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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.

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Home Care In Pioneer, LA

Home Care Pioneer, 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 Poverty Point National Monument 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 Pioneer, LA is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care Pioneer, LA

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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.

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TESTIMONIALS

“These are skilled professions that give wonderful care. Thank you! Special thank you to Patricia and McKinsey for you attention to detail on multiple occasions!❤️”

Pamela C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best has been amazing in helping me with my father who has Alzheimer's and he had a stroke so he has limited mobility. They even go the extra mile and I'd like to mention Cynthia and Tracy for their outstanding service! It truly takes a hero to do what you guys do, as this is a very difficult job that requires amazing patience.”

Tater R.
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“My family and I love Always Best Care!”

Cynthia W.
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“The workers are nice and knowledgeable of their job. I would recommend the company to others”

Dornesia H.
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“I love their caring services and would recommend them to anyone wanting to age in place. Thank you Always Best Care!”

Linda L.
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“The company is TOP TIER, very flexible with my son’s school hours, always very nice. I love them! A HUGE help for me!”

Rictoria M.
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“The company is an amazing company! The staff is wonderful, and the pay is great! I would highly recommend this company.”

Mooka W.
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“Always best care caregivers are very dependable and very hard workers goes above and beyond for their clients”

Roshonda J.
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“I've been working with Always Best Care for over a year now, and I can honestly say it's been an incredible experience. The support from the office staff is top-notch - they're always available to answer questions, provide guidance, and help with any issues that arise. The clients I've worked with have been wonderful, and I appreciate the care and attention the company puts into matching caregivers with clients who are a good fit. I highly recommend Always Best Care to any caregiver looking for a supportive, flexible, and rewarding work environment. Keep up the great work & thanks so much!”

April J.
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“Always best senior care is a great company to work with. I've been working with Always best for a little over a year now and I absolutely love it. My clients are so sweet The company is very family oriented They don't just care about the clients they also care about the workers. My daddy was in the hospital and ended up passing away the company allowed me to take off so I could be at the hospital with my daddy, and after he passed away they allowed me to be off rest of the week.”

Chasity W.
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“Always Best Care is a commendable agency specializing in placing reliable caregivers in the homes of elderly patients. Recently, I engaged their services to find a caregiver for my grandmother, and I couldn't be more satisfied with the outcome. Cyndi Williams from Always Best Care was instrumental throughout the process. Her dependability and understanding made the entire experience smooth and reassuring. From our initial consultation to the caregiver placement, Cyndi and the staff at Always best Care ensured that my grandmother's needs were prioritized, which greatly eased what could have been a challenging transition. Thanks to Always Best Care, my grandmother is not only well cared for but also genuinely happy with her caregiver. This has brought immense relief and peace of mind to our family, knowing that she is in capable hands. Overall, I highly recommend Always Best Care for their professionalism, compassion, and commitment to providing excellent elderly care services. They have truly made a positive difference in our lives during a time of significant adjustment. Claire Breslow”

Claire B.
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“We have been very pleased with services from Always Best Care. They are awesome! They are very thorough, punctual, caring and helpful group. Shout out to Cynthia for going the extra mile to facilitate VA help for my step father. If your loved one is in need for in home care I highly recommend this company.”

judy J.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Angela Powell is the best! She wears her scrubs, comes right in my mother’s home and gets busy doing whatever my mother needs her to do. She just takes it upon herself to do things that she sees that needs to be done. Angela has a great disposition. I can tell she loves what she does. Our family absolutely loves and appreciates Angela. Thank you to Always Best Care!!!!!”

Lynn S.
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“This agency is very caring and professional. If an issue arises they make sure it gets solved.”

Jan M.
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“Other Always Best Care has allowed my dad and step-mother to stay in their home. These ladies quickly learned the routine that they like and take very good care of them. The office staff are so helpful and quick to find a replacement sitter if someone calls in sick. I highly recommended this agency for your loved ones”

Tammy S.
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“I am a current client of this provider Always Best Care started helping me in July, 2022. My husband needs daily care and we have been more than pleased with the caregivers that they have provided. The Staff is so professional and efficient, yet like family at the same time. Their focus is on their patients and the families. They have made my life so much easier. Highly recommend!!”

Tusi
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“By far the best personality for this job. Plenty of patience and a bubbly attitude. I will definitely be using her again when I’m ready to sell. I highly recommend her.”

Joseph P.
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“Summer Riggs made new homeownership a reality for our family. I highly recommend Summer Riggs!”

Kimberly M.
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“Current employer I love the staff everyone is very understanding and the clients are nice and you will never find a better place to work and they are very respectful, understanding and caring bosses. They pair you up with clients that matches your personality. I really love working for this company and how they treat their employees.”

