Community Conversation 11-13

Jeff Hoover and Amy Stroud talk with the voice of Laker basketball, Adam Stille, about the upcoming Russell County High School basketball season. They discuss the Meet the Lakers event, upcoming games and scrimmages for the boys' and girls' teams, and the Lindsey Wilson Gosser State Farm Showcase. Stille also shares details about the annual Splash for Cash fundraiser, season passes, and what fans can look forward to as another season of Laker basketball gets underway.

Jeff Hoover and Amy Stroud talk with Russell County Middle School Principal Sarah Aaron about the school's latest Kentucky assessment and accountability results. They discuss the school's second consecutive green rating, strong performance in reading and math, and scores that exceeded state averages across all tested subjects. Aaron also shares how teachers are focusing on individual student growth, creating a positive school environment, and improving attendance as the state prepares to make changes to its accountability system.

Jeff Hoover and Amy Stroud present a special Veterans Day edition of Community Conversation, honoring the brave men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Throughout the program, they recognize more than 100 veterans whose names were submitted by listeners, including those who served in World War II, Korea, Vietnam, and more recent conflicts. The special tribute celebrates their service, sacrifice, and the lasting impact veterans have made on Russell County and our nation.

Jeff Hoover and Amy Stroud talk with Lake Cumberland Tourism Assistant Director Crystal Popplewell about upcoming holiday events in Russell County. They discuss the annual Grinch event on December 3rd and 4th, featuring ice skating, food trucks, vendors, and visits from Santa and the Grinch. Popplewell also shares details about Christmas on the Square, the upcoming Christmas parade, and her completion of the Certified Kentucky Tourism Professional program.

Jeff Hoover and Amy Stroud talk with Russell County Public Library Director Cody Gabehart about the library's growing services and programs. They discuss recent improvements to the Makery, including new equipment and creative opportunities, along with the library's redesigned website and expanding digital archives. Gabehart also shares plans to make genealogy records available online, highlights upcoming activities, and encourages residents to enjoy the library's outdoor green space and lighted walking track.

Jeff Hoover and Amy Stroud talk with Russell County High School Principal Jordan Turner about the school's 2025–2026 Kentucky assessment and accountability results. They discuss the school's overall yellow rating, its graduation rate of nearly 96%, and areas needing improvement, particularly math and reading. Turner also shares plans to improve student achievement, strengthen school culture, increase college and career readiness, and build Laker pride through initiatives like Laker Fridays.

Jeff Hoover and Amy Stroud talk with Kevin Johnson and Stacy Moran about the 29th Annual Revin' and Ravin' Car Show and Swap Meet happening Saturday at the Russell County Fairgrounds. They discuss this year's 1980s theme, the addition of a vendors fair, tractor show, and impaired driving simulator, along with the wide variety of vehicles and activities planned. They also highlight how proceeds from the event support local families through Toys for Tots and food assistance programs.

Jeff Hoover and Amy Stroud talk with H.K. Cooper and Brittany Stephens about the upcoming 100th anniversary celebration of Jamestown First Baptist Church. They discuss the church's founding in 1926, and the church's history and traditions over the past century. They also highlight current church programs and invite the community to attend the special anniversary service and meal this Sunday at 10:30 a.m.

Jeff Hoover and Amy Stroud talk with Russell County Judge-Executive Randy Marcum about several issues affecting the county. They discuss the proposed entrance fee at Kendall Recreation Area, efforts to secure grant funding for a community paramedicine program, updates to the ambulance board, and the completion of county road projects. Marcum also shares an update on the county's financial condition and discusses the importance of supporting local businesses and enjoying what Russell County has to offer.

Jeff Hoover and Amy Stroud talk with Steve Jones, Richard Wooldridge, and Heath Tarter of the Lake Cumberland Fraternal Order of Police about the annual Shop with a Cop program. They discuss the upcoming dessert auction on November 14th at Jamestown Christian Church, how the fundraiser helps provide Christmas gifts and clothing for children in need, and ways the community can donate or sponsor a child. They also highlight the FOP's annual Christmas visit to Fair Oaks Nursing Home.