Northeast Louisiana was on display on Saturday, September 13, as 90.3 KEDM Public Radio hosted a gala event honoring its 34-year legacy of service to the region and five years of The Boot, the Louisiana-music-focused nighttime program. The fete, dubbed 'The Boot on the Bayou,' was an evening of music, food, and community spirit at a venue adorned with unique décor inspired by the area’s rich musical heritage.
Table reservations and tickets are available at https://bootonthebayou.givesmart.com.
Guests were greeted with live performances by two promising local artists, Vaughan Weztel and Logan Craig, as they arrive.
Attendees enjoyed an array of heavy hors d’oeuvres and cocktails while participating in a silent auction and engaging in party games. Football fans didn’t miss out either, a big-screen TV broadcasted the LSU Tigers’ showdown against Florida. Later in the evening, Mr. TaylorMade and the TaylorMade Band took over with their signature grooves, ensuring the dance floor stayed lively.
The event was sponsored by Denise Hull, in memory of Dr. John Everett Hull, Simran Emaus and Tiger Market Now Save 76, Dean Mailhes of Argent Advisors of Monroe, Angie & Jerry Blades, Holyfield Construction, the Northeast Louisiana Arts Council, Ann Bloxom Smith, Parker Moskal, and the "Sweet Tooth" Sponsor, the Children's Coalition for Northeast Louisiana.
This year’s gala highlighted KEDM’s growing commitment to local music through The Boot, which airs nightly and showcases a blend of Louisiana artists, Southern regional acts, and Gulf South-inspired genres such as blues, funk, soul, and zydeco. The program features a local artist every hour and is hosted by Cory Crowe, Jay Curtis, and Kirby Rambin, who guide listeners through the sounds and stories of the Delta.
The station’s dedication to supporting local music extends beyond the airwaves with The Parish Playlist, a weekly listing of live music events across Ouachita Parish and northeast Louisiana. The Parish Playlist is KEDM’s part in developing the music economy of northeast Louisiana,” says Curtis. “Musicians and venues have expressed their gratitude for the email and social media updates that highlight the vibrant live music scene in our community.”
KEDM’s efforts come at a critical time as the station faces financial challenges following a Congressional vote to end federal funding for more than 1,500 stations nationwide. The cuts could amount to nearly $300,000 in lost funding for KEDM over the next two years, prompting an intense fundraising campaign to sustain its operations.
The Boot on the Bayou gala offered residents an opportunity to support KEDM while celebrating its contributions to the local arts and culture scene.
