Author: Emily Gautreaux

Nicholls Engineering Receives Key Backing from Educational Trust Fund

Nicholls State University recently received a generous contribution that promises to strengthen one of its most distinctive academic offerings, as per this news release from the University. The Contractor’s Educational Trust Fund (LA-CETF) donated $50,000 to support both scholarships and programming in the Wm. Clifford Smith School of Engineering, specifically within its geomatics program. This program, long recognized for its innovation and workforce impact, has produced graduates who step directly into high-demand roles across Louisiana and beyond.

Kenn Naquin, secretary of LA-CETF, explained that the donation reflected the industry’s need to invest in its future workforce. He noted that the students trained at Nicholls State University would become tomorrow’s employees, and it was in the best interest of Louisiana contractors to ensure the university produced the most qualified graduates possible. Naquin described Nicholls students as the “product” of this educational process, and emphasized the fund’s desire to help the university create the best professionals in the field.

This $50,000 investment was not the trust’s first show of support for Nicholls. Over the years, the LA-CETF has contributed to a range of initiatives that bolstered both student opportunities and faculty development. These past donations included $100,000 toward the Endowed Geomatics Student Scholarship, $25,000 for the Jules Oreste Chustz Endowed Student Scholarship, and $50,000 in need-based scholarships designated for Nicholls students who faced hardship following Hurricane Ida. Additionally, funding has helped the School of Engineering recruit and retain talented faculty members, as well as establish endowed professorships that ensure long-term academic excellence.

Dr. Esra Tekdal Yilmaz, director of the School of Engineering and an associate professor of geomatics, expressed deep gratitude for the trust’s consistent backing. She explained that LA-CETF’s support was vital to sustaining the university’s nationally recognized geomatics program and preparing students to enter a field that required precision, technical knowledge, and adaptability. Dr. Yilmaz underscored that without such partnerships, the program could not continue its record of success in both education and job placement.

The geomatics program at Nicholls has built a reputation for excellence, boasting a 100% job placement rate for its graduates. Students are trained in the fundamentals of surveying and mapping but also gain expertise in cutting-edge technologies. Coursework and hands-on experiences expose them to Global Navigation Satellite Systems, Geographic Information Systems, Unmanned Aerial Systems, and advanced laser scanning techniques. This combination of traditional skills and modern innovation ensures graduates are highly competitive in industries ranging from construction and urban planning to environmental management.

The Wm. Clifford Smith School of Engineering also extends its impact through collaborative degree pathways. Nicholls students can pursue studies in civil and mechanical engineering through a partnership with the University of New Orleans. This arrangement allows students to complete UNO’s Bachelor of Science curriculum in fields such as mechanical or civil engineering while remaining on the Nicholls campus for most of their undergraduate studies. In their final year, they transition seamlessly to UNO to finish their degrees, creating a flexible and affordable route into the engineering profession.

The Contractor’s Educational Trust Fund itself plays a unique role in Louisiana’s educational and professional landscape. Established as a nonprofit, the fund provides resources to universities across the state that offer programs tied to construction and contracting. Its financing comes from violation fines collected by the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors. These reinvested funds ensure that penalties for noncompliance are transformed into opportunities for students, scholarships, and academic advancement.

Taken together, the consistent partnership between LA-CETF and Nicholls demonstrates a forward-looking vision for Louisiana’s workforce. By channeling resources into student scholarships, faculty development, and program innovation, the fund is helping to guarantee that the next generation of geomatics and engineering professionals are well-prepared for the challenges ahead. In doing so, it underscores the importance of collaboration between higher education and industry to secure both academic excellence and economic growth.

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Louisiana’s Float Will Shine at the Rose Parade with Rising Star John Foster

Louisiana will usher the New Year with vibrant style as rising country singer John Foster proudly represents the Bayou State in the 137th Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California. According to this article from The Advocate, the Rose Parade will be held on January 1, 2026, and marks Louisiana’s fifth consecutive appearance in the world-famous parade, with each year spotlighting homegrown talent on the state’s colorful float.

Over the years, Louisiana has showcased some of its most recognized musicians at the parade, including Laine Hardy, Amanda Shaw, Sean Ardoin, and James Burton. More recent honorees included Timothy Wayne and Lainey Wilson, who brought national attention to Louisiana’s cultural legacy. Foster will join this celebrated lineup in 2026, stepping onto the grand stage as the latest artist to embody Louisiana’s rich musical tradition.

