Baton Rouge Parents Magazine October 2019 by Family Resource Group

O C T O B E R 2 019

T H E M A G A Z I N E T H A T B A T O N R O U G E FA M I L I E S L I V E B Y

VACCINES:

Deadly choices

or your child's

best shot?

WHAM!

How superheroes would parent

BIRTH ORDER and who we become

find your family favorites inside

WAYS

TO HAVE A SPOOKTACULAR

FALL

MCDONALDS Do Not Move

BELLES & BEAUS DO NOT MOVE DO NOT MOVE

KIDS COUNT

PETITE PRINCESS

DO NOT MOVE

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

LIVINGSTON PARISH LIBRARY

ASSOCIATES IN PEDIATRIC AND ADOLESCENT MEDICINE

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

BLOCK LAWN CARE

CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF BATON ROUGE/BLESSED MARGARET OF CASTELLO REACH

DEFY

TRINITY EPISCOPAL DAY SCHOOL

UPPER IOWA UNIVERSITY

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

St Michael the Archangel

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

Lee Magnet High School

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

CONTENTS OCTOBER 2019 ▪ ISSUE 351

FEATURES 28

DOES BIRTH ORDER AFFECT WHO WE BECOME? Debunking the myth of birth order

ON THE COVER

2019-20 Cover Kid Nalon S. is no stranger to being in front of a camera! She has done multiple promotional photo shoots for companies, pageants, and even a video shoot for Baton Rouge Fashion Week. In her spare time, Nalon is all about giving back to those in need. Through raising money and volunteering at the Zachary and Baton Rouge Food Banks, Nalon puts the needs of others first each day. At only 16, Nalon is also a scuba diver, an explorer for Baton Rouge EMS, and part of the new police explorer post, where she has the opportunity to learn about law enforcement.

HOW WOULD THE SUPERHEROES PARENT?

They battle the bad guys, but can they battle a toddler tantrum?

40 VACCINES: DEADLY CHOICES OR YOUR CHILD'S BEST SHOT? From the anti-vaxxer movement to the truth about vaccines

THERE IS HOPE

An inside look at domestic violence

2019 FAMILY FAVORITES

PARENTS, DO YOUR HOMEWORK!

CONNECT

16 COMMUNITY 22 EDUCATION 23 ONE AMAZING KID 26 PATHWAYS TO PARENTING

LIVE

30 LOCAL PROFILE 32 DAD NEXT DOOR 34 EXCEPTIONAL LIVES 36 FAITH

PLAY

86 88 90 92

94 A DAY IN THE LIFE OF DAD LOCAL ACADEMIC GET OUT OF TOWN RESOURCES & SERVICES THINGS WE LOVE MOMS ONLY

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

2019-20 Cover Kid: Jeremiah Jacob F. Photo Credit: Kleinpeter Photography

2019-20 Cover Kid: Evelyn P., Rhys J., Ryder PW. Photo Credit: Kleinpeter Photography

28 DOES BIRTH ORDER AFFECT WHO WE BECOME?

IN EVERY ISSUE

The votes are in! See who you chose as your Favorites this year

Jump to the front of the class with these local sources

12 A MOTHER’S VOICE 14 LAGNIAPPE 96 CALENDAR 107 MARKETPLACE 108 THE LAST WORD 110 SNAPSHOTS

RENN FEST

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

IN EVERY ISSUE FREEBIES T H E M A G A Z I N E T H AT B AT O N R O U G E F A M I L I E S L I V E B Y

Win Freebies!

P U B L I S H E R / E D I TO R I N C H I E F A MY F O R E M A N-P L A I S A N C E A S S O C I AT E P U B L I S H E R BRANDON FOREM AN

Visit brparents.com and click “Register for Freebies.” Deadline to enter is October 25, 2019.

D I R E C TO R O F O P E R AT I O N S A MY L . F O R E M A N E D I TO R I A L M A N A G I N G E D I TO R A M ANDA MILLER S E C T I O N E D I TO R M A R I WA L K E R

Pack a party in your water bottle with the Bluetooth Water Bottle Speaker. Whether you’re tailgating or sitting by the bonfire, this water bottle wirelessly syncs to your phone for 6-10 hours of playtime. ▪ thegrommet.com

C A L E N D A R E D I TO R NANC Y LEBL ANC A R T/ P R O D U C T I O N GR APHIC DESIGNER M E LO DY TA U Z I N GR APHIC DESIGNER L AUREN LEOP OLD C O V E R P H OTO G R A P H E R K L E I N P E T E R P H OTO G R A P H Y A DV E R T I S I N G /M A R K E T I N G ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE K ASSIE WILLIA MS ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE K A R E N M CC U L L E N ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE CHRIS TIE T URNER

Let your crew test their creativity with the My First Sewing Kit. With all the included materials, your child will be able to make adorable stuffed animals and notebook covers. It even comes in a carrying case to keep the sewing essentials together. ▪ alexbrands.com

COMMUNIT Y E VENTS M ANAGER L A U R I E A CO S TA COMMUNIT Y OUTRE ACH ROX ANE VOORHIES

C O N TAC T B R PA R E N T S .CO M E D I TO R I A L @ B R PA R E N T S .CO M C A L E N D A R @ B R PA R E N T S .CO M O F F I C E 2 25-2 92-0 032 FA X 2 25-2 92-0 03 8 11 8 3 1 W E N T L I N G AV EN U E B ATO N R O U G E , L A 70 8 1 6-6 055

Say it with bricks with the StoryBricks Letter Board. This letter board is a great learning tool that encourages your children in math, spelling and reading, using LEGO compatible bricks. The board features magnetic backing, so it’s perfect for the side of the fridge or the filing cabinet. ▪ creativeqt.net

Parenting Media Association Design & Editorial Awards 2019 Gold, Silver, and Bronze Award Winner Social icon

Rounded square Only use blue and/or white. For more details check out our Brand Guidelines.

/brparents

/batonrougeparents

/brparentsmag

/brparents

Last Month’s WINNERS

Look who won September’s Freebies: Breana Batton won the Alio Odor Neutralizing Oil-Free Reed Diffuser; Jordan Leigh won the Ban.dō Wellness Planner; and Lindsay Drake won the iClever Cat-Inspired Headphones.

Reproduction prohibited without permission. The opinions expressed in Baton Rouge Parents Magazine are those of the authors or advertisers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products or services herein. The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject any paid advertisement.

Baton Rouge Parents Magazine is a division of Family Resource Group Inc.

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

WOMANS HOSPITAL DO NOT MOVE

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

IN EVERY ISSUE A MOTHER’S VOICE

It’s Finally Autumn

s we say goodbye to the summer months and sink deeper into fall, I can’t help but feel warmth inside. Fall is, to put it simply, one of my favorite seasons. The changing of the leaves, the crispness of the air and the coming holidays never fail to put a smile on my face. Fall is the best time for families. There’s so much to do and see in our community, and everyone seems to be in good spirits. From touring pumpkin patches, weaving through corn mazes and decorating for the holidays, there’s something fun for every age. One of my favorite traditions was making my children’s Halloween costumes when they were little. They’re much older now, but I still remember spending many hours at my sewing machine putting together their costumes. I was always quite proud of my handiwork, but seeing their smiling faces as they went door-to-door to collect candy had to be my favorite part. And I’ll never forget when they wanted to wear their costumes to bed. I can almost bet that you’ve had a similar experience of your child wanting to wear his costume every day of the week, to school, and even to bed. However you choose to spend your fall, make sure you spend it with your family. Some of my fondest memories are from special moments spent with family at this time of year. This fall, crunch through the leaves, build a scarecrow (if you can!), and indulge in a few sweets with your children. You’ll be happy you did. “Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower.” - Albert Camus

Amy Foreman-Plaisance Publisher/Editor in Chief

Have ideas? I'd like to hear from you.

By mail: Amy P., 11831 Wentling Ave., Baton Rouge, LA 70816 Email: editorial@brparents.com. Be sure to include your name, address, and daytime phone number.

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

Junior League of Baton Rouge

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

IN EVERY ISSUE LAGNIAPPE WEIGHING THE BACKPACK LOAD We had our readers break out the scale and weigh their children’s backpacks this month, and needless to say, the results were surprising! It seems that backpacks are getting heavier and heavier, and a lot of the time, the little scholars who are toting these around are only in third or fourth grade.

BR INTERNATIONAL DO NOT MOVE

The average backpack in Baton Rouge weighs 10.6 pounds!

According to our results, the average backpack being toted around Baton Rouge is 10.6 pounds! That’s a lot of weight for our little ones. The results also show that students in the fifth grade are typically carrying the heaviest load. Laura D. and Leah V. shared that their children’s backpacks are weighing in at a whopping 18.4 pounds and 20 pounds, respectively. That’s a lot of weight on our children’s backs, and it’s important to make sure they’re not injuring themselves as they carry them around. Ochsner Baton Rouge encourages you to follow this rule of thumb: Never load a backpack more than 15

‘‘

percent of the student's total body weight (i.e. for a 100lb. student, this means the fully loaded pack shouldn’t weigh more than 15 lbs.). Ochsner also offers the following tips on ways to lighten the load and properly wear a backpack: ▪

▪

Load heaviest items closest to the student's back (back of pack near shoulder straps), and arrange books and materials so they don’t slide around by using all the compartments. Distribute weight evenly by wearing both straps. Wearing a pack over one shoulder may seem like a cooler trend, but it can cause a student to lean

▪

to one side, curving the spine and causing pain or discomfort for the child. Adjust the shoulder straps so that the backpack fits snugly on the back. The bottom of the pack should rest in the curve of the child's lower back. Encourage your child to pick up his backpack the right way to avoid back injuries; bend at the knees and grab the backpack with both hands when lifting the pack to his shoulders. Determining backpack weight is important, and students should learn when the backpack exceeds the 15 percent rule so they can remove items from the backpack.

Forgive yourself–every minute of the day, every day that would be number one. You always focus on your mistakes as a mom, and you just have to know that you're doing the best you can with what you know." —Viola Davis 14

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

KINDERCARE

ST. JAMES EPISCOPAL DAY SCHOOL

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

CONNECT COMMUNITY TUTU-RIFFIC: BATON ROUGE BALLET OPENS SEASON WITH BALLETX

Baton Rouge Ballet Theatre has teamed up with Manship Theatre to return the edgy and cool BalletX to the Red Stick stage. BalletX, Philadelphia’s premier contemporary ballet company, will bring their works of athleticism, technical precision and grace to push the limits of classical dance. BalletX last performed in Baton Rouge in 2015 to enthusiastic audience response, and now they’re back. Opening BRBT’s 2019-2020 season, “Power and Passion” performances will be Sunday, October 20 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m at the Shaw Center for the Arts. Tickets range from $25-50. ■ manshiptheatre.org

CHECK OUT PARENTINGU: AN OLOL PODCAST

Parents have questions, and Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Health has answers. ParentingU is a podcast from OLOL Children’s Health where doctors and other experts share insights about important topics we all face as parents. The goal is to help parents navigate the amazing journey of parenting . Episode topics so far have included allergies, anxiety, picky eating, concussions, sleeping, divorce and constipation. The podcast is available on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and Stitcher. ■ parentingu.ololchildrens.org

NO KIDS ALLOWED FOR KNOCK KNOCK’S STORYBOOK SOIREE

Have you ever looked around when you’re in the Knock Knock Children’s Museum and wondered what it would be like without kids ... you know, quiet? The museum’s Storybook Soiree will be your chance to find out. On Friday, October 4, from 7 to 11 p.m., the museum will be taken over by grown ups at play with a Wizard of Oz theme. Break out those ruby slippers and lion, tin man, scarecrow or tornado costumes. Tickets start at $150. Proceeds from the event will fund museum operations, including meeting ongoing educational and program needs. ■ knockknockmuseum.org/storybooksoiree

ROSA PARKS, SALLY RIDE HONORED AS BARBIE DOLLS

Barbie’s Inspiring Women series has recently expanded to include dolls in the likeness of civil rights activist Rosa Parks and first American woman in space, Sally Ride. The two dolls join three others in the series: artist Frida Kahlo, aviator Amelia Earhart and NASA mathematician Katherine Johnson. Each doll comes with a stand and certificate of authenticity with packaging that tells each inspiring woman’s story. The series pays tribute to courageous women who paved the way for generations of girls to dream big and hopes to inspire new generations of girls through play. ■ barbie.mattel.com 16

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

EASILY SEND INCLUSIVE LOVE NOTES VIA LUNCHBOX

Slipping a note into your child’s lunchbox is just one great way to send a message of love to your little scholar while he’s in the cafeteria, all you really need is a slip of paper. But, a note written on a treat is even sweeter. Last year, Kellogg’s Rice Krispie Treats launched Love Notes with Braille stickers and re-recordable audio boxes for children who are blind or have low vision. This year, Love Notes has expanded to include children on the autism spectrum. In partnership with Autism Speaks, the new sensory Love Notes include heart-shaped stickers featuring silk, fleece, faux fur, satin and velour. The stickers are free to order online. ■ ricekrispies.com

BABYANDTODDLER ALL FEDERAL BUILDINGS TO PROVIDE NURSING ROOMS

Pumping breastmilk often requires a private and comfortable space, and with the passage of the Fairness for Breastfeeding Mothers Act, all federal buildings will soon be required to designate a lactation room for mothers who need to pump or breastfeed their little one. The private rooms will be open for employees and the public to use, and each room must provide a chair, work surface and an electric outlet for breast pumps. However, some buildings may be excluded from providing a room if they don’t have an existing private space or if the cost is “not feasible.”

PROTECT YOUR EARS WHEN BABY CRIES

Parents-to-be expect crying, and our little ones meet that expectation and then some. But, there is no way to prepare for the agony of inconsolable wails. The pitch and volume of a baby’s cry is designed to get parents’ attention, but shrieking can reach the danger zone for hearing damage if it goes on too long. Parenting pro-tip: noise-canceling headphones. While not a solution to excessive crying–you’ll need your pediatrician’s help solving that one, protecting your ears can help you think in the moment and be the calm parent your teary-eyed tike needs.

POSSIBLY MOMPRENEUR AD?

www.brparents.com

YOUTUBE KIDS CONTENT FILTERS

Sometimes you gotta do what you gotta do, even if that means allowing your children to watch a video or two. YouTube Kids is updating its content filters to allow parents to better manage what children watch on the app by adding a content filter level for younger viewers. Now, the videos are organized by “preschool,” four and under, “younger kids,” five to seven,” and “older kids,” ages 8 to 12. Choose the right level in the app’s content settings before allowing your children to watch.

BATON ROUGE VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

CONNECT COMMUNITY MOMPRENEUR NATION EXPANDS

Entrepreneurship and motherhood are not mutually exclusive. A local group for business owners who are also mothers has rebranded from Baton Rouge Mompreneurs to Mompreneurs Nation. Megan Howard Kelly, founder and CEO, started the group last October for networking and sharing resources, and it quickly doubled in size. “One of my favorite parts of our group is the diversity, particularly in age,” Kelly says. “We have brand new moms and we have grandma-preneurs. We all need each other.” The now national membership group has local tribes in the greater Baton Rouge area, North Shore, Lafayette and Atlanta with other locations in the works. ■ mompreneurnation.com

POP UP LIBRARY OPEN AT METRO AIRPORT

FORMER EMERGE CEO HONORED WITH ANGEL AWARD

Nine people who do extraordinary good for Louisiana’s children will be honored by the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana Foundation at the 25th annual Angel Awards. Melissa Juneau, recently retired CEO of The Emerge Center, is one of the honorees chosen from nearly 200 nominees. Juneau’s $25,000 Angel grant will help The Emerge School as it expands enrollment in a free-standing facility on Emerge’s campus. “This award shines a light on children with autism and other communication challenges,” Juneau says. “My lifelong work and passion has been to provide broad access to innovative interventions to children with autism and other communication challenges and their families as a therapist, community advocate and nonprofit leader.”

The next time you’re flying out of Baton Rouge Metro Airport, be sure to check out the new Pop Up Library, the first to be offered in an airport. East Baton Rouge Parish Library has partnered with Baker & Taylor, a Follet book distribution company, to pilot this new resource for travelers. The Pop Up Library provides free access to e-books, no library card needed, and the 350 fiction and nonfiction titles for readers of all ages are updated monthly. The project’s next phase is to install a kiosk for checking out physical books with a library card. “We are excited to be partnering with the airport and bringing an innovative new service to all of those people on the go,” says Spencer Watts, library director. ■ ebrpl.com

■ bcbslafoundation.org

CAFFEINE OVERLOAD: FREE STARBUCKS REFILLS FOR MEMBERS

Get jittery with this perk from Starbucks. Rewards members are able to get unlimited free refills of brewed coffee (hot, iced or cold brew) and tea (hot or iced) during the same store visit. Buy any drink, and your free refill coffee or tea will be of the same size. Refills aren’t available in the drive thru or if you leave the store, and without a membership, refills are 50 cents. While the promotion isn’t new, it should be honored at Starbucks stores inside Target, scanning the app for each refill. Genius idea: grab a latte on your way into your Target run and a refill iced coffee on your way out. ■ starbucks.com/rewards 18

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

YOUTH SAFETY RISKS WITH KIDS’ SMARTWATCHES

A smartwatch may seem like a safe bridge toward a smartphone for kids, providing a way for parents to stay in contact and monitor location. But some of the GPS-connected gadgets are susceptible to being hacked, meaning parents aren’t the only ones who are location tracking. U.S. consumer groups have warned parents to steer clear of the devices and have asked the government to investigate. ■ commercialfreechildhood.org

GREATER BATON ROUGE STATE FAIR

HOMEWORK MAT TO MAKE STUDYING EASIER

After a long school day of sitting still and listening, the last thing young students want to do when they get home is sit some more. But homework still has to get completed. One solution, from Otis Kriegel, founder of elementary education resource, is the The K5. The K5 is used to create space to do homework using a yoga mat. You can encourage movement while studying since the homework mat is mobile, so studying can happen anywhere in the house. ■ thek5.com

UNIQUE EATING DISORDER THERAPY AT WOMAN’S

Being a picky eater may be a phase, but it could also be an eating disorder that could benefit from therapy. Woman’s Hospital now offers help to overcome such mealtime woes with the sequential oral sensory (SOS) approach to feeding. Therapists work with each individual child to find solutions. “We make food fun, and we experiment within your child’s comfort zone and with food in a relaxed setting, with the ‘just right’ challenge while introducing new foods and textures,” says Tracey Dantin, pediatric therapy supervisor. ■ womans.org/therapy or (225) 924-8450

CALLOWAYS HEALTH AND FITNESS

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

CONNECT COMMUNITY FASHION TO BE ON DISPLAY AT MINI MAKER FAIRE

Want to enjoy a Saturday out with the family that will be full of inspiration and maybe even spark a need to start building together? Check out the work of local makers at the sixth annual Baton Rouge Mini Maker Faire. The free, family-friendly event highlights creative projects, including technology, arts and crafts. Taking place at the East Baton Rouge Parish Main Library on Goodwood on Saturday, October 19 from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m., this year’s event focuses on fashion with the theme, “Stitch, Style, Make.” Your mini makers will be able to enjoy stilt walkers, performances, learn how to repurpose and recycle clothing, and explore the many other wonders. ■ batonrouge.makerfaire.com

WEAR JEANS FOR SAFE SWEET DREAMS

Pull on your favorite denim on Thursday, October 3 for the first ever, “Jean Day for Babies.” The East Baton Rouge Parish Safe Sleep Task Force is raising funds and awareness to improve the sleep environments of babies in our area. Since 2012, more than 60 babies have died in the parish due to unsafe sleep environments, deaths that are preventable. The ABCs of safe sleep for babies are alone, on their backs, in a crib. The task force uses donations to purchase portable cribs for parents in need and educate the community at schools, colleges, community baby showers and Woman’s Hospital’s Baby Grand event. ■ facebook.com/capitolareasafesleepinitiative

TOKENS OF HOPE PROGRAM HELPS HOMELESS MEN

BEIGNET FEST

The best beignets are made at Coffee Call in Baton Rouge, according to Food and Wine magazine, but you may still want to test those findings at the upcoming fourth annual Beignet Festival. The New Orleans event, presented by French Market Coffee on Saturday, October 5 from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m., will include more than 30 different kinds of beignet dishes, live music, a beer garden, artist market and kids village. General admission is $5. Proceeds will go to benefit the Tres Doux Foundation, a nonprofit serving children with autism and related developmental

Once our little passengers can read, seeing homeless people asking for help at stoplights can spark important discussions about those who are less fortunate. Giving money directly may not always feel right, and realistically, most of us don’t usually carry cash anymore. Tokens of Hope, a new program from The Salvation Army of Greater Baton Rouge, is one alternative way to help men experiencing homelessness in our community. For $10, each token pays for two meals, a shower, and one night’s stay at the Center of Hope men’s emergency shelter on Airline Highway. ■ eventbrite.com or (225) 355-4483

differences. ■ beignetfest.com

SHARK DISCOVERY OPENS AT AQUARIUM OF THE AMERICAS

If the thought of petting a shark makes you smile rather than scream, you’ll want to head down I-10 to the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas soon. “Shark Discovery,” a new 13,000-gallon shark and ray touchpool will open Saturday, October 5, with a sneak peek for guests at the aquarium’s annual Scales and Ales fundraiser on Friday, October 4. The $2.9 million habitat spans much of the second floor, and a massive interactive LED screen runs the length of the 60-foot pool. “The habitat will be home to a number of shark and ray species,” says Rich Toth, aquarium vice president and managing director. “This latest experience will give guests the opportunity to interact with marine life and connect to the ocean.” ■ audubonnatureinstitute.org/aquarium 20

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

TWEENANDTEEN GETTING BETTER COMPREHENSION IN PRINT

Reading on a screen has its advantages, allowing students to carry a library of books in just one small device. But convenience may be at the expense of complete comprehension as far as nonfiction informative texts are concerned. A University of North Dakota meta-analysis has found that students of all ages tend to absorb more when they are reading the copy on paper. The benefit was small, but when it comes to hitting the books, every little bit helps. It’s good information to know, especially when it comes to studying for their next big test!

VAPING RISKS FOR TEENS

Smoking will likely never fully lose its status as something the “cool” kids do, but the number of teens starting to smoke is declining. Approximately, 3,200 American teens take their first puff each day, which is still far too many. However, the ones who don’t light up are replacing the cigarettes with e-cigarettes or vaping, which can be equally as dangerous and addictive. The American Heart Association recommends maintaining an open, honest dialogue about the dangers of smoking to help keep young lungs healthy. ■ heart.org

BATON ROUGE BALLET THEATER

BE A LIBRARY OF CONGRESS VIRTUAL VOLUNTEER

Take a deep dive into history and make a contribution to its preservation at the same time. The Library of Congress has a program called By the People, inviting volunteers to help out by transcribing historical documents, making them searchable and more easily read. Recent projects included unpublished works by Walt Whitman and records related to the women’s suffragist movement. Student volunteers may uncover unique research project ideas and would be sure to impress their teachers with virtual volunteering. ■ crowd.loc.gov

ASCENSION PARISH LIBRARY O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

CONNECT EDUCATION ST. MICHAEL OPENS NEW MULTIPURPOSE BUILDING

A new multipurpose building was opened on the St. Michael the Archangel High School campus. During the ribbon cutting ceremony, Bishop Michael G. Duca blessed the 30,000 square-foot facility and conducted the building’s first school-wide Mass. Donors, alumni, and parents were able to tour the fresh space during a special reception. The new structure includes a theater and performing arts space, a band hall and secondary gymnasium. The project is part of a campaign to enhance the school with campus additions. The next phase of the campaign will add a football field and track to campus.

ROBOTS RUMBLE AT DENHAM SPRINGS

Twenty robotics teams from Louisiana, Texas and Mississippi faced off at the Dow Red Stick Rumble at Denham Springs High School. More than 500 high school students showed off their skills as their robots, each weighing more than 135 pounds, competed against each other. The teams had six weeks to build their robots with some mentoring and coaching. The competition was an offseason FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics Competition and Festival sponsored by Dow Chemical and the Livingston Parish School System. Teams Prometheus, Spectrum and Ramageddon, from Houston, Mandeville and Lafayette, came out on top. This was the annual competition’s first year in its new location, which highlighted the new Denham Springs High School STEM and Robotics Center.

CRISTO REY STUDENTS DRAFTED FOR WORK STUDY JOBS

Get a job or stay in high school? Students at Cristo Rey Baton Rouge Franciscan High School can do both thanks to their unique corporate work study program. Students learned where they would work for the upcoming year at the fourth annual Draft Day, which included a keynote address from Paul Mainieri, LSU’s head baseball coach. Carissa Graves, vice president of community engagement, says, “Draft Day celebrates the unique and amazing opportunity our students have to join highly respected companies in our city as members of their team.” Four students share one full-time, entry-level job, rotating schedules to each work five full days per month. The relevant, real-world work experience also allows students to earn a portion of their tuition. 22

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

KENILWORTH MIDDLE SCHOOL GETS AN UPGRADE

A $300,000 summertime renovation has spruced up the 46-year-old Kenilworth Science and Technology School. Freshly painted classrooms, new security doors and updated bathrooms welcomed students, faculty and staff this year. Although the East Baton Rouge Parish school system maintains the building, Pelican Education Foundation, which runs the charter school, paid for the improvements. The building wasn’t the only thing upgraded this year. Starting this semester, Kenilworth middle school students can take elective courses for high school credit, including English, foreign language, art, computer application skills, computer coding and algebra I. Current sixth graders could complete up to four of the 24 credits needed for high school graduation before becoming freshmen.

