Author: Emily Gautreaux

Sweet and Savory Brussels Sprouts with Andouille

When it comes to cooking Brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes, many of us default to roasting them in the oven. However, during those lingering warm months, the last thing you want is to heat up the kitchen. That’s where the air fryer steps in as a game-changer. Not only does it produce perfectly crispy vegetables, but it does so with minimal effort and without turning your home into an oven. This recipe for Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Andouille and Sweet Potatoes from Louisiana Cookin. takes advantage of this handy kitchen tool, resulting in a dish that is packed with texture and flavor.

This low-maintenance meal is fantastic on its own, but if you’re looking to create a heartier plate, serving it over rice makes it even more satisfying. It’s a well-balanced combination of smokiness from the andouille sausage, the sweet and soft contrast of sweet potatoes, and the slightly bitter yet caramelized Brussels sprouts—all tied together with the crunch of toasted pecans and a sweet-tangy glaze made from cane syrup and apple cider vinegar.

Ingredients:

Directions:

  1. Before starting, check your air fryer manual. If it suggests preheating, set the air fryer to 400°F and allow it to warm up. Preheating ensures your ingredients start cooking at the ideal temperature right away, leading to that coveted golden-brown crispiness.
  2. In a large bowl, toss together the Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, and sliced andouille sausage. Drizzle the olive oil over the top and sprinkle in the kosher salt. Mix everything together until all the ingredients are well-coated. This combination of veggies and sausage creates a beautiful marriage of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors that will intensify as it cooks.
  3. Arrange the Brussels sprouts, sweet potato, and andouille mixture in an even layer in your air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you might need to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can prevent the ingredients from crisping properly. Set the temperature to 400°F and cook for about 20 minutes. Halfway through the cooking process, shake the basket to ensure even cooking. Continue cooking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the ingredients are golden brown and crispy.
  4. While your veggies and sausage are crisping up, it’s time to whip up the delicious glaze that ties everything together. In a separate large bowl, whisk together the cane syrup, apple cider vinegar, Creole seasoning, and crushed red pepper. This glaze provides a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity, which elevates the entire dish. Once your Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, and andouille sausage are finished cooking, transfer them to the bowl with the glaze.
  5. Finally, it’s time to add the finishing touches. Sprinkle the toasted pecans and sliced green onions over the top of the Brussels sprouts mixture. The pecans add a wonderful crunch that complements the softness of the sweet potatoes, while the green onions provide a fresh pop of flavor. If you enjoy a bit more heat, garnish with extra crushed red pepper for a spicy kick.

This recipe for Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Andouille and Sweet Potatoes is a perfect blend of flavors and textures. It’s easy to make, requires minimal cleanup thanks to the air fryer, and offers a satisfying, nutritious meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a unique side dish to bring to a gathering, this recipe delivers. Plus, by serving it with rice or one of the suggested side dishes, you can easily customize it to suit your preferences and make it even more filling.

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New App Helps Louisiana Residents Locate Disaster Recovery Resources

Louisiana has taken another step in improving emergency preparedness by launching a new mobile app to assist residents in accessing crucial information, particularly during hurricane seasons and other disasters, according to this article from HoumaToday.  The “Get A Game Plan” app was developed by the Louisiana Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (GOHSEP). According to GOHSEP Director Jacques Thibodeaux, the app was designed to help residents going through disaster recovery easily locate distribution centers, referred to as Points of Distribution (PODs), among other resources.

While speaking in Houma last Friday, Thibodeaux expressed his satisfaction with the app and the efficiency it brought to disaster recovery efforts. He mentioned that one of the primary goals of creating the app was to streamline the process of finding nearby distribution sites. “We wanted to make it easier for people to find what they need,” Thibodeaux explained, as he shared his pride in the department’s success with this new tool.

