Emily Gautreaux, Author at Arlen "Benny" Cenac Jr

Apalachicola, FL Uncovered: A Coastal Retreat of History, Nature, and Flavor

Nestled along Florida’s quiet Panhandle coast, Apalachicola is a town where history, nature, and small-town charm converge in delightful harmony, as per this travel guide from Southern Living. While it doesn’t rely on the buzz of crowded beaches or high-rise resorts, this coastal gem offers a refreshing change of pace and an abundance of unforgettable experiences. From Victorian architecture to white-sand shores and marshy backwaters teeming with wildlife, Apalachicola reveals its treasures slowly, rewarding travelers who crave authenticity over flash.

To fully appreciate the town’s deep-rooted history, start your visit with a walk through the historic district. Apalachicola’s legacy as a booming cotton and timber port in the 1800s left behind over 900 historic buildings—many of them lovingly preserved. The best way to experience this architectural past is through a self-guided walking tour of the downtown area. If you happen to visit in May, don’t miss the Historic Apalachicola Home & Garden Tour hosted by Trinity Episcopal Church, offering rare access to private homes and gardens steeped in Old Florida charm.

Further explore the area’s heritage at Orman House Historic State Park, an antebellum residence built in 1838 with elegant views of the river and a peaceful botanical garden. Just a short distance away, the John Gorrie State Museumtells the story of Dr. John Gorrie, the local physician who invented the first mechanical ice maker—a pivotal step toward the development of modern air conditioning. Another must-see stop for history lovers is the Raney House Museum, where visitors can gain insight into antebellum life through preserved furnishings and artifacts curated by the Apalachicola Area Historical Society.

Nature lovers will find that Apalachicola offers more than scenic views—it invites you to immerse yourself in its wild, water-bound world. The town sits at the meeting point of the Apalachicola River and Bay, making water an essential part of life and recreation here. Paddle along the Apalachicola River Paddling Trail System, which spans nearly 100 miles of waterways winding through dense swamps and shaded tributaries. Those looking for an adrenaline-fueled ride can take an airboat tour with Apalachicola Airboat Adventures, while aspiring anglers can head out on a fishing charter with Apalach Anglers, led by Captain Jared, to reel in redfish, speckled trout, black drum, and more.

While Apalachicola itself is steeped in bayfront beauty, a quick drive across the St. George Island Bridge reveals another side of coastal Florida. St. George Island boasts 22 miles of white-sand beaches kissed by emerald Gulf waters. This island retreat invites long bike rides, leisurely walks to its historic lighthouse, and relaxed meals at open-air eateries where sandy feet are always welcome.

Back in Apalachicola, downtown presents a curated mix of boutique shopping and culinary gems. Downtown Books & Purl offers a cozy spot to browse novels and knitting supplies. Apalach Outfitters provides resort wear and gear for your next outdoor excursion, while Becasa and Bee Inspired Too sell coastal-chic décor, gifts, and accessories. For a sweet souvenir, stop by the Apalachicola Bee Company to sample local Tupelo honey, harvested from the surrounding river basin.

Seafood is central to life in Apalachicola, and local restaurants take full advantage of their location along the Gulf. For the freshest fare, head to Hole in the Wall, a humble green clapboard house where a commercial fishing fleet brings in the day’s catch. Up the Creek Raw Bar serves oysters and seafood baskets on a breezy deck overlooking the water, while The Station Raw Bar, set in a converted gas station, delivers live music and seafood classics like clam strips and smoked fish dip.

Whether you’re paddling through swampy creeks, admiring Victorian homes, or savoring seafood straight from the boat, Apalachicola proves that you don’t need crowds or skyscrapers to enjoy the best of Florida.

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Local Roots, Fresh Flavors: Farmers Markets Across Louisiana

For decades, Louisiana residents have embraced the philosophy behind the “shop local” movement, long before it has become a national trend. Across the state, farmers markets have served as vibrant community hubs—offering not only fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables, but also a chance to connect with the people who have cultivated the land, baked the goods, or crafted the handmade items. From north to south, these markets, collected by Explore Louisiana, have reflected the distinct flavors, talents, and spirit of Louisiana’s towns and parishes.

