Baton Rouge Parents Magazine January 2022

JANUARY 2022

Are We Screwing Up

The Kids?

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

Faces of Greater

Baton Rouge

Tantrum

Troubles

Private School Edition

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inside FEATURES

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JANUARY 2022 • ISSUE 378

2022 PRIVATE SCHOOL GUIDE

Get the information you need while on your journey to finding the perfect private school.

BY BRPM

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THE PRIVATE SCHOOL EFFECT

How private schools are preparing students for college.

BY ANTHONY BUI

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SWITCHING TO PRIVATE SCHOOL

Find out why many parents are moving their children to private schools.

BY SARAH BATROUS

62 Photo by Kleinpeter Photography 2021-22 Cover Kid Alanna P.

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FACES OF GREATER BATON ROUGE

Meet the Faces who are invoking change and making our community a better place.

BY BRPM

7 THINGS TO REMEMBER WHEN YOUR CHILD IS HAVING A TANTRUM

YEAR

SARY

IVER

ANN

DEPARTMENTS IN EVERY ISSUE

10 CONNECTING 12 A NOTE FROM MOM 94 THINGS TO DO 103 MARKETPLACE 104 THE LAST WORD 106 SNAPSHOTS

CONNECT

14 COMMUNITY 18 EDUCATION 19 ONE AMAZING KID

LIVE

24 MOM NEXT DOOR 26 THRIVE 28 FAITH

PLAY

88 A DAY IN THE LIFE OF DAD 90 OUT & ABOUT 92 THINGS WE LOVE

Tantrums are unavoidable, but you can get through them with these steps.

BY SARAH LYONS

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ARE WE SCREWING UP THE KIDS? Discover what getting outsmarted by children and their smartphones can lead to.

on the

BY SUSAN SWINDELL DAY

COVER

ON THE COVER

24 Photo by Putu Aryanto of Arya Visual Imaging

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2021-22 Cover Kid Hailey B. enjoys staying active and on the go. She had a blast at her photoshoot, posing in silly and sassy ways to get the perfect shot.

She’s also in competitive cheerleading and plays basketball and softball. She’s fun, spunky, competitive, friendly, and a social butterfly, but most importantly, she’s a great teammate to all.

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connecting

THE MAGAZINE THAT BATON ROUGE FAMILIES LIVE BY

MEET OUR TEAM

PARENTING PRO TIPS

AMY PLAISANCE

2021

Founder

BRANDON FOREMAN Publisher

Book Your Family Vacation.

The best time to start planning is now. You’ll get great deals and the hotel room of your dreams.

AMY L. FOREMAN

Associate Publisher

EDITORIAL

AMANDA MILLER

Managing Editor

Register Your Children for Summer Camp.

Along with summer vacations, you can’t forget summer camps! Register now and save big on camp rates, as they typically increase as the year progresses.

We have several tasks we need to do each day, whether for ourselves or our children. Sometimes remembering all of them is hard. This year, we are helping you get started on the right foot. Consider this your handy-dandy toolbox of things you shouldn’t forget. It takes a village to raise a child, so let us help you remember a few things, too.

EMILY DREZ

Assistant Editor

SARAH BATROUS ANTHONY BUI

Editorial Interns

ART/PRODUCTION JENNY ZIGLIN

Production Manager

Sign Up for Spring Sports.

Looking ahead can be difficult. What your child wants to play now may not be what they want to do when the first practice rolls around. However, registration begins early, so start those discussions on what to try this season.

MELODY TAUZIN

Senior Graphic Designer

ALEX HERRING

Graphic Designer

MADELENE SOILEAU

Multimedia Specialist

CHANEY RAY

Multimedia Assistant

KLEINPETER PHOTOGRAPHY

Schedule Date Night.

Don’t forget about yourself and your special someone.

While you’re hustling about this month, remember to take time for yourself and spend some time together.

Cover Photography

ADVERTISING

LAURIE ACOSTA

Director of Sales

CRYSTAL BARRETT JESSICA LAMBERT CAMILLE MILLER JASON WALL RYN WHITESIDE

To me, having kids is the ultimate job in life. I want to be most successful at being a good father.

—Nick Lachey

Account Executives

MARKETING

EMILY MANCUSO

Director of Marketing

MAGGIE SHARP

Marketing Assistant

VICTORIA COTEJAR

freebies

Social Media Coordinator

BUSINESS OPERATIONS

TERI HODGES

Director of Community Partnerships

Visit brparents.com and click “Register for Freebies.” | Deadline to enter is January 17, 2022.

The Li’l Cuddles Deluxe Baby Bedtime Set has all the essentials to lead to sweet dreams, including a crib, blanket, pillow, pacifier, and bib. walmart.com

Get the entire Solar System in chalk with Mason’s Planets Handmade Sidewalk Chalk. Each set contains nine planets–even Pluto. tweemade.com

LAST MONTH’S WINNERS

Look who won December’s Freebies: Brittany Lowrance won the Qi-certified Pad and Emily Hicks won the Ready Go Bento.

/brparents

/batonrougeparents

/baton-rouge-parenting-magazine

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/brparents

/brparentsmag

@brparents

/br parents

CONTACT US EDITORIAL@BRPARENTS.COM OFFICE (225) 292-0032 11831 WENTLING AVENUE BATON ROUGE, LA 70816-6055

ROXANE VOORHIES

Community Outreach

SARAH MILLER

Administrative Coordinator

BATON ROUGE PARENTS MAGAZINE is published monthly by FAMILY RESOURCE GROUP INC. and distributed free of charge. Subscriptions accepted. Only authorized distributors may deliver and pick up the magazine. We reserve the right to edit, reject, or comment editorially on all materials contributed. We cannot be responsible for the return of any unsolicited material.

BATON ROUGE PARENTS MAGAZINE Copyright © 2022.

All rights reserved. ISSN # 1050-8708. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission prohibited.

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IN EVERY ISSUE

a note from mom

New Year, New Plans A new year brings lots of ideas on things you want to change for the year. I have learned not to set resolutions because they always seem to fail. Instead, set small attainable goals for yourself. For instance, work out three days a week, and by February, bump to four days a week. Meal prep and stop ordering food delivery to work. These two things alone will help my heart and my bank account. However, this year, I am setting a new goal: time for myself.

My biggest challenge is being a busy mom to three kids who constantly have places to be and things to do. I mean, once school is over at 3 p.m., it’s rush home, get the homework done, go drop one off at dance, come home, and figure out dinner. Some days include soccer practice, or I have to go to dance to bring my daughter dinner in between her teaching and her actual classes.

Sometimes I’ll have to read with each boy for 20 minutes, making sure their iPad homework is done. Then it’s time to pick up the tornado that blew through at 3:30 p.m., getting uniforms out for school, packing lunches, picking up my daughter from dance or sending someone to get her, watching a show with my boys, getting all the kids to bed, then finally, getting a little time with husband before I crash for the night. This is just one day in my house!

Each day brings different challenges that I am supposed to make work.

While most of the time I get it all done, putting an effort into myself falls to the back. Am I ever going to make myself a priority with a crazy schedule like this?

I’m trying!

I feel like I am getting better at putting things in my calendar, but that doesn’t mean that I don’t snooze them and forget. I really think that this is the best option to keep me on track, but I need a system to keep up with my notes, or random things that come to my brain throughout the day. I have notebooks, use Google Keep (the note-taking service), and Post-its. They are everywhere, which I am sure adds to my stress level! I feel stuck, but I know there is a solution to keeping my crazy brain on a schedule.

What do you use? Do you have any tips or tricks that work for you? I would love to hear what keeps you on schedule and allows you to keep your family, work, and self on track. I’m determined to reach my goal this year.

Amy L. Foreman Associate Publisher

Email amylynn@brparents.com to tell me about topics you’d like to see in future issues.

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CONNECT

community NEW HANDS-ON CHILDREN’S GALLERY A new gallery could soon be at the Louisiana Art & Science Museum (LASM). For the last few months, the museum has been raising funds in order to renovate its Science Station Gallery into The Seed, an innovative space for young artists and scientists and their families to explore STEAM-based concepts through hands-on exhibits and activities. The Seed will be a living lab of creativity, imagination, and innovation that is focused on engaging children ages 6-12. Through the creator space, art and science connect, allowing children to explore the wonders of the natural and man-made world, while also developing 21st century skills as they become our next generation of artists and scientists. Above all, children will experience empathy for the living world. ■ lasm.org

BATON ROUGE NAMED TOP DIGITAL CITY

For the seventh year, Baton Rouge has been named a Top 10 Digital City by The Center for Digital Government, joining other leading cities like Alexandria, Virginia; Bellevue, Washington; and Fort Collins, Colorado. “This recognition validates all the hard work and advancements our City-Parish has made over the past several years to integrate technology and innovation into all we do in East Baton Rouge Parish,” says Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome. “From public safety and human services to transportation and drainage projects, technology is a foundational part of our approach to delivering quality programs, services and investments that help build a strong quality of life for our residents and community.” ■ govtech.com

MADDIE’S FOOTPRINTS EXPANDS TO BATON ROUGE

Anna’s Grace has become a part of Maddie’s Footprints, an Acadiana nonprofit. With the joining of these two nonprofits, Maddie’s Footprints has expanded their reach to the parishes that make up Greater Baton Rouge. As of January 1, Maddie’s Footprints will begin assisting families who have experienced miscarriage, stillbirth, and infant loss in: Lafayette, Vermillion, Iberia, St. Landry, Acadia, Avoyelles, Evangeline, Jeff Davis, St. Martin, St. Mary, Ascension, East Baton Rouge, East Feliciana, Iberville, Livingston, Pointe Coupee, St. Helena, West Baton Rouge, and West Feliciana. Their vision is to help families who have experienced miscarriages, stillbirths, or the loss of an infant.

■ maddiesfootprints.org 14

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AUDUBON ZOO WELCOMES JAGUAR CUB

A seven-month-old female jaguar that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service rescued from wildlife trafficking has found a new home at Audubon Zoo. The Association of Zoos and Aquariums reached out to Audubon due to the staff ’s experience and zoo’s ability to house two jaguars.

“This rescue effort was an amazing example of how zoos, government agencies, and conservationists work together for the greater good,” says Audubon Zoo’s Curator of Primates Liz Wilson. “She is adjusting well to her new environment, and we cannot wait for our guests to meet her.” To prepare for the new jaguar, the Zoo has added additional jumping and climbing platforms to increase vertical usage of the space, while also allowing guests to see the jaguar up close. ■ audubonnatureinstitute.org/zoo

GRANT TO ADDRESS HUMAN TRAFFICKING

January is National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month, and Louisiana was recently awarded a $1.5 million grant by the United States Department of Justice Office for Victims of Crime that will be used to improve outcomes for child and youth victims of human trafficking. The grant is a multi-year award that will be administered by the newly established Louisiana Governor’s Office of Human Trafficking Prevention and will help fund the Louisiana Child and Youth Trafficking Collaborative Accessibility Initiative. “This funding will greatly assist our state in implementing programs and practices that will promote greater healing and recovery for victims and survivors,” says Gov. John Bel Edwards. ■ gov.louisiana.gov

WOMAN’S NICU NURSES HONORED

Three Woman’s NICU nurses were recognized by the March of Dimes at its recent Signature Chefs Gala with the Excellence in NICU Nursing Award. Christina Bell, BSN, RN, Darla Mathews, MSN, RNCNIC, and Stephanie Powers, BSN, RNCNIC, were selected as top five honorees for the state, with Bell winning the top honor for Louisiana. The Level III-S, 84-bed NICU at Woman’s is the largest in Louisiana. It serves as a regional referral center for surrounding area hospitals.

The unit has neonatologists, physician specialists, and specially trained NICU nurses, respiratory therapists and technicians available around the clock to provide quality care to infants who are premature, critically ill, or require surgical intervention. ■ womans.org B R PA R E N T S . C O M | J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 2

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CONNECT COMMUNITY

ANTIBODIES PRESENT IN BREAST MILK

A new study shows COVID-19 antibodies in mothers are present in their breast milk. The study, co-authored by researchers at University of Rochester Medical Center and NYU, has found that mothers with two types of immunity from COVID produced breast milk with active antibodies. “The study does not imply that children would be protected from illness, and breast milk antibodies may not be a substitute for vaccination for infants and children, once approved,” says study co-author Kirsi Jarvinen-Seppo, PhD, M.D. Researchers are now researching whether vaccination and illness-acquired immunity provide antibodies against other seasonal coronaviruses. ■ jamanetwork.com

LANE REGIONAL NAMED HOSPITAL OF THE YEAR Lane Regional Medical Center was named 2021 Acute Care Hospital of the Year by the Louisiana Nurses Foundation and the Louisiana State Nurses Association. The Center was recognized for excellence in nursing and quality service in the nursing and healthcare industry. The Nightingale Award for Acute Care Hospital of the Year is based on four criteria: innovation through nursing leadership and management within the hospital, organizational initiatives supportive of nursing practices, evidence of registered nurse decision making and participation in management decisions, and recognition of registered nurse achievements and support of nursing participation in professional organizations.

■ lanermc.org

CHUCK E. CHEESE REOPENS TO PUBLIC Chuck E. Cheese, the nation’s No. 1 family entertainment and dining venue, has unveiled a brand-new look, featuring the latest technology and new games.

New signature elements at the Baton Rouge location include an interactive dance floor that is programmed with seasonal, dynamic graphics and serves as the “center stage” for Chuck E. Live! shows, a large-format video wall, screens and audio connected throughout the venue to provide a more immersive experience for guests and parties, and an oversized wall mural.

Chuck E. Cheese plans to remodel all of its locations over the next three years. Baton Rouge is one of nearly 30 remodeled locations slated for this year and one of just two Signature locations open nationwide.

■ chuckecheese.com

SUPPORT FOR ADD/ADHD

Not everyone knows all of the ways to support someone who is living with ADD or ADHD. Helping them manage the symptoms can also be difficult, however, discovering how to navigate through this is incredibly important. Families Helping Families of Greater Baton Rouge (FHFGBR) will be hosting a webinar on Tuesday, January 18 from 10-11 a.m. on strategies to help parents and caregivers provide support and manage those ADD/ADHD symptoms. The webinar will be led by Rubie Scere, a licensed professional counselor of Scere’s Mediation and Counseling Services. Registration for the webinar is required and is open now. FHFGBR is a family-directed resource center for individuals with disabilities and their families. ■ fhfgbr.org 16

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SCOTLANDVILLE’S TRAIL OF HEARTS

You can follow a trail of hearts in downtown Baton Rouge and in Scotlandville, thanks to the help of community members. The original Heart Trail was a product of a partnership between the Arts Council and Baton Rouge-based planner and artist Taylor Jacobsen, and is a 3.1-mile walking trail throughout downtown Baton Rouge. The trail was inspired by Jacobsen’s heart health journey. Following suit, the new Scotland-

ville Heart Trail is a 2.5-mile trail that combines health, art, and public spaces with the goal of increasing daily exercise and promoting mental health. The trail includes wayfinding materials that guide visitors through Scotlandville, providing connections to historic and cultural points of interest. ■ artsbr.org

PARENTS BILL OF RIGHTS ACT

U.S. Congressman Garret Graves and Congresswoman Julia Letlow recently introduced the Parents Bill of Rights Act. This legislation “will put practices in place that facilitate meaningful dialog between a family and their child’s school, and lead to more input throughout the learning process.” The Act is built on five core principles that would apply to all schools nationwide that receive federal funding. “Education is the key to unlocking our children’s potential and is most successful when everyone is pushing in the same direction–parents, teachers, the administrators. This bill helps to ensure the appropriate role of parents and transparency in the relationship with schools,” says Graves.

■ garretgraves.house.gov B R PA R E N T S . C O M | J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 2

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CONNECT

education BRCVPA CREATES ART FOR THE SKY

Being a Louisianian, we’ve all seen the portrait of the “Blue Dog.” However, no one has seen the artwork recreated quite like this. Students at the Baton Rouge Center for Visual & Performing Arts recently collaborated with Sky Artist, Daniel Dancer to “get their sky-sight on,” and create a beautiful representation of George Rodrigue’s “Blue Dog,” using their bodies as drops of paint. To capture the shot, the students stood together while an aerial photo was taken. Sky-Sight is the ability to see through the eyes of all beings and through the eyes of future generations. Students learned that although they may be small, they can be a part of something much greater and impact change in their world.

EBR CELEBRATES NATIONAL AUTHOR’S DAY

The East Baton Rouge Parish School System celebrated National Author’s Day throughout the parish. Local authors stopped by several schools to read excerpts from their published books and to highlight literacy. Lindsey Duga, author of the newly released, Ghost in the Headlights, read to students at Glasgow Middle School. Author Carla Ombre read her book of poems to ninth graders at McKinley Senior High School, and lastly, Buchanan Elementary School’s first graders created minibooks to celebrate National Author’s Day. VIPS helped students become authors for a day by writing and illustrating novels, and Angela Wynn, author of Fix My Smile, read her book to a selected group of gifted and talented second graders.

BATON ROUGE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL HOSTS CHESS KICKOFF

GIFTED AND TALENTED EXTRAVAGANZA

The East Baton Rouge Parish School System Gifted and Talented Program will host the Gifted & Talented Extravaganza on Saturday, January 22 at the EBR Main Library from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. The Extravaganza will showcase Gifted and Talented Programs throughout the district. Administrators, teachers, and gifted coordinators will be in attendance to provide information and answer all questions about the wide array of programs available. Finally, there will be live performances and demonstrations from the talented music, talented theatre, and talented art departments. The Gifted Program is an educational program for students identified as gifted in grades PreK-12 and enrolled in the EBRP School System. ■ ebrschools.org 18

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The Baton Rouge International School recently hosted the Louisiana Scholastic Chess Kickoff Tournament. More than 35 K-12 students competed in four divisions: High School, Middle School, Upper Elementary, and Lower Elementary. Representing Baton Rouge International School was Isabelle Kennedy, 9th grade; Em Brown, Cordell Saunders, Joaquin Torres, Jacob Hardesty, Jonah Kennedy, and Matteo Runge, 7th grade; and Elliott Barre, Spero Venkatesh, and Tarik Avci, 6th grade. Special congratulations to Matteo and the entire middle school team for winning top awards–Middle School Division Champion and Middle School Team Champions. The event was a huge success with the help of the BRIS parents.

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amazing kid Although she has only been tapping into her artistic side for the last two years, 12-year-old Larissa Boldor is already getting recognized for her work. Larissa attends Glasgow Middle, and through her art class, she entered the International Peace Poster Competition. Her poster helped her claim first place in the district and first place in the state competition. Next up? Her piece will compete in the international competition.

While the competitions are exciting, Larissa prefers to “hope for the best” and not focus too much on them. Larissa’s love of nature inspired her idea for her poster that depicts an apple tree.

Instead of apples, the tree is filled with peace symbols. Larissa also included a dove holding an olive branch, where the leaves of the branch feature the flags from around the world.

However, art isn’t the only area in which Larissa shines. She’s an incredible student (science class is her favorite), a hard worker, and an avid reader.

Currently, her favorite book is Spin the Dawn.

Larissa hopes to become a biological engineer, and she has a deep love for animals. “I like to think that if we understand the animals, the animals will become less threatening somehow. I think it’s very important to understand the world around you, not just observe it, and not take everything at face value,” she says.

Larissa is talented, intelligent, wise beyond her years, and simply one amazing kid. ■ DO YOU HAVE ONE AMAZING KID? Email: education@brparents.com B R PA R E N T S . C O M | J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 2

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CONNECT EDUCATION

THE DUNHAM SCHOOL SPONSORS FOOD DRIVE

Each year, The Dunham School chapter of the National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) sponsors a holiday food drive to benefit The Shepherd’s Market, a local client-choice food pantry serving the hungry and needy in the 70810 zip code. NJHS members in seventh and eighth grade collected donations of non-perishable food items and household products for the drive. Through efforts of the NJHS members, their middle school classmates, and the school community, Dunham collected 2,698 items of canned food and household items–weighing in at a whopping 1,787.2 pounds–for The Shepherd’s Pantry. The students learned powerful lessons about serving others who are less fortunate in the process.

