Nicole BoChamp is a world-renowned paranormal researcher with a soft spot for the spirit of the Crescent City. Her recent contribution to the paranormal world is her newest book “Haunted French Quarter Hotels,” where she takes a dive into the history and hauntings of 10 New Orleans hotels. This week, we talk to the author about her new book, her personal paranormal experiences in the city and around the world, as well as the free and open-to-the-public book launch happening Oct. 4 in New Orleans.

For a couple decades West Monroe has played host to the Louisiana Celtic Festival. While northeast louisiana might not strike many as the most celtic areas of the world, the festival brings together those from all over looking to don a kilt and learn more about the rich culture. And for those of us who are part of the “Outlander” fandom, it’s the perfect opportunity to have your own Scottish experience before the premier of the final season.

This week, I’m talking with Courtney Hornsby and Adrienne Lafrance-Wells with the city of west Monroe where they share a little background into the history of the festival, what to expect, events those interested can participate in, and what else to do around west Monroe while you’re in town.

www.facebook.com/NELACelticFest

www.cityofwestmonroe.com

www.monroe-westmonroe.org

This year marked the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, which devastated the greater New Orleans area. But, less than a month later, southwest Louisiana was hit by one of the strongest Atlantic hurricanes on record and the biggest storm to hit the area in almost 50 years at that time. For 17 years, Randy Roach served as the mayor of Lake Charles. In 2005, he not only had to take in displaced New Orleanians following Hurricane Katrina, but then make the difficult decisions that came along with a direct hit by Hurricane Rita. This week, we chat with the former mayor about the experience of Hurricane Rita and reflecting back on 20 years later.