Author: Emily Gautreaux

Louisiana Roots, Nationwide Reach: Saia Turns 100

Saia LTL Freight, a titan in the North American transportation industry, has reached an extraordinary milestone—its 100th anniversary. From its modest beginnings in Houma, Louisiana, as a one-man operation, the company has expanded into a massive trucking empire, according to this article from The Daily Advertiser. With over 213 terminals, a fleet of thousands, and a workforce of more than 15,000 employees, Saia’s century-long journey is a testament to innovation, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to excellence.

The story of Saia LTL Freight began in 1924 with Louis Saia Sr., a Sicilian immigrant who ran a grocery store in Houma. To stock his store with fresh produce, Saia regularly drove to New Orleans. Customers soon began asking him to deliver their packages during his trips, and he obliged, removing the back seats of his family car to make room for deliveries. This side hustle quickly eclipsed his grocery business in profitability, prompting Saia to dedicate himself fully to freight hauling.

By 1945, the company relocated its headquarters to New Orleans, setting the stage for further growth. Saia’s operations steadily expanded, and by the mid-1980s, its recognizable golden-lettered logo could be seen across the Southeastern United States. At that time, the company operated 23 terminals across five states, employed roughly 1,000 people, and generated over $50 million in annual revenue.

Although the founding family stepped away from the business in 1995, Saia retained its roots in Louisiana while evolving into a leader in the transportation industry. Today, the company continues to employ approximately 200 people in Houma and around 500 throughout Louisiana.

To commemorate its 100th anniversary, Saia hosted celebrations at its administrative office in Houma and its headquarters in Johns Creek, Georgia. The Houma event, held on November 7, featured classic Louisiana touches such as a New Orleans brass band, steaming pots of gumbo, and a mobile museum showcasing Saia’s rich history.

The Johns Creek event brought together employees, families, friends, and local dignitaries, including Mayor John Bradberry, who praised Saia for its enduring success and contributions to the community. Other celebrations were organized across the company’s extensive network, emphasizing its commitment to its employees.

Kim Hebert, a terminal manager in Houma with 45 years of experience at Saia, highlighted the company’s strong culture. Starting as a part-timer, Hebert planned to relocate to New Orleans but ultimately chose to stay with Saia, climbing the ranks over the decades. Reflecting on his journey, he attributed the company’s success to the exceptional work ethic and dedication of its employees, particularly in the South.

Marking the milestone, Saia announced a $1 billion investment in its operations for 2024. This ambitious plan includes advancements in technology, new equipment, and facility upgrades, underscoring the company’s dedication to innovation, efficiency, and customer service.

President and CEO Fritz Holzgrefe expressed optimism about Saia’s future, stating that the centennial celebration was not only about reflecting on past achievements but also about preparing for the opportunities that lie ahead. With plans for further expansion, technological advancements, and sustainability initiatives, Saia is positioning itself for continued success in the decades to come.

One of the most exciting aspects of the centennial celebration is the launch of two mobile museums. These traveling exhibits offer an immersive experience into Saia’s 100-year history. Visitors can view interactive artifacts, explore the interior of a Saia truck, and even try their hand at a driving simulator. These museums are a creative way to honor the company’s legacy while engaging employees, customers, and communities across the nation.

As Saia embarks on its next century, the company remains grounded in the values that have defined its journey: hard work, customer service, and reliability. Its focus on innovation and community engagement ensures that Saia will continue to lead the way in the transportation industry while honoring its storied past.

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West Feliciana Parish Schools Earns Statewide Acclaim for Tutoring Innovation

The Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE) has honored West Feliciana Parish Schools with the prestigious Models of Excellence designation for its exemplary implementation of high-dosage tutoring, as seen in this new release. This recognition highlights the district’s commitment to bridging learning gaps and preparing students for academic success through innovative and targeted educational strategies. The award was presented to Superintendent Hollis Milton by State Superintendent Dr. Cade Brumley during a ceremony held at Bains Elementary School.