Betty W.
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“My husband and I will be gone on a 50th anniversary vacation trip for 14 days. During that time our wonderful caregiver has agreed to be “on-call”. We are so grateful for her and there is no way we could take this trip without the peace of mind that her presence gives me! Thank you ABC for the service that your company provides and for the personal touch that you and your sister provide. Marilyn Get Outlook for iOS”

Marilyn H.
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“Summer has always been excited about new homes and it shows in her work. She loves her job because she gets to find the perfect home for her clients. I highly recommend Summer to anyone looking to buy or sell a home.”

Tiffany S.
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“Always Best Care was a GOD send for me. I did not worry about my Mother . I could go to work and know she was in excellent hands Very professional. Came on time. Treated us like family”

Corey W.
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“I am a current client of this provider We've been extremely pleased with Always Best Care of Monroe. They've been very helpful and the caregiver that we have working for us is fantastic. I would give them a very high recommendation. They started in July and have done exactly what we wanted them to do for our needs, and met those needs.”

Marilyn

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Pioneer, LA?

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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.

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

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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.

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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 Pioneer, LA

Types of Elderly Care in Pioneer, 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 Pioneer, 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 Pioneer, 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 Poverty Point National Monument 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 Pioneer, 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 Pioneer Pub or visit Mound A, 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 Pioneer, LA

Benefits of Home Care in Pioneer, 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.

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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 Pioneer, 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 Pioneer, 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 Pioneer, 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 Pioneer, 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 Pioneer, 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 Pioneer, 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:

  • Town Village Crossing
  • All Seniors Assisted Living Facility
  • Pioneer Ridge Gracious Retirement Living
  • Pioneer Crossing Burkburnett - Seniors
  • Pioneer Place Assisted Living
  • Spring Gardens Senior Living Draper
Home Care Pioneer, 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 Pioneer, 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

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

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Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider

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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 Pioneer, 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 Pioneer, LA

Latest News in Pioneer, LA

SobreMesa to Replace Pioneer BBQ in La Mesa

After recently launching a new fast-casual Italian concept near SDSU, the team behind Carbonaro’s is gearing up to debut SobreMesa, a Latin American restaurant centered on food, tradition, and community, at 8622 Lake Murray Boulevard in La Mesa.The new concept will take over the former home of Pioneer BBQ near the Navajo Shopping Center. What Now San Diego spoke with co-owner Mariano Liga, who says SobreMesa will serve American Latin cuisine wit...

After recently launching a new fast-casual Italian concept near SDSU, the team behind Carbonaro’s is gearing up to debut SobreMesa, a Latin American restaurant centered on food, tradition, and community, at 8622 Lake Murray Boulevard in La Mesa.

The new concept will take over the former home of Pioneer BBQ near the Navajo Shopping Center. What Now San Diego spoke with co-owner Mariano Liga, who says SobreMesa will serve American Latin cuisine with a strong focus on fresh seafood, such as ceviche, aquachile, and crudo, emphasizing bold, bright flavors rooted in Latin traditions. He clarified that, despite early reports, the concept is not Japanese fusion. The team is aiming for a late September or early October opening.

Liga says the name SobreMesa, a Spanish term that refers to the time spent in meaningful conversation after a meal, perfectly captures the heart of the restaurant. “Where the meals turn to memories,” he says. “Come for the food, and stay for the tradition.”

That sense of tradition will also be reflected in the atmosphere. Liga describes the space as cozy yet stylish, with a minimalist design filled with arches, lush greenery, and booth seating that invites guests to settle in and connect. It’s meant to feel intimate and social without being formal or exclusive.

The restaurant will operate under a Type 47 liquor license and offer a full bar, with plans for Sunday brunch and rotating weekly specials. Liga says guests can expect a lively but laid-back vibe, occasionally featuring a live DJ spinning Latin tracks or deep house music to enhance the ambiance, but emphasized that SobreMesa is not a nightclub.

The ownership group also includes Andrea Carbonaro, Dario Carbonaro, and Francesco Mancino, veterans of the San Diego dining scene known for launching Trattoria Da Sofia, Aromi, and Pizza by Aromi. Pioneer BBQ previously occupied the space for seven years before closing in July under the Cohn Restaurant Group.

Cal State LA recognizes bioengineering pioneer with 2025 LA BioStar Award

Cal State LA presented Dino Di Carlo—a bioengineering professor, inventor, and serial entrepreneur—with the 2025 LA BioStar Award during a ceremony recognizing his outstanding contributions to bioscience innovation, entrepreneurship, and commercialization.The award was presented during the graduation ceremony for cohort 8 of the LA BioStart Bioscience Entrepreneurs Boot Camp, an initiative at Cal State LA designed to mentor, train, and inspire the next generation of bioscience founders and entrepreneurs.“I am ...

