Author: Emily Gautreaux

Innovate, Elevate, Thrive: Lafayette’s Startup Resurgence

The vibrant city of Lafayette, Louisiana, is becoming a hotbed of successful startup ventures. This isn’t by chance; there’s a compelling story behind this surge of entrepreneurial activity that’s capturing the attention of both investors and innovators, according to this article from The Advocate.

The journey of Shawn Johnston and Jordy Davidson, the masterminds behind the tech startup Nestor, is a prime example of Lafayette’s growing startup prowess. They devoted two years of their lunch breaks to refining their concept, driven by an unwavering belief in its potential. The turning point arrived when they faced a roomful of investors, all oil industry veterans with a history of backing various ventures. The tension was palpable as they pitched their brainchild, Nestor, to revolutionize health record management.

Nestor, named after a figure from Greek mythology renowned for wisdom, is now on an upward trajectory. Their headquarters are housed within the Opportunity Machine, a business incubator in downtown Lafayette. Nestor is just one piece of the puzzle in Lafayette’s burgeoning tech ecosystem, alongside fellow startups like FlyGuys, hampr, and Keepers. These innovative companies all share a common birthplace – an environment that fosters creativity and collaboration.

The entrepreneurial spirit in Louisiana, despite pandemic-related hurdles, has been a remarkable force. According to the Venture & Angel Capital Report by Cara Stone LLP, last year witnessed over $215 million in venture capital investment and 34 deals, marking the most substantial year since 2011. Lafayette, in particular, has been making waves, with 27 deals since 2011, placing it third in the state’s rankings. The city’s growth owes much to the evolving landscape of talent. The aftermath of Waitr’s rise and fall led to a transfer of skilled professionals to other startups, fortifying Lafayette’s startup community.

The Opportunity Machine, a phoenix that emerged from the ashes of an old nightclub, embodies Lafayette’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurship. From a decrepit building reeking of cigarette smoke to a hub of innovation, the transformation has been profound. Since 2015, startups nurtured here have secured a total of $56 million in capital, showcasing the incubator’s remarkable impact.

Among the gems that have flourished within the Opportunity Machine’s walls are names like Keepers, GloSens, XRMedix, and SafeBoard. Keepers streamlines housekeeping services for short-term rentals, while GloSens pioneers bullet tracer technology. XRMedix employs augmented reality to enhance medical care, and SafeBoard innovates pediatric patient care through a stabilization device. A standout among these stars is FlyGuys, a drone service provider that has expanded its services across numerous states.

FlyGuys, led by CEO Joe Stough, is transforming data delivery through drones, catering to agriculture, real estate, and construction industries. The company’s meteoric rise is fueled by a network of 7,000 drone pilots spanning 48 states. Stough envisions capturing a significant share of the burgeoning data capture market, amounting to billions of dollars.

Interestingly, Lafayette’s startup boom finds a catalyst in the journey of Waitr, once a beacon of hope that later faced challenges. However, its initial success spawned a wave of experienced professionals who channeled their expertise into new ventures. Kyle “Skip” Boudreaux of Acadian Capital Ventures reflects on the evolution, stating, “We’re having a lot more sophisticated startups coming through who really get it. We’re catching up, and you can just see it.” The Lafayette startup narrative is emblematic of innovation, resilience, and growth. From Johnston and Davidson’s unwavering determination to the rise of Nestor, FlyGuys, and other tech marvels, the city’s entrepreneurial spirit is thriving. As this momentum continues, Lafayette’s future as a powerhouse of innovation seems more promising than ever.

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Shaping Success: Louisiana’s LEAP Scores Ascend for Subsequent Year

In a laudable achievement, the Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE) has unveiled the much-anticipated LEAP results for the 2022-23 school year via this news release. Marking a momentous occasion, Louisiana’s students have, for the second consecutive year, demonstrated remarkable progress on the state assessments gauging proficiency in English/Language Arts (ELA), mathematics, science, and social studies across grades 3 to 12. With the release of these results, the educational landscape in Louisiana shines brighter than ever before.

