Author: Emily Gautreaux

Colors of Autumn: Unveiling the Southern United States’ Fall Splendor

As summer’s warmth fades into the embrace of crisp autumn air, the United States transforms into a breathtaking tapestry of fall colors and natural wonders. From coast to coast, this vast and diverse nation offers a myriad of experiences for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the glory of autumn, especially thanks to this detailed travel blog post from Southern Living. So, grab your favorite sweater and embark on a memorable autumn journey through the heart of America.

The South, in particular, boasts a splendid celebration of the changing seasons. As the autumnal equinox marks the official arrival of fall in September, daylight wanes, and nights grow longer. Interestingly, it’s the decreasing daylight, rather than temperature, that triggers the vibrant transformation of foliage. While predicting the precise timing of this metamorphosis can be elusive, checking local information as you plan your trip is your best bet.

Georgia’s Dragon Eyes

For a more thrilling and adventurous ride, venture into the Southern Appalachian Mountains and embark on theDragon Eyes journey in Georgia. Popular among motorcyclists for its 715 curves along its 77-mile stretch, Dragon Eyes promises not only heart-pounding excitement but also long-range mountain vistas that will take your breath away. Along the way, you’ll encounter charming towns, mesmerizing waterfalls, and remarkable state parks. Just remember to keep your eyes on the winding road as you navigate this exhilarating route.

Alabama’s Talladega Scenic Byway:

Head southwest to Alabama and embark on the Talladega Scenic Byway. This 29-mile route takes you over the higher elevations of Mount Cheaha, offering breathtaking views of the Appalachian Mountains adorned in their autumnal splendor. At the pinnacle of your drive, the Bunker Observation Tower, a remarkable structure built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1933, provides a panoramic long-range view of the mountains that will leave you in awe.

Tennessee’s Foothills Parkway

Nestled at the base of the Great Smoky Mountains State Park, the 71-mile Foothills Parkway in Tennessee promises vistas of both the mountains and the Tennessee Valley. The construction of this scenic route began in the 1960s, with the final portion, known as the ‘missing link,’ opening to the public in 2018. As you journey along the parkway, make a stop at Look Rock, which boasts a gorgeous overlook and a short trail leading to a picnic area—ideal for savoring a leisurely lunch while surrounded by the crimson and yellow landscapes of autumn.

Virginia and North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Parkway:

Begin your autumn odyssey with a drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway, a winding 469-mile route that meanders through Virginia and North Carolina. This iconic journey takes you through mountain vistas, featuring over 280 scenic overlooks, all while maintaining a leisurely speed limit of around 45 miles per hour. This unhurried pace allows you ample time to marvel at the kaleidoscope of fall colors.

The timing of your visit varies with elevation, offering multiple opportunities to witness nature’s grand spectacle. Purgatory Mountain Overlook in Virginia and the historic Mabry Mill in North Carolina are just a couple of noteworthy stops along the way. With an elevation of 5721 feet above sea level, Mount Pisgah boasts early fall colors, while the area around the James River, at a lower 600 feet, tends to change later. With countless picturesque stops along the way, you’ll find it impossible to resist the allure of this scenic route. For a comprehensive list of points of interest, check out the National Park Service website.

In conclusion, the United States offers a magnificent canvas of fall colors and natural wonders from coast to coast. Whether you choose to drive through the Blue Ridge Parkway’s mountain vistas, explore the heights of the Talladega Scenic Byway, or embark on an extended journey along the Natchez Trace Parkway, you’re bound to be enchanted by the kaleidoscope of autumn’s beauty. So, don your coziest sweater and set out on a remarkable adventure across this vast and diverse nation.

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Louisiana’s Inshore Shrimp Season Opens Amid Calls for Domestic Seafood Protection

As the fall inshore shrimp season approaches, the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission made a significant announcement on August 7, according to this article from The Daily Advertiser. Simultaneously, Louisiana’s legislatorsand seafood industry stakeholders have united to address pressing issues facing the state’s domestic seafood sector. This collaborative effort aims to shield Louisiana’s shrimping industry from the adverse impacts of imported shrimp and safeguard the livelihoods of countless coastal communities.

