Tag: louisiana

Louisiana Hosting The Center of The Francophonie of The Americas for First Time

Often known for its rich cultural heritage and unique blend of traditions, the state of Louisiana is currently hosting an event of great significance – the Center of the Francophonie of the Americas. According to this article from The Daily Advertiser, this marks the first time that Louisiana has been chosen as the venue for this prestigious gathering. The event holds special meaning for the state, considering its historical connection to the French language.

In the not-so-distant past, Louisiana boasted a thriving community of over a million French speakers. However, the number has dwindled over the years, with an estimated 250,000 French speakers remaining in the state as of 2021. Recognizing the need to preserve the Cajun French language and culture, the Council for the Development of French in Louisiana (CODOFIL) was established in 1968. It aimed to promote and safeguard the French language, which had been prohibited in public schools and public places for a significant period.

Over the years, the tide has turned, and today, French immersion programs are thriving across the state, with approximately 5,500 students enrolled. This resurgence of interest in the French language can be attributed to the efforts of organizations like CODOFIL, whose mission is to ensure the longevity of the language and culture.

The first-ever summer institute program of the Center for the Francophonie of the Americas was hosted by CODOFIL, in collaboration with the University of Louisiana at Lafayette and Lafayette Consolidated Government. This event marked the first time the program was held outside of Canada, a significant honor for Louisiana. Out of 500 applicants, 50 participants from 11 countries were chosen to attend the institute. The aim was to facilitate an exchange of perspectives on the evolution of the Francophonie in various aspects of society, including economics, education, and culture unique to Louisiana.

Among the key themes explored during the program were sustainability and the development of the Francophonie in the Americas. These themes were divided into three axes, one of which focused on French as an economic asset in Louisiana. Matt Mick, the communications director, highlighted the economic benefits of bilingualism, emphasizing the advantage it brings in terms of international relations and global connections. The significance of French as a language of trade was evident, with trade between France and the U.S. reaching a substantial $79 billion in 2018.

Research conducted by the Center for the Francophonie of the Americas has shown that companies sharing a common language are more likely to engage in trade with one another. This principle extends to regions and states as well, with linguistic affinities playing a vital role in economic and consumer dynamics. French, being the fifth most widely spoken language in the world, carries substantial weight in the global economy. Francophone countries and member states account for a significant 16 percent of the global gross domestic product.

President Sylvain Lavoise expressed the need to create stronger links within Francophone culture, as people in other countries often remain unaware of the large number of French speakers in Louisiana. By building these connections and fostering a sense of togetherness, Louisiana aims to raise awareness and strengthen its position within the broader Francophonie community.

The historical narrative of French in Louisiana has been riddled with challenges, depriving the majority of francophones the opportunity to learn to read and write the language. However, organizations like CODOFIL and the Centre de la francophonie des Amériques are determined to rectify this situation. In the 1990 census, approximately 250,000 Louisianians claimed French as their spoken language at home. By the 2000 census, the number of Louisiana francophones over the age of 5 had dropped to 198,784, including a smaller subset who spoke Creole French. These organizations continue to identify avenues for research and encourage francophones to contribute to the wealth of knowledge that will shape the future of the language.

For more Louisiana-related articles, click here.

Glass Half Full: Turning Waste into Coastal Restoration

Glass Half Full, a grassroots recycling program based in New Orleans, is making significant strides in the realm of glass recycling, according to this feature article from The Advocate. Founded in 2020 by Franziska Trautman and Max Steitz, this innovative initiative is dedicated to transforming glass waste into eco-friendly sand and gravel. The primary goal of Glass Half Full is to contribute to Louisiana’s storm relief and coastal restoration efforts, all while reducing the burden on landfills and promoting sustainability.

Franziska Trautman, a native of Carencro, Louisiana, shared the inspiration behind the creation of Glass Half Full. As a chemical engineering student at Tulane University, she witnessed the lack of glass recycling programs in the state and felt compelled to make a difference. Trautman and Max Steitz realized that their recycling efforts could not only address the glass waste issue but also provide a valuable resource for coastal restoration and disaster relief projects.

The journey began in Trautman’s backyard, where the duo started collecting glass. They initiated a GoFundMecampaign to raise funds for the necessary equipment, and their initiative quickly gained momentum. Today, Glass Half Full operates out of a sprawling 40,000-square-foot facility, having successfully diverted an impressive four million pounds of glass from landfills. Their reach extends beyond New Orleans, as they now offer glass collection services to residents and businesses in Baton Rouge and the Northshore.

Once the glass is collected, Glass Half Full undertakes a meticulous in-house processing procedure at their New Orleans facility. With the capacity to convert two tons of glass per hour, the team transforms the material into sand and gravel. These recycled products are then supplied to various industries, with a significant portion allocated to coastal restoration projects.

