Laker Country 104.9

On this episode of Community Conversation, Jeff Hoover welcomes Jason Davidson from Russell County Middle School to talk about the Y Club's annual shoe drive. The students are partnering with WaterStep to collect gently used, closed-toe shoes that will be sold in developing countries, with proceeds helping fund clean water wells and filtration systems for communities in need.

Russell County vs Cumberland County from Monday, February 23rd.

Jeff Hoover talks with Lady Laker head coach Brett Blankenship after the team's opening-round win in the 16th District Tournament. Coach Blankenship reflects on earning his 100th career victory, highlights strong performances from senior leaders, and discusses the team's balance, defense, and free throw shooting. He also previews the Lady Lakers' semifinal matchup against Cumberland County and calls on the community to come out and support the team during tournament play.

Russell County vs Metcalfe County from Sunday, February 22nd.

Russell County vs Clinton County from Sunday, February 22nd.

Russell County vs Barren County from Thursday, February 19th.

On this episode of Community Conversation on Laker Country 104.9 WJRS, Jeff Hoover sits down with Jamestown Mayor Regena Hinton to talk about what's happening around the city.Mayor Hinton previews the upcoming city council meeting, including resolutions, appointments, and a special recognition for the Jamestown Academic Team. She also provides an update on the city's water system, explaining ongoing repairs to the main water barge, backup pumps currently in use, and the steps being taken to ensure a reliable water supply. She credits the city's public works and water department crews for their work through winter weather and highlights efforts to stay ahead of infrastructure issues.The conversation also covers the city's recent move to purchase the former Hardee's property on North Main Street, with hopes of future development, as well as early planning for Lake Fest and Jamestown's upcoming bicentennial celebration.

Russell Springs Mayor Eddie Thomas joins Jeff Hoover to talk about several projects happening across the city. Topics include a new digital sign at City Hall, a $2.3 million waterline replacement project, progress on the inclusive Field of Dreams for special needs youth, upgrades to local sports facilities, and upcoming improvements along Main Street. Hear how these efforts are focused on community growth, accessibility, and opportunities for local families.

Jeff Hoover talks with Russell County Schools Athletic Director Michael Carpenter about an exciting week for Laker athletics. They recap thrilling wins to close out the basketball regular season, discuss district tournament matchups and a recent seeding decision, and look ahead to postseason play. Carpenter also shares updates on upcoming spring sports, including baseball, softball, tennis, track, and a special celebration marking 70 years of Laker baseball.

Russell County vs Adair County from Friday, February 13th.

Russell County Family Resource and Youth Services Center staff Gordon Lester and Sherry Coffey join the show to highlight Family Resource and Youth Services Center Week in Kentucky. They discuss their mission to remove barriers so students are ready to learn, the wide range of support they provide to families, and the vital role community support and programs like Kevin's Kids play in helping local children succeed.

Russell County vs Clinton County from Tuesday, February 10th.

Wolf Creek National Fish Hatchery Education and Outreach Specialist Marsha Hart joins Jeff Hoover to share a preview of the hatchery's 2026 events and programs. Learn about upcoming opportunities including a mushroom grow bag workshop, Fly Fishing 101, Earth Day activities, kids' fishing programs, and the annual Catch a Rainbow Fishing Derby. Hart also explains how the public can visit the hatchery year-round to see the trout life cycle and stay updated through the hatchery's website and Facebook page.

Jeff Hoover talks with Danielle Wilson of Lake Cumberland Tourism about upcoming travel and boat shows in Indianapolis and Chicago, where the team will promote Russell County as a year-round destination. They discuss attracting new visitors, the power of generational vacation stories, growing website traffic, and a new incentive program designed to encourage hotel development and boost local tourism.

Russell County vs Cumberland County from Monday, February 9th.

Have you ever received someone else's mail by mistake? It's like opening a letter meant for your neighbor and trying to apply the instructions to your own life. Context matters. Just like in Scripture.2 Chronicles 7:14 is often misquoted, used as a rallying cry for nations. But this covenant promise was made to Israel, not America. The covenant with Israel has been fulfilled in Jesus Christ, extending to all believers. We are in the deepest covenant with God through Christ's sacrifice.As believers, we are called to live holy lives, seek God, and share the gospel. While personal salvation is guaranteed, the Bible does not promise the political, cultural, or economic salvation of nations. Our focus should be on Christ crucified and conquered.So today in the podcast, let talk about filtering everything through the lens of Christ. Live out a biblical worldview and share the promise of salvation with others. Call upon His name, do as He asks, and be saved. Let's embrace the covenant we have in Christ and invite others to do the same. 

