Flood Recovery & Community Resilience in Avoyelles Parish, Louisiana

Flood Recovery & Community Resilience in Avoyelles Parish, Louisiana

Recovery continues across Avoyelles Parish, Louisiana, following the historic flooding caused by Tropical Storm Arthur.  In this special episode of Big Blend Radio's "Travel Avoyelles" Podcast, Executive Director Wilbert Carmouche of the Avoyelles Commission of Tourism joins Father Martin Laird of Mater Dolorosa Catholic Church in Plaucheville and Immaculate Conception Church in DuPont to share firsthand stories of resilience, faith, volunteerism, and the incredible spirit of the community. The conversation highlights how neighbors, churches, first responders, businesses, and volunteers united to help families recover after record-breaking rainfall. The episode also explores how travelers can support the local economy by visiting Avoyelles Parish's attractions, restaurants, festivals, and small businesses as recovery continues. The show concludes with hope for the future, emphasizing that while much rebuilding remains, Avoyelles Parish is open for visitors and grateful for every act of support. Flood Relief & Area Information - Support Avoyelles Parish recovery through the Diocese of Alexandria Flood Relief efforts: https://www.diocesealex.org/avoyelles-flood-relief/ [https://www.diocesealex.org/avoyelles-flood-relief/]  - Learn more and plan a future visit: https://travelavoyelles.com/ [https://travelavoyelles.com/]

A Story of Resilience, Faith & Community in Bunkie, Louisiana

This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Travel Avoyelles" Podcast takes a reflective look at faith, resilience, and community in Avoyelles Parish, Louisiana. The show begins with a special message from Wilbert Carmouche, Executive Director of the Avoyelles Commission of Tourism, regarding the historic flooding currently impacting communities throughout Avoyelles Parish and the remarkable resilience of local residents, volunteers, first responders, and organizations working together to help those affected. Recorded onsite in Bunkie, Louisiana, hosts Nancy J. Reid and Lisa D. Smith visit David Haas Memorial United Methodist Church and talk with William Tebow about the church's remarkable journey following a devastating fire that nearly destroyed the historic sanctuary. Through faith, determination, and community support, the congregation rebuilt and renewed a beloved gathering place that continues to serve as a symbol of hope. The conversation explores the importance of community, the role churches play in small-town life, and how adversity often brings people together. Listeners will hear stories of neighbors helping neighbors, churches supporting one another across denominations, and the enduring spirit that defines Avoyelles Parish. 🔗 Learn more about Avoyelles Parish, Louisiana: https://travelavoyelles.com/ [https://travelavoyelles.com/]  🎧 New episodes air every 3rd Sunday. Listen: https://travel-avoyelles.podbean.com/ [https://travel-avoyelles.podbean.com/]  🔗Visit Big Blend's new digital home: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/ [https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/]

Family-Friendly Festivals & Louisiana Culture: Summer Fun in Avoyelles Parish

This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Travel Avoyelles" Podcast dives into the rich culture, history, and heart of Avoyelles Parish, Louisiana, with cohosts Mary Guillory and Wilbert Carmouche of the Avoyelles Commission of Tourism. Featured guests include Joan Botts of Paragon Casino Resort who talks about their first annual Paragon Stampede & Rodeo, Van Roy of Bailey’s on the Square and the Avoyelles Arts & Music Festival, and LeLe Soileau of the Louisiana Corn Festival. The conversation spotlights the vibrant festivals, live music, culinary traditions, rodeo excitement, and strong community spirit that make Avoyelles Parish a must-visit destination in Central Louisiana. Hear about upcoming events at Paragon Casino Resort, the history and growth of the Avoyelles Arts & Music Festival, and the family-friendly fun of the Louisiana Corn Festival in Bunkie. Listeners will also discover how local traditions—from Cajun and Zydeco music to agricultural celebrations and the unique Charivari custom—help preserve the parish’s rich cultural heritage while bringing the community together. From art and entertainment to food, farming, and family fun, this episode showcases the welcoming atmosphere and creative energy that define Avoyelles Parish. LINKS & RESOURCES 🔗 Travel Avoyelles: https://travelavoyelles.com/ [https://travelavoyelles.com/]  🔗 Paragon Casino Resort: https://www.paragoncasinoresort.com/ [https://www.paragoncasinoresort.com/]  🔗 Bailey’s on the Square: https://www.facebook.com/p/Baileys-on-the-Square-100057371271609/ [https://www.facebook.com/p/Baileys-on-the-Square-100057371271609/]  🔗 Avoyelles Arts & Music Festival: https://www.facebook.com/avoyellesartsandmusicfestival/ [https://www.facebook.com/avoyellesartsandmusicfestival/]  https://www.avoyellesarts.com/ [https://www.avoyellesarts.com/]  🔗 Louisiana Corn Festival: https://www.bunkiechamber.org/corn-festival [https://www.bunkiechamber.org/corn-festival]  https://www.facebook.com/lacornfest/ [https://www.facebook.com/lacornfest/]  🎧 New episodes air every 3rd Sunday. Listen: https://travel-avoyelles.podbean.com [https://travel-avoyelles.podbean.com]

