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Best and Worst Halloween Candy Options for Children’s Teeth

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All kids (and some parents) want to load up on all the Halloween candy they can get. Why even have the “Trick” in “Trick or Treat”?! Right?

As a pediatric dentist, I obviously don’t want your kids to eat too many sweets. Although I love seeing their smiling faces, I don’t want to find new cavities or an unglued crown that came out when they were eating a Laffy Taffy! Moderation is key here.  I would say don’t deprive your kids of candy. After all, that’s what Halloween is all about! But my advice is to go through all the candy together with your kids and choose 2-3 pieces they can have that day. Then stash the rest away out of sight.

Best and Worst Halloween Candy

Best and Worst Halloween Candy Options for Children’s Teeth

The best types of candy for your child’s teeth are dark chocolates or sugar-free hard candies. Dark chocolates have antioxidants and are crunchy and dissolve quickly in the mouth. This means your child’s teeth will be exposed to sugar for less time.

Types of candy to avoid are hard candies that remain in the mouth for longer periods of time (i.e. lollipops) because these expose your child’s teeth to sugar over longer periods of time and have an increased chance of causing tooth decay. Similar to hard candy, caramels and gummies will stay in the mouth longer and also tend to stick to our teeth’s biting surface, creating a perfect environment for cavities to form. Sour candies have increased acidity and can cause tooth enamel to break down more quickly.

Healthy Halloween Treats

Another great idea is to give kids fun, but healthy (SHH!) Halloween treats.  I love Pinterest for ideas and found a great site with Halloween snacks for kids. Check it out here: http://www.cleanandscentsible.com/2013/09/heathy-halloween-food-ideas.html

Halloween doesn’t have to be a dentist’s nightmare. As long as candy is eaten in moderation and you supplement that candy with some fun, healthier alternatives, your kids can enjoy Halloween and still have a healthy smile!

For more information on children’s oral health or if you have any questions, please visit www.ascensionsmiles.com or call us at (225) 402-4118.

2020 TRICK-OR-TREAT HOURS | Halloween Events

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Kids of all ages can’t wait to go trick-or-treating on Halloween and we finally have your 2020 TRICK-OR-TREAT HOURS and guidelines plus Halloween events happening in Baton Rouge and beyond! Because 2020 feels like a long episode of The Twilight Zone, many have been wondering what trick-or-treating will look like this year. Traditional Halloween activities are fun, but some can increase the risk of getting or spreading COVID-19. 

“East Baton Rouge Parish is on the right path to slowing the spread of the coronavirus, and we must work together to ensure we continue on this path,” said Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome in a statement. 

Make trick-or-treating safer

  • Avoid direct contact with trick-or-treaters.
  • Give out treats outdoors, if possible.
  • Set up a station with individually bagged treats for kids to take.
  • Wash hands before handling treats.
  • Wear a mask.

While every effort has been made to ensure this information is accurate, we encourage you to verify that all details are correct and have not changed. If you have information on a Trunk-or-Treat that we missed, please let us know!

2020 TRICK-OR-TREAT HOURS – Baton Rouge and Beyond

2020 TRICK-OR-TREAT HOURS

All businesses and events hosted in EBR Parish for Halloween are required to follow Phase 3 guidelines that are currently in place:

  • General businesses are limited to 75% occupancy, with social distancing required
  • Social gatherings are limited to 50% capacity with a max of 250 people, with social distancing required
  • Outdoor crowd sizes are limited to 50% capacity of the outdoor space with up to 250 people, with social distancing required

Trick-or-treat hours in the city limits of Baton Rouge and unincorporated areas of East Baton Rouge are set for 6 – 8 p.m. on Saturday, October 31. Those who are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 or who have been exposed to someone who tested positive should not participate in any Halloween activities and should call their doctor.

{2020 TRICK-OR-TREAT HOURS SUBJECT TO CHANGE}

2020 TRICK-OR-TREAT HOURS What time is trick or treating in East Baton Rouge Parish — 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Oct. 31
2020 TRICK-OR-TREAT HOURS What time is trick or treating in West Baton Rouge Parish — 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Oct. 31
2020 TRICK-OR-TREAT HOURS What time is trick or treating in Ascension Parish? — TBA 
2020 TRICK-OR-TREAT HOURS What time is trick or treating in Livingston Parish — 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.  Oct. 31
Halloween events near me What time is trick or treating in Pointe Coupee Parish — 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Oct. 31
Unincorporated areas throughout Pointe Coupee Parish will allow trick-or-treating from 5:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. Oct. 31

The City of New Roads and Village of Morganza set trick-or-treat hours from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. Oct. 31

Trunk or Treats and Halloween Events

Trunk or Treats and Halloween events will be listed as they become available.

Boo at the Zoo

WHEN: 
Saturday, October 17, 2020
Sunday, October 18, 2020
Saturday, October 24, 2020
Sunday, October 25, 2020

WHERE: Baton Rouge Zoo

Calling all ghosts, goblins, little ghouls, and boys…  on October 17th, 18th, 24th, and 25th, BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo is thrilled to be able to host their most popular family event of the year – Boo at the Zoo! This year’s event will be a little bit different than in the past. For safety purposes, pre-prepared treat bags will be available for children to pick-up upon exiting the Zoo. They are still encouraging creative & fun costumes for all guests to create a merry-not-scary experience!

Halloween events near me

 

Haunted Hootenannies

Visit Blue Bonnet swamp in-person or online for two exciting weekends of Haunted Hootenannies! Visit on Saturdays for some wicked daytime fun like exploring the Animal Morgue and the wonderful Wall of Weird display or during the extended evening hours for a walk through the trail when all the nocturnal creatures are just coming out to play.

