COVID-19: What to know in Baton Rouge
The 225 community is why we launched our magazine 15 years ago. From day one, we’ve aimed to serve all of YOU.
Now, we’ve developed this page as a platform for our local business partners to keep Baton Rouge residents informed. Through their messages, we will help you navigate through these uncharted waters.
If you would like to learn how your business can share information with our readers, please email [email protected]. We’re all in this together.
MURPHY LAW FIRM HOLDS SECOND WEEKEND OF MASK HANDOUT
For the second consecutive weekend, Murphy Law Firm will be distributing masks to members in the community who are in need. The mask handout will take place this Friday, April 24, from 6 a.m. until 3 p.m. and Saturday, April 25, from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m.
There will be 20,000 masks and 10,000 gloves distributed. Last weekend, the firm distributed 12,500 masks and 5,000 gloves. Murphy Law Firm has teamed up with the United Cajun Navy, Rock N Roll Sushi and Youth Committee BR for the mask handout.
For safety and convenience, there will be a drive-thru set up outside the Murphy Law Firm office located at 2354 S. Acadian Thruway, Baton Rouge, LA 70808.
Peyton Murphy and sponsors will be available for interviews.
“Let’s create a movement and save lives,” Murphy said.
PERKINS ROWE GIVES BACK
Did you know that 80% of the students within the East Baton Rouge Parish School System rely on cafeteria meals 5 days a week? Perkins Rowe is inviting the community to buy a meal from one of our participating restaurants (whether that be carryout, delivery, or even a gift card), and they will give a meal to students in need by donating a percentage of all restaurant sales to the East Baton Rouge Parish School System. As more people are facing hunger, a gift donated to Baton Rouge Food bank will help provide urgently needed meals during this crisis and what is faced in its aftermath. Just $1 could help provide 3 meals.
https://brfoodbank.org/covid-19-updates/
MIMOSA HANDCRAFTED TRIBUTE TO FRONTLINE WORKERS
At challenging moments like this, we all have a different calling. Some of us are called to stay home and safe by hunkering down with loved ones, many are giving their time to take care of others through their essential job, and there are those non-essentials who are driven to keep their business alive or take care of their community. Madeline Ellis, founder of Mimosa Handcrafted in Louisiana, is one of the latter.
As a small business owner, who sells handcrafted jewelry, Ellis has found herself in the same hardship as many creatives in the workforce, but the financial setbacks haven’t slowed down her ingenuity and big heart. Mimosa is now selling “Hug Rings” to continue their mission of “doing what we can, with what we have, from where we are.” The Hug Ring is a spinoff of the jeweler’s popular Hug Cuff bracelet, but the profits from this wearable hug goes to a cause that’ s working to feed physicians, nurses and EMTs in the Baton Rouge region.
“We wanted a way to offer help at a time we are all feeling pretty helpless,” says Ellis. “Being a Louisiana brand, we all kind of know what to do during a hurricane or flood but this is new territory. I reached out to my friend Dr. Ashley Saucier, Pediatric Emergency Medicine Physician, about what on-the-ground help could look like for our community right now, and her immediate response was Scrub Grub.”
The Baton Rouge Emergency Aid Coalition‘s #ScrubGrub effort provides meals from local restaurants to their community’s healthcare professionals who are working tirelessly to keep everyone healthy and safe. When a Hug Ring is purchased, a portion of the purchase will go directly to BREAC for #ScrubGrub!
Mimosa is offering four purchasing options for the adjustable ring, with different donation amounts and mailing choices. The profits from one $45 ring can provide up to seven meals, and since the March 27 launch, Mimosa has raised over $16,000. Ellis is also working with Shift Support, another meal service that provides for night-shift employees.
If you’re feeling helpless and want to show your thanks and support, there’s several options to safely “send a hug” to a loved one, all while giving to a good cause.
• OPTION 1 – (1) Ring is mailed directly to you and $15 from your purchase is donated to provide up to 7 meals.
• OPTION 2 – (2) Rings are mailed directly to you and $30 from your purchase is donated to provide up to 15 meals.
• OPTION 3 – (1) Ring is mailed directly to you and (1) ring is mailed directly to a friend* and $30 from your purchase is donated to provide up to 15 meals. *(Or Mimosa can pair you up with a healthcare professional and send the 2nd ring directly to them on your behalf instead.)
• OPTION 4 – (1) Ring is mailed directly to you and in lieu of a 2nd ring, $40 from your purchase is donated to provide up to 20 meals.
• BONUS OPTION — Donate directly to #ScrubGrub or Shift Supporteffort to help provide meals for our healthcare professional.
To reach Ellis about options in your area, email [email protected].
SURGICAL GOWNS DELIVERED TO LOCAL HOSPITALS THROUGH LOCAL JOINT INITIATIVE
In response to the regional shortage of personal protection equipment (PPE) needed by front-line healthcare workers in their COVID-19 response, the Baton Rouge Area Chamber (BRAC) is connecting regional manufacturers, businesses and nonprofits with the resources, equipment, and volunteers to locally source, produce, and deliver in-demand items. The Sewing Safe Project was established in partnership with the Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge to engage local sewists to create nurses’ surgical gowns from an approved pattern to meet demand at local hospitals.
The Sewing Safe Project has delivered 500 gowns to local hospitals with more orders heading toward the Baton Rouge General and Woman’s Hospital in the coming weeks. The Salvation Army’s Men’s Shelter has been brought in as a collaborator on the project, with participants cutting the fabric into patterns, and local organizations like the Scotlandville High Arts Center (SHAC) are connecting sewists to the project.
