Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is not just the state capital; it's also a vibrant hub for food lovers and shopaholics alike. With its rich blend of Southern hospitality, culture, and charm, this city promises an unforgettable experience for every visitor. Whether you're exploring local boutiques or tasting the divine cuisine, Baton Rouge has something
exciting for everyone.
Dining here is an absolute treat, with endless options ranging from traditional Southern delicacies to innovative culinary creations. Savor mouthwatering jambalaya and gumbo or indulge in modern fusion dishes that capture the spirit of Louisiana. Local gems like The Chimes and Juban’s Restaurant provide a taste of authentic flavors, while food trucks and cafes offer trendy bites for
4 | HelloBaton Rouge, Louisiana • Winter Issue
Hello Baton Rouge, Louisiana • Winter Issue |5
Baton Rouge
on-the-go adventurers.
For those eager to shop, Baton Rouge doesn't disappoint. Stroll through the eclectic mix of shopping venues, including the popular Mall of Louisiana and the charming Perkins Rowe. Discover unique handcrafted treasures in specialty stores and art markets scattered across the city.
Baton Rouge is a delightful blend of gastronomic excellence and retail therapy. So, come experience the dynamic energy and warm welcome that makes this city such a treasured destination.
Baton Rouge: A Culinary and Shopping Paradise Awaits
Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is not just the state capital; it's also a vibrant hub for food lovers and shopaholics alike. With its rich blend of Southern hospitality, culture, and charm, this city promises an unforgettable experience for every visitor. Whether you're exploring local boutiques or tasting the divine cuisine, Baton Rouge has something exciting for everyone.
Dining here is an absolute treat, with endless options ranging from traditional Southern delicacies to innovative culinary creations. Savor mouthwatering jambalaya and gumbo or indulge in modern fusion dishes that capture the spirit of Louisiana. Local gems like The Chimes and Juban’s Restaurant provide a taste of authentic flavors, while food trucks and cafes offer trendy bites for on-the-go adventurers.
For those eager to shop, Baton Rouge doesn't disappoint. Stroll through the eclectic mix of shopping venues, including the popular Mall of Louisiana and the charming Perkins Rowe. Discover unique handcrafted treasures in specialty stores and art markets scattered across the city.
Baton Rouge is a delightful blend of gastronomic excellence and retail therapy. So, come experience the dynamic energy and warm welcome that makes this city such a treasured destination.
Featured Story
Protecting Smiles Statewide
Across Louisiana’s dental community, one organization stands as both advocate and backbone: the Louisiana Dental Association. With a history dating back to 1878, the LDA remains the largest statewide professional health association for dentists — representing nearly 1,900 dentists from all over the
Pelican State. Under Executive Director Annette Droddy, the association has sharpened its focus on advocacy, resource support, continuing education, and community impact — ensuring dentists everywhere have what they need to serve patients, run efficient practices, and champion public-health interests.
6 | HelloBaton Rouge, Louisiana • Winter Issue
Protecting Smiles Statewide
Across Louisiana’s dental community, one organization stands as both advocate and backbone: the Louisiana Dental Association. With a history dating back to 1878, the LDA remains the largest statewide professional health association for dentists — representing nearly 1,900 dentists from all over the Pelican State. Under Executive Director Annette Droddy, the association has sharpened its focus on advocacy, resource support, continuing education, and community impact — ensuring dentists everywhere have what they need to serve patients, run efficient practices, and champion public-health interests. Droddy has been at the helm since May 2020 — but her roots at the LDA go back further. She started as director of communications and public affairs in 2003, moved to assistant executive director in 2011, and rose to executive director when leadership needed both continuity and vision. That institutional memory — combined with her background in public relations and government affairs — gives her a unique ability to translate complex legislation and regulation into real-world resources for dentists. She even earned honorary fellowship in the International College of Dentists in 2022 for her leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic. Under her guidance the LDA has recently scored a serious win for practitioners and patients alike. In 2024–2025, Louisiana passed landmark legislation requiring transparency from dental insurance companies — demanding they report their “dental loss ratio,” i.e. the percentage of premiums spent on patient care rather than overhead or administration. Droddy called the bill “milestone legislation … support[ing] our mission to protect Louisiana dentists and their patients.” For patients, the law means clearer, fairer insurance plans. For dentists, it means fewer surprises and stronger negotiating power. That kind of advocacy is just one element of LDA membership. The association organizes regular statewide continuing-education events, sedation and radiographic courses, and an annual flagship conference — the New Orleans Dental Conference & LDA Annual Session — offering dentists the chance to stay current on techniques, regulations, and practice management. Beyond that, dentists can tap into Medicaid-provider support, peer-mentorship programs, public-health volunteer efforts (like the Louisiana Mission of Mercy clinics), and a wide network of colleagues across the state. The LDA under Droddy doesn’t just protect dentists — it works to raise the standard of care for all Louisianans. In one visible example of that mission in action: when the state’s dental school at LSU Health New Orleans School of Dentistry needed new dental chairs and equipment, the LDA mobilized. They helped secure funding — both state and federal — and in 2023 joined the school’s leadership to unveil brand-new chairs and workstations. That upgrade wasn’t glamor — it was a practical improvement that ensured dental students would train on professional-grade equipment, benefitting future generations of dentists and patients across the state. “SB 463 is milestone legislation for the Louisiana Dental Association and supports our mission to protect Louisiana dentists and their patients,” Droddy said, summing up the kind of work that defines her leadership. For dentists across Louisiana — from urban practices to rural offices — membership in the LDA under Annette Droddy’s leadership delivers more than just professional support. It brings advocacy that matters, resources that help, education that evolves, and a community committed to quality care and better oral health for all.