The Louisiana Shrimp Association, alongside nineteen allied organizations and companies representing over 4,000 seafood businesses in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico and South Atlantic region, penned a letter to Congress. The letter highlights the challenges stemming from the surge in imported shrimp, which has created a myriad of problems for local harvesters. “For the past 40 years, the average dockside price of Gulf shrimp has ranged from $1.50-$2.00 per 2 pounds,” the letter stated. These static prices have persisted despite escalating costs for fuel and labor, rendering it increasingly difficult for domestic shrimpers to sustain their operations. The situation has become untenable, necessitating immediate attention and action.

To address these concerns, the Louisiana Legislature presented House Concurrent Resolution 113 to the Secretary of State. This resolution urges Congress to impose a ban on the import of shrimp and crawfish from outside the United States. The resolution argues that such imports create an environment of unfair competition, allowing foreign competitors to inundate the U.S. market with seafood harvested under intensive farming practices. This flood of imports has detrimental effects on local industries and the coastal communities that rely on them.

Furthermore, the resolution emphasizes the importance of domestically produced shrimp and crawfish for the health and safety of U.S. consumers. Imported seafood doesn’t always meet the same safety standards as domestic products. Research indicates that while the number of outbreaks from imported foods is relatively small compared to all foodborne outbreaks, seafood is the most common type of imported food linked to outbreaks, and the frequency of such outbreaks is on the rise.

The Louisiana Shrimp Association has also submitted recommendations for inclusion in the National Seafood Strategy of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). These recommendations aim to address long-standing issues faced by the domestic seafood industry. One recommendation focuses on increasing testing and destroying all contaminated products being imported and stored in cold-storage facilities within the country. This initiative would include products already in stores, as determined by board of health testing or any necessary means to ensure public safety.

The second recommendation calls for the return of funds generated by tariffs on imported shrimp to the American domestic seafood industry. These funds, acquired through industry efforts, should be allocated as fuel subsidies,grants for improvements, and support for the harvesters who have been most affected by the drop in shrimp prices. Lastly, the third recommendation urges the federal government to hold foreign imports to the same rigorous standards as American aquaculture. This parity is crucial for both food independence and public health, particularly during times of national crisis.

In conclusion, as Louisiana’s inshore shrimp season begins, the call to protect the domestic seafood industry has gained momentum. The concerted efforts of Louisiana’s lawmakers, the Louisiana Shrimp Association, and other stakeholders reflect a shared commitment to preserving the rich heritage and economic vitality of the state’s coastal communities. The battle to safeguard the future of the Louisiana shrimp industry continues, and the coming months will likely see increased advocacy and action on multiple fronts.

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Louisiana’s Commitment to Military Families in Education

In an admirable move to support military families and enhance the teaching profession, Louisiana is breaking down barriers that have long hindered military personnel and their spouses from becoming educators, as per this news release from the Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE). LDOE has instituted a groundbreaking policy that streamlines the process for active military personnel and their spouses who hold teaching certificates from other states to obtain a Louisiana teaching certificate. This progressive initiative, sanctioned by House Bill 472 during the 2023 Regular Legislative Session, was met with unanimous approval from the Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE).

The heart of this new policy, as outlined in House Bill 472 of the 2023 Regular Legislative Session, grants a valid Louisiana teaching certificate lasting five years to military personnel and their spouses currently stationed in Louisiana, who already possess a teaching certificate from another state. However, to ensure that the highest educational standards are maintained, applicants must also meet all other prerequisites, such as background checks and criminal history reviews, as mandated by state law and board policy. “This is a practical approach to provide additional teachers for students across Louisiana,” remarked State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley. “With a strong military presence in our state, it’s an honor to help make lives a little easier for families serving our country.”