“Artists and community members were excited to use their talents to help the dedicated professionals in our local hospitals,” said Renee Chatelain, president/CEO of the Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge. “The job opportunities created for artists and other community members has made a huge difference, as well, and we are grateful to be part of this collective to address such a critical need.”
Thompson Pipe Group and Baton Rouge Community College collaborated to conform and cut original patterns for the first order. Knock Knock Children’s Museum served as a pickup and drop off point for materials.
“It has been incredible to see the regional community quickly innovate and respond to the call from our healthcare system,” said Adam Knapp, president and CEO of BRAC. “We are proud to be the conduit for this work and look forward to more positive outcomes.”
PPE created through the program is delivered at cost, offering major cost savings to health systems who are facing bidding wars and limited supply through traditional procurement methods.
“Every hospital in the country is looking for supplies right now – it’s a daily challenge,” said Stephen Mumford, COO of Baton Rouge General. “That’s why we’re so proud of this community and our local businesses for working together in creative ways to support our team on the front line.”
The Arts Council, as point of contact, is open to receiving orders from the 11-parish region it serves, including the parishes of Ascension, East Baton Rouge, East Feliciana, Iberville, Livingston, Pointe Coupee, St. Helena, Tangipahoa, Washington, West Feliciana, and West Baton Rouge. Additionally, the organization has shared its idea with other regions of the State.
“We even got a request for orders to be sent to social workers in New York,” said Renee Chatelain, “We are happy to help with need wherever it may exist.”
Sewists include professional textile artists, tailors, and temporary part-time employees who have been furloughed, along with hobbyists and local quilting guilds. Roughly 10 percent of the 60+ sewists are donating their time in whole or in part, while the others are able to supplement lost pay from regular sources through this opportunity. Funds that would have been allocated to those donating their time are instead being redirected to the Arts Council’s Creative Relief program.
The Capital Region is experiencing a shortage of personal protection equipment (PPE) needed by front-line healthcare workers in their COVID-19 response. Of particular need are germicidal wipes, hand sanitizer, surgical masks, procedure masks, N95 masks, gowns and protective drapes, goggles, and latex and non-latex gloves of all sizes. Regional leaders are looking for business assistance in the following ways:
- Businesses with the above-mentioned items available to donate may do so Monday through Friday, 9 – 11 a.m., at 9455 Plank Road. Contact 225-763-4240 or [email protected]for further instruction. The donation site is an initiative organized by the Baton Rouge Health District, and is currently primarily intended for business to business donations. Please make sure to only include clean, boxed, sealed, and unused containers.
- Manufacturers who are interested and able to transition their production to one of the needed items are encouraged to do so. Contact Donnie Miller at [email protected]for guidance.
- Businesses or makers with technical abilities to innovate needed items through 3D printing should contact Stephen Loy with the Louisiana Tech Park at [email protected].
BATON ROUGE GENERAL FOUNDATION, ARTS COUNCIL TO HOST ‘MUSIC IS MEDICINE’
The Baton Rouge General Foundation and the Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge are co-hosting “MUSIC IS MEDICINE,” a live-streaming music event, on April 24 from 5-6:30 p.m. The event will stream online at MusicIsMedicineBR.com, creating a unique way to support a good cause and enjoy live entertainment from the comfort of your own home.
Louisiana artists are coming together for the event in support of BRG’s COVID-19 Operations Fund and the Arts Council’s Creative Relief Fund. The slate of artists includes Marc Broussard, Parish County Line, JST David, Justin Garner and Palomino Darling. There will also be a virtual tip jar for each performer.
Established in response to questions on how to best support the front line, BRG’s COVID-19 Operations Fund will go toward the most immediate need as determined by hospital leaders who are on the ground every day. Following an emergency or disaster, the Arts Council’s Creative Relief Fund provides resources for artists and arts organizations in need and coordinates artists volunteers to serve in the Council’s 11-parish region.
“We hope everyone can join us for this event supporting our care teams and community,” said Erik Showalter, President of the Baton Rouge General Foundation. “We are honored to partner with the Arts Council and look forward to a great show.”
“The arts community can play a vital role in supporting the healthcare community, patients and families,” said Renee Chatelain, President/CEO of the Arts Council. “This partnership with the Baton Rouge General has allowed such an opportunity, which also employs artists who can share their important work.”
RESTAURANTS START PROVIDING MEALS TO BR HEALTHCARE WORKERS
Underwritten by charitable donations from businesses and foundations, a consortium of restaurants started cooking and delivering meals yesterday to Baton Rouge health care workers, a way to thank them for their vital work during the pandemic.
Entergy Louisiana, ExxonMobil Baton Rouge, the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana Foundation, Humana and LMOGA Foundation set up Fueling the Fight Fund at the Baton Rouge Area Foundation, and together contributed nearly $300,000 to the charitable account. Separately, Entergy is matching up to $50,000 from personal and corporate donations made online at BRAF.org.
Companies interested in contributing to this relief effort should contact either Jody Montelaro at 225-381-5865 or via email at [email protected] or Deborah Sternberg at 225-236- 7227 or [email protected].
“Our frontline health care professionals and nonprofit organizations do so much good for the region, and we’re thrilled to help them continue to do that work,” said Montelaro, Entergy Louisiana Vice President, Public Affairs. “Now is the time that we ask other businesses to consider participating to continue this effort.”