Russell County vs Monroe County from Friday, February 6th.

Jeff Hoover welcomes Ronnie Whittle and Daryl Robertson to talk all things Rook in Russell County. They share stories from decades of playing, how local Rook tournaments bring people together, and how these games continue to support churches, youth groups, and neighbors in need. The conversation highlights upcoming tournaments, including this weekend's event at the Russell Springs Masonic Lodge, and why Rook remains about more than cards. It's about fellowship, tradition, and community.

Jeff Hoover talks with Scott Boreing, head wrestling coach at Russell County High School, about the first year of the school's new wrestling program. They discuss the team's early success, growing participation from youth through high school, the rise of girls wrestling, and what's ahead as the program continues to build momentum across Russell County.

Jeff Hoover talks with Jamie McQueary about Re-Entry and Employment Services, a Team Kentucky program that started in Russell County and now serves 90 counties statewide. Jamie explains how the program helps local individuals overcome barriers to employment by connecting them with jobs, training, education, and essential resources, while also partnering with local businesses looking for workers. The conversation highlights monthly orientation classes at the Russell County Public Library and the program's mission to support both job seekers and employers across the region.

Russell County vs Metcalfe County from Tuesday, February 3rd.

Jeff Hoover talks with Russell County Judge Executive Randy Marcum about the county's response to recent winter weather, highlighting the work of road crews, first responders, and volunteers. They also cover FEMA's visit to assess storm damage, updates on debris cleanup, improvements at the county transfer station, and ongoing projects across the county. The conversation wraps up with a focus on student engagement, upcoming civic events, and updates involving Russell County Hospital.

Sean Hammond, weather specialist at Laker Country 104.9 WJRS, joins Jeff Hoover for Community Conversation to talk about his lifelong interest in weather, his role in severe weather coverage, and the lessons learned from Winter Storm Fern. Sean explains how forecasts are made, why staying calm matters during dangerous weather, and what could be next as February continues.

Russell County vs East Jessamine from Friday, January 23rd.

Jeff Hoover talks with Eric Wolford, Director of Transportation for Russell County Schools. They discuss progress on the new bus garage, how school officials decide whether to cancel classes due to snow, ice, or extreme cold, and the early-morning process of checking roads and working with local agencies. Eric also shares insight into how drivers and parents are notified and emphasizes the focus on student safety during winter weather.

Jeff Hoover talks with members of the Russell County High School swim team as they prepare for the regional meet in Elizabethtown. Seniors share their events, experience, goals, and what it takes to compete at a high level, with hopes of advancing to state.

Jeff Hoover talks with Russell County Circuit Clerk Tony Kerr about the urgent need for blood donations during the winter months. They discuss the upcoming Russell County blood drive, how to schedule an appointment or use Quick Pass, and why local donations make such a big impact across Kentucky.

Russell County vs Southwestern from Friday, January 16th.

Tony Kerr and Jeff Hoover welcome listeners to a cold January edition of All Things Russell on WJRS, joined by Stephen Eastin, manager of Lake Cumberland State Resort Park. Eastin talks about his background in the state park system and why Lake Cumberland is where he plans to finish his career. The conversation covers the park's history, including how it was ultimately located in Russell County, and moves into a detailed update on major renovations now underway. Eastin explains the multi-million-dollar projects affecting the lodge, water system, walkways, convention center, and future cabin upgrades, along with what guests can expect during closures. He also discusses staffing challenges, employee retention, campground operations, amenities like pools, trails, and activities, and how employees are being utilized during construction.

Jamestown Mayor Regena Hinton joins Jeff Hoover for a Community Conversation following the first city council meeting of the new year. They talk about the purchase of a new police cruiser, behind-the-scenes work to keep the city's water system running during winter weather, and the dedication of city employees. Mayor Hinton also reflects on her time in office, key projects like the water tower, community events, and what's ahead in her final year as mayor.

Russell County vs Campbellsville from Tuesday, January 13th.

Jeff Hoover sits down with Danielle Wilson, Director of Lake Cumberland Tourism, for a wide-ranging update on what's ahead for Russell County. Danielle talks about boat and travel shows in Columbus, Chicago, and Indianapolis, new partnerships with Pulaski County, and how winter is a key planning season for tourism. She also shares progress on the Greasy Creek project, including new signage and trail improvements, and previews a major national high school fishing championship coming to Lake Cumberland this summer that's expected to bring thousands of visitors to the area.

