Candy Rodriguez

09/09/2026

This past weekend marked three years at Visit Lake Charles, and to say I'm elated would be an understatement.

Three years ago, I stepped into an entirely new chapter of my life by entering the travel and tourism world.

Looking at where that decision has taken me makes this milestone feel even more special.

Just two weeks ago, I spoke at my first travel and tourism conference, U.S. Travel Association's ESTO, alongside Kyle Edmiston and Sara Judson, sharing the work we're doing through Just Imagine SWLA with a standing-room-only crowd, how that work is helping shape the future of Southwest Louisiana, and how destinations can build similar community partnerships while staying true to their own mission.

I'm also incredibly grateful for Kathryn Shea Duncan, whose leadership has been instrumental in shaping and championing this work from the beginning. Beyond Just Imagine SWLA, she's played an important role in my growth, always encouraging me to think bigger, trust my instincts, and step into new opportunities with confidence.

And now, I'm in Visit Richmond VA for Southeast Tourism Society's Connections conference, where I'll graduate from Marketing College and earn my Travel Marketing Professional (TMP) certification.

There's something pretty special about celebrating three years in this industry while also reaching milestones I never could have imagined when I first made the move from journalism into tourism.

I'm grateful for the people who have trusted me, challenged me, taught me, and given me opportunities to keep growing. 💖

09/03/2026

09/02/2026

We are honoring one community leader while investing in many more.

Proceeds from The Toast of Kyle Edmiston will support the programs and experiences that help young people become confident, capable and service-minded leaders.

Your ticket is more than admission to an exclusive event. It is an investment in the future of South Louisiana.

Purchase yours: https://scoutingevent.com/?OrgKey=BSA211&calendarID=694861

08/28/2026

💚

08/27/2026

Our lights shine pink for Dolly. 🩷

Through the remainder of the week, the boardwalk at the Lakefront Promenade and Lakefront parking garage will glow pink as we remember an artist whose music, generosity and spirit touched so many.

Our flags have also been lowered to half-staff to honor the remarkable life and legacy of Dolly Parton.

A special tribute for an artist whose story holds a meaningful place in Lake Charles and in hearts around the world.

08/25/2026

Today, the world says goodbye to Dolly Parton, a true American icon whose extraordinary story has a special connection to Lake Charles.

Long before “Jolene,” “9 to 5” or “I Will Always Love You,” a 13-year-old Dolly traveled 30 hours by bus with her grandmother from Tennessee to Lake Charles. Here, at Goldband Records, she recorded her very first single, “Puppy Love,” in 1959. The song, written by Dolly and her uncle Bill Owens, was released with “Girl Left Alone” on the B-side.

That little record made in Southwest Louisiana marked the beginning of a career that would touch generations around the world.

We are proud that a small piece of Dolly’s remarkable story began right here in Lake Charles. Her music, generosity and unmistakable spirit will live on for generations.

Rest in peace, Dolly. 🤍

08/18/2026

¡Regresamos con una nueva temporada! 💛🎙️🎧

This Hispanic Heritage Month, Visita Lake Charles: Las Voces de Luisiana returns for Season 3, sharing more of the people, stories, flavors, and experiences that make Southwest Louisiana so special, en español. 🗣️

From local voices and community stories to some of our favorite ways to experience Louisiana’s Playground, there’s plenty to look forward to this season.

¡Nos vemos pronto, amigos!

Season 3 launches September 15. ✨

08/14/2026

A new study released Thursday morning by Visit Lake Charles revealed 91 percent of Southwest Louisiana residents think tourism is a good thing and support its growth in the local […]