Author: Emily Gautreaux

Destinations to Check Out in Utah

Looking for an amazing place to visit that isn’t too crowded? Then look no further than Utah! This beautiful state is full of incredible scenery, from the red rocks of Bryce Canyon National Park to the snow-capped peaks of the Wasatch Range, and while Utah is best known for its outdoor recreation opportunities, there’s also plenty to do indoors, from exploring the state’s rich history to sampling its delicious cuisine. Thanks to this excellent travel guide for the great state of Utah from Travel + Leisure, you’ll be completely set with a place that’s perfect for hiking, skiing, or simply relaxing. Utah has something for everyone, and what follows is just a few of the best places to visit in Utah.

The “Mighty Five”, Utah

The “Mighty Five” is a nickname given to the five national parks in Utah: Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, Bryce Canyon, and Zion. These parks are some of the most popular tourist destinations in the state, and for good reason. They offer an incredible variety of landscapes and activities to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to hike, camp, rock climb, or just take in the incredible views, the Mighty Five have something to offer everyone. And if you’re lucky enough to visit during the fall or winter months, you may even get to experience a little bit of snow!

Bonneville Salt Flats

The Bonneville Salt Flats are one of the most unique places in the world. The flats are a huge, nearly-flat expanse of salt that covers more than 30,000 acres. The salt flats are so flat that they appear to be almost level with the horizon. The Bonneville Salt Flats were formed over millions of years as evaporating lakes left behind thick layers of salt. The area is now part of the Great Salt Lake Desert. While the Bonneville Salt Flats may not seem like much at first glance, they are actually a popular destination for speed lovers. The flats are the perfect place to set land speed records because of their vast size and level surface. In fact, the Bonneville Salt Flats have been used for land speed records since 1914! If you’re looking for an otherworldly experience, the Bonneville Salt Flats are definitely worth a visit.

Dinosaur National Monument, Utah

Dinosaur National Monument is one of the best places to visit in Utah for anyone who loves dinosaurs. This monument is home to over 1,500 fossils of different dinosaurs, making it one of the largest dinosaur fossil sites in the world. Aside from being a paleontologist’s dream come true, the Dinosaur National Monument is also a great place for hiking, camping, and rafting. The monument spans over 210,000 acres of land, much of which is preserved as wilderness. There are plenty of trails to explore and views to take in. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even go whitewater rafting down the Green River – just be sure to get a permit first.

Homestead Crater

Homestead Crater is a unique geological feature located in Midway, Utah. The crater is a 55-foot-deep, naturally formed underground cavern that is heated by a hot spring. The temperature of the spring remains a constant 96 degrees Fahrenheit, making it perfect for year-round swimming. The Homestead Crater is open to the public and offers a variety of activities, including swimming, scuba diving, and snorkeling. There are also fitness classes and massage services available.

Fifth Water Hot Springs

The Fifth Water Hot Springs is one of the best places to visit in Utah. The hot springs are located in a remote area of the state, and they offer a unique experience for visitors. The springs are known for their healing properties, and they are said to be able to relieve pain and stress. The springs are also a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Utah.

Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness

The Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness is a vast and beautiful wilderness area that is perfect for hiking, camping, and exploring. The canyon walls are towering and the views are simply stunning. There are also a variety of wildlife species that can be spotted in the wilderness, making it a great place for wildlife watching.

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Federal Funding for Louisiana’s “Hurricane Highway” Likely on the Way

Louisiana’s “Hurricane Highway” might finally be next in line to receive federal funds to repair a collection of widespread ecological damage from the Mississippi River-Gulf Outlet (MRGO) shipping channel, according to this article from NOLA.com. The Mississippi River-Gulf Outlet shipping channel is a 76-mile channel constructed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers during the mid 20th century that provides a shorter route between ships traveling from the Gulf of Mexico to New Orleans’ inner harbor Industrial Canal via the Intracoastal Waterway, and ever since Hurricane Katrina struck the area in 2005, New Orleans residents have cursed the area, and state officials and activists have labeled it a “hurricane highway.”

