Recap of the 2025 Jefferson Highway Conference in McAlester, Oklahoma

This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Show features a lively recap of the 2025 Jefferson Highway Conference held in McAlester, Oklahoma. The event brought together historians, community leaders, and heritage travelers to celebrate the cultural and historical significance of the Jefferson Highway, and included a special pre-conference Sociability Caravan.

Featured Guests: - Roger Bell – Co-Host & President of the Jefferson Highway Association - Billy Sumner – Tourism Manager for the City of McAlester. Visit: https://travelmcalester.com/   - Adeline Whisenhunt – Conference Organizer & Member of the Oklahoma Chapter of the Jefferson Highway Association PLUS: Hear from Joe’s Yardbird & Lost Street Brewing Company

The conversation explores how tourism, historical preservation, and community collaboration contribute to revitalizing this iconic route. From the Choctaw Nation’s cultural contributions to stories of local resilience, the episode highlights how the Jefferson Highway continues to connect and inspire communities.

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/