Don’t miss an issue—celebrate our anniversary with us all year long, including a special commemorative edition in November. And this July, we'll launch a brand-new website and newsletter design, making it easier than ever for you to access first looks at the Capital Region's people, places and happenings.
In honor of our anniversary kickoff photo shoot, St. Bruno Bread Co. owner Steven Gottfried—one of our 20 People to Watch in 2025—stamped 225’s new and old logos on his popular sourdough loaves.
BACK ON THE GREEN
Whether it’s on the green or in the carpool line, getting your back-BACK- is the goal. Dr. Eric K. Oberlander is an awardwinning spine specialist who has developed one of the largest practices in the country.
As one of the few board certified neurosurgeons in Louisiana who has fellowship training in minimally invasive and complex spine surgery, his services are in high demand. Join the 7,000 patients that see Team Oberlander per year.
Call (225) 768-2023 to schedule your appointment.
Eric Oberlander, MD Board Certified Neurosurgeon
ACTUAL PATIENTKIRKFISHER
PATIENT KIRK FISHER IS BACK GOLFING JUST MONTHS AFTER DR. OBERLANDER REMOVED A LIFE THREATENING TUMOR FROM HIS SPINAL CANAL. NOW CANCER FREE AND PAIN FREE, HE IS LIVING HIS BEST LIFE. SCAN THE QR CODE BELOW TO SEE THE VIDEO OF KIRK’S REMARKABLE STORY
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This Month @ BREC [JANUARY]
ZOO + ME MORNING
BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo
Jan. 11 | 9:30-11:30 a.m.
SHORT + SWEET TEEN EVENT
Howell Community Park
Jan. 15 | 5-6:30 p.m.
DELIGHTFUL DETOURS + RADICAL ROADBLOCKS
Milton J. Womack Park Ballroom Jan. 16 | 6:30-8 p.m.
SWAMP ART SOIREE
Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center Jan. 16 | 5:30-7:30 p.m.
SWAMP ART SPECTACULAR
Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center Jan. 17-23 | Regular Operating Hours
REGISTER FOR NEW PROGRAMS + CLASSES BEGINNING IN JANUARY
BREC.ORg/calendar
SUNSHINE SOCIAL: LIGHT UP THE NIGHT GLOW PARTY
Milton J. Womack Park Ballroom Jan. 17 | 6-9 p.m.
MORE TREES? YES, PLEASE!
Hooper Road/Sharon Hills Park Jan. 18 | 9 a.m.-noon
YOUNG PICASSO’S
Milton J. Womack Park
Jan. 18 | 10:30-11:30 a.m.
COMMUNITY BONFIRE Highland Road
Community Park Grand Pavilion Jan. 18 | 4-8 p.m.
CAMP-IN’
Antioch Boulevard Park + Church Street Park + Lovett Road Park Jan. 20 | 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
WINTER STUDENT HORSE SHOW
Farr Park Equestrian Center Jan. 25 + 26 | 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
People to Watch in the Capital Region
A new leaf
AFTER KEITH LEE’S viral visit to Baton Rouge last summer, my husband, Adam, and I almost immediately ventured to Dr. FeelGood Organic Wellness. We needed to get our hands on the smoothie shop’s Blue Dream frozen bev, which the TikTok food critic rated 8.7 out of 10 stars.
We took a page out of Lee’s book, parked outside the Coursey Boulevard building and downed the smoothie right there in our car. It was a stiflingly hot June day, the kind where you can really hear your car’s AC working overtime. I clutched the frosty cup, admiring the smoothie’s pearlescent, marbled layers—and just like that, it was gone. I practically inhaled it.
Made with nutrient-rich blue spirulina and sea moss, tropical fruits like mango, banana and pineapple, and creamy oat milk and coconut cream, it was velvety and luscious. It was everything I’d hoped it’d be. Honestly, I thought about ordering a second one.
After Lee returned home to Los Angeles, he posted a video about Hailey Bieber’s Strawberry Glaze Skin Smoothie, the famous $19 drink from the bougie California grocery store Erewhon. Beloved despite its price tag, the smoothie has inspired love letters and think pieces across the internet. Lee had high praise for it, too. But at the end of his review, he gave a surprise shout-out to Dr. FeelGood.
“We just had a smoothie in Baton Rouge from Dr. FeelGood that was just as good—and way less expensive,” he offered.
A couple months later, Adam and I took a weekend trip to California for a concert, and I told him there was only one thing I wanted to get after we landed late Friday night: that Erewhon smoothie. We found a location that was open ’til 11 p.m. and got the goods. We took a collective deep breath, and each took a sip.
And then—we both just looked at each other, trying to find the words.
“Hmm,” I finally mused.
I promise I’m not just saying this, but I was a little underwhelmed. The smoothie was good but not life-changing. I wasn’t sure the flavors quite lived up to the hype.
Of course, it’s not a battle of the smoothies— or their respective cities. But it did get me thinking about how easy it can be sometimes to envy other metropolitans’ food and retail trends—and how we probably have already had something like it here all along. We just need to know where to look for it.
When 225 Magazine launched nearly 20 years ago in November 2005, Publisher Julio Melara’s original vision for it wasn’t that different from the goals of someone like Keith Lee. He wanted to help readers discover, experience and celebrate the businesses and culture of the 225 area code.
To kick off 225's next decade, our team decided to create a new logo—our first logo redesign since 2013. We wanted something that felt elegant, sophisticated and timeless.
Our Creative Services department came up with a modern masthead to represent a publication that’s no longer in its youth, but still knows how to have fun.
A new year is a chance to reinvent yourself, sure. But it’s also a time to blossom into who you’ve been growing into all along. And I’d like to think this new logo isn’t a reinvention of 225—it’s who we’ve always been, and who we’ll keep blooming into in the future.
More to come,
Jennifer Tormo Alvarez 225 Editor-in-Chief
Lee
is an American musician, storyteller, and two-time Grammy winner who has been inspiring pop culture for decades.
The Grammy-nominated African American vocal ensemble, SWEET HONEY IN THE ROCK® marks its’ 50TH ANNIVERSARY in November 2023 with a powerful three-year celebration that will honor its’ storied past and set the course for the future of the group, which has been described as, “one of the most dynamic, versatile and still relevant musical collectives today.”
Love Country Music? You are in for a real treat when you come to see THE HIT MEN OF COUNTRY featuring five of the finest musicians who have performed, toured or recorded with some of Country’s greatest artists – hitmakers like Wynonna, Keith Urban, Trace Adkins, Lee Greenwood, Travis Tritt, Jason Aldean and more.
Publisher: Julio Melara
EDITORIAL
Editor-In-Chief: Jennifer Tormo Alvarez
Managing Editor: Laura Furr Mericas
Features Writer: Maggie Heyn Richardson
Digital Staff Writer: Olivia Deffes
Multimedia Editor: Oscar Tickle
Staff Photographer: Collin Richie
Contributing Writers: Mark Clements, Madison Cooper, Gracelyn Farrar, Tracey Koch, Dillon Lowe, Jeff Roedel
Audience Development Director and Digital Manager: James Hume
Audience Development Coordinator: Ivana Oubre
Audience Development Associate: Catherine Albano
Customer Experience Coordinator: Kathy Thomas
A publication of Melara Enterprises, LLC Chairman: Julio Melara
Executive Assistant: Brooke Motto
Vice President-Sales: Elizabeth McCollister Hebert
Chief Content Officer: Penny Font
Chief Digital Officer: Erin Pou
Chief Operating Officer: Guy Barone
Circulation/Reprints
Rickie
Jones
STORIES
Readers’ notes
Re: Our first look inside Crafted Nibbles, a new build-your-own cheesebox bar that opened on Perkins Road last month:
“SO EXCITED for this spot!” —@abbeykish, via Instagram
About Olivia Deffes’ article on a Sherwood Forest Boulevard home that has gone all-out with Christmas decorations since the ’70s, where the late C. Farrell “Benny” Frugé became known for his surprise Santa appearances:
“The article referenced a Facebook post but did not name the original poster—that’s ME! I grew up in Sherwood Forest going to my grandmother’s house, where she lived in the ’70s-’80s. Even after she moved away, we still drove by the home. I just drove by last night! It is still there and even Mrs. Claus is on the roof this time! I am sad to hear this is the last showing for them. I loved this tradition—along with many others—to share with the Frugé family. So sorry for their loss. My grandmother is gone, as well, but we have these treasures that we can cherish! ”
—Carey Cole, via email
COLLINRICHIE
January WHAT'S UP
How easy is it to dine plantbased in Baton Rouge today?
BY MAGGIE HEYN RICHARDSON PHOTOS BY COLLIN RICHIE scene
EATING HEALTHIER is a top New Year’s pledge, and for some, it may mean adopting a more plant-based lifestyle. The promise of a lower-fat diet with a gentle carbon footprint sounds like a saintly choice, especially after so much holiday indulgence.
But how easy is it to go vegetarian or vegan in the Capital Region these days? It could be worse, say insiders. Sure, the number of straight-up vegetarian restaurants is smallish, while steak and chicken finger eateries are as common as LSU fans. But choose the right spot, and you’ll tuck into something tasty and thoughtfully prepared.
“It’s a slower process here in Baton Rouge, but more people are waking up to what kind of ingredients are actually in their food,” says Mary-Brennan Sensing, who has owned the vegetarian eatery MJ’s Café since 2017. “I keep seeing more people who aren’t necessarily vegan, but they’re trying to add more vegetables into their diet. They care.”
In fairness, Baton Rouge isn’t alone in its meat bias. Vegetarians and vegans, who make up a combined 5% of the population according to Gallup, can feel left out on restaurant menus nationwide. That may have intensified in the post-COVID era, as many eateries have streamlined menus with fewer specialty items that tie up kitchen staff.
Still, even basic options seem more robust.
include Cocha, Mestizo Louisiana Mexican Cuisine, Soji: Modern Asian and BLDG 5, the latter of which she acknowledges won Best Restaurant for Vegetarian or Vegan Options in the 2024 Best of 225 Awards.
“There’s a lot of great stuff out there,” she says. “And nowadays, you have someone who might order the chicken wings get just as excited about also ordering the cauliflower.”
“I keep seeing more people who aren’t necessarily vegan, but they’re trying to add more vegetables into their diet."