It’s expected that Congress will soon approve legislation that will indicate that the federal government is responsible for financing a plan to restore wetlands eroded by the Mississippi River-Gulf outlet, or “Mr. Go,” as it’s often referred to. Despite the fact that the money would still need to be appropriated, the fact is that this years-long dispute over determining who should pay to restore the wetlands will finally come to a close. This note of legislative closure will be seen as a major victory for Louisiana officials, once passed.

U.S. Rep. Garret Graves, R-Baton Rouge, who has worked closely on the issue in Congress, commented on this issue by saying, “overall in terms of ecological productivity and buffer, this is an important project that needs to happen, and it is mitigating the adverse impacts of the federal project that was the MRGO.” Rep. Graves was formerly the state’s point man on coastal restoration.

The provision of funds is only a part of broader legislation that will authorize water-related projects nationwide, and Nola.com provided a list of the other Louisiana levee and flood protection projects that would be included in that authorization. The U.S. House of Representatives approved the legislation recently, and the Senate is expected to do the same in the coming days.

The shipping channel, which is 76-miles, was originally built as a shortcut from the Gulf of Mexico to the “doorstep” of New Orleans.  It has since been labeled a “hurricane highway” by Louisiana officials due to the fact that many storm surges were funneled through the MRGO during Hurricane Katrina, contributing to the devastating levee failure that allowed for the city to be inundated. While the Army Corps of Engineers has since reportedly downplayed the channel’s role during Katrina, MRGO’s long-term effects are still considered to run much deeper.

Since the channel fully opened in 1968, it has helped erode vast areas of marsh and wetlands in the passing decades. This has resulted in the damaging of the New Orleans area’s natural storm buffer and the alteration of the ecosystem at large. Additionally, saltwater intrusion through the MRGO, which was originally not used as heavily as was originally intended by the shipping industry, has aided in the destruction of cypress and tupelo swamp that once bordered the city of New Orleans.

Whenever the channel was closed in 2009 with the construction of a rock dam at Bayou La Loutre, it was disputed who should pay for the damage the channel left behind in its wake and where the funds should have originated from, making this recent indication of a nearby victory all-the-more encouraging.

Amanda Moore, the director of the National Wildlife Federation’s Gulf Program, is also the coordinator of the MRGO Must Go Coalition. She spoke about the issue by saying that this new legislation “marks a crucial milestone for addressing the disastrous legacy of the MRGO. More than 17 years after Hurricane Katrina, Congress has clarified its original intent – to fully and federally fund implementation of the MRGO ecosystem restoration plan.”

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Keep Nicholls Beautiful Awarded Grant for New Campus Water Bottle Refilling Stations

It was recently announced that the Keep Nicholls Beautiful (KNB) organization has been selected as a recipient of Keep Louisiana Beautiful’s University Affiliate Grant. According to this news release from Nicholls State University, the coveted University Affiliate Grant will allow KNB to install two new water bottle refilling stations on campus as well as host a water bottle giveaway. The water bottle giveaway will also serve as an opportunity for students receiving a new bottle to sign a pledge to stop single-use plastic water bottles and also sign up to volunteer at the next KNB event.

Keep Louisiana Beautiful, an affiliate of Keep America Beautiful, is the state’s premier anti-litter and community improvement organization, and their University Affiliate Grant that’s been awarded to Nicholls is in the amount of $4,354.15. The University Affiliate Grant program was originally developed as part of a $500,000 five-year EPA Gulf of Mexico Trash Free Waters Grant that was secured by the University of Louisiana at Lafayette in 2021.

As part of that five-year Grant, Keep Louisiana Beautiful was established as a sub-recipient, and the funding has allowed for the University Affiliates Program to be launched, a litter assessment app to be developed, educational training videos or campus communities to be created, and grant opportunities for University Affiliates to be created. The program itself is operated in response to a growing interest in sustainability, waste reduction, and litter prevention that is able to occur at the university level.