West Feliciana Parish Schools has distinguished itself by significantly increasing student participation in the state’s Accelerate: High-Dosage Tutoring program. This initiative, aimed at addressing gaps in student learning, provides focused support in literacy and mathematics. Superintendent Milton emphasized that this program allowed the district to enhance the quality of its instruction and reach more students than ever before.

Dr. Brumley commended West Feliciana for its leadership in demonstrating how strategic tutoring can drive academic achievement, describing the effort as bold and transformative. He also highlighted the state’s commitment to expanding access to high-dosage tutoring, ensuring students across Louisiana benefit from this critical support.

West Feliciana’s success stems from a comprehensive and well-structured tutoring model, featuring:

The Louisiana Legislature has invested $30 million to support the Accelerate: High-Dosage Tutoring initiative. This funding ensures that tutoring sessions occur during the school day, enabling students to benefit from additional instruction without extending their schedules.

Additionally, Louisiana has launched complementary programs like the Steve Carter Tutoring Program, which offers eligible students $1,500 digital vouchers for tutoring services outside the school day. Since its inception in late 2022, this program has facilitated over 122,000 tutoring sessions, underscoring the high demand for academic support.

The Louisiana Models of Excellence program  celebrates schools and districts that exemplify the state’s educational priorities. By sharing success stories and creating partnerships, the initiative aims to inspire and guide other districts in adopting innovative practices. West Feliciana Parish Schools is now part of an elite group of districts that have received this honor, including East Feliciana Public Schools, Rapides Parish Schools, and others.

West Feliciana Parish Schools’ recognition as a Model of Excellence reflects its unwavering dedication to student success and its commitment to continuous improvement in education. By embracing high-dosage tutoring, the district has created a scalable and effective model for addressing learning gaps and preparing students for academic challenges. This honor not only highlights the innovative strategies used by the district but also serves as a powerful testament to what can be achieved when educators, parents, and students work collaboratively toward shared goals.

The district’s approach demonstrates that with the right tools, training, and focus, it is possible to significantly improve student outcomes even in the face of challenges like pandemic learning gaps. West Feliciana Parish Schools has proven that strategic planning and targeted interventions can transform education for the better, offering a roadmap for other districts across Louisiana to follow. As a shining example of the potential of high-dosage tutoring, the district’s success underscores the importance of investing in programs that prioritize equity and access to quality education.

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Saving Grand Bayou: How Recycled Shells Are Fighting Erosion

Louisiana’s ongoing land loss crisis continues to devastate communities along its coastline, and nowhere is this more evident than in Grand Bayou. Home to the Atakapa-Ishak/Chawasha tribe, this remote village in Plaquemines Parish has seen dramatic changes over the last century, as per this news report from Fox-8. In the 1940s, the vibrant community housed nearly 1,000 residents. Today, it consists of just a handful of stilted homes accessible only by boat. However, a recent initiative involving recycled oyster shells has brought renewed hope to this fading community.

For decades, coastal erosion and rising sea levels have reshaped the landscape of Grand Bayou, once a thriving settlement surrounded by marshland. Since 1932, Louisiana’s coastline has lost almost 2,000 square miles of land. Grand Bayou has suffered disproportionately, with its land-to-water ratio steadily declining over the past 60 years. By 2011, a study by the Journal of Coastal Research found the village to have one of the highest rates of land loss along the state’s coastline.

Rosina Philippe, a tribal elder and knowledge keeper, recalled that life in Grand Bayou once provided everything residents needed—land for farming, water for fishing, and resources for bartering. But decades of land erosion and saltwater intrusion have upended this way of life. “We’re losing habitat,” she said, noting how the disappearance of marshlands has affected not only human life but also wildlife, including birds and fish.

