fashion to all the preand post-parade fun.

32

Charm City Sensation Ice Cream at Gail’s Fine Ice Cream

Lucky charms

I KNOW EXACTLY where I will be the night of March 15.

On the eve of the Wearin’ of the Green St. Patrick’s Day Parade, I’ll be in my living room, surrounded by hot glue and crafting supplies putting the finishing touches on my outfit. Because watching from the route is just more special when wearing something homemade.

From Mardi Gras and St. Patrick’s Day to Halloween and Christmas, I’m endlessly enamored with and inspired by Baton Rouge parades.

The artistry of the floats. The choreography of the marching groups. And, oh, the costumes.

The riders are like tiny floats themselves. Every element of their outfits is feathered and glittered by hand. The ’fits are wacky and weird. Funny or political. And always, always beautiful.

I have loved Louisiana’s parade culture from the moment I attended my first one 10 years ago. But the way I experience and appreciate parade day has shifted over the years.

It started with throws. During my bead phase, I would come home weighed down by 30 pounds of plastic around my neck, plus a bulging bag of Frisbees, faux flowers, light-up necklaces and stuffed animals. The end of the night felt like being a kid on Halloween. I couldn’t wait to unpack my loot or trade specialty throws with friends.

I’d experiment with different ways to grab riders’ attention. I learned the etiquette through osmosis,

Turn

observing the more veteran paradegoers around me. I studied where to stand and how to make eye contact to signal I was ready to make a catch.

Then I moved into my costuming phase. I remember standing downtown in the middle of the Spanish Town Mardi Gras Parade wearing a pink wig and a tiara made of glittered shells. My friend had conceptualized our twin mermaid outfits, imparting her costuming wisdom upon me. But even as we fielded compliments that day, I remember thinking it didn’t really feel like me. As enchanted as I was by everyone else’s costumes, I didn’t know if I had that kind of ingenuity in me. I wasn’t convinced I was a Costume Person.

I’d try, though. For the next few years, I’d routinely find myself at 2 a.m. the night before a parade, battling headpiece mechanics.

Eventually, I learned the way: Abandon perfectionism. Just start gluing things.

Because above all, parade days have taught me to how to be a free spirit. The most important thing is just to wake up and get out on the route.

The real magic of the Wearin’ of the Green Parade happens when walking in the middle of the Garden District and running into everyone you know—and making random conversation with everyone you don’t know. The air is pulsing with possibility. Every interaction feels like kismet.

The entire day feels like being wrapped in joy. One giant hug.

At some point, you end up inside a stranger’s house, dragged inside by a friend-of-a-friend of the owner. Just as you’re wondering if the host will be annoyed by your entrance, they spot you. But instead of asking you to leave, they’re telling you to eat.

“Help yourself,” they say, gesturing to a generous spread of appetizers.

And then, the luckiest words of all: “The bathroom is just down the hall.”

Jennifer Tormo Alvarez 225 Editor-in-Chief

Nominate an exceptional 20-something

This spring, 225 is working on our first-ever Twenty in their 20s issue: a special edition celebrating Baton Rouge’s upand-coming leaders, creators and difference makers.

Nominations are open until March 11 for young people who are doing amazing things.

Think: an owner of a fastgrowing startup or a worker who has already risen to a crucial leadership role at their place of work. Maybe you know someone dedicated to changing the city through community service, charitable outreach or politics—or a person who has achieved national or regional recognition for a project they’ve overseen.

Tell us about them!

Submit your nomination at 225batonrouge.com/20s.

AN OLD FASHIONED Easter Celebration

SUNDAY, MARCH 24 | 2:30 - 5 PM

The annual Easter celebration hosted by the museum is back!

Visitors can enjoy various customs associated with Easter in Louisiana. The event will include Easter Bunny photos, egg dyeing, paquing, races, and egg hunts with prizes-something for the whole family to enjoy!

EGG HUNT TIMES:

2-4 yrs 2:45 PM

5-7 yrs 3:15 PM

8-10 yrs 3:45 PM

TICKET INFORMATION:

$8 per person, ages 3 & under FREE

FRIDAY, APRIL 26 | 6 - 9 PM

Join us for an unforgettable evening of magic, music,

delicious food set amidst the stunning Windrush Gardens. You’ll be treated to delectable cocktails

an elegant Southern supper, prepared by the renowned Chef John Folse.

All proceeds benefit the Friends of LSU Rural Life Museum.

Publisher: Julio Melara

EDITORIAL

Chief Content Officer: Penny Font

Editor-In-Chief: Jennifer Tormo Alvarez

Managing Editor: Laura Furr Mericas

Features Writer: Maggie Heyn Richardson

Digital Staff Writer: Olivia Deffes

Multimedia Editor: Oscar Tickle

Staff Photographer: Collin Richie

Contributing Writers:

Cynthea Corfah, Madelon Davis, Tracey Koch, Benjamin Leger, Domenic Purdy, Kelsei Scott

Contributing Photographers:

Ariana Allison, Sean Gasser, Amy Shutt

ADVERTISING

Director of Consumer Sales: Michelle Lanoix

Team Leader: André Hellickson Savoie

Assistant Sales Manager: Manny Fajardo

Multimedia Consultants: Jamie Hernandez, Kaitlyn Maranto, Cassidie Tingle Digital Operations Manager: Devyn MacDonald

Partner Success Manager: Paul Huval

Content Creator: Ashleigh Ward

Digital Ops Assistant: Derrick Frazier

STUDIO E

Director: Taylor Gast

Creative Director: Tim Coles

Corporate Media Editor: Lisa Tramontana

Content Strategist: Emily Hebert

Project Manager: Kendall Denney

Account Executive: Judith LaDousa

MARKETING

Marketing & Events Coordinator: Taylor Andrus

Marketing & Events Assistant: Mallory Romanowski

ADMINISTRATION

Business Manager: Tiffany Durocher

Business Associate: Kirsten Milano

Office Coordinator: Sara Hodge

Receptionist: Cathy Varnado Brown

PRODUCTION/DESIGN

Director of Creative Services: Amy Vandiver

Art Director: Hoa Vu

Senior Graphic Designers: Melinda Gonzalez Galjour, Emily Witt

Graphic Designer: Ellie Gray, Sidney Rosso

AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT

Audience Development Director and Digital Manager: James Hume

Audience Development Coordinator: Ivana Oubre

Audience Development Associate: Catherine Albano

Customer Service Coordinator: Kathy Thomas

A publication of Melara Enterprises, LLC

Chairman: Julio Melara

Executive Assistant: Brooke Motto

Vice President-Sales: Elizabeth McCollister Hebert

Chief Content Officer: Penny Font

Chief Digital Marketing Officer: Erin Pou

Chief Operating Officer: Guy Barone

Chairman Emeritus: Rolfe H. McCollister Jr.

On our January cover, which featured LSU Baseball’s Gavin Guidry: “Gavin Guidry a stone cold killer. Can’t wait for this season to start.” —@jblanc2012, via Instagram

Get out and VOTE

Re: Our story on how Sweet Society became one the Capital Region’s official resellers of the coveted Dong Phuong king cakes: “I love Sweet Society! I always go & make sure to get some fruit tea & taiyaki when I’m there!! My favorite ice cream shop!! ”

—Joann Accomando, via Facebook

Comments and analytics are from Jan. 1-31, 2024. They have been lightly edited for clarity and brevity.

What are the city’s best restaurants, bars and businesses? 225 readers decide in the annual Best of 225 Awards. Voting opened for this year’s awards on Feb. 27 and runs through April 3. Head to 225batonrouge.com/bestof225 to cast your ballot. Nominees were determined during the write-in submission period, which was open to residents of the 225 region earlier this year.

SCAN TO VOTE!

POWERED BY EXPERIENCE.

Just ask Dr. Daryl Marx.

Who would you trust in surgery if not the man who trains other robotic surgeons throughout the region? Daryl Marx, MD, is a general surgeon at Our Lady of the Lake Robotic Surgery Institute, where he specializes in minimally invasive robotic surgery.

Using state-of-the-art tools like the Da Vinci Robotic Surgical System, Dr. Marx is skilled in performing the most complicated surgical procedures with precision, control and dexterity that traditional surgery cannot match.

He’s quick to point out that “the machine doesn’t do anything by itself. Everything is completely driven by the surgeon in the room.” With Dr. Marx’s guidance, the Da Vinci robot helps him complete these complicated surgeries with the smallest incisions, minimal scarring and faster recovery for the patient.

In fact, Dr. Marx is the No. 1 robotic surgeon in the South based on volume statistics provided from the Da Vinci system’s

Dr. Daryl Marx Quick Facts

• The No. 1 robotic surgeon in the South based on volume statistics provided from DaVinci surgical statistics.

• He has performed more than 4,000 robotic cases since he started using the system in April 2012.

• He gives presentations on his work across Louisiana and surrounding states, trains and proctors other surgeons in robotics and routinely has other surgeons travel to observe his cases.

• He received his doctor of medicine from LSU School of Medicine in New Orleans. He continued his surgical internship and residency there, graduating in 2003.

• He completed a fellowship in advanced laparoscopic surgery at LSU Medical Center in Shreveport.

• He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Surgery, Board Certified by the American College of Surgeons and a fellow of the Society of Laparoscopic Surgeons.

• He is a Surgical Review Corporation certified Center of Excellence surgeon and certified master surgeon in robotics and hernia.

makers. He gives presentations on his work across Louisiana and surrounding states, trains and proctors other surgeons in robotics and routinely has other surgeons travel to observe his cases.

Dr. Marx and other surgeons at Our Lady of the Lake Robotic Surgery Institute can perform almost any operation in a body cavity, such as the chest and abdomen. That includes surgeries on the gallbladder, colon and lungs and surgeries to treat conditions like hernias, cancer, acid reflux and obesity.

With six robotic surgical machines currently in use at Our Lady of the Lake, there are up to four operations per machine happening each day — and that means shorter wait times for patients who are in need of surgery soon.

Find out more about Our Lady of the Lake Robotic Surgery

This Month @ BREC [MARCH]

SENSORY BUNNY

Zachary Community Park

March 1 | 6-8 p.m.

SWEET TOOTH DESIGNS

North Street Park March 6 | 6-7 p.m

VIBIN’ YOGA Forest Community Park

March 7 + 21 | 6-7 p.m

March 30 | 8:30-9:30 a.m.

GLOW IN THE PARK: KICKBALL

Jackson Community Park

March 7 | 6-7 p.m.

POWER UP YOGA

Forest Community Park

March 7 + 21 | 7-8 p.m.

March 30 | 9:30-10:30 a.m.

ART UNWINED: MUD FOR TWO!

Drusilla Lane Park

March 8 | 6:30-8:30 p.m.

ROCKIN’ AT THE SWAMP

Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center

March 9 | 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Perkins Road Community Park

March 9 | 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

SATURDAY MORNING STUDIO

Milton J. Womack Park

March 9 | 10:30 a.m.-noon

FLEX, BODY + STRETCH

Forest Community Park

March 13 | 5:30-6:30 p.m.

SUNSHINE SOCIAL: YELLOW OUT FOR DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES

AWARENESS Milton J. Womack Park

March 15 | 6-9 p.m.

EGG HUNT AFTER DARK [18+]

Highland Road Community Park

March 15 | 6-9 p.m.

COMITE RIVER RUN

Comite River Conservation Area

March 23 | 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

REGISTER FOR SUMMER CAMP! BEGINS MARCH 2

BREC GREEN FORCE VOLUNTEER TRAINING

Frenchtown Conservation Area

March 23 | 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

ADULT FUN PICKLEBALL DOUBLES

TOURNAMENT Greenwood Community Park Tennis Center

March 23 | 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

EGGSTRAVAGANZA

Independence Community Park

March 23 | 1-3 p.m.

LUCK OF THE RUN FUN RUN

March

Rum for it

The second annual Louisiana Tiki Fest takes place this month

BY MAGGIE HEYN RICHARDSON

PHOTOS BY COLLIN RICHIE

THERE ARE COCKTAILS—

and there are tiki cocktails.

Usually turbocharged with multiple rums and spirits, fresh fruit juices and obscure mixers, this subset of drinks is known for double-digit ingredients and complex mixology. And that, say fans, is part of their enjoyment.

A passion for all things tiki drove Baton Rougean Jeff Shaw and a few friends to launch the Louisiana Tiki Fest for the first time last year. Shaw and his fellow fans had regularly traveled to tiki festivals in places like Portland, Houston, Atlanta and Austin. They figured Louisiana, a state with a history of sugar cane and rum production, needed a tiki festival, too.

brings limited seating workshops on topics like how to use Louisiana rum in tiki drink recipes, how to build your own tiki bar and how to make lower-sugar tiki cocktails. Shaw also says the Mid City vintage shop Time Warp will sell a curated collection of tiki clothing during the festival weekend.

VIP tickets score patrons access to a Friday-night party at Shaw’s elaborate at-home, outdoor tiki bar. He says guests regularly ask him to name his favorite tiki drink.

“I say, ‘I have it narrowed down to about 50,’” he says, though he admits to an affinity for the Jet Pilot. The drink blends lime and

SAVE THE DATE

March 22-24, 2024

Louisiana Tiki Fest

Tickets available at latikifest.com

“A lot of us had noticed that the tiki scene around the country and around town was blowing up,” says Shaw, an engineering project manager who also helped found the Rum Society of Louisiana. “We thought, ‘We have the interest here for a local festival.’”

Last year’s small inaugural festival was a sellout, prompting organizers to triple the number of available tickets to 150 and also add new events. Patrons can expect three days of intimate gatherings this year, including socials and tiki workshops at Mid City establishments Pelican to Mars and Soji: Modern Asian, and a chartered trip to Wildcat Brothers Distilling in Lafayette and Bayou Teche Brewing Company in Arnaudville.

The cocktail part of tiki culture is scaffolded with festive attire, music and distinct barware, Shaw says. Expect to hear island tunes as you sip from a carved vessel accessorized with tropical fruit. A Hawaiian shirt or grass skirt is encouraged.

“So much of it is the atmosphere,” says Shaw, who also goes by the nickname Tiki Jeff.

A vendor show at Pelican to Mars on Saturday includes artists like tiki mug craftsman Omar Girona and others selling clothing and original art. Saturday also

grapefruit juices, three different rums, absinthe, cinnamon syrup, Angostura bitters and the syrup liqueur falernum.

“It comes out crazy good,” Shaw says. “If it’s done right, it’s all about balance. You taste all those ingredients at the same time.” latikifest.com

LA Tiki Fest schedule

General admission tickets to Tiki Fest ($150) get tikiphiles entry to:

Friday, March 22

Kickoff & Welcome Party at Pelican to Mars

25% off all tiki drinks and food for purchase

Saturday, March 23

Sip & Shops + Panels at Pelican to Mars

11:15 - Creation of Tiki Mugs

12:15 - Building your own Tiki Bar

1:15 - Exploring Louisiana Tiki Rums

2:15 - Minimalist Tiki

3:15 - Low-carb Tiki Cocktails

Lotus Lounge + Soji Takeover

Three tiki cocktail tickets and buffet-style dining Times and schedule are as of press time. Check with LA Tiki Fest for the latest.

Jeff Shaw, also known as Tiki Jeff, hosts the VIP party for LA Tiki Fest at the elaborate tiki bar he constructed in his backyard.

SAY WHAT?

“We want you to feel like this is home and this is family. But, also at the same time, you’re not getting somebody’s grandma who doesn’t know how to cook for you. You get an elevated experience.”

Katie Dupont , co-owner of Toasted, which opened on Nicholson Drive in late January. The new restaurant focuses on comfort foods with a twist, featuring menu items like spiked milkshakes, gooey grilled cheeses and breakfast sandwiches with Belgian waffles for buns. toastedbr.com

On display

• LSU Museum of Art is showcasing 36 original prints by the iconic Andy Warhol in Andy Warhol / Friends & Frenemies: Prints from the Cochran Collection. This exhibit also features 60 works from different artists of the same period, now through March 31. lsumoa.org

Fueling the future

An LSU-led team won the largest grant ever awarded by the U.S. National Science Foundation in late January. The team, known as Future Use of Energy in Louisiana (FUEL), will use the funds to help the state create more jobs and solve energy problems. nsf.gov

$160 million

Total awarded to the team over the next 10 years through the foundation’s NSF Engines award

$6.75 million

Funding the state will contribute to the project through Louisiana Economic Development over the next 10 years

In the action

Amazon Prime Video has green-lit a new docuseries that follows LSU athletes during the 2023-24 athletic season. Titled The Money Game, it will show the effects of the NCAA’s decision to allow college athletes to engage in name, image and likeness deals. Olivia Dunne, Jayden Daniels and Angel Reese are just a few of the athletes who will be spotlighted. amazonstudios.com

• West Baton Rouge Museum presents Shutter and Sound: The Jazz Photography of Bob Willoughby. Willoughby

was a photographer known for capturing live music performances, including the biggest names in jazz from Louis Armstrong to Miles Davis and Ella Fitzgerald. See his work now through March 17. westbatonrougemuseum.org

Write track

Louisiana author Ashley Elston’s new book

First Lie Wins was released in January and is already gaining national attention. The thriller is Elston’s first foray into novels for adults and is set in the South. It was the first book added to Reese Witherspoon’s 2024 book club list and has become a New York Times Best Seller. Before the book was even published, streaming giant Hulu announced it planned to adapt the book into a series starring Octavia Spencer. ashleyelston.com

Annie Oakley from Andy Warhol’s Cowboys and Indians series

ARIANA ALLISON

COURTESY FLYING DOLLY’S

STOCK PHOTO

ANATOMY OF A DISH

Cookie master

A closer look at the sweet treats fans are lining up for at Perkins Rowe

BATON ROUGE JUST got a whole lot sweeter, thanks to the addition of Lafayette-born bakery Caroline’s Cookies. The cookie shop opened its second location (and first in Baton Rouge) in December at Perkins Rowe. Find it on a corner behind Barnes & Noble, next to California Pizza Kitchen. Inside the pastel purple-andwhite shop, guests can order from a rotating selection of thick, gooey, dome-shaped cookies.

Two is better than one Caroline’s Cookies uses two kinds of chocolate to give its chocolate chip cookies a little extra umph. These signature cookies are chock-full of regular-sized milk chocolate chips and mini semisweet morsels. To make things even more chocolatey, each cookie is topped with a few more chips, as well.

Owner Caroline Merryman started her sweet business in her parents’ kitchen in 2020, when she began whipping up cookies the way she liked them. The then-19year-old decided to start selling her creations via social media and gained loyal customers.

“I was making a cookie that I think Lafayette didn’t have at the time, which was my favorite kind of cookie,” she says. “It’s the closest thing to cookie dough.”

Sweet and salty

With two kinds of chocolate in this cookie, it’s sure to be sweet. To balance the sugary flavor, the cookies are finished with a quick sprinkle of salt.

Top seller

According to the bakery’s Instagram, Chocolate Chip is the most popular flavor among customers. Still, the Baton Rouge location regularly sells out of all flavors each week.

Merryman and her business are no strangers to Baton Rouge. After announcing her second location in July 2023, Caroline’s Cookies popped up at local spots to sell cookies and connect with a new community. Merryman’s Baton Rouge pop-ups routinely attracted long lines of hungry customers, with cookies usually selling out within the first hour.

Merryman says she didn’t expect her first pop-up at Hemline in Towne Center last August to be so crowded.

“I didn’t have any expectations,” she says. “I really did not think we were going to sell out. Pulling up (to Hemline) like that gave me the

confidence boost I needed.”

The fanfare at the bakery’s grand opening was similar: Caroline’s Cookies sold out of about 4,000 cookies in just a few hours, according to its Instagram account.

Merryman made a temporary move to Baton Rouge to ensure everything runs smoothly as the new location gets up and running—it started offering catering and delivery options last month. She says she’s already incredibly thankful for the community and the support the city showed her.

“Thank you to Baton Rouge,” she says. “And keep spreading the word.” eatcarolinescookies.com

OLIVIA DEFFES

Thick and gooey

Unlike a classic, flat cookie, Caroline’s Cookies is known for having bigger, domeshaped cookies with a cookie-dough-like texture. All of the cookies at the shop are weighed to 4.2 ounces before baking and can be anywhere from 4 to 5 ounces after stuffings and toppings.

What’s your flavor?

Each month, the shop gets creative with four specialty flavors, including two brand-new flavors and two throwback flavors neatly stacked in the case. Caroline’s Cookies also serves up its four staple flavors: Chocolate Chip, Cookies & Cream, Vanilla Sprinkle and Circus Cookie.

Your health is our

priority.

Make it yours, too.

Running him to band practice. Getting her to the doctor. Checking on your mom. Making sure everyone has lunch. No wonder you can barely t in your healthcare.

At Woman’s Hospital, our priority is women’s health. And nobody keeps women healthy and on top of their game like we do, because when you’re feeling good, you can take care of all the things you do for those you love.

Each year, more than 100,000 women in the U.S. are diagnosed with gynecologic cancers. Some have unique signs and symptoms while others have no obvious symptoms at all.

Make your health a priority and see your gynecologist every year because early detection can save your life.

Raising HOPE

BY LAURA FURR MERICAS

BY SEAN GASSER

How a local nonprofit is serving Louisiana grandparents raising their grandchildren

SPONSORED BY:

ADAPTIVE RECREATION LEADING THE WAY TO GROWTH & FUN FOR KIDS AND ADULTS

Whether feeling comfortable enough to hold a baby alligator on a swamp tour or give a new friend a hug, BREC’s Adaptive Recreation program provides new opportunities, as well as growth in social and life skills, to children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in our parish.

At BREC, the focus is always on what the individual can do, and not his or her limitations, says Molly Phillips, program coordinator. “We know our participants that have intellectual and developmental disabilities perceive the world differently. We want to understand how we can help them fit into what we’re doing and make the best reasonable accommodations that we can make,” she says.

BREC offers a range of programs for all ages, including socials each month, a weekday club and interactive group to bridge the gap between high school and adulthood and summer camps for all ages.

Parents are often surprised the summer camps offered through Adaptive Recreation offer many of the same field trips and experiences as BREC’s traditional camps. This is accomplished through a low 1:5

camper to staff ratio and a maximum of 20 participants in each of three separate camps for ages 8-11, 12-17 and 18+.

“They go to the aquarium, and they get to hold the alligator on the swamp tour,” Phillips says. “If they have a brother or sister at camp, they’re going to get the same opportunities that their brother or sister had.”

While Adaptive Recreation’s Summer Camps are extremely popular, BREC’s additional programming provides a way to continue those relationships all year round. “We see a lot of growth in our participants,” Phillips says. “We’ve had comments from families that they’re much calmer and happier coming home. Some of them have expressed social skills they’ve never expressed before, like openly walking up and hugging somebody.”

Here’s more about the opportunities offered by BREC Adaptive Recreation. For more information, visit online at brec.org/ AdaptiveRecreation or call 225.272.9200 Ext. 1561.

CHECK OUT THESE OPTIONS FOR ADAPTIVE RECREATION

1 2 3

SUNSHINE SOCIALS. Monthly social events where participants can dance the night away with BREC Adaptive and Families Helping Families. BREC encourages participants to be creative and dress to match each month’s theme. Enjoy dinner, dancing and door prizes.

SUNSHINE CLUB. The Sunshine Club helps bridge the gap for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities after graduation by offering recreational opportunities, as well as life skills and volunteer opportunities. Participants learn how to be productive members of the community in a full-day program Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

SUNSHINE INTERACTIVE GROUP. This group is designed for teens and adults with intellectual disabilities to learn new skills, take part in new adventures and interact with others their age while having fun. This free program runs Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to noon. It provides a preview of the full day programming with no fee.

4 ADAPTIVE RECREATION SUMMER CAMPS. Camp Sunshine is designed exclusively for campers with intellectual and developmental disabilities who can function within a staff ratio of 1:5. During each themed week, campers enjoy recreational games and activities, arts and crafts, field trips, water activities and more with their peers. This year, BREC is partnering with Crawfish Aquatics to provide water safety and foundational swim skills to all its campers. Payment plans and scholarships are available for East Baton Rouge Parish residents.

Registration for camp begins March 2. Before registering, an assessment is required with a BREC staff member to learn about communication needs, assistive devices and other aspects of the person’s disability.

SOME MIGHT JOKE about suffering from a midlife crisis. But for Kathy Coleman, it was all too real.

Around 2010, when Coleman was approaching 50, she became the full-time caretaker of her five grandchildren.

Their mother, Coleman’s daughter, was unable to care for her children ranging in ages 5 to 12.

Between the logistics and the financial stress of raising the five kids, coupled with the emotional toll of separating them from their mother, the burden became too much for Coleman to bear.

“I thought I was losing my mind,” she says today.

GRANDFAMILY

A group of family members in which a grandparent serves as the primary caregiver for youth, raising children on their own or in conjunction with other family members. For GRG’s purposes, this can be any family in which an older adult is the primary caregiver for children not their own.

That’s when Coleman’s attorney introduced her to Dot Thibodeaux, the founder of Grandparents Raising Grandchildren of Louisiana (GRG).

Thibodeaux found herself raising her teenage grandson on her own in the ’90s. Looking for support and community, she and Dana Spayd—a fellow grandmother raising a grandchild—founded the network and nonprofit in 1993. It’s been meeting on the fourth Thursday of every month since, gathering grandparents caring for their grandchildren. The children’s parents face challenges like addiction, incarceration, mental health issues and more.

The Baton Rouge-headquartered organization works closely with other local nonprofits to help grandparents across the state with everything from diapers to legal support.

For Coleman, who was raised by her grandmother, the group guided her through the darkest times of her life, particularly as she fought to gain custody of her grandchildren.

“The hardest thing I’ve ever had to do in my life was going into court to protect my grandchildren that made it appear I was against my daughter. But I wasn’t against my daughter,” she says. “As a grandparent, as you go into court, it devastates you. When I looked across that court room I still saw my baby girl.”

Through the years and throughout the ups and downs, Coleman and Thibodeaux became “inseparable.” After Thibodeaux died in 2019, Coleman stepped up to lead the organization that had given her so much.

“When (Dot) passed I said, ‘I will remain as long as the mission is what Dot prepared,’” Coleman says.

And while the organization has stayed true to that mission,

in the last few years Coleman and her team of volunteers have also pushed it to new heights, bringing more services, benefits and even funds to local grandfamilies.

Custody and challenges

In Louisiana, about 55,000 grandparents are responsible for their grandchildren, and about 61,000 children are being raised by family members other than their parents.

There are benefits for children living in grandfamilies and with relatives. Children report they are more likely to “always feel loved” than if they were in foster care with non-relatives. There are better educational outcomes. Children are less likely to re-enter foster care.

But taking on long-term care of a grandchild presents grandparents with many challenges, too.

“Grandparents say, ‘I can’t afford to take the kids, but morally I can’t

Kathy Coleman is the president and driving force behind Grandparents Raising Grandchildren of Louisiana. The organization coordinates monthly support meetings on East Airport Drive and quarterly legal workshops at the Main Library at Goodwood.

afford not to,’” Coleman explains.

She estimates 90% of GRG participants live below the poverty line, and many have retired and are living on a fixed income. In addition to the daily expenses of raising children, grandparents must also often take on costly legal fees to gain custody of their grandchildren. Without custody, grandparents cannot receive monthly kinship care subsidies from the state, and they face difficulties bringing the children to medical appointments and even enrolling them in school.

GRG works to offset some of those costs through regular food and supplies drives and occasional access to emergency funds. It also helps connect grandparents with attorneys at its monthly support groups and quarterly legal workshops at the Main Library at Goodwood.

For grandmother and GRG member Frances Cain, 71, it took more than seven years to gain custody of her two grandchildren.

Frances Cain, Kathy Coleman and Patti Sanders. Cain and Sanders are members of GRG who are currently raising their grandchildren.

She began raising them when they were 6 months and 1 year old, after both their parents were incarcerated.

She says she was forced to retire from her long-time job as a bus driver to care for the children.

“I had to rearrange my life,” Cain says.

But the community and support from GRG helped get her through.

“They helped me with food, diapers ... anything I actually needed I could go to them if I didn’t have somebody else to help me with it,” she says. “They give you a lot. They build you up.”

Grandfamilies also face emotional and physical challenges.

Patti Sanders, 70, is a cancer survivor who has raised her now9-year-old granddaughter since the child’s mother died in 2015.

you do do it. You see that face and you think, where would they be?”

Still, Sanders says her age and side effects from chemo did not make it an easy road. Initially, she came to GRG for help on how to manage an active toddler in her 60s. The group helped her install baby gates and learn new strategies. But Sanders says she’s gained so much more than she expected.

In the years since she joined GRG, Sanders’ son and husband have died. GRG has helped connect her and her granddaughter with grief counselors and has been there for Sanders personally.

“If it’s not monetary stuff, it’s just reaching out and saying ‘I’m thinking of you and I’m praying for you,’” she says. “That really makes a difference.”

DIGITS

55,000

Grandparents in Louisiana who are responsible for their grandchildren

61,000

Children in Louisiana who are being raised by family members other than their parents

30%

National portion of children in grandfamilies who live below the poverty line

grandfamilies from Shreveport to Houma. Coleman even loads up a trailer of groceries and supplies and drives items to grandfamilies in rural areas around the state. The trailer is nicknamed after her own grandmother, Ruby Ray.

Perhaps most importantly, GRG also played an instrumental role in working with DCFS last year to raise kinship care subsidies in Louisiana from $222 a month per child to $450 a month per child.

But there’s still work to be done. As Coleman puts it, she won’t stop until “all of our babies are adequately served.”

Making milestones

Issue Date: Mar2024 Ad proof #2 •

“Your family and friends are expecting you to be this retired person, but you are mama again,” Sander says. “You have homework and carpool and sports. … Some friends say, ‘I would not do it.’ But

In 2023, Coleman and her team spent $40,000 to place billboards across Louisiana to raise awareness about GRG. The response was, according to Coleman, “unreal.”

Calls to GRG’s 1-800 number doubled last year and came from almost every corner of the state. About 70% of calls into the state’s DCFS Kinship Navigator Program last year we also directed there through GRG, according to Coleman.

“That’s not too shabby for a little nonprofit office,” she says.

GRG now hosts quarterly support groups and serves

These days, Coleman’s grandchildren have their mother back in their lives, and the youngest is nearing graduation at LSU. She’s so proud of what her grandchildren have overcome, but she acknowledges not all is resolved.

“Families have issues that sometimes you can’t work out,” she says. “What do you do? You step up and do what’s best for the children.” lagrg.org

Built up

By Maggie Heyn Richardson

A new community pantry in north Baton Rouge wants to be ‘a blueprint’ to help others give back

A FREE COMMUNITY pantry stocked with food, toiletries and household items is now open on Lorraine Street in north Baton Rouge.

