abc-logo
Taking care of your Loved One Is What We Do BEST!

It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always

Please submit form to schedule a

Personal Care Consultation

Local Magic Personal Care Consultation

Please submit this form below and we will chat shortly!

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Home Care In Baton Rouge, LA

Home Care Baton Rouge, LA

They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.

However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Louisiana's Old State Capitol gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.

Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Baton Rouge, LA is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care Baton Rouge, LA

location Service Areas

The Always Best Care Difference

Since 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.

Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.

The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.

×
TESTIMONIALS

“Shonda and her team at ABC have been a true lifeline for our family. They have guided and supported us through the many challenges of providing care for our aging parent. From the beginning, the relief to have a trusted expert was phenomenal and a gift. Her compassionate and patient team helped us in so many crucial ways - Figuring out the right level of care, learning about the wonderful Oschner 65 program, and leading the assisted care facility evaluation process. We would’ve been completely overwhelmed without their capable and thoughtful guidance! If you are concerned and anxious about how to get the right care for your family member you should contact them.”

Will G.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I am a manager at a group home in Baton Rouge. Always Best Care has been providing additional homemaker services for one of my residents who is a veteran. Ebony has been his career giver for several months and she is fantastic! She takes such good care of my resident. We all look forward to Ebony coming to the home. Thank you Always Best Care.”

Tammy P.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“We are fairly new to Always Best Care, but couldn’t be happier with their services and most importantly “Our Joanna”!!!! She has been a great fit with our family, is very patient and helpful, and most importantly is LOVED dearly by our Boston Terrier Lucy. We are entering new phases with the care that is needed in our family, and I feel very safe and confident with Joanna and the Always Best Care team in our journey now and for what’s to come.”

Lyn T.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Update on my review from a year ago: My feelings have not changed- Always Best Care has been wonderful. The journey of taking care of my dementia mother can be hard at times but our lovely caregivers Sherri and Monica are such a blessing. My advice to someone starting on this journey is to give it some time, not all caregivers are the right fit for your family member but when you find the right one(s).. they make an amazing difference. We’ve been using Always Best Care for about 5 months and all the people that have come into our home to help with my mother have had great. Our newest person, Sherry, is exceptional. My mother actually said “I had fun today.” I cannot tell you how happy those words made me. Thank you ABC!”

Laura H.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care has provided us with a wonderful caring kind and dependable care taker. Chevon has become part of the family in a short time. She jumped right in ready to help in any way she could. Thank you to Always Best Care and Chevon.”

Karen E.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care is a great company for caregiving in our community. Their processes are transparent as they provide a website so you can view your account 24/7. Jasmine D. was assigned to my father. Jasmine was a great fit for our family. She was very attentive and compassionate. She went above and beyond in the performance of her responsibilities. She helped navigate the transition to Hospice and the shift in the care plan. I enthusiastically recommend Jasmine and the staff at ABC.”

Kimberly C.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Paula and her team are taking very good care of our family member.”

Sandy W.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Shonda Boudet and her team at Always Best Care of Baton Rouge have exceeded our expectations in every way. Their approach to caregiving is both compassionate and highly professional, making them stand out as the premier provider in the area.”

Grace R.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Shonda, I have had several people tell me how much better Aunt Susi is in the last few days. I came back last night and visited her today and it was like night and day compared to how she was. I am very impressed with the changes since you and your team came on board. Thank you!!!”

Tommy C.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care sitter Marilyn Beal is a blessing to the patients and families. She deserves to be commended on a job well done !”

Try O.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Mrs. Erica Thomas and Mrs. Kelly Williams have been great caretakers. They both go above and beyond their duties. Ms. Jessica, Ms. Claire and Ms. Salena all have visited my home and they all were very caring, very courteous and very professional. They all wanted me to have the best services possible. Ms. Rochelle and Ms. Jayde have been awesome as well. They are very courteous when I call the office with any questions or concerns. Thanks Always Best Care for everyone's continued support in giving me a better quality of life.”