Getting to Know Avoyelles Parish in Louisiana with Wilbert Carmouche & Mary Guillory

Recorded onsite in Central Louisiana, this fun episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Travel Avoyelles" Podcast features hosts and producers Nancy J. Reid and Lisa D. Smith alongside Wilbert Carmouche and Mary Guillory of the Avoyelles Commission of Tourism. Hear about Nancy and Lisa’s experiences exploring Avoyelles Parish—from local food and cultural traditions to historic sites, festivals, and the welcoming spirit of the community. The conversation highlights the region’s rich heritage, including stories connected to Solomon Northup, the historic Jefferson Highway, local traditions, and the pride residents have in sharing their culture with visitors. Listeners also get to know Wilbert and Mary on a more personal level through Big Blend’s signature “Getting to Know You” questions, covering passions, life lessons, bucket-list dreams, creativity, and community connection. From Cajun and Creole influences to art, agriculture, festivals, and storytelling, this episode captures the heart and soul of Avoyelles Parish—where heritage, hospitality, and community come together. 🔗 Plan your visit: https://TravelAvoyelles.com [https://TravelAvoyelles.com]  🎧 New episodes air every 3rd Sunday. Listen: https://travel-avoyelles.podbean.com/ [https://travel-avoyelles.podbean.com/]  🔗 Explore Big Blend Radio & Media: https://BigBlendMediaHouse.com [https://BigBlendMediaHouse.com]

May Louisiana Festivals: Tunica-Biloxi Pow Wow & Cochon de Lait in Avoyelles Parish

Featuring co-host Wilbert Carmouche, Executive Director of Travel Avoyelles, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Travel Avoyelles” Podcast highlights two of the region’s most exciting spring festivals that celebrate heritage, community, and tradition. Special guest Ryan Lopez shares insights into the Tunica-Biloxi Pow Wow (May 16–17, 2026) at Paragon Casino Resort in Marksville. Discover the cultural significance of powwows, from traditional dance, music, and storytelling to educational programs, Native foods, and community connection. Learn about cultural etiquette, the powwow’s history, and the importance of preserving Indigenous traditions. The episode also features Ramondo Ramos, who discusses the Cochon de Lait Festival (May 8–10, 2026) in Mansura—home of the Cochon de Lait Capital of the World. This beloved event celebrates Cajun culinary heritage with whole pig roasting over open fires, live music, contests, family activities, and a strong sense of community pride. From Native American heritage to Cajun food traditions, this episode showcases how Avoyelles Parish brings people together through unforgettable cultural experiences. LINKS & RESOURCES 🔗 Plan your visit: https://TravelAvoyelles.com [https://TravelAvoyelles.com]  🔗 Tunica-Biloxi Pow Wow: https://www.tunicabiloxi.org/2026-pow-wow/ [https://www.tunicabiloxi.org/2026-pow-wow/]  🔗 Cochon de Lait Festival: https://www.cochondelaitfestival.com/index.html [https://www.cochondelaitfestival.com/index.html]  🎧 New episodes air every 3rd Sunday. Listen: https://travel-avoyelles.podbean.com/ [https://travel-avoyelles.podbean.com/]