Author: Emily Gautreaux

Historic Chennault International Airport Seeks Transformation

A historic Louisiana airport might soon see a massive overhaul, thus creating thousands of new jobs over the next two decades, according to an Advocate article detailing the prospective transformation.  Louisiana officials are setting their sights on the potential transformation of Chennault International Airport and turning its two-mile runway into an economic engine for the Lake Charles region, an area that desperately needs the influx of jobs and revenue that would be generated by the airport’s proposed master plan.

The airport, which is located on the eastern edge of Lake Charles, has lived many lives over the past seventy years, and in many Louisiana circles, it’s been seen as a developmental pipedream due to the obstacles that would have to be overcome in order to transform such a large space.

Though Chennault International Airport doesn’t see any commercial flights, there has been no shortage of activity on its runway. Over the past year, Chennault has seen activity from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, military training flights, a World War II-era B-25 needing a space to be repainted, and Gov. John Bel Edwards landed in the area for an event in Lake Charles.

Since 2018 Kevin Melton, a retired Air Force colonel has operated Chennault as its airport director, and when speaking on the future of the space, Melton said, “We focus everything that we do on, not what works for us today, but: What do we think is going to work five years, 10 years, 30 years down the road? That’s what I care about, and that’s what I focus on.”

The airport is seen as both an enormous opportunity for growth, but as noted in the article by Adley Cormier, author of the local history book Lost Lake Charles, “having the longest runway between Houston and Cape Canaveral was at one point viewed more as an obstacle than an advantage.”

A lot of the excitement of the future of the space comes from an economic impact study that has been carried out for the airport by Stephen Barnes, the director of the Kathleen Blanco Public Policy Center at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. Barnes had found that if the proposed master plan were to be implemented in full, then it could possibly generate up to 16,000 jobs either directly or indirectly across the next 20 years. In addition to the created jobs, it was estimated that full development of the master plan could also potentially lead to approximately $1 billion in tax revenue for the state and $780 million in sales tax revenue locally.

Barnes noted that implementing the full scope of the master plan would have its difficulties, but his study indicated that the public would be likely to “recoup its investment if around a third of the blueprint were carried out.” The total study carried out by Barnes operated on the assumption that about $285 million in public investment and $515 million in private dollars would be put forth toward the master plan’s implementation, and he noted that light manufacturing might be a considerable area of opportunity if approached.

Barnes remarked, “I think the biggest challenge would just be competition from other communities and other developers who are trying to compete in the same space. But I think there’s such a big upside potential that this could still turn out to be a smart investment, even if not everything comes through.”

In its lifetime, Chennault International Airport has been used as a school for fighter pilots in World War II, an Air Force base during the Cold War, an unofficial venue for drag racers, driver’s education, and much more. It wasn’t until the mid-1980s that plans began to emerge for its economic development, but with the master plan for a massive overhaul of the airport starting to gain traction once again, it’s given some much-needed hope to the Lake Charles community.

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Nicholls Receives Donation from Shell and the Bayou Community Foundation

The students of Nicholls State University are still seeing the effects of Hurricane Ida in their lives, but those effects aren’t being ignored by the supportive community around them. According to this news feature from the University itself, over $75,000 has been awarded to Nicholls so that affected students and their families can be supported many months after the storm has passed.  In total, both Shell and the Bayou Community Foundation have awarded Nicholls State University with a $77,760 reward to help with Hurricane Ida recovery efforts.

Colette Hirstius, Shell’s senior vice president for the Gulf of Mexico, had spoken on the long-lasting relationship between the company and the Louisiana community. She said, “The Bayou Region has been home to Shell for over 100 years and it was important to us to be able to help provide a home for Colonels and their families who lost theirs to the devastation of Hurricane Ida. We are grateful and proud to be able to provide safe, stable housing so that these students can stay in school and focus on their futures.”

Nicholls has reported that the funds will be utilized to meet the needs of students and families who have been displaced from their houses by Hurricane Ida. The funds will be used in a variety of ways, with a considerably large portion being used to provide temporary housing, address food insecurity, and give families basic living essentials like clothing, toiletries, medications, school supplies, and so much more. After the funds were awarded, processed, and tallied, it was announced that the money will cover the housing, meals, and living expenses for at least 20 students and their families, thus providing much-needed support in such unsure times.

The executive director of the Bayou Community Foundation, Jennifer Armand, said of the awarded funds, “Nicholls State University responded quickly after Hurricane Ida to provide temporary housing and meals to students, faculty and staff who lost so much during the storm. The Bayou Community Foundation is pleased to partner with Shell to support all of these important relief efforts.”

The Bayou Community Foundation, which was originally created in 2012, is the only community foundation that is specifically designed to solely serve Lafourche Parish, Terrebonne Parish, and Grand Isle, Louisiana. The Foundation was started after local leaders saw the continuing effects on the surrounding community following Hurricanes Katrina and Rita as well as the 2010 Gulf Oil Spill. “Local leaders recognized the need for a community foundation to strengthen human services, education/workforce development, and coastal preservation efforts in our area, as well as to serve as “the community bucket” for national and international assistance in the event of a future emergency or natural disaster,” according to bayoudf.com.

As many are aware, Hurricane Ida made its landfall on the 16th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina in August of 2021, and Ida’s turbulent winds and powerful storm surges had made it so that an estimated 25 percent of homes in Lafourche and Terrebonne Parish were destroyed or deemed uninhabitable. As a result, approximately two-thirds of the Nicholls State University community had reported that their homes had sustained damage from the storm, and one-in-five students reported their homes to be destroyed or uninhabitable.

The above estimates are only a small piece of the massive effects left behind by this storm as they only focus on living conditions. Many members in the Nicholls community saw access to reliable income, transportation, and much, much more disrupted by Ida, which is why this donation of over $75,000 from Shell and the Bayou Community Foundation is appreciated months after the storm.

Dr. Jay Clune, president of Nicholls State University, remarked on the donation with the following words, “many of our students and their families have literally lost the roof over their heads with estimates of weeks, months, and even longer for recovery and rebuilding efforts to truly take shape in the hardest-hit communities. Without the generosity and support of partners such as Shell and BCF, it would be impossible for Nicholls to enact our vision to be the intellectual, economic and cultural heart of the Bayou Region.” To donate towards the efforts of the Bayou Community Foundation’s Hurricane Ida Relief, click here.

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University of Louisiana at Lafayette Announces $500 Million Fundraising Campaign

Oftentimes the spirit of giving accompanies the end of the year, and at UL Lafayette, that spirit is abundant. According to this news release from the university, a $500 million comprehensive fundraising campaign was announced by the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, making it the largest single fundraising initiative in the school’s long history.

The initiative, which was formally started on November 5th is titled Together: The Campaign for the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, and according to UL Lafayette President Dr. Joseph Savoie, the half-billion-dollar goal is not only about focusing on the school and its students, but the surrounding community, state, and world they find themselves in.

In his rousing speech announcing the historic milestone fundraising goal, Dr. Savoie stated that in reaching the $500 million goal, ULL will also “enhance the role the University plays in strengthening our community, deepening our wider understanding, and opening the door to a world-class education for those who come here to pursue their aspirations. This campaign is our moment to look upward and see that the only obstacle we face – the only limit we have – is our own capacity to dream. Together, we can – and will – shape the future.”

Four days following its announcement, the fundraising campaign was over halfway towards meeting its target, according to UL Lafayette vice president for University Advancement and CEO of the UL Foundation, John Blohm. Reportedly, alumni and friends of the university had already provided $303 million in pledges and gifts during its initial phase, which began in 2016.

As of today, the campaign has enabled the University to create many opportunities for faculty and students. This is seen in the four endowed chairs, 34 endowed professorships, and 122 endowed student scholarship funds that have been created thanks to the campaign.

In their donation, ULL alumni and friends have chosen to support various construction projects and renovations of teaching and learning spaces found inside several academic colleges over the years. Included in these projects made possible by the generosity of alumni and friends are the Maraist Financial Services Lab, which is located inside of theB.I. Moody III College of Business Administration, the Northwestern Mutual Sales and Research Lab, and the Grant Gibson Interdisciplinary Research Laboratory in the Ray P. Authement College of Sciences.

Additionally, several labs such as the Franks CAD Student Education Laboratory, Nick Pugh Aerospace Electronics Research Lab, and the Solar Energy Program of Excellence were created in a similar manner, and all three of the aforementioned labs are located inside ULL’s College of Engineering. Not to mention, the fundraising campaign has also helped to renovate the Roy House, which turned it into the new home for the Center for Louisiana Studies and the creation of the Kathleen Babineaux Blanco Public Policy Center.

Included in the $303 million that has already been raised in the campaign are the two single largest gift committees in university history. These are the $20 million from LHC Group that was for the College of Nursing and Allied Health Professions and the $15 million from Our Lady of Lourdes Regional Medical Center for the renovation of Cajun Field. Both of these pledges were received by ULL in 2021.

According to UL Lafayette’s provost and vice president for Academic Affairs, Dr. Jaime Hebert, of the approximately 25,000 individuals who have made an effort to give to the campaign to date, 62% were identified as being ULL alumni, 30% friends, and 8% organizations.

Dr. Hebert reelected on the funds raised so far in the campaign by remarking, “this campaign has provided more opportunities for student success, world-class facilities for our student-athletes, a deeper connection to this community and its culture, and a stronger, better prepared and more agile workforce. None of this would have been possible without donors and friends working with the University to empower our students and change their destinies.”

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Holiday Pecan Pie Recipe

For many, the end of a year means bringing something to a holiday celebration, be it a gift, dish, or dessert. Luckily, SmittenKitchen has you covered with this detailed and delicious recipe for pecan pie, a dish that is always a crowd-pleaser. So, get your favorite cooking instruments ready and prepare the dessert that is perfect whether it’s fresh out of the oven or days later beneath a scoop of Vanilla ice cream.

Ingredients for Pecan Pie:

For the crust:

  • 1 ¼ cups of all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoon of granulated sugar
  • ½ teaspoons of fine sea salt or fine table salt
  • 1 stick (4 ounces) of cold, unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup of cold water, plus an additional tablespoon if needed

For the filling:

  • 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter
  • 1 packed cup of dark brown sugar
  • ¾ cup of cane sugar syrup
  • 1-2 pinches of sea salt
  • 2 cups of pecan halves (preferably fresh)
  • 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract
  • 3 large eggs

Recipe for Pecan Pie:

  1. Begin preparing your pie dough by cutting your butter into chunks and then work the pieces into a combination of flour, salt, and sugar in a large bowl. Work the butter into the flour until the mixture begins to resemble a coarse meal and the largest bits of butter are very small.
  2. Next, add ¼ cup of your very cold water into the mixture and stir it with a spoon until large slums begin to form. Knead the dough together with your hands and then wrap the dough in a sheet of plastic wrap. Refrigerate it for at least one hour and at maximum 48 hours.
  3. Prepare the pie crust by sprinkling flour on your countertop and rolling your dough into a 12 to 13-inch circle-adjacent shape. Fold the dough gently into quarters without creasing it and transfer it to a 9-inch standard pie plate. Unfold the dough and trim the overhanging pieces to about ½ of an inch. Fold the overhand under the edge of the pie crust and crimp it decoratively. Place it in the refrigerator afterward.
  4. Preheat your oven to 350°F and begin to prepare the filling by spreading your pecans out onto a rimmed baking sheet and then toasting them in the oven for 10 to 12 minutes. Throughout the process, be sure to stir them once or twice so that they toast evenly.
  5. Combine your butter, brown sugar, cane syrup, and a pinch of salt into a medium saucepan and cook it for 2 minutes. Remove it from the heat and stir in the pecans, cider vinegar, and vanilla. Pour it all into a bowl so that it cools faster and set the mixture to the side for about 5 to 10 minutes so that it can cool a little. Combine your three eggs into the mixture by whisking your eggs one at a time and top it all off by carefully pouring the mixture into your prepared pie shell.
  6. Bake the pie for 40 to 45 minutes until the edges are set and puffed slightly and the center is slightly firm to the touch. Cool the pie on a rack, and serve while it’s slightly warm or at room temperature.

Notes:

  • Be sure that you toast your pecans to truly bring out their flavor during the baking process.
  • In order to avoid your brown sugar becoming unnoticeable in the end product, always use dark brown sugar in place of light brown sugar. The additional molasses helps to keep the flavor intact.
  • If your pecan pie comes out of the oven and is too sweet or “gooey,” you can add a small amount of cider vinegar to counteract that taste and texture.

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Spend Christmas in these Winter Destinations

The end of the year always serves as a wonderful time to visit with loved ones in a calming environment to look around, take stock, and cherish the experiences from the past year while setting your sights on the new dawn right around the corner. So when it comes to the ideal Christmas vacation setting, who says you have to open gifts at home? Thanks to this article from Travel + Leisure that suggests the fifteen most cheerful destinations to spend Christmas this year, it’s never been more tempting to spend the happiest time of  year in these winter destinations.

As always, recent COVID-19 surges may have caused new government restrictions, rules, and safety measures to have been set. Because of this, it’s always suggested that those who wish to travel check local guidelines, consult CDC recommendations, and take personal health conditions into account before traveling. This way you’re more prepared to enjoy your trip while remaining as safe and responsible as possible in these unprecedented times.

Highlands, North Carolina

Consider spending your Christmas morning in Appalachian amazement in the charming town of Highlands, North Carolina. This idyllic winter destination, modern-day setting is so humble and quaint that residents and visitors alike compare its environment to a Nancy Meyers film or Lifetime Christmas special. For over a century, Highlands has been suggested to visitors as being the perfect setting for a “break from it all,” as it’s colloquially known as a mountain respite. Located in one of the few temperate rain forests of North America, the mountain resort town is located only ten miles from Cashiers, North Carolina, and is surrounded by the main attraction that is Nantahala National Forest.  Spend your Christmas in a mountain cabin on the outskirts of this forest or nestled deep within, either way you’re sure to enjoy your time spent among nature.