Deangelo D.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care Senior Services is providing excellent care for my mother at home and we have been very pleased with this company's service. Kelly is one of the kindest and hard working care providers that we have ever had in our home and my mother is very pleased with her. This company trains their workers well and follows up on their performance to ensure that all of the client's needs are met. It is very obvious that this company really cares about their clients and truly providing the best care for them.”

Reu B.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care is a great company to work for. The administrative staff goes above and beyond to help our clients.”

Jessica
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care is a wonderful company to work for! I’ve had the opportunity to work in office with an amazing staff and out in the field with amazing clients! I’ve been a caregiver for Always best care for two years and I love this company! Looking forward to many more years with Always Best Care!”

Kelly W.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Roshare Sylvester Is the best over here!! She’s been here for years,so helpful always so sweet/understanding❤️she’s very respectful.‼️‼️”

nene N.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“The staff are simply amazing!! Roshare, and Jayde are one of a kind that does fantastic teamw ork. This company is very reputable, and I can't be more proud to have gotten to meet these wonderful people on a personal level. These people truly care about their clients, and employees. I can honestly say that if I ever had a company , I'd truly want people like this to be running it. They're truly amazing, kind, loving, and has lots of patience, and compassion. I'd give them 10 stars, but unfortunately, it's only a 5 star rating.”

Debbie B.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“My name is James and I'm a client of Best Care always best care. I have been inclined for a good while and since I've been a client I have received the best of care. My caregiver is Courtney and he is a blessing and has been a blessing to me. I am very satisfied with the service that he has rendered and I wouldn't trade him for nothing. I think Best Care for the courtesy and attention they have rendered to me and I'll continue to keep them in my prayers and for them to continue to render a good service to those of us who need it. I thank God for all of you and for Courtney keep up the good work God bless you.”

James H.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Our caregiver Chayne Waller is great with my husband. Thank you so much.”

shelia R.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“The team at Always Best Care provides quality care and took the time to ensure that my mother has a caregiver that best suits her needs. Ms. Linda is punctual, exhibits professionalism, and takes initiative to ensure my mother is well taken care of. She has unique and effective ideas that make Mama's life easier. I hear her and Mama laughing and talking and it makes my heart swell. Ms. Linda and Always Best Care are a blessing!”

Theresa G.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“HELLO…I AM NICHOLAS J TALBERT A DIS-ABLE VETERAN … THE CANCERS I HAVE BEEN GOING TO WAR WITH CAME EXTREMELY MORE MANAGEABLE ONCE I RECEIVED CARE FROM MZ FLETCHER I CANT BEGIN TO TEL ANYONE HOW BEST CARES TOP CAREGIVERS REALLY CARE …. THAT STATEMENT ALONE SPPEAKS VOLUMES …. THEY ACTUALLY DO ALL ALL ALL OF THERE DUTIES … LISTEN PROVIDE ASSISTANCE IN THE WAYS TO LET ONE KNOW ITS NOT JUST A JOB …. SOLDIERS IF ANY OF YOU ARE READY THIS …. BIG RED ONE ..(combat proven) 3RD HEARD FT RILEY KS. …. I SPEAK TRUTH MY CAREGIVERS FROM ALWAYS BEST CARE IS TOP NOTCH …. THE IMMEDIATE AND STAFF … THEY ACTUALLY RESPOND BACK IMMEDIATELY IM SIMPLY SAYING I DID NOT GO WRONG IN ALLOWING MZ FLETCHER AT ALWAYS BEST CARE UNDER MZ PAULA TO TAKE CARE OF THIS SOLDIER!!! BIG RED ONE SCOUTS OUT FA”

MANSA M.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care has worked very hard with our family to provide what was needed to keep my mom at my home. Our Case Manager Paula checks in with us routinely to make sure our needs are being met. She found a special Angel named Paula Batiste to help me on Tuesday & Thursday. My husband & I look forward to her smile when she enters the door. Mom loves her. She is hard working & patient. I am confident when I run errands that mom is well taken care of. I don’t know what we would do without her. She is a member of our family now. ❤️❤️❤️”

Rainette S.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I am a veteran of the Vietnam War and I have service’s with Always Best Care. My caregiver is Karli. She is very professional, kind, respectful and has sweet personality. She does an excellent job and takes great care of me. B. Berniard”

Paula M.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I have been with always best care for a couple of years now the office staff is doing amazing job keep up the good work you guys ????????????”