During his demonstration, Thibodeaux showcased how the app worked by navigating through its simple interface. “Go to the ‘Get A Game Plan’ app, and you can see all the POD locations,” he mentioned, comparing it to finding nearby movie theaters. Thibodeaux then demonstrated by pressing just two buttons on his phone, bringing up a list of six distribution centers. With one more tap, he displayed Google Maps directions to the Bayou Blue Fire Department Central Station, a distribution center where water, ice, and meals were available.

However, Thibodeaux noted that the easiest way to download the app was by visiting GOHSEP’s official website, getagameplan.org, rather than searching on the Android store, where unrelated sports apps with similar names would appear. The app offers more than just a way to locate PODs—it serves as an all-encompassing emergency preparedness tool.

The app allows users to access various features aimed at helping Louisiana residents prepare for and recover from hurricanes and other disasters. Thibodeaux explained that one of the key functions of the app is its ability to generate personalized supply lists based on the number of adults, infants, and pets in a household. “You just tell it how many people you’re planning for, and it creates a supply list of everything you’ll need. Pretty dang cool,” Thibodeaux commented as he described the app’s supply list feature.

In addition to the supply list, the app provides several other vital resources, including shopping suggestions, guidance on making emergency plans ahead of time, and essential contact numbers. Thibodeaux noted that users could also access real-time hurricane updates, evacuation orders, and even a price-gouging report tool. The app serves as a central hub for information and preparation tips, aiming to make disaster recovery more manageable for residents across Louisiana.

As per the details available on getagameplan.org, the LA Get A Game Plan App is the official mobile application provided by GOHSEP for Louisiana residents. Its primary purpose is to allow users to prepare for emergencies in advance and provide access to up-to-date information throughout disaster situations. The app is designed to be user-friendly, ensuring that anyone, from tech-savvy individuals to those less familiar with technology, can easily navigate it.

In essence, the “Get A Game Plan” app was designed to simplify disaster preparedness and recovery for Louisiana residents. By offering a wide range of tools, from personalized supply lists to real-time updates, it seeks to provide vital resources at the touch of a button. Thibodeaux and his team at GOHSEP clearly intended for this app to serve as a lifeline for people when they need it most.

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Nicholls University Achieves High Retention Rates and Growing Academic Programs

Nicholls State University has reported a notable rise in the number of first-generation college students for the fall 2024 semester. According to the 14th-day class statistics, 56.8% of this year’s incoming freshman class falls into the first-generation category, as per this news release from Nicholls. This demographic includes students whose parents or guardians did not obtain a bachelor’s degree. This figure marks a 3.1% increase from the previous academic year, reflecting Nicholls’ continued efforts to support and expand access to higher education.

Despite the increase in first-generation students, Nicholls’ overall enrollment has experienced a slight decline. The current student body totals 6,065, which is a decrease of 135 students from fall 2023. This drop is largely attributed to a reduction in dual enrollment students and a decrease in residents from Nicholls’ eight-parish service region. The student body comprises 5,539 undergraduates and 526 graduate students. Nonetheless, Nicholls continues to excel in student retention, with a strong 76.6% retention rate for full-time, bachelor-degree-seeking students year after year.

Renee Hicks, Assistant Vice President of Institutional Effectiveness, Access, and Success, emphasized the university’s commitment to supporting its students. She remarked that Nicholls’ dedicated efforts ensure that students are well-prepared to succeed both academically and professionally. Hicks highlighted that the increasing number of local students continuing their education at Nicholls is a clear indicator of the personalized and supportive environment fostered by the university’s faculty and staff. This support not only helps retain students but also contributes to the retention of graduates within the service region.

In terms of university housing, Nicholls has experienced a high occupancy rate, with 97% of the 1,399 available beds filled this semester. This high demand reflects the growing appeal of on-campus living among students.

Several academic departments at Nicholls have shown impressive growth compared to the previous year. The Management and Marketing departments have seen a 20.3% increase in enrollment, while the Applied Sciences department has surged by an impressive 49.2%. The Music department has also grown by 19.6%, and the Chef John Folse Culinary Institute has experienced an 11.1% increase. Additionally, the Petroleum Engineering Technology and Safety Management program has grown by 10.6%. These increases underscore the expanding interest in these fields and the university’s successful efforts to enhance its academic offerings.