At age seven, Emma Edmonds is already an accomplished gymnast. The second grader at Bethany Christian School is passionate about the sport and competing with her Pristine Performance Academy team. “She started when she was four years old,” says Stephanie Edmonds, Emma’s mom. “She started riding her bicycle when she was three without training wheels, so we just knew she had a great sense of balance. We decided to see what piqued her interest.” Gymnastics definitely did, and Emma puts in the work to improve. She spends nine hours in the gym each week. The hard work pays off, and Emma’s team has won several gold medals. At a state meet earlier this year, Emma earned first place in floor and uneven bars, which is her favorite event. Her overall meet score for the competition was 39.075. Emma is also a top scholar at her school, finishing last year with a 4.12 GPA. She was even the AR star winner in her class for each nine weeks. “She has a love of reading and a competitive drive. I think the competitive drive we see in gymnastics, we also see in school,” Stephanie says. “Whenever there is any type of competition, Emma is always going to rise to the occasion.” Emma’s dad, Zach Edmonds, is a worship pastor at Bethany Church, and Emma is involved in church activities as much as possible. She also loves being a big sister to her five-year-old brother, Graham. Whether perfecting her dismount or kicking back with a good book, Emma is certainly one amazing kid. ■

MOST BLESSED SACRAMENT

PARTY TIME

DO YOU HAVE ONE AMAZING KID? Email education@brparents.com. O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

CONNECT EDUCATION ASCENSION SCHOOLS BREAK GROUND ON BLUFF RIDGE

Ground was officially broken on the third of four new schools that are being built in Ascension Parish as part of a $120 million construction bond passed in 2016. Over the last 10 years, the district has averaged an additional 356 students each year. Named for the unique topography where the school is being built, Bluff Ridge Primary will sit on one of the highest points in the parish. The $15.2 million, 82,000 square-foot school was designed by Domain Architecture and will be built by Stuart & Company General Contractors. Construction is expected to take 14 months.

PARKVIEW BULAHBOTS WIN BEACH BOT BATTLE

NEW FIELD TRIP OPTIONS AT LASM A trip to the Louisiana Art & Science Museum is practically a right of passage for students. The museum has released its 2019-20 guide to field trip programs for students PreK through 12th grade. Options include hands-on classes, planetarium shows, interactive theater, and guided gallery tours and exploration. Programs address curriculum requirements and help students build connections and achieve deeper learning of science,

Competition is fierce each year at the Beach Bot Battle in Gulfport, Miss. This year, 25 teams competed at the event hosted by Gulfport High School’s Team Fusion and sponsored by Mississippi Power. Parkview Baptist School’s robotics team, The BulahBots, did something they’d never done before: faced themselves in the semi-finals. The off season event allowed the team to build and compete with a second robot. H1N1 and Inigo Montoya, the two Parkview robots, went to three rounds, with H1N1 coming out on top on its way to the finals. The BulahBots won the Beach Battle in alliance with Team Chaos from Picayune, Miss., and Team Combustion from Slidell. ■ bulahbots.com

technology, engineering, art and math. “When students understand the relevance of STEAM in their everyday lives, their perspective changes and they see new possibilities open up to them,” says Nita Mitchell, LASM director of education. “Many of our programs blend principles of art and science to reinforce what students are learning in the classroom.” ■ lasm.org

BOX TOPS FOR EDUCATION GOES DIGITAL

Earning cash for your school by buying cereal and other groceries will no longer require scissors and remembering to send in the clipped icons. After 23 years, the Box Tops for Education program is going digital, and racking up the coins will only require your smartphone. After downloading the app and connecting to a school, users scan receipts within 14 days of purchase to have the Box Tops credited to the school account. Don’t toss your scissors just yet! Some products still have the old clippable logo, allowing for (approved) double dipping while the program moves into the digital world. There’s a list of participating products and links to download the app at boxtops4education.com.

EBR OPENS FUTURISTIC PARK ELEMENTARY

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

The grand opening of the new 78,000-square-foot Park Elementary School included a ribbon cutting, tour and reception. Funded by a tax renewal, the futuristic school cost $20.4 million and is the second school in the East Baton Rouge Parish system to incorporate 21st century learning design elements. The school includes color-coded, grade-level pods; fine arts classrooms; two science labs; and an outdoor learning space complete with a cistern shaped like the Mississippi River. “This new building reinforces our vision statement of being a model of excellence where all students experience a dynamic and engaging environment of high expectations that fosters independent, confident and self-motivated learners,” says Stephanie Tate, Park Elementary principal.

U-HIGH FIFTH GRADERS ENGINEER PARACHUTES

It’s full STEAM ahead for students at the University Lab School. As part of the school’s emphasis on science, technology, engineering, art and math, students in Rebecca Svensson’s fifth-grade science classes tested their knowledge of the engineering design process with a parachute challenge. Students researched, brainstormed, planned and created prototypes to design a parachute that could land a cargo load. Working in groups, they had to ensure the parachute didn’t fall apart on the way down and landed safely. On challenge day, students dropped their parachutes from their classroom’s second story window, recorded their observations, graphed their data and discussed possible improvements for their prototypes.

MAGNOLIA PEDIATRICS

RUNNELS THIRD GRADERS LEARN TO CODE WITH ROBOTS

Robots aren’t only for high schoolers to compete with. Runnels Elementary School students in Candace Ortlieb’s third-grade science classes are using a fleet of Ozobots, pint-sized robots, to learn how to program. Ozobots have light sensors that allow their actions to be directed, and the tiny toy robots follow patterns on surfaces drawn with special red, blue, green and black markers. “This is a gateway program to help students learn about basic coding,” Ortlieb says. Later in the school year, students will use Ozobots’ code editor, OzoBlockly, to learn more about computer programming.

KYLER ORTHODONTICS

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

Photo Credit: Freepix.com

CONNECT PATHWAYS TO PARENTING

ALZHEIMER SERVICES OF THE CAPITAL AREA

Understanding Celiac Disease

pset tummies happen to everyone, but when your gastrointestinal distress is ongoing, you will need to look farther than the pharmacy’s antacid aisle for some relief. Chronic symptoms such as diarrhea, gas, abdominal pain and bloating can be caused by many things, including celiac disease. Celiac also can cause fatigue and brain fog. It’s a genetic autoimmune disease in which ingestion of gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye and barley, leads to damage in the small intestine. The only treatment for celiac is a completely gluten-free diet. Although it may seem like a good idea to give that a try if you have ongoing stomach issues, it’s important to see a doctor first and have a true diagnosis. “A lot of people self-diagnose (celiac), which we would highly recommend against,” says J. Carter Balart, MD, a gastroenterologist at The Baton Rouge Clinic. “If you think you have celiac, you definitely want to get tested.” The diagnostic process begins with a simple blood test, and if positive, your doctor would perform an upper endoscopy to confirm. Dr. Balart says it’s not uncommon for other gastrointestinal problems to respond to a gluten-free diet. “You may feel better if you’re just eating better food,” he says. But eating gluten-free before being tested for celiac can make the test inaccurate. Eating gluten-free is also much more expensive, and it’s important to know if you really have celiac to address long-term issues. Without treatment, celiac can lead to serious complications such as anemia, osteoporosis, and higher risks of developing heart disease and intestinal cancer. The Celiac Foundation estimates that as many as one in every 100 people worldwide have celiac, and 2.5 million Americans are undiagnosed. Eating a truly gluten-free diet is difficult even in our society that advertises glutenfree food at every other restaurant. Dr. Balart recommends exercising caution and avoid a false sense of security. “If a gluten-free crust is prepared on the same surface as regular dough, that’s all it takes to get some gluten exposure,” he says. “If you have celiac and are eating out, be very careful of exposure to gluten.” Although there’s no way to avoid developing celiac, if you suspect that you might have it, Dr. Balart says the best thing to do is see your doctor. ■

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

EAST BATON ROUGE PARISH OFFICE OF MAGNET PROGRAMS

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

Does Birth Order Affect Who We Become? By Sandi Schwartz

Cover Kid 2019-20 Evelyn P., Rhys J., Ryder PW. Photo Credit: Kleinpeter Photographing

My son (the firstborn) is reserved, a perfectionist, and follows directions to a tee. My daughter (the youngest) is outgoing, fearless, and thinks the world is her stage. However, my son came home from overnight camp with the news that he was voted in as president of his division. My daughter, the social animal, can also spend hours in her room quietly enthralled in a book. How is it possible for them to have such diverseâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;almost contradictoryâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;personality traits given their birth order? More importantly, is our view of birth order valid or just a myth passed down through generations? 28

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

Most of us are familiar with the assumptions about birth order. Firstborns are typically described as high achieving perfectionists who are cautious, controlling, reliable, and conscientious. Middle children are the peacemakers in the group who often get lost in the shuffle. They tend to struggle to define their own unique identity, and they are typically people pleasers with a large circle of friends. Youngest children are fearless, attention-seeking, carefree, and even a bit self-centered and lazy. Yet, they are also charming and well-liked with a flourishing social life. Finally, only children are seen as mature, resourceful, and independent. However, many consider them to be self-absorbed and spoiled, and sometimes unable to get along with others. The Birth Order Influence Scientists have been trying to figure out the influence of birth order for over a century. Several psychologists over the years wrote about differences in siblings based on birth order, causing these ideas to become ingrained in our culture. But now, several in-depth studies are challenging their legitimacy. In 2015, a social psychologist at the University of Houston studied 370,000 high school students and concluded that birth order does not influence the Big Five broad personality traits, including openness, conscientiousness, extroversion, agreeableness, and neuroticism. Another 2015 study that assessed birth order for 20,000 people in the United States, Germany, and Great Britain found that it did not alter any of the Big Five. A follow-up study in 2017 on more specific characteristics published by the same researcher did not find any effect of birth order, either. Finally, a study published this past March in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences indicated that birth order does not influence whether someone takes risks in adulthood. The only characteristic that researchers found based on birth order

is that firstborns, on average, have a slightly higher IQ than their younger siblings, and they tend to earn higher academic degrees. Experts believe that this is linked to the amount of time and effort that new parents invest in their first child’s daily education before additional siblings come along. So, it has much more to do with parenting skills than actual birth order. This is good news because it means that children do not have to succumb to certain expectations in life based on when they arrive in their family. There are so many other factors that play a role in children’s personality and success, including gender; size of family; who raises them; friends and community; other biological influences like genes, illness, and physical traits; their innate temperament; and life experiences.

mold when it comes to birth order. I know a pair of brothers in which the older one struggles with his career and still relies on his parents in his forties. He even lives a few blocks from them. Yet, his younger brother is completely different. He’s a successful accountant who has three kids and lives several hours away from their parents. What Parents Can Do At the end of the day, it’s not the position in the family that impacts who our children become but how we raise them, how others treat them, how they view themselves, and their experiences throughout life. Nobody is locked into a certain fate based on birth order. According to Andrea Palmer, Licensed Professional Counselor at Baton Rouge Counseling Associates, “It is important to remember that each child is an individual. Do not put them in a box based on birth order. If they fit a traditional stereotype, this may give you a guide to best parent your child, but do not be surprised if they show traits that are outside of that birth order as well. Parent the individual child and do your best to enjoy his or her personality unfolding without expectation.”

“It is important to remember that each child is an individual.” Another important factor to consider is age. Scientists caution that parents tend to confuse birth order and age. Some personality characteristics that we assume are based on a child’s birth order may have more to do with age. Being conscientious, for example, increases during adolescence into adulthood. So, you may think your youngest child is unfocused and that he is always breaking the rules compared to your oldest child, but in 15 years, that same child could be very conscientious. It is possible that your family may fit the birth order stereotypes. Sybil Jones, a blogger and mom of three, explains, “I have tween and teen girls. Our firstborn fits the high achiever stereotype and always sets goals. Our middle child is our nurturing peacemaker. She is content with being alone and doing her own thing like reading and studying. Our youngest is confident in herself and doesn’t mince her words one bit.” Yet, there are just as many examples of families who do not fit the expected

Here are some additional tips to ensure that the birth order myth does not hinder your children’s future: ▪ Spend quality time with each child individually. ▪ Avoid playing into the birth order myth by expecting them to act like the stereotypes and saying things like “He is a typical first child” or “The forgotten middle child is a real thing.” ▪ Keep the line of communication open so that children can express their emotions. ▪ Keep rules consistent. If you give your oldest child a cell phone at age 12, do the same for the other children when they turn that age. ▪ Encourage your children to work out their own conflicts. ■

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

LIVE LOCAL PROFILE

The Big Buddy Program

‘cause everybody needs someone to look up to By Madeline Rathle

orty years ago, an LSU psychology class started a class project after their teacher decided they should have an off-campus mentoring experience. The students partnered with a local woman who was running a daycare center in her home, and when the class ended, the students decided to continue working with the kids. As the mentoring group began to grow, Jim Geiser decided he wanted to make it a formal organization and became the first executive director of what is now known as Big Buddy. Big Buddy’s mission, says current executive director Gaylynne Mack, is to form relationships between adults and young people that will help to inspire them and advance them into successful 30

members of the community. Currently, Big Buddy serves 500 young people per day. The organization does so in three ways: one-on-one mentoring, after school programs, and workforce development. For one-on-one mentoring, Big Buddy pairs a child, who is at least in the third grade and younger than 18, with an adult mentor. The mentors act as a role model to the mentees, guiding them to make positive choices and to develop career and life skills as they reach adulthood. “We want to establish that mentoring is a powerful tool to fight the negativity that happens in our community,” says Mack. “When we talk about risk factors and ‘blockages’ to community growth, we look at crime, lack of education, and poverty. When you, as an adult, can reach

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

back and help someone else, it breaks not only the cycle of failure but helps you become a better citizen.” Big Buddy hosts afterschool programs in Baton Rouge schools. The organization finds lowperforming schools or schools with a high population of low-income students and implements enrichment activities. Students participate in things like student government, drama classes, and STEM, all of which is funded through grants. For older students, Big Buddy offers workforce development through Level Up. Students are paired with a mentor in their potential field of interest, and the mentors train the students over an eight week period. Mack says mentoring is not just for the children in the community. Both mentor and mentee get something positive out of the relationship, which is how communities change. Mack loves to see previous mentees come back to serve as mentors with Big Buddy. “We have several legacies, or people who grew up in the program, who have gone on to get degrees and come back to tell their stories,” says Mack. “I couldn’t say then what a big impact it was having, but now, seeing the kids I worked with, I see them with their own families and they all have successes they can trace back to Big Buddy.” Mack explains that one of the most challenging aspects of her job is continuously convincing people in the public that taking care of young people is the way to have a better community. “If we understood the importance of our youth, we wouldn’t have to work so hard to keep Big Buddy funded,” she says. “If we don’t take care of them, we won’t reach success.” ■

GORDON MCKERNAN INJURY ATTORNEYS

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

LIVE DAD NEXT DOOR

Travis Broussard By Amanda Miller

OCCUPATION ▪ VP of Business Development & Marketing at the Alliance Safety Council WIFE ▪ Summer CHILDREN ▪ Brilee, 17; Brady, 12; Brennan, 10; Brycen, 5; and Braxton, 4 HOBBIES ▪ Camping, rafting, and anything outdoors Filled with fun stories and jokes that will have you laughing, Travis Broussard is not only a wonderful friend to all, but he’s an incredible father to his five children. Travis takes the “all in” approach to life, making sure that when he is with family, he is 100 percent with his wife and kiddos–no phones, no distractions. He adores his time with his family, whether they’re spending time on the ball field, making s’mores in the backyard, or taking family trips together that they will all remember for a lifetime. Tell me about your children. T: Brilee is amazing. She’s a fantastic athlete and just received a scholarship to play softball. She has such a big heart. She’s goofy and loving life. Brady is a soccer player, but he’s also our artist. He draws, plays guitar, and he’s always telling jokes. Brennan is competitive. He’s a great athlete, and everything he does, he puts everything into it. He’s also a math whiz. Brycen is the funniest kid I have ever met. He does magic tricks, loves his hair, and he plays baseball. He’s a bit of a showboat whenever he scores. Braxton is extra cute. He’s full of energy, sweet and tenderhearted. He definitely gives us a run for our money. What do you like to do together as a family? T: We’re always at a game or on a field, whether we’re watching LSU or the Saints or eating wings. We’re always with family. We also have a place that is great for entertaining. We make s’mores in the backyard, and we go on camping trips. 32

Photo Credit: J & A P h oto gr a p hy, L LC

What’s the greatest thing about being a dad? T: It’s amazing to stop and watch them and realize, “We made that!” You get to see them become their own person with their own goals and ambitions. It’s so rewarding. How has parenthood changed you? T: It has changed everything for me. I’m not sure you fully become whole until you have kids. You very seldom think about yourself now. You’re more compassionate and empathetic. I was a complete mess before my wife and children.

I’m a fun dad. My wife keeps everything in order. I’m known to create chaos and she always calms them down. What do you love most about your job? T: The people and the organization. It was a 60 year start up, and we care about the worker. We work to make sure that they can go to work and go home to their families.

What did you have as a child that kids today don’t have? T: Dial-up Internet and having to run cords to download music from Napster. They have no idea what they have now.

How do you find the balance between work and family time? T: There’s a lot of talk about balance, and honestly, you can’t balance; you just have to be all in. It’s all about presence. If you’re at work, you have to be 100 percent at work. If you’re at home, you have to put the phone away and be at the dinner table with your family.

What kind of dad are you? T: I’d like to think I am a loving and caring father. My faith helps me to put things into perspective.

What advice do you often give your kids? T: I always talk to them about not being afraid. I’m always pushing them to take chances,

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

encouraging them to go and try new things. Life is what you make it. What is the best parenting advice you have ever received? T: My mom and dad did a good job of allowing us to be who we are. They let me know that they were here for me, they would pick me up when I fell, but they wanted me to make decisions. What do you do to take care of yourself? T: I decided that I was going to make big changes this year. I’ve started exercising and journaling. I’ve been writing down things that are racing through my head at night, and it has helped. It’s like, “I hear you, I got it down.” What was your first job? T: I worked at a car wash. I was 14 years old, washing all the cool cars and trucks, and I just remember taking so much pride in my work. I loved seeing their faces after. I knew then I wanted to be in the service business. Which family member has been your greatest role model in life? T: My grandfather. I always respected him. He gives the greatest advice. I remember watching him love my grandmother so much. When she got sick, he took care of her and did all of the cooking and cleaning. He challenged me to be a better man, father, and husband.

Lake After Hours Urgent Care/Platform Media

Do you have any advice for other parents? T: The biggest advice is you’re not alone. We all feel like our lives are the busiest, our kids are the craziest, we’re always behind...but you’re not. Everyone is in it. Take time to get together with other couples, reach for help, and you’ll see you’re not alone. ■

Q&A

The parenting item I couldn’t live without…Alexa. In my fridge, you will always find… milk. We go through eight gallons a week. Favorite movie growing up…The Goonies. My guilty pleasure is…Oreos. Music I’m loving…a lot of Christian artists, especially Zach Williams. I feel my best when I…take time to read my Bible and pray. My favorite television show is... Everybody Loves Raymond. My favorite ice cream is... Moose Tracks.

LES Federal Credit Union O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

LIVE EXCEPTIONAL LIVES

MY LIFE: AFTER ATTEMPTING SUICIDE

How practical realm of day-to-day living transforms your perceptions By Mari Walker

EMMA BENOIT is ascending. The 19 year old graduated from Dutchtown High School in 2018, but the summer before her senior year was when her life changed forever. “I was 16 and dealing with a lot of depression and a lot of anxiety, but I didn’t know what those things were,” Benoit says. “I was so confused about the way I was feeling.” Life felt too much to bear, and on June 7, 2017, Benoit shot herself in the chest. “By the grace of God, I’m still here,” Benoit says of surviving suicide. The gunshot wound left her with a spinal cord injury. Initially paralyzed 34

from the chest down, Benoit has regained her ability to walk. “Slowly but surely by working with rehab and physical therapy and doing things around the house, things started to come back,” Benoit remembers. “Every day since that day, I’ve gotten stronger and gained more function.” Benoit also regained the ability to drive. “That was a big milestone, getting back behind the wheel and learning how to adapt to my new disability with driving,” she says. “I drive with my hands and feet just like you. That’s a blessing.” In addition to her physical recovery, the Geismar resident has also worked hard to improve her mental health, and she is always willing to share her journey with others.

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

“I live in a small community, everyone knows everyone kind of thing,” Benoit says. “There was lots of speculation and rumors and not much truth being told about what happened. I wanted people to always know the truth.” Although it was hard to be public with her pain, Benoit says writing her blog, Life Rejuvenated, is worth it. “It takes a lot to be vulnerable, and I just went ahead and did it. Best decision I ever made.” Through her website, she was approached by Greg Dicherry about making a documentary. The result, My Ascension, is in post-production and will be released in 2020. The film’s title plays on the various ways in which Benoit is ascending, from the pain and darkness that led to her suicide attempt to physically ascending from her wheelchair as she recovers. It also nods to the Louisiana parish in which Benoit lives. “The entire parish was affected by what happened,” she says. “The film shows how much one single person’s life can affect so many others.” Benoit’s survival impacted her spiritually and she’s joined Healing Place Church. “My faith was born through this,” she says. “I was truly saved, and it’s definitely been a journey with my faith.” This fall, Benoit began online classes at Baton Rouge Community College, which she balances with ongoing physical and occupational therapy. Benoit says she’s adjusted her outlook to stay in the moment to avoid anxiety about the future. “Being in the present and figuring out a game plan for my life right now is what I need to focus on for my mental health,” Benoit says. “I think about the now and live in the now.” If you’re considering harming yourself, call the National Suicide Hotline at (800) 273-8255, or text HELLO to the Crisis Text Line at 741741. Both are free, available 24/7, and confidential. ■

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

LIVE FAITH

BREC Everybody Needs Jesus and Counseling

By David Orges, Executive Pastor at Live Oak United Methodist Church

ou’ve heard the axiom, “Never talk about religion or politics.” I think it’s become, “Never talk about religion, politics, or mental health.” I often tell people, “We’re all crazy. Everybody needs Jesus and counseling.” Too many people have been led to believe that it’s shameful to talk about mental health in church. And, heaven forbid a therapist bring up faith in the counseling room! When I was 16, I bought my first car, a used ’88 Buick Skylark. It was a piece of junk. The paint was oxidized, the interior was stained, and the engine needed work, but it had cold A/C. I spent hours working on the exterior, interior, and the powertrain. In order for my baby to be right, everything had to be addressed. It’s easy to see that with a car. Why is it difficult when it comes to ourselves? Many struggle to reconcile faith and mental health. They’re often seen as being opposed to one another. But is that true? Dr. Gerald Corey said, “There is growing empirical evidence that our spiritual values and behaviors can promote physical and psychological well-being. Exploring these values with clients can be integrated with other therapeutic tools to enhance the therapy process.” If we have the courage to move past our socially conditioned mindset that faith and mental health are at odds, we’ll have no problem seeing that they are intertwined. If the exterior and interior of a vehicle look fantastic, but the engine is shot, do you have a “healthy” vehicle? Of course not. It’s the same for a neglected interior. If any aspect is in poor condition, the whole is lacking. Faith and mental health work together to strengthen the whole person. We must ask ourselves how we will treat the relationship between the two. Will we stash the stigma? Pray with your pastor. Read the scriptures. Talk to your therapist. Use the tools God has provided to work together for your good and His Glory. ■ 36

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

Advanced Eye Center

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

HOW WOULD THE

SUPERHEROES

PARENT? By Lydia Rueger

Marvel superheroes dominated in the box office this summer. And sure, they can battle a bunch of baddies, but could they actually survive an epic toddler tantrum? We eventually began to wonder how some of our favorite heroes would fare if given another super power–parenting skills. Here’s how we imagine their maternal and paternal instincts might unfold.

Iron Man Iron Man’s house is where all the kids want to hang out. Tony Stark is always ushering his kids and their friends into his lab or office saying nonchalantly, “Hey, check this out,” while proceeding to let them try out the latest gadget he’s invented. Sometimes, the kids are resentful because their friends want to hang out with their dad more than them. But, thanks to help from Dad, they’ve won every science fair and STEM competition they’ve ever entered. The Stark kids are polite and charming, but they have to hide the fact that they are usually bored at their friends’ houses. As his kids get older, Tony strongly advises them to not reveal too much too soon to their 38

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

girlfriends or boyfriends, but secretly

always calls back, even if it’s a three-

“Know your triggers.” There’s always

celebrates when his kids are popular.

word answer. He’s strict about the

a Zones of Regulation chart posted

He’s been known to buy his kids out

shows his kids watch on TV, deeming

on the refrigerator. When the Banner

of trouble, and it usually works.

almost everything inappropriate for a

kids ask to play football or soccer,

wide range of reasons.