Shelita H.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I really enjoy working for Always, I have two great patients wouldn’t change them for no one, Staff r very friendly n knowledgeable.”

Elizabeth S.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“My attendance Ms. Karli has been a God sent to for me. I'm VERY SATISFIED with the service I receive. Ms. Karli Is a very CONSCIENCE PERSON. If you all have more employees as her I feel everyone would get this type of review. She ???? and know what to do with me not having to tell her. She would make a great supervisor for your company. Please give her a raise. Sincerely Your, Arthur J. Ford Sr.”

A J.

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Baton Rouge, LA?

lm-check

Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.

lm-check

When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.

lm-check

The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.

lm-check

At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.

 Senior Care Baton Rouge, LA

Types of Elderly Care in Baton Rouge, LA

To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:

Personal Care

Personal Care Services

If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.

Common personal care services include assistance with:

  • Eating
  • Mobility Issues
  • Incontinence
  • Bathing
  • Dressing
  • Grooming

Respite Care Baton Rouge, LA
Home Helper

Home Helper Services

Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.

Common home helper care services include assistance with:

  • Medication Reminders
  • Meal Preparation
  • Pet Care
  • Prescription Refills
  • Morning Wake-Up
  • Walking
  • Reading
 Caregivers Baton Rouge, LA
Companionship Services

Companionship Services

Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Goodwood Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.

Common companionship services include:

  • Grocery Shopping
  • Transportation to Appointments
  • Nutritional Assistance
  • Conversation
  • Planning Outings
  • Completing Errands
  • Transportation to Community
  • Events and Social Outings
Home Care Baton Rouge, LA
Respite Care

Respite Care Services

According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar or visit Magnolia Mound Plantation, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.

At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.

If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.

 In-Home Care Baton Rouge, LA

Benefits of Home Care in Baton Rouge, LA

Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:

Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.

Request More Information vector

Aging in Place: The Preferred Choice for Most Seniors

While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.

In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.

Here are just a few of the reasons why older men and women prefer to age at home:

How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?

A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.

With the help of elderly care in Baton Rouge, LA, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.

Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.

Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.

For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.

More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.

In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.

With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.

 Elderly Care Baton Rouge, LA

Affordable Care

In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.

Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.

At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.

In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:

If your loved one qualifies, Medicaid may help reduce in-home care costs. Review your LA's Medicaid program laws and benefits, and make sure your senior's financial and medical needs meet Medicaid eligibility requirements.
Attendance and aid benefits through military service can cover a portion of the costs associated with in-home care for veterans and their spouses.
Many senior care services like in-home care are included in long-term care insurance options. Research different long-term care solutions to find a plan that provides coverage for senior care.
Home care can be included as part of a senior's private insurance plan. Read over your loved one's insurance policy carefully or speak with their insurance provider to determine if in-home care is covered.
Depending on the life insurance plan, you may be able to apply your policy toward long-term care. You may be able to use long-term-care coverage to help pay for in-home elderly care.
 Senior Care Baton Rouge, LA

Compassionate Care. Trusted Caregivers.

When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.

Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.

At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Baton Rouge, LA understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.

Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.

Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.

Assisted Living Referral Services

While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.

Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.


Respite Care Baton Rouge, LA

At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.

Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Recreational Activities
  • Social Outings
  • Emergency Medical Response
  • Medication Monitoring
  • Family Visitation
  • Personal Care
 Caregivers Baton Rouge, LA

At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.

Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.

Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:

  • Sunrise of Baton Rouge
  • The Claiborne at Baton Rouge
  • Southside Gardens
  • Best Assisted Living Baton Rouge - Luxury Senior Living Baton Rouge & Senior Care Louisiana
  • Sunrise at Siegen
  • The Pearl at Jamestown
Home Care Baton Rouge, LA

For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.

 In-Home Care Baton Rouge, LA

Taking the First Step with Always Best Care

The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:

A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way

lm-right-arrow
01

A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive

lm-right-arrow
02

Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider

lm-right-arrow
03

Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.

If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.

At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Baton Rouge, LA 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.

When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.

 Elderly Care Baton Rouge, LA

Latest News in Baton Rouge, LA

I'm a sandwich aficionado. The best one I've ever had is at this Baton Rouge restaurant.

When you grow up a picky eater, the iconic sandwich becomes a lifeline — and an entry for exploring new food and expanding your palate in between two slices of bread.I'm Justin Mitchell, the new digital editor for The Advocate. I was born and raised on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, and I'm really excited to explore the Louisiana food scene.I was a very, very picky eater growing up. Plain cheeseburgers from McDonald's were a regular menu item — and don't forget cheese pizza and chicken tenders.But my favorite fo...

When you grow up a picky eater, the iconic sandwich becomes a lifeline — and an entry for exploring new food and expanding your palate in between two slices of bread.

I'm Justin Mitchell, the new digital editor for The Advocate. I was born and raised on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, and I'm really excited to explore the Louisiana food scene.

I was a very, very picky eater growing up. Plain cheeseburgers from McDonald's were a regular menu item — and don't forget cheese pizza and chicken tenders.

But my favorite food of all time as a child was any kind of sandwich: first grilled cheese, then bologna, and finally worked my way up to more fancy creations.

I really started experimenting with food when I was in college and my taste has changed for the better. I still won't eat mayonnaise or onions, but I'm willing to try most things now, especially if it's in po-boy form.

I typically get some kind of sandwich every time I go out to eat, and it was no exception last week when my co-worker, Emma Discher, and I went looking for lunch. We decided to eat at Mulberry Market, a specialty grocery store with a deli inside. It just opened in February of this year, owner Paul Gardner told me from behind the counter.

"It finally feels like I'm starting to get into the swing of things," he said. Emma and I decided to try Gardner's newest menu item, the Italian.

The hoagie came piled with salami, prosciutto, mortadella and ham, and had pesto and fresh mozzarella slices. It was complemented with fresh arugula, red peppers and balsamic reduction.

The sandwich was massive, and the thick bread helped soak in all of the flavors without getting soggy. I had every intention of saving half of the sammy for dinner, but before I knew it, I had eaten the whole thing.

Mulberry Market sells fine wines, charcuterie selections and other boutique grocery items. Gardner's most popular sellers are the breakfast bagels he flies in from New York.

I don't know much, but I know a good sandwich — and this new-ish Baton Rouge spot has the best one I've had in years, arguably ever. Where else should I eat in Baton Rouge? Email me at [email protected] and tell me your favorites.

Increased coyote sightings in Baton Rouge subdivision

BATON ROUGE, La. (WAFB) - Tracey and Patrick Kelleher live in a seemingly quiet neighborhood off South Harrells Ferry. Their four acres of land are perfect for their dogs Berlin and Winnie.“We love being in the middle of Baton Rouge with a lot of secludedness and woods around it, which certainly has a lot of benefits and also certain problems too,” said Patrick.But it hasn’t been quiet recently.“20 or 30. I mean it sounds like 100, but it’s probably only 20 or 30,” said Patrick....

BATON ROUGE, La. (WAFB) - Tracey and Patrick Kelleher live in a seemingly quiet neighborhood off South Harrells Ferry. Their four acres of land are perfect for their dogs Berlin and Winnie.

“We love being in the middle of Baton Rouge with a lot of secludedness and woods around it, which certainly has a lot of benefits and also certain problems too,” said Patrick.

But it hasn’t been quiet recently.

