Author: Emily Gautreaux

UL Lafayette Apprentices Gain Real-World Construction Insight

Developed through a collaboration between the UL Lafayette College of Engineering and the University’s Office of Facility Management, the initiative, Engineering Structured Apprenticeship Program, known as ESAP, has been structured to bridge academic study with hands-on project experience. By the close of November, the partnership will welcome ten selected students who will begin working on active improvement and building projects unfolding across the University of Louisiana at Lafayette campus, as per this news release. While Facility Management teams gain additional support for ongoing construction needs, the arrangement simultaneously strengthens the preparation of future construction leaders.

As explained by Dr. Ahmed Khattab, dean of the College of Engineering at UL Lafayette, the collaboration has been designed to immerse students in the construction process from the client’s perspective. He noted that this vantage point allows participants to better understand how decisions are made, how expectations are communicated, and how project goals evolve over time. In summarizing his remarks, the program’s purpose centers on helping students cultivate professional awareness and managerial confidence that will ultimately make them more effective construction managers after graduation. Through intentional design, ESAP offers a multifaceted learning environment that integrates classroom knowledge with supervised, real-world application.

This new initiative intertwines academic coursework, documented work experience, and opportunities to earn professional certifications. Together, these components strengthen one another, creating a structured route toward industry readiness. Each participant receives guidance from both an academic advisor within the College of Engineering and an assigned industry mentor connected to the Office of Facility Management. The program’s framework ensures that students are not only completing tasks but also understanding how their work contributes to broader goals such as safety, scheduling, compliance, and overall planning for campus development at UL Lafayette.

One of the central advantages of ESAP is the opportunity for construction management students to work side-by-side with Facility Management personnel on major projects. These are not simulated assignments; they are real, ongoing construction initiatives that shape the landscape and functionality of the University. This exposure helps students see how large-scale undertakings are conceived, organized, and managed by the project owner—knowledge that is crucial for navigating the expectations and challenges that often arise in professional construction environments. The experience also offers early insight into quality assurance, workflow coordination, and communication protocols that guide effective project delivery.

According to Scott Hebert, director for Facility Management, the apprenticeship brings a distinct competitive edge to student participants. He emphasized that graduates emerge from the program with a strong blend of technical skill, applied experience, and customer-oriented understanding. Summarizing his comments, graduates are better positioned to perform confidently in their first roles because they have already interacted with real clients, responded to authentic project constraints, and recognized firsthand the importance of aligning construction processes with organizational goals. The combination of these elements sets ESAP participants apart as emerging professionals ready to contribute immediately to the construction sector.

Beyond building technical proficiency, the Engineering Structured Apprenticeship Program reinforces the broader purpose of experiential education. Students are placed in environments where their academic studies can be tested and expanded. They also gain first exposure to industry credentials, learn how to interpret construction documentation, and participate in decision-making discussions that mirror those found within professional contracting firms. The careful blend of mentorship, coursework, and applied learning strengthens the pipeline of future contractorsand project managers who will take on leadership roles in shaping contemporary infrastructure.

The program reflects an institutional commitment to developing a knowledgeable, practice-ready workforce. As apprentices contribute to evolving improvements across campus, they simultaneously influence the future of the University’s built environment. Those seeking more information about the structure of the apprenticeship or upcoming opportunities may reach out to Dr. Sharon LaHood, coordinator of the construction management program.

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Velvety Collard Greens with Crispy Pork Trio

Creamy, savory collard greens have long been a signature element of regional cuisine across the American South, but this elevated version from Southern Living brings a depth of flavor closely associated with Louisiana cooking traditions. This hearty side dish blends tender greens with a luxuriously smooth sauce made from smoked Gouda and mozzarella, then finishes with layers of rich, smoky pork. The combination of tasso, shredded ham hock, and crisp bacon creates a bold profile that fits naturally onto any table celebrating the state’s culinary heritage.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ham hocks
  • ½ cup chopped tasso
  • 8 cups chopped fresh collard greens
  • ½ (8-ounce) block smoked Gouda cheese, grated
  •  ½ (8-ounce) block mozzarella cheese, grated
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter
  • 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
  • Chopped cooked bacon and pepper sauce, to serve
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

Directions:

  1. 1. Using a sharp knife, score the surface of each ham hock with a shallow “X,” cutting about ¼ inch deep. This step allows the flavor to release more efficiently as they cook. Place the ham hocks in a medium stockpot and add enough water to fully cover them. Bring the pot to a steady simmer over medium-high heat. Cook for approximately 2 hours, or until the meat becomes fork-tender and begins to separate easily from the bone. Check the water level periodically, adding more if needed to keep the hocks submerged. Once fully cooked, remove the pot from the heat and allow the hocks to cool completely in the cooking liquid. After cooling, use two forks to gently shred the meat into medium-sized pieces, discarding any skin, excess fat, or bone. Reserve the flavorful broth for soups, beans, or future recipes.
  2. 2. In a separate large stockpot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the chopped tasso. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and allow the pieces to cook evenly. Continue sautéing for 5 to 10 minutes, or until the tasso becomes crisp and browned around the edges. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked tasso to a paper towel–lined plate to drain. Keep the rendered drippings in the pot, as they will serve as the base for the roux. Add the butter to the warm drippings and stir until fully melted and incorporated.
  3. 3. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour evenly over the butter-and-dripping mixture. Whisk continuously to form a smooth roux, cooking for about 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the whole milk, adding a little at a time while whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue cooking for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the mixture thickens to a gravy-like consistency. Add the chopped collard greens to the pot, stirring to coat them thoroughly in the sauce. Allow the greens to cook for 10 to 25 minutes, depending on desired tenderness, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
  4. 4. Once the greens have softened, gradually add the grated mozzarella and smoked Gouda. Stir continuously until both cheeses melt completely into the sauce, creating a smooth and creamy texture. Add the shredded ham hock to the pot, followed by the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and chopped cooked bacon. Stir well to blend all ingredients and allow the flavors to combine fully. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve the dish warm with a splash of pepper sauce for brightness and heat.

This comforting dish brings together the defining elements of Louisiana cooking—smoky pork, tender greens, and a richly seasoned cream base—to create a side that feels both traditional and indulgent. Every component, from the slow-simmered ham hocks to the crisp tasso and melted cheeses, contributes depth and character, resulting in a recipe that stands out on any Southern-inspired table. Whether served alongside classic mains or featured as the centerpiece of a hearty meal, these Creamy Collards with Crispy Tasso offer a bold, flavorful experience that reflects the region’s culinary heritage. 

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Explore The Great River Road-A Southern Scenic Drive Steeped in Louisiana History

Louisiana has long been recognized for its captivating landscapes, rich heritage, and winding corridors that reveal the state’s layered past. Among these memorable routes, the Great River Road has been highlighted by WorldAtlas as one of the most scenic drives in the South. According to this article from Houma Today, this historic byway stretches along both sides of the mighty Mississippi River, offering travelers an immersive journey through natural beauty and cultural significance. Its blend of environmental charm and historical storytelling has made the route an essential experience for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Louisiana’s unique character.

Extending for roughly 733 miles within the state, the Great River Road leads visitors past expansive farmland, shaded oak canopies, and sweeping river bends. This corridor once served as home to some of the most prosperous planters in the region, and remnants of that era remain visible in the preserved estates scattered throughout the area. Many of these historic sites, including Laura Plantation and Oak Alley Plantation in Vacherie, are now open to the public, providing opportunities to learn about the complexities of Louisiana’s antebellum history. These properties offer tours that examine the region’s cultural landscape, highlighting both architectural grandeur and the lived experiences of the people who shaped these communities.

Along the drive, additional estates and structures rise along the riverbanks, some preserved for touring and others observed from afar. The presence of these landmarks underscores the route’s ability to blend scenery with storytelling. As travelers move through the corridor, they encounter towns and cities rich with local attractions, each contributing its own layer of charm. Places like Baton Rouge, LaPlace, and New Orleans widen the scope of the journey by introducing museums, markets, and cultural centers that reflect the state’s deep creativity and resilience.