The most popular majors for the fall 2024 semester at Nicholls include Nursing, Allied Health Sciences, Business Administration/Computer Information Systems, Biology, Teacher Education, and Psychology, Counseling, and Family Studies. This diverse array of popular fields highlights the broad range of academic interests among the student body and the university’s ability to cater to these needs effectively.

Ahead of the fall semester, Nicholls hosted its third annual First-Generation Experience event, sponsored by OnPath Federal Credit Union. This event was designed to equip first-generation students with essential tools for their college journey. The conference-style event offered a variety of informational sessions, covering topics such as effective study strategies, course preparation, time management, financial aid, and campus involvement. The aim of the event was to provide first-generation students with the resources and confidence needed to navigate their college experience successfully. The impact of a supportive college experience on first-generation students can significantly influence their future career trajectories and personal achievements.

Nicholls State University’s efforts to support first-generation students and enhance academic programs reflect its commitment to fostering a thriving and inclusive educational environment. The increased enrollment of first-generation students and the growth in various academic departments are indicative of the university’s ongoing success and adaptability in meeting the evolving needs of its student population.

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Luxurious Seafood Dip with Shrimp, Crab, and Tasso

If you’re searching for a show-stopping appetizer that brings the flavors of New Orleans right to your table, this Crescent City-inspired seafood dip comprised of  Shrimp and Crab from Louisiana Cookin  is the perfect choice. Creamy, savory, and packed with seafood, it’s the ideal starter for any gathering—whether it’s game day, a family get-together, or a casual party. Infused with Creole seasoning, zesty hot sauce, and savory tasso, this dip offers a luxurious depth of flavor that is unmistakably Louisiana.

This seafood dip recipe draws inspiration from the rich culinary traditions of the Crescent City. New Orleans is famous for its seafood and bold, flavorful dishes, and this shrimp and crab dip is no exception. The combination of crabmeat and shrimp creates a dip that is both hearty and luxurious. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese and cream cheese ensure a creamy, smooth texture, while a touch of sherry and lemon juice adds brightness to balance the richness. Let’s dive into how you can bring these authentic flavors to life.

Ingredients:

  • 1 (8-ounce) container of lump or claw crabmeat, carefully picked free of shells
  • ½ pound cooked, peeled, and deveined shrimp, chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • ½ cup chopped tasso
  • 1 (8-ounce) package of cream cheese, brought to room temperature
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon dry sherry
  • 1 cup finely chopped yellow onion
  • ½ cup finely chopped red bell pepper
  • ½ cup chopped green onion
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1½ teaspoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning
  • Tortilla chips, to serve alongside the dip
  • Garnish: sliced green onion

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s at the perfect temperature when your dip is ready to bake.
  2. In a small cast-iron skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the chopped tasso, and cook it while stirring occasionally. After about 5 to 7 minutes, the tasso should be golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, remove the tasso with a slotted spoon, letting it drain on paper towels. Keep the flavorful drippings in the skillet, as you’ll use them in the next step.
  3. In the same skillet, cook the chopped yellow onion over medium heat. Stir occasionally, allowing the onion to soften and turn a deep golden brown—this should take about 7 to 10 minutes. Next, add the finely chopped red bell pepper and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the peppers soften. Stir in the tablespoon of dry sherry, and cook for 3 to 5 minutes until the liquid reduces by half. Once finished, remove the skillet from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
  4. In a large bowl, stir together the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth. To this mixture, add the cooled onion and bell pepper blend, the crispy tasso, chopped green onions, hot sauce, lemon juice, cornstarch, and Creole seasoning. Mix well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
  5. Now it’s time to add the stars of the dish—gently fold in the crabmeat and chopped shrimp, being careful not to break the crab into smaller pieces. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Once combined, spread the mixture into a 1½-quart cast-iron gratin dish, which will help the dip retain heat and develop a beautiful golden crust.
  6. Place the gratin dish into your preheated oven, and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the dip is golden brown and bubbling on top. Remove from the oven, garnish with additional sliced green onions if desired, and serve hot with tortilla chips.