“20 or 30. I mean it sounds like 100, but it’s probably only 20 or 30,” said Patrick.

“The coyotes are coming out into our yards, and you know people are missing small dogs and cats,” said Tracey.

Scott Durham with the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries said the increase in activity could be caused by two things.

“The drought and just the constant development so you know you can bump out any wildlife species that were kind of taking refuge there,” said Durham.

He said they’ve had more reports of coyote sightings in Baton Rouge.

“Coyotes specifically are very adaptable to people. They don’t mind moving around and living among people, especially at nighttime,” said Durham.

This is something the Kellehers have witnessed firsthand on their ring doorbell cameras. In an effort to keep them from getting too close to their house or dogs, they put up two lights in their yard and a motion detected siren to scare them off.

“I love it here, but I feel like I want to move,” said Tracey. “I want to move somewhere where my dogs will be safe.”

LDWF advises to not leave any food in our yard and try to remove any areas that coyotes could use as shelter to limit your interactions. However, Durham reminds people it’s their home too.

“They’re wildlife and they were here too and they were probably here before us,” said Durham. “They’re just something we kind of need to learn to deal with and manage. ”Learning to manage is a challenge the Kellehers are trying to overcome.

“We kind of moved into their home and people have developed everywhere and now there’s not much room for them to go, but it’s hard to live symbiotically,” said Patrick.

If you’re having coyote or other wildlife issues in your neighborhood, Durham said LDWF has tips on their website and can come out and complete an area assessment.

They can also refer you to a nuisance wildlife control operator that can catch most species for a fee.

Click here to report a typo.

Copyright 2023 WAFB. All rights reserved.

Men’s Golf to Compete at NCAA Baton Rouge Regional

HOUSTON – For the fourth straight season, the University of Houston Men's Golf program will compete in the NCAA postseason after being selected on Wednesday to compete at the NCAA Baton Rouge Regional.The Cougars will compete as the No. 9 seed at University Club on May 13-15. Houston will face No. 1 seed Auburn, No. 2 Virginia, No. 3 Texas Tech, No. 4 Oregon, No. 5 Duke, No. 6 Ohio State, host and No. 7 LSU, No. 8 Louisville, No. 10 South Carolina, No. 11 Lipscomb, No. 12 Yale, No. 13 Loyola-Maryland and No. 14 ...

HOUSTON – For the fourth straight season, the University of Houston Men's Golf program will compete in the NCAA postseason after being selected on Wednesday to compete at the NCAA Baton Rouge Regional.

The Cougars will compete as the No. 9 seed at University Club on May 13-15. Houston will face No. 1 seed Auburn, No. 2 Virginia, No. 3 Texas Tech, No. 4 Oregon, No. 5 Duke, No. 6 Ohio State, host and No. 7 LSU, No. 8 Louisville, No. 10 South Carolina, No. 11 Lipscomb, No. 12 Yale, No. 13 Loyola-Maryland and No. 14 Arkansas-Pine Bluff.

Alex Goff (Kentucky), Max Sturdza (Florida Atlantic), Niilo Maki-Petaja (Louisiana Tech), Hugo Thyr (South Alabama) and Archie Smith (Little Rock) will compete as individuals.

This marks the 10th NCAA Regional in which the Cougars will compete under Director of Golf Jonathan Dismuke, who is in his 15th season at Houston.

NCAA Regional play will be held at six sites across the nation on May 13-15. Three regional sites will have 13 teams and 10 individuals each with the remaining three hosting 14 teams and five individuals each.

The top five teams and top individual not on a qualifying team at each NCAA Regional advance to the NCAA Championships set for Omni La Costa Resort & Spa in Carlsbad, Calif., on May 24-29.

Other NCAA Regional venues include The University of Texas Golf Club (Austin, Texas; hosted by Texas); UNC Finley Golf Course (Chapel Hill, N.C.; hosted by North Carolina); The Farms Golf Club (Rancho Santa Fe., Calif.; hosted by San Diego); Stanford Golf Course (Stanford, Calif., hosted by Stanford) and Birck Boilermaker Golf Complex (West Lafayette, Ind; hosted by Purdue).