According to Trautman, Louisiana faces the constant threat of coastal erosion, losing a substantial amount of land each passing hour. To combat this issue, numerous organizations and agencies are actively engaged in restoration efforts that heavily rely on sand. Traditionally, sand for such projects is sourced through dredging or importing from other regions. However, recycled glass sand offers a more sustainable and readily available alternative, effectively meeting the vast demand.

In collaboration with Tulane University and the National Science Foundation, Glass Half Full is conducting research to explore the additional benefits of recycled glass sand. Preliminary findings suggest that it could exhibit enhanced erosion resistance and the potential to remediate harmful algal blooms. These exciting prospects open up new possibilities for maximizing the effectiveness of coastal restoration initiatives.

Furthermore, Glass Half Full plays a vital role in disaster relief efforts. In anticipation of flooding, homes, and businesses often require sandbags for protection. The finest and most absorbent sand produced by Glass Half Full is used to fill these sandbags, which are then distributed ahead of storms, mitigating potential damages.

The impact of Glass Half Full continues to expand, with their pickup services now available in Baton Rouge and the Northshore. Future plans include introducing commercial pickups and establishing free drop-off points in these areas. Looking ahead, Glass Half Full aims to extend its operations into Mississippi, further amplifying their positive influence on coastal restoration and environmental sustainability.

Through their dedication and innovative approach, Glass Half Full is not only transforming glass waste into functional materials but also making a tangible difference in storm relief efforts and coastal restoration. Their commitment to sustainability and proactive response to environmental challenges serve as an inspiration to individuals and communities alike. As Louisiana battles the ongoing threat of coastal erosion, initiatives like Glass Half Full prove that even seemingly small actions can contribute to significant positive change.

For more Louisiana-related articles, click here.

The Cultural Significance of Boudin in Louisiana’s Culinary Landscape

When it comes to Louisiana’s culinary landscape, there are few dishes that embody the state’s rich history and cultural significance quite like boudin. From its humble beginnings as a simple sausage made from leftover meat, rice, and spices, to becoming a staple of Cajun cuisine enjoyed by locals and visitors alike, boudin has played a vital role in shaping Louisiana’s unique food culture. Thanks to this article from The Advocate, you can explore the fascinating origins of the cajun sausage, its importance to Scott, Louisiana, and why it continues to hold such an important place in Louisiana’s culinary heritage.

The small town of Scott, Louisiana has a population of 8,000, but that doesn’t stop it from having the most boudin shops per capita than any city or town in the state.  Most of these shops are found along Interstate 10, as highway travel has become quite essential to the town. Some of the most popular stops include: Billy’s Boudin and Cracklins, Nunu’s Cajun Market, Kartchner’s Specialty Meats, Best Stop, and Don’s Specialty Meats. In 2012, the Louisiana state legislature designated Scott, Louisiana as the Boudin Capital of the World,cementing it among locals and tourists alike as the go-to spot for the cajun delicacy.

Boudin is a type of sausage that is popular in Louisiana. It is made from pork, rice, and spices, and is often used in Cajun dishes. It has been a part of Louisiana culture for centuries, and is still enjoyed by many people today. The sausage was first created by the Acadians, who settled in Louisiana in the 18th century. The Acadians were originally from France, and they brought their culinary traditions with them to America. Boudin was one of these traditions, and it quickly became popular in Louisiana.

Today, boudin is still an important part of Louisiana culture. It can be found in grocery stores and restaurants all over the state. Many people enjoy eating it as part of a meal or as a snack. It is also a popular ingredient in many Cajun dishes. The cultural significance of boudin lies in its history and its place in Louisiana culture. Boudin has been enjoyed by Louisianans for centuries, and it continues to be an important part of the state’s culinary landscape.

It was originally created by French settlers in Louisiana, who adapted the sausage from a similar dish that was popular in their native country. Over time, the sausage evolved to reflect the local ingredients and flavors of the Cajun region. The sausage is often eaten as a symbol of pride and tradition, and is often shared with friends and family members during special occasions. Whether it’s served at a backyard barbecue or as part of a holiday feast, boudin is always sure to bring people together.

The most common type of boudin is the Cajun style, which is made with green onions and garlic. This type is popular in the Acadiana region of Louisiana. Another popular style is the Creole boudin, which is made with tomatoes and red peppers. This type of boudin is popular in the New Orleans area. There are many other regional styles of boudin, such as the Houma style, which is can be made with beef instead of pork; the Baton Rouge style,which is made with hot sauce; and the St. Martinville style, which is made with crawfish. No matter what style of boudin you try, you’re sure to enjoy its unique flavor and cultural significance.

