News and community events
In this episode of Community Conversation, Jeff Hoover talks with Dr. Samantha Gaddie, founding director of Campbellsville University's new agriculture program. Dr. Gaddie discusses the launch of the university's new agriculture degree, the hands-on learning opportunities available to students, the importance of supporting Kentucky's agricultural industry, and her vision for preparing the next generation of agricultural leaders. Learn how this new program will partner with local farmers and provide students with practical experience while staying close to home in South Central Kentucky.
Jeff Hoover talks with Joyce Holt and Mike Berry about the 7th Annual Relay for Life Benefit Ride benefiting the American Cancer Society, including this year's new Biker Bingo fundraiser and ride details. He is also joined by Scott Jones and Daniel Buster from the City of Russell Springs to discuss an upcoming wood bat baseball tournament and the city's first-ever free Back to School Bash at Russell Springs City Park.
Lake Cumberland Tourism Director Danielle Wilson joins Community Conversation to discuss the tremendous success of the recent High School Fishing World Finals, the economic impact on local businesses, and the possibility of bringing the event back in the future. Wilson also highlights upcoming events including the 127 Yard Sale, the Lake Cumberland Bluegrass Festival, Food Truck Friday, and the growing summer tourism season across Russell County and Lake Cumberland.
Russell County 10U All-Star coach Reggie Roy joins Community Conversation following the team's undefeated run to the Cal Ripken State Championship in Elizabethtown. Roy discusses the players' hard work, the dedication of parents and coaches, and the community support as the team prepares to compete in the Super Regional Tournament in Indiana.
Jamestown native and Army veteran Jessica McWhorter joins Community Conversation to discuss the upcoming "One Post, Many Eras, 250 Years of America" celebration at VFW Post 269 in Somerset. McWhorter shares details on live music, fireworks, veteran resources, and the event's mission of honoring veterans from all generations while promoting fellowship and support through service organizations.
Russell County Judge-Executive Randy Marcum joins Community Conversation to discuss the success of recent tourism events, the monthly commodity food distribution, progress on the new Russell County Extension Office, upcoming road improvement projects, and the nationally recognized Next Gen Civics program. Marcum also shares updates on local infrastructure investments and ongoing efforts to improve services across the county.
New Russell County High School Principal Jordan Turner joins Community Conversation to discuss his vision for the school, the importance of building strong relationships with students, staff, and parents, and his commitment to student success. Turner shares his educational background, leadership philosophy, and goals for fostering a positive school culture while preparing students to be college, career, and life ready.
Russell County's 9U All-Star baseball team joins Community Conversation after capturing the Cal Ripken West Kentucky District Championship while competing in a 10U tournament. Coach Adam Ellis and several young players discuss their championship run, their love of baseball, and their excitement as they prepare to represent Russell County at the state tournament in Louisville.
Russell County High School anglers Caden Hall and Caleb Wilson join Community Conversation after earning a sixth-place finish at the High School Fishing World Finals on Lake Cumberland. The two seniors discuss their tournament experience, qualifying for the final day of competition, their passion for fishing, and the scholarship opportunities that came with their impressive national finish.
Kentucky Office of Agricultural Policy Executive Director Brandon Reed joins Community Conversation to discuss the agency's 25-year impact on agriculture across the Commonwealth. Reed explains how tobacco settlement funds have helped diversify Kentucky farming, highlights the Beginning Farmer Loan Program, and shares how the Office of Ag Policy continues to support agricultural growth and rural communities statewide.
David Cross joins Community Conversation to discuss the upcoming Spirit of '76 Celebration in Clinton County, a two-day event honoring America's 250th anniversary in the only community named “76” in the United States. The conversation highlights the rich history of 76 Falls, live music, historical presentations, golf tournaments, fireworks, and family-friendly activities planned for July 3rd through 4th.
Russell Springs Mayor Eddie Thomas joins Community Conversation to discuss progress on the city's water infrastructure project, growing activity at City Park, and plans for the future golf course development. Thomas also shares updates on community improvements, upcoming downtown projects, and credits city employees for helping move Russell Springs forward.
Jamestown Mayor Regena Hinton joins Community Conversation to provide an update on city business, including upcoming council discussions and preparations for the 2026 Lakefest celebration. Hinton highlights the festival's entertainment lineup, family-friendly activities, pageants, vendors, and community events.
