Author: Emily Gautreaux

The Best Water Sports in Louisiana

With spring here and  summer not too far behind, what’s the best thing to do when the weather gets hot? Head to the water! Once things get back to normal around here, this list of water sports by Louisiana Travel are perfect for Louisiana natives  and visitors to keep cool!

 Kayak-Iti-Yat Kayak Tours

Located in New Orleans, Kayak-Iti-Yat Kayak Tours let you explore New Orleans’ bayous and historic waterways from a unique perspective! They offer different tours for different experiences, ranging from nice and easy to adventurous.

Try the two-hour Big Easy Bayou Tour, which takes you past neighborhoods that showcase different architectural styles. This tour is perfect for first-timers! The four-hour Pontchartrain Paddle is more active, outdoorsy types. Running the entire length of Bayou St. John and back, this dynamic trip takes you through the city’s oldest neighborhood along the way.

Flyboarding

This unique and exhilarating way to experience the water has you being blasted out of the water, with the flyboard strapped to your feet to keep you propelled and floating in the air some 40 feet high.

You’ll twist, turn, and shake until you come down for the coolest landing ever. This crazy fun experience is a combo of new age water sports and something out of the movie Waterworld.

Head to Northshore Hydrosports in Madisonville to book your flyboard adventure.

River Tubing

This is the ultimate chill water sport, which features you in the middle of the river, on a float, surrounded by friends and good music.

Head to Louisiana River Adventure Tubing in Franklinton, which offers “no reservation required” tubing trips, to relax down a popular stretch of the Bogue Chitto River just 90 minutes north of New Orleans. Two-hour and four-hour floats are the same price – just $20 – and free shuttle service gets you to and from the river.

If you’re on the Northshore, Tiki Tubing is the place for you. This laid back river float takes tubers down the Amite River. A $25 ticket includes your tube, parking, and transportation upriver where the float trip begins. Tiki Tubing also offers ice chest rentals.

Regardless of which river you choose, don’t forget your sunscreen and water!

Bayou Paddle Co. SUP Trips

Ready to explore the waters of St. Tammany Parish on Louisiana’s North Shore from a new perspective?

Bayou Paddle Co. SUP trips let you explore Lake Ponchartrain and the Bogue Falaya, Bogue Chitto and Tchefuncte rivers while balancing on your own individual paddleboard.

The company provides each customer with everything they’ll need for the trip, including equipment, lessons, and a guide if you want!

Water Parks and Playgrounds

Louisiana’s family-friendly water parks, playgrounds, parks, and resorts are the perfect place to go when summer’s reached its peak (and so has the boredom). Experience water slides and canons, lazy rivers, splashing fountains and more at locations throughout the state.

Read more about water parks and water playgrounds in Louisiana.

Louisiana also has the perfect beaches for shelling and shore fishing.

For more Louisiana related articles, click here.

Easy Work From Home Lunches

Figuring out what we want for lunch can be exhausting, especially for people who work from home. Do I go out and run through a drive-thru? Order in? Find something in the fridge?  On top of that, the rush to find lunch quickly usually ends with unhealthy choices. But then again, who has time to actually cook lunch? There’s hardly enough time in the day to get everything else done!

Well, Pure Wow compiled an amazing list of easy lunch ideas that keep you on track with your health goals and only take a few minutes to prepare.

Here are our favorites:

Avocado Egg Salad

Love egg salad? Then you’re sure to love this avocado egg salad! With the perfect combination of diced avocado, egg, dijon mustard, and capers, this classic sandwich takes on a whole new flavor!

Linguine with Bacon, Peaches, and Gorgonzola

Switch things up with this linguine pasta with bacon, peaches, and gorgonzola. This unbelievably delicious meal only takes around twenty minutes to prepare, and the leftovers are even better warmed up!

Buffalo Chicken Wraps with Blue Cheese and Celery-Work From Home Lunch

Brought to you by rotisserie chicken and store bought buffalo sauce, these buffalo chicken wraps with blue cheese and celery can be whipped up in under twenty minutes! They’re so good you’ll want them for dinner, too.

Italian Deli Pinwheel Sandwiches

These Italian Deli Pinwheel Sandwiches are a twist to your classic ham and cheese sandwich. When you know these are on the menu, you’ll be looking forward to lunch all day (early lunchbreak, anyone?)

BLT Pasta Salad-Work From Home Lunch

Salad doesn’t have to be boring! This BLT Pasta Salad combines the crunch and savory elements of your favorite classic sandwich – the BLT. Just substitute the bread for pasta, and you have a fun, new way to eat your salad.

Lunch Kebabs with Mortadella, Artichoke, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Looking for something easy that will switch things up at the same time? Feel like a kid again with these lunch kebabs made with mortadella, artichoke, and sun-dried tomatoes.

Slow-Cooker Meal Prep Burrito Bowls

Have a busy week ahead? Then these slow cooker meal prep burrito bowls are the perfect thing to add to the menu. Made with juicy pork, avocado, tomatoes, and just a dollop of Greek yogurt crema, this burrito bowl stays just as delicious as the day you made it for up to four days.

Rainbow Collard Wraps with Peanut Butter Dipping Sauce

Easy to make and assemble, these wraps make the perfect portable lunch. Even better, you can make them about two days in advance, and they won’t get soggy! These rainbow wraps are also the perfect party appetizer! Don’t forget the peanut butter dipping sauce, though.

Mini Chicken Shawarma-Work From Home Lunch

Getting tired of chicken day after day? Rekindle your love by making these mine chicken shawarmas! Created with a rotisserie chicken, quick marinade, a creamy herb sauce, and two bite pita-pockets, these tiny sandwiches are unbelievably zesty and flavorful.

For more delicious recipes, click here.

Famous Museums With Virtual Tours

You don’t have to travel to experience culture and learn about history! In these trying times, it’s nice to have a way to continue to experience things in the outside world. Luckily, there is a way to experience culture and education when you’re confined inside! Google Arts and Culture have teamed up with over 2500 museums and galleries across the world to create virtual tours and online exhibits.

Included in this collection are museums like the British Museum in London, the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam, the Guggenheim in New York City, and hundreds of more places where you can gain knowledge about art, history, and science.

British Museum, London-Virtual Tours

“This iconic museum located in the heart of London allows virtual visitors to tour the Great Court and discover the ancient Rosetta Stone and Egyptian mummies. You can also find hundreds of artifacts on the museum’s virtual tour.”

Guggenheim Museum, New York

“Google’s Street View feature lets visitors tour the Guggenheim’s famous spiral staircase without ever leaving home. From there, you can discover incredible works of art from the Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, Modern and Contemporary eras”

National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.

“This famous American art museum features two online exhibits through Google. The first is an exhibit of American fashion from 1740 to 1895, including many renderings of clothes from the colonial and Revolutionary eras. The second is a collection of works from Dutch Baroque painter Johannes Vermeer.”

Musée d’Orsay, Paris-Virtual Tours

“You can virtually walk through this popular gallery that houses dozens of famous works from French artists who worked and lived between 1848 and 1914. Get a peek at artworks from Monet, Cézanne, and Gauguin, among others.”

National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Seoul

“One of Korea’s popular museums can be accessed from anywhere around the world. Google’s virtual tour takes you through six floors of Contemporary art from Korea and all over the globe.”

Pergamon Museum, Berlin

“As one of Germany’s largest museums, Pergamon has a lot to offer – even if you can’t physically be there. This historical museum is home to plenty of ancient artifacts including the Ishtar Gate of Babylon and, of course, the Pergamon Altar.”

Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam-Virtual Tours

“Explore the masterworks from the Dutch Golden Age, including works from Vermeer and Rembrandt. Google offers a Street View tour of this iconic museum, so you can feel as if you’re actually wandering its halls.”

Uffizi Gallery, Florence

“This less well-known gallery houses the art collection of one of Florence, Italy’s most famous families, the de’Medicis. The building was designed by Giorgio Vasari in 1560 specifically for Cosimo I de’Medici, but anyone can wander its halls from anywhere in the world.”

MASP, São Paulo

“The Museu de Arte de São Paulo is a non-profit and Brazil’s first modern museum. Artworks placed on clear perspex frames make it seem like the artwork is hovering in midair. Take a virtual tour to experience the wondrous display for yourself.”

National Museum of Anthropology, Mexico City

“Built in 1964, this museum is dedicated to the archaeology and history of Mexico’s pre-Hispanic heritage. There are 23 exhibit rooms filled with ancient artifacts, including some from the Mayan civilization.”

For more travel related news and information, click here.

Student of the Year Regional Finalists Announced

On March 4, 2020, the Louisiana Department of Education released the names of over 20 students who are selected to be regional finalists in Louisiana state’s Student of the Year competition. The students selected were a component of one fifth, eighth, and twelfth grader for each of the seven regions, and were created to represent both public and private elementary, middle, and high schools throughout Louisiana.

Students will be evaluated on their academic success, as well as their leadership skills, characters, and their career and technical achievements.

State Superintendent John White states “These 21 regional finalists are among the top students in Louisiana and we are proud of their commitment to learning and leadership.”

“We are also proud to, for the first time, add a career and technical education supervisor to our selection panel and to update the selection criteria to include career-focused credentials and coursework to ensure all students, regardless of whether they are bound for college or career after graduation, are considered for the prize.” he added.

There are multiple steps to this annual competition.

First, all schools are asked to choose one student from their student body. Then, the students compete with their peers within their school system, and the winner then advances to regionals.

Once they make it to the regional level, students are then evaluated based on academic success, leadership skills, character, and service in their community, among other things. The selection committee also evaluates student portfolios, writing samples, and interviews to consider problem-thinking skills amongst the candidates.

Before selecting the overall winners, which there are three of, a state selection committee comprised of K-12 teachers, higher education leaders, and community members to review each students’ portfolios and writing samples, and they also conduct interviews with each student.

This year’s finalists include:

Grade 5:

Ellah Sanzalone, A. C. Steere Elementary School, Caddo Parish

Case Abrams, Columbia Elementary School, Caldwell Parish

Vivian Furman, Grand Lake High School, Cameron Parish

Piper Cangelosi,LSU Laboratory School, Louisiana State University

Isabella Held, Joseph J. Davies Elementary School, St. Bernard Parish

Jonah Waguespack, St. Genevieve Catholic Elementary, Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux

Sierra Lester, Delhi Charter School, Delhi Charter Management Organization

Grade 8:

Zachary Cryer, Benton Middle School, Bossier Parish

Emily Boudreaux, East Ouachita Middle School, Ouachita Parish

Ava Grace Fruge’, Kinder Middle School, Allen Parish

Reese Kennedy, Denham Springs Junior High School, Livingston Parish

Trenton Mitchell, Harry Hurst Middle School, St. Charles Parish

Madelyn Grace Wilson, Saint George Catholic School, Diocese of Baton Rouge

Nikki Leali, Lusher Elementary, Advocates for Arts-Base Education Corporation

Grade 12:

Antavion Moore, Ringgold High School, Bienville Parish

John-Garrett Patrick, Concordia Parish Academy of Math, Science, & Technology, Concordia Parish

William Romero, Lafayette High School, Lafayette Parish

Bridget Seghers, Covington High School, St. Tammany Parish

Kevin Kim, Haynes Academy of Science and Technology, Jefferson Parish

Anna Claire Blanchard, St. Joseph’s Academy, Diocese of Baton Rouge

Allison Lee, Benjamin Franklin High School, Advocates for Academic Excellence in Education

At the time this article was written the department of education said the finalists of the Student of the Year competition will meet at the Louisiana State Museum for an awards ceremony and for the announcement of the winner from each grade level. For updates on student of the year events please check the Louisiana Believes website.

For more education related information, click here.

The Best Side Dishes to Make for Easter Dinner

Easter will be here before we know it, and while the holiday is fun and filled with bright colors and easter egg hunts, figuring out which dish to bring to the family potluck can be overwhelming. Whether your family is still planning to gather for Easter or you’re having a quiet dinner at home with your family these are some great options to consider.

Should you go the easy route and just roast up a sheet pan of veggies, go modern with crostini, or try to go fancy with recipes that take way too much time and effort?

Brit + Co put together a list of the ultimate Easter side dishes to take the guesswork out of the potluck, so you can focus on spending time with your loved ones.

  1. Crunchy Green Beans With Butter

“Green beans might not seem like an exciting dish to bring to a potluck, but these will be a crowdpleaser. The original recipe makes enough for just four people, so adjust it accordingly.”

  1. Sweet Potatoes in a Blanket

“Why serve crescent rolls solo, when you can stuff them with roasted sweet potato wedges, caramelized onion, and cheese?”

  1. Roasted Broccoli

“If you’re feeding a crowd of picky eaters with different dietary needs, this tasty side is a must; it’s vegan, paleo, and Whole30-friendly.”

  1. Crispy Smashed Potatoes With Pink Tahini Sauce

“You can’t go wrong with crispy smashed taters, especially when they’re served with plenty of gooey brie cheese.”

  1. Keto Cheesy Brussels Sprouts With Bacon

“This hearty dish is as easy as it is delicious. After all, everything is better with bacon and plenty of cheese sauce.”