Prior to the debut of the float, Foster reflected on his journey to the Rose Parade. He explained that in 2023, while still early in his career, he saw Lainey Wilson represent Louisiana at the event. That moment sparked the hope that one day he might also carry the honor of showcasing his home state before an international audience. For Foster, taking part in this upcoming parade stands as a fulfillment of that long-held aspiration.

The 2026 float, titled Gulf to Gumbo, reflects the parade’s theme, The Magic in Teamwork. Designed to celebrate the collaboration behind Louisiana’s most iconic dish, the float featured a shrimp boat, depictions of fresh Gulf seafood, and a towering chef figure bringing every ingredient together. According to the Louisiana Department of Tourism, the float not only represented culinary pride but also highlighted the cooperative spirit that defines Louisiana’s culture.

The significance of Louisiana’s continued participation extends far beyond the parade route. In 2025, media coverage of the float had generated more than $50 million in advertising value. With millions of viewers tuning in through broadcast partners like ABC, NBC, Univision, and Pluto TV, the 2026 float will once again place Louisiana on a global stage. Organizers emphasized that the event provided an unparalleled opportunity to promote the state’s tourism, cuisine, and musical artistry to audiences across continents.

The Rose Parade itself draws more than 700,000 spectators along its five-mile route. Following tradition, floats will be judged on New Year’s Eve for design, floral presentation, and entertainment value. On parade day, crowds will gather to cheer as Louisiana’s Gulf to Gumbo float  as it rolls proudly through Pasadena. Afterward, visitors will have the chance to admire the designs up close during Floatfest, an exhibition that allows attendees to view all parade floats in detail.

Volunteers will also play a vital role in bringing Louisiana’s float to life. Dozens of participants—both locals and visitors—are expected to join in the decorating process, which will take place at the float builder’s warehouse in the days leading up to the event. Volunteers will assist with tasks such as gluing, taping, cutting, and preparing organic materials including seeds, flowers, and plant matter. The experience will give participants a direct opportunity to engage with Louisiana’s parade entry, reinforcing the teamwork celebrated in this year’s theme.

Louisiana’s involvement in the Tournament of Roses Parade will serve as more than just a showcase of culture; it will continue a yearly tradition that bridges community, tourism, and artistry. With each float, the state shares its stories—through food, music, and shared experiences—with a worldwide audience. For Foster, this moment will symbolize both personal achievement and the opportunity to highlight Louisiana’s enduring spirit.

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Spanish Grilled Octopus with Bright Citrus and Olive Oil

Few dishes capture the rustic elegance of Mediterranean cooking quite like Spanish-Style Grilled Octopus. This recipe, adapted from Louisiana Cookin and Chef John D. Folse, originates from a gathering of Spanish merchants in Melide, Spain, where chefs relied on the simplest local ingredients—fresh octopus, smoky paprika, bright citrus, and golden olive oil. Traditionally, the dish was finished over an open flame, giving the octopus a charred, slightly smoky edge that has become its signature flavor.

Ingredients:

  • 1 (1-pound) Spanish octopus, rinsed and head discarded
  • 3 cloves garlic, peeled and crushed
  • 1 yellow onion, coarsely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon fresh orange zest
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • ½ cup white wine
  • 2 large bay leaves
  • 1½ teaspoons smoked Spanish paprika
  • 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
  • Cayenne pepper and salt, to taste
  • Garnish: chopped fresh parsley, grilled lemon slices

Directions:

  1. In a saucepan, combine the onion, garlic, bay leaves, paprika, salt, and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Cook over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes, stirring often, until the onion begins to soften. Pour in the white wine to form a flavorful braising base, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
    For added authenticity, many cooks from Galicia recommend a dry Spanish white wine, which complements the seafood’s natural sweetness.
  2. Place the cleaned octopus into the simmering braising liquid. Coat it well, cover the pot, and reduce the heat to low. Allow the octopus to cook gently for 20 minutes, then flip it and continue simmering until fork-tender—about 30 to 45 minutes longer.
  3. Remove the pan from the heat and transfer the octopus to a large bowl. Pour the braising liquid over it, then set the bowl in a larger container filled with ice water to cool. Once the mixture reaches room temperature, cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. This step helps the octopus absorb more of the smoky, aromatic flavor.
  4. When ready to cook, pat the octopus dry with paper towels and cut into three or four serving-sized portions. Brush each piece generously with the remaining olive oil.
  5. In a small saucepan, reduce ⅓ cup of the reserved braising liquid over medium heat. Remove from heat, strain out the solids, and allow the liquid to cool for about 10 minutes. Stir in orange zest, lemon zest, lemon juice, extra-virgin olive oil, salt, and a pinch of cayenne for a sauce that brightens and balances the smoky char.
  6. Preheat the grill to high heat. Place the octopus pieces directly on the grate and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until caramelized, slightly charred, and heated through. Slice diagonally into thick pieces, arrange on a platter, and drizzle with the citrus sauce. Finish with a dusting of cayenne, chopped parsley, and grilled lemon slices for garnish.

This Spanish-style dish pairs beautifully with simple yet vibrant accompaniments. A warm loaf of Galician bread or rustic sourdough provides the perfect vehicle for sopping up the citrusy sauce. For a lighter option, consider serving it alongside a crisp salad of arugula, shaved fennel, and orange segments. Spanish-style roasted potatoes, tossed with paprika and garlic, also complement the flavors of the grilled octopus.

Spanish-Style Grilled Octopus is more than a dish—it is a culinary journey that captures the essence of Mediterranean cooking. From the initial simmer with garlic, bay leaves, and wine to the final kiss of smoke on the grill, each step honors tradition while ensuring tenderness and bold flavor. Whether served as a centerpiece for a summer gathering or as part of a tapas spread, this recipe delivers both authenticity and elegance. By recreating it at home, you bring a touch of Spain to your table, making any occasion feel festive and memorable.

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Why Frankenmuth Is Michigan’s Must-See Bavarian Town

Frankenmuth, Michigan—fondly known as Michigan’s Little Bavaria—offers travelers a destination brimming with old-world charm, cultural richness, and a unique blend of seasonal experiences, as per this travel blog from Travel + Leisure. Located about 95 miles north of the Detroit metro, this picturesque town features Bavarian-inspired architecture, vibrant murals, and colorful flowers spilling from window boxes, creating the atmosphere of a European village right in the heart of the Midwest. With the narrow Cass River flowing gently through town and charming light posts illuminating the streets, visitors can easily see why Frankenmuth is a standout among small-town destinations.

A signature stop for many is Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, the world’s largest Christmas store. This sprawling complex spans multiple acres and dazzles guests with festive displays year-round. From hand-painted ornaments to thousands of holiday decorations, Bronner’s encapsulates the spirit of the season, no matter the month. Nearby, Main Street shines during winter with sparkling lights, German-style markets, and holiday programming that draws travelers from around the country.

Beyond its Christmas magic, Frankenmuth has established itself as a year-round destination. In autumn, the town hosts Oktoberfest celebrations, while spring brings the World Expo of Beer and Balloons Over Bavarian Inn. Summer travelers can enjoy riverboat rides on the Bavarian Belle, while the fall foliage provides iconic backdrops along Michigan’s scenic byways. No matter the season, Frankenmuth blends tradition with community-driven events.

Culinary enthusiasts will find much to savor in town. The iconic Frankenmuth Chicken Dinners are legendary, served family-style at both Zehnder’s and the Bavarian Inn Restaurant. With generous portions of golden fried chicken, potato sides, and German-inspired salads, these meals embody local tradition. For a refined dining experience, The Station 100 offers European-inspired cuisine, including seasonal tasting menus and wagyu steaks. On Main Street, Prost!delights with charcuterie and small plates, while Creation Coffee provides specialty drinks such as the Bavarian latte.

Shoppers will appreciate Frankenmuth’s eclectic stores. The Frankenmuth Cheese Haus boasts over 120 varieties of cheese, from Michigan-made Gouda to inventive chocolate cheese. Visitors can also explore Creative Lane, a boutique filled with artisan goods, and Rapunzel’s Boutique, which offers specialty knitting accessories and elegant gifts. For those with a sweet tooth, Zak & Mac’s Chocolate Haus serves handcrafted toffee, gourmet chocolates, and decadent seasonal treats.

Frankenmuth also emphasizes heritage and craftsmanship. The historic Frankenmuth Woolen Mill, established in 1894, produces sustainable wool products like comforters and slippers. Visitors can tour the facility, learn about traditional milling processes, and even craft their own wool dryer ball as a memorable keepsake. Just outside of town,Grandpa Tiny’s Heritage Farm introduces agricultural history through seasonal events, flower festivals, and holiday programs.

Adventure seekers can head to the Frankenmuth Aerial Park, a treetop ropes course and zip line that also offers nighttime Glow Nights for an illuminated experience. Water lovers can explore the Cass River by kayak under the historic covered bridge or enjoy a guided tour aboard Frankenmuth FunShips. The Bavarian Inn Lodge Waterpark has recently expanded, becoming Michigan’s largest indoor water park, while nearby Zehnder’s Splash Village offers additional aquatic excitement.

History and culture round out Frankenmuth’s appeal. The Frankenmuth Historical Museum provides context on the town’s German heritage, while local culinary tours showcase regional flavors. Pretzel-rolling classes at the Bavarian Inn add a hands-on element, tying together food, culture, and community spirit.

Frankenmuth truly blends the charm of a European village with Michigan’s natural and cultural treasures. Whether enjoying a holiday shopping trip at Bronner’s, sampling culinary delights on Main Street, or exploring the Cass River,visitors will find experiences that combine tradition, creativity, and adventure.

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Quick Noodle Bowl with Peanut Sauce

When the weather turns warm, light and refreshing meals often take center stage at the table. This Shredded Chicken Noodle Bowl from Louisiana Cookin bring together tender rotisserie chicken, crisp vegetables, and delicate vermicelli noodles, all dressed in a velvety gingery peanut sauce. This dish is more than just a quick summer lunch—it’s a vibrant fusion of flavors that balances savory, sweet, tangy, and mildly spicy notes. The combination of textures and colors also makes it visually stunning, perfect for casual dining or entertaining friends. Inspired by Southeast Asian noodle dishes, this recipe takes simple ingredients and elevates them into something that feels restaurant-worthy.

Ingredients:

  • 1 (8-ounce) package vermicelli noodles
  • 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
  • 2 tablespoons chopped roasted salted peanuts
  • ⅔ cup thinly sliced cucumbers
  • ½ cup matchstick carrots
  • ½ cup thinly chopped green onion
  • ⅓ cup thinly sliced radish
  • 1 clove garlic, grated
  • 1 teaspoon lime zest
  • 4 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 2 teaspoons ground ginger
  • 1½ teaspoons fish sauce
  • 1 tablespoon water (for sauce)
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • Garnish: chopped green onion

Directions:

  1. In a large heatproof bowl, pour in 8 cups of boiling water. Stir in the rice vinegar and kosher salt until dissolved. Add vermicelli noodles, cover, and let stand for about 5 minutes, or until the noodles are tender. Drain completely and divide among serving bowls.
  2. Layer each bowl with shredded rotisserie chicken, cucumbers, carrots, green onion, and radishes. The colorful mix creates a refreshing and balanced bite.
  3. Drizzle each bowl generously with about 2 tablespoons of the peanut sauce, then top with chopped roasted peanuts for a crunchy finish. Offer additional sauce on the side for anyone who wants more richness.
  4. To prepare the peanut sauce, whisk together the peanut butter, honey, olive oil, lime zest, lime juice, grated garlic, water, soy sauce, ground ginger, fish sauce, and hot sauce until smooth and creamy. Adjust thickness by adding more water if needed.
  5. Garnish bowls with extra green onion before serving. Enjoy immediately while the vegetables remain crisp and refreshing.

Side Dish Suggestions to go with this Noodle Bowl:

Pairing this noodle bowl with the right side dishes transforms it into a full meal experience. Consider a crisp Asian-style slaw with napa cabbage, sesame oil, and toasted sesame seeds, which enhances the fresh flavors of the noodles. For something heartier, steamed dumplings filled with pork or vegetables make a wonderful companion dish. You could also add a light miso soup for warmth, especially if serving these bowls on a cooler evening. Another excellent addition would be spring rolls, either fresh or fried, which echo the same refreshing vegetable-forward theme. If you’re looking for something simple, a side of edamame sprinkled with sea salt works beautifully as a light and protein-rich option.

