Laker Country 104.9

Sean Hammond is joined by Ramie Hutchison to talk all things movies, community, and Halloween spirit! Ramie shares exciting news from Key Twin Cinema, including free weekend showings of Halloween classics

Jeff Hoover sits down with County Clerk Patty Glover to talk about extended office hours, upcoming county elections, ATV licensing, and changes to voting precincts. Glover also shares updates on boundary issues in Russell Springs and confirms her plans to run for reelection.

Sean Hammond sits down with Susan Melton from the Russell County Judge Executive's Office to chat about the exciting upcoming events celebrating the county's 200th anniversary. From a scenic cruise on Lake Cumberland to a high-stakes Battle of the Bands and a family-friendly Fall Festival

Jeff Hoover talks with Jeramy Coffey, Economic Development Director for Russell Springs, about business interest in the city, updates on Shogun and Lee's Famous Recipe, new projects like the Bankers Field of Dreams, and efforts to address community infrastructure needs.

Jeff Hoover talks with Jeramy Coffey, Economic Development Director for Russell Springs, about business interest in the city, updates on Shogun and Lee's Famous Recipe, new projects like the Bankers Field of Dreams, and efforts to address community infrastructure needs.

Russell County vs Green County from Friday, September 26th.

Jeff talks with Jason Woodcock of the Russell County Laker Band Boosters about the annual homecoming pork chop dinner. They discuss the tradition behind the event, how it supports the Laker Band, and the teamwork that goes into making it happen.

Jeff talks with Circuit Clerk and Laker football announcer Tony Kerr. They discuss the monthly Russell County blood drive, the urgent need for donations, and what's ahead for the Laker football team as they head into homecoming. They also touch on possible changes to Kentucky's driver's license system.

Sean Hammond sits down with Pastor Josh Owens from Clear Springs Baptist Church to talk about an upcoming community event: Worship at the Park, happening October 4th at 5 PM at Beck Park in Jamestown.

Jeff Hoover talks with Tom Preston, CEO of Duo Broadband. They discuss the importance of reliable internet in Russell County, how broadband access impacts education, business, and daily life, and Duo's efforts to expand fiber service across the region.

Sean Hammond sits down with Brittany Burton from Somerset Community College's Russell Center to discuss an upcoming job fair on September 30th. Brittany shares her role as a community mentor, offering guidance for those looking to re-enter the workforce or explore new career paths. They chat about the variety of local employers attending, resume-building tips, and how the job fair aims to connect community members with valuable resources.

Russell County vs Taylor County from Friday, September 19th.

Jeff Hoover is joined by Cody Wilson and Daryl Robertson to talk about today's Masonic Lodge fish fry in Russell Springs. They share details on the event, how the proceeds support local scholarships and programs.

Sean Hammond chats with Michael Carpenter, Athletic Director at Russell County High School, about a major change coming to Kentucky high school basketball: the KHSAA's new 35-second shot clock rule, set to take effect in the 2027-28 season. Michael discusses the challenges and costs of implementing shot clocks, as well as the expected impact on the game.

Jeff Hoover is joined by Jamestown Mayor Regena Hinton, council member Tony Wright, and Angie Andrew from the 606 Jeep Club to talk about the upcoming “Jeeps Are Wild” poker run and Jeep event. They share details on activities, prizes, and how the event will support Food for the Needy.

Sean Hammond sits down with Russell County Sheriff Derek Poston to reflect on the one-year anniversary of Deputy Josh Phipps' passing in the line of duty. Sheriff Poston shares the emotional impact of the loss, the community's tribute through the dedication of Highway 127 in Deputy Phipps' honor, and the ongoing grieving process. He also opens up about Josh's legacy, his contributions to law enforcement, and the strength of the sheriff's department and the community in moving forward.

Jeff Hoover welcomes Amber Hale from the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet's District 8 office. They discuss progress on the U.S. 127 bridge project, upcoming road improvements, and how roundabouts and other safety measures could impact Russell County's future.

