Laker Country 104.9

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.