These Shredded Chicken Noodle Bowls offer a delicious way to enjoy a light yet filling meal, particularly in warmer months when heavy food feels overwhelming. The combination of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, chewy vermicelli noodles, and creamy peanut sauce creates a dish that feels both indulgent and nourishing. With minimal cooking involved, it’s also a great option for busy weeknights when time is limited but flavor is still a priority. Whether you serve them as a quick lunch, a dinner party starter, or a full meal paired with sides, these bowls deliver a perfect balance of taste and texture. They prove that with a few smart ingredients, even the simplest meals can become something extraordinary.

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Why Black Mountain Should Be on Your Travel List

Nestled just 20 minutes from Asheville, the town of Black Mountain is steadily gaining recognition as a vibrant travel destination. Known as the “Front Porch of Western North Carolina,” this mountain community blends culture, natural beauty, and a thriving arts scene into a welcoming retreat, as per this travel blog post from Southern Living. Despite setbacks caused by Hurricane Helene in September, the town has made significant strides in recovery, with restaurants, shops, and accommodations reopening to greet travelers. The chamber of commerce reports nearly 2 million annual visitors, and that number is expected to grow as word spreads about this hidden gem.

Two standout accommodations provide distinctly different atmospheres while both remaining close to downtown. The Monte Vista Hotel, a historic boutique property, offers 45 renovated rooms, an inviting courtyard, and on-site dining. Its quiet setting just a few blocks from central streets ensures convenience without sacrificing tranquility. Alternatively, theRed Rocker Inn, an 1896 Victorian mansion turned bed-and-breakfast, provides 17 rooms and suites. Known for its homemade breakfasts and charming character, it is ideal for travelers seeking a cozy, historic ambiance.

Entertainment thrives in Black Mountain thanks to beloved venues like White Horse Black Mountain. This nonprofit music hall presents bluegrass, jazz, blues, and Americana in an intimate listening-room atmosphere. Occasional vaudeville shows, songwriter circles, and film screenings round out the calendar. Known locally as “the town’s living room,” the venue highlights the community spirit that defines the region.

Surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, Black Mountain is an excellent base for outdoor adventures. The Lookout Mountain Trail in nearby Montreat provides a brisk 1.4-mile round trip with sweeping views of the Seven Sisters range. For a longer trek, the Graybeard Trail offers a 9.5-mile journey through hardwood forests, cascading waterfalls, and mountain vistas. Those preferring a leisurely outing can enjoy Lake Tomahawk Park, complete with a walking path, tennis courts, fishing piers, and picnic pavilions.

Culinary variety is another hallmark of Black Mountain. Bush Farmhouse showcases South African flavors, with dishes such as Umngqusho and Bunny Chow. The restaurant’s garden setting, live music, and resident animals add to its distinctive character. At The Pure & Proper, a renovated 1940s gas station houses an all-day eatery known for globally inspired plates like okonomiyaki, poached pear gnudi, and duck confit—all at surprisingly approachable prices. Meanwhile, Cousins Cuban Café attracts long lines for authentic Cubano sandwiches, ropa vieja, and ham croquetas, cementing its place as a downtown staple.

Compact and walkable, Black Mountain’s downtown encourages leisurely exploration. Coffee at Dripolator provides a starting point before perusing shops such as Seven Sisters Craft Gallery or Mountain Nest Gallery, where hundreds of regional artisans showcase jewelry, ceramics, paintings, and hand-blown glass. At the historic Old Depot Gallery, once a train station, rotating exhibits highlight the region’s creative depth.

For eclectic finds, Chifferobe Home & Garden offers antiques and décor, while Sassafras on Sutton caters to book lovers. Since 1928, Town Hardware & General Store has provided everything from vintage tools to unique gifts, earning its place as a cornerstone of the community.

Markets and outdoor events are regular fixtures in Black Mountain. The town’s Tailgate Market draws residents and visitors alike with fresh produce, handmade pottery, and live folk music. Seasonal festivities bring energy to the compact downtown, while giant rocking chairs placed throughout town serve as iconic symbols of its relaxed pace. Pausing in the square with a cupcake from Hey Hey Cupcake offers a fitting end to a day of exploration, surrounded by flowers, fountains, and mountain views.

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