Bruce always suggests yoga or

Black Widow

coding club. The Banner kids love

Black Widow, aka Natasha Romanoff,

Scarlet Witch

is the mom who always gives her kids

Scarlet Witch, or Wanda Maximoff,

homework–and he can always help–

second, third, and fourth chances, no

teaches her kids that family is

but when dad loses patience with

matter what they do, and encourages

everything, and most of their

them, they make themselves scarce

them to do the same for their friends,

weekend activities revolve around

pretty quickly. Kids at school always

because, “You never know what they

what their cousins are doing.

wonder why the Banners never invite

might be going through,” she says.

Wanda maintains that nobody quite

anyone over–after all, they seem so

Meanwhile, she’s the first to look

understands all your quirks and

great, and they have all that land! It’s

through all her kids’ texts and social

beliefs like your family. As her kids

a generally happy home, if you learn

media accounts when they go to

get older, she makes them feel guilty

to walk on eggshells.

bed at night. She welcomes her kids’

when they don’t show up for family

new friends, but she always Googles

plans to hang out with their friends.

Captain Marvel

their families before they come over.

Never quite satisfied with the schools

Captain Marvel, or Carol Danvers,

She has a heart to help others and

her children attend, she insists

always tells her kids they can

takes in multiple foster children.

they’re not appropriately challenged,

achieve more than they think they

When her kids show an interest in

and is always researching different

can. Carol doesn’t have patience for

researching their family’s genealogy,

charter, magnet, and private schools.

kids’ excuses like, “It’s too hard,”

Natasha suggests they do something

She’s quiet, so the other moms at

no matter what the challenge, and

more productive, like enroll in a self-

school overlook or underestimate her,

always tells them to keep trying.

defense class.

but they’re surprised when the school

She’s very successful in her career

fundraiser she coordinates turns out

as a professor while also being

to be the most successful of all time.

a mom who her kids look up to.

Captain America Captain America constantly talks to

it when dad helps them with their

Many moms are jealous of her and

his kids about hard work and respect,

Hulk

and they do respect him because he

Hulk and his family live in a quiet

kids know, though, that she can be

practices what he preaches. Steve

mountain community at the end of a

incredibly forgetful when it comes to

Rogers can often be seen training

winding gravel driveway, surrounded

remembering things like lunch and

alongside his kids for whatever

by acres of open space. Dr. Bruce

school programs. They learned a

sport they are in, and they are never

Banner teaches his kids from a

long time ago that Mom would never

late for practice or games. He’s

very young age the importance of

be the one to give them reminders

the most encouraging dad on the

developing coping skills to control

about the little things. She cautions

sidelines, and he has little tolerance

their emotions. He’s always coaching

her kids that their classmates might

for other parents who curse or spew

his kids to do things like, “Sniff the

not be exactly who they seem, and to

negativity. When his kids text him, he

flower, blow the dandelion,” and

be careful who you trust. ■

wonder how she does it all. Her

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

VACCINES:

DEADLY CHOICES OR YOUR CHILD'S BEST SHOT?

By Jannean Dixon, M.Ed. WHAT ARE VACCINES? The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’s (HHS) website reads, “A vaccine is made from very small amounts of weak or dead germs that can cause diseases–for example, viruses, bacteria, or toxins. It prepares your body to fight the disease faster and more effectively so you won’t get sick.” According to HHS, vaccines are tested for years before the vaccines are distributed to the public. WHY DO PARENTS VACCINATE? “Vaccines are the best way to protect your child against a number 40

On the back of the exam room door in our pediatrician’s office, there is a detailed vaccination schedule. I do not have this schedule memorized, but I don’t need to–our eight year old has committed it to memory. She will happily tell anyone who might be interested that she does not have to have a shot until she is 11. However, knowing the schedule is crucial, and having open conversations with your child’s pediatrician about vaccines is always important in order to stay informed.

of illnesses, including measles, whooping cough (pertussis) and mumps, all of which have made a comeback in recent years due to a drop in vaccination rates. Other vaccinepreventable illnesses include tetanus, diphtheria, varicella (chickenpox), rubella, hepatitis B, polio and meningococcal meningitis,” shares Dr. Dawn Marcelle, pediatrician and director in the Capitol Area for the Office of Public Health. Parents vaccinate because vaccines are the most effective way

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

to guard against grave and deadly illnesses. One example of life-saving vaccination is the measles vaccine. Since global vaccinations began for measles, the death toll from the disease has fallen 79 percent, according to PublicHealth.org. Additionally, the rotavirus vaccination alone, which was added to the slate of childhood vaccinations in 2006, is estimated to prevent 40,000-60,000 hospitalizations yearly.

WHY DON’T SOME PARENTS VACCINATE? An important difference to understand is that some parents simply cannot vaccinate their children due to severe, and sometimes deadly, reactions to vaccinations, and some parents are a part of the anti-vaxxer movement. A fairly recent and somewhat controversial term “anti-vaxxers” refers to a group of parents who intentionally withhold vaccines from their children because of the belief that vaccines cause autism, brain damage, and other disorders, whether or not they have attempted to vaccinate their children. Local mom Patrica Goode (the name changed as she and her family have received threats due to their decision to intentionally withhold vaccinations from their child), shares some of her family’s story. “We stopped vaccinating when Annie was five. She almost died from them. She was hospitalized five times in 15 months, after receiving every set of vaccines. I personally gave her CPR three times. She is still recovering from her injuries more than five years later. She is healthy and wise and a fighter. Her pediatrician fired us when I questioned her that it could be the vaccines. Her new pediatrician, however, agrees that it was the vaccines, and we now have a medical exemption. Some states, are doing away with all exemptions. I loathe the term anti-vaxxer, because we did vaccinate. She was injured and now we fight every day to have rights and be recognized.” It is a fact that some children cannot be vaccinated. Dr. Marcelle urges, “Keep in mind that some children can’t be vaccinated, such as those with weakened immune systems due to an illness or medical treatment. The best protection for these children is for everyone around them to be vaccinated–that includes parents, grandparents, siblings, aunts, uncles and all caregivers.” Gaining protection by everyone around the child receiving vaccinations is referred to as the “herd effect.”

MYTHS & TRUTHS Dr. Marcelle’s Vaccination Myth Busters “There’s a lot of myths circulating out there around vaccines, especially on the Internet,” shares Dr. Marcelle. “Unfortunately, a lot of parents have fallen victim to their falsehoods, and believing vaccines to be dangerous or ineffective, have chosen to delay or withhold vaccines entirely for their children. Let’s look at a few of the myths that pop up most frequently.” MYTH: Vaccines cause autism. TRUTH: This myth has been thoroughly debunked by the medical community. The study linking autism to vaccines was completely discredited by the medical community due to major procedural errors in the study, undisclosed financial conflicts of interest, and even ethical violations. It was retracted from the journal it was published in and its author, British surgeon Andrew Wakefield lost his medical license. MYTH: Vaccines contain unsafe toxins (i.e. mercury). TRUTH: These chemicals are indeed toxic to humans in certain levels, but the amount present in FDA-approved vaccines is so minimal that there’s no risk at all to people. Also, mercury, or thimerosal, hasn’t been in childhood vaccines since 2001 and has never been part of the MMR vaccine. MYTH: Vaccines contain tissue from aborted fetuses. TRUTH: No current fetal tissue is used to create vaccines. Previous vaccines from the early 1960s did use some fetal tissue, but the practice has since been discontinued and no longer occurs. MYTH: Natural immunity, gained from becoming sick when you catch a disease, is better than vaccine-acquired immunity. TRUTH: While there are some cases where natural immunity helps to build a stronger immunity than a

vaccination, it also results in greater danger to the individual. For example, if your child gets the measles, they could face a 1 in 500 chance of death from symptoms, compared to less than one in one million from getting the MMR vaccine. MYTH: Vaccines aren’t really worth the risk. TRUTH: Life-threatening allergic reactions and severe side effects from vaccines are rare. It’s believed that the rate of severe allergic reactions is about one case for every one or two million injections. Medical staff should be present at sites where vaccines are given in the rare occurrence of a medical emergency. “Some parents are concerned about the number of vaccines their children receive from infancy to school age,” shares Dr. Marcelle. “These parents may express the desire to follow an alternative schedule that spreads out vaccines or even leaves some [of the vaccines] out. The American Academy of Pediatrics discourages this practice and recommends parents to follow established immunization schedules. All vaccines listed on the immunization schedules have been exhaustively tested to be sure they are safe and effective. Sometimes, multiple vaccines will be given at a single pediatric visit, and this is safe and normal. It’s not possible to overload a healthy baby’s immune system with the antigens found in vaccines. In fact, babies will encounter more antigens in their regular daily lives than they will receive in a vaccine.” Dr. Marcelle shares that it's important that you know that these schedules are for your child’s protection, and following them gives your child immunity early in life, before he or she can be exposed to potentially deadly diseases. ▪

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

RUNNELS

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

OUR LADY OF THE LAKE OVERMAN

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

There is Hope AN INSIDE LOOK AT DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

Photo Credit: Brittany Paiyarat Boudoir

“

e’s teasing you because he likes you,” is a phrase we have all heard from grown ups after sharing our experiences on the playground with them. It’s usually meant to describe the moment when a member of the opposite sex would tease, push, or pull our hair, and this phrase is something that continues to be said to little girls. The question is though, should this be something we are telling little girls? That someone likes her because he’s mean to 44

her? When does it go too far? What could it ultimately lead to, if anything at all? TEASING IS TEASING “It's best that we teach our girls and boys that teasing is teasing and bullying is bullying, no matter what the intentions may be of the child doing the teasing. Teasing of any kind, especially over a long period of time, ultimately leads to low self-esteem and confidence issues in the development of the child or teenager.

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

Further down the line, destructive ‘acting out’ behaviors may present,” says Kelli L. Ewing, LPC, LLC. When a child comes to you with a complaint about someone bullying him or her, you should not brush it off as a crush. Instead, you should teach the child that he or she deserves respect. Ewing explains, “We should teach our children that they have the right to be respected; in that they should not be expected to ‘put up’ with anyone

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

disrespecting their bodies. We should impress upon them the importance of using their words to express what they are feeling and to do so in the most honest way they can.” Megan Kelly, a local mom, founder of Mompreneur Nation, and a domestic abuse survivor agrees, “Our oldest daughter will often tell us about a little boy being mean to her or pulling her curls! Maybe it is because he likes her, but that's an explanation; it is not an excuse. We try and teach our girls to speak up. If you don't like it, you don't have to take it! Tell a teacher or an adult. You don't have to accept a behavior, even those with the best explanation attached to it." Saying, “He’s doing it because he likes you,” can create a dangerous mindset. Some girls (and even boys!) may then believe it’s true and that people show you they care in negative ways, or that it’s just the way relationships work. At its extreme, this type of mindset could lead them to accept abusive behavior later in life, or what we know as domestic abuse. DOMESTIC ABUSE IN LOUISIANA The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV) defines domestic abuse as “the willful intimidation, physical assault, battery, sexual assault, and/or other abusive behavior as part of a systematic pattern of power and control perpetrated by one intimate partner against another. It includes physical violence, sexual violence, threats, and emotional abuse. The frequency and severity of domestic violence can vary dramatically.” In Louisiana, 81 percent of female homicides are committed by a partner or ex-partner, and Louisiana ranked fourth in the nation for femicide in 2010 with two-thirds of the murders being committed with guns, according to the analysis, America Under the Gun. It should be noted that there are a variety of reasons that domestic violence happens; it doesn’t just stem from a phrase heard on the playground. Those who have survived domestic abuse could very well come from a different environment entirely. 46

Kelly shares, “I was blessed to be raised in a two-parent, loving, Christian home. My parents aren’t perfect, but they did a fabulous job raising us and demonstrating real love in marriage. I am the ultimate daddy’s girl. I’m thirty-whatever years old, and my Daddy will still goes to all of my dentist

mind, “ Inthismykind of

thing would never happen to me..."

appointments. I don’t care if you judge me. I say this to say, I know how a woman should be treated.” However, despite knowing how a woman should be treated and what a relationship should look like, abuse can still happen to anyone. Kelly shares of her experience with her ex, “In my mind, this kind of thing would never happen to me. Somehow, I vividly remember waking up at home that morning only remembering a major fight the night before. He’d hit me in the head while I was in his car. I must’ve driven myself home that night. I have no recollection. That incident was at least two years before we eventually broke up,” she shares. STAYING TOGETHER For those who aren’t in abusive relationships, they may question why people would stay with their abusers. There are a variety of reasons for why they stay, including that it could be an even more dangerous situation if they try to leave. The study, Extent, Nature, and Consequences of Intimate Partner Violence, reports that, “Interviews with men who have killed their wives indicate that either threats of separation by their partner or actual separation are most

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

often the precipitating events that lead to the murder.” Another reason they choose to stay is because they feel that this is how relationships work, and it’s normal. Ewing explains, “For many people who were raised in dysfunctional homes or those individuals’ homes that slowly become dysfunctional, this environment becomes ‘the norm.’ Victims may learn to see abuse is 'just the way it is' in relationships and there might not be a better option for them out there. Their environments become normalized.” NCADV shares the following reasons as other barriers preventing some from leaving abusive relationships: ▪ The fear that the abuser's actions will become more violent. ▪ Unsupportive friends and family. ▪ Knowledge of the difficulties of parenting alone. ▪ Reduced financial circumstances and fear of being able to provide for children. ▪ Fear of losing custody of any children. ▪ The victim's lack of knowledge of or access to safety and support THERE IS HOPE “I remember one of the final moments. We were at my parent’s house when another argument began. He went in the kitchen and came out with a large knife. All I could think was my Mom and my Daddy are going to come home and find their daughter lying in a pool of blood. What would that do to my siblings? That was the beginning of the end. Sadly, so many women don’t live to tell the tale. I want my life to be an example that it can happen to you, too. Most importantly, there is hope. You can get away and have a happily ever after,” Kelly shares. LOCAL RESOURCES There is local help available. If you or someone you know is in an abusive relationship, the following resources are here to help. CAFVIC 24-Hour Domestic Violence Response Hotline ▪ (225) 389-3001 or (800) 541-9706 ▪ stopdv.org

Louisiana & National Crisis Lines If you are a Louisiana resident in need of assistance, call the 24-hour toll-free crisis line at (888) 411-1333. If you are a youth, call the National Youth Dating Violence Crisis Line at (866) 331-9474. The Butterfly Society ▪ (225) 347-7725 Battered Women's Shelter ▪ (225) 644-4916 EBRDA Domestic Violence Division ▪ (225) 389-4705 The National Domestic Violence Hotline ▪ (800) 799-7233 ▪ (800) 787-3224 ▪ thehotline.org

WOODLAWN HIGH SCHOOL

ALLIE’S STORY

“I remember the first time he hit me. He was drinking and asked me to denounce my religion, and I told him no. We got into a fight and he made me get out of his truck and walk home. I cried in my mom’s lap. She called him and he told her I was being the b-word. My mom told me if I knew what was good for me, I would break up with him. I thought that was so out of character for him because he had always been so nice and supportive, and this really came out of nowhere. We started getting into fights because he was always talking to his exgirlfriends. I wasn’t jealous, but I would tell him that if he cared about me, he would tell them to stop calling him. One day, we were arguing about it so bad that he had me on the bed and was strangling me. His friend, at the time, had to pull him off of me.“ To hear more survivor stories from the Mompreneurs Talk: Domestic Violence campaign, visit mompreneurnation.com. ■

GUARANTEE GIRLS O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

Family s e t i r o v a F 2019

AZINE AG M

BATON R O

PARENTS E UG

2019 Family Favorites

ER’S CHOICE R EA D

You’ve spoken! After over 90,000 votes were counted, we are happy to present you with your Favorite shops, restaurants, healthcare providers, educators, children’s programs, and local services. These incredible professionals and businesses go above and beyond for their customers and patients every day, providing you and your family with excellent services and care you can truly count on. Without further ado, here are your 2019 Family Favorites.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Favorite Date Night Location

Topgolf (225) 327-3725 • topgolf.com Topgolf is the premier entertainment destination for Baton Rouge. You can have birthday parties for your little ones here, have bachelor or bachelorette parties, corporate events, date nights or just a night out with friends, and you can bet that everyone will have a great time. The Topgolf experience takes on many different forms beyond the walls of a venue. From luxury simulator experiences and golf ball tracking technology to video games, entertaining guests is what they’re built to do. Finalists Perkins Rowe • Bin 77

Favorite Family Entertainment Venue

BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo (225) 775-3877 • brzoo.org From flamingos and rhinos to alligators and snakes, BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo has it all. Not only is a trip to the zoo a great way to spend your day, but the zoo is constantly working to educate and conserve. Outreach programs, day camps, and weekend classes are just some of the things that make this little slice of animal heaven so special. Even during the holidays, there are events that can't be missed, including Boo at the Zoo and ZooLights! Finalists Celebrity Theatres • Topgolf

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

Favorite Museum

Knock Knock Children’s Museum (225) 388-3090 • knockknockmuseum.org Knock Knock Children’s Museum combines playtime with educational experiences by providing hands-on interactive exhibits that allow our little ones to learn while they play. The inviting atmosphere was specially designed for your growing kiddos, and it features a Story Tree, B.R. Star Studio, and Pelican Pantry, just to name some of our readers’ favorites. There are also accessibility programs, so children of all ages and abilities can play, and even the adults get to explore the museum alone on some nights. Finalists Capitol Park Museum • Louisiana Art & Science Museum

Favorite Music Program

Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra (225) 383-0500 • brso.org Making sweet music for those in Baton Rouge and beyond since 1947, the Baton Rouge Symphony is the oldest performing arts institution in the region, and it's also the oldest professional orchestra in the state. The Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra aims to ensure the long-term future of classical music in the greater Baton Rouge region and neighboring communities through performances, education,

and community outreach.

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

2019 FAMILY FAVORITES Finalists School of Rock Baton Rouge • Baton Rouge Music Studios

FAMILY HEALTH Favorite Allergist

Dr. Prem Menon, Asthma, Allergy, and Immunology Center (225) 766-6931 • drmenon.com When it comes to taming our allergies, we want an allergist who will help us get the job done. Dr. Prem Menon improves his patient's quality of life with individualized care, kindness, compassion, courtesy and respect each and every day. Dr. Menon takes the time to get to know his patients, and he’s known for serving the community through interaction, education, preventive medicine and outreach programs. Finalists Dr. Joseph Redhead, The Baton Rouge Clinic Allergy, Asthma & Immunology • Dr. Adrianne Edmundson, The Allergy, Asthma & Sinus Center

Favorite Cosmetic Center

Louisiana Dermatology Laser & Cosmetic Center (225) 927-5663 • ladermlaser.com While the Louisiana Dermatology Laser & Cosmetic Center is a newer clinic in our area, it took no time at all for them to climb their way to the top as your Favorite Cosmetic Center. By utilizing a diverse array of laser skin care systems and a selection of quality cosmetic products, the Louisiana Dermatology Laser & Cosmetic Center is able to offer a customized solution to your skin care needs, no matter the type of skin you may have. Finalists Z Aesthetic Dermatology • Williamson Cosmetic Center

Favorite Day Spa

Bumble Lane Spa & Retreat (225) 932-9522 • bumblelane.com We all deserve to be treated like royalty every once in a while, so when our readers are wanting to feel regal, they head to Bumble Lane Spa & Retreat. Combining necessity and luxury, Bumble Lane promotes a 50

harmonious environment that gives you an opportunity to relax and let your worries slip away. The staff at Bumble Lane truly enjoy what they do, and they are here to help your stresses disappear. Finalists Avant Tous Beauty Bar and Spa • The Woodhouse Day Spa

Favorite Dental Clinic

Associates in Pediatric Dentistry Multiple locations • aipdbr.com For children, the dentist office can be a scary place. However, when little ones enter Associates in Pediatric Dentistry (AIPD), their nerves are calmed. From the doctors to the staff, everyone at AIPD is happy to be there and happy to see you there, too. They take great pride in their work of providing superior care to all of their patients. Whatever the need, the doctors and staff are there to help, making sure that your little one remains calm and comfortable throughout his entire visit. Finalists Premier Dental Care • Yale Pediatric Dentistry

Favorite Dentist - Adult

Dr. Krista Bennett-Bruns, Bruns Family Dental Center (225) 769-0222 • brunsfamilydentalcenter.com Dr. Krista loves Baton Rouge, and she has been serving Baton Rouge at Bruns Family Dental Center since she opened the center with Dr. Robert in 2003. Dr. BennettBruns’s heart is just one of the many things her patients love about her. As a volunteer for the Special Olympics “Special Smiles” program, the ADA’s “Give Kids a Smile” program, and the Rotary International and Louisiana State University School of Dentistry, Dr. Bennett-Bruns has performed dental mission trips for needy children and adults in Jamaica. Finalists Dr. Robert Edwards, Premier Dental Care • Dr. Stephanie Babin, Babin Dental

Favorite Dentist - Children

Dr. Johnnie L. Hunt, Pediatric

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

Dental Specialists (225) 769-1969 • pdsbr.com Dr. Hunt’s ability to make everyone like the dentist is just one of the many reasons she is a Family Favorite. Little ones rave about how friendly she is (our readers do, too!). A native of Morgan City, Dr. Hunt has won numerous awards, including the Louisiana New Dentist Award and the Health Centers in School Health Hero award since she began practicing. During her free time, she loves to run, read, and travel to exotic locations. If she was not a pediatric dentist, she shares that she would like to be the Director of Fun at some large company in Silicon Valley. Finalists Dr. Robert L. Delarosa, Associates in Pediatric Dentistry • Dr. Brynn Leroux, Associates in Pediatric Dentistry

Favorite Dermatologist

Dr. Mary C. Dickerson, Louisiana Dermatology Associates (225) 927-5663 • louisiana-dermatology.com Tackling skin issues isn’t always easy, but with Dr. Dickerson’s expertise, it’s not so hard. Dr. Dickerson is dedicated to providing her patients with top quality medical care. She specializes in surgical, cosmetic and general dermatology. She strives to bring her patients the latest techniques emerging from the field, and in order to do so, she completed a year of internal medicine at Baylor University Medical Center in Dallas and then a dermatology residency at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. Dr. Dickerson is known for providing her patients with the education and experience needed to make sure they receive the best medical care. Finalists Dr. John Brantley, Calais Dermatology Associates • Dr. Courtney Murphy, The Baton Rouge Clinic, AMC

Favorite ENT Physician

Dr. Elise Scallan, Hansbrough, Peters, Traxler & Scallan (225) 767-7200 • entbr.com Our readers feel a sense of comfort whenever they visit Dr. Elise Scallan. She

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

2019 FAMILY FAVORITES takes her time with her patients, making sure that she finds the best way to solve every problem they share with her. Not only is she knowledgeable in her field, she’s also incredibly friendly and has great bedside manner. Dr. Scallan is a native of Louisiana who enjoys spending time with her husband, Jimmy, and her adorable children. Finalists Dr. Geoffrey Peters, Hansbrough, Peters, Traxler & Scallan • Dr. Ryan Boone, Ear Nose & Throat Medical Center

Favorite Eye Clinic

Eye Medical Center Multiple locations • emc-eyes.com With fast, friendly service and knowledgeable doctors, Eye Medical Center has been serving the Baton Rouge community for well over 70 years. The doctors work hard to combine technological excellence with sincere human kindness to make sure that each patient is receiving the best care in Baton Rouge. Offering a variety of procedures and specialties for all of your needs, Eye Medical Center continues to be named your Favorite because of the incredible environment and services they provide to all of their patients. Finalists Acadiana Vision Care Optical • Williamson Eye Center

Favorite Family Physician

Dr. Brad Gaspard, Baton Rouge Family Medical Center (225) 763-4950 • brgphysicians.com After graduating from LSU School of Medicine in 1998 and completing his residency in 2001, Dr. Gaspard went right to work on making sure our community was receiving great care for their families. Dr. Gaspard is also the Medical Director of Baton Rouge General Physicians and a member of numerous medical societies, including the American Academy of Family Physicians and Christian Medical and Dental Association. Finalists Dr. Rebecca Trueil, The Baton Rouge Clinic, AMC • Dr. Erica Flood, Flood Family Medical Center 52

Favorite Hospital

Woman’s Hospital (225) 927-1300 • womans.org For exceptional care for you and your bundle of joy, our readers recommend Woman’s Hospital. For years, Woman’s Hospital has been making sure that every mother in Louisiana has the best “birth day” she has ever dreamed of. With a mission to improve the health of women and infants, Woman’s offers services and top-notch classes for you and your little one, long after your delivery date. Our readers adore the incredible doctors, nurses, and staff members at Woman’s as they all provide excellent care and important information to the moms and babies of Baton Rouge and the surrounding areas. Finalists Baton Rouge General Medical Center • Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center

Favorite OB/GYN Physician

Dr. Cheree Schwartzenburg, Drs. Schwartzenburg Lafranca Guidry & Chapman APMC (225) 928-5951 • obgynbatonrouge.com Bringing a little one into this world can be scary for some moms to be. There are a lot of unknowns. However, with Dr. Cheree Schwartzenburg on your team, you know you’re in good hands. Our readers love just how personable Dr. Schwartzenburg is. They find comfort in her extensive knowledge and her calm attitude, so much so, that our readers keep choosing Dr. Schwartzenburg as their Favorite OB/GYN year after year. Finalists Dr. Ryan Dickerson, Louisiana Women's Healthcare Associates • Dr. Allyson Boudreaux, Louisiana Women's Healthcare Associates

Favorite Optometrist

Dr. David Fargason, Baton Rouge General Medical Center (225) 766-7441 • davidfargasonmd.com As a board-certified ophthalmologist in Baton Rouge, Dr. Fargason has practiced with Eye Medical Center/The Retina Center group since 2002. He also performs

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

surgery at Regional Eye Surgery Center, and he is on staff with Baton Rouge General Medical Center and Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center. It’s safe to say he has been providing care for patients throughout the city, making him a Favorite to many. He uses the latest technologies available to correct a patient's vision while he or she undergoes Cataract Surgery, and he combines warmth with a high degree of professionalism during each visit. Finalists Dr. Wendy Waguespack, Dr. Wendy Waguespack & Associates • Dr. Tony Luu, Acadiana Vision Care & Optical

Favorite Orthodontist

Dr. Joseph Porter, Porter Orthodontics (225) 291-9900 • porterbraces.com Creating beautiful, healthy smiles is always the goal at Porter Orthodontics, and it’s one that Dr. Joseph Porter accomplishes each and every day. Dr. Porter has been providing excellent orthodontic care in a comfortable and friendly environment for years. His incredible bedside manner and ability to keep his patients informed and comfortable throughout their visits are just a few of the reasons as to why our readers adore him so much. Finalists Dr. Andre Frugé, Frugé Orthodontics • Dr. David Balhoff, Sherman & Balhoff

Favorite Pediatrician

Dr. D. Stephen Sanches, The Baton Rouge Clinic, AMC (225) 246-9290 • batonrougeclinic.com With a partnership-style approach, Dr. D. Stephen Sanches provides the best care to families in Baton Rouge and the surrounding areas. He welcomes discussion about each patient’s health, and our readers enjoy his attentive yet laid back lifestyle, making each visit a comfortable one. One reader shares that he’s very thorough with patients and answers all questions. He’s also known for offering both his “doctor advice” and “daddy advice.” He shares that he “loves that much of his job allows him to act like the big kid he is and never misses a chance to be goofy with his patients.” He’s an exercise enthusiast and aspiring amateur chef, and he bleeds purple and gold.

