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	<title>acadiatourism.org</title>
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		<title>World-Renowned Artist Robert Dafford Unveils New Frog Mural in Rayne</title>
		<link>https://acadiatourism.org/robert-dafford-unveils-mural/</link>
					<comments>https://acadiatourism.org/robert-dafford-unveils-mural/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Chere Ledoux]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 28 Apr 2026 17:15:24 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Rayne]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://acadiatourism.org/?p=1511662</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>ROBERT DAFFORD SOT: “I appreciate Acadia Parish.” Legendary muralist Robert Dafford has painted around the world—but says Rayne, Louisiana holds a special place in his heart. ROBERT DAFFORD SOT: “The city of Rayne helped me get a lot of recognition early in my career. And we’ve done six paintings here and hope to do six [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://acadiatourism.org/robert-dafford-unveils-mural/">World-Renowned Artist Robert Dafford Unveils New Frog Mural in Rayne</a> appeared first on <a href="https://acadiatourism.org">acadiatourism.org</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><iframe title="Robert Dafford Piggly Wiggly Mural" width="563" height="1000" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2UoQA4heTT8?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<p>ROBERT DAFFORD SOT: <em>“I appreciate Acadia Parish.”</em></p>
<p>Legendary muralist Robert Dafford has painted around the world—but says Rayne, Louisiana holds a special place in his heart.</p>
<p>ROBERT DAFFORD SOT: <em>“The city of Rayne helped me get a lot of recognition early in my career. And we’ve done six paintings here and hope to do six more.”</em></p>
<p>Dafford recently returned to unveil his newest mural, <em>I Only Have Eyes for You,</em> painted on the storefront of Rayne’s Piggly Wiggly grocery store.</p>
<p>The latest addition honors local culture and Rayne’s long tradition of public art.</p>
<p>From past to present, Rayne’s story keeps growing—one mural at a time. I’m Chere Ledoux with Acadia Parish Tourism.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://acadiatourism.org/robert-dafford-unveils-mural/">World-Renowned Artist Robert Dafford Unveils New Frog Mural in Rayne</a> appeared first on <a href="https://acadiatourism.org">acadiatourism.org</a>.</p>
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		<title>Chubby Carrier Honored in Church Point</title>
		<link>https://acadiatourism.org/chubby-carrier-honored-in-church-point/</link>
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		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Chere Ledoux]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 10 Apr 2026 15:54:15 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[accordion]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[church point]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[zydeco]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://acadiatourism.org/?p=1511219</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Bonjour! I’m Chere Ledoux with Acadia Parish Tourism, and we’re here in the heart of Cajun Country at Le Vieux Presbytère in beautiful Church Point. Recently, we had the incredible honor of celebrating one of Louisiana’s own—Grammy Award-winning zydeco artist Chubby Carrier. Chubby says, “And I’m so glad and so honored to be here. I’m [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://acadiatourism.org/chubby-carrier-honored-in-church-point/">Chubby Carrier Honored in Church Point</a> appeared first on <a href="https://acadiatourism.org">acadiatourism.org</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><iframe title="Chubby Carrier" width="563" height="1000" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dcsIwljHIxQ?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<p>Bonjour! I’m Chere Ledoux with Acadia Parish Tourism, and we’re here in the heart of Cajun Country at Le Vieux Presbytère in beautiful Church Point. Recently, we had the incredible honor of celebrating one of Louisiana’s own—Grammy Award-winning zydeco artist Chubby Carrier. Chubby says, “And I’m so glad and so honored to be here. I’m like a kid in a candy store right now.” Born into a legendary zydeco family, Chubby Carrier has taken the sounds of southwest Louisiana to audiences around the world, sharing our music, our culture, and our joie de vivre. Guests explored memorabilia from his remarkable career while also experiencing everything the museum has to offer, including the newest seasonal exhibit, “Cajun Ladies: Heroines of Our Home.” This is what Acadia Parish is all about—rich culture, unforgettable music, and welcoming experiences you won’t find anywhere else. So come visit us, pass a good time, and discover the heart of Cajun Country right here in Church Point. Laissez les bons temps rouler!</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://acadiatourism.org/chubby-carrier-honored-in-church-point/">Chubby Carrier Honored in Church Point</a> appeared first on <a href="https://acadiatourism.org">acadiatourism.org</a>.</p>
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		<title>April KBON Acadia Parish Update</title>
		<link>https://acadiatourism.org/april-kbon-acadia-parish-update/</link>
					<comments>https://acadiatourism.org/april-kbon-acadia-parish-update/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Chere Ledoux]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Thu, 02 Apr 2026 18:24:44 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://acadiatourism.org/?p=1511165</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>The post <a href="https://acadiatourism.org/april-kbon-acadia-parish-update/">April KBON Acadia Parish Update</a> appeared first on <a href="https://acadiatourism.org">acadiatourism.org</a>.</p>
