[225] Magazine - October 2020 by Baton Rouge Business Report

OC TOBER 2020 â&#x20AC;¢ FREE ELECTION GUIDE 27 SAVING THE MUSIC 97 HALLOWEEN TOWN 104

OUGE .COM

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leaders Baton Rouge students helping our community and taking a stand for change

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Issue Date: October Ad proof #5

• Please respond by e-mail or fax with your approval or minor revisions. • AD WILL RUN AS IS unless revision requests are received within 24 hours. • 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 © Louisiana Business, Inc. 2020. All rights reserved. Phone 225-928-1700 • Fax 225-926-1329

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• 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 © Louisiana Business, Inc. 2020. All rights reserved. Phone 225-928-1700 • Fax 225-926-1329

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UPFRONT //

Young leaders

BY JULIO MELARA

OUR CHILDREN ARE the key to the future. And wow, is it inspiring to see how many rising leaders we have here in Baton Rouge! “We don’t grow when things are easy. We grow when we face challenges.” This is a popular quote online attributed to a few different sources, but I think it rings true for all of us. Especially in 2020. With all the trials thrown at our city, state and country this year, it’s been incredible to see Generation Z’s true colors shine through. Some of the most impactful responses have come from local youths. This next generation is already helping our city grow. That’s why we’ve dedicated our October cover story to a few of these young changemakers. Some of them haven’t even graduated high school yet and are already tech gurus, launching virtual platforms or apps. Jay Iyer is a 17-year-old with an 11-page resume. His work in the community goes far beyond his perfect GPA and ACT scores or his hopes to attend Harvard. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Jay was set to go to a top-tier summer program at MIT. Instead, he found himself launching a nonprofit called Helping Everyone Learn More. It offers kids around the world free virtual classes in a variety of subjects—all to help students who have struggled with closed schools and distance learning. Others are taking a stand against social injustices, such as Colleen Temple, Mia Spears and Noah Hawkins, the three students who organized a peaceful protest in downtown Baton Rouge this summer. Many were proud to see high schoolers taking such a powerful stand—and of how effectively they did so. Some of these students have launched non-profits, such as Joey Roth and his JAR for Change charity, which has raised more than $15,000 for Woman’s Hospital. And then there are students volunteering their time to make a difference, such as Mason Guillot and Kayla Adams, the program directors for the LSU chapter of Camp Kesem. The nonprofit teaches college students about leadership as they organize camps for kids whose parents have cancer. And when their in-person camp was shut down this summer due to the pandemic, they launched a virtual one. There’s a common thread between the students of today: They are active, engaged and committed to seeing their communities flourish and grow.

They want a better Baton Rouge. And how fortunate are we to have them here? Turn to page 38 to meet some of our city’s inspiring youth leaders.

This is Halloween It’s been a bummer to see so many of Baton Rouge’s biggest annual events get canceled this year. Thankfully, some of the city’s most popular Halloween festivities are finding new ways to reach attendees. Downtown’s The 13th Gate reopens this month. Often ranked as one of the best haunted attractions in the entire country, it comes as no surprise that its team has found a creative way to keep things running this fall. Scare actors will be wearing masks, and the makeup team has found ways to incorporate the face coverings into the terrifying costumes. A virtual queuing system will eliminate long lines, and all guests will be required to wear face coverings of their own. Other facilities like LSU Rural Life Museum and AgCenter’s Botanic Gardens and BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo have plenty of spooky events on their calendars as well. Turn to page 104 to learn all about how Halloween is carrying on during our new normal.

Election time Who will lead Baton Rouge into the future? The answer is up to you this election season. You’ve probably already decided your pick for the next president, but Baton Rouge voters will also determine the outcome of the mayor’s race. There are seven candidates on this year’s ballot, including the incumbent mayor, Sharon Weston Broome. It can be overwhelming to keep track of each candidate’s views, so 225 is here to help you get to know them all. We asked each candidate the same series of questions, exploring how they’d approach issues such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the economic crisis, police reform and more. Perhaps most importantly, we asked them to share their biggest priority—what would they describe as a “successful” term? Turn to page 27 for 225’s guide to the 2020 local elections.

Keep the music going While many industries have gone virtual this year, there are some that have been left in the dark. After months of bar and club closures and restaurant capacity restrictions, our local music scene was effectively shuttered for more than half of this year. You might have still heard a band playing outdoors at a restaurant or seen a DJ spinning on Zoom, but hearing live music became a much more rare occurrence in 2020. And that’s been even tougher on the musicians who rely on income from those gigs. 225 talked with local cover band The Anteeks, Charles “DJ Cmix” Eugene and others to find out how they’ve adapted, and what they’re looking forward to as our city hopefully returns to a more “normal” fall. Turn to page 97 to read our interviews.

Download the ‘225 Magazine’ app Imagine having a guide to everything you want to know about Baton Rouge food, things to do and culture at your fingertips. Meet the 225 Magazine app. Our team has launched the one-ofa-kind app to bring you a fresh way to access news, guides and offers about Baton Rouge restaurants and bars, arts and entertainment, people and style. It’s all delivered to your phone or tablet so you never miss a thing produced by 225’s team of awardwinning content creators. App features include first looks inside brand-new restaurants; guides to restaurants and bars, including the annual Best of 225 Awards; interviews with community leaders; sports coverage, including our LSU football-themed Tiger Pride Podcast; special offers to restaurants, bars and other businesses; and so much more. Those who download the app can enter to win our grand-prize giveaway of an in-home, customized fourcourse dinner with wine pairings for eight guests prepared by Chris Motto, executive chef of Mansurs on the Boulevard, valued at $2,000. You have until Oct. 11 to enter the grand-prize drawing. Download the 225 Magazine app to see contest rules and regulations.

[225] October 2020 | 225batonrouge.com

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CONTENTS //

Features What it’s like to forage for flowers 22 around the city

How two local rabbis are 34 making history

How to support BR’s Black- owned boutiques and online shops ON THE COVER

What local bands have been up to during the pandemic

And much more …

Departments 16 What’s Up 27 Our City 34 I am 225 38 Cover story 77 Style 85 Taste 97 Culture 106 Calendar

GENERATION Z is already demonstrating that it means business here in Baton Rouge. High school and college students are showing up for peaceful protests, raising money for important causes and using their tech know-how to come up with inventive solutions to everything from food deserts to virtual learning during the pandemic. Staff photographer Collin Richie shot 13 local young people for this month’s cover story, and three of them—Baton Rouge Magnet High School student Jay Iyer, Southern University student Myra Richardson and Episcopal High School student Thomas O’Connor—are featured on our cover. Turn to page 38 to read more about the city’s talented and passionate young people.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION - Page 53

COLLIN RICHIE

Our next leaders

[225] October 2020 | 225batonrouge.com

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Issue Date: October 2020 Ad proof #4

• Please respond by e-mail or fax with your approval or minor revisions. • AD WILL RUN AS IS unless revision requests are received within 24 hours. • 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 © Louisiana Business, Inc. 2018. All rights reserved. Phone 225-928-1700 • Fax 225-926-1329

A S K T H E S TA FF

Favorite scary movie? Publisher: Julio Melara

EDITORIAL

“The Fog. It’s a minor John Carpenter classic with Jamie Lee Curtis, a sweeping coastal town and an ‘80s sheen that makes it more campy than flat-out scary.” —Benjamin Leger

Editorial director: Penny Font Editor: Jennifer Tormo Managing editor: Benjamin Leger Staff writer: Cynthea Corfah Digital content editor: Mark Clements Staff photographer: Collin Richie Contributing writers: Julia-Claire Evans, Maria Marsh, April Capochino Myers, Tracey Koch, Elle Marie, Kayla Randall, Maggie Heyn Richardson, Stephanie Riegel Contributing photographers: Ariana Allison, Catrice Coleman, Sean Gasser, Amy Shutt, Haskell Whittington

“Shutter: a remake of a Thai horror film where a photographer sees a demon in his photographs. It gives me chills!” —Cynthea Corfah

ADVERTISING

Sales director: Erin Palmintier-Pou Account executives: Manny Fajardo, André Hellickson Savoie, Jamie Hernandez, Kaitlyn Maranto, Brooke Motto Advertising coordinator: Devyn MacDonald

CORPOR ATE MEDIA

“I’ve been really digging this ‘modern horror’ genre from the past few years— Get Out, A Quiet Place, Us, Parasite, etc.” —Mark Clements

Editor: Lisa Tramontana Content strategist: Allyson Guay Multimedia Strategy Manager: Tim Coles

MARKETING

Chief marketing officer: Elizabeth McCollister Hebert Marketing & events assistant: Taylor Floyd Events: Abby Hamilton Community liaison: Jeanne McCollister McNeil

“Silence of the Lambs. Hannibal Lecter freaks me out!” —Erin Palmintier-Pou

ADMINISTR ATION

Assistant business manager: Tiffany Durocher Digital manager: James Hume Business associate: Kirsten Milano Office coordinator: Tara Lane Receptionist: Cathy Brown

PRODUCTION/DESIGN

Production director: Melanie Samaha Art director: Hoa Vu Graphic designers: Melinda Gonzalez, Emily Witt

Caring for Women Creating Life Preparation is key for a healthier COVID-19 pregnancy experience. Consulting & Training Services Doula Support Services ACARINGSEASONDOULA.COM (337)356-2516 | Acaringseasondoula@gmail.com

AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT

“Scream. So cheesy, but always makes me jump. Go Sydney, go!” —Melinda Gonzalez

Audience development director: Katelyn Oglesby Audience development coordinator: Ivana Oubre

“The original The Omen with Gregory Peck, or The Exorcist. I can hear ‘Tubular Bells’ right now. I was scared to sleep with the lights off!” —Cathy Brown

A publication of Louisiana Business Inc. Chairman: Rolfe H. McCollister Jr. President and CEO: Julio Melara Executive assistant: Kathleen Wray

9029 Jefferson Highway, Suite 300 Baton Rouge, LA 70809 225-214-5225 • FAX 225-926-1329 225batonrouge.com ©Copyright 2020 by Louisiana Business Incorporated. All rights reserved by LBI. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is strictly prohibited. Business address: 9029 Jefferson Highway, Baton Rouge, LA 70809. Telephone (225) 214-5225. 225 Magazine cannot be responsible for the return of unsolicited material—manuscripts or photographs—with or without the inclusion of a stamped, self-addressed return envelope. Information in this publication is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy and completeness of the information cannot be guaranteed.

[225] October 2020 | 225batonrouge.com

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POOLS | FENCES | MASONRY

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CALL US TODAY for a complimentary consultation! 225.757.6138 | pecbuilt.com | LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED

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FEEDBACK //

About Cou-Yon’s BBQ finally opening a food truck in Baton Rouge:

COLLIN RICHIE

—Jeri Flynn

Slicing ribs at Cou-Yon’s

FILE PHOTO

“I just want to say that I have really missed Beausoleil and the people who worked there.”

Brunch at Beausoleil

Inside Cedar House coffee shop

Some of the boozy options from Spiked Scoops

COLLIN RICHIE

CATRICE COLEMAN

—Stuart Stewart

506

Touring the new downtown library

—Ann Eri

About the Spiked Scoops truck taking to the Capital City streets—and serving boozy ice creams:

About Cedar House Roasting Co. opening this summer on Jones Creek Road:

“Wonderful addition to the neighborhood! They serve a mean cold brew.”

“So glad that Cou-Yon’s is at such a convenient location! We are so glad to have you in BR!”

Our feature on LSU quarterback Myles Brennan COURTESY LSU ATHLETICS

About City Group Hospitality purchasing Beausoleil Restaurant & Bar from the Juban Restaurant Group, with plans to renovate the space and reopen this fall:

Who says we can’t love sports and also love books?

“I’ve been waiting all my life for this. ” —Duran Aztined

562

COURTESY EBRPL

Showing love

ON 225’S INSTAGRAM

THE CORONAVIRUS pandemic may have changed our dining out habits, but 225 readers still get excited about local restaurant news and a chance to support Baton Rouge’s food scene.

COR R ECTI ON In 225’s September issue, we incorrectly credited the main image in an article about The Front Porch Project. The photo was taken by Davis C. Hotard of Davis C. Hotard Photography. 225 regrets the error.

CONNECT WITH US

Issue Date: July Ad proof #4

twitter.com/225batonrouge facebook.com/225magazine • Please respond by e-mail or fax with your approval or minor revisions. • AD WILL RUN AS IS unless revision requests are received within 24 hours. • Additional revisions must be requested and may be subject to production fees.

instagram.com/225batonrouge

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HURRICANE SEASON IS HERE

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[225] October 2020 | 225batonrouge.com

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Issue Date: October Ad proof #3

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225batonrouge.com | [225] October 2020

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OCT. 17-18 + 24-25 9:30AM-4PM ADMISSION GATES OPEN 5PM GROUNDS CLOSE TO KEEP YOU SAFE, PRE-PREPPED TREAT BAGS WILL BE PROVIDED UPON EXITING YOUR ZOO ADVENTURE.

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W H AT ’ S O N L I N E / /

TRY THIS

DOWNLOADS

225 things to do in a pandemic

ONE OF OUR favorite parts of making this magazine is getting to be on the inside. We try to be the first to know when a new restaurant is opening, what cool shows you should head to in town, and which artists to keep on your radar. Now, you can be the first to know, too. Download our new 225 Magazine app to get push notification updates about Baton Rouge food, things to do and exclusive offers. It’s all delivered to your phone or tablet so you never miss an update. Download the app now on your iPhone, iPad or Android. 225 Magazine app features include: • First Looks inside brand-new restaurants • Guides to restaurants and bars, including the annual Best of 225 Awards • Interviews with community leaders • Local sports coverage, including our LSU football-themed Tiger Pride Podcast • Special offers to local restaurants, bars and other businesses • So much more!

Download and enter to win Enter our grand-prize giveaway for an in-home, customized four-course dinner with wine pairings for eight guests prepared by Chris Motto, executive chef of Mansurs on the Boulevard, valued at $2,000. You have until Oct. 11 to enter the grand-prize drawing. Download the app to see contest rules and regulations.

MASK NOW so we can

EVEN IN PHASE Three, things aren’t completely back to normal in Louisiana. This fall, we won’t be able to tailgate on campuses or head to large seasonal festivals. And many of us are still being cautious about heading to our favorite bars, movie theaters and attractions. But there’s still fun to be had in Baton Rouge—you just have to get a little creative. That’s why we’ve reimagined our popular “225 Things to Do” list as a digital-only feature called “225 Things to Do in a Pandemic.” We’ve rounded up a couple-hundred outdoor activities, virtual experiences and safe places to visit. And spoiler alert: We still had so many ideas, we barely had room for them all. Find the full guide at 225batonrouge.com.

ALLIE APPEL

The new ‘225 Magazine’ app

In Louisiana, we love our football games and tailgate parties. Let’s work together so we all can get back to enjoying the traditions that make us special. Wear a mask or face covering now to protect yourself, your neighbors and the way of life we love in Louisiana.

01MK7374 R08/20

Learn more about ways to protect yourself at bcbsla.com/covid19

later! 225batonrouge.com | [225] October 2020

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October

Sip

the season

Herbal teas from local shops to drink this fall

FALL IS THE season for all things warm: warm food; cozy, warm nights indoors with the family; and warm beverages like apple cider, hot chocolate and tea. There is more to tea than flavors like green, black or chai. Local businesses sell everything from soothing mullein tea, mixed with chamomile, spearmint and marshmallow leaf, to pumpkin spice tea, made with black Sri Lankan tea, cinnamon, clove, ginger and essence of pumpkin. Get a dose of autumn in a cup with these loose herbal teas.

—CYNTHEA CORFAH

1. Adornleaf Tea Co. Mull It Over tea, $12/jar. From Southern Cofe 2. Chocolate mint tea, $8/4 grams. From Highland Coffees 3. Pumpkin Spice tea, $12/ tin. From Red Stick Spice Co. 4. Lemon myrtle tea, $13/4 grams. From Highland Coffees

5. The Big Fig tea, $12/tin. From Red Stick Spice Co. 6. Adornleaf Tea Co. Snappy Ginger Green Tea, $14/jar. From Southern Cofe 7. Peppermint tea, $6/4 grams. From Highland Coffees 8. Bonfire tea, $13/tin. From Red Stick Spice Co.

adornleaftea.com highlandcoffeesbr.com redstickspice.com

COLLIN RICHIE

ONLINE:

[225] October 2020 | 225batonrouge.com

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W H AT ’ S U P / /

Products with purpose

DIGITS

Buffalo cauliflower wrap at MJ’s Cafe

832 pounds Amount of cauliflower purchased in 2020 for MJ’s Cafe to make its customer favorite: the buffalo cauliflower wraps. The wrap is made with cauliflower and chickpeas tossed in buffalo sauce, avocado, bean sprouts, pickled red onions and vegan ranch on a warm pita. mjscafebr.com

COLLIN RICHIE

WHEN ERIN WHITE returned home from grad school, she was devastated to see her sister’s skin condition. Both White and her younger sister suffer from lifelong eczema, but when her sister went to college, it grew worse due to stress. White looked everywhere for trustworthy, eczema-friendly products, but she was disappointed by the harmful ingredients. So she took matters into her own hands and started experimenting with natural ingredients at home to see what she could create. In 2016, the Baton Rouge microbiologist started local skin care company Thomas Therapeutics. Through trial and error, White concocted skin care products from plant-based ingredients that helped soothe her sister’s skin. But she didn’t stop there. “I wanted to make products that are beneficial to the skin and protect your natural flora,” White says. The 38-year-old scientist makes products from herbs, teas, essential oils and other plant-derived ingredients. She sells gentle soaps, body butters, moisturizers, toners, cleansers and bath salts. White makes custom products for people with special skin conditions or allergies. She has helped customers with eczema, psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis (itchy, red scalp) and keratosis pilaris (rough patches with acne-like bumps on the skin). Thomas Therapeutics is sold online, at The Cadeaux Market Boutique and Gift Shop in Zachary and local markets like Mid City Makers Market. Since COVID-19, White has focused her efforts on her online business and plans to offer soap-making classes and a virtual wellness retreat for Black women. sootheurskin.com

COURTESY MJ’S CAFE

Meet Thomas Therapeutics: a Baton Rouge skin care company that makes custom products for unique skin conditions

Erin White launched Thomas Therapeutics in 2016 after her sister had a severe eczema breakout.

1. Always use acid-free mats. “If you have framed pieces that are special to you, we recommend rematting them if the mats aren’t acid-free. How can you tell? Look at the color of the mat. If it’s yellowing or brown, then it’s not acid-free. Rematting [can help your artwork last longer], plus it’s a good opportunity to update colors and give the work a fresh look.” 2. Know your glazing options. “Conservation glazing [flat glass or acrylic used for framing artwork] blocks out 99% of UV light. In our sunny climate, it is crucial in preserving artworks, especially watercolors, pen and ink pieces. It’s definitely worth the investment and will keep your art protected from fading.” 3. Think: contrast. “You may think your folk-art piece needs a rustic frame. But try an ornate frame, and you may be surprised at how complementary it can be.” COURTESY FRAMEWORKS GALLERY

4. (Almost) anything can be framed. “We’ve framed everything from seashells to scarves, fountain pens to frying pans, and dresses to dried flowers. Shadow boxes are great for framing 3D pieces.”

Picture perfect 7 framing tips from local experts YOU JUST BOUGHT a new piece of art or printed out your favorite photo, and now you want to hang it on the walls. But what about the frame? Where do you start? Do you get one custom-made or buy one from the store? We’ve all been there. That’s why 225 spoke with the owner of Frameworks Gallery, Cathy Nystrom, to get framing tips to apply at home. Find Frameworks Gallery on Facebook

5. Aside from gallery walls, art looks best hanging at eye level. “People have a tendency to hang artwork too high. We all have different eye levels, so about 60 inches from the floor to the center of the art is standard.” 6. Take measurements. “If your frame has a wire on the back, just pull the wire taught (like it will be when it’s hanging), and measure the distance between the top of your wire and the top of your frame. If you have a helper, one of you will hold up the art where you want it to be on the wall while the other person holds a pencil or a finger at the top center of the frame against the wall.” 7. Have fun. “Don’t be afraid to mix styles, experiment with orange matting, or get a bright gold, ornate frame, if that’s what you love! If it’s worth framing, then it’s worth making it entirely your own.”

“It’s hard to get elbow room to get to the public because of everything going on. It’s going to be interesting to see how reduced the campaigns are from four years ago, because there is just not that much money on the street.” —Local political and media consultant Clay Young about the 2020 mayor’s race. Check out our Q&As with the mayoral candidates on page 27.

225batonrouge.com | [225] October 2020

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ART

Un leashed Revamped FOREST COMMUNITY PARK

Join BREC Art + BREC Dog Parks for this once in a blue moon, free doggie costume contest and art spectacular!

FRIDAY

OCT

Live Music + Local Art and Pet Vendors + Pet Adoptions + Kids and Dog Activities + Giveaways + Food Vendors + More! Sign your pup up for the Costume Contest + Apply to brec.org/artunleashed be a Pet or Art Vendor: Costume Contest begins @ 7 PM!

5-9 PM

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W H AT ’ S N E W

Buzz feed

By Julia-Claire Evans

Human Jukebox makes a hit Southern University’s Human Jukebox has proved its talent nationally once again. The award-winning band is featured in rapper 2 Chainz’s August single “Money Maker.” The band can be heard in full force at the beginning of the song and plays in the background throughout. The song also features Louisiana native Lil Wayne, and it was produced by Baton Rouge producer and rapper Playa Pizzle. Check it out on your streaming platform

Growing for a cause The Vince Ferachi Community Garden has big dreams. The garden, which provided 600 pounds of produce to the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank this spring, is expanding. It aims to grow from a half-acre to a whole acre, and to provide more than 2,000 meals to food bank customers. Find it on Facebook

WINNERS Privy Label LSU grad Jessica Osborn took her apparel and merchandising expertise and turned it into a business that helps others. Her Privy Label helps aspiring entrepreneurs launch their own clothing brands. Through Privy Label, she gives them access to designers, seamstresses and more. Her private, New Orleans label helps to create lines for clients, some of whom are professional athletes. Find it on Instagram @privylabel.

Cou-Yon’s comes to the Capital

PHOTOS BY: COLLIN RICHIE, COURTESY PRIVY LABEL, AND FILE AND STOCK PHOTOS

The popular Port Allen restaurant Cou-Yon’s BBQ has brought a food stand across the river. The food truck is serving a smaller version of the restaurant’s menu, including loaded baked potatoes and baby back ribs. It is parked at 3653 Perkins Road and open Wednesday through Sunday, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. couyons.com

Lights, cameras, action … again Film production has been allowed to resume in Louisiana, following the Louisiana Economic Development’s guidelines and safety protocols during the pandemic. Requirements include strict social distancing, temperature checks and hand washing procedures, and everyone on sets (not including actors) must also wear masks. opportunitylouisiana.com

Privy Label CEO Jessica Osborn and director of operations Cristina Contreras

49%

Percent of Baton Rougeans not likely to attend large events during the pandemic, according to a June survey from Baton Rouge Area Foundation. The findings, released in August, also revealed that 27% of respondents thought their children had learned less while attending school from home last spring. School may be back in session this fall, but it doesn’t look like we’ll see large-crowd events anytime soon. braf.org

Got the munchies? Baton Rouge couple Meredith Beck-Wiggins and Tommy Wiggins are opening the first Cheba Hut restaurant in Baton Rouge. The marijuana-themed restaurant does not serve cannabis of any kind, but it is marketed toward those who may have the “munchies.” Cheba Hut mainly serves toasted subs, and it has other snacks like “loaded not-chos,” made with nacho cheese Doritos. Be on the look out for this new joint early next year on Ben Hur Road. 225batonrouge.com | [225] October 2020

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W H AT ’ S U P / /

“The guava complements the pear well, proving to be an interesting pairing! Light and crisp.” —James Hume, digital manager

“Fruit flavors in seltzers can often read like bug spray, but this one is much more natural tasting. I’d buy it again.” —Maggie Heyn Richardson, contributing writer

“I was already a fan of Zony Mash having visited the New Orleans brewery a couple times, but it was still a nice surprise how good this seltzer was. A tasty party on my palate—and 90 calories!” —Mark Clements, digital content editor

“The herbal/ floral notes hit just enough, and with a splash of gin and a squirt of lime, this might be my next go-to cocktail.” —Benjamin Leger, managing editor

“This Austin brand is one of my absolute favorites. It is pretty intensely carbonated—similar to Topo Chico—which makes it so delicious and refreshing.” —Jennifer Tormo, editor

“Bold blackcherry flavor and, surprisingly, a faint chocolate aftertaste. Coffee, however, should be left off of the name. Not even a hint of coffee flavor.” —Lisa Tramontana, corporate media editor

COLLIN RICHIE COLLIN RICHIE

“I wasn’t sure what to expect from a cactus-rose water, but I was pleasantly surprised. It has subtle floral flavors. I could see myself drinking this in the summer laid out by the pool in a desert. I’m a LaCroix gal, but this drink made me think twice.” —Cynthea Corfah, staff writer

[225] October 2020 | 225batonrouge.com

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Issue Date: October Ad proof #1 W H AT ’ S U P / /

ORDER THIS

Bubbling

Get FIT, Stay FIT!

LaCroix and White Claw aren’t the only sparkling drinks in stock at Baton Rouge grocery stores By Jennifer Tormo

YOU KNOW WHAT’S great with just about everything these days? Water. Especially water with bubbles in it. Brands like LaCroix and Topo Chico have been in existence for longer than their many millennial devotees have been alive. But in the past five years, those bright cans and glass bottles are suddenly everywhere. And they’ve acted as the gateway drugs for an onslaught of carbonated beverages. Soda, beer, coffee—for whatever bad habit you’re trying to kick, there’s a fizzy, low-or-no-calorie alternative. College students guzzle fruit-forward, alcohol-spiked seltzers on game days. Lightly caffeinated sparkling water is on the rise, too, infused with a little kick from coffee beans or green tea. At Baton Rouge grocery stores, there’s a stunning array of indie and lesser-known seltzer brands. You’ll find some unexpected flavor notes—think basil, lavender and cactus rose—and each can is more artfully designed than the last. We know, we know. No laws when drinking White Claws; LaCroix walked so White Claw could run. But as those memes get worn out and our palates get tired of the same-old flavors, it’s nice knowing we have lots of sparkly new options.

BOOZY • Pomegranate spiked-seltzer by The Shell House • Mango Guava Berry spiked seltzer by Zony Pop • White Peach wine seltzer by Del Mar • Prickly Pear Guava spiked seltzer by Florida Seltzer

SPARKLING WATER • Cactus Rose-flavored sparkling water by Aura Bora • Basil Berry-flavored sparkling water by Aura Bora • Peach-flavored sparkling water by Waterloo • Lavender Cucumber-flavored sparkling water by Aura Bora

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WHERE WE FOUND THEM To source the drinks for our taste test, we mixed and matched options from these local shops (but you can likely find these and similar beverages from a grocery store near you). Alexander’s Highland Market Calvin’s Bocage Market Calandro’s Supermarket Matherne’s Market

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W H AT ’ S U P / /

225 ADVENTURES

Wild thing Let’s go foraging with a florist—just in time for all those fall table arrangements By Julia-Claire Evans // Photos by Collin Richie

[225] October 2020 | 225batonrouge.com

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W H AT ’ S U P / /

MEREDITH COOPER IS the kind of person you instantly want to be friends with after meeting. Just like the floral bouquets she makes, she’s colorful and refreshing. Cooper’s house is in the equally colorful Poet’s Corner neighborhood near the Perkins Road overpass, and finding plants here is easy. Fences are covered in vining plants, and flower beds are overflowing. It’s partly why the florist sometimes forages for flower arrangements—and what inspired her to start her foraging class series on Instagram. It’s a hot July afternoon when I meet up with Cooper to try my hand at foraging. To start our journey, all we need is a pair of gardening clippers. We make our way in a large circle, from Cooper’s house on Ovid Street to Pliny Street, Pericles Street and back. As we walk, Cooper tells me that she first got into making floral arrangements while growing up. Her mother had a garden, and some of her earliest memories are making small arrangements of her mother’s flowers and wrapping the stems in tin foil. Cooper ended up going to nursing school, but later realized that she could still fulfill her dreams of being a florist while also working as a nurse. Our first stop this afternoon is a boat covered in what seemed like weeds. But when I look closer, I see small red flowers. Cooper explains it’s small red morning glory, and it adds a great detail to bouquets. We clip off about three pieces, a foot long each, and keep walking. Cooper tells me she got into arrangement-making when she started making bouquets for friends’ weddings, and her

passion grew from there. She then started foraging when she realized the amount of plants and weeds growing in her neighborhood that could add interesting texture and dimension to her arrangements. Our next stop is an open grass lot next to a parking lot off Perkins Road. We clip foxtails, which are tall and have a sort of bottle-brush tip, and then head down the next street where there are overgrown elderberries waiting for us on top of a neighbor’s fence. The berries are purple and veiny-looking, and are great to add some depth to our arrangement. We move on to a neighbor’s yard that is covered in floral growth. The neighbor previously told Cooper she could clip some of her zinnias, and we pick the bright-colored orange and pink flowers to be the main focal point of color in our arrangement. Finally, Cooper shows me one of her favorite weeds: Japanese climbing fern. Mostly found on top and inside of bushes, it is bright green and full, with spraying leaves that remind me of Christmas decor. We head back to her house, where she clips the flowers and gives me tips on how to get the most out of foraging. Together, we make a very impressive arrangement using our materials, along with some extra florals she had lying around. Learning how to forage taught me more than how to make a bouquet with plants found nearby. I noticed more simple beauty and details, and gained more admiration for the local fauna—even if it does grow in a ditch. Find Cooper’s foraging series on her Instagram page, @forage_br.

HOW TO FORAGE Always ask permission. Make sure your neighbor is OK with you picking flowers and plants from their yard. “Only forage from places where you’re not stealing or trespassing,” Cooper says. Overgrown fences, neighborhood ditches and public parks are also fair game. If you’re not sure about plucking a plant, ask a neighbor! Watch out for poisonous plants. Never eat anything, and wash your hands after you forage. Read up on local poisonous plants, and make sure you are able to identify plants like poison ivy. To make an arrangement: Think about texture, a focal flower and bulk greenery. Your focal flower can be colorful and eye-catching, and the bulk greenery makes the arrangement look more natural. “I love the wild look you can get from flowers that you don’t buy commercially,” Cooper says. Look for seasonal flowers. In Baton Rouge during the late summer and early fall, you can find tickseed, a yellow and black flower; false Queen Anne’s lace; golden rod; beauty berry; and aster, a vibrant purple and yellow flower. “One of the best things is that it’s always changing,” she says. “They’ll come through and mow the ditches, and something new will pop up.”

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Your city, your app.

The new 225 Magazine App is now available Download our app and ENTER TO WIN a customized four-course dinner for eight guests by Chris Motto, executive chef of Mansurs on the Boulevard. The in-home dinner includes wine pairings and is valued at more than $2,000. Download now for free at 225batonrouge.com/app or scan here

DISCOVER. EXPERIENCE. CEL EBRATE.

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W H AT ’ S U P / /

YOUR FLAVOR

Food you are great at cooking

Fave subject when you were in school

Mauree Brooksher Owner/lead trainer, Nourish Wellness Baton Rouge 37

Jason Knighten

English

Anything I make from-scratch, especially muffins

The first artist you want to see when concerts return

Lauren Daigle or Taylor Swift

Favorite Halloween tradition

Who you would love to dress up as for Halloween

Some moms’ best friend, but I prefer fresh frose.

My family’s themed costumes (as long as my kids allow it)

Eliza from Hamilton

Something I don’t know anything about

The day after Halloween, when the candy is 50% off. Especially love the pumpkinshaped Reese’s!

White Claw is …

Algebra

Owner, Morning Music Movement 33

Tobe Nwigwe I am known for my sugar cookies.

Trick-or-treating

Joanne Cowgill Retired teacher and grandma 68

Crawfish jambalaya

The Eagles

Refreshing

I make an excellent vegetarian threepepper pasta.

Daniel Caesar

High-class Four Loko

Greek mythology

L E T US HO S T YO UR

Holiday Ga ings

T HE

AT THE R OYAL STANDARD

A hurricane

Public speaking

Stedman Powers Banker 30

Mr. Brown from Tyler Perry’s productions

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Seeing a friend perform his annual Halloween show

Fake news

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I N S I D E : Info on the upcoming election

Their

views

We asked the candidates for mayor to weigh in on local issues ahead of the Nov. 3 election DURING THIS TIME of crisis in America, society needs strong leaders. On Nov. 3, Baton Rouge will vote on its next mayor to guide us through another season of the COVID-19 pandemic, a nationwide reckoning with social justice issues and our own unique challenges in East Baton Rouge Parish. Incumbent Sharon Weston Broome will face off against six other candidates running to keep Baton Rouge moving forward. Here are their answers to key issues facing the city-parish.

â&#x20AC;&#x201D;AS TOLD TO MARIA MARSH

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OUR CITY //

225’s Questions How do you plan to help local business owners and workers who have been affected by the COVID-19 shutdown get back on their feet?

How would you describe a “successful” term? What is your biggest priority?

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Steve Carter

Democrat, incumbent mayor

Republican, former state representative

On racial equality: “Since the tragic death of Alton Sterling, our residents have been engaged in a community conversation about racial equality and responsible policing reforms that combine community involvement and public safety. Over the last 3.5 years, we have instituted a series of reforms that led to dramatically improved community relations and put the policies and recommendations needed into practice. This is an ongoing conversation that my administration will continue to lead into a second term. Most recently, I created the Commission on Racial Equity and Inclusion. Its agenda serves as a roadmap for the private and public sectors to create opportunities for increased community engagement, and to apply training, framing and other tools to continually improve outcomes related to race. I also commissioned the first-ever disparity study of city-parish contractors to lay the foundation for a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program. Such a program would create greater competition of city-parish contracts, which will benefit taxpayers. I have already implemented

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Sharon Weston Broome On the COVID-19 shutdown: “Reopening our economy to normal levels is one of my top priorities, but it must be done safely. Providing adequate support for not just our small businesses, but also their employees is going to take a team effort. All of our partners—local, state and federal—will need to join forces to make sure everyone has the support needed to return to work in as safe a manner as possible. I will work diligently with state officials, legislators and our congressional delegation to make sure resources are available to provide the support our local business owners need.”

ST E

CA R

TE R

Do you support the efforts to create the city of St. George? Why or why not?

With the recent momentum in the Black Lives Matter movement and the push for police reforms to address racial discrimination, what would your approach be to create real equality in our city?

equity and inclusion standards in the MOVEBR transportation program. The $1 billion initiative is the largest infrastructure investment in the history of EBR, so it was important to ensure the greatest number of small businesses in our community can participate. To date, roughly one-third of contracts have been awarded to minority-owned, women-owned and veteran-owned firms.” On St. George: “Unequivocally, no. Baton Rouge and the unincorporated regions of EBR are an interconnected community. We are connected through our culture, our economy and our community. The St. George effort is intended to further the existing divide. Not only will it negatively affect the residents of the city, but this separation will negatively impact the remainder of the parish, who had no say in the separation. It is not in the best interest of our community. No great adversity has ever been dealt with by running away from the issue at hand. The parish needs to stand united to solve our challenges, not run away from one another.” Defining a successful term: “Defeating this COVID-19 pandemic is priority one. It’s important for our economy and the health of our citizens. Once we put this pandemic behind us, our recovery will take up significant time, but we cannot lose sight of the major priorities that were underway before COVID. We’ll continue to make investments in infrastructure through the MOVEBR program, make strides in our efforts to improve community policing, and to support our local businesses that drive our economy.”

On the COVID-19 shutdown: “I am making economic development a priority of my administration. For decades, we have seen comparable cities grow and thrive while we remain stagnant. Now has to be the time that we become a business-friendly community. I’ll work with our community leaders to help draft proposals that will allow them to reopen in our ‘new normal’ environment. I’ll advocate for additional support from our state and federal partners. I’ll work with the Metro Council to enact changes that allow businesses to open and succeed easier than today. I will work with higher education leaders to ensure we have a skilled workforce, and with our business groups to encourage innovative solutions. Onethird of small businesses closed their doors before the Phase 1 reopening. Our future needs bold ideas, and I will champion them.” On racial equality: “I believe an increased access to economic opportunities can play a key role in reaching equality in both the city and the parish, but we cannot overlook how critical the human element is for fostering equality. There is the potential for ‘supersites’ in underserved communities, where we can combine local, state and federal resources to create industry hubs that will provide stable employment and foster generational wealth. I believe creating opportunities like this, as well as sitting down and having real conversations about race relations in our city, can help heal the divide.”

On St. George: “The people of St. George have spoken. They followed the democratic process to a T, and any pushback on the incorporation shows a lack of respect for that same democratic process. I will serve as a mayor for all of East Baton Rouge Parish, and during my first week in office I will sit down with stakeholders from all parties involved to find a common good that we can collectively work toward.” Defining a successful term: “A ‘successful’ term would mean I’d created a safe, efficient and unified parish. One that can see past our surface-level differences and work together to help East Baton Rouge reach its potential. My No. 1 priority is reducing the violent crime that has plagued our city for far too long, and creating a parish where our citizens feel safe, regardless of which part of the parish they call home. I also hope to streamline government processes for our citizens and work with the Metro Council to become a business-friendly city-parish so everyone across our community has an opportunity to succeed. We must be a transparent, effective and efficient city hall so we can address the challenges around crime, traffic and economic development.”

ONLINE:

Candidates’ answers have been edited for space and clarity. See the candidates’ answers to more of our questions at 225batonrouge.com/our-city.

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Issue Date: Oct 2020 Ad proof #3 OUR CITY //

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“E. Eric” Guirard Independent, personal injury lawyer On the COVID-19 shutdown: “The best way is to make sure we completely reopen our economy. Most people and businesses do not want more handouts; they simply want to get back to work. And not under the random, scientifically questionable rules laid down by our governor and many other governors, but by allowing our businesses and workers to operate with common sense. I want to reduce any regulatory or taxing barriers that are preventing businesses and people to be as successful as possible. Free enterprise, capitalism and the ingenuity of our people make America great, not government rules and regulations.” On racial equality: “The best way to promote social and racial justice is to create a city atmosphere that is open, welcoming, entrepreneurial and enlightened. It starts with the schools, outlined in my Fund It, Don’t Run It program. A robust, entrepreneurial system of private schools servicing the entire school population will mix the races naturally, create harmony and give a future to those who did not have it before—all without government mandate. As for police reform: Why do we have the Baton Rouge City Police and the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office overlapping each other? Merge them into a new entity called the Guardian Rouge. No longer police or cops, they will be our guardians—well trained, well paid, well educated, physically fit and martial arts-trained. There will be more electronic traffic monitoring, so that the main interaction of the Guardian Rouge will not be for a traffic stop. We should also pay them at least as well as comparable U.S. forces, and pay them a bonus for living in the parish and in suspect neighborhoods to enhance community policing. And finally, they will publicize who commits crimes—pictures, names, addresses, where they went to school, and their parents. Parish residents need to take ownership of how we are raising our children, and we should all keep an eye out on those bad citizens who dare soil our house with crime.” On St. George: “I am adamantly against the efforts to create the city of St. George. While I understand the organizers’ frustration, I disagree with the solution. My campaign goal is to Fuse the Rouge, or join the parish together socially,

racially, economically, etc. My Fund It, Don’t Run It educational program will allow children and parents to take an estimated $8,000 educational credit stipend and spend it on the school of their choice. Since the succession of St. George from Baton Rouge substantially affects all the citizens of the parish, everyone in the parish should have been allowed to vote. Had that been done, it would have failed easily. I want to see the city of Baton Rouge expanded to incorporate the rest of the parish, with the possible exception of Central, Zachary and Baker. But in the spirit of solidarity and togetherness of the parish, as mayor, I would reach out to the organizers of St. George, and ask them to give me an opportunity in my first term to address their concerns within the context of one city. I would ask that both sides agree to temporarily halt the ongoing litigation to see if their problems could be addressed, and I would welcome their participation in the inner circle of my city government.” Defining a successful term: “The implementation of my five platform planks: 1. Establishment of the Fund It, Don’t Run It educational system. 2. Defeating the traffic problem with the Thousand Points of Fright campaign, enhanced driver’s license requirements and new tax on out-ofparish residents. 3. Establishment of the Guardian Rouge crime fighting force. 4. Enhanced business development with emphasis on entrepreneurs. 5. Community relations/quality of life enhancements with interracial, health and litter/blight eradication programs, and establishment of a central City Park. But the biggest priority is establishing Fund It, Don’t Run It, where there will be no more publicly run schools, only publicly supported schools. There will be an explosion of educational entrepreneurism such that has never been seen before in the history of the United States. We will move from one of the lowest-performing counties in the country to one of the highest. This will take some time, legislature cooperation and possible constitutional amendments to implement. So in the meantime, let’s at least put cameras in every classroom, and finally let the public see firsthand what our tax dollars are paying for in the way of education.”

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C. Denise Marcelle Democrat, state representative On the COVID-19 shutdown: “We have provided funding from the state level from the CARES Act for businesses. That money is going to be hitting the ground soon. There were millions of dollars that were allocated not only for businesses, but there was a certain percentage of those dollars allocated for small, minority- and women-owned businesses. I made a motion that we include the veterans in those dollars. Those are some of the things that I’ve already done and we will continue to do to strengthen our economy.” On racial equality: “I believe that people have the right to protest, so I understand Black Lives Matter. I participated in some of the rallies that were peaceful protests. I would implement conversation opportunities between all parties. First, I would focus on communication between the community and police officers, as well as de-escalation policies and implementing true community policing where the police would know the community. It depends upon how police approach a certain situation and how it escalates or de-es-

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OUR CITY //

calates. I think that has to be instrumental in strengthening relationships between the police and the community.”

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Jordan Piazza Republican, owner of Uncle Earl’s Bar

On St. George: “I believe that a city that’s together as one is always better unified. Initially, I was never on board to separate and establish St. George. I understood that a lot of their concerns were about the schools, and I would have addressed those concerns rather than separating the city. However, the voters have voted on St. George, and we will have to abide by the judge’s orders once ruled.”

On the COVID-19 shutdown: “We must open the economy immediately and get our people back to work while also working with our federal delegation to provide resources for workforce development programs and access to working capital to help support our small businesses.”

Defining a successful term: “The 311 system in which citizens call in complaints has not been a successful program. I would like to look at the 311 system, how citizens access the office, and the response time and complaints. Let’s look at how we have people placed in positions in departments and maybe reorganize that. I definitely plan to address crime. I also want to continue providing funding for small and large businesses that have been hit by COVID-19.”

On racial equality: “I work in the private sector, and I believe opportunity helps all people. I want people to be working and not desperate or turning to a life of crime. Working and contributing to the betterment of our parish and community. We need to engage our citizens more

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OUR CITY //

Editor’s note: Smith was unable to submit a photo to 225 by our press deadlines.

and be open to regular discussions. That means holding events that are not fundraisers, ribbon cuttings or press conferences that seem to only happen in election years. We cannot wait for an incident for people to take to the streets. If it reaches that point, it is too late, and we have not done our jobs properly.” On St. George: “The residents of St. George have voted, and I plan on respecting the vote and working with our residents in the city of St. George. This issue should have been addressed over the last 15 years, and it is another example of a failure to address our education system within the parish.” Defining a successful term: “I have a slate of Day 1 goals I hope to prioritize, including reopening businesses and getting people back to work, building a new and diverse economy throughout the parish, approving a $10,000 raise for each BRPD officer and increasing the number of patrol officers on the street, crafting a threeyear COVID recovery plan, and working to improve school performance and safety throughout the parish.”

Frank Smith III Republican, business owner On the COVID-19 shutdown: “Right now, most businesses and workers need financial help to have a chance. Our federal government likes to print money, so shut up about your politics, and send money.” On racial equality: “We need to stop judging our citizens by their gender, skin pigmentation, sexual status, religion, etc. Everyone should get a fair shake. Personally I live by the golden rule. I respect every man and woman who goes to work every day and takes responsibility for their lives. Our police are selected through a screening and are trained by the best available. Currently, we need more police protection, not less. If you disagree, then go and live in Melrose East for a week. Maybe we should stop making our police the bad guys and the bad guys the good guys. Call your local media and make that suggestion.”

On St. George: “St. George is a by-product of a poorly run government and schools. Can you blame people for wanting their children to get a great education? Central has shown what can be done with less money and still have top schools in the state.” Defining a successful term: “We need to view city government as a business. A business that takes in money (taxes) and provides services. We need a professional and experienced city manager from out of town with no ties to Baton Rouge to run our business. We cannot vote someone in with no experience running a multimillion-dollar business. I want our city to be successful. I want all maintenance brought up to par. I want all of our cultures working together. I want big companies moving in with high paying jobs. I want Baton Rouge to have a reputation like Austin. Let’s all work together and make Baton Rouge great.”

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OUR CITY //

AT T

W AT S

On the COVID-19 shutdown: “I will create an economic recovery department, which will keep abreast of all federal and state programs created to assist workers and businesses. This department will be a source of information and assist in filing applications to recovery programs. I will meet with small business owners and trade organizations to seek practical advice on implementing sound medical directives in order to increase workplace safety for both employees and customers. Health and safety is the utmost concern for everyone, but the economy is the engine that powers our community.”

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Matthew “Matt” Watson Republican, Metro Council member

On racial equality: “I will ensure that the residents of long-neglected areas of our city-parish finally get the services they deserve. I will ensure that the areas most victimized by violent crime get the law enforcement protection they need in order to enjoy a safer life. I would begin an aggressive program to remove dangerous condemned properties that plague the economically hardest hit areas of our community. This will increase quality of life, reduce crime and risks to residents’ health, spark economic activity and create opportunities to add new affordable housing stock. I will deliver on commitments to all areas of our community through equitable spending on longawaited solutions.” On St. George: “Throughout the movement to create the city of St. George I have played no favorites. My role as councilperson for District 11 is unique in that roughly half of the district is in the city of Baton Rouge and half in the area to become St. George. How do we create the path forward? We determine the responsibilities that will remain unchanged,

Baton Rouge Mini

like federal and DOTD responsibilities, and those responsibilities that will always remain parish-wide. What then remains are municipal-level services and financial responsibilities not already negotiated or paid through existing ad valorem taxes, sales tax split and fees. St. George is not leaving the parish. In fact, if we engage in these constructive conversations, the path forward will be beneficial to us all. Whichever way you stand on St. George, you cannot deny that the law allowing the formation of municipalities exists. In this case, those laws were followed. We need to move forward and find an equitable outcome that will improve life across our parish.” Defining a successful term: “I’d take immediate action and work continuously on the following: 1. Clear, repair and expand our rainwater drainage system. Residents should not have to worry about flooding from a two-hour rain. After 2016, our parish should be as prepared as ever, yet flooding continues to worsen. 2. Reduce crime by supporting law enforcement and the vast number of residents across Baton Rouge and our parish who refuse to be victimized any longer. 3. Start an aggressive, proactive program to demolish condemned, dangerous buildings, especially in our most economically disenfranchised areas. 4. Move from the anti-business reputation that the current administration has unfairly placed on our community to a pro-business, pro-economic growth atmosphere, helping our community recover from the COVID economic shutdown. 5. Address the growing homelessness problem in our community.”

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OUR CITY //

Get out and vote! THE NOVEMBER ELECTION is just a few weeks away—so now’s the time to make sure your voter information is updated and you are ready to cast a ballot in some of the most important elections of our time.

WHAT YOU NEED TO VOTE IN PERSON

A valid photo ID. That can be: a Louisiana driver’s license, a Louisiana special ID card (obtained for free at the Office of Motor Vehicles by showing your voter information card), a Louisiana Wallet digital driver’s license, or any other picture ID card that contains your name and signature. If you do not have a form of ID, you can still vote in person by signature on a voter affidavit, which will be later verified by an election official.

VOTING BY MAIL

Louisiana requires an approved reason for voting by mail, such as temporarily being out of state or overseas, or being 65 or older. Your application must be submitted by 4:30 p.m. on the fourth day before the election. Once approved, the completed ballot must be received by 4:30 p.m. the day before the election. It’s a complicated process, so apply as early as possible if you know you can’t be present to vote in person (there is no start date to apply).

VOTING EARLY

Any resident can vote early in person without reason. Early voting for the Nov. 3 election is Oct. 20-27 (excluding Sunday, Oct. 25), 8:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Check with the Secretary of State’s website for voting locations, as they tend to be different from Election Day voting locations.

REGISTRATION

If registering online to vote, make sure to do so at least 20 days prior to the election. If registering by mail, your envelope must be postmarked 30 days prior to the election.

Emergency procedures AS OF PRESS time, Gov. John Bel Edwards and Secretary of State Kyle Ardoin were arguing in federal court over emergency voting protocols for COVID-19. Ardoin had gotten approval from the state legislature for a limited plan that added three days and expanded hours for early voting, but did not provide mail-in ballot options for voters with coronavirus health concerns. Under Ardoin’s plan, if someone tests

ELECTION DAY INFO

Polls will be open 6 a.m.-8 p.m. on Election Day. “If the polls close while you’re still in line, stay in line—you have the right to vote,” according to the ACLU.

WHAT’S ON THE BALLOT

Besides the presidential race and our mayor race, here are some other items you’ll see on the ballot Nov. 3. Metro Council: Voters will select a Metro Council member for all 12 districts except for District 3, where Republican Rowdy Gaudet ran unopposed.

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Senate: Republican Senator Bill Cassidy faces 14 challengers for his reelection, including Democratic Shreveport Mayor Adrian Perkins, who is regarded as a top challenger. Congress: All six Louisiana delegates of the U.S. House of Representatives are up for grabs. In the Capital Region, incumbent Democrat Cedric Richmond of District 2 faces five challengers, and incumbent Republican Garret Graves of District 6 faces three challengers.

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Amendments: There are seven amendments requiring a “yes” or “no” vote. Among them is an amendment concerning abortion rights as allowed by the state constitution. Others deal with property taxes, homestead exemptions and the use of funds for disasters.

FIND OUT MORE

Get the latest election updates as well as detailed information for your voting precinct at the Secretary of State’s website, sos.la.gov.

positive for COVID-19 after early voting begins, they would be able to request a mail-in ballot. The emergency plan must get approval from the legislature and the governor, but Edwards insists the proposed plan isn’t enough. He argues the state should use the same emergency procedures that were in place for the summer primaries, which allowed mail-in voting for those experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or under quarantine, as well as caregivers and people at greater risk of health complications.

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4433 Florida Blvd • 225-344-4240 ducotesrestaurantsupply.com While Ardoin acknowledged his new plan is limited, he said Republican support in the state legislature wasn’t enough to keep the summer’s protocols in place. Interestingly, the legislature voted on this plan via mail-in ballots. A federal court heard arguments in early September, but no ruling was announced by press time.

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—FROM NEWS REPORTS

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Batsheva Appel For the first time, Baton Rouge’s Jewish congregations both welcome female spiritual leaders

LAST MONTH, Jewish congregations celebrated the beginning of the Year 5781 with the holidays of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. Already, it’s shaping up to be a historic year. This past summer, the Baton Rouge Jewish community welcomed a new rabbi at both Congregation B’nai Israel and Beth Shalom Synagogue. It’s the first time both congregations have been led by women. In fact, women weren’t ordained in the United States until 1972. Now, an estimated 650 female rabbis lead congregations nationwide, and women represent nearly half of all Reform rabbinical school classes. Before being ordained by Hebrew Union College, B’nai Israel Rabbi Batsheva Appel graduated from Wellesley College with a bachelor’s in biological sciences and economics, worked in a research laboratory and, later, in corporate sales and marketing. Besides serving as a rabbi at an Arizona temple, Appel was part of the national faculty for an online Introduction to Judaism course. She also contributed a chapter on how eating locally is a Jewish choice in the book, The Sacred Table: Creating a Jewish Food Ethic. And, even though Appel recently relocated to Louisiana, the Seattle native is no stranger to the South. As the director of rabbinic services for the Goldring/Woldenberg Institute for Southern Jewish Life in Jackson, Mississippi, Appel became intrigued with Southern Jewish culture. “The intersection of Southern hospitality and Jewish hospitality is really pretty intense,” she says

“People come to rabbinical studies from a variety of places. I think the rabbinate benefits when there are people from a variety of backgrounds.”

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Teri Appleby B Y A D RIA N E . H IR SCH PHOTOS B Y COLLIN R IC H IE

with a laugh. “I’m also interested in the area’s history of the Jewish community and the approach to Reform Judaism.” While the rabbis had not met prior to coming to Louisiana, “it’s wonderful to have a colleague here in Baton Rouge,” says Beth Shalom’s Rabbi Teri Appleby. “We enjoy each other’s company very much.” Appleby was ordained after attending Stanford University, serving as a Los Angeles public defender and raising a family. She cherishes all the opportunities the role has brought her. “I really enjoy all of the social and community work. You’re kind of a jack of all trades, and I really I just love it,” Appleby says. Throughout her career, the San Francisco native has had pulpits in California, Nevada, Tennessee and Ontario and Alberta, Canada. After receiving favorable reviews of the Capital City from former Nevada congregants, Appleby and her husband left Lincoln, Nebraska, for Baton Rouge. Here, Appleby saw a unique opportunity to contribute to a potential merger in the local Jewish community. “I like the idea of both congregations getting interim rabbis and engaging in ongoing conversations about perhaps creating a new, merged congregation after being separated for 75 years.” In this unprecedented era, Baton Rouge’s new rabbis will continue to lead the Jewish community in civic projects and prayers for world health, peace and a better year ahead. To that, we can all say amen.

“I love Jewish law and text, studying Talmud (commentaries) and teaching.”

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AD V E RT I SE ME N T

Dudley DeBosier recognizes those who

4LA oRight4

ROLANDA GIBSON • DIAMONDS LEADERSHIP ACADEMY Minister Rolanda Gibson is an entrepreneur, mentor, and author with a passion for helping others. At the age of 17, Rolanda she turned her passion into her life’s work by becoming a minister. She has now achieved over 20 years of ministry experience, published two books, and founded the Diamonds Leadership Academy in Baton Rouge. The Diamonds Leadership Academy is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping young ladies in grades 6th-12th become productive members of society. The program focuses on spiritual development, educational enrichment, leadership development, and cultural

enrichment. The organization also provides young ladies with opportunities such as youth workshops, college readiness programs, career exposure, and community service projects. To get involved, email Rolanda at wearediamondsbr@gmail.com. In the future, Rolanda plans to continue developing opportunities for young ladies through the Diamonds Leadership Academy and helping them discover their worth and potential.

Do you know someone “doing right?” Submit their name to promos@dudleydebosier.com

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AD V E RT I SE ME N T

MAKING A

Difference

DUDLEY DEBOSIER CREATES DIFFERENCE MAKERS PROGRAM Dudley DeBosier loves finding different ways to give back and create positive change in their community. With this in mind, Dudley DeBosier launched an internal campaign encouraging their employees to be “Difference Makers” – Dudley DeBosier Difference Makers! They wanted to support and empower their employees to do their own random acts of kindness in the community – which would touch more people and spread more kindness! While the acts may be small, the positiveness that ripples from the one act of kindness is much larger. From paying for

Responsible Attorneys

someone’s cup of coffee to giving food to those in need, Dudley DeBosier’s employees have been seen around town helping others and putting smiles on people’s faces! Any opportunity that an employee has to make a positive impact in someone’s day, they do it in hopes to of encouraging and inspiring more acts of kindness! As one of their employees said, “What can be better than putting a smile on someone’s face?” For more information and to stay up-to-date with what Dudley DeBosier is doing in the community, like and follow them on Facebook at facebook.com/DudleyDeBosier

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1075 GOVERNMENT STREET BATON ROUGE, LA 70802 WWW.DUDLEYDEBOSIER.COM

CHAD DUDLEY | STEVEN DEBOSIER | JAMES PELTIER, JR.

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OUR NEXT

LEADERS Baton Rouge students helping our community and taking a stand for change PORTRAITS BY COLLIN RICHIE

“The youth of today are the leaders of tomorrow.” So said Nelson Mandela to a crowd of Boston high school students when he first visited the United States in 1990. And if 2020 is any indication, Baton Rouge’s youth is already stepping up to that role. Previous generations may have been referred to as the “Me” generation, but it might be time to start referring to Gen Z as the “We” generation. Here in the Capital City, we’re seeing more and more Gen Zers—those born after 1996—taking to the streets to demand social justice, rallying their community around a cause and using their tech savvy to connect people in need. According to the Pew Research Center, Gen Z is the most racially and ethnically

diverse generation yet. They are on track to be the most well educated, and they are more progressive in their social and political views. Roughly 24 million of them will be of age to cast a ballot in November, making them a powerful force to be reckoned with. And that might also explain why here in Baton Rouge, they are standing up and making noise, using science and technology in ways their elders haven’t, and demanding a seat at the table to push our community forward. In the following pages, we showcase young people who are making a difference locally—and responding to our current social climate and a national pandemic in ways that are making their parents and mentors proud.

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KICKER: A SEAT AT THE TABLE

Myra Richardson

She spent her teens serving on political campaigns and leading marches. At 21, she’s turned her focus to helping businesses

MYRA’S MENTORS Myra credits much of what she’s learned to the many mentors she’s had through the years Here, she spotlights a few:

Michelle Gieg Director of Democracy Prep Baton Rouge “She was my third grade teacher and has continued to advise me ever since. She influenced a lot of my leadership style.” Raymond Jetson Pastor and executive director of Metromorphosis “He’s given me a lot of spiritual guidance and helped make space for me in a lot of these rooms that wouldn’t otherwise be accessible to young people.”

Myra Richardson COURTESY MYRA RICHARDSON

Dadrius Lanus East Baton Rouge Parish School Board member “He was one of the few adults that marched with us during [The Wave student] protest, and he’s attended every activist event I’ve held since.”

A SEAT AT THE TABLE

Myra has worked on numerous political campaigns, including Gov. John Bel Edwards’ re-election.

She spent her teens serving on political campaigns and leading marches. At 21, she’s turned her focus to helping businesses MYRA RICHARDSON WANTS more than thoughts and prayers. She puts her faith in action. And if no one else will tackle something, she will. Just like this afternoon. It’s late August, two days before Hurricane Laura will tear through southwest Louisiana. Myra has had a jam-packed day, because she’s been personally helping others get sandbags ahead of the storm. She’s just trying to keep everyone safe from the historic weather during a historic pandemic during a historic year. As Myra starts our Zoom call, she’s still zipping from room to room in her home, holding up her phone as she walks. With a schedule full of meet-

ings, award presentations and never-ever-ending activism, it’s a wonder she even has time to chat. She takes a deep breath and finally sits down. But then, she’s off again! She’s talking so fast it’s hard to keep up with her. “People always ask me: How do you make a youth activist? What ingredients make it happen,” she says. “I think it’s a very simple formula of three things. I had amazing, amazing mentorship. I had access to beautiful, eye-opening, conceptual literature. And then, I think it is just opportunities.” Myra first took a big stand in her community back in July 2016. She remembers it vividly: “I saw Alton Sterling on the news, his body life-

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upon, who people with high-profile titles like “governor” and “mayor” have trusted. She is part of Baton Rouge Police Chief Murphy Paul’s monthly roundtables. Adam Knapp enlisted her to help create the Baton Rouge Area Chamber’s plan for equity. “She inspired us to do more work to survey Black-owned businesses about their COVID recovery challenges, which we finished and released [this summer],” says Knapp, president and CEO of the chamber. “She’s impressive, and you can definitely see that she doesn’t settle for anything less than action to drive change.” But Myra doesn’t really consider herself an “activist” anymore. Now, she wants to be more of a strategist. The deeper she got into politics, the more strongly she felt it wasn’t the only solution to Baton Rouge’s problems. And for that matter, activism and economic development weren’t enough, either. It’s why this year, she opened her own firm, Red Torch Consulting—to literally and figuratively reignite the Red Stick. So far, she’s worked with about a dozen minority- and/or women-owned businesses, including the Millennial Park shipping container venue on Florida Street and the Straight Outta Scotland soul food restaurant. “I want all of my work to speak for the things that I believe in,” she says. “So every business embodies a piece of who I am.” Myra is a lifelong, die-hard Baton Rougean. Her Baton Rouge will never look like Houston or Atlanta. It will look like the best, most inclusive version of the city she grew up in. She thinks it’s a cop-out when people escape to other cities rather than try to build better spaces in their own community. “This isn’t a moment for me. It’s always going to be a movement. Every day I wake up, and there are nothing but problems for me to In 2016, Myra was one of the students who led “The solve in this community,” she says. Wave” peaceful protest in response to the killing of “This is never, never about my perAlton Sterling. sonal successes. Every time my community gets a little bit better, that’s a win both of Mayor Sharon Weston Broome’s for me. … Because I think our greatest campaigns. So even if you’ve never met asset in this state is not our natural reMyra, there’s a good chance you’ve seen sources, not the land, but our people.” her political work around town. She’s This movement in 2020 is different, become the kind of community leader she says: Louisiana, Baton Rouge and the who can launch a personal e-newsletter rest of the nation are crying in unison for and garner more than 7,000 subscribers the men who lost their lives to police bruwithin the first three days. tality. And because we’re in a pandemic, But Myra says her story really starts on spending more time alone, there’s been Dayton Street in Baton Rouge’s 70805 nothing to do but face the truth. ZIP code. That’s where she watched her It’s getting late, and Myra needs to get mother work two jobs, raising Myra and back to hurricane prep, so we wrap up her two sisters by herself. Her family did our Zoom call. As she says goodbye, she not have access to healthy food within asks if 225 can please share her email walking distance, and she remembers address (it’s myra@redtorchbtr.com, by feeling like she’d have to bust out of the way). She wants anyone who needs her community just to get a good, help with literally anything to be able to competitive education. reach out to her. These experiences are what led her to And perhaps most importantly, she activism, and they’re also why she feels wants to stay connected with young so humbled today to sit at tables she says people. This summer, she helped advise she never, ever could have imagined. the high school students who organized “I think when you are the least among Baton Rogue’s peaceful protest in us, and then you have the opportunity to response to the killing of George Floyd. advocate, you can’t stop,” she says. “It’s Because as a young adult, Myra not something that is about you. It is not recognizes her own role in that formula something that is about your own ego. she says turned her into an activist at 17. It’s about the people who would never Now, she’s the one mentoring teens who have the opportunity to sit at that table. are the exact same age she was in 2016— That’s what motivates me.” and are just as ready to take a stand. At 21, Myra has become a person who people many years her elder have relied —JENNIFER TORMO

COURTESY MYRA RICHARDSON

less laying on the concrete with blood surrounding him. That’s the image that my peers and I will never forget.” At the time, Myra was 17, a student at Baton Rouge Magnet High School. And in what she describes as the most 21st-century-way to start anything, she and her friends wound up in a group text. With then-15-year-olds Jeanette Jackson and Raheejah Flowers, she organized a march through downtown. It drew 8,000 people—the largest peaceful protest in Baton Rouge—and ended up on the steps of the State Capitol, where Myra was one of several speakers. But there would be more to fight for. In 2017, she was the Louisiana Youth Ambassador for the Women’s March on Washington. In 2018, she led a protest of more than 4,000 people calling for better gun legislation during the March for Our Lives. Before she knew it, Myra was in college at Southern University, where she says she was growing from a girl to a woman. A woman who cried a lot of tears and made a lot of mistakes along the way, she says, but who has always learned from them. She has since served in leadership roles on political campaigns, including Gov. John Bel Edwards’ re-election and

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DEMANDING CHANGE

Mia Spears, Colleen Temple & Noah Hawkins

Meet the three masterminds behind the Black Lives Matter protest downtown this summer in response to George Floyd’s death

Colleen Temple Noah Hawkins

Mia Spears

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WHEN MIA SPEARS saw the news about George Floyd’s death, she couldn’t sit still. The 16-year-old Baton Rouge Magnet High School junior felt hurt, saddened and obligated to be a voice for the Black Lives Matter movement. She began by speaking out on social media and signing petitions. But she still wanted to do more. After seeing one of her friends post on Snapchat saying they wanted to protest locally, she reached out to two peers she thought could help make it happen: Noah Hawkins, a 16-year-old Baton Rouge High junior, and Colleen Temple, a 17-year-old University Lab School senior. Together, Mia, Colleen and Noah organized a peaceful march in downtown Baton Rouge this summer in support of Black Lives Matter and George Floyd. With the help of community activist Myra Richardson and Mayor Sharon Weston Broome, the teens led nearly 2,000 people from Galvez Plaza to the state capitol. People of all ages, races and backgrounds participated in the march. The streets were flooded with residents wearing black shirts and face masks, holding signs that read, “I can’t breathe,” “Black Lives Matter,” and a list of Black people killed by police officers, like Breonna Taylor, Sandra Bland and Alton Sterling. The march was one for the books. Because of these three local teens, Baton Rouge Black voices were heard across the nation. 225 spoke with Mia, Colleen and Noah to hear their thoughts on the protest and plans for the future.

What inspired you to lead a Black Lives Matter protest in Baton Rouge? Mia: “I really wanted America to know that Louisiana and Baton Rouge do not stand for police brutality and what’s going on in the country.” Noah: “I wanted to share my voice and the youth’s voice on this situation. All we see is adults in the news talking about it, and then kids maybe get a special segment. We didn’t want to be a special segment, we wanted to actually do something and make a change in our community.”

How did it make you feel to see everyone come together? Noah: “It was such a great experience to tell representatives our viewpoint as Black youth in the community. We just wanted to be heard.” Colleen: “We thought maybe there would be like 30 to 50 people, but the flyer blew up on Twitter. I felt really, really proud of Baton Rouge, to see that many people of all different ethnicities and ages come together.”

How do you see your role in community activism going forward? Mia: “People think the Black Lives Matter protests are slowing down, but they’re not. They’re just getting less coverage. I’m going to continue talking about it. Because if I don’t talk about it, then who [will]?” Colleen: “I am on the diversity and inclusion committee at U-High,

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so I want to start small by making changes at the school, and then once I graduate, just keep reaching for bigger things.”

What are your plans after high school? Noah: “I find behavioral science very interesting. I want to help the Black community as much as I can, especially with mental health.” Mia: “My goal is to go to University of Louisiana at Lafayette to double major in child psychology and kinesiology, then get my doctorate in physical therapy.” Colleen: “I committed to the University of Hawaii to play volleyball. I am almost certain that I will major in pre-law and become a lawyer. I want to defend people that need me.”

Why is it important for the youth to use their voice and get involved in community change? Noah: “We are the future. We are the next politicians, doctors, presidents, etcetera. If our viewpoints aren’t being heard now, then there’s not going to be any change. History will keep repeating itself over and over again like it has been. By speaking our mind and getting involved now, we can start to make those changes now, so when we are in those positions 20 to 30 years later, we can progress even further.” —AS TOLD TO CYNTHEA CORFAH

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After the camps end, she says, many of the campers feel similarly. So the Kesem counselors make a point to keep in touch with these families through reunion events, social media and personalized notecards.

Kayla Adams

“THIS WILL FOLLOW ME AROUND FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE.” —KAYLA ADAMS, ON HOW THE CAMP KESEM EXPERIENCE HAS INSPIRED HER

PAYING IT FORWARD

PORTRAITS BY SEAN GASSER

Kayla Adams & Mason Guillot As the co-directors of Camp Kesem’s local chapter, these LSU students give kids a safe space to talk about their parents’ battles with cancer

Mason Guillot

WHAT WOULD YOU do if cancer were in the room right now? This is one of the questions Kayla Adams and Mason Guillot asked their campers last summer. “I would beat it up,” one 8-year-old replied. Another 6-year-old chimed in: “I would just tell it to go away.” It was the “cabin chat” session at Camp Kesem: a free, week-long summer camp for children whose parents currently have cancer or have died of it. The national non-profit launched its LSU chapter in 2018. It places college students in leadership positions, teaching them how fundraising and volunteer work has the potential to impact struggling families. The local chapter is the first and only one in Louisiana, serving children ages 6 to 18 from across the state.

open up like that, I can at least try to,” Kayla says. “They are beyond inspiring.” Mostly, though, the campers don’t talk about cancer at all. Aside from one designated “empowerment” session where they can share cancer stories, they’re encouraged to treat the week as an escape from their daily lives. For once, these kids can just be ... kids. The campers and counselors even come up with nicknames for themselves for the week. (Kayla goes by “Cream Cheese,” and Mason is known as “Mercury.”) “It was really one of the most life-changing weeks of my life,” Kayla says, referring to the 2019 camp. “I made lifelong friends. I gained an appreciation for life, my family members, this organization as a whole. And this will follow me around for the rest of my life.”

Mason is one of the students who helped bring Camp Kesem to LSU. He and Kayla, both 21, have been in leadership positions for the organization since the beginning. As the sun set at the camp’s summer retreat just north of Alexandria that night in 2019, Kayla recalls that it was quickly becoming a home-away-from-it-all for the young campers. After days of canoeing, archery and other activities, the daily “cabin chats” were a chance for them to unwind and talk about whatever they wanted to. They could divulge their favorite dinner food. Or the conversations might get more serious. “Seeing the different range of emotions that these kids see at that age? I will never fully be able to understand what they’re going through. But when they

When the COVID-19 pandemic threatened to cancel the 2020 summer camp, LSU’s student volunteers rallied, partnering with the Mississippi State University chapter to host the first “Kesem at Home.” For the virtual camp, the counselors sent campers a kit with supplies for activities like coffee mug making, jewelry crafting and yoga. As they munched on S’mores during a virtual campfire session, campers still shared whatever was on their hearts. Kayla and Mason say the LSU organization is young and growing. Their hope is to continue raising awareness about it. They particularly want to reach underdeveloped and underserved communities. Because, Mason says, he knows all too well how hard it can be to process your emotions when a loved one is sick or dying. His grandmother died when he was 9, after a year-longbattle with lung cancer and brain cancer. He can still remember the scent of her signature spaghetti recipe and the fun they used to have playing board games together. And he’ll never forget how hard it was watching one of the most important people in his life succumb to the disease. “It didn’t really hit me until afterward the extent to which her death impacted me,” Mason says. “I didn’t really talk about it with anyone. I internalized my emotions a lot more than I probably should have.” More than 10 years later, as he tried to help the kids at Camp Kasem process their feelings, he finally came to terms with his. “Being able to listen to other campers’ and counselors’ experiences … all those emotions came back to me,” he says. “It helped me to finally find peace.” campkesem.org

—JENNIFER TORMO

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GIVING BACK

Joey Roth His childhood fundraiser has taken on new meaning during COVID-19 WITH HIS COLLECTION of pennies, nickels and dimes, Joey Roth continues to make a change. The 14-year-old freshman at Episcopal High School started JAR for Change seven years ago, after tossing loose coins he found in parking lots and around his home into a large glass jar. “For a long time I had this big jar in my room, and I just thought it would be a good idea to give back to something,” Joey says. “I wanted to find a cause that meant something to me, and I wanted to motivate people around the community and country to find a cause that meant something to them.” He picked Woman’s Hospital because he was born there and his great uncle, the late Dr. Leo Abraham, was one of its founders. The acronym for his nonprofit fits him perfectly. The initials for JAR stand for Joey Aiden Roth. And that everlasting fit has allowed his charity to grow over the years. The teen has raised more than $15,000 for the hospital, which has been used to buy iPads for families separated from their babies who were born prematurely, and for older siblings to play games and read books while waiting for their parents. But the iPads have also found a new use under Woman’s COVID-19 regulations that restrict visitation to one family member per patient and no children, Roth says. The iPads have given many families an opportunity to see their babies and each other during a time when social interaction and touching is a safety concern. Joey’s philanthropy helped fund this connection, and he is proud that an idea to save a bunch of spare change continues to help so many in need.

“I WANTED TO FIND A CAUSE THAT MEANT SOMETHING TO ME, AND I WANTED TO MOTIVATE PEOPLE AROUND THE COMMUNITY AND COUNTRY TO FIND A CAUSE THAT MEANT SOMETHING TO THEM.”

When he first started JAR for Change, he placed containers at businesses around town as collection sites. The jars could be found at restaurants, including Bistro Byronz, and retail stores like Pool and Spa World. As the world becomes increasingly digital, his nonprofit has adapted, and now people mostly donate online through the Woman’s Hospital website. When Joey is not in school and collecting change for his nonprofit, he is an active member in the arts community. He loves theater and dance and has been in a few productions at Theatre Baton Rouge, including Newsies and Mary Poppins. But philanthropy will always be his priority. “I love leadership and I love entrepreneurship,” Joey says. “And to see people helping with a project that I’m working on has been both gratifying and important.” Find JAR for Change on Facebook, womans.org

—APRIL CAPOCHINO MYERS

[225] October 2020 | 225batonrouge.com

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C OV E R S T ORY

GIVING BACK

Jay Iyer He’s using his science smarts to share COVID-19 information and support medical research in his grandfather’s memory

“I’VE ALWAYS HAD THE DRIVE TO HELP. I TOLD MYSELF THAT THIS IS MY LIFE’S WORK.”

DESTINATION DINING

Enjoy Louisiana cuisine Roberto's Issue Date: Oct 2020 Ad at proof #2 River Road Restaurant • Please respond by e-mail or fax with your approval or minor revisions. • AD WILL RUN AS IS unless revision requests are received within 24 hours. • Additional revisions must be requested and may be subject to production fees.

S YV TU IL DY ST S S LE VI UD TU TU L S D D YV Y Y TU STU LE IL VI VI DY DY ST ST L L L U UD S E S LE LE VIL VIL DYV YV TU TU ST STU LE LE I IL DY DY UDY DY ST ST LLE LE VI VI U V V U ST LLE LLE ILL ILL DYV DYV IL IL UD S S E E YV TU TU ST STU LE LE IL DY DY UDY DY L E V I V IS V V ST UD S S T L L E L TL UE D I L LS I L L T YV TU UD ST YVI E UD E D I Y Y LL V S ST S S U L Y E I L T U S T U V I SL T U D Y L E V I L UD TU TU YV DY DY STU STU LE DYV DY LE DY VIL ST LE IL VI VI DY DY ST IL VI VI LE UD ST Y ST L L L S U L L L U U D S E S L E L E V I L TVUIDL DSY V E S L E L E S T U V I L D Y S L L S T S T YV U U D T U T U E S Y VE T UIDL T U D S T U T U D Y L E V I L D V IL Y S L IS L L E V I Y V I D Y V D Y V T U D L LTEU D Y VE I Y V I D Y V D Y V I L L T U E S T L L E L L E I L L I L L Y V SYTV L L E L L E I L L I L L E S D Y V I L UI L T E E UD S IL S E E Y V T U T U S T S T U L E D YLVE S T U S T U S T S T U D Y L E IL DY DY UDY DY IL DY DY UDY UDY VI LE VI VI LE VI VI V V V V LL ST LLE LLE ILL ILL ST LLE LLE ILL ILL E E E E E UD UD YV YV IL IL LE LE

During the pandemic, he also helped create the nonprofit HELM, Helping Everyone Learn More. HELM offers kids around the world free virtual classes in a variety of subjects. Through the site, Jay virtually teaches microbiology to about 20 kids for one hour each day, Monday through Friday. The future is bright for Jay. He is hoping to attend Harvard, majoring in biomedical engineering with a minor in neuroscience. Because he is spending his senior year learning virtually, Jay breezes through his school work in a few hours, which leaves him plenty of time to focus on his philanthropy, including the Mani Iyer Neurological Disease Relief Network. The nonprofit is named to honor the memory of his grandpa Mani, who died in 2019 after suffering from a rare neurological disease, called Progressive Supranuclear Palsy or PSP. The nonprofit provides information and support to families going through the same challenges his family faced. “I’ve always had the drive to help. I told myself that this is my life’s work,” Jay says. “I will be able to find cures for rare neurological diseases that have affected my family. I get my happiness from helping other people. Life is not all about what you do but what you do for others.” helmlearning.com, mindreliefus.org

WHEN JAY IYER was 4 years old, he spent his afternoons following his grandpa, Mani, around the garden. Mani grew spice plants like red chili peppers, which he used when cooking traditional Indian food. But Mani gave his grandson more than a cooking lesson. He taught Jay about biology, photosynthesis, and why certain plants grow better than others. Mani gave him the gift of knowledge and fostered the young boy’s love of science that continues to grow today. Jay is now a 17-year-old senior at Baton Rouge Magnet High School with an 11-page resume. It’s filled with perfect GPA and ACT scores, lists of leadership roles in science clubs at school, multiple first-place awards, nonprofit startups and volunteer positions. When the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Research Science Institute set out to recruit 84 of the most accomplished high school students for its summer program, Jay was one of the students they chose. But then the COVID-19 pandemic shuttered the nation, and he was unable to physically attend the competitive science and engineering research program. But Jay figured out a way to virtually work with those high school kids from all over the country to make a difference. They created a website, findcovidtests. com, to help people quickly find critical information about testing sites.

—APRIL CAPOCHINO MYERS

HOMEWORK

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225batonrouge.com | [225] October 2020

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C OV E R S T ORY

TECH WITH A PURPOSE

Mordecai Logan Connecting food deserts to farmers with an easy-to-use app WHEN MORDECAI LOGAN’S mom tells him to get dressed and get in the car, she doesn’t have to ask twice. In this case, his mom had gotten an email about the Futures Fund, a mentorship program through the Walls Project. It trains young people in career-building trades such as coding and photography. She was intent on enrolling her son in the semester-long program—no ifs, ands or buts. Mordecai, now a 17-year-old Baton Rouge Magnet High School student, had some experience in coding when he joined the Futures Fund in 2017. But he never imagined it would see him presenting an app in front of judges last year at the Junior Achievement Big Pitch competition. As part of a work-study program through the Futures Fund, Mordecai was the project lead for Uproot Market, an app he calls a “digital farmers market” that connects residents in food deserts with local farmers providing fresh fruits and vegetables. Through Uproot Market, farmers and other vendors can create an account and upload information on fresh produce they have available. Users can browse the options closest to them and also see recipes and other tips on how to use certain vegetables and fruits they might not be familiar with. Mordecai says when his team started brainstorming how to put their coding skills to work, they immediately thought of things they could do to help the community. “There are people in Baton Rouge who don’t have good access to fresh produce,

and we wanted to solve that,” Mordecai says. “In these food deserts, there are only a small number of grocery stores, but there are also so many convenience stores that can really lead to unhealthy habits.” While Mordecai and his team are still working to get the app up and running—their planned launch is in spring 2021—they’ve already got some highly visible local backers. The Red Stick Farmers Market, Southside Produce, Grow Baton Rouge and the Walls Project’s Baton Roots program have all signed on as partners of the business. And the students all get paid while they work on the app—instilling in them that these kinds of creative skills can help them professionally in the future. And once Mordecai sees the app on the digital market, he doesn’t plan to stop there. His goals are to attend college in computer science and eventually become a full-time developer. But no matter where he goes next, the Uproot Market app will have a special meaning for him. “Outside of coding, one of my main passions is cooking,” he says. “Sitting down with family is really important to me, and my family loves all kinds of vegetables. When I found out there was an area of town that really didn’t have those fruits and vegetables available, it made me wonder where I would be if I didn’t have access to that.” thewallsproject.org/futuresfund

—BENJAMIN LEGER

TECH WITH A PURPOSE

Thomas O’Connor Creating an app for virtual tutoring took on a new meaning during the pandemic WE ALL GREW up with that one fellow student who had a knack for quickly picking up concepts in the classroom. And if they were really smart, they knew how to turn those talents into a side hustle tutoring their classmates. Thomas O’Connor is one of those students. But he still managed to one-up the rest. The 15-year-old Episcopal High School student developed an app called FaceTutor that can connect young learners with a tutor anywhere, anytime, for any subject. He dubbed it an “Uber for tutors,” featuring on demand help without having to schedule an appointment. “When [the students he tutored] really needed help was at night or on the weekends when I couldn’t help them,” O’Connor says. “I thought, ‘Wouldn’t it be great if there was an app where someone could get on and Facetime with a tutor whenever they needed it?’” He cultivated that idea when he was selected as one of 44 students in the Young Entrepreneurs Academy of Baton Rouge last September. The yearlong program helps them develop a business idea and pitch it to a Shark Tank-like team of investors near the end of the term. As O’Connor was finalizing his business plan, the coronavirus pandemic happened, and the academy

moved to online instruction. His idea for a virtual tutoring platform took on a new meaning. “With teachers, they’re overwhelmed because they had to transition to online,” he says. “And students are overwhelmed, too. I definitely started to see the benefit this could have.” The panel of investors saw the benefit, too. The FaceTutor app took first place, and now O’Connor is perfecting a beta version to pitch in a national Young Entrepreneurs competition this month. Regardless of if it succeeds there, O’Connor still plans to continue building the app, recruiting teachers and tutors to create accounts and get this business idea off the ground. He says after high school he plans to get a degree in computer science or data analysis—and hopefully continue to build FaceTutor in between his studies. He says his experience creating the app taught him how to make something with a real benefit, and how to quickly apply that idea to the new normal of COVID-19. “When I joined the academy, I was thinking I’d start a little business and make some money and help some people who need help,” he says. “I never guessed it could be this relevant.” yeabr.org

—BENJAMIN LEGER

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C OV E R S T ORY

CHALLENGING THE STATUS QUO

Exquisite Williams, Devin Woodson & Richala Jackson Members of BlackoutLSU talk the movement that led to Middleton Library’s name change by Julia-Claire Evans

Above: Richala Jackson At left: Devin Woodson

ONLINE

Find BlackoutLSU on Twitter at @blackoutlsu.

[225] October 2020 | 225batonrouge.com

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C OV E R S T ORY

Exquisite Williams

PHOTO COURTESY EXQUISITE WILLIAMS

SOUTH LOUISIANA HAS a long and complicated history with racism and segregation. And it’s taken a while for people to acknowledge that remnants of this past are still represented in landmarks and public spaces around the state—and even on LSU’s campus. A group of young Black students at LSU helped remind us all this summer. In June, as much of the country was taking a hard look at statues and landmarks celebrating Confederate troops or anti-Black leaders, LSU junior Exquisite Williams posted a tweet. She proposed that the namesake of Troy H. Middleton Library would not have wanted her at LSU. It got thousands of responses, and inspired Williams and her friends to start a petition on Change.org. Middleton served as LSU’s president during the push for desegregation at college campuses in the 1950s and ’60s. In a now-notorious letter to another university’s leader, Middleton explained he would begrudgingly allow Black students on campus but insisted they not interact with white students, use the school’s swimming pool or participate in athletics. The petition by Williams and her friends quickly garnered thousands of signatures—and it kicked off a movement. The campus organization BlackoutLSU took notice and asked Williams to join. The group developed a list of six policy demands for LSU and held its first rally on June 3. From there, BlackoutLSU met with the interim president and the board of supervisors over the next few weeks to discuss Middleton Library. And change happened fast.

“We organized on a Wednesday, and the next Wednesday, we held our first rally,” says junior Devin Woodson, one of the organizers of BlackoutLSU. “Within 17 hours, we had over 1,000 Instagram followers, we had 400 people at the rally, and that was when the administration realized we were serious and met with us.” During a contentious LSU Board of Supervisors hearing in June, friends of the Middleton family argued that the former LSU leader later changed his views and even joined a state commission to enforce the Civil Rights Act. But the board still voted to remove his name from the campus’ centerpiece library, with board chair Mary Werner saying all students should feel welcome and the school “must continue the hard conversations.” Woodson says that watching the support grow over such a short period of time was empowering for him and the other members of BlackoutLSU. “Seeing all of the Black faculty and staff we have on campus,” he says, “and hearing from older Black people around LSU sharing their experiences from while they were here, to hear them say they were proud of us meant a lot because I know how hard they fought just to be students.” Second-year LSU law student Richala Jackson served as BlackoutLSU’s legal analyst during the name change push. Jackson says other student groups had tried to get Middleton Library’s name changed in the past, but their demands were ignored. However, they thought the current administration was more open to change. “The question I get a lot is, ‘Do we want these buildings we’re renaming to be named after Black people,’” Jackson says. “That’s not necessarily the point. I mean, if they were named after Black people, that would be amazing. But I would just prefer it not be named after someone racist.” While the students of BlackoutLSU say the Middleton name change was a step in the right direction, they add

FILE PHOTO

LSU’s Middleton Library before the lettering was taken down.

Letters from the library’s entrance after they were removed.

it’s just the beginning. “We hope that it acts as a light to Black students to show that it’s possible to work through the toughest positions,” Woodson says. “Being in the South, being in Louisiana, you can still create change and make life better for yourself and other Black students. We want it to be a message to the LSU community, Louisiana and the country that racism doesn’t have a place anywhere. Wherever there’s a dark corner, we’re going to shine a light on it.” While the board acknowledged LSU has more steps to take toward social justice, the actions taken this summer by these students might have helped to finally turn the tide on campus. For Williams, the experience made her even prouder to be part of the LSU community. “It made us feel like we weren’t alone in the movement,” Williams says. “I love LSU, and I love this school, but when you love something, it’s important to recognize the problem in the thing that you love. There’s nothing wrong with calling out issues in things that you love.” 225batonrouge.com | [225] October 2020

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OCTOBER

BREC OUT THIS MONTH Mountain Biking 101

Virtual Saturday Morning Studios: el Dia de los Muertos

Hooper Road Park

Oct. 1 | 5:45-6:45 p.m.

Oct. 10 | 10:30 a.m.-noon

Spooky Sensation

Highland Road Park Observatory

Oct. 3 | 2-10 p.m.

Adult Leisure Chair Dance Exercise Baker Park

Oct. 12 | 8-9 a.m. + 10-11 a.m.

Pitch, Hit & Run Competition

Trick & Treat: Art Unleashed Revamped

Central Sports Park

Oct 3 | 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Trail Time for Toddlers Translated - Spanish

Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center

Oct. 20 | 9:30-11:30 a.m.

Bon Painting!

Flanacher Road Park

Oct. 20 | 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Archery Rental Day

Forest Community Park

Milton J. Womack Park

Youth Tennis Smash

Oct. 16 | 5-9 p.m.

Oct. 21 | 3-6 p.m.

Oct. 3 | 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Virtual Sunshine Social: A night at Hogwarts

Virtual Art UnWINEd: Little Happy Trees

Oct. 16 | 6-8 p.m.

Oct. 23 | 6-8:30p.m.

RecTime Baker Park

Jack-Eaux-Lanterns

City-Brooks Community Park Tennis Center

BMX Dirt Track Clinic

Perkins Road Extreme Sports Park

Oct. 3 | 9-10 a.m.

Oct. 16 | 5:30-8:30 p.m.

Mountain Bike Monday

Haunted Hootenannies

Perkins Road Extreme Sports Park

Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center

Oct. 5 | 4-6 p.m.

Oct. 16 + 17 + 23 + 24

Urban Nature Hike

Free Throw & 3-Point Competition

Milford-Wampold Memorial Park

Oct. 6 | 5:30-7 p.m.

Virtual Adventures in Art

North Sherwood Forest Community Park

Oct. 17 | 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Oct. 7 + 21 | 4-5 p.m.

Boo at the Zoo

Hooper Hoops Challenge

Oct. 17 + 18 + 24 + 25 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.

Hooper Road Park

Oct. 8 | 6-8 p.m.

Zachary Community Park

Oct. 28 | 5-7 p.m.

Craft Corner at the Swamp

Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center

Oct. 30 + 31 | 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

10 & Under Tennis Tournament

Highland Road Community Park Tennis Center

Oct. 31 | 8:30 a.m.-noon

BRECâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Baton Rouge Zoo

TO VOLUNTEER AT THESE OR OTHER EVENTS

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

SPONSORED BY:

The back-to-school experience this year is vastly different due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Masks, temperature checks and social distancing are suddenly the norm, and many students are learning virtually at least part of the time. Despite these challenges, Baton Rouge area schools want parents to know that they are adjusting their policies and learning styles to ensure students have a safe and happy school year.

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EPISCOPAL SCHOOL OF BATON ROUGE We prepare students for lives of meaning and purpose, and offer programs in academics, arts, athletics and spirituality.

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WHAT CHANGES HAVE YOU MADE THIS YEAR IN RESPONSE TO THE COVID-19 CRISIS?

We have implemented numerous safety measures, including temperature checks, outdoor tents for additional learning and eating spaces, and the installation of a Needle Point Bipolar Ionization technology air filtration system in all buildings.

WILL YOU OFFER ANY EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES OR SPECIAL EVENTS THIS YEAR? Arts and athletics are an important component of a whole-child experience and we will find creative ways to provide

these opportunities while adhering to health and safety guidelines. Our goal is for students to continue exploring their passions.

WHAT DO YOU WANT PARENTS TO KNOW ABOUT THIS YEAR’S CHANGES AND CHALLENGES?

Our Head of School Dr. Carrie Steakley wants parents to know that we are in this together as we work to maintain a healthy, joyful learning environment. Families can continue to expect frequent, open communication regarding their child’s learning milestones and any revisions to our health and safety protocols.

3200 Woodland Ridge Blvd. Baton Rouge, LA 70816 225.755.2684 episcopalbr.org

[225] October 2020 | 225batonrouge.com

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Central 225 2020 ad_Layout 1 9/9/2020 11:08 PM Page 1

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The Central Community School System is investing in upgrades to our facilities to ensure our students receive a world-class education. Build Your College Transcript and Attain Industry Credentials While in High School: • Advanced Placement Capstone Diploma District • LSU Pre-Engineering Partnership • Multiple Health Sciences Career Paths • Multimedia Design Studios • Various Manufacturing Programs Enjoy a Well-Rounded Experience: • Academics • Performance & Musical Arts • Championship Athletics

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www.centralcss.org 225batonrouge.com | [225] October 2020

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BASIS BATON ROUGE

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WHAT CHANGES HAVE YOU MADE DUE TO COVID-19?

Our high academic standards and values are resolute. In response to COVID-19, educators across the BASIS Charter Schools network pivoted to a distancelearning platform, delivering the same level of expertise and enthusiasm as they do in the classroom. Our network has experts in distance learning who guide our teachers to maximize student engagement and curricular content.

WILL YOU OFFER ANY EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES THIS YEAR?

extracurricular activities and events will be offered in accordance with local and federal health guidelines, and virtual events are held throughout the year.

WHAT DO YOU WANT PARENTS TO KNOW ABOUT THIS YEAR’S CHALLENGES?

Our network of distance-learning specialists have played an important role in preparing our teachers for this year— training them in best practices specific to online instruction, helping them craft meaningful material for online delivery, and assisting them in providing full support to students.

For the safety of our students, in-person

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[225] October 2020 | 225batonrouge.com

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PARKVIEW BAPTIST SCHOOL A Christ-centered college preparatory education that guides students to grow and mature in wisdom, stature and favor with God and man.

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WHAT CHANGES HAVE YOU MADE IN RESPONSE TO THE COVID-19 CRISIS?

Our goal is to provide as much normalcy as possible for students while using ageappropriate strategies—student cohorts, masks, frequent handwashing and cleaning of high-touch surfaces, distance learning for at-risk students, temperature checks and protocol education.

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teams in 13 sports, and they will all follow LHSAA guidelines and procedures. Our robust arts program—including marching band, concert band, vocal performance, visual arts, theatre, and digital media—will resume activities as deemed safe and permitted by state guidelines.

WHAT DO YOU WANT PARENTS TO KNOW ABOUT THIS YEAR’S CHALLENGES?

Our COVID-19 task force is balancing academic, social, emotional and health/ safety needs of our students. Our response plan, informative videos and regular updates are provided to families. We are proud of the professionalism and commitment demonstrated by our community during these challenging times. We are Parkview Strong!

5750 Parkview Church Road Baton Rouge, LA 70816 225.291.2500 parkviewbaptist.com 225batonrouge.com | [225] October 2020

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GREATER BATON ROUGE HOPE ACADEMY Quality educational opportunities that empower each student to reach their potential.

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WHAT DISTINGUISHES YOUR SCHOOL FROM OTHERS?

Hope Academy’s curriculum fits the child rather than forcing the child to fit the curriculum. A K-12 diploma program and individualized special education classes provide integrated technology with STEAM and robotics. Blending customary and digital instruction takes the child on a journey from struggle and self-doubt to success. Learning strategies are implemented to enhance and enrich students’ lives. For students who need more support, a Life Skills Lab and an ABA clinic are provided onsite.

WHAT CHANGES HAVE YOU MADE THIS YEAR DUE TO THE COVID-19 CRISIS? Instruction is provided on campus and virtually. Synchronous and non-

synchronous instruction, primarily utilizing Google Classroom, is provided. Electronic devices are made available for distance learners, and for students who require additional support, 1-1 sessions are provided. A Life Skills Lab and an ABA Clinic are also provided on-site.

WHAT DO YOU WANT PARENTS TO KNOW? All CDC regulations are enforced and we require face coverings, temperature checks, and frequent hand washing. Also, classrooms have been enlarged to accommodate social distancing. The cleaning crew sanitizes the buildings each night, along with a schedule of professional fogging. Parents are updated by email, phone calls, and social media.

15333 Jefferson Hwy. Baton Rouge, LA 70817 225.293.0141 hopeacademybr.org

[225] October 2020 | 225batonrouge.com

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For more information on choosing a quality school for your child, Issue Date: Sept 2020 Ad proof #6 visit redstickschools.org â&#x20AC;˘ Please respond by e-mail or fax with your approval or minor revisions. â&#x20AC;˘ AD WILL RUN AS IS unless revision requests are received within 24 hours. â&#x20AC;˘ Additional revisions must be requested and may be subject to production fees.

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The online admissions process for eighth-grade girls opens Thursday, October 1, 2020. Deadline to apply is Friday, November 20, 2020.

We offer merit-based scholarships to incoming freshmen. Applications open October 1, 2020. We offer financial aid through our Endowed Scholarships program. Applications open February 11, 2021.

To learn more about what makes SJA so special, please visit our Virtual Admissions Center at sjaadmissions@sjabr.org. Find out how to connect with us virtually, sign up for admissions updates and news and enjoy a virtual tour of our beautiful campus. Our Admissions Team is ready to answer all your questions at Admissions@sjabr.org. Founded in 1868 by the Sisters of St. Joseph. St. Joseph’s Academy has a non-discriminatory admissions policy. 3015 Broussard Street, Baton Rouge, LA 70808 (225) 383-7207 | www.sjabr.org

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WHAT CHANGES HAVE YOU MADE THIS YEAR DUE TO COVID-19?

We changed our protocols to accommodate the COVID guidelines. Our facilities were professionally disinfected after the quarantine ended, and every individual entering the premises is required to have their temperature taken and wear a mask. All work areas are disinfected multiple times daily and frequent handwashing is encouraged.

WILL YOU OFFER EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES?

We will still be offering all of our ACT Boot Camps and ACT Math Prep classes in

GRADES SERVED PK-12 & COLLEGE

Tours BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

person. However, we will now be offering them via livestream for students who prefer to attend them from the comfort of their homes. We are excited to offer this new service.

WHAT DO YOU WANT PARENTS TO KNOW ABOUT THIS YEAR’S CHALLENGES?

The current situation has put our children at a tremendous disadvantage academically, socially, and emotionally, but Best in Class is working earnestly to fill in these gaps created by the hybrid/virtual learning models. We maintain constant communication among staff, clients and teachers by providing detailed academic reports and supplemental resources for parents.

7516 Picardy Ave., Suite A & C Baton Rouge, LA 70808 225.505.6900 bestinbr.com 225batonrouge.com | [225] October 2020

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

WESTDALE HEIGHTS ACADEMIC MAGNET Educating the whole child by providing a challenging curriculum that includes critical thinking, social skills, citizenship, the arts and health.

GRADES SERVED K-5

2004

YEAR FOUNDED

STUDENT/ TEACHER RATIO 20:1 KINDERGARTEN 23:1 GRADES 1-5

450 TOTAL ENROLLMENT

Magnet Application Period

OCT. 5 - DEC. 2, 2020 APPLY ONLINE FOR 2021-2022: EBRMAGNET.ORG

WHAT CHANGES HAVE YOU MADE THIS YEAR IN RESPONSE TO THE COVID-19 CRISIS?

At WHAM, we are continuously updating school policies and procedures to reflect the CDC guidelines related to the pandemic. At this time, students are able to access the WHAM experience in a 100% virtual setting.

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE PARENTS TO KNOW ABOUT THIS YEAR’S CHANGES AND CHALLENGES? We are committed to working alongside families to provide every student with a high-quality magnet experience. Through challenges and changes, safety and communication remain our top priorities.

2000 College Drive Baton Rouge, LA 70808 225.926.5421 • westdaleheights.com

Issue Date: October Ad proof #1

WOODLAWN HIGH SCHOOL A safe and supportive environment that fosters opportunities for students to achieve academic success and obtain necessary life skills through programs that promote intellectual, social and philanthropic growth.

GRADES SERVED 9-12

1949

YEAR FOUNDED

25:1 STUDENT/ TEACHER RATIO

1,400

TOTAL ENROLLMENT

Virtual Open House OCTOBER 1, 9 A.M.

WHAT CHANGES HAVE YOU MADE THIS YEAR?

Woodlawn has implemented new policies to ensure the health and wellbeing of faculty and students, including daily health assessments of employees, improved sanitation procedures and mask requirements for everyone. Virtual and/or hybrid learning models are available to meet the needs of students.

WHAT DO YOU WANT PARENTS TO KNOW?

The challenges and changes this year have created opportunities for growth and development. Technology is more accessible, instruction is more differentiated, and collaboration has become a key component to a successful year.

15755 Jefferson Hwy. Baton Rouge, LA 70817 225.753.1200 • woodlawnhighbr.org

225batonrouge.com | [225] October 2020

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

MAGNET

PROGRAMS

2022 202t1in-g applicat ions ccep a ! ow

APPLY ONLINE

org . t e n g a m www.ebr (225) 922-54 43

[225] October 2020 | 225batonrouge.com

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

225batonrouge.com | [225] October 2020

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

[225] October 2020 | 225batonrouge.com

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

THE BRIGHTON SCHOOL WHAT CHANGES HAVE YOU MADE THIS YEAR? The most effective, evidence-based educational environment in the region for students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences.

GRADES SERVED 1-12 GRADES 1-6, MAX. CLASS SIZE 10 GRADES 7-12, MAX. CLASS SIZE 12

1970

YEAR FOUNDED

150 TOTAL ENROLLMENT

Walk through Wednesday EVERY WEDNESDAY 9 A.M.

Issue Date: October Ad proof #2

Masks are required during transitions and when students are not seated in a work space. We have created movement pathways and we take temperatures each morning at carpool. As for extracurricular activities, we continue to offer cross-country, volleyball, soccer, basketball, track and field, swimming, bowling, drama club, art club and Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

WHAT DO YOU WANT PARENTS TO KNOW?

Because our classes are small by design, the adjustments we have made are quite manageable and haven’t caused significant disruption to how we work with our students. The administration continues to support our commitment to face-toface learning, and we will continue to communicate via our internal information system.

12108 Parkmeadow Ave. Baton Rouge, LA 70816 225.291.2524 • TheBrightonSchool.org

SACRED HEART OF JESUS SCHOOL Steeped in Catholic tradition with a diverse community dedicated to educating the mind, body and spirit.

GRADES SERVED PRE K4-8

1929

YEAR FOUNDED

10:1 STUDENT/ TEACHER RATIO

200

TOTAL ENROLLMENT

Open House

OCTOBER 8, 9 A.M.-1 P.M. VIRTUAL UNLESS BR MOVES TO PHASE III

WHAT CHANGES HAVE YOU MADE THIS YEAR AND WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE PARENTS TO KNOW?

We currently offer virtual or in-person learning. Classroom sizes have been reduced, masks are mandatory for grades Pre K4-8, temperature checks are performed in carpool, and employees complete health screening forms daily. Students eat lunch socially distanced in the cafeteria or outside. Technologies such as the 1:1 Chromebooks for grades 2-8, iPads for Pre K4-1st grade and Google classroom for all grades has made distance learning successful and has further enhanced our classroom experiences. We plan to continue our traditional events such as Grandparents Day and Christmas Tree Decorating and Sing Along, but will make adjustments as necessary.

2251 Main St. Baton Rouge, LA 70802 225.383.7481 • sacredheartbr.com

225batonrouge.com | [225] October 2020

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ST. MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL HIGH SCHOOL

Proud to foster the growth of our students intellectually, spiritually and personally through a balanced and extensive college preparatory curriculum.

13:1 STUDENT/ TEACHER RATIO

615 TOTAL ENROLLMENT 1984 YEAR FOUNDED

WHAT CHANGES HAVE YOU MADE THIS YEAR IN RESPONSE TO THE COVID-19 CRISIS?

St. Michael is following CDC recommendations, which include wearing masks at all times, social distancing, increased handwashing and sanitizing, and increased cleaning procedures.

WILL YOU OFFER ANY EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES THIS YEAR?

St. Michael offers countless opportunities in athletics, fine arts, and club activities.

We believe learning takes place outside as well as inside the classroom. With this mindset, we hope to offer as many extracurricular activities as safety and health protocols allow.

WHAT DO YOU WANT PARENTS TO KNOW ABOUT THIS YEAR’S CHALLENGES?

Changes made to protocols and procedures are adaptable. It is important that we work together as a community to ensure the safety of the Warrior family. Parents can stay informed by following and reading updates from the school newsletter and website, social media, and emails.

GRADES SERVED 9-12

Open House OCTOBER 22 IN-PERSON TOURS BY APPOINTMENT 68

17521 Monitor Ave. Baton Rouge, LA 70817 225.753.9782 smhsbr.org

[225] October 2020 | 225batonrouge.com

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THE DUNHAM SCHOOL The Dunham School provides students with a college preparatory education set in the framework of Christian education and example.

GRADES SERVED PK3-12

1981

YEAR FOUNDED

8:1 STUDENT/ TEACHER RATIO

760

TOTAL ENROLLMENT

PK/K Virtual Play Day OCTOBER 9

WHAT CHANGES HAVE YOU MADE THIS YEAR AS A RESULT OF COVID-19?

Due to small class sizes and a unique partnership with Ochsner Health, Dunham is open for in-person learning. CDC-compliant health and safety protocols include frequent sanitation and cleaning, daily temperature checks, face masks, and social distancing for academic and extracurricular activities.

WHAT DO YOU WANT PARENTS TO KNOW ABOUT THIS YEAR’S CHANGES AND CHALLENGES?

We are confident that the health and safety protocols in place will ensure a safe on-campus experience, enabling every Dunham student to receive an exceptional, personalized education. More information may be found in the full reopening plan posted on the Dunham website.

11111 Roy Emerson Drive Baton Rouge, LA 70810 225.767.7097 • dunhamschool.org

Issue Date: October Ad proof #3

CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL All-male high school focusing on holistic education addressing the spiritual, physical, social, and academic needs of students.

GRADES SERVED 8-12

14:1 STUDENT/ TEACHER RATIO

1894 YEAR FOUNDED

1,147 TOTAL ENROLLMENT

Open House

NOVEMBER 12 IN-PERSON AND ONLINE

WHAT CHANGES HAVE YOU MADE THIS YEAR?

CHS is currently using a hybrid schedule with students alternating between oncampus and virtual learning. Our educators are working alongside healthcare partners and are following the LDOE Strong Start document to incorporate health and safety guidelines, including social distancing, mask requirements, and sanitation measures to keep our students and faculty safe.

WHAT DO YOU WANT PARENTS TO KNOW?

CHS is planning for all students to return to campus on a daily basis no later than Oct. 15. The opening of our new 32,000-squarefoot Student Center will allow for additional gathering spaces and classrooms, including a campus ministry office, cafeteria, student pavilion and spacious dining areas.

855 Hearthstone Dr. Baton Rouge, LA 70806 225.383.0397 • catholichigh.org

225batonrouge.com | [225] October 2020

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Issue Date: October 2020 Ad proof #3

• Please respond by e-mail or fax with your approval or minor revisions. • AD WILL RUN AS IS unless revision requests are received within 24 hours. • Additional revisions must be requested and may be subject to production fees. SPECIAL Carefully check this ad for: CORRECT ADDRESS • CORRECT PHONE NUMBER • ANY TYPOS ADVERTISING SECTION This ad design © Louisiana Business, Inc. 2020. All rights reserved. Phone 225-928-1700 • Fax 225-926-1329

GIFTED AND TALENTED PROGRAMS

CYBERSECURITY AND DRONE COURSES

MUSIC

STEM PRE-K THROUGH 12TH GRADE

AWARD WINNING CULINARY TEAM

ART

UNIVERSAL PRE-K

MOCK TRIAL

LEADER IN ME LIGHTHOUSE SCHOOLS

ADVANCED PLACEMENT COURSES

ATHLETICS

1:1 LAPTOP PROGRAM

DUAL ENROLLMENT COURSES

FISHING TEAM

CAREER AND TECHNICAL PROGRAMS (including Welding, Carpentry, Electrical, Broadcasting, Certified Nurse Aide, Entrepreneurship, and more!)

225.635.3891 | 4727 Fidelity Street | St. Francisville, LA 70775 | www.wfpsb.org 70

[225] October 2020 | 225batonrouge.com

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SHERWOOD MIDDLE ACADEMIC MAGNET SCHOOL Empowering students with the knowledge and skills necessary to handle a rigorous high school preparatory and college/career readiness curriculum in a diverse setting.

GRADES SERVED 6-8

1967

YEAR FOUNDED

25:1 STUDENT/ TEACHER RATIO

780

TOTAL ENROLLMENT

Virtual Open House SEPT. 28-OCT. 2

WHAT CHANGES HAVE YOU MADE THIS YEAR?

As a faculty, we want to nurture our students’ interests while they are exploring our rigorous curriculum. In order to educate the whole child, we offer multiple learning opportunities through virtual leadership programs, enrichment clubs and extracurriculars.

WHAT DO YOU WANT PARENTS TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR SCHOOL?

We are the highest performing middle school in the district for 15 years running, with an award-winning administration and faculty that has grown tremendously while preparing for this unprecedented school year.

1020 Marlbrook Drive Baton Rouge, LA 70815 225.272.3090 • sherwoodmiddlemagnet.org

225batonrouge.com | [225] October 2020

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SPONSORED BY:

MAGNET

DID YOU KNOW?

While most people are aware of the Magnet schools, many parents are in the dark about what sets the EBR Magnet schools apart. Take a look at these highly specialized but little-known programs:

EARN COLLEGE CREDITS, TUITION-FREE. Through a partnership with the East Baton Rouge Parish School System, Baton Rouge Community College, and IBM, students who graduate from Tara High School’s CY-TECH Program can earn both a high school diploma and a full Associate’s Degree in a computer science, which includes up to 60 transferrable college credit hours should students want to pursue a higher degree program. Designed after the P-TECH 9-14 model, students enter the Cy-TECH Magnet Academy in 9th grade and may begin enrolling in college courses as early as 10th grade. CY-TECH is part of the East Baton Rouge Parish School System and is open to all EBR students, at no cost to students and their families.

PRE-MEDICAL PATHWAYS AVAILABLE IN HIGH SCHOOL. Glen Oaks High School Medical Magnet has a comprehensive program designed to combine academic skills, theoretical training and practical experience in the medical and health care fields. Graduating students enter the world of work immediately after graduation better prepared for advanced studies at the college or post-secondary level. Thanks to established partnerships with Baton Rouge General Healthcare Systems and Southern University’s College of Nursing and Allied Health the innovative four-year, medical program rewards students who demonstrate a special interest in medical careers..

SHAPE THE FUTURE WITH TECHNOLOGY, MEDIA AND BROADCASTING. Istrouma Magnet High School offers courses in everything from media arts and process technology. It begins in middle school. Istrouma Middle Magnet’s accelerated curriculum and inquirybased instruction allows students to be immersed in a cuttingedge learning environment. Its academic honors program earns high school credits while keeping bright children excited to learn.

[225] October 2020 | 225batonrouge.com

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Issue Date: October Ad proof #3

Issue Date: October Ad proof #1

• Please respond by e-mail or fax with your approval or minor revisions. SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION • AD WILL RUN AS IS unless revision requests are received within 24 hours. • Additional revisions must be requested and may be subject to production fees.

Committed to developing each child’s unique gifts in a warm, loving, Christian community.

9:1 STUDENT/ TEACHER RATIO

275

TOTAL ENROLLMENT

1948

YEAR FOUNDED

18 MO.-GRADE 5

Open House

Public magnet school that incorporates the arts in all academic classes, and academics in all arts classes.

ST. JAMES EPISCOPAL DAY SCHOOL

21:1 STUDENT/ TEACHER RATIO

780

WHAT CHANGES HAVE YOU MADE DUE TO COVID-19?

Enhanced HVAC filters, handwashing and water bottle stations, and a fogger are used daily. Students stay in class cohorts with desks spaced 3-6 feet apart. Masks are required for all faculty and students in grades 2-5. Dining and carpool procedures have been adjusted to include temperature checks and social distancing.

445 Convention St. Baton Rouge, LA 70802 225.344.0805 • StJamesEDS.org

TOTAL ENROLLMENT

2004

YEAR FOUNDED

GRADES SERVED 6-8

MCKINLEY MIDDLE ACADEMIC MAGNET SCHOOL OF VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE PARENTS TO KNOW ABOUT THIS YEAR?

All of our teachers are Google certified so the transition from in-person to virtual and hybrid has been easy. Extracurricular activities will be gradually added as the year progresses—our staff is constantly looking for ways to make this year just as special as years before. We are dedicated to maintaining excellence and providing as much normalcy as possible for our students.

1550 Eddie Robinson Sr. Drive

Issue Date: Oct 2020 Ad proof #2

Virtual Baton Rouge, LA 70802 225.388.0089 • mckinleymiddlemagnet.com Showcase Issue Date: October 2020 Ad proof #3

SEPT. 28-OCT. • Please respond by e-mail2 or fax with your approval or minor revisions. • AD WILL RUN AS IS unless revision requests are received within 24 hours. • Additional revisions must be requested and may be subject to production fees.

Carefully check this ad for: CORRECT ADDRESS • CORRECT PHONE NUMBER • ANY TYPOS

OCTOBER 20 AND 21

B e ha p p y

Parenting

Marriage Counseling

Individual Counseling

BE BRAVE

BE DRUG

FREE

MAKE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY! TRACY RAMBLE, MSW & LCSW - Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Psychotherapist based in South East Louisiana. Education includes a Bachelor of Science Degree and Master’s Degree in Social Work with a Mental Health Certificate.

OCTOBER IS RED RIBBON MONTH I CARE recognizes Red Ribbon Month in its continuing efforts to promote substance abuse prevention for young people. The Red Ribbon Campaign encourages schools throughout the district to build support and prevention resources that positively impact students, teachers and community stakeholders.

1761 Physicians Park Drive, Ste. A • Baton Rouge

LEARN ABOUT I CARE’S DRUG AND ALCOHOL PREVENTION EFFORTS ONLINE AT:

ICARE.EBRSCHOOLS.ORG | (225) 226-2273 |

@icareebr

225-432-4955 • themeritegroup.com 225batonrouge.com | [225] October 2020

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Our 400+ pediatric specialists are here for your little one. Since 1955, Children’s Hospital New Orleans has provided extraordinary care for children and families across Louisiana, including Baton Rouge. With our all new, expanded Baton Rouge multi-specialty clinic, choosing specialized care for your little one close to home has never been easier! To schedule an appointment today call 844.200.2466.

Schedule today in Baton Rouge. chnola.org/batonrouge

[225] October 2020 | 225batonrouge.com

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SPONSORED BY:

MODERN LIBRARIES ARE OFFERING FAR MORE THAN BOOKS

library is not measured by the sum of the books on its shelves, but rather its impact on the community it serves. Modern libraries are places where people gather to explore, interact and imagine. Besides connecting people to information, libraries connect people to other people. Naturally, you can still borrow books—it is a library—but you can also access a trove of content from the digital library on your desktop or mobile device. Take your time and enjoy the story—The Livingston Parish Library is now fine free. In an effort to remove outstanding debt for library patrons, as of December 1, 2019, LPL has eliminated overdue fines on all library-owned items currently in circulation; removing barriers to basic library services and resources. Visit mylpl.info or a branch of the Livingston Parish Library today and find a lot more than books. Stay in the know with the Library’s monthly newsletter.

READ ALL ABOUT IT

The Livingston Parish Library has partnered with Livingston Parish Public Schools (LPPS) to provide all Livingston Parish students and teachers with immediate access to the library’s digital resources and services through its new eCard program. The new eCard grants students and teachers access to all eResources provided by the Library, ranging from Scholastic databases offering assistance to homework to resources offering downloadable eBooks, audiobooks and magazines. Additionally, students and teachers can visit their local branch to convert their eCard into a full-fledged library card that will allow them to check out physical items such as books, DVDs, video games, Learning Kits, and more.

MORE THAN BOOKS

CONNECTING YOU ON THE GO:

STEAM EXPLORATION:

HUBS FOR EXPLORING TECHNOLOGY:

Patrons can now enjoy unlimited access to the internet on-the-go, anywhere, anytime when they check out a mobile hotspot from the library. Mobile hotspots from the library provide internet access to smartphones, tablets, computers, and other wireless-enabled devices through the Verizon cellular data network. This is a terrific idea for road trips—keeping the back-seat devices streaming entertainment.

From graphing calculators to microscopes, in Livingston Parish, the Library’s Learning Kits have everything you need to make your learning experience complete. Patrons can check out a variety of equipment to explore STEM, music, language, and more. Add books, media items or electronic resources to make your learning experience complete. Browse through a list of available Learning Kits here.

The way we use our libraries is evolving as fast as new technology. Libraries are becoming a place for creation and collaboration. The Livingston Parish Library has created spaces and scheduled activities centered around creativity. From 3D printers, to cookbook clubs, to sewing circles, Livingston Parish is capitalizing on a priceless commodity: the sharing of personal knowledge, by learning and by doing. The Denham Springs-Walker branch of the Library has places for people to work collaboratively on all sorts of projects, digital or otherwise in their Idea Lab. All library branches in Livingston Parish even offer 3D Printing.

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Mondays 4pm – Close Kids 12 and under receive a free kids meal with every purchase of any adult sandwich. 76

BATON ROUGE • BROUSSARD • DENHAM SPRINGS • LAFAYETTE

WWW.BURGERSMITH.COM

[225] October 2020 | 225batonrouge.com

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I N S I D E : Black-owned style shops

The brightly lit, industrial-style shop is brought to life with stylish decor, gold accents and organized displays.

Same city, new home Sweet Baton Rouge opens flagship store at Electric Depot B Y CYN T H E A CO R FAH / / P HOTO S BY CAT R I C E CO L E MAN

225batonrouge.com | [225] October 2020

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This is the age of a new Louisiana. We built Louisianaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest pediatric health network to care for any of the one million children in our state and deliver on the belief that your child can be part of a stronger, healthier tomorrow. From check-ups to complex medical and emergency care, your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s care begins here. Visit ololchildrens.org/believe for more.

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STYLE //

COURTESY MEREDITH WAGUESPACK

accessor ies ally made gif ts, ginal T-shir ts, loc rdigans. ori ca d ls an sel s e irt ug sk Ro lored Sweet Baton e jeans, LSU-co lik s ple sta set and stylish clo

Waguespack lau

nched Sweet Ba ton

Rouge as a T-sh irt

company in 20 10

Meredith Waguespack plans to use her new shop as a main hub for all of Sweet Baton Rouge’s events and meet-ups.

SWEET BATON ROUGE opened its new location this summer, and it is everything you would imagine. The brightly lit, industrial-style shop is like a candy store for fashion enthusiasts. Tall, white shelves are stocked with Louisiana-inspired T-shirts in every color. The tables and countertops are filled with locally made goods by makers like Aline Moreaux Prints and Design and Kismet Cosmetics. From the yellow Sweet Baton Rouge neon sign on the back wall above a cozy lounge area to the chic, gold sputnik-style chandeliers, it’s the small details that bring the shop to life.

For Sweet Baton Rouge owner Meredith Waguespack, this is the store of her dreams. Waguespack launched Sweet Baton Rouge as a T-shirt company in 2010. Since then, the business has evolved into a clothing, accessories and gifts brand that hosts events, fosters community and connects local businesses. Before opening the flagship store at Electric Depot in August, Waguespack had an office and showroom on Bricksome Avenue for five years. As the brand continued to grow, the Louisiana native wanted a space that was easy to find and had a community feel to support her events.

“I really fell in love with the historical building,” Waguespack says. “I could visualize what the store was going to look like immediately. You know how when you know it’s home, it’s home? That’s kind of how I felt.” Now, Sweet Baton Rouge is bigger than ever before. The shop stocks everything from candles and bath bombs to bell-bottom jeans and festive earrings. It’s the go-to spot for all things purple and gold. LSU T-shirts, Tiger pins, gold skirts—you name it. Waguespack has a bright future planned for the space, with a wall of pelican art by local artists in the works.

Her brand extensions like Lagniappe Box, a Louisiana-centric subscription box; Sweet Baton Rouge Insider, a Baton Rouge blog; and Don’t Stop Just Geaux, a local fitness group, are still active. Waguespack plans to use the new shop as a main hub for all of the brands’ events and meet-ups. “We’re excited (even through this pandemic) to be able to open our doors to customers, be a place they can shop Louisiana T-shirts and Louisiana local makers’ products,” she says, “and hopefully have a fun place to hang out for some of our local events.” stocksweetbatonrouge.com

225batonrouge.com | [225] October 2020

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Our dynamic restaurant concepts have a commitment to innovating & elevating different styles of cuisine. We combine that with a culture of hospitality to make lasting relationships with our guests and our family of loyal, hard-working employees. Trust in the consistency of City Group Hospitality restaurants.

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STYLE //

Black-owned Where to find cool clothes and accessories while supporting Black-owned boutiques and online shops CO MPILE D B Y E L L E MA R IE Turn the page to see our list. What other Black-owned boutiques should 225 have on our radar? Email us at editor@225batonrouge.com.

AMID THIS YEAR’S calls for racial justice—and a health crisis that has disproportionately impacted communities of color—came another hard revelation: The recession has hit Blackowned businesses the hardest. Black workers were more likely to be out of work during shutdowns, and they were less likely to receive federal stimulus funding, according to The New York Times.