On Fridays, join via Zoom for exciting animal presentations led by nature experts like Dr. Nathan Lord from the Louisiana State Arthropod Museum talking about creepy crawlies and Leslie Lattimore from Wings of Hope Wildlife Rehabilitation with owls and other birds of prey!

They’ll also be giving away treat bags throughout the entire month of October! Although things might look a little differently than our usual Halloween events, we hope to see you all for some spooky but safe fun this Halloween!
Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center
Oct. 16 + 17 + 23 + 24

Jack-Eaux-Lanterns

Bring the whole family and join BREC for a special pumpkin carving and painting event. Registration Fee includes pumpkin
Zachary Community Park
Oct. 28
5-7 p.m.

Pumpkin Paddle Parade

Get into the Halloween spirit at the Pumpkin Paddle Parade, an exciting competition of “float” decorating! You design and decorate a canoe, kayak or paddleboard in Halloween décor, and then parade in front of our judges for the chance to win fabulous prizes!
Milford Wampold Memorial Park
Oct. 29
5:30-7:30 p.m.

Full Moon Fete: Movie in the Park

Get your costumes ready! Come out and enjoy a day filled with family-friendly entertainment as BREC hosts Full Moon Fete – Movie in the Park. This all-day event will feature 5 popular Halloween themed movies the entire family will enjoy.

This event includes a DRIVE THRU TRICK OR TREAT TRAIL (one hour prior to the start of the movie), CHARACTER VISITS, FOOD VENDORS, MUSIC, GIVE-A-WAYS, a COSTUME CONTEST and MORE!

Drive-in slots (limited) or walk-up.
This event is free and open to all ages.
MOVIES & SHOWTIMES
– Hotel Transylvania (PG) (2012) / 10 a.m.
– The Addams Family (PG) (2019) / 1 p.m.
– Goosebumps (PG) (2015) / 3:15 p.m.
– Ghostbusters (PG) (1984) / 5:30 p.m.
– Dracula (NR) (1931) / 7:45 p.m.
Trick or Treat Trail
9-9:45 a.m.
noon-12:45 p.m.
Please be prepared to observe social distancing regulations for the safety and security of all patrons.
Airline Highway Park
Oct. 31
10 a.m.-9 p.m.

Family-Friendly Halloween Drive-In Movies – Lamar Dixon Expo Center

2020 TRICK-OR-TREAT HOURS

Lamar-Dixon Expo Center has taken the cinematic experience to an entirely new level. From childhood nostalgia and classic films to recent releases, Live stream tailgating events, live music, and much more. 

Movies on the Mississippi will have classic snacks & drinks at concessions: popcorn, soft drinks, bottled water, snack packs, candy plus food trucks. They respectfully ask that you do not bring in any outside food or drinks in order to help support local Food Trucks and vendors that have been greatly affected by events being canceled due to COVID. 

APSO presents “Boo and the Badge” Trunk-or-treat style due to COVID-19 – Donaldsonville 

The Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office will have two trunk-or-treat events on Halloween night that will take place at the Gonzales Courthouse parking lot in Gonzales and the Hickley M. Waguespack Center in Donaldsonville. Both events will be a drive-thru style due to covid-19.

This event is free to the public and will begin at 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. in both locations.

Deputies will hand out candy during the event, alongside other community partner vendors.

In addition to the fun, attendees will be able to view some of the department’s vehicles, and other sheriff’s office equipment from their vehicles.

First United Methodist Church of Gonzales Trunk-or-Treat

WHEN: OCTOBER 25, 2020 AT 4 PM CDT – 6 PM CDT
WHERE: First United Methodist Church of Gonzales 224 W Constitution St, Gonzales, Louisiana 70737

An evening of fellowship and ‘trunk or treating’!  October 25th from 4-6 for annual trunk or treat. We will be spreading things out more and trying to maintain safe social distances. Waivers will be required before families can enter. 

Trunk or Treat

 
Family and Youth Service Center Trunk or Treat
October 29th, come decorate your cars to pass out candy or bring your kids in family-friendly costumes for trick or treating. For admission, we are asking for $1 donations or a canned good to go towards a Thanksgiving fundraiser. Food and drinks will also be provided. Can’t wait to see you there!
WHEN: THURSDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2020 AT 6 PM CDT
WHERE: 1120 Government St, Baton Rouge, LA 70802

 

 

Enjoy this Halloween with your family and friends, Baton Rouge! 

Visit our Family Friendly Baton Rouge Fall Events for a full list of fall fun in Baton Rouge and beyond. 

Kids Eat Free Halloween Edition – Baton Rouge & Beyond

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Trick-or-treaters can get a lot more than free candy this Halloween. A Halloween costume is also the ticket to a smorgasbord of free and cheap meal deals and goodies for kids of all ages at many locations in Baton Rouge and beyond! Plus, who has time to cook dinner on Halloween night? Below you’ll find our list of Kids Eat Free or discounted offers as well as deals on Halloween in Baton Rouge.  

As always, we do recommend calling to confirm before you head out to the restaurant of your choice.

Kids Eat Free on Halloween

Kids Eat Free Halloween Edition

Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill 

Applebee’s is offering a Kids Eat Free special on Halloween. Families who dine-in at their local Applebee’s restaurant Oct. 31 will receive two free kids’ meals with the purchase of each adult entrée. The offer is good for children 12 and younger. They can choose entrees off of the Applebee’s Kids’ Menu, including a side dish, and juice, milk or chocolate milk. Check with your closest location.

Chipotle

From 3 p.m. to close Halloween, it’s Boorito time. Go to any participating Chipotle in costume and get a burrito, bowl, salad or order of tacos for $4.  Visit www.chipotle.com to find a location near you.

International House of Pancakes

Through Nov. 3 from 4 to 10 p.m. daily, kids 12 and under get a free kids meal entrée with each purchase of an adult entrée.  Visit http://www.ihop.com for a location near you.

