Tag: louisiana

Increased Tourism and Safety Make Mardi Gras 2025 One to Remember

Mardi Gras 2025 proved to be one of the most successful in recent years, despite facing an unexpected challenge in the form of severe weather that cut festivities short by a few hours, as per this article from Nola.com. According to local hoteliers, restaurant owners, and hospitality leaders, the city experienced a significant surge in visitors compared to the previous year’s celebration.

Hotel occupancy rates downtown and in the French Quarter reflected this increase, with nearly 87% of the 26,000 available hotel rooms filled from February 28 through Fat Tuesday, as reported by New Orleans & Co. The weekend’s peak occurred on Saturday night, when occupancy reached an impressive 95%. These figures did not even account for the city’s approximately 6,000 short-term rental units, which, if included, would likely push the overall occupancy rate even higher.

By comparison, Mardi Gras 2024 saw a lower turnout, with an average hotel occupancy rate of 81% over five nights, never reaching the 90% threshold. The growth in numbers was encouraging for the city’s tourism industry, particularly considering the rise of short-term rental properties in recent years. Walt Leger III, President and CEO of New Orleans & Co., confirmed that the high occupancy rates indicated a strong Mardi Gras season and a positive trajectory for the hospitality sector.

However, while the numbers were encouraging, they had not yet reached the levels seen in the years leading up to the COVID-19 pandemic. Prior to 2020, hotel occupancy rates for Mardi Gras regularly exceeded 95% across the city. Although the tourism industry has not fully rebounded to pre-pandemic levels, steady improvements in hotel and restaurant business suggest that recovery is ongoing.

Beyond tourism and business figures, the success of Mardi Gras 2025 was particularly meaningful given the public safety concerns that loomed over the event. Earlier in the year, on January 1, a ramming attack on Bourbon Street had raised concerns about safety in the French Quarter. In response, city, state, and federal officials took significant steps to bolster security ahead of Mardi Gras and the Super Bowl on February 8. Enhanced security measures included additional bollards and barricades along the streets and sidewalks, an increased law enforcement presence, and the deployment of new crime-fighting technology. These efforts were designed not only to improve actual safety but also to give visitors and locals a greater sense of security.

Several French Quarter and boutique hotels significantly outperformed the market average in occupancy. The six hotels owned by the Valentino family in the French Quarter reported a 95% occupancy rate, marking a notable increase from 2024. Hotel St. Vincent, located in the Lower Garden District, maintained full occupancy throughout Mardi Gras, as it had in 2024. Owner Zach Kupperman also noted that the hotel achieved a 14% increase in room rates compared to the previous year, further highlighting a strong financial performance.

The boost in tourism was not limited to visitors within driving distance. Many hotel owners, including Kupperman, observed that the majority of guests were out-of-town tourists who had flown in for the festivities, rather than regional visitors arriving by car.

Restaurants also enjoyed a profitable Mardi Gras season, with local enthusiasm playing a significant role. One of the biggest days for dining establishments was “Friday Gras,” the Friday before Mardi Gras, which is traditionally marked by celebratory brunches and lunches. This day has become the single busiest lunch service of the year for many French Quarter restaurants.

Ultimately, Mardi Gras 2025 delivered on all fronts. Visitor numbers climbed, businesses prospered, and security measures ensured a smooth and safe celebration. While there is still room for growth, particularly in reaching pre-pandemic tourism levels, the success of this year’s Carnivale was a promising sign for the continued revitalization of New Orleans’ hospitality industry.

 

 

Louisiana’s Focus on Fundamentals Pays Off in National Education Rankings

Louisiana students have demonstrated remarkable academic progress, earning their highest national education rankings to date on The Nation’s Report Card, as per this news release from LDOE. This widely respected assessment, officially known as the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), evaluates reading and math proficiency among 4th and 8th graders across the United States. The latest results indicate that Louisiana students have not only made significant strides but have also positioned themselves among the nation’s top performers in multiple categories.

Governor Jeff Landry and Louisiana State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley addressed this milestone during a press conference held at Magnolia Woods Elementary in Baton Rouge. Brumley emphasized that these achievements in national education rankings highlight the dedication of educators and the state’s unwavering commitment to foundational academic skills. While acknowledging the progress made, he noted that continuous improvement remains a priority.