Speaking on being selected as a recipient of the Keep Louisiana Beautiful University Affiliate Grant, Dr. Mitzi Jackson,the Keep Nicholls Beautiful Task Force Chair, said, “Keep Nicholls Beautiful is grateful to receive this grant from Keep Louisiana Beautiful. Nicholls students desire more water bottle refilling stations on campus, and with this grant, we will install two new stations in academic buildings. The water bottle giveaway aims to reduce the utilization of single-use plastic water bottles and will help to educate our campus on the harmful environmental effects of single-use plastics.”

Keep Nicholls Beautiful was formed during the fall of 2021 when Nicholls State University became part of the first cohort of the Keep Louisiana Beautiful University Affiliate Program. This year, the impacts of KNB were seen as over 1,200 students moved into residence halls for the Fall 2022 semester, and KNB members collected their cardboard boxes. The boxes were then donated to the LaFourche Arc as a part of their prominent cardboard recycling program.

In the forthcoming Spring Semester, Keep Nicholls Beautiful is planning to stay busy, which will include educating the campus community on proper recycling techniques and other sustainable practices that they can implement. KNB has taken the steps to arrange for two courses to partner together on a collaborative education outreach campaign. One of Dr. Juliann Allen’s marketing courses will collaborate with one of Ms. Trisha Rabalais’ graphic design courses for the planned service lending project.

At the end of the Spring 2023 semester, KNB plans to partner with the Colonel Closet to collect any unwanted items, nonperishable food items, and hygiene products from students moving out of the residence halls on campus. The nonperishable foods and hygiene products will then be donated to Mom’s Pantry and other local food banks in the area, which other items considered necessary for making a residence hall room more comfortable, such as kitchen supplies, decor and wall art, and storage containers, will be used for a Trash to Treasure sale at the start of the Fall 2023 Semester. The Task Force in charge of Keep Nicholls Beautiful consists of members from each college, various key departments on campus, SGA, and the GREEN Club.

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A Guide for Consistently Crispy Waffles

While it’s no secret that a stack of waffles is one of the most celebrated breakfast dishes at the Sunday morning table, it’s also known that creating a uniform stack of waffles with a consistent crispy texture is a feat in and of itself. That’s why this guide from Epicurious for how to make crispy waffles, every time is essential for anyone wanting to improve their waffle recipe to be more reliable.

Not just appropriate for breakfast, waffles are a delicious, versatile food dish that is perfect for any time of the day. They’re rich and fluffy, and they can be topped with anything from Nutella to fresh fruit, but one thing that can make or break your waffle experience is how crispy the outside turns out. The following tips and suggestions will provide you with the tools needed to cook your waffles so that they come out consistently crispy each and every time!

There are a few key things that make a good waffle recipe, but one of the first and foremost is ensuring that you’re starting your recipe with a good batter. This means using high-quality flour, like all-purpose or bread flour, and whisking it together with milk and melted butter until it’s smooth. An excellent waffle batter is benefitted from using butter that’s completely melted, slightly hearing your milk or buttermilk, and refraining from whipping your egg whites.

Next, you need to ensure that you are going to be cooking your waffle batter atop a high-heat platform, whether that’s a waffle iron or griddle. Simply stated, if you’re looking for crispy waffles, you’ll want to cook them on high heat. This will help to create a crisp outer shell while still keeping the inside soft and fluffy. Be sure to keep an eye on your waffles as they cook, as they can quickly go from crispy to burnt.