Sonic 

Corn dog lovers can enjoy 50-cent dogs-on-a-stick all day on Halloween, Oct. 31. Visit www.sonic.com to find a location near you.

Whole Foods Market

Through Nov. 5, Prime members get 50% off all frozen pizzas.

Chuck E. Cheese

Chuck E. Cheese is celebrating Halloween with a number os specials all month long. Learn more here. 

Main Event Entertainment

 Trick-or-treating throughout the center and a FREE $10 video gameplay for each guest dressed in costume.

 

Kids Eat Free in Baton Rouge at These Locations on Thursday 

We always recommend calling the location to confirm!! 

Piccadilly

Children 12 and under eat for $1.99 11am to 4pm

View our full Kids Eat Free in Baton Rouge guide here!

Mrs. Heather’s Pumpkin Patch 2020 – What to Expect

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This past Sunday we visited Mrs. Heather’s Pumpkin Patch with our 18-month-old daughter and family friends. The weather was perfect and it was a great way to kick off the Fall. Some of you, like me, may have seen tons of families pick strawberries on this farm back in the spring and have been wanting to check it out! We put on some festive outfits and made the quick 50-minute drive to Hammond.

Mrs. Heather's Pumpkin Patch

I do want to preface this by saying during these COVID times, the crowds were much heavier than we expected (but then again, it was 60 degrees and not a cloud in the sky on a Louisiana Saturday). There wasn’t a mask mandate since the farm is acres upon acres but nonetheless, we tried to keep our distance as best as possible.

Entrance is free for adults and children are $8 which includes a pumpkin for each child to bring home. (TIP: Bring cash, $3 fee for using a credit card)

Mrs. Heather's Pumpkin Patch

The farm has almost every activity you can think of, and for an older child, I imagine you could spend hours there. There was a giant jumping pillow, many varieties of swings, hopscotch, a corn maze, tunnel slides, zip-lining, seesaws, face painting, and pumpkin painting. There were also TONS of picture opportunities like sitting on haystacks decorated for fall, cutouts throughout the property.

Mrs. Heather’s Pumpkin Patch Activities:

Pick a Pumpkin from the field
Zip line
Jumping Pillow
Tunnel Slide
Face Painting
Duck Racing
Pedal Tractors
Hay Maze
Milk a Cow
Roll Down the Hill
Catch Mrs. Heather telling how pumpkins grow
Merry go round
Play Horse Shoes
Weigh & Measure your pumpkin
Paint a pumpkin (weekend only)

Mrs. Heather's Pumpkin Patch

 

I have seen pictures and talked to some friends who visited Mrs. Heather’s Pumpkin Patch on a weekday and it was incomparable in crowd size. It looked like they had the farm to themselves! I think if we went back, I would plan for a weekday.   

In any pre-COVID times, we would have taken our daughter to do a lot of the age-appropriate activities, but we distanced ourselves from many of the crowded activities and did things like the corn maze, walking around the property, and, of course, playing with the pumpkins.

 

Mrs. Heather's Pumpkin Patch

Since our daughter is on the younger side and couldn’t do all of the activities, we stayed for about two hours which was plenty for her. If I had older children, I would suggest packing drinks, snacks, and even lunch. We saw some families having picnics on the property and it seems as though you are allowed to bring in ice chests, wagons, chairs, etc for a long afternoon of fun.

 
Mrs. Heather's Pumpkin Patch
 
I hope you enjoy our photos and the above tips from our afternoon at Mrs. Heather’s Pumpkin Patch!
 

Christy was born and raised in Mandeville, came to LSU to study PR, and after meeting her husband and finding a job she has stayed in Baton Rouge ever since! She’s a stay-at-home-working-mom to Lucy (1) who she loves watching grow and learn each day. In her free time, Christy, her husband Harold, and Lucy enjoy being outside, trying new restaurants, traveling, and finding any excuse to decorate the house, cook, and have friends over.  

 

2020 Pumpkin Patch

Visit the Baton Rouge Family Fun 2020 Baton Rouge Pumpkin Patch & Corn Maze Guide for a full list of fall fun in Baton Rouge and beyond. 

2020 Baton Rouge Pumpkin Patch & Corn Maze Guide

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While this year may look different, there is still much to look forward to… we get a taste of cooler days, pumpkins, cute costumes, and a few fun events. We have compiled our list of fun fall pumpkin patch & corn mazes! Don’t miss our favorite spots around the Red Stick to find your perfect pumpkin, create some fall family memories, and take a hayride or two. As with previous years, we have included events and activities taking place in Baton Rouge and beyond. 

While every effort has been made to ensure this information is accurate, we encourage you to contact the patch directly to verify that all details are correct and have not changed. If you have information on a Pumpkin Patch or corn maze that we missed, please let us know!

Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze Guide

AgCenter Botanic Gardens Corn Maze

Corn Maze at Burden

Corn Maze Saturday

The LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens Corn Maze is a family-friendly day of fall fun with numerous farm-related activities. Join the crazy mazy fun every Saturday in October with hayrides, zip lining, face painting, Bayou Goula’s Petting Zoo, pumpkin decorating, and more! Enjoy hamburgers, food from local vendors, and corn inspired snacks like corndogs and popcorn.

October 3, 10, 17, 24, and 31, 2020 | 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. 

Tickets for this year’s Corn Maze must be purchased in advance for scheduled 2- hour time experiences here at BonTemps Tix!

Ticket Times:
Morning: 10 a.m. – noon
Midday: 12:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Afternoon: 3 – 5 p.m. 

This year’s theme is “Harvest Some Happiness”.

The LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens Corn Maze is a family-friendly day of fall fun with numerous farm-related activities in a safe, socially distanced environment.
Enjoy some crazy, mazy family fun as you find your way through the maze. The fun continues every Saturday in October. Admission is $15 per person and, free for children 3 and younger. Corn Maze is Baton Rouge’s most aMAZEing event! Become a member! Family members receive 4 tickets to Corn Maze for free!