The Nation’s Report Card assesses student performance in four key areas: 4th grade math, 4th grade reading, 8th grade math, and 8th grade reading. Vice President of the Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education, Stacey Melerine, underscored the significance of these achievements, attributing them to a strong academic foundation and an unyielding commitment to excellence. She expressed particular encouragement at the fact that students facing greater socioeconomic and learning challenges surpassed national trends.

Louisiana’s academic progress reflects the state’s targeted investment in literacy, mathematics, and teacher development. Louisiana adopted an evidence-based literacy model rooted in phonics, restructuring reading instruction statewide. Educators have received extensive training to support student success in early literacy.

The state’s math plan focused on fundamental skills, ensuring students have the necessary foundation for advanced coursework. Louisiana’s nationally recognized Special Education Playbook for System Leaders provided educators with tools to enhance learning environments for students with disabilities. The state prioritized professional development, equipping teachers and administrators with high-quality instructional materials while reducing bureaucratic hurdles and unnecessary training requirements.

Deputy Superintendent Dr. Jenna Chiasson highlighted the importance of Louisiana’s teacher-focused strategies. She pointed to targeted professional learning, coaching, and collaboration as key factors in improving student outcomes which helped the state’s national education rankings.

Building on recent successes, Louisiana has launched several new initiatives aimed at sustaining and accelerating academic growth:

  • Expanded High-Dosage Tutoring: With increased legislative funding, more schools and students now have access to intensive tutoring programs designed to support struggling learners.
  • K-3 Literacy Screener: This early assessment tool helps educators identify reading challenges in young students, enabling earlier intervention.
  • K-3 Math Screener: Modeled after the literacy initiative, this new assessment will identify foundational math difficulties and ensure targeted instruction.
  • Statewide Teacher Training: Louisiana continues to invest in teacher preparation, particularly in foundational reading and math instruction.
  • Revised Accountability System: The state has adopted a nationally acclaimed school accountability system that sets higher academic expectations, enhances career education pathways, and provides the public with clear, accessible data on school performance.

This updated accountability system is expected to take effect in the upcoming school year and has been recognized by national education experts as one of the strongest in the country.

The Nation’s Report Card (NAEP) serves as the only nationally representative measure of student achievement over time, providing critical insights into educational progress across states, U.S. territories, and Department of Defense schools. Since 2003, NAEP has assessed 4th and 8th graders in math and reading every two years, though the assessment was paused due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2022 administration marked the first full assessment since this disruption.

Louisiana’s recent successes on The Nation’s Report Card reflect the state’s commitment to strengthening education through research-based instructional strategies, targeted student support, and enhanced teacher development. As Louisiana continues to refine and expand its academic initiatives, these results offer a promising glimpse into the state’s educational future.

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How Louisiana’s Coastal Wetlands and Wildlife Endured the Unusual Cold Snap

Louisiana’s coastal wetlands, known for their subtropical climate, rarely experience snow or extreme cold. However, a recent winter storm in early 2025 brought an unusual blanket of snow to the region, prompting concerns about its impact on the state’s delicate coastal ecosystems. While some wildlife and plant species may have been affected, experts assured that the wetlands themselves were unlikely to suffer significant damage, as per this article from The Advocate.

One of the most immediate consequences of the cold snap was the reported fish kills along Louisiana’s coastal wetlands. Certain fish species, particularly those not native to the state, struggled to survive the sudden temperature drop. The rapid decline in water temperature appeared to have been the primary cause, as fish are highly sensitive to abrupt environmental changes. While some species faced challenges, others demonstrated resilience. Alligators, for instance, were largely unaffected by the cold. According to Chris Schieble, deputy assistant secretary of fisheries at the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, alligators had already entered a hibernation-like state known as brumation. They remained buried in their mounds, conserving energy and avoiding exposure to the frigid temperatures.

Similarly, native birds to our coastal wetlands may have experienced initial confusion due to the unusual conditions, but experts believed they would adapt without long-term harm. Other cold-hardy swamp creatures, such as river otters, were also expected to remain largely unaffected.

The snow-covered landscape presented an unusual sight for Louisianans, with palmettos, bald cypress trees, and live oaks weighed down by frost and icicles. Though some plants might suffer damage, Robert Twilley, a coastal sciences professor at LSU, expressed confidence that most native plant populations would recover quickly.