“It is important that we join together to support local restaurants and nonprofits providing meals to health care workers on the frontline and to those in need during this COVID-19 fight. The LMOGA and BRAF partnership unites our oil and gas industry with other leading Louisiana businesses to provide a collective source of resources to keep our economy strong and to nourish our community,” said ExxonMobil Baton Rouge Refinery Manager Gloria Moncada.
The meals are being provided by restaurants associated with the Better Together Restaurant Coalition and will serve the dual purpose of helping to keep individuals in the restaurant industry employed while feeding people and organizations directly involved in fighting health issues and nutritional needs associated with COVID-19.
“The impact of Fueling the Fight, through this amazing list of corporate leaders, is far reaching,” said Stephen Hightower, managing partner of City Group Hospitality. “Our Better Together Restaurant Coalition is honored to be the vessel to help feed our health care heroes. This initiative is helping so many of our local restaurants financially and allowing us to bring employees back to work.”
Comprised of more than 60 restaurants, the Coalition is delivering about 500 meals per day. One day of service costs $5,000, with the Fueling the Fight Fund having enough money now to serve meals through the middle of June.
Lunches and dinners are being delivered to Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center, Baton Rouge General’s two locations and Ochsner Health. Restaurants are rotating cooking and delivering of meals, with Eliza, Restaurant 1796 in St. Francisville, Chef Celeste and Cecilia among many preparing meals this week.
Menus include seared tuna with Tasso fried rice with sweet soy from Restaurant 1796, grilled chicken pasta from Chef Celeste and Monterey chicken and three taco combos from La Carreta.
“The Blue Cross Foundation appreciates that Fueling the Fight is getting restaurant workers back to work and, through their effort and encouragement, meals are being provided to health care workers who are doing daily life-saving work across our region,” said Michael Tipton, President of The Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana Foundation. “We’d encourage other Foundations and businesses to participate to ensure that we have the resources needed to continue this important effort as long as the need persists.”
“The Baton Rouge Area Foundation and the local restaurant coalition have come together to support daily meals for local frontline healthcare workers, first responders and others in need of nutrition” said Matt Berger, Humana Inc. Gulf States Region President. “In doing so, we are also supporting local participating restaurants who are preparing and delivering these much- needed meals. We respectfully ask you to join in this effort by pledging your support for Fueling the Fight.”
SKINCARE PROS PIVOT DURING COVID-19
LA Dermatology and LA Dermatology Cosmetic & Laser Center is monitoring all updates and guidance provided by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) related to the corona virus outbreak.
Skin care issues can happen even during a crisis. This is why the doctors are offering virtual appointments. Changes in moles, new lesions, and rashes should still be examined by a physician.
Our cosmetic center is also offering virtual consultations to answer questions about anti-wrinkle treatments, skin texture concerns, and to screen patients to see if patients are candidates for their new Skin Tightening Plasma Pen treatment. Our Spring Open House has been transitioned to a one day sale and Facebook Live Event with huge discounts on Botox, fillers, lasers, spa packages and virtual consults that day.
Call for virtual appointments. 225-927-5663 ext. 847. Please follow along on social media for further updates.
SHOP DAVID YURMAN ONLINE JUST IN TIME FOR MOTHER’S DAY
EXXONMOBIL BATON ROUGE PROVIDES FUEL TO SUPPORT COVID-19 RELIEF EFFORTS
ExxonMobil announced Tuesday that it will reimburse the cost of fuel to Baton Rouge emergency response vehicles and provide gas gift cards to healthcare workers at Our Lady of the Lake, Baton Rouge General and Ochsner Health.
In April, approximately 30,000 gallons of fuel will be provided for city police cars, ambulances and other municipal fleet vehicles. “It is important that we do everything we can to resource those on the frontline protecting our communities.
The free fuel supply and ExxonMobil gas gift cards will ensure our healthcare workers and first responders are supported,” said ExxonMobil Baton Rouge Refinery Manager Gloria Moncada.
MOCKLER BEVERAGE PURCHASES $25,000 IN GIFT CARDS FROM LOCAL RESTAURANTS IN SUPPORT OF “KEEP BR SERVING” INITIATIVE
Mockler Beverage, the leading beer distributor in Baton Rouge and surrounding areas, is giving back to the community with a bulk purchase of $25,000 in restaurant gift card purchases in support of the “Keep BR Serving” initiative.
“Keep BR Serving” is an area-wide gift card campaign directly supporting Baton Rouge area locally owned restaurants and impacted service staff members while continuing to stimulate the local economy. Mockler Beverage’s contribution will be distributed evenly among participating restaurants, with 30% dedicated to covering lost tips and wages for employees.
“All of us have been effected by COVID, in one way or another. We want to support our local businesses anyway that we can. We appreciate what they have brought to our city, and want them to know that we are here to help. We stand together!”
For more information and to contribute to the program, visit keepbrserving.com.
SONNYS SERVES UP BBQ TO HEALTHCARE WORKERS
Sonnys BBQ in Baton Rouge is giving 1,000+ individually boxed meals to all medical staff members in the Ochsner EBR and WBR network.
On April 14th through April 17th Sonny’s will feed Ochsner medical staff BBQ and sides. “We want to should our appreciation for the doctors, nurses, and volunteers on the frontline.” Sonnys BBQ would like our city’s frontline heroes to know that they mean the world to us. We will get through this together.
LANE REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER IS OPEN
FAQ: When should I seek medical attention if I am experiencing COVID -19 symptoms?
If you wake up with a fever or a tickle in your throat, stay calm. There are many illnesses that could result in the same symptoms. It may be tempting to rush to your nearest hospital emergency room, but no matter what illness it is, you should always monitor your symptoms and seek advice of your primary care provider first. This is even more important now, when hospital resources are needed for those who are truly in need of care. Lane Regional Medical is here for your medical attention. Well visits and some medically necessary appointments can be conducted via telemedicine. Click here to learn more about care during the COVID-19 pandemic.
https://www.lanermc.org/coronavirus
RAPID COVID-19 MOLECULAR TESTING AVAILABLE AT LAKE URGENT CARE/LAKE AFTER HOURS
Lake Urgent Care/Lake After Hours has been selected as one of the first urgent care operators in the country to offer Rapid COVID-19 Molecular Tests. Administered on-site in the clinic, the new screening can identify patients with the COVID-19 virus in 5 to 13 minutes.
To see if you meet the CDC criteria for Rapid COVID-19 testing, visit https://lakeurgentcare.com and “Schedule a Virtual Visit”. Anyone that qualifies for Rapid COVID-19 molecular testing during the “Virtual Visit” will be scheduled for same-day or next-day screening. Those tested for COVID-19 will know their results in minutes.
Learn more about the test here: https://abbo.tt/3499K1H
EBR LIBRARY’S MID CITY MICRO CON EVENT PUSHED TO AUGUST 29
Due to the COVID 19 crisis, the Mid City Micro Con event originally scheduled at the Main Library @ Goodwood for April 25,2020 has been postponed to August 29, 2020. The Digital Library is open 24/7, and its robust collection of resources are all freely available to any patron with a current East Baton Rouge Parish Library card. Just visit https://www.ebrpl.com/ digital.html to get started! If you don’t have a library card, you can get a temporary virtual card which allows access to most digital products; see the “Library Services” tab at www.ebrpl. com for more information. For a complete update on all East Baton Rouge Parish Library events please go to https://ebrpl.evanced.info/msignup/Events
MENTAL HEALTH IS TOP PRIORITY DURING THE COVID-19 CRISIS
Grief Recovery Center (GRCBR) is committed to ensuring that our community members have the crucial emotional support needed while following mandates regarding the COVID-19 (coronavirus) crisis. GRCBR provides emotional support through counseling to children, adults, families and couples. Telehealth sessions ARE NOW AVAILABLE for new and existing clients.
Grief Recovery Center therapists provide counseling services to those coping with a wide range of mental health needs, including but not limited to grief needs. Frequently grief is thought to be only associated with death, but individuals can experience grief when coping with other life events including:
Any event that changes your life in a substantial way (including the effects of the current COVID-19 pandemic)
• Traumatic events – whether from nature, accident, or crime
• Divorce or Breakup
• Miscarriage or Infertility
• Job Loss or Move
• Diagnosis of a Chronic Illness or Disability
• Being a caregiver for a family member
For more information on programs and services visit www.grcbr.org.
LET’S GET CREATIVE WITH LSU MOA
The LSU Museum of Art is temporarily closed due to COVID-19. We challenge you to be creative from home. Check out LSUMOA’s online museum resources and subscribe to weekly e-blasts for at home activities at www.lsumoa.org. Post your creations and tag lsumoa, so we can keep up with the abundance of artistic talent in the 225 area.
Thank you for LSUMOA support
Annual Exhibition Fund support is generously provided by: The Imo N. Brown Memorial Fund in memory of Heidel Brown and Mary Ann Brown; Louisiana CAT; Charles Schwing; Alma Lee, H.N. and Cary Saurage Group; The Newton B. Thomas Family/Newtron Group Fund; College of Art + Design; and Mr. and Mrs. Sanford A. Arst: and the Louisiana Chapter of the Association of Teachers of French.
100% of LSU MOA Exhibitions are supported by Donors like you. #FIERCEFORTHEFUTURE Donate to the LSU MOA here
Become a Museum Member: http://www.lsumoa.org/membership/
RESOURCES FOR SHORT-TERM FINANCIAL RELIEF DURING COVID-19
Slowing the spread of COVID-19 remains top priority, but as businesses in Louisiana continue to close temporarily due to the Governor’s statewide stay at home order, concerns over income losses are growing. For many, the COVID-19 pandemic is not just a public health crisis, it has quickly escalated into an economic crisis.
Businesses of all sizes and government at all levels are taking proactive steps to help ease the burden on those who are suddenly out of work due to social distancing restrictions, with no hope of a paycheck any time soon. The federal government is working on a plan that could deliver some relief in the form of checks sent directly to millions of Americans in the next few weeks.
Louisiana Department of Health, in partnership with United Way, has set up a Louisiana Statewide Network hotline for citizens to get important, up-to-date information related to COVID-19. Dial 211, text LACOVID to 898-211 or visit www.LA211Help.org.
Here are some resources you may find helpful in the short-term:
Loan Extension Requests
In order to assist our members who have temporarily lost their income or are facing financial difficulties, we have provided a way to request extensions quickly and easily for loan payments via a Loan Extension Request Form on our website. We are also here to help with information on applying for affordable personal loans, like our Signature Loans, or a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) while rates are at an all time low.
Student Loans
The federal government is working on a solution to enable those with federal student loans to defer payments for up to 60 days with no interest accrual. You should contact your student loan servicer to find out how to take advantage of this benefit. If you find you are in need of a loan to pay for higher education, you may want to consider a Sallie Mae private student loan for undergraduate or graduate school tuition and expenses.
Unemployment Insurance
In Louisiana, if you are unable to work due to the Governor’s Order for COVID-19 social distancing measures, you can apply for unemployment to provide you with relief for some of your lost wages.
If any of these situations apply to you, you may be eligible for unemployment insurance:
• Your work hours have been reduced because of lack of work due to Coronavirus
• Your workplace closes temporarily, and you are not being compensated, or
• You have been instructed not to go to work, and you are not being paid while at home.
You can file a claim at www.louisianaworks.net/hire or by calling the Claim Center at 866-783-5567, which is currently open daily from 8 am to 7 pm. More information: http://www.laworks.net/Downloads/PR/COVID_19_Information.pdf
You are not alone if you are going through a tough time right now due to COVID-19. Hopefully, you can take advantage of some of the resources above to make things a little easier for you and your family and find much needed relief in the short term.
MID-TAP ANNOUNCES DRIVE-THRU CRAWFISH AND JAMBALAYA FUNDRAISER
Local bar, Mid-Tap, is the sponsor of a Beat Cancer and COVID-19 fundraiser on Thursday, April 2nd from 4pm to 7pm. Supporters can drive thru to pick up five pound servings of crawfish and vegetables for $15.00, as well as, two jambalaya dinners for $10.00.
The proceeds from sales will go toward Mary Bird Perkins Our Lady of the Lake Cancer Center, as well as, Mid-Tap employees who have experienced hardship during the COVID-19 pandemic.
You can place your pre-orders by emailing [email protected] and drive thru to pick up your order at Mid-Tap located at 660 Arlington Creek Centre Blvd. Ste D, Baton Rouge from 4pm to 7pm. We look forward to serving you.
TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF AND YOUR FELINE FRIEND
Anxiety is not just for humans. While at home, devote some quality time to your feline friend. It can be soothing for you and your kitty.
Also please know, Cat Care Center is open daily for all your cat’s veterinary needs. We are following strict Covid-19 sanitation protocols within our hospital and in the boarding resort. Cat Care is committed to the highest level of care in accordance with the safety of our staff and your cat.
Please give us a call with any questions or concerns at 225-228-1039. You can also visit our website at www.catcarecenter.com and follow us on Facebook @catcarecenterBatonRouge for the latest up to date information during this time.
SMALL BUSINESSES PIVOT IN TIME OF CRISIS – ON TOPIC WITH MARY MARGARET, OWNER OF LAMPS & LIGHTING
We know you’ve been at home. Perhaps, spending a little bit too much time in your living room. You may notice the room needs a lift. Believe it or not, a new lampshade is sometimes the most cost-effective way to achieve that goal! Lamps & Lighting has always offered their customers the ability to take items on approval. During this strange time of social distancing, we are offering curbside service. We can pick up your sick lamp and bring it in for repair or we can bring you a new lamp or a fresh lampshade to try out in your home. Support local business and the unique ways we are trying to serve you during this time. Give us a call at 225-767-0701 or email [email protected]
Stay home, stay safe, & shop local.
LOUISIANA NURSERY IS OPEN AND HERE FOR YOU
Louisiana Nursery is an essential business as cited under “Food & Agriculture”, and we will remain open to the public to continue to offer you the highest quality plants, gardening products and advice.
We are focusing on ways to bring sustainable gardening to you and your family in ways that will ensure good health and safety for you, our employees and our community. Did you know that 35 percent of households in the US grow food either at home or in a community garden? That numbers seems to be growing by the day in our stores lately. We have stocked up on all edible plants that you may need to start or refresh your home garden.
Why is gardening so good for the soul? I have read a lot on this topic in the last 3 days. At times like these, when everything feels so out of control, we are drawn to nature. Gardening is natures therapy. Being outside in nature is good for you. Gardening calms the mind. Gardening is good exercise. Gardening creates beauty and joy around you.
Gardening is also a great way to get the kids out of the house, off the devices, stop the boredom, stop the fighting, stop the eating all of the good snacks! Hands on learning and watching your hard work come to life is always fun!
BATON ROUGE GENERAL REACHES OUT FOR OUR SUPPORT
Some people have asked how they can help support Baton Rouge General. For those who cannot donate supplies, we’ve established a COVID-19 Operations Fund. This fund will allow the foundation to remain flexible in supporting the hospital’s areas of greatest need in this fight.
To make a donation, please text BRG to 22525 or visit www.brgeneral.org/donate and designate your gift to the COVID-19 Operations Fund. For questions, please call 225.763.4372.
Support from the COVID-19 Operations Fund could allow:
• Purchase of supplies
• Acquisition of equipment
• Expansion of COVID-19 treatment spaces
• Operations support for essential staff
• Patient Support
Supply shortages are affecting the local healthcare community as we manage the impact of COVID-19. There are various ways to donate supplies, including through MOHSEP and theBaton Rouge Health District. And, donations will continue to be accepted at Entrance 3 of Baton Rouge General’s Bluebonnet campus — call 225-381-6005 if you have something that can be donated or have a supplier than can get these items.
Supply Needs:
• Any kind of surgical mask
• Face mask
• Face shields
• Goggles
• Isolation gowns,
• Hand sanitizer
• Bleach wipes
• Germicidal wipes
• Nitrile gloves
ROUSES RECRUITS RECENTLY LAID OFF HOSPITALITY WORKERS
For those in the hospitality industry who find themselves temporarily out of work, Rouses is hiring, and has immediate openings available, though not in their kitchens. Rouses will teach recruits the grocery business. They have positions in all of their stores company-wide.