EPISCOPAL TEACHER RECEIVES TEACHING AWARD

Episcopal School of Baton Rouge Lower School teacher Rosalyn Won was recently named the Connie Wootton Excellence in Teaching Award winner in the elementary category by the Southwestern Association of Episcopal Schools (SAES). SAES presents the awards biennially in recognition of outstanding teaching in early childhood, elementary, middle/upper and special focus education. Won began teaching in 2001 and joined Episcopal School of Baton Rouge in 2013. She has taught at independent schools in New York and Los Angeles and currently teaches fourth grade science at Episcopal. She is passionate about teaching science and finding ways to integrate technology into the curriculum.

SACRED HEART SELECTS STUDENTS OF THE YEAR

Each year, Sacred Heart of Jesus School chooses a Student of the Year in both the 5th and 8th grades to represent the school in the Diocesan competition. This year, Sophia Freese has been named the 5th grade Student of the Year, and Dorothy Raymond has been named the 8th grade Student of the Year. Selections are based on academic excellence, impressive leadership abilities, and dedication to service and citizenship. Students are elected by their peers, teachers, and administration. Each student must also meet the qualifications of a superior GPA, standardized test scores, and strong writing skills. Sophia is described as smart, kind, and a great leader.

Dorothy is someone who always gives 100 percent effort and is a leader.

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PBS ANNOUNCES GYMNASTICS TEAM

While attending Parkview Baptist School, students have the opportunity to participate in a variety of sports, including football, baseball, basketball, volleyball, soccer, golf, powerlifting, cross country, swimming, fishing, dance, and cheerleading. Now, the school has added a new sport to the school’s roster: gymnastics. Seven students were named to the inaugural Parkview Baptist School gymnastics team. Selected for the team are Kinsey Clark, Hannah Comeaux, Lillian David, Peyton Kennard, Brexley Moseley, Lylah Plaisance, and Jolie Gawlik. Parkview alumnae, Jessica Poumaroux Province, will serve as the team sponsor. The Parkview Baptist School gymnastics team will compete in their first competition in the spring of this year.

VIPS AWARDED GRANT FROM CAUW

Volunteers In Public Schools was awarded a $13,450 grant from Capital Area United Way to upgrade its technical structure. VIPS was 1 of 22 programs to be awarded a project-grant that responds to an organization’s short-term needs in the areas of education, income stability, or basic needs. “After having to transfer our services to a virtual platform, we realized how neglected our communication and information systems had become.

VIPS is grateful for this opportunity to modernize our technology to seamlessly meet the needs of our volunteers and students,” says Judy K. Bethly, VIPS executive director. VIPS is a nonprofit that places volunteers into schools to tutor underperforming students and provide positive experiences for youth.

CELEBRATING RED RIBBON WEEK

Baker Heights Elementary School celebrated Red Ribbon Week. Red Ribbon Week is a campaign dedicated to the prevention of alcohol, tobacco, other drugs, and violence. Teachers and students created banners and posted them around the school. Donated coupons from local businesses were awarded to the Red Ribbon Student of the Day. The Baker Fire Department, with the help of Councilman Robert Young, helped Baker Heights take an aerial shot of the students, staff, and faculty in the shape of an “R” to commemorate the week in the school’s yard. “On behalf of Baker Heights, I would like to thank Councilman Robert Young of District 4 for his efforts of making Red Ribbon Week a success,” states Ms. Carolyn Lewis.

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7 Things to Remember

When Your Child Throws a

TANTRUM

W

hen your child throws a tantrum, it is easy to get frustrated, overwhelmed, angry, and embarrassed, especially if the tantrum occurs in public. Unfortunately, the occasional tantrum cannot be avoided. They happen to every parent, but while your child is in the throes of a fit, try to remember these tips.

1

IT IS NORMAL

The first thing to remember when your child has a tantrum is that it is normal.

Tantrums are a normal way for kids to express their frustration when they may not be able to communicate their feelings appropriately. While this fact doesn’t make the tantrum any easier to deal with, it does help to know that, developmentally, this is a normal stage.

2

DO NOT ENGAGE

During a tantrum, you may be tempted to lecture, yell, or reason with them.

They cannot hear you or comprehend reason when they are in the middle of a tantrum. The best thing to do is wait it out. If you do feel the need to discuss the situation with them, wait until later when they are calm and ready to listen.

3

LEAVE THE SCENE

When the child starts to throw a tantrum, make sure they are safe, and then leave the area. Typically, if the child 22

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BY SARAH LYONS PHOTO BY KLEINPETER PHOTOGRAPHY 2021-22 COVER KID EZRA W.

PODCAST

doesn’t have an audience to get a reaction from, the tantrum will cease. If you are not comfortable leaving the child alone, get busy doing other things and pretend to ignore them. If the tantrum happens in public, take the child to the car or the bathroom to calm down. If the tantrum continues and the child is unable to calm down, buckle them safely in their car seat and drive home.

4

CONSIDER TRIGGERS

Think about what triggered your child to get so upset in the first place. How can frustrating situations be avoided in the future? Of course, not all tantrums can be avoided, but certain triggers can be removed to help prevent them. When armed with this information, parents can be prepared to use distractions to lessen or avoid a future tantrum.

5

DON’T GIVE IN, EXCEPT ONCE IN A WHILE

Giving into a tantrum will do nothing but encourage future tantrums. If your child is throwing a tantrum because he wants to eat a cookie before dinner, do not give him the cookie. It is also not a good idea to use bribes to stop a tantrum. “If you

stop crying, I will buy you a toy” rewards the child for the tantrum. However, if your child is in the middle of a tantrum and listening to the same annoying song over and over again on the car ride home will help him calm down, this may be an exception you can live with.

6

YOU ARE NOT ALONE

Although it might feel like you are alone while your child has a fit at the grocery store, we have all been there. It is likely that your child will have a tantrum in public at some point, and it will be embarrassing and inconvenient, but it is generally unavoidable. Remind yourself again that it is normal for kids to have tantrums, leave the store if needed, and try to laugh about it later.

7

USE DISTRACTION, HUMOR, AND HUGS

During a tantrum, children are not able to listen to reason, but that doesn’t mean parents can’t try to wrap up the crying episode quickly.

Try using a distraction like “Where is the ball?” or “Do you want to read a book?” Make a silly face to lighten the mood, or turn on some music and begin

a silly dance. For some kids, a tight hug helps them to calm down when they are upset. Trying to help your child move past the tantrum can teach them methods for calming themselves down in the future. The situation that caused the

DON’T DOUBT YOURSELF tantrum can be discussed later if needed.

There was a day when I had dealt with a particular horrible tantrum from my daughter and I began to blame myself.

“What am I doing wrong? I am a terrible mom.” After expressing these things to a friend, she reminded me that I am not a bad mother, I am just having a bad day.

It happens to all of us. Remain confident in your parenting and remind yourself you are doing the best you can. Tantrums happen to all parents.

The next time your child has a terrible tantrum, try to stop and remember these tips, even if it’s hard. Ultimately, the tantrum will end and your child will grow and learn to communicate more effectively. ■

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LIVE

mom next door Shannon McKernan

BY EMILY DREZ PHOTO BY PUTU ARYANTO OF ARYA VISUAL IMAGING

OCCUPATION: Office Coordinator for Gordon McKernan Injury Attorneys HUSBAND: Gordon McKernan CHILDREN: Riley, 26; Meredith, 24; Charlotte, 22; & John Gordon, 21 HOBBIES: Traveling, spending time with family, taking walks

S

H A N N O N McKernan works as a part-time office coordinator for her husband, Gordon McKernan, though she considers her job as a mom of four children to be the best job. Her children are older now, and they’ve all moved out the house, but she sees her relationship with them now as a true joy. She’s also learned the value of time when it comes to raising children. Spending time with family is one of Shannon’s favorite things to do, and she makes sure to never take it for granted.

What does a normal day look like for you?

SHANNON: I spend a lot of time balancing family, house, and office matters. I try to have some quiet time in the morning with my coffee, then I make sure the house is in order before I leave to check in on our offices. I communicate with them to see who needs what, like a new desk chair, some artwork, or even a refrigerator. At some point in the day, I usually take a walk around the neighborhood or around LSU Lakes. But, the best job in the world is taking care of my kids and making sure they have what they need, wherever they are.

What are some of the joys and challenges of raising your children?

SHANNON: I enjoy watching them pick something they love and excel in that. Whatever they were involved in, cheerleading, dance, or soccer, I love seeing them be successful in whatever they were doing and grow into who they are today. When they succeed, you get to see all the work you put into parenting pay off. I also enjoy spending time with them and getting to travel with them. Some challenges are all the obstacles that get in the way of their success, like social pressures or failures. In that case, I have to help them get up and remind them that it’s not about how you fall, but about how you get up. I encourage them to get up with grace and strength.

How would you describe yourself as a mom?

SHANNON: Unorganized, messy, but somehow productive.

What do you like to do as a family?

SHANNON: We really love to travel and go out on our family 24

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I love seeing them be successful in whatever they were doing and grow into who they are today.

When they succeed, you get to see all the work you put into parenting pay off. boat for what we call “Boat Days.” We also love good food and good wine.

What’s your favorite thing about being a mom?

SHANNON: I can see the beauty in all my hard work as a parent. Now that they’re older, it’s about the relationships I have with them as young adults. It’s hard work, and when they’re younger, you’re not really their friend, but it’s a sweet time right now.

What has parenthood taught you?

SHANNON: It’s taught me a lot about patience and sacrifices.

I’ve also learned the time you have with your children is so precious. Don’t take family for granted.

What are some things you strived to teach your children?

SHANNON: “Kill them with kindness” was one of my biggest lessons for them. Gordon and I also taught them a lot about faith in God and about the importance of sticking up for your siblings.

What has been the biggest difference in being a mom during the pandemic?

SHANNON: We are thankful for remote work and virtual learning in many ways. Despite the circumstances, it allowed us to spend more time together. It brought Meredith home from New York for three months, and Charlotte and John Gordon came home because their classes moved online. So, the pandemic really brought us together in a sweet way.

What has been your biggest challenge for your job during the pandemic?

SHANNON: It’s been really hard to get supplies. Even if it’s

just a rug, it might take three months to come in. Just now, it took six months for a chair to come in for one of our attorneys. We had to order a lot of things after the hurricane due to water damage, like rugs, desks, and chairs. The things I ordered for the new Monroe office wound up taking a long time to ship, which delayed the office from opening on time.

It’s really taught us a lot about patience.

What do you do to relax?

SHANNON: I love to get in a good walk.

What personality trait of yours do your children also have?

SHANNON: Sadly, some of them got my lack of organizational skills, but we’re all pretty laid back. We don’t get stressed out about too many things around here.

What do you want to do that is still on your bucket list?

SHANNON: We really want to take the kids to South Africa.

What’s your dream travel spot?

SHANNON: Italy.

Do you have any advice for other parents?

SHANNON: Try to soak it all in, and don’t rush it! I know it’s easy to get so busy, but the biggest gift we can give our children is our time. Go to their play, watch them cheer at the basketball game, take them to lunch, or ride your bike with them. Another gift you can give to your children is having a healthy, balanced marriage with your spouse, so don’t forget to go on date nights. ■

Q&A Before I go out, I always check to make sure I have… my cell phone.

In my fridge, you will always find…

Velveeta cheese slices.

My favorite dessert is… anything chocolate.

My favorite food is… cheeseburger with truffle fries.

My guilty pleasure is… watching Yellowstone.

The first thing I do when I wake up is… say a prayer with a cup of coffee.

I’m always laughing at… my husband.

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LIVE

thrive Meet Tiger Town’s Keeper Jennifer Richardson of Keep Tiger Town Beautiful

BY SARAH BATROUS PHOTO BY LAUREN ASHTON LIGHTS DESIGN & PHOTOGRAPHY

W

H AT might surprise you about mother of three and real estate agent Jennifer Richardson is that she spends her weekends cleaning up litter from some of Baton Rouge’s busiest intersections in hopes of making a difference.

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Like many of us, Jennifer grew up in the Baton Rouge area and always thought of our city as a gorgeous place with good people and natural beauty.

However, over the past decade, she has witnessed the devastating effects of waste buildup on our local environment. Complaints about trash in ditches and drains that will ultimately wind up floating in canals and waterways, thus endangering wildlife and our quality of life, piled up with no real effort being raised to stop it.

Realizing Louisiana’s capital city was in danger of losing its charm, she was spurred to action. In January of 2021, she used the power of the social media platforms Facebook and Nextdoor to take matters into her own hands.

Picking the weed-infested intersection of the Baton Rouge Country Club at Essen Lane and Jefferson Highway as her first target, she amassed a group of over 40 volunteers to help with the cleanup process.

“We felt so unbelievably good at what we could do as ordinary citizens. The group that came was amazing as it was during COVID and we weren’t socializing at that time. We came together with all kinds of diversity in our group and we all wanted to do it again very soon!” reminisces Richardson.

Picking their locations at random based on reports from group members, you can often find her and her group of volunteers out every Saturday scouting locations with industrial trash bags, trash pickers, and good attitudes. Retired members of the group can be found picking up litter daily. Each cleanup session ends with hundreds of pounds of trash collected but beautified roads left behind.

While some may stray away from this “dirty job,” Richardson finds great satisfaction in seeing the results of her work.

She and her volunteers have formed a niche in our community dedicated to helping each other and the city as a whole.

“We’re like a family now. We’ve done it in the rain, the heat, and the dark of the morning. With boots and gloves on, we start cleaning up. It’s remarkable how in an hour you can turn a blighted, disgusting city into something beautiful,” she remarks.

But where does all this trash come from? Richardson has found that depending on the area, litter can come from cleared homeless encampments, leftovers from panhandlers, and general rubbish misplacement from drivers and garbage trucks. However, it isn’t hopeless. Keeping Louisiana litter-free is something you can do with simple, proactive prevention.

Doing your part by keeping a small trash bag in your car, properly disposing of cigarette butts, reducing and recycling plastic containers, bags, and straws, as well as making sure you securely tie your trash bags shut before sanitation services collect them can make a huge difference.

If you’re craving the hands-on approach, new volunteers shouldn’t be wary of the trash or fear being underprepared.

Trash bags and trash picks will be provided by the group in case you decide to join them, so all you need to do is bring gloves, sturdy boots, and a positive outlook.

If you would like to join Jennifer and her team of volunteers in leaving Baton Rouge looking better than we found it, look out for her call to action on the Nextdoor app, or join her Facebook page, Keep Tiger Town Beautiful. ■

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27

LIVE

faith

Heart of Giving

BY ANTHONY BUI PHOTO BY FREEPIK

I

T is a common sight during the holidays. People are in

the spirit of giving, so they flock to soup kitchens, homeless shelters, and other local charities to volunteer their time and services to help better the community. Many places, oftentimes overwhelmed by the sheer volume of volunteers, even have to turn people away. This increased interest in helping those who are less fortunate is something that no one will ever complain about. The problem arises when the months of November and December are the only times these charities and organizations receive any sort of interest from the community.

WHY IS THIS A PROBLEM? Many of these groups rely on volunteers to offset financial costs. When there isn’t a stable stream of volunteers throughout the year, it is hard for these organizations to maintain themselves financially. As a result, many of these organizations find themselves having a very difficult time meeting the needs of the community year-round. Having a seasonal heart for giving and charity is not what Christ intended for his followers.

Jesus modeled a way of giving that was selfless and sacrificial. At times, his believers even sold their own possessions to help out a fellow believer who was in need. Repeatedly throughout scripture, you see times where Christ’s followers showed charity as they were living out their lives. There

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Jesus modeled a way of giving that was selfless and sacrificial. At times, his believers even sold their own possessions to help out a fellow believer who was in need. weren’t specific times where they felt called to give; instead, they had a heart for giving and were constantly looking for ways to serve others, not so that they can boast about their morality, but to glorify God. Charity was their way of life, not just a moment of it.

WHAT’S THE SOLUTION? Now, this does not mean that you must quit your 9-5 job or drop out of school and volunteer the rest of your life to charity.

If you feel like that is something you must do, go ahead, but volunteering isn’t something that must only be done over the holidays. It sounds like an obvious statement, but charities regularly report high numbers of volunteers during the holidays followed by huge drops as the months go on.

Communicating with these organizations and figuring out their needs is how you can combat seasonal giving and turn it into a lifestyle of charity. You do not need to volunteer every day; there is a general understanding that people do have daily responsibilities. Something that can be done is finding some time where you can regularly serve these organizations. It could be once a week or even once every two weeks depending on your schedule or workload, but giving these organizations someone that they can consistently count on goes a long way.

As a result, your own walk with Christ becomes that much more solid as you are able to spread Christ’s love to others in a beautiful way. You are putting the needs of others before your own, taking responsibility for your own faith while practically demonstrating to others what it truly means to be a follower of Christ. This opens doors for you to share the Gospel and plant seeds in the lives of people who have desperately been trying to fill a void that only God could. ■

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29

Are We

SCREWING UP

the Kids?

UM, HELLO? IF YOU’RE JOKING ABOUT BEING ADDICTED TO YOUR SMARTPHONE, WHY ARE YOU HANDING THE THING TO YOUR TWO YEAR OLD?

BY SUSAN SWINDELL DAY

PODCAST

W

H AT if children actually did come with a parenting manual? If tucked in-

side your baby’s swaddling clothes was a step-by-step guide for raising your little one from infancy to age 21? Wouldn’t it be great? You could just flip to the chapter on kids and technology and follow along for the well-being of your child.

Well, joke’s on us. There’s no manual, and even if there were, the chapter on technology wouldn’t be there because it’s not available yet. This era we’re in where nearly 100 percent of homes have a smart device is one big grand experiment.

But psychologists are starting to see links between the overuse of technology and our kids’ mental health. Psychiatrists are seeing an uptick in childhood depression while eyeing the effects of social media and technology on children.

Parents see children talking less with their heads down more.

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Looking at her three year old completely wrapped up in his iPad, a mom laughs, “He’s completely addicted!” and throws her hands up in the air, “but so am I!” What do you do when your toddler starts making “gimme” hands for your smartphone?

Hand it over, right? Yes, technology is fantastic... except for when it’s not.

Common Sense Media (CSM), a California nonprofit that studies the relationship between kids and technology, says an electronic childhood has “profound implications for parenting and childhood.” Chief Executive Jim Steyer,

a dad of four, says, “These devices have great benefits, but the downsides are very significant; you’ve got all of these parents glued to their blanking devices, and so are their six year olds.”

The evidence is clear that parents with toddlers have caved into “modern” society’s clamor for more and more tech at younger and younger ages. The good news is, if you raise your kids with common sense and authority (consistent, firm and loving; being the parent, not the friend), you stand the best chance of parenting your child through the weedy world of what’s good for him and what’s not.

KIDS KNOW MORE THAN PARENTS So you’ve heard that Bill Gates refused to let his kids have a smartphone before age 14, but here’s why: He knew about their highly addictive quality, and he wanted his kids to know the value of restraint and face-to-face communication. In other words, you’ll never ace a key college interview if you can’t talk to adults.

Nathaniel Clark, M.D., chief medical officer for Vanderbilt Psychiatric Hospital and associate professor of clinical psychiatry and behavioral science, says the right age for a smartphone varies by child, but that “as late as possible” is best. Yet parents give their 18 month olds smart devices and set up parental controls with little thought to the child’s capacity for it.

“Our brains continue developing until well after we reach age 20,” Dr. Clark says. “Particularly in the frontal lobe, which is responsible for

both planning, reasoning and inhibition of impulses.”

Ah, impulsivity. It’s why kids love Snapchat.

Take a pic, write a comment with an Emoji, share it and poof, it’s gone. A 15-year-old boy (who requested anonymity for this article) witnessed a girl, age 7 or so, on Snapchat sitting in front of him at TPAC. He looked disgusted when he said, “She shouldn’t be on Snapchat. She doesn’t know what she’s doing. You just want to do it all the time.” A savvy 24-year-old blogger told me, “The problem is, kids are faster at doing things online than parents are. Even if parents think they know what their kids are doing, they don’t.

That’s what’s going on. They can’t possibly keep their kids safe.”

While technology is a huge source of pleasure, we also know it can be incredibly overwhelming.

With smart devices providing that individual, deeply immersive experience, homes are sort of circuses with parents struggling to balance screen time with everything else in their lives.

Jean Twenge, Ph.D., is the author of iGen: Why Today’s Super-Connected Kids are Growing Up Less Rebellious, More Tolerant, Less Happy and Completely Unprepared for Adulthood. Dr. Twenge’s eye-opening generational research compares children born in the mid-1990s to the mid-2000s and later. She says the year 2012 (when those having iPhones went above the 50 percent mark) is the same year that kids started saying they felt “sad, hopeless, useless, and that they couldn’t do anything ‘right.’” Kids started describing feeling left out and lonely to her researchers, and Dr. Twenge saw a 50 percent increase in teen clinical level depression.

ADDICTION & STRESS Children who are given devices at younger ages means addiction starting earlier and human connectivity waning.

You know that awful irritability you witness when you take the iPad away from your three year old? That’s what we’re talking about. The struggle of it all.

According to Gabor Maté, M.D., the best-selling author and expert on addiction, when you put an iPad or other smart device in the hands of your chubby little toddler, you are giving him a one-way relationship; an indifferent, unloving, inhuman babysitter. Human beings must have human connections or they can become lonely, often deeply so. The iPad, iPhone, Facebook and all of the social media platforms promise connection, but it’s not there, Dr. Maté says. Technology provides a temporary relief from loneliness; when it’s taken away, the “pain” returns and so you need more.

So think: If your child’s addicted to his device at age three, what are you going to have on your

hands when he’s a teen? If Snapchat and Instagram monopolize your preteen’s social life now, what’s going to be running your toddler’s life 10 years from now? And another thought: before all of these social media apps, a kid could go home and not take the mean kids at school with her.

On social media, they’re with her all day long.

Parents have to be keenly observant when kids are entering puberty, going underground with their feelings and becoming experts at masking what they really feel.

Psychologist Catherine Steiner-Adair wrote The Big Disconnect: Protecting Childhood and Family Relationships in the Digital Age. To counter a teen’s feelings of being “left out” or judged, she says meditation can offer health benefits to help reduce anxiety and depression.

But what if your child is experiencing deep stress? Results from the 2017 National Poll on Children’s Health released last April suggest many adults think children today are experiencing worse mental health than when they

themselves were young. If you think technology is to blame for making the world faster and meaner, it doesn’t take much to connect the dots for children.

It’s important to work on your connection to them starting from a young age and to keep it going as they grow. This connectivity will help tremendously when the going gets tough in the teen years.

“If we have a strong connection with our children, we can help them verbalize what’s going on inside,” Dr. Clark says. Stress, in particular, he adds, produces the situations that provoke dangerous thoughts and the word no parent likes to hear–suicide. With the rate of childhood suicides on the rise, the medical community is initiating mental health screenings for kids in school now, but parents must also be on the alert for behavior changes.

“Smartphone addiction is becoming recognized as a societal, if not a behavioral, health problem,” says Dr. Clark.

M I N D F U L N E S S TO THE RESCUE Say you have a preschooler and a baby on the way. You love your device, and your toddler loves her iPad. That’s OK, but Dr. Clark says you do need to incorporate a sense of mindfulness so you’re not constantly distracted. Your baby and toddler need you. “Mindfulness as a lifestyle decision has been demonstrated to be helpful in coping with stress, and there is evidence to suggest it can also help with depression and anxiety,” Dr. Clark adds. That means we need to pay attention.

“When we are not mindful with our children, or distracted by digital technology, we do two things,” says Dr. Clark. “The first is modeling that distraction is normal, even for the people whom we need to be attentive to. The second is that our children may feel unimportant. Infancy is a crucial time for developing a sense of attachment and stability. It sets the stage for how our children experience relationships in the world,” he adds. So, don’t buy into pop culture’s view that limits are old fashioned or that being authorita-

tive with your children is the wrong way to go.

Be the parent, and set clear tech limits for your children. “Say no to all screens for your child’s first two years, says Dr. Steiner-Adair.

“Everything she needs to grow into what she can be is available from her relationship to you,” she adds. “If we can approach our children with empathy and respect, and can avoid being punitive,” Dr. Clark says, “we can often set good limits that help our children grow.”

Originally published in Williamson Parent. ■ B R PA R E N T S . C O M | J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 2

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2022

Private School GUIDE

BY BRPM PHOTO BY KLEINPETER PHOTOGRAPHY 2021-22 COVER KID HAILEY B.

34 The Private School Effect 38 Private School Listing 46 Private School Open Houses 50 Switching to Private School 52 Private School Profiles

The search for the perfect private school for your kiddos has officially begun, and we’re here to help. We know that the search is a daunting task to take on. Just research alone could take hours due to all of the Internet surfing, interviewing of schools, and talking with friends on what their child’s experiences are like.

Luckily, we have compiled all the information you need to know right here in our 2022 Private School Guide. This unique guide includes listings for private schools, profiles, and where to find the open houses for the year.

With this guide, we know you’ll find the perfect fit for your little scholars.

B R PA R E N T S . C O M | J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 2

33

The Private School

Effect

PODCAST

HOW PRIVATE SCHOOLS PREPARE STUDENTS FOR COLLEGE

F

BY ANTHONY BUI PHOTO BY KLEINPETER PHOTOGRAPHY 2021-22 COVER KID ALANNA P.

O R some students, college is a vital part of their future, and preparing for

it is very important if they are to succeed in an environment that is much more academically challenging and rigorous than your typical grade school.

That is why it is important that students receive the necessary resources and help needed to ensure that they are prepared for whatever challenges await them on college campuses.

Private schools work hard to ensure their students receive the highest quality of education possible through various programs, as well by hiring some of the best educators possible, to make sure they are prepared for college and career.

Here are a few ways in which private schools are helping to prepare their students for college.

THE CURRICULUM When it comes to public schools in Louisiana, the curriculum is dictated by 34

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the Department of Education through standards, benchmarks, and grade level expectations. Private schools have the freedom of creating their own curriculum. This allows them to focus on what they feel is necessary in order to give students the best opportunity to succeed in college.

Deidra Johnson PhD, the director of college placement at The Dunham School, explains how this curriculum works. She states, “The Dunham School has created its own curriculum starting with what

skills are necessary and what knowledge is needed to give students the best opportunity to succeed in college. From there, those skills and that knowledge has been divided through departments and divisions so that from PreK through 12th grade, students build upon the skills and knowledge that they receive.”

The curriculums are often both rigorous and flexible. It is able to be accessed and modified to meet the needs of individual students in ways that other curriculums cannot. Teachers recognize

a student’s ability and can actively encourage them in ways that can help them prepare for college. If a student excels at a subject like math or science, administrators can help to schedule more of those classes in an effort to meet the individual student’s needs. The curriculum does not limit them to just the minimum four classes required, but instead allows students to take more classes that allow them to be more prepared for that subject in college.

EXCELLENT TEACHERS Dr. Johnson expresses that Dunham is is truly independent. It is a Christian school not affiliated with a church or diocese, so it does not receive funding from an outside source. The school is fully funded through tuition and fundraising which goes towards paying teachers a competitive salary. This leads to the hiring of excellent teachers and helps make implementing these curricula possible.

SCHOOL AND CLASS SIZE Private schools can better accommodate students by offering smaller class sizes.

With smaller class sizes, students are able to get more one-on-one instruction, while also opening the doors to strengthening the relationships between teachers and students and their families.

For example, at Parkview Baptist School, there’s a “family feel” whenever students and their parents are on campus. And, Victory Christian Academy prides itself on having a low student-to-teacher ratio that allows for more individual attention to students.

RESOURCES AVAILABLE Private schools provide students with more opportunities to learn and grow.

Students are encouraged to take additional classes in order to obtain college credits. The more of an interest in a subject, private schools are able to meet the interest more freely. Along with more academic opportunities, students can participate in a variety of sports and extracurriculars. St. Michael High School offers 31 different electives, as well as a total of 30 AP, dual enrollment, and honors courses.

WHY IT’S IMPORTANT Age-appropriate college preparation helps to remove the fear that revolves around college. If unprepared, the first semester can be brutal. Private schools know this and have made it their mission to make sure that students are being prepared academically and mentally to take on the challenge of obtaining a college degree. ■ B R PA R E N T S . C O M | J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 2

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37

Private School

LISTING

All the information you scour the Internet for about your child’s prospective school can be found right here in this easy-to-read listing.

Discover what grades are taught at each school, the tuition and registration fee costs, if transportation is available, whether or not they provide virtual tours and IEP assistance, and what cafeteria services are provided.

Cafeteria B/L

Family Discount

Financial Assistance/ Scholarships

Extended Day

IEP Assistance

No

B/L

Yes

No

Yes

Yes

$500

No

L

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

$1,0001,166

$75

No

N/A

No

No

No

Yes

13

$5,1256,125

$825

No

L

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

130

$11,00012,000

$450

No

B/L

No

Yes

No

Yes

School Name Principal/Headmaster Address Phone Number Website

Grades Taught

Total Enrollment

Total Faculty

Amite Christian Academy Lisa Perkins 7100 Amite Church Rd., Denham Springs (225) 665-2060 amiteacademy.com

PreK-6

217

K-12

Behavioral Intervention Group Cassie Bradford 8180 Siegen Ln., Baton Rouge (225) 757-8002 big-br.com

Tuition Range

Registration Fee

Transportation Service

28

$2,5004,200

$250530

235

70

$11,53011,620

PreK-K

40

50

Bethany Christian School Stephanie Edmonds 1107 Honore Ln., Baton Rouge (225) 412-5335 bethanychristianschool.com

K4-8

96

Catholic High School Lisa Harvey 855 Hearthstone Dr., Baton Rouge (225) 383-0397 catholichigh.org

8-12

1,148

Baton Rouge International School Dr. Tanya Price 5015 Autoplex Dr., Baton Rouge (225) 293-4338 brintl.com

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School Name Principal/Headmaster Address Phone Number Website

Grades Taught

Total Enrollment

Total Faculty

Tuition Range

Registration Fee

Transportation Service

Cafeteria B/L

Family Discount

Financial Assistance/ Scholarships

Extended Day

IEP Assistance

Central Private School Robert Martin 12650 Gurney Rd., Central (225) 261-3341 centralprivate.org

K3-12

520

50

$6,0008,000

$3001,000

Yes

B/L

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Cristo Rey Baton Rouge Franciscan High School Eric Engemann 4000 St. Gerard Ave., Baton Rouge (225) 588-1058 cristoreybr.org

9-12

165

16

$2001,200

$40

Yes

B/L

No

Yes

No

Yes

Diocese of Baton Rouge Department of Special Education Kristy Monsour 1800 S. Acadian Thwy., Baton Rouge (225) 336-8735 csobr.org/specialeducation-1

K-12

62

14

$11,00015,000

$300

Yes

B/L

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

Dunham School, The Steven A. Eagleton 11111 Roy Emerson Dr., Baton Rouge (225) 767-7097 dunhamschool.org

PK2-12

787

113

$10,55019,725

$750

No

B/L

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

Elan Vital Montessori School Molly Smith Whitt 7518 Highland Rd., Baton Rouge (225) 767-6620 elanvitalmontessori.org

K

40

7

$5,3359,990

$300

No

L

Yes

No

Yes

Yes

Episcopal School of Baton Rouge Dr. Carrie Steakley 3200 Woodland Ridge Blvd., Baton Rouge (225) 755-2685 episcopalbr.org

PreK3-12

942

106

$10,68821,966

$125

No

L

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

Family Christian Academy Christopher Granier Ph.D./ Carolyn Richards 8919 World Ministry Ave., Baton Rouge (225) 768-3026 fcacademy.net

K4-12

179

45

$6,5007,500

$450

No

L

Yes

No

Yes

No

PreK3-5

140

30

$6,0008,800

$100

No

B/L

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

K-12

75

20

$11,680

$700

No

N/A

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Gardere Community Christian School Lauren Darden 8538 GSRI Ave., Baton Rouge (225) 387-5082 gardereschool.com Greater Baton Rouge Hope Academy Linda L. Stone 15333 Jefferson Hwy., Baton Rouge (225) 293-0141 hopeacademybr.org

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39

School Name Principal/Headmaster Address Phone Number Website

Grades Taught

Total Enrollment

Total Faculty

Tuition Range

Registration Fee

Transportation Service

Cafeteria B/L

Family Discount

Financial Assistance/ Scholarships

Extended Day

IEP Assistance

PreK4-8

427

36

$6,5007,350

$500

No

B/L

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

K

80

14

$6,2508,350

$250

No

N/A

Yes

No

Yes

No

Most Blessed Sacrament Catholic School Cheri Gioe 8033 Baringer Rd., Baton Rouge (225) 751-0123 mbsbr.org

PK-8

515

62

$5,6007,300

$360

Yes

B/L

No

No

Yes

No

Open Door Christian Academy Ben Blackburn 7000 Gloryland Way, Denham Springs (225) 667-7745 southlandsaints.com

K-12

250

17

$5,700

$700

No

L

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Our Lady of Mercy Catholic School Chris Porche 400 Marquette Ave., Baton Rouge (225) 924-1054 olomschool.org

PK3-8

970

91

$5,7107,490

$275

Yes

B/L

Yes

No

Yes

Yes

Parkview Baptist School Dr. Don Mayes 5750 Parkview Church Rd., Baton Rouge (225) 291-2500 parkviewbaptist.com

PreK-12

1,130

168

$9,00013,750

$350

No

L

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Redemptorist St. Gerard Elementary Cheryl Domino 3655 St. Gerard Ave., Baton Rouge (225) 355-1437 rsgbr.org

PreK4-8

160

25

$6,000

$450

No

B/L

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

Sacred Heart of Jesus School Cecilia Methvin 2251 Main St., Baton Rouge (225) 383-7481 sacredheartbr.com

PreK3-8

205

35

$6,2256,825

$420

Yes

B/L

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Silliman Institute Kevin Lemoine 10830 Bank St., Clinton (225) 683-5383 sillimaninstitute.org

PreK-12

570

40

$4,0005,200

$75

Yes

L

Yes

No

Yes

No

Hosanna Christian Academy Monique Burdette 8850 Goodwood Blvd., Baton Rouge (225) 926-4885 hcablazers.org Montessori School of Baton Rouge Molly Williams 8227 Wimbledon Ave., Baton Rouge (225) 766-9942 montessorischool ofbatonrouge.org

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School Name Principal/Headmaster Address Phone Number Website

Grades Taught

Total Enrollment

Total Faculty

Tuition Range

Registration Fee

Transportation Service

Cafeteria B/L

Family Discount

Financial Assistance/ Scholarships

Extended Day

IEP Assistance

PreK3-12

375

45

$3,0005,000

$50

No

B/L

No

No

Yes

No

St. Alphonsus Catholic School Dr. Cynthia C. Ryals 13940 Greenwell Springs Rd., Greenwell Springs (225) 261-5299 stalphonsusbr.org

PK3-8

395

45

$5,8856,465

$300

Yes

L

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

St. George Catholic School Angele Fontenot 7880 St. George Dr., Baton Rouge (225) 293-1298 st-georgeschool.com

PreK-8

1,102

65

$5,7507,760

$495

Yes

B/L

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

K-5

300

50+

$10,50013,500

$525

No

L

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

St. Jean Vianney School Wendy Ross 16266 S. Harrell’s Ferry Rd., Baton Rouge (225) 751-1831 stjeanvianneyschool.org

PreK4-8

480

55

$5,3005,700

$300

Yes

L

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

St. John Interparochial School Cherie Schlatre 58645 St. Clement Ave., Plaquemine (225) 687-6616 stjohnschool.org

PreK3-12

425

38

$5,4007,200

$200

Yes

B/L

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

9-12

1,126

92

$11,888

$575

No

B/L

No

Yes

Yes

No

St. Jude the Apostle School Michelle Gardiner 9150 Highland Rd., Baton Rouge (225) 769-2344 stjudebr.org

PreK-8

545

66

$5,0006,000

$250

Yes

L

No

No

Yes

Yes

St. Luke’s Episcopal School Charles W. Hoots 8833 Goodwood Blvd., Baton Rouge (225) 927-8601 stlukesbrschool.org

PreK3-8

220

40

$6,00010,000

$400

No

L

No

Yes

Yes

No

Southern University Laboratory School Herman Brister Jr. 129 Swan Ave., Baton Rouge (225) 771-3490 sulabschool.com

St. James Episcopal Day School Bridget Henderson 445 Convention St., Baton Rouge (225) 344-0805 stjameseds.org

St. Joseph’s Academy Stacia Andricain 3015 Broussard St., Baton Rouge (225) 383-7207 sjabr.org

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School Name Principal/Headmaster Address Phone Number Website

Grades Taught

Total Enrollment

Total Faculty

Tuition Range

Registration Fee

Transportation Service

Cafeteria B/L

Family Discount

Financial Assistance/ Scholarships

Extended Day

IEP Assistance

9-12

600

70

$9,525

$550

Yes

L

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

PK3-8

665

75

$5,7007,600

$300

Yes

L

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

PreK3-5

185

42

$9,50011,500

N/A

No

L

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Trinity Lutheran School Marinea McGehee 15160 S. Harrell’s Ferry Rd., Baton Rouge (225) 272-1288 tlcbr.org

K-8

74

8

$5,6005,900

$475

Yes

L

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Victory Christian Academy Shannon Smith Aaron 3953 North Flannery Rd., Baton Rouge (225) 272-8339 vcawarriors.org

K4-8

245

28

$4,950

$350

No

L

Yes

No

Yes

No

St. Michael the Archangel High School Ellen Lee 17521 Monitor Ave., Baton Rouge (225) 753-9782 smhsbr.org St. Thomas More Catholic School Ashley McDaniel 14000 Sherbrook Dr., Baton Rouge (225) 275-2820 stmbr.org Trinity Episcopal Day School Marsha Palmer 3550 Morning Glory Ave., Baton Rouge (225) 387-0398 trinityschoolbr.org

All information for the listing was provided by each facility and was up-to-date at the time of press.

To learn more about these private schools, check out their online listings by visiting brparents.com.

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2 2

0 2

Open Houses

Bethany Christian School

Sacred Heart of Jesus School

Catholic High School

St. Jean Vianney School

Dunham School, The

St. John Interparochial School

Family Christian Academy

St. Joseph’s Academy

Greater Baton Rouge Hope Academy

St. Thomas More Catholic School

Grade: K4-8 Date: Jan. 25-27 Time: 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Grade: 6-8 Date: Nov. 10 Time: 3:30 p.m.

Grade: PK2-12 Date: Feb. 4 Time: 8:30 a.m.

Grade: All grades Date: Aug. 5 Time: Noon

Grade: All grades Date: Appointment only TIme: TBA

Open Door Christian Academy Grade: All grades Date: Feb. 22 Time: 7 p.m.

Parkview Baptist School Grade: PreK3-12 Date: Feb. 8 Time: 8:30 a.m.

Redemptorist St. Gerard Elementary Grade: PreK4-K Date: Feb. 10 Time: 3 p.m.

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Grade: PreK3-8 Date: Feb. 3 Time: 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Grade: PreK-8 Date: Jan. 20 Date: 5 p.m.

Grade: PreK3-8 Date: Feb. 3 Time: TBA Grade: 7-8 Date: Oct. 20 Time: 4 p.m.

Grade: PK3-8 Date: Jan. 18 Time: 4:30 p.m.

Trinity Episcopal Day School Grade: PreK3-5 Date: Feb. 2 Time: 8:30 a.m.

Trinity Lutheran School Grade: K-8 Date: Jan. 20 Time: 5 p.m.

Victory Christian Academy Grade: All grades Date: Jan. 20 Time: 12:30 p.m.

B R PA R E N T S . C O M | J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 2

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T

he education system is seeing an unprecedented shift in students pursuing a private education over a public one, and the reasons behind this change aren’t surprising. While COVID-19 is one of the most reported reasons behind the switch, there are more reasons contributing to the shift to private schooling.

PODCAST

Switching to

Private School WHY PARENTS ARE TURNING TO PRIVATE SCHOOLING

BY SARAH BATROUS

1. PANDEMIC

Much of the blame can fall on COVID-19.

Parents have been searching for safer ways to educate their children without sacrificing the quality of the education or their child’s opportunities ever since the start of the pandemic.

According to research reported by CNCB, “About 41 percent of parents were 50

J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 2 | B R PA R E N T S . C O M

more likely to prefer a private education for their children post-pandemic, according to a recent survey by EdChoice, although actual enrollment patterns did not necessarily align with their preferences.”

This data holds true for Louisiana.

Many parents are fed up with turbulent school-wide changes due to the pandem-

ic and worry that their child’s ability to learn will be or was hindered by the restrictions placed on public schools.

Their solution may be found in private education.

2. ACCOMMODATIONS

Many of the differences lie in how private and public schools operate and what

accommodations can feasibly be made for students. Private schools tend to have the advantage due to their smaller class sizes and specialized curriculum with an added bonus being the focus on fostering religious faith in students.

Many parents may be swayed by the attention given to each child, as much of the allure is found in educators’ determination to teach students based on their individual learning styles, the more intimate learning environment, and the greater possibility of the student being better prepared for challenging courses in college. Private education often places a greater focus on college readiness by encouraging students to take courses specifically for college credit, giving them an advantage while in their freshman year.

3. QUICK DECISION MAKING

Dr. Diedre Johnson, the Director of College Placement at The Dunham School, believes that a private school’s ability to be flexible with education is a great factor for the change. “From what we have seen, parents have been choosing Dunham in the last year because of the

way we handled the pandemic. Many parents wanted their children in school and we provided not only that, but high quality education. With our school system consisting of one campus, it is much easier to make decisions faster and communicate with our parents,” says Dr. Johnson.

During the pandemic, private schools could easily make quick changes in how they made education accessible.

During the pandemic, private schools could easily make quick changes in how they made education accessible. Schools like Dunham, Sacred Heart of Jesus School, St. Jude the Apostle School, and St. Michael the Archangel High School boast one-to-one technology policies which allowed their students to make a smooth, complete transition to virtual

schooling until it was safe to be in-person.

4. IN THE CLASSROOM

The results of The Dunham School’s swift actions are reflected in their enrollment survey from the beginning of the school year. When parents were asked why they chose to make the switch, their reasonings tracked well.

“Overwhelmingly, parents are choosing private schools and specifically The Dunham School for our small class size and individualized approach to education. Parents want their children in an environment that gives them the opportunity to reach their individual potential and to be known by name. Parents’ desire for their child’s gifts and talents to be nurtured,” shares Michelle Pricer, the Director of Enrollment Management at The Dunham School.

Overall, families making the switch wanted the freedom to have a hand in their children’s education, and they felt it was best given to them through private schools. If seeking out a private education would better appeal to you and benefit your student, don’t be afraid to make the change. Look over your options, weigh the pros and cons, and choose what works best for your family. ■

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Private School

PROFILES Have a top choice in mind? Learn even more about the school through these profiles. Several schools have provided a closer look at their school’s history and achievements, educational and athletic programs available, and campus improvements they have made over the years.

Catholic High School 855 Hearthstone Drive Baton Rouge, Louisiana (225) 383-0397 catholichigh.org Catholic High School (CHS) has set the standard for excellence in education in the Baton Rouge area for 127 years. Founded in 1894 by the Brothers of the Sacred Heart, CHS is a college-preparatory school for young men in grades 8-12 dedicated to providing opportunities for the development of the spiritual, moral, intellectual, social, and physical growth of each student.

Recognized six times as a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence by the U.S. Department of Education, CHS offers a rigorous academic program that includes a 1:1 laptop program, multiple honors and AP courses, a STREAM curriculum (science, technology, religion, engineering, arts, and mathematics), and a wide variety of elective courses. In addition, students have the opportunity to excel in 14 different sports, with many competing for state titles each year. With more than 30 extracurricular activities offered, young men are able to pursue interests in clubs such as robotics, multimedia, fishing, lacrosse, and many others.

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Baton Rouge International School 5015 Auto Plex Drive Baton Rouge, Louisiana (225) 293-4338 brintl.com At Baton Rouge International School (BRIS), our focus is international.

With a rigorous and balanced curriculum unlike any other locally, our individualized, multilingual approach to learning offers students meaningful academic and cultural experiences that prepare them to succeed in an increasingly global and multicultural world. We serve students ages 6 weeks through Grade 12 and have the unique ability to provide true language immersion and language instruction in French, Chinese, and Spanish, beginning in preschool. No prior language experience is required.

Our students benefit from being part of a broader international community, which provides many additional learning and cultural opportunities. We are proud to be part of a world-class, global international school group called the International Schools Partnership (ISP). BRIS is also one of a select group of educational programs across the world accredited as International Baccalaureate® World Schools, and the only private school in Louisiana offering both the IB Middle Years (MYP) and Diploma (DP) Programs.

Central Private School 12801 Centerra Court Central, Louisiana (225) 261-3341 centralprivate.org Central Private School (CP), founded in 1967, is a college-preparatory school with a tradition of excellence in education for grades K3-12th. It is the mission of CP to cultivate college-ready graduates in a safe, nurturing, and faith-based environment. Central Private supports our mission by maintaining high academic expectations, inspiring leadership through community service, and funding dedicated faculty and staff committed to excellence. Students are continuously challenged to reach their full potential, and are encouraged to pursue individual interests beyond the classroom so that they will excel as productive leaders of the community. Our exceptional faculty and staff are committed to ensuring the success of each and every student. We strive to blend new and innovative ways of learning with traditional teaching methods to prepare our students to compete and succeed in the 21st century. With a low student to teacher ratio in every class, our students develop special relationships with their instructors and peers. In this way, the students’ individual needs are nurtured, while strengths are further developed.

Diocese of BR Department of Special Education 1800 S. Acadian Thruway Baton Rouge, Louisiana csobr.org/specialeducation-1 The St. Margaret of Castello REACH (Religious Education for All Children) Program is committed to providing superior services that address the unique and diverse needs of all students. This focus on providing an effective education in an atmosphere of Catholic faith prepares students for their roles as Disciples of Christ. Our students become lifelong independent learners as well as compassionate and contributing members of a diverse society.

The special education component serves students with a variety of exceptionalities including autism, Down Syndrome, developmental delay, intellectual disabilities and other health impairments. The second component to the REACH program is Lab Services which provide Academic Language Therapy to students with dyslexia or other reading deficits. Special Education School Sites: Our Lady of Mercy, St. Thomas More, Redemptorist St. Gerard, & St. Michael the Archangel High School. Lab Services School Sites: Most Blessed Sacrament, Our Lady of Mercy, Sacred Heart, St. Aloysius, St. Elizabeth, St. George, St. John Interparochial, St. Jude, St. Jean Vianney, & St. Michael the Archangel High School.

Episcopal School of Baton Rouge 3200 Woodland Ridge Boulevard Baton Rouge, Louisiana (225) 755-2685 episcopalbr.org Episcopal School of Baton Rouge is a PreK3 through 12th grade college-preparatory, independent school serving diverse, multi-talented students. Rigorous academics, personalized learning experiences, small class sizes and exceptional faculty have made Episcopal a trusted educational institution for more than 50 years. The rich curriculum includes Advanced Placement courses, university collaboration, service opportunities and award-winning art and athletic programs. Three full-time College Counselors assist students with finding the best college for their goals. Episcopal welcomes students from a variety of religious, cultural and economic backgrounds and offers a range of scholarship and tuition assistance opportunities. Learn more at episcopalbr.org or contact us at (225) 755-2685.

Dunham School, The 11111 Roy Emerson Drive Baton Rouge, Louisiana (225) 767-7097 ext. 324 dunhamschool.org The Dunham School is an independent college preparatory school serving girls and boys in grades PK2-12. Within the framework of Christian instruction and example, our students are challenged to think, empowered to lead, inspired to create, motivated to win, and prepared to reach their God-given potential now and in the future. Dunham students thrive in an academic environment characterized by small classes, skilled and caring teachers, and an innovative curriculum that blends a classical foundation with cutting-edge technology and innovative experiences that build creativity, collaboration, critical thinking, cross-cultural literacy, and self-management. Here, students find their voices, discover their passions, unleash their confidence, and grow in faith. Our unique and personalized approach to education is one of the reasons why Dunham leads the way in Baton Rouge when it comes to preparing students for college and for life.

Greater Baton Rouge Hope Academy 15333 Jefferson Highway Baton Rouge, Louisiana (225) 293-0141 hopeacademybr.org Greater Baton Rouge Hope Academy is a non-profit private school providing “Unique Solutions for Unique Learners.” Hope Academy opened in 2007 to serve students who benefit from individualized instruction.

Hope Academy currently serves 100 students from several Louisiana parishes in the Greater Baton Rouge metropolitan area. Individualized academics are provided in a school setting with a state-of-the-art technology lab, sports program, cheerleading, and school dances.

Diploma bound K-12th grade classes are offered, as well as specialized classes which include a Life Skills Lab through age 21.

Specialized instruction is provided for students with various learning challenges which include Autism Spectrum Disorder, dyslexia, and other learning differences.

Bridges Learning Solutions, an ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) clinic, providing insurance-based therapy for students with autism, is located on the campus. Please join us for one of our virtual Open Houses.

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Hosanna Christian Academy 8850 Goodwood Boulevard Baton Rouge, Louisiana (225) 926-4885 hcablazers.org

Montessori School of Baton Rouge 8227 Wimbledon Avenue Baton Rouge, Louisiana (225) 766-9942 montessorischool ofbatonrouge.org

“We are Hosanna. We seek spiritual, academic, and athletic excellence.

We seek creative ways to serve our community. We seek to glorify God with excellence in everything we do. We are Hosanna!”

Established in 1979, Hosanna Christian Academy holds a high expectation of excellence for our teachers and students alike. Our class offerings are PreK4 through 8th grade. HCA’s state-approved facilities and curriculum serve 425 students from EBR and the surrounding parishes. Our mission is to offer a Christ-centered environment and superior education so as to build a solid foundation in the lives of our children. We provide consistent oversight and enforcement of good conduct to prepare each child for their future endeavors. Hosanna offers a variety of sports for both boys and girls and has a history with many championships. HCA operates a non-discriminatory admissions policy in regard to race, color, nationality and ethnicity.

Our Montessori school is based on the philosophy and curriculum of Dr. Maria Montessori, an Italian physician and educator. Specific educational practices found in Montessori programs include multi-age groupings, a focus on global education, careful design of the teaching/learning environment, and didactic classroom materials. In mixed age group settings, children learn from one another, gain autonomy, and develop positive self-esteem. In addition, the cultural diversity in our classrooms helps prepare children to accept, respect, and understand the diversity in our society. We create communities where everyone learns, plays, works, shares, and celebrates together.

Open Door Christian Academy 7000 Gloryland Way Denham Springs, Louisiana (225) 667-7745 southlandsaints.com

Parkview Baptist School 5750 Parkview Church Road Baton Rouge, Louisiana (225) 291-2500 parkviewbaptist. com

Open Door Christian Academy, a ministry of Open Door Baptist Church, offers a quality education in a caring environment to students in K4-12th grade. Open Door provides Christian training along with a solid academic foundation, calling for high standards, both academically and spiritually, with an emphasis on character. Bible is taught daily in all grades, and students attend weekly chapel services. Open Door’s priority is educating students and helping them to develop a faith that honors the Lord and guides them throughout their lives.

With low student-to-teacher ratio, students at Open Door have close, personal contact with qualified teachers who are prepared to instill a thorough scholastic background through the A Beka Book curriculum and college preparatory classes. A computer lab provides enrichment for elementary classes and enables upper grade students to enroll in online elective classes. Open Door Christian Academy’s high school is approved by the Louisiana State Department of Education. Soccer and volleyball are available for students in 7th-12th grade.

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Our purpose is simple. To continually prepare students for an ever-changing world. A true testament only illustrated through the lives and actions of our students and graduates–our family. Meaningful and lasting relationships cultivated from an inspiring community of leaders, mentors, teachers, coaches, parents and faculty. A course of study rooted in a collaborative environment by design, meant to identify, nurture, and accelerate individual talents both in and out of the classroom. All while recognizing that a deep faith in Christ is the thread that ties us together as a community. The strength of our proven academic program and the lessons learned outside of the classroom continue to shape our students and position them for ongoing successes. From the field, to the dinner table, to the stage and everything in-between, our unique approach to learning goes well beyond the classroom, designed to build character, instill faith, develop relationships, recognize responsibility, and shape the entire student. We look forward to showing you all Parkview has to offer your child and your family.

Sacred Heart of Jesus School 2251 Main Street Baton Rouge, Louisiana (225) 383-7481 sacredheartbr.com Sacred Heart of Jesus School is a Catholic school educating PreK-3 through eighth grade students.

Established in 1929, Sacred Heart not only prides itself on its historic campus and rich traditions, but on its inclusiveness within our community. With rigorous academics and a strong commitment to the Catholic faith, we deliver a superior education in a caring and nurturing environment. Extensive use of technology such as 1:1 iPads for PreK through second grade and 1:1 Chromebooks for third through eighth grades, supports collaborative and complex real-world learning and prepares students to succeed in the digital world. With numerous opportunities for developing leadership, service, creativity, and athleticism through enrichments and athletics, Sacred Heart fulfills our mission to “educate the mind, body and spirit.” Located in Mid-City, minutes from downtown, Sacred Heart truly is the “Heart of Baton Rouge.” Visit sacredheartbr.com for more information, or call (225) 383-7481 to schedule a private tour.

St. James Episcopal Day School 445 Convention Street Baton Rouge, Louisiana (225) 344-0805 stjameseds.org St. James Episcopal Day School offers an exceptional education for children from 18 months of age through fifth grade. Named a National Blue Ribbon School in 2009 and 2015, St. James is recognized for providing a strong foundation of both academic skills and spiritual formation within a warm and loving community of faith in the Christian tradition.

Project-based learning and integration of technology are incorporated throughout the curriculum. St. James has been recognized as an Apple Distinguished School from 2017-2022 for its culture of innovation and creativity.

St. James Episcopal Day School enhances its challenging academic program through our STEM lab, Spanish and physical education programs, broadcast and art studios, and twice-weekly church services.

St. Alphonsus Catholic School 13940 Greenwell Springs Road Greenwell Springs, Louisiana (225) 261-5299 stalphonsusbr.org St. Alphonsus Catholic School is committed to providing a Catholic, faith-filled education for students in PK3-8th Grade. The school day includes daily Catholic religion classes, weekly Mass, and strong academics. Student enhancement classes include computer lab, art, music, physical education, library, and Spanish. Numerous extracurricular activities include band, athletics, choir, cheerleading, Beta Club, 4H, Spirit Club, and Drama Club. Before and after care is provided. The school has enhanced efforts to assist all students in reaching their full potential through the Reading Lab Program. St. Alphonsus is nationally accredited through Cognia (SACS).

The school is located conveniently near the Central Thruway. St. Alphonsus School is committed to continuing a legacy of excellence in religious and academic education.

St. Joseph’s Academy 3015 Broussard Street Baton Rouge, Louisiana (225) 383-7207 sjabr.org St. Joseph’s Academy (SJA) is a Catholic, college-preparatory school serving girls in grades 9-12.

SJA has been named a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence four times: 1991, 1996, 2002 and 2016.

SJA was founded in 1868 by the Sisters of St. Joseph.

For 153 years, this ministry of the Congregation of St. Joseph has stood as a pillar of excellence in the Baton Rouge community. SJA is a place where relationships are strengthened and young girls become women of faith, hope and love.

SJA’s 10,765 graduates are leaders in business, industry, academia, government, their churches and communities. They’re advocates, volunteers, wives, mothers and grandmothers. They serve the dear neighbor as women for others.

The mission of St. Joseph’s Academy is to educate young women as responsible and unifying members of the world community. In the spirit and charism of the Sisters of St. Joseph, St. Joseph’s Academy offers opportunities for faith development in the Catholic tradition, academic excellence, and personal growth.

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St. Jude the Apostle School 9150 Highland Road Baton Rouge, Louisiana (225) 769-2344 stjudebr.org

St. Luke’s Episcopal School 8833 Goodwood Boulevard Baton Rouge, Louisiana (225) 927-8601 stlukesbrschool.org

St. Jude the Apostle School is a co-educational parochial elementary school from Pre-K through 8th grades. Established in 1983 and located on historic Highland Road between Bluebonnet and College Drive, St. Jude is a top choice among many families in south Baton Rouge. St. Jude the Apostle School provides a Catholic family environment, dedicated to the formation of each student’s relationship with Christ through faith, academics, and excellence. The school offers a challenging curriculum, as well as physical education, art, computer, and French. There is also an option to enroll in band and choir (grades 4-8). Intramural soccer and basketball are athletic options in Pre-K thru 2nd grade; students in 3rd8th grade may participate in football, basketball, volleyball, cross country, track, cheerleading, swimming, and numerous other extracurricular activities are available.

St. Jude offers clubs for 5th to 8th graders such as math, robotics, media and BETA. St. Jude also offers before- and after-school care. Student technology is enhanced by laptop and chromebook carts per classroom.

Challenging and nurturing mind, body, and spirit, our community inspires students to lead lives of purpose, faith, and integrity.

Celebrating 65 years, St. Luke’s Episcopal School offers a challenging curriculum that encourages learning, independent thinking, and spiritual formation in PreK3 through 8th grade.

Our passionate and skilled teachers offer optimal teacher-to-student ratios in well-equipped classrooms, and a loving, supportive environment.

We offer a wide variety of enrichment classes that include liberal, visual, and performing arts,foreign language, and technology. We also offer after-school activities and clubs. Our 5th-8th grade athletic program includes various fall, winter, and spring sports.

St. Michael the Archangel High School 17521 Monitor Avenue Baton Rouge, Louisiana (225) 753-9782 smhsbr.org Founded in 1984 by the Catholic Diocese of Baton Rouge, St. Michael High School is a co-educational college preparatory school for students in grades 9–12 seeking a comprehensive, Catholic education. St. Michael High School provides a rigorous academic curriculum which offers 31 elective classes as well as a total of 30 AP, dual enrollment, and honors courses. Our school utilizes a fully implemented 1:1 laptop program and exposes students and a variety of other technologies (3D printers, robotics, laser engravers, and virtual and augmented reality) within our “maker space” IDEA Lab. With over 50 clubs and sports to participate in, students have the opportunity to develop lasting friendships and hone teamwork skills.

Through Catholic formation, we build on a student’s spiritual foundation by providing a modern and inclusive campus experience where students enjoy smaller class sizes that nurture their God-given talents. The mission of St. Michael High School is to foster the spiritual, intellectual, and personal development of young men and women and committed disciples of Christ.

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St. Thomas More Catholic School 11400 Sherbrook Drive Baton Rouge, Louisiana (225) 275-2820 stmbr.org St. Thomas More Catholic School proudly educates more than 660 students from preschool through 8th grade with 75 dedicated staff members in a faithfilled environment.

STM believes in a well-rounded education, which sets the foundation for success, and in an academic focus, which teaches key concepts promoting success. Partnering academics with athletics, co-curricular activities and fine arts is vital in helping students recognize their strengths and interests.

Prayer is a significant part of the school day, along with special religious experiences that help students develop a deeper understanding and love of their faith.

Prayer, religion curriculum and paraliturgy experiences form the overall climate of the school.

STM offers private tours to families; we welcome the opportunity to visit with you on our campus. Contact Kristen Flores in our Enrollment Office to schedule a visit: (225) 275-2820.

Trinity Lutheran School 15160 S. Harrell’s Ferry Road Baton Rouge, Louisiana (225) 272-1288 tlcbr.org Trinity Lutheran School offers an Education Anchored in Christ–attending weekly chapel services, daily religion classes and celebrating the JOY of Jesus; an Education Anchored in Academics–inspiring and cultivating intellectual curiosity and a lifelong love of learning in our students from kindergarten through eighth grade; an Education Anchored in Character–developing leadership and good character in students and offering a broad range of opportunities to expand their God-given abilities; an Education Anchored in Service–working together to build a strong community of students, faculty, and families who care for one another and have a true passion for serving others; and an Education Anchored in Diversity–educating, mentoring, loving, coaching and sharing hope with students of all backgrounds. We offer before and after-school care, small teacher-to-student ratios in multigrade settings, weekly class newsletters, and private access to online student information. Extracurricular offerings include Yearbook Staff, Lutheran Junior Honor Society, After-school Choir and Band, Drama Club, Legos Club, Cooking Club, and Athletics. We develop not only life-long learners, but life-long relationships.

Victory Christian Academy 3953 North Flannery Road Baton Rouge, Louisiana (225) 272-8339 vcawarriors.org For the past 40 years, Victory Christian Academy has served area families by providing a quality education in a Christian environment. With a low teacher to student ratio, we can provide individual attention to students as we partner with their families to help them grow spiritually, academically, physically, and socially. To nurture the spiritual development of our students, we have daily Bible lessons and weekly chapel services. Our academic program challenges students to think critically about the world around them as they master the core content of each subject. We also offer weekly enrichment classes in Spanish, computer, art, and music. We offer clubs such as Jr. Beta and Student Council to allow students to strengthen their leadership skills and to encourage service to others. There are athletic opportunities through team sports including volleyball, basketball, softball, flag football, and cheerleading. We also provide a hot lunch program as well as extended care services for our families. It is our prayer that you will join us as we seek to equip the next generation for lives of Victory.

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Meet the Faces of Baton Rouge

When choosing our care and services, it’s important for us to find a professional who provides us with the help we need. We also strive to form a relationship with them in order to feel comfortable and well taken care of. These Faces are the best of the best in their fields. They provide a helping hand, a friendly conversation when one is needed, and care that is unmatched.

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The Face of

CHARTER SCHOOLS

Roberto Ramirez and Rosalind Thompson Photos by Natalie Miller Photography

BASIS Charter Schools BASIS Charter Schools is a nationally acclaimed network of 34 schools that serve grades K–12 with a track record of achievement and excellent student outcomes since 1998. The two BASIS Charter School campuses in Baton Rouge are successful, diverse, and growing fast. Current families and teachers are excited to be a part of something so positive for their students and for this city.

The first BASIS Baton Rouge Charter School campus opened in Materra in 2018, now offers grades K–8, and will continue to grow by one grade level each year, to serve K–12 students. The second campus, BASIS Baton Rouge Primary Mid City, opened in August 2021 with more than 300 students, and currently offers grades K–5.

The BASIS Charter School Curriculum is a robust liberal arts STEM-infused program with a diverse selection of electives, and extracurriculars in academics, arts, and athletics. Primary grade

students take courses like engineering and Mandarin, and middle schoolers take linguistics and three sciences. K–3 students have two teachers per classroom: one elementary education expert, and one expert in the subject being taught each period.

Back in 1998, the co-founders of BASIS Charter Schools determined that if they set standards higher, and hired great teachers, students rose to meet and surpass those standards.

The network’s faculty knows how to help students reach their potential, and students are taught organizational skills, study skills, and accountability too. The network’s high schools consistently rank among America’s best, and students are annually accepted to top universities worldwide.

BASIS Charter Schools in Baton Rouge and nationwide are open-enrollment, tuition-free public schools with no entry exam. Anyone can attend. Parents of K–12 students who want academic excellence, smart and supportive teachers, and a curriculum that helpfully challenges students should check out BASIS Baton Rouge Charter Schools. Both campuses are currently offering tours and Information Sessions for interested families.

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The Face of DANCE

Kris Cangelosi Photo by Natalie Miller Photography

The Cangelosi Dance Project Before coming back to her Baton Rouge roots in 2003, Kris Cangelosi performed in Atlanta, Chicago, New York, and several European countries as a professional dancer for over 10 years.

Kris graduated from LSU with her BFA in dance choreography and attended St. Joseph’s Academy and Sacred Heart for high school and elementary school, respectively. When she returned to Baton Rouge, she realized the community had changed, and she needed to figure out the best way to use her professional experience for the benefit of the city. She took inspiration from the professionals she worked with, added her own touch to it, and founded The Cangelosi Dance Project, The Cangelosi Dance Project went into business in 2006 as a dance academy dedicated to classical ballet and contemporary dance with an emphasis on a codified vocabulary and technique for each dance style. Today, The Cangelosi Dance Project is a Baton Rouge-based, nonprofit organization that focuses on refining 64

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the dancers’ skills through these strict techniques to make every single movement cohesive. Along with this special attention to performance, it also has sponsorships for events such as the Holiday Nutcracker, the entirety of which Kris wrote, produced, and choreographed. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, 50 percent of The Cangelosi Dance Project’s performances were outreach performances in which the company made a space for itself in places like EBR Libraries, Big Buddy Program, Boys’ and Girls’ Club, retirement homes, and charity events. “The outreach performances are important for dance education, especially if you want to perform professionally,” Kris says. “The kids become stronger and performance ready, and they understand the professional work of dance.”

The Cangelosi Dance Project performance company presents 10 main stage shows a year and offers additional dance programs, including the CDP Leadership Team, competition team, outreach program, and the Performing Arts Company. For more information, visit cangelosidanceproject.com.

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The Face of CHIROPRACTIC CARE

Dr. R. Ken Coleman Photo by Natalie Miller Photography

Capitol City Chiropractic After a back injury he sustained while playing football in high school, Dr. R. Ken Coleman’s father encouraged him to see a chiropractor before deciding to have the surgery the doctors were suggesting. At the time, many people were not aware of all the benefits of chiropractic care, so Dr. Coleman had some reservations. However, Dr. Coleman went, was evaluated, and started treatment. Thanks to the chiropractor, Dr. Coleman never did have to have that back surgery.

Dr. Coleman grew up in Jena, Louisiana. He moved to Baton Rouge in 1990 to work as a strength coach for the LSU athletics department. Dr. Coleman says, “Being the strength coach for the 1993 National Championship baseball team was a great honor.”

While working as a strength coach at LSU, he continued his education and competed in bodybuilding. Dr. Coleman won the overall NPC state championship in 1993, received his Kinesiology Bachelor of Science from LSU in 1994, and Doctor of Chiropractic from Texas Chiropractic College in 1998.

In 2001, he opened Capitol City Chiropractic. At Capitol City Chiropractic, you will find a group of professionals who are committed to the goal of helping you return to and keep a natural state of good health.

“I enjoy seeing people get well and seeing them living a painfree life. At Capitol City Chiropractic, we try to keep an upbeat atmosphere. When people are in pain, they are upset and aggravated, so I do my best to make it a friendly environment,” says Dr. Coleman.

Dr. Coleman strives to help everybody. “When you come in, we give you a plan to get you out of pain,” he says. Capitol City Chiropractic treats a wide variety of conditions using the best combination of chiropractic techniques, massage, stretching, strengthening, and nutritional programs.

“I’m 56 and I’m pain-free. It worked so well for me. It’s amazing what it does,” says Dr. Coleman. To discover what it can do for you, visit facebook.com/capitalcitychiroservices.

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The Face of LOCAL FLAVOR Chef Celeste Gill Photo by Natalie Miller Photography

Chef Celeste Creations Chef Celeste Gill is offering Baton Rouge foodies her thanks for over 20 years of love and support.

Celeste, a Detroit native with a love for Louisiana cuisine, had been interested in the culinary arts since childhood but fell away from it until she attended a leisure baking class in Hawaii. With her passion reignited, she found her niche in the community by opening Taylor’s Old Post Office Café in Slaughter, Louisiana in 2000. Six years later, she started Chef Celeste Creations and opened two locations of Chef Celeste Bistro.

She loves cooking for the instant gratification of seeing a customer receive and enjoy their product. While the pressure is on for catering events, Celeste takes extra care to make sure your order is perfect.

“Catering is interesting because I hold a person’s happiness in my hands for that day. It’s a little stressful for me because I take each event personally,” she says.

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At her bistro’s Main Street Market location, customers enjoy a variety of dishes with some of the most popular being the shrimp and grits, the chicken salad sandwich and the steak croissants. At the NeuroMedical Center location, the focus is on comfort food.

While the menu is on rotation, diners always rave about the meatloaf.

Beyond the bistros, Celeste manages 520 Spain, an event venue for girl’s night, birthday parties, anniversary dinners and any other occasion you can think of. Celeste plans to offer cooking classes as well. Additionally, she launched an elder-friendly product line called Senior Seasonings, selling spices that are low in sodium but high in yum.

Celeste plans to retire soon but is dedicated to preserving her businesses’ high-quality standards by passing her knowledge onto a successor. This way, customers can be assured that the delicious food and attention to events they have always known will remain while she gets well-deserved rest.

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The Face of FAMILY DENTISTRY Seth O’Shee Photo by Hoppe Images

College Family Dentistry College Family Dentistry provides Baton Rouge with quality dental care through their focus on hospitality and their wide range of expertise.

Dr. Seth O’Shee, originally from Ville Platte, graduated from Louisiana State University in 2010 and pursued a career in dentistry following his graduation from dental school in 2018. He came to College Family Dentistry in 2020, excited to be joining their team and to be able to help members of the community get the confident smile they deserve.

While Dr. O’Shee does a little of everything as a general practitioner, he is also known as a “super general practitioner.” This means he does everything from root canals and crowns to orthodontics, leaving little need for specialists to step in.

College Family Dentistry is committed to making each patient feel comfortable at every appointment and that begins with the staff. Each staff member understands the importance of communication and building rapport with their patients so that any questions or concerns can be handled with care and understanding.

Trust and communication are the pillars of dental care, but Dr. O’Shee and his team believe you should have control when it comes to your care. Those who struggle with dental anxiety can find a method that works best for them as they offer a variety of techniques to soothe the nerves, including sedation and painless injections. These options, along with frequent check-ins by the staff, give patients plenty of say, no matter the procedure.

“I like to listen to my patients, so if something is concerning them, we will talk about how we can take care of it. Treatments should not just focus on the teeth, but also on the patient’s wants and desires,” says Dr. O’Shee.

If you are looking for a dentistry that puts your needs and comfort first, check out College Family Dentistry.

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The Face of WOMEN’S FASHION Hanna and Haley Herrington Photo by Natalie Miller Photography

HerringStone’s Boutique Looking to update your style with some Louisiana charm? HerringStone’s Boutique is ready to offer you the latest in women’s fashion trends!

The boutique got its foothold in Monroe as a small family business run by two sisters, Debbie Herrington and Cindy Stone, who wanted to bring glitz and glam to their hometown. They worked tirelessly to seek out the newest trends for their fashion-savvy customers, making them a must-stop for shoppers wanting to renew their wardrobe. After 32 years of building a household name, all of Louisiana’s fashion needs can be satisfied through their five locations, including the newest one in Baton Rouge!

Today, the second generation of sisters take the stage. Hanna and Haley Herrington both grew up watching their mother and aunt work to make their dream come true. In turn, they have used that go-getter attitude to pursue their own dreams.

Hanna’s interest in fashion and business know-how allowed her to expand the reach of the HerringStone’s name and keep it fashion-forward.

Over a decade ago, she opened the Lafayette location bringing her unique, trend-setting style with her!

Haley takes after the rest of her family as a mover and shaker who, after graduating from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, sought out the star-studded fashion of Los Angeles, California. Taking everything she learned with her, she moved back home to open the Baton Rouge location.

“We get new merchandise twice a week. So when our customers walk in, it’s like walking into a brand new store every single time. To me, that’s very exciting,” says Haley.

Each storefront boasts friendly and attentive staff who can assist you with any of your style needs and chosen brands grant you your pick of a range of high-quality clothing items that will have you looking your best from head to toe! So, if you are ready to wow, swing by your local HerringStone’s Boutique.

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The Face of CORRECTIVE SKIN CARE Adrienne Smith Photo by Leann Veal of Crowned Photography

Destination Gleaux Do you think your skin needs a pick-me-up? Look no further than Baton Rouge’s Destination Gleaux. Owner, Registered Nurse and Licensed Esthetician Adrienne Smith has always had a passion for skincare and knew that she wanted to pursue it professionally. To do so, Adrienne enrolled in esthetician school to earn a diploma in Esthiology.

She kicked off Destination Gleaux in April of 2019 after seeing a need in her community for proper, informative skincare. While her clientele consists of a range of different types of people, she focuses on tackling issues like acne, rosacea, eczema and other skin concerns that are more prominent in skin of color. To soothe these skin issues, she offers acne facials, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, dermaplaning and laser services.

Adrienne and her team work hard to make sure their customers are comfortable in their own skin. They are happy to help you through the process, starting with a consultation. Following this, the team will assist in picking out the perfect skincare regimen while answering any questions or concerns that you may have.

Their dedication to make sure your skin will “gleaux” is unmatched.

To give even more back to Baton Rouge, she has plans to expand the knowledge of future estheticians by opening a school to share her Esthiology expertise. Her beauty curriculum would help students learn more about how to properly treat skin of color while offering the convenience of location.

Above all, enhancing beauty is her thing and Adrienne loves seeing beautiful results. She says, “I’m literally jumping up and down when clients come in for their second or third treatment and I can visibly see the results and differences. Seeing their boost of confidence after treatments always makes me so happy for them.”

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The Dunham School

The Face of PRIVATE SCHOOL EDUCATION Steven Eagleton Photo by Aimee Rabb Photography

In 1981, The Dunham School was founded with a singular mission—to educate the mind and heart for Christ. That mission has been at the center of everything the school has done since its humble beginnings with 89 students to where it stands today, 785 students strong and recognized as one of the most innovative and technologically advanced schools in the country.

Dunham prides itself on meeting the needs of the individual student while delivering a high-quality academic program that now includes STEM, robotics, coding, and virtual reality. Small classes mean students receive personal attention from talented teachers who know and pray for them by name.

While the school has much to celebrate at the 40-year mark, a review of its current strategic plan makes it clear the Dunham’s administrative team, led by Head of School Steven A. Eagleton, has no intention of sitting still.

The successful launch of the Dunham Early Learning Center has added a new academic program for two-year-olds, and plans are in place to upgrade facilities, enhance program offerings, and provide ongoing faculty support to ensure that future generations of students have everything they need to learn, grow, and experience the love of Christ for the next 40 years and beyond. To learn more about The Dunham School or to schedule a tour, visit dunhamschool.org.

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The Face of PUBLIC EDUCATION

Dr. Sito Narcisse Photo by Aimee Rabb Photography

East Baton Rouge Parish Schools New things are brewing at the East Baton Rouge Parish School System. “It’s true,” new Superintendent Dr. Sito Narcisse says with a smile. Hope, opportunity and prosperity are part of the foundations that have helped to craft the new initiatives Narcisse is bringing to the district. Narcisse is determined to shift the focus; studies have shown that education serves as the underlying factor for a thriving community. Many of a city’s ills can be rectified through investing in early childhood development and education.

Anchored by the belief that the focus must be on every child, from every community, in every class, every day, the Cradle to Career initiative took shape. The initiative identifies keys to unlocking a bright future for all students, including accelerating the number of students graduating with an associate degree or industry-based credential.

The new Pathways to Bright Futures program outlines five pathways to ensure high-skilled, high-waged, and high-demand careers. These include technology; construction and manufacturing; medical and pre-med; transportation and logistics; and liberal arts and management.

“During my time here, I quickly found that Baton Rouge is filled with untapped potential. The city is rich with not only culture but with community assets that, if strategically utilized, can enhance the lives of the students and families of this district,” Narcisse explains.

Not content with “good enough,” Narcisse motivates through action, and he hopes to continue to show families the opportunities that exist for all students. He seeks community input and consistently reminds his colleagues that it is their village that leads the district. Narcisse is frequently around the town spreading the word about the vision of Pathways to Bright Futures.

There is indeed a new day in EBR, and the sun is shining bright on every child, from every community, in every class, every day.

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The Face of LAW

Gordon McKernan Photo by Jordan Hefler Photography

Gordon McKernan Injury Attorneys With his commercials, giant billboards, and inflatable decorations in front of his main office, Gordon McKernan is easily one of the most recognizable faces in Baton Rouge. And although he has offices all over the state, Gordon has stayed local his whole life. He was born and raised in Baton Rouge and attended University High School and LSU. Ultimately, he joined his father’s firm, McKernan Law Firm, here in Baton Rouge and has been practicing law ever since.

When Gordon started his career, McKernan Law Firm was a boutique firm with a few lawyers that handled large, single-event cases. Then, in 2007, Gordon got the idea that the firm needed to evolve with the times if it wanted to serve more clients. He recognized the power of television, billboards and digital media and decided to expand into advertising, which became the Face of Law we are so familiar with today.

Despite having 200 employees and 12 offices, Gordon McKernan Injury Attorneys strives to create a family atmosphere for every single client. Gordon’s wife, four children, brother-in-law and niece all work for the firm, and even their two dogs play an important role in advertising! Their business, though greatly expanded from the smaller firm it used to be, is still family-owned and run.

The goal of the firm for its clients is to develop such a strong bond and relationship through the course of the representation that at the conclusion of the case, the client thinks of the firm and attorney “As Your Lawyer For Life.”

“To become our clients’ ‘lawyer for life’ we have to demonstrate three things to them: we will fight for them; we will listen to them; and we care about them. Each client at the end of the case should feel that we did this,” says Gordon. “Even though we’re a big law firm, we still fight for every single client, no matter if the case is big or small. I really want each lawyer and team member who works for me to treat each client the way they would want to be treated. It’s the Golden Rule. We try to live it every day.” For more information, go to getgordon.com or call (225) 888-8888.

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The Face of ORTHODONTICS Dr. Bryan Hollis Photo by Aimee Rabb Photography

Hollis Orthodontics For more than 25 years, Dr. Bryan Hollis has been on the leading edge of Orthodontics, creating beautiful smiles. As a Board-Certified Specialist in Orthodontics, he is committed to a standard of excellence while also providing patients a warm and inviting experience throughout their treatment. At Hollis Orthodontics, you’re family. Dr. Hollis and his staff work diligently to ensure that they continuously improve the lives of their patients, not only through their smiles but also by serving the community they grow up in. By participating in community activities, supporting local schools and various causes such as the annual Sock it To Me Sock Drive, Dr. Hollis and his team are always looking for ways to serve and give back where it is needed most. In addition to his unending support to the community, establishing positive relationships with patients and their families is Dr. Hollis’ goal. In a unique, state of the art, and comfortable setting, patients have an opportunity to get to know his fun, friendly and down to earth personality, which they come to love. He is a perfectionist in the field of Orthodontics, but what sets him apart is his genuine interest and care for his patients. Dr. Hollis has been married to his wife, Celeste, for 32 years.

Together, they have four children and a grandson. In his spare time, Dr. Hollis enjoys spending time with his family and hunting in the great outdoors.

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The Face of PEDIATRIC SPECIAL NEEDS

Renita Williams Thomas, MSN, RN Photo by Natalie Miller Photography

In Loving Arms HealthCare for Kids Renita Williams Thomas, Masters-prepared Registered Nurse, Healthcare Entrepreneur, wife and mother of six started this company after adopting her youngest daughter who was born early with multiple medical complications. Williams Thomas saw a healthcare void in our community and moved quickly to fill it.

In Loving Arms Pediatric Day Health Care provides exceptional care for children with medical fragilities and other special needs.

Services are physician ordered multi-disciplinary day care for medically fragile and/or technology-dependent children, newborn to age 12, who have complex medical conditions requiring continual, professional skilled nursing care.

Care is provided for up to 10 hours a day and includes specialized medical care, occupational, speech and physical therapy, and daily non-emergency transportation. Children receive an individualized teaching plan led by certified teachers helping them to make a smooth transition into a school setting.

They believe that learning through play and socialization develops skills needed for proper growth and development. Nurses provide constant assessment and care of each child enabling staff to recognize and report abnormal findings to prevent hospitalizations or further complications.

Williams Thomas explains that “utilizing a Pediatric Day Health Center is a different concept of care for patients and prior to the agency’s establishment, a family’s only choice was in-home care.”

“Although a great option, some parents expressed a need and desire to have their children cared for outside of their homes. Also, parents in multiple family households expressed needing an “out of home alternative” essentially giving family members a ‘break’ so that they could have a degree of normalcy,” shares Williams Thomas.

In Loving Arms believes in giving back to our community through diaper drives and providing other needed resources to parents including forums that seek to educate on specialized medical topics.

In Loving Arms is here to provide exceptional care to children.

Their staff live by the goal of treating all families like family. Afterall, their motto is, “Loving is our MIDDLE name.”

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The Face of CHILDREN’S HEALTH Dr. Ashley Lucas and Dr. James Gardener Photo by Natalie Miller Photography

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Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Health Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Health is committed to offering your child exceptional care through their network of skilled pediatric providers from general pediatrics to specialty care.

As the Medical Director of General Pediatrics, Dr. Ashley Lucas finds pride in her work with the most meaningful part being the children she cares for, “I love being a small part of a child’s life as they grow and mature into an independent adult. It is both humbling and gratifying to know that sometimes my words and actions have a lasting impact on families.”

Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Health blends innovation and healthcare seamlessly. The new Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital and Medical Office Building host plenty of space to administer a variety of treatments.

Their elevated quality of care ensures that our children will be well-cared for when the need arises.

“Children are our most precious resource; they’re our future. Their health, safety, and development should be our community’s top priority,” shares Dr. Lucas.

Dr. James Gardener, Medical Director of Specialty Pediatrics, Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Health, shares this sentiment, “It’s tough to be a parent and deal with illness but many of us are parents ourselves. We understand and are ready to help families with their questions and concerns.”