Though visually striking throughout the year, the Great River Road is especially appealing during spring and early autumn, when temperatures are milder and outdoor exploration becomes more pleasant. Louisiana’s summer humidity can be intense, so the cooler seasons allow for more comfortable travel. Because the route weaves through approximately 75 miles of scenery and historic points of interest, visitors benefit from setting aside ample time to enjoy the drive at a relaxed pace. The meandering landscape encourages slow exploration, with numerous stops available for sightseeing, photography, and educational experiences.

This Louisiana byway also sits among an impressive group of Southern scenic routes recognized by WorldAtlas. The regional list includes the Talladega Scenic Drive in Alabama, the Talimena Scenic Drive spanning Arkansas and Oklahoma, the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina and Virginia, the River Road in Texas, the Cherohala Skyway in Tennessee, and the Florida Keys Overseas Highway in Florida. Each drive showcases distinct landscapes and histories, but Louisiana’s entry stands out for its seamless union of natural scenery and preserved heritage.

While the byway is undeniably beautiful, its deeper significance lies in the stories preserved along the river. The plantations, historic towns, and expansive wetlands collectively create an outdoor museum that reveals centuries of cultural evolution. By engaging with these sites, travelers gain insight into Louisiana’s economic foundations, architectural traditions, and the complex histories that shaped the region. The Mississippi River Delta and surrounding ecosystems further enrich the narrative, highlighting the environmental forces that influenced settlement patterns and industry.

The Great River Road ultimately serves as more than a scenic drive. It acts as a guide through Louisiana’s layered identity, inviting visitors to observe, reflect, and connect with landscapes and landmarks that continue to define the state. Its recognition by WorldAtlas underscores its importance among Southern destinations, and its blend of beauty, culture, and history continues to attract travelers seeking meaningful experiences on the open road.

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The Ultimate Weekend Through Pennsylvania’s Steel City, Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh stands out for its blend of industrial heritage, creative energy, and rapidly evolving neighborhoods, offering visitors a dynamic mix of landmarks, outdoor recreation, and memorable cityscapes, as per this travel guide from Travel + Leisure. Approaching the city through the dramatic Fort Pitt Tunnel delivers a striking reveal of the skyline, framed by the meeting point of the Allegheny River, the Monongahela River, and the Ohio River. This dramatic entrance immediately sets the stage for a weekend filled with architecture, culture, and urban exploration.

Staying in East Liberty places travelers near some of Pittsburgh’s most vibrant corridors. Hotels such as The Maverick by Kasa and Hotel Indigo give convenient access to South Highland Avenue and the adjoining Shadyside district. Along these walkable streets, restaurants like Muddy Waters and Mola showcase the city’s expanding culinary identity. Those interested in Pittsburgh’s creative retail scene often head to Butler Street in Lawrenceville, where standout shops such as Wildcard, No. 14 Boutique, and Von Walter & Funk offer eclectic goods, locally inspired gifts, and distinctive home décor.

A short walk from this cluster of boutiques brings visitors to renowned dining spots like The Vandal and Morcilla. The former specializes in modern American plates, while the latter focuses on Spanish-style small dishes and charcuterie. Beginning the weekend with a strong culinary lineup creates an ideal foundation for the cultural experiences that follow.

Mornings often start at the iconic Pamela’s Diner in the Strip District, known for its crêpe-style hotcakes. After breakfast, travelers browse markets along Penn Avenue, where long-standing vendors stand alongside makers selling gourmet goods and Pittsburgh-themed merchandise. Bike rentals through POGOH make it easy to transition from browsing to exploring, with a scenic riverside trail leading directly to Point State Park. This route crosses several iconic bridges before ending at the park’s signature fountain marking the confluence of the city’s three rivers.

For those looking to extend their ride, the path to Washington’s Landing offers quiet river views and tree-lined stretches. A return downtown places visitors in Market Square, a central hub for dining and people-watching. Evening dining ranges from the vibrant atmosphere of Tako to the wood-fired Argentinian-style steaks at Gaucho Parilla Argentina, both of which provide satisfying options before nighttime exploring.

The nearby Cultural District presents theaters, galleries, and performance venues, making it an easy place to wander for art and entertainment. For panoramic views, travelers can ride the T light rail to Station Square and board the Monongahela Incline. The ascent leads to an overlook on Mount Washington, where the city’s skyline glows above the rivers and bridges at sunset.

The final day highlights Pittsburgh’s deep artistic roots. A visit to Kelly O’s Diner in the Hill District provides a classic local meal before venturing to the Mattress Factory, known for immersive and cutting-edge installation art. A short walk brings visitors to the Andy Warhol Museum, which houses the world’s largest collection of work by Pittsburgh’s most recognizable pop-art icon. The nearby Mexican War Streets neighborhood invites exploration with its brick-lined sidewalks, historic row houses, and quiet residential atmosphere.

A Pittsburgh weekend also includes engagement with the city’s sports culture. Securing seats for a Pittsburgh Steelers game can be challenging, but Pittsburgh Pirates games at PNC Park offer accessible options along with some of the best ballpark views in the country. Many visitors cap off the experience with a signature sandwich from Primanti Brothers, known for layers of meat, coleslaw, and French fries stacked between thick slices of bread.

With its distinct neighborhoods, waterfront paths, iconic vistas, and thriving arts scene, Pittsburgh consistently stands out as a destination defined by reinvention and creativity. Each district contributes a different facet to the city’s character, creating a blend of culture, history, and modern energy. For those seeking a weekend full of exploration, architecture, natural scenery, and local flavor, the Steel City remains an exceptional place to discover.

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Fishing Rodeo Funds Fuel Nicholls’ Energy Education

The Morgan City Open Fishing Rodeo and Golf Scramble once again demonstrated its deep commitment to education and community development in South Louisiana, donating $10,400 to the Nicholls State University Department of Petroleum Engineering Technology and Safety Management (PETSM) and an additional $2,600 to Nicholls Veterans Services. According to this news release from the University, these funds continue a longstanding partnership that bridges the energy industry with higher education and local veteran support.

The donations are being used to renovate and modernize classrooms, enhance technology, and expand the department’s state-of-the-art well-control simulation lab, which provides hands-on training for students pursuing careers in the energy sector. The contribution to Nicholls Veterans Services is earmarked to support student veterans—many of whom are enrolled in PETSM—whose federal education benefits have expired. A university panel will select recipients based on academic performance and other eligibility criteria, ensuring that those who have served the nation can continue to advance their education and career goals.

Since its inception, the Morgan City Open Fishing Rodeo (MCOFR) has become synonymous with generosity and community spirit. Now in its thirteenth year, the event has donated an impressive $124,500 in total to Nicholls’ PETSM program and Veterans Services. As Joey Cannata, vice president of Tanks-A-Lot, explained, the rodeo’s mission extends beyond sport—it’s about investing in the future of Louisiana’s workforce. He emphasized that the PETSM program remains a vital resource for the energy industry both locally and internationally, helping graduates secure high-paying, stable jobs while supporting national energy needs.

Founded in 2013 by Tanks-A-Lot, a deepwater container specialist headquartered in Morgan City, MCOFR was created to strengthen ties within the oil and gas community while promoting charitable giving. The organization’s goal has always been to provide a family-friendly environment where participants can enjoy fishing and golf while supporting local causes that shape the region’s future. Each year, the event grows in popularity, reinforcing its reputation as one of the Morgan City area’s most celebrated community gatherings.

The 2025 Morgan City Open Fishing Rodeo took place in June, drawing anglers and golfers from across the tri-parish area. Proceeds from the event were donated to Nicholls PETSM as well as other local charities that promote education, community development, and economic opportunity. To date, MCOFR has contributed over $200,000 to the tri-parish region and shows no signs of slowing down. Its organizers continue to champion causes that align with their mission of enriching the lives of residents and fostering pathways to higher education. Those interested in learning more about the rodeo’s impact or upcoming events can visit the MCOFR official page for details.