Russell County Athletic Director Michael Carpenter joins Community Conversation to discuss updates from the recent Board of Education meeting, including facility improvements, digital ticketing, upcoming athletic projects, and preparations for the KHSAA dead period. Carpenter also highlights the growth of local sports programs, summer activities, and the continued support of student-athletes across Russell County.
Director Sarah Stephens and cast members Avery Brake and Katie Hoskins join Community Conversation to preview the upcoming production of Annie at the Star Theater in Russell Springs. They discuss the six months of preparation, the talented young cast, and invite the community to support local arts during performances over the next two weekends.
Russell County Extension Agent for Agriculture Jonathan Oakes joins Community Conversation to discuss National Dairy Month, the ongoing drought's impact on local farmers, and the important role dairy farms play in Russell County's economy. Oakes highlights the dedication of local dairy families and encourages residents to thank dairy farmers for their hard work and commitment to agriculture.
Deputy Circuit Clerk Shannon Evans joins Community Conversation to discuss the upcoming Joshua C. Phipps Memorial Jeep Ride, benefiting the Good Shepherd Scholarship Fund. Evans shares how the scholarship honors the memory of Deputy Josh Phipps by supporting Russell County students committed to serving others, while also reflecting on his lasting impact on the community.
Russell County Tourism Director Danielle Wilson discusses final preparations for the Bass Federation National Championship on Lake Cumberland, the success of Food Truck Fridays, new tourism projects across the county, and the growing economic impact of tourism in Russell County.
Lisa Coffey, director of the CASA Program in Russell County, joins Community Conversation to discuss how Court Appointed Special Advocates support children involved in dependency, neglect, and abuse cases. Learn how local volunteers can make a lasting difference in a child's life and how you can get involved with CASA of Southern Kentucky.
Sean Hammond welcomes Dean Roy of the Russell County Jaycee's to discuss another successful year at the Russell County Fair. They talk about fair attendance, keeping admission affordable, the popular KTPA truck and tractor pull, fairground improvements over the years, and some of the unique attractions—including pig racing. Plus, Dean shares what it's like working the front gate during one of the county's biggest annual events.
Russell County Jaycee Bubba Luttrell joins Jeff Hoover on Community Conversation to preview wrestling night at the Russell County Fair. They discuss the long tradition of fair wrestling, what fans can expect from this year's USWF show, special guests, crowd favorites, and why the event continues to be one of the fair's most popular attractions.
Russell County Judge Executive Randy Marcum joins Jeff Hoover on Community Conversation to discuss plans for the Greasy Creek recreational area, a student-led project to digitize county records, FEMA assistance related to January's winter storm, and upcoming commodity distribution. They also talk about the importance of the Russell County Fair and the traditions that continue to bring the community together each year.
Jeff Hoover talks with Sherry Selby of Duo Broadband about the company's annual membership meeting at Russell County High School, including updates on services, local growth, and door prizes for members. Later, Robbie Morgan with the Russell County Jaycee's joins the show to preview the Fair's Off-Road Challenge and what attendees can expect for one of the week's biggest events.
Jeff Hoover welcomes Dean McKinley and Robin Riddle of the gospel group All 4 Him to Community Conversation. The group shares how they came together after the pandemic, their deep family roots in gospel music, and the ministry behind their performances across the region. They also talk about their upcoming free concert Sunday afternoon at the Russell County Jaycees Fair and invite the community to come enjoy an afternoon of gospel music and fellowship.
Jeff Hoover continues the countdown to the Russell County Jaycees Fair with longtime Jaycee member Eddie Copley. Eddie shares memories of growing up around the fair, following in the footsteps of his father, Buster Copley, and helping continue the tradition of the mule pull and horse pull at the fairgrounds. The conversation highlights the history behind the events, what fans can expect this year, and the strong community spirit that keeps the Russell County Fair going year after year.
Jeff Hoover talks with longtime Troy Anderson about the upcoming Pleasure Horse Show at the Russell County Jaycees Fair. Anderson shares details about the Friday night event, including the different competition classes, youth participation, and prize payouts. He also reflects on his decades of involvement with the Russell County Jaycees, memories of parking cars at the fair alongside his father Gary Anderson, and the strong tradition and community spirit that make the fair such a special part of Russell County each year.
