Author: Emily Gautreaux

Nicholls’ Educational Pioneers at the 2023 International Coastal Cleanup

In a resounding demonstration of environmental dedication, the Nicholls Department of Biological Sciences recently made waves at the 2023 International Coastal Cleanup. This event, conducted in partnership with the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) and the Barataria-Terrebonne National Estuary Program (BTNEP), was hosted at Elmer’s Island Wildlife Refuge on Saturday, September 16. According to this informative news release from Nicholls, the results were nothing short of astounding, with the collective effort of 109 volunteers resulting in the removal of over 1,046 pounds of trash and debris, all from a mere 2-mile stretch of Elmer’s Island.

The International Coastal Cleanup (ICC) is a global volunteer initiative orchestrated by the Ocean Conservancy. Annually, this event unites countless participants worldwide in a mission to eradicate millions of pounds of waste and debris from our waterways, thus enhancing the safety of our beaches for both humans and wildlife. The magnitude of the challenge demands a massive collective effort, making volunteers an indispensable force in addressing the global issue of marine debris. Dr. Ferrara, a distinguished service professor and Jerry Ledet endowed professor of environmental biology at Nicholls, expressed their commitment to the ICC, emphasizing their delight in collaborating with numerous volunteers and local partners like BTNEP and LDWF to cleanse Elmer’s Island.

The cleanup effort on Elmer’s Island yielded impressive results, with the top 10 items removed reflecting the pressing concerns of coastal pollution. Plastic bottle caps, beverage bottles, utensils, bags, fishing lines, nets, traps, rope, food wrappers, foam cups and plates, and various other waste materials, including metal, paper, and plastic, were among the items retrieved during this cleanup. The diversity of these discarded items serves as a stark reminder of the multi-faceted challenges we face in protecting our coastal ecosystems.

What’s even more remarkable is the long-term impact of these cleanups. Each of the volunteers who participated in this year’s ICC event played a vital role in advancing Nicholls’ standing as Louisiana’s Coastal University. Situated uniquely amid the coastal landscapes, Nicholls has a golden opportunity to serve as a hub for research, education, and outreach in the field of coastal and estuarine efforts. The university’s commitment to its coastal environment extends far beyond this annual event. Through various academic programs and initiatives, students are offered a wide array of options to prepare themselves for careers in environmental stewardship and conservation.

Nicholls’ biology department, in particular, provides a comprehensive educational experience that equips students for future employment or further studies in professional schools. It’s an institution where students have the chance to explore the enchanting coastal waterways and swamps of Louisiana while gaining hands-on experience with state-of-the-art scientific equipment for investigating the intricate molecular mechanisms of cell biology. With 11 concentration areas to choose from, students can tailor their education to match their unique career aspirations.

But what’s truly inspiring is how Nicholls’ commitment to the environment transcends textbooks and lecture halls. It spills over into the real world, where students and faculty alike actively participate in events like the International Coastal Cleanup, making a tangible difference in the fight against coastal pollution.

In conclusion, the 2023 International Coastal Cleanup at Elmer’s Island was an exceptional display of Nicholls University’s dedication to environmental conservation. Through collaborative efforts, they not only removed over 1,000 pounds of trash but also inspired a new generation of environmentally conscious individuals. Nicholls’ Department of Biological Sciences stands as a shining example of how academic institutions can make a real-world impact on the preservation of our planet. As the 2024 cleanup approaches, we can only anticipate even greater accomplishments in the ongoing battle to keep our coastlines clean and safe.

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Rougarou Fest Unleashed Howls of Fun, Hot Air Balloons, and Trick-or-Treating

Houma, Louisiana recently witnessed a howling good time as the 12th annual Rougarou Fest took center stage, offering a captivating blend of tricks, treats, and high-flying adventure. The festival spanned an entire weekend, captivating attendees from Friday evening through Sunday afternoon. This enchanting event unfolded in the vicinity of the South Louisiana Wetlands Discovery Center, The Courtyard Marriot, and the Terrebonne Parish Library Main Branch. According to this article from Houma Today, Rougarou Fest is a unique celebration that has become a hallmark of the Houma community and a key fundraiser for the South Louisiana Wetlands Discovery Center.

The notion of a howl-off, a contest where participants unleash their most spine-tingling howls, was sparked by the festival’s poster art, according to Jonathan Foret, the festival’s founder. He revealed, “The Rougarou howling is sort of the inspiration of, ‘Let’s do a howling contest.’ I can’t believe it took me 12 years to come to that one.” The howl-off took place on Friday evening at 8 p.m., with participants vying for the coveted first, second, and third-place titles in both the adult and children’s categories, each receiving a prestigious medal.