The Department of Petroleum Engineering Technology and Safety Management at Nicholls stands out as one of the university’s most distinctive programs. Designed for nontraditional and working students, it accommodates the demanding schedules of professionals employed in the Gulf of Mexico energy sector and beyond. With flexible course offerings and rotations that mirror industry schedules—such as seven-days-on/seven-days-off or fourteen-days-on/fourteen-days-off—the PETSM program empowers students to continue their education without interrupting their careers. This model has become a benchmark for accessible, workforce-aligned education across Louisiana.

Nicholls’ commitment to serving veterans and the energy workforce reflects the university’s broader mission to drive regional progress. The partnership between Nicholls and MCOFR demonstrates how collaboration between higher education and industry can lead to tangible benefits for students, veterans, and the local economy alike. As MCOFR looks toward future events, its growing contributions stand as a testament to the enduring connection between community engagement and educational advancement.

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A Tribute to Festival International 40-Year Journey in Acadiana

Few traditions have shaped the identity of Lafayette, Louisiana quite like Festival International de Louisiane. For forty years, this landmark event transformed downtown Lafayette into a vibrant crossroads of art, culture, and global music. What began in 1986 as a modest community celebration had grown into the largest international music festival in the United States, drawing tens of thousands of visitors from across the world, according to this article from The Advocate. To honor that legacy, organizers recently unveiled a commemorative book chronicling four decades of the festival’s evolution and enduring spirit.

The announcement took place at Lafayette City Hall, where festival officials, civic leaders, and representatives from Cavalier House Books — the Denham Springs–based publisher behind the project — gathered to celebrate the launch. The publication, produced in both English and French, sought to capture the energy, artistry, and cultural exchange that defined each passing year of the festival. It served as both a historical record and a visual tribute, documenting every festival’s leadership team, signature poster designs, and notable milestones.

Prior to the successful opening of the project, Festival International Executive Director Scott Feehan explained that the goal extended beyond compiling historical data. He emphasized that the intent was to recreate the intangible feeling that locals affectionately call “festival” — the pulse of downtown Lafayette that came alive each spring with rhythm, art, and community. Feehan described the book as a reflection of “forty years of magic, discovery, growth, and revitalization,” embodying the same spirit that propelled the event from a local idea to a global destination.

At the unveiling, Feehan presented the first copy of the book to the Lafayette Public Library, symbolizing its importance as a community archive. Two additional copies were gifted to Mayor-President Monique Boulet and Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser — both strong supporters of Louisiana’s cultural economy. Boulet, who spoke at the ceremony, reflected on what the publication represented for the Acadiana region, noting that it both defined and elevated Lafayette’s sense of place. She remarked that the photographs and stories within the book allowed readers to “hear the music” that had long defined the city’s identity.

Feehan echoed her thoughts, referencing Dr. Barry Ancelet, the renowned Cajun folklorist and professor at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. He recalled Ancelet’s observation that while Lafayette may not have majestic mountains or turquoise coastlines, it possesses something even more powerful: a deep well of culture, heritage, and music. According to Feehan, those were the qualities that Festival International had celebrated year after year — and what the book aimed to immortalize on its pages.

The official launch event for the book took place at Cavalier House Books’ Lafayette location on November 8, featuring a Q&A session with the book’s development team followed by a signing reception. Seating was limited, with a modest $10 admission fee, and attendees had the opportunity to purchase early copies of the commemorative volume.

Festival International de Louisiane’s 40-year milestone underscored its lasting influence on Lafayette’s cultural identity and economic vitality. Over four decades, the festival had drawn artists from more than fifty countries, strengthening ties between Louisiana’s francophone roots and its modern creative industries. The new book ensured that legacy would be preserved for generations, allowing future readers to explore how the event became both a celebration of Louisiana’s heritage and a symbol of its connection to the world.

Looking ahead, Festival International continued to flourish. Organizers confirmed that the next festival was scheduled for April 22–28, 2026, returning once again to downtown Lafayette. With each passing year, the event reaffirmed its purpose: to honor the music, languages, and traditions that made Acadiana an unparalleled cultural hub.

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