Mary-Brennan Sensing, owner of MJ’s Café
Consider pasta, that triedand-true meatless fallback. Rather than buttered noodles, you’re likely to find something interesting these days, like vodka cannelloni at Rocca Pizzeria or gnocchi with sage brown butter and pumpkin purée at Nino’s.
Sensing, who eats mostly plant-based, agrees mainstream local restaurants are getting more creative with vegetarian fare. Some of her personal favorites
Eat your VEGGIES
Other great spots to eat vegetarian or vegan around town and what to order
BLDG 5
Harvest Board
Styled for one, two or four, the composed board overflows with eight roasted or sautéed veggies, hummus, global sauces and grilled bread
CHOW YUM Yaki Saki
Crispy tofu and veggies with soba noodles tossed in a tangy house sauce and topped with fried garlic
COCHA Vindaloo Curry
Cauliflower, peas, carrots and green beans are tossed in an earthy curry sauce and served over brown and red rice with housemade chutney. Don’t miss the cachapa starter, a Venezuelan corn cake made vegan with jackfruit.
GOLDEN VEGAN
Vegan Single Stack
Vegan beef patty with vegan cheese, dressed with golden sauce on a vegan bun
MESTIZO LOUISIANA MEXICAN CUISINE
Cauliflower Bowl
Sensing says the trick to satisfying vegetarian dining is using ingredients with the heft and flavor of meat. Mushrooms are one. Cauliflower is another. And she likes chickpeas for their versatility and hardiness. This time of year, MJ’s is also incorporating more winter greens, especially bok choy.
“I get really excited when we use those because there’s a lot of nutritional benefit,” she says. “And it may not be the first thing someone buys at the grocery store, so it’s fun to serve.”
Part of the vegetarian menu, the dish features mashed cauliflower and black beans topped with tomatillo sauce, sautéed spinach, grilled onion, pico de gallo, sliced avocado and cotija cheese.
THE PLANTRY CAFÉ Wellington
Maple jackfruit, charred trumpet mushrooms, lentil breading and cashew gruyere cheese combined in a buttered puff pastry
SOJI: MODERN ASIAN
Mapo Cauliflower
The spicy, Szechuan-style dish features tempura-fried cauliflower, fermented black beans, fried rice and crispy shallots.
The vegan Tex-Mex Power Salad and Cauliflower Wrap with the soup of the day from MJ’s Café
Taco the town
Compiled by Laura Furr Mericas
LUNA COCINA, the anticipated modern Mexican restaurant with rooftop views, opened in the former Bumsteers location on Perkins Road in November. The design-forward concept is the brainchild of Faris Salameh, owner of Mulberry Market, and business partners Timothy Wilkerson and Manal Salameh. Luna’s menu ranges from classics like papas rellenos and Mexican street corn to caviar mozzarella sticks, couture jello shots and other inventive options. Find it on Instagram at @lunacocinabr
SNACK hack
Mother-and-daughter duo Michelle Anderson and Valencia Anderson opened the first storefront for their charcuterie company Crafted Nibbles last month off College Drive and Perkins Road. Customers can fill boxes with rotating artisan cheeses, specialty meats and more from the charcuterie bar or pick up from the grab-and-go fridge. craftednibblesbr.com
COOKIE craze
Lafayette-born Caroline’s Cookies opened its second Baton Rouge location in November, less than a year after bringing the wildly popular bakery to Perkins Rowe. Founder Caroline Merryman says the new location on Jefferson Highway aims to appeal to a fresh group of customers, while still serving the brand’s signature thick, gooey cookies. eatcarolinescookies.com
ARIANAALLISON
HOME goods
Tribe Market, the latest shop from Rivers Dupree, owner of Rescued Revisions in the Denham Springs Antique Village, opened in November in the Circa 1857 complex. Find a selection of antiques and a variety of plants for the Louisiana climate. Find it on Instagram at @tribemarketbr
INVESTING IN RURAL LAND AROUND BATON ROUGE: A UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY WITH WHITETAIL PROPERTIES REAL ESTATE
For those seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, the rural areas surrounding Baton Rouge offer a unique investment opportunity. Whitetail Properties Real Estate, a national real estate company specializing in hunting, fishing and recreational land, is helping buyers and sellers capitalize on this growing market.
“Our main focus is on land - not residential or commercial properties,” explains Cade Taylor, a Whitetail Properties agent who along with colleague Taylor Gill serve clients in south Louisiana. “We specialize in hunting land, timber land, farmland and properties with acreage for homes.”
This specialized approach sets Whitetail apart from traditional real estate firms. Gill notes that Whitetail’s agents undergo a rigorous hiring process to ensure they are truly passionate about the land.
“The company isn’t just looking for faces to put out there – they want agents who live and breathe this lifestyle,” he says.
Many Whitetail agents, including Gill and Taylor, are avid hunters and outdoor enthusiasts themselves. This deep connection to the land translates to unparalleled expertise.
Whitetail agents are trained in timber management, habitat improvement and other critical aspects of rural property ownership. When they arrive on site, they are equipped with tools to make the property more accessible, such as a side-by-side, robust mapping system and drones to show prospective clients boundaries and other aspects of the
property.
“We don’t just show the property - we can walk buyers through everything they need to know to maximize the potential of the land,” Gill explains. This includes coordinating with foresters, appraisers and other industry contacts in their extensive network.
The area surrounding Baton Rouge is particularly well-suited for those seeking recreational land. While it may not rival the trophy whitetail hunting of the Midwest, the area offers diverse opportunities.
“We have some great hunting and fishing, but a lot of our clients are really looking for that home on acreage - a peaceful retreat close to the city,” says Taylor.
The region’s proximity to industry also makes it an attractive investment for those seeking timber or farm assets. Whitetail’s unique auction division provides another avenue for buyers and sellers.
“Some properties just aren’t suited for
the traditional market,” Gill explains. “Our auction team can evaluate the asset and guide the owner through a specialized sales process.”
This service, more common in the Midwest, is gaining traction in the South as landowners seek efficient ways to transition their holdings. Whether you’re an experienced land investor or a firsttime buyer, Whitetail Properties offers a tailored approach.
“This is often the biggest investment someone will make,” notes Gill. “We want to make sure they have all the information they need to make the right decision for their goals - whether that’s hunting, timber, farming or just enjoying some peace and quiet.”
As Baton Rouge continues to grow, the surrounding rural areas present a unique opportunity. With Whitetail Properties’ expertise and passion for the land, buyers and sellers can navigate this market with confidence.
To learn more, visit whitetailproperties. com or scan the QR code.
12/5/24 3:36 PM
Taylor Scott
SOME OF TAYLOR SCOTT’S earliest memories revolve around penning poetry in elementary school inspired by famous names like Maya Angelou. Though she can’t remember all the poems she scribbled into her notebooks and journals, she still holds some lines close.
“One line that I was so proud of was about a body of water that was close to the house that I grew up in,” she recalls. “‘The lake that night had been framed.’ I don’t know why that still sticks with me. That’s one of the earliest lines I remember writing as a poet before identifying as a poet.”
Today, that spark for writing has turned into a crackling fire as Scott continues to create with words. Now, she fully identifies as an artist. Her work even earned her the title of the 2023-2024 Baton Rouge Poet Laureate, a program coordinated by the Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge. In this role, Scott was able to help inspire young writers through talks and workshops while advocating for literacy in the community.
“My tagline as poet laureate was, ‘Just keep writing,’” she says, acknowledging that she first heard the phrase from a poet friend. “Because one day you will be in a position where your writing is working for you. … I wanted to be a beacon of light for (young writers).”
Scott spends a lot of her time encouraging her own students, too, through her job as an assistant professor at Southern University. She teaches classes focused on African American literature. Scott says her classes are usually full, which she attributes to students being interested in the subject matter and the openness and relatability she tries to foster in the classroom.
With so much on her plate, Scott admits it can be hard to stay creative. When she does get time off through university breaks, the Baton Rouge native likes to take trips to the Midwest. The region is where she earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and where many members of her creative community are based.
It’s also where Scott weaves words through music with her contemporary blues band, Tilla. The band has released EPs and held a residency at a venue in Wisconsin.
“My bandmates, that’s my family. … When we come together, the energy is always unmatched,” she says.
Still, Scott holds a lot of love for her hometown. The Capital City is where inspiration first struck, and Scott still hunkers down in local coffee shops to work and create.
Here, she feels she has been supported as a poet. In the future, she hopes her music will be received in the Capital Region as well as it has been in the Midwest.
“70805 is where I grew up,” she says. “I definitely think that those experiences growing up there and my interactions with people influenced what I wrote about and how I wrote about them. … That cadence of the way that people speak, it’s very musical. Even that influences what I do, not only as a poet, but as a songwriter and musician.”
—OLIVIA DEFFES
“Home sits on the edge of our skin but the air here is different. The way dirt clings to pores like Africa in America.”
Today, she and her team are using music therapy to heal and comfort.
Their work is improving memory, stroke recovery, motor function and so much more.
With Our Lady of the Lake Health and LSU behind them, imagine the mysteries of the mind they will unlock next.
That’s the impact of champions.
Medical Music Therapist, Our Lady of the Lake Health Adjunct Instructor, LSU
Learn how we are improving the health of Louisiana.
Mandy Creekmore
Birthday cards
As 225 celebrates its 20th anniversary year, we’ll also be spotlighting other organizations and businesses celebrating milestones in 2025.
OF VIEW POINT
Turning 20 this year, the Shaw Center has been key to downtown’s return BY
MAGGIE HEYN RICHARDSON
LIVE MUSIC POURS from the stage of the 325-seat Manship Theatre. Next door in the Hartley/Vey Studio Theatre, a zany improv troupe sparks laughter. On the fifth floor, American and European paintings and sculptures draw visitors to the LSU Museum of Art, the city’s only dedicated art museum. And high atop the sixth floor, diners savor sushi, craft cocktails and a peerless view of the Mississippi River from the terrace of the Japanese restaurant, Tsunami.
Whatever brings visitors to the Shaw Center for the Arts in downtown Baton Rouge, there’s little question the facility is one of the Capital Region’s greatest successes. The $60 million project, pulled off by a cross-section of community partners who thought big and eschewed bureaucracy, celebrates its 20th anniversary in March.
