Just in time for Memorial Day, I'm honored to present a very special guest with tons of unique perspective on our troops and their pursuits! She is Sarah Whitledge Taylor of Henderson County, who sadly lost her son in 2012 while serving our country. Sarah admirably used this, however, as her inspiration to be a voice for our soldiers. Her faithful service as part of the American Gold Star Mothers is beyond commendable, as are her contributions to the Bluegrass Honor Flight and the Southern Indiana Honor Flight. Sarah will explain the incident that tragically claimed the life of her son David, reflect on her aforementioned endeavors in the years that followed, and discuss her experience planning/organizing Henderson South Middle School's annual Veterans Day program. She'll also speak of her role on the Henderson Veterans Memorial Foundation Board of Directors, and share what she believes to be the most effective means of supporting the foundation and the veterans themselves. This episode promises to make you even more of a proud American! And, to learn more about Henderson's Veterans Memorial Foundation, simply click here to visit the web page: https://hendersonveteransmemorialfoundation.org/.

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How much do we really know about the corn we regularly consume...and how familiar are we with those in our surroundings who proudly produce it? Well this week, I bring you the absolute perfect guest to fill in these knowledge and familiarity gaps! She is Kate Pride of Henderson County, who serves as Communications Director with the Kentucky Corn Growers Association. Kate will offer insight into her extensive background on the farm, describe her path to the KCGA, and explain the nonprofit's commendable mission. She'll also shed light on corn's vital role in fueling industries across Kentucky such as ethanol and bourbon, summarize unique KCGA programs, and detail the perks of organizational membership. Do not hesitate to email Kate with any inquiries about our conversation at kate@kycorn.org. Additional information about the KCGA is also readily available via the web page linked here: https://kycorn.org/.

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This week, our "Community Connection" is putting a long-overdue spotlight on Meade County, and its seat of Brandenburg, just a short drive west of Louisville! Chamber of Commerce director Annie Hamilton Emond is here to explain how Meade County is peaceful enough for a quiet escape, yet busy enough to keep us entertained and occupied! From a haunting witch festival in October, to the state's "best county fair", to an abundance of attractive shopping/dining/lodging opportunities, you'll find all you need and then some to create life-long vacation memories. Plan your travels accordingly, and feel free to email Annie with inquiries about our discussion at director@meadekychamber.org. You also owe yourself a visit to Meade County's all new tourism web page linked here: https://www.visitmeadecounty.org/.

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This week, I'm honored to present to you a Kentuckian who brings individuals with disabilities windows to the world of technology! He is Mr. Ryan Creech, with the University of Kentucky's Human Development Institute (HDI), who specializes in accessible digital media. In other words, he seeks to make websites, documents, and other forms of technology user-friendly...not just for those with visual impairments, but for people with other mental/physical disabilities as well. He also serves on the board of the Appalachian Assistive Technology Loan Fund (AATLF), which provides interest-free loans to qualified individuals seeking to purchase adaptive equipment to meet their needs. Ryan will enlighten us on the disability that he personally has overcome, his line of work, and the clients he has frequently been known to serve. He'll also offer a synopsis of the AATLF, and how it may likely benefit us or people we know. Enjoy listening and broadening your mind! Don't hesitate to email Ryan with any inquiries about our discussion points at ryan.creech@uky.edu. And, to learn more about the Human Development Institute at UK, simply click here to visit its web page: https://hdi.uky.edu/. Finally, additional info on the AATLF is readily available at this link: https://aatlf.org/.

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This week, I'm beyond excited to present a women's high school basketball coach who recently claimed her 8th (eighth) state championship!! Yep, you read right...her name is Donna Moir, and this season, she led Louisville's Sacred Heart Academy to its fifth consecutive title! Donna was also privileged to play on a Sacred Heart championship team as a freshman. Join us as she looks back on this experience, and discusses some of the many memorable players/highlights that have made her title runs truly special. She also describes the fulfilling facets of her post as Sacred Heart's athletic director, and offers useful advice for youngsters entertaining the thought of playing/coaching basketball. Coach Moir has poured her heart and soul into her players and her profession, and I know you'll agree that her passion shines brightly throughout our conversation. So, enjoy a trip down Memory Lane with this living legend!

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If it's been too long since you've stuck your nose in a good book, you're in luck...my special guest this week has written plenty of them!! She is Caitlin Nikolai of Union County, who has skillfully authored content targeting both adults and youngsters. Her children's books are designed to assist them in broadening their creativity, and her material for the mature is religiously focused, providing guidance to us in following Christ more closely and effectively. Caitlin also facilitates two StoryWalks in her home county, with generous support from her local library and a number of partnering businesses. Listen in as she discusses the unique StoryWalk concept, sheds light on her thought-provoking content, and fills us in on outlets through which her books may be purchased. Her catalog truly includes something for everyone! For even more info about Caitlin Nikolai, simply visit her web page linked here: https://caitlinnikolai.com/.

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With the weather warming up, we need a beverage that couples nicely with spring festivities . . .and this week's episode spotlights just that!! Introducing the relatively new, palate pleasing Ponyboy Slings, which are skillfully concocted cocktails in a can. Real bourbon, fortified wines, and all natural flavors make Ponyboy a true fan favorite! Co-founder Janell Bass joins me to discuss the means by which her background, and that of her husband Mike, served them well in the creation of this sensation. She'll also shed light on the three fabulous flavors from which we can choose, the outlets through which Ponyboy can be purchased, and upcoming events featuring these cocktails. So treat yourself to well deserved relaxation and refreshment . . .and learn even more about Ponyboy Slings via the web page linked here: https://www.drinkponyboy.com/.

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It's time yet again for one of those ever popular "Preacher Features"! This week, you'll be introduced to the confident and capable Randall Rearden, who serves as senior pastor of Finchville Baptist Church in Shelby County (just outside of Louisville). Randall has an abundance of ministry experience to his credit, which includes service as a youth pastor, and various forms of mission work. Grab a seat as he sheds light on each of the aforementioned aspects of his resume, and explains his inspiration for seminary enrollment upon completion of a Broadcasting degree from Western Kentucky University. He also extends words of wisdom for all of our future ministers. Listening to and learning from this man of many ventures and talents is beyond worth while! And, simply hit the following link to learn even more about Finchville Baptist Church: https://finchvillebaptist.com/.

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