Russell County vs Bowling Green from Tuesday, May 26th.
Jeff Hoover talks with Dustin Adkins about the upcoming Russell County Jaycees Fair at the Veterans Fairgrounds in Russell Springs. Adkins shares details on this year's schedule, including the mule pull, horse show, demolition derby, wrestling, truck and tractor pulls, rodeo, horse racing, and the return of crowd favorites like minnow snatching and catfish wrangling. He also talks about new attractions like pig racing, affordable gate prices, and the strong community support that helps keep the fair one of Russell County's biggest annual traditions.
Russell County vs Logan County from Monday, May 25th.
Jeff Hoover talks with Scott Jones and Daniel Buster about the busy summer season at the Russell Springs City Park. The conversation highlights the success of the new Bankers Field of Dreams, upcoming youth tournaments, the opening of the city pool for Memorial Day weekend, splash pad rentals, Tuesday night swims with karaoke, and plans for the new par-3 golf course. They also discuss the many improvements and additions that continue to make the park a major attraction for families across Russell County.
Russell Springs Mayor Eddie Thomas joined Jeff Hoover to talk about the steady pace of projects moving across the city. He highlighted a major waterline upgrade set to begin soon, a multi-million-dollar infrastructure project aimed at replacing aging lines and improving both water quality and pressure in the city.Mayor Thomas also shared details about a Memorial Day flag raising ceremony at the Russell Springs fire department, along with broader efforts to honor local veterans, including banners along Main Street and a growing veterans section at the city cemetery where eligible veterans can be buried at no cost.The conversation also touched on several community developments, including continued work on park improvements, youth sports facilities, and a new par-3 golf course being planned on a 14-acre site using turf greens and tee boxes. Thomas emphasized that the goal is to build amenities that keep families active locally while also drawing visitors into the area.
Jeff Hoover welcomed Russell County EMS Director Charles Shepherd to the studio in recognition of National EMS Week. Shepherd shared how EMS Week began in 1974 and talked about the evolution of emergency medical services, from the days when funeral homes provided ambulance transportation to today's advanced on-scene medical care. He highlighted the dedicated team of paramedics, EMTs, dispatchers, firefighters, law enforcement, and hospital staff who work together to serve Russell County. Shepherd also noted that Russell County EMS is fully staffed with around 40 employees and praised the community for its continued support and appreciation of first responders.
Jeff Hoover talks with Russell County Extension Agent Jonathan Oaks about the growing impact of drought conditions on local farmers. Oaks explains how reduced hay production and rising feed costs are putting added financial pressure on the agricultural community. He also discusses federal drought assistance that may be available through the Farm Service Agency and encourages producers to stay informed through the Russell County Extension Office.
Jeff Hoover talks with Daryl Robertson and Rick Selby of the Russell County Masonic Lodges about their upcoming fish fry at the Russell Springs Masonic Lodge. The event features fish, fries, coleslaw, and hush puppies, with proceeds supporting local scholarships and youth programs. They also discuss the lodges' continued efforts to work together on community projects and invite everyone to stop by for a meal and support a great cause.
Jeff Hoover talks with Jamestown Mayor Regena Hinton about several upcoming events and projects in the city. They discuss free Friday night concerts at Beck Park, the return of the Jamestown Marketplace, improvements at the city park including a new turf field and upgraded basketball court, and new business developments such as Real Java's outdoor seating area and a barbecue restaurant at Timber Point. Mayor Hinton also shares plans for this year's Lake Fest and Jamestown's 200th anniversary celebration.
Jeff Hoover talks with Danielle Wilson and Crystal Popplewell from the Lake Cumberland Tourism Commission about the upcoming 2026 High School Fishing World Finals and National Championship. They discuss the huge economic impact the event will bring to Russell County and the surrounding region, with hundreds of anglers and their families expected to visit. The conversation also highlights the return of Food Truck Friday, beginning May 29, along with other tourism efforts to showcase everything Russell County has to offer.