Underway since last April, the project is a donation to the city by the area’s largest young professionals organization, Forum 225, and was made possible by several partners, volunteers and more than $4,000 in in-kind donations. The pantry is located behind the Delmont Gardens Branch Library and will be open 24/7.

“We have a lot of canned foods, water and tons of hygiene products,” says Forum 225 Service Chair Laine Peterson. “It’s really just an open place for anybody to come and get what they may need.”

The community is also encouraged to drop off donations to the site if they are able, organizers say.

Peterson says Forum 225 researched the two community refrigerator locations on Government Street operated by Baton Rouge Community Fridge as models for the Delmont Gardens project. Such donation sites aim to give immediate relief to residents struggling to make ends meet.

Ultimately, however, Forum 225 decided a better fit would be a pantry and resource shed supplied with nonperishable foods and household items. The organization, which has about 350 members, will maintain the site. Volunteers will check on it periodically and restock it with donated supplies.

Forum 225 President Tyler Litt says the goal was to build

The new community pantry is located behind the Delmont Gardens Branch Library at 3351 Lorraine St. PHOTOS COURTESY

a “beautiful space that was super welcoming.”

“We wanted to make sure that people had no barriers to access,” Litt says. “And where they feel welcome not only to take from it, but also to contribute.”

Litt says that while Forum 225 does not yet have plans to create additional community pantries, it will draft “a blueprint” documenting how the project came together.

“We would love for this to kind of spark interest for other people across the city,” she says.

To naysayers who suggest an unmonitored pantry might be subject to vandalism, Litt says the opposite is often true when the community is involved.

STOCKED UP

Here are some of the items the new pantry aims to keep on its shelves:

• Canned goods, baby food and other shelf-stable foods

• Toiletries like deodorant, toothbrushes and toothpaste

Issue Date: Mar2024 Ad proof #2

• Please respond by e-mail or phone with your approval or minor revisions.

• AD WILL RUN AS IS unless approval or final revisions are received within 24 hrs from receipt of this proof. A shorter timeframe will apply for tight deadlines.

“What you usually find, especially when you’ve created intentional community partnerships, like with the library, is that people come around in solidarity,” Litt says. “And from what I’ve seen in other projects, if something happens, you usually see the community jump in to help.” forum225.org

• Additional revisions must be requested and may be subject to production fees.

Carefully check this ad for: CORRECT ADDRESS • CORRECT PHONE NUMBER • ANY TYPOS This ad design © Melara Enterprises, LLC. 2024. All rights reserved. Phone 225-928-1700

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• Blankets and hand warmers

• Paper towels, toilet paper and period products

For information on how to donate, contact Forum 225 Service Chair Laine Peterson at service@forum225.org

One side of the pantry features a paint-by-numbers mural by artist Debbie Downey that volunteers helped complete.

Volunteers coordinated by HoneyB Construction began erecting the shed last summer.

Emily Songer Photography

Laura Siu-Nguyen

FOR LAURA SIU-NGUYEN, Honduras will always be home. It’s where she was born and raised. It’s where her parents still live and run their business.

But, Nguyen has found a second home in Baton Rouge.

The Capital City is where she moved after marrying her husband, Kenny. It’s where she found a welcoming group of friends. And, it’s where she hopes to foster a thriving community that’s as proud of the city as she is.

“After meeting a lot of different people who love Baton Rouge and are invested in staying here and going to events, I ended up going from (attending) an event to planning an event, to working at different places that have allowed me to see the different aspects of what Baton Rouge has to offer,” she says.

Though not originally from Louisiana, the 33-year-old runner, corgi mom and event planner is no stranger to the state. Growing up, her family would take summer vacations to two international destinations: Disney World or New Orleans.

She moved from Honduras 15 years ago to attend college in New Orleans and has been residing in Baton Rouge since 2017. In just seven years in the Capital Region, Nguyen has held jobs in marketing, development and human resources, attended countless community events and even planned her own—including last month’s Night Market BTR, which drew over 6,000 attendees.

Since starting the Asian cultural festival last year, Nguyen has curated a lineup of vendors from across Baton Rouge and surrounding areas like Lafayette and New Orleans, giving them a place

to share their businesses with a new audience. At the same time, the event serves as a way to expose Baton Rouge residents to the diversity of the city while bringing together those from different cultural backgrounds.

It wasn’t Nguyen’s only accomplishment in 2023. She was named Woman of the Year by Curate For Women Who Work, a network that connects and uplifts female entrepreneurs. And, she became a U.S. citizen after working at it for 12 years.

She’s determined to make 2024 just as special as last year, with hopes to grow her family, have a third Night Market in May and to keep making Baton Rouge better.

“I always believe in this,” Nguyen says. “You either win or learn, you never lose.”

“Bringing events that make people feel at home—and that Baton Rouge can be home—is a big thing for me.”

—OLIVIA DEFFES

1986

The Wearin’ of the Green’s inaugural year. On March 15, the debut parade rolled from City Park Golf Course to Zee Zee Gardens. Pat Shingleton was inspired to start the parade after witnessing downtown’s surprisingly small St. Patrick’s Day parade in 1982.

IT’S THE PARADE

we wait all year for.

One Saturday in March, Baton Rouge is drenched in green.

Streets are cleared to make way for the highly anticipated Wearin’ of the Green St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Crowds line up, eager to watch more than 90 floats, marching bands and walking groups roll by. Homes along the route are decorated with tinsel and shamrocks, and they’re often destinations for pre- and post-parade parties.

Many locals plot their whole weekend around celebrating one of the city’s largest parades. Revelers trade Irish catchphrases and green food and drinks. The music is loud, the vibes are good, and the throws are plentiful.

But the parade is about so much more than beads, according to Pat Shingleton. The former and longtime WBRZ chief forecaster founded the parade in 1986.

“There are people who have reunions on parade day. People who get engaged or married on the route,” Shingleton says. “There are crawfish boils. There are festivities immediately before and after the parade rolls. There are even St. Patrick’s Day events the day before and the day after.”

Since its launch more than 40 years ago, the event has changed local lives—and cemented itself as a fixture of Capital Region culture.

But coordinating the fanfare is no small undertaking.

Here’s how it all comes together—and how to celebrate this year. See you on the route.

Sidebar sources: The Shingleton family, wearinofthegreen.com, Thrillist and National Geographic Kids

Krewe,

who?

Each Wearin’ of the Green krewe shares its own traditions, quirks and personality with the crowds

BY OLIVIA DEFFES

SAMANTHA WICKARD HAS never watched the Wearin’ of the Green Parade from the crowd. Riding on the floats is more her style.

After hitching rides on floats with other krewes, Wickard decided to start her own. She hasn’t looked back since.

“I don’t feel like I could be in the crowd now,” she says. “Put me on a float.’”

Wickard and her friends found their niche with a theme based on their favorite wrestler, Ric Flair. The krewe is now dubbed Flairin’ of the Green and rides in a float covered in cutouts of the wrestler.

The krewe’s first year, getting organized and keeping riders cohesively on-theme was tricky. Most of the decorations were stuck onto the float the

morning of. The krewe has since adjusted, and it now enforces a costume requirement.

“The first year some people dressed up as different things,” she says. “Now, we’re really strict. You get your wig, your robe and your aviators, or you don’t come on.”

But costumes and themes aren’t required for every krewe. For some, it’s about a fun day with family, friends and colleagues. For others, it’s about honoring Irish heritage.

Monty Travis’ krewe reflects his fam ily’s business, Party Time. Its float is lined with a custom banner printed at the locally owned shop. Riders are decked out in green accessories plucked from the store’s aisles on parade morning.

“The first year some people dressed up as different things. Now, we’re really strict. You get your wig, your

A Flairin’ of the Green throw

50+

“We have the perfect business for a fun parade,” he says.

Thanks to their store’s stash of parade throws, Travis and his krewe have no shortage of things to toss to the crowd. They even pass out Party Time-branded items like Frisbees, squishy footballs and 20-ounce stadium cups.

A parade mainstay since 2005, the Baton Rouge Irish Club is a nonprofit dedicated to celebrating Irish culture, history and art at events throughout the year—so of course it had to ride in the parade. It uses its signature button throws and yearly banner designs as float decorations. Phil Brady’s Bar has been a longtime supporter of the club, so the float gets delivered there a week before parade day to ensure it looks ready to roll, says club president Frances Dodson.

“Whatever pins we throw, we will have 5-foot-by-5-foot banners (with the same design),” she says. “Every year there’s a different banner, and we just line them up (on the float). It’s nostalgic.”

Flairin’ of the Green gets nostalgic over the throws it launches into the crowd, too. When the wrestling ring of a float passes by, crowds can catch stickers, VIP lanyards and other items embossed with images of Ric Flair from his heyday. Wickard says she’s even been to LSU tailgates months later and spotted a few of the krewe’s Koozies holding on to drinks—it’s a way for attendees to remember these notable krewes until they roll again.

COURTESY BATON ROUGE IRISH CLUB

DIGIT

The number of krewes currently on the waiting list for a coveted spot in the parade

Where to ROLL

Mapping the bars, restaurants and attractions along the route

BY MAGGIE HEYN RICHARDSON

ONE OF THE biggest upsides to the Wearin’ of the Green Parade is that it’s situated in a target-rich environment for eating, drinking and socializing. While the floats roll, make your way through the area’s many bars and restaurants for refreshments and fun.

Note: Call ahead to confirm opening status and hours before visiting. We will continue to update this list online up until parade day.

1. Garden District Coffee

2008 Perkins Road

The longtime neighborhood coffee klatch is open from 7-10:30 a.m., then reopens again on Sunday.

2. Zeeland Street

2031 Perkins Road

While the popular restaurant itself won’t be open, Zeeland Street’s food cart will offer casual breakfast fare like bacon and egg biscuits and shrimp and grits in the parking lot before the parade. Lunch follows, with treats like barbecue sandwiches, jambalaya and more.

3. Duvic’s

2854 Kalurah St.

Is 8 a.m. too early for a martini? Nah, not on St. Patrick’s Day.

4. Beauvoir Park

2834 Greenwood Drive

Immediately following the parade, this hidden greenspace under the Perkins Road

Overpass will hold a St. Paddy’s Day Parade Throwdown with live music from The Southside Roosters and Spoonfed Jr.

5. Zee Zee’s

2943 Perkins Road

6. Chow Yum

2363 Hollydale Ave.

7. Gail’s Fine Ice Cream

3025 Perkins Road

Parades and ice cream go handin-hand, so be sure to stop by Gail’s ice cream truck for artisan, small-batch scoops in flavors like Birthday Cake, Lemon Ice Box Pie, Cortado and others.

8. Ivar’s Sports Bar and Grill

2954 Perkins Road

The storied watering hole is a favorite for parade festivities, famous for giving out 1,000 free Jell-O shots and other adult restoratives.

9. Schlittz & Giggles

2355 Ferndale Ave.

Feeling like a slice? Schlittz & Giggles has you covered.

10. Jimmy John’s

3043 Perkins Road

11. Unleaded BBQ

3030 Perkins Road

12. Pinetta’s European Restaurant

3056 Perkins Road

13. Moreau Physical Therapy

3129 Perkins Road

Line up at 8 a.m. for the Shamrock Run, a running (or walking) preview of the route.

COURTESYTHESHINGLETONS

Who’s the grand marshal?

The parade’s 39th grand marshal is Seimone Augustus, the legendary women’s basketball champion, LSU alum and Baton Rouge native.

14. Zippy’s Burritos Tacos and More

3155 Perkins Road

Head to Zippy’s for a lime marg and tacos as the floats begin to reach the route’s end.

15. Frankie’s Dawg House

2318 Cedardale Ave.

The only thing more allAmerican than a parade is a hot dog. Head to this pet-friendly hole-in-the-wall for dogs doozied up with all manner of toppings.

16. Parrain’s Seafood

3225 Perkins Road

Grab a table or a seat at the bar to count your beads and dive into classic Cajun-Creole fare.

17. Acme Oyster House

3535 Perkins Road

Gather with friends for one of Acme’s delectable fried shrimp or oyster po-boys.

18. La Divina

3535 Perkins Road, #360

Kick things off with La Divina’s annual pre-parade breakfast at 8 a.m. Purchase tickets in advance to secure a reservation and access to a yummy menu.

19. Ruby Slipper Cafe

3535 Perkins Road

20. Burgersmith

3613 Perkins Road

After all that walking, a juicy burger and fries sounds pretty darn good.

21. Coffee Joy

3617 Perkins Road

Open at 7 a.m., this is a convenient spot for a morning jolt and flaky pastry to get you going.

22. Jabby’s Pizza

3627 Perkins Road, Building 2

23. Uncle Earl’s

3753 Perkins Road, Suite E

The floats might end here at Perkins and Acadian, but the party doesn’t. Keep the mood going with the biggest post-parade party in town at Uncle Earl’s Earlapalooza. Doors open from 10 a.m.–8 p.m. at this ticketed event featuring live music, drinks and food.

WHAT CONFIRMED IT IS NOT OPEN TO THE PUBLIC?

The Big Squeezy BLDG 5 Magpie Cafe

DiGiulio Brothers Italian Cafe Overpass Merchant Jubans

The

PARADE START

Line up after the Catholic Life Center driveway on Hundred Oaks for a good spot to watch the entire parade. Bands are fed from that driveway!

PARADE END

The

LEFT AT PERKINS RD.

RIGHT AT S. EUGENE

LEFT AT TERRACE AVE.

Broussard St.

Zeeland Ave

Hundred Oaks Ave

Broussard St.

Terrace Ave.

Rain or shine

Each float is designed to withstand some rain. Roofs come standard with every single-decker design to help shield riders from the elements. Because they are covered in cloth, floats won’t melt like they would if they were canvassed with paper mache or other common art and construction materials.

A sizable party Floats range in size from 24 to 45 feet and typically hold about 24 riders, with larger, double-decker floats holding up to 40.

KEY TERM

Shamrock Star

The ranking system the parade utilizes to determine the safety and etiquette of participating krewes. Participating krewes are rated on a scale of 1 to 5, with the top-rated krewes automatically invited back to next year’s parade. The numbered labels on each float don’t indicate the order of the parade but are used to identify the krewes for the rankings.

Large artistery

The float is spray painted to ensure a smooth finish. After this, finer details are hand painted on. For more elaborate floats, like this one from Raising Cane’s, ornamental elements like the namesake dog are mostly built with foam and painted in the same way as the rest of the float.

How krewes take floats from plywood frames to parties-on-wheels BY DOMENIC PURDY

EVEN AFTER MARDI GRAS is over, its floats are still rolling in Baton Rouge. This time, they’re coated in Kelly green paint and ordained with a lucky amount of four-leaf clovers.

Riders in the Wearin’ of the Green Parade can join as part of either a family-and-friends krewe or a business/corporation, according to the parade’s business manager, Mabyn Shingleton. This means the resulting floats range in size, scale and level of design.

“Most (parade participants) are people who want to put (the floats) together themselves,” Shingleton says.

DIGIT

$20,000-$50,000

Estimated cost to produce some of the parade’s more elaborate, professionally constructed floats. Building and decorating a float can take two to three weeks.

A practical solution

Unlike many parades in New Orleans that use tractors to pull floats, most of the floats Comogo manufactures are moved with trucks. It’s more practical to use trucks, especially when transporting floats from Plaquemine to Baton Rouge.

Art and engineering

The floats are typically built using steel and wood frames atop a steel base with aircraft tires. Afterward, they’re wrapped with cloth over plywood before being painted white to prep for artwork. They’re finished with electrical and LED lighting, plus a skirt around the bottom.