Inside the town proper, you’ll find many shops, experiences, and community-laden amenities to keep you entertained in between the holiday’s festivities. Downtown Highlands is often called a “postcard” for just how perfectly situated and pictured its various buildings and features are laid out, such as the historic building that houses a full European-style spa. Other spots nearby that are worth a dedicated visit are the Bridal Veil Falls, located on the Waterfall Byway, the historic High Hampton Resort, and the unforgettable American Museum of Cut and Engraved Glass. No matter where you go in this comfortably charming little hamlet, you’re sure to be delighted by it’s size and attention to detail this holiday season.

Stowe, Vermont

For those who were raised on Christmas movies and other similar media, it’s hard to make it through the holiday season with an abundant absence of snow in the background. So, if you’re looking to celebrate a snowy white Christmas, then look no further than the East Coast ski paradise of Stowe, Vermont for your winter destination. Located at the foot of Vermont’s highest peak, Mount Mansfield, Stowe is quite literally a winter wonderland that is known not only for its world-renowned trails and ski slopes, but it’s also famous for its accompanying town as well.  Once you make your way to Stowe, it’s hard to believe that you’re not literally stepping foot into a snowglobe, as the buildings, trees, and grounds are often blanketed with thick layers of smooth snowfall.

Be sure to spend Christmas in the style of a storybook by reserving a horse-drawn carriage ride for you and your loved ones to see the sprinkled pine trees. Alternatively, take a trip down Main Street for nightly winter activities that are sure to make ever-lasting memories. If you’re in the mood for adventure, you can host your holiday celebrations and then cap it off by planning an unforgettable day on the slopes, or you can simply spend the time quietly around the fire of the Stowe Mountain Ski Resort. No matter the reason, there’s no question that Winter is the perfect season to see all of the wonders that Stowe, Virginia has to offer.

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LSU’s BRBytes Increases Computer Science Access for K-12 Students

According to the Louisiana State University Office of Research and Economic Development, all professions in Louisiana requiring an adept knowledge of computer science and mathematical skills are expected to see immense growth over the next decade. With this trend, it’s becoming increasingly more and more important for students to be given the opportunity to study computer science before entering high school or at the very least be given a chance to learn about such career fields.

Luckily, that’s where the LSU team behind BRBytes is working to address that educational gap, and according to this research article published by the University as a part of 2021’s Computer Science Education Week, more Louisiana students in grades K-12 will be given this very chance by summer 2022.

Recently, LSU’s BRBytes has been growing rapidly and thus has committed to expanding their total program to elementary students in the East Baton Rouge Parish School System. This means that by Summer 2022, an additional 3,000 students from kindergarten through 6th grade will be taught about opportunities in computer science learning and careers. BRBytes has stated that they will first focus on bringing this equitable access to traditionally underserved elementary schools in which the large majority of students may come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds or are underrepresented minorities.

In speaking on this expansion of the BRBytes program that doubles its capacity, Rose Kendrick, BRBytes program manager for LSU stated, “this expansion into lower grades connects with what we were already doing in middle schools and high schools. We were already planning and doing activities with younger siblings at family nights and such events in schools, so now we’re building on that to provide younger students with opportunities to learn about computer science in a fun and informal way, which will help us build toward bigger enrollments in later years, once those students reach middle school and high school.”

BRBytes is an LSU-sponsored organization that is a part of the national movement known as CSforALL, in which over a hundred diverse member organizations collaborate to raise awareness about computer science education and careers. This is accomplished by organizing more learning and teaching opportunities in public school systems across the United States. CSforALL’s mission reads that they aim “to make high-quality computer science an integral part of the educational experience of all K-12 students and teachers and to support student pathways to college and career success.”

What started as a computer science education initiative serving only a single parish had grown exponentially between 2018 and 2019 to 8 parishes, then to 14 parishes by fall 2020, and BRBytes is now currently active and operating in 22 parishes across Louisiana. In just 2021 alone, the program had doubled its number of enrolled students from 2,000 to 4,000 and had trained an additional 80 middle and high school teachers in summer 2021.

Juana Moreno is the team leader for BRBytes and a professor in the LSU Department of Physics and Astronomy with a joint appointment in the LSU Center for Computation & Technology. When speaking to LSU press, he emphasized the massive importance of building such close partnerships with schools and expanding their teacher trainings and professional developments so that educators can teach students about how to use technology and other resources such as computational thinking skills in order to access more advanced knowledge.

Professor Moreno remarked that if the program is truly striving for a more diverse workforce in computing, then the central aim has to go beyond only giving students access to cool tools. In speaking about BRBytes, he said, “we all know and understand the need for more computer science education, and while it’s great to give kids their own Chromebook, for example, there also has to be a teacher there to teach them how to use them. It’s generally easier to hand out tools than to train people, and that’s why we’re committed to expanding BRBytes to help more students, schools, and teachers.”

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