Author: Emily Gautreaux

The Happiest City in the South: What to See in Charleston

Charleston, South Carolina, has long captivated travelers with its storied past, vibrant culture, and stunning coastal landscapes. While tourists frequently leave the city with fond memories, recent data suggests locals have even more reason to smile, as per this travel blog article from Southern Living. According to a WalletHub study ranking the happiest cities in the United States, Charleston secured the 14th spot overall—and the highest rank among Southern cities.

Researchers analyzed 182 of the largest U.S. cities based on 29 key indicators of happiness, including well-being, employment, and community engagement. Charleston ranked particularly well in emotional and physical well-being and income levels, affirming what many already know: this historic port city offers a joyful and fulfilling lifestyle. For those eager to explore Charleston, there’s no shortage of compelling landmarks, engaging activities, and natural beauty to enjoy.

Begin your visit with a journey back in time at Fort Sumter, a national park located in Charleston Harbor. Accessible only by ferry, this historic site marks the location where the first shots of the Civil War were fired on April 12, 1861. Booking the earliest tour gives visitors a chance to participate in raising the American flag alongside park rangers—an experience both moving and memorable.

Another essential stop for history enthusiasts is the Aiken-Rhett House Museum, built in 1820 and preserved to reflect life in antebellum Charleston. Unlike many restored homes, the Aiken-Rhett House was left largely untouched, preserving not only the grandeur of its main rooms but also the enslaved quarters on the property. This approach offers a more complete picture of the past, allowing for a deeper understanding of the city’s layered history.

Those drawn to the arts should carve out time to visit the Dock Street Theater, nestled in the French Quarter. Originally opened in 1736 as the first building in America constructed solely for theatrical performances, the theater was rebuilt in the early 1800s and revived again in the 20th century. Today, Charleston Stage brings the space to life with more than 100 live performances annually. The venue itself, with its rich architectural charm, is a spectacle worth experiencing.

For a closer look at Charleston’s artistic soul, head to the Gibbes Museum of Art. This institution, established in 1905, houses over 7,000 works of art spanning from the colonial period to the present. The Mary Jackson Modern and Contemporary Gallery highlights both local and regional artists, reflecting diverse perspectives and a profound connection to the South.

No visit to Charleston would be complete without immersing yourself in the city’s celebrated culinary scene. Tucked away on a quiet side street, Chez Nous is a hidden gem that offers an ever-changing, handwritten menu inspired by European flavors. The setting feels like a quaint escape, and the concise daily offerings—two appetizers, two entrées, and two desserts—encourage sampling every dish.

Beyond food and history, Charleston offers immersive experiences that let visitors feel part of something larger. Stepping aboard the U.S.S. Yorktown, a decorated aircraft carrier turned museum, is one such opportunity. Docked atPatriots Point, this legendary ship participated in World War II, the Vietnam War, and even the Apollo 8 space mission recovery. For a truly unique visit, consider booking an overnight stay through the Yorktown’s Operation Overnight program.

Whether you’re soaking up panoramic harbor views, walking cobblestone streets lined with live oaks, or diving deep into the region’s artistic and historical narratives, Charleston delivers a well-rounded and fulfilling travel experience. It’s not just a city of beauty and charm—it’s a place where happiness seems embedded in the rhythm of daily life.

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UL Lafayette Launches Career-Ready Engineering Concentrations

This fall, the University of Louisiana at Lafayette’s College of Engineering is rolling out three new academic concentrations, each designed to meet the shifting demands of today’s job market. These additions are part of a broader strategic effort to prepare students for high-demand fields that are growing rapidly and require specialized expertise. As per this new release from ULL, students enrolled in the engineering and technology management program can now choose concentrations in construction management and manufacturing management, while civil engineering majors can pursue a concentration in structural engineering and coastal hazards.

According to Dr. Ahmed Khattab, dean of the College of Engineering, these new concentrations reflect the college’s commitment to aligning educational opportunities with the real-world needs of industry and society. He emphasized that each addition is carefully planned to strengthen the employability and leadership potential of graduates. Since 2020, the college has introduced a total of 11 new concentrations, showing a strong dedication to evolving alongside the workforce.

Dr. Khattab explained that the newest concentrations aim to give students an edge in sectors that are expanding faster than the national average. By equipping graduates with targeted technical knowledge, hands-on training, and critical leadership skills, the college is preparing them to confront complex engineering challenges and contribute meaningfully to society.

One of the new offerings, the manufacturing management concentration, is designed to support the future of advanced manufacturing. This program blends technical training with managerial instruction, preparing students for a wide array of career paths. Graduates will be qualified for roles such as manufacturing specialist, plant manager, product manager, production designer, and industrial production supervisor.