Go to their website and include that you have worked in the hospitality sector and/or for a restaurant(s). https://www.rouses.com/careers-at-rouses/
ASSOCIATED GROCERS SERVES 225. SOME AG STORES OFFERING SENIOR SHOPPING HOURS
At times like this, we are vividly reminded of the significance that Associated Grocers, our employees, management, staff and retailers place on our core values. We are centered around SERVICE to others who need and rely upon our support and commitment.
With a collective grateful heart, we THANK YOU all for the opportunity to serve! Read below to view AG stores offering senior shopping and special services.
EAST BATON ROUGE PARISH
Alexanders Highland Market
18111 Highland Market Drive
Baton Rouge, LA
Senior Hour – 7:00 am – 8:00 am
Calandros Supermarket
4142 Government Street
Baton Rouge, LA
Senior Hour – 9:00 am – 10:00 am
Calandros Supermarket
12732 Perkins Road
Baton Rouge, LA
Senior Hour – 9:00 am – 10:00 am
Hi Nabor Supermarket – Florida Blvd
9620 Florida Boulevard
Baton Rouge, LA
Senior Hour – 7:00 am – 8:00 am
Hi Nabor Supermarket – Jones Creek
5383 Jones Creek Road
Baton Rouge, LA
Senior Hour – 7:00 am – 8:00 am
Hi Nabor Supermarket – Winbourne
7201 Winbourne Avenue
Baton Rouge, LA
Senior Hour – 7:00 am – 8:00 am
Mathernes Downtown Market
440 North Third Street
Baton Rouge, LA
Curbside PickUp
Mathernes Market at LSU
85 Gateway Center Lane
Baton Rouge, LA
Curbside PickUp
Reeves Supermarket
10770 N Harrells Ferry Rd.
Baton Rouge, LA
Senior Hour – 7:00 am – 8:00 am
Robert Fresh Market
7355 Highland Road
Baton Rouge, LA
Senior Hour – 6:00 am – 7:00 am
Oak Point Fresh Market – Central
14485 Greenwell Springs Rd
Greenwell Springs, LA
Senior Hour – 7:00 am – 8:00 am
ASCENSION PARISH
Delaunes Supermarket
12516 Highway 431
St. Amant, LA
Free Grocery Pickup
Lamendolas Supermarket
116 West Ascension Street
Gonzales, LA
Free Grocery Pickup or Delivery for Senior Citizens
LIVINGSTON PARISH
Carters Neighborhood Market
8439 Vincent Road
Denham Springs, LA
Senior Hour – 7:00 am – 8:00 am
Carters Supermarket
9285 Cockerham Road
Denham Springs, LA
Senior Hour – 7:00 am – 8:00 am
Carters Supermarket
29760 Walker South Road
Walker, LA
Senior Hour – 7:00 am – 8:00 am
Oak Point Fresh Market
35045 Louisiana Highway 16
Denham Springs, LA
Senior Hour – 7:00 am – 8:00 am
Carters Livingston
29700 Frost Road
Livingston, LA
Senior Hour – 7:00 am – 8:00 am
LOCAL RESTAURATEURS AND LOCAL OPERATORS CREATE #BETTERTOGETHERBR TO SPREAD THE LOVE TO THE RESTAURANT INDUSTRY
Emelie Alton of Bistro Byronz and Stephen Hightower of City Pork Hospitality Group have organized this coalition to incentivize the BR community to support the BR restaurant industry during this time. Participating local restaurants have joined forces to support each other during this challenging time and are committed to continuing to safely serve our community with smiles via pick-up and delivery.
“We realized quickly that we were all facing the same issues and hoping for the same outcome of keeping local restaurants alive. We decided that if we all work together in our efforts to encourage the community to dine with us through pickup and delivery we would be more successful” says Emelie Alton.
This method of dining might be the new normal and this coalition will help local establishments sustain this time.
“We are working hard to be able to maintain employment for as many individuals as we can during these uncertain times. If this is successful we may even be able to bring back more employees” says Stephen Hightower.
Individuals picking up from these participating restaurants simply save their receipts and they will receive a $50 gift card once they have ordered from 10 different places. They will get $100 gift card if they order from all restaurants.
Receipts should be kept and once ready can be scanned and emailed to [email protected].
Diners can share photos of each meal online with #BetterTogetherBR and tag each restaurant they enjoy to encourage others to participate.
For additional information please contact:
Stephen Hightower
225-266-6410
Emelie Kantrow Alton
225-747-0394
A MESSAGE FROM DUDLEY DEBOSIER INJURY LAWYERS
The COVID-19 virus has presented all of us with some major challenges. It has completely disrupted everyone’s lives and just about every industry. In these uncertain times, it is important for us to focus on our core values:
• We are going to take care of our team.
• We are going to take care of our clients.
• We are going to be great at what we do.
• We are going to give back.
During this time of uncertainty, there will be no disruption in legal services from Dudley DeBosier.
Our office is fully prepared to continue to provide the same level of client service and legal representation that our clients have come to expect from our firm. We will continue to work hard on their cases while we take the necessary precautions to protect our employees and our clients from exposure to this virus.
Although we are limiting person-to-person contact, our office will be open during normal work hours. If anyone has questions regarding their case, they can still contact their attorney or legal assistant by phone or email. They can also get information by calling 225-444-4444 or emailing us at [email protected]
Baton Rouge, please be safe and do not hesitate to let us know if there is something we can do for you to assist during this challenging time!
BREC IS HERE FOR YOU: PLAY & GROW PROS REFRESH
During this difficult time for East Baton Rouge parish, BREC is here for you! Refresh your mind online and outdoors with our Play & Grow Pros Refresh. You can visit brec.org/refresh to see all of the virtual videos available online. We will be adding videos daily. Check out virtual versions of some of your favorite BREC activities and adventures. See which of the parks are still open and safe to visit as well as some ideas for you and your family to do that will revive and refresh your mind in a positive and safe way. Play, discover and grow safely with BREC today!
Visiting Parks
Looking to get out of the house? Visit a neighborhood or community park today to enjoy the many health benefits of being outdoor. Find a full list of parks at the link below:
http://www.brec.org/index.cfm/page/ParksA-Z
For information about any closures, cancellations and suspensions, please visit BREC.ORG/COVID19.
A MESSAGE FROM THE GREATER BATON ROUGE FOOD BANK
As impact from the COVID-19 virus continues to take its toll on our community, we remain focused on our mission to serve the hungry while taking extra steps to ensure that we continue to serve those in need in the safest possible manner. We know with your support we can succeed.
Make no mistake – this virus will take a toll on the people we serve. Children with limited, if any, access to the free and reduced cost meals they count on, seniors who are already dealing with health issues and are hesitant to attempt to get groceries, and struggling families facing reduced income, and newly unemployed service industry workers all are facing new challenges. In addition, people with little or no food access under two-week quarantines need help to maintain their quarantine. Many who may not have needed our assistance before are being thrust into the situation of needing our services for the first time.
How can you help?
1. DONATE: $1 could help provide up to 3 meals. The impact of this pandemic is going to be felt by so many of our neighbors – especially our seniors, children, and low-income families. CLICK HERE to make a secure online monetary donation to help support our continued response to this emergency. Call 225-359-9940 to make your gift over the phone.
2. VOLUNTEER: We need volunteers to continue our regular food distribution, as well as any potential increased demand for emergency food. We are committed to the well-being of our volunteers, staff and clients. We are currently only accepting volunteers aged 16 and above. We ask that you please consider staying home if you are high risk. Based on the advice of health officials, we are asking that individuals that have been in Orleans or Jefferson Parish in the past few weeks or attended Mardi Gras not volunteer to protect your fellow volunteers and our staff. If you are healthy and willing to volunteer, please CLICK HERE to sign up via our website or call 225-359-9940.
3. TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF: The safety and well-being of our clients, supporters, partners, volunteers and staff is our top priority. Please continue to follow the guidance of public health officials. Please CLICK HERE to visit the CDC.gov website for more information.
At the Food Bank, we are taking extra precautions, including increased cleaning and sanitizing of our facility. We are following the guidance of the CDC, local and state health agencies and have implemented new operational procedures for volunteer sorting and packing to ensure additional screening of volunteers, safe distances between volunteers while packing boxes for those in need, and limiting the number of volunteers signing up per shift.
To stay updated on how the Food Bank is handling the COVID-19 (Coronavirus), please CLICK HERE to view our most recent blog post.
EBRCOA’s RESPONSE TO COVID-19
The mission of the East Baton Rouge Council on Aging is Supporting Independence ~ Serving Seniors! We take that mission to heart! The seniors of this parish are our first priority. During this COVID-19 pandemic, our focus has been to continue providing much needed services to our seniors, while also minimizing the transmission of the virus to this high-risk population.
The shelves of the grocery store may be bare, but food should not be a worry for the elderly! To minimize that concern, EBRCOA is providing the seniors of the East Baton Rouge Parish with a two week supply of home delivered meals. In addition to the 14 meals, recipients will also receive a bread, fruit and snacks. This week we will deliver 1,970 Meals on Wheels to senior participants and 1,265 to senior center participants. In total, the EBRCOA will deliver 45,290 meals across East Baton Rouge Parish.
If you have any questions, the EBRCOA is available. You can call 225-923-8000 or email us at [email protected]. Also follow us on all social media platforms for updates.
How to stay safe from the coronavirus (COVID-19)
1. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Stay away from crowded places and close contact with people who are unwell or showing possible symptoms of the virus.
2. Clean and disinfect frequently used surfaces and objects. Risk of infection is dependent on exposure; so, ensuring that the areas around you are clean and sanitized will help in preventing the virus.
3. Always observe good personal hygiene. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol, if soap and water are not available.
4. Cover your mouth when coughing. Wear a mask if you have symptoms, such as a cough or shortness of breath. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
5. Stay home when you are sick. Seek medical attention promptly if you are feeling unwell or having symptoms (fever, coughing or difficulty in breathing). Provided by the Department of Health & Human Services. For more information: www.cdc.gov/COVID19
A MESSAGE TO 225 FROM THE EAST BATON ROUGE PARISH LIBRARY
As of Monday, March 16th, all 14 East Baton Rouge Parish Library locations will observe modified hours due to public health concerns:
Monday through Saturday: Open 10 am until 12:30 pm
Closed 12:30 – 2:30 pm for cleaning
Reopen 2:30 until 6 pm
Sunday: Open 3 until 6 pm
These hours will allow staff to perform a substantial cleaning at more frequent intervals.
Below are services and resources provided by the East Baton Rouge Parish Library during this time.
Telephone assistance to help with renewals, holds, reference and information requests, and technical support with accessing the Digital Library will be available at normal service hours at each location. Library Information Service is available at 225-231-3750. Hours and locations are listed on the website.