Lists of Black-owned restaurants to support circulated around Baton Rouge this summer, but our city also has a wealth of talent in the fashion department. As you plan for your fall and holiday shopping, here are some Blackowned brands to consider supporting. From chic, colorblocked blazers to the coolest neon sneakers to stylish face masks, soon all your friends will be asking “Where’d you get that?!”

e. of

@londonsfashionboutique

@_beobsessedkollection

@twolittleeboys

@sophisto_

@vinti.v3

@shopwithluxe

@mauvesophisticate

@harmonysjoy.handbags

@caliente_onfire

@manikustoms

@mavecouture

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IMAGES VIA INSTAGRAM / COURTESY THE BUSINESS OWNERS

@fabboutique_etc

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STYLE //

A Plus Natural

The Fashion Moguls

LD Heeling Soles

Be Obsessed Kollection

Golden Rae Boutique

London’s Fashion Boutique

Owner Amanda Moorer What you’ll find: Accessories Social: @aplusnatural on Instagram aplusnatural.com

Owner Keturiah Howard What you’ll find: Clothing Social: @thefashionmoguls_ thefashionmoguls.com

Owner Britney Wells What you’ll find: Handbags, jewelry and accessories Social: @_beobsessedkollection on Instagram beobsessedkollection.com

Owner Auralia Raymond What you’ll find: Clothing Social: @GoldenRaeBoutique on Facebook and Instagram shopgoldenrae.com

Harmony’s Joy

Calienté Shoes & Accessories

Owner Chassidy Green What you’ll find: Handbags and hats Social: @harmonysjoy.handbags on Instagram shopharmonysjoy.com

Owner Quinta Smith What you’ll find: Shoes and accessories Social: @caliente_onfire on Instagram

HD Bling, LLC

The Elan Design

Issue

Owner Arkia Miller (Kia) What you’ll find: Clothing Social: @theelandesign on Instagram theelandesign.com

Owner Dana Ayo What you’ll find: Customizable T-shirts and masks Social: @hdblingtshirts on Instagram hdbling.com

Fab Boutique & Etc.

Ishopdivas

Owner Venice Holiday What you’ll find: Clothing, jewelry, hats and accessories Social: @ishopdivas on Facebook and Instagram ishopdivas.me

Owner Shanrika Dangerfield What you’ll find: Clothing, handbags and accessories Social: @fabboutique_etc on Instagram, Twitter and Snapchat Date: fabboutiqueetc.com Oct Ad proof #6

Owner LaQuida Davis What you’ll find: Shoes and accessories Social: @ld_heelingsoles on Instagram ldheelingsoles.com

Owner Lenore London 670 O’Neal Lane, Suite A What you’ll find: Clothing, jewelry, handbags and accessories Social: @londonsfashionboutique shoplondonsboutique.com

Love My Reality

Owners Charice Thomas and Crystal Lewis What you’ll find: Clothing and swimwear Social: @lovemyreality on Facebook and Instagram lovemyreality.com

Luxe Boutique, LLC

Owner Tiarea Spears What you’ll find: Men’s and women’s clothing, shoes and accessories Social: @shopwithluxe on Instagram shopwithluxe.net

Mani Kustoms

Owner Khemani Kente Butler What you’ll find: Sneakers and clothing Social: @manikustoms on Instagram and Twitter manikustoms.com

Question, Persuade, Refer Three steps to suicide prevention

Become a QPR Certified Gatekeeper & save a life

• Question, Persuade & Refer someone who may be suicidal • Learn common causes of suicidal behavior • Learn the warning signs of suicide • Help someone in crisis

VIRTUAL COURSE: NOV. 7, 2020 11AM

Visit hopeiswellness.com to book your virtual 225-718-7975 • hopeiswellness.com QPR Suicide Prevention course. Hope Battiste, Instructor

[225] October 2020 | 225batonrouge.com

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STYLE //

Mauve Sophisticate Owner Ashley Henderson What you’ll find: Clothing Social: @mauvesophisticate mauvesophisticate.com

Mave Couture

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Elle Marie is a wardrobe and editorial stylist who has styled influential individuals including Mayor Sharon Weston Broome and Grammy Award-winning artist P.J. Morton. She completed her fashion stylist certification in Los Angeles at School of Style. She is a 225 contributing stylist and can be reached at ellemariebrand.com.

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n the last decade or so, a movement of makers has risen. Inventors, designers, artisans and tinkerers—people are creating products instead of just consuming them. Maker Faires help people to explore and discover life-long hobbies and use their tools and creativity in different ways. The East Baton Rouge Parish Library is hosting its 7th Annual Mini Maker Faire virtually, connecting science, art, craft, homesteading, and makers of all kinds from the comfort of home. This family-friendly event showcases the amazing work of all sorts of makers across the Baton Rouge area and beyond—anyone who is embracing the DIY or DIT (do-it-together) spirit. We got a sneak peek at a few of the exciting elements this year. Participate in streaming live panels including PPE making and other exciting topics. The Knock Knock Museum and the Mid City Maker’s Market will be providing pre-recorded content for the Faire, and free grab-and-go bags featuring mini-Sprockets, crafts and scavenger hunts will be available at all EBRP Library branches in October. Visit batonrouge.makerfaire.com to learn more.

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Beyond the Garage back will be back at the Mini Maker Faire! These amazing puppet pals can connect, educate and entertain fans of all ages. Beyond the Garage is run by Clay Achee, a Baton Rouge native, along with his wife, Kirstin Martinez. They craft all of the puppets as well as other create toys and art. Clay also manages the puppet rock band Ziggy and the Junkyard Band.

Don’t miss the replay when the Library hosted Jamie Hyneman at the 2016 Baton Rouge Maker Faire at the Main Library on Goodwood for a Q&A about his life and career as a MythBuster.

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[225] October 2020 | 225batonrouge.com

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I N S I D E : Fall recipes and cooking tips from the ‘225’ staff

Share a meal

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Grazing on the overflowing boards and small plates at BLDG 5

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TA ST E / /

The Harvest Board is entirely vegetarian, with plenty of roasted morsels as well as polenta, red pepper hummus and a winning tzatziki sauce.

R E S TA U R A N T R E V I E W

BLDG 5 B Y D.J. B E AU T ICIA PHOTOS B Y COLLIN R IC H IE Our food critic’s name may be false, but the credentials are not. This gastronome has studied the history, cultivation, preparation, science and technology of food for more than 30 years. bldg5.com 2805 Kalurah St. Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Friday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Closed Sundays

UNDER AND AROUND the Perkins Road overpass are several noteworthy restaurants that have helped make it a go-to hangout for Baton Rouge foodies. The newest to the neighborhood is BLDG 5, a ramshackle building of cozy indoor and lush outdoor spaces. Like the other establishments in the area, there is a singular, glaring issue: parking. The first time we attempted to visit, we were hard pressed to find a parking spot. But once inside, the charming decor and plant-festooned courtyard offered a welcome respite. The menu includes salads, small and large plates and dinner boards, but it’s slightly confusing with similarities between some of the plates and boards. Our server helped steer us to an ample selection of three small plates and one dinner board for 1 (also available in 2- and 4-person sizes).

Chicken Karaage was described as the most unique dish on the menu. Star anise was the predominant spice in the crispy, fried coating on the juicy chicken thighs. Its flavor lingered pleasantly. The kewpie sesame aioli that accompanied it was a rather bland dipping sauce—but not so with the sweet honey Sriracha. Although I personally enjoyed the chicken’s flavor best on its own. Braised Short Ribs came with a heaping helping of ridiculously rich polenta. No doubt it was loaded with tons of cream and butter. The wellcooked and toothsome beef was an ideal foil to the soft polenta. This serving would make an admirable entree for any sized appetite. Three thick petite cakes comprised the BLDG 5 Crab Cakes. They were pan sautéed then deep fried with

THE BASICS: Misti and Brumby Broussard opened BLDG 5 in November 2019 under the Perkins Road overpass in former warehouse spaces. It’s quickly become a Baton Rouge hangout known for its casual atmosphere and indoor/outdoor vibe. WHAT’S A MUST: Any of the hefty dinner boards piled with meats, cheeses and all kinds of roasted and marinated veggies. Of the small plates, the Chicken Karaage offers Japanese-style fried chicken with two dipping sauces, and the tender Braised Short Ribs are brightened up with pickled red onions.

meaty crab punctuated by visible red peppers. The tart and tangy remoulade was a bit thick for my tastes, but its zest complemented the delicate seafood. A spring mix salad completed the serving. Of the popular board selections, I was most interested in the Harvest Board. When the immense platter

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TA ST E / /

came to the table, I was so glad we requested the single serving. It provided a true cornucopia of sweet potatoes, broccoli, eggplant, green beans, pattypan squash, zucchini, bell peppers and gargantuan asparagus. The board came with more polenta, but it was topped with unpleasantly vinegary mushrooms. Simple roasted beets in a light vinaigrette were also included. My partner declared the accompanying tzatziki sauce better than other versions found at local Greek and Lebanese restaurants. BLDG 5 has a unique and inviting vibe, so it’s no wonder this place is often packed. Up front is set up like a sundry store with various objects to capture your attention and pocket book. Refrigerators with packaged sandwiches and salads along with freezers packed with ready-to-heat soups make tomorrow’s lunch and dinner prep a snap. A word of advice: Reservations are only allowed for parties of six or more, so expect a wait if you bring a smaller group. Still, this healthful, fetching establishment is a welcome addition to the neighborhood and greater Baton Rouge. Now, if only I can find a parking spot.

The decadent Braised Short Ribs are spooned over creamy polenta.

A star anise-spiced frying batter adds unique flavor to the Chicken Karaage small plate.

The deep-fried BLDG 5 Crab Cakes are a star of the small plates menu.

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[225] October 2020 | 225batonrouge.com

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BY TR ACEY KO CH A ND STE PHA NIE RIE GE L P HOTO S B Y CO LLIN RIC HIE

A menu of dishes for October dinners—and insights from the ‘225’ staffers who made them at home

Cook like it’s

DINING IN

fall

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Recipes by Tracey Koch

• Pumpkin Apple Strudel

• Chicken Grillades

• Mixed Fall Greens and Apples with Pomegranate Vinaigrette

On the menu

WE THOUGHT IT would be fun this month to revisit some of our favorite recipes from the cooking classes Tracey used to teach at The Panhandler, which some of you may remember at Citiplace. The classes were a fun, hands-on experience filled with useful kitchen tips and original recipes that are quite easy to make—and still just as delicious. It has been many years since Tracey taught these classes, so we decided it was time to resurrect some of these fall-inspired recipes and tips and share them with our Dining In readers. And to put the instructional recipes to the test, the 225 editorial team of Jennifer Tormo, Benjamin Leger and Cynthea Corfah prepped them in their home kitchens, and offered up some of their own novice advice on how to get the dishes just right.

TA ST E / /

FOR THE DRESSING ½ cup pomegranate juice ½ cup apple jelly 1 ⁄3 cup apple cider vinegar ½ cup vegetable oil ¼ teaspoon kosher salt ¼ teaspoon black pepper

1. In a small pot, whisk together the pomegranate juice and apple jelly. Simmer over low heat until smooth and the mixture coats the back of a spoon.

2. Take the mixture off the heat and allow it to cool completely. 3. In a small mixing bowl, whisk the pomegranate mixture and vinegar until combined.

4. Slowly whisk in the oil until everything is incorporated. Season with salt and pepper. Set the dressing aside.

Mixed Fall Greens and Apples with Pomegranate Vinaigrette This salad is one of our favorites to make in the fall. It is full of wonderful flavors and textures and is always a crowd pleaser. The addition of the fresh pomegranate seeds gives it a nice tang and crunch along with adding a healthy boost of nutrients. Pomegranates are seasonal fall fruit, available from September through December. It can be difficult to determine when your pomegranate is ripe, so look for one that is not perfectly round, but angular on the sides. The skin needs to be smooth and taut. Also, a ripe pomegranate will be heavy for its size. You can store ripe pomegranates in the refrigerator for up to a couple of weeks to help extend their shelf life.

Servings: 6

1. Place the mixed greens and apples in a large mixing bowl. 2. Cut the pomegranate in half and carefully peel back some of the

membrane to expose the seeds. Turn the pomegranate over and gently tap the outside of the pomegranate with the back of a wooden spoon to release the seeds into the salad.

(From editor Jennifer Tormo)

Toasting trial and error:

I’ve had trouble evenly toasting pumpkin seeds on the stove in the past, so I had to do a little research here. Turns out oven roasting the seeds is best! Most recipes I found suggested coating the pumpkin seeds in oil and salt. You can just let the sunflower seed kernels roast on their own; they’ll develop their own natural oils. Roast together on a sheet pan until lightly browned.

Feel free to swap cheeses: I can’t resist

goat cheese, so I used that instead of blue cheese. And if blue is too pungent for you, I’m sure feta would work just fine, as well.

Keep your apples bright, not brown: Soak

them for 5 minutes in a bath of water and citrus juice. This will keep your salad looking and tasting fresh and pretty, right up until the moment you’re ready to devour it.

3. Sprinkle in the pumpkin and sunflower seeds along with the crum-

bled blue cheese. Add in the dressing and toss well. Serve immediately.

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FOR THE SALAD 1 bag of mixed salad greens 1 Granny Smith apple, chopped or sliced 1 Honeycrisp apple, chopped or sliced 1 fresh pomegranate ¼ cup toasted pumpkin seeds ¼ cup toasted sunflower seeds 1 ⁄3 cup blue cheese crumbles

STAFF TIPS

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Issue Date: October Ad proof #1 TA ST E / /

C hampions We dress

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Chicken Grillades We love making grillades in the fall and winter. It is an easy dish to prepare for a crowd, and it’s always versatile and budget friendly. We lightened this recipe up a bit by using chicken in place of veal or beef. We wrote the recipe for chicken breasts, but adding in some thigh meat will make for a richer flavor. We like to double this recipe and freeze half to use on a night when we don’t have time to cook. This dish is perfect comfort food to serve on a chilly fall night but can make for a great holiday brunch, as well.

Servings: 6 ½ cup vegetable oil 2½ to 3 pounds boneless chicken breasts cut into strips 1 teaspoon kosher salt ½ teaspoon black pepper ½ teaspoon ground thyme ½ cup flour ½ cup chopped onion 1 ⁄3 cup chopped bell pepper 1 ⁄3 cup chopped celery 3 cloves garlic, minced 4 cups chicken broth 2 can stewed tomatoes with green chilies 2 tablespoons tomato paste Steamed rice, mashed potatoes or grits for serving

1. In a large deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat the oil. Brown the chicken until it is no longer pink in the middle.

2. Remove the chicken onto a plate. Sprinkle it with the salt, pepper and thyme. Set aside.

3. Add the flour to the drippings in the skillet and place it back over medium heat. Stir the flour mixture until it becomes light brown in color.

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4. Add in the chopped onion, bell pepper, celery and garlic and continue cooking for another 3 to 4 minutes.

5. Carefully stir in the broth and keep stirring until the mixture is smooth. Add in the stewed tomatoes, tomato paste and cooked chicken.

6. Allow the grillades to come up to a simmer, stir it well and cover. 7. Set the heat on low and let the grillades simmer for an hour. Stir occasionally to prevent the chicken from sticking to the bottom.

8. Serve the chicken grillades over steamed rice, mashed potatoes or grits. (We used corn grits for our photos.)

STAFF TIPS

(From managing editor Benjamin Leger)

About that roux: I’m a Cajun who isn’t a very good Cajun cook, so I was nervous about burning the roux. While adding the flour to the hot oil, I kept some of the chicken broth on hand. A couple of splashes and a quick stir kept the mixture from getting too dry once the flour started soaking up all the oil. You say tomato: I messed up my grocery shopping list and bought tomato sauce instead of paste. My on-the-spot fix was a couple of squirts of ketchup to add that sweet, concentrated tomato flavor. That combined with the tomato sauce gave my grillades a more red than brown color, but it was still just as delicious and creamy.

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Pumpkin Apple Strudel This easy strudel recipe is a wonderful fall treat and is a delicious way to cap off this cool weather meal. It provides a nice combination of apple and pumpkin pie all rolled into a flaky crust. This is an extremely easy dessert to throw together because it uses frozen puff pastry dough. The tangy Granny Smith apples balance well with the creamy pumpkin. This strudel can be put together ahead of time and baked right before serving. We like dusting it with powdered sugar and cinnamon right before serving, along with a little fresh whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Servings: 6 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and thinly sliced 1 tablespoon lemon juice 3 tablespoons butter 1 cup brown sugar 2 teaspoons cinnamon 1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin puree 1 egg, slightly beaten ¼ teaspoon nutmeg ¼ teaspoon cloves ½ teaspoon ground ginger 2 tablespoons flour, plus a little more for rolling out the dough ¼ teaspoon salt 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed ¼ cup powdered sugar 1 teaspoon cinnamon

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1. Coat the apple slices in the lemon juice to keep them from browning.

2. In a medium skillet, melt the butter. Add in the sliced

apples, ¼ cup of the brown sugar and 1 teaspoon of the cinnamon. Sauté until the apples are tender but still hold their shape.

3. Remove the apples from the heat and allow to cool. 4. Heat the oven to 375 degrees and line a large baking sheet

with parchment.

5. In a separate mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree

with the beaten egg and remaining spices. Sift in the flour and salt. Mix until everything is combined.

6. Fold the cooled apples into the pumpkin mixture and set it aside.

7. Sprinkle a little extra flour on a work surface and roll the puff pastry out to a 9-by-13-inch rectangle.

8. Place the dough onto the prepared baking sheet. 9. Spoon the pumpkin apple mixture down the center of the puff pastry.

10. Fold the two ends at the top and bottom up over the

filling. Next fold one of the sides over to completely cover the filling in the center followed by the other side.

11. Carefully roll the strudel over placing it seam-side down. The strudel should now resemble a large egg roll. 12. Use a sharp knife to cut a couple of slits in the top of the strudel to help vent it as it bakes. 13. Bake the strudel for 30 to 40 minutes or until puffed and golden. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Issue Date: 0CT 2020 Ad proof #1

STAFF TIPS (From staff writer Cynthea Corfah)

Cut deep: Light/subtle slits in the

pastry will close during baking. Make sure to use a sharp knife to cut totally through the top of the pastry.

Look out for a thinning pastry:

If your pastry looks like it has been overstretched or thinning when you roll it out, consider adding more dough or less contents. A thin pastry can result in the apple and pumpkin mixture spilling out while baking.

Vegan and gluten-free alternatives are welcome: I used

gluten-free powder and vegan butter to make this recipe. You can swap out the eggs for applesauce, bananas or pumpkin puree and exchange the store-bought puff pastry for a homemade vegan puff pastry.

14. Sift the powdered sugar and the remaining teaspoon of cinnamon over the strudel before slicing.

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CULTURE I N S I D E : Halloween in Baton Rouge / Music and arts events this month

MUSIC

Finding a new rhythm Local musicians keep the music rolling with virtual shows and studio time during the pandemic B Y CY N THE A CO R FA H

SEAN GASSER

DJ CMix in the studio

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Issue Date: October 2020 Ad proof #2

C U LT U R E / /

ONLINE theanteeks.com djcmix.com theshapecollectors.bandcamp.com Find Parish County Line on Facebook

Since social gatherings were limited, The Anteeks began performing virtually with livestreamed concerts.