Dr. Gardener has been a pediatric endocrinologist at Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Health for the past ten years. While endocrinology requires compiling and sifting through a lot of data and problem-solving, the time he spends with patients is incredibly gratifying. “Taking care of kids is very rewarding,” he states, “Sometimes you feel like a part of the family when seeing them go from a sick state to a well state.”

Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Health team members have watched their input and administration’s own improvements transform what was once a single floor of the hospital and a few floors in the clinic space to a new modern hospital and medical office building that gives Louisiana’s children access to the state’s largest network of over 180 pediatric providers dedicated to children’s health. To connect with any of their providers, call (225) 374-HEAL.

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The Face of PHOTOGRAPHY Troy and Kelly Kleinpeter Photo by Natalie Miller Photography

Kleinpeter Photography Kleinpeter Photography is a family-owned local business that has been around the community since 1973. It has since blossomed into a sizable business that covers a wide variety of photography needs in the community under the ownership of Troy and Kelly Kleinpeter. Being a family-owned business, Kleinpeter Photography loves to capture those special moments in families’ lives. They do a lot of portraits of families, children, babies, graduation and weddings. In addition to portraits, they also do commercial work in local chemical plants, hospitals and local businesses.

Kleinpeter Photography offers one of the largest outdoor studios in the area. This facility is used to provide an extra layer of service to their clients and is just something else that truly makes them stand out from everyone else. A quick scroll through their website and social media pages shows just how much this local business has impacted the community. It also shows what it means to truly be in a business that revolves around family. Families are able to have key moments in their lives captured on camera, so they are able to cherish them forever even as their babies grow up, graduate high school, get married, and have children of their own. Kleinpeter Photography can be there to capture these moments. When the moment passes, you are going to want something to remember it by. A look at their client reviews shows that the people you want capturing these moments are the staff at Kleinpeter Photography.

They are friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable. Their work speaks for itself, and you can learn more about them on their website at kleinpeterphotography.com.

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The Face of MORTGAGE LENDING Chasity Graff Photo by Natalie Miller Photography

LA Lending, LLC Owning a home is a dream that Chasity Graff, owner of LA Lending, gets to make come true each and every day. At 24, Chasity boldly started her own boutique brokerage and has helped hundreds of Louisiana families become homeowners over the past 14 years.

LA Lending, LLC specializes in all residential purchase and refinance loans. They use state-of-the-art technology to coach borrowers how to compare rate and program options. Because not one loan suits all, Chasity and her amazing team make it their mission to find the perfect fit for all LA Lending clients. LA Lending offers better rates and more options.

Chasity Graff has spoken on several national stages to teach other brokers and loan originators the importance of customer service, social media marketing and best lending practices.

Part of her accolades include being a featured contributor in several national well-respected financial magazines, including NMP and Time.com. She is a two time recipient of the Women with Vision Award and a VIP member of the Association of Independent Mortgage Experts, the Woman’s Mortgage Network, plus a Real Producers Preferred Partner to the Greater Baton Rouge area Top 300 Realtors.

Chasity’s a Baton Rouge native, alumni of Baton Rouge Magnet High School and Louisiana State University. Chasity and her husband of 12 years, Michael, have two beautiful children who attend St. Aloysius Catholic School.

For more information, visit lalending.net.

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The Face of URGENT CARE HEALTH

Dr. Graham Tujague and Dr. Kevin DiBenedetto Photo by Aimee Rabb Photography

Lake After Hours Urgent Care When we want to feel better, we know that Lake After Hours Urgent Care is around the corner. With an experienced medical staff, short wait times, and convenient hours, Lake After Hours Urgent Care strives to meet our health needs when we need them the most.

What makes the company so special are the doctors who always greet you with a smiling face.

A long-time Baton Rouge resident, Dr. Graham Tujague was inspired by his father, who is also a physician, and his colleagues to pursue medicine.

“I noticed how these physicians interacted with their peers and families and realized that I wanted to focus in the same direction. I always had a deep respect for ‘the family practitioner’ and wanted to influence other families with the proper care and treatment,” Dr. Tujague says.

After a lot of hard work, his dream became a reality. Dr. Tujague has been practicing for over 30 years, and he shares that the enjoyment of practicing medicine has different levels. He says, “Deciding how to treat people requires lots of time in the field. There can be many hidden disorders and diseases. It can be very challenging to make the proper call in addition to providing the proper treat80

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ment. One of the most enjoyable aspects for me is discerning all of the possible variables and how to find an endpoint.”

This is a tremendous responsibility and involves many decisions, but to him, the most important decision is ensuring that the patient is happy and satisfied.

Dr. Kevin DiBenedetto shares this sentiment. He says, “I hope each patient I see feels like they had a good experience and that their concerns were addressed. Most of all, I hope they feel and get better.”

A Baton Rouge native, Dr. DiBenedetto realized he wanted to pursue medicine when he was a Boy Scout practicing First Aid. He attended medical school in New Orleans, where he met his wife, Suzy. Together, they have four wonderful children. He graduated in 1983, worked as an ER physician until 2000, and started Lake After Hours in 1999. The company will be 23 years old this month.

Dr. DiBenedetto finds his work to be very rewarding, especially when working with the community and correctly diagnosing patients. He says, “I like practicing hands-on medicine, and the variety of injuries and illnesses in urgent care is what I enjoy the most. Making the correct diagnosis is also especially rewarding.

In urgent care, our patients are mostly all walk-in patients, so I get to treat people from the entire community.” To learn more, visit lakeurgentcare.com.

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The Face of PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY Dr. Rebecca Day Photo by SB James Photography

Sunny Day Pediatric Dentistry The first time Dr. Rebecca Day was able to guide a nervous child in overcoming her dental fear, she knew Pediatric Dentistry was right for her. Going to the dentist is oftentimes a very scary experience for children, and having the chance to support them through this daily makes her career worthwhile. Sometimes it is as simple as listening, being patient, holding their hand and encouraging them to be brave. As a parent, she empathizes with her patients’ parents and understands the love they have for their child. She goes above and beyond to make their child have a good dental experience, as she would want for her children. Dr. Day takes the time to get on the child’s level, smile, introduce them to everything she uses and never forces them to do anything. If it is a quick look and a highfive, that is ok! It is important to Dr. Day that her patients trust her team at Sunny Day Pediatric Dentistry. Some of the services of Sunny Day Pediatric Dentistry include dental cleanings, dental restorations, dental extractions, frenectomies and cosmetic white crowns. Conscious sedation and general anesthesia are available if needed to ensure each child has a good experience. Dr. Day is a Baton Rouge native and completed her undergraduate studies at Louisiana State University before obtaining her DDS degree at the LSU School of Dentistry in New Orleans and pediatric specialty degree at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York. Now, Dr. Day is a Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist with the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. She practiced as an associate pediatric dentist in Baton Rouge for three and a half years before acquiring the dental practice of Dr Jeff Ellard, who has been caring for the children of Baton Rouge for 38 years. Dr. Day is super excited to continue providing top notch pediatric dental care to kids in East and West Baton Rouge. Dr. Day and her husband, Patrick Hedden, have two daughters and enjoy spending time outdoors, especially fishing.

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The Face of GYMNASTICS Bryan Kiser Photo by Natalie Miller Photography

Valor Gymnastics When Bryan Kiser was a child, his mother encouraged him to try gymnastics because she felt it was a much safer option for a sport than football. At age 5, neither she nor him would realize that this would become not only his primary sport but his primary career focus now some 43 years later.

As a competitor, Bryan moved quickly through the Junior Olympic Men’s Program of USA Gymnastics to finish his career as an Elite, the “professional” competitive level of Gymnastics.

At age 14, he began coaching as an assistant to his coach and well… he’s still doing what he loves to this day now as the owner of Valor Gymnastics here in Baton Rouge.

Bryan and his wife, Jennifer, completed their move to Baton Rouge in January of 2020 at the same time Bryan took full ownership of Valor and began the transformation of the programming, the facility, and the staff.

Today, Valor provides a warm and welcoming environment for ages 18 months to 18 years old. With the renovations and upgrades the gym and the program exemplifies both the new Valor 82

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slogan, “Better Than Yesterday” and the USA Gymnastics slogan: “Begin here, Go anywhere”...

As a Member Club of USA Gymnastics, Bryan has created a culture within Valor where each child, no matter talent level or interest, can come, take classes, and be part of something that is bigger than themselves. The staff strives to make each child feel like they are a champion by challenging them to learn, grow and experience the sport of gymnastics.

Bryan, and former National Team Coach Russ Ward, are a dynamic duo that brings years of experience and the expertise to provide World Class Gymnastics training and development to Louisiana.

Valor is also proud to partner with Parkview Baptist for the school’s first-ever high school gymnastics program. They will be hosting the first ever Parkview invitational for both men and women in 2022.

Bryan suggests every child, boys, and girls, start with gymnastics as it is proven to develop the mind as well as the body in a way few other activities can. At Valor Gymnastics, a child can really “begin here and go anywhere.” It starts with a FREE trial class which can be easily set up by calling (225) 650-3911.

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The Face of FAMILY HEALTH Truc Dinh, MD Photo by Natalie Miller Photography

Ochsner Health Dr. Truc Dinh grew up in a large family. As the second-to-youngest of nine children, Dr. Truc has always appreciated building relationships and upholding family values. Now, she considers pediatrics her home, and she is excited to build those relationships with her patients and their families at Ochsner. Children always bring her joy and she especially loves their positive, carefree attitudes. Not only does she take extra time to care for the little ones, but she also makes sure the children’s parents are comfortable, too.

“I love meeting new patients,” she says. “I feel like another part of pediatrics is being able to relate to the parents and validate any concerns they may have.”

Dr. Truc completed her undergraduate degree at Xavier University before attending medical school at Howard University. She came back to Louisiana and trained for her pediatric residency at Our Lady of the Lake here in Baton Rouge, and she has been a pediatrician at Ochsner since October 2020. Anyone that knows her also knows she has a radiant personality, but she never realized the impact her positivity has on her patients until she started her residency. One of Dr. Truc’s fondest memories was when a parent wrote a letter to the program directors of her residency about how she made their three-year-old feel more at ease during a time in which the child underwent extreme treatment. This memory serves as a solid reminder for her about how rewarding it is to be a pediatrician.

Dr. Truc is excited that the Pfizer vaccine for COVID-19 is available for children ages five and up and would recommend it to her patients. She noted the pandemic has severely impacted the younger generation in ways we do not always see, such as in mental health and academics. She says the vaccine is an opportunity for us to get out of this pandemic and protect kids and adults as well.

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a day in the life of dad It’s a New Year

BY BRANDON FOREMAN

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E L L if you are reading this, you made it to 2022.

Happy New Year!

Dads, we made it through a lot last year, and frankly, we do every year, but 2021 has been another one for the books. As things start getting back to normal–or as normal as they will get–it has made me think…

As we move to 2022, it has made me realize that I’m rounding second base of fatherhood, as my daughter is turning 14 this year and will be a freshman in high school, and my twins will be turning 10. I know you never stop being a parent, but if my children are like my wife and I, they will all be out of the house in, at most, eight years. By my counting, I’ve crossed the halfway point.

When thinking and saying it out loud, it really does seem that the expression I always hear is true: “It goes by so fast.” So, I guess there are some things we are going to have to make a point and do as a family after all. I have one that may be out of the house in four years, so as a whole family, we may only have four years or so.

So I guess what I am trying to say is, it really does go by fast. I have always enjoyed saying, “Life is what happens when you’re doing other things,” and I feel that is so true here. Too often, I find myself sitting behind this computer screen, listening to my family in the other room, or driving home after a long day in the dark. So, thinking about 2022, I think I am going to try and make some changes, and try and close up shop just a little bit sooner, so I can get out of the house and find some things for us all to do that are not behind a screen or something that my children will be “too cool” to do later on.

Oh, and another thing, dads…I know we all work hard for our families; we try to keep the house from falling apart, and we lead our families daily. I know this is hard work and you just finished another year of it, but I always say that you don’t get credit for things you’re supposed to do, and I do mean that.

However, it does go unnoticed a lot of the time, and it’s expected from all the fathers out there, so I will say it here.

Thank you for all you do, and I am proud of you! (Yes, everyone else, dads like to hear it, too, even though we may not admit it. Be sure to let him know.)

So, what does it all mean? Well, to those of you who have longer to go, I will continue to pray for you, and for those who have less, let me know where I am missing the mark, or what we should go and do.

Happy New Year and thank you. ■ 88

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I know you never stop being a parent, but if my children are like my wife and I, they will all be out of the house in, at most, eight years.

PIC OF THE MONTH Davian B. and his son, Hayden, always have a great time together.

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out & about ‘cause parenting is a trip

Helen, Georgia

BY EMILY DREZ PHOTO BY EXPLORE GEORGIA

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E S T L E D in the outskirts of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Helen, Georgia is the perfect place for your family’s next adventure. You’ll feel like you are in Germany as soon as you start walking through the Bavarian-style downtown streets. Even better, you will surely get a taste of Germany, too, with all the local German restaurants and bakeries in town. From the mountaintops, to the Bavarian streets, to the rushing river waters, Helen is truly a gem for your family to discover.

WHERE TO STAY Since you’re going to be in the mountains, you have to stay in a cabin in the woods! Bear Creek Lodge and Cabins offers a variety of cabins for you and your family to stay in while you explore the winding roads and endless scenery. Each cabin is pet-friendly, fully furnished, and has breathtaking mountain views. Some of them have hot tubs, too! Your cabin will also be close to everything you want to do in Helen, whether you want to explore the outdoors or take a stroll downtown.

WHERE TO EAT Bodensee Restaurant Willkommen to Bodensee Restaurant, where you’ll get a taste of authentic German cuisine and experience an old German guest house. Start with a potato pancake or a jumbo pretzel before you get a bite of the homemade garlic sausages. You can even try a little bit of everything with the House Plate: grilled knock sausage, smoked pork chop, homemade garlic sausage, along with sauerkraut and german potato salad. The endless menu also has house specials, schnitzel, steaks, chicken, and seafood.

Hofer’s Bakery and Cafe Voted one of the best cafes in the world, Hofer’s Bakery and Cafe serves German, family-favorite recipes, made in-house with the freshest ingredients. Try their specialties from the grill, a bratwurst on a pretzel bun, or their famous Reuben sandwich, but don’t forget about dessert. From European tortes, to custards, to ice cream specialties, your stay in Helen will not be complete without this sweet taste of Germany.

Village Crepe Haus Village Crepe Haus is conveniently located in downtown Helen, 90

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Coordinates: 34.7015° N, 83.7316° W Distance from Baton Rouge: 618.7 miles Flying Time: 1 hour, 40 minutes Driving Time: 9 hours, 18 minutes

so you’ll have the perfect lunch spot during your visit. You can get breakfast there, too! Their breakfast crepes, Belgian waffles, and croissants will be the perfect start to your day. Or, check out their menu of savory crepes for lunch or dinner. The best part, though, are the sweet crepes–it’ll be hard to choose between the snickerdoodle, strawberries and cream, or warm cinnamon apple crepe, but you can always come back a second time.

WHAT TO DO You might forget you are in a quaint southern city when you go to downtown Helen. Known as a mini Bavaria within Georgia, downtown Helen will transport you to a German village whose streets are lined with unique shops, restaurants, and bakeries.

Satisfy your sweet tooth at the Hansel & Gretel Candy Kitchen, get some souvenirs from Lindenhaus Imports, or even try the world’s hottest hot sauce at the Pepper Palace.

Go on an adventure down the Chattahoochee River at Cool River Tubing. Here, the Cool River Headquarters bus will drop you off at the beginning of the river, where you can cool off with a leisurely float or race through the rapids with your family, all while taking in the village’s stunning views.

Anna Ruby Falls is one of the most popular waterfall sites in the area, right in the heart of the Chattahoochee-Oconee forest.

The half-mile long hiking trail will be easy for you to navigate before you get to see the stunning falls. Don’t forget to pack a picnic lunch.

Feel the thrill of riding down the mountain and through the woods in beautiful alpine Helen, Georgia on the Georgia Mountain Coaster. This alpine coaster is fun for all ages, and is built for safety and speed. It’s a must try outdoor activity for the family. ■

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things we l ve Start the Year Fresh

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E all strive to start each year the right way by making resolutions to eat better, exercise more, and do our best to sleep more. They’re not always easy to follow, and we tend to forget about our resolutions early on in the year. We’ve found some products to help make tackling other resolutions a lot easier.

This year, focus on hydrating your skin. Use this time to help your kiddos relax with this stellar night light, and start teaching them good hygiene habits. You’ve got this!

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LOVE

WILLA THE WHALE BRUSHIE Start good habits with Willa.

Willa the Whale swims in the sea and helps clean teeth with glee.

BLISS BRIGHT IDEA SERUM This collagen-protecting and brightening Bliss Bright Idea Vitamin C Serum features the highest concentration of vitamin C and tri-peptides to help brighten your skin while diminishing the look of dark spots. Suitable for all skin types, its lightweight texture smooths easily over skin.

12 DAYS OF GLOW MASK SET Cleanse, hydrate, renew, exfoliate, and purify your skin with these cream, gel, and peel-off face masks.

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STONE DIFFUSER Scent your home while adding to your decor with this matte ceramic diffuser that fits perfectly on countertops or bedside tables.

FLAPPY THE ELEPHANT This adorable singing animated plush features two different play modes. Play peekaboo or listen to “Do Your Ears Hang Low?”

MAGIC STAR MOON LIGHT Bring the galaxy to your child’s room. This light features four modes for an out-of-this-world experience.

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IN EVERY ISSUE

things to do GO. SEE. PLAY. LEARN. EXPLORE.

THE LOUISIANA MARATHON JANUARY 15-16 PHOTO BY THE LOUISIANA MARATHON

Baton Rouge through January 16. The Louisiana Marathon is a USAT&F Certified course and an official Boston Qualifier route. It boasts one of the highest BQ rates of all marathons since it features a fast, flat, runner-friendly path through the lakes, along the river, around downtown, on the university campus and in historic neighborhoods. Enthusiastic spectators line up along the course to cheer on the runners. thelouisianamarathon.com 94

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Monthly Observances National Blood Donor Month National Mentoring Month National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month

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SATURDAY NEW YEAR’S DAY ICE SKATING ON THE RIVER. Raising Cane’s River Center through January 3. Raising Cane’s River Center will transform the arena into a “Winter Wonderland.” raisingcanesrivercenter. com STARGAZING IN THE IRENE W. PENNINGTON PLANETARIUM. LASM at 10 a.m. Learn about the stars and constellations in the local nighttime sky during the interactive presentation, then sit back for a featured show for all ages. lasm.org

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SUNDAY NATIONAL BUFFET DAY NATIONAL SCIENCE FICTION DAY FREE FIRST SUNDAYS. LASM from 1-5 p.m. Free admission to the museum, which includes unlimited Irene W. Pennington Planetarium shows. lasm.org ICE SKATING ON THE RIVER. Raising Cane’s River Center through January 3. Raising Cane’s River Center will transform the arena into a “Winter Wonderland.” raisingcanesrivercenter. com

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MONDAY INTERNATIONAL MIND-BODY WELLNESS DAY NATIONAL THANK GOD IT’S MONDAY DAY BOARD GAME NIGHT. Denham Springs-Walk-

er Library from 5:307:30 p.m. Bring your friends and family to the library to learn new tabletop games or to play your old favorites.

Role-players welcome. mylpl.info CROCHET BASICS. Delmont Gardens Branch Library from 4-5:30 p.m. Join other adults to learn the basics of crochet. All skill levels are welcome, and supplies are provided. ebrpl.com FITNESS IN THE STACKS. Bluebonnet Regional Branch Library from 10-11 a.m. Patrons can get fit by participating in a beginner aerobics video. ebrpl.com ICE SKATING ON THE RIVER. Raising Cane’s River Center until today.

Raising Cane’s River Center will transform the arena into a “Winter Wonderland.’’ raising canesrivercenter.com RAISED SALT WINTER PAINTINGS. Carver Branch Library from 4:30-5 p.m. Read Snack, Snooze, Skedaddle, How Animals Get Ready for Winter

by Laura Salas. Then, create a winter scene using glue, salt, and watercolor paints.