For more Louisiana-related articles, click here.

Explore the Best Crawfish in the State with the Bayou Country Crawfish Trail

Simply put, Louisiana’s Bayou Country Crawfish Trail is the absolute best way to experience the culture behind eating Louisiana-boiled and raised crawfish first-hand. The Bayou Country Crawfish Trail curates an entire culinary and exploratory experience for you to fill up on the most delicious crawfish at over 30 carefully-selected trail stops. You’ll be supplied with a downloaded guide that lists the best spots for delicious crawfish dishes all year long.

While seeking out delicious plates of crawfish all across the Bayou Country is a rewarding experience all on its own in terms of culinary tastes and restaurant-exploring, there is another facet to the Bayou Country Crawfish Trail that is heralded. You see, if you trek along the trail and collect five receipts from the 38 available restaurants, mark your visits on your travel guide tracker, and send them into crawfishtrail.com or at the Houma Area Visitor Center, you’ll be able to exchange your proof of purchase for your very own Crawfish Trail T-shirt. This is the best way to show those in your life that you’ve conquered the best crawfish spots in the Houma area.

The Bayou Country Crawfish Trail absolutely proves that nowhere else in the state of Louisiana prepares and serves seafood than Houma, LA– especially when it comes to crawfish. The Trail’s culinary road map lists and lays out a total of 38 trail stops from downtown Houma to the Gulf of Mexico for you to enjoy the best crawfish in the state. The listed culinary stops will range from friendly Cajun restaurants to take-out seafood markets, drive-thru boilhouses, and everything in between.

The team behind the Bayou Country Crawfish Trail truly believes in the culinary experience of not only ingesting crawfish but the culture that surrounds it, and they also believe that there’s truly not a bad time of year to enjoy the Louisiana delicacy. They’ve divided the calendar year into two “seasons” in terms of crawfish eating: Heads season and Tails season. The main difference between these two times of year is the matter in which the crawfish is “present on your plate.”

For example, Heads season will begin just before Mardi Gras season, when it is “on the horizon,” and it signals that crawfish traps around the state will soon be filled to the brim with “mudbugs” and the crawfish boils are starting up again. This is the optimal time of the year to eat boiled crawfish wherever you can get it, and you should enjoy it along with all of the available sides like potatoes, corn, sausages, and many more. This time of year will typically wrap up early in the summer, but just because the crawfish boils stop doesn’t mean that you have to wait another year until you can enjoy crawfish dishes in their prime.

This is because Tails season is what follows when the summer is at its hottest and most severe. This is because live and boiled crawfish are much harder to come by in the state, so instead of “scraping the bottom of the barrel” with attending crawfish boils that aren’t necessarily up-to-par, you can check the Bayou Country Crawfish Trail Guide for the spots in Houma, LA where they serve delicious crawfish all year-round. These dishes will come in nearly every form you can imagine because in Houma, Louisiana they know how to best prepare crawfish– whether it’s in a warm bowl of gumbo, éttouffée, or bisque. Similarly, you can also bite into a crawfish stuffed poboy or even a crawfish pie.The options are nearly endless in this season when many think that just because crawfish boils are done, there’s no more fun to be had.

For more Louisiana-related articles, click here.

Third-Annual Grand Caillou White Boot Clean-Up to be Sponsored by Keep Terrebonne Beautiful

For the third year in a row, the Keep Terrebonne Beautiful organization will be sponsoring their annual Grand Caillou White Boot Clean Up in Dulac, Louisiana, according to this article from The Houma Times.

The third annual Grand Caillou White Boot Clean Up will take place on the morning of March 18, 2023, and the event is being sponsored by the Keep Terrebonne Beautiful organization, which is a non-profit organization initially established in 2000 with a mission to empower Terrebonne Parish citizens to take personal responsibility in the prevention of litter and the beautification of Terrebonne Parish. According to their mission, the Keep Terrebonne Beautiful organization “seeks a clean, green, and more beautiful Terrebonne Parish.”

The Houma Times got to interview Billie Richard, the Executive Director of Keep Terrebonne Beautiful, about this third annual event. Richard said, “this is our third year doing it and we are really excited about it. It is headed by a great local volunteer, Jani Voisin. She is from Dulac, and this is a real passion project for her.” The interview informed the reading audience that essentially Keep Terrebonne Beautiful helps with the logistics of the clean up, such as mapping out the route, supplying bags, and a place for the garbage to go, but it is actually the work of the volunteers that makes the event special and operate so effectively.

While those wanting to volunteer and participate in the Grand Caillou Clean-Up can certainly register ahead of time at www.keepterrebonnebeautiful.org , anyone wanting to participate is certainly more than welcome to arrive at the meeting spot, which is Anchor Foursquare Church in Dulac, and they will be provided with garbage bags and allowed to assist. Participants will also receive garbage grabbers and safety equipment in order to make their clean-up easier.