Dismuke and the Cougars watched the show inside the Cougar Den on the first floor of the Athletics/Alumni Center.

ABOUT the COUGARS Under Dismuke's leadership in 2023-24, the Cougars have posted five Top-Five team finishes with fourth-place showings at the Argent Financial Classic (Sept. 10-12, 2023) and Big 12 Match Play Tournament (Oct. 9-11, 2023).

The Cougars enter the NCAA Baton Rouge Regional after tying for sixth at the Big 12 Championships at Whispering Pines Golf Club in Trinity, Texas, on April 22-24.

Senior Santiago De La Fuente posted four straight rounds of par or lower to tie for fourth and earn a place on the Big 12 All-Tournament Team at the three-day, 72-hole event while junior Wolfgang Glawe and super senior Austyn Reily joined him among the Top-20 leaders.

This season, De La Fuente leads the Cougars with a 69.95 scoring average, the second-lowest single-season mark in school history. The Guadalajara, Mexico native has earned four Top-10 finishes and competed at The Masters in Augusta, Ga., after winning the Latin America Amateur Championship in late January.

Reily stands second with a 72.12 average while Glawe ranks third with a 72.64 average.

NCAA REGIONAL HISTORY With Wednesday's announcement, Houston Men's Golf will compete as a team in its 24th NCAA Regionals during the program's rich history with nine Top-Five team finishes.

Houston captured the team championship at the 1998 NCAA Central Regional at Oak Hills Country Club in San Antonio, Texas while four Cougars (Michael Perras, 2016 NCAA Franklin Regional); Blair Hamilton (2016 NCAA Lubbock Regional), Brett Callas (2003 NCAA Central Regional) and Dean Larsson (1994 NCAA Central Regional) earned medalist honors at their respective events.

A year ago, the Cougars finished 11th at the NCAA Auburn Regional at Auburn University Club in Auburn, Ala. De La Fuente and Braxton Watkins tied for 36th at 224.

SUPPORT YOUR COOGS Fans can make a direct impact on the success of Houston Men's Golf by supporting Linking Coogs – UH's NIL collective – and by joining Project 17, which provides financial support directly to Houston Men's Golf for needs beyond its operating budget.

STAY CONNECTED Fans can receive updates by following @UHCougarMGolf on X (formerly known as Twitter) and catch up with the latest news and notes on the team by clicking LIKE on the team's Facebook page at UHCougarMGolf. Fans also can follow the team on Instagram at uhcougarmgolf.

– UHCougars.com –

NAACP releases statement about incorporation of City of St. George

EAST BATON ROUGE PARISH, La. (WAFB) - Not long after St. George leaders held a news conference to update the public about their plans moving forward, the NAACP Baton Rouge Branch released a statement.The Louisiana Supreme Court issued a ruling Friday, April 26, allowing the St. George incorporation effort to move forward. During the news conference on Monday, April 29, St. George leaders said they are now looking forward to getting to work.RELATED: ...

EAST BATON ROUGE PARISH, La. (WAFB) - Not long after St. George leaders held a news conference to update the public about their plans moving forward, the NAACP Baton Rouge Branch released a statement.

The Louisiana Supreme Court issued a ruling Friday, April 26, allowing the St. George incorporation effort to move forward. During the news conference on Monday, April 29, St. George leaders said they are now looking forward to getting to work.

RELATED: St. George organizers discuss La. Supreme Court ruling, next steps

The following statement was released by the NAACP Baton Rouge Branch:

Click here to report a typo.

Copyright 2024 WAFB. All rights reserved.