YMCA of Greater Baton Rouge

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

2019 FAMILY FAVORITES Finalists Dr. Stephanie Kelleher, The Baton Rouge Clinic, AMC • Dr. Ashli West, Magnolia Pediatrics

Favorite Psychiatrist

Dr. Donna B. Fargason, Family Focus and Associates (225) 231-7155 • familyfocusbr.com Dr. Fargason is truly here to help, and she’s always willing to go above and beyond to help those who are in need. She’s compassionate, and she has a special ability to connect with everyone she meets. Dr. Fargason moved to Baton Rouge in 2002 and has done contract work in several venues while establishing her private practice in the community. Her practice consists of performing psychiatric evaluations and attending to medication issues with children, adolescents, and adults. She has expanded her practice to include Equine Facilitated Learning which involves doing groundwork with horses. Finalists Dr. Robert Blanche, Baton Rouge Psychiatry Clinic • Dr. Venugopal Vatsavayi, The Baton Rouge Clinic, AMC

Favorite Therapist/Counselor

Kelli Ewing, M.Ed., NCC, CCMHC, LPC (225) 286-7232 • kelliewinglpc.com Kelli Ewing works closely with her patients to take all the mystery and stigma out of mental health. She is a Certified Clinical (Diagnostic) Mental Health Counselor, a Licensed Professional Counselor, and a Nationally Certified Counselor. Our readers love that she consistently goes above and beyond her calling. She’s compassionate and experienced in her field, and she works with those who have anxiety disorders, mood disorders, grief and bereavement, adjustment disorder, severe pathological/ personality disorders, codependency, and attachment issues in adulthood. Finalists Mike Holmes, MA, LPC, Veritas Counseling Center • Joel Gilbert, MSW, LCSW, Baton Rouge Christian Counseling Center

Favorite Urgent Care Facility Lake After Hours Urgent Care 56

Multiple locations • lakeafterhours.com Lake After Hours Urgent Care is always there for you and your little ones when either of you are feeling under the weather. Lake After Hours Urgent Care doesn’t require you to make an appointment, making it easy to stop by whenever necessary. You can’t always plan when you or your child gets sick, which is why our readers consistently choose Lake After Hours for their professional care and assistance in their time of need. Finalists Central STAT Care • The Baton Rouge Clinic, AMC

Favorite Veterinary Clinic

Sherwood South Animal Hospital (225) 293-6440 • sherwoodsouth.com Sherwood South Animal Hospital provides the very best veterinary care to their patients, your pets. They go above and beyond to make sure that you and your pets are comfortable while in their office. The doctors and hospital staff strive to continue their education to bring you the highest quality care available, and they care for all pets as if they are their own. So, you can bet that your pets are receiving the same love, attention, and care as though they were the owners. Finalists Associated Veterinary Services • Kleinpeter Veterinary Services

IT'S A PARTY Favorite Entertainer Sparkles the Clown, Animated Art (225) 287-6936 • animatedart.us Tabitha Miller–or Sparkles the Clown as you might know her–has been bringing smiles to Baton Rouge and the surrounding areas since 2009, when she started Animated Art. While her party services are always next level (balloon twisting, face painting, and airbrush water-resistant tattoos!), it’s the balloon decor that has our readers oohing and aahing in unison. She’s always willing to push her creativity and make sure that you have exactly what you’re picturing for your next birthday party or event. Best of all, she’s one of the

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

friendliest and most down-to-earth people you will ever meet. Finalists Balloonatics of Baton Rouge • Petite Princess Company Favorite Inflatable Rental Ascension Party Rentals, LLC (225) 744-4500 • ascensionpartyrentals.com Who doesn’t want to bounce around during their birthday party? For your next bash, our readers recommend Ascension Party Rentals, LLC as their go-to for inflatable entertainment. This family-run company specializes in inflatable fun for backyard parties, school and church functions, and corporate events. They are dedicated to providing you and your family a reputable and dependable service. Bounce n' Around Inflatables (225) 647-9996 • bouncenaroundbr.com Need to rent entertainment for your next party? Make sure you have Bounce n’ Around Inflatables’s number in your phone! Bounce n’ Around Inflatables is a one-stop-shop party rental company that has all of the entertainment you need to rent. From spacewalks and obstacle courses to fog or food machines, they’re here for you, and all equipment is cleaned on a regular basis to ensure your party goers clean fun. Finalists Bouncing Off The Walls Inflatable Rental

Favorite Party Supplies

Party Time (225) 927-3270 • partytimebr.com If you have an upcoming party or milestone to celebrate, Party Time has all of the gear you need to get ready for your special occasion. From decorations and treat bag goodies to paper products, serving dishes and utensils, Party Time has you covered, and all of it is offered at a great affordable price. Party Time also has a variety of costumes to choose from so everyone can look their best as they head out to trick or treat this fall season. It’s always a fun celebration when you have Party Time as a part of the fun.

THE DUNHAM SCHOOL/CAMPS

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

2019 FAMILY FAVORITES Finalists Party City • The Ultimate Party Store– Denham Springs

Favorite Party Venue

Topgolf (225) 327-3725 • topgolf.com Finalists Jump-N-Jive • BREC's Baton Rouge Zoo

Favorite Place to Buy Gifts

The Royal Standard Multiple locations • theroyalstandard.com It’s easy to shop until you drop at The Royal Standard. With unique items to choose from when it comes to entertaining, interiors, holiday decor and even apparel, you can spend hours browsing the store. And, our readers have spoken that The Royal Standard is the place to shop whenever you are looking for a gift for a special someone. Their incredible customer service also makes the experience even more enjoyable. Finalists Giggles • Victoria's Toy Station

LOCAL Favorite Church/Family Worship Center

Healing Place Church Multiple locations • healingplacechurch.org Healing Place Church is a “healing place for a hurting world,” and our readers enjoy the amazing opportunities they provide that allow them and their families to come together and connect. Healing Place is known for its open arms, big heart, and service to the community, and our readers consistently vote them to the top spot for their wonderful support to all Louisianians. Finalists Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church • St. Thomas More Catholic Church

Favorite Local Author

Holly Clegg thehealthycookingblog.com The name Holly Clegg alone brings forth so many good feelings of a woman who is friendly, giving, and passionate about providing those around her with the tools they 58

need to live fulfilling lives. As a mother of three, Holly understands the challenges we all face in finding the time, energy and money to cook quick, healthy meals for a busy family. Over 25 years ago, Holly’s desire to help others introduce nutritious foods into their lives has grown into 14 cookbooks with over 1.5 million copies sold. She’s a true Family Favorite. Finalists Charles Lawler • Season Vining

Favorite Local Sports Team

LSU (225) 578-8001 • lsusports.net Whether it’s football, basketball, baseball or gymnastics, when you’re in Louisiana, it’s hard not to bleed purple and gold. Our readers voted LSU into the top spot as their Favorite Sports Team for LSU’s incredible athletes, their ability to always put on a show, and their willingness to always give back. LSU athletics has many traditions associated with its sports programs. Based on winning percentage, the university's athletics program is consistently one of the best in the nation, and LSU has won 48 team national championships, placing them 14th in all-time total national championships. Geaux Tigers! Finalists New Orleans Saints • The Dunham School Tigers

Favorite Radio Station

102.5 WFMF (225) 231-1860 • wfmf.iheart.com Whether they’re cruising to work or sitting in Baton Rouge traffic, our readers tune in to 102.5 WFMF to help get them through the drive. The DJs provide top-notch content each and every day, and they even play the greatest hits that most likely will be stuck in your head while you work. Finalists K-Love • 96.1 The River

Favorite TV Station

WAFB For the most up-to-date news, weather, sports, traffic and investigative reports, our readers trust WAFB to stay in the know.

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

Since its launch in 1953, WAFB has been available to viewers through a variety of service providers. So, if you’re at home or on the go, WAFB is there to keep you connected to what’s going on around town, as it happens. Finalists WBRZ News 2 • Louisiana Public Broadcasting

MOM & BABY Favorite Baby Announcements

The Keeping Room Stationery & Gifts (225) 926-2500 • thekeepingroombr.com When it comes to making the perfect first impression, our readers trust The Keeping Room for all of their invitation and announcement needs. The experience at The Keeping Room is always enjoyable. Staff members work closely with you to help you create the perfect announcement for your little one, and they are always willing to answer any questions and guide you through the process step by step. Bringing your baby into this world is a spectacular event, and The Keeping Room wants to make sure that your experience with them is just as special. Finalists Jamie Lejeune Photography • Queen Bee

Favorite Baby Gifts

Oh Baby! A Children’s Collection (225) 930-0089 • ohbabychildren.com This fabulous boutique specializes in classic clothing for children from newborn through the preteen age, and when our readers are looking for sweet baby gifts to buy for little ones, they choose Oh Baby! The classic feel you get when you browse through Oh Baby! is one you won’t find anywhere else. Oh Baby! offers a variety of adorable pieces from great brands at great prices. Finalists Cullen's Playland, Inc. • First Glimpse 3D/4D/HD Prenatal Imaging

Favorite Birthing Hospital

Woman’s Hospital (225) 927-1300 • womans.org

Sherwood Middle Academic Magnet School

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

2019 FAMILY FAVORITES Finalists Birth Center Of Baton Rouge • Baton Rouge General Medical Center

Favorite Newborn/ Maternity Photographer

Butterflies of Hope Photography by Heather, LLC (225) 324-8622 • butteryfliesofhopephotography.com Our children inspire us each and every day, and for Heather, her children are the reason she was inspired to start Butterflies of Hope Photography. Heather specializes in maternity photography, newborn photography, milestone photography, family photography, and senior photography. She makes it her goal to capture beautiful images that exude personality, connection, and love within every session. Our readers love her attention to detail and her friendly personality.

Favorite Preschool Program

Episcopal School of Baton Rouge (225) 753-3180 • episcopalbr.org Episcopal exists to prepare their students for lives of purpose, and our readers love Episcopal’s open environment and how parents can take a hands-on approach in their child’s education, whether their child is in preschool or about to graduate high school. Episcopal lives out its mission by offering strong, balanced programs in academics, arts, athletics, and spirituality, allowing their students to find their passions and give back to the world. Finalists Parkview Baptist School • The Dunham School Favorite Private Elementary School Episcopal School of Baton Rouge (225) 753-3180 • episcopalbr.org

Finalists Quinn Alexandra Photography • Cindy Abney Photography

Finalists Parkview Baptist School • The Dunham School

Favorite Pre- and Postpartum Classes

Favorite Private Elementary School Principal

Woman’s Hospital (225) 927-1300 • womans.org

Finalists Balance Holistic Health • Birth Center Of Baton Rouge • Woman's Center for Wellness

SCHOOLED Favorite Mother’s Day Out Program

Jefferson Baptist Church Mother’s Day Out (225) 923-0356 • jeffersonbaptist.org With a child-centered, educationally sound, and developmentally-based curriculum, this Family Favorite Mother’s Day Out Program includes fun and interesting activities for the kiddos to enjoy throughout their entire experience. Throughout the day, your little ones also learn about sharing God’s love. Finalists St. Andrews United Methodist Church • Jefferson United Methodist Church 60

Bridget Henderson, Episcopal School of Baton Rouge (225) 753-3180 • episcopalbr.org As Head of the Lower School of Episcopal School of Baton Rouge, Bridget Henderson goes above and beyond each day for all of the students who walk the halls of Episcopal. Our readers love that she takes a hands-on approach to her job, making sure that parents stay informed with everything going on at the school. Her friendly personality makes her easily approachable, and it’s just one of the reasons she claimed the top spot this year. Finalists Deedra LaPlace, The Dunham School • Daniel McCulloch, Parkview Baptist School

Favorite Private High School

St. Joseph's Academy (225) 383-7207 • sjabr.org This year, our readers voted St. Joseph’s Academy as their Favorite Private High School for their ability to educate young

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

women as responsible and unifying members of the world community. St. Joseph’s Academy offers opportunities for faith development in the Catholic tradition, academic excellence and personal growth. Their state-of-the-art facilities and caring staff and faculty members are what truly put St. Joseph’s Academy at the head of the class. Finalists Episcopal School of Baton Rouge • Parkview Baptist School

Favorite Private High School Principal

Stacia Andricain, St. Joseph's Academy (225) 383-7207 • sjabr.org As principal of St. Joseph’s Academy, Stacia Andricain has a way of making every student and parent comfortable while at school. Her ability to connect with the students and encourage them each day is admirable. Her strong collaborative style of leadership is often praised by many, and she finds great joy in having the opportunity to educate the young women of St. Joseph’s Academy. Finalists Amanda McIlwain, The Dunham School • Christina Anderson, Parkview Baptist School

Favorite Private Middle School Episcopal School of Baton Rouge (225) 753-3180 • episcopalbr.org Finalists Parkview Baptist School • The Dunham School

Favorite Private Middle School Principal

Lucy Smith, Episcopal School of Baton Rouge (225) 753-3180 • episcopalbr.org With credit to her mother as her first true example of what it means to be an influential educator, Lucy Smith has been a great and respected leader at Episcopal School of Baton Rouge for years. As an administrator, Lucy Smith leads by example. She would never assign a task to someone she wouldn’t do herself, and her dedication and commitment to the school is admired by

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

LASM

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

2019 FAMILY FAVORITES many, especially our readers who voted her into the top spot this year. Finalists Mary Theriot, The Dunham School • Joana Dieterich, Parkview Baptist School

Favorite Public Elementary School

BASIS Baton Rouge (225) 308-7450 • basised.com/baton-rouge BASIS Baton Rouge continues to leave a positive impression on our community. Our readers speak highly of the “hard, but fun” curriculum at BASIS as it prepares students according to the highest, most rigorous international standards. BASIS starts with the basics, helping students first with organizational and study skills before they progress to the demanding upper school curriculum. Families also enjoy the friendly staff who learn all of the students’ names, making this a comfortable and welcoming environment for everyone. Finalists Dutchtown Primary School • Tanglewood Elementary School

Favorite Public Elementary School Principal

Central High School has a mission to ensure that every student who walks the halls will also graduate. They prepare each student for his or her future, encouraging every student to go out and make the community a better place. Our readers love the incredible education their children receive while at Central High, even when they’re not in the classroom. Finalists Baton Rouge Magnet High School • Live Oak High School Favorite Public High School Principal Brandon LaGroue, Central High School Even though Mr. LaGroue was born and raised in Denham Springs, he bleeds maroon and white through and through. Known to some as Coach LaGroue, Mr. LaGroue has been coaching football and basketball since 2009. To add to his list of expertise, along with serving as the Dean of the Freshman Academy, he also serves as a science teacher. Finalists Nanette McCann, Baton Rouge Magnet High School • Beth Jones, Live Oak High School

Roberto Ramirez, BASIS Baton Rouge (225) 308 7450 • basised.com Roberto Ramirez has worn many hats at BASIS from AP Spanish Teacher and College Counselor to Upper School Director and now, as the Head of School. His ability to lead schools to success is admirable, and our readers appreciate his hard work, his incredible leadership skills, and the relationships he has created with them. Mr. Ramirez is passionate about seeing children succeed, and he works hard to make sure it happens each and every day at BASIS Baton Rouge.

Favorite Public Middle School

Finalists Amy Savage, South Live Oak Elementary School • Maegan Brown, Tanglewood Elementary School

Finalists Sherwood Middle Academic Magnet School • Glasgow Middle School

Favorite Public High School Central High School (225) 261-3438 • centralhigh.centralcss.org 64

Live Oak Middle School (225) 664-3211 • lomeagles.org Our readers love that when they send their children to school at Live Oak Middle, that the staff and faculty are truly making a difference in their children’s lives. At Live Oak Middle, everyone strives for every student to be successful and work together to achieve this goal. The classrooms are where passionate, motivated, and caring teachers create an environment of learning where all students feel valued and important while receiving the best instruction available.

Favorite Public Middle School Principal

Erin Howard, Glasgow Middle School (225) 925-2942 • glasgowmiddle.org As principal of Glasgow Middle School, Erin

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

Howard shows her Gator pride each day. She encourages the students to be their best selves, and she makes herself available to parents and her co-workers whenever they are in need. She’s friendly, approachable, and always putting her best foot forward, which helped her claim the title this year. Jamie Noel, Sherwood Middle Academic Magnet School (225) 272-3090 • sherwoodmiddlemagnet.org Jamie Noel has a positive effect on all of her students, which is why our readers have voted her to the top spot this year. Mrs. Noel’s main focus has always been on the student's success, as she makes all decisions with the students in mind. She was awarded EBR’s Principal of the Year in 2017, and she prides herself on being fun, familyoriented, and friendly. Finalists Christa Bordelon Leon, Mayfair Lab School

Favorite Tutoring Program

Best in Class Professional Tutoring, LLC (225) 505-6900 • bestinbr.com Getting our children the help they need is crucial, and our readers look to Best in Class Professional Tutoring, LLC in their time of need. Best in Class Professional Tutoring, LLC specializes in helping your child succeed. They are a teacher run tutoring service for PreK-12 and College that provides assistance to students who need extra help in math, English, science, history, and foreign languages. They even help with ACT, SAT, and PSAT prep. Finalists Mathnasium • Kumon Math and Reading Center of Baton Rouge

SERVICES Favorite Auto Service / Repair

Price LeBlanc (225) 408-1100 • priceleblanctoyota.com For great service and vehicle selection, our readers choose Price LeBlanc for their vehicle needs. At Price LeBlanc, customer service and satisfaction is always a top priority, which is why our readers return

Benny's Car Wash

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

2019 FAMILY FAVORITES again and again, for every vehicle purchase. With a fun catchphrase like “Dahh-lin,” the help and assistance you will receive at Price LeBlanc remains unmatched...Dahh-lin. Finalists Coy's Diesel Sales Service Performance • Ragusa's Automotive

Favorite Bank

Chase Bank Multiple locations • chase.com Chase is a leading global financial firm that parents in Baton Rouge and the surroundings areas have chosen one again as their neighborhood bank and favorite as well. Serving one out of every six Americans, Chase fosters strong relationships with schools and universities. Finalists Campus Federal Credit Union • Capital One Bank

Favorite Car Wash

Benny’s Car Wash Multiple locations • bennyscarwash.com Benny’s Car Wash has been providing the most advanced car washes in Baton Rouge since 1951. And, not only do they provide excellent car washes and a friendly staff at every location, they also offer free vacuums to customers. Finalists Geaux Clean Car Wash • Ollie's Car Wash

Favorite Child Care

Kids Count (225) 928-0801 • kidscountinc.com "When you can’t be there, we are, because Kids Count,” is the motto at Kids Count, and they stay true to it each day. This year, you voted Kids Count as your Favorite Child Care because of their welcoming environment and incredible teachers. Kids Count meets the highest industry standards in order to provide a safe and thriving environment for your little ones while you’re away. Finalists St. Thomas More Early Learning Center • St. Aloysius Child Care Center 68

Favorite Dry Cleaner

Kean’s Fine Dry Cleaning Multiple locations • keans.com Having clean clothes is a wonderful thing, and sometimes we need a little extra help in getting the job done. Kean’s Fine Dry Cleaning offers quality, customer service and convenience when handling every bit of your wardrobe. Kean’s same-day service and quick VIP Express bags are just a few reasons they continue to be named the King of clean year after year. Finalists Sunshine Cleaners • Sutton's Dry Cleaners

Favorite Hair Salon

Parlé Vie Beauty Bar (225) 663-6667 • parlevie.com At Parlé Vie, they are all about you. They customize their services in order to meet your needs, and their inviting atmosphere and toxic free, effective “green beauty” products help you to create healthy beauty habits, from the inside out, even while you’re at home. Finalists Salon du Sud • Studio des Amis

Favorite Hair Stylist

Paige Speyrer, Mai Beauty Bar (225) 933-6307 • maibeautybar.com When they need a cut, color, or an updo, our readers choose Paige Speyrer of Mai Beauty Bar as their go-to stylist. Paige has been in the beauty industry for over nine years. Her infectious personality, neatness, and attention to detail are just a few of the reasons as to why she makes such an excellent stylist. Finalists Kayla Brassett, Parlé Vie Beauty Bar • Lindsey Delhommer, Studio des Amis

Favorite Hotel

WATERMARK Baton Rouge (225) 408-3200 • watermarkbr.com Guests will find the richest and most eclectic hotel experience with WATERMARK Baton Rouge. Featuring hand-painted ceiling murals, carved marble walls and staircases, and old bank vaults converted into dramatic meeting and dining spaces,

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

this one-of-a-kind hotel has our readers booking their stays over and over again. Finalists Renaissance Baton Rouge Hotel • Hilton Baton Rouge Capitol Center

Favorite Maid Service

Guarantee Maid Services (225) 756-3900 • guaranteemaidservices.com If you need some help sprucing up your home for the holidays, after your new baby arrives, or simply because you need the help, our readers recommend Guarantee Maid Services to help you get the job done. Guarantee Maid Services has provided quality residential and commercial cleaning since 1983. Their trained professionals use professional hospital grade chemicals to clean your home, making it look great and smell even better. Finalists Geaux Maids of Baton Rouge • The Maids

Favorite Pet Salon

Smooch My Pooch (225) 262-6061 • smoochmypooch.com Making sure your pup looks his best is the name of the game at Smooch My Pooch. With the initial visit, your dog will go through a consultation with the groomer, allowing the opportunity to discuss your dog’s coat condition and determine what is the best shampoo and hairstyle for your dog’s health and coat. Finalists Petz Plaza • Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique

Favorite Photography Studio

Kleinpeter Photography (225) 928-7596 • kleinpeterphotography.com For over 40 years, Kleinpeter Photography has been providing excellent family portraits, senior photos, and infant photography to those looking for the best snapshots to celebrate their special moments. Kleinpeter Photography is committed to providing you with a relaxed and enjoyable photography experience, exceptional portraits and amazing service, which is why

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

PAIGE SPEYRER OF MAI BEAUTY BAR

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

2019 FAMILY FAVORITES they are named one of your Favorites, year after year. Finalists Quinn Alexandra Photography • Eye Wander Photo

Favorite Tire Shop

Chabill's Tire & Auto Service Multiple locations • chabillstire.com Need to get rolling? Our readers recommend Chabill’s Tire & Auto Service as their go-to resource for the best tire selection. Chabill’s friendly and knowledgeable staff work hard and quickly to help you get out and on the go to your next adventure. Finalists Firestone Complete Auto Care • Hunt's Tire Pros & Car Care

SHOPPING Favorite Adult Boutique Store

Frock Candy Multiple locations • frockcandy.com Providing a fun and exciting boutique shopping experience, Frock Candy is filled with the latest affordable trends in young women’s clothing, shoes, accessories, and gifts. Each time you step into Frock Candy, you are encouraged to feed your fashion appetite as you browse through a variety of independent and well-known brands that have all been hand selected to make your experience that much more unique. When our readers shop and need to update their wardrobes, they choose Frock Candy. Finalists Bella Bella • Virgo Boutique, LLC Favorite Bridal / Formal Wear Bridal Boutique (225) 925-1135 • bridalboutiquebr.com Finding the right dress for your big day is no easy task, but with the help of Bridal Boutique in Baton Rouge, you’re able to find the perfect fit that will have your special someone saying, “Wow!” This familyowned bridal boutique has been making wedding memories for over 50 years, and our readers chose them as their go-to for wedding and formal wear essentials. Yes, even for homecoming dresses! 72

Finalists Blush Formal and Bridal Salon • Bustle Bridal Gowns & Accessories

Finalists Purple Cow • Lulu & Bean

Favorite Car Dealership

Billy Heroman's Flowers & Gifts Plantscaping Multiple locations • billyheromans.com If our readers are looking to surprise their special someone with flowers, they turn to Billy Heroman’s for all of their flower needs. From peonies and hydrangeas to sunflowers and roses, Billy’s incredible shop has everything you need to really make an impression. The friendly and talented staff just make this place even more unique.

