 BY DOUG GRAHAM | Staff writer East Baton Rouge's city-parish government wants job-seekers who were formerly incarcerated to have more opportunities at employment. The Metro Council narrowly approved an ordinance Wednesday night that bars contractors and sub-contractors doing work with the city-parish from asking job applicants about their criminal history until late in the hiring process. It does not apply to all potential hires for a company, rather just the applicants for jobs created for a city-parish contract. "We just want to make sure those citizens that are looking for a second chance get that opportunity, and it's good for business," said Councilwoman Chauna Banks, who sponsored the item.
The Metro Council passed an amended ordinance Wednesday that will bring down tougher regulations on the massage industry in East Baton Rouge Parish. The city-parish and the state have had measures in place for decades, but a bust last year showed illicit massage parlors were slipping through the cracks, according to District 3 Metro Council member Rowdy Gaudet. The new ordinance, which will take effect 60 days from Wednesday's council meeting, shifts the hours massage establishments can be open from 8 a.m. to midnight to 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
In an effort to enhance the patient experience at Woman's Hospital in Baton Rouge, a 6-ounce, made-to-order burger is delivered to all moms when they're out of labor and delivery. The burger, prepared by executive chef Paul Roberts and his team, is topped with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, onions and pickles and served on a buttery, toasted bun with condiments and fries on the side. For those who've experienced it, the Patient Burger is a bit of a phenomenon. | 