The Russell County Middle School Y-Club joins Community Conversation to share how students are making a difference through service, leadership, and civic engagement. Sponsor Jason Davidson and several student leaders discuss projects like Reverse Trick-or-Treat for local food pantries, the WaterStep shoe drive supporting clean water initiatives, and participation in Kentucky YMCA youth government programs including KYA and KUNA.
Russell County Judge Executive Randy Marcum joins Community Conversation to discuss his first term in office, managing multiple FEMA disasters, improving county technology and infrastructure, and efforts to support growth and public safety in Russell County ahead of the upcoming primary election.
In this episode of Community Conversation on Laker Country 104.9 WJRS, County Judge-Executive candidate Chad Aaron discusses his background in construction and property management, his vision for economic growth in Russell County, and the need for new businesses, housing, and lodging opportunities. Aaron shares why he decided to run for office and outlines his goals for bringing new energy and leadership to the community ahead of the upcoming primary election.
Sean Hammond is joined by Russell Springs Mayor Eddie Thomas and members of 606 Jeepin Association to talk about the upcoming Go Topless Day event on May 16. The group shares details about the Jeep show, including contests, vendors, kids activities, and a Power Wheels competition, all benefiting God's Food Pantry in Russell and Pulaski counties. They also highlight the community partnership behind the event and invite everyone to come out, whether you own a Jeep or not, for a fun day supporting a good cause.
Jeff Hoover speaks with incumbent Russell County Clerk Patti Glover as she seeks reelection. She reflects on her first term, including navigating a statewide system overhaul, addressing staffing challenges, and improving service times. Glover discusses ongoing efforts to modernize records, maintain accurate voter rolls, and ensure secure elections, while emphasizing her experience and commitment to serving the people of Russell County.
**Due to technical difficulties, part of the interview is not available.**Jeff Hoover is joined by local horse racing enthusiasts Terry McQueary and Bobby Dunbar to share stories from Russell County's racing past and preview the upcoming Kentucky Derby. They reflect on memorable matchups at the county fair, discuss the impact of the horse racing industry in Kentucky, and break down their picks for this year's Derby while highlighting what makes the race such a special tradition.
Jeff Hoover continues his series with local candidates, speaking with Amy Riggins Melson, Republican candidate for Russell County Clerk. She shares her background, experience in clerical and administrative work, and her vision for improving the office through better customer service, staff training, and expanded online access. Riggins Melson also discusses the importance of election integrity and modernizing records, while outlining her priorities if elected.
On this episode of Community Conversation, Jeff Hoover talks with Ethan Selby from the Lake Cumberland Regional College and Workforce Center about a student-led car show happening Friday afternoon. The event supports SkillsUSA, a program focused on preparing students for careers in skilled trades. They also discuss the hands-on training opportunities offered at the center and how these programs help students build real-world skills and enter the workforce.
Jeff Hoover sits down with Russell County Sheriff Derek Polston as part of an ongoing candidate interview series. Polston discusses his decision to seek another term, his 35-year career in law enforcement, and key issues in the race, including department staffing, vehicle use, and employee retention. He also addresses recent campaign claims and shares his perspective on serving the community, closing with a message to voters ahead of the upcoming election.
Jeff Hoover talks with Scottie Weston of the Russell County Ambulance Service about the upcoming First Responders Picnic set for May 9 at Russell Springs Elementary. They discuss how the event brings together EMS, fire, police, nurses, and their families for a relaxed day of food, activities, and appreciation. Weston also shares insight into the growing demand for emergency services and highlights the community support that helps make the event possible.
Jeff Hancock joins Community Conversation to discuss his campaign for Russell County Sheriff, highlighting his decades of law enforcement experience, focus on leadership, and plans to address staffing, response times, and community trust.
Lakers vs Cumberland County from Tuesday, April 21st.
Jeff Hoover talks with Russell County landfill supervisor Ronald Johnson about the upcoming free dump day for residents, what to expect, and how the landfill is handling increased springtime demand. They also discuss daily operations, recycling efforts, and a partnership with the local detention center that helps keep things running smoothly.
Donnie Wilkerson joins the show to highlight the impact of ArtWorks in Russell County and preview a full lineup of summer camps, family events, and creative programs for all ages. From nature and culinary camps to arts immersion and special performances, there's something for everyone to get involved in this summer.
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