The curriculum emphasizes practical and emerging topics that are highly relevant in today’s manufacturing world. Students will engage with applied mechatronics, robotics for advanced manufacturing, facility planning, supply chain management, manufacturing processes, programmable control systems technology, and industrial safety and operations. The goal is to ensure graduates are well-prepared not just to work in the field, but to lead.

Similarly, the construction management concentration is crafted to provide students with hands-on experience and leadership development in construction. This concentration covers every major stage of the construction process and readies students for critical roles such as project manager, estimator, scheduler, controls specialist, and construction safety expert.

Coursework in this concentration covers a wide range of industry-relevant topics, including construction materials and methods, building information modeling (BIM), cost estimation and budgeting, project planning and control, industrial and construction safety, and professional communication and teamwork. By immersing students in these areas, the program seeks to create graduates who are well-rounded and ready to take on the demands of modern construction projects.

The third new concentration, structural engineering and coastal hazards, focuses on a growing national priority: infrastructure resilience. This concentration prepares civil engineering students to work on some of the most urgent engineering challenges of our time, including designing hurricane-resistant buildings and protecting vulnerable coastlines from erosion.

Students in this concentration will take courses in structural mechanics, steel and bridge design, reinforced concrete, resilient structures, and structural engineering design. They will also study wind engineering and coastal hazards in depth. These areas of focus will help graduates play essential roles in improving the economic and environmental sustainability of coastal communities, which are increasingly at risk due to climate change and severe weather events.

By offering these new concentrations, the College of Engineering is not only addressing current workforce needs but also anticipating future ones. The integration of leadership training with deep technical expertise ensures that graduates are not only job-ready but also capable of stepping into key decision-making roles in their industries.

For more education-related information, click here.

Cherry Blossoms and More: How to Make the Most of Your D.C. Trip

Washington, D.C., is a dynamic destination that offers an array of cultural, historical, and natural attractions throughout the year. Whether you’re fascinated by history, passionate about the arts, or simply eager to explore the outdoors, the nation’s capital provides countless opportunities for adventure, according to this travel guide from Travel + Leisure. While every season brings something unique, knowing the best times to visit can help ensure a more enjoyable experience with fewer crowds and better weather, even to see cherry blossoms.

One of the most iconic locations in Washington, D.C., the National Mall spans two miles from the Lincoln Memorial to the U.S. Capitol. Known as “America’s Front Yard,” this expansive green space houses over 100 landmarks and monuments, including the Washington Monument, the World War II Memorial, and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. The National Mall is open to visitors 24/7, but if you plan to go inside the Washington Monument, you’ll need to visit between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Since maintenance occurs once a month, it’s wise to check the schedule in advance. Spring and fall offer the most pleasant temperatures for walking the Mall, but visiting on a weekday can help you avoid large crowds.

Every spring, Washington, D.C., transforms into a breathtaking landscape of pink and white cherry blossoms as thousands of trees bloom. Gifted by Japan in 1912 as a symbol of friendship, these trees are primarily located around the Tidal Basin and serve as the centerpiece for the annual National Cherry Blossom Festival. The festival spans several weeks, featuring parades, cultural performances, and art installations. Peak bloom varies each year, typically occurring between late March and early April. To avoid heavy crowds, consider exploring alternative locations such as Dumbarton Oaks Gardens in Georgetown, Hains Point loop near the Wharf, or Stanton Park on Capitol Hill.

The Smithsonian museums, among the city’s most famous attractions, offer unparalleled insights into history, art, and science. Open year-round except on December 25, these institutions include must-visit locations like the National Museum of African American History and Culture and the National Air and Space Museum. Due to their popularity, some museums require timed-entry passes, so securing reservations in advance is advisable. Winter and early spring provide the best opportunity for a quieter experience, as the summer months attract large crowds.

Beyond historical landmarks and museums, Washington, D.C., boasts beautiful parks, scenic waterfronts, and engaging outdoor activities. The Potomac River offers numerous opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and boat tours, providing a different perspective of the city’s monuments and skyline. Spring and fall are the best seasons for outdoor exploration, with mild temperatures and colorful foliage adding to the experience. Rock Creek Park, one of the largest urban parks in the country, provides excellent hiking and biking trails for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

D.C.’s climate is relatively mild compared to other East Coast cities. While winters see little snow and rarely experience extreme cold, the best weather for sightseeing occurs in spring and fall. April, May, and late September through early November offer comfortable temperatures for walking tours and outdoor events. Summer, particularly in early September, can be hot and humid, making it less ideal for extended outdoor activities. However, visitors can always step into a museum, gallery, or café to escape the heat or sudden rain showers.

Washington, D.C., offers a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that makes it an exceptional travel destination. Whether you’re admiring the cherry blossoms, touring the National Mall, or immersing yourself in world-class museums, careful planning can enhance your experience and help you make the most of your visit.

