November was a month of advancing inclusion, community engagement, and destination development in Southwest Louisiana. Visit Lake Charles led the Wheel the World partnership, making accessibility a priority for visitors and residents alike and earning media recognition from outlets including The Baton Rouge Advocate, the American Press, and KPLC-TV. The team also connected with industry partners, engaged students and future leaders through panels and presentations, and welcomed international and domestic visitors to showcase the region’s culture, outdoor attractions, and hospitality. From building stronger tourism partnerships to supporting local businesses and enhancing the visitor experience, November’s initiatives reinforced VLC’s commitment to a resilient, welcoming destination that benefits the entire community.
Visit Lake Charles Impact
Advancing Accessibility Through Wheel the World
This month, Visit Lake Charles is highlighting a major step forward in strengthening Southwest Louisiana as a resilient, inclusive destination for both visitors and residents. Our new partnership with Wheel the World, a global organization dedicated to accessible travel, has already helped elevate the region’s commitment to serving people of all abilities. The extensive media coverage from outlets including KPLC-TV, The Advocate and the American Press reflects the importance of this work for the entire community.
The initiative, led by Taylor Beard Stanley, CDME, TMP, CHIA, vice president of sales at Visit Lake Charles, began with months of research, planning and collaboration with Wheel the World’s accessibility team. The effort resulted in on-site accessibility assessments at 20 businesses throughout Southwest Louisiana, including restaurants, hotels, attractions and outdoor spaces. These assessments offer practical, individualized recommendations that help local partners take meaningful steps toward greater inclusion.
Participating businesses will receive detailed accessibility reports, staff training opportunities through Wheel the World’s Accessibility Academy and an Accessibility Verified seal that identifies their location as evaluated by trained accessibility professionals. These tools support the long-term goal of improving navigation and usability for travelers with disabilities while also benefiting local residents who rely on accessible spaces in their daily lives.
“Accessibility is about more than checking a box. This partnership gives us the tools to help support our hospitality partners in ways that make a real difference for both visitors and residents,” Beard Stanley said. “Creating a more inclusive tourism ecosystem strengthens our entire community.”
Kyle Edmiston, president and CEO of Visit Lake Charles, emphasized the broader impact on the region. “By making Louisiana’s Playground more accessible, we are opening doors for more visitors to choose Southwest Louisiana. It is an investment that benefits all of us. We are supporting our visitors, strengthening businesses and growing our long-term economy.”
Wheel the World’s verified, on-the-ground data will be integrated into a dedicated Visit Lake Charles landing page on the organization’s website. Travelers will have access to reliable, centralized information that can help them confidently plan their stay in Southwest Louisiana.
We are grateful to the journalists who helped share this important story, including Courtney Pedersen at The Advocate and Crystal Stevenson at the American Press. Their coverage helped highlight the significance of accessibility initiatives for the broader community. We also appreciate the participation and insights of partners such as Julia Bourgeois with Families for Inclusion and DeAndre Sullivan with Holiday Inn Express, whose voices helped highlight the real impact of this work.
Visit Lake Charles remains committed to initiatives that support a resilient, inclusive and forward-thinking destination. Making Southwest Louisiana more accessible benefits everyone, and this partnership represents a meaningful step toward that shared vision.
Visit Lake Charles on the Geaux
Chefs to Watch
The Visit Lake Charles team was honored to support Chef Amanda Cusey at the 2025 Louisiana Cookin’ Chefs to Watch celebration. Representing Lake Charles alongside our Board Chair, Nathaniel Allured, the team was proud to see one of our own recognized on a statewide stage. Events like this strengthen Louisiana’s culinary identity and highlight the local talent that draws visitors to our region.
Hosted at The Greenwood in Covington, the evening showcased the depth of Louisiana’s culinary creativity through a seated dinner featuring chefs from across the state. Chef Amanda’s recognition not only celebrated her artistry but also reinforced the reputation of Lake Charles as a destination where food, culture, and hospitality thrive.
Since 2002, Louisiana Cookin’ has honored rising chefs who protect and advance Louisiana’s culinary heritage. Chef Amanda embodies this mission through her world-class training and her dedication to elevating Lake Charles’ dining scene.
Her continued achievements, including her title as Queen of Louisiana Seafood, shine a spotlight on our community, attract culinary travelers, and support a stronger tourism economy for Southwest Louisiana.
Meeting the Tour Operators
Participation in the National Tour Association’s TREX event in Ottawa allowed Visit Lake Charles’ Brandi Smith, the sales manager of meetings & motorcoach, to strengthen national relationships with tour operators and showcase Southwest Louisiana as a must-visit group travel destination. Through strategic meetings and networking, Brandi shared the unique experiences, flavors, and hospitality that set our region apart. Each connection made supports long-term visitation, increased group travel, and new opportunities for Lake Charles businesses.
Representing Louisiana alongside partners from across the state ensures our region has a strong voice in the broader tourism landscape. These collaborations create new pathways for packaged tours, motorcoach visitation, and multi-day itineraries that bring measurable economic impact to our community. Events like NTA TREX highlight why tourism works – driving business to local hotels, restaurants, attractions, and cultural experiences, while strengthening awareness of Louisiana‘s Playground across the U.S.
Around the Destination
Anne Klenke Recognized at West Cal Chamber’s 75th Annual Banquet
Anne Klenke was honored with the Excellence Award at the West Calcasieu Chamber of Commerce’s 75th Annual Banquet, a moment that reflects her decades of commitment to expanding tourism and outdoor recreation in Southwest Louisiana.
President/CEO Kyle Edmiston accepted the award on her behalf, underscoring Visit Lake Charles’ pride in her accomplishments and impact. Anne’s leadership in developing and promoting the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road, along with her passion for ecotourism, has shaped how visitors experience the landscapes and culture that define our region. Her ability to transform natural assets into meaningful visitor experiences has strengthened the local tourism economy and inspired both residents and travelers.
The resounding admiration expressed at the event demonstrated the deep appreciation our community holds for Anne’s mentorship, advocacy, and dedication. Her influence continues to elevate Southwest Louisiana’s profile across the state and beyond.
Showcasing Louisiana’s Playground on an International Stage
National Geographic Journalist and Photographer Visit Lake Charles
Visit Lake Charles was thrilled to host UK journalist Zoey Goto and photographer Shell Royster, whose work reaches global audiences through outlets such as National Geographic, Rolling Stone, GQ, American Vogue, and more. Their visit offered an incredible opportunity to shine a spotlight on the cultural richness of Southwest Louisiana.
Joined by Candy Rodriguez, our director of communications, their itinerary included meeting Mama Reta at her iconic Lake Charles eatery, discovering historic venues such as Panorama Music House, and exploring The Emporium and the legacy of Goldband Records. By sharing the stories of our food, music, and creative community, their coverage will introduce international readers to the authentic experiences that make our region unforgettable.
This type of exposure strengthens our visibility worldwide and supports long-term tourism growth by inspiring new travelers to discover Louisiana’s Playground.
Belgian Tour Company Explores Southwest Louisiana
Our Director of Global Sales, Kaitlyn Gallegos, recently welcomed representatives from Exciting West, a new Belgian tour company building U.S. itineraries. Their visit, coordinated with our partners at Rey Royal LLC, showcased the beauty, culture, and outdoor offerings that set Southwest Louisiana apart as an international travel destination.
While in the region, they experienced Bayou Glamping, one of our newest immersive outdoor attractions, explored downtown Lake Charles, and journeyed along the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road. Connecting global tour operators to our local assets strengthens international visitation and expands our presence in key overseas markets.
These partnerships help drive long-term economic impact, supporting our hotels, attractions, restaurants, and outdoor recreation businesses while growing Lake Charles’ recognition abroad.
LHSAA State Swim Meet Celebrates 20 Consecutive Years in Southwest Louisiana
Visit Lake Charles was proud to welcome the Louisiana High School Athletic Association (LHSAA) Boys & Girls State Championship Swim Meet to Southwest Louisiana for the 20th consecutive year. Held at the Sulphur Parks & Recreation Aquatic Center, the event brought student-athletes, families, and coaches from across the state—filling our hotels, restaurants, and attractions during a multi-day stay.