Due to COVID-19 and state mandate, masks must be worn in any area where social distancing is not possible. Children under the age of 8 are exempt. 

Activities will include:

  • Corn Maze
  • Sunflower Fields 
  • Pumpkin Patch 
  • Petting Farm 
  • Hayride
  • Satsuma picking
  • Hay Mountain
  • Rock Rascal Treasure Hunt 
  • Take home crafts
  • Picnic Area with local food vendors

Click here for full details! 

WHEN: October 3, 10, 17, 24, and 31, 2020 | 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. 
WHERE: Burden Museum & Gardens 4560 Essen Lane, Baton Rouge, LA 70809

baton rouge pumpkin patch

Jefferson United Methodist Church Pumpkin Patch

Family fun in a safe environment All proceeds support area Missions.

PATCH OPENS! WED 10/7

WEEKDAYS 11AM TO 6pm | SATURDAYS 9AM TO 6pm | SUNDAYS 12PM TO 6PM

The Pumpkin Patch is the largest mission project at JUMC. All net proceeds are distributed to local missions, plus help fund our youth mission trip. Last year they were able to donate thousands of dollars – all because of the volunteers willing to work the patch. Plus, with the Kick-Off event, new people can experience JUMC.

WHEN: Starts 10/7
WHERE: 10328 Jefferson Highway, Baton Rouge, LA 70809 

Ascension Parish

Baton Rouge Pumpkin Patch

NewSong Church Pumpkin Patch & Fall Festival

The NewSong Church pumpkin patch at the corner of Old Perkins and Bluff Road in Prairieville will be open starting Monday, October 5th through October 31st.  
Hours are 2pm – 6pm Monday – Friday, 10am – 6pm on Saturdays, and 12pm – 6pm on Sundays.

Baton Rouge Pumpkin Patch

 Pumpkins of all shapes and sizes, as well as various types of gourds from the Navajo Indians in Northern New Mexico will be available for purchase. 

NewSong will also host a FREE Fall Festival on Saturday, October 17th from 4pm – 6:30pm. 

Fall Fest

WHEN: October – Hours are 2 pm – 6 pm Monday – Friday, 10 am – 6 pm on Saturdays, and 12 pm – 6 pm on Sundays.
WHERE: 18465 Old Perkins Rd, Prairieville, LA 70769 Phone: 225-313-6736

Livingston Parish

Mrs. Heather's Pumpkin Patch

Mrs. Heather’s Pumpkin and Strawberry Patch

See our full review of Mrs. Heather’s Pumpkin Patch and what to expect in 2020. 

Pick a Pumpkin from the field – Activities include: zipline, Jumping Pillow, Tunnel Slide, Face Painting, Duck Racing, Pedal Tractors, See Cotton, Growing, Hay Maze Milk a Cow Roll Down the Hill Catch Mrs. Heather telling how pumpkins grow Merry go round Play Horse Shoes Nature Trail Lots of places to take pictures Weigh & Measure your pumpkin, Bring a Picnic Lunch, Paint a pumpkin (weekends only) 

WHEN: Sep. 26th through Nov. 8th – Daily 9:00am – 5:00pm
WHERE: 31458 La 43 Hwy, Albany, LA 70711. Phone: 225-567-3493
ADMISSION: Kids (newborn & up): $8 per child Adults: Free

Faith Crossing UMC Pumpkin Patch – Closed this year due to COVID. 

Closed this year due to COVID. 

 

East Feliciana Parish

Barn Hill Preserve Pumpkin Patch 

Barn Hill Preserve pumpkin patch

Barn Hill Preserve’s pumpkin patch will be going on every weekend in October! Guests will participate in fun Fall related activities and get to experience the beauty of the preserve. They will have activities ranging from animal shows, hayrides, and mini animal encounters to picking pumpkins out of the patch. 

WHEN: Starting the first week in October – Saturday’s & Sunday’s 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
WHERE: Barn Hill Preserve 11342 LA-955, Ethel, LA 70730 – 225-286-3003
ADMISSION: $15 per person at the door. 

Tangipahoa Parish

Liuzza Land Pumpkin Patch Corn Maze

Liuzza Land Pumpkin Patch  – Closed this year due to COVID. 

Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch – The maize if full of scarecrows, dead ends, and bridges to excite you as you make your way through! Each scarecrow holds a hole puncher of a different shape which you will use to punch your card to help guide you in the right direction.  Pick pumpkins right off the vine or choose a pre-picked one from our pumpkin patch. One pie pumpkin is included with every admission. Activities include: Pumpkin Tattoos & Painting, Tunnel Slides, Swings, Diggers & A Jumping Pillow, Goat Feeding, Pony Rides, Petting Zoo, Pioneer Playhouse, Horse Drawn Wagon Rides. 

WHEN: Closed this year due to COVID. 
Where: 56188 Holden Cir Amite, Louisiana 70422

St. Helena Parish

Cajun Country Corn

Cajun Country Corn has been farming food and fiber for over 30 years. They started their corn maze in 2000 and have been doing it ever since. In addition to the regular maze, they open up a portion of the maze on Friday and Saturday nights for haunting. Other spooky attractions include the haunted trail, board maze, and zombie paintball. You can also enjoy the pumpkin blaster, corn cannon, and other farm attractions while you are there. Pine Grove, LA – 7 Acres
Haunted Nights in October
TBA

Cajun Country Corn Maze

WHEN: ​Open OCTOBER 10th- NOVEMBER 29th | Friday 5pm – 9pm, Saturday 9am – 9pm, Sunday 11am – 6pm
WHERE: The corn maze is located in Pine Grove, LA on  Hwy 16. The maze is located 1 mile east  of 42360 (Napa Auto) in Pine Grove, and five miles west of 35999 (Bear Creek Western Store) in Montpelier, LA 
ADMISSION: Click here for full details on packages and pricing

Cajun Country Corn

Baton Rouge Family Fun will always bring you the best in Family Friendly events in Baton Rouge and beyond. This post will be updated as new events are listed, check back for more Baton Rouge Family Fun!