This recent development reflects Louisiana’s ongoing commitment to improving teacher recruitment and retention by expanding pathways to the profession. These proactive measures include:

Consistently raising teacher pay: Louisiana has been unwavering in its support for educators by consistently approving across-the-board pay increases for teachers and support staff. Notably, the state has allocated $25 million during the 2023 Regular Session to be directed towards differentiated compensation. This innovative approach allows school systems to allocate funds where they are needed most, including recruiting and retaining teachers in critical shortage areas, rewarding highly effective educators, supporting teachers in high-need schools, and recognizing teachers in leadership roles.

Supporting new ladders into the profession: Recognizing that there are various paths to becoming an educator, Louisiana has introduced policies that enable professionals from diverse backgrounds to embark on a teaching career. Whether individuals are pursuing the traditional route, an alternative path, or are eager to share their industry expertise in career and technical education courses, the state is facilitating their entry into the profession. One of the recent developments is the creation of the Associate Teacher Program, introduced in Act 99 of the 2023 Regular Legislative Session, which allows school systems to hire teachers with associate degrees who are enrolled in teacher education preparation programs, providing them with mentorship and ongoing professional development.

Expanding the pre-educator pathway in high schools: Louisiana recognizes the importance of nurturing an interest in education from a young age. To that end, over $1 million has been allocated to school systems to expand pre-educator pathways. These programs offer high school students the opportunity to take education courses, fostering their interest in the teaching profession. In the 2022-23 academic year, the pre-educator pathway was made available in more than 70 schools across 35 school systems.

Elevating teacher voice: To ensure that educators’ perspectives are at the forefront of educational decision-making,Dr. Brumley initiated the Superintendent’s Teacher Advisory Council. Now in its second year, this council of educators convenes quarterly to provide valuable feedback on ongoing education initiatives and offer insights into how Louisiana can further enhance student outcomes and the teaching profession.

In addition to these impactful initiatives, the Louisiana Department of Education‘s latest policy represents a significant stride in supporting military families and bolstering the teaching workforce. It acknowledges the challenges military families face when relocating and endeavors to ease the transition by recognizing their qualifications and enabling them to continue their teaching careers in the state.

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Finger Food with a Kick: Fried Crawfish Étouffée Ball Recipe

If you’re a fan of Cajun flavors and crave a delightful twist on traditional Crawfish Étouffée, you’re in for a treat. LouisianaCookin  presents a delicious recipe for Fried Crawfish Étouffée Balls that combines the rich, savory goodness of Étouffée with the satisfying crunch of fried perfection. These delectable bites are perfect for parties, gatherings, or simply indulging in a unique Louisiana-inspired dish. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process to create these irresistible Crawfish Étouffée balls, along with a zesty chipotle ranch dressing for dipping. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure!

Quick Étouffée Ingredients

  • 1 pound of succulent crawfish tail meat
  • ¾ cup finely chopped onion
  • ¾ cup finely chopped celery
  • ¾ cup finely chopped green bell pepper
  • ½ cup of unsalted butter
  • 1 ½ tablespoons of all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon of Creole seasoning (try Tony Chachere’s for an authentic touch)
  • ½ teaspoon of salt
  • ½ teaspoon of ground black pepper

Fried Crawfish Étouffée Balls Ingredients

  • 2 cups of Quick Crawfish Étouffée (recipe above)
  • 2 cups of cooked and cooled jasmine rice
  • 2 ¼ cups of plain breadcrumbs (divided)
  • ½ cup of chopped green onion
  • 4 large eggs (divided)
  • 1 cup of whole milk
  • 2 cups of all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons of hot sauce (adjust to your spice preference)
  • Peanut oil (for frying)
  • ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper (adjust for heat)
  • 1 teaspoon of salt

Chipotle Ranch Dressing Ingredients

Directions:

  1. In a generous-sized pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for approximately 10 minutes until the mixture turns a rich peanut butter color.
  2. Add the finely chopped onion, celery, and green bell pepper. Sauté for about 6 minutes until the vegetables become tender. Mix in the crawfish tail meat, salt, black pepper, and Creole seasoning. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and allow it to simmer for 15 minutes. Let the Étouffée cool completely before using it to make the balls. You can refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for up to 6 months.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the Quick Crawfish Étouffée, ¼ cup of breadcrumbs, jasmine rice, chopped green onion, hot sauce, salt, cayenne pepper, and 2 beaten eggs. Refrigerate the mixture for 30 minutes.
  4. In a medium bowl, whisk together the remaining 2 eggs and milk. Place the all-purpose flour in another medium bowl, and the remaining 2 cups of breadcrumbs in a third medium bowl. Shape the Étouffée mixture into golf-ball-sized rounds. Roll each ball in the flour, then the egg mixture, and finally the bread crumbs. Place them on a baking sheet and refrigerate until firm, or up to 24 hours (see note below).
  5. In a food processor, combine the ranch dressing, chipotle peppers in adobo, minced garlic, seasoned salt, and ground black pepper. Pulse until the dressing mixture is well combined. Set it aside.
  6. In a large pot or Dutch oven, pour peanut oil to a depth of 4 inches. Heat it over medium heat until a deep-fry thermometer reads 350º F. Fry the Étouffée balls in batches for approximately 3 minutes or until they turn a golden brown hue. Serve these delightful balls hot with the chipotle ranch dressing mixture for dipping.

Serving Suggestion:

These Fried Crawfish Étouffée Balls are a scrumptious delight on their own, but you can elevate your meal by serving them with classic Creole sides like red beans and rice, collard greens, or cornbread. Don’t forget a refreshing beverage like sweet tea or a crisp lager to balance the heat!

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Discover Staunton: A Small Town with Big Character

Nestled in the heart of Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, Staunton beckons travelers with its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and breathtaking natural beauty, as per this travel blog post from SouthernLiving. This small town, pronounced “Stan-ten,” boasts six well-preserved historic districts, each adorned with beautifully restored buildings and Victorian-style architecture. Despite its size, Staunton offers a diverse range of attractions and activities for every type of traveler.

Staunton’s arts and culture scene is thriving, with the American Shakespeare Center and the Blackfriars Playhouse at its center. The Blackfriars Playhouse, a re-creation of Shakespeare’s indoor theater, is considered one of the world’s most historically significant theaters. Here, you can enjoy performances of Shakespeare’s timeless classics like “Hamlet” and “Much Ado About Nothing,” as well as seasonal works like “A Christmas Carol.”

For a deeper dive into history, the Frontier Culture Museum, located on the outskirts of Staunton, is the largest open-air living history museum in the Shenandoah Valley. Costumed interpreters bring to life the stories of Native American tribes, European immigrants, and enslaved Africans who settled in Virginia. Music enthusiasts will find themselves in heaven during the Staunton Music Festival, a late-summer event that hosts over 80 renowned and emerging musical artists across more than 20 performances. Best of all, most of the concerts are free to the public. If you prefer live bands, venues like Gypsy Hill Park and Tempest Bar & Lounge regularly feature local talent.

Staunton’s walkable historic downtown area is a treasure trove of boutiques and cafes, making it a delight for leisurely strolls. The town is home to Mary Baldwin University, adding youthful energy to the mix. But it’s not just about shopping and education; Staunton has a rich historical heritage to explore. The Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library & Museum is a must-visit, showcasing historic photographs, artifacts, and even the Pierce-Arrow limousine that carried President Wilson after negotiating the Treaty of Versailles in 1919. You can also explore the very house where the 28th president was born. The Camera Heritage Museum is a photographer’s dream, featuring over 7,000 cameras spanning more than 150 years of photography technology. Additionally, the museum boasts a collection of more than 2,000 vintage photographs of Staunton and Augusta County.

For those who enjoy shopping, Staunton offers a variety of options, especially along Beverley Street, the town’s main thoroughfare. Vintage shops like Billy Opal, Juniper Lane, and Eclectic Retro are perfect for unique finds. Remedy Burger is a must-visit for burger lovers, with options like the signature Remedy Burger and the veggie-centric Broccoli Burger. If you’re craving Salvadoran-style food, Gloria’s Pupuseria serves up mouth-watering pupusas, pasteles, and tamales. For a taste of nostalgia, don’t miss Wright’s Dairy-Rite, which has been serving burgers and fries since 1952. Their curb service adds a touch of old-school charm to your dining experience, and you must try the Wright’s Wheelie– a hot glazed donut topped with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. Satisfy your sweet tooth at Sweet Addie’s Waffle Shop, where liege waffles can be adorned with toppings like crushed Oreos, mini marshmallows, and more. They also offer savory waffle combinations, including fried chicken, gravy, and white cheddar mac & cheese.