10 ways to celebrate Cinco de Mayo around Baton Rouge

It's time to fiesta. Gather your amigos and head to the nearest cantina to celebrate Cinco de Mayo in and around Baton Rouge:2323 S. Acadian Thruway, Baton Rouge Mestizo has your Sunday Cinco celebrations covered from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday, May 5, with a silent disco, 360 photo booth and more festivities.5338 Rosemound Loop Road, Saint FrancisvilleBayou Sarah Farms, Louisiana's only water buffalo farm, is partnering with Heirloom Cuisine for the first time to host a "Bayou Sarah Farms Lun...

It's time to fiesta. Gather your amigos and head to the nearest cantina to celebrate Cinco de Mayo in and around Baton Rouge:

2323 S. Acadian Thruway, Baton Rouge

Mestizo has your Sunday Cinco celebrations covered from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday, May 5, with a silent disco, 360 photo booth and more festivities.

5338 Rosemound Loop Road, Saint Francisville

Bayou Sarah Farms, Louisiana's only water buffalo farm, is partnering with Heirloom Cuisine for the first time to host a "Bayou Sarah Farms Lunch, Margaritas, and Farm Tour" event from 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday, May 5.

Guests will be greeted with a margarita bar upon arrival, with a farm tour led by the owner to meet the buffalo and the chickens on the property. After, tacos will be served — made with pasture-raised chicken and grass-fed water buffalo. Tickets are $80 per person, available for purchase at bontempstix.com.

3809 Government St., Baton Rouge

Doors open at 1 p.m. Sunday, May 5, for the Cinco de Mayo celebration at Baton Rouge Music Studios, with entertainment from Clay Parker and Jodi James and an opening set from Emily Parnell. The event will feature food from Jake's Tacos, a mini makers market and TJ Black live painting.

Tickets are $15 in advance, available to purchase at www.brmusicstudios.com, or $20 at the door.

668 Main St., Baton Rouge

Enjoy live music on the rooftop at The Main Lobby with DJ James Marvel, plus $3 tacos and $5 margaritas. Doors open at 3 p.m. Sunday, May 5.

3930 Burbank Drive, Baton Rouge

Modesto is hosting its fourth annual Cinco de Mayo block party, kicking off at 11 a.m. Sunday, May 5, with live music, specialty shots, an outside bar, tacos, nachos, margaritas and more. The band Night Hog will perform at 2 p.m., followed by Dustin Guidry. Modesto will not be accepting reservations Sunday — it will be a first come, first served basis.

101 S. Hummel St., Denham Springs

Join Le Chien for a Cinco brunch to indulge in a special menu inspired by the flavors of Mexico, plus bottomless margarita-mimosas from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 4. Tickets start at $15 for kids and $28 for adults, available for purchase at the event.

33939 La. Highway 16, Denham Springs

Casa Maria will host an electrifying music lineup with country music start Jon Langston and Parish County Line starting Friday, May 3 for Cinco Watson Fest. Tickets are $20 for adults and $11 for kids, available for purchase at the door. Gates open at 5 p.m.

4728 Constitution Ave., Baton Rouge

Party at the Crowne Plaza from 6 to 9 p.m. Sunday, May 5, with music from Papo y Son Mandao, frozen margaritas and food specials. Tickets start at $25 for general admission and $199 for VIP tickets, available for purchase at the door or by calling (225) 925-2244.

1717 River Park Blvd., Baton Rouge

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo Sunday at 1717 Kitchen and Cocktails. Enjoy a pairing of three tacos for $18 — with your choice of steak and cilantro, yellow onion and chimichurri or grilled chicken with tomato, shredded cheese and lettuce — served with roasted street corn, tortilla chips and house-made salsa. Add a pineapple margarita or Modelo Especial draft beer.

9828 Bluebonnet Blvd., Baton Rouge

Fiesta like there's no mañana starting at 11 a.m. Sunday, May 5, at La Carreta Bluebonnet's Cinco de Mayo celebration. Enjoy food and drink specials and live music.

Disclaimer:

This website publishes news articles that contain copyrighted material whose use has not been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. The non-commercial use of these news articles for the purposes of local news reporting constitutes "Fair Use" of the copyrighted materials as provided for in Section 107 of the US Copyright Law.