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Libraries offering computers for checkout

Libraries offering computers for checkout

Libraries aren't what they used to be. Now you can check out just about anything including a laptop computer.

Starting in July, patrons can check out a state-of-the-art Dell laptop computer at the East Baton Rouge Parish Goodwood library branch. The computer can be used for up to three days. The program is also available at other libraries throughout the state.

The program is funded by an $8.8 million grant from the State Library of Louisiana.  The state library has issued 640 computers throughout Louisiana with each parish receiving 10. Laptops will be available in every parish by the end of the year.

"This is going to help a lot of people," says Sarah Crawford with the East Baton Rouge Parish Library.  "We're really excited."

The laptops are Internet-ready so all you have to do is take them to a hotspot to access the internet. The laptops also include GPS software to track them in case of loss or theft.

To check out a computer, you must have a valid library card that was issued 90 days prior to checkout and be in good standing meaning you don't owe any fines.

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Baton Rouge Gallery for Contemporary Art hosts fundraiser

Baton Rouge Gallery for Contemporary Art hosts fundraiser

The Louisiana Center for Health Equity (LCHE) will host its first annual fundraising gala in Baton Rouge on October 15 at the Baton Rouge Gallery for Contemporary Art beginning at 7 p.m.

Guests will enjoy delectable victuals, a live band and silent auction. Proceeds generated from this event will support the organization’s activities to improve opportunities for better health outcomes in communities with Louisiana’s more vulnerable residents. The LHCE works to address the increasing disparities in health and health care across Louisiana. The LCHE represents the interest of health equity by promoting the elimination of health disparities caused by poverty, lack of access to quality health care and unhealthy environmental conditions with a focus on wellness and community health.

Many Louisiana residents are struggling financially and many are without health insurance. Health outcomes vary across the state due to numerous factors including diet and exercise, alcohol and tobacco use and risky behaviors. Access to quality health care and the environment also play a role.

Lexlee's Kids Reminds You to Check Your Back Seat!

Lexlee's Kids Reminds You to Check Your Back Seat!

When a child is left in a vehicle, or worse, dies, people are outraged!  “How could you forget your child in the car?”  That is the million-dollar question.  It seems to happen more, during the summer months and as families get busier.  49 children died in 2010 as a result of being left in a vehicle, and June 2011 marked the 500th child vehicular heat stroke death; this is not a milestone to be celebrated, but one to call caregivers to action!

Most people find it hard to understand, but it could happen to anyone.  The most dangerous mistake a parent or caregiver could make is to think it could never happen to them!  In more than 50% of the cases, the person responsible for the child’s death unknowingly left the child in the vehicle, and they were loving and protective parents.  It has happened to a teacher, pediatrician, dentist, postal clerk, social worker, police officer, nurse, clergyman, electrician, accountant, solider, assistant principle and even a rocket scientist!

Many factors play into why or how children are left in vehicles.Juggling multiple kids, working a full time job, taking care of the house, experiencing a change in routine, stress, fatigue or a baby sleeping peacefully in their car seat could lead to a child being forgotten in a vehicle.  “Memory is a machine and it is not flawless.  Our conscious mind prioritizes things by importance, but on a cellular level, our memory does not.  If you are capable of forgetting your cell phone, you are potentially capable of forgetting your child. (David Diamond, Professor of Molecular Physiology, University of South Florida). 

DOTD announces road closures

DOTD announces road closures

Southbound I-110 just north of the N. 22nd Street Overpass in Baton Rouge from Log Mile 2.31 to Log Mile 2.32. One lane may be closed from Monday night, June 27th to Thursday night, June 30th.  These closures will be allowed from 8:00 pm to 6:30 am the following day while crews work on median railing damage repair and related work. Only one lane will be closed at any time.

 This lane closure has no vehicle restrictions and no detour is necessary. This lane closure is subject to change depending on adverse weather conditions.

 DOTD appreciates your patience and reminds you to please drive with caution through the construction site and be on the lookout for work crews and their equipment.

 

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New Fire and EMS station opens in Baton Rouge

New Fire and EMS station opens in Baton Rouge

Baton Rouge officials are excited to open a new fire and EMS station Monday.

The new station is located on Florida Boulevard at South Acadian Thruway, which is right next to Baton Rouge General Medical Center-Mid City.

This new facility will take the place of two older stations that will now close.

The ribbon cutting happened at 10 a.m.

The new building is slightly less than 10,000 square feet and has four bays to house equipment and personnel for both the Baton Rouge Fire Department and Emergency Medical Services.

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Going on vacation?

Going on vacation?

It's summer and that means family vacations. Whether it's the whole family or just you and your spouse or you and some friends, 9News Neighborhoods wants to go along for the ride.

Please send us your vacation photos to 9NewsNeighborhoods@wafb.com.  Tell us your names, where you live, where you went on vacation, and any other details about your trip.

We look forward to sharing your travels! 

Send us your wedding and anniversary pictures

Send us your wedding and anniversary pictures

Love is in the air and 9News Neighborhoods would like to help you celebrate! Please send us your wedding and anniversary pictures and we'll post them on our site.

Tell us your names, date of wedding or anniversary, where you live, and any additional information about the big or the secret to your marriage.

Send photos to 9newsneighborhoods@wafb.com