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Increased Tourism and Safety Make Mardi Gras 2025 One to Remember

Mardi Gras 2025 proved to be one of the most successful in recent years, despite facing an unexpected challenge in the form of severe weather that cut festivities short by a few hours, as per this article from Nola.com. According to local hoteliers, restaurant owners, and hospitality leaders, the city experienced a significant surge in visitors compared to the previous year’s celebration.

Hotel occupancy rates downtown and in the French Quarter reflected this increase, with nearly 87% of the 26,000 available hotel rooms filled from February 28 through Fat Tuesday, as reported by New Orleans & Co. The weekend’s peak occurred on Saturday night, when occupancy reached an impressive 95%. These figures did not even account for the city’s approximately 6,000 short-term rental units, which, if included, would likely push the overall occupancy rate even higher.

By comparison, Mardi Gras 2024 saw a lower turnout, with an average hotel occupancy rate of 81% over five nights, never reaching the 90% threshold. The growth in numbers was encouraging for the city’s tourism industry, particularly considering the rise of short-term rental properties in recent years. Walt Leger III, President and CEO of New Orleans & Co., confirmed that the high occupancy rates indicated a strong Mardi Gras season and a positive trajectory for the hospitality sector.

However, while the numbers were encouraging, they had not yet reached the levels seen in the years leading up to the COVID-19 pandemic. Prior to 2020, hotel occupancy rates for Mardi Gras regularly exceeded 95% across the city. Although the tourism industry has not fully rebounded to pre-pandemic levels, steady improvements in hotel and restaurant business suggest that recovery is ongoing.

Beyond tourism and business figures, the success of Mardi Gras 2025 was particularly meaningful given the public safety concerns that loomed over the event. Earlier in the year, on January 1, a ramming attack on Bourbon Street had raised concerns about safety in the French Quarter. In response, city, state, and federal officials took significant steps to bolster security ahead of Mardi Gras and the Super Bowl on February 8. Enhanced security measures included additional bollards and barricades along the streets and sidewalks, an increased law enforcement presence, and the deployment of new crime-fighting technology. These efforts were designed not only to improve actual safety but also to give visitors and locals a greater sense of security.

Several French Quarter and boutique hotels significantly outperformed the market average in occupancy. The six hotels owned by the Valentino family in the French Quarter reported a 95% occupancy rate, marking a notable increase from 2024. Hotel St. Vincent, located in the Lower Garden District, maintained full occupancy throughout Mardi Gras, as it had in 2024. Owner Zach Kupperman also noted that the hotel achieved a 14% increase in room rates compared to the previous year, further highlighting a strong financial performance.

The boost in tourism was not limited to visitors within driving distance. Many hotel owners, including Kupperman, observed that the majority of guests were out-of-town tourists who had flown in for the festivities, rather than regional visitors arriving by car.

Restaurants also enjoyed a profitable Mardi Gras season, with local enthusiasm playing a significant role. One of the biggest days for dining establishments was “Friday Gras,” the Friday before Mardi Gras, which is traditionally marked by celebratory brunches and lunches. This day has become the single busiest lunch service of the year for many French Quarter restaurants.

Ultimately, Mardi Gras 2025 delivered on all fronts. Visitor numbers climbed, businesses prospered, and security measures ensured a smooth and safe celebration. While there is still room for growth, particularly in reaching pre-pandemic tourism levels, the success of this year’s Carnivale was a promising sign for the continued revitalization of New Orleans’ hospitality industry.

 

 

Cheesy Garlic Butter Oysters: A Perfect Party Appetizer

If you’re looking for a decadent seafood dish that is bursting with rich, garlicky goodness, this Cheesy Herbed Broiled Oysters recipe from Louisiana Cookin is sure to impress. Perfect as an appetizer for a dinner party or a delicious indulgence for a cozy night in, this dish combines the briny sweetness of fresh oysters with a buttery, herb-infused sauce and a smoky cheese topping. Best of all, it comes together in just minutes under the broiler, making it a quick yet luxurious treat. Pair it with some crusty bread to soak up all that flavorful sauce, and you have a dish that will leave everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients:

● 1 pint shucked oysters, drained

● ½ shallot, finely grated

● 10 small cloves garlic, minced

● ½ lemon

● ½ bunch fresh parsley leaves, finely chopped

● ¼ cup shaved smoked Gouda cheese

● ¾ cup unsalted butter

● ¼ cup olive oil

● 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning, plus more to taste

● Kosher salt and ground black pepper, to taste

● Crusty bread, for dipping

Directions:

  1. 1. Begin by setting your oven to broil and adjusting the rack to the highest position. Preheating the broiler ensures the oysters cook quickly and develop a beautifully caramelized surface.
  2. 2. In a small saucepan over high heat, melt the unsalted butter along with the olive oil. Stir in the minced garlic, grated shallot, and Cajun seasoning, cooking until the garlic softens and becomes aromatic. At this point, taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning as needed. Once perfectly seasoned, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the freshly chopped parsley to infuse the butter with its vibrant, herby freshness.
  3. 3. If you have a baking dish with wells, divide the shucked oysters among them, placing one or two in each well. If using a flat baking dish, arrange the oysters evenly. Since the butter mixture may spill over, it’s a good idea to place the baking dish on a rimmed baking sheet to catch any drips. Generously spoon the butter and herb mixture over each oyster, ensuring every bite is infused with its rich flavor.
  4. 4. Transfer the oysters to the oven and broil, keeping a close eye on them. Ovens can have uneven heat distribution, so check every 30 seconds for any hot spots to prevent burning. After about two minutes, when the butter is bubbling and the edges of the oysters start to curl, it’s time to add the cheese.
  5. 5. Sprinkle the shaved smoked Gouda evenly over the oysters and return them to the broiler. Let them cook for another one to two minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden. Be careful not to overcook, as oysters can become rubbery if left under heat for too long.
  6. 6. Remove the oysters from the oven and immediately squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top to brighten the flavors. Let them cool slightly before serving. Pair with slices of crusty bread to mop up the delicious, buttery sauce.

This rich and flavorful dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides that complement its buttery, garlicky profile. Here are a few excellent pairings:

● Crusty French Bread – The ultimate companion for soaking up the flavorful garlic butter sauce.

● Garlic Butter Linguine – A simple pasta dish tossed in olive oil and garlic provides a satisfying balance to the oysters.

● Fresh Arugula Salad – A light and peppery salad with a lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the dish.

Cheesy Herbed Broiled Oysters offer an incredible combination of rich, buttery goodness, savory seasonings, and smoky melted cheese. With just a few minutes under the broiler, you can create a restaurant-quality seafood dish that is sure to delight. Whether served as an appetizer or the star of your meal, these oysters are guaranteed to impress. Don’t forget to have plenty of crusty bread on hand to enjoy every last drop of the delicious sauce!

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New Course Choice Policies Aim to Improve College and Career Readiness in Louisiana

Starting in the 2025-2026 school year, Louisiana students will have greater access to a diverse selection of high-quality courses thanks to a recent legislative change. The passage of a 2024 state law expanded the states Course Choice program, a move designed to provide students with increased educational opportunities beyond those available at their local schools, as per this news release from LDOE. The Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE) presented these policy updates during the Superintendents’ Advisory Council, highlighting the program’s role in supporting career and college readiness while strengthening parental involvement in course selection.

Louisiana State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley emphasized the significance of these updates, explaining that they not only broaden the academic choices available to families but also ensure that students receive a meaningful high school experience. He praised the state legislature for enhancing the program in a way that aligns financial resources with coursework
that better prepares students for both higher education and the workforce.

Initially launched in June 2012, the Course Choice program provides Louisiana students with the opportunity to enroll in courses beyond those traditionally offered at their schools. This includes access to college and university classes, career and technical education (CTE) programs, and internship opportunities. Schools receive a $70 per-student allocation for students in grades 7-12 to help cover tuition and fees for these courses, as long as they are offered by providers approved by the Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education
(BESE). By expanding course availability, this initiative supports early college credit, careertraining, and helps students stay on track toward graduation.

With the passage of Act 91 during the 2024 Legislative Session, the program has been further refined to reinforce parental choice and expand funding priorities. These adjustments ensure that students can enroll in courses that align with their individual academic and career goals while also prioritizing resources for programs that enhance workforce readiness and academic success. One of the major changes under Act 91 is the refinement of funding priorities. Schools are now required to allocate Course Choice funds to courses that support Louisiana’s emphasis on career and college preparation.

Another major component of the revised Course Choice program is its focus on increasing parental involvement in their child’s academic planning. Under the new policy, parents now have the explicit right to choose courses that align with their child’s academic and career aspirations, provided that the student meets the necessary prerequisites and funding is available.Additionally, schools must ensure that students and their families receive proper guidance when selecting courses to align with graduation pathways and career plans.

To enhance transparency and accessibility, schools are also required to provide clear and comprehensive information about Course Choice opportunities, including details on funding priorities. Parents must be actively consulted before a student is enrolled in a Course Choice class, and schools must obtain written consent to ensure that the selected courses are academically appropriate based on the student’s chosen graduation pathway.

Furthermore, school systems must inform families about the full range of Course Choice options and their right to select a provider that best meets their needs. This ensures that students are enrolled in courses that contribute meaningfully to their academic and professional development.

With these new policy changes, Louisiana is taking significant steps toward expanding educational access and ensuring that all students, regardless of their school’s offerings, have opportunities to pursue rigorous academic coursework and career training. By reinforcing parental choice and strategically allocating funding, the state is better equipping students with the skills and knowledge they need for success beyond high school.

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