 

Visit our Family Friendly Baton Rouge Fall Events for a full list of fall fun in Baton Rouge and beyond. 

 

Spooky Sensation Schedule – Highland Road Park Observatory

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There’s a chill in the air—that can only be explained by science at Spooky Sensation – Highland Road Park Observatory. Come join us for a marshmallow roast with eerie true-life STEM stories, a scavenger hunt game to earn wicked prizes, physical science demos that will make you scream, and more.

Attendees can enjoy views of the Sun and all five outer planets: Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. Activities will include the Twilight Deepening, Magnitude Stepdown, Scope-on-a-Rope, and a brief discussion of the mysterious X-37B spaceplane. Other celestial targets include the Pleiades Star Cluster, the double star Albireo, the Job’s Coffin asterism, and the Andromeda Galaxy. 
 
‼️ Due to Phase 3 restrictions, there is a maximum of fifty patrons at one time on-site at HRPO. Because of this, patrons who have been on-site longer than thirty minutes may have their ticket numbers called and be asked to leave. Therefore, please choose your arrival time carefully based on the time spans of all the activities.
 
Spooky Sensation
 

WHAT: Spooky Sensation
WHEN: Saturday, October 3rd, 4:00pm – 10:00pm
WHERE: Highland Road Park Observatory

Spooky Sensation Activity Schedule:

Spooky Sensation 4:15-6:15 p.m. – “Superflare” The author of the most timely Louisiana novel in recent memory, Lisa Calhoun, will be on site to discuss the possibility of CMEs, EMPs and how families can survive and protect themselves in times of civil emergency or duress. [Cost $30.00 per copy]
 
Spooky Sensation 4:15-6:45 p.m. – Train Like an Astronaut = Seven challenging physical demands await those courageous and savvy enough to think they have what it takes to go into Earth orbit and beyond.
 
🐍 4:30-6:30 p.m. – Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center = The focus is on bugs! Dare you approach?
 
🚀 4:45 p.m. – Rocket Range Bid and Launch #1 = The first Quest Viper will be launched by and then given to the lucky top bidder.
 
🐅 4:45-6:45 p.m. – Baton Rouge Zoo = Well, our counterparts from BRZ are keeping secret which animals they are bringing.
 
⭐ 5-7 p.m. – Payload Bay (daytime cargo) = The new donation reward function at HRPO will yield a plethora of nice prizes and “orbital debris” for those who finish their task sheets first!
 
🚀 5:30 p.m. – Rocket Range Bid and Launch #2 = The second Quest Viper will be launched by and then given to the lucky top bidder.
 
👽 6:00 p.m. – Alienology Arrivals = The legendary 2010 spoof hardcover has “Professor Alan Grey” describe all the aliens known, explain how to spot them on Earth, etc.
 
🚀 6:15 p.m. – Rocket Range Bid and Launch #3 = The third Quest Viper will be launched by and then given to the lucky top bidder.
 
🌟 6:45 p.m. – Glow Stick Acquisitions = There are a limited supply, so grab your red glow stick while they’re here! [Cost $3.25 each]
 
🧪 7:00pm to 9:00pm – Physical Science Demonstrations = This weekend’s selections include the Asteroid Spinning Wheel, the Mirage, the Distance Doodler and a spectrum source!
 
⭐ 7:30- 9:30 p.m. – Payload Bay (nighttime cargo) = The new donation reward function at HRPO will yield a plethora of nice prizes and “orbital debris” for those who finish their task sheets first!
 
🎫 9:00 p.m. – Annual Raffle Drawing = Get your ticket anytime (or any day) before the drawing for your chance to win a telescope, a tabletop scope or a binocular! [Cost $5 per ticket; must be eighteen or older.

Spooky Sensation Event Viewing Schedule:

⭐ 7-10 p.m. – OBJECT: Jupiter
The largest planet has an extremely intense magnetic field and is currently being investigated by the Juno spacecraft. (4.9 astronomical units / magnitude -2.3)
 
⭐ 7:30-10 p.m. – OBJECT: Saturn
The ringed beauty will be seen. Try to spy the Cassini Division, the largest gap in the planet’s ring system. (9.7 astronomical units / magnitude 0.5)
 
⭐ 7:57-8 p.m. – EVENT: Visible Pass of an H-IIA Rocket Body
Part of a Japanese launch system, this piece of space junk should be visible under the correct conditions. Here’s to hoping we have them. (distance 534 kilometers / magnitude 1.7)
 
⭐ 8-8:15 p.m. – ACTIVITY: The Magnitude Scale
HRPO personnel will explain what the magnitude scale is, and then will ultilize the stars Vega, Fomalhaut, Polaris and Albireo to illustrate how dim stars get as one progresses down the ladder of the scale. (distances 25, 25, 431 and 385 light-years respectively / magnitudes 0.0, 1.1, 2.0 and 3.2 respectively)
 
⭐ 8-10 p.m. – EVENT: Ganymede Transits in Front of Jupiter
The largest moon in the Solar System must have known about this night’s celebration. It will give a memorable show by orbiting in front of its parent planet. (Ganymede magnitude 4.9)
 
⭐ 8:15-8:30 p.m – STORY: Great Square of Pegasus
As Pegasus the Winged Horse rises in the east, you’ll hear a story recounted about this majestic mythological creature. (distance of four corners 97 to 335 light-years / magnitudes of four corners 2.0 to 2.8)
 
