Appalachia Meets World

Continuing Recovery Month! In this episode Neil and Will sit down with the Director of Reentry and Employment Services Branch of the Commonwealth of Kentucky - Mr. Aaron Poynter. Led by Aaron, Kentucky’s Reentry program is getting national attention for its success and rapid adoption. From a Police Officer to Workforce Development, Aaron has built his career on the backs of Giants who have guided (or pushed) him every step of the way. Hear him describe the importance of walking alongside individuals as they take their own journey to sustainable employment. Empowerment, self-worth and purpose are all words he uses to describe the impact of employment on the development of an individual person and how it significantly reduces recidivism. You can hear the passion he has for the work and how he goes about it full tilt everyday. During recovery month, take a listen to hear what almost everyone is striving for in life - a good job and to be happy. You might even hear why Neil has a little resentment for our guest and what he thinks about pumpkin flavor ("never in May"). Oh yeah, don't forget about the #AppBiz(s) of the week, Esto and Pollen8/Cafe Appalachia! Fall Foliage Prediction Map - https://smokymountains.com/fall-foliage-map App News: Prepped to Serve Appalachia (WV) - https://wvhealthright.org/prepped-to-serve-appalachia/ ASTRA-CON - www.moreheadstate.edu/academics/colleges/science/engineering-sciences/space-science-center/astra-con/ Best Small Towns in Appalachia - www.thetravel.com/best-small-towns-in-the-appalachians-for-a-weekend-retreat/ World Chicken Festival - https://chickenfestival.com #AppBiz: Esto Country Store and Cafe - https://estocountrycaferussellsprings.mybistro.online/#google_vignettehttps://www.facebook.com/p/Esto-Country-Store-Cafe-100063457096069/ Pollen8 (Cafe Appalachia) - https://pollen8wv.org https://cafeappalachia.org

It's a Rocky Mountain High with the monthly Economic Recovery Corps Fellows "Spin and Chat!" In this episode, Neil and Will sit down with ERC Fellow Sasha Nelson and Hosts John Bristol with the Routt County Economic Development Partnership and Christine Rambo with the Northwest Colorado Development Council. As a region that has a history of coal production, there's no surprise they speak about the similarities with their region and region's in Appalachia that are going through a just transition from coal. Take a listen as they describe the power of regionalization in their area and economic development in general. The Hosts organizations have a unique partnership working toward common goals and "sharing" Sasha to build upon their goals. You might even hear Will's first roller coaster ride (without supervision) and Neil's thoughts on asteroids. Also, don't forget about the #AppBiz of the week: Long's Pic Pac! Routt County Economic Development Partnership - https://rcedp.org Northwest Colorado Development Council - www.northwestcolorado.org Sasha Nelson - https://economicrecoverycorps.org/fellow-information/sasha-nelson/ App News: ARC Annual Conference 2024 - www.arc.gov/event/arc-2024-annual-conference/ EKU Appalachian Studies: "Students for Appalachia" - www.easternprogress.com/news/breaking-appalachian-stereotypes-students-for-appalachia/article_a2461810-6557-11ef-8d8e-2bd2e9260b73.html Appalachian Collegiate Research Initiative - www.arc.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/ACRI-Map.png SOAR Annual Summit - https://soar-ky.org/soar-summit24/ #AppBiz: Long's Pic Pac - www.publicnewsservice.org/2024-08-28/energy-policy/what-an-extra-15-000-a-year-means-for-a-rural-kentucky-grocer/a92087-1 Extra: Fireball over Appalachia - www.aol.com/news/very-bright-fireball-lights-appalachia-204634190.html King's Island - www.visitkingsisland.com Rocky Mountain Oysters - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rocky_Mountain_oysters

It's National Recovery Month! In this episode, Neil and Will sit down with Dr. Daniel Moore and Sarah Laurel, two experts on chronic hepatitis C (HCV) and the link to injection drug use. While not from the region, they speak specifically about the health effects of this in Appalachia. Leading into National Recovery Month in September, the numbers of this disease are staggering. Approximately 2.4 million Americans are living with HCV, with cases more than doubling over the past ten years with the opioid epidemic exacerbating the rise. Today, it is estimated that 50% of people who inject drugs are also living with HCV. Hear Dr. Moore and Sarah speak on the importance of education and outreach as approximately 40% of people living with it are totally unaware they have it. Take a listen as they advocate for interventions and the possibility of elimination...does that mean there is a cure? Listen and find out! You might even hear Neil's jealousy as it pertains to a another brother duo from the "big city." Also, don't forget about the #AppBiz(s) of the week: Reintegrate Appalachia; and Dirty Girl Coffee! Savage Sisters Recovery - www.savagesisters.org App News: The "Scruffy Little City" of Knoxville, TN - www.cnn.com/travel/knoxville-tennessee-best-towns-america/index.html Hydrogen Hub Opening - www.ideastream.org/environment-energy/2024-08-26/appalachian-hydrogen-hub-opens-some-question-if-it-will-bring-clean-energy Healing Appalachia - https://healingappalachia.org AppBiz: Reintegrate Appalachia - www.reintegrateappalachia.org Dirty Girl Coffee - www.dirtygirlcoffee.com