HelloNation Staff Writer
combined with her background in public relations and government affairs — gives her a unique ability to translate complex legislation and regulation into real-world resources for dentists. She even earned honorary fellowship in the International College of Dentists in 2022 for her leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic.Under her guidance the LDA has recently scored a serious win for practitioners and patients alike. In 2024–2025, Louisiana passed landmark legislation requiring transparency from dental insurance companies — demanding they report their “dental loss ratio,” i.e. the percentage of premiums spent on patient care...
Droddy has been at the helm since May 2020 — but her roots at the LDA go back further. She started as director of communications and public affairs in 2003, moved to assistant executive director in 2011, and rose to executive director when leadership needed both continuity and vision. That institutional memory —
SB 463 is milestone legislation for the Louisiana Dental Association and supports our mission to protect Louisiana dentists and thei...
About the Author
HelloNation is a premier media platform that connects readers with trusted professionals and businesses across various industries. Through its innovative “edvertising” approach that blends educational content and storytelling, HelloNation delivers expert-driven articles that inform, inspire, and empower. Covering topics from home improvement and health to business strategy and lifestyle, HelloNation highlights leaders making a meaningful impact in their communities.
HelloBaton Rouge, Louisiana • Winter Issue |7
8 | HelloBaton Rouge, Louisiana • Winter Issue
A Vibrant Hub of Learning and Innovation
In Baton Rouge, Louisiana, education stands as a beacon of hope and opportunity, fostering a dynamic community dedicated to nurturing the leaders of tomorrow. The city is home to a robust array of educational institutions that
continuously innovate and inspire students to achieve their fullest potential. From expansive public school systems to prestigious private academies, Baton Rouge is committed to creating diverse and inclusive learning environments.
At the heart of Baton Rouge’s educational landscape is Louisiana State University (LSU), a leading research university known for its state-of-the-art facilities and pioneering academic programs. LSU
Baton Rouge
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provides students with transformative opportunities, propelling them to excel in various fields, including engineering, arts, and sciences. Baton Rouge Community College offers another avenue, tailored for those seeking skill-focused programs that prepare them for an ever-evolving job market.
The community's dedication to education extends beyond formal schooling. The city offers a plethora of extracurricular activities
and nonprofit initiatives that support learning outside the classroom, enriching the lives of its young residents. From vibrant libraries brimming with creativity to innovative STEM workshops, Baton Rouge fosters a lifelong love of learning. This city, with its spirited pursuit of knowledge, ensures that every learner is equipped to contribute meaningfully to the world.
Baton Rouge
Baton Rouge: A Vibrant Hub of Learning and Innovation
In Baton Rouge, Louisiana, education stands as a beacon of hope and opportunity, fostering a dynamic community dedicated to nurturing the leaders of tomorrow. The city is home to a robust array of educational institutions that continuously innovate and inspire students to achieve their fullest potential. From expansive public school systems to prestigious private academies, Baton Rouge is committed to creating diverse and inclusive learning environments.
At the heart of Baton Rouge’s educational landscape is Louisiana State University (LSU), a leading research university known for its state-of-the-art facilities and pioneering academic programs. LSU provides students with transformative opportunities, propelling them to excel in various fields, including engineering, arts, and sciences. Baton Rouge Community College offers another avenue, tailored for those seeking skill-focused programs that prepare them for an ever-evolving job market.
The community's dedication to education extends beyond formal schooling. The city offers a plethora of extracurricular activities and nonprofit initiatives that support learning outside the classroom, enriching the lives of its young residents. From vibrant libraries brimming with creativity to innovative STEM workshops, Baton Rouge fosters a lifelong love of learning. This city, with its spirited pursuit of knowledge, ensures that every learner is equipped to contribute meaningfully to the world.