Drive-through Pickup/Drop Off windows are available during normal service hours at the Main Library on Goodwood, 7711 Goodwood Blvd. as well as at the Fairwood Branch Library, 12910 Old Hammond Highway. Drop-off boxes at all branches are still available.
The Library offers thousands of online resources available in its Digital Library for patrons who wish to maintain social distancing during this time. E-books, e-magazines, e-audiobooks, streaming media including music, films, documentaries, and concerts are freely available to any patron with a current East Baton Rouge Parish Library card. www.ebrpl.com/digital.html.
Special resources designed for young children include: Miss Humblebee’s Academy; Pebble Go; Sesame Street E-books; Early World of Learning; Scholastic Watch and Learn.
Additionally; Children’s Services staff maintains a curated list of suggested sites on their home page: www.ebrpl.com/Kids/index.html including Fun Stuff for Kids, Preschool Resources, Museums with “digital” tours, Parenting info, and of course, homework help.
Library staff have also created and posted more than 40 Bedtime Storytime videos on their Facebook Page, accessible from the Library Kids Page or via www.facebook.com/EBRPLKids.
Fun Resources geared to elementary students include: Tumble Books; Tumble Book Cloud Jr; Tumble Math; Pebble Go Next; Abdo Zoom; Scholastic Flix Collection: ScienceFlix; TrueFlix; BookFlix; and FreedomFlix; Muzzy Language Learning; OverDrive eReading Room.
Resources geared especially to teens include: TeenBookCloud; OverDrive; Kanopy
Homework Help for all ages:
• Homework Louisiana offers free online tutoring for ages K-college, from 2pm till midnight daily.
• Learning Express offers coursework assistance and practice tests on demand.
• Gale Interactive Science offers interactive experiences designed for students.
• Gale
• EBSCO
• Credo Reference
• Access Science
• World Book Online
Many Library programs, public meetings and events been canceled. The Library’s online calendar will be updated frequently to indicate any new cancellations.
Tools and resources on the coronavirus (COVID-19) can be found on the Infoguide at ebrpl.libguides.com/coronavirus.
MESSAGE FROM SUPERINTENDENT WARREN DRAKE
EBRPSS Families and Colleagues,
We appreciate your patience and support while the district works to implement adaptations to child nutrition, enrichment resources, and traditional business operations during this uncertain time. Our commitment to educate and protect students has not wavered.
We know that there are still many questions that need to be addressed. We are working with local partners and exploring all available options to ensure the greatest amount of needs can be met. In the coming days and weeks this situation is going to evolve. Please know that all information we release could be subject to change based on the evolution of the coronavirus (COVID-19).
Student Information:
Governor John Bel Edwards signed a proclamation that among other actions, closed schools effective March 16, 2020, to help slow the spread of COVID-19. The mandated closure asks for schools to reopen on April 13, 2020. That date coincides with our previously scheduled spring break. We are still evaluating options on whether or not spring break dates will need to be changed. We will have an update on this by the end of the week. Governor Edwards advocated for schools to continue to support students during this time and we are stepping up to meet that call to action.
Educational Resources:
• Although our district will not provide distance learning, we will provide online links to optional enrichment and educational resources for parents. These resources will span core content areas – ELA, Math, Science and Social Studies for students PreK-12th Activities will be made available on our website by Wednesday, March 18.
• Some of our schools may have already issued resources on Friday, March 13. Those items are also optional and students will not receive a grade.
• Individual schools will be working with their teams to address options for Dual Enrollment courses based on guidance received from our local colleges and universities.
Medication:
• EBRPSS is working with Health Centers in Schools to finalize a distribution schedule for parents/guardians/emergency contacts to retrieve student medication if needed. All details will be communicated on the district Facebook page and on our website Tuesday, March 17th.
Student Meal Pick-Up Locations:
• To view our Child Nutrition meal pick-up locations please see our press release. Additional locations can be accessed.
Employee Information:
• All 12-month employees not assigned to a school building are to begin working remotely and implementing rotation schedules for required on-site work functions. Please contact your direct supervisor for more information.
• Beginning Tuesday, March 17, school sites should be staffed by one 12-month employee to receive mail and deliveries, and preapproved contractors and vendors. (Feeding sites may also accept donations of new, packaged to-go boxes and unused plastic bags.
• All school sites and the central office building should be staffed from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Who to Call:
If you have any additional questions or concerns about the Coronavirus, please contact the following:
COVID-19 General Information hotline:
• 1-855-523-2652
• 211
• If you have an EBRPSS related question, please contact us through email – [email protected].
• ICARE will provide support to parents and employees through this difficult time. We will be able to address concerns at [email protected]. We will reply within 24 hours with resources for support.
We promise to share new information and updates with you through our dedicated web page, https://ebrschools.org/news/health-update-coronavirus/ and on social media.
Sincerely,
Warren Drake
A STATEMENT FROM THE LOUISIANA HOSPITAL ASSOCIATION TO 225
“The healthcare workers at Louisiana’s hospitals and health systems stand on the frontlines ready to provide care to those who need it 24/7. Our communities rely on us to be there during emergencies, and we’re constantly innovating to protect their health and safety.
It’s important to remember that everyone plays a role in limiting the impact of COVID-19. To save lives, we thank Louisiana residents for exercising precautions and following the guidance of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the State of Louisiana. Individuals can find the most up-to-date information on COVID-19 prevention, testing and treatment at: www.ldh.la.gov/coronavirus/ and http://la211help.org/.”