⭐ 8:15-9 p.m. – OBJECT: The Andromeda Galaxy (Messier 31)
The closest spiral to our own Milky Way is rising high while twilight is ending. Sadly, the local light pollution only allows a view of the galaxy’s core. (distance 2 million light-years / magnitude 4.5)
 
⭐ 8:21-8:25 p.m. – EVENT: Visible Pass of the Lacrosse 4 Rocket
This Titan 4B sent up an American military satellite in August 2000.
(distance 571 kilometers / magnitude 1.3)
 
⭐ 8:30-9 p.m. – OBJECT: The Owl Cluster (Caldwell 13)
A perfect eerie addition to the night’s proceedings. Can you spot the two bright “eyes” of the cluster? (distance 7900? light-years / magnitude 6.4)
 
⭐ 8:40-8:46 p.m. – EVENT: Visible Pass of the Cosmos 2082 Rocket
The Cosmos series of satellites followed the USSR’s Sputniks. This rocket body has been orbiting for over three decades. (distance 844 kilometers / magnitude 2.0)
 
⭐ 8:45-9 p.m. – STORY: Job’s Coffin
The constellation Delphinus the Dolphin harbors the traditional tales of Greek wonder about the mammals of the sea—though the origin of the asterism’s creepy name is lost to the ages. (distances of four corners 98 to 241 light-years / magnitudes of four corners 3.6 to 4.4)
 
⭐ 8:45-9:15 p.m. – OBJECT: The Moth Cluster (Melotte 232)
If at this point you’ve had enough of creepy crawlies, try a flying creepy. This object will require a little patience to allow your eyes to adjust to the dim glow of the cluster. (distance ~2500 light-years / magnitude 6.3)
 
⭐ 8:45-10 p.m. – OBJECT: Mars
Mars is currently the closest it will be to the Earth for the next thirteen years. If the sky is steady and crisp, and your eyes sharp, you may see a polar cap and contrasting surface colors. (distance 62 million kilometers / magnitude -2.5)
 
⭐ 9-9:30 p.m. – OBJECT: Neptune
Although huge, Neptune is also very far away. It’s deep rich blue tone, however, is striking.
(distance 29 astronomical units / magnitude 7.8)
 
⭐ 9:15-10 p.m. – OBJECT: Waning Gibbous Moon
A variety of features await the viewer: rays of ejecta, the Bay of Rainbows and the Marsh of Sleep to name a few. (distance 404,000 kilometers / magnitude -12.5)
 
⭐ 9:45-10 p.m. – OBJECT: The Demon Star
 
The Spooky Sensation closes with the rising of evil. At least that’s what the Ancients thought. Algol was the first eclipsing binary discovered; a companion star periodically blocks some of its light. (magnitude ?? ; It can range from 2.1 to 3.4 ; What do you think it is?)
 
➞All viewing is weather permitting. Visible pass predictions are almost certain to have slight alterations come 3 October.
➞Remember: the lower the magnitude number, the brighter the object.
➞Binocular checkout from HRPO front desk will be available, but there are a limited number. We strongly encourage visitors to bring binoculars.
 
 
 

Two Ingredient Pumpkin Muffins, Cake or Cupcakes

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This two ingredient pumpkin muffin recipe is too good to be true! These pumpkin muffins are delicious plain or with a dollop of cream cheese icing. The muffins keep very well in an airtight Tupperware container; the perfect quick treat or snack for the kiddos too!

2 Ingredient Pumpkin Muffins

Two Ingredient Pumpkin Muffin Recipe

Mix these two ingredients in a large bowl with a wooden spatula or mixer until combined. The batter will be thick, mix until smooth and well mixed. The option for additions are endless… pecans, chocolate chips, heath bits, the possibilities are endless! They also go great with a simple cream cheese icing. 

2 Ingredient Mini Pumpkin Spice Muffins, Cupcakes or Cake
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Ingredients
  1. 1 (18.25 ounce) package spice cake mix
  2. 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin
Instructions
  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Generously grease mini cupcake baking tray. In a large bowl, mix together the spice cake mix and canned pumpkin until well blended. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of batter into each greased mini-muffin cup, lined cupcake cup or into cap pan. Bake for 12 minutes for mini muffins, 20 for cupcakes and 25 for cake in the preheated oven, or until a tooth pick inserted into the center comes out clean or they spring back. Cool and serve, or place in Tupperware container.
Baton Rouge Family Fun https://batonrougefamilyfun.com/

Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids in Baton Rouge – First Look

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Baton Rouge families with children have a new option for family-friendly haircuts thanks to the recent opening of Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids in Baton Rouge. This innovative, fun-filled kids salon located off Highland Road specifically caters to kids. 

All regular haircuts include a complimentary wash, fun chairs, lollipops, balloons, and of course, lots of fun. Sharkey’s even makes the first haircut’ a special occasion with a certificate and before/after photograph. Older kids and adults can play video games in the “Tween Lounge” or just relax and watch a movie. Feeling glamorous? Girls can get pampered in Sharkey’s Glamour Room. You can even come with your child for a Mom & Daughter or Dad & Son package, making the experience something for the whole family. 

Sharkey's Cuts for Kids

Want a special Salon Birthday Party for your child??? At Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids, the birthday girl and her friends will have an extra special “Glamour” Day in its special “Glamour Room” where your birthday girl and her friends will be treated like a star. Each girl will be pampered with a pretty hairstyle, make-up application, and mini-cure manicure. When they are all ready to go, they can choose from an array of beautiful dress-up clothes and put on a fashion show, complete with pictures to remember the day. 