(225) 389-7440 STORYCRAFT: MELTED SNOWMAN COLLAGE. Fairwood Branch Library from 2-3 p.m. Stop by the Children’s Room to hear a story about a boy and a snowman, then make a melted snowman collage from construction paper shapes. ebrpl.com THE VINYL UNDERGROUND. Bluebonnet Regional Library at 6:30 p.m. Meet other vinyl enthusiasts, listen to records, and discuss albums. ebrpl.com UPCYCLED JOURNALS! River Center

FREE FIRST SUNDAYS. See January 2.

Library at 10 a.m. Start the new year on a good note by creating an upcycled monthly journal from coffee sleeves. ebrpl.com

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TUESDAY NATIONAL SPAGHETTI DAY NATIONAL TRIVIA DAY CASA ORIENTATION. Virtual orientation at 2:30 p.m. Find out how you can be a voice for an abused or neglected child while they await a safe and permanent home during a 30-minute online informational session. casabr.org CLOSET HANGER WINTER WALLMOUNT WITH LIGHTS. Watson Library from 5:30-7 p.m.

Celebrate the 11th day of Christmas at the Watson Branch and craft a twinkling Winter Snowflake from mini closet hangers. mylpl.info COMPLETE CHILDBIRTH CLASS SERIES. Woman’s Hospital at 6 p.m., every Tuesday until January 25. This class series combines information from all pregnancy classes delivered in a more en-

gaging, and interactive way. $150. womans.org FAMILY MOVIE: SPACE JAM: A NEW LEGACY. Delmont Gardens Library from 4:30-6:30 p.m. Follow LeBron James and the Looney Tunes crew as they face AI-G Rhythm, an evil artificial intelligence, in a basketball game to win back his kidnapped son. ebrpl.com MOON MIRROR. PrideChaneyville Branch Library from 4-5 p.m. Use clay and paint to create a realistic crescent moon. ebrpl.com TEEN GAMING CLUB. EBR Main Library from 3:30-4:30 p.m. Join the library for the teen gaming club. ebrpl.com WRITING IN COLOR WORKSHOP. West Baton Rouge Museum from 2-3:15 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays through March 29. Find your creative spark through creative writing and photography in a free workshop series. wbrmuseum.org WRITING FOR EVERYDAY LIFE. EBR Main Library from 4-5:15 p.m.

Participants ages 55

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and better will create a portfolio of poems, journal entries, essays, and short stories. Activities will include a weekly reading component as well as in-class creative projects related to visual art, photography, and music. ebrpl.com

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WEDNESDAY NATIONAL BIRD DAY NATIONAL KETO DAY 1,000 BOOKS BEFORE KINDERGARTEN. Watson Branch Library at 10:30 a.m. Your child will enjoy learning a new early literacy concept through puppetry, story, and song. Collect program prizes, and use the photo booth and props to capture memories of your child’s precious milestones. mylpl.info ADULT COLORING. Eden Park Branch Library from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. ebrpl.com COMPUTERS WITHOUT FEAR. EBR Main Library from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Learn how to use

Find things to do by visiting us online at brparents.com or by downloading our app.

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CASA ORIENTATION. See January 4.

the computer with confidence. ebrpl.com FITNESS IN THE STACKS. Bluebonnet Regional Library from 10-11 a.m. Patrons can get fit by participating in a beginner aerobics video. ebrpl.com HAPPY NEW YEAR GLASSES STORY CRAFT. Greenwell Springs Regional Library from 5-6 p.m. Children will celebrate a brand new year by decorating a fun pair of wearable paper 2022 glasses with paper confetti and stickers following storytime. brpl.com MOVIE TIME: SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION. Eden Park Library from 2-5 p.m. Adults can watch Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman’s film. ebrpl.com POPSICLE STICK SNOWMAN. River Center Branch Library from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Make a snowman to use as a seasonal bookmark. ebrpl.com POP-UP COVID-19 VACCINATION CLINIC & PCR TESTING. Galvez Library from 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Pfizer vaccines will be available to all Louisiana residents ages 12+.

(844) 888-2772 PREGNANT/INFANT 96

LOSS SUPPORT GROUP. Woman’s Hospital Zoom meeting at 7 p.m. This free group is a way for families to share their stories and find support in one another. A licensed social worker will guide discussions and help grieving families as they navigate the emotions that follow the loss of a baby. womans.org SENSORY SENSITIVITY TIME. River Center Branch from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Any unnecessary light or sound elements will be turned off. From the Children’s service desk, patrons can pick up headphones to block noise, sunglasses to block light, and various fidget items to hold while there. ebrpl.com TEEN HANGOUT. Denham Springs-Walker Library from 5-6 p.m.

Bring your friends or make new ones. Video games, activities, crafts, and snacks. mylpl.info

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THURSDAY NATIONAL CUDDLE UP DAY BINGO FOR BOOKS. Albany-Springfield Branch Library at 5:30

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p.m. Play Bingo, enjoy refreshments, win a game, and then pick a bag of books. mylpl.info BODY BASICS FOR GIRLS. Woman’s Hospital Zoom meeting at 6 p.m. Includes informal, open discussions, a film presentation, and take home materials. For girls 9-12. womans.org CRAFTING FOR A CAUSE. PrideChaneyville Branch Library from 1-3 p.m.

Learn a new skill and earn a chance to create something beautiful while enjoying the company of fellow crafters. ebrpl.com KITCHENAID MIXER CRASH COURSE. Louisiana Culinary Institute from 5-8 p.m. Bring your KitchenAid attachments to class and see how easy it is to make a pasta meal. lci.edu POPSICLE STICK SNOWMAN. River Center Branch Library from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Make a snowman to use as a seasonal bookmark. ebrpl.com TEEN ADVISORY BOARD MEETING. Watson Branch Library at 5:30 p.m. Join the board and make a difference. mylpl.info

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FRIDAY ORTHODOX CHRISTMAS BODY BASICS FOR GIRLS. Woman’s Hospital Zoom meeting at 6:30 p.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 through informal, open discussions, a film presentation and take home materials. womans.org

BOOK BABIES. Watson Branch Library at 10:30 a.m. Bring all the kids for a playdate at the library. Enjoy stories, music, and games. mylpl.info BREASTFEEDING SUPPORT GROUP. Woman’s Hospital Zoom meeting at 9:30 a.m. This breastfeeding support group is devised to help mothers with breastfeeding. womans.org CAFÉ FRANÇAIS. West Baton Rouge Museum from 1-3 p.m. Café Français is a great way for students of all levels to brush up on their French. wbrmuseum.org CHILDREN’S POP-UP COVID-19 VACCINATION CLINIC. Dutchtown Branch Library from 9 a.m.-4:45 p.m.

Pfizer vaccines will be available to all Louisiana residents ages 5-11, by appointment only.

(844) 888-2772 FITNESS IN THE STACKS. Bluebonnet Regional Branch Library from 10-11 a.m. Patrons can get fit by participating in a beginner aerobics video. ebrpl.com GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP. Lane Regional Medical Center at 2 p.m. Monthly support group to provide companionship, understanding, and support with others who have experienced loss and are experiencing grief. lanermc.org I’M EVERY WOMAN. Hartley/Vey Studio Theatre at 7:30 p.m. This production celebrates the great female vocalists of the 60s, 70s, and 80s. manshiptheatre.org LOUISIANA’S LEROUX. Manship Theatre at 7:30 p.m. Founded in the 1970s, the band improves with each year that passes. manshiptheatre.org

NEW YEAR’S SOUTHERN SOUL EXTRAVAGANZA. Raising Cane’s River Center at 7:30 p.m. Performances by Tucka & Calvin Richardson and friends. raising canesrivercenter.com SENSORY SENSITIVITY. EBR Main Library from 9-11 a.m. Any unnecessary light or sound elements will be turned off. Patrons can pick up headphones to block noise, sunglasses to block light, and various fidget items to hold. ebrpl.com THE GREAT GATSBY: A STAGED READING. The Guru at 7 p.m. Welcome the new year with a night filled with glamour, excitement, and a bundle of emotions while channeling the roaring 20s in this new adaptation of the iconic story. eventbrite.com

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SATURDAY NATIONAL BUBBLE BATH DAY WORLD TYPING DAY 3D PRINTER CLASS. Bluebonnet Regional Library at 2 p.m. ebrpl.com GARDEN DISCOVERIES. EBR Main Library at 10 a.m. The Baton Rouge Botanic Garden Foundation will host a free Garden Discoveries presentation led by Buck Abbey, a Landscape Architect and retired professor of the LSU School of Landscape Architecture. ebrpl.com I’M EVERY WOMAN. Hartley/Vey Studio Theatre at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. This production celebrates the great female vocalists of the 60s, 70s, and 80s. manshiptheatre.org LAMAZE: A LABOR

OF LOVE. Woman’s Hospital at 9 a.m. Recommended for couples wanting to learn how to apply Lamaze techniques for coping with pain in labor and birth. womans.org SENSORY SENSITIVITY TIME AT THE LIBRARY. Greenwell Springs Regional Library from 9-10 a.m. Any unnecessary light or sound elements will be turned off. Patrons can pick up headphones to block noise, sunglasses to block light, and various fidget items to hold. ebrpl.com STARGAZING IN THE IRENE W. PENNINGTON PLANETARIUM. LASM at 10 a.m. Learn about the stars and constellations in the local nighttime sky during the interactive presentation, then sit back for a featured show for all ages. lasm.org

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SUNDAY LAW ENFORCEMENT APPRECIATION DAY CATCH YOUR DREAM IN 2022. Java Mama at Central Square at 4 p.m. Design your 2022 vision board or customized dream catcher vision board while speakers share strategies and motivation to bring your dreams to life. eventbrite.com CLOSING RECEPTION FOR 1968: A FOLSOM REDEMPTION. West Baton Rouge Museum from 2-5 p.m. Honor the musical legend, Johnny Cash, by wearing black and being ready to sing, dance, listen to, or play iconic Cash tunes. wbrmuseum.org OLD TIME MUSIC OPEN JAM. West Baton Rouge Museum from

3-5 p.m. This program allows musicians to come together informally to play acoustic instruments. wbrmuseum.org PREPARING FOR DELIVERY. Woman’s Hospital at 1 p.m. Recognize when labor starts, know when to go to the hospital, and learn what to expect when you arrive. womans.org

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MONDAY NATIONAL HOUSEPLANT APPRECIATION DAY BEADED SNOWFLAKES. Carver Branch Library from 4:30-5 p.m.

Read Sleep, Big Bear, Sleep by Maureen Wright. Then, make beaded snowflakes using pony beads and pipe cleaners.

(225) 389-7440 FAUX STAINED GLASS. Delmont Gardens Library from 1011:30 a.m. Create your very own faux stained glass. (225) 354-3050 FITNESS IN THE STACKS. Bluebonnet Regional Library from 10-11 a.m. Patrons can get fit by participating in a beginner aerobics video. ebrpl.com GENEALOGY: READING DEEDS AND NOTARIAL RECORDS. EBR Main Library from 3-4:15 p.m. Learn how to find and read your ancestor’s deeds and notarial records. ebrpl.com INTRO TO YOGA. Jones Creek Regional Library at 10 a.m. This class makes yoga easy. ebrpl.com PREGNANCY 101.

Woman’s Hospital Zoom meeting at 6:30 p.m.

Attend this online class to learn how to provide

your baby with the best possible environment for growth and development. womans.org SENSORY SENSITIVITY TIME AT THE LIBRARY. Greenwell Springs Regional Library from 9-10 a.m. Any unnecessary light or sound elements will be turned off. Patrons can pick up headphones to block noise, sunglasses to block light, and various fidget items to hold. ebrpl.com THE FRIENDS OF EDDIE COYLE. Bluebonnet Regional Library at 6:15 p.m. Film fanatics can join the Baton Rouge Film Club to discuss a film starring legendary actor Robert Mitchum. ebrpl.com

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TUESDAY NATIONAL CLEAN OFF YOUR DESK DAY NATIONAL MILK DAY BASIC CARTOONING FOR ARTISTICALLY-CHALLENGED. EBR Main Library at 6:30 p.m. Learn how to liven up your PowerPoint slides with Mike Artell. ebrpl.com BIRCH TREE PAINTING. River Center Branch Library from 3-5 p.m. Join the library to learn how to paint birch trees, and create your own masterpiece to take home. ebrpl.com MY WINTER HAT CRAFT. River Center Library from 4-4:30 p.m.

Listen to a cute story about a boy and his winter hat, then make a winter hat craft of your own. ebrpl.com WRITER’S RENDEZVOUS. Fairwood Branch Library from 6-7:30 p.m. Join Fairwood to discuss current projects or work on

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NATIONAL MARZIPAN DAY NATIONAL PHARMACIST DAY

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

something new. ebrpl.com

WEDNESDAY

1,000 BOOKS BEFORE KINDERGARTEN. Albany-Springfield Branch Library at 10:30 a.m. Your child will enjoy learning a new early literacy concept through puppetry, story, and song. Collect program prizes, and use the photo booth and props to capture memories of your child’s precious milestones. mylpl.info ABRAHAM LINCOLN: A NEW BIRTH OF FREEDOM. EBR Main Library from 7-8 p.m.

Hear a first-hand account from Abraham Lincoln himself of the history of the United States of America during his time. ebrpl.com ALTERED PAINTINGS. EBR Main Library from 6-7:30 p.m. Create your own work of art by altering a painting. ebrpl.com BATON ROUGE JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL. Manship Theatre through January 16. This year’s festival includes dramas and documentaries. brjff.com FITNESS IN THE STACKS. Bluebonnet Regional Branch Library from 10-11 a.m. Patrons can get fit by participating in a beginner aerobics video. ebrpl.com GROWN-UP GAMING LEAGUE: INTRODUCTION TO CATAN. Bluebonnet Regional Library at 6 p.m. ebrpl.com MOM2MOM SUPPORT GROUP. Woman’s Hospital Zoom meeting

COVER KIDS

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WEDNESDAY, 5TH

DALLIS M.

6

FRIDAY, 7TH

KAYLEE S.

8

THURSDAY, 27TH

LA’BREYAH H.

6

THURSDAY, 27TH

SEBASTIAN O.

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ESTATE PLANNING WORKSHOP. See January 14.

at 10 a.m. Free group that offers education and support for women suffering “baby blues” symptoms, postpartum depression, and/or anxiety. womans.org TEEN MOVIE NIGHT AND CRAFT! Denham Springs-Walker Library from 5-7:30 p.m. This week, they will be watching Disney’s Jungle Cruise and making potted rock plants to escape the cold. mylpl.info

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THURSDAY KOREAN AMERICAN DAY NATIONAL GLUTEN-FREE DAY BODY BASICS FOR BOYS. Woman’s Hospital Zoom meeting at 6:30 p.m. Preteen boys ages 10-13 will learn how their bodies grow, what changes to expect during puberty, and how to take care of themselves through informal, open discussions, a film presentation and take home materials. womans.org CIDER-BRAISED CHICKEN DINNER + DESSERT. Louisiana Culinary Institute from 5-8 p.m. Join Chef 98

Jeanne Mancuso and learn how to braise chicken in apple cider and put together a savory bread pudding. lci.edu CRAFTING FOR A CAUSE. PrideChaneyville Branch Library at 1-3 p.m. Learn to make “Mile-a-Minute” blankets, motifs with a twist. ebrpl.com CROCHET (AND KNIT) FOR A CAUSE. EBR Main Library at 7 p.m.

Work on projects that benefit those in need. ebrpl.com DIVERSITY RESOURCES IN THE DIGITAL LIBRARY. EBR Main Library at 10 a.m. ebrpl.com ESTATE PLANNING WORKSHOP. Louisiana USA Federal Credit Union at 6:30 p.m.

Learn how the right will and trust can protect your family’s nest from court costs, taxes, and long-term care expenses. eventbrite.com HEARTY VEGETARIAN MEALS. Louisiana Culinary Institute from 5-8 p.m. Join Chef Dave Tiner to prepare Cottage Pie, Roasted Vegetable Strudel, and Thai Mango Rice with Toasted Coconut. lci.edu MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. DAY CRAFT.

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EBR Main Library at 10 a.m. Listen to Be a King by Carole Boston Weatherford as they celebrate the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Then, make a dove to remind you of the message of peace. ebrpl.com MARTIN LUTHER KING DAY POSTER STORY CRAFT. Greenwell Springs Regional Library from 4-5 p.m. Children will color a Martin Luther King poster following storytime. ebrpl.com MOVIE: SELMA. Delmont Gardens Library from 1:30-4:30 p.m. Watch a docudrama about the historic events that took place in Selma, Alabama. ebrpl.com STEM SUPERSTARS! Watson Branch Library from 10-11 a.m. Join the library for a lesson and fun activity related to a STEM concept. For ages 8-11. Registration required. mylpl.info THE KING CREOLE ELVIS FESTIVAL. Embassy Suites through January 15. Three-day weekend event with some of the world’s top Elvis tribute artists. etafestivals.com

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FRIDAY NATIONAL DRESS UP YOUR PET DAY BREASTFEEDING SUPPORT GROUP. Woman’s Hospital Zoom meeting at 9:30 a.m. This breastfeeding support group is devised to help mothers and babies learn from a certified lactation nurse and other moms about their own successes and challenges with breastfeeding. womans.org FITNESS IN THE STACKS. Bluebonnet

Regional Branch Library from 10-11 a.m. Patrons can get fit by participating in a beginner aerobics video. ebrpl.com NAMI: SHARING HOPE. Delmont Gardens Branch Library from 4-5 p.m. Stop by to learn in an open-minded environment from LaShonda Williams, Executive Director of NAMI Louisiana, about the barriers African Americans face when it comes to understanding and treating mental health. ebrpl.com THE FAMILY DINNER IMPROV COMEDY SHOW. Manship Theatre at 7:30 p.m. Doors open at 7 p.m. Live, interactive improv games. manshiptheatre.org

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SATURDAY MARTIN LUTHER KING’S BIRTHDAY NATIONAL STRAWBERRY ICE CREAM DAY BABY GRAND. Woman’s Hospital Virtual meeting from 9:30-11 a.m. This is a free, educational event for expecting parents that includes a hospital tour, prenatal education, baby care basics, and giveaways. Register online. womans.org BODY BASICS FOR GIRLS. Woman’s Hospital Zoom meeting at 9:30 a.m. Includes informal, open discussions, a film presentation, and take home materials.

9-12. womans.org BUTTON MAKING CLASS. Bluebonnet Regional Library at 2 p.m. ebrpl.com CAJUN FRENCH MUSIC ASSOCIATION OPEN JAM. West Baton Rouge Museum from 3-5 p.m. Each month, a different artist will lead

a group of interested musicians from throughout the area. wbrmuseum.org CASA ORIENTATION. Virtual orientation at 10 a.m. Find out how you can be a voice for an abused or neglected child while they await a safe and permanent home during a 30-minute online informational session. casabr.org DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. CELEBRATORY READ ALOUD. Baker, Carver, Central, Eden Park, Fairwood Branch, and PrideChaneyville Libraries at 10:30 a.m. and Delmont, Scotlandville, and Zachary Libraries at 3 p.m. Community members are invited to read aloud at the library. ebrpl.com GOSPEL MUSIC CONCERT BY THE LAGNIAPPE DULCIMER SOCIETY. Denham Springs-Walker Library at 2 p.m. Enjoy a concert of lively gospel music and other songs provided by members of the Lagniappe Dulcimer Society. mylpl.info JUMP START ORIENTATION: BUILDING A BETTER AMERICA TODAY WITH AMOA! EBR Main Library at 3 p.m.

This interactive program, coordinated by the America, My Oyster Association (AMOA) & EBRPL, is designed for students who want to enrich their understanding of the fundamentals of diversity, cultural competency, and empathy. theamoa.org LEGO HOUSE STORY CRAFT. Greenwell Springs Regional Library at 3 p.m. Children will be given a blueprint on how to build a Lego house. (225) 274-4460 RESUME-WRITING SEMINAR. EBR Main Library from 10 a.m.-noon.