When it’s time to rest, Staunton has several charming accommodations. Berkeley Place, dating back to 1896, is an elegant boutique inn steeped in history. Recently renovated, this one-time mansion now enchants guests with its historical charm. Gibson’s Warehouse, a boutique property, boasts industrial-chic guest rooms with exposed brick walls and unique design elements. Hotel 24 South combines historic charm with modern amenities, including luxurious pillow-top mattresses, an indoor pool, and the 1924 Lounge for casual dining.

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Protecting Louisiana with the Old River Control Complex

Nestled north of New Roads and Morganza stands an engineering marvel known as the Old River Control Complex.  This formidable structure, with a history spanning nearly six decades, comprises an intricate network of dams, channels, locks, and guide levees. Its primary mission: to maintain the Mississippi River on its current course and prevent it from diverting down the Atchafalaya River, a steeper and more direct route, according to this article from The Advocate.. The importance of this complex cannot be overstated, as it safeguards not only the local region but also the entire nation’s interests.

As the specter of climate change looms larger, the Old River Control Complex faces unprecedented challenges. To ensure its continued effectiveness, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has decided to conduct a comprehensive inspection and, if necessary, undertake critical repairs. The focus of these repairs will be the Low Sill Control Structure, a vital component of the complex that suffered severe damage during the historic flooding of 1973.

McMillen Inc., a construction firm based in Boise, Idaho, has been awarded a substantial $34.2 million contract for the construction of a steel dam. This dam will serve the crucial purpose of sealing off the Low Sill Control Structure, allowing it to be dewatered for the first time since 1987 in preparation for the planned repairs scheduled for the upcoming year.

Colonel Cullen Jones, the commander of the Corps’ New Orleans District, emphasizes the significance of this undertaking. He remarks, “By keeping the Mississippi and Atchafalaya rivers on their current courses, the Old River Control Complex infrastructure is critical to both the region and the nation. This effort to inspect and repair the Low Sill structure will help ensure the integrity and successful operation of the complex for years to come.”

Without the Old River Control Complex, the Mississippi River would likely have succumbed to the relentless forces of nature and redirected itself down the Atchafalaya River. Such a scenario would have left Baton Rouge and New Orleans bereft of sufficient river water for commerce and, further south of Baton Rouge, deprived 1.2 million people of the freshwater they depend on. Recent weather patterns have intensified the need for these repairs. A scorching summer and an extended period of drought have caused the water levels in the Mississippi to plummet. This dry spell follows more than a decade of recurring and prolonged high-water episodes along the lower river.

To safeguard New Orleans, the Bonnet Carré Spillway has been opened upstream on 15 occasions, with six of those instances occurring since 2011 and four between 2018 and 2020, including two openings in 2019. Further upstream, near Morganza, the river reached an all-time record height in 2011, necessitating the activation of the Morganza Floodway for only the second time in its history. While this measure protects Baton Rouge and New Orleans, it inundated 25,000 acres of farmland as it flows toward the Atchafalaya River, eventually passing Morgan City.

The Old River Control Complex, strategically located at the confluence of the Mississippi, Red, and Atchafalaya rivers, has been performing its critical function since the 1950s. Comprising three major features—the Low Sill, Overbank, and Auxiliary structures—the complex effectively maintains a 70/30 downstream split between the Mississippi and Atchafalaya rivers, derived from the combined upstream waters of the Mississippi and the Red River.

In conclusion, the Old River Control Complex stands as a testament to human engineering prowess, tirelessly safeguarding the Mississippi River’s course. As it undergoes much-needed repairs and enhancements, the nation can rest assured that this critical infrastructure will continue to serve as a bulwark against the unpredictable forces of nature.

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