A hive of cultural activity and home to spectacular vistas, the 125,000-square-foot, multiuse arts center is the crowning jewel of Plan Baton Rouge, the 1998 master plan that successfully pulled thendeclining downtown back from the brink. Since 2010 alone, $1.7 billion has been invested in the Capital
City’s urban core in the form of new hotels, bars, restaurants and residential development. It’s not a stretch to say the Shaw Center lit the spark.
“The Shaw Center was basically the first step in Plan Baton Rouge to try to recapture downtown and revitalize it,” recalls John Davies, former president and CEO of the Baton Rouge Area Foundation.
Davies says the project was a chance to show both affluent donors and everyday residents who had given up on downtown a glimpse of what was possible: thriving theaters and museums; state-of-the-art offices and residential developments; rooftop restaurants and architectural style worthy of national awards.
History in the making
The Shaw Center’s history is linked to that of its storied, gone-to-seed predecessor, the Auto Hotel. The 1922 state-owned structure had been a parking garage used by hotel guests. But by the time Plan Baton Rouge rolled around, it was a well-established eyesore, recalls Mark Drennen, who then served as Louisiana’s commissioner of administration.
“During one of the downtown planning sessions, I said, ‘On behalf of the state, we have this old Auto Hotel that is abandoned,’” Drennen recalls. “‘I would like everybody to think about and advise the state on what we should do with that building.’”
Despite its broken windows and decrepit vibes, the Auto Hotel had charmed Miami-based planner Andrés Duany, whose firm DPZ CoDesign was hired to create the downtown master plan. Drennen and his staff had built a platform enabling visitors to experience the dramatic river views from atop the building. Duany was wowed. He would also publicly suggest the building be converted into a “mini Guggenheim,” a Louisiana-fied riff on the Manhattan museum. The Auto Hotel’s interior spiral ramp could lead visitors from gallery to gallery, just like the Guggenheim, Duany had mused.
That didn’t happen. The hotel’s condition was too far gone to renovate. But the genie was out of the bottle. Momentum surged to build a splashy arts center in its place.
A partnership bloomed between the state and BRAF, both of which chipped in to fund the project.
The partners hired Bostonbased Schwartz/Silver Architects to design the massive complex, drawn to occupy most of the block between North Boulevard and Convention Street, and Lafayette and Third streets. The Auto Hotel was mostly razed to make way, but its preserved western and northern walls were incorporated into the site.
Some of the other pieces fell into place thanks to timing, says BRAF past president Jennifer Eplett Reilly.
Concurrent to the Shaw Center’s development, LSU was looking for a permanent home for the LSU Museum of Art, then located in a small room in Memorial Tower.
The university had been considering moving LSU MOA to Burden Museum and Gardens, but Eplett Reilly worked with then-LSU Chancellor Mark Emmert to incorporate it within the Shaw Center.
The Shaw Center’s working committee also envisioned a theater for live music, and its members reached out to experts for advice on format. While there’s been debate on if the number of seats was too low, its superb acoustics and stage views have made it a leading place to see a show.
The Shaw Center’s channel glass exterior and cantilever design, created by Bostonbased Schwartz/ Silver Architects, received a National Honor Award by the American Institute of Architects, one of many honors.
The 1922 Auto Hotel, abandoned by the early 2000s, was mostly razed to make way for the Shaw Center.
JORDAN HEFLER
The team also thought adding a rooftop restaurant would be a draw.
“Some people talked about getting a nice restaurant from New Orleans,” Drennen says. “I remember I suggested we go to Lafayette and bring Tsunami in.”
‘Why not?’
The leaders who drove its completion say the Shaw Center’s creation was a lightning-in-abottle moment for Baton Rouge.
“I think it was a combination of imagination, some real strategic thinking and a splash of serendipity,” Eplett Reilly says. “It was truly an extraordinary publicprivate partnership.”
While the project gave Baton Rouge an exciting, on-trend venue to experience the arts, it also showed a new way of getting things done.
“We were trying to figure out how to do something which, at that time, had not been done before,” Landry recalls. “And we certainly ran into enough headwinds from folks who said to us, ‘No, you can’t do that.’ Our response was, ‘Why not?’”
The Shaw Center served as a template for subsequent publicprivate real estate ventures, including the $70 million transformation of the derelict Heidelberg Hotel across the street into the Hilton Capitol Center in 2006.
exhibit the next. Or simply head to one of the overlooks to gaze at the Mighty Mississippi. Drennen says creating public access on the sixth floor was one of his top priorities.
Eplett Reilly says the Shaw Center has served as a cultural hub.
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The Shaw Center was the first public-private partnership of its kind in the state, recalls lawyer and developer Charles Landry, who structured its arrangement.
It also brought a new sense of magic to downtown thanks to its varied components, which create the opportunity for layered experiences. Hang out at a coffee shop one day. See a new arts
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“I made one requirement that the rooftop be open to the public,” Drennen says. “And that it could not become a private space, that everybody in the community would be able to go up to the rooftop and enjoy the view.”
“It was the first meeting place for people from across the region to come and explore that which makes us most human—the arts,” she says. “I really do think it adds to our experience of culture and possibility.”
The Shaw Center’s LSU Museum of Art debuted “Andy Warhol / Friends & Frenemies: Prints from the Cochran Collection” in 2024.
Manship Theatre welcomes musical acts, screenings and more all year.
People to Watch
1
1. Haleigh Bryant
Gymnast, LSU Gymnastics
She’s back—and with a list of accolades that’s already quite lengthy. Haleigh Bryant has been an All-SEC and All-American gymnast for four straight seasons. And last year, it helped propel LSU to its first national championship.
She holds school records for the most perfect 10s (with 18 in total) and is the only gymnast in LSU history to earn three 10s in one meet. She also claimed the school’s highest all-around score at 39.925. It earned her the American Athletic, Inc. Award, given each year to the most outstanding senior collegiate female gymnast in the country, and the SEC named her its 2024 Gymnast of the Year.
Now, in her fifth year of eligibility, Bryant has a whole new season to further her Tiger legacy.
2. Bryan Camerlinck
President/CEO, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana
When he stepped in to lead Louisiana’s largest health insurer in May, Bryan Camerlinck took the helm at a tumultuous time.
Blue Cross had only recently withdrawn its plan of reorganization and sale to for-profit, out-of-state Elevance Health amid pushback from lawmakers, policyholders and regulators. What the future held for the insurer was hazy. Camerlinck has sought to bring some clarity. Since assuming his role, there have
been major developments. In July, a new organizational structure was announced that he says is aimed at positioning the company for “long-term success.” In August, it rebranded as Louisiana Blue for all publicfacing purposes—a move he says conveys its “rededication to Louisiana.” And, he says a sale like the Elevance transaction is now “completely off the table.”
“We are 100% focused on Louisiana,” he says. “We’re putting Louisiana first.”
D.L.
3. Steven Gottfried
Owner, St. Bruno Bread Co.
This baker is leaving no crumbs. About a year and a half after setting up his commercial kitchen off Staring Lane, Steven Gottfried’s biz is booming. St. Bruno Bread Co.’s selection of sourdough boules and sandwich loaves has grown into a carb-filled assortment of po-boy rolls, burger buns, pizza dough, cinnamon rolls, stuffed croissants, focaccia and more.
Now, eateries are vying for his creations— find his goods plated in dishes at popular restaurants like Jubans, Ruffino’s, Elsie’s Plate & Pie and more. St. Bruno provides for more than 50 businesses, including coffee shops, grocery stores and more. It even serves eateries on the Northshore, where Gottfried is originally from.
What’s next? The baker says 2025 is all about expansion, including adding new equipment to increase production to six days a week and broadening fresh delivery reach from New Orleans to Lafayette.
O.D.
2
3
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4. Fallon Ward
Executive director, Louisiana Academy of Production
Baton Rouge will soon be home to a film-focused charter school: the Louisiana Academy of Production.
Fallon Ward stepped into her role as LAAP’s executive director in June 2024. Since then, LAAP’s charter was formally approved by the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education in October, and the school has now begun the process of building its team and engaging with prospective students.
It’s expected to launch in August 2026, built in the vicinity of Celtic Studios. Future students will be able to graduate with industry-recognized certifications, giving them an early leg up in the job market.
“Our students will be able to walk away from high school with not only a TOPS Core 4 diploma,” Ward says, “but also the certifications, connections and soft skills that they need to get into the workforce.”
5
Jordan Basham
Owner, WhereToGeaux225 Social Media
If there’s a new restaurant, a splashy event or an opportunity to support all things local, trust that Jordan Basham will be there. Armed with an iPhone, Basham has spent years hyping up Capital Region spots with her Instagram page, @wheretogeaux225. Her hunger-inducing posts have helped her grow a loyal following of over 40,000 and thrust her into local foodie stardom.
Basham recently translated that success into a full-time gig by launching WhereToGeaux225 Social Media, helping businesses manage their digital presence. Her goal is to amplify entrepreneurs’ voices through the everchanging world of social media—one post, reel or TikTok trend at a time.
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6. Jonathan Grimes
President/CEO, Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge
Jonathan Grimes loves learning how the arts have played a role in people’s lives. Personally, he can relate. Professionally, he finds it gratifying.
A member of the Arts Council’s team since 2007, including most recently as executive vice president, Grimes is the organization’s new president and CEO.
He succeeds Renee Chatelain, who led the organization in its renovation of the Cary Saurage Community Arts Center.
“It’s been such a blessing to see the other side, because I’m a musician, as well,” he says. “So it’s been really amazing to see the difference that an arts organization can have.”
This month, Grimes has his sights set on the annual MPAC gala on Jan. 17. Long term, he is focused on connecting the 10 parishes the Arts Council serves. And don’t worry—he’s not giving up his side gig. The jazz drummer will keep providing beats for local cover band The Mixed Nuts.
7. E.J. Kuiper
President/CEO, Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady Health System
After Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady Health System CEO Richard Vath announced his retirement in August 2023, a nationwide search for his replacement ensued.
More than two decades of leadership in Catholic health care and a passion for putting people first helped E.J. Kuiper land the position.
The Netherlands native stepped into the role in May after having served as CEO of CommonSpirit Health’s Midwest Division, where he was responsible for leading a division of 28 hospitals across four states with a combined 14,000 employees. Now, he’s looking to carry forward FMOLHS’ history of success.