Any waffle lover knows that the key to making perfect waffles is getting the batter just right. Too little and your waffles will be dry and crumbly, too much and they’ll be soggy and undercooked. So how do you know how much batter your waffle maker can take? Here’s a quick guide:

For Belgian-style waffle makers:

– ½ cup batter for a 4-inch round waffle

– ¾ cup batter for a 6-inch round waffle

– 1 cup batter for a 7-inch round or square waffle

For standard waffle makers:

– ½ to ⅔ cup batter for a 4-inch round or square waffle

– ¾ to 1 cup batter for a 6-inch round or square waffle

If you’ve ever had a waffle that’s been overcooked and rubbery, you know the importance of flipping them at just the right time. So how do you know when to flip your waffle? There are a few telltale signs that it’s time to give your waffle a flip. First, take a peek inside the waffle maker. If the batter has spread evenly and is beginning to bubble, it’s ready to be flipped. Another way to tell if your waffle is ready to be flipped is by gently pressing down on the top with a spatula. If the batter springs back up, it needs more time to cook. If it stays indented, it’s time to give it a flip. Once you’ve mastered the art of flipping your waffles at just the right time, you’ll be able to enjoy perfectly crispy waffles every time!

Additional Notes:

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Your Guide to Exploring New Braunfels, Texas

Located just 30 miles outside of San Antonio, the historic town of New Braunfels, Texas was founded in 1845 by German settlers, and it has maintained its small-town atmosphere while still offering plenty of activities and attractions for visitors. If you’re planning a trip to New Braunfels, be sure to add these destinations from Southern Living’sexcellent New Braunfels travel guide to your itinerary. From tubing down the Comal River to exploring the Gruene Historic District, there’s something for everyone in this charming town.

Spass Walking Tours

Led by experienced and knowledgeable guides, Spass Walking Tours offers a great way to learn about the city’s history and culture while getting some exercise at the same time. During your tour, you’ll visit some of the most popular attractions in New Braunfels, including two historic New Braunfels cemeteries, the Gruene Historic District, the beautiful Landa Park, murals in New Braunfels, and much more. You’ll also get insider tips on the best places to eat, shop, and play in the city. Spass Walking Tours is a great option for both locals and visitors alike. So whether you’re looking for a new way to explore your own backyard or want to learn more about this vibrant Texas city, be sure to give Spass Walking Tours a try!

New Braunfels Artisans

Red Rooster Antique & Design Center is a great place to find unique and one-of-a-kind pieces for your home. The staff is friendly and helpful, and the prices are very reasonable, so it’s highly recommended that you consider this place if you’re in town and looking for antiques or interesting home decor items. The New Braunfels Art League is a vibrant community of artists and art enthusiasts that enjoy working together to promote the arts in New Braunfels and the surrounding areas. The League hosts several meetings and events throughout the year, including artist demonstrations, workshops, field trips, and social gatherings. Membership is open to anyone with an interest in the arts, and there are no requirements or experience necessary.

Rockin’ R River Rides

Looking to add a little excitement to your New Braunfels vacation? Then check out Rockin’ R River Rides! This attraction offers a variety of river rides, tubing, and other water activities that are perfect for making a splash. One of the most popular attractions at Rockin’ R River Rides is the River Blitzer. This thrilling ride takes you on a fast-paced journey down the Guadalupe River. You’ll be sure to get your heart pumping as you zoom through the water! If you’re looking for a more relaxing experience, then try out the Lazy Raft Ride. This ride is perfect for those who want to take it easy and float down the river at their own pace. No matter what type of adventure you’re looking for, Rockin’ R River Rides has something for everyone! So come on down and make a splash today.

Gruene Historic District

The Gruene Historic District is a National Historic Landmark District located in New Braunfels, Texas, consisting of more than 140 buildings, and as of 1974, the district is considered a National Historic District, as per the  National Register of Historic Places. This District is significant for its architecture, which includes a variety of styles from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The district also has a significant association with the history of German immigration to Texas. Many of the buildings in the district were constructed by German immigrants or their descendants, and the district as a whole reflects the culture and lifestyle of those immigrants. Today, the Gruene Historic District is a popular tourist destination, with many shops, restaurants, and businesses catering to visitors. The district is also home to several events throughout the year, including an annual wine festival and a weekly farmer’s market.