Whether you’re preparing for a special event or simply indulging in a flavorful snack, this Crescent City-inspired Shrimp and Crab Dip is sure to impress your guests. The blend of seafood, creamy cheese, and bold Creole flavors creates a dish that’s rich, comforting, and full of depth. Pair it with some crispy tortilla chips, a fresh salad, or warm French bread to make the experience even more delightful.

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Why Cleveland is an Underrated Travel Treasure

Cleveland, Ohio, often overshadowed by more prominent U.S. cities, is an unexpected gem along the Great Lakes. Once known primarily as an industrial hub, this vibrant city has transformed itself into a destination rich in arts, culture, and history, offering experiences at a fraction of the cost of major cities like New York or Los Angeles. Nestled along the shore of Lake Erie, Cleveland boasts a unique mix of urban energy and natural beauty, making it an ideal spot for travelers looking for a variety of activities. From cultural landmarks and art districts to serene parks and lakefront beaches, this underrated city offers much more than meets the eye, especially thanks to this travel guide from Travel + Leisure.

One of Cleveland’s major draws is its stunning waterfront location. Many visitors are surprised to discover that this Rust Belt city has beaches and sailing opportunities. Positioned along Lake Erie, Cleveland provides an escape from city life with sun-soaked beaches and water activities that rival coastal destinations. Edgewater Park, located just a few miles from downtown, is a convenient retreat for beach lovers. Here, you can enjoy beach volleyball, take a dip in the lake, or relax in a beach cabana. A portion of the park is even dog-friendly, making it a popular spot for visitors with pets.

For those seeking a quieter, more scenic location, Huntington Reservation is a must-visit. This beautiful coastal area is part of the Cleveland Metroparks system and offers fishing, picnicking, and waves that are perfect for swimming. Whether you’re looking to relax or get active, Cleveland’s beaches are a pleasant surprise.

Back in the heart of Cleveland, the city’s cultural scene is flourishing. The revitalized Gordon Square Arts District is the perfect place to experience Cleveland’s artistic renaissance. Once an industrial area, Gordon Square now features trendy boutiques, art galleries, and performing arts venues. Cleveland Public Theatre and Near West Theatre offer an impressive lineup of performances, attracting theatergoers and culture lovers from near and far. During the day, visitors can browse shops like Fount, where artisans craft leather goods such as handbags and backpacks. For unique jewelry, Océanne offers pieces by French designer Anne Harrill, including artsy earrings and pendant necklaces. These distinctive shops give Cleveland a fresh, eclectic vibe that perfectly complements its artsy roots.

Cleveland’s rich cultural offerings extend to its renowned museums. The Cleveland Museum of Art, located in theUniversity Circle neighborhood, is considered one of the city’s top attractions. The museum houses an extensive collection of artwork, including pieces by renowned artists such as Rodin and Yayoi Kusama. Admission is free, making it easy to spend an entire afternoon wandering through its exhibits. For music enthusiasts, the iconic Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is a must-visit. This museum not only tells the story of rock legends but also frequently hosts live performances and film screenings. It’s a place where music history truly comes to life.

In addition to its culinary delights, Cleveland plays host to numerous cultural festivals and events. The Cleveland International Film Festival, for instance, is a significant event that draws filmmakers and cinephiles from around the globe. Another popular event is WonderStruck, a music and arts festival held each July that features a weekend of live performances and local cuisine. These festivals, combined with the city’s vibrant arts scene, contribute to Cleveland’s reputation as a growing cultural hub.