“Serving as president and CEO of FMOLHS provides a wonderful opportunity,” he says, “to lead a strong health care system dedicated to improving the lives of the patients and communities that we serve.”
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8. LaMont Cole
Superintendent, East Baton Rouge
Parish School System
When the East Baton Rouge Parish School Board unanimously approved LaMont Cole to serve as its new superintendent last summer, the city breathed a collective sigh of relief.
The appointment came on the heels of a fraught search process in which a fractured school board found little common ground, and the last three finalists dropped out of the running one by one. Cole, then a member of the Metro Council and a former principal and longtime education advocate, threw his hat into the ring, pledging a shift in the way Baton Rouge thinks about public education. He had no opposition.
On a mission to restore faith in the system and close its achievement gaps through data analysis, Cole calls the post “the most important work of my lifetime.”
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9. Karen Soniat
President and executive director, Louisiana Art & Science Museum
Many responsibilities fall on the Louisiana Art & Science Museum’s new leader—and only four people have held the position since the museum’s 1962 founding.
But Karen Soniat, who began settling into her role last May, has the tools to continue growing the museum. She has a master’s degree in education from LSU and has worn a variety of hats—educator, administrator, advocate and more—at institutions like The National WWII Museum, LSU Law and the Louisiana Department of Education.
She also served as an art teacher, so she knows the importance of LASM’s fourphase capital improvement campaign, with the STEAM Station hands-on learning experiences expected to be completed by 2026.
David Facey
Entrepreneur
David Facey has big plans for 214 Third St.
Together with Echo Tango founder Tommy Talley, Facey brought two new nightlife concepts to the downtown building last year. On the first floor is Violet, a luxury nightclub. Above Violet is Second Story, a craft cocktail bar.
Facey and Talley have also developed Airbnb accommodations, coworking spaces and podcast studios inside the building in an effort to create an “entertainment ecosystem” inspired by Soho House, an international private club with venues in North America, Europe and Asia.
The goal, Facey says, is to bring “big-city experiences” to Baton Rouge.
Facey is also active in tech. He’s launched an app, Bar Pals, that allows bargoers to rate their favorite bartenders and beverages, and he’s the co-founder of Event Tree, a marketing platform for event organizers.
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Crystal Lewis
Co-owner, Love My Reality
Designer Crystal Lewis’ glimmering garments have recently sashayed their way down runways in both New York Fashion Week and Milan Fashion Week. Her brand, Love My Reality, has come a long way since starting out with T-shirts back in 2012. Now, Lewis focuses on creating pieces for women in all shapes and sizes, from bejeweled gowns to printed jumpsuits.
Also a mother, a wife and a full-time registered nurse, Lewis has a full plate. And this month, she closes the chapter on her brick-andmortar in Perkins Rowe to focus on taking her brand to the next level. She hopes to secure partnerships with big-box and department stores and solidify her name in the fashion industry. In the meantime, she’ll bring her designs to her customers through pop-ups and trunk shows.
“We began with an idea, and now Love My Reality has evolved into a clothing brand that celebrates diversity and size inclusivity,” she says. “We have created a community of busy women who desire to stand out in any room they enter.”
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12. Tom Corley
President/CEO, Community Coffee
Forget cream and sugar. Tom Corley takes his cups of Community Coffee black—so he can appreciate all the flavors of the brew. And as the coffee company’s new CEO, he has plenty of blends to choose from.
Corley was appointed to Community Coffee’s head role last January, drawing from his three decades as a sales representative with Kraft Heinz. The Minnesota native says he’s excited to grow one of Baton Rouge’s most beloved brands while also learning about the Red Stick’s rich culture.
Corley also loves to golf, boat and spend time with his family, including his wife, three children and six grandchildren. With such a busy schedule, someone better start brewing a few pots.
14. Paul Groves
General director, Opera Louisiane
It’s all come full circle for Paul Groves. The Lake Charles native, who studied under Opera Louisiane co-founder Robert Grayson at LSU, is the new general director of that very opera company. And in Groves, Opera Louisiane now has a Grammy Award-winning tenor at the helm.
13. Noemi
Donoso
CEO, New Schools for Baton Rouge
Noemi Donoso brings a wealth of experience to New Schools for Baton Rouge, where she’s been CEO since last September. She previously served as chief strategy officer for Linked Learning Alliance, a nationwide coalition of organizations aimed at positioning students for success. Before that, she held leadership roles at Chicago Public Schools, Denver Public Schools and Camino Nuevo Charter Academy in Los Angeles.
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All this to say: She’s no stranger to making an impact when it comes to public education—and since its launch in 2012, New Schools for Baton Rouge has been an increasingly influential part of the education landscape. More than 11,000 public school students in East Baton Rouge Parish attend a charter school as of 2024, with 24 campuses that are part of the NSBR portfolio.
“At NSBR, we believe every child should have access to an excellent education,” she says.
“We’ve invested in charter schools that are now among the highest ranked open-enrollment schools in EBR.”
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Groves has performed at renowned opera houses around the world and collaborated with some of the industry’s most respected orchestras.
In Louisiana, he’s hoping to bring new life to the local opera scene—giving back to the community that helped build his career years ago.
15.
Jordan Piazza
Owner, ReBirth Brands
Chances are you’ve dined or drank at one of Jordan Piazza’s establishments or events. From serving up slices at Schlittz & Giggles to putting on the evergrowing Earlapalooza at Uncle Earl’s each St. Patrick’s Day, Piazza’s presence is hard to miss.
His most recent venture, The Colonel’s Club, opened this past fall under the Perkins Road Overpass after a total makeover inside and out. And his company, ReBirth Brands, has also revived The Caterie as a new catering company.
Piazza even ran for mayor in 2020 at age 32, with ambition to improve Baton Rouge. Whether it’s a restaurant idea, a rebranded business or a run in politics, it’s go big or go home.
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Jared Jones
First baseman, LSU Baseball
At 6-foot-4 and 253 pounds, LSU baseball slugger Jared Jones is hard to miss once he steps out the dugout. The first baseman, nicknamed “Bear” for his elite size and power, hit .301 last season with 14 doubles and two triples. His 28 home runs marked the fourth-highest single-season total in school history.
Jones has already amassed 121 appearances in two seasons with the Tigers and is responsible for 104 runs in that span. He will be a pivotal piece to LSU again this season, as the team hopes to get back to Omaha for the College World Series. Talk about bringing the Bear necessities.
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17. Lori Melancon
President/CEO, Baton Rouge Area Chamber
As Baton Rouge doubles down on attracting talent, Lori Melancon is proof even the most seasoned boomerangs can be enticed to return. She left a private-sector post in Greenville, South Carolina, last year to run BRAC, where she started her career 20 years ago. The LSU alum was part of then-CEO Stephen Moret’s dream team at the newly rebranded chamber. The two later worked their magic at Louisiana Economic Development.
No nonsense and fast-talking, she's on a mission to restore bragging rights to BR. “We’ve got to stop asking newcomers, ‘Why did you move here?’” she says.
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19. Sarah Klocke
Executive director, Theatre Baton Rouge
A chance to return to the Gulf South enticed Arkansas native Sarah Klocke to accept the top job at Theatre Baton Rouge last fall. Klocke brings experience, both as a director and administrator, working with theaters in Oklahoma, North Carolina, Nevada and most recently in Nebraska with the Omaha Community Playhouse. “You go where the work is,” she says.
18. Tim Riley
Mayor, City of Gonzales
Gonzales’ first Black mayor Tim Riley takes office this month, having defeated opponent Kemlyn Bailey Lomas in the runoff.
The election ushers in a new era for Ascension Parish’s largest city. Previously, Gonzales was led by four-term Republican Mayor Barney Arceneaux, who stepped down last spring to lead the Louisiana Municipal Association.
Riley, a Democrat and Darrow native, is a former City Council member and retired longshoreman. He campaigned on the promise of addressing Gonzales’ overburdened water and sewer systems, the result of its 50% growth from 2000-2020. Other priorities include public safety, traffic and the city’s development code as it grapples with growth.
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As Theatre Baton Rouge preps for its 80th season, Klocke is focused on fundraising and community relationships to fortify TBR’s long-term strength.
But, she’s also not averse to directing a show. Baton Rouge’s deep bench of talent would make that a lot of fun, she says.
20. Sid Edwards
Mayor, City of Baton Rouge and East Baton Rouge Parish
In the runoff that surprised most, the Istrouma High School head football coach and Republican candidate defeated two-term Democratic incumbent Sharon Weston Broome. Sid Edwards equated the decisive win to “a movie.” The catalyst for his run, he said during the campaign, was the death of one of his players, a freshman starting cornerback with a 4.0 GPA, who was gunned down on Jan. 1, 2024. “It shook me to my core,” Edwards told Talk Louisiana host Jim Engster in September. Running on a platform to address crime, economic development, traffic, homelessness and blight, Edwards has advocated for hiring 100 new police officers, increasing law enforcement pay and demolishing condemned properties.
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People to (still) Watch
As we celebrate a new class of People to Watch—and the feature’s 20th anniversary—let’s look back at its past two decades of movers and shakers, many of whom are still worthy of “watching.” Our team dusted off and flipped through archival editions to find some notable honorees. Here’s a handful, complete with the photos from their original features.
2006 + 2012
Kenneth Brown
Then: Host of HGTV’s reDesign recently returned home to Louisiana ( Now: Interior designer with offices in Baton Rouge and Los Angeles. His work has been featured in national publications, and his clients have included celebrities.
2006
Seimone Augustus
Then: LSU Lady Tigers’ reigning National Player of the Year
Then: Owner of the new Chelsea’s Cafe on Perkins Road (’06) and co-owner of the forthcoming The Radio Bar (’11)
Now: Behind spots like The Radio Bar and Mid City Beer Garden. Meanwhile, Chelsea’s Cafe was revived as Chelsea’s Live in 2022.
