Big Daily Blend

Big Blend Radio Network

The Big Daily Blend podcast celebrates holidays and observances, music and pop culture, historic happenings, and even new legislature. Check the episode notes for music playlists, and related articles, recipes, puzzles, and more.

  1. May 21

    Discovering Butler, Missouri: The Heart of Jefferson Highway History

    Just in time for National Road Trip Day (May 22), this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Show explores the history, heritage tourism, and community spirit of Butler, Missouri, a vibrant destination along the historic Jefferson Highway. As always, the show features Roger Bell, Co-Host and President of the Jefferson Highway Association, along with host and producer Lisa D. Smith. Featured guests are Samantha Stump of the Butler Chamber of Commerce and Doris Fuller of the Butler Historic Preservation Commission. From colorful murals and historic downtown sites to upcoming celebrations and classic car culture, this engaging conversation highlights how Butler is preserving its Jefferson Highway legacy while welcoming modern travelers and road trippers. Learn about the upcoming Jefferson Highway Car Show in Butler on June 13, along with the community’s efforts to promote heritage tourism through storytelling, signage, preservation projects, and downtown revitalization.  The episode also explores Butler’s fascinating history, including its recognition as the first city west of the Mississippi River to have electricity, its connection to Americana travel culture, and the importance of small-town experiences along America’s historic highways. Roger Bell also shares updates on the upcoming Crossroads of America Centennial Celebration taking place in Joplin, Missouri, from September 19–22, 2026, including details about the event’s sociability caravan motor tours. Registration is now open at https://jeffersonhighway.org/  The discussion also highlights how communities along the Jefferson Highway continue to attract visitors through local events, murals, dining experiences, and authentic hospitality that celebrates the spirit of the open road. 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/  Learn more about Butler, Missouri: - Butler Chamber of Commerce: https://butlerchamber.com/  https://www.facebook.com/butlerchamberofcommerce  Butler Historic Preservation Commission: - https://www.facebook.com/butlerhistoricpreservationcommission/  Plan your journey with the Jefferson Highway Travel Guide: - https://www.jeffersonhighwaytravelguide.com/  Subscribe to the Jefferson Highway Dispatch: - https://jeffersonhighwaydispatch.substack.com/  The Big Blend Radio "Historic Jefferson Highway" Podcast airs every 4th Thursday (except on holidays). Follow the show at https://jefferson-highway.podbean.com/

    46 min
  2. May 17

    Family-Friendly Festivals & Louisiana Culture: Summer Fun in Avoyelles Parish

    This shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Travel Avoyelles" Podcast dives into the rich culture, history, and heart of Avoyelles Parish, Louisiana, with cohosts Mary Guillory and Wilbert Carmouche of the Avoyelles Commission of Tourism. Featured guests include Joan Botts of Paragon Casino Resort who talks about their first annual Paragon Stampede & Rodeo, Van Roy of Bailey’s on the Square and the Avoyelles Arts & Music Festival, and LeLe Soileau of the Louisiana Corn Festival. The conversation spotlights the vibrant festivals, live music, culinary traditions, rodeo excitement, and strong community spirit that make Avoyelles Parish a must-visit destination in Central Louisiana. Hear about upcoming events at Paragon Casino Resort, the history and growth of the Avoyelles Arts & Music Festival, and the family-friendly fun of the Louisiana Corn Festival in Bunkie. Listeners will also discover how local traditions—from Cajun and Zydeco music to agricultural celebrations and the unique Charivari custom—help preserve the parish’s rich cultural heritage while bringing the community together. From art and entertainment to food, farming, and family fun, this episode showcases the welcoming atmosphere and creative energy that define Avoyelles Parish. LINKS & RESOURCES 🔗 Travel Avoyelles: https://travelavoyelles.com/  🔗 Paragon Casino Resort: https://www.paragoncasinoresort.com/  🔗 Bailey’s on the Square: https://www.facebook.com/p/Baileys-on-the-Square-100057371271609/  🔗 Avoyelles Arts & Music Festival: https://www.facebook.com/avoyellesartsandmusicfestival/  https://www.avoyellesarts.com/  🔗 Louisiana Corn Festival: https://www.bunkiechamber.org/corn-festival  https://www.facebook.com/lacornfest/  🎧 New episodes air every 3rd Sunday. Listen: https://travel-avoyelles.podbean.com

    42 min

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The Big Daily Blend podcast celebrates holidays and observances, music and pop culture, historic happenings, and even new legislature. Check the episode notes for music playlists, and related articles, recipes, puzzles, and more.