In September, the Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana (CRCL) partnered with the Atakapa-Ishak/Chawasha tribefor an innovative project to combat shoreline erosion. Over four days, volunteers built reefs using recycled oyster shells collected from New Orleans and Baton Rouge restaurants. These 30-pound bags of shells were strategically placed along the shoreline to act as natural barriers, reducing wave energy and stabilizing the banks.

The use of oyster shells offers a dual benefit. Unlike rocks, the shells foster the growth of living reefs as baby oysters attach to them. Over time, these reefs create an ecosystem that attracts fish, crabs, and other marine life. Darrah Fox Bach, a CRCL program coordinator, emphasized that recycled shells are an environmentally friendly alternative to landfills. “Instead of sending them to a landfill, put them back in the water,” she explained.

According to CRCL staff, similar projects have shown significant success. Oyster reefs not only reduce shoreline erosion by up to 50% but also support thriving marine communities. This natural approach provides a glimmer of hope for Grand Bayou, where high-tech solutions are often financially out of reach.

This was not the first collaboration between the tribe and the CRCL. In 2022, they worked together to protect Lemon Tree Mound, a sacred site historically used for offerings to ancestors. A reef built around the mound has already led to the return of aquatic life, including snails, crabs, and oysters.

The significance of Lemon Tree Mound was further highlighted in September when St. Paul’s Episcopal Churchreturned the land to the tribe. The church had held the property in trust since 1991 but decided to return it after learning of its cultural importance. The Rev. Marian D. Fortner described the rematriation as an acknowledgment of the land’s rightful stewards. In gratitude, the tribe gifted the church a handmade blanket, symbolizing a growing solidarity between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.

While Grand Bayou may never return to its former state, the oyster reefs provide a tangible way to preserve what remains. More importantly, they represent a beacon of hope for a community that has long been marginalized. As Philippe noted, “When you’re a small community, sometimes it’s difficult to be heard or be invited at the table.” The success of these projects not only safeguards the environment but also ensures that the voices of Indigenous communities remain part of the conversation.

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Celebrate in Style with This Decadent Bananas Foster Cake

Bananas Foster Cake is a luxurious dessert inspired by the classic New Orleans dish, Bananas Foster. This recipe from Louisiana Cookin transforms the beloved flavors of caramelized bananas, rum, and brown sugar into a show-stopping layer cake. With its tender banana-infused layers, a rich rum frosting, and caramelized banana topping, this cake makes a perfect centerpiece for celebrations or a memorable ending to a dinner party. To make this luscious dessert, follow the detailed recipe below, complete with tips for success and pairing suggestions.

Ingredients:

  • 4 slightly under-ripe large bananas, sliced crosswise ½ inch thick
  • 1 large ripe banana, sliced crosswise ¼ inch thick
  • ½ cup mashed banana (about 1 large banana)
  • 4 large eggs
  • 3½ cups cake flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup dark rum, divided
  • ½ cup banana liqueur
  • 4 cups ofunsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 pound confectioners’ sugar
  • 4 cups firmly packed light brown sugar
  • ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray three 9-inch round cake pans with baking spray that includes flour. Line the bottoms with parchment paper to ensure easy release later.
  2. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together on medium speed. Continue mixing for 3–4 minutes, scraping the sides of the bowl occasionally, until the mixture is light and fluffy. Blend in the mashed banana. Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, and kosher salt. On low speed, alternate adding the flour mixture with the milk and rum to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix each addition just until combined. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula if necessary.
  4. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in their pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
  5. Start by placing one cooled cake layer on a serving plate. Spread ⅓ cup of the Rum Brown Sugar Frostingevenly across the top. Using a slotted spoon, layer half of the caramelized bananas from the Bananas Foster Filling over the frosting, and drizzle with 3 tablespoons of the filling’s sauce. Add the second cake layer and repeat the process. Place the final layer on top, spreading the remaining frosting across the sides and top of the cake.
  6. Transfer 1 cup of the frosting into a pastry bag fitted with a large open star tip (Wilton 1M is recommended). Pipe decorative swirls around the top edge of the cake. Top the cake with brûléed banana slices, made by coating banana rounds in granulated sugar and caramelizing the tops with a kitchen torch or broiler. Drizzle any remaining sauce over the finished cake.

This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream. For a complete dessert experience, serve alongside freshly brewed coffee or a shot of espresso. If you’re hosting a dinner party, complement this indulgent cake with lighter main dishes, such as an herb-roasted chicken or grilled salmon, to balance the meal.

Banana Fosters Cake is a delightful fusion of nostalgia and elegance, bringing the flavors of a classic Southern dessert to the world of layer cakes. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or indulging in a well-deserved treat, this recipe is sure to impress both in flavor and presentation.

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The Best Southern Beach Towns From Florida to Texas

In the South, where warm temperatures and high humidity dominate much of the year, beach towns offer a refreshing escape, as per this list of suggested destinations from Travel + Leisure. These coastal destinations are defined by their breezy ambiance, breathtaking sunsets, and unique blend of charm and character. Whether you visit during the height of summer or in the quieter off-season, Southern beach towns promise an unforgettable experience that keeps travelers coming back.

South Carolina boasts a variety of beach towns, each offering something special. Sullivan’s Island, located near Charleston, is a perfect spot for scenic bike rides along flat beaches. The island is a local favorite, thanks to its laid-back atmosphere and standout eateries like The Obstinate Daughter. Another gem, Pawleys Island, exudes classic Lowcountry charm with shabby-chic cottages, historic sites, and breathtaking sea views. Known for its handmade hammocks and tranquil vibe, this four-mile-long barrier island offers both marsh and coastal beauty. For visitors seeking a mix of beach and recreational activities, Hilton Head Island is a top choice. This 12-mile-long town is renowned for its golf courses, extensive bike trails, and water-based adventures such as paddleboarding and dolphin-watching.

Virginia is home to Chincoteague Island, a serene destination perfect for those who enjoy nature and solitude. Visitors can hike, bike, fish, and explore the island’s wildlife, including its famous wild horses on nearby Assateague Island. Another notable destination is Cape Charles, nestled along the Chesapeake Bay. Known for its old-fashioned charm, this town features calm waters ideal for swimming and quaint streets lined with bookstores and bakeries.

Florida’s coastline offers a variety of beach towns catering to different tastes. St. Augustine, with its Spanish colonial architecture and rich history, combines cultural exploration with pristine beaches. For a more tranquil experience, Sanibel Island on Florida’s Gulf Coast is a paradise for shell collectors and nature enthusiasts. Sanibel’s dedication to conservation makes it a haven for travelers seeking a quiet, eco-friendly retreat. Another noteworthy destination is Mexico Beach, a charming small town with colorful homes and a tight-knit community. Despite challenges from Hurricane Michael, the town has rebuilt itself and continues to offer visitors classic Southern hospitality and mouth-watering seafood.

Alabama’s beach towns often surprise visitors with their beauty. Dauphin Island features seven miles of public beaches, a bird sanctuary, and the historic Sand Island Lighthouse. Nearby, Orange Beach offers a more modern coastal experience with bright blue waters, excellent fishing opportunities, and access to the Gulf of Mexico. For those who prefer a more low-key vibe, Gulf Shores is a quieter alternative with stunning white sands and nearby attractions like Gulf State Park.

Georgia’s beach towns combine Southern charm with scenic beauty. Tybee Island, located a short drive from Savannah, is known for its wide-open beaches, picturesque bike trails, and Georgia’s oldest lighthouse. Meanwhile, St. Simons Island, part of Georgia’s Golden Isles, invites visitors to stroll under moss-draped oaks, shop in quaint boutiques, and enjoy a relaxed pace of life. The island’s bike-friendly paths make exploring its beaches and marshlands an enjoyable adventure.

North Carolina’s Ocracoke Island, part of the Outer Banks, offers a unique mix of history and relaxation. Home to the second-oldest operating lighthouse in the U.S., the island invites visitors to enjoy sailing, clam digging, and scenic bike rides. Its untouched beauty and slower pace make it a standout among Southern beach towns.

From South Carolina’s historic charm to Florida’s diverse coastal offerings, the Southern United States is a treasure trove of idyllic beach towns. Whether you’re drawn to nature, history, or simply a relaxing day by the sea, these destinations offer something for every traveler. With their warm hospitality, stunning landscapes, and endless activities, these towns promise an unforgettable escape.

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Building a Math Foundation: Louisiana’s Statewide Strategy

Mathematics plays a pivotal role in shaping students’ critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, skills essential for success in today’s rapidly evolving world. Recognizing this, the Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO) recently released a report, A Nation of Problem-Solvers: How State Leaders Can Help Every Student Achieve in Math, that highlights actionable strategies for improving math outcomes nationwide. As per this news release from The Louisiana Department of Education, the report commends Louisiana’s exceptional efforts as a model for advancing math education, spotlighting its high-dosage tutoring initiatives as a promising practice for other states to emulate.

Louisiana’s dedication to enhancing math education has drawn praise for its innovative approach to addressing student learning gaps. Among the highlighted initiatives is the Accelerate Math program, a state-designed effort to promote high-dosage tutoring aligned with high-quality curricula. This initiative provides local school systems with financial support and guidance for implementing effective tutoring programs. In addition to tutoring during the school year, the program emphasizes summer learning opportunities, ensuring students have consistent access to resources that bolster their mathematical understanding.

Dr. Cade Brumley, Louisiana’s State Superintendent of Education, emphasized the importance of foundational math skills during a recent statement. He noted that these skills are crucial for elementary students, forming the basis for future academic and professional success. Dr. Brumley also reaffirmed Louisiana’s commitment to accelerating progress in this vital area, highlighting the state’s vision of equipping every student with the tools needed to excel in math.

The resilience and progress of Louisiana students in recovering from pandemic-related learning losses were praised in a joint study by Harvard and Stanford Universities. The Education Recovery Scorecard described Louisiana’s efforts as “a remarkable achievement,” pointing out that from 2019 to 2023, students in the state regained nearly half of their original math learning loss. This progress significantly outpaced the national average, where students typically made up only one-third of the losses. Louisiana’s success underscores the effectiveness of targeted interventions like high-dosage tutoring and highlights the potential for similar programs to yield positive results elsewhere.

As the organization behind the report, CCSSO serves as a critical advocate for education policy across the United States. This nonpartisan nonprofit represents leaders from elementary and secondary education departments in states, territories, and federal jurisdictions. Through leadership, advocacy, and technical assistance, CCSSOfacilitates the sharing of best practices and ensures state leaders can make informed decisions to improve student outcomes.

The report, A Nation of Problem-Solvers, underscores the importance of state leadership in driving meaningful improvements in math education. CCSSO’s vision encourages state chiefs to adopt evidence-based strategies, integrating data and local context into broader educational policies. By fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders, state leaders can create comprehensive strategies to address learning gaps, improve instructional quality, and build systems that support long-term success.

The CCSSO report reiterates that math is more than just a subject; it is a cornerstone of modern education. Strong mathematical skills not only prepare students for academic achievement but also open doors to career opportunities in industries such as technology, engineering, finance, and healthcare. In a world increasingly defined by innovation and complexity, ensuring equitable access to high-quality math education is a fundamental responsibility of educational leaders.

Louisiana’s recognition as a national leader in math education is a testament to the power of targeted initiatives and strong leadership. Programs like Accelerate Math demonstrate how strategic investments in resources such as high-dosage tutoring can yield significant improvements in student outcomes. As other states look to Louisiana as a model, the broader message of the CCSSO report is clear: transformative change in math education is possible when state leaders commit to evidence-based, collaborative strategies. By prioritizing mathematics, we can equip future generations with the skills they need to navigate and excel in a complex world.

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