Sean Hammond chats with Daryl Robertson from the Masonic Lodge about their upcoming community fish fry.

Kentucky Agriculture Commissioner Jonathan Shell joins the show to discuss Ag Week, a new initiative bringing agriculture into classrooms across the state and helping kids connect what they learn in school to the world around them.

Russell County vs Clay County from Friday, September 12th.

Sean Hammond chats with Brentley Goodin, his son Griffin, and Pastor Scott Proctor from the West 80 Church of God about their exciting Glow in the Dark for Jesus event. Celebrating its 8th year, this family-friendly event offers a unique church experience with blacklights, glow jewelry, face painting, pizza, door prizes, and an inspiring message for all ages.

Jeff Hoover welcomes Brenda Higginbotham to discuss her 25 years of volunteer service with the Russell County Hospital Auxiliary. Brenda shares how she got involved, the vital work the Auxiliary does to support patients and hospital staff, and details about upcoming fundraisers

Sean Hammond welcomes Dennis Price to talk about a special centennial celebration happening this Saturday at the historic Irvin Schoolhouse in Russell Springs. Dennis shares the fascinating history of the one-room schoolhouse, the incredible restoration efforts by the Bernard sisters, and details about the upcoming community event — featuring local vendors, live music, and a tribute to 100 years of local heritage.

Sean Hammond chats with Lindsey Westerfield, the Director of the Russell County Public Library, about the library's recent accomplishments and ongoing community programs. Lindsey shares exciting updates from the library's 2024-2025 annual report, including impressive participation in the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, over 50,000 checkouts, and the library's growing number of community-driven programs.

Superintendent Michael Ford talks about the new school year, the need for a school psychologist, mental health support for students, and ongoing construction projects in the district.

Sean Hammond speaks with Terri Crowell from Lake Cumberland Community Action about the LIHEAP Summer Subsidy Program, which provides assistance to eligible households struggling with high electric bills. Terri explains how the program works, what documentation is required, and how to apply before the program ends this Friday.

Sean Hammond chats with longtime friend Josh Carey about an exciting last-minute community concert. Josh and the Commonwealth Quartet will be performing live on Main Street in Russell Springs this Saturday. Hear how the event came together, learn more about the group's passion for gospel music, and get the details on this free, family-friendly event.

Jeff Hoover sits down with news director Zac Oakes to preview today's Russell County Fiscal Court meeting. They discuss the upcoming vote on allowing ATVs on county roadways, the debate over changing operations in the sheriff's office, and what local tax districts are planning for the year ahead.

Russell County vs Campbellsville from Saturday, September 6th.

On this episode of All Things Russell, Jeff Hoover and Tony Kerr talk with special guests about honoring the legacy of Deputy Josh Phipps. They announce the new Good Shepherd Scholarship for Russell County seniors, share memories of Deputy Phipps' life and service, and discuss upcoming community events, including a candlelight vigil and highway dedication in his honor.

Sean Hammond sits down with Superintendent Michael Ford to discuss the decision to reschedule the Laker football home opener due to weather concerns, including potential lightning. They dive into the logistics behind moving the game to tomorrow afternoon and the challenges of planning around unpredictable weather.

Sean Hammond is joined once again by Shane Holinde from the Kentucky Mesonet to discuss the network's recent growth, including new weather station sites across Kentucky. They dive into current drought conditions, the importance of Mesonet data for agriculture, and remember the late broadcaster Brandon Robinson, a respected voice in Eastern Kentucky.

Community Conversation on Laker Country 104.9 opens the phone lines for an open mic discussion about a proposal that would shift financial control of the Russell County Sheriff's Office to the fiscal court. Callers share their views on transparency, oversight, and whether the sheriff should retain authority over expenditures.

Sean Hammond sits down with Russell County's own Kevin Williams to discuss the latest community initiatives supporting local students. Kevin shares exciting news about the first-ever Kevin Williams Believe Scholarship Golf Classic, an event raising funds to support high school seniors transitioning into college.