2009
Lisette Oropesa
Then: On track to become a global opera star
Now: An internationally acclaimed operatic soprano
2013
Nick Hufft
Then: Owner and chef of burger-focused food truck Curbside
Now: Co-owner of Hufft Marchand Hospitality, behind BR faves like Curbside Burgers, Overpass Merchant and Gail’s Fine Ice Cream
2014
Kenny Neal
Then: Louisiana Music Hall of Famer who had just returned to BR to record an album
Now: Grammy nominee and headliner of last year’s Baton Rouge Blues Festival
2015
Torrence Thomas and Thurman Thomas
Then: Frontmen of ASKTHETHOMASBROS and founders of Tankproof nonprofit
Now: The Austin-based musicians tour as THEBROSFRESH; Tankproof now services major U.S. cities.
You’re free to live your life out loud!
Because you’ve got the compassion of the cross, the security of the shield, and the comfort of Blue behind you.
2017
Jordan Hefler
Then: Photographer growing her full-scale business
Now: Her portfolio now includes LSU Athletics stars and performances by musicians like Taylor Swift, Elton John, Post Malone and more.
2017
Pedram Taheri
Then: Owner of Pedram Couture
Now: New Orleans-based bridal and fashion designer who has dressed high-profile and celebrity clients
2018
Madeline Ellis
Then: Founder of Mimosa Handcrafted and co-founder of MidCity Makers Market Now: Mimosa now has a brick-and-mortar, a new production shop and a soon-to-be expanded storefront.
2018
Sherin Dawud and Raina Vallot
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2019
Brandon Landry
Then: Founder and co-owner of Walk-On’s Bistreaux & Bar, which had just grown to more than 100 locations
Now: Founder and chairman of the fast-growing Smalls Sliders; founder of Supper Club
2020
Chris Motto
Then: Top four on Hell’s Kitchen and Mansurs on the Boulevard executive chef
Now: Executive chef at Jubans
2020
Brooks Nader
Then: 2020 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Rookie of the Year
Now: Super model; Dancing with the Stars 2024 competitor
Then: Founders of the Power Pump Girls nonprofit Now: Power Pump Girls is going strong, now focused on menstrual education and equity, disaster relief, civic engagement and more.
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2022
Olivia Dunne
Then: LSU sophomore gymnast with over 4 million followers on TikTok
Now: LSU fifth-year senior gymnast with more than 8 million followers on TikTok; On3’s No. 4-ranked athlete on the NIL 100
charming Style How
A decades-old jewelry trend is taking over the Capital Region with pop-ups and one-of-a-kind, eclectic offerings BY
OLIVIA DEFFES // PHOTOS BY COLLIN RICHIE
Charm jewelry at local boutique Designs By Grace
THE ’90S CALLED, and they say charm jewelry is back. These dangly pieces are making the move from the racks of Free People and the necks of celebs like Gigi Hadid to the Capital Region.
Charm bars are on the rise at local shops and events. From buffet-like selections of pendants, customize the chain of your choice.
Grace Robichaux, owner of Designs By Grace Jewelry Co. in the Village at Willow Grove, has often seen past trends take on new lives. She regularly refreshes her inventory to reflect signs of the time.
Today, she dons a thick herringbone chain, a style with ancient ties that saw surges in popularity during the ’80s and ’90s.
“I think trends just always make a comeback,” Robichaux says. “I don’t know why the
charm necklace is all of a sudden (popular). ... I had to take advantage of the opportunity, because everybody wants one.”
Robichaux says she started sourcing goldplated charms for her shop as soon as she saw the trend pick up in other states. Now, she tries to stock about 30 pendants along with a variety of necklace and bracelet chains to choose from. She keeps pliers and jump rings handy so she can build out jewelry for her customers once they make selections.
“I think there’s 35 different variations in there,” Robichaux says, while standing over her store’s charm bar. “I like to stick to the daintier charms, because that seems to be what people like. I have a few select chunkier ones in there, and the dainty hearts, stars and ones you can easily blend together to make a necklace.”
designsbygracebr.com
How to make your own charm creation
Yank your chain
First thing’s first: Pick the base. Thick or chunky—anything is fair game. The thickness will help determine which charms to dress it up with.
Decisions, decisions
Choosing the charms is the hardest part, Robichaux says, but there’s no limit to how many or how few you can add. Her advice: Go with an odd number to balance a main charm with a few on the sides.
Like a charm
More places to find charm jewelry
Moxi the Label
This online boutique recently relaunched its website, stocked with tons of new apparel and a selection of one-of-akind necklaces created by owner Jenee Esquivel. moxi.boutique
Forever Lillies
Forever Lillies, known for its permanent jewelry, has also dipped into the charm trend with non-permanent, 18-karat goldplated chains with a rotating selection of charms. Find it on Instagram at @forever_lillies_jewelry
Whimsy Gems Handcrafted
Customers can browse the Clinton maker's collection of gold-plated and brass options with pendants in the shape of pickleball paddles, bows, dollar bills and more. Find it on Instagram at @whimsygemshandcrafted
Wanderlust by Abby
Did you know you can create your own necklaces at this Perkins Road shop? In-store and online, Wanderlust offers a charm collection that can be mixed and matched. wanderlustbyabby.com
LuLu Designs
The Denham Springs permanent jewelry pop-up launched its charm bar this past summer complete with medallions in a slew of shapes and sizes. Find it on Facebook
Magnolia Mei Designs
The mother-daughter owners use repurposed, vintage and brand-new charms to gussy up plain ole necklaces. Find it on Instagram at @magnoliamei.designs
Order up
After picking the baubles, it’s time to decide where they’ll lay. Robichaux recommends starting with the biggest pendant in the middle and building around it.
Put it all together
Once the customer is happy with the placement of the charms, it’s time to build. In just a few minutes, charms are fastened to the chain. The result is a unique piece that’s ready to wear out of the store or pop-up event.
Designs By Grace has a charm bar at the front counter of its Village at Willow Grove storefront.
REVIVE MIND • BODY • SPIRIT
Learn how to achieve balance and wellness in your life with these tips from local experts. Let 2025 be the year you take steps to become your very best self!
SPONSORED BY:
FIT BIT
We are all part of interconnected systems—family, work, church, community—and to keep these systems healthy, we must take care of ourselves. Want a healthy marriage? Start by focusing on your own contributions to the relationship. Want mentally healthy kids? Start by prioritizing your own mental wellness. The biggest lie today’s culture tells us is that working harder will make things easier. The truth is, we can’t outwork stress, anxiety, trauma, or depression. Often times, slowing down and focusing on our emotional health is key to success in many of our systems.
Cooper Chavers, Practice Manager
Ally Bayard, LPC-S, CAS, Director
PENNINGTON BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH CENTER
FIT
BIT
Small, consistent adjustments can make a big impact towards overall health improvement. Start with these simple shifts:
1. Nutrition: Add one more serving of fruits or vegetables to your day. It’s an easy way to boost your vitamins, minerals, and fiber intake without overhauling your diet.
2. Exercise: Take a 10-minute walk after meals. This simple habit supports digestion, boosts energy, and helps you sneak in more movement during busy days.
3. Mental Health: Prioritize good sleep. Aim for 7–9 hours each night to give your brain the rest it needs to manage stress, regulate mood, and improve focus.
Dr. Prachi Singh, Associate Professor
Dr. Jacob Mey, Assistant Professor
Angelique Litsey, Research Specialist
FIT BIT
High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) classes are a fantastic style of workout that energizes your body and mind! They’re quick, effective, and perfect for all fitness levels. In just a short amount of time, you can burn calories, improve cardiovascular health, and build strength—all while boosting your metabolism for hours after your workout. HIIT is also a great stress-reliever and leaves you feeling accomplished and energized. Best of all, the variety in exercises keeps it fun and engaging!
Vanessa Le, Owner
FIT BIT
A good hairstylist can change the integrity of your hair, positively influencing your confidence and appearance! Building trusting relationships with our clients is our key to ensure the health of your hair, while also creating the best look for you. We take pride in creating an inviting environment where our clients can feel comfortable and enjoy the process.
Mazie Smith, Co-Owner
Tai Pinell Savage, Co-Owner
FUTURE FITNESS
FIT BIT
Consistency is key to fitness success. Aim for 3-4 workouts per week. The best way to stay on track is through dedication and mental focus. Hold yourself accountable, stay committed to your goals, and work to optimize your performance.
Chris Gendusa, Owner
Dr. Eric Oberlander, Board Certified Neurosurgeon and Spine Specialist
FIT BIT
For a healthier spine, quit all tobacco products and keep your weight in check. Tobacco use and excess weight both accelerate spinal degeneration. Visit your local Physical Therapist to learn home exercises and stretches, and do them every day.
SCAN TO LEARN MORE
THE
FIT BIT
Plan your workouts in advance and commit to attending what you’ve scheduled. When creating your weekly fitness routine, include resistance training, cardio, and recovery or stretching sessions to maximize your overall health and wellness.
Lauren Temple, Owner & Founder
CRADLE & BLISS POSTPARTUM AND INFANT CARE CONSULTING
Baton Rouge | 225.224.7835 | cradleandbliss.com
Kayla Anderson, Owner and Consultant
FIT BIT
Give yourself grace. Motherhood is a journey— allow yourself time to learn, grow, and connect with your baby during this new chapter. Building a support system and clearly communicating your needs are essential. Whether you need help with household tasks, a listening ear, or time for self-care, let others know how they can support you. Every mom deserves to feel supported in a way that works best for her. If you need extra guidance, emotional support, or hands-on assistance, reach out to Cradle & Bliss for help.
Comprehensive Care from Head to Toe With Over 700 Years of Combined Physician Experience
PAIN MANAGEMENT
Kelly Boussert, M.D.
Steve McDaniel, M.D.
HAND & WRIST
Rick Ahmad, M.D.
Ryan Bliss, M.D.
Timothy Bowlin, M.D.
Benjamin Robichaux, M.D.
Michael Robichaux, M.D.
John Wilkinson, M.D.
HIP
Shaun Accardo, M.D.
A. Brent Bankston, M.D.
Jared Braud, M.D.
Robert Easton, M.D.
Craig Greene, M.D.
Niels Linschoten, M.D.
Kevin Riché, M.D.
R. David Rabalais, M.D.
Ricardo Rodriguez, M.D.
Adam Whatley, M.D.
John Marshall Whatley, M.D.
FOOT & ANKLE
Jimmy Lalonde, M.D.
Brian Perry, M.D.
Catherine Riché, M.D.
SHOULDER
SPINE
Henry Eiserloh, M.D.
David Ferachi, M.D.
Kyle Girod, M.D.