Lynnette Lee, of the

EBRPL Career Center, will lead a workshop on writing a great resume. ebrpl.com SENSORY SENSITIVITY TIME AT THE LIBRARY. Greenwell Springs Regional Library at 9 a.m. Any unnecessary light or sound elements will be turned off. Patrons can pick up headphones to block noise, sunglasses to block light, and various fidget items to hold. ebrpl.com STARGAZING IN THE IRENE W. PENNINGTON PLANETARIUM. LASM at 10 a.m. Learn about the stars and constellations in the local nighttime sky during the interactive presentation, then sit back for a featured show for all ages. lasm.org THE LOUISIANA MARATHON. Baton Rouge through January 16. The Louisiana Marathon is a USAT&F Certified course and an official Boston Qualifier route. thelouisianamarathon. com WARM WINTER BREADS. Louisiana Culinary Institute at 9 a.m. Join Chef Jeanne Mancuso for this threehour workshop, and master techniques for working with yeast and kneading dough, then proofing and baking it. $125. lci.edu

get the truth about “baby blues,” and recovering from a vaginal or cesarean birth. $35. womans.org CAJUN FRENCH MUSIC JAM FEATURING CHOUPIQUE AND BROWN TOWN. West Baton Rouge Museum from 3-5 p.m. Free musical performance. wbrmuseum.org DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. CELEBRATORY READ ALOUD. EBR Main, Bluebonnet, Greenwell Springs, and Jones Creek Libraries at 3 p.m. Community members are invited to read aloud at the library. ebrpl.com THE LOUISIANA MARATHON. Baton Rouge through January 16. USAT&F Certified course and an official Boston Qualifier route. theloui sianamarathon.com TOWARD A LARGER FREEDOM: 10 YEARS OF CITIZEN POWER ORGANIZING WITH TOGETHER BATON ROUGE PANEL DISCUSSION. EBR Main Library at 3 p.m.

Discussion on the exhibit. ebrpl.com

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FITNESS IN THE STACKS. Bluebonnet Regional Branch Library from 10-11 a.m. Patrons can get fit by participating in a beginner aerobics video. ebrpl.com

SUNDAY NATIONAL NOTHING DAY AFTER BABY COMES. Woman’s Hospital at 12:30 p.m. In this class, learn how to bathe, feed, diaper, dress and hold a baby with a lifelike doll. Also learn about “baby blues” and recovery from childbirth.

Also learn parent care–

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MONDAY CIVIL RIGHTS DAY MARTIN LUTHER KING DAY

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TUESDAY NATIONAL THESAURUS DAY A SURVIVOR’S STORY: UNDERSTANDING

TRAFFICKING FROM A SURVIVOR’S PERSPECTIVE. Louisiana State Capitol at 11 a.m.

This event will raise awareness of human trafficking from a survivor’s perspective. eventbrite.com AROMATHERAPY SPA CRAFT. Watson Branch Library at 5:30 p.m.

Transform your home into a spa; use aromatherapy to create a tranquil atmosphere in your home or workspace. mylpl.info PARENTED TALKS: EMPOWER KIDS WITH LEARNING DIFFERENCES. Virtual with Baton Rouge Parents Magazine at 4 p.m. Dr. Ned Hallowell, Founder of The Hallowell ADHD Centers, will share how parents can help kids with ADHD, dyslexia, and other syndromes.

Free. eventbrite.com SENSORY SENSITIVITY TIME AT THE LIBRARY. Greenwell Springs Regional Library from 9-10 a.m. ebrpl.com STRATEGIES FOR SUPPORTING ADD/ ADHD. Webinar with Families Helping Families of Greater Baton Rouge at 10 a.m.

This webinar focuses on strategies to help parents/caregivers give support and manage ADD/ADHD symptoms. fhfgbr.org VINYL RECORD POUR ART. Albany-Springfield Branch Library from 5:30-7 p.m. Create a unique piece of upcycled art using pour painting techniques on vinyl records. mylpl.info WINNIE-THE-POOH DAY. River Center Branch Library at 10:30 a.m. Celebrate Winnie the Pooh Day and A.A. Milne’s birthday by listening to an excerpt of The House at Pooh Corner by A.A. Milne.

After the reading, create tissue paper collages of Winnie the Pooh. ebrpl.com

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WEDNESDAY MUSEUM SELFIE DAY NATIONAL POPCORN DAY 1,000 BOOKS BEFORE KINDERGARTEN. Livingston Parish Main Library at 10:30 a.m.

Your child will enjoy learning a new early literacy concept through puppetry, story, and song. Collect program prizes, and use the photo booth and props to capture memories of your child’s precious milestones. mylpl.info AUDIO EQUIPMENT CLASS. Bluebonnet Regional Library at 2 p.m. ebrpl.com BACKGROUND CHECKS FOR EMPLOYMENT. EBR Main Library from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Alexis Anderson, former Human Resources Director and

founder of the non-profit PREACH, will discuss what types of information can be found in these background checks, and what a job-seeker can do to improve their situation. ebrpl.com CASA ORIENTATION. Virtual orientation at 3 p.m. Find out how you can be a voice for an abused or neglected child while they await a safe and permanent home during a 30-minute online informational session. casabr.org CHINESE LANTERN. River Center Branch Library from 4-6 p.m.

Make a Chinese paper lantern to celebrate the Year of the Tiger and the Lunar New Year. ebrpl.com FITNESS IN THE STACKS. Bluebonnet Regional Branch Library from 10-11 a.m. Patrons can get fit by participating in a beginner aerobics video. ebrpl.com FREE PRENATAL CLASS. The Baton Rouge Clinic-Pediatrics

PARENTED TALKS. See January 18.

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OF MOVING COLORS PRESENTS: KICK IT OUT AROUND THE WORLD! See January 29.

at Perkins and virtual.

Pediatricians discuss things to do before the baby comes, what you can expect, and what to expect for your baby in the first days to weeks after birth. batonrougeclinic.com GROWN-UP GAMING LEAGUE: VIRTUAL REALITY HEADSETS. Bluebonnet Regional Library at 6 p.m. ebrpl.com HISTORICAL LOUISIANA NEWSPAPERS AT LSU WITH HANS RASMUSSEN. EBR Main Library from 6-7:30 p.m.

Hans Rasmussen will discuss LSU Hill Memorial Library’s historical newspaper collections. ebrpl.com PREGNANT/INFANT LOSS SUPPORT GROUP. Woman’s Hospital Zoom meeting at 7 p.m. Free group for families to share their stories and find support. womans.org

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THURSDAY NATIONAL CHEESE LOVERS DAY NATIONAL DJ DAY AROMATHERAPY SPA CRAFT. Main Library in Livingston at 5:30 p.m.

Transform your home 100

into a spa. mylpl.info COMPOSTING 101: SAVE THOSE WATERMELON RINDS. Denham Springs-Walker Library at 2 p.m. Let expert gardener Joette Leblanc show you just how easy and versatile composting can be. mylpl.info GENEALOGY: LEAVING A LEGACY-WRITING YOUR LIFE STORY. EBR Main Library from 3-4:15 p.m. Take the next step with your Genealogy by writing a book. ebrpl.com GRAND OPENING OF CARY SAURAGE COMMUNITY ARTS CENTER. Cary Saurage Community Arts Center at 7 p.m. Experience the state-of-the art community center with showcases of visual artists, musicians, makers, and culinary and performing artists. artsbr.org HEARTY SOUPS. Louisiana Culinary Institute from 5-8 p.m. Perk up your soup repertoire with the vibrant and warming flavors of Mexico & Italy. lci.edu LATTE ART. Watson Branch Library from 5:30-7 p.m. Learn the science behind making cool, fun latte art. Ages 12-18. mylpl.info PATCHWORK DRAGONS. EBR Main Library

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at 5:30 p.m. Celebrate Appreciate a Dragon Day and anticipate Lunar New Year with a craft. ebrpl.com RECONNECT. REFRESH. RESET. White Oak Estate and Gardens at 11 a.m. Learn from some of the top speakers and realtors within the industry and leave rejuvenated and ready to rock 2022. $25-45. eventbrite.com STEM SUPERSTARS. Albany-Springfield Branch Library from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Join for a lesson and fun activity related to a STEM concept. mylpl.info

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FRIDAY NATIONAL HUGGING DAY NATIONAL SQUIRREL APPRECIATION DAY BREASTFEEDING SUPPORT GROUP. Woman’s Hospital Zoom meeting at 9:30 a.m.

This breastfeeding support group is devised to help mothers learn about breastfeeding. womans.org CORNELL GUNTER’S COASTERS. Manship Theatre at 7:30 p.m. manshiptheatre.org FITNESS IN THE STACKS. Bluebonnet Regional Branch Library from 10-11 a.m. Patrons can get fit by participating in a beginner aerobics video. ebrpl.com HISTORICAL HAPPY HOUR & EXHIBIT OPENING PARTY. West Baton Rouge Museum from 6-8 p.m.

Step back in time for a 1940s-themed USO Dance. wbrmuseum.org POP-UP COVID-19 VACCINATION CLINIC & PCR TESTING. Gonzales Branch Library from 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

Pfizer vaccines will be

available to all Louisiana residents ages 12+.

(844) 888-2772

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SATURDAY CELEBRATION OF LIFE DAY 9TH LSU DOUBLE REED DAY. LSU School of Music at 9:30 a.m.

Includes classes, exhibits, and performances. eventbrite.com AFTERNOON MOVIE: STAR WARS: REVENGE OF THE SITH. Fairwood Branch Library at 2:30 p.m. ebrpl.com BODY BASICS FOR GIRLS. Woman’s Hospital Zoom meeting at 9:30 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. womans.org BREASTFEEDING BASICS. Woman’s Hospital at 1:30 p.m. Learn the benefits of breastfeeding. $35 womans.org EXPLORING OUR GRANT RESOURCES. River Center Library at 2:30 p.m. Learn about the grant resources at the library. ebrpl.com GIFTED & TALENTED EXTRAVAGANZA. EBR Main Library at 10 a.m.

The Extravaganza will showcase Gifted and Talented Programs throughout the district. ebrschools.org OUTDOOR MOVIE: RAYA AND THE LAST DRAGON. Watson Branch Library at 6 p.m.

Outdoor movie showing. Popcorn and drinks provided. mylpl.info PURPLE MARTIN CONSERVATION INITIATIVE. Albany-Springfield Branch Library from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Krista Adams of the Purple Martin

Conservation Initiative will provide information regarding migration, nesting, housing, and other interesting facts regarding this song bird. mylpl.info SENSORY SENSITIVITY TIME AT THE LIBRARY. Greenwell Springs Regional Branch Library from 9-10 a.m. ebrpl.com

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SUNDAY NATIONAL PIE DAY MAD RIVER THEATER PRESENTS: FREEDOM RIDERS. Manship Theatre at 2 p.m. This new play, with original songs and music, explores the valiant and courageous personalities behind a critical chapter in the history of the Civil Rights movement. manshiptheatre.org

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MONDAY INTERNATIONAL DAY OF EDUCATION NATIONAL COMPLIMENT DAY COFFEE AND A CLASSIC FILM. Zachary Branch Library at 10 a.m.

Screening of the film, Casablanca. ebrpl.com FICTION WRITERS WORKSHOP. Bluebonnet Regional Library at 6:30 p.m. In-person meeting. ebrpl.com

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TUESDAY OPPOSITE DAY DATE NIGHT: PARISIAN DINNER. Louisiana Culinary Institute from 5-8 p.m. Join Chef Jeanne Mancuso to create a new take on Coq au Vin and choco-

late soufflé drizzled with salted caramel sauce. lci.edu FREE YOGA. West Baton Rouge Museum at 6 p.m. Classes will be led

by Elena Moreno-Keegan. wbrmuseum.org GROWN-UP GAMING LEAGUE: OPEN BOARD GAME NIGHT. Bluebonnet Regional Library at 6 p.m. ebrpl.com LSU SCIENCE CAFE: STRAVINSKY IN AMERICA. Varsity Theatre and Facebook livestream at 5 p.m. LSU School of Music Professor Inessa Bazayev will present on Igor Stravinsky. eventbrite.com

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WEDNESDAY INTERNATIONAL CUSTOMS DAY NATIONAL GREEN JUICE DAY NATIONAL SPOUSES DAY 1,000 BOOKS BEFORE KINDERGARTEN. South Branch Library at 10:30 a.m. mylpl.info FITNESS IN THE STACKS. Bluebonnet Regional Library from 10-11 a.m. ebrpl.com MOM2MOM SUPPORT GROUP. Woman’s Hospital Zoom meeting at 10 a.m. Free group that offers education and support for women suffering “baby blues” symptoms, postpartum depression, and/or anxiety. womans.org

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THURSDAY INTERNATIONAL HOLOCAUST REMEMBRANCE DAY NATIONAL CHOCOLATE CAKE DAY CASA ORIENTATION. Virtual orientation at

4:30 p.m. Find out how you can be a voice for an abused or neglected child while they await a safe and permanent home during a 30-minute online informational session. casabr.org GENEALOGY: US CENSUS RECORDS PART 1. EBR Main Library at 3 p.m. This class will teach you how to read, understand, and extract information from US Census records. ebrpl.com TEEN MOVIE NIGHT AND CRAFT. Albany-Springfield Branch Library at 5:30 p.m.

Watch Jungle Cruise and make rock succulents. mylpl.info

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FRIDAY NATIONAL DAISY DAY NATIONAL FUN AT WORK DAY NATIONAL LEGO DAY BREASTFEEDING SUPPORT GROUP. Woman’s Hospital Zoom meeting at 9:30 a.m. womans.org CHILDREN’S POP-UP COVID-19 VACCINATION CLINIC. Dutchtown Branch Library from 9 a.m -4:45 p.m.

Pfizer vaccines will be available to all Louisiana residents ages 5-11, by appointment only.

(844) 888-2772 FITNESS IN THE STACKS. Bluebonnet Regional Branch Library from 10-11 a.m. ebrpl.com

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SATURDAY NATIONAL PUZZLE DAY 2022 GRAND PRIX TOURNAMENT. All Star Lanes through January 30. Louisiana youth

bowling. layouthbowling.com AUDIO BADGING CLASS. Bluebonnet Regional Branch Library at 2 p.m. Learn the basics of studio audio recording. ebrpl.com CURATE: WOMEN IN MARKETING CONFERENCE. The Executive Center at 10 a.m.

Includes networking opportunities, presentations, workshops, and prizes. eventbrite.com FREE PRACTICE ACT TEST BY PRINCETON REVIEW. Denham Springs-Walker Library at 9:30 a.m. Ages 12-18 are invited to take a free ACT test given by the Princeton Review. mylpl.info GOSPEL MUSIC CONCERT BY THE LAGNIAPPE DULCIMER SOCIETY. Main Library in Livingston at 11 a.m. Enjoy a concert of lively gospel music and other songs provided by members of the Lagniappe Dulcimer Society. mylpl.info SATURDAY SCIENCE: PHYSICS IN FICTION. EBR Main Library at 1 p.m. Hear from Dr. Shane Stadler on Physics in Fiction. ebrpl.com SENSORY SENSITIVITY TIME AT THE LIBRARY. Greenwell Springs Regional Branch Library from 9-10 a.m. Any unnecessary light or sound elements will be turned off. Patrons can pick up headphones to block noise, sunglasses to block light, and various fidget items to hold. ebrpl.com OF MOVING COLORS PRESENTS: KICK IT OUT AROUND THE WORLD! Manship Theatre at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. This hit community production brings fresh, young faces together with some of Louisiana’s hottest

Regional Branch Library from 10-11 a.m. Patrons can get fit by participating in a beginner aerobics video. ebrpl.com

talent. manshiptheatre.org

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SUNDAY NATIONAL CROISSANT DAY

THE ADVENTURES OF TORTOISE AND HARE PRESENTED BY LIGHTWIRE THEATRE. Manship Theatre at 2 p.m. Lightwire NTS @BRPARE Theater combines theater and technology to bring stories to life in complete darkness. manshiptheatre.org

MORE EVENTS

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MONDAY NATIONAL BACKWARD DAY NATIONAL BUBBLE WRAP APPRECIATION DAY 1,000 BOOKS BEFORE KINDERGARTEN. Denham Springs-Walker Branch Library at 10:30 a.m. Your child will enjoy learning a new early literacy concept through puppetry, story, and song. Collect program prizes, and use the photo booth and props to capture memories of your child’s precious milestones. mylpl.info BOARD GAME NIGHT. Denham Springs-Walker Branch Library from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Bring your friends and family to the library to learn new tabletop games or to play your old favorites. Role-players are also welcome to bring their group. Ages 12 and up. mylpl.info FITNESS IN THE STACKS. Bluebonnet

Editor’s Note Occasionally the date or location of an event may change after publication.

Always phone ahead or check the 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 ages, cost, public phone number, website, and photos.

Deadline Submit information for the February calendar

by January 10, 2022.

No part of this calendar can be reproduced in print or web.

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marketplace MAKE IT YOUR BUSINESS TO KNOW THEIR BUSINESS (225) 292-0032

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IN EVERY ISSUE

the last word The Secret Formula for a Happy Marriage

BY PAM MOORE

To nurture our marriage, my husband and I have a regular date night, we’ve read The Five Love Languages, and we see a couples therapist. We’ve found all of these strategies helpful, to varying degrees.

B

U T our secret weapon is a spreadsheet. When I was 29, I moved across the country with everything I could fit in my Jetta and a very tenuous job offer. Within two weeks, the job fell through. During those same two weeks, I met Dan, who would later become my husband.

For the first time in my life, I was in love. But I couldn’t take a job in another city because that would mean leaving Dan. Meanwhile, I was tearing through my savings like a toddler on a squeeze pouch bender. So, I did what any professional adult would do. I asked my parents for money.

Dan was horrified, and offered another solution–a spreadsheet. Somehow, I’d made it through college and graduate school without understanding how to use Excel. First, he showed me how to create columns and rows and enter formulas. Next, I had to fill in all the blanks. I felt more exposed than I did when I participated in my college’s annual naked quad run.

When we went over income, I had to explain I hadn’t been working on days I’d been invited skiing, Saturdays, Sundays, or on short notice. When we reviewed my recent expenditures, I revealed my compulsion to buy an adorable, new pink hat (it was on super sale), why I deserved the lattes I bought on the way to work (I did work, sometimes), and why I needed Nordic race skis (in case I entered a cross country ski race).

Sharing everything about my finances–including my childish belief that my parents would always be there to bail me out– made me extremely vulnerable. It also created an opportunity for Dan to understand me and to help me get my act together.

Ultimately, I gained control of my financial life and saved 12 thousand dollars in one year toward the down payment on the house we bought just before our wedding.

When we moved in together, we merged our finances. Quickly, we realized we had a major problem. I earned less and spent more. My husband, on the other hand, earns more and spends less. And while money is a loaded topic for many couples, our particular dynamic escalated the tension acutely.

Our love nest was awash in fear; I dreaded feeling guilty about spending money or feeling deprived, while he worried 104

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PODCAST

I’d spend our entire mortgage on cute hats and espresso drinks. I worried Dan and I were destined to argue about money forever, but the spreadsheet really saved the day, once again.

On the first Sunday of every month, we sat down with our spreadsheet to map out our budget; our projected earnings, fixed expenses, and variable expenses.

For years, we used this system to ensure that we were on the same page about our finances.

Everything was great…until we needed a new spreadsheet.

Five years and two kids later, on a bright Sunday morning, we were expecting friends for brunch. While I raced to prep food, clear piles of paper, and return rogue dolls to the toy basket, Dan scrolled through Twitter with his feet up on the couch. I paused my cleaning frenzy intermittently to give him the stink eye and a task.

As the potatoes browned and the frittata baked, our mutual resentment grew. I was sick of watching him relax when the trash needed to go out. He was tired of my demands. Finally, he took the kids for a walk, leaving me alone with breakfast and my rage. I texted my sister. “IS IT NORMAL TO WANT TO MURDER TO YOUR HUSBAND WHEN YOU’RE HAVING COMPANY?” Thankfully, she saw what I couldn’t; that my husband and I lacked a shared set of expectations.

Once our friends left and our tempers had cooled, I broached the topic. My husband acknowledged my demands felt never-ending. I explained I felt he wasn’t pulling his weight.

Again, a spreadsheet saved the day. Within minutes of our conversation, my husband emailed me a spreadsheet titled “Guest Cleanup Tasks.” It lists every task we need to do before hosting company, organized by room. Over a year later, we pull it up every time we host a gathering. Clearly, I am a huge fan of spreadsheets in my marriage. But it’s not really about the spreadsheet. A spreadsheet is just a vehicle through which to gain insight to your own values and the values of your partner.

A spreadsheet is a means of creating dialogue–and ultimately, understanding–one of the cornerstones of a good relationship.

As the Buddhist monk Thich Nhat Hanh said, “Understanding is love’s other name. If you don’t understand, you can’t love.” I would add, “If you haven’t done a ski race, don’t buy the fancy skis.” ■

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