Companies like the Gulf South Research Corporation own a prefabricated float and rewrap it every year, adjusting the theme as necessary, Shingleton adds.

But others are more ornate, designed by float artists and sculptors.

When Raising Cane’s CEO Todd Graves rode as grand marshal alongside Nelly in 2022, the company turned to Comogo Floats LLC. They asked the Plaquemine float manufacturer to build two floats for the parade.

A sculpture of the chicken finger chain’s dog mascot towered over a hand-painted, fringe-trimmed float. The elaborate design wouldn’t look out of place riding down St. Charles Avenue on Fat Tuesday.

Earl Comeaux, co-owner of Comogo, first entered the float business about nine years ago when he decided to start making floats for Plaquemine’s Krewe of Comogo parade. He visited Dan Kelly, the president of the Krewe of Endymion, and toured the krewe’s floats. Comeaux, who has owned a general contracting firm for 40 years, had no experience building floats at the time.

Now, he has a fleet of more than 40 floats, 20 of which will roll in this year’s Wearin’ of the Green Parade.

Comogo has been outfitting floats for the parade for around eight years and also supplies floats to several other Mardi Gras parades around the region. Suffice to say, it has gotten the art of the float down to a science.

“On the St. Pat’s floats, you know they’re all going to be the Irish theme, so you try to mix that up as much as possible to give each one a little different look,” Comeaux explains.

For an event like St. Patrick’s Day, a company will typically give Comogo a few guidelines of what must be included in their float’s artwork.

Comogo will then design a complete paint job for the float and create a mockup for approval. By the end of the process, it’s as much a product of Comogo’s team as it is of the krewe that will be riding in it.

“The uniqueness of float building is that we have no plans, just a vision and everything is done off thoughts as you go,” Comeaux says. “(We) just get more and more creative wanting to do different things.”

Tastin’ of

the green

Where to find St. Pat’s-inspired dishes during parade week

BY MAGGIE HEYN RICHARDSON

MARDI GRAS HAS its king cakes and St. Patrick’s Day has … well, all sorts of inspired food and drinks. Going beyond basic green beer, local spots get into the spirit with flavors, shades and flourishes that flirt with this most festive of themes. We prowled the menus of Perkins Road Overpass District eateries for on-theme sips and bites.

Pear Basil Jalapeno Lemonade

AT BLDG 5

2805 Kalurah St.

BLDG 5’s popular green-tinged Pear Basil Jalapeno Lemonade, one of four house-made flavors, is a fabulous buy for Wearin’ of the Green parade parties. Sold in both bags and bottles, the not-too-sweet beverage is an easy springtime sipper or cocktail mixer. bldg5.com

Cabbage Rolls

AT ZEELAND STREET

2031 Perkins Road

Zeeland Street’s daily specials get a little more Irish heading into St. Patrick’s Day. Homey cabbage rolls feature ground beef and rice stuffed in parboiled cabbage leaves and draped in tomato sauce. Find it on Facebook

Shrimp Pesto Pasta

AT OVERPASS MERCHANT

2904 Perkins Road

Plump shrimp are coated in basil pesto and served over artisan gemelli pasta made by Il Supremo, a pasta company owned by Overpass Merchant’s restaurant group. Wash it down with a can of Irish Channel Stout by NOLA Brewing Co. or perhaps a shot of Jameson. theoverpassmerchant.com

Matcha Frappe

AT COFFEE JOY

3617 Perkins Road

Served in a Mason jar mug, Coffee Joy’s matcha frappe is a cool blend of matcha, finely ground green tea powder, milk, ice and other ingredients. The seafoam hue is one of the prettiest shades of green around and just right for the occasion. coffeejoy.com

Charm City Sensation Ice Cream

AT GAIL’S FINE ICE CREAM

3025 Perkins Road

Chicago Dawg

AT FRANKIE’S DAWG HOUSE

2318 Cedardale Ave.

Try your luck with a frank from a city with one of the largest Irish populations in the country, second only to Boston. The seven-element dish features chopped onion, a dill pickle spear, celery salt, tomato, sport peppers, a poppy seed bun and neon relish that ensures you get your green on. frankiesdawghouse.com

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And even more good news: The best cancer care is right here in Baton Rouge. Our Lady of the Lake Cancer Institute offers the first nationally accredited rectal cancer program in the state.

If you have risk factors for colorectal cancer, such as being older, overweight, tobacco or alcohol use or family history, talk to your primary care provider about screening.

Early detection is the best protection.

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Pinchproof

How to wear the green—no matter the weather or vibe on parade day

BY OLIVIA DEFFES

ONCE A YEAR, Perkins Road and the Garden District are flooded with shades of green.

Olive, chartreuse, mint, sage, lime and Kelly green, plus a few smatterings of gold and orange sprinkled in, all come to party. No matter what St. Patrick’s Day color scheme they go with, paradegoers sure know how to show up, show out and show off on the festive March morning.

After all, it’s dubbed the Wearin’ of the Green Parade for a reason.

But Mabyn Shingleton, who organizes the parade alongside her husband and the parade’s founder, Pat, says the crowd wasn’t always full of people decked out in head-to-toe green.

“When I was in grade school, I can remember on March 17 you had to wear something green or have something green pinned on you or else you’d be pinched,” she says. “For the first couple of years, I can’t say that the crowd was green. There were some people (dressed in green).”

Now, Shingleton says that there’s so much of the parade’s signature color in the crowd Pat calls it the “sea of green.” Though some paradegoers might go all out with their festive ’fits, Shingleton says you really can’t go wrong as long as you’re wearing some form of the color.

“I want people to have fun,” Shingleton says. “Definitely don’t stress about what you’re going to wear. If you’ve got something that’s green, you’re going to feel like you fit in more. That’s all that is.”

Take the stress out of how to dress by checking out outfit inspo from previous crowds. Here are the many different ways to wear the green.

What’s with the pinching?

In Irish folklore, those dressed in green are invisible to leprechauns. The mythical creatures love to pinch people, so donning the color was said to be a way to ward off their attacks.

Stick with the traditional

Pay homage to the holiday, or embrace your Irish roots. As he leads the parade, Pat Shingleton usually wears an all-emerald ensemble and has even sported a custom kilt, a hat and some bright green running shoes for walking around the route. The Shingletons keep their closets organized with a specific section of green to pull from each year.

Parade founder Pat Shingleton with his grandchildren

All that glitters

Make your look as shiny as a pot of gold by picking sparkly pieces to complete your St. Patrick’s Day look. If you’re looking for glimmering garb, hit up local boutiques for sequined items and rhinestone-studded accessories, or browse online for bedazzled items from Baton Rouge brand Queen of Sparkles’ themed collections.

Raid the party stores

Get ready for the festivities by stocking up on costume pieces and novelty items from local party shops. Shingleton spots costumes each year. Almost every parade will have someone in the crowd dressed up as Gumby, as well as a few who don all-green Morphsuits. Have fun with it!

The meaning of the green

The shamrock and the color green became symbols of Ireland around the late 18th century, inspired by the green uniforms of Irish soldiers. The famous “The Wearing of the Green” song describes the persecution those dressed in green faced during the Irish Rebellion of 1798. Wearing green became an expression of pride, especially on St. Patrick’s Day.

1986

A style evolution

Peek at the background of these vintage photos. In the parade’s earliest days, attendees didn’t dress as monochromatically green. But over the years, the crowd has morphed into “sea of green,” the Shingletons say.

When in doubt, sprinkle in green

If your closet is short a full-on St. Patrick’s Day ensemble, Shingleton suggests coming in a neutral color like white and accessorizing using green things caught from passing floats.

Founder Pat Shingleton at the inaugural parade

1987 McLavy Ltd. owner Frank McLavy

PHOTOS COURTESY THE SHINGLETONS

Make sure you’re weather-proof

•

•

We all know Mother Nature doesn’t care about raining on our parades. Check local weather updates before assembling your parade-day uniform. Shingleton says she’s seen everything from pesky showers that try to dampen the day to freezing parades taking place after snow days. Pro tip: Dress in weather-protective layers that can be easily shed if needed.

For the wee ones

Whether they’re propped up on people’s shoulders or front and center thanks to their tiny stature, kiddos definitely need to stand out in the massive parade crowd. Deck them out in festive ‘fits courtesy of local children’s boutiques to ensure float riders can spot them and fill their leprechaun-sized hands with all the loot.

PARADE pre-game

IN THE WEE hours before the start of the Wearin’ of the Green Parade, an electric current of fun sweeps through the Garden District. The buzzy vibe starts at daybreak, when floats file into formation along Hundred Oaks Avenue ahead of a 10 a.m. roll across Acadian Thruway. Party hosts along the route are also getting ready—tapping kegs, firing up Irish coffee and laying out spreads of green eats. Around Baton Rouge, revelers inch toward the Garden District, navigating increasingly

thick traffic and street closures to nab coveted parking spots.

And in the midst of all this morning mayhem, a festive 5K run also takes place, sending hundreds of cheerful green-clad runners along a path soon to be occupied by floats, marching bands and bagpipers.

First launched in 2019, the Shamrock Run gives participants a crack at a little virtue before the day’s inevitable indulgences.

Organizer Brittany Weiss Shingleton says that while the lead up to the parade might seem busy enough, adding a neighborhood fun run was inspired by the runners themselves.

Morning 5K takes runners along route

BY MAGGIE HEYN RICHARDSON

A post-parade PARTY

After the race, and after the parade, the party is still going at Earlapalooza, the outdoor music fest outside Uncle Earl’s. This year’s stacked lineup includes T.I., 2 Live Crew, Domani, P$C, Young Dro and DJ Mannie Fresh. Festivities run from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. uncleearls.com

Shamrock Run

The 5K Run/Walk is open to all ages and starts at 8 a.m. on parade day. Register to run at wearinofthegreen. com

“A year or two before we started the race, we saw some runners jogging the route before the parade rolled,” Shingleton says. “And we were like, ‘People like to do this, so why don’t we get a 5K together?’”

Shingleton worked with Varsity Sports owner and running expert Jenni Peters on coordinating a course that starts in the Perkins Road Overpass District, travels back into the Garden District and circles City Park, then returns to the starting line. With twothirds of the course on the parade route, runners jog by cheering families already set up for the festivities.

The family-friendly walk/ run actually represents the return of such an event to parade day. Peters organized a 1-mile fun run in the mid’80s for two years, she says.

“When Brittany asked me what I thought about reviving a race, I said, ‘Heck yeah,’” she says. Runners, no surprise, are bedecked in shamrock-embossed caps, shirts, shorts and socks. Some opt for tutus and deely boppers, while others go full leprechaun. Prior to the race, Varsity Sports stocks green attire, including a special-edition shamrock running shoe from Brooks, a race sponsor, Peters says.

Along with expanding the parade’s emblematic culture, the Shamrock Run benefits a local environmental charity, Baton Rouge Green. Last year’s race fetched $7,000 for the nonprofit, Shingleton says.

The race concludes with a party behind Moreau Physical Therapy— before runners embark on the rest of the day’s events.

COLLIN RICHIE

I NSPIRE

The women in these pages are mentors, role models, advocates and successful professionals who inspire the people around them every day.

SPONSORED BY

A public awareness campaign for the Iris Domestic Violence Center was made possible in part by the support of the women featured in this special section.

HERE’S

“ “ Dr. Eggadi is truly fabulous. She took the time to ask questions to familiarize herself with my medical history. She was easy to talk to, and she talked TO me not AT me, which is so refreshing. I’ve already recommended her to several people and will continue to do so.

—ANNA B.

“ “

Absolutely love Dr. Montcalm. She has such a great bedside manner. I could not be more pleased with how she handled my son. He felt at ease the entire time we were there and we just knew we were getting the best care possible. Thank you for being amazing!

—AMANDA R.

“Love Dr. Talbot! She is the best doctor I have ever had. She actually listens to you concerns and offers excellent care options. She goes above and beyond to make sure you receive excellent treatment. In my experience, woman doctors are much more compassionate, caring, and listen to your symptoms and concerns.

“

—TERRI

J.

“ I give thanks to Stephanie Frederic. She decided to do a biopsy of a bump I had. I got a phone call from her a week later and it was cancer and had to be removed. She did a fantastic job of not letting this go and staying on top of it. I wouldn’t be here today if it wasn’t for her!

“

—STEVE

M.

Katrina Stokes

DIRECTOR, EAST BATON ROUGE PARISH LIBRARY

UP CLOSE & PERSONAL

As an Army child, Katrina Stokes grew up meeting people from all walks of life and every corner of the globe. “Coming to a new place is like starting a new adventure, which I love to share with my teenage sons,” she says. “I’m looking forward to getting to know Baton Rouge and, as a librarian, finding out how I can help meet the community’s needs.”

PASSION & PURPOSE

As a child, she loved libraries as the place where she could get all the books she wanted. “As an adult, I especially love the library because it exists to serve everyone by providing access to so many services, which enrich people’s lives personally, educationally or professionally,” she says.

FAVORITES

• Book: Dune by Frank Herbert

• Song: “Brother” by Saul

• Way to spend a Sunday: If I’m up early, watching the sun rise with a cup of coffee

WORDS TO LIVE BY

“All knowledge is worth having.”

Jacqueline Carey

Prachi Singh

ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR, PENNINGTON BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH CENTER

UP CLOSE & PERSONAL

An associate professor at Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Dr. Prachi Singh lives in Baton Rouge with her husband Raghvendra and two daughters Shreya and Navya. She has a PhD in Botany and Molecular Biology, and before joining PBRC, she was a post-doctoral fellow and a faculty member at the Mayo Clinic Rochester. Her research focuses on obesity, sleep and sleep-related disorders, and as Director of the Sleep and Cardiometabolic Health Lab, she explores strategies to improve health for individuals with sleep-related issues.

PASSION & PURPOSE

Dr. Singh encourages everyone, especially women, to take better care of themselves by making time to sleep and recognize when they may need help as it relates to overall wellness, including mental and cardiovascular health. A family history of diabetes has also had an impact on her career choice and study directions. As a mentor, Dr. Singh has a strong record of advising students from diverse backgrounds and says she would love to see more young people choose science as a career path.

FAVORITES

• Book: “Atlas Shrugged” by Ayn Rand

• Song: Devotional songs (Hindu)

• Movie: “Polar Express”

• Way to relax: Nature walks

WORDS TO LIVE BY

“ the tough

When the going gets tough, get going.”

Jessica Plaisance

OWNER, MERAKI MEDICAL SPA

UP CLOSE & PERSONAL

Jessica has been a makeup artist for almost 15 years, which led to her love for aesthetics. After graduating from LSU and working in medical sales, she knew she wanted to own her own business someday, specifically one that focused on beauty and aesthetics. After visiting a small medical spa out of state in 2012, the idea for Meraki began. On a personal note, Jessica describes herself as “mom” to a 14-year-old Puggle named Zoe.

PASSION & PURPOSE

“I have always had a heart for helping women build confidence in themselves,” Jessica says. “When you pour into others and help them feel seen, heard, and beautiful, there is nothing more rewarding. I have had women of all walks of life walk through the doors of Meraki. They all have a story. My hope and purpose is that they will leave feeling better than when they came in.”

FAVORITES

• Book: “Overcome your Villains” by Heather Monahan

• Place to Travel: Everywhere!

• Way to spend a Sunday: Any way … just let me sleep in first.

WORDS TO LIVE BY

“When you give joy to other people, You should give a good thought to happiness that you can give out.

” you get more joy in return.

Eleanor Roosevelt

Danielle Brecheen

OWNER, BRECHEEN PIPE & STEEL

UP CLOSE & PERSONAL

Danielle began working in the family business in 1985, helping her mother with typing and filing. Over the years, her responsibilities increased from generating orders, to purchasing, to sales. When her sister left the business in 2017 and her parents passed away a few years later, Danielle took over Brecheen Pipe & Steel. She currently serves as president of the corporation.

PASSION & PURPOSE

Very few women sold industrial products to chemical plants and refineries when Danielle began her career. “I had to work faster, harder and smarter than my competitors to prove myself,” she says. Today, she helps other women succeed in this male-dominated industry by sharing her experiences and helping them make connections with customers.

FAVORITES

• Way to relax: Barbecuing in my back yard, playing with my dogs, and spending time at my condo in Panama City

• Hobby: Hiking and camping, going to LSU games

WORDS TO LIVE BY

“One never achieves success by watching time pass by. One must engage & never stop the never-ending challenges that life brings our way. improving oneself to meet ”

Gunjan Raina, MD

CONCIERGE FAMILY MEDICINE PHYSICIAN

UP CLOSE & PERSONAL

Dr. Gunjan Raina provides patient-centered healthcare in the Capital region. Being authentic with patients and being able to meet them where they are in their healthcare journey allows her to connect on a different level. “I truly believe that everyone who walks into the clinic on any given day has a story,” she says. “My purpose is to unfold their story so I have a better understanding of who and what I am treating. I am always so grateful to be able to walk with them in their health journey.”

PASSION & PURPOSE

Gunjan’s passion is preventing illness and helping patients find the root cause of the disease process. She achieves this through conversation, including patients in the treatment plan that best suits them and their lifestyle. She believes her tenacity plays a vital part in convincing patients to try a new path and ultimately live happier and healthier lives. “Your transformation is my relentless pursuit,” she says. “Seeing others succeed in their health journey is the greatest source of joy and happiness.”

FAVORITES

• Movie: “Jerry Maguire,” my childhood crush

• Place to Travel: Any sunny destination in Europe

• Way to spend a Sunday: Cooking with my daughters, Diya and Anya

WORDS TO LIVE BY

“ The great physician A good physician treats the disease. treats the patient who has the disease. ”

Jennifer Acosta

VP, ACOSTA CONSTRUCTION REALTOR, INTERIOR DESIGNER

UP CLOSE & PERSONAL

After graduating high school in her native country Cuba, Jennifer moved to Baton Rouge where she met her husband, Alex Acosta. Together, they have a beautiful family with five children. In 2015, they took a leap of faith and founded a family-owned home improvement business. Eight years later, Jennifer is a licensed realtor, a successful interior designer, and Vice President of Acosta Construction Inc. She enjoys working with her husband and together, they have renovated hundreds of homes with a list of satisfied clients that created a niche in the market that no other local company offers.

PASSION & PURPOSE

Jennifer’s passion is to help people turn their homes into aesthetic peaceful spaces that can create memories for families while increasing in value. “I use my experience in real estate and design to make sure every dollar you put into your home is an investment that you could get a greater return on,” she says. Jennifer is also an active member of Healing Place, Highland location. “I enjoy involving my kids in Serve Day, especially at the Dream Center in north Baton Rouge where we have the chance to impact kids’ lives,” she says. “God, family, my career, and helping others are my priorities.”

FAVORITES

• Book: The Bible

• Movie: “The Notebook”

• Way to relax: A beach vacation getaway with my family.

• Way to spend a Sunday: At Healing Place Church.

WORDS TO LIVE BY

“ I worked for it! I never dreamed about success. ”

Ellen Pino

OWNER & CEO, AVANT TOUS BEAUTY & MEDICAL SPA

UP CLOSE & PERSONAL

Although she is the owner of a successful business, Ellen describes herself first and foremost as “the proud mama” of three beautiful and strong girls. She is also an avid tennis player and a coach for the Parkview High School tennis team. Professionally, she is a Business Report Leadership Academy graduate and a Forty Under 40 honoree.

PASSION & PURPOSE

Ellen is inspiring for many reasons, but she is especially proud that she started her own company at the age of 28. “I was young and pregnant with nothing … but despite incredible challenges year after year such as the Flood of 2016, countless hurricanes, staffing challenges, Covid ... and oh yeah, raising three children … I never let circumstances dictate my future or deter my vision!”

FAVORITES

• Book: “Unreasonable Hospitality” by Will Guidara

• Place to Travel: Everywhere! My husband and I are crazy adventurous. We never miss an opportunity to experience a new place and make new memories.

• Song: “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” by Whitney Houston

• Way to relax: Play a tough tennis match with great friends, then grab great Mexican and a spicy margarita!

WORDS TO LIVE BY

“ If not me, then who? If not now, when! ”

Gabrielle Johnson

FOUNDER & CEO FACE TO FACE ENRICHMENT CENTER

UP CLOSE & PERSONAL

Geismar native Gabrielle Johnson’s nonprofit organization is committed to providing educational, outreach, and mentoring services to disadvantaged youth and young adults. A country girl with big dreams, her passion is helping others—a resolve she is passing on to her two daughters.

PASSION & PURPOSE

Since Face to Face Enrichment Center’s inception in 2006, Gabrielle has reached thousands of youth and families. She serves as founder and international consultant for Aspire Consulting Solutions, where she has helped hundreds of clients across the globe establish their own nonprofits. In 2021, Gabrielle founded the Joy Olivia Foundation and published the children’s book Finding Joy with Type 1 in support of her youngest daughter who was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at the age of two.

FAVORITES

• Place to Travel: Jamaica, or anywhere tropical

• Song: “My Life is a Testimony” by L. Spenser Smith

• Way to spend a Sunday: After attending morning church service, I like coming home and watching movies while enjoying the pleasant aroma of candles.

WORDS TO LIVE BY

“

If I can help one person as I travel along the way, then I know my life has not ” been in vain.

Michelle Vaughn

OWNER, PARADISE MORTGAGE

UP CLOSE & PERSONAL

Michelle says her sons Dylan, 22, and Destin, 17, have been her anchors, providing unwavering support and love. “It has mostly been the three of us,” she says, “setting goals and accomplishing our dreams together. We would embark on journeys, aim to achieve something, and a few months later, find ourselves well on our way.”

Tragically, Dylan passed away last summer. “It has forever altered our lives,” Michelle says. “As Destin and I navigate these new waters, Dylan’s memory remains a guiding light. I will continue to strive for both my sons in all the roles I embrace—mother, writer, mortgage CEO, business consultant, health enthusiast, and many others.”

PASSION & PURPOSE

“I find fulfillment in facilitating financing for those who aspire to own a home,” Michelle says. “Every day presents an opportunity for growth and making a positive impact. I am particularly inspired by the prospect of creating meaningful change in homelessness in America. Advocating for pathways to homeownership resonates deeply with me, fueled by my mother’s struggles with mental issues that resulted in homelessness during my formative years.”

FAVORITES

• Movie: “Good Will Hunting”

• Place to Travel: Philadelphia … my boys and I lived there for two years while growing our mortgage company

• Way to spend a Sunday:  Napping, cleaning the house, climbing trails in the woods, swimming at the lake or shopping

WORDS TO LIVE BY

“Success is liking yourself, liking what you do, and liking how you do it.”

— Maya Angelou

Brandy Gay

CO-OWNER, J&B COUNTERTOPS

UP CLOSE & PERSONAL

A Denham Springs native, Brandy has been a part of the stone industry for more than a decade. In 2016, she and her husband of 18 years started J&B Countertops, a family-owned and operated business. As co-owner, Brandy says, she is the face of J&B, the voice you hear when you call, and the peacemaker among the chaos that goes on behind the scenes.

PASSION & PURPOSE

Brandy believes her purpose in this life is to help others. She leads a Christmas program in the company to provide gifts for children during the holiday season. This year, she started a back-to-school program to help families buy uniforms, school supplies, shoes and other needs. She also volunteers for CASA, a long-held dream.

“Growing up, I watched my family struggle during the holiday and back-to-school season,” she says. “So I knew that if I were ever given the opportunity to help others, I’d help any way I could during those times.”

FAVORITES

• Book: “Untamed” by Glennon Doyle

• Movie: “Dirty Dancing”

• Place to Travel: Disney & Universal Studios

WORDS TO LIVE BY

“In a world where you can be anything, ” be kind.

Cheryl Palmer

OWNER, CHERYL PALMER DESIGNS, LLC

UP CLOSE & PERSONAL

Cheryl is married to her best friend David and has three sons, Taylor, Payton, and Eli. After many years of volunteer work and 12 years in administration at a local school, she took a leap of faith and launched Cheryl Palmer Designs, LLC, a wedding and event planning, coordinating and design, original custom art, and styling business. “That faith led me to opportunities I couldn’t have imagined. Not only was I able to maintain those relationships in a whole new way, but all of the new friends I have made in this wonderful new professional world I have entered have been just as much of a blessing to me.”

PASSION & PURPOSE

Cheryl’s world was forever changed by the loss of her mother and her youngest son Eli just two months apart. She is inspired by their memories and the support of those who helped her family cope, promising to be open to all future invitations and opportunities. “I am surer than I have ever been that we all have a story and a purpose. We need to care for each other and love one another,” she says. “From something so unimaginably painful can come the most beautiful blessings if we allow ourselves to be open to all that this life has to offer.”

FAVORITES

• Movie: “Notting Hill,” “The Holiday,” “As Good As It Gets” … I am a sucker for a sweet and funny love story!

• Song: “Shower the People” by James Taylor

• Way to relax: A simple (extended) visit surrounded by my family and friends, curled up telling stories or playing games. These are the moments, just being together, that I never want to end.

WORDS TO LIVE BY

“Be the reason someone smiles. Be the reason someone feels loved & believes in the goodness in people.

”

⎯ Roy T. Bennett

Diamond Sherrod, JD

VP OF PHILANTHROPY, TRANSFORMTIVE HEALTH FOUNDER, MOLECULAR WELLNESS

UP CLOSE & PERSONAL

Married with twin boys, Diamond is actively engaged in philanthropy and community service, chairing fundraisers for annual galas. As an alumna of LSU and Southern University Law School, she serves as the local Endowment Assistant Chair and Legislative Chair for the Junior League and Jack and Jill of America, Inc. “My background as a clinical laboratory scientist in microbiology, combined with my law school experience, has shaped my ethos: ‘Leave people better than you found them,’” she says. Her philosophy drives her philanthropic work at Transformative Health, where she focuses on improving health equity and patient access to medicine. Transformative Health provides plantbased wellness options for debilitating diseases.

PASSION & PURPOSE

She was also inspired to create Molecular Wellness, a brand at the forefront of transforming personal well-being and community sentiment by redefining how people engage with wellness. “We weave carefully curated wellness resources, meaningful experiences, and empowering messages into everyday places—from billboards and schools to businesses and homes,” she says. “We meet people where they are, leaving them better than we found them.”

FAVORITES

• Book: “Homegoing” by Yaa Gyasi

• Song: “Vienna” by Billy Joel

• Vacation: Rome, Italy. It’s where I was married and where I saw my first original Van Gogh.

WORDS TO LIVE BY

“God’s plan is perfect.”

Hazel Regis-Buckels

PRINCIPAL, KENILWORTH SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY ACADEMY

UP CLOSE & PERSONAL

Grenada native Hazel Regis was an LSU sprinter and 10 times AllAmerican track athlete in 2008 when an injury dashed her Olympic dreams. “You can’t just sit at home and cry,” her husband told her, so she found another calling. She loved children, sports, and mentoring. She had degrees in psychology and English Literature. Education seemed a fitting choice. “My high school coach has always been a mother figure and mentor. I knew one day I wanted to follow in her footsteps.”

PASSION & PURPOSE

As principal, she is involved and engaged with her students. “It’s not just my job … it’s who I am,” she says. “It’s important to share my story because it’s very impactful to the students. I try to instill in them that the future is bright, that they can achieve their dreams if they work hard, build their life skills, respect others and practice diligence. Putting together all of these pieces can make you a great person.”

FAVORITES

• Book: “Becoming” by Michelle Obama

• Hobby: Cooking and spending time with family

• Way to spend a Sunday: Attending church and enjoying brunch

WORDS TO LIVE BY

“ and achieve success if they are dedicated

Everyone can rise above their circumstances

and passionate about what they do.

Nelson Mandela

Kristi Muse & Kiara Whitfield

CO-OWNERS, MUSE MEDICAL AESTHETICS & LASER

UP CLOSE & PERSONAL

Twins Kristi and Kiara are nurse practitioners and co-owners of Muse Medical Aesthetics & Laser. Kiara was a NICU RN before becoming a nurse practitioner. She is married to Dr. Rani Whitfield and has two children, Rani Jr., and Raina. Kristi originally wanted to pursue a career as a plastic surgeon but changed her mind once she got into medical school.

“I’m so happy I chose to go to nursing school instead and ultimately go into aesthetics,” she says. “Everything happens as it should.”

PASSION & PURPOSE

Kristi isn’t afraid to leave her comfort zone and follow her dreams. “I truly love and believe in what I’m doing,” she says. “It’s great helping people feel better about themselves.” Kiara beat the odds and is thriving after a lymphoma diagnosis at just 28. She currently raises awareness and funds for blood cancers with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. “What really drives me is being healthy and able to live a wonderful life with my family,” she says. “Every day is truly a gift.”

KRISTI’S FAVORITES

• Movie: “Clueless”

• Place to Travel: Paris, France

• Way to relax: A staycation with room service.

• Way to spend a Sunday: Lounging at home and reflecting on the upcoming week (or at the Dome for a Saints game)

KRISTI’S WORDS TO LIVE BY “Change your thoughts and you change your world.”

KIARA’S FAVORITES

• Book: “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho

• Place to Travel: Alys Beach

• Way to relax: Long baths while listening to guided meditation.

KIARA’S WORDS TO LIVE BY “I was given lemons, & I made lemonade.”

Betsy Campbell

LAGREE MASTER TRAINER FOUNDER, ÉLEVÉ FITNESS (opening soon)

UP CLOSE & PERSONAL

St. Landry native Betsy Campbell is a wife and mother of two sons, Brian, 10, and Elton, 7. She has always been involved in sports and fitness, and after marriage and children, chose a career that was flexible enough to be a great mom and also do something she loved. In 2016, she began taking Lagree classes and was hooked. In 2023 she went to Los Angeles and obtained her Lagree Master Trainer title and is just one of 51 active Master Trainers in the world. She says she has truly found her calling.

PASSION & PURPOSE

Her passion is helping and serving others. “Nothing is more rewarding than using your passion and knowledge to help people live their very best life,” she says. “As a trainer here in Baton Rouge for the last 7 years, I have made friends who are my family now. I’ve seen marriages, graduations, new babies and so much more. I want to inspire others to live healthier through my new business that opens next spring … Élevé Fitness. I am so delighted to be able to serve individuals in their healthy fitness journeys while doing something that I love.”

FAVORITES

• Hobby: Working out and cooking. I love to cook and try new recipes, and typically cook 5 dinners a week for my family.

• Song: Tina Turner’s “Proud Mary.” If you listen to the words, the song is about leaving stress behind and seeking happiness.

• Way to spend a Sunday: Mass with my family, followed by lunch in “our fancy clothes” as my youngest son says.

WORDS TO LIVE BY

“

” do it on purpose.

– Dolly Parton

Deanna Melancon

DIRECTOR, BROC FOUNDATION

UP CLOSE & PERSONAL

In 2003, Deanna Melancon’s passion for athletic training led her to Oregon State University with hopes of becoming one of the first female NBA athletic trainers. Unexpectedly, life took her to Ascension Parish in 2016, where she became the Associate Athletic Trainer at East Ascension High School—a surprising and rewarding adventure. Shortly after, she found her “dream job” as the Director of the BROC Foundation, leading 21 passionate athletic trainers in the Greater Baton Rouge area. “My life and passion transformed, and I owe it all to my incredible husband and two rock star kiddos,” she says.

PASSION & PURPOSE

It can be summed up in one word—people. She tries to inspire others by empowering them with knowledge for personal growth and fostering strength in athletic trainers, parents, friends, or spouses. Deanna also serves as an executive board member for The Capital Region’s American Heart Association. “Spreading awareness and providing tools for life-saving actions deeply resonates with me,” she says.

FAVORITES

• Book: “Atomic Habits” by James Clear

• Place to Travel: Any new adventure with my husband, Hayden!

• Song: “A Little Bit of Love” by Weezer

WORDS TO LIVE BY

“People will forget what you never forget how said, people will forget what you did, but people will you made them feel.”

Maya Angelou

Katherine ‘Kate’

Ford Chiasson, MD

OWNER, FORD PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY

UP CLOSE & PERSONAL

“My life and career path have been majorly influenced by my parents who were both surgeons, and particularly my mother, Dr. Ann Ford Reilley, who helped me tremendously in opening our practice in the midst of the COVID pandemic in 2020,” says Kate. “ I chose plastic surgery because I loved the variety in cases and types of patients we are able to help. Doing both cosmetic and reconstructive surgery allows me to fix problems while using an aesthetic eye, so that we can make patients feel whole and beautiful again.”

PASSION & PURPOSE

Her biggest inspiration, she says, is her breast cancer patients. “It is truly humbling and awe-inspiring to see these beautiful women go through such a frightening, challenging time in their lives with smiles on their faces. They are the epitome of grace under fire and I feel blessed to assist them on their reconstructive journeys after treatment.”

FAVORITES

• Cause: Breastoration, a local organization that raises funds specifically for breast cancer patients in Louisiana undergoing breast reconstruction

• Way to spend a Sunday: A walk around the lakes with my dog Goose, church, music in the afternoon at Beauvoir Park, and then staying home to cook a delicious meal

WORDS TO LIVE BY

Put on compassion, kindness, … and over all of these, humility, gentleness and patience

Cheri Johnson

EXECUTIVE VP & CHIEF NURSING OFFICER, WOMAN’S HOSPITAL

UP CLOSE & PERSONAL

As the largest birthing hospital in the state, Woman’s impacts the quality of care provided to tens of thousands of lives. Cheri was drawn to Woman’s because of their mission, joining the team in 2006 as Director of Obstetrical Services, and later serving as Vice President of Perinatal Services. She has more than 30 years of experience in labor and delivery, neonatal intensive care, and emergency room medicine. The first in her family to receive a college degree, she earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a Master of Science in Nursing Leadership and Management.

PASSION & PURPOSE

Cheri transitioned from direct patient care into management, knowing she could impact more lives and drive more positive change at the leadership level. She’s active on many committees and task forces including Fetal Infant Mortality Review, Chairelect for the American Hospital Association Maternal Child Health Committee, President for Council of Women and Infants Specialty Hospital, March of Dimes, and the Louisiana Perinatal Quality Collaborative, among others. “I’m passionate about improving the quality of care patients receive at Woman’s and across all healthcare,” she says.

FAVORITES

• Book: “All the Light We Cannot See.” My oldest daughter is blind so this one speaks to me.

• Way to relax: Kayaking, fishing, or anything on the water at Lake Catherine where my family has a camp

• Way to spend a Sunday: Spending time with my grandchildren.

WORDS TO LIVE BY

“ I never gave or took any excuse.

I attribute my success to this… ”

— Florence Nightingale

Sarah Balladares, PA-C

OWNER, SMOOTH AESTHETICS

UP CLOSE & PERSONAL

Sarah, an aesthetic injector for seven years, is the owner of Smooth Aesthetics and a nationally recognized trainer and speaker in her industry. You can catch her on a plane traveling to four different offices as well as across the country to train other injectors. Sarah and her husband look forward to growing their family soon. In the meantime, “we have a lovely dog named Tex,” she says, “and he’s just the absolute cutest.”

PASSION & PURPOSE

Sarah’s inspiration comes from giving people back their confidence every morning when they look in the mirror. “Being able to do that for others gives me so much joy,” she says. “It reinvigorates me every single day knowing I get to do this for people.” In the past, Sarah has volunteered her time with the Baton Rouge Best Dressed Ball committee because of the supreme impact it has had in our community over the years by supporting cancer patients. “I don’t think anyone is untouched by this terrible disease.”

FAVORITES

• Book: Motivational business books, which keep her focused and driven to continue building her brand while growing professionally and personally.

• Place to Travel: Italy ... “I am an old Italian grandma at heart.”

• Way to spend a Sunday: Wake up slow with a cup of coffee in her own bed (which is a treat considering her travel schedule), then making her way downstairs to watch the animals in her back yard and snuggle with her dog.

WORDS TO LIVE BY

People who say it cannot be done should not interrupt “ those who are doing it.

— Bernard Shaw

A walk in his shoes

BY CYNTHEA CORFAH // PHOTOS BY COLLIN RICHIE

Baton Rouge rapper John Anthony created sneakers inspired by the Hurricane Katrina evacuation that changed his life

Design cues from the Origin Hotel Spring fashion

JOHN ANTHONY JUST finished playing in a football tournament at Milne Park in New Orleans when he learned Hurricane Katrina was preparing to wash over the city in 2005.

His family initially didn’t want to evacuate. Flooding and hurricanes had happened before, so they weren’t alarmed at first.

But on Aug. 28, 2005, Anthony noticed the wind starting to pick up and an eerie feeling in the air. His mother filled up their 1996 Chevy Corsica with as much as it could carry and drove the family to Baton Rouge to seek shelter with Anthony’s grandparents.

“We sat in the car, said a prayer and slowly drove off,” Anthony recalls. “My dad was like, ‘Take a good look at everything, because I guarantee you nothing’s going to be the same anymore.’ Four or five days later, we saw helicopters flying over our neighborhood on CNN. The worst feeling was when we could tell where our house was on TV.”

The 27-year-old rapper didn’t realize it then, but that would be the last time he lived in his childhood home on Mendez Street in the Gentilly neighborhood.

Anthony and his family made Baton Rouge their new home and began rebuilding their lives in the Capital City. But he never forgot the trauma and impact Hurricane Katrina had on his life.

Last November, 18 years after the storm, Anthony paid homage to his childhood home by releasing a pair of sneakers called The Mendez, named after the street he grew up on.

As a child, he dreamt of having his own footwear line like basketball legends Michael Jordan and Allen Iverson and best-selling music artists like Pharrell and Kanye West. In 2018, Anthony spoke his own speakers into existence in his song “Public Figure,” when he rapped, “Got a shoe in the making, pretty soon I’ll drop ’em.”

Motivated by his lyrics, he started doodling designs for the shoes on a sticky note and identifying factories and designers to work with. After

years of working with no days off, saving his money and making design tweaks, The Mendez sneakers were ready to be sold in late 2023.

“When I first saw the logo on the back of the shoe, I could have fainted,” Anthony says. “It lit a fire under me. The shoes represent me trying to give a hug to my younger self.”

The black low-top sneakers with thick white soles were created for everyday wear. The laces and stitching around the toes are made with reflective piping so light can bounce off the shoes in the dark. The soles’ cut-outs and curves give the shoe a fluid, almost mountainous appearance. Anthony’s “JA” logo is stitched on the back of the shoe and printed on the insole. In the future, Anthony wants to introduce new colors.

It’s not the first time Anthony has told his story through art. The musician released two hip-hop albums, 2022’s Wolves and 2019’s UNCRWND, which also features a song titled “Mendez Street.” Whether he’s writing a lyric or designing a shoe, it’s personal. He has worked with other local

John Anthony was only a child when his Mendez Street house in New Orlean’s Gentilly neighborhood was destroyed in Hurricane Katrina. Now, he’s remembering his former home through a new sneaker design.

“The shoes represent me trying to give a hug to my younger self.”

—Local musician and shoe designer JOHN ANTHONY

artists like Michael Armstead, Lango and MARJON.

“I saw an opportunity for the sneakers to create generational wealth. I can help my family, tell a story and inspire people to follow their dreams,” he says. “It’s about making a dream tangible.”

The Mendez sneakers can be purchased on John Anthony’s Instagram at @uncrwnd_king.

better with friends

For life’s moments, big and small. We’re here with the strength of the cross, the protection of the shield. The Right Card. The Right Care.

on The Mendez sneakers

storiesOrigin

Design cues from downtown’s new Origin Hotel

BY MAGGIE HEYN RICHARDSON // PHOTOS BY ARIANA ALLISON

NEARLY TWO YEARS in the making, downtown’s newest boutique hotel debuted in January. The petfriendly Origin Hotel boasts 87 guest rooms, a gym, an all-day restaurant, a lounge and coffee shop, as well as a rooftop bar.

“We consider the Origin to be a catalyst to kick downtown Baton Rouge into high gear,” says hotel general manager Braylon Hyde. “This will be a destination, as well as a place to stay the night.”

The hotel occupies the space formerly home to a Holiday Inn Express, at the corner Saint Ferdinand Street and North Boulevard. The Wyndham Hotels & Resorts property was renovated by Tandem Hospitality Group.

Its Cajun-Creole restaurant, Passé All Day Café, is overseen by executive chef Major Chenevert. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the menu features dishes

like shrimp remoulade, fried oyster Caesar salad and the Catfish Origin, served over crawfish etouffee.

The Eye in the Sky rooftop bar’s wraparound terrace delivers panoramic views overlooking downtown, with clear vistas of the River Center Branch Library, Old State Capitol, North Boulevard Town Square and the stately live oaks that line North Boulevard.

The hotel’s design-forward elements blend art deco touches with contemporary, on-trend patterns and hues.

But what stands out most are flourishes that remind guests they’re in Baton Rouge.

“When it comes to the interior designs of all the Origin Hotels, we want to make sure that every Origin is unique and is tied to the community,” Hyde says. “Of course, here you’re going to get that southern Louisiana flair.” originhotel.com

Tiger town

A model tiger welcomes guests in the lobby—the first of many indicators that visitors are on LSU turf. Hallways leading to the guestrooms are lined with orange-and-black tigerstriped carpeting, and Do Not Disturb door hangers read “Paws Off.” In the bar’s lounge, Mardi Gras beads dangle from twin gilded alligator-shaped chandeliers—does it get more Louisiana than that?

Honoring history

Wall art behind the front desk is fashioned from pneumatic tube canisters, a nod to the 68-yearold building’s past life as a downtown bank.

Wallpaper moments

Warm wood tones in the common areas and minimalist neutrals in the guest rooms meet their match in cleverly patterned wallcoverings. A jewel-toned tiger print brings life to the bathrooms. A lavender wallpaper studded with tiny drawings of crawfish and the Capitol building serves as the backdrop for the Sweet Baton Rouge gift shop.

Multi player

Stand out at festivals, Easter brunch or on vacation in multicolored patterns

Compiled by Jennifer Tormo Alvarez

Hausen Freya Dress, $123 From Hemline Highland Road

Ophelia Heels, $140 From Head Over Heels

Dominic Heels, $140 From Head Over Heels

Kitri Ridley Knit Dress, $225 From Aria

Shiraleah Multi Colored Tori Tote, $64 From Wanderlust by Abby

Adapt Sandals, $89

Head Over Heels

Stella Top, $89 From Head Over Heels

Crosby by Mollie Burch Drake Short in Picnic Plaid, $170 From NK Boutique

Heavy metal

Chrome is trending in interiors and on the runways— add some silver to your shoe wardrobe this season

Schutz Christie Studs Crackled Leather, $168 From NK Boutique

3.1 Phillip Lim Stretch Back Ballerina Flat, $395 From Aria

Sam Edelman Bianka Slingback Pump, $140 From NK Boutique

3.1 Phillip Lim Low Crescent Heel Mules, $550 From Aria

Alisah Flats, $99

From Head Over Heels

A Lenten feast Basel’s is back Easter wines

Fired up

Fired up

Brasas Peru is bringing new flavors and excitement to a tucked-away spot on Perkins Road

Seafood Cebiche at Brasas Peru

RESTAURANT REVIEW

Brasas Peru

BY BENJAMIN LEGER // PHOTOS BY COLLIN RICHIE

About 225’s food critic: Benjamin Leger previously served as managing editor for 225 and was the editor of its Taste section from 2012 to 2021, editing, writing and steering the direction of its food coverage in print and online. He is passionate about all things food and food journalism, and has written about the greater Baton Rouge area’s cuisine and culture for nearly two decades.

brasasperubr.com

7520 Perkins Road

Monday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

Tuesday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Friday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Sunday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

WHO KNEW I could be wowed by corn? It’s a huge staple of Peruvian cooking, and an ancient one at that, with colorful varieties, different textures and shapes to contrast what we know as the common kernel.

So it’s no surprise this shows up on Brasas Peru’s menu in delightful ways. Even in my first appetizer, I discovered two varieties I had never tried before.

But let’s backtrack a bit.

Brasas Peru opened nearly a year ago in a Perkins Road building that has seen quite a few restaurants come and go.

From the reviews I’ve read online—even on Nextdoor—locals are already falling for its flavors and are excited to recommend it to their neighbors. That’s a promising sign, and it made me want to give it a try.

My partner and I stopped by on a quiet Tuesday evening. Our friendly server sat us at a booth in the warmly lit dining room.

First up, we ordered the Cebiche from the appetizer menu. I’m used to seeing this spelled as “ceviche” and served up almost shrimp cocktail-style, in a glass with plenty of chips for scooping. Here, the menu name deploys a Peruvian spelling, and the dish was plated on a bed of spring greens with a hunk of boiled sweet potato, giant kernels of Peruvian corn and maize

Brasas Peru is one of the first restaurants to bring traditional Peruvian cuisine to Baton Rouge.

WHAT’S A MUST: The delicious signature dish is Pollo a la Brasa, or charcoal-rotisserie chicken, served as a whole, half or quarter chicken with sides like Arroz Chaufa (fried rice) and Yuca Frita and four flavorful dipping sauces. The Cebiche is a zesty appetizer

chulpe, or roasted corn kernels.

There was so much unexpected deliciousness to unpack here.

At our server’s recommendation, I went with the mixed seafood version, which featured cubes of fish as well as plump shrimp and ring-like slices of squid.

The spicy lime juice mixture that coated the seafood was refreshing, and the seafood firmed up enough from the marinade to give it that practically cooked texture. Mixed with slivers of red onion and plenty of cilantro, this was the kind of zesty and bright ceviche I crave.

The other elements on the plate initially threw me off, but turned

out to be great. The pale yellow Peruvian corn was essentially what you’d get in a bag of corn nuts, just cooked tender and imparting a corn mash texture inside with a more-mellow-thansweet taste.

As for the maize chulpe, these narrow corn kernels were toasted in a way that gave them a crunchy exterior and a soft, popcorn-like interior. Commonly a Peruvian bar snack, they’re incredibly addictive, though these were surprisingly unseasoned. I wished there was a shaker of salt on the table for sprinkling on top.

I first mistook the dish’s cooked sweet potato for a piece of very

Pollo a la Brasa is the restaurant's signature dish.

THE BASICS: Brasas Peru opened in June 2023 in the Beau De Chene Shopping Center on Perkins Road, the brainchild of Lima native Giannina Chavez, her brother Renzo Ibanez and sister-in-law Carolina Ayala. It’s a space that has seen seven different concepts open and close since 2010, but the excited reviews on social media give the impression this one has staying power. A bar area serves up pisco sours, beer, wine and hard-to-find Peruvian sodas.

with lime-marinated raw fish, shrimp and squid as well as two varieties of Peruvian corn.

large carrot, and the texture was somewhere between the two. For all I know, this could have been a regular sweet potato, but by this point in the meal, I was convinced everything I tried was a variety I’d never seen before.

And this was just the first appetizer.

Our second was Causa Rellena: Two stacks of mashed potatoes, chicken salad and avocado. There were three different sauces drizzled across the top—one purple, one orange and one yellow—as well as slices of boiled egg.

The cold mashed potato was off-putting to me. But the chicken salad, with shredded rotisserie chicken, helped elevate the dish. Taste tests told me the purple sauce was pureed black olives, and the spicy orange and yellow sauces contained some type of chilis. I later found out they were rocoto and ají peppers, native to Peru.

Fully impressed by what we encountered so far, it was time for entrees.

The Seafood Cebiche and Causa Rellena appetizers are full of unexpected ingredients.

First up was Lomo a lo Pobre, which is Peru’s equivalent of steak, eggs and fries. Here, it was strips of tender filet mignon sauteed with red onions and tomatoes in soy sauce and served with a mound of white rice topped with two fried eggs, plus homemade fries and plantains on the side.

It was a hefty dish, and the sauce was our first introduction to the Chinese influences on Peruvian cuisine. Chinese immigrants dating back to the late 19th century impacted local cooking in a variety of ways, and it showed up here with soy sauce and Peruvian spices mixed together to create

something savory but maybe verging on overpowering. Still, every component hit the mark. Our final dish was also the namesake of the restaurant: Pollo a la Brasa. “Brasas” is Spanish for “embers” and refers to how rotisserie chicken is cooked over charcoal in a special oven.

We ordered a half chicken with Arroz Chaufa and Yuca Frita.

The chicken was super crispy and almost blackened on the outside with a clear layer of spices rubbed into the meat. On the first bite, I knew immediately that cumin was the main seasoning— and I was all the happier for it. This delectable chicken on the bone might be a new local favorite for me.

Arroz Chaufa is Peru’s version of Chinese fried rice, with plenty of green onions mixed in for brightness. The Yuca Frita, or yuca fries, were dense, crispy and very addictive.

Accompanied by four (yes, four!) dipping sauces on the side, I’d go as far as to say this is the new meat-and-two-sides dish Baton Rouge needs.

We left Brasas Peru pleasantly full and still curious about everything we tasted.

I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention there’s a full bar with unique cocktails and Peruvian sodas

worth a try—yet another reason to make this a must for local foodies. And I definitely plan to return. I learned so much about Peruvian cooking and the country’s diverse ingredients that night, and I’m ready to go back for more.

Packs a punch

Brasas Peru’s signature dish, Polla a la Brasa, comes with four creamy side sauces. Here’s a rundown of the spicy (and less spicy) Peruvian dips.

ROCOTO

A red hot pepper sauce using chilis similar to habanero

AJÍ AMARILLO

A yellow pepper sauce

HUACATAY

A green sauce of black mint mixed with yellow pepper

WHITE SAUCE Brasas’ mellow house dipping sauce

Lomo a lo Pobre

DINING IN

Feast or famine

Celebrating a historic Italian holiday, south Louisiana-style

BY TRACEY KOCH PHOTOS BY AMY SHUTT

THIS MONTH, on March 19, Catholics around the world will celebrate the feast of St. Joseph. This lesser-known holiday dates back to the Middle Ages during a famine in Sicily. The faithful Catholic Sicilians prayed to Italy’s patron saint, Saint Joseph, to intercede with God to help them through the famine. When the harvests in Sicily were once again plentiful, people wanted to pay homage to St. Joseph by setting up altars filled with food in thanksgiving. The altars were also a way of sharing food as a community and providing for those in need.

For centuries, Sicilians have continued this annual tradition. And U.S. cities that have a large population of those with Sicilian ancestry, like New Orleans, still erect St. Joseph altars today. Here are some of my favorite Sicilianinspired recipes with a south Louisiana twist that are typically offered for this Lenten-time feast.

On the menu

• Italian Stuffed Artichokes

• Arancini

Recipes by Tracey Koch

Italian Stuffed Artichokes

Yields 2 stuffed artichokes

2 large artichokes

2 teaspoons vinegar

1 cup plain breadcrumbs

4 cloves minced garlic

1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest

1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley

½ teaspoon kosher salt

½ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper

1 cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese

1/3 cup olive oil

1 cups water

1 cup dry white wine

Juice of 1 lemon

1. Use a serrated knife to trim 2 to 3 inches off the top of the artichoke and trim the bottom so the artichoke will stand up straight. Use kitchen scissors to trim the tips of the artichoke leaves. Turn the artichoke upside down and bang it a few times on the cutting board to help open up the leaves and loosen the center.

2. Fill a medium-sized pot halfway with water. Add the vinegar and bring to a rolling boil. Drop the artichokes in and blanch for 7 to 10 minutes. Drain the artichokes and run them under cold water. Place the artichokes onto a baking sheet lined with paper towels.

3. In a mixing bowl, combine the plain breadcrumbs with the minced garlic, lemon zest, parsley, salt, pepper and Parmesan cheese until well blended. Slowly drizzle the olive oil into the breadcrumb mixture and blend until the mixture resembles wet sand.

4. Before filling, use a small spoon to scrape the center of the choke out of the artichokes, removing all of the fuzz of the choke and exposing the heart of the artichokes. Once the choke is removed, fill the center cavities with a few spoonfuls of the breadcrumb mixture.

5. Continue pulling the leaves of the artichokes back as you spoon a little of the breadcrumb mixture between the leaves of the artichokes until all of the filing has been used.

6. Preheat the oven to 400 F and place the artichokes into an 8-by-8 baking dish. Pour the water, wine and lemon juice into the dish and cover with foil.

7. Bake the artichokes for 35 to 45 minutes covered. Then, remove the cover and continue baking for another 15 to 20 minutes or until the artichokes are golden on top and the leaves can easily be pulled out. Remove the artichokes from the baking dish and serve warm with a little lemon butter for dipping if desired.

Arancini

Yields 25 to 30 (3-inch round) arancini

6 cups water

2 teaspoon kosher salt

1 tablespoon butter

3 cups short grain rice

2 tablespoons olive oil

½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

3 cloves minced garlic

1 pound lean ground beef

½ pound hot Italian sausage

2 cups grated Parmesan cheese

½ cup frozen peas (optional)

½ teaspoon fresh ground pepper

2 cup grated mozzarella cheese

1 ½ cups flour

2 eggs

1/3 cup water

3 cups Italian breadcrumbs

6 cups of vegetable oil for frying

1. In a medium to large pot, bring 6 cups of water to a boil. Add in 1 teaspoon of salt, the butter and rice. Bring the rice back up to a boil, stir, reduce the heat and cover. Cook the rice covered, over low heat for 10 to 12 minutes or until all the water has evaporated.

2. Remove from heat and allow the rice to steam in the covered pot for 7 to 10 minutes.

3. While the rice is steaming, heat a heavy nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add in the olive oil, crushed red pepper flakes and garlic. Saute for 10 to 15 seconds and then add in the ground beef and Italian sausage.

4. Once the meat is cooked, drain it in a strainer and return to the skillet. Fold in the steamed rice and add in the grated Parmesan cheese, peas, remaining salt and pepper. Pour the rice mixture out onto a line baking sheet to cool completely.

5. Once the rice mixture has cooled, line another baking sheet with parchment. Use a tablespoon or small cookie scoop and portion out the rice mixture to make a 3-inch round disk. Place a teaspoon of the grated mozzarella in the center of the disk, and then close up the sides to form a ball. Repeat until all of the mixture is used.

6. Once all of the mixture is formed into balls, set up an assembly line to bread them. Place the flour in a shallow baking dish. In a second shallow dish, beat the eggs and remaining water to make an egg wash. Finally, in a third shallow dish, pour in the Italian breadcrumbs.

7. Roll each ball in the flour, then in the egg wash, and finally in the breadcrumbs to coat completely. Place back on the baking sheet.

8. In a heavy, deep Dutch oven, pour the vegetable oil and heat it over medium-high heat to 300 F. Line a cooling rack with paper towels and begin frying the arancini a few at a time. Fry them for 3 to 4 minutes or until golden.

Remove the arancini with a slotted spoon and place them onto the lined cooling rack to drain. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees and place the arancini onto a baking sheet. Place them into a preheated oven to keep warm until you are ready to serve. Serve the arancini warm with your favorite marinara sauce for dipping.

For how to make traditional Italian Sesame Seed Cookies, visit 225batonrouge. com/recipes

To market

BY OLIVIA DEFFES PHOTOS BY ARIANA ALLISON

After closing the doors on her Highland Road location in 2022, Kalyn Lindsly Anderson is bringing back her cottage-style cafe—this time in St. Francisville

FROM TROTTING AROUND via food truck to setting up shop in quaint digs on Highland Road, Kalyn Lindsly Anderson’s eatery, Basel’s Market, has taken her just about everywhere in the Capital Region. Now, the mom of two is embarking on a new journey with the concept: She's set to reopen Basel’s Market in a new St. Francisville location on March 8.

The market’s new spot is at 5951 N. Commerce St. and provides more room for customers to sit and enjoy gourmet sandwiches, salads and snacks. Additionally, it has space for a bigger market area, which allows Basel’s to offer more handmade grab-and-go items.

It marks a new beginning for the cafe, which closed its doors on Highland Road in 2022.

“I wouldn’t be at this chapter without that chapter,” Anderson says. “I had two girls at that old location. I became a mom. I learned how to run a kitchen and how to work in a kitchen coming from the food truck.”

Basel’s Market will occupy a former barber shop in a newly reimagined part of St. Francisville’s historic downtown. Though the restaurant is in a new town, Anderson made sure to capture the cottage-core essence of the first brick-and-mortar.

The new space pays homage to the Highland Road days with familiar decor, including the sign from the first location hung proudly in the kitchen. A few notable design choices include a Ralph Lauren-inspired bathroom

and a dining area with walls full of plates in vintage and artsy patterns collected by Anderson herself.

“I really wanted you to still get that home feel,” she says. “Everyone would camp out at the old Basel’s. I loved that, and I want you to stay. I still wanted to be familiar. … That old location was so good in so many ways. But, this one has a little bit more of a market room for actual goods.”

With the new market space, Anderson will sell products like boxed pastas and fresh bread while also stocking kitchen-made items like grab-and-go sandwiches, smoothies, beverages and even a new basil cream cheese dip. The market area also hints at her family’s grocery store, Calvin’s Bocage Market, with an orange

juicer and murals based on the art in her father’s shop. Of course, chicken salad will be available at Basel’s Market, too.

The St. Francisville spot also gives Anderson a brand-new, larger kitchen space to cook up breakfast and lunch items for customers. She says she’s excited to get back in the kitchen and enjoy the extra room.

Other things to look forward to include the addition of a beer and wine menu. Anderson says the selection will be small but will contain “basic favorites.” She hopes adding these beverages will encourage customers to stick around and enjoy the space.

Though the cafe might be new to St. Francisville, Anderson and her family are no strangers to the

town. It’s where she married her husband, and it’s where she stays for holidays when visiting family.

Anderson and her family plan to soon make the move so she can be close to her business, too.

“It’s really a romantic little town,” she says. “Trust me. I looked at a lot of places in Baton

Rouge. I truly tried. But, nothing felt quite as charming as the other Basel’s. I didn’t want it to be one of those things where I was like, ‘Oh, this is good, but I loved the other one.’ I needed it to be like, ‘Oh my gosh, it was worth the wait.’”

The new location may be about a 45-minute drive from its

former home, but Anderson says Basel’s new grounds offer plenty of things to do. Anderson hopes her business in St. Francisville will spark day trips for her old customers—while bringing in some new faces, too. Find it on Instagram at @basels.market.

COMMERCE CLUB

St. Francisville has seen a boom in boutique businesses in the last year or so, with many centered around the historic downtown’s Commerce Street area and new North Commerce development. Here are a few recent and upcoming openings to get excited for.

The Mallory

5747 Commerce St. Events and wedding venue opened October 2023

Big River Pizza Company 5725 N. Commerce St. Neighborhood pizzeria, bar and creamery opening spring 2024

Hotel Toussaint 5729 Commerce St. A new boutique hotel slated to open spring 2024

Basel's Market owner Kalyn Lindsly Anderson with her husband, Luke Anderson, and their two daughters

Springforward

Springforward

BY MAGGIE HEYN RICHARDSON

GRAPE CRUSH

IN LOUISIANA, SPRINGTIME cooking reaches its high-water mark at Easter. Home cooks pull out all the stops as families gather round for all manner of seasonal feasts. You’re likely to see crawfish boils or pots of etouffee, as well as traditional roast turkey, grilled leg of lamb or a sprawling picnic of spiral-cut honey ham with homespun sides. But no matter what ends up on the table, the right wine will elevate every morsel.

This year, 225 turned to Bin Q Liquor owner Ben Jones for suggestions on wines that pair beautifully with some of our favorite Easter meals. All selections are natural wines, or wines fermented without additives, and are available at Bin Q. binqliquor.com

If you’re serving crawfish:

SEEHOF “FEINHERB”

Riesling Germany

$20

“I like riesling with spicy food because it has really nice acid, lots of citrus notes and just a little bit of sugar,” Jones says. “That bit of sweetness balances out the spiciness.”

Jones says this selection works well with any heavily spiced seafood dish. And if you’re not a regular riesling drinker, don’t fall into the trap of thinking it just reads sweet. “It’s so much more than that,” he says.

If you’re serving ham:

DOMAINE LES TERRES PROMISES “A MA GUISE”

OPENING RECEPTION & PANEL

APRIL

Red and white blend

France

$21

From Provence, this organically grown wine is a field blend of no less than 14 red and white grapes. It’s a great springtime and summer sipper and a winning selection to bring along to a picnic.

“It’s really light and juicy,” Jones says. “And perfect with ham or any salty meat.”

Be sure to chill it slightly before drinking.

If you’re serving lamb:

2 3

PHILIPPE VIRET “ENERGIE”

Syrah

France

$28

Roast or grilled lamb is a sumptuous Easter classic, and there’s a reason it’s usually served with syrah. The wine’s heft stands up to lamb and brings out its robust flavor. This wine is produced between the northern and southern regions of the Rhône Valley and shows characteristics from each, Jones says.

“It’s really spice-forward with a lot of pepper notes, some brooding dark fruit flavors and some gaminess to it,” Jones says. “That makes it perfect for lamb.”

BUSINESS

BOOSTS

ENCOURAGES

GUIDES & COACHES ADVANCED DANCERS

SUPPORTER FOR COMMUNITY EVENTS

SPONSORSHIP FOR CHARITY CAUSES

APPOINTED BOARD MEMBER & COMMITTEE CHAIR

PROVIDES LEADERSHIP

The fests are yet to come

BY OLIVIA DEFFES

IN MOST PLACES, the seasons are divided into winter, spring, summer or fall. Here, it’s more like football season, crawfish season, Mardi Gras season and, of course, festival season.

When the sunny days come out to play, there’s no shortage of fests to enjoy in Baton Rouge.

Looking to try out new flavors? Wanting to expand your music tastes? Curious about crafting tiki cocktails? Yep, we have a festival for that.