KNEE
Shaun Accardo, M.D.
A. Brent Bankston, M.D.
Larry Bankston, M.D.
Jared Braud, M.D.
Robert Easton, M.D.
Mark Field, M.D.
Matthew Fury, M.D.
Craig Greene, M.D.
Niels Linschoten, M.D.
R. David Rabalais, M.D.
Kevin Riché, M.D.
Ricardo Rodriguez, M.D.
Adam Whatley, M.D.
John Marshall Whatley, M.D.
Carey Winder, M.D.
TRAUMA
Shaun Accardo, M.D.
Craig Greene, M.D.
Kevin Riché, M.D.
John Marshall Whatley, M.D.
Larry Bankston, M.D.
Mark Field, M.D.
Matthew Fury, M.D.
Craig Greene, M.D.
Nick Hatzis, M.D.
R. David Rabalais, M.D.
Ricardo Rodriguez, M.D.
Wame Waggenspack, M.D.
Adam Whatley, M.D.
Carey Winder, M.D.
Rick Ahmad, M.D.
Larry Bankston, M.D.
Ryan Bliss, M.D.
Timothy Bowlin, M.D.
Mark Field, M.D.
Matthew Fury, M.D.
Nick Hatzis, M.D.
Benjamin Robichaux, M.D.
Michael Robichaux, M.D.
Wame Waggenspack, M.D.
John Wilkinson, M.D.
SPORTS MEDICINE
A. Brent Bankston, M.D.
Larry Bankston, M.D.
Stephen Etheredge, M.D.
Mark Field, M.D.
Matthew Fury, M.D.
Craig Greene, M.D.
Nathan Hensler, D.O.
Chad Loup, M.D.
R. David Rabalais, M.D.
Ricardo Rodriguez, M.D.
Wame Waggenspack, M.D.
Adam Whatley, M.D.
Carey Winder, M.D.
PEDIATRIC
Brad Culotta, M.D.
John Faust, M.D.
AFTER HOURS
Dainon Miles, M.D 5-10PM | 10AM - 8PM | 12 - 6PM
Aesthetics A New Era In
UNDERSTANDING THE NEED FOR FACIAL REJUVENATION
As we age, our skin naturally loses elasticity, and facial structures begin to sag. Factors such as genetics, sun exposure, and lifestyle choices can exacerbate these changes. Common concerns include drooping eyelids, sagging brows, and loss of volume in the cheeks.
WHAT IS THE SCARLESS EYE, BROW, AND CHEEK LIFT?
Having practiced, published in medical literature, and trained fellow surgeons in Facial Cosmetic Surgery for over 22 years, Dr. Jon Perenack has developed The Scarless Eye, Brow, and Cheek Lift, a minimally invasive procedure designed to address common signs of aging around the eyes, brows, and cheeks without the need for traditional incisions.
Utilizing advanced techniques such as endoscopic surgical technology and precise injectables, this procedure offers a fresh, youthful appearance while significantly minimizing recovery time and eliminating any visible scars.
KEY FEATURES OF THE PROCEDURE
Endoscopic Technology: By employing endoscopic tools, Dr. Perenack performs lifts and adjustments through tiny incisions that are completely hidden in the hairline. This approach allows for greater precision and minimal to no scarring.
Short Recovery Time: One of the standout benefits of the scarless procedure is the minimal downtime. Many patients return to their regular activities within days, with full results visible within a few weeks.
Long-lasting Results: The effects of the Scarless Eye, Brow, and Cheek Lift setting ‘the clock” back 10 – 15 years, providing enduring benefits with the minimal need for touchups.
This procedure represents a significant leap forward in cosmetic surgery, combining cuttingedge techniques with a patient-centered approach.
For more information on the Scarless Eye, Brow and Cheek Lift call for your personalized consultation.
Scarless
EYE, BROW AND CHEEK LIFT
BY DR. JON PERENACK
FIT BIT
Staying active is key to maintaining your overall health, but injuries and joint issues can sometimes slow you down. If you’re dealing with arthritis, a sports injury, or other orthopedic concerns, consider consulting a specialist. Experts like those at Ochsner Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Institute in Baton Rouge can offer personalized treatment tailored to your needs, from joint replacements to care for specific areas like hands, feet, or ligaments. Remember, early attention to pain or mobility challenges can help keep you moving and doing what you love!
From left: David Pope, MD; Julie Neumann, MD; Charles Cefalu, MD; and M. Tyson Garon, MD
If you're struggling with debilitating back or neck pain, you may have resigned yourself to the idea that surgery is your only option. But what if there was a revolutionary approach right here in Baton Rouge that's helping patients find lasting relief without invasive surgery?
Introducing Medical Spine & Sports Injury and Rehab Centers – offering cutting-edge, non-surgical spine care to patients in Baton Rouge and the surrounding region. Led by Dr. Shay Corbin, this innovative practice has pioneered a gamechanging "Power of 3" approach that's delivering life-changing results for patients.
At the heart of Dr. Corbin’s success is the renowned Cox® Technic - a highly specialized spinal decompression method that he has mastered over the past 20 years. As one of the top practitioners and trainers of this evidence-based treatment, he's helped countless individuals overcome herniated discs, spinal stenosis and other complex spine conditions.
The Cox® Technic's proven efficacy is just the first piece of
THE “POWER OF 3” - UNLOCKING NON-SURGICAL RELIEF IN BATON ROUGE
the spine center's transformative trio. Amplifying the power of spinal decompression is the center's cutting-edge class IV laser therapy. This therapy harnesses the healing properties of concentrated light energy to accelerate tissue repair and alleviate pain. It's a gamechanger for patients, providing soothing relief without the discomfort of traditional therapies.
But the spine center doesn't stop there. They are taking rehabilitation to new heights by incorporating David Health equipment - a suite of AI-powered instruments that target and strengthen the allimportant spinal stabilizers. Through personalized, pain-free exercises, patients regain core stability and mobility, setting them up for lasting wellness.
"When you combine the Cox® Technic, class IV laser, and David Health equipment, you get a level of non-surgical spine care that's unmatched in this region," explains Dr. Corbin. "We're talking about a comprehensive approach that allows us to manage the simplest to the most complex conditions and help patients reclaim their quality of life."
Beyond the technology, what truly sets Medical Spine & Sports Injury and Rehab Centers apart is the unwavering commitment to patient care. Dr. Corbin and his team understand that navigating spine issues can be daunting, which is why they've cultivated a warm, welcoming environment focused on individualized attention and support.
"Our staff is the heart and soul of this practice," Dr. Corbin shares.
"From the moment you walk through our doors, you'll be greeted with genuine smiles and a level of customer service that's truly unparalleled. We don't just want to treat your condition - we want to make your visits a bright spot in your day!"
If you're ready to experience the "Power of 3" and reclaim your active, pain-free lifestyle, look no further than Medical Spine & Sports Injury and Rehab Centers. This Baton Rouge gem could be the life-changing solution you've been searching for. Call 225.924.3989 or visit docshay.com for more information.
ASSOCIATES IN WOMEN’S HEALTH
FIT BIT
Urinary incontinence, or bladder leakage, affects up to 11% of men and 50% of women in the U.S. One common myth is that bladder leakage is “just something that happens as you get older.” That’s not true. Kegel exercises, or pelvic floor exercises, can improve or even prevent bladder leakage. These exercises are particularly important after childbirth or for individuals who frequently lift heavy items, such as toddlers, groceries, equipment, or boxes. That includes almost everyone. For those dealing with bladder leakage or urinary incontinence, utilizing EMSELLA may help. EMSELLA is a specially designed chair that strengthens pelvic floor muscles to treat and prevent urinary incontinence.
SCAN TO LEARN MORE
From left to right:
Dr. Tammy Dupuy, Dr. Yolunda Taylor, Dr. Terrie Thomas, Dr. Kaitlyn Hoover
FIT BIT
We believe in the powerful healing benefits of combining Yoga, Pilates Reformer, ELDOA, and the Infrared Sauna. Why ELDOA? It’s the perfect complement to your fitness routine! These unique, analytical exercises create space in the spine, improve joint mechanics, enhance posture, and relieve back pain. It’s a game-changer for your body!
Shelley Mockler, Co-Owner
Shannon Davis, Co-Owner
ASK THE EXPERT
AESTHETICS
JOAN HUGHES SMITH, NP-C
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME AN AESTHETIC INJECTOR AND HOW HAS THE INDUSTRY EVOLVED SINCE YOU STARTED?
I have always liked to draw and paint. In 2007, when I went into this arena, fillers were just getting popular. I realized I could use the face as a “canvas” and create beauty. I knew then fillers needed to become my medium to create beauty. Still, 17 yrs later, I get excited with every patient I inject and the beautiful canvas we have created.
WHAT ARE THE BEST TREATMENT OPTIONS RIGHT NOW AND WHO ARE THEY BEST SUITED FOR?
Wow, that’s a tough one. It is not one size fits all. For some, it might be a filler in the cheeks. Another it might be a form of microneedling. I like to start with “what bothers you the most?” and “what are your goals”. Once I have this information, I know exactly the direction to go.
HOW DO YOU ENSURE NATURAL RESULTS FOR YOUR CLIENTS?
When I get asked this question, the patient is usually talking about neurotoxins and fillers, not laser type treatments. So let’s talk about fillers. These days there are so many options. Your injector needs to be an expert in these options and which one is placed where. When the wrong filler is chosen such as in the lips, you may end up with “duck” lips. Duck lips should be a thing of the past!! I can tailor a lip to exactly what you want based on the lip filler I choose.
WHAT SHOULD SOMEONE CONSIDER BEFORE CHOOSING AN INJECTOR FOR AESTHETIC TREATMENTS?
I have been a national trainer for Botox and Juvederm for almost 9 years. I have trained hundreds of injectors. In my classes, I make sure safety comes first, then technique. Injectors have been through training and you should be able to ask what training they have had. Also ask to see before and after photos. I go for a more natural look. Other injectors may go for a more “done” look. This is definitely something to consider. Patients may like a certain look. Find an injector that can provide you with that “look”.
ARE THERE ANY EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES AND TECHNIQUES IN AESTHETICS THAT YOU ARE EXCITED ABOUT?