Russell County vs Wayne County from Monday, January 12th.

Russell Springs Mayor Eddie Thomas joins Jeff Hoover on Community Conversation to look back on a successful holiday season and share updates on what's ahead for the city. The discussion covers record-setting Christmas at the Park attendance, community projects, grant-funded improvements, park and ballfield upgrades, water line replacements, and ongoing efforts to support local veterans.

Russell County vs Taylor County from Saturday, January 10th.

Russell County vs Lincoln County from Friday, January 9th.

Jeff Hoover talks with Jennifer Knifley, Russell County's opioid liaison, about local efforts to address addiction and support families. Jennifer explains her role, the impact of substance abuse on the court system, and walks listeners through Casey's Law, including how the process works and how loved ones can get help.

Russell County vs Mercer County from Thursday, January 9th.

Jeff Hoover talks with Jennifer Proctor and Robin Riddle of God's Food Pantry in Russell County. They share how the pantry operates, who qualifies for assistance, details about the new fully paid-for location, and the growing need in the community. The conversation also covers volunteer opportunities, donation options, and the specific food items currently needed to help local families.

After a couple of weeks' break, the crew is all back together and we can't wait to spend some time discussing obedience. Walking in obedience isn't about rules, it's about closeness to God's heart. Let's start the new year by drawing near to Him! #WalkInObedience #NewYearNewYou #CloserToGod

Jeff Hoover is joined by Bridgette Smith, Director of Special Education and Preschool for Russell County Schools. Bridgette talks about her background in education, the importance of special education, and why early childhood learning matters. The conversation also covers preschool opportunities currently available in the district, including eligibility, registration dates, and how preschool helps prepare children for kindergarten and beyond.

Russell County Judge Executive Randy Marcum joins Jeff Hoover to talk about several major projects and issues facing the county. The conversation includes plans to improve and preserve the Rockhouse area as a potential county park, updates on hospital security staffing through a new grant, progress on resolving the sheriff's budget, and other developments like the SEED Academy and Extension Office construction.

Russell County vs Adair County from Monday, January 5th.

Russell County vs LaRue County from Monday, January 5th.

Jeff Hoover is joined by Family Court Judge Jennifer Edwards and Lisa Coffey, the new director of CASA of Southern Kentucky. They discuss the launch of the CASA program in Russell and Wayne counties, how community volunteers can become advocates for children in family court, and why the program matters for local families.

Russell County vs Monroe County from Friday, January 2nd.

This episode of All Things Russell kicks off the first Friday of 2026 with a wide-ranging look back at the biggest stories of 2025 in Russell County. Jeff Hoover, Tony Kerr, and News Director Zac Oakes reflect on a year defined by the county bicentennial, major community milestones, economic developments, historic weather events, and standout achievements in education, sports, and public service. The conversation also highlights WJRS's upcoming 60th anniversary and looks ahead to what 2026 may bring for Russell County.

Jeff Hoover visits with Russell County High School senior Anna Gosser as she prepares to compete at the Kentucky Distinguished Young Women state competition in Lexington. Anna shares her journey into the program, her passion for education, and the story behind her talent performance of “God Bless the USA.” She's joined by her “Little Sister,” Ava Pierce, who will take the stage with her during the competition. The conversation also highlights the scholarship opportunities offered by Distinguished Young Women and an upcoming community send-off event at Three Daughters Coffee.

Jeff Hoover talks with Rocky Adkins, senior advisor to Governor Andy Beshear, about family, public service, and the upcoming legislative session. Adkins shares insight on Kentucky's budget outlook, economic growth, infrastructure projects, and the importance of bipartisan cooperation. A wide-ranging discussion focused on where the Commonwealth is headed and what matters most to everyday Kentuckians.

State Representative Josh Branscum joins Jeff Hoover on Community Conversation to preview the upcoming legislative session in Frankfort. They talk about the state budget, income tax cuts, childcare challenges, consumer data privacy, and other issues expected to shape the session, with a focus on how they impact Russell County and Kentucky families.

Dr. Rick Miles joins Jeff Hoover for a timely Community Conversation focused on cold and flu season in Russell County. They talk about why illness spreads more this time of year, the rise in flu hospitalizations, the value of vaccines, and simple steps like handwashing, sleep, and staying home when sick.