On the Northshore, the Mandeville Trailhead Community Market has offered more than 75 vendor stalls, creating a diverse environment of artists, crafters, and farmers selling directly to the public. Just down the road, the Covington Farmers Market has buzzed with fresh vegetables, grass-fed meats, free-range poultry, dairy products, and prepared foods ranging from handmade pasta to fresh juices and soups. The Abita Springs Art & Farmers Market has combined local agriculture with artistic flair, offering wild-caught seafood, baked goods, and locally crafted skincare products.

South Louisiana, with its warm climate and rich soil, has been especially abundant in year-round farmers markets. The Red Stick Farmers Market in Baton Rouge has operated as a producer-only, open-air market with over 50 members. Its multiple locations have made it accessible to a wide audience eager for seasonal fruits and vegetables, pasture-raised meats, seafood, homemade pies, native plants, and artisan breads.

Central Louisiana also has offered its share of markets with unique character. In Alexandria, local farmers, ranchers, and artisan producers have gathered weekly to engage with the public in a space that has bridged rural and urban life. Natchitoches, with its historic downtown riverfront setting, has provided a scenic backdrop for a market that has overflowed with fresh produce, herbs, cut flowers, baked goods, jewelry, honey, and eggs. Visitors not only have shopped for groceries—they have experienced the heart of the community through the diverse offerings and welcoming atmosphere.

New Orleans’ Crescent City Farmers Market has run on different days across multiple neighborhoods, showcasing the city’s eclectic taste with local produce, ice cream, coffee, spices, seafood, and honey. Nearby, the Westwego Farmers & Fisheries Market has catered to shoppers looking for fresh Gulf seafood, produce, and citrus, while also entertaining them with events such as concerts and cook-offs. The German Coast Farmers’ Market, with locations in Destrehanand Luling, has created a festive environment with entertainment and a wide assortment of homemade goods including soaps, candles, bread, and preserves.

In North Louisiana, several farmers markets have stood out for their size, history, and commitment to community. Since 1986, the Shreveport Farmers’ Market has anchored itself in the downtown area, offering a reliable space for local vendors to sell their goods directly to consumers. Just across the river, the Bossier City Farmers Market has welcomed both families and pets, featuring up to 200 vendor booths filled with everything from fresh produce to handcrafted candles and clothing. Live music and kids’ activities have transformed it into more than just a market—it has been a weekend outing. Similarly, the Ruston Farmers Market has provided a setting where customers have bought directly from producers, reinforcing the connection between growers and buyers. In Monroe, local farmers have operated their own market, stocking tables with seasonal fruits and vegetables that have reflected the region’s agricultural richness.

Beyond their culinary offerings, Louisiana’s farmers markets have functioned as social spaces where culture, conversation, and commerce have come together. For those seeking not only sustenance but also a sense of place, these markets have served as a reminder of the power of community-rooted food systems.

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Gulf Coast Gourmet: Crab and Andouille-Stuffed Mushrooms

If you’re searching for a show-stopping appetizer that combines elegance with down-home Louisiana flavor, these Crab and Andouille-Stuffed Mushrooms from Louisiana Cookin deserve a place on your next menu. Perfect for holiday spreads, cocktail hours, or upscale tailgates, this dish brings together the richness of crab, the smoky kick of andouille sausage, and the satisfying texture of baked portobello mushrooms. Each bite is a miniature explosion of flavor, offering a creamy, savory filling topped with a golden, crunchy crust.

Ingredients:

1¼ pounds fresh baby portobello mushrooms (about 24)
8 ounces fresh crab meat, picked free of shell
1 cup diced andouille sausage
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided
½ cup panko breadcrumbs, divided
¼ cup minced shallot
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 green onions, thinly sliced
1 large egg
¼ cup dry sherry
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
1 tablespoon hot sauce
2 teaspoons chopped fresh parsley
2 ounces cream cheese, softened and cut into pieces
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and divided
3 tablespoons olive oil, divided, plus more for drizzling
½ teaspoon kosher salt, divided, plus an extra pinch
Crushed red pepper, to taste
½ teaspoon Slap Ya Mama White Pepper Blend Seasoning, divided (plus more to taste)
Lemon zest (for garnish)
Lemon juice (for garnish)
Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (use convection setting if available). Lightly grease a rimmed baking sheet with cooking spray or a brush of olive oil.
Prepare the mushrooms by gently wiping them clean with a damp paper towel. Remove and reserve the stems and gills. Finely chop the stems and gills and set aside. Arrange the mushroom caps on the prepared baking sheet, domed side down.
Cook the sausage in a large (12-inch) cast-iron skillet with 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is golden and fragrant.
Add the chopped mushroom stems and a pinch of kosher salt to the skillet. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring as needed. If the pan becomes too dry, add a splash of olive oil.
Add the aromatics by stirring in 1 tablespoon of butter, minced shallot, garlic, crushed red pepper (to taste), and ¼ teaspoon of kosher salt. Sauté for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the shallots are soft and starting to caramelize.
Deglaze the pan by pouring in the dry sherry. Cook until most of the liquid evaporates. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool.
Create the filling by whisking together the egg, cream cheese, and lemon zest in a medium bowl until smooth. Fold in the cooled sausage-mushroom mixture, crabmeat, ¼ cup Parmesan, ¼ cup panko, green onions, parsley, lemon juice, hot sauce, and ¼ teaspoon of the white pepper seasoning.
Make the topping by combining the remaining ¼ cup Parmesan, remaining ¼ cup panko, and remaining ¼ teaspoon white pepper seasoning in a small bowl. Drizzle in 1 tablespoon of melted butter and mix well. Season the mushrooms by brushing them with the remaining 2 tablespoons of melted butter and sprinkling with the remaining ¼ teaspoon of kosher salt.
Stuff the mushrooms by spooning the crab mixture into each cap, mounding slightly. Top each one with a spoonful of the breadcrumb mixture. Drizzle the tops lightly with olive oil and add a dash of extra seasoning if desired. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the mushrooms have shrunk slightly and the tops are golden and crisp.
Garnish and serve by transferring the mushrooms to a serving platter. Add a sprinkle of lemon zest, a light drizzle of lemon juice, and a scattering of fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

These Crab and Andouille-Stuffed Mushrooms are a true celebration of bold Southern flavors and fine textures. The creamy richness of crab blends beautifully with the spicy bite of sausage, all held together in a perfectly seasoned mushroom shell. Whether you’re hosting a festive holiday party, planning a date night dinner, or just want to treat yourself to something special, this recipe hits the mark every time. Make a double batch—they tend to disappear fast!

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Louisiana’s New LA GATOR Program Sees Huge Demand in First Year

In honor of last month’s designation as the Month of the Military Child, the Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE) unveiled a new online resource hub called the LA GATOR Program tailored specifically for military families, as per this new release. Developed through a strategic collaboration with Barksdale Air Force Base, this digital platform serves as a centralized support system, designed to help military-connected students and their families more easily navigate Louisiana’s educational landscape.

State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley emphasized that the resource reflects Louisiana’s ongoing commitment to providing equitable access to quality education for all students, especially those whose families serve in the armed forces. He acknowledged that military families face unique obstacles and transitions, and explained that the new hub aims to make the school experience as smooth and welcoming as possible for these students.

The newly launched section of the LDOE’s website consolidates critical tools and information to simplify school transitions for military families. These students often relocate multiple times during their academic careers, and frequent moves can create disruptions in learning, graduation planning, and special education services. The resource hub is intended to minimize these interruptions and offer consistent support as families move into, around, or out of Louisiana.

Colonel Michael Maginness, Installation Commander at Barksdale Air Force Base, expressed his gratitude for the initiative, noting that military families endure challenges inherent to military life, including relocations, deployments, and the emotional toll of service. He stressed the importance of supporting these families through accessible, inclusive, and high-quality educational options. Maginness described the new online tool as a symbol of shared responsibility and a tangible way Louisiana is stepping up to support those who serve. He voiced his confidence that the site would be a valuable asset for families across the state.

The military families resource hub offers several standout features. One of the most impactful is the advance enrollment information, which guides families on how to enroll their children in Louisiana schools even before they arrive in the state. This forward-thinking feature allows for greater continuity in students’ educational journeys.

Another important element is the set of quick links to key resources, including school system directories, details about school choice, graduation pathways, and special education services. These tools are intended to put essential information at families’ fingertips, eliminating the need to search through multiple channels.

The site also includes a spotlight on Louisiana’s Purple Star Schools—a designation awarded to schools that go above and beyond to support military-connected students. These schools have demonstrated a strong commitment to creating a welcoming and understanding environment for students from military families.

Additionally, the hub provides accessible information about the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children, a national agreement that helps reduce educational disruption when military families move between states. This compact covers issues like records transfers, enrollment, course placement, and graduation requirements—factors that often pose difficulties during frequent moves.

With over 12,000 military-connected students currently enrolled in Louisiana’s public school system, which spans more than 1,300 schools across 124 school systems, this resource arrives at a critical time. The LDOE’s commitment to these students is clear: provide continuity, reduce barriers, and support academic success.

The LA GATOR Scholarship Program stands as Louisiana’s first education scholarship account (ESA) initiative, offering eligible families access to dedicated scholarship funds that can be used for a broad range of approved educational expenses. These include tuition and fees for nonpublic schools, tutoring sessions, educational therapies, curriculum materials, dual enrollment college courses, and school uniforms. Signed into law by Governor Landry, the program marks a significant expansion of educational freedom and opportunity across the state.

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A No-Fuss Crispy Chicken Dinner Packed With Comfort and Flavor

There are nights when we all crave a meal that feels like a warm hug — something hearty, colorful, and deeply satisfying, but without the hassle of a complicated prep or a pile of dishes. For those evenings, this recipe for One-Skillet Crispy Chicken With Brothy Beans from Food 52 is the answer you’ve been looking for. It’s a dish that manages to deliver layers of flavor, gorgeous textures, and vibrant colors, all with minimal effort. The crispy chicken thighs boast golden, shatteringly crisp skin, while the hearty beans, tender kale, and juicy tomatoes simmer together in a fragrant, savory broth. It’s the kind of meal that instantly lifts your spirits and leaves you feeling nourished and content.

Ingredients:

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (approximately 1½ pounds)
2 cups cooked cannellini beans (either homemade or from a 19-ounce can)
1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained of their juice
4 cups packed kale, either curly or Tuscan variety
1½ cups chicken stock (homemade or store-bought), plus a little more if needed
3 garlic cloves, finely minced
1 medium yellow onion, chopped finely
1 tablespoon olive oil
¼ teaspoon chile flakes, or to your taste
1 teaspoon fennel seed, lightly crushed
Zest from 1 lemon, finely grated
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions:

Start by generously seasoning the chicken thighs with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. In a large 12-inch skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, lay the chicken thighs skin-side down. Let them cook undisturbed, allowing the fat to render and the skin to become deeply golden and deliciously crispy. This can take anywhere from 15 to 25 minutes, depending on your stove. If the skin begins to brown too quickly, simply lower the heat slightly. Once the skin is crisped to perfection, transfer the chicken to a plate, making sure to leave the rendered fat behind in the skillet.
Return the skillet to medium heat and toss in the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion for about six minutes, stirring occasionally and scraping up the browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This fond is packed with savory flavor and will enrich the broth beautifully. Stir in the minced garlic, crushed fennel seed, red chile flakes, and lemon zest, letting everything cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the chicken stock, kale, cannellini beans, and diced tomatoes to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Nestle the browned chicken thighs into the skillet, ensuring that the crispy skin remains exposed above the broth. Let everything simmer, uncovered, for another 5 to 10 minutes. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F when checked at the thickest point. Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper as needed.
To serve, spoon a generous helping of the brothy beans and greens into shallow bowls. Top each serving with one of the crispy chicken thighs, either left whole for dramatic presentation or sliced into bite-sized pieces for easier eating. If you like, pair this dish with a chunk of crusty bread to soak up every last drop of the flavorful broth.

This One-Skillet Crispy Chicken With Brothy Beans is proof that you don’t need hours in the kitchen to create a deeply satisfying and elegant meal. The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity: rich flavors develop naturally from the careful browning of chicken, aromatic sautéing, and gentle simmering. With just one skillet, a few pantry staples, and a handful of fresh ingredients, you can bring a restaurant-worthy dinner to your table any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or someone you love, this dish is sure to be a repeat favorite.

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Roanoke Island’s Crown Jewel: How to Spend a Weekend in Manteo

Tucked away on Roanoke Island, Manteo, North Carolina, offers an experience that blends natural beauty, history, and small-town charm. As part of the famed Outer Banks—a 120-mile chain of barrier islands stretching from the Virginia border to Ocracoke—Manteo provides a tranquil escape from the high-rise condos and bustling beach towns further up the coast. Though only eight miles long and two miles wide, Roanoke Island leaves a lasting impression, with Manteo as its heart and soul, as evidenced by this travel guide from Southern Living.

Water is at the core of life here, and opportunities to explore it abound. Charter a shrimping and crabbing boat with Risky Business Shrimping & Crabbing Charters, where you can spend half a day casting lines and hauling in fresh catch. These tours run seasonally from June through September and offer a hands-on connection to the area’s maritime heritage.

While Manteo doesn’t offer direct beach access, a quick 10-minute drive transports you to the shores of Kill Devil Hills, Kitty Hawk, or Duck. But Manteo’s waterfront is far from lacking. Stroll the scenic boardwalks or wander the historic downtown where quaint, locally owned shops, bookstores, and cafes fill the streets. Stop into Downtown Books for literary browsing, grab a coffee at Charis Coffee Company, or browse the gift collections at Sisters Boutique or Nest.

Lodging in Manteo reflects the town’s quiet elegance. The White Doe Inn provides an upscale bed-and-breakfast experience, with gourmet three-course breakfasts served daily and a peaceful wraparound porch ideal for unwinding. For waterfront views, the Tranquil House Inn and Roanoke Island Inn are excellent choices, offering spacious rooms and scenic decks overlooking Shallowbag Bay.

Nature enthusiasts should plan to spend time in the Elizabethan Gardens, a ten-acre botanical haven designed to evoke the majesty of the Elizabethan era. Wander through the Sunken Garden, admire seasonal blooms, or sit quietly on a bench along the Great Lawn, surrounded by fragrant flora and chirping birds.

Manteo also offers a unique perspective into history through immersive attractions. The North Carolina Aquarium features both indoor and outdoor exhibits, including otters, stingrays, and educational programming on sea turtle conservation at the STAR Center. For an even deeper dive into the past, head to Island Farm, a living-history site where interpreters in 19th-century attire demonstrate blacksmithing, cooking, and early coastal farming.

Across the Manteo Bridge, Roanoke Island Festival Park brings colonial history to life with costumed interpreters and a replica of the Elizabeth II, a ship that carried English settlers to Roanoke Island. This site also hosts one of Manteo’s signature experiences: The Lost Colony play at Waterside Theatre. Running since 1937, this outdoor drama recounts the story of the mysterious disappearance of the 1587 English settlement.

The town’s culinary scene is rooted in tradition and fresh ingredients. Local favorites include Darrell’s Seafood Restaurant, where the menu features long-standing Outer Banks staples, and Stripers, a three-level waterfront spot known for its seafood steamer pots. For casual dining, Poor Richard’s Sandwich Shop serves hearty subs on a back deck with harbor views. Greek cuisine lovers will want to try Olives, a charming taverna offering classics like gyros, spanakopita, and saganaki.

A walk along the docks also leads to the Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse, a charming in-shore lighthouse that resembles a cottage more than a tower. Inside, explore exhibits that highlight maritime history and view an antique Fresnel lens on loan from the U.S. Coast Guard.

Manteo isn’t just a destination—it’s an immersion into the rhythms of coastal life, where history, hospitality, and nature converge. Whether you’re watching dolphins at dawn or stepping into the pages of early American history, this hidden gem on Roanoke Island leaves visitors with a deeper appreciation for North Carolina’s Outer Banks.

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