Author: Emily Gautreaux

Nurturing the Growth of Nursery Crops in Louisiana: A Tale of Passion, Diversification, and Local Support

In the heart of Baton Rouge, Mark Mese, a retired attorney turned dedicated nursery owner, tends to his lush greenhouses, nurturing a stunning variety of plants that thrive under his careful watch, according to this article from Nola.com. Within the sprawling 3,000 square feet of greenery, Mese dedicates himself to the cultivation of bromeliads, rare ferns, begonias, succulents, and a treasure trove of botanical wonders. His story is a testament to the thriving nursery crops industry in Louisiana, where a vibrant community of growers and nursery owners passionately tends to their plants, embraces diversification, and lends a helping hand to fellow enthusiasts.

Mese, like many others, finds immense joy in the world of plants, a passion he’s been able to explore more extensively thanks to the internet. He shares, “one of the things I enjoy the most is that there are so many different kinds of plants you can work with. The internet has opened up so many avenues because you see plants you want and you can do trades with other nursery owners.” His connections stretch far and wide, including a plant enthusiast in Portland who shares his desire for rare Southeastern plants and grows elusive mosses. This collaboration allows both of them to enrich their crop varieties, introducing unique botanical specimens to their respective regions.

Mark Mese is just one of the nearly 600 certified nursery crop operators in Louisiana. These nurseries are mandated to obtain licenses from the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry (LDAF), an agency that collaborates closely with the U.S. Department of Agriculture to address critical issues such as disease control and the management of invasive species. Mike Strain, the Commissioner of LDAF, proudly states that Louisiana’s nursery crop industry generates over $200 million annually, positioning the state at the 16th spot nationally for nursery crop production.

In the fertile landscape of Louisiana, nursery operations come in all shapes and sizes. Some nurture only a few dozen plants, while others oversee vast operations with thousands flourishing at any given moment. Most nursery owners specialize in a handful of crops, although the range of plants suited to Louisiana’s climate is astonishing. Azaleas, camellias, magnolia trees, grasses, Hibiscus, citruses, fig trees, and a kaleidoscope of other species grace the nurseries across the state.

Apart from trading and selling plants amongst themselves, nursery owners like Mese occasionally cater to local gardening societies and extend a helping hand to budding nursery operators by providing small cuttings or plants. While their operations may not be open to the general public, they actively participate in plant societies, creating connections and fostering a sense of community among plant enthusiasts.

For those who aspire to embark on a journey in nursery crop cultivation, Mark Mese offers some sage advice. He suggests starting small, focusing on one or two types of plants initially, and gradually expanding as one gains experience. His emphasis is on the intrinsic satisfaction that comes from nurturing plants, rather than solely seeking financial rewards. One exciting opportunity for nursery crops in Louisiana is participation in the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. This initiative funds various projects related to promotion, research development, advertising, education, and more, offering a valuable resource to nurture the growth of this unique sector.

In conclusion, the world of nursery crops in Louisiana is a flourishing tapestry of diverse plants, passionate growers, and an unwavering commitment to nurturing the local ecosystem. As each nursery owner tends to their green haven, they not only cultivate beautiful plants but also sow the seeds of economic prosperity and community bonds. In therich soils of Louisiana, the nursery crop industry continues to thrive, embodying the spirit of growth, diversity, and support.

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UL Lafayette and First Solar: Partners in Progress for a Sustainable Future

In a groundbreaking announcement, First Solar, the largest solar energy manufacturer in the Western Hemisphere, unveiled plans to build its fifth U.S. manufacturing facility at Acadiana Regional Airport in New Iberia, Louisiana, and they plan to rely on research from UL Lafayette, according to this news release.

This exciting development represents a monumental investment, with First Solar allocating a staggering $1.1 billion into this project—a sum believed to be the largest single capital investment in the region’s history. Notably, this strategic location places the facility within close proximity to UL Lafayette, fostering a symbiotic relationship that will undoubtedly shape the future of solar energy in the area.

First Solar has ambitious goals for this new venture, aiming to create over 700 direct jobs with an annual payroll exceeding $40 million. A significant portion of the workforce will be sourced from UL Lafayette, underlining the close collaboration between the university and the solar energy giant. The facility’s primary objective is to produce high-performance photovoltaic (PV) solar modules, with construction anticipated to conclude by 2026.

Beyond job creation and economic development, First Solar envisions a deep partnership with UL Lafayette researchers across various domains, including technology development. The company also plans to offer internship opportunities for students and utilize university facilities for testing and training. Central to this collaboration is Antoun Hall, home to the Louisiana Solar Energy Lab—a sprawling 4,200-panel solar field spread across 6 acres. Adjacent to this field is a 4,500-square-foot building at University Research Park. This combined solar field and lab position UL Lafayette as a hub for solar research, technology development, instruction, training, outreach, and workforce development.

Dr. Ramesh Kolluru, the University’s Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Economic Development, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of collaborations between research universities like UL Lafayette, industry partners, and local entities like Acadiana Planning Commission, One Acadiana, Lafayette Economic Development Authority, and Iberia Parish leaders. These collaborations have been instrumental in achieving economic development milestones, facilitated by the impactful work of researchers like Dr. Chambers.

The Louisiana Economic Development (LED) estimates that in addition to the direct jobs created by First Solar, the presence of the company will result in at least 694 new indirect jobs. When combined with the 700 new direct jobs, this equates to a total of approximately 1,400 new jobs in the Acadiana region. Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwardscelebrated this achievement, asserting that the selection of Iberia Parish for First Solar’s new solar panel production facility signifies Louisiana’s leadership in the global energy transition and the creation of well-paying jobs.

First Solar stands out among the world’s top 10 solar manufacturers as the only U.S.-headquartered company not manufacturing in China. Their tellurium-based semiconductor technology allows them to bypass dependence on Chinese crystalline silicon supply chains, making them a unique player in the industry. Mark Widmar, Chief Executive Officer of First Solar, emphasized their commitment to creating enduring value for America by expanding solar manufacturing and domestic value chains. The new Louisiana facility will be tasked with producing First Solar’s Series 7 modules, which are expected to be manufactured with 100% U.S.-made components. This aligns with current domestic content guidance issued by the U.S. Department of Treasury. Once the factory is operational, Series 7 modules will account for over two-thirds of First Solar’s annual domestic nameplate capacity.

In closing, First Solar’s monumental investment in Louisiana signifies a turning point in the renewable energy landscape. It showcases the power of collaboration between industry leaders like First Solar and esteemed educational institutions like UL Lafayette in propelling the nation toward a sustainable energy future. As we witness the convergence of cutting-edge technology and academia, the benefits will not only be economic but also environmental, reinforcing the significance of investing in renewable energy sources.

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The Perfect Comfort Food: Creamy Penne and Pancetta

Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure that combines the richness of cream, the freshness of greens, and the savory delight of pancetta? In this mouthwatering recipe, we’ll guide you through creating Penne with Creamed Greens and Pancetta, a dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. This recipe from Food 52 offers a delightful fusion of flavors, textures, and colors, making it an ideal choice for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering with loved ones.

Ingredients for creamy penne and pancetta: 

  • 1 pound of penne rigate
  • 1/3 cup of crème fraîche
  • 1/4 cup of heavy cream
  • 1/4 pound of pancetta, diced into 1/4-inch pieces (optional)
  • 1 pound of fresh broccoli rabe, thoroughly rinsed and trimmed
  • 1 medium bunch of dinosaur kale, rinsed and stems trimmed
  • 1/4 cup of olive oil
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice (approximately 1/2 lemon)
  • 3 tablespoons of grated pecorino Romano, with extra for finishing touches
  • A pinch of red pepper flakes
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons of kosher salt, plus more to taste

Directions for creamy penne and pancetta: 

  1. Begin by spreading the diced pancetta in a sauté pan and placing it over medium heat. Cook the pancetta until the fat is rendered and it turns crispy. Depending on your stove, you might need to lower the heat as you go to ensure even cooking. Once done, remove the pancetta from the pan and place it on a paper-towel-lined plate to drain. Set it aside for later.
  2. While the pancetta is sizzling, let’s prepare our greens. Rinse the broccoli rabe and kale thoroughly, ensuring they are free of any dirt. Trim the stems as needed. In a large pot, pile the still-wet greens and drizzle olive oil over them. Season with a pinch of salt. Set the heat to high and start wilting the greens. Use tongs to move them from the bottom to the top of the pot for even cooking. Once the greens are fully wilted, and most of the liquid has evaporated (you can pour off any excess if necessary), add the heavy cream and a healthy pinch of red pepper flakes. Let it cook for about a minute.
  3. Transfer the wilted greens into a food processor, adding about half of the creamy liquid left in the pot. Begin pureeing, adding more liquid as needed to achieve a creamy consistency. Squeeze in a bit of lemon juice and add the crème fraîche. Puree once more until everything is beautifully combined. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking.
  4. In a separate large pot, bring water to a boil, and add 1 1/2 tablespoons of kosher salt. Once the water is boiling, add the penne and cook it until it reaches the perfect al dente texture. Before draining the pasta, reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  5. After draining, return the cooked penne to the pot. Now, it’s time to combine all the elements of our dish. Spoon the creamy green mixture over the pasta, add the crispy pancetta, and gently fold everything together. Sprinkle grated pecorino Romano over the top and fold again for that irresistibly cheesy finish. If you prefer a creamier consistency, you can add some of the reserved creamed greens liquid or pasta water. To serve this delectable dish, bring out your favorite shallow bowls. Spoon the Penne with Creamed Greens and Pancetta into each bowl, and don’t be shy with the extra grated pecorino Romano for that final touch of flavor.