One species of concern, however, was the black mangrove. These subtropical plants, which have expanded across Louisiana’s coastline since the 1980s due to warming temperatures, are highly sensitive to frost. Twilley noted that while some black mangroves would likely die, he had been surprised in the past at their ability to recover.

Andrew Ferris, coordinator of the native plants program at the Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana, expected some mangrove losses but reassured that other native species would fare well. He visited a site in St. Bernard Parish where 2,000 bald cypress and water tupelo trees had been planted for coastal reinforcement. Since these trees are native to South Louisiana, they were well adapted to withstand cold snaps and occasional snowfall.

While native species demonstrated resilience, the freezing temperatures might have benefited Louisiana’s wetlands in another way—by reducing invasive species populations. Nutria, the destructive rodents native to South America, struggled in the cold, with many perishing due to their inability to adapt to sudden temperature drops. Schieble noted that these animals, which are notorious for devouring wetland vegetation, were unlikely to survive prolonged exposure to freezing weather.

Other invasive species in the states’ coastal wetlands, including water hyacinth and giant salvinia—both of which overtake Louisiana’s waterways during warmer months—were also expected to suffer significant die-offs. Since these plants are not cold-tolerant, experts predicted that the frigid weather would provide a temporary reprieve from their rapid spread.

However, not all coastal wetlands invasive species were impacted. Feral hogs, known for their ability to destroy vegetation and disrupt wetland ecosystems, were expected to survive. Schieble explained that their thick winter coats allowed them to withstand cold temperatures, making them one of the few unwelcome species that would persist despite the harsh conditions.

Overall, Louisiana’s coastal wetlands and wildlife proved resilient in the face of this rare cold event. While certain species, particularly non-native plants and animals, faced temporary losses, the foundational elements of the ecosystem remained intact. Scientists and conservationists will continue monitoring the effects of the cold spell, particularly on fish populations and the survival of black mangroves. However, for the most part, Louisiana’s wetlands emerged from the winter storm with their long-term stability unshaken.

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Millennials on the Move: Lafayette and its Growing Popularity

For years, millennials seeking dynamic, urban lifestyles gravitated toward cities like Seattle, Denver, and Austin. However, the tides of popularity are shifting as these traditional hubs begin to lose their appeal. Rising from the shadows of these millennial magnets, Lafayette, Louisiana, has emerged as one of the most sought-after destinations for young professionals in 2024, as per this article from Houma Today.

According to a recent report by relocation company MoveBuddha, Lafayette ranks as the third most popular city for millennials to move to in 2024. The study, titled “2024’s Move-to Hotspots with the Most Millennials,” analyzed over 200,000 relocation-related searches, uncovering 67 cities with in-to-out move ratios above 1.25 and millennial populations higher than the national average. Lafayette stood out as the only Louisiana city to make the list, claiming a prestigious spot in the top three.

Lafayette’s inclusion in the top 10 list, alongside cities like Charleston, Savannah, and Bend, highlights the growing trend of millennials migrating to mid-sized cities that offer affordability and community-oriented lifestyles.

One of Lafayette’s biggest draws for millennials is its affordability. The city’s average home price is just $213,000, making it the most affordable location among the top 10 destinations on MoveBuddha’s list. This figure stands in stark contrast to Bend, Oregon, the most expensive city in the top 10, where the average home price soars to $736,000. The staggering $522,000 price difference underscores why Lafayette is increasingly attractive to millennials who prioritize financial stability and homeownership.

For young professionals seeking a high quality of life without breaking the bank, Lafayette provides the perfect balance. Its vibrant culture, rich history, and tight-knit community contribute to its charm, offering a sense of connection often lost in larger metropolitan areas.

While cities like Lafayette and Asheville are gaining popularity, former millennial strongholds such as Austin, Denver, and Seattle are experiencing a slowdown in growth. These cities, once celebrated for their bustling job markets and cultural amenities, now see nearly as many people moving out as moving in.

Though the millennial population in these cities remains high — Austin leads with 27%, while Denver and Seattle each boast 25% — their in-to-out move ratios tell a different story. Austin’s ratio is just 1.03, while Denver and Seattle sit at 1.05 and 1.12, respectively. These numbers indicate that the cost of living, housing affordability, and urban congestion are driving millennials to seek alternative destinations.