Price LeBlanc (225) 408-1100 • priceleblanctoyota.com Finalists Team Honda • Richards Honda

Favorite Children's Clothing Store

The Gilded Egret (225) 301-6125 • thegildedegret.com Monica James Fazio and her daughter, Caroline, are the dynamic duo behind The Gildred Egret. This adorable children’s boutique offers everything you need for your little one to wear, whether they’re getting ready for game day or you have a family holiday photo soon! Their adorable pieces are perfect as gifts or to keep for your little one. Finalists Tangerine • Oh Baby

Favorite Children's Shoe Store

Bob’s Little Feet (225) 291-4850 • bobslittlefeet.co Finding the right shoes for the littlest feet isn’t always an easy task. However, with a caring staff who are always on-hand to help you get the job done, you can quickly and easily find the perfect shoes for your little one at Bob’s Little Feet. The shoes are always top-notch quality, and they come in a variety of unique sizes that you won’t find anywhere else. Finalists Ethan's Closet • Oh Pair

Favorite Consignment Store

Refinery Children’s Consignment Boutique (225) 291-8656 • refinerykids.com This upscale consignment shop has gained a statewide reputation with its clothes for newborns through size 10 and expecting moms-to-be. During each visit, their loyal customers can browse through furniture, accessories, and toys, giving every mom in town an opportunity to turn her past treasures into cash.

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

Favorite Florist

Finalists Original Heroman's Florist • Rickey Heroman's Florist & Gifts

Favorite Garden Store / Nursery

Louisiana Nursery Home & Garden Showplace Multiple locations • louisiananursery.com Having a green thumb is a wonderful thing, but having a place to find all of your gardening needs is even better. Louisiana Nursery Home & Garden Showplace offers a year-round stock of plants, a unique gift department, collectibles, and a huge Christmas decorating section to make sure you can deck the halls the right way every year. Our readers appreciate the superior customer service and the hard work the staff at Louisiana Nursery puts into making sure gardeners in Louisiana have a great selection of items that are always in excellent quality. Finalists Clegg's Nursery • Harb's Oasis

Favorite Gift Store

The Royal Standard Multiple locations • theroyalstandard.com Finalists Sanctuary Home & Gifts • The Idea Station

Favorite Grocery Store

Rouses Supermarkets Multiple locations • rouses.com Making a quick trip to the supermarket is a lot easier with Rouses Supermarkets on a nearby corner. With the incredible

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

Tangerine

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

2019 FAMILY FAVORITES organization and cleanliness of every store, our readers rave about how easy it is to find everything they need all in one place. From fresh produce and seafood to cakes and desserts, Rouses Supermarkets has been providing the best in fresh foods since 1960. They even have weekly deals available to all customers to help make your week and your shopping a little easier.

toys, as well as new and unique brands that emphasize playfulness, innocence and all-out fun. Toys are important in child development, and Victoria’s Toy Station only provides safe, high quality toys in their fun shopping atmosphere.

with urgency, efficiency, and excitement, TumbleCats’s classes ensure that each student gets the most out of every class.

Finalists Giggles • Cullen's Playland, Inc

Favorite Health & Fitness Club

Finalists Oak Point Fresh Market • Trader Joe's

SPORTS & REC PROGRAMS

Favorite School Uniform Wear

Inka’s Uniforms Multiple locations • inkas-uniforms.com Before the school bell rings or when their kiddos grow out of their current uniforms, our readers know they can visit Inka’s Uniforms for fashionable and innovative school uniforms. Utilizing the highest quality of fabrics and upscale designs, Inka’s Uniforms helps children of all ages get ready for school. Inka’s allows you to shop by school, so you can make sure your child has everything he or she needs before the first day. Finalists School Time Uniforms • Young Fashions Uniforms

Favorite Teen/Tween Wear

Tangerine (225) 925-1090 • tangerineonline.com Every teen and tween wants to wear the latest trends and fashions, and our readers chose Tangerine as their go-to tween clothing and accessory store. Located in the heart of Baton Rouge, this boutique features a variety of brands, including Juicy Couture, Splendid, and Ugg. When shopping at Tangerine, tweens and teens are encouraged to personalize their closet while also making a fashion statement. Finalists Apricot Lane Boutique • Francesca's

Favorite Toy Store

Victoria’s Toy Station (225) 924-3632 • victoriastoystation.com Since 1984, Victoria's Toy Station has enriched the lives of multiple generations of our city's children with its classic children's 76

Favorite Cheer Program

Central Community Athletics centralcheerathletics.com If your child is looking to take the first step in becoming a skilled cheerleader, our readers recommend starting the journey at Central Community Athletics. This competitive cheerleading program teaches the important foundations of cheerleading, while also teaching them all about teamwork, self confidence, respect, discipline, drive and determination. Finalists Cheer Force Athletics • Louisiana Athletics

Favorite Dance Program

De Frances Academy of Dance Multiple locations • defrancesdance.com Whether you’ve been dancing since you could walk or you are just starting out, De Frances Academy of Dance has the ability to bring various levels of talent and styles together to create performances that inspire and entertain. Since 1971, De Frances has been providing dancers ages two through pre-professional a creative space to work on their technique or simply learn the basics in ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, or lyrical classes. Finalists En Pointe Dance Studio • Jete Dance Company

Favorite Gymnastics Program

TumbleCats tumblecats.com Flipping to the front of the competition this year is TumbleCats. TumbleCats is a high-energy tumbling studio designed to teach tumbling skills for ages four and up. With a highly trained staff that teaches

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

Finalists C.G.'s Gymnastics • LA Gold Gymnastics UpTown Climbing (225) 831-1117 • uptownclimbing.com Our readers want a fun way to stay in shape, and this year, they chose UpTown Climbing as their Favorite Health & Fitness Club that does the trick. UpTown Climbing features a 90-foot long bouldering wall, over 60 rope stations up to 35' tall, a speed wall, crack climb, six auto-belay stations, and a dedicated sport lead climbing wall, helping you reach new heights. Finalists Southern Oaks Athletic Club • YMCA of Greater Baton Rouge

Favorite Martial Arts Program

Gracie United–Team Jucao South Baton Rouge (225) 439-5858 • facebook.com/pg/gusouthbr With years of training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, the instructors at Gracie United (and our readers!) know the true benefits of its practice. From concentration and strength to self-discipline, those who practice are able to live happier and healthier lives. Their clean and encouraging environment is open to both kids and adults, and they’re here to help make you stronger, learn how to defend yourself, and grow as a person. Finalists Joel Neely's Tiger-Rock Martial Arts Academy • David Vincent's Martial Arts & Fitness

Favorite Swimming Lessons

Crawfish Aquatics Multiple locations • crawfishaquatics.com Water safety and teaching children how to swim is important, and the knowledgeable staff at Crawfish Aquatics provides swimming lessons year round to help make sure our kiddos are safe around any type of water, any time of year. Our readers can’t get enough of the convenience Crawfish

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

Ollie's Car Wash

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

2019 FAMILY FAVORITES Aquatics provides in their weekly classes and flexible schedules. Whether you’re a little one to an adult, Crawfish Aquatics is here to teach you swimming readiness and technical skills. Finalists Southern Oaks Athletic Club • Tadpole Academy Swim School

Favorite Yoga Studio

Yoglates 2 (225) 381-0699 • yoglates2.com The incredible combination of calisthenics, yoga, and Pilates makes Yoglates a great workout, and our readers choose Yoglates 2 as their Favorite Yoga Studio. Everyone who visits the studio leaves feeling stronger, more loose, and ready to take on their day (or evening!). This homegrown studio offers the “best workout” in Baton Rouge, and they strive to train those who visit in a way that is outside the box. Finalists Yoga Bliss • YMCA of Greater Baton Rouge

TREATS & EATS Favorite Bakery

Nothing Bundt Cakes (225) 924-9002 • nothingbundtcakes.com Topped with the most incredible cream cheese frosting your tastebuds will ever witness, Nothing Bundt Cake’s scrumptious bundt cakes, bundtlets, and bundtinis are the perfect sweet treat to have at any party, get together, or simply just because. The deliciously sweet and always moist bundt cakes come in a variety of flavors, including classic vanilla, red velvet, chocolate chocolate chip, white chocolate raspberry, marble, and lemon. They’re so deliciously sweet, you’ll probably want to get one of each. Finalists Baum's Fine Pastries • The Ambrosia Bakery

Favorite Barbecue Restaurant

BRQ Seafood and Barbeque (225) 372-2674 • brqrestaurant.com People in Louisiana know good barbeque, 80

and if they’re looking for a savory BBQ meal, they choose BRQ Seafood and Barbeque. BRQ focuses on their customers, often encouraging their visitors to share their experience. If you have a question or input, they want to hear about it. This open-floor atmosphere is what keeps our readers returning, and the food is so good that it can’t be missed. Finalists City Pork Brasserie & Bar • Sonny's BBQ

Favorite Breakfast

Frank's Restaurant Multiple locations • franksrestaurantla.com Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and our readers know they are going to get nothing but the best at Frank’s Restaurant. You can choose from biscuits, beignet bites, sausage, oatmeal, grits, pancakes, omelets, and french toast to satisfy your cravings. Whichever you order, you can bet it’s going to be your favorite, maybe even the best breakfast you've ever had! Finalists Another Broken Egg Cafe • Mason's Grill

Favorite Catering

Bergeron's City Market (225) 927-3998 • chefdonb.com When our readers have a party or event coming up, they turn to Bergeron’s City Market to bring the food. Headed by Chef Don Bergeron, Bergeron’s City Market offers premier, full service gourmet catering. Bergeron’s offers innovative, creative cuisine, impeccable event execution and exceptional customer service to all. Finalists Sammy's Grill • Chef Jeremy Coco

Favorite Chinese Restaurant

P.F. Chang's Multiple locations • pfchangs.com Our readers chose P.F. Chang’s as their favorite Chinese restaurant this year. And, with their delicious food made from scratch every day, it’s no surprise that they jumped to the top spot in votes. P.F. Chang’s is the first multi-unit restaurant concept in the U.S. to honor and celebrate the

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

2,000-year-old tradition of wok cooking as the center of the guest experience. Finalists Hunan Chinese Restaurant • Oriental Pearl Restaurant

Favorite Coffeehouse

CC’s Coffee House Multiple locations • ccscoffee.com Mochasippis, cappuccinos, mochas, lattes, and espressos, the gang’s always there at CC’s Coffee House when you need a quick pick me up. CC’s is a name our readers know and trust, so whether you’re grabbing your first cup in the morning or meeting a friend for a quick afternoon chat, CC’s provides an environment that is intimate and comforting. And while you work or visit with friends, you can even snack on tasty treats and sandwiches that are available throughout the day. Finalists French Truck Coffee • Starbucks

Favorite Donuts

Mary Lee Donuts Multiple locations • maryleedonuts.com A warm donut is the perfect start to any morning, and Mary Lee Donuts is always there to make sure you start your morning on the right foot. Choose from a wide array of scrumptious donuts or even try their incredible kolaches with a freshly brewed cup of coffee. Finalists Krispy Kreme • District Donuts

Favorite Food Truck

Taco de Paco Multiple locations • tacodepaco.com For tacos made your way that are on the go, readers are all about the Taco de Paco food truck. Choose your tortilla and how you want your taco made before adding a side of chips and salsa to make yourself the perfect lunch or dinner. With their specials constantly changing, you’re bound to get something new and even more delicious on every visit. Finalists The Big Cheezy • Cupcake Allie

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

2019 FAMILY FAVORITES Favorite Hamburger

Curbside Burgers (225) 478-8349 • curbside-burgers.com Curbside knows how to make a great burger and our readers certainly agree. Using a proprietary blend of beef combined with signature toppings, buttery brioche buns, fresh cut fries and an ice cold drink, visitors can indulge in the perfect burger experience upon every visit. Finalists Burgersmith • Five Guys

Favorite Italian Restaurant

The Little Village Multiple locations • littlevillagebr.com For good times and good food, our readers visit The Little Village. Toasted ravioli, beef manicotti, fried calamari, lobster bisque and seafood gumbo are just some of our readers’ favorites. For an inviting atmosphere with spectacular service, plan your next meal at The Little Village. Finalists Gino's Restaurant • Monjunis Italian Cafe & Grocery

Favorite Kids Eat Free

Izzo’s Illegal Burritos Multiple locations • izzos.com There’s no denying that our kiddos are picky eaters. One day, they like a food. The next day? They can’t stand to look at it. At Izzo’s Illegal Burritos, the options are endless, and being picky makes it part of the fun. Your little ones can dress their fajitas, tacos, burritos, burrito bowls, salads, quesadillas, and nachos however they choose, and all of it is made right before their very eyes. Finalists Las Palmas Mexican Restaurant • Mason's Grill

Favorite Mexican Restaurant

Superior Grill Fabulous Mexican Dining Multiple locations • batonrouge.superiorgrill.com Superior Grill rose to the top again this year as your Favorite. The mouthwatering nachos, quesadillas, chimichangas, and tacos keep families coming back for more. Their indoor and outdoor dining options 84

make it a perfect location for happy hour, birthdays, a family night out, or even date night. You and your family can also rock out to the sounds of great local bands on the weekends, and on game days, they stay open late. Finalists Los Reyes Mexican Grill • The Velvet Cactus

Favorite Pizza

Fleur de Lis Pizza (225) 924-2904 • fleurdelispizza.com This family favorite has landed on the list as your go-to pizza place for years. Whether you choose to dine in or grab a pizza and go, you know you’re getting delicious pies, no matter what topping you choose. It’s the perfect family restaurant, and we recommend going early to make sure you snag the perfect table. Finalists Lit Pizza • Rotolo's Pizzeria

Favorite Seafood Restaurant

Louisiana Lagniappe Restaurant (225) 767-9991 • louisianalagniapperestaurant.com For a little something extra, Louisiana Lagniappe Restaurant is where you will want to be for delicious seafood flavors that will have you coming back for more. Louisiana Lagniappe Restaurant first opened it doors in 1984 in Florida. Louisiana Lagniappe's popularity can be credited to classic dishes prepared with the freshest of ingredients, straight from the Gulf. The original proprietors relocated to Baton Rouge in 1998, where they have continued their time-tested tradition of serving delicious Louisiana favorites. Finalists Parrain's Seafood Restaurant • Mike Anderson's Seafood

Favorite Steakhouse

Ruth's Chris Steak House (225) 925-0163 • ruthschris.com There are few things better than the perfect steak. However you choose to eat your steak, the chefs at Ruth’s Chris Steak House will sear it to perfection, finish it

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

with butter and freshly chopped parsley and serve while sizzling on a 500-degree plate. The thought alone makes our mouths water, and our readers agree, too! Finalists Stab's Prime Steak & Seafood • Doe's Eat Place

Favorite Sub/Sandwich

Jimmy John's Multiple locations • jimmyjohns.com We love a freaky fast meal that can be delivered to us wherever we are, and that’s precisely what you will get when you order a sandwich from Jimmy John’s. Their incredible subs are perfect for lunch, or if you stop in with your family, you can expect to enjoy a clean facility with the delicious smell of fresh bread as you dine. Finalists Firehouse Subs • American Market

Favorite Sushi

Ichiban Japanese Grill & Sushi Bar Multiple locations • ichibanbr.com Mixing traditional with contemporary, Ichiban provides a dining experience unlike any other. Ichiban is carefully designed to elevate any lunch or dinner with its cutting-edge Japanese-inspired style. From whimsical crystal fish lighting to a larger than life original tree sculpture, Japanese art inspiration is seen inside as well as outside. Serving only the freshest Sashimi, meticulously handcrafted sushi, and world class Hibachi, Ichiban defines the ultimate Japanese dining experience. Finalists Geisha, Sushi With a Flair • Tsunami Sushi

Thank you to all of our readers for nominating and voting for their Favorites. We are so happy to recognize the incredible people, businesses, and services throughout Baton Rouge and the surrounding areas.

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

PLAY A DAY IN THE LIFE OF DAD STAY CONNECTED If you would like to read more of Brandon’s adventures from A Day in the Life of Dad, visit us online at brparents.com. GEAR UP Keep your cables, chargers, and connectors organized with the Bagsmart’s Pomona Electronic Organizer. This sorting bag features several compartments and pockets to help you keep your gear in check while you are on the go, and best of all, it is water repellent. ■ bagsmart.com

‘‘

FROM THE MOUTHS OF DADS

Did You Bring Your Money?

I think the best thing to try to do is allow your daughter or your son to know that they can come to you for anything.” —Jamie Foxx

By Brandon Foreman

o, I’m in the camp that there's always a job to be done and everyone can do a job. That means, even my children need to be doing some form of a job. So, when my children want something at the store, my response has always been, “Did you bring your money?” It started out as a joke and a way for me to not always have to say “no” to them, but then it quickly turned into a conversation. “My money? I don't have any money,” and I would ask, “Why don't you have any money?” Then, we went down the road of how you get money. This was a much better conversation than, “No you can't have that,” followed by the “Why Not?” game. Rather, we talked about how they can have whatever they want as long as they work hard, save enough, and also give money. Now we have conversations about how much things cost. Keep in mind, this is with all of my children, even the six-year-old twins. We have negotiations at our place for jobs and how much we pay for certain jobs. My plan is to take it to the next level and make it like the real world, where on Sunday nights, I'll make a list of all the jobs needing to be done that week. I’ll allow them to bid on them. The lowest bidder wins the job, and if you don't complete your job that week, then you can’t bid next week... hence no money. To me, this is more of how the real world works. Last time I looked, there wasn’t anyone giving me a stack of money on Sunday night, saying this is your allowance for the week. I had to get up and go work for it if I wanted it, because if I wanted something, trust me, I did bring my own money. 86

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

PIC OF THE MONTH

Josh N. and his crew, Ella and Braxton, are always ready to take a quick family photo together.

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

PLAY GET OUT OF TOWN

THE ISLAND in Pigeon Forge

By Julie Engelhardt

BEFORE YOU GO Coordinates | 35.78899° N, -83.55626° E Baton Rouge to Pigeon Forge | 686 miles Driving time | 12 hours, 42 minutes Why The Island in Pigeon Forge? The Island in Pigeon Forge is a massive family fun center and entertainment complex. It offers popular restaurants, retail shops, live music and tons of rides and attractions. The Island is open year round, so let’s kick off our boots, put on our flip flops, and discover the terrific treasures that can be found in The Island. WHERE TO STAY The Island has two lodging options, the Margaritaville Island Hotel and the Margaritaville Island Inn. The Margaritaville Island Hotel's guest rooms include a Margaritaville Frozen Concoction Maker, a fireplace, private balconies and dual rain showers. The Margaritaville Island Inn offers tropical-inspired guests rooms, two pools, complimentary breakfast, and free bikes to use during your visit. WHERE TO EAT Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen Southern style breakfast fare, sumptuous lunch specials, and country comfort dinners are all on the menu. Start the day with Chicken and Biscuits or Apple Cinnamon French Toast. After a day of riding roller coasters, dig into Paula’s Best Ever Southern Fried Chicken or her Beef Pot Roast. Poynor’s Pommes Frites Casual dining is on the menu at Poynor’s Pommes Frites, a delicious German eatery. You’ll yell ‘wunderbar!’ when you bite into the warm, crispy Pommes Frites (Belgium Fries) served with your choice of over 60 dipping sauces. Finish the evening with a bowl of Spaghetti Ice, a homemade ice cream dish made to look like spaghetti. Timberwood Grill This lodge-themed restaurant features delish dishes such as Corn Dodgers, fried balls of pulled pork served with barbecue sauce; the hearty Bison Burger; and the Ribs and Brisket platter. 88

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

WHAT TO DO The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel is at the top of this list. Towering over the park at an impressive 200 feet, the wheel provides riders with an unparalleled view of the Smoky Mountains in comfortable, all-glass gondolas that seat up to eight guests. The gondolas are wheelchair accessible and good for riders of all ages. If you’re up for a challenge, take on the Sky Trail Explorer Ropes Course. This three-story adventure experience combines 30 different climbing elements with two zip lines and a simulated free fall called Quick Jump. There’s no time limit, so you can stay as long as you like at the course. Super sleuths can test their crime-solving expertise at the Alcatraz East Crime Museum. With five different unique galleries, guests can burrow deep into the studies of criminal intent, criminal profiles, the penal system, crime prevention and law enforcement. There are over 20 exhibit areas to explore. Can you make it out in time? The Escape Game offers guests 60 minutes of twists, turns and jaw-dropping surprises around every corner. You and your team work together to find clues and overcome challenges in order to complete your mission so that you can escape! I believe I can fly! The 32-foot-high ThunderDome hosts the only Bungee Dome in the area, housing three trampoline-based bungee jumps that will keep you on your toes. Get ready for some adrenaline-pumping fun. The newest attraction, scheduled to open in late 2020, is the $20 million Flying Theater Ride. This state-of-the art ride and movie attraction will feature a custom film featuring the nation’s most beautiful natural wonders and iconic landmarks. Riders will experience the movements, sounds and scents of a breathtaking aerial adventure across the United States. Navigate your way through the Island Mirror Maze. At over 3,000 square feet, it’s one of the country’s largest mirror mazes. Get lost in the fun as you navigate your way through the labyrinth of infinite illusions, countless reflections, and dazzling dead ends. Create lasting memories together at Old Time Photo. Choose from seasonal themes or the classic options such as a saloon, gangster, or southern belle for your fun, family photos.

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

PLAY THINGS WE L

ALL THINGS PUMPKIN Maple syrup, golden waffles, pumpkin spice, and brown sugar, oh my! Have your house smelling like fall goodness with this Pumpkin Pecan Waffles Candle. With a nutty and pumpkin-y smell, this candle also comes with a decorative lid. ■ bathandbodyworks. com

With this fringe scarf, you’ll have a classy way to show off your Halloween spirit. Fringe Scarves Womens Scarf: Pumpkin Patch is handmade from luxurious yarns without having the heavy knit feel. ■ etsy.com

Show your little pumpkins just how much you love them with this I Love You More Than Pumpkin Anything Pillow. With a faux linen finish and bright orange text, you’ll add a little fall fun to your decor. ■ kirklands.com

Get the perfect pumpkin pout with Kylie Cosmetics Pumpkin Matte Lip Kit. Each Lip Kit comes with a Matte Liquid Lipstick and matching Lip Liner in the dirty midtone orange. You’ll be feeling fall in this bold lipstick that doesn’t dry out your lips. ■ kyliecosmetics.com

Have your house smelling pumpkin perfect with Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Pumpkin Kitchen Basics Set. Featuring dish soap, multi-surface cleaner and hand soap, you’ll have a fresh way of getting rid of life's messes. ■ mrsmeyers.com

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

2 0 1 8 -1 9 C o v e r K i d G a u g e F.

w w w. b r p a re nt s . c o m

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

PLAY MOMS ONLY

Eat/Drink

▪ Go pick apples ▪ Eat a caramel apple ▪ Try a pumpkin spice latte or a seasonal apple drink or dessert ▪ Bake a pie ▪ Eat a cider donut ▪ Drink apple cider ▪ Try something with a salted caramel flavor

Outdoors

Fall Fun Bucket List With Jami & Katrina

As the leaves start to change colors, and the air gets a little...let’s be honest, it’s still HOT! Like it or not, the calendar tells us that Fall is indeed approaching. Every year, we have some family traditions and activities that we partake in, no matter what the temperatures say. Here is a Fall Bucket List that we have curated just for you to ensure maximum Fall family fun! Grab your PSL (pumpkin spice latte), cozy up, and plan out which one you’re going to do first. We challenge you to check off every one of the activities on this list to make it a super memorable Autumn for you and your family. 92

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

▪ Make a bonfire and eat some s’mores with your kiddos ▪ Jump in a pile of leaves ▪ Go on a hayride ▪ Attend a Fall festival ▪ Go hunting ▪ Bundle up together and gaze at the stars ▪ Go horseback riding ▪ Journey through a corn maze ▪ Take a bike ride on a scenic trail in town ▪ Make seasonal decor using Fall leaves you find ▪ Go pick out a pumpkin ▪ Carve a pumpkin and save the seeds! ▪ Paint a pumpkin ▪ Make a Fall wreath ▪ Visit a local pumpkin patch ▪ Have a chili cook-off with your friends ▪ Take a trip to the zoo

Nostalgia

▪ Go camping ▪ Take a nature hike ▪ Attend a nearby family harvest festival ▪ Watch or attend a local football game ▪ Take a day trip to a small town you’ve never been ▪ Light a Fall-scented candle ▪ Go antiquing ▪ Take a walking tour around your city ▪ Take a Fall family picture ▪ Switch out your wardrobe ▪ Have a scary movie marathon We encourage you to rip this page out. Put it on the fridge as a reference, and get to having the best kind of fun: Fall fun! We want our kids to look back at their childhood and be filled with fun memories and things that we did together as a family. We can only hope to instill ideas that they enjoy and will eventually pass down to their own kids one day (far, far in the future). Somehow, Autumn flies by in a flash. We blink, and it's Christmas! We like to take advantage of the weather and beautiful foliage with this list of fun things to do in the Fall. Get out and have a blast, and be sure to tag us in your bucket list photos on social media. ■ O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

PARENTS, DO YOUR HOMEWORK

LOCAL ACADEMIC RESOURCES FOR STUDENTS

HOMEWORK HELP ASCENSION PARISH LIBRARY Online resources for test prep, language learning, and skill building. ■ main.ascension.lib.la.us EAST BATON ROUGE PARISH LIBRARY Provides help in subjects including geography, languages, math and science. ■ ebrpl.com HOMEWORK LOUISIANA Free online tutoring, test prep and resources provided by the State Library of Louisiana. Services offered in Spanish and Vietnamese. ■ homeworkla.org LIVINGSTON PARISH LIBRARY LPL offers access to databases and tools for homework help, test prep, and skill development. ■ mylpl.info RESOURCES ASCENSION PUBLIC SCHOOL SYSTEM Providing parent resources for PreK and Kindergarten students. ■ apsb.org 94

FOUNDATION FOR EAST BATON ROUGE SCHOOL SYSTEM The Foundation provides resources for science, technology, engineering, and math career research. ■ foundationebr.org LIVINGSTON PARISH PUBLIC SCHOOLS FAMILY RESOURCE CENTER A lending library open to parents of LPPS. Provides educational materials, ACT prep materials and special needs information. ■ lpsb.org ■ (225) 667-1098 LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION Louisiana Believes provides information so parents can decide the best education for their children. ■ louisianabelieves.com SUSPECTING DYSLEXIA? Janet S. Vosburg, a dyslexia consultant, offers one-hour screenings that show how students process information. ■ (832) 544-7798

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

2019-20 Cover Kid: Jeremiah Jacob F. Photo Credit: Kleinpeter Photography

When it comes to academics, our little scholars need help sometimes, and the Baton Rouge area offers a lot of academic assistance options. We’ve gathered information about tutors, homework help, test prep, and resources to help you through the school year.

TEST PREP ACT PREPARATORY ACADEMY A collaboration from LSU, Southern University, 100 Black Men of Metro Baton Rouge, and Baton Rouge Community College. ■ (225) 356-9444 THE EXTRA POINT ACT This standardized test prep company specializes in preparing students for the ACT and PSAT with classes and tutoring in Baton Rouge. ■ extrapointact.com LSU CONTINUING EDUCATION ACT prep courses, taught by instructors who know the test better than anyone, prepare students to do their best when it counts. ■ outreach.lsu.edu ■ (225) 578-2500 MAGNOLIA PREP Run according to the principles of the Catholic Church, Magnolia Prep provides private tutoring and group courses for the ACT, SAT, and PSAT. ■ magnoliaprep.com ■ (318) 286-7556

MASTERYPREP MasteryPrep specifically focuses on bringing up students’ ACT scores to college-ready standards, helping every student excel on the ACT and beyond. ■ masteryprep.com ■ (855) 922-8773 THE PRINCETON REVIEW BATON ROUGE Provides personalized private tutoring, test prep, and admission products and services. ■ princetonreview.com ■ 1 (800) 2REVIEW TUTORS BEST IN CLASS PROFESSIONAL TUTORING A teacher-run tutoring service for K-12 students that provides assistance in math, English, science, history, and foreign languages. ■ bestinbr.com ■ (225) 505-6900 GLORYLAND RESOURCES EDUCATION CENTER This nonprofit social services organization, affiliated with Gloryland Baptist Church, offers after-school tutoring and summer enrichment. ■ gercinc.org ■ (225) 356-0577 MATHNASIUM A math-only learning center, Mathnasium helps kids in grades 1-12 understand math by teaching in a way that makes sense to them. ■ mathnasium.com ■ (225) 753-6284 SYLVAN LEARNING CENTER Sylvan provides homework help, test prep, and tutoring in reading, math and writing, offering in-center tutoring for students PreK-12. ■ sylvanlearning.com ■ (225) 238-6105

FRANCISCAN MISSIONARIES OF OUR LADY UNIVERSITY

VARSITY TUTORS This online tool connects students to highly credentialed tutors for online or in-person lessons with flexible scheduling. ■ varsitytutors.com ■ (888) 888-0446 O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

IN EVERY ISSUE CALENDAR

OCTOBER

BOO AT THE ZOO. BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo from October 19-20 and October 26-27. Gates open at 9:30 a.m. This merry-not-scary trick-or-treating extravaganza includes the Enchanted Swamp, Hay Maze, and EdZooCation Stations. Wear your costumes for some fantastic family fun. ■ brzoo.org

1 TUESDAY AFTER BABY COMES (ABC): BABY CARE AND PARENT CARE. Woman’s Hospital from 6:30-9 p.m. Plan to take this class in the sixth month of pregnancy. For new parents, grandparents, adoptive parents or other caregivers. (225) 231-5475 BREASTFEEDING BASICS. Baton Rouge General Hospital, Bluebonnet, from 6-9 p.m. Course on the advantages, how to care for yourself while breastfeeding, and proper techniques. brgeneral.org CPR FOR FRIENDS AND FAMILY. Baton Rouge General Hospital, Bluebonnet, from 6-8 p.m. Learn CPR and foreign body airway obstruction techniques for infants and children. brgeneral.org DAVID CROSBY: REMEMBER MY NAME. Manship Theatre at 7:30 p.m. Docu96

mentary on David Crosby’s life of music stardom. manshiptheatre.org GARDENING QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS– PLANT SWAP. Gonzales Library at 6 p.m. Master Gardeners will give tips and answer questions. (225) 647-3955 HOPE CHESTS BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP. Ochsner Hospital from 6-7 p.m. Monthly support group with speakers and light refreshments. ochsner.org LSU JAZZ SHOWCASE. LSU Student Union Theater at 7:30 p.m. lsu.edu THE CHAOS CLINIC: HOLIDAY ORGANIZING. The Royal Standard from 10-11 a.m. Class for adults. Cost is $25. theroyalstandard.com TWEEN IMPROV EXTRAVAGANZA. Watson Library at 5:30 p.m. Children ages 8-11 can participate in interactive activities and exercises to get their creative juices

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

flowing. Registration required. (225) 686-4180

vote on the finalists’ films. manshiptheatre.org

2 WEDNESDAY

3 THURSDAY

AFTER BABY COMES (ABC): BABY CARE AND PARENT CARE. Woman’s Hospital from 6:30-9 p.m. Plan to take this class in the sixth month of pregnancy. (225) 231-5475 GOING GLUTEN FREE. Our Lady of the Lake Ascension, from 6-7 p.m. Dr. Elizabeth Bollinger will discuss gluten-free living. (225) 621-2906 I CARE LIVE. Webinar series at noon by the I CARE program with various guest speakers who promote personal safety, drug prevention and selfhelp educational resources. icare.ebrschools.org MANHATTAN SHORT FILM FEST. Manship Theatre at 7 p.m. Over 100,000 film lovers unite in over 300 cinemas across six continents to view and

AUTHOR ILLUSTRATOR PROGRAM. EBR Main Library at 7 p.m. Meet author Matt de la Peña. His book, Last Stop on Market Street, was the winner of the 2016 Newbery Medal. ebrpl.com ROCK N ROWE. Perkins Rowe from 6-9 p.m. Performances by After 8. perkinsrowe.com SUP 101. BREC’s Milford Wampold Memorial Park from 6-7 p.m. Class on basic paddle boarding needs for ages 12+. brec.org TEEN ADVISORY BOARD. Watson Library at 5:30 p.m. Teens can suggest programs, volunteer, and choose books. (225) 686-4180

4 FRIDAY

AUTHOR ILLUSTRATOR PROGRAM

WORKSHOP. EBR Main Library at 8 a.m. Author Matt de la Peña will lead a workshop for teachers, librarians, writers, artists and children’s literature enthusiasts. ebrpl.com BOOK BABIES. Watson Library at 10:30 a.m. Activity for infants through age five with stories, music and games. (225) 664-3963 BREAC FUNDRAISER. Louisiana Culinary Institute from 6:30-9 p.m. Fundraiser with hors d’oeuvres, desserts, wine, beer and a silent auction. breac225.org BREASTFEEDING SUPPORT GROUP. Woman’s Hospital from 9:30-11 a.m. Learn about successes and challenges with breastfeeding. Free. (225) 231-5475 BREW AT THE ZOO. BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo from 7-10 p.m. An evening of food, beer and music. brzoobrew.org CAJUN STREET ROD NATIONALS. Lamar-

CALENDAR IN EVERY ISSUE Dixon Expo Center from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Spectacular vehicles, food, exhibitors and activities. nsra-usa.com FAMILY FRIENDLY CONCERT. New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park at 11 a.m. Children’s storyteller and musician Johnette Downing performs. johnettedowning.com FESTIVAL OF FRIENDS FAIR. St. John Primary and St. Theresa Middle School through October 6. Food, games, rides, a country store and entertainment. sjp-sta.org FRIDAY LUNCH LIVE. Baton Rouge General Hospital, Bluebonnet Cafeteria, at noon. Free performance. Performer is John Bishop Jazz. brgeneral.org ON POINTE. PointeMarie Square from 6-8 p.m. Performances by Toby & Shelli. artsbr.org STORIES IN ART. LSU Museum of Art at 10:30 a.m. Free program for children from birth to preschool and their caregivers. (225) 389-7207 STORYBOOK SOIREE. Knock Knock Children’s Museum from 7-11 p.m. knocknockmuseum.org THE HOUR GLASS. Upstage Theatre Black Box at 7 p.m. Tickets are $24. upstagetheatre.biz TIGERAMA LIVE. LSU Union Theater at 7 p.m. Performances by LSU Tiger Band, Golden Girls, Colorguard, Wind Ensemble, and Symphonic Winds. The cheerleaders and Mike The Tiger will also be there. lsu.edu ZACHARY HOMECOMING PARADE. Downtown Zachary. cityofzachary.org

5 SATURDAY

#LOVEBATONROUGESATURDAYS. Knock Knock Children’s Museum at 1 p.m. The museum will present a program with experts demonstrating how families can be healthy. knockknockmuseum.org ACT PRACTICE TEST. Galvez Library at 9 a.m. Students can take a prac-

tice ACT for free. myapl.org ASCENSION PUBLIC LIBRARY’S FALL USED BOOK SALE. APL Dutchtown from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. myapl.org ASK A LAWYER. Baker Library from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Adults can have free counseling offered by the Pro Bono Project of the Baton Rouge Bar Association. ebrpl.com BABIES AND BRUNCH ULTIMATE COMMUNITY BABY SHOWER. Woman’s Hospital from 10 a.m.-noon. Vendors, refreshments, workshops, games, prizes and supplies. eventbrite.com BATON ROUGE ARTS MARKET. Farmers Market downtown from 8 a.m.noon. artsbr.org BSAFE BABYSITTING COURSE. Baton Rouge General, Mid-City, from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. One-day class for babysitters ages 12 and older. brgeneral.org CAJUN STREET ROD NATIONALS. LamarDixon Expo Center from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Vehicles, food, exhibitors and activities. nsra-usa.com CASA ORIENTATION. CASA office at 10 a.m. Capital Area Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Association holds orientation. casabr.org CLINTON MARKET DAY. Downtown Clinton in front of Courthouse from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. (225) 683-5531 COMMUNITY HISTORY FESTIVAL. Pride-Chaneyville Library from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Food, vintage games, pie judging, bingo, farm animals, crafts, cake walk, face painting, sack races, pumpkin painting, demonstrations, music, and vendors. (225) 658-1550 DEAF FOCUS GALA. The Tracy Center from 6:30-11:30 p.m. with hors d’oeuvres, a buffet dinner, a cash bar, and entertainment. Tickets are $75. eventbrite.com FAITH 5K AND 10K @ FRIENDSHIP. Faith

Crossing United Methodist Church, Walker, from 7-10 a.m. faithcrossingumc.org FALL FEST: UNPLUGGED. Faith Crossing United Methodist Church, Walker, from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Includes a craft show, kids zone, and pumpkin patch. faithcrossingumc.org FALL FESTIVAL. Denham Springs Antique Village from 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Over 150 vendor booths, food, music, and kids’ activities. denhamspringsantiquedistrict.net FAUX-TAXIDERMY BUGS. Jones Creek Library at 3 p.m. Teens can gild and mount prop insects to make modern insect art. (225) 756-1170 FESTIVAL OF FRIENDS FAIR. St. John Primary and St. Theresa Middle School through October 6. Food, games, rides, a country store and entertainment. sjp-sta.org FIRST SATURDAY OF THE MONTH HIKE. Port Hudson State Historic Site, Jackson. Join a park ranger on a guided hike. (888) 677-3400 GLOW OF THE FIREFLIES. Barnes and Noble, Citiplace, at 1 p.m. Teen author event. (225) 926-2600 HAUNTED LIBRARY ESCAPE ROOM. Watson Library at 10 a.m. Teens ages 12+ can play an adventure game for four people who are locked in a room and have 30 minutes to escape. (225) 686-4180 INTERNATIONAL OBSERVE THE MOON DAY. LASM from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Learn about Earth’s closest celestial neighbor with hands-on astronomy activities until 2 p.m. and lunar-themed planetarium shows all day. lasm.org LSU VS. UTAH STATE. Tiger Stadium. lsusports.net MEET THE NEIGHBORS. Jericho International Ministries from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Families Helping Families of GBR offers this empowering day of community outreach and support for families to enjoy. (225) 216-7474

OLD SOUTH JAMBOREE. 9554 Florida Boulevard, Walker, at 7 p.m. featuring Carlton Jones and His Red Hot Country Band. livingstontourism.com PET SPOOKTACULAR COSTUME CONTEST. Train Station Park, Denham Springs, with registration from 9 a.m.-noon and the contest at 12:30 p.m. rrrofsouthla.com PLANTFEST 2019. Hilltop Arboretum from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. 36th annual sale of over 5,000 plants. lsu.edu PLAYING FOR CHANGE DAY. French Market Performance Pavilion at 11 a.m. Musicians from all over the world perform with the goal of bringing music into the lives of young people. playingforchangeday.org SWAMP BIRD WALK. BREC’s Bluebonnet Swamp from 7-9 a.m. Hike led by a volunteer of the Baton Rouge Audubon Society. (225) 757-8905 SWAMP LIFE EXPO. North Iberville Visitors Center, Grosse Tete, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Art, local cuisine, crafts, demonstrations, exhibits, and music with an authentic Cajun flair. visitiberville.com TASTE OF ZACHARY. Pointe at Americana at the YMCA. Food, beverages and live music. cityofzachary.org TEEN STEM MARBLE RUN. Zachary Library at 2:30 p.m. Students in grades six and up can create a marble run. (225) 658-1850 THE HOUR GLASS. Upstage Theatre Black Box at 7 p.m. Tickets are $24. upstagetheatre.biz TWELVE ANGRY JURORS. Plaquemine City Hall Courtroom at 7 p.m. Play focuses on a jury’s deliberations in a capital murder case. wearethedifference.org

6 SUNDAY

25TH ANNIVERSARY GALA. The Water Campus, Baton Rouge, from 6-8 p.m. africanamericanmuseum.org

ANGOLA PRISON RODEO AND CRAFT SHOW. Angola Prison. Food and prisoner-made arts and crafts available for sale. angolarodeo.com ANNA’S GRACE WALK TO REMEMBER. EBR Main Library at 6 p.m. Support families in the Greater Baton Rouge Area experiencing miscarriage, stillbirth or infant loss. annasgrace.org ASCENSION PUBLIC LIBRARY’S FALL USED BOOK SALE. APL Dutchtown from noon-4 p.m. myapl.org CAJUN STREET ROD NATIONALS. Lamar-Dixon Expo Center. Gonzales, from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Vehicles, food, exhibitors and activities. nsra-usa.com CELEBRACIÓN LATINA. Audubon Zoo, New Orleans, from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Live music, activities and authentic Latin cuisine. audubonnatureinstitute.org FESTIVAL OF FRIENDS FAIR. St. John Primary and St. Theresa Middle School through today. Food, games, rides, a country store and entertainment. sjp-sta.org FIREPOWER. Port Hudson State Historic Site, Zachary, from 1-2 p.m. Interpretive program demonstrating different kinds of Civil War weapons. (225) 654-3775 FREE FIRST SUNDAY. Free admission to the LSU Museum of Art, LASM, the Old State Capitol, USS Kidd, Capitol Park Museum and BREC’s Magnolia Mound Plantation. visitbatonrouge.com GLOBAL COMMUNITY DAY. BREC’s Highland Road Community Park from 1-6 p.m. An educational event that promotes diversity and understanding of different cultures. brec.org MANHATTAN SHORT FILM FEST. Manship Theatre at 2 pm. Over 100,000 film lovers unite in over 300 cinemas across six continents to view and vote on the finalists’ films. manshiptheatre.org

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

IN EVERY ISSUE CALENDAR PADDLE AWAY. Bayou Manchac from 8-11 a.m. for ages 12+. A paddling program for intermediate to experienced paddlers. brec.org PLANTFEST 2019. Hilltop Arboretum from noon-4 p.m. lsu.edu SENSORY SENSITIVE SUNDAY. Chuck E. Cheese’s at 9 a.m. Opens two hours early with reduced lighting and games for children with autism and other special needs. chuckecheese.com SUGARFEST. West Baton Rouge Museum from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. with food, folklife demonstrations, sweets contest, music, performances and exhibits. westbatonrougemuseum. com THE HOUR GLASS. Upstage Theatre Black Box at 2 p.m. Play. Tickets are $24. upstagetheatre.biz TWELVE ANGRY JURORS. Plaquemine City Hall Courtroom at 2 p.m. This play focuses on a jury’s deliberations in a capital murder case. wearethedifference.org

7 MONDAY

LINE 4 LINE. O’Neils Barber and Beauty Salon. Free haircuts to boys ages

2-16 who read to the barbers. (225) 389-7207

HAPPY BIRTHDAY EVANGELINE P. 2019-20 COVER KID 3 YEARS OLD MICROSOFT WORD BASICS. Denham SpringsWalker Library at 2 p.m. For students ages 12+. (225) 686-4140 MOMMY AND ME. Baton Rouge General Hospital, Bluebonnet, from 11 a.m.-noon. A continued breastfeeding support and education group. brgeneral.org PARENTS NIGHT OUT FOR SPECIAL NEEDS REGISTRATION DEADLINE. St. Jean Vianney Church on October 11 from 6:30-9 p.m. for children who are living with special needs, ages 2-12, and their siblings. Registration is requested for all. parentsnightout@ stjeanvianney.org TAKE BACK THE NIGHT.

Jambalaya Park at 6 p.m. An evening of remembrance and education on domestic violence awareness. (225) 621-2906 YUMMY YUMMY STORYTIME. West Baton Rouge Parish Library at 11 a.m. Preschool storytime with stories, songs, activities, and snacks. (225) 342-7920

8 TUESDAY

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CASON C. 2019-20 COVER KID 6 YEARS OLD HARLEM 100. Manship Theatre at 7:30 p.m. The 100th anniversary of the Harlem Renaissance shown in a multi-media show that captures the sights and sounds of Harlem. manshiptheatre.org LANTERNS LIGHT THE AUTUMN SKY STORY/ CRAFT. Carver Library at 4:30 p.m. Children ages 9-11 can listen to Night of

TIGERAMA LIVE. LSU Union Theater at 7 p.m. Performances by LSU Tiger Band, Golden Girls, Colorguard, Wind Ensemble, and Symphonic Winds. The cheerleaders and Mike The Tiger will also be there. Tickets run $50-65. ■ lsu.edu 98

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

the Fireflies and make a BOB SEGAR AND THE paper lantern craft. SILVER BULLET BAND. (225) 389-7450 Raising Cane’s River CenLIBRARY TOURS FOR ter at 7:30 p.m. raisingADULTS. Bluebonnet canesrivercenter.com Library at 10 a.m. Get the CASA ORIENTATION. most out of your library, CASA office at 5 p.m. both in the branch and Capital Area Court Aponline. (225) 763-2250 pointed Special Advocate MUSIC TOGETHER DEM(CASA) Association holds ONSTRATION FOR KIDS. orientation. casabr.org Bluebonnet Library at 11:15 FLEABAG: NATIONAL a.m. Children ages one to THEATRE ENCORE. Manfive are invited to join local ship Theatre at 7:30 p.m. teacher and professional manshiptheatre.org violist Sonia Feres-Lloyd. JAMBALAYA JAM. North (225) 763-2250 Boulevard Town Square RIVERDALE MURDER with dinner from 5-8 p.m. MYSTERY. Denham A cooking competition and Springs-Walker Library at entertainment. cauw.org 5 p.m. Teens ages 12-18 can LSU CHAMBER SINGERS. solve this life-sized mystery St. Alban’s Chapel, LSU, at game. (225) 686-4140 7:30 p.m. Free. lsu.edu SIDEWALK ASTRONMOUNTAIN BIKE 101. OMY. Perkins Rowe Town BREC’s Comite River Park Square at 6:30 p.m. Join from 5:30-7 p.m. for ages the Baton Rouge As12+. Learn basic mountain tronomical Society and biking with all equipment get a glimpse of the sky. provided. brec.org facebook.com ROCK N ROWE. Perkins SWAMP SCHOOL. Rowe from 6-9 p.m. PerBREC’s Bluebonnet formances by Chase Tyler Swamp from 2-4 p.m. Band. Free and open to the Different themes for each public. perkinsrowe.com class for ages 6-10 featurTHE LOUISIANA MASing nature-based education. TER GARDENERS. Fair(225) 757-8905 wood Library at 6:30 p.m. ZOO AND ME MORNTopics are “Understory ING. BREC’s Baton Rouge Trees: Beautiful Additions Zoo from 9:30-11:30 a.m. to Any Landscape” and Children’s program for ages “Citrus and Blueberries.” three to six. Cost is $12-18 (225) 924-9385 per session. Registration FRIDAY required. (225) 775-3877

9 WEDNESDAY

AFTER SCHOOL HALLOWEEN MOVIE DAY. Fairwood Library at 3:30 p.m. Watch the Halloween classic film featuring the Sanderson sisters. (225) 924-9385 GROCERY STORE TOUR. Rouses, Bluebonnet, from 10-11 a.m. Join Baton Rouge General’s dietitians to learn how to choose fresh and healthy foods. brgeneral.org TOUR FOR TWO (OR MORE). Baton Rouge General Hospital, Bluebonnet, from 6-7 p.m. Tour the Birth Center. brgeneral.org

10 THURSDAY

BREASTFEEDING EXPRESS. Woman’s Hospital from 11:30 a.m.1:30 p.m. Small group class for women only. Recommended as a refresher class. (225) 231-5475 COLOR THE NIGHT. Barn Hill Preserve, Ethel, at 7 p.m. Live music, a silent auction, a photo booth and appearances from ambassador animals. facebook.com DOWNTOWN LIVE AT THE GAZEBO. Gazebo, downtown Zachary Historic Village, from 6-9 p.m. Performer is Dylan Scott. cityofzachary.org FESTIVALS ACADIENS ET CREOLES. Girard Park, Lafayette, through October 13. Music, food,

WEEKLY EVENTS BARN HILL PRESERVE’S PUMPKIN PATCH. Barn Hill Preserve, Ethel. Includes hayrides, corn maze, and corn pit. ■ facebook.com CORN MAZE. Burden Center on Saturdays in October. Includes pumpkin painting, petting zoo, hayrides, and a children’s zipline. ■ lsuagcenter.com CREOLE MOURNING CUSTOMS. BREC’s Magnolia Mound Plantation from October 18-November 6. The house will be decorated in 19th Century-style mourning with special tours. ■ (225) 343-4955 DRACULA. Ascension Community Theatre from October 17-27. Tickets are $15-25. ■ actgonzales.org FIFOLET FESTIVAL. Throughout Baton Rouge from October 18-31. This week-long Halloween festival is a collaborative event led by 10/31 Consortium. ■ 1031consortium.com GREATER BATON ROUGE STATE FAIR. Fairgrounds from October 24-November 3. Admission is $5-10. ■ gbrsf.com JEFFERSON UNITED METHODIST CHURCH PUMPKIN PATCH. Jefferson UMC from October 9-31. Proceeds go to local missions and funds the youth mission trip. ■ jumcbr.org LA FETE DES BAYOUS. Our Lady of Holy Rosary Catholic Church from October 31-November 3. Includes Boo with the Badge, a 5K, rides, live and silent auctions, music, and food. ■ geauxlafete.com LIVE AFTER FIVE. North Boulevard Town Square from October 4-November 8 from 5-8 p.m. ■ downtownbr.org LIVINGSTON PARISH FAIR. Livingston Parish Fairgrounds from October 5-13. Includes rides, food, and exhibits. ■ livingstonparishfair.org LUCKETT FARMS CORN MAZE. Rosedown Plantation from October 12-17. Games, scavenger hunts, and hayrides. ■ luckettfarmstours.com NEWSONG PUMPKIN PATCH. NewSong Church, Prairieville, from October 7-31. ■ newsongcommunity.church TARZAN: THE STAGE MUSICAL. LSU Shaver Theatre from October 1720. Performed by Christian Youth Theater. ■ cytbatonrouge.org THE CRUCIBLE. Theatre Baton Rouge from October 3-6. Play about the Puritan purge of witchcraft in old Salem. ■ theatrebr.org THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW. Theatre Baton Rouge from October 1726. Rated R. ■ theatrebr.org

CALENDAR IN EVERY ISSUE crafts, cooking demonstrations, and a children’s area. Free. festivalsacadiens.com FRIDAY NIGHT MOVIE ON THE PLAZA. EBR Main Library Plaza at 7 p.m. to see a 2016 animated comedy film set in a city of human-like animals. (225) 231-3750 LIVE AT 5 ON THE WESTSIDE. Town of Addis Railroad Museum and Park from 5-8 p.m. Hear Don Rich in this free concert. westbatonrouge.net LOOK UP CHILD WORLD TOUR. Raising Cane’s River Center at 7:30 p.m. Performance by Lauren Daigle. raisingcanesrivercenter.com PARENTS NIGHT OUT FOR SPECIAL NEEDS. St. Jean Vianney Church from 6:30-9 p.m. for children with special needs ages 2-12 and their siblings. parentsnightout@stjeanvianney.org NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD WITH LIVE SCORE FROM AMERICAN NATIVE. Manship Theatre, 7:30 p.m. manshiptheatre.org STEAM CLUB: REMOTE CONTROL MACHINES. Jones Creek Library at 3 p.m. Teens can learn how to build motorized vehicles and pilot them through challenges. (225) 756-1170 SWAMP HAUNTED HIKE. BREC’s Bluebonnet Swamp at 6 p.m. Crafts, storytelling, a haunted maze, carnival games, costumed characters, educational stations and kooky-spooky adventures. (225) 757-8905 THEATRE BATON ROUGE ANNUAL COSTUME SALE. Theatre Baton Rouge, 10 a.m. -5 p.m. theatrebr.org WIGGLE WORMS. Denham Springs-Walker Library at 10:30 a.m. Children up to age five and their caregivers will participate in music and dance activities that enhance lifelong learning and neural development. (225) 686-4140

12 SATURDAY

ASCENSION LEGO CLUB. Galvez Library at 10:30 a.m. for all ages. Legos, Duplo blocks and Mega Bloks will be provided. (225) 662-3339 BODY BASICS FOR GIRLS. Woman’s Hospital from 9:30-11 a.m. Preteen girls ages 9-12 will learn how their bodies grow, what changes to expect during puberty, and how to take care of themselves. (225) 231-5475 BREC-A-BOO: GREENWOOD. BREC’s Greenwood Community Park from 6-10 p.m. with family/team pumpkin carving, a BOOgie dance off, and the movie, Goosebumps 2: Haunted Halloween. (225) 620-0500 CHILDBIRTH CLASS. Ochsner Medical Center from 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Covers pregnancy, pain theories, pre-labor signs, postpartum/newborn procedures and basic breastfeeding. (225) 755-4854 COSTUME GIVEAWAY DAY. EBR Main Library from noon-4 p.m. while supplies last. 1031consortium.com FESTIVALS ACADIENS ET CREOLES. Girard Park, Lafayette, through October 13. Music, food, crafts, cooking demonstrations, and a children’s area. festivalsacadiens.com FLOATING PUMPKIN PATCH. The Pool School from 3-5 p.m. Includes one pumpkin, an hour of free swim, snacks, and pumpkin painting for the kids. Wheelchair accessible. facebook.com FORKY HALLOWEEN PARTY. Java Mama from 4:30-6:30 p.m. Children will paint a pumpkin and enjoy games. facebook.com GEAUX FISH CATFISH RODEO. BREC’s Burbank Soccer Complex Fishing Pond from 7:30-11:30 a.m. brec.org LSU VS. FLORIDA. Tiger Stadium. Homecoming parade at 11 a.m. and decorations at Greek houses. lsu.edu/homecoming

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

IN EVERY ISSUE CALENDAR MODEL TRAINS. Republic of West Florida Historical Museum, Jackson, from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Free indoor and outdoor model train displays by the Greater Baton Rouge Model Railroaders. (225) 634-3473 OPEN HEARTH COOKING DEMONSTRATION. Audubon State Historic Site, St. Francisville, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Costumed demonstrators will be using period techniques, equipment, and recipes to create the meals of yesterday. (888) 677-2838 PAINT A PUMPKIN. Donaldsonville and Dutchtown Libraries from 9-11:30 a.m. Make a mini pumpkin with paint and glitter. Myapl.org PRACTICE ACT. Denham Springs-Walker Library from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. princetonreview.com PREPARING FOR DELIVERY. Woman’s Hospital from 1-5 p.m. Learn basic information so you can recognize signs of labor and comfort measures. (225) 231-5475 RED STICK ROLLER DERBY CHAMPIONSHIP GAME. Mt. Pilgrim Family Life Center at 5:15 p.m. facebook.com SECOND SATURDAY COMMUNITY MARKET. Audubon Louisiana Nature Center from 8:30-11:30 a.m. Event with local produce and seafood for sale, nature hikes, and live music. audubonnatureinstitute.org SOUTHERN VS. PRAIRIE VIEW. Mumford Stadium. gojagsports.com SPOOKY SPECTRUM. BREC’s Highland Road Park Observatory from 6-10 p.m. Family-friendly tribute to the bizarre and freakish with creepy science demonstrations and campfire stories. hrpo.lsu.edu STORIES IN ART. LSU Museum of Art at 10:30 a.m. Spanish and English reading of Where the Wild Things Are. Prepare for Halloween with a mask. (225) 389-7207 STUDIO SATURDAYS. LASM at 2 p.m. Hands-on 100

workshop for children ages 8-14 and their accompanying adults. lasm.org WOODEN BOAT FESTIVAL. Lake Pontchartrain Basin Maritime Museum, Madisonville, through October 13. Annual festival along the banks of the scenic Tchefuncte River. woodenboatfest.org

13 SUNDAY

AFTER BABY COMES (ABC): BABY CARE AND PARENT CARE. Woman’s Hospital from 12:30-5:30 p.m. Cost is $35. (225) 231-5475 ANGOLA PRISON RODEO AND CRAFT SHOW. Angola Prison. Food and prisoner-made arts and crafts available for sale. angolarodeo.com FESTIVALS ACADIENS ET CREOLES. Girard Park, Lafayette, through today. Music, food, crafts, cooking demonstrations, and a children’s area. festivalsacadiens.com FLEABAG: NATIONAL THEATRE ENCORE. Manship Theatre at 2 p.m. For ages 15+. Tickets are $12. manshiptheatre.org HOSPITAL ORIENTATION. Woman’s Hospital from 1:30-2:45 p.m. or 3-4:15 p.m. Tour the labor birth suites, family waiting areas and Transition Nursery while learning what to expect. (225) 231-5475 NUTCRACKER AUDITIONS. Odyssey Academy of Dance, Denham Springs, starting at 1 p.m. for ages seven and up. (225) 665-3414 OLD TIME COUNTRY OPEN JAM. West Baton Rouge Museum, Port Allen, from 3-5 p.m. Anyone with an acoustic instrument is welcome to join, and music lovers are welcome to enjoy. westbatonrougemuseum.org WOODEN BOAT FESTIVAL. Lake Pontchartrain Basin Maritime Museum in Madisonville for families. Annual festival along the banks of the scenic Tchefuncte River. woodenboatfest.org

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

14 MONDAY BOOK A LIBRARIAN COMPUTER HELP. Denham Springs-Walker Library at 2 p.m. Teens and adults can make an appointment with a librarian to help with basic computer and Internet skills. (225) 686-4140 PREGNANCY 101. Woman’s Hospital from 6:30-9 p.m. (225) 231-5475 TABLETOP GAMING NIGHT. Denham SpringsWalker Library at 5 p.m. Ages 12 and up can play role-playing, adventure, strategy, or board games. (225) 686-4140 YUMMY YUMMY STORYTIME. West Baton Rouge Parish Library, Port Allen, at 11 a.m. Preschool storytime with stories, songs, activities, and nutritious kid snacks. (225) 342-7920

DATE NIGHT

LOOK UP CHILD WORLD TOUR Hear the words of the Grammy-award winning hit, “You Say,” live in concert as Lauren Daigle takes the stage at Raising Cane’s River Center at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, October 11. Daigle’s debut album, How Can It Be, will be performed on this special evening that you won’t want to miss. Special guest performances by AHI. Tickets run $44-96. ■ raisingcanesrivercenter.com

15 TUESDAY

BODY BASICS FOR GIRLS. Woman’s Hospital from 6:30-8 p.m. Preteen girls ages 9-12 will learn how their bodies grow and what changes to expect during puberty. (225) 231-5475 FRAGILE GROUNDS: LOUISIANA’S ENDANGERED CEMETERIES. Gonzales Library at 6 p.m. A special book talk with co-authors Jessica H. Schexnayder and Mary H. Manhein followed by a reception and book signing. (225) 647-3955 GULF COAST MOTORCYCLE COMPETITION. Cabela’s, Gonzales. Police motorcycle skills training. Proceeds support Dream Day Foundation and St. Jude’s Research Hospital. tourascension.com LSU SYMPHONIC WINDS. LSU Student Union Theater. lsu.edu TEEN ADVISORY BOARD. Denham Springs-Walker Library at 5 p.m. Teens can suggest programs, volunteer, and choose books. (225) 686-4140

BACHTOBERFEST

When’s the last time you and your special someone heard the incredible Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra perform? Make it a date to experience Bachtoberfest at Capitol Park Museum at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, October 24. During these incredible performances, you will hear the music of Bach, Corelli, Telemann, and Vivaldi. Tickets are $30. ■ brso.org

SPIRITS OF LOUISIANA Enjoy a spooktacular evening during Spirits of Louisiana on Thursday, October 24 at the Louisiana Old State Capitol from 6:30-9:30 p.m. Featuring Halloween-inspired cocktails with tastings of Louisiana spirits, you and your special someone can feast on delicious cuisine, dance the night away, and see the exhibits and a 3D film. ■ louisianaoldstatecapitol.org

BREC Do Not Move

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

101

IN EVERY ISSUE CALENDAR WAVE OF LIGHT CEREMONY. EBR Main Library at 6:30 p.m. Support families in the Greater Baton Rouge Area experiencing miscarriage, stillbirth or infant loss. annasgrace.org

16 WEDNESDAY

BATON ROUGE ARCHAEOLOGY. EBR Main Library at 7 p.m. Valerie Feathers will be at the library to discuss what archaeologists have discovered and achieved. (225) 231-3750 CASA ORIENTATION. CASA office at 3 p.m. Capital Area Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Association holds orientation. casabr.org GULF COAST MOTORCYCLE COMPETITION. Cabela’s, Gonzales, through October 19. Police motorcycle skills training. All proceeds will support Dream Day Foundation and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. tourascension.com HOLLYDAYS. Raising Cane’s River Center through October 19 with fashion, shopping, entertainment, food, and special events. hollydays.org I CARE LIVE. Spanish webinar series at noon by

the I CARE program with various guest speakers who promote personal safety, drug prevention and selfhelp educational resources. icare.ebrschools.org LSU SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA. LSU Student Union Theater at 7:30 p.m. lsu.edu RIVER CITY JAZZ MASTERS SERIES: EDDIE PALMIERI QUINTET. Manship Theatre at 7:30 p.m. Bandleader, arranger and composer of salsa and Latin jazz performs. manshiptheatre.org WINE AND ROSES. LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens at 6 p.m. Food and music in a beautiful setting. Wear cocktail attire. (225) 763-3990

17 THURSDAY

BABY CARE BASICS. Baton Rouge General Hospital, Bluebonnet, from 6-9 p.m. Learn how to prepare for your baby’s arrival, what to expect on the big day, and how to survive the first two weeks. brgeneral.org BODY BASICS FOR BOYS. Woman’s Hospital from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Preteen boys ages 10-13 and their dads/moms will learn how their bodies grow,

what changes to expect during puberty. (225) 231-5475 FEEDING YOUNG MINDS. Denham SpringsWalker Library at 5 p.m. (225) 686-4140 GULF COAST MOTORCYCLE COMPETITION. Cabela’s, Gonzales, through October 19. Police motorcycle skills training. All proceeds will support Dream Day Foundation and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. tourascension.com HOLLYDAYS. Raising Cane’s River Center through October 19 with fashion, shopping, entertainment, food, and special events. hollydays.org HOW TO ADULT YOUR FOOD. West Baton Rouge Parish Library, Port Allen. Learn how to make easy, healthy meals at home. (225) 342-7920 PFLAG SUPPORT GROUP. Unitarian Universalist Church at 6:30 p.m. Support group for friends and family of LGBT people. unitarianchurchbr.com PUMPKIN DECORATING. Denham SpringsWalker Library at 5:30 p.m. Pumpkin decorating for all ages. Bring your own pumpkin. (225) 686-4140

ANGOLA PRISON RODEO AND CRAFT SHOW. Angola Prison on Sundays in October. Food and prisoner-made arts and crafts available for sale. Tickets are $20 for ages three and above. ■ angolarodeo.com 102

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

ROCK N ROWE. Perkins Rowe from 6-9 p.m. Performances by Deuce Chambers & The Zydeco Integrity. perkinsrowe.com TEEN ANIME CLUB. Watson Library at 5:30 p.m. Anime and manga enthusiasts can watch anime, discuss manga, learn about Japanese culture, and play games. (225) 686-4180

18 FRIDAY

ACADIAN FESTIVAL. Bayou Plaquemine Waterfront Park through October 20. Arts and crafts, food, pageant, and cooking contest. acadianfestival.org CAJUN DANCE. UCT Hall at 7:15 p.m. with free dance lessons and the band at 8 p.m. Halloween dance with Paul Daigle and Cajun Gold. batonrougecajundance.com FALL MUSTER. Port Hudson State Historic Site, Jackson, from 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Experience Civil War soldier life first hand during the Fall Muster of the Independent Rifle Company. (888) 677-3400 FAMILY DINNER IMPROV COMEDY SHOW. Manship Theatre at 7:30 p.m. manshiptheatre.org FRIDAY LUNCH LIVE. Baton Rouge General Hospital, Bluebonnet Cafeteria, at noon. Free performance. brgeneral.org GULF COAST MOTORCYCLE COMPETITION. Cabela’s, Gonzales. Police motorcycle skills training. tourascension.com HAIRSPRAY, JR. BREC’s Independence Park Theatre at 7 p.m. All-kids production of the musical. theparktheatre.com HOLLYDAYS. Raising Cane’s River Center through October 19 with fashion, shopping, entertainment, food, and special events. hollydays.org MOVIE IN THE PARK. HugYourPeople Community Park, Zachary, from 6-9 p.m. with special pre-show entertainment, followed by the Halloween movie, Hocus Pocus. cityofzachary.org

MOVIE IN THE PARK: MOVIE NIGHT FOR ADULTS. BREC’s Highland Road Community Park at 6 p.m. Grab a blanket or lawn chair and watch 50 First Dates. brec.org PLAY 4 ALL. Knock Knock Children’s Museum from 5-7 p.m. For children with sensory processing differences, disabilities and developmental delays. knockknockmuseum.org SOUTHERN GARDEN SYMPOSIUM. Various venues, St. Francisville. Enjoy speakers, workshops and vendors. southerngardensymposium.org SUNSHINE SOCIAL: HOCUS POCUS. BREC’s Womack Ballroom from 6-9 p.m. Dance for ages 16 and up with special needs and their friends and families. (225) 216-7474 SWAMP HAUNTED HIKE. BREC’s Bluebonnet Swamp at 6 p.m. Crafts, storytelling, a haunted maze, carnival games, costumed characters, educational stations and kooky-spooky adventures. (225) 757-8905 TRICK AND TREAT FUN. West Baton Rouge Museum grounds from 6-8 p.m. Annual event with trick or treating, vintage party games, and live music. (225) 342-7920

19 SATURDAY

ACADIAN FESTIVAL. Bayou Plaquemine Waterfront Park. Arts and crafts, food, pageant, and cooking contest. acadianfestival.org ACT PRACTICE TEST. Dutchtown Library at 9 a.m. Students can take a practice ACT for free. myapl.org BATON ROUGE ARTS MARKET ARC. 12616 Jefferson Highway, near Parkview, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Includes artwork, food, and music. artsbr.org BATON ROUGE HALLOWEEN PARADE. Downtown at 4 p.m. Parading krewes, dancers and bands entertain the crowd with incredible costumes and candy throws. 1031consortium.com

BLACK NATIVITY AUDITION. Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge at 1 p.m. Performances by New Venture Theatre will be from December 13-15. newventuretheatre.org BOO AT THE ZOO. BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo from 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Participants can wear their costumes and visit treat stations throughout the zoo, ride the Spooky Train Ride, and wander through the Hay Maze. brzoo.org BREASTFEEDING BASICS. Woman’s Hospital from 1:30-5 p.m. Learn the benefits of breastfeeding. (225) 231-5475 CHILDBIRTH PREPARATION. Baton Rouge General Hospital, Bluebonnet, from 8 a.m.-noon. Learn the basics of labor and birth. brgeneral.org CROCHET WORKSHOP. Audubon State Historic Site, St. Francisville, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Learn how to crochet from a volunteer at Oakley House. (888) 677-2838 DISABLE THE LABEL PIRATE & PRINCESS FEST + 5K TREASURE RUN. Denham Springs Freshman School at 8 a.m. Includes the 5K run and the Community Awareness Family Fun Fest geared to allow families of all abilities to enjoy. runsignup.com FAFSA COMPLETION WORKSHOP. Bluebonnet Library from 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. Representative from the Louisiana Education Loan Authority will assist parents and students in filling out their forms. carmichael@lela.org FALL MUSTER. Port Hudson State Historic Site, Jackson, from 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Experience Civil War soldier life first hand during the Fall Muster of the Independent Rifle Company. (888) 677-3400 FELICIANA TRADE DAYS. Graceland Portable Buildings at the corner of Hwy. 10 and Line Road, Jackson, from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Crafts, pottery, clothes, yard sale items, a farmer’s market and food. (225) 719-2199

GREAT FAMILY CAMPOUT. BREC’s Greenwood Community Park from 3 p.m. until October 20 at 10 a.m. Sleep in a tent and enjoy activities, s’mores, hiking, and inflatables. outdooradventure@brec.org GULF COAST MOTORCYCLE COMPETITION. Cabela’s, Gonzales, through today. Police motorcycle skills training. tourascension.com GUYS AND DOLLS VOCAL AUDITIONS. Theatre Baton Rouge beginning at 2 p.m. by appointment only. Young Actors Program performances for ages 8-18 to be held January 30-February 2. theatrebr.org HAIRSPRAY, JR. BREC’s Independence Park Theatre at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. All-kids production. theparktheatre.com HALLOWEEN COOKIE DECORATING CLASS. Arts Council of Livingston Parish, Denham Springs, from noon-2 p.m. Class will cover basic royal icing techniques. artslivingston.org HALLOWEEN TOWN. Levee between USS Kidd and LASM from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Includes costumed characters, pumpkin painting, games, booths and contests. 1031consortium.com HALLOWHEEL ADAPTED AND WHEELCHAIR TENNIS CARNIVAL. BREC’s Highland Park Tennis Center from 9 a.m.-noon. Games, instruction, lunch and prizes for all ages. brwta.org HOLLYDAYS. Raising Cane’s River Center through today with fashion, shopping, entertainment, food, and special events. hollydays.org LIGO SCIENCE SATURDAY: FABULOUS FALL. The Laser Interferometer Gravitational Wave Observatory, Livingston, from 1-5 p.m. ligo.caltech.edu/la LOUISIANA SATURDAY NIGHT VARIETY SHOW. Suma Crossing Theatre.

CALENDAR IN EVERY ISSUE

Grand Country Junction show. grandcountryjunction.com LSU VS. MISSISSIPPI STATE. Away. lsusports.net MAKING STRIDES OF BATON ROUGE. AZ Young Park at 8 a.m. (225) 767-4554 MID CITY MAKERS MARKET: SPOOKY EDITION. 541 South Eugene Street from 4-8 p.m. Makers’ booths, food, a bar, a kids’ area and music. midcitymakers.market MOCKLER’S OKTOBERFEST. Mockler Beverage from 4-6 p.m. Half-mile and three-mile run and a post-race party. clubsouthrunners.net OPEN HOUSE: STICK HORSE RODEO AND STUDENT HORSE SHOW. BREC’s Farr Park Equestrian Center with the Stick Horse Rodeo for ages two to five from 9-10:30 a.m. and the Petting Zoo and Hay Rides from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. brec.org PAINT A PUMPKIN. Gonzales and Galvez Libraries from 9-11:30 a.m. Stop by during that time to make a mini pumpkin with paint and glitter. myapl.org PUMPKIN RACES. Levee near USS Kidd at 8 a.m. Starts with a

Lil’ Pumpkin one-mile fun run followed by the Pumpkin Pi Race and a Tough Pumpkin Challenge. 1031consortium.com SOUTHERN GARDEN SYMPOSIUM. Various venues in St. Francisville. Enjoy speakers, workshops and vendors. southerngardensymposium.org SOUTHERN VS. TEXAS SOUTHERN. Away. gojagsports.com SPECIAL SATURDAYS. LSU Museum of Natural Science, Foster Hall, from 10-11 a.m. with the exhibit area open from 11 a.m.noon. A STEM program that focuses on introducing children to the world of natural science. lsu.edu STREET MARKET AND FESTIVAL Main Street, Jackson, at 8 a.m. felicianatourism.org THE BATON ROUGE MINI MAKER FAIRE. EBR Main Library from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Learn how to repurpose and recycle your clothing with LSU Textiles, explore the wonders of The Wizard of Oz with the Knock Knock Children’s Museum, and see pedalpowered machines from Front Yard Bikes. ebrpl.com WALK/RUN TO REMEMBER. LSU Old Front

Nine from 8-10 a.m. event.alzbr.org

20 SUNDAY

ACADIAN FESTIVAL. Bayou Plaquemine Waterfront Park. Arts and crafts, food, pageant, and cooking contest. acadianfestival.org AKULA FOUNDATION FUNDRAISER. Mount Hope Plantation. Benefits the foundation which includes Camp Swan, a children’s bereavement camp. akulafoundation.com ANGOLA PRISON RODEO AND CRAFT SHOW. Angola Prison. Food and prisoner-made arts and crafts available for sale. angolarodeo.com BALLETX. Manship Theatre at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Original choreography that expands the vocabulary of classical dance for all ages. batonrougeballet.org BOO AT THE ZOO. BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo from 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. A merry-not-scary trickor-treating extravaganza. brzoo.org BOYS TO MEN. Baton Rouge General Bluebonnet from 2-3 p.m. Class for boys ages 10-13 and a parent or trusted adult. Focuses on how a boy transitions through puberty.

SWAMP HAUNTED HIKE. BREC’s Bluebonnet Swamp at 6 p.m. Crafts, storytelling, a haunted maze, carnival games, costumed characters, educational stations and kooky-spooky adventures. Cost is $6 per person. ■ (225) 757-8905 O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

103

IN EVERY ISSUE CALENDAR brgeneral.org BREASTFEEDING SUPPORT GROUP. Ochsner Medical Center, First Floor Classroom, from 2-4 p.m. Share stories and tips on what works and what doesn’t with moms who are living the experience. (225) 755-4854 CREOLE FESTIVAL. French Settlement Town Hall Pavilion from 10 a.m.5 p.m. Live entertainment, food, dancing, folklife demonstrations, craft booths, children’s activities and the Creole House Museum. frenchsettlement-la.gov FALL MUSTER. Port Hudson State Historic Site, Jackson, from 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Experience Civil War soldier life first hand during the Fall Muster of the Independent Rifle Company. (888) 677-3400 GRANDPARENTING 101. Woman’s Hospital from 3-5 p.m. Grandparents can brush up on baby skills. womans.org GUYS AND DOLLS DANCE AUDITIONS. Theatre Baton Rouge at 3 p.m. Young Actors Program performances for ages 8-18 to be held January 30-February 2. theatrebr.org HAIRSPRAY, JR. BREC’s

Independence Park Theatre at 2 p.m. theparktheatre.com HISTORIC MAGNOLIA CEMETERY. EBR Main Library at 3 p.m. Discussion by Chip Landry and Faye Phillips, authors of Images of America: Historic Magnolia Cemetery. (225) 231-3750

21 MONDAY

AUDITIONS: A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS. Ascension Community Theatre at 6 p.m. actgonzales.org EVERYDAY PARANORMAL OF LOUISIANA. Denham SpringsWalker Library at 6 p.m. Teens can join the professional paranormal investigators of Everyday Paranormal of Louisiana as they share their stories and videos. (225) 686-4140 GIRL TALK. Baton Rouge General Hospital, Bluebonnet, at 2 p.m. This class is led by Baton Rouge General OB/GYNs for girls who are ages 9-11. Focuses on what girls experience during puberty. brgeneral.org

BROWN CHRISTMAS. Ascension Community Theatre at 6 p.m. actgonzales.org DECORATE YOUR OWN PUMPKIN. Watson Library at 6 p.m. Adults can socialize and decorate a mini pumpkin. (225) 686-4180 LIBRARY TOURS FOR ADULTS. Bluebonnet Library at 10 a.m. Get the most out of your library, both in the branch and online. (225) 763-2250 PREPARING FOR DELIVERY. Woman’s Hospital from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Learn basic information so you can recognize signs of labor and practice comfort measures. (225) 231-5475 SPOOKTACULAR SLIME. Zachary Library at 4 p.m. Students in grades six and up can make spooktacular slime. (225) 658-1850 TEEN ESCAPE ROOM CHALLENGE. Denham Springs-Walker Library at 4 pm. Teens can enjoy a spooky program while figuring out clues and solving puzzles to escape the room. (225) 686-4140

22 TUESDAY

23 WEDNESDAY

AUDITIONS: A CHARLIE

GROCERY STORE

GREAT FAMILY CAMPOUT. BREC’s Greenwood Community Park from 3 p.m. until October 20 at 10 a.m. Sleep in a tent and enjoy activities, s’mores, hiking, and inflatables. ■ outdooradventure@brec.org 104

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

TOUR. Rouses, Juban Crossing, from 10-11 a.m. Join Baton Rouge General’s dietitians for a grocery tour to learn how to choose fresh and healthy foods. brgeneral.org HOW TO START AND KEEP EXERCISING THROUGH PREGNANCY. Woman’s Center for Wellness from 6-7 p.m. Fit for Birth instructors will equip prenatal participants with education and skills to safely exercise. (225) 924-8944 LAWYERS IN LIBRARIES: FREE ESTATE PLANNING AND SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY. EBR Main Library at 5 p.m. Volunteer attorneys will be available to answer questions about wills, successions, power of attorney and trusts. (225) 231-3750 PREPARING FOR DELIVERY. Woman’s Hospital from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Learn basic information so you can recognize signs of labor and practice comfort measures. (225) 231-5475

24 THURSDAY

BACHTOBERFEST. Capitol Park Museum at 7:30 p.m. Performance by Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra. brso.org BODY BASICS FOR GIRLS. Woman’s Hospital from 6:30-8 p.m. Girls ages 9-12 will learn how their bodies grow and what changes to expect during puberty. (225) 231-5475 DESTINATION: LATIN AMERICA RECEPTION. LSU Museum of Art from 6-8:30 p.m. Includes a Gallery Talk by curator Patrice Giasson. lsumoa.org FEEDING YOUNG MINDS. Watson Library at 5 p.m. (225) 686-4180 GRANDPARENTS RAISING GRANDCHILDREN. Family Road at 10 a.m. Information and support group for grandparents and others raising children not their own. lagrg.org HALLOWEEN RIDE FOR ST. JUDE. Tower Trax ATV Recreation Park,

Fluker, through October 27. The Southern Mud Riderz annual ATV event with mud bog races, costume contests, decorating contests, trick or treating, a silent auction, and a bonfire. facebook.com LA LECHE LEAGUE OF BATON ROUGE MEETING. Java Mama at 10:30 a.m. The La Leche League’s mission is to help mothers breastfeed through mother-to-mother support and education. facebook.com LEGO CHALLENGE. Denham Springs-Walker Library at 5:30 p.m. Children ages 5-11 can enjoy this challenge. Registration required. (225) 686-4140 LEGO CLUB. Watson Library at 5:30 p.m. Children ages 5-11 can enjoy this club with different monthly themes. (225) 686-4180 MESSY STEM: FIZZY SHAPES AND SQUISHY SOAP. Gonzales Library at 6 p.m. Learn science and bring home a ball of squishy soap. Designed for children in kindergarten through grade three, but all ages are welcome. (225) 647-3955 NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM. LSU Museum of Natural Science, Foster Hall, from 6-7:30 p.m. Scientists will give short engaging talks about their research and then take guests on a behind-thescenes tour. Reservations requested. lsu.edu PABLO SAINZ VILLEGAS. Manship Theatre at 7:30 p.m. Praised as the Soul of the Spanish Guitar. Tickets run $38-58. Wine tasting after for an additional $35. manshiptheatre.org PUMPKIN PADDLE PARADE. BREC’s Milford Wampold Memorial Park from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Get in the Halloween spirit by paddling in the dark or watching the light show from the beach. For ages 12+. Cost is $10-12. outdooradventure@brec.org ROCK N ROWE. Perkins Rowe from 6-9 p.m. Performances by Sugar Shaker. Free and open to the

CALENDAR IN EVERY ISSUE public. perkinsrowe.com SPIRITS OF LOUISIANA. Old State Capitol from 6:30-9:30 p.m. Halloween-inspired cocktail event with tastings of Louisiana spirits, delicious cuisine, dancing, a view of the exhibits, and the option to view a 3D film. Tickets are $85. louisianaoldstatecapitol.org THE LOUISIANA MASTER GARDENERS. Central Library at 6 p.m. Topics are “Guarantee Your Success: Grow Louisiana Super Plants” and “Citrus and Blueberries.” ebrpl.com

25 FRIDAY

ALL HALLOWS EVE. Audubon State Historic Site, St. Francisville, from 6-8:30 p.m. Celebrate a traditional 1800s fall festival with storytelling, pumpkin carving, apple bobbing, superstitions, divination and games. (888) 677-2838 AND THEN THERE WERE NONE. The Gladys Hague Runnels Theatre at 7 p.m. Junior/Senior high school play. runnels.org. BOO AT THE ZOO. Audubon Zoo from 5-9 p.m. Special Halloween activities. Cost is $20. audubonnatureinstitute.org CASA ORIENTATION. CASA office at 9 a.m. Capital Area Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Association holds orientation. Registration required. casabr.org HALLOWEEN RIDE FOR ST. JUDE. Tower Trax ATV Recreation Park, Fluker, through October 27. The Southern Mud Riderz annual ATV event with mud bog races, costume contests, decorating contests, trick or treating, a silent auction, and a bonfire. facebook.com RED DRAGON SERIES SONGWRITERS PRESENTS: PAUL THORN BAND IN CONCERT. Manship Theatre at 7:30 p.m. Thorn’s music often references his religious background. Tickets run $40-60.

manshiptheatre.org SWAMP HAUNTED HIKE. BREC’s Bluebonnet Swamp at 6 p.m. Crafts, storytelling, a haunted maze, carnival games, costumed characters, educational stations and kooky-spooky adventures. Cost is $6 per person. (225) 757-8905 TRICK AND TREAT. BREC’s Forest Community Dog Park from 6-9 p.m. Party featuring pet organizations, candy for kids, and treats for dogs. Dress up your dog for the Best Costume Contest. brec.org

26 SATURDAY

HAPPY BIRTHDAY PRESLYNN M. 2019-20 COVER KID 5 YEARS OLD A BABY IS COMING. Woman’s Hospital from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. for children ages four to eight. Class designed to help big brother and sister learn about their new sibling’s arrival by talking about what new babies are like. Cost is $25. Registration required. (225) 231-5475 A HALLOWEEN DAY AT THE MUSEUM. LASM from noon-5 p.m. Muggles and magical folk can enjoy themed activities with a presentation of Halloween-themed shows. Best costume wins a gift basket full of spooktacular surprises. lasm.org AND THEN THERE WERE NONE. The Gladys Hague Runnels Theatre at 7 p.m. Performances by the Junior/Senior high school students. runnels.org. ASK A LAWYER. EBR Main Library from 9:3011:30 a.m. Free confidential and individual counseling offered by the Pro Bono Project of the Baton

Rouge Bar Association. ebrpl.com BAT FESTIVAL. Audubon Louisiana Nature Center from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Learn about bats with crafts, face painting, a bat mascot, gardening for bats, a presentation about bats at 3 p.m. and concessions. audubonnatureinstitute.org BOO AT THE ZOO. Audubon Zoo from 5-9 p.m. Special Halloween activities. Cost is $20. audubonnatureinstitute.org BOO AT THE ZOO. BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo from 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. A merry-not-scary trickor-treating extravaganza. brzoo.org BREAKOUT EDU: HALLOWEEN ESCAPE. Jones Creek Library at 3 p.m Teens can figure out a series of puzzles to open a locked box. (225) 756-1170 BREC-A-BOO CHILDREN’S VILLAGE. BREC’s Forest Community Park from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. A village for ages 10 and under with fall-themed carnival games, character visits, arts and crafts and music. recreationevents@ brec.org BREC-A-BOO HAUNTED HIKE. BREC’s Forest Community Park at dusk. Dress in costume and hike through the park. Costume contest is at 7 p.m. $5 per person. (225) 275-9819 CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE. V. Watts Trade Mart, Livingston, from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Antiques, gifts, home decor and Christmas decorations. Free refreshments. facebook.com COSTUME CONTEST AND PARADE. Bass Pro, Denham Springs, at 3:30 p.m. Prizes will be given to the top three costumes. (225) 271-3100 CRAWLOWEEN. Audubon Butterfly Garden and Insectarium. Ghoulish fun at the Insectarium. You will receive an admission discount if you come dressed in a Halloween costume. audubonnatureinstitute.org EEK-A-BOO. BREC’s

Milton J. Womack Park from 10:30 a.m.-noon. Children ages 8-12 can created a Bootiful threedimensional house. brec.org FALL FEST. Live Oak United Methodist Church, Watson, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Activities for the whole family. loumc.org HALLOWEEN RIDE FOR ST. JUDE. Tower Trax ATV Recreation Park, Fluker, through October 27. The Southern Mud Riderz annual ATV event with mud bog races, costume contests, decorating contests, trick or treating, a silent auction, and a bonfire. facebook.com HENRY TURNER JR. DAY MUSIC FESTIVAL. North Boulevard Town Square from noon to 7 p.m. Free family friendly event with music, a Vendors’ Village and a food court. htjday.com LAMAZE: LABOR OF LOVE. Woman’s Hospital from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. for couples wanting to learn how Lamaze techniques assist in labor and birth. womans.org LIVINGSTON PARISH BOOK FESTIVAL. Main Library, Livingston, starting at 11 a.m. Local authors, musicians, books for sale and free food. mylpl.info LSU VS. AUBURN. Tiger Stadium. lsusports.net MODEL TRAINS. Republic of West Florida Historical Museum, Jackson, from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Free indoor and outdoor model train displays by the Greater Baton Rouge Model Railroaders. (225) 634-3473 NIGHT MAZE AND BONFIRE. LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens from 6-9 p.m. Corn maze, evening bonfire, s’mores, games, and music. Wear your costume. lsu.edu RECYCLED READS. 3434 North Blvd. at Acadian Thwy., behind the Baton Rouge General. Enter on Westmoreland Drive from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Books and various materials will be on sale. (225) 231-3741 SCOTLAND SATURDAYS. Scotlandville Plaza

between Scotland Avenue and Scenic Highway from noon-3 p.m. Open air market. scotlandsaturdays@gmail.com SOLAR VIEWING. BREC’s Highland Road Park Observatory from noon-2 p.m. Staff shows the sun in three manners, so visitors are able to see any sizable sunspots or flares occurring. Free. hrpo.lsu.edu SOUTHERN VS. ALCORN STATE. Away game. gojagsports.com SPOOKTACULAR AQHA SHOW. Lamar Dixon Expo Center through October 27. Show by the Louisiana Quarter Horse Association. lqha.com THE BIVOUAC OF THE DEAD. Port Hudson State Historic Site, Jackson, at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. In conjunction with Halloween, a park staff member will give a presentation on American Civil War burial practices. (888) 677-3400 TYKE HYKE. Woman’s Hospital from 9-10:15 a.m. Prepare your three year old for your hospital stay by taking a brief tour of the hospital and through practice with baby dolls. Registration will be required. Cost is $25. womans.org WALK LIKE MADD. BREC’s Forest Community Park at 9 a.m. MADD’s signature fundraising event to help raise both awareness and funds to eliminate drunk and drugged driving. walklikemadd.org WITCHES BICYCLE RIDE. Gonzales, from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Relay for Life fundraiser for the American Cancer Society. tourascension.com YELLOW LEAF ARTS FESTIVAL. Parker Park, St. Francisville, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Arts and crafts festival with over 55 artists and craftspeople. stfrancisvillefestivals.com

27 SUNDAY

ANGOLA PRISON RODEO AND CRAFT

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

105

SHOW. Angola Prison. Food and prisoner-made arts and crafts available for sale. Tickets are $20 for ages three and above. angolarodeo.com AUTISM: EMBRACE THE DIFFERENCE. Gold’s Gym, Prairieville, from 9 a.m.-7 p.m. A jambalaya cook-off and $7 jambalaya plates, costume contest, inflatables, children’s activities, pro athlete meet and greet, and Boot Camp at 1 p.m. facebook.com BOO AT THE ZOO. Audubon Zoo from 4-8 p.m. Special Halloween activities. Cost is $20. audubonnatureinstitute.org BOO AT THE ZOO. BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo from 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. A merry-not-scary trickor-treating extravaganza. brzoo.org FEAST ON THE LEVEE. St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Brusly. Food, kids’ games, bingo, raffles, sweet shop, a 5K, auctions and music. sjbbrusly.com HAINTS, HAUNTS AND HALLOWEEN. LSU Rural Life Museum from 3:30-6 p.m. Includes storytelling, cake walks, old-fashioned games and trick or treat. $5 for ages 3+. lsu.edu HALLOWEEN RIDE FOR ST. JUDE. Tower Trax ATV Recreation Park, Fluker, through today. The Southern Mud Riderz annual ATV event with mud bog races, costume contests, decorating contests, trick or treating, a silent auction, and a bonfire. facebook.com JDRF ONE WALK. BREC’s Highland Road Park at 2 p.m. The money raised supports everyone impacted by Type 1 Diabetes research. (504) 828-2873 MAGIC HAPPENS RABBIT RESCUE ADOPTION DAY. Millerville Petsmart from 2-4 p.m. Includes rabbits and guinea pigs who are looking for forever homes and families to call their own. magichappensrescue.com PET ADOPTIONS. Petco on Siegen from 11 a.m.-3 106

p.m. rrrofsouthla.com SPOOKTACULAR AQHA SHOW. Lamar Dixon Expo Center, Gonzales. lqha.com THE UGLY DUCKLING PRESENTED BY LIGHTWIRE THEATER. Manship Theatre at 2 p.m. Lightwire Theatre brings a classic tale to the modern stage in an unforgettable theatrical experience. Tickets are $18. manshiptheatre.org TRICK OR TREAT DOWN THE ROW. Sorority Row. Free, two hour event. Children can go door-to-door to all of the sorority houses and get candy from chapter members. Houses also have crafts, face-painting, and photo booths. lsu.edu/greeks YELLOW LEAF ARTS FESTIVAL. Parker Park, St. Francisville, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Arts and crafts festival with over 55 artists and craftspeople. stfrancisvillefestivals.com

28 MONDAY

CELEBRATE HALLOWEEN WITH THE BONE LADY. Denham Springs-Walker Library at 5 p.m. Children ages eight and above can listen to author Mary Manhein read from her new series for young readers and enjoy a light reception. Then, adults can listen to a reading from her adult novel. (225) 686-4140 HOSPITAL ORIENTATION. Woman’s Hospital from 6:30-7:45 p.m. or 8-9:15 p.m. Tour the labor birth suites, family waiting areas and Transition Nursery while learning what you can expect. Registration required. Free. (225) 231-5475 INTERMEDIATE MICROSOFT WORD. Denham Springs-Walker Library at 2 p.m. This class is open for all students who are ages 12 and up who have completed Microsoft Word Basics. Registration is required. (225) 686-4140 LIVINGSTON CASA TRAINING. From 5:308:45 p.m. Become an advocate to change a child’s

story in foster care. Online application required. childadv.net

29 TUESDAY

ASCENSION CASA TRAINING. From 5:308:45 p.m. Become an advocate to change a child’s story in foster care. Online application required. childadv.net BREASTFEEDING DIET DOS AND DON’TS. Woman’s Hospital from 6-7 p.m. Free workshop on the benefits of breastfeeding and how to prepare for breastfeeding. Registration required. (225) 231-5475 CASA ORIENTATION. CASA office at 1 p.m. Capital Area Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Association holds orientation. Registration required. casabr.org LSU JAZZ ENSEMBLE AND LAB BAND. LSU Student Union Theater at 7:30 p.m. Best in jazz music LSU has to offer. Tickets run $11-18. lsu.edu LSU SCIENCE CAFE. Varsity Theatre from 5-7 p.m. Free lecture. Registration requested. eventbrite.com MICROSOFT EXCEL BASICS. Denham SpringsWalker Library at 2 p.m. Students ages 12+ will learn the basic features of Excel along with entering, sorting, and computing data. Registration required. (225) 686-4140 PET ADOPTIONS. The Londoner Restaurant from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Sponsored by Rescue, Rehome, Repeat. rrrofsouthla.com PUMPKIN DECORATING. Watson Library at 5:30 p.m. Family-friendly pumpkin decorating for all ages with ribbon, paint, duct tape and other craft supplies. Bring your own pumpkin. Registration required. (225) 686-4180

30 WEDNESDAY

HALLOWEEN STORY/ CRAFT. Fairwood Library at 4 p.m. Children ages four to eight can listen to Halloween Good Night and Dog and Bear Tricks and Treats and make a mini

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

monster banner. Registration required. (225) 924-9385 TIME TO TRICK OR TREAT STORY/CRAFT. Carver Library at 4:30 p.m. Children ages six to nine can listen to Turkey Trick or Treat and make a pumpkin, witch or Frankenstein mask. (225) 389-7450

31 THURSDAY

BASS PRO TRICK OR TREAT. Bass Pro, Denham Springs from 4-8 p.m. Free trick or treating inside the store. At 6 p.m., there will be a Contest Costume and Parade, and prizes will be given to the top three costumes. (225) 271-3100 BOO AT THE BADGE. Hickley Waguespack Center, Donaldsonville, from 6-8 p.m. Special trick or treat with the Ascension Parish Sheriff’s office. ascensionsheriff.com FALL FESTIVAL. Zoar Baptist Church from 6-8 p.m. Kids’ Zone, live band, and food. Free admission. zoarbaptist.org HEALTH FAIR EXPO. Lamar Dixon Expo Center, Gonzales, from 8 a.m.noon. Sponsored by the Capital Area Agency on Aging with health screening and educational booths. Free. capitalaaa.org JEFFERSON BAPTIST CHURCH FALL FEST. Jefferson Baptist Church from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Food, games, activities and door prizes. jeffersonbaptist.org THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW. Manship Theatre at 9 p.m. Rated-R cult film. manshiptheatre.org TRICK OR TREAT. Tanger Outlet Mall, Gonzales, from 6-9 p.m. Wear your costume, enjoy free candy, and participate in DJ dance-alongs. tangeroutlet.com TRICK OR TREAT AT THE LIBRARY. Denham Springs-Walker Library from 6-7:30 p.m. A costume contest will take place at 7 p.m. (225) 686-4140

EDITOR’S NOTE

Occasionally the date or location of an event may change after publication. Always phone ahead or check website to confirm important information.

SUBMISSIONS

Baton Rouge Parents Magazine welcomes submissions of events of interest to families. Send all calendar submissions to: calendar@brparents.com. Include: dates, times, location with address, recommended age, cost, public telephone number, website address, and photos.

Submit information for the November calendar by October 8, 2019.

NOVEMBER

1 FRIDAY

BOOK BABIES. Watson Library at 10:30 a.m. Activity for infants through age five with stories, music and games. (225) 664-3963 FALL ART CRAWL. Downtown Zachary from 5-9 p.m. Annual fundraiser for the Regional Arts Council of Zachary with fine art, music, food and performances. cityofzachary.org FAMILY FRIENDLY CONCERT. New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park, New Orleans, at 11 a.m. Children’s storyteller and musician, Johnette Downing, performs. Free. johnettedowning.com PAW PATROL LIVE: THE GREAT PIRATE ADVENTURE. Raising Cane’s River Center at 6 p.m. Join the heroic pups when they take the stage. Tickets run $19-130. raisingcanesrivercenter.com THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW. Manship Theatre at 10 p.m. Rated-R cult film. Tickets are $10.50. manshiptheatre.org

MARKETPLACE IN EVERY ISSUE

MAKE IT YOUR BUSINESS TO KNOW THEIR BUSINESS

CALL 225-292-0032

LOUISIANA POTTERY

SLYFOX

THE BUG MAN

MOM MARKET

SUICIDE

BULLY

CAFVIC

KIDLINE O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

107

IN EVERY ISSUE THE LAST WORD

7 SIGNS YOUR BABY MAY BE A

BY GLYNIS RATCLIFFE

ZOMBIE

You’ve heard it all before: babies are like zombies, ha ha ha. You laugh, but you don’t take the joke seriously. Well, what happens if your baby is a little bit too orallyfocused? What if your baby doesn’t just want to put everything in her mouth, but also everyone in her mouth? Well, perhaps it’s time to figure out if your baby actually is a zombie. See if she has the following zombie baby markers: 1. Your baby has an unnatural obsession with chewing on faces. If your baby goes in and just starts to chomp on your chin or nose or cheek, it’s possible she knows she’s close to the brains when she starts doing this, and she just can’t control herself and her urges.

this, chances are, she just wants at your brains, folks.

4. You’re having breastfeeding problems. If your baby has been biting, or giving you milk blisters, maybe he is really torn between the milk being his source of food and your flesh being his source of food. 5. Your baby won’t stop grunting. Sure, babies are known to grunt every now and then. Perhaps it’s due to her slow little digestive tract (thank goodness for prunes!), or perhaps…zombie. 6. You have scratch marks all over your face and chest. We all know babies have

2. Your baby likes to use his thumbs to try and gouge out your eyes. If your baby tries again and again to dig his thumb RIGHT into your eye socket, then the only obvious reason is that he wants access to brains. 3. Your baby tries to climb inside your head. In this case, she grabs both sides of your face, your ears, or your hair and just keeps pulling herself toward your face, even though your faces are touching. If she does

108

BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

sharp little talons for nails, so when they use them to claw open your chest, it’s more painful than a paper cut. Definitely some zombie behavior. 7. Poor motor control. Perhaps your baby is not quite crawling yet, but he will sit there on his hands and knees, rocking back and forth, or jerkily bounce up and down. Or, perhaps your baby has already moved to walking, but is lurching crazily. Either way, those are some serious zombie moves. If your baby has three or more of the signs listed above, chances are, he’s a zombie. But don’t get carried away and pull a Walking Dead ending for your sweet little zombie! There’s actually good news. Given some time to develop and mature, chances are fairly high that your baby will actually grow out of his zombie tendencies and morph back into the child you held so lovingly in your arms, when he was born. So be patient, and heavy handed with the pacifiers and teething rings. ■

O C TOBER 2019 | BRPA RENTS .COM

109

IN EVERY ISSUE SNAPSHOTS

PIC OF THE MONTH LOOK AT HER GO! ADELINE T. MAKES THE MOST OF THE SUN.

MATTIE GENE C

WANT TO SEE YOUR CHILD’S PICTURE HERE? Go to brparents.com and click on the blue “Upload Snapshots” button to submit photos for consideration. All photos must be at least 1MB in size. “Pic of the Month” photos are chosen at random and must be at least 5MB in size. All photos become property of Baton Rouge Parents Magazine.

ELIJAH H 110

OLIVIA S BRPA RENTS .COM | O C TOBER 2019

OCHSNER MEDICAL CENTER

EAST BATON ROUGE PARISH SCHOOL SYSTEM COMMUNICATIONS DEPARTMENT