For those eagerly awaiting the unveiling of these scores, the anticipation has paid off. The latest figures indicate a noteworthy two-point surge in the percentage of students deemed proficient, showcasing an inspiring leap in educational excellence. Further illuminating this accomplishment, a staggering 75% of school systems across Louisiana have made significant improvements from the previous academic year to the current one.

The driving force behind this success, the diligent efforts of educators and students alike, deserve an unequivocal applause. Dr. Cade Brumley, the State Superintendent, heralds this achievement as a testament to the ceaseless dedication demonstrated within Louisiana’s classrooms. He remarks, “I’m pleased to witness the academic ascent in Louisiana for the second consecutive year—a true testament to the tireless work transpiring within Louisiana’s classrooms every single day. While this progress is indeed encouraging, it’s imperative that we remain steadfast in our commitment to implement necessary practices and policy shifts, as a significant number of students still fall below the proficiency threshold.”

Delving into the metrics that define this educational advancement, the mastery rate, an essential yardstick of progress, has observed a two-point elevation, ascending from 31 in the 2021-22 academic year to 33 in the current 2022-23 period. This metric, which gauges the percentage of students in grades 3 to 12 who have achieved Mastery or beyond on LEAP and consequently are deemed proficient, stands as a beacon of educational achievement.

The LEAP assessment outcomes for the 2022-23 academic year paint a fascinating picture of educational growth: Third-grade students in English/Language Arts (ELA) have witnessed a watershed moment, marking their first improvement in five years. Their mastery rate experienced a five-point escalation, soaring from 38 in 2021-22 to an impressive 43 in 2022-23. This monumental achievement harks back to a period before the pandemic, specifically the academic year 2017-18.

Notably, last year’s third-grade cohort has exhibited remarkable progress as fourth graders. The mastery rate for these students in ELA stands at an admirable 44, a significant six points higher than their previous year’s score of 38 as third graders. This unprecedented leap indicates the substantial strides these students have undertaken within a single year of instruction.

High school students, the bastions of future innovation, have showcased their dedication to learning by demonstrating improvements in five out of six subject areas. Their scores have surged by five points in algebra (from 34 to 39), three points in biology (from 25 to 28), two points in English I (from 41 to 43), one point in English II (from 46 to 47), and an impressive three points in Geometry (from 28 to 31). This year also heralds the implementation of a more rigorous set of social studies standards, known as the Freedom Framework, which will be rolled out in the academic year 2023-24.

A closer examination of student subgroups highlights a pervasive improvement in mastery rates across the board. African American students have exhibited a four-point surge (from 15 to 19), economically disadvantaged students have achieved a three-point boost (from 21 to 24), Hispanic/Latino students have garnered a one-point increase (from 25 to 26), and students with disabilities have shown a two-point growth (from 9 to 11) when compared to the 2020-21 academic year.

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Echoes of Innovation: Louisiana’s Carbon Capture Tale Unveiled

In the heart of Louisiana, nestled beside the shimmering waters of Lake Maurepas, a monumental endeavor is underway, poised to shape the landscape of energy innovation and environmental preservation. According to this article from Nola.com, the curtains are rising on an ambitious drilling project, one that could potentially birth the largest carbon capture initiative the world has ever seen. The stage is set for seismic shifts, not only within the energy sector but also in the hearts of concerned citizens and the corridors of power.

This carbon capture venture, spearheaded by Air Products, a global powerhouse in the realm of gasses, aims to establish a groundbreaking complex dedicated to hydrogen manufacturing. As the project gains momentum, apprehensions arise like ripples on the tranquil lake. The looming environmental implications and potential impacts on local livelihoods have ignited protests from both residents and government officials alike.

Air Products envisions a future where its complex, situated in Ascension Parish and slated for a grand opening in 2026, will channel carbon emissions through a 37-mile conduit to Lake Maurepas. Here, a subterranean repository beckons, miles beneath the lake’s surface, where millions of tons of carbon will find their eternal abode. The company’s pledge to sequester around 95% of the emissions, equating to an impressive five million tons annually, heralds the promise of transformative change.