Lafayette’s rise as a millennial hotspot speaks to a broader trend of young people prioritizing affordability, cultural vibrancy, and a slower pace of life. The city offers a rich cultural tapestry, deeply rooted in Cajun and Creole traditions, which is evident in its cuisine, music, and community festivals. Millennials relocating to Lafayette can enjoy a unique blend of modern amenities and Southern charm, making it a compelling choice for those looking to escape the high costs and fast pace of larger cities.

Moreover, Lafayette’s economic accessibility allows millennials to invest in homeownership and build a stable foundation for their futures. With its growing population of young professionals, the city is poised to continue its upward trajectory, carving out a reputation as a millennial-friendly destination.

The migration of millennials to cities like Lafayette reflects changing priorities among this demographic. As affordability, work-life balance, and community take precedence over urban sprawl and sky-high living expenses, mid-sized cities are gaining the edge over traditional millennial hubs. This shift signals not only a change in where millennials are moving but also a transformation in the type of lifestyle they value most.

Lafayette’s emergence as a top destination for millennials in 2024 is no surprise given its affordability, cultural richness, and welcoming community. As young professionals continue to leave behind the challenges of living in larger cities, Lafayette stands ready to welcome them with open arms. The city’s unique blend of accessibility and vibrancy positions it as a beacon for the millennial generation seeking a fresh start.

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Acadian Ambulance Receives Industry’s Gold Standard Re-accreditation

Acadian Ambulance’s Louisiana and Mississippi operations recently achieved re-accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services (CAAS), earning a perfect score during the review. As per this article from The Advocate, This significant achievement highlights the company’s commitment to providing top-quality medical transportation services, exceeding many of the industry’s standards, and affirming its role as a leader in emergency medical care.

The Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services (CAAS) was established to enhance, promote, and recognize excellence in patient care within America’s medical transportation system. Achieving CAAS accreditation signifies that an ambulance service has met the highest industry standards. It is not merely about meeting basic regulations; it often involves exceeding both state and local requirements. This level of accreditation serves as a mark of distinction within the field of emergency medical services (EMS) and reflects a company’s dedication to quality care.

The accreditation process is thorough and comparable to the rigorous evaluations used for hospitals and nursing homes. It occurs every three years and involves an intensive application phase followed by an on-site inspection lasting several days. During this inspection, a team of external experts evaluates the company’s operations. For Acadian Ambulance’s most recent reaccreditation, reviewers from across the country traveled to Louisiana and Mississippi to assess the company’s performance. This included visits to the company’s newest service area in Harrison County, Mississippi, as part of the evaluation.

Acadian Ambulance has held its CAAS accreditation since 1995, which emphasizes its long-standing commitment to high standards. It remains one of only two ambulance services in both Louisiana and Mississippi to have achieved this accreditation. The release noted that Acadian is also one of 12 accredited ambulance services in Texas and one of approximately 170 nationwide to earn this distinction. Acadian Ambulance’s Texas operations had previously been reaccredited by CAAS in 2022, further showcasing the company’s dedication to maintaining superior service across its service areas.

Justin Back, President of Acadian Ambulance, expressed that while the CAAS accreditation is not required for daily operations, the company sought it out because of its significance as the “gold standard” in EMS. According to Back, CAAS accreditation ensures accountability not only to patients but also to healthcare partners, which is a crucial aspect of their service model. He explained that the CAAS reviewers highlighted Acadian’s equipment, training, technology, and fleet as industry-leading and of exceptional quality, reflecting the company’s forward-thinking approach to EMS.

In addition to its outstanding service, Acadian Ambulance continues to innovate and adapt to the changing needs of the communities it serves. This includes the use of cutting-edge technology and continuous staff training to stay ahead in the field. The company has introduced modernized ambulances equipped with the latest medical devices, enhancing both patient care and overall response time. Furthermore, Acadian has invested heavily in training its personnel, ensuring that all staff members are equipped with the skills and knowledge required to provide optimal emergency medical care.

Acadian Ambulance has grown into one of the largest ambulance services in the country, providing medical transportation and services across multiple states, including Louisiana, Texas, Mississippi, and Tennessee. This growth is rooted in the company’s mission to offer superior care, a goal that has been central to its operations since its founding in 1971.

Since its establishment, Acadian Companies has expanded beyond emergency medical transportation to include a wide range of services. This includes health, safety, and security offerings, as well as education and transportation services. Through these varied services, the company remains committed to providing the best possible support and education to the communities it serves, continuously working to enhance its offerings and improve its impact on public health and safety.

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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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