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BEFORE COVID-19, BATON Rouge’s music scene was thriving. Local music groups like country band Parish County Line and cover band The Anteeks opened up for large events at stadiums, local bars, casinos and other venues along the coast. Baton Rouge DJs such as Charles Eugene, also known as DJ CMix, had a booked schedule filled with weddings, concerts, LSU events and birthday parties. But when the pandemic hit, all in-person gigs stopped. For some artists, new social gathering rules were a blow to their financial well-being. Before the pandemic, Parish County Line predicted 2020 would be it’s best year yet. They had a lineup of out-of-state shows and local festivals, weddings and concerts that were postponed or canceled. But in the midst of the uncertainty, it also gave local bands time to focus

A HE YT

KS EE NT

on their craft, connect with other artists and experiment creatively. The Anteeks held bi-weekly livestreamed concerts on Facebook from singer and guitarist Joey Holaway’s living room so the band could continue sharing music with its fans. One new band even got inspired to debut its first project in the midst of the pandemic: Baton Rouge rock group The Shape Collectors released its first single “Julia” in August. Before the pandemic, songwriter Alex Cook says the five members were working gigs with their other bands. After most venues closed, the group of friends and music colleagues started collaborating virtually and pieced together music from home. For other music artists, the pandemic hindered their ability to play and forced them to make up for lost income in other ways. And now with the state transitioning into Phase

[225] October 2020 | 225batonrouge.com

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Issue Date: Oct 2020 Ad proof #2

C U LT U R E / /

T H E AT E R ART ARTS MUSIC

Parish County Line’s members have been songwriting and practicing while venues are closed.

Three, it’s still too early to say when Baton Rouge bars and music venues will start hosting live concerts again. Despite the unexpected obstacles, local music artists have kept the music playing through virtual events, songwriting and new music releases. 225 talked with four local artists to find out how Baton Rouge musicians are pivoting during a pandemic.

How has COVID-19 affected your music business? Casey McKenzie of Parish County Line: “We lost about 58 shows since COVID-19. It was projected to be our biggest year.” Alex Cook of The Shape Collectors: “COVID took the wind out of our sails. It kind of put everything on hold. We had talked about a collaborative project about a year ago. But now, since our bands are not busy anymore, this was the perfect time for us to dig in and work on this project in earnest.” What have you done to adjust to social gathering restrictions? DJ CMix: “I tapped into producing. I can’t perform, but it has opened up

the opportunity for new ventures. I’m networking more and connecting with artists I never thought I would. It also allows people to play on an equal playing field.” Joey Holaway of The Anteeks: “We’ve gotten really good at setting up livestreams and playing from my living room.”

What did your career look like before COVID-19? DJ CMix: “I had six to seven shows planned out (concert wise) and on top of that I had weddings. It was going to be an amazing next few months. But then COVID just kind of shut all of that down.” Parish County Line: “March 13 was the last show we’ve done. January and February were slammed. We were probably doing 14 shows a month. In January, we played for LSU’s national championship party outside Tiger Stadium. We played at Bacchus in New Orleans with Laine Hardy in front of almost 13,000 people, and we had no idea what was coming next.” The Anteeks: “We play about 130 to 150 gigs a year, [130] would probably be on the low end.”

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C U LT U R E / /

Are you still working on music projects during the pandemic? DJ CMix: “I have an album coming out this year. I’m curating something that’s going to be uplifting and will have that high-energy feel for when clubs open back up. By the time we can go out again, I want to be able to perform it. It’s a combination of local artists from Louisiana and other producers and DJs.” Parish County Line: “We have done some writing, and we try to practice a couple times a month. There’s been a couple of bars that open up to us privately to practice so that’s been nice.”

The Anteeks: “We will stay together, ride it out and will play when we can safely. I want to play music again without a doubt, but I won’t do it until it’s safe.” The Shape Collectors: “The more all of us have worked on our music, the more excited we are about it. In the future, we may look at creating live shows. For now, we’re going to focus on producing these songs and Issue Date: August Ad proof #3 making videosbyfor it.”or fax with your approval or minor revisions. • Please respond e-mail

The Shape Collectors released its first single during the pandemic.

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C U LT U R E / /

EVENTS

A new stage

ZA C

SM ITH PHO TOG

RAPHY

though they are still in SOME VENUES HAVE the planning stages with opted for virtual artists and the park’s performances when owners. they couldn’t allow Only 100 tickets are attendees inside. being sold, so get them Others have taken to SY while you can. the outdoors, moving TE UR CO manshiptheatre.org their events outside this fall. John Papa Gros Manship Theatre is doing that this month with the launch of its “Manship More music to check out at the Park” series. Beauvoir Park, behind Kalurah OCT. 11: Damien Jurado will bring his blend of folk, indie and country Street Grill, will be the setting for an to Mid City Ballroom. The venue Oct. 2 performance by the John Papa does not sell alcohol, but does welGros Band, a New Orleans group come you to bring your own. Find known for its mix of funk, traditional the event on Facebook jazz, brass and blues. The limited OCT. 9: Outdoor venue Beauvoir attendance event encourages people to Park will host the band Dalton bring blankets and lawn chairs for a Wayne and the Warmadillos. The casual evening. band describes itself as “too counAccording to John Kaufman, try for rock ‘n’ roll and too rock ‘n’ roll for country.” Either way, it’s sure Manship’s director of marketing and to be a good time! Find the event programming, the goal is to host more on Facebook of these outdoor performances soon,

W E ’R E OP E N

AN D S Q UE AK Y C L E AN !

SPECIA L O FFER FOR 225 RE ADER S UNTIL OCT. 2 The Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge hosts the Louisiana Arts Summit, which started Sept. 29. This year it will be an online event. Participants will discuss, network and gain professional insights about the Baton Rouge art community. artsbr.org

IMAGES COURTESY LSUMOA

ARTS BEST BETS

OCT. 6-29 Kevin Kline’s “Four on a Susan Worsham’s “Marine, The Baton Rouge Gallery Bike, Piety Street” Hotel near Airport” presents works from painters April Hammock and Jessica STARTING OCT. 22 Sharpe and glass works by Craig McCulLSU Museum of Art unveils a new len. batonrougegallery.org exhibition, “Southbound: Photographs of and about the New OCT. 15 South,” featuring works by 56 phoThe Louisiana Art & Science Museum tographers from the beginning of hosts its first online “Arts After Hours” the 21st century. The show continevent. It will focus on works from artists ues until February 2021. lsumoa.org on display in the current exhibit, “Capital City Contemporary 5: Water.” lasm.org

OCT. 16 Opéra Louisiane presents a virtual production of The Barber of Seville, which was cast entirely through popular vote in an online fantasy draft this summer. operalouisiane.com OCT. 16 The Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra stages an outdoor concert perfect for the Halloween season: Bachtoberfest, conducted by Timothy Muffitt and staged at the Main Library at Goodwood. brso.org STARTING OCT. 21 Baton Rouge Ballet Theatre will share the virtual performance “Midnight Magic,” featuring choreography exploring the spookier side of dance. Tickets provide access to a video link available until Nov. 18. batonrougeballet.org

OCT. 27-NOV. 1 The LSU School of Theatre goes virtual with Samuel Beckett’s absurdist play Happy Days. Find ticket information for this Zoom performance at lsu.edu/cmda/theatre. OCT. 28-31 Get ready for a spooky story! Theatre Baton Rouge presents Vintage Hitchcock, a tale of spies, murder and other themes Alfred Hitchcock was known for. The show, staged via Zoom, is in the style of a 1940s radio broadcast. theatrebr.org Editor’s note: Due to COVID-19, check with the venues for the latest event information.

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225batonrouge.com | [225] October 2020

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C U LT U R E / /

Scary times WHILE HAUNTED HOUSE attractions in other parts of the country might not open this month, Louisiana seems to be itching to get back to the normal holiday routine. The LSU Rural Life Museum and BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo are going forward with fall and Halloween-themed events (see opposite page), area corn mazes are being prepped for visitors, and downtown’s The 13th Gate is ready to scare in new and frightening ways. On any other October evening, the famous attraction would have a line of revelers a block long waiting to get inside its stark-black entrance. “The first thing that we thought about right off the bat was: How do we eliminate that line? Because we don’t want too many people gathering together,” says Dwayne Sanburn, 13th Gate’s owner and creative director. The solution is one Sanburn’s team had already been considering to eliminate long lines: a virtual queue. When guests arrive, they scan a QR code that gives them a time estimate of when to return to the entrance. They’ll then receive automated text messages 10 minutes before their scheduled return time and another when it’s time to get in line.

The concept is similar to what The Mortuary and the Nightmare haunted houses are doing in New Orleans this year, and Sanburn says all the attractions have been brainstorming ideas together on how to deal with COVID-19 restrictions and still provide a fun experience. “Now you have the freedom to go to Pastime or somewhere else to eat downtown, or stay in your car if you want to until you get that text message,” Sanburn says. There’s also the option of hopping across the street to 13th Gate’s sister attraction, Carnevil, the outdoor space with performances and live music that will return with limited events this year. Once inside, much of the interior space reserved for indoor queuing has been eliminated—so the haunted thrills will begin almost immediately. Sanburn says these protocols will stay in place even as the state moves into Phase Three. And on that note, visitors will be required to wear masks or a face covering throughout the attraction—just like the ghoulish characters encountered inside. “We’ve got such an incredible makeup team,” Sanburn says. “They’ve come up with some very unique ways to have face

coverings but still be scary.” As far the new scares this year? Prepare to creep your way through an abandoned asylum during the tour. “All of my actors are excited to return,” Sanburn says. “We’ve got a lot of great talent. And even with the current restrictions, we thought: If we can do it and do it safely, why not? People need some entertainment right now.” The 13th Gate opens for the season Oct. 2, and it continues every weekend until Friday, Nov. 13. 13thgate.com

A spooky character welcomes guests at The 13th Gate.

—BENJAMIN LEGER

FILE PHOTO

How attractions like The 13th Gate are preparing for the Halloween season with COVID-19 still on the brain

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C U LT U R E / /

Country-style The LSU Rural Life Museum and AgCenter’s Botanic Gardens are gearing up for fall events with extra COVID-19 precautions for visitors.

RAEGAN LABAT

RURAL LIFE ALIVE! Check out artisans demonstrating crafts like blacksmithing, candle making, corn shelling and more during outdoor events on Wednesdays and Fridays, Oct. 2 to Nov. 20.

While this photo shows the Halloween Parade in a previous year, the 2020 iteration will have attendees drive by costumed characters and Halloween-themed scenes.

Saving Halloween WHILE 10/31 CONSORTIUM’S Halloween parade is a big part of Baton Rouge’s spooky traditions, organizers decided to cancel the downtown event this year because of COVID-19. With it, the organization’s Fifolet Halloween Festival and other annual philanthropic events have been sidelined. “But that doesn’t mean we still can’t have some fun,” Founder and President Corey Tullier said in a press release. The organization is working on what it calls the “Fifolet Flip Flop,” where families can drive through a route lined with decorations and costumed characters. The festivities will take place Oct. 31, 2-4 p.m., next to Gerry Lane Buick-GMC at 6615 Florida Blvd. While the event is free, each car is asked to provide a non-perishable food donation for the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank. Besides the flip-flopped parade, 10/31 Consortium is hosting a costumed 5K where registered participants can run their own route anytime this month, as well as the Fifolet Cabaret to replace its annual costume ball. Ticket holders will get a link to an online show and dinner delivered to their door by a costumed character. Find out more at 1031consortium.com.

HARVEST DAYS Witness living history demonstrations that would have taken place on Louisiana farms and plantations during harvest time in the early 19th century. Oct. 3, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. CORN MAZE AT BURDEN The Botanic Gardens are converted into a Halloween playground with a maze, hayride, satsuma-picking, animal feeding, a pumpkin patch and more. Tickets are required for two-hour scheduled experiences. Oct. 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31 HAINTS HAUNTS AND HALLOWEEN The Rural Life Museum offers up a day of events for families, including trickor-treating, storytelling, games and more. Oct. 25, 3-6 p.m. ONLINE lsu.edu/rurallife • lsu.edu/botanic-gardens

Merry, not scary Another family-favorite Halloween event, Boo at the Zoo, returns this year with COVID-19 safeguards. BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo will welcome costumed (and masked) kids with plenty of programs, animal encounters and pre-packaged treat bags. The event is Oct. 17, 18, 24 and 25 with regular zoo admission. brzoo.org

—BENJAMIN LEGER

ON VIEW October 22, 2020–February 14, 2021

E FA L L T H E AT R

AMS P RO G R n. e r a . ac t i o

Featuring fifty-six photographers’ visions of the South over the first decades of the twenty-first century. lsumoa.org |

@lsumoa

m lights. ca

Join BREC’s Independence Park Theatre for an exciting Fall filled with virtual and in-person theatre programs. Programs will feature acting classes, a technical theatre academy, creative writing courses, stagecraft and more!

Southbound: Photographs of and about the New South was organized by the Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art at the College of Charleston in Charleston, South Carolina. This program is made possible in part by a grant from the Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge, funded by the East Baton Rouge Parish Mayor-President and Metro Council. Additional support is provided by generous donors to the Annual Exhibition Fund. IMAGES (detail): (top) Susana Raab, Untitled, 2006, From the Migrants in Immokalee series, Immokalee, Florida; (bottom) Susan Worsham, Marine, Hotel near Airport, Richmond, Virginia, 2009, From the By the Grace of God series, Richmond, Virginia

For more info + to register: independenceparktheatre.com

225-216-0660

225batonrouge.com | [225] October 2020

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Issue Date: August Ad proof #2

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‘PROTECT YOUR PUMPKINS’ Baton Rouge General has launched its “Protect Your Pumpkins” campaign for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Although Baton Rougeans will not get to browse its annual pink pumpkin patch this year, they will see little differences around the city to remind ladies to get their mammograms. Specially designed signs will pop up overnight in the yards of Baton Rouge area breast cancer survivors. The hospital says there will also be a surprise photo-op Oct. 1 to accompany the campaign. It says the surprise will be safe, but it won’t divulge specifics until the day of. brgeneral.org

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Issue Date: Oct 2020 Ad proof #1 CALENDAR //

ALSO THIS MONTH ALL MONTH A new hidden gem of Baton Rouge, Beauvoir Park, hosts yoga in the park every Tuesday. It’s bring-yourown-mat, and there’s a $10 entrance fee to help support the instructors. Find the event on Facebook ALL MONTH Open Mic Night at Tin Roof is back! Join the folks at Tin Roof Brewing Co. on the second and fourth Thursday nights of the month for locally brewed talent, along with some locally brewed beer. Find the event on Facebook

all month EAT FRESH Red Stick Farmers Market works hard to bring Baton Rouge the freshest local produce. It is open Thursdays behind Pennington Biomedical Center and Saturdays next to Main Street Market downtown, 8 a.m.-noon. breada.org

ON THE PROWL Ogden Park Prowl takes the best of the arts scene in Baton Rouge and puts it on display for all. Browse some local arts and crafts at the annual Mid City event. Organizers hope to be able to host the outdoor event Oct. 3, though it is subject to change due to the pandemic. ogdenparkprowl.org

OCT. 6 All marines are welcomed to attend breakfast with the Choctaw Detachment, a group that supports past and present marines, in the State Police cafeteria. The event occurs the first Tuesday every month. Fine the event on Facebook OCT. 15 The Louisiana Culinary Institute is putting on a Halloween-themed cookie cake class. Instructor and Chef Jeanne Mancuso will teach students how to create a festive cookie cake with tasty treats on top, such as pumpkin spice macarons, candy and more—perfect for a Halloween party! Find the event on Facebook OCT. 16, 17, 23 + 24 Attend Halloween Hootenannies inperson or online. Hosted by BREC at the Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center, children will learn all about animals in the spookiest ways. brec.org OCT. 24 Circle Bowl and the Spanish Town Ladies Auxiliary will host the 2020 STLA Bowling Tournament & Fundraiser. Participants can enter online solo or as a team. Money raised will go to support the organization and local charities. Find the event on Facebook

ON THE ROAD NEW ORLEANS

FOOD WITH A LITTLE SOUL Soul Food Fest is a little later than usual this year due to pandemic postponements, but it’s sure to be just as fun. Attendees to the downtown food festival can enjoy an array of dishes from soul food vendors, cooking competitions and live entertainment from Henry Turner Jr. and Flavor and many more. The event is free to the public. Find it on Facebook

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11: Tour des Atakapas: Runs & Duathlon of Festival Acadiens et Créole, Find the event on Facebook 31: Run Love Adopt, Find the event on Facebook Editor’s note: Event details are as of press time in mid-September. Please check with the events for the latest information.

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Issue Date: October Ad proof #2

â&#x20AC;¢ Please respond by e-mail or fax with your approval or minor revisions. â&#x20AC;¢ AD WILL RUN AS IS unless revision requests are received within 24 hours. â&#x20AC;¢ Additional revisions must be requested and may be subject to production fees. Carefully check this ad for: CORRECT ADDRESS â&#x20AC;¢ CORRECT PHONE NUMBER â&#x20AC;¢ ANY TYPOS This ad design Â© Louisiana Business, Inc. 2020. All rights reserved. Phone 225-928-1700 â&#x20AC;¢ Fax 225-926-1329

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Issue Date: October 2020 Ad proof #1 WRITE ON //

Generation now work schedules so they can pay for THERE’S A QUOTE I can’t stop school, and make sure they don’t thinking about from my interviews for spread a deadly virus while doing this month’s 225 cover story: so. All while the world around them “I think it’s important we create seems to be crumbling at the hands of a space for a generation of people a global health and economic crisis, who are experiencing this moment extreme weather and political divides. differently.” Two-thirds of students said their To get a parent’s perspective on financial lives have become more creating a safe space for children who stressful during the pandemic, want to be civically engaged, I interaccording to a survey viewed Adonica Duggan. from the American As the executive director College Health of external affairs for New Association and Healthy Schools of Baton Rouge, Minds Network. she champions education It’s no wonder the advocacy at her job. same survey found rates And this summer, she of student depression stood by her daughter, already rising by the end Calla Duggan, to of May, with 40% of stuchampion another cause. dents reporting sympTogether, the mothertoms of depression. daughter duo attended Several months later, Black Lives Matter By Jennifer Tormo I get how some of them protests. Calla is a high might feel helpless, or school sophomore, and like they’re the ones left to clean up Adonica told me she struggled initially grown-ups’ messes. with allowing Calla to participate But if you scroll through social in the first protest following George media—or look at who’s being vocal Floyd’s death. out in the community—one thing She says it was gratifying to see seems clear: They’re not staying quiet. Calla be so vocal about racial injustices They’re not just marching in a protest on her own social media. But she did or participating in calls for change. worry about the possible ramifications They are the ones leading it. of that, and about her child’s safety They don’t just know technology in an environment where she might better than the rest of us, they’ve encounter people who wanted to figured out how to manipulate it for express opposing views aggressively. the greater good. In the end, she felt it was important If you want to see Gen Z’s ingenuity to give Calla an opportunity to find— in another light, spend some time on and exercise—her own voice. TikTok. The youth-dominated social Because as adults, it’s impossible for media platform is full of videos that us to truly understand how the chaos will make you laugh out loud, want to of 2020 might feel to the youngest learn a complicated new dance, and generation. genuinely teach you some cool tricks We ran out of space for Adonica’s or DIYs. The videos are seconds long, words in our 225 cover story (find the but they’re no picnic to make. My full interview at 225batonrouge.com), millennial friends and I are mostly still but her thoughts seemed to echo just trying to learn how to use the app. what’s been on my mind a lot lately. I remember thinking life was so All the college students I know, stressful in high school because I had from family members to interns, have to study hard for AP classes or decide vented to me how stressful school—and who to put in my MySpace top eight. hence, life—feels for them right now. That seems so small when I think Some had in-person classes that about everything today’s kids have to suddenly went virtual during the balance, prepping for their futures in second week of school. Some have said these impossible times—while also trythe change completely altered their ing to save the future for the rest of us. work-school-life balance. Others have I’ll admit I don’t remember a told me they feel abandoned by the lot of what I learned in my school system, and like they are going to have classes. But Baton Rouge will forever to teach more content to themselves. remember the work our local kids are Right now, young people are under doing to fight for change. pressure to get good grades, balance

REACH JENNIFER TORMO AT JENNIFER@225BATONROUGE.COM.

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FRAMED //

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.

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DESIGNED BY '225' STAFF / @225batonrouge GET FEATURED We love collaborating with local photographers, artists and designers for this page! Shoot us an email at editor@225batonrouge.com to chat about being featured.

[225] October 2020 | 225batonrouge.com

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