It's the most wonderful time of the year...it's football time in the Mountains! You can smell it in the air! In our annual kickoff to football episode, Neil and Will sit down with an icon in High School Mountain Football lore - Coach John Hines. In a turn of events of the past year, Coach Hines left a storied tradition he built in one small community in Appalachia to now lead another mountain community - in hopes they to can make it to the "promise land" of Kroger Field (or Commonwealth Stadium as some would say)! He'll explain why the change of scenery and what gives him motivation to keep coaching. He'll share with the guys the significance of sport on small town communities and how it just hits a little different in Appalachia. Take a listen as he goes into his own career and how, if given the chance, he would still be playing the game he still most passionately loves. If you're a fan of football, or just small town community in general, he speaks to the heart of all Appalachians - and wears "a big hat." You might even hear Neil explain why one person may be the reason for an entire sport to be "cancelled." Also, don't forget the #AppBiz of the week: Martin's (Truck Parts/Peterbilt)! Oh yeah - don't forget to pick up the DVD!! Coach John Hines/SL Touchdown Club - www.sltouchdownclub.com Coach John Hines DVD: www.championshipproductions.com/cgi-bin/champ/p/Football/Johnny-Hines-Building-a-Championship-3-4-Defense-for-High-School-Football_FD-04681.html App News: ACC The Green Bank for Rural America - https://greenbankforruralamerica.org Jean Hall Passing - https://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/betty-jean-hall-advocate-paved-women-enter-coal-112963910 ARC ARISE (Tourism) - www.arc.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/2024.08-ARISE-Project-Snapshot-WVU.pdf ARC ARISE (Aviation) - www.arc.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/2024.07-ARISE-Project-Snapshot-Ohio-University.pdf www.perrytribune.com/news/ohio-university-s-voinovich-school-gets-funding-for-aviation-upgrade-in-appalachian-counties/article_df8e65fa-598c-11ef-943e-3b9626e2f06e.html Absenteeism in Appalachia KY - www.bgdailynews.com/news/educating-kentucky-what-happens-when-kids-stop-coming-toschool/article_43b0212c-5ade5b29afb2d445bbf49748.htmlutm_source=bgdailynews.com&utm_campaign=%2Fnewsletters%2Fheadlines%2F%3Fdc%3D1723726863&utm_medium=email&utm_content=read%20more #AppBiz: Martin's Truck Parts/Peterbilt - www.martinspeterbilt.com

In this episode - it's totally different! (Sorry for the hiatus last week - a bit of a reprieve for the end of summer) This episode is not like the others...Neil and Will get the tables turned and become the interviewees. Mick flips the script and allows the listeners to get to know Neil and Will a little better and see how they think in general, and about each other. Being on the other side of the mic isn't always easy, but take a listen as Neil and Will get personal and describe the importance of place on the decisions in their life. It's still the same Neil and Will though...you can take the guys out of Appalachia, but, you know the rest. Stay tuned for part 2!!

This episode is a throwback in honor of the last "Country Music Highway Tribute Show" of the year (put on by Shaping Our Appalachian Region - or SOAR)!! The final CMH Tribute Show is taking place in Ashland, KY on August 2nd and 3rd! One of the headliners is an old guest of ours - Corduroy Brown! If you didn't listen to the episode previously, we got you covered with this throwback! His style is not typical "Appalachian", but he's Appalachian through and through. If you're in the Ashland area, or want to drive to check out a FREE show - check him and the other acts out. For more information, check out the following and take a listen!! www.cmhtributeshow.com www.corduroy-brown.com

In this special episode Neil and Will reveal a story published by West Virginia Public Broadcasting. Immigrants were a major part of forming what we now know as Appalachia. The guys venture into Wheeling West Virginia to bring a story to life that has been part of the culture in Wheeling for over 100 years. Take a listen as they describe the twist on the Appalachian Dumpling - "The Pierogi!" You might even hear about Neil's favorite olympic sport. Also, don't forget the #AppBiz of the week: Pierogi Plus! Pierogi Story: West Virginia Public Broadcasting (hit "Listen" to hear the audio) - https://wvpublic.org/a-ukrainian-church-in-wheeling-is-preserving-heritage-through-the-making-of-pierogies/ App News: Appalachian Leadership Institute Graduates - www.arc.gov/news/40-fellows-graduate-from-the-appalachian-leadership-institute-2024/ Americorps in Appalachia - https://americorps.gov/newsroom/press-release/biden-harris-administration-announces-new-americorps-project-spur-economic Hip Hop in Appalachia (a curation) - https://qcnerve.com/hip-hop-in-appalachia/ #AppBiz: Pierogi Plus - https://pierogiesplus.com

It's the monthly Economic Recovery Corps Fellow "Spin and Chat!" In this episode, Neil and Will sit down with the ERC Fellow Gaby Seltzer and surprise guest Bret Sweet of the City of Antioch, CA. This is the first interview with a Fellow and their Host! Hear them both describe the ERC process and their reasoning behind deciding to pursue the path of Fellowship...from both perspectives. You'll hear some challenges, but also the instant impact they are seeing from the tasks being performed, but also from the capacity building opportunity that the ERC Fellowship affords. Take a listen as they display their passion for the area and how their work