For sports enthusiasts, catching a game at Progressive Field, home of the Cleveland Guardians, is a must. This modern stadium offers stunning views of downtown Cleveland and creates an unforgettable game-day atmosphere. Alternatively, if you’re feeling adventurous, a trip to Cedar Point—located about an hour west of the city—offers the chance to ride some of the world’s tallest and fastest roller coasters.

Cleveland’s combination of outdoor beauty, cultural attractions, and culinary experiences makes it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a unique and affordable urban getaway. Whether you’re exploring the shores of Lake Erie, wandering through art galleries, or savoring international flavors at the West Side Market, Cleveland is a city that continually surprises and delights.

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A Louisiana Hospital Uses AI to Tackle Pancreatic Cancer: Early Detection and Treatment

A Baton Rouge hospital has introduced cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) technology aimed at improving the early detection of pancreatic cancer, a condition that is often diagnosed in its later stages. The American Cancer Society projects that in 2024, over 66,000 people will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, but according to this article from The Advocate, in Louisiana, where this type of cancer accounted for 7.3% of cancer-related deaths between 2016 and 2020, efforts like the AI technology used at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center are bridging the gap in screening and prevention.

In an effort to combat these statistics, Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center in Baton Rouge has introducedEON technology, an advanced AI software designed to analyze CT scans and flag potential pancreatic abnormalities, even if the patient’s initial hospital visit was unrelated to pancreatic issues. For instance, if a patient underwent a CT scan following a car accident, the AI would still review the scan for signs of pancreatic cysts, potentially identifying an issue long before it developed into cancer. The software automatically notifies the hospital’s oncology team, enabling timely follow-up and treatment.

Dr. Mo Al-Efishat, a surgical oncologist at Our Lady of the Lake specializing in advanced pancreatic tumors and cysts, explained the importance of EON’s implementation. The software uses a combination of artificial intelligence and computational linguistics to analyze medical imaging reports with up to 98% accuracy. Traditional methods often miss subtle indications of pancreatic cysts, which can evolve into cancer. In contrast, EON’s sophisticated analysis ensures that cysts are not only detected but also brought to the attention of medical professionals who can schedule regular follow-ups, such as MRIs or CT scans every six to twelve months, as needed.

Dr. Al-Efishat emphasized that early detection is key in preventing pancreatic cancer. “Twenty percent of pancreatic cancers originate from mucinous cysts,” he noted. These are cysts that, if identified and monitored early, have the potential to be treated before they turn cancerous. Once a pancreatic cyst is flagged, the oncology team takes over, assessing whether further intervention is necessary. The AI system operates continuously across the hospital’s network, ensuring that any MRI or CT scan conducted within the system is evaluated for pancreatic abnormalities.

One of the critical aspects of treating this cancer is catching it at an early stage. According to Dr. Al-Efishat, when pancreatic cancer is caught in its earliest stages, the chances of survival increase substantially, with cure rates ranging from 30% to 40%. He shared a case where, after performing a robotic surgery, the biopsy results revealed high-grade dysplasia, the final stage before cancer develops. Dr. Al-Efishat expressed relief, knowing that his team had intervened at just the right moment. Once pancreatic cancer develops, survival rates drop dramatically—from 100% to 30% upon diagnosis.

Unlike breast or colon cancer, pancreatic cancer does not have an established screening method for the general population, such as mammograms or colonoscopies. There is a screening program for individuals with a family history of pancreatic cancer, but this represents a small portion of the population. The absence of a comprehensive screening program makes the need for AI technologies like EON even more crucial in bridging the gap.

Looking to the future, Dr. Al-Efishat expressed optimism about emerging research aimed at preventing pancreatic cancer. Recent studies have identified inflammation as a key driver of pancreatic cancer development. As a result, clinical trials are now underway to test the effectiveness of anti-inflammatory treatments in slowing or halting the progression of pancreatic cysts to cancer. If successful, these treatments could represent a major breakthrough in pancreatic cancer prevention, potentially reducing the number of lives lost to this devastating disease.

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