With its rich, creamy texture, the earthy notes of greens, and the indulgent crunch of pancetta, Penne with Creamed Greens and Pancetta is a culinary masterpiece that’s bound to become a favorite in your home. This dish perfectly balances comfort and sophistication, making it suitable for any occasion. Try it out and watch your guests savor every bite!

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Explore the Wonders of Tarpon Springs, Florida

If you’ve ever dreamt of wandering through the enchanting villages of the Greek Islands but find your plans leaning toward a more budget-friendly escapade, worry not. There exists a destination that could transport you to the allure of Mykonos, all while keeping you close to home, thanks to this travel blog article from Southern Living. Nestled on the Gulf of Mexico just north of Tampa, Tarpon Springs, Florida, is a hidden gem that can whisk you away to a Mediterranean reverie. With a history rooted in the discovery of sponge beds off its coast in the early 1900s, the town’s identity became intricately tied to Greek culture when Greek sponge divers were introduced to the area in 1905. Today, the Greek influence remains vibrant, with Tarpon Springs boasting the highest percentage of Greek Americans among all U.S. cities.

Picture this: as you drizzle fresh lemon over your chargrilled octopus and overhear the animated conversations of the table next to you in Greek, the thought of being in Florida could easily vanish from your mind. Walking along Dodecanese Boulevard, where boats adorned with Greek flags dock gracefully, you might as well be strolling through a coastal village in Greece. Remember those cinematic landscapes from The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants and Mamma Mia!? If they captured your heart, you’ll be thrilled to know that a taste of Greek vacation dreams awaits you right here in the American South – in Tarpon Springs, Florida.

From the Historic Sponge Docks to the mesmerizing Anclote River, Tarpon Springs offers a tapestry of experiences that will leave you enchanted. Begin your journey by immersing yourself in the bustling atmosphere of the Historic Sponge Docks, once the epicenter of the town’s thriving sponge industry. While sponge boats may not arrive as frequently today, the area remains a vibrant hub, lined with Greek restaurants, souvenir shops showcasing sponges from the Gulf, and charming bakeries. Explore the 30 specialty shops at The Sponge Exchange, capture a photo with the cheerful sponge smiley outside Sponge Diver Supply, and indulge in homemade olive oil soap from Lori’s Soap & Sponge.

Delve deeper into Tarpon Springs’ rich history by embarking on a sponge diving boat tour with St. Nicholas Boat Line. Cruise along the picturesque Anclote River as owner George Billiris, a Tarpon Springs native, regales you with tales of the town’s sponge diving heritage. Marvel as a live diver, clad in traditional diving gear, plunges to the ocean floor to retrieve a sponge, right before your eyes. Not far from the docks, immerse yourself further by visiting two downtown landmarks – the Tarpon Springs Heritage Museum and the Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral. Wander around Spring Bayou at Craig Park, a serene location renowned for hosting the town’s annual Greek Orthodox Epiphany Celebration and cross-diving ceremony.

Venture a few blocks from the park to downtown Tarpon Springs, a treasure trove of charm awaiting your exploration. While Greek influences may be less pronounced here, you’ll find an array of coffee shops, boutiques, and antique stores. For a dose of nostalgia, don’t miss the Replay Museum, housing a collection of vintage arcade and pinball games. Sunshine Supply Company beckons with modern home goods and local art, offering a delightful shopping experience.

If your vision of a Greek getaway involves sun-kissed sands and uninterrupted ocean views, Tarpon Springs can make it come true. Fred Howard Park, a sprawling 155-acre natural haven, awaits you with opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. Cross the mile-long causeway to reach Howard Park Beach’s pristine white sands, where you can bask in the serene waters of Saint Joseph Sound. Should the allure of the Atlantic Ocean tug at your heart, a short ride to Dunedin can lead you to a Parrotdise Express boat tour. Embark on a 4-hour adventure to a semi-private island, where you can snorkel amidst vibrant marine life, from colorful fish to majestic seahorses, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

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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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