  1. Steamed Artichoke With Garlic Butter

“If someone in your crew claims that they aren’t into vegetables, this dreamy garlic butter, used to dunk steamed artichoke into, might be a turning point for them.”

  1. DIY Potato Salad

“The herbs make this potato salad spring-ready.”

  1. Greens & Citrus Salad With Tahini-Ginger Dressing

“With plenty of veg and flavorful add-ins, this salad is clearly too legit; too legit to quit.”

  1. Mashed Cauliflower Purée

“Cauliflower has become a side dish fave, and this garlicky recipe only gives us reason to keep the momentum going. “

  1. Cheesy, Garlic-Roasted Asparagus

“Fact: No one is going to pass up a vegetable that tastes like garlic bread.”

  1. Scallion and Greek Yogurt Slow-Cooker Mashed Potatoes

“Despite its intricate, show-stopping appearance, it’s surprisingly easy to put together thanks to your slow-cooker.”

  1. Deviled Eggs

“Classic recipe! An Easter must, and YES you can use the eggs that you colored if you want.”

  1. Roasted Asparagus with Orange Vinaigrette

“So springy, and the mixture of asparagus and orange is so delicious!” 

  1. Classic Potato Salad

“Great with ham or as a simple side that you can make ahead, pull out of the fridge and serve. Plus, I make mine in the Instant Pot. A great option if you are coming home from church and don’t have time to fuss with mashed potatoes.”

  1. Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas

“”These go great with some extra ham added in. OR, you can use your leftover ham hock to make them after Easter.”

  1. Roasted thyme carrots

“This makes a simple and elegant side dish. The flavors are SO good together.”

For more delicious recipes, click here.

 

Top 5 Beaches to Vacation at this Summer if Possible

Already dreaming of your days on the beach this summer once we are allowed to travel again?  So are we!  Heading for a vacation at the beach is perfect for almost anyone – family vacations, romantic getaways, a long weekend with some friends, or even a solo-vacation! You can spend your days with your toes in the sand or opt for more adventure and go snorkeling and surfing.

In honor of our upcoming summer vacations, here’s a list from Travel + Leisurethat covers the best beach vacations on a budget.

Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Florida

We’ve all heard that Miami,Fort Lauderdale, and Palm Beachare the go-to beach destinations in Florida, but this beach town is way more affordable. Plus, you’ll experience smaller crowds and experience life in an authentic beach town.

Lauderdale-by-the-sea is hidden on the east coast, sandwiched between Fort Lauderdale and Pompano Beach. When you’re here, make sure to visit the pier and walk through Anglin’s square, where you’ll find cafes, restaurants, and gelato shops.

Gold Beach, Oregon-Vacation 

Gold Beach is the perfect (and cheaper) alternative to the popular Oregon beach Canon Beach. You’ll find crowd-free beaches, ocean kayaking, jet boat tours, fishing, and tidepooling.

Try to visit between March and May, which is the prime time to see northbound pods of migrating gray whales as they pass through these waters.

Islamorada, Florida

Although it’s only 20 miles long, this tiny island located in the Florida Keyshas plenty to offer its visitors. Choosing a smaller, lesser-known island like this can help keep the cash in your wallet compared to the popular islands.

Here, you can explore Indian Key, an 11-acre historic state park that has the remains of an 1800’s shipwreck. You can also head to Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park to see an exposed coral reef and take a self-guided nature trail hike.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina-Vacation 

This fun beach is bursting with fun-filled activities for the whole family. Known as the mini-golf capital of the world, this beach town has more than 50 themed miniature golf courses.

Aside from mini-golf, you can explore the pier at Myrtle Beach State Park, shop at Hudson’s Surfside Flea Market, and explore the shops and restaurants in Market Common.

Tybee Island, Georgia

Only about 20 minutes from downtown Savannah, you’ll find that this beach destination has plenty to do without the price. The beach is 5 miles long, with several separate beaches. It makes for a perfect vacation spot.  Visit Savannah and Tybee Island in one great trip.

The North Beach is perfect for bird and ship watching. Head to Mid Beach if you’re looking for seashells and shark teeth, and South Beach is the place to be for volleyball and dolphin-spotting. Back River is a more secluded beach that has a fishing pier and picture perfect views of Little Tybee.

Plus, you can find plenty of free parks, playgrounds, and hiking trails. During the summer, the City of Tybee hosts free movies in the park. Just bring a blanket and some snacks, and relax!

For more travel related news and vacation tips , click here.