Dust off your lawn chairs, work up your appetite and lace up those walking shoes (or slip on the rain boots) because this year’s festival season is packed with opportunities to immerse yourself in local culture.

MARCH 22-24

LA Tiki Festival

Various locations

CELEBRATE POLYNESIAN culture with food, seminars, music and tiki cocktails at the second annual LA Tiki Festival. Grab the umbrellas, you’re going to need them—for your drink, duh!

225 spoke with Steven Dupuy, who mixes up tiki drinks at his home bar dubbed the Drunken Parrot Pub. He’ll be traveling from Mandeville to host a seminar about localizing tiki cocktails at this year’s fest.

Tell us a little bit about your seminar at the festival.

“I’m doing (a presentation on) using Louisiana rums in tiki drinks. In the world of tiki, they tend to discuss specific rums, and so I have been using Louisiana rums to replicate some of those same flavors that you would get in a tiki drink.”

What else can attendees expect this year?

“We’re actually going to a true tiki bar at Bayou Teche. … We are visiting another distillery, Wildcat Brothers, which is a great Louisiana distillery. I think that’ll be fun, as well. And, of course, Saturday night at Soji is going to be quite an experience. It’ll be a lot of fun for people to eat and enjoy the drinks there.”

APRIL 6 + 7

The Flower Fest

Pointe-Marie

IT’S TIME TO stop and smell the roses—along with the tulips, marigolds, daisies and all the other blooming florals at this year’s Flower Fest benefiting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Here, you’ll find a little bit of everything, from art vendors and food trucks to live entertainment and, of course, larger-than-life floral sculptures. Returning for the third time to the petal-filled competition is The Floral Hive. Duo Lauren Landry and Janee Autin make the trek from Thibodaux each year and are eager to craft something for this year’s “Once Upon a Dream” theme.

What can you share about your floral structure for this year?

“This year’s theme is so cool, because people might not realize you can go many ways with it. ‘Once upon…’ you think, fairy tales and princesses. But, it’s also ‘Once Upon a Dream,’ so people might have creations that imitate what they think a visualization of a dream would be. … I’m not going to say what way we’re necessarily going, and we might be doing a little bit of a mix. But I will say to think of your own storyline. … Our creation is based on nodding to your own storyline.”

ARIANA ALLISON

QUOTES HAVE BEEN EDITED FOR CLARITY AND BREVITY.

APRIL 19-21

Baton Rouge Blues Festival

Downtown Baton Rouge

KNOWN AS ONE of the oldest blues festivals in the country, the Baton Rouge Blues Festival draws large crowds of music lovers annually with its swamp blues melodies, tasty food vendors and open-air environment. The free, three-day music fest boasts a packed lineup including local favorites like Kenny Neal, Henry Turner Jr. and first-timers the Michael Foster Project.

John Gray—trumpeter, longtime part of the Michael Foster Project and member of the Baton Rouge Blues Festival & Foundation board of directors—shares his insight on the festival and his excitement for performing this year.

What are you most looking forward to at this year’s fest?

“To connect with audiences out there, have some fun with them and get them out dancing. … We want to pay homage to those musicians that we’ve lost from the blues community that we know and just have a good time connecting with the audience.”

How does the Blues Festival make Baton Rouge better?

“It’s a two-fold thing: being able to highlight the musicians that are here and also expose fans who are here to music that’s outside of our locale.”

Fest day ever!

WE’VE COMBED THE Google events listings, scoured press releases and even chatted with participants to compile a detailed list of spring festivals. And, we promise there’s something for just about everyone to enjoy. Happy festing!

March 2

Zapp’s International Beerfest

LSU Rural Life Museum

March 9

Holi Festival Repentance Park

April 5 + 6

Rock The Country

Lamar Dixon Expo Center

April 14

Taste of Mid City

The Executive Center

April 24-28

Baton Rouge

Improv Festival

LSU Music and Dramatic Arts Building and Greek Theater

April 27

Denham Springs Spring Festival

Denham Springs Antique Village

April 27

Baton Rouge

Fiber Arts & Market Festival

Mid-City Artisans

May 18 +19

Baton Rouge

Soul Food Festival

Main Library at Goodwood

May 24-26

Gonzales Jambalaya Festival

120 S. Irma Blvd.

May 24-26

Cajun Country Jam Memorial Day Festival

PARDS North Park, Denham Springs

June 15

Set It Off Fest

Mid City Ballroom

STOCK

PHOTOS

COURTESY JOHN GRAY

All the spring’s a stage

Catch a rich variety of local theater this spring and summer

BY MAGGIE HEYN RICHARDSON

IN THE MOOD for live theater?

The scene has never been more robust in greater Baton Rouge, with numerous options through the spring and summer to fit your preferences. From family-friendly musicals to heady, niche dramas there’s something to inspire every theatergoer.

Note: This roundup represents performances scheduled through July 2024.

Ascension Community Theatre

823 North Felicity Ave., Gonzales actgonzales.org

April 18-21, 25-28

The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas

The Lone Star State’s famed Chicken Ranch bordello is taken to task by a puritanical watchdog in this fun-loving story of small-town scandal.

July 11-14, 18-21 + 25-28

Beauty and the Beast

The bookish Belle sacrifices everything to save her father, finding love in the unlikeliest of places. Like they say, it’s a tale as old as time.

Sullivan Theater 8849 Sullivan Road, Central sullivantheater.com

Theatre

Baton Rouge

7155

LSU School of Theatre lsu.edu

March 22 + 24

Carousel

Shaver Theatre, LSU Music & Dramatic Arts Building Rodgers and Hammerstein’s beloved story about carnival barker Billy Bigelow and the redemptive power of love.

March 1-3 + 7-10

Nunsense

A side-splitting spoof about the misadventures of five nuns.

The beloved comedy-drama is set in north Louisiana and features a cast of unforgettable women.

April 5-7 + 11-14

Sherlock Holmes and the Adventure of the Fallen Souffle

The Baker Street sleuth must solve cases involving not only the Royals, but the world’s most famous chef.

May 17-19 + 23-26

The Humans

A family drama set in a Manhattan apartment. The play was the recipient of multiple Tony Awards in 2016, including Best Play.

April 12-14 + 17-21

Marburg

Reilly Theatre

Four interwoven narratives unfold, each of them tied to a 1967 virus outbreak in Germany.

May 31 to June 2, June 6-9

Little Shop of Horrors

Follow flower shop stooge Seymour as he makes a Faustian bargain with a killer flytrap.

June 14-16, 20-23 + 27-30

Cinderella

The Enchanted version of the timeless tale takes the stage over three weekends in June. Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo!

Manship Theatre

Playmakers of Baton Rouge

10 Tower Drive playmakersbr.org

March 24-25

Rosie Revere, Engineer & Friends

May 31, June 1-2 + June 7-9

Red Magnolia Theatre Company redmagnoliatc.org

March 7-9 + 14-16

Upstage Theater Company

1713

May 4-5 + 11 Mud Row

Issue Date: Jan 2024 Ad proof #1

• Please respond by e-mail or phone with your approval or minor revisions.

A musical for K-4 children based on the books Rosie Revere, Engineer; Iggy Peck, Architect; and Ada Twist, Scientist by Andrea Beaty.

Disney’s The Little Mermaid Playmakers’ 2024 summer performance goes “under the sea” to find Ariel the mermaid eager for a chance at true love.

• AD WILL RUN AS IS unless approval or final revisions are received within 24 hrs from receipt of this proof. A shorter timeframe will apply for tight deadlines.

• Additional revisions must be requested and may be subject to production fees.

Carefully check this ad for: CORRECT ADDRESS

• CORRECT PHONE NUMBER • ANY TYPOS

This ad design © Melara Enterprises, LLC. 2024. All rights reserved. Phone 225-928-1700

Mother of the Maid St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church

The story of Joan of Arc’s mother, a sensible and hardworking peasant with a daughter she struggles to understand.

A moving story of two generations of sisters in Pennsylvania navigating race, class, love and family.

Planting the seed

LASM’s new STEAM-themed gallery is the first phase of the downtown museum’s four-part reimagination

BY KELSEI SCOTT

INSIDE A NEW gallery at Louisiana Art & Science Museum, children press buttons on a giant, rainbow-colored periodic table of elements.

Using plastic balls, they learn about chain reactions and solve challenging engineering problems on the Rube Goldberg Machine Wall.

And in a space dubbed the Curiosity Zone, they can get their hands on interactive activities inspired by the items in the museum’s permanent collection.

This is The Seed, the new STEAM-focused gallery the museum unveiled this winter.

In discussion since 2018 but delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, The Seed is targeted toward kids ages 8 to 15, aiming to plant “the seed” of science, technology, engineering, art and math (STEAM) in the minds of young artists and scientists.

The Seed is only the beginning. In 2022, LASM began a four-phase capital improvement campaign to renovate the museum’s hands-on areas into four interactive, STEAM-based spaces. By its 2026 completion, the museum will boast four interactive, STEAM-based spaces, collectively called the STEAM Station.

“It will be a new hands-on wing of the museum,” explains LASM Development Director and Interim Board Liaison Frances Lee. “By calling it the STEAM Station, we are going to really open it up and really make it fun and engaging and make it a whole area in the museum instead of just a couple of galleries.”

Proceeds from LASM’s annual galas in 2022 and 2023 (as well as the upcoming gala in October 2024) supported the project.

As the first phase, The Seed establishes the direction and provides a window into what the rest of the STEAM wing might look like. Thus far, the LASM team says reviews have been only positive.

“The goal of The Seed is to make STEAM relevant to your daily life,” Lee says. “The purpose of this is to inspire our young artists and scientists to pursue education and career pathways in STEAM fields and gain a deeper understanding of how STEAM is relevant to their daily lives—and everyone’s daily lives.” lasm.org

2nd

3rd Phase

4th Phase

ARTS

This month’s biggest art and music events agenda

MARCH 9

Support young creatives and entrepreneurs at the Spring Kids Makers Market at Mid-City Artisans. Browse and support the work from children ages 6 to 17. Some vendors even donate a portion of their earnings to local charities. mid-cityartisans.com

MARCH 11

Compiled by Olivia Deffes

MARCH 10

The Baton Rouge Ballet Theatre has joined forces with Manship Theatre to bring the world-renowned dance company Pilobolus to Baton Rouge for a contemporary dance performance. Pilobolus’ re:CREATION tour uses innovative dance techniques to convey the importance of creativity in life. manshiptheatre.org

MARCH 23

Enjoy a night of laughs and improv comedy at Whose Live Anyway?, the live show based on the hit TV comedy Whose Line Is It Anyway? The event even includes some of the show’s original cast members like Ryan Stiles. raisingcanesrivercenter.com

MARCH 29

Rock band Steely Dan has had quite the resurgence with young, new fans. Chelsea’s Live, which offers a variety of themed nights, welcomes old and new fans for its popular Only Dans show. A tribute band will celebrate the 50th anniversary of Steely Dan’s album Pretzel Logic by playing hits like “Rikki Don’t Lose That Number” and “Any Major Dude Will Tell You.”chelseaslive.com

Head over to L’Auberge Casino & Hotel to hear a rockin’ set from country music star Jake Owen. Sing along to his most popular tracks like “Barefoot Bluejean Night” and “Anywhere With You.” lbatonrouge.com

MARCH 30

Shop ’til you drop at Local Pop-Up, an open-air market consisting of local vendors. This market takes place each month at Electric Depot and welcomes artisans and creators of all types. Expect to see a variety of products, from soaps to freezedried candies. The market will also host a pet adoption event with Companion Animal Alliance in which attendees can mingle with furry friends and even take them home. localpopup.shop

COURTESY MID-CITY ARTISANS

STOCK PHOTO

Lori

Amanda

March Where to play Batonaround Rouge this month

Compiled by Olivia Deffes

all month

ROCK OUT!

There’s more to do at Perkins Rowe than just shopping. The development welcomes the community to its outdoor lawn for its spring concert series, Rock N Rowe, every Thursday in March. Grab your blankets and chairs and secure your spot to hear from local acts like Michael Foster Project and That 70's Band. perkinsrowe.com/rocknrowe

WHAT’S CRACKIN’?

The Old State Capitol welcomes families to enjoy the Easter Egg Roll complete with egg races and other Easter-related activities. Don’t miss out on the festivities or the egg-citement of the day. The event is free and open to the public, and the museum will also be open to guests for First Free Sunday. louisianaoldstatecapitol.org

TRUE COLORS

Come dressed in white and get ready to wear the rainbow courtesy of colorful pigment that will flow through the air at the Holi Festival held at Repentance Park. This event allows Baton Rougeans to celebrate the traditional Hindu festival, otherwise known as the Festival of Love or the Festival of Colors. Holi is also known to connect the community and welcome the season of spring. The event is free with food, drink and color packets available for purchase. holifestivalbr.com

GO GREEN!

Comb your closet for all the shades of green and head out to the Wearin’ of the Green Parade route to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. This historic parade promises a day of fun and, of course, shenanigans complete with an early morning race and dozens of floats filled with lively krewes. Flip to page 32 to check out even more about the parade. wearinofthegreen.com

ALSO THIS MONTH

MARCH 1-3

Calling all hunters, fishers and those who love the great outdoors! The Louisiana Sportsman Show is headed to Baton Rouge for its three-day event at the Raising Cane’s River Center. Find vendors specializing in everything from golf carts to taxidermy. louisianasportsmanshow. com

MARCH 9 + 10

Popular shopping experience Merry Market will host its first spring market at the Lamar Dixon Expo Center. The Merry Market in March allows shopaholics to get an early, early start on holiday shopping or grab gifts for other occasions from more than 250 vendor booths. merrymarket.shop

MARCH 23

See two shows in one at Baton Rouge Gallery’s Movies & Music on the Lawn series. The event combines live music with silent film for a unique movie-watching experience. Local musicians perform a never-heardbefore score to accompany the film displayed. March’s movie is sci-fi thriller Metropolis paired with DJ Otto. batonrougegallery.org

MARCH 24

Go back to springtimes of the past at LSU Rural Life’s An Old Fashioned Easter Celebration. The event aims to represent generations of Easter customs in Louisiana complete with bunny photos, egg dyeing, races and more. lsu.edu/rurallife

MORE EVENTS

Subscribe to our newsletter 225 Daily for our twiceweekly roundups of events. 225batonrouge. com/225daily

504 337 ON THE ROAD

NEW ORLEANS

MARCH 14-16: New Orleans Book Festival, bookfest.tulane.edu

MARCH 16: Irish Channel St. Patrick’s Day Parade, irishchannelno.org

MARCH 30: Crescent City Classic, ccc10k.com

ACADIANA

MARCH 9 + 10: Louisiana Comic Con, louisianacomiccon.com

MARCH 9: Cajun Chili Fest, cajunchilifest.com

MARCH 16: Patty in the Parc, facebook.com/PattyInTheParc

STOCK PHOTO

JORDAN HEFLER

COLLIN RICHIE

STOCK PHOTO

In every issue of 225, you’ll find a free print on this page. FRAMED celebrates life and art in Baton Rouge, each one featuring a local photographer, place or graphic designer. Cut it out to hang in your cubicle, or frame it for your home gallery wall. Show us where you hang them by tagging them on social media with #225prints.

PHOTO BY COLLIN RICHIE / collinrichiephoto.com

GET FEATURED We love spotlighting local photographers, artists and designers for this page! Shoot us an email at editor@225batonrouge.com to chat about being featured.

So much to see. So much to do. Talk with the Louisiana leader in minimally invasive spine surgery about all the places a life without back pain can take you.