This episode of Big Blend Radio was recorded onsite with Pat Kelly, co-owner of the legendary Kelly’s Westport Inn in Kansas City, Missouri. A must-visit destination for both locals and travelers, Kelly’s is not only a cornerstone of Kansas City’s nightlife and culture, but also a historic treasure for those traveling the Jefferson Highway.

Founded on a legacy of hospitality, Kelly’s Westport Inn has been welcoming generations of guests with its warm, inclusive atmosphere. Pat shares stories of his father’s vision, the bar’s evolution over the years, and its deep connection to the local community. From hosting sports fans and local events to supporting Kansas City’s artists and musicians, Kelly’s has long served as a gathering place where history, art, and community come together.

This conversation also underscores the importance of preserving local history and art, connecting to earlier Big Blend Radio episodes with artist and historian Victoria Chick on Kansas City-connected artists Arthur Kraft and Thomas Hart Benton: * Arthur Kraft: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/the-life-and-legacy-of-artist-arthur-kraft/ * Thomas Hart Benton: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/exploring-thomas-hart-benton-country/

Learn more about Kelly’s Westport Inn at: https://kellyswestportinn.com/

This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Show highlights the vibrant and welcoming community of Bunkie, Louisiana, which has been recognized as the Jefferson Highway Community of 2025. The conversation showcases Bunkie’s deep historical roots, growing tourism efforts, and the pride residents take in their culture and heritage.

Featured Guests: - Roger Bell – Co-Host & President of the Jefferson Highway Association - Brenda Sampson – Mayor of Bunkie, Louisiana - Wilbert Carmouche – Executive Director, Avoyelles Commission of Tourism - Mary Guillory – Co-Director, Avoyelles Commission of Tourism - Lynette Clarke – Bunkie Historian

From railroad history and agricultural traditions to mouthwatering local cuisine (especially boudin!), the discussion celebrates what makes Bunkie such a unique and engaging stop along the Jefferson Highway. The episode also touches on community collaboration, future tourism plans, and the value of preserving cultural landmarks and stories. Learn more at https://travelavoyelles.com/

The Jefferson Highway Association originally founded the Jefferson Highway in 1915. This international highway—also known as "The Pines to the Palms Highway"—runs from Winnipeg, Canada to New Orleans, Louisiana. Learn more at https://jeffersonhighway.org/

The Big Blend Radio "Historic Jefferson Highway" Podcast airs every 4th Thursday (except on holidays). Follow the show at https://jefferson-highway.podbean.com/

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Historic Jefferson Highway” Show features Dr. Shane Rasmussen, Director of the Natchitoches-NSU Folk Festival and NSU’s Louisiana Folklife Center. Held in historic Natchitoches, Louisiana—a destination along the Jefferson Highway—the 45th Annual Natchitoches-NSU Folk Festival takes place Saturday, July 19, 2025, in air-conditioned Prather Coliseum.

Hear about Louisiana’s rich cultural traditions as showcased through music, crafts, food, and community engagement. The conversation also touches on the role of the Jefferson Highway in regional heritage, the healing power of the arts, and the importance of folk culture in education.

Festival Highlights: - Three stages of music, including performances by: * Chubby Carrier & the Bayou Swamp Band (zydeco) * Amis du Teche (Cajun) * D.K. Harrell (blues) * Kristyn Harris Band (western swing/yodeling) * Smithfield Fair (roots) * Amazing! Rhythm Disciples (gospel) * The Has Beans (swamp pop) - 80+ traditional crafts vendors showcasing beadwork, quilts, soap, pottery, brooms, folk art, and more. - Red Beans & Rice Cookoff - Louisiana State Fiddle Championship - Free dance lessons and interactive sessions with the Cajun French Music Association Dance Troupe, Thistle Dancers, Classy Steppers, Louisiana Czech Heritage Dancers, and more. - Workshops & Presentations: yodeling, son jarocho dancing, musical spoons, Creole architecture, folk dolls, and artist Clementine Hunter. - KidFest & Outdoor Heritage Demos including Dutch oven cooking, blacksmithing, and a 19th-century wash day.

More info: https://www.nsula.edu/folklife/folkfest/ Jefferson Highway info: https://jeffersonhighway.org/ Podcast: https://jefferson-highway.podbean.com/ Big Blend Radio Network of Shows: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork