Laker Country 104.9

Jeff Hoover talks with Dr. Emiley Button, Director of Nursing at Lindsey Wilson University, about the school's new fully online RN to BSN program. They discuss how the program helps working nurses earn their bachelor's degree, partnerships with area hospitals and Somerset Community College, tuition assistance opportunities, and the growing demand for nurses across Kentucky.

Jeff Hoover talks with Gordon Lester of the Russell County Family Resource and Youth Services Center about the annual Back to School Bash at the Russell County Fairgrounds. They discuss free backpacks, school supplies, food, and community support available to Russell County students, along with the year-round work Family Resource Centers do to help local children and families succeed in school.

Jeff Hoover talks with Betty McQueary, Director of Laboratory Services at Russell County Hospital, about the hospital's annual Community Health Screening. Betty discusses the strong turnout, what tests are included in the $20 screening, the importance of early detection for conditions such as infections, anemia, and prostate cancer, and how participants can quickly access their results. She also explains the convenience of the screening process and thanks the Russell County School System and hospital staff for helping make the event a success.

Former Laker football coach Lucas Ford discusses taking over as director of the Russell County Youth Football League. He shares details on upcoming registration dates, a free youth football camp, and plans to grow the program by teaching fundamentals, building character, and creating a strong foundation for the future of Laker football. Lucas also highlights the importance of community support and getting young athletes involved early in the game.

Russell County Public Library Director Cody Gabehart discusses one of the library's biggest summers ever, with record attendance at programs and events, including the popular RCPL Con. He also shares updates on The Green project, featuring a new sensory play space, walking trail, and community pavilion, while highlighting upcoming back-to-school initiatives, tutoring opportunities, and expanded programming designed to serve families and students throughout the year.

In this episode of Community Conversation, Jeff Hoover welcomes Russell County Family and Consumer Sciences Agent Megan Gullett to discuss the many programs and services offered through the Russell County Extension Office. Megan shares updates on a busy summer that included 4-H Camp, county fair activities, and canning classes, while highlighting upcoming opportunities for the community.

The conversation covers Extension Homemakers clubs, volunteer efforts, the local book club, food preservation classes, pressure canner testing, and upcoming cooking demonstrations featuring healthy recipes and easy family meals. Megan also explains how residents can get involved in Extension programs and stay connected through the Russell County Extension Office.

Jeff Hoover welcomes members of the Adair County 16U All-Star Girls Softball Team and assistant coach Grace Loy. The team recently captured the Kentucky Senior League Softball State Championship and was competing in the Super Regional Tournament in Lawrenceburg.

Coach Loy and players from both Russell County and Adair County discuss their championship run, the chemistry between the combined team, their journey through the tournament, and their hopes of advancing to the national championship. Hear from the young athletes about their love for the game, teamwork, and representing their communities on the softball field. 

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.