Adding to the festive ambiance, trick-or-treating was scheduled for 6 p.m. on Friday, offering kids a chance to don their spookiest costumes and collect delectable goodies. But that’s not all. The event also promised an exhilarating adventure with hot air balloon rides available on both Friday and Saturday, running from 5 to 9 p.m. on both days. The festival’s diverse array of events and their respective timings can be found in detail on the official Rougarou Fest website, offering visitors a comprehensive schedule to plan their visit accordingly.

Rougarou Fest began its journey in 2012, serving as the primary annual fundraiser for the South Louisiana Wetlands Discovery Center in Houma. Named after the legendary bayou werewolf, the festival is an ode to the rich folklore that thrives along the bayous of Southeast Louisiana. Over the years, it has evolved into a grand celebration, featuring a mesmerizing parade, a highly competitive costume contest, Cajun culinary delights, and enlightening discussions on local folklore, all accompanied by fascinating exhibits.

The South Louisiana Wetlands Discovery Center, the beneficiary of the festival’s proceeds, is a non-profit organization dedicated to revolutionizing how we perceive, educate, and learn about the disappearing coastal regions of Louisiana. It stands as a testament to the collective efforts of the community to conserve and protect these precious wetlands.

Rougarou Fest’s outstanding contributions to the local culture and its commitment to environmental awareness have earned it recognition on various platforms. In 2014, USA Today ranked it as one of the Top 10 Costume Parties in the United States. In 2015 and 2019, the Southeast Tourism Society acknowledged it as one of the Top 20 Events among 11 states for the month of October. Further, the festival received the title of Best New Event in the state of Louisiana in 2015, as awarded by the Louisiana Association of Fairs and Festivals. And most recently, in 2020 and 2023, the Louisiana Travel Association bestowed upon it the esteemed honor of being the Festival of the Year.

In summary, Rougarou Fest is an enchanting celebration that brings the vibrant folklore of Louisiana’s bayous to life. With thrilling howl-offs, hot air balloon rides, and delightful trick-or-treating, this event is a true testament to the region’s cultural richness and its dedication to preserving the invaluable wetlands. It’s no wonder that Rougarou Fest has garnered accolades and has become a beloved tradition in the hearts of the Houma community.

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The Classic Sunchoke & Sweet Potato Gratin Recipe

Sunchoke & Sweet Potato Gratin is a wholesome and flavorful dish that combines the earthy taste of sunchokes with the sweet richness of sweet potatoes. The creamy cashew sauce, fragrant herbs, and crispy breadcrumb topping create a symphony of flavors and textures that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe from Food52 is a must-try. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also a fantastic way to incorporate nutritious vegetables into your diet.

Ingredients for the Cashew Cream:

Ingredients for the Gratin:

Directions:

  1. Begin by preparing the cashew cream. Combine the cashews with ½ cup of water in an airtight container and let them soak overnight in the refrigerator.
  2. After soaking, drain the cashews and blend them with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, 8 tablespoons of water, salt, and pepper until you achieve a smooth consistency. Store the cashew cream in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
  3. Preheat your oven to 425°F. In a small bowl, combine the bouillon with 1 teaspoon of water to create a slightly thick paste. In a large bowl, mix the sunchokes, sweet potato, 2 ½ tablespoons of olive oil, garlic, shallot, sage, rosemary, 1 teaspoon salt, and pepper. Make sure the vegetables are well-coated.
  4. Grease an 11-inch ceramic baking dish or a 1-quart ceramic round gratin dish. Start layering the sunchokes and sweet potato slices, alternating them with slight overlap. Brush each layer with the bouillon glaze. Continue layering until all slices are used, then pour the cashew cream over the top. Sprinkle evenly with breadcrumbs, drizzle with the remaining ½ tablespoon of oil, and sprinkle with the remaining 1 teaspoon of salt and nutritional yeast if desired.
  5. Cover the dish with a lid or foil and bake for 30 to 45 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Turn on the broil setting and broil for an additional 5 minutes, or until the topping turns golden brown. Allow the gratin to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy it while it’s warm.

Variations to Elevate Your Sunchoke & Sweet Potato Gratin

Now that you’ve mastered the classic Sunchoke & Sweet Potato Gratin recipe, let’s explore ten creative variations to impress your guests or simply add some variety to your meals. These ideas will not only make your taste buds happy but also encourage you to experiment with different ingredients and flavors. Here are five enticing variations to try:

  1. Cheesy Delight: Add a layer of your favorite cheese, such as Gruyère or cheddar, between the slices of sunchokes and sweet potatoes for an ooey-gooey gratin.
  2. Mediterranean Twist: Incorporate flavors of the Mediterranean by adding Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese to the gratin.
  3. Pesto Paradise: Replace the cashew cream with a basil pesto sauce for a fresh and herby twist on this classic dish.
  4. Vegan Dream: Make this dish entirely vegan by omitting the nutritional yeast or using a dairy-free cheese alternative.

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Interstate 14: A Ray of Hope for Louisiana’s Small Towns

A recent development is generating significant interest in Louisiana, particularly in its small towns facing economic challenges. As per this informative article from The Advocate, this development is the proposed construction of a new interstate highway, known as Interstate 14, which could have far-reaching implications for the state, its economy, and its struggling communities.

Interstate 14, also referred to as the “Forts and Ports Highway” by its proponents, has gained momentum largely driven by Texas officials. The plan is to establish a new east-west interstate highway that traverses the Gulf South, including central Louisiana. It won a crucial Congressional approval in 2021 as part of a bipartisan infrastructure bill.

The designated corridor for Interstate 14 stretches from Midland, Texas, to Augusta, Georgia, effectively bridging the gap between the heavily traveled east-west arteries of I-10 in the south and I-20 in the north. The route is strategically significant as it provides better connections between various military installations, including the Fort Cavazos Army base, Goodfellow Air Force Base in Texas, Fort Johnson Army Base in Louisiana, and Forts Moore and Eisenhower in Georgia. In addition, it could enhance access to several key Gulf Coast ports, furthering its appeal.

However, it’s essential to clarify that while the Congressional approval was a significant milestone, no funding was allocated for the project. This means that the responsibility of identifying the precise route and securing funding falls on state governments and local communities. For Louisiana, a state that already grapples with financial constraints, this presents a formidable challenge. Although the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development has included I-14 in the state’s transportation plan, there is currently no dedicated funding for the estimated $7 billion project.

The proponents of Interstate 14 emphasize the urgent need for such an infrastructure project. As the years pass, the capacity of existing east-west interstates, such as I-10 and I-20, will become increasingly insufficient to accommodate a growing population and its transportation needs. Thus, Interstate 14 is seen as a crucial addition to the national transportation system, capable of safely moving both people and freight.

While Texas has already made progress with a 25-mile stretch of I-14 operational near Killeen in central Texas, Louisiana has an opportunity to catch up. A critical step in this process is the replacement of the Burr Ferry bridge,which will begin next year. The new bridge, built to interstate-highway standards, will eventually accommodate two lanes of I-14, representing a significant milestone in the project’s development.

The proposed route for I-14 in Louisiana would follow Louisiana 8 from Burr Ferry to Leesville, likely tracing along Louisiana 28 to Alexandria, a prospect that has garnered considerable enthusiasm. Deborah Randolph, President of the Central Louisiana Regional Chamber of Commerce, is among the project’s ardent supporters. She believes that Interstate 14 could invigorate the region’s clean energy sector and diversify the local economy by attracting manufacturers and other job-creating entities. For Central Louisiana, this project could be a genuine “game changer.” Despite its broad support, it’s important to note that Interstate 14 remains a project of the future, likely taking a decade or more to become a reality. A realistic expectation is a construction timeline of approximately 20 years.

In conclusion, the proposed construction of Interstate 14 offers a glimmer of hope for Louisiana’s small townsgrappling with economic challenges. While its full impact remains to be seen, the potential benefits, including economic growth, improved transportation infrastructure, and revitalization of struggling communities, make it a promising prospect. Small towns like Jonesville look forward to the promise of Interstate 14, hoping that it will bring renewed vitality and opportunities to their communities.

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Fall Flavors in Every Bite: Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

As the crisp air of fall starts to creep in, so do our cravings for comforting dishes that warm the soul. Autumn ushers in the season of hot soups, cozy comfort foods, and everything pumpkin-spiced. With the hustle and bustle of back-to-school activities and the approaching holidays, we’re all in need of quick and satisfying weeknight meals that don’t leave us with a pile of dirty dishes. That’s where this recipe for one-pot pumpkin mac and cheese from Epicurious swoops in to save the day! Pumpkin is a fall superstar, often taking the lead in pies, cakes, and desserts. But did you know that this versatile ingredient can work wonders in savory dishes too? Our pumpkin mac and cheese showcases the earthy richness, subtle sweetness, and velvety texture of canned pumpkin. Plus, we’re ditching the traditional roux, making this recipe not only mouthwatering but also hassle-free, as the pasta cooks right in the same pan as the sauce. So, let’s dive into the details and create a fall masterpiece in just one pot.

Ingredients:

Directions:

  1. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F, and place a rack in the upper third. In a large bowl, combine 12 oz. of coarsely grated Monterey Jack and 8 oz. of Gruyère, which is also coarsely grated. Use your hands to toss them together until they are evenly coated with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. Set this cheesy mixture aside.
  2. Take a large, high-sided ovenproof skillet, rondeau, or a short pot with a capacity of 14 cups or more. If none of these are available, a large Dutch oven will do the trick. Melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium-high heat in the chosen vessel. Add 4 finely chopped garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon of finely chopped thyme, and ¼ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes. Cook while stirring until they become fragrant, which should take about 2 minutes.
  3. Pour in 4½ cups of water and bring it to a simmer. Add 1 lb. of lumache or any medium shell pasta and cook while stirring frequently to prevent sticking. You want the pasta to absorb about two-thirds of the liquid and become very al dente. This should take around 5 minutes.
  4. Reduce the heat to low and stir in 1 can (12 oz.) of evaporated milk, 2½ teaspoons of Diamond Crystal or 1½ teaspoons of Morton kosher salt, 1 teaspoon of freshly ground pepper, and ¼ teaspoon of ground nutmeg into the pasta. Begin adding the cheese mixture a handful at a time, ensuring it’s mostly melted before each new addition. Once the cheese is well incorporated, remove the pan from the heat and stir in 1 can (15 oz.) of unsweetened pumpkin purée. Taste and season with more salt if necessary. If you used a Dutch oven, transfer the pasta to an ovenproof baking dish.
  5. Top your mac and cheese with the remaining 6 oz. of Gruyère, which is coarsely grated. Tightly cover it with foil and bake it for 20 minutes. Now, preheat your broiler. Remove the foil and broil the mac and cheese just until the top is perfectly browned. This should take 2-6 minutes, depending on your broiler. Keep a close eye to prevent burning. Once done, let it cool slightly and then garnish with thyme leaves.

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Harrisonburg, VA: Where Culture, Nature, and Gastronomy Meet

Nestled in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, Harrisonburg, often affectionately known as “Rocktown” or “The Friendly City,” offers a storybook fall getaway that you’ll cherish. Situated northwest of Charlottesville, Harrisonburg is enveloped by the stunning landscapes of Shenandoah National Park and George Washington and Jefferson National Forest. This small town beckons with a unique blend of natural beauty and urban charm, making it a perfect destination for a slightly sleepy yet delightful escape. In this blog post from Southern Living, we’ll explore the reasons why you should plan a trip to Harrisonburg this fall.

One of Harrisonburg’s gems is the Culinary District, a downtown area brimming with restaurants that promise unforgettable culinary experiences. For those seeking a culinary adventure, Rocktown Bites Downtown Food Toursoffers delightful walking tours of this district and its myriad eateries. Savor the flavors of the Friendly City while exploring the heart of Harrisonburg’s gastronomic scene. Discover more about these delectable experiences at virginia.org.

The Edith J. Carrier Arboretum is a hidden gem located on the James Madison University campus. This public greenspace seamlessly blends nature with art exhibitions and events, offering a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. The best part? It’s open year-round, every day, from dawn until dusk, and it’s absolutely free to visit.

While Harrisonburg offers a wealth of experiences for travelers of all ages, the Explore More Discovery Museumstands out as a fantastic destination for those looking to spark curiosity and creativity. With a myriad of events, projects, programs, and classes, this museum provides both entertainment and opportunities for learning, making it an ideal stop for curious minds of all ages.

Harrisonburg takes its title as the Friendly City seriously. It has welcomed over 2,500 refugees since 2002, thanks in large part to outreach from the Mennonite community and other faith groups. The presence of James Madison University and Eastern Mennonite University further enriches the community with a diverse population of academics. Harrisonburg is a place that welcomes everyone and leaves them wanting to stay.

Harrisonburg has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years. What was once a town where young people were eager to leave has become a place where folks want to stick around. One such example is Magpie, a modern restaurant and bakery, which, since its founding in 2020, has become one of the most sought-after dining destinations in town. The menu at Magpie changes regularly, offering a mix of hearty classics and lighter fare. Don’t forget to treat yourself to a pastry or two from the adjoining bakery counter – the rye shortbread cookie is a local favorite.

Fall Activities to Complete Your Harrisonburg Experience

To make the most of your fall escape in Harrisonburg, consider these additional activities:

Now that you know why Harrisonburg, VA, is the perfect fall destination, start planning your trip and discover the magic of this charming town. Harrisonburg awaits your visit, ready to enchant you with its natural beauty, culinary delights, and vibrant culture. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable fall getaway!

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