Author: Emily Gautreaux

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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Exploring Your Science Passion: Science Day 2023 at UL at Lafayette

Are you a high school student curious about the fascinating world of science and its myriad possibilities? Well, you’re in luck! The University of Louisiana at Lafayette is gearing up to host Science Day 2023, an enlightening event that will give you a sneak peek into the life of a science major at their esteemed Ray P. Authement College of Sciences. Sponsored by Halliburton, this event promises to be an incredible journey into the realm of science, offering a plethora of enriching experiences for high school seniors and juniors, parents, teachers, and guidance counselors, according to this news release from the school.

Science Day 2023 is designed to provide an immersive experience in the world of science. Attendees will have the opportunity to witness captivating laboratory experiments and cutting-edge research and technology demonstrations. Moreover, they will be treated to enlightening presentations in various scientific disciplines, including biology, chemistry, computer science, informatics, geology, environmental science, mathematics, and physics.

But that’s not all; Science Day goes beyond just theoretical knowledge. It’s about fostering a genuine connection between aspiring scientists and the academic and professional world. Participants will have the chance to interact withUL Lafayette’s esteemed faculty and staff members, engage with passionate students, and network with industry professionals. This unique blend of experiences will provide invaluable insights into courses, degree programs, research opportunities, student organizations, and potential career paths associated with different scientific disciplines.

One of the highlights of Science Day is the exclusive tour of the College of Sciences‘ state-of-the-art facilities. These tours will offer a glimpse into the world of academia and research, allowing you to envision yourself as a part of this dynamic community. Additionally, there will be a thought-provoking question and answer session with UL Lafayette alumni who have successfully forged careers in various science-related fields. Their stories and advice will inspire and guide you on your own journey.

Dr. Michael Totaro, an associate professor in the School of Computing and Informatics and the graduate coordinator for the school’s Informatics Master’s Degree program, emphasized the significance of Science Day. He stated that the event is meticulously structured to instill “a sense of excitement about science, its possibilities, and its capacity for exploration and discovery.” Dr. Totaro also highlighted that Science Day plays a crucial role in assisting students in understanding the processes and programs that facilitate a seamless transition from high school to university life.These encompass essential aspects like admissions, housing, financial aid, and scholarships.

To give a more detailed understanding of what awaits you at Science Day 2023, let’s break down some of the key activities and features:

  • “A Day in the Life”: Students will get to experience a typical day in the life of a science major. This will involve up-close and personal laboratory demonstrations and engaging presentations in various scientific fields, such as Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science and Informatics, Geology and Environmental Science, Mathematics, and Physics.
  • Connecting with the Community: Science Day offers the opportunity to connect with students’ future College of Sciences peers, faculty members, and staff. This is a chance to gain insights into classes, student organizations, research opportunities, and more.
  • Navigating the University World: Wondering about admissions, dual enrollment, financial aid, housing, or scholarships? Science Day provides a platform to interact with university personnel who can provide answers to all questions and help students plan their academic journey.
  • Building Your Future: The event also brings you face-to-face with potential employers and representatives from UL Lafayette Career Services. This will be invaluable in helping students start planning their future career path.

Science Day 2023, sponsored by Halliburton, is an extraordinary opportunity for high school juniors and seniors to explore their passion for science. It’s a day filled with discovery, learning, and inspiration. Best of all, there is no admission charge, and the event is open to the public.

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Exploring the Diverse Beauty of the United States Coast to Coast

When it comes to breathtaking natural beauty and diverse landscapes, the United States offers a cornucopia of wonders from coast to coast. While the country boasts famous landmarks like the Grand Canyon and the Statue of Liberty, there are countless lesser-known gems waiting to be discovered. So, whether you’re a seasoned traveler or an adventurous soul ready to hit the road, here’s a journey inspired by Travel + Leisure’s article that promises to captivate your senses and awaken your wanderlust.

Fall is a magical time in the United States, and while places like Vermont and Maine often steal the spotlight for their colorful foliage, a hidden gem awaits in Minnesota. Welcome to the North Shore Scenic Byway, a 154-mile stretch of road along Lake Superior’s shoreline that promises a unique autumn experience. The North Shore’s beauty lies in its double dose of fall. First, you’ll be enchanted by the fiery hues of maple trees in the mountains, followed by the golden glory of aspen and birch trees along the shore. This seasonal spectacle has earned the byway the prestigious title of an “All-American Road” by the U.S. Secretary of Transportation.

Begin your journey in Duluth, a city known for North America’s largest freshwater estuary, ideal for kayaking and canoeing. If you’re keen on exploring the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, a major attraction of the North Shore, take a detour through Two Harbors. Continuing on the scenic byway, you’ll encounter Kelsey Beach, where you can savor a slice of pie from Betty’s, a local gem. The route then leads you through Gooseberry State Park and Split Rock Lighthouse State Park, home to the iconic Split Rock Lighthouse, a must-visit spot.

Further along, Tettegouche State Park boasts some of Minnesota’s most magnificent waterfalls. You can take a leisurely hike along the cliffs or embark on the Cascade Trail to witness the awe-inspiring Cascades Waterfall. The journey continues through Caribou Falls State Wayside and Temperance River State Park before reaching Lutsen, a small town with a thriving summer and fall mountain scene. Here, you can enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the lake from the Summit Express gondola, try mountain biking, or experience the adrenaline rush of the alpine slide.

As you make your way to Grand Marais, a charming coastal town awaits. This community offers delectable cuisine and a vibrant art scene, including the renowned North House Folk School, where you can explore traditional northern crafts. Your journey culminates in the town of Grand Portage near the Canadian border. While it’s possible to complete the entire route in a day, savoring the North Shore’s beauty deserves a slower pace. In Duluth, consider staying at Solglimt, a charming five-room bed-and-breakfast with Lake Superior beach access, or the waterfront Fitger’s Hotel.

Midway through your adventure, The Mayhew Inn in Grand Marais beckons with expansive rooftop decks overlooking the harbor and The Gunflint Trail. For those who prefer the great outdoors, there are numerous campgrounds scattered along the route. In Grand Marais, The Fisherman’s Daughter serves up “dock-to-table fish + chips” and a mouthwatering selection of fish tacos and more. Nearby, the Angry Trout Cafe offers a unique lakefront dining experience in a converted commercial fishing shanty.

Timing is everything when it comes to experiencing the North Shore’s splendor. The best time to embark on this scenic byway adventure is in the fall when the weather cools and the landscape transforms into a kaleidoscope of colors. The maple trees in the Sawtooth Mountains typically reach their peak in mid-September, with the spectacle continuing into early October. Along the Lake Superior shoreline, where you’ll spend most of your journey, aspens and birch trees typically peak between late September and mid-October.

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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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