Natural Bridge Caverns

If you’re looking for an adventure during your stay in New Braunfels, be sure to check out the Natural Bridge Caverns.The caverns are formed from an underground river that has carved out limestone over millions of years. The result is a beautiful network of caves and passages to explore. There are several different tours to choose from, depending on how adventurous you’re feeling. The Discovery Tour is the perfect introduction to the caverns and takes you on a gentle hike through some of the less strenuous areas. If you’re looking for something a little more challenging, try the Wild Cave Tour, which includes crawling and climbing through tight spaces. No matter which tour you choose, you’re sure to be impressed by the natural beauty of the caverns.

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Mary Bird Perkins Expansion Bringing New Services to Houma Area

It was recently announced via HoumaToday that Terrebonne General’s Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center in Houma, Louisiana will begin construction soon for a $4 million expansion, as per this article. The construction, which will add a variety of new services and technologies to the Cancer Center, is expected to be completed by next fall. During the renovation, which will consist of expanding the center by more than 15,000 square feet, all cancer care and cancer center services will continue to be offered without interruption.

The $4 million expansion will include a relocation of the Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center’s infusion center, where chemotherapy and other intravenous treatments are delivered. The infusion center will be relocated to the third floor of the clinic. Other additions that will occur due to the renovations are the increase in the number of infusion bays, from 22 to 27 total infusion bays, and the clinic exam rooms will see a capacity increase from eight people to twenty.

Additionally, there will be the installation of semi-private bays with televisions, a new common area treatment space that will be able to be used for patients who want to be in the company of others, and the addition of more private rooms for patients who wish to receive their infusion in a quieter environment.

In a news release, the president and CEO of Terrebonne General Health System, Phyllis Peoples, said “this renovation and expansion project is about bringing even more state-of-the-art, comprehensive services to patients in the Bayou Region in a calming, comforting environment. Our goal continues to be laser-focused on providing the best and most up-to-date clinical cancer care in the region.”

The renovation of the Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center will also see the installation of the new Elekta Infinity. The Elekta Infinity is an advanced treatment system that reduces time and radiation exposure from radiotherapy; additionally, the system can deliver aggressive treatment more precisely to a targeted area through sophisticated computer programming. This will limit the effects of radiation on healthy cells while also enhancing the quality of life for patients.

Chief Operating Officer Jonas Fontenot, who is also the Dr. Charles M. Smith Chief of Physics, made it known that this new technology, referring to the Elekta Infinity, is currently available to cancer patients at the center.

Fontenot added, “the science and technology of cancer care are constantly evolving, and the cancer center is committed to bringing the latest advancements to help improve survivorship and lessen the burden of cancer. Together with Terrebonne General, we are building an integrative care model where there is a level of support not available at any other cancer center in the region. It’s about always putting the patient first.”

The second floor of the Cancer Center will have new and existing support service areas located there for patient convenience. Additionally, the second floor is set to house a gym for cancer patients requiring physical rehabilitation or exercise programs as part of their treatment. Also coming to the second floor of the Cancer Center is a lymphedema management service, which will be used to reduce pain and swelling that’s caused by lymph node damage; a dietary consultation area that will provide patients with specialized nutritional guidance; a meditation room to provide a place of serenity, reflection, and comfort for patients and their loved ones; a multi-purpose space so that patients can be supported mentally, emotionally and spiritually through music and art therapy; and a supporter space for loved ones to comfortably wait for patients.

Amy Boudreaux, the director of the Terrebonne General | Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center spoke about the renovations coming to the Cancer Center by saying, “we are extremely excited to deliver a larger-scale, more advanced Cancer Center to our community. We appreciate the Bayou Region’s continued support, and look forward to fulfilling the needs of those who turn to us during such a vulnerable time of their lives.”

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