With more technology and science behind what we do, the more we can fine tune our current treatments and products. The more mature patient may need aggressive radio frequency treatments because good skin products weren’t as readily available as they are now. The younger patient, just starting out, may just need good skin products and consistency of using them. Whatever you need, consistency is key!
WHAT IS THE ONE THING YOU WOULD YOU TELL YOUR 25 YEAR OLD SELF TO START DOING NOW FOR YOUR SKIN?
Sunscreen!! If you do nothing else put a sunscreen with zinc and/or titanium on, under your makeup every day. The sun is the number one thing that ages us. And yes, the rays coming from the computer screen causes fine lines and wrinkles as well. Wearing sunscreen blocks sun and computer. That’s a whole other conversation. Stay tuned!!
EVOLVE
“After multiple surgeries and years of PT across states and countries, Robbie at Evolve has me doing exercises I’ve never tried. His holistic approach ensures nothing is missed. The treatment and customer service are top-notch, and the staff feels like family. I’m hopeful this will be my last round of PT, but I’ll definitely still be stopping by to say hello! I love my PT family!” -Client Review
“Respect. Evolve treats me as if my time, my injury, my goals truly matter.
Focus. The staff rarely chit chat with each other. Patients are the priority and they talk to us as they guide us through the program.
Expertise. Robbie and his team expertly diagnose and then treat effectively, accounting accurately for the uniqueness of my situation.
Equipment. Its new. Clean. Useful. Accessible.
Care. From remembering me to encouraging me to staying on top of my progress, Evolve communicates that I matter. My pain has diminished, my health and mobility have improved beyond hope. I'm a big fan of Evolve!”
Mise en place
Baton Rouge's seminal French restaurant represents a labor of love
BY MAGGIE HEYN RICHARDSON
PHOTOS BY COLLIN RICHIE
Taste of history
About this feature: Each month across our 20th year, 225 will revisit restaurants from our past coverage. From Capital Region classics and award-winners to trendsetters and hidden gems, these businesses have helped shape our dining culture.
IT’S BEEN AROUND for nearly 39 years, but lately, the Baton Rouge French restaurant Maison Lacour seems more novel than ever.
Seating is limited, and it’s generally kept to parties of two— double that if you’re lucky enough to get the night’s only four-top. Lunch isn’t served, only dinner, offered Tuesday through Saturday. Reservations are required, and they’re made by text or, that ancient medium, the phone call. And speaking of ancient, bring a checkbook or some folding money because credit cards aren’t accepted.
Maison Lacour’s trapped-inamber strategy is a far cry from that of most modern restaurants, which compete for diners with Instagram-worthy dishes and interior design that create an experience
But to Michael and Eva Jetty, that’s noise. After 33 years of working together in the restaurant founded by Eva’s mother and stepfather, the couple has honed their operation to a well-oiled machine of two—just the way they like it.
Plenty of food enthusiasts in Baton Rouge have still never eaten at Maison Lacour, far-flung from the city’s trendy neighborhoods.
But many have, and this loyal fan base knows its fairy-tale backstory.
In 1991, Michael Jetty approached Eva’s mom, Chef Jacqueline Greaud, about apprenticing at Maison Lacour, the well-regarded restaurant on North Harrell’s Ferry Road she opened with her husband, John Greaud, five years earlier. Michael had worked for several local restaurants but was a personal fan of Maison Lacour and wanted to up his game under Le Cordon Bleu-trained Chef Jacqueline. She took him on
ORDER THIS
Maison Lacour’s Escargots baked in garlic butter sauce with diced mushrooms; Bisque a l’Orange, a creamy crawfish bisque with a light orange scent; Côte de Veau, veal chop, sautéed mushrooms and cream, finished with cognac flambé; and the restaurant’s signature homemade French bread.
reluctantly. Along the way, Michael fell in love with Eva, who worked front-of-the-house.
“We dated in secret at first,” Michael recalls. “It sounds creepy now, but I told her on our third date, ‘You know I’m going to marry you.’ And she said, ‘Yeah, I know.’”
When Jacqueline found out about their budding relationship, Michael says she grabbed him by the shirt and issued a warning. Her ire was to ward off distractions in the kitchen. Excellence behind the stove came first.
It did. Michael flourished. And his relationship with Eva also grew. The two eventually married and took over the restaurant after the Greauds retired, with Michael in the kitchen and Eva as manager.
The menu hasn’t changed much over the years. The lineup is decidedly French, not Cajun or Creole, with dishes like pork and venison pâté, escargot, poached sweetbreads, rack of lamb and soufflé for dessert. Everything is made from scratch, including the
French bread, sauces and salad dressing, the latter of which can be purchased by the bottle. Each individual entree is prepared in its own fresh, clean sauté pan. No doubling up, even for repeats.
“I don’t phone it in,” Michael says. “I take it seriously, every day, every plate that goes out.”
The décor remains the same. Cheery “lemongrass” yellow walls and ladder-back rush-bottom chairs greet diners. In an era when restaurants aim to transport patrons, this one could double for a sought-after Provençal mom-and-pop.
The pandemic shook things up for restaurants everywhere, and for the Jettys, the reckoning came in the form of a decision to pare down. They eventually let their staff go, eliminated lunch service and limited seatings. At this point in their careers, they say they don’t need to work the long hours they once did.
Husband-and-wife team Michael and Eva Jetty have been working together at Maison Lacour for 33 years.
On work days, they arrive together and enjoy a scratch-made staff meal for two brought from their Prairieville home. Tirelessly interested in food, they muse about what they’ll cook for Sunday dinner, a longstanding domestic ritual. Then, they fall into an easy rhythm, preparing for the night.
Eva, 66, will serve every table, and Michael, 59, will hole up in the kitchen executing the menu with painstaking precision. He’ll worry about diners’ reactions, and on the way home, ask Eva how they liked the food.
“She’ll say, ‘Yes, Michael, everyone was happy to have their table at Maison Lacour,’” he says. “And that’s all I need to know.” maisonlacour.com
DINING IN
Smooth operator
Nutrient- and protein-packed sips for the new year
BY TRACEY KOCH
I’M NOT ONE to make New Year’s resolutions. But this time of year, I do try to get back into the habit of eating clean and healthy by being more mindful about the ingredients I’m using and adding more protein, fruits and vegetables to every meal. One of the easiest ways to do this is by making smoothies.
There are plenty of places in town to grab a quick smoothie,
but this can get expensive—not to mention, you don’t always know exactly what ingredients you’re gulping down.
Today there are many varieties of protein powders on the market to help us add extra protein into our daily diets via a well-blended beverage. However, not all protein powders are created equal. While trying to find the best protein powder with the fewest added,
PHOTO BY AMY SHUTT
unnecessary ingredients, I discovered how quick and easy it is to make your own using just three simple ingredients: hemp powder protein, chia seeds and flax seeds.
These ingredients combined make an all-natural, quick and easy homemade protein powder that has all of the nutrients our bodies need without the unknown additives.
All of these ingredients can be found in most local groceries or online, and I invested in an inexpensive coffee grinder to grind the flax and chia seeds. I like to add a couple tablespoons of this powder to my smoothies to bump up the nutritional value, and I also add a couple tablespoons into my oatmeal and my favorite pancake, muffin or quick bread batters, too.
On the menu
• Homemade Protein Powder
• Morning Mixed Berry Smoothie
• Chocolate Peanut Butter Smoothie
• Green Energy Smoothie
Recipes by Tracey Koch
Homemade Protein Powder
¼ cup raw flax seeds
¼ cup chia seeds
2 cups hemp protein powder
1. Place the flax seeds and chia seeds into a food processor or spice grinder and grind into a fine powder.
2. Pour the seed powder into a large bowl. Add in the hemp protein powder and stir until all is well blended.
3. Place the protein powder into an airtight container and store it in a cool dry place until you are ready to use. The powder will last for up to 2 weeks.
4. Add a few tablespoons to your favorite smoothie or sprinkle it into pancake or muffin mix to add extra protein and fiber.
Morning Mixed Berry Smoothie
1 cup blueberries
½ cup strawberries
½ ripe banana
1 cup low-fat milk or unsweetened vanilla-flavored almond milk
½ cup plain Greek yogurt or plain non-dairy yogurt
2 tablespoons Homemade Protein Powder (recipe above)
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon vanilla
1. Place all of the ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth.
2. Pour into a tall glass and enjoy.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Smoothie
1 ripe banana
1 cup low-fat milk or unsweetened vanilla-flavored almond milk
2 tablespoons all-natural peanut butter
2 tablespoons Homemade Protein Powder (recipe above)
2 tablespoons unsweetened cacao powder
2 tablespoons agave nectar or honey
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1. Place all of the ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth.
2. Pour into a tall glass and enjoy.
Green Energy Smoothie
1 cup brewed green tea
1 cup fresh cut pineapple
1 cup fresh baby spinach
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon agave nectar or honey
2 tablespoons Homemade Protein Powder (recipe above)
1. Place all of the ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth.
2. Pour into a tall glass and enjoy.
and Purple, green GOLDEN
Nearly a half-century ago, Krewe Mystique de la Capitale aspired to bring a New Orleans-style parade to Baton Rouge
BY OLIVIA DEFFES
ORGANIZING A Mardi Gras krewe is no small feat. And, when Krewe Mystique de la Capitale decided to form one from scratch almost 50 years ago, it was navigating relatively uncharted territory. While the Capital Region had krewes and parades by that point, this ambitious new group wanted to introduce a slice of the Crescent City’s parade traditions.
In 1976, a few locals filed papers for Krewe Mystique de la Capitale with the Louisiana Secretary of State. The inaugural parade rolled during Carnival season the following year, and the rest is history.
This makes Krewe Mystique de la Capitale likely the longest running Mardi Gras parade in Baton Rouge, according to records on file at the East Baton Rouge Parish Library. (The all-male Krewe of Tucumcari, which was established in 1947 and hosts an annual tableau ball, is the city’s oldest stilloperating Carnival krewe.)
In just short of five decades, this vintage krewe has upheld some of its oldest traditions, like presenting royal court debutantes at its tableau and maintaining mystery around the theme of the ball and certain members’ identities.
“Some of the ball captains still haven’t been revealed. From ’77 to ’79, we don’t even know who they were,” says Stacey Pereira, Krewe Mystique de la Capitale’s current president. “Our ball captains keep the mystique (today). Up until the actual day of the ball, nobody knows who they are.”
Catch the parade
Saturday, Feb. 22, at 2 p.m. Downtown Baton Rouge Baton Rouge’s oldest stillrunning parade will return to its downtown route next month after last year’s event was canceled due to inclement weather. Expect to see new floats, marching groups, and royalty and regal members from the 2024 season. Don’t miss the krewe’s signature throws: decorative
But, as the times progressed, a few tweaks were made here and there to ensure the parade stayed exciting for krewe members and relevant to paradegoers. Notable switchups included commissioning local manufacturer Comogo Floats LLC to build its floats, adding new board members who have worked to introduce more social events, upgrading the king’s and queen’s costume trains and revealing the
theme to krewe members before the ball takes place. Another addition was a float to honor veterans, where the community can sponsor up to 13 veterans to ride in the parade free of charge.
“There’s been a lot of changes over the last few years that we’ve made to the krewe just to invite more people in to see it,” Pereira says. “We’re trying to make sure that we have the history behind it, but also adding some new things to kind of pique people’s interest.”
While a lot of planning goes into parade day with larger-thanlife floats and throws, this krewe celebrates year-round through traditional events and other community happenings.
“It has always been a very family-friendly type of krewe,” Pereira says. “It’s not an all-male or an all-female krewe. It’s one that’s open to everybody. And, we have people that are still in this krewe today that have probably been in the krewe since the ’80s.”
For members, being a part of the krewe is less about the party on parade day and more about the relationships formed.
“These people have become very close friends, and we do a lot with this krewe,” Pereira says. “To be a part of a krewe that thinks outside the box and looks to do things for the community and involves everyone, it’s been a lot of fun.”
After the last of the crowd leaves the route on Saturday, Feb. 22, the members of Krewe Mystique de la Capitale will already have their sights set on the next Carnival season, with events starting as early as this spring.
And Pereira says things will continue to evolve as the krewe gets older to ensure new members gain interest to join—and keep the traditions rolling for years to come.
fleur de lis that have been hand-embellished with Mardi Gras beads.
Don’t miss out on DELICIOUS DEALS!
Exclusive offers texted directly to your phone from your favorite and award-winning local restaurants all around the Capital Region!
Kerem
Ergener is a Ph.D. candidate in experimental music and digital media at LSU.
Dance coded
A
local artist is exploring the internationally trending algorave
BY JEFF ROEDEL // PHOTOS BY COLLIN RICHIE
NO ONE IS SWAYING or sweating under a dizzy shimmer of a disco ball, but you wouldn’t guess that by listening to the sound pulsing through the room.
It’s a mild Saturday afternoon at the Main Library at Goodwood, the palatial host of the Baton Rouge Maker Faire. And inside, rushing from the speakers toward rows of uninitiated listeners is an intense and cinematic sonic landscape.
Slightly dark, in a Germanic folklore way. Sweetly epic, in a Hans Zimmer way. Completely created live in the moment by three composers with their hands on keyboards—the computer kind— and a series of coding sequences in their brains.
This is laptop lightning, a demonstration of an algorave, the hot international trend that uses algorithms to create pulsating dance music.
Leading the performance is Kerem Ergener, a Ph.D. candidate
in experimental music and digital media at LSU. An electronic composer from Turkey, Ergener toured last summer performing his piece “In Praise of Shadows,” including a first-time appearance in South Korea.
“For me, it’s never about pitch, but instead the timbre and the texture of the sound,” he says. “I love figuring out how different rhythmic elements can fit together.”
The 31-year-old began playing piano at age 3 and drums soon after. While studying mechatronics engineering and music production at Istanbul’s Bahçeşehir University, Ergener launched his own record label in his mid-20s and began experimenting with compositions.
Since arriving at LSU, he has joined the Laptop Orchestra of Louisiana, while continuing to push the boundaries of his sonic creations.
“I’m inspired by design very much, whether that’s fashion or furniture—I collect midcentury furniture—or architecture, which I
love experiencing in New Orleans,” he says. “Louisiana is a melting pot of cultures and influences, and electronic music is, too.”
As part of earning his Ph.D., Ergener is working on a minor in architecture, focusing on building an innovative speaker system to enable everyone within a 75-foot span to hear the same exact sound, no matter where they are standing within the space. Anyone who has been to a loud concert at a bar can identify with moving around to find where the band sounds best.
“With this, there will be no bad spots and sweet spots while hearing the performance,” Ergener says. “It’ll all be a ‘sweet field.’ And I wouldn’t be able to develop this at any other university, really. It’s very ambitious.” keremergener.com
“Louisiana is a melting pot of cultures and influences, and electronic music is, too.”
—Kerem Ergener
Jan. 4
Compiled by Olivia Deffes
Children ages 4 through 11 are invited to an interactive performance by the Kids’ Orchestra at East Baton Rouge Parish Library’s Zachary Branch. In honor of Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday, attendees can sing along to “We Shall Overcome,” learn a traditional Rwandan dance and participate in a drum circle. ebrpl.com
Jan. 14-18
Get ready to party, because Chelsea’s Live is celebrating its third year with a five-show anniversary week. Rock out and celebrate the local music venue’s birthday with performances by bands and acts like Why?, The Sword, James McMurtry, Wednesday and X-Cops. chelseaslive.com
Jan. 24
Jan. 8
Watch an age-old fairy tale come to life during the ballet version of Sleeping Beauty at River Center Theatre for Performing Arts. The performance by the State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine will retell the story of Princess Aurora and her sleeping curse. theatre. raisingcanesrivercenter.com
Jan. 15-19
Grab the popcorn and find a seat inside the Manship Theatre to binge movies and shorts during the Baton Rouge Jewish Film Festival. The annual festival celebrates the diversity of Jewish culture through filmmaking. Expect to see an Academy Awardwinning film along with comedies, true stories and more. brjff.com
Jan. 23
Hear the musical stylings of Baton Rouge Symphony’s maestro Adam Johnson along with trumpeter Paul Merkelo and pianist Elia Cecino in American Rhapsody. Staged at River Center Theatre for Performing Arts, the show will cover works from Duke Ellington, Florence Price and more. brso.org
Singer Edwin McCain is bringing his soulful rock sound and meaningful lyrics to the stage at L’Auberge Casino Hotel. Known for his chart-topping singles, McCain is sure to perform his classic hits like “I’ll Be” and “I Could Not Ask For More.” lbatonrouge.com
COURTESY RIVER CENTER THEATRE
January
All month
KEEP IT SURREAL
The whimsical world of Surreal Salon returns to Baton Rouge Gallery this month. Stop by to check out ceramics, photography, mixed media works, paintings, textiles and more inspired by the pop-surrealist and lowbrow art movement. Surreal Salon will feature work from artists around the world and will be celebrated in style at the campy Surreal Salon Soiree on Saturday, Jan. 25. batonrougegallery.org/surreal-salon
18+19
AND THEY’RE OFF
Make sure to stretch and tie your running shoes tight for the Louisiana Marathon, where participants will make the 26.2-mile trek through the Capital City. Not feeling a full marathon? This race weekend also features quarter- and half-marathons along with a 5K, kid’s marathon and other festivities. thelouisianamarathon.com
Where to play aroundRougeBaton monththis
Compiled by Olivia Deffes
WALK OF FAME
The glamor of Hollywood is coming to Baton Rouge courtesy of the Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge’s annual MPAC gala. This event will shine a spotlight on local artists and offer live performances, food, beverages and more. Attendees are encouraged to channel classic film stars in their attire. artsbr.org/mpac
18
LET IT GROW
Join fellow tree huggers in an Arbor Day celebration presented by Baton Rouge Green and the LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens. Be an arborist for the day while planting trees, scavenger hunting and learning about native species. Smokey Bear will also be in attendance, along with food trucks. lsu.edu/ botanic-gardens/events
JAN. 10-12: Fan Expo New Orleans, fanexpohq.com/fanexponeworleans
JAN. 14-19: & Juliet, saengernola.com
ALSO THIS MONTH
JAN. 2
Don’t miss your chance to hit the ice at the Raising Cane’s River Center for the final day of Skating on the River. Lace-up your skates and glide over the rink before it melts away. raisingcanes rivercenter.com
JAN. 4
Get your craft on by creating a Turkish mosaic pattern for a lamp or candle holder. This class, hosted by Pedalisa Art, will walk you through how to make a traditional Turkish piece that will cast a rainbow of colors. pedalisaart.com
JAN. 17, 18 + 20
The Walls Project will host a weekend of service in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. MLK Fest includes giveaways and volunteer opportunities to help revitalize local neighborhoods. thewallsproject. org/mlkfestbr
JAN. 26
Calling all 2025 brides. The Baton Rouge Bridal Show is popping up at L’Auberge Casino Hotel with a variety of wedding vendors to meet and mingle with, from DJs to photographers. Also, expect door prizes and other giveaways. lbatonrouge.com
MORE EVENTS
Subscribe to our newsletter 225 Daily for our twice-weekly roundups of events. 225batonrouge. com/225daily
JAN. 17: Harlem Globetrotters, cajundome.com
JAN. 22-29: Cinema on the Bayou Film Festival, cinemaonthebayou.com
JAN. 25: The 19th Annual Gumbo Cook-Off, thegumbofoundation.org
Later, Gator
Déjà vu
A popular New Orleans patisserie has made its Baton Rouge debut
SPARKLY KING CAKES, anyone? Sucré’s sought-after Crescent City pastries have arrived on Corporate Boulevard. The sweet shop opened in late November, stocking macarons, entremets, cupcakes, gelato and more.
Specialty macaron flavors will run depending on the season. And during Mardi Gras, customers can expect Carnivalthemed macarons and cupcakes, plus Sucré’s signature glitter-dusted king cakes.
Husband-and-wife team James Vitrano and Abney Harper, who also opened the buildyour-own pasta spot Prima Après near LSU last summer, purchased the brand in 2023.
Vitrano says they wanted to bring Sucré to Baton Rouge from “day one.”
The Nancy Meyers-inspired interior is adorned in pastels and hand-cut bow-tie tiles. The space takes cues from Sucré’s Royal Street location, infused with Parisian style.
“We took a little bit of France,” Vitrano says, “and made it our own.” shopsucre.com
MADISON COOPER
Catch you on the flip side
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