Cal State LA presented Dino Di Carlo—a bioengineering professor, inventor, and serial entrepreneur—with the 2025 LA BioStar Award during a ceremony recognizing his outstanding contributions to bioscience innovation, entrepreneurship, and commercialization.

The award was presented during the graduation ceremony for cohort 8 of the LA BioStart Bioscience Entrepreneurs Boot Camp, an initiative at Cal State LA designed to mentor, train, and inspire the next generation of bioscience founders and entrepreneurs.

“I am really grateful to all of you for choosing to come and be part of the LA BioStart this year, for becoming part of our larger network, and for all of the work that you are committed to doing moving forward,” said Cal State LA Provost Heather Lattimer who delivered the opening remarks. “I have the honor of recognizing Dr. Dino Di Carlo, the 2025 LA BioStar Awardee, and recognizing him for the work that he is doing in our larger community. Congratulations to Dr. Di Carlo and his family!”

The LA BioStar Award was established to honor a biotech leader in Los Angeles who has made significant contributions to advancing the bioscience industry.

“I’m deeply honored to be named the 2025 LA BioStar Awardee, and grateful to be part of such a vibrant community of bioscience innovators and entrepreneurs,” said Di Carlo, who is a Los Angeles resident. “This recognition is also a reflection of the remarkable environment in Los Angeles, where bold ideas, interdisciplinary talent, and supportive programs like LA BioStart converge to move science forward.”

He continued, “At a time when long-term investments in research and discovery are being questioned or cut, this award is a reminder of what’s possible when we build each other up and commit to shared progress. I’m excited to continue working with this ecosystem to translate world-class science into real-world impact.”

Di Carlo is the Armond and Elena Hairapetian Chair in Engineering and Medicine at the UCLA Henry Samueli School of Engineering and Applied Science, where he also serves as chair of the Department of Bioengineering. An accomplished academic and entrepreneur, Di Carlo has co-founded six biotechnology startups based on research discoveries from his lab. These ventures have collectively raised more than $150 million, created over 150 jobs, and brought multiple products to the market. He earned his Ph.D. from the University of California, Berkeley and San Francisco.

Di Carlo’s research investigates the application of micro and nanotechnologies for sensing, manipulating, and analyzing individual cells and molecules. The advances generated by this work hold wide-ranging significance for health and medicine, including the rapid diagnosis of diseases, the discovery of drugs, and the development of cell-based therapies. His scholarly contributions have also led to the co-founding of six biotechnology startup companies, each originating from innovations produced within his research group, the Di Carlo Lab.

As part of the event, 39 LA BioStart fellows were recognized for completing five weeks of training in business fundamentals, leadership, and other skills essential to launching and advancing successful bioscience ventures.

Since its launch in 2017, LA BioStart has trained more than 200 founders and emerging entrepreneurs under the direction of Cal State LA Microbiology Professor Howard Xu, who also directs the LA BioSpace incubator at the university. Xu served as emcee for the Aug. 14 ceremony at the University Club.

Xu praised the fellows for their dedication and highlighted the program’s growing impact on the region’s bioscience community.

“It is inspiring to see each new cohort embrace the challenges of building a bioscience venture and leave with the skills, network, and confidence to succeed,” said Xu. “Their drive and creativity continue to strengthen Los Angeles’ bioscience ecosystem.”

One of the graduating fellows shared how meaningful the experience had been for her. “It’s been a long, five-week program with 80 mentors and speakers,” said Christine Ho, a postdoctoral researcher at USC and an emerging entrepreneur. “Thank you all for your help, support, and for being part of our ventures. I have become good friends with other cohort members. We have a true hero, Howard Xu, a multiplier who made all this come true.”

Another cohort participant, Tom Wilkinson, CEO of Mission Trail Biolabs, added: “We had a great group of participants in cohort 8—all super smart, very open, and all with big endeavors. We are here because we all had gaps in knowledge, skills, or competencies in our biotech startup pursuits. We needed some help to bring our ideas to the marketplace. Thank you to the many generous mentors, who freely shared their insights, experiences, and advice with us.”

The LA BioStart is an intensive training program that prepares emerging bioscience entrepreneurs to launch their own ventures. It is part of LA BioSpace, which is leading the university’s efforts to promote a thriving bioscience ecosystem in the heart of Los Angeles. The program is a collaborative project between Cal State LA and more than two dozen regional partners, with initial support from the U.S. Economic Development Administration.

California State University, Los Angeles is the premier comprehensive public university in the heart of Los Angeles. Cal State LA is ranked number one in the United States for the upward mobility of its students. Cal State LA is dedicated to engagement, service, and the public good, offering nationally recognized programs in science, the arts, business, criminal justice, engineering, nursing, education, and the humanities. Founded in 1947, the University serves more than 24,000 students and has more than 250,000 distinguished alumni.

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