Sharkey's Cuts for Kids

Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids $7 Off Coupon 

In celebration of their Grand Opening, they are offering ✂️ $7 OFF EVERY HAIRCUT through October 15th!
Get your voucher and book your appointment by clicking here 👉  http://bit.ly/SharkeysGO7OFF 

Every haircut comes with:

🎮  Xbox playing in gaming chairs
📽  Disney+ viewing in 🚓 character chairs
💅  Minicures
🎈🍭  Balloons and lollipops
🦈💍  Shark tattoos and glamour rings to go
AND so much more! 🎉

Sharkey's Cuts for Kids

Safety measures:

The staff is trained on enhanced disinfecting protocols to ensure absolute pristine cleanliness for your safety and theirs.

✂️  Haircuts will be by appointment only
🚙  Please call upon arrival and wait in your car
↔  We will open every other station
😷  Our stylists and staff will wear masks at all times
😷  We encourage everyone in the salon to wear a mask
💧 Station disinfection after every client
💳  Card is highly preferred but not mandatory

During this time, Sharkey’s has also adjusted for longer appointment slots to allow for these additional procedures to be completed.

WHERE:
18291 Highland Rd., Suite 106 Baton Rouge, LA 70810

HOURS:
Monday -Friday:
10:00 AM – 6:00 PM,
Saturday:
9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday:
12:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Visit Sharkey’s online to book your appointment and don’t forget to grab your $7 off coupon here!

Louisiana Storm Preparedness: Sandbags, Checklists & Resources

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Tropical storms Laura and Marco will likely make landfall in Louisiana as hurricanes within the next few days. Residents are urged to have an emergency plan in place. Having been through hurricanes Andrew, Katrina, Rita, Issac, and the Great Flood of 2016, natural disasters are something we have become accustomed to preparing for. For those unsure of where to start, our handy guide can walk you through your preparations – Baton Rouge Storm Preparedness resources can also be found below. we will update as more information becomes available. 

Baton Rouge Storm Preparedness Useful Links

Baton Rouge Sandbag locations:

Residents are urged to bring their own shovels to fill the sandbags.

EAST BATON ROUGE

  • BREC Airline Highway Fairgrounds – 16072 Airline Highway
  • BREC Alsen Park – 601 Old Rafe Mayer Road
  • BREC Cadillac Street – 6117 Cadillac Street
  • BREC Doyles Bayou Park – 7801 Port Hudson-Pride Road
  • BREC Flannery Road Park – 801 S Flannery Road
  • BREC Hartley-Vey at Gardere Park – 1702 Gardere Lane
  • BREC Lovett Road Park – 13443 Lovett Road
  • BREC Memorial Stadium – 1702 Foss Street

ASCENSION PARISH

More than 40,000 pre-filled sand bags are available in C-Cans at the following locations:

  • Prairieville Fire Department, 14517 LA-73, Prairieville
  • 5th Ward Fire Department, 39110 LA-22, Darrow
  • 7th District Fire Department Station 71,13432 Roddy Rd, Gonzales
  • Butch Gore Memorial Park, 14550 Harry Savoy Rd., St. Amant
  • Ascension Parish Fire Protection District No. 1, 13192 Airline Hwy., Gonzales
  • Stevens Park, 4323 Cannon Road, Gonzales
  • Donaldsonville – DPW West, 725 Church Street, Donaldsonville
  • Jackie Robinson Memorial Park, 35638 Coco Road, Geismar

Stay informed! For more information contact MOHSEP at (225) 389-2100, follow Red Stick Ready (@RedStickReady) on Facebook, Instagram, & Twitter, and download the Red Stick Ready mobile application – free on Apple and Android devices by searching “Red Stick Ready”. Residents are urged to bring their own shovels to fill the sandbags. Real-time information about the locations can also be found at: http://gis.brla.gov/emergency

School Closings: 

East Baton Rouge:
No virtual classes will be scheduled for Monday and Tuesday. EBR Schools ask that parents have students log-in to the classes and review work.

Diocese of Baton Rouge schools:
Closed until Monday, August 31.

Ascension Parish Public Schools:
Closed Monday and Tuesday

Central Community Schools:
Closed In-person and virtual, Monday and Tuesday.

Livingston Parish Schools:
Closed Monday and Tuesday

Zachary Schools:
Closed Monday and Tuesday

West Baton Rouge Schools:
Closed Monday and Tuesday

East Feliciana Parish Public Schools:
Closed Monday and Tuesday

Tangipahoa Parish Public Schools
Closed Monday August 24th

List of Flood-Prone Baton Rouge Streets

 Attempting to pass through the barricades once they have placed across the street is a traffic violation that will be enforced. Try to prepare for heavy rain, possible flooding, and power outages. Avoid driving if possible. Call (225) 389-2000 for non-emergency issues or 311 for high water, power outage, and downed trees in your area.

Baton Rouge Flooding

Louisiana Emergency Preparedness Guide

This Louisiana Emergency Preparedness Guide is an excellent, comprehensive resource! From identifying the most likely risks to providing sheltering information, evacuation routes, listing supplies to identifying special needs and more. This Guide should be YOUR Guide to personal planning and business planning.