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										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><iframe title="April KBON Interview" width="800" height="600" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/DdEIuQNrZOg?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://acadiatourism.org/april-kbon-acadia-parish-update/">April KBON Acadia Parish Update</a> appeared first on <a href="https://acadiatourism.org">acadiatourism.org</a>.</p>
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		<title>Church Point Artisans Market Moves Locations</title>
		<link>https://acadiatourism.org/church-point-artisans-market-moves-locations/</link>
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		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Chere Ledoux]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 16 Mar 2026 18:27:12 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[church point]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://acadiatourism.org/?p=1511082</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Hey everyone! We have some exciting news for fans of the Church Point Artisans Market! The market is moving from Le Vieux Depot to a brand-new home at Dup’s Pizza — and we can’t wait for you to check it out. It’s still the same great market, filled with talented local artisans, handmade goods, delicious [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://acadiatourism.org/church-point-artisans-market-moves-locations/">Church Point Artisans Market Moves Locations</a> appeared first on <a href="https://acadiatourism.org">acadiatourism.org</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Hey everyone!<br />
We have some exciting news for fans of the Church Point Artisans Market!<br />
The market is moving from Le Vieux Depot to a brand-new home at Dup’s Pizza — and we can’t wait for you to check it out. It’s still the same great market, filled with talented local artisans, handmade goods, delicious food, and that welcoming Church Point community spirit.<br />
And here’s the best part — the next market is tomorrow from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. So make plans to stop by, shop local, grab a bite, and support these amazing vendors in their new location.<br />
Be sure to follow the Church Point Artisans Market on Facebook for updates and future dates.<br />
We’ll see you there!<br />
I’m Chere Ledoux with Acadia Parish Tourism.</p>
<p><iframe title="Church Point Artisan Market Moves" width="563" height="1000" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6AvRdbnWPF4?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://acadiatourism.org/church-point-artisans-market-moves-locations/">Church Point Artisans Market Moves Locations</a> appeared first on <a href="https://acadiatourism.org">acadiatourism.org</a>.</p>
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		<title>Rayne, Louisiana Named Finalist in National &#8220;America&#8217;s Favorite Small Towns&#8221; Contest</title>
		<link>https://acadiatourism.org/rayne-louisiana-named-finalist/</link>
					<comments>https://acadiatourism.org/rayne-louisiana-named-finalist/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Chere Ledoux]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 09 Mar 2026 14:13:55 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Rayne]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://acadiatourism.org/?p=1510872</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Hi everyone, I’m Chere Ledoux with Acadia Parish Tourism. We are so excited to congratulate the City of Rayne on being named a finalist in Parade Magazine’s contest to find America’s Favorite Small Town. What an incredible honor — and so well deserved. Rayne has such a unique personality, from its deep Cajun roots and [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://acadiatourism.org/rayne-louisiana-named-finalist/">Rayne, Louisiana Named Finalist in National &#8220;America&#8217;s Favorite Small Towns&#8221; Contest</a> appeared first on <a href="https://acadiatourism.org">acadiatourism.org</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Hi everyone, I’m Chere Ledoux with Acadia Parish Tourism.<br />
We are so excited to congratulate the City of Rayne on being named a finalist in Parade Magazine’s contest to find America’s Favorite Small Town.<br />
What an incredible honor — and so well deserved. Rayne has such a unique personality, from its deep Cajun roots and rich history to the festivals, food, and friendly faces that make visitors feel right at home. It’s the kind of place where community truly matters, and that’s something people across the country are getting to see.<br />
Being named a finalist is a big deal, and it shines a spotlight on the heart and spirit that make Rayne special.<br />
Regional winners will be announced on June 1, 2026, and the national winner will be announced on June 12, 2026 — We’ve got our fingers crossed!<br />
Congratulations again, Rayne, Louisiana!</p>
<p><iframe title="Rayne Finalist video" width="563" height="1000" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2pRdzF7negs?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://acadiatourism.org/rayne-louisiana-named-finalist/">Rayne, Louisiana Named Finalist in National &#8220;America&#8217;s Favorite Small Towns&#8221; Contest</a> appeared first on <a href="https://acadiatourism.org">acadiatourism.org</a>.</p>
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		<title>C&#8217;est Bon</title>
		<link>https://acadiatourism.org/cest-bon/</link>