Nonetheless, the road to innovation is often a rocky one, and the journey toward establishing this carbon storage bastion is no exception. The path to obtaining the requisite approvals from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency(EPA) involves rigorous geological evaluations. This entails drilling exploratory wells that will ultimately decide whether the earth beneath Lake Maurepas is poised to embrace and safeguard the carbon influx.

In the pursuit of these answers, Air Products embarked on seismic tests, the results of which arrived in July. Now, as the calendar flips to mid-August, the stage is set for the commencement of drilling operations. Weather permitting, the project aims for completion by October’s end. While one injection well is primed for action, another on the lake’s northern fringe awaits the nod from the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources.

Air Products’ Vice President and General Manager of Low-Carbon Hydrogen Projects, Andrew Connolly, underscores the paramount importance of safety and meticulous pore space assessment. The company’s commitment extends to safeguarding the lake’s boating community, with an orange buoy line earmarking a 500-foot safety perimeter around the rig. Moreover, regular project updates grace the company’s digital domain, ensuring transparency in an endeavor that has sparked fervent discussions.

Yet, even with the transparency measures, voices of dissent continue to echo. From local officials to passionate residents, the outcry remains fervent. Their chorus laments that the project has galloped ahead without allowing time for transparency to blossom. Concerns range from the risk posed to local wildlife to potential turbulence in the recreational activities that the lake nurtures.

Air Products responds with environmental studies to quell these worries, citing a meager fish mortality rate as evidence of the project’s minimal impact. Working alongside the state Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, the company pledges to replenish the lake’s aquatic inhabitants, as mandated by law. Nonetheless, local frustration remains steadfast, with informational sessions and seismic test showcases falling short of soothing their anxieties.

As this saga continues to unfold, it prompts reflection on the intersection of innovation, environment, and community. The ripples from this drilling endeavor will likely stretch far beyond the lake’s tranquil surface. Whether it heralds a brighter, more sustainable future or unravels, unforeseen challenges remain to be seen. As Lake Maurepas holds its breath, the world watches, captivated by the unfolding drama of carbon capture and its role in shaping the future of energy.

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Indulge in This Recipe for Homemade Chocolate Croissants

There’s something undeniably magical about sinking your teeth into a freshly baked chocolate croissant, its delicate layers of buttery pastry cradling rich, dark chocolate. While the thought of crafting these delectable treats might seem intimidating, fear not! With a bit of time, patience, and the right technique, you can recreate the Parisian charm right in your own kitchen thanks to this recipe from Epicurious. The process might require a few unexpected tools – a spray bottle and a garbage bag – but these are the secrets to achieving that perfect golden crust and flaky interior. So, let’s embark on this pastry adventure and create delicious homemade chocolate croissants that will rival any bakery’s offering.

Ingredients for Chocolate Croissants 

Directions for Chocolate Croissants: 

  1. In the bowl of a standing mixer, combine 1½ cups warm whole milk, ¼ cup light brown sugar, and 1 Tbsp. plus ¼ tsp. active dry yeast. Allow the yeast to foam for approximately 5 minutes.
  2. Attach the dough hook to the mixer and add 3¾ cups all-purpose flour and 1 Tbsp. Diamond Crystal or 1¾ tsp. Morton kosher salt. Mix on low speed until the dough is smooth, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. This should take around 6-8 minutes.
  3. Transfer the dough to a surface and knead it until it’s soft and slightly sticky, about 2 minutes. Shape it into a 1½”-thick rectangle, wrap it in plastic, and refrigerate for about an hour.
  4. Place 3 sticks of chilled unsalted butter horizontally on a work surface and slightly soften it with a rolling pin. Create a block of butter and transfer it to a kitchen towel. Roll it out into an 8×5″ rectangle and chill it in the towels.
  5. Flatten the dough and roll it out to a 15×10″ rectangle. Fold the dough into thirds, shaping it into a 10×5″ rectangle. This completes the first “fold.” Wrap the dough in plastic and chill it for an hour.
  6. Repeat the rolling and chilling process three more times for a total of four “folds.” If any butter seeps out while rolling, dust with flour to prevent sticking. Divide the dough into halves, wrap each in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 8 hours.
  7. Roll out one dough half on a floured surface into an 18×10″ rectangle. Trim the edges and slice the dough into quarters lengthwise and crosswise to make 16 rectangles.
  8. Working with one rectangle at a time, place 2 dark chocolate batons along a short side of the dough, letting them extend over the edges. Fold the bottom edge over the batons and roll up the dough around the chocolate. Arrange the pastries on parchment-paper-lined baking sheets. Slide the baking sheets into a garbage bag and allow the pastries to rise for 2-2½ hours, creating a slightly puffy and spongy texture.
  9. Preheat the oven to 425°F with racks in the upper and lower thirds. Generously spray the inside of the oven with water and place the baking sheets inside. After spraying again, reduce the temperature to 400°F and bake the croissants in two phases. This will result in a deep golden color and irresistible aroma.

Creating your own chocolate croissants might seem like a complex undertaking, but with the right guidance and a touch of patience, you’ll soon find yourself reveling in the joy of homemade pastries that rival those from the finest patisseries.

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Exploring the Fusion of Medicine and Culinary Arts: Nicholls’ Culinary Medicine Program

When education transcends traditional boundaries, the results can be truly remarkable. This sentiment is beautifully embodied by the annual Culinary Medicine Program jointly hosted by Nicholls State University and the Louisiana State University Health New Orleans School of Medicine. For an impressive fifth consecutive year, these esteemed institutions have come together to nurture a unique learning experience that merges the worlds of gastronomy and medicine. According to this news release from the school, this innovative program, held at the renowned Chef John Folse Culinary Institute, offers a glimpse into the captivating synergy between evidence-based nutrition and culinary mastery, providing a platform for future medical practitioners to enrich their practices with invaluable knowledge.

The backdrop for this enriching endeavor, the Chef John Folse Culinary Institute, sits nestled in the heart of Louisiana’s Bayou Region, a place where culture, flavors, and traditions meld seamlessly. It beckons aspiring chefs with an audacious palate and a fervent desire to thrive in the food and service industries, offering them the opportunity to pursue Bachelor of Science or Associate of Science degrees in Culinary Arts. In a state where culinary excellence thrives, Nicholls stands tall as the sole post-secondary institution in Louisiana offering a comprehensive four-year culinary degree program.

The synergy of minds between the culinary institute and the medical school is profound, exemplifying the value of interdisciplinary collaboration. This year’s iteration of the Culinary Medicine Program took place from July 17 to 28, featuring a cohort of nine third-year medical students from the LSU Health Sciences Center (LSUHSC) New Orleans. These budding medical professionals made a conscious choice to delve into the culinary medicine course, facilitated by the proficient instructors from Nicholls’ Chef John Folse Culinary Institute, along with the didactic program in dietetics.

The heart of the program lies in its ability to introduce future physicians to the realm of evidence-based nutrition and the practical prowess of culinary artistry. The program structure was designed meticulously to encompass a range of topics, each underscoring the pivotal role of food in disease prevention and management. Morning lectures, infused with insights on weight-neutral nutrition approaches, dietary patterns and their health outcomes, genetics and nutrition, and much more, provided the foundation for students to comprehend the intricate dance between nourishment and well-being.

In a poignant twist, the classroom knowledge was translated into tangible experiences through hands-on culinary exercises. Post-lecture sessions saw students donning aprons and immersing themselves in the creation of dishes that resonated with the principles discussed earlier. This immersive approach not only consolidated their understanding but also imbued them with practical skills to weave nutrition into their future medical practices.

Dr. Craig Walker, the visionary founder, president, and medical director at the Cardiovascular Institute of the South, aptly acknowledged the program’s uniqueness and the vital knowledge it imparts to the medical leaders of tomorrow. He remarked, “This is a unique program by Chef John Folse that is sharing valuable knowledge with future leaders in the field of medicine.” Dr. Walker’s words underline the invaluable contribution the Culinary Medicine Program makes to the realm of health education.

In conclusion, the Culinary Medicine Program at Nicholls State University serves as a remarkable testament to the power of education that transcends boundaries. By blending the realms of culinary arts and medical science, this program not only imparts invaluable knowledge but also nurtures a holistic perspective that future physicians can carry into their practices. The fusion of these diverse fields is a clarion call for more such interdisciplinary collaborations that enrich the educational landscape and prepare professionals for multifaceted challenges.

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Elevate Your Palate: Peach-and-Brie Flatbread Recipe

Elevate your culinary experience with a delightful dish that marries the sweetness of fresh peaches with the richness of Brie cheese, all atop a perfectly baked naan flatbread. This Peach-and-Brie Flatbread recipe from Louisiana Cookinis not only a feast for the senses but also a testament to the harmony of contrasting flavors. With a drizzle of spicy cane syrup to kick up the excitement, each bite promises an explosion of taste. Whether you’re planning a casual lunch, a sophisticated appetizer, or a unique dinner, these flatbreads are an excellent choice that will leave your guests craving for more.

Ingredients for Flatbread: 

Directions for preparing Flatbread: 

  1. Begin by heating the cane syrup in a microwave-safe bowl using 10-second intervals until it becomes pleasantly warm. To this, add the bold Creole seasoning, hot sauce, ½ teaspoon of crushed red pepper, and paprika. Mix these flavors together and let the mixture cool down completely.
  2. As your spicy cane syrup infusion cools, preheat your oven to a toasty 450°F. For an even bake, ensure you have a wire rack resting atop a rimmed baking sheet.
  3. Now, take your prepared wire rack and artfully lay out the naan flatbreads. On this canvas, let the star ingredients shine: layer the Brie cheese and delicate peach slices atop the naan. To awaken your taste buds, give them a gentle dusting with the remaining ¼ teaspoon of crushed red pepper. Finally, add a poetic drizzle of olive oil.
  4. Slide your masterpiece into the preheated oven, and let the magic unfold. In just 12 to 15 minutes, you’ll witness the cheese transform into a molten, golden masterpiece. It’s at this point that your kitchen will be filled with the aroma of anticipation.
  5. As the flatbreads emerge, the final touches transform them into culinary art. Drizzle the cooled spicy cane syrup mixture over the golden flatbreads, infusing them with a harmonious blend of flavors. A delicate sprinkle of flaked sea salt not only enhances the taste but also adds an elegant texture contrast. For a visual flourish, garnish the flatbreads with freshly chopped basil and a whisper of crushed red pepper.

Side Dish Suggestions:

Pair your Peach-and-Brie Flatbreads with some delightful side dishes to create a well-rounded meal. Consider serving a crisp arugula salad with a light lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the flatbreads. Roasted garlic hummus with fresh vegetables and pita chips would also make for a fantastic side that complements the flavors and adds a touch of Mediterranean flair. You could additionally enhance your meal’s earthy flavors with a medley of herbed roasted vegetables. Roast carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions with a sprinkle of your favorite herbs, and let their natural sweetness shine through. Lastly, add a touch of indulgence with sweet potato fries as a side. These crispy delights, seasoned with a hint of smoky paprika and served with a creamy dipping sauce, create a delightful contrast to the soft flatbreads.

Indulge in the art of culinary creativity with these Peach-and-Brie Flatbreads. The harmonious blend of fresh peaches, creamy Brie cheese, and zesty Creole seasoning will captivate your taste buds in every bite. The zing of spicy cane syrup adds an unexpected twist, elevating the dish to a new level of flavor. Whether shared as an appetizer or enjoyed as a main course, these flatbreads are bound to become a cherished favorite in your recipe repertoire.

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