Keep Terrebonne Beautiful Executive Director Billie Richard commented on their hopes for the third annual event by saying, “we really just want people to get out and help us clean up our Parish. We want the people of Dulac to be able to take pride in their home. We want to rally the whole community to help with this,” said Richard. “Litter we see in Dulac can come from up the bayou too. This clean-up is for all of us to come together and help with. We want everyone to come out and help, we are so excited!” Richard also emphasized that while the event is located in Dulac, it is actually open to all members of the community and that everyone has a responsibility to become involved and keep the parish clean.

Last year’s 2022 Downtown Terrebonne Clean-Up, that was organized by Keep Terrebonne Beautiful, was organized after Governor John Bel Edwards, in partnership with the Lieutenant Governor’s Office and Keep Louisiana Beautiful, had declared the fourth Saturday of each month in 2022 “Love the Boot Day.” The event invited participants to “pledge to participate on a monthly basis and clean up your neighborhood, a park, a roadway, or another space in your community.”

Volunteering as a part of a community-wide clean-up day is widely important. This is due to the following reasons: it helps to keep our environment clean, it prevents animals from ingesting harmful materials, and it helps to beautify our community. Picking up litter also sends a strong message that we do not tolerate littering in our community. Volunteering in a group is a great way to make new friends, learn new skills, and give back to the community. Group volunteering also allows you to have a positive impact on a larger scale.

For more Louisiana-related articles, click here.

A Vermilionville Event Teaches the Community about Courir de Mardi Gras

A recent event held at Vermilionville taught guests and visitors about the tradition, history, and legacy of Louisiana’s Courir de Mardi Gras, as per this article from The Acadiana Advocate.

The event took place earlier in February as Louisiana communities were easing into the Mardi Gras season ahead of Valentine’s Day. On Sunday, February 12, a traditional Mardi Gras Run was held at Vermilionville, and it was open for the public to enjoy and for families to participate in an interactive and educational experience with admission prices going to Vermilionville. The event was presented by Vermilionville and the Basile Mardi Gras Association, and it featured an interactive Courir de Mardi Gras tradition led by Le Capitaine, who sang “ La Chanson de Mardi Gras,” as the costumed riders made their way through the historic village begging for ingredients to make a gumbo, as is the tradition.

Although a traditional Courir is held before or at dawn, this family-friendly event began at 10 am with a screening of Pat Mire’s “Dance for a Chicken,” a Mardi Grad documentary that reveals the historic secrets of the traditional, rural Mardi Gras run, which is also known as Courir de Mardi Gras. After the screening, musician Kevin Rees demonstrated the proper use of the “La Chanson de Mardi Gras” with the event’s attendees before the Basile Association began riding through the historic village, which ultimately ended with the infamous chicken chase. The event ended with attendees grabbing a delicious lunch at Vermillionville’s on-site restaurant and enjoying live music and dancing from Feu Follet.

Traditionally, Courir riders will consist of people disguised in colorful and festive costumes with a cone-shaped “capuchon hat”, a mask made of screen, and a top and pants covered in strips of fringed fabric. These riders would mount horses and go from house to house to ask neighbors and community members for ingredients for a communal gumbo. The gumbo would then be cooked and eaten by everyone in town on Mardi Gras before the start of lent.

This self-contained version of a traditional, albeit  wilder event was designed by the Basile Mardi Gras Association andVermilionville officials to teach a new generation about the humble beginnings of a long-held Mardi Gras tradition. The holiday has become so ubiquitous in Louisiana with businesses, schools, and portions of the city being closed annually for the event, so it stands to believe that the origins of the holiday can sometimes be lost on a new generation. Luckily, the Basile Mardi Gras Association and the historic and educational Vermilionville can help to rectify that lack of knowledge.

The event was a success, thanks to the organizers at the Basile Mardi Gras Association and Vermilionville. Jim “Pecoq” Young, who is a member of the Basile Mardi Gras Association commented by saying, “we love it. We get people from all over Louisiana and even out of state. People come from all over to see the Mardi Gras. We’re thankful to Vermilionville for inviting us over here and letting us help them celebrate.” A full listing of their calendar of events can be found here.

Vermilionvile’s mission is to “increase appreciation for the history, culture, and natural resources of the Native Americans, Acadians, Creoles, and peoples of African descent in the Attakapas region through the end of the 1800s. Through historic interpretation and conservation along the Bayou Vermilion, we strive to educate guests on the interactions of these groups and the connections between past and contemporary folklife, thus empowering guests to apply these lessons from our shared histories.”

For more Louisiana-related articles, click here.