Jeff Hoover sits down with Russell County native and Lindsey Wilson University professor, Dr. JC Phelps. They talk about his path from Center College to teaching economics, his love of learning, and his work with the Kentucky Governor's Scholar Program.

Sean Hammond is joined by Regena Haugen from Somerset Community College. Regena, the Administrator of the Russell Center and Casey Center, shares the latest happenings at SCC, including the start of the fall semester and opportunities for enrollment.

Jeff Hoover talks with Russell County Judge Executive Randy Marcum about the Greasy Creek project, recent community events, upcoming fiscal court business, and other county priorities.

Russell County vs LaRue County from Friday, August 29th.

The Current Events Class from Russell County High School sit down with members of the Russell County High School Marching Band to talk competitions, practice highs and lows, favorite show themes, and unforgettable band moments.

Sean Hammond welcomes back Jeric DeVore from SPARC Recovery in Russell Springs. Jeric shares exciting updates about the organization's new welding training center, their ongoing partnership with Kentucky Recovery Vocational (KRV), and how both programs are transforming lives through recovery-focused workforce training. From residential care to job placement, learn how SPARC and KRV are helping individuals in recovery rebuild their lives with purpose and opportunity.

Jeff Hoover sits down with Russell County's high school and middle school bass fishing teams, along with their coach Kevin Reynolds. They talk about the team's growth, upcoming tournaments, and the big national championship coming to Lake Cumberland. The group also shares details on their fish fry fundraiser and what fishing means to the students and community.

Sean Hammond sits down with Brad Russell from the Russell County Jaycees to chat about an exciting Demolition Derby coming up this Saturday in Russell Springs. Brad shares the details on the event, including the big cash prizes, the kid's class, and more

On this episode of Community Conversation with Jeff Hoover, Family Court Judge Jennifer Upchurch Edwards discusses her 18 years on the bench and explains the important role of family court in Russell and Wayne Counties. She also introduces CASA, a new program coming to the area that recruits and trains volunteers to advocate for children in the court system.

In this episode of Talk Around Town, Sean Hammond is joined by Russell County Judge Executive Randy Marcum to discuss the newly issued burn ban in the area due to dry conditions. Randy talks about the importance of the ban to prevent wildfires, how it's being enforced, and when it might be lifted. He also answers common questions about campfires and fire pits, emphasizing safety as people head into the Labor Day weekend.

Community Conversation on Laker Country 104.9 WJRS each weekday morning at 7:15 with Jeff Hoover. In this episode, the phone lines open for discussion on a proposed county ordinance that would allow ATVs and four-wheelers on county roads. Callers share their support, concerns, and safety questions as the community weighs in ahead of the upcoming fiscal court decision.

Sean Hammond chats with Rhonda Redmon from the Russell County Chamber of Commerce. Rhonda shares details about the upcoming Chamber Golf Scramble on September 18 at Lakewood Country Club, including how to register or sponsor, available prizes, and the community-building fun of the event.

Sean Hammond chats with Danielle Wilson, Tourism Director for Russell County. Danielle recaps a busy summer tourism season on Lake Cumberland and shares what's ahead as the county heads into fall — including Labor Day events, the county's bicentennial celebration, and the return of favorites like Food Truck Fridays and the Grinch-themed holiday festivities. Plus, hear about major upcoming events like the Bicentennial Festival, Tyler Rich concert, and the national fishing tournament coming next year.

Jeff is joined by Russell County Attorney Kevin Shearer for a candid discussion about the growing court dockets, juvenile cases, child support enforcement, and the challenges families face in today's community.

Russell County vs Adair County from Friday, August 22nd.

Sean Hammond and Zac Oakes interview the Current Events Class at Russell County High School this year.

Sean Hammond talks with Megan Gullett from the Russell County Extension Office about upcoming community classes. They cover food dehydration basics, disaster preparedness, and a two-part series on barbecue. Megan explains what participants can expect, why these skills matter, and how to get involved.