					<comments>https://acadiatourism.org/cest-bon/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Chere Ledoux]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 02 Mar 2026 16:18:01 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mermentau]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://acadiatourism.org/?p=1510762</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Looking for a place where you can taste authentic Cajun cooking in the heart of a small Louisiana town? You’ll find it right here at C&#8217;est Bon Restaurant in Mermentau. This local favorite is known for serving up the kind of home-style Cajun meals that Acadiana is famous for — from fresh seafood to comforting [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://acadiatourism.org/cest-bon/">C&#8217;est Bon</a> appeared first on <a href="https://acadiatourism.org">acadiatourism.org</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Looking for a place where you can taste authentic Cajun cooking in the heart of a small Louisiana town?</p>
<p>You’ll find it right here at <strong>C&#8217;est Bon Restaurant</strong> in Mermentau.</p>
<p>This local favorite is known for serving up the kind of home-style Cajun meals that Acadiana is famous for — from fresh seafood to comforting regional classics.</p>
<p>It’s the kind of restaurant where the food is hearty, the welcome is warm, and every meal feels like you’ve pulled up a chair at the family table.</p>
<p>Places like this help keep the culinary traditions of South Louisiana alive and well.</p>
<p>I’m <strong>Chere Ledoux with Acadia Parish Tourism</strong>, inviting you to come experience the flavors that make Acadia Parish so special.</p>
<p><iframe title="C&#039;est Bon" width="563" height="1000" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pHA340So6Us?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://acadiatourism.org/cest-bon/">C&#8217;est Bon</a> appeared first on <a href="https://acadiatourism.org">acadiatourism.org</a>.</p>
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		<title>St. Joseph&#8217;s Cemetery in Iota Honors Veterans</title>
		<link>https://acadiatourism.org/st-josephs-cemetery-in-iota-honors-veterans/</link>
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		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Chere Ledoux]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 20 Feb 2026 21:50:37 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[iota]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://acadiatourism.org/?p=1510629</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Hi, I’m Chere Ledoux with Acadia Parish Tourism and today I’m out in Iota, Louisiana, under the oaks at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church cemetery and this cemetery has a patriotic display you’ve got to see to believe.  These flags do more than mark graves — they tell stories of service and sacrifice.  Nearly 240 American veterans are laid to rest here. The mission is simple: every one [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://acadiatourism.org/st-josephs-cemetery-in-iota-honors-veterans/">St. Joseph&#8217;s Cemetery in Iota Honors Veterans</a> appeared first on <a href="https://acadiatourism.org">acadiatourism.org</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><iframe title="St  Joseph&#039;s Catholic Church Iota Flags" width="800" height="450" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qu9o4kyPxdI?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">Hi, I’m Chere Ledoux with Acadia Parish Tourism and today I’m out in Iota, Louisiana, under the oaks at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church cemetery and this cemetery has a patriotic display you’ve got to see to believe.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">These flags do more than mark graves — they tell stories of service and sacrifice.</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">Nearly 240 American veterans are laid to rest here. The mission is simple: every one of them deserves a flag.</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">For the past three to four years, this project has grown steadily and is now about 95% complete. It’s led and maintained by Mr. Joel Cart, an Air Force veteran who works here at the church. He makes sure each veteran’s gave is marked by a 3-by-5 American flag. </span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">But wind and weather take their toll, and the flags must be replaced every four to six months. They’re funded entirely through donations made at the church and through a community Bingo fundraiser.</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">If you’d like to help honor these veterans, you can visit the church office to make a donation — and be part of ensuring their service is never forgotten.</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://acadiatourism.org/st-josephs-cemetery-in-iota-honors-veterans/">St. Joseph&#8217;s Cemetery in Iota Honors Veterans</a> appeared first on <a href="https://acadiatourism.org">acadiatourism.org</a>.</p>
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		<title>Quilts of Valor</title>
		<link>https://acadiatourism.org/quilts-of-valor/</link>
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		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Chere Ledoux]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 13 Feb 2026 19:50:02 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Rayne]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://acadiatourism.org/?p=1510607</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Hi, I’m Chere Ledoux with Acadia Parish Tourism, and today in Rayne, Louisiana, we come together to honor those who have served. This marks a special milestone — Rayne&#8217;s first official Quilts of Valor presentation by the Acadiana Quilters, a group that’s been stitching gratitude into every thread for less than six months, while carrying a lifetime of heart. Through a partnership between WoodmenLife and American Legion Post 77, [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://acadiatourism.org/quilts-of-valor/">Quilts of Valor</a> appeared first on <a href="https://acadiatourism.org">acadiatourism.org</a>.</p>
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										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span class="TextRun SCXW50191627 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW50191627 BCX0">Hi, </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW50191627 BCX0">I’m</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW50191627 BCX0"> </span></span><span class="TextRun MacChromeBold SCXW50191627 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW50191627 BCX0">Chere Ledoux with Acadia Parish Tourism</span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW50191627 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW50191627 BCX0">, and today in Rayne, Louisiana, we come together </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW50191627 BCX0">to </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW50191627 BCX0">honor those who have served. This marks a special milestone — </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW50191627 BCX0">Rayne&#8217;s </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW50191627 BCX0">first official Quilts of Valor presentation by the </span></span><span class="TextRun MacChromeBold SCXW50191627 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW50191627 BCX0">Acadiana</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW50191627 BCX0"> Quilters</span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW50191627 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW50191627 BCX0">, a group </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW50191627 BCX0">that’s</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW50191627 BCX0"> been stitching gratitude into every thread for less than six months, </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW50191627 BCX0">while</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW50191627 BCX0"> carrying a lifetime of heart. Through a partnership between </span><span class="NormalTextRun SpellingErrorV2Themed SCXW50191627 BCX0">WoodmenLife</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW50191627 BCX0"> and American Legion Post 77, these handmade quilts can be presented to local veterans.  The quilts are more than fabric — they become symbols of comfort, healing, and a nation’s appreciation. The Quilts of Valor Foundation began with a simple mission: to cover service members and veterans touched by war with comforting, healing quilts — tangible reminders that their sacrifice is seen and never forgotten. Today, Rayne honors six heroes: Ralph Stutes, Charles Sidney Stutes, Steve Raymond, John Petitjean, Terry Smith, and Daniel Doise. Each quilt </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW50191627 BCX0">represents</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW50191627 BCX0"> hours of volunteer work, but even more, it </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW50191627 BCX0">represents</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW50191627 BCX0"> respect, gratitude, and community.</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW50191627 BCX0"> In a small town, </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW50191627 BCX0">big</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW50191627 BCX0"> gratitude lives. From Rayne, Louisiana — thank you for your service, and welcome home.</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW50191627 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><a href="https://youtube.com/shorts/1Ku8TR569qA?si=GU9Mr_TfKW9TeiQ7" target="_blank" rel="https://youtube.com/shorts/1Ku8TR569qA?si=GU9Mr_TfKW9TeiQ7 noopener"><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-1510609 size-medium" src="https://acadiatourism.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Image-2-13-26-at-1.47-PM-198x300.jpeg" alt="Two women on either side of an elderly gentlemen wrapping a quilt around his shoulders" width="198" height="300" srcset="https://acadiatourism.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Image-2-13-26-at-1.47-PM-198x300.jpeg 198w, https://acadiatourism.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Image-2-13-26-at-1.47-PM.jpeg 445w" sizes="(max-width: 198px) 100vw, 198px" /></a></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://acadiatourism.org/quilts-of-valor/">Quilts of Valor</a> appeared first on <a href="https://acadiatourism.org">acadiatourism.org</a>.</p>
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		<title>St. Francis School in Iota, Louisiana Opens 50-Year-Old Time Capsule</title>
		<link>https://acadiatourism.org/st-francis-school-in-iota-louisiana-opens-50-year-old-time-capsule/</link>
					<comments>https://acadiatourism.org/st-francis-school-in-iota-louisiana-opens-50-year-old-time-capsule/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Chere Ledoux]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 09 Feb 2026 14:55:33 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[iota]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://acadiatourism.org/?p=1510513</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Hi everyone, I’m Chere Ledoux with Acadia Parish Tourism, and today I’m in Iota at St. Francis School for a very special look back in time. A time capsule sealed 50 years ago has been opened, and today the community is getting to see the treasures that were saved for the future. These items offer a glimpse into student life, faith, [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://acadiatourism.org/st-francis-school-in-iota-louisiana-opens-50-year-old-time-capsule/">St. Francis School in Iota, Louisiana Opens 50-Year-Old Time Capsule</a> appeared first on <a href="https://acadiatourism.org">acadiatourism.org</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span class="TextRun Highlight SCXW74319731 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW74319731 BCX0">Hi everyone, </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW74319731 BCX0">I’m</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW74319731 BCX0"> Chere Ledoux with Acadia Parish Tourism, and today </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW74319731 BCX0">I’m</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW74319731 BCX0"> in Iota at St. Francis School for </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW74319731 BCX0">a very special</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW74319731 BCX0"> look back in time. A time capsule sealed 50 years ago has been opened, and today the community is getting to see the treasures that were saved for the future. These items offer a glimpse into student life, faith, and the world as it was half a century ago. Alumni are back on campus, sharing memories and reconnecting as they see pieces of their school days preserved in history. Today’s students are part of the celebration too, with presentations that honor the past while showing the bright future of St. Francis. Even the Bishop is here as the school community gathers in faith for this meaningful milestone. Fifty years later, these memories still bring people together — and today, new ones are being made.</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW74319731 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><iframe title="St  Francis School" width="563" height="1000" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-UXlkOGe4vA?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://acadiatourism.org/st-francis-school-in-iota-louisiana-opens-50-year-old-time-capsule/">St. Francis School in Iota, Louisiana Opens 50-Year-Old Time Capsule</a> appeared first on <a href="https://acadiatourism.org">acadiatourism.org</a>.</p>
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		<title>America&#8217;s Favorite Small Town Voting Extended</title>
		<link>https://acadiatourism.org/americas-favorite-small-town-voting-extended/</link>
					<comments>https://acadiatourism.org/americas-favorite-small-town-voting-extended/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Chere Ledoux]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sun, 01 Feb 2026 22:41:52 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[award]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Rayne]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://acadiatourism.org/?p=1510380</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Click above to watch the video! Hi everyone! I’m Chere Ledoux with Acadia Parish Tourism, and I need your help to put Rayne, Louisiana on the national map! Our hometown — the Frog Capital of the World — is in the running for Parade Magazine’s “America’s Favorite Small Town” contest… and guess what? Rayne has [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://acadiatourism.org/americas-favorite-small-town-voting-extended/">America&#8217;s Favorite Small Town Voting Extended</a> appeared first on <a href="https://acadiatourism.org">acadiatourism.org</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://youtube.com/shorts/r12iRMfK6DU?feature=share"><img decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-1510385" src="https://acadiatourism.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Screenshot-2026-02-01-at-4.48.51-PM-168x300.png" alt="painted frog statue in Rayne, Louisiana" width="168" height="300" srcset="https://acadiatourism.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Screenshot-2026-02-01-at-4.48.51-PM-168x300.png 168w, https://acadiatourism.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Screenshot-2026-02-01-at-4.48.51-PM-572x1024.png 572w, https://acadiatourism.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Screenshot-2026-02-01-at-4.48.51-PM-768x1375.png 768w, https://acadiatourism.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Screenshot-2026-02-01-at-4.48.51-PM-858x1536.png 858w, https://acadiatourism.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Screenshot-2026-02-01-at-4.48.51-PM.png 1098w" sizes="(max-width: 168px) 100vw, 168px" /></a></p>
<p>Click above to watch the video!</p>
<p><span data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody">Hi everyone! I’m Chere Ledoux with Acadia Parish Tourism, and I need your help to put Rayne, Louisiana on the national map!</span></p>
<p>Our hometown — the Frog Capital of the World — is in the running for Parade Magazine’s “America’s Favorite Small Town” contest… and guess what?</p>
<p>Rayne has consistently been in the TOP 10! <img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/1f438.png" alt="🐸" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/1f49a.png" alt="💚" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /></p>
<p>This is a huge deal. We’re talking national recognition for our culture, our food, our music, our history — and most importantly, our people.</p>
<p>Voting has been extended through February 28, so we still have time — but we need every single vote.</p>
<p>If you love Rayne…</p>
<p>If you’ve visited Rayne…</p>
<p>If you believe small towns with big heart deserve the spotlight…</p>
<p><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/1f449.png" alt="👉" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /> Go to AcadiaTourism.com — you’ll find the direct voting link right there.</p>
<p>You can also learn more at Rayne.org and on Parade’s contest page.</p>
<p>It takes just a minute to vote, but it makes a big difference for our community.</p>
<p>Let’s show the country what Acadia Parish pride looks like.</p>
<p>Let’s bring this title home.</p>
<p>Vote Rayne for America’s Favorite Small Town! <img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/1f438.png" alt="🐸" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/2728.png" alt="✨" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /></p>
<p>Thanks for your support!</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://acadiatourism.org/americas-favorite-small-town-voting-extended/">America&#8217;s Favorite Small Town Voting Extended</a> appeared first on <a href="https://acadiatourism.org">acadiatourism.org</a>.</p>
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