Sports tourism remains one of our region’s strongest economic drivers, and we are grateful to the LHSAA, Executive Director Eddie Bonine, SPAR, and the entire community for their continued partnership. The energy and excitement brought by these young athletes enrich our destination and reinforce Southwest Louisiana’s reputation as a premier sports host city.
Congratulations to all the competitors who showcased talent, dedication, and sportsmanship throughout the week.
Inspiring Future Leaders in Southwest Louisiana
Women in Leadership Panel with Sulphur High’s LEAD Council
Visit Lake Charles Vice President of Sales Taylor Beard Stanley was honored to participate in a leadership panel hosted by the Sulphur High School LEAD Council, sponsored by Woodside Energy. This year’s all-female council made the conversation especially meaningful, as Jill Galmarini, Councilwoman Mandy Thomas, and our team shared insights on community development, quality of life, and sustainability.
Beard Stanley said a standout moment came when a student asked, “What is one thing you want us to know about being a woman in leadership?” The discussion highlighted the importance of developing communication skills, including navigating difficult conversations with grace, and balancing humility with confidence. These messages resonated deeply with the students, who brought curiosity, energy, and thoughtful questions. Visit Lake Charles is proud to support the next generation of leaders and looks forward to seeing the meaningful project they choose for their community.
Connecting with McNeese State University Students
Director of Public Relations Matthew Young visited McNeese State University to share why Lake Charles and Southwest Louisiana stand out as exceptional places to live, learn, and explore. He highlighted the region’s dynamic culinary scene, vibrant festivals, expanding attractions, and immersive outdoor adventures along the Creole Nature Trail.
Opportunities like this strengthen local pride and encourage students to engage with their community. We appreciate McNeese for fostering these connections and for helping future generations discover the value of the tourism industry and its role in shaping Southwest Louisiana’s quality of life.
Upcoming Destination SWLA Sessions & Partner Mixer
Visit Lake Charles invites hospitality, recreation, arts, and entertainment partners to join our upcoming E-Destination SWLA virtual session on Tuesday, December 9, at 2 p.m. This free session is designed to deepen understanding of local restaurants, attractions, itineraries, and the role of Visit Lake Charles, making it perfect for newcomers and seasoned professionals alike.
We also encourage partners to save the date for our Thursday, December 4, Partner Mixer at the Pioneer Club in Downtown Lake Charles at 5:30 p.m. This event brings together restaurants, hotels, attractions, elected officials, and community leaders to celebrate the collaboration that fuels Louisiana’s Playground. Enjoy hors d’oeuvres, hosted beer and wine, and an evening dedicated to strengthening relationships across the tourism industry.
These experiences reinforce the cooperative spirit that keeps our destination thriving and ensures visitors receive the best possible welcome when they arrive in Southwest Louisiana.
In the News
Latest Headlines
Leadership SWLA Graduate
Congratulations to Sam Moore
Visit Lake Charles congratulates Sam Moore, director of sports relations, on his recent graduation from Leadership Southwest Louisiana.
Sam’s commitment to strengthening sports tourism and enhancing the visitor experience in Southwest Louisiana is evident in his daily work. His participation in Leadership SWLA reflects his dedication to continuous growth and the importance of “leveling up” as a professional serving our region.
Fusion Five’s 2025 20-Something of the Year
Congratulations to Emily Treme
Visit Lake Charles is proud to recognize Emily Treme, director of association sales, for being named Fusion Five’s 2025 20-Something of the Year.
In her first year in the role, Emily booked more than 14,000 hotel room nights, secured major statewide conventions such as the Louisiana Municipal Association Convention and the Louisiana Travel Association Summit, and revitalized Visit Lake Charles’ Meeting Incentive Program. Her work represents a measurable impact on the local tourism economy and demonstrates the value of advancing industry standards through continuous professional development.
Emily’s recognition underscores the importance of elevating talent within Southwest Louisiana’s tourism community and reflects the level of excellence she brings to her role.