Baton Rouge Storm Preparedness

Baton Rouge Storm Preparedness

Top 10 Emergency Preparedness Apps

  • Red Stick Ready (iOS) The East Baton Rouge Parish Mayor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness strives to provide critical information to the citizens of East Baton Rouge Parish to help them prepare for, respond to and recover from all emergency situations. The got to resource for Baton Rouge Storm Preparedness.
  • iMapWeather Radio (iOS) this is by far my favorite app but it does cost $9.99.  You will receive critical voice and text alerts on threatening weather events. Your iPhone will “wake up” and also “follow you” with alerts wherever you go. Listen to local weather forecasts while you are on the move. Enjoy the power of a NOAA Weather Radio, with all the convenience and precision of a smart phone. Winner of MediaPost’s Appy Award in the weather category.
  • Hurricane Tracker –(iOS) $2.99 offers detailed storm maps, National Hurricane Center info, threat level maps, audio/video forecast updates, real-time feeds and push alerts.
  • Hurricane — (iOS) FREE American Red Cross for both Android or iOS is a newer, totally free addition to Android’s growing hurricane-tracking stable, but it’s more than just a tracker — this app lets you “monitor conditions in your area or throughout the storm track, prepare your family and home, find help and let others know you are safe even if the power is out.
  • FEMA Install the FEMA App, available for Apple, Android, and Blackberry mobile devices.
  • StopDisaster-   $1.99 If you can’t stop the calamity, you can stop it from turning into a disaster if you are organized. The app provides a handy series of items you’ll need on hand for various emergencies – floods, earthquakes, high winds etc.
  • Phone Aid –  $1.99 CPR is one of the things not covered by most basic preparedness courses (it’s standalone training) this app offers a series of slideshows that will help jog your memory if you’ve done CPR training and, if not, provides some first aid measures to do while you wait for emergency services.
  • Disaster Alert – (Andriod) – Disaster Alert (by PDC) – Current global disaster info on an interactive map Disaster Alert (by PDC), Active Hazards on an interactive map and in a list as they are occurring around the globe.  Additional hazard information can be viewed and shared.

Preparation Before the Storm:

  • — Use hurricane shutters or board up windows and doors with 5/8 inch plywood.
  • — Bring outside items in if they could be picked up by the wind.
  • — Clear gutters of debris.
  • — Reinforce the garage door.
  • — Turn the refrigerator to its coldest setting in case power goes off. Use a cooler to keep from opening the doors on the freezer or refrigerator.
  • — Fill a bathtub with water.
  • — Get full tank of gas in one car.
  • — Go over the evacuation plan with the family, and learn alternate routes to safety.
  • — Learn the location of the nearest shelter or nearest pet-friendly shelter.
  • — Evacuate if ordered and stick to marked evacuation routes, if possible.
  • — Store important documents — passports, Social Security cards, birth certificates, deeds — in a watertight container.
  • — Have a current inventory of household property.
  • — Leave a note to say where you are going.
  • — Unplug small appliances and electronics before you leave.
  • — If possible, turn off the electricity, gas and water for residence.

Emergency Preparedness list:

  • — A three-day supply of water, one gallon per person per day.
  • — Three days of food, with suggested items including: canned meats, canned or dried fruits, canned vegetables, canned juice, peanut butter, jelly, salt-free crackers, energy/protein bars, trail mix/nuts, dry cereal, cookies or other comfort food.
  • — A can opener.
  • — Flashlight(s).
  • — A battery-powered radio, preferably a weather radio.
  • — Extra batteries.
  • — A first aid kit, including latex gloves; sterile dressings; soap/cleaning agent; antibiotic ointment; burn ointment; adhesive bandages in small, medium and large sizes; eye wash; a thermometer; aspirin/pain reliever; anti-diarrhea tablets; antacids; laxatives; small scissors; tweezers; petroleum jelly, having the best inversion table for back pain is also a plus and it will help a lot with any pain emergencies.
  • — A small fire extinguisher.
  • — A seven-day supply of medications.
  • — Vitamins.
  • — A multipurpose tool, with pliers and a screwdriver.
  • — Cell phones and chargers.
  • — Contact information for the family.
  • — A sleeping bag for each person.
  • — Extra cash.
  • — A silver foil emergency blanket.
  • — A map of the area.
  • — Baby supplies.
  • — Pet supplies.
  • — Wet wipes.
  • — A camera (to document storm damage).
  • — Insect repellent.
  • — Rain gear.
  • — Tools and supplies for securing your home.
  • — Plastic sheeting.
  • — Duct tape.
  • — Dust masks.
  • — An extra set of house keys.
  • — An extra set of car keys.
  • — An emergency ladder to evacuate the second floor.
  • — Household bleach.
  • — Paper cups, plates and paper towels.
  • — Activities for children.
  • — Charcoal and matches, if you have a portable grill. But only use it outside.

Recover

  • Wait until an area is declared safe before returning home.
  • Remember that recovering from a disaster is usually a gradual process.

Sources: Redstick Ready, American Red Cross, Federal Emergency Management Agency, National Hurricane Center – Baton Rouge Storm Preparedness

Baton Rouge Distance Learning Program – YMCA of the Capital Area

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As school resumes on a modified schedule, working parents are left wondering who will assist with their children’s schoolwork. The YMCA of the Capital Area is here to help! The Y will provide directed supervision, wi-fi, and space for children to complete their virtual learning via their Baton Rouge Distance Learning Program. Pre-registration is required.

Baton Rouge Distance Learning Program

Baton Rouge Distance Learning Program – YMCA of the Capital Area

Program Includes:

  • Access to wi-fi and a space for children to complete their virtual learning 
  • Distance learning will be followed by structured activities, games, and more. 
  • Supervision while completing virtual learning 
  • Pre-registration is required

Each student should bring a device, headphones, and appropriate school supplies. Please make sure your student knows how to log in to their school’s website and learning platforms and how to operate their devices and software.

Days: 
Monday – Friday from 7 am until 6 pm

Grades:
Pre-K through 8th grade

Locations: 
A. C. Lewis YMCA 
Americana YMCA 
C. B. Pennington Jr. YMCA 

FAQs

Cost:
Registration Fee  

Family Members              $0
Youth Members              $25
Program Members          $35

Weekly Fee: Distance Learning
Family Members              $75
Youth Members               $125   
Program Members           $150

Weekly Fee: Hybrid Learning (3 days a week, A. C. Lewis YMCA & C. B. Pennington Jr. YMCA only)
Family Members              $60 
Youth Members               $100   
Program Members           $120

To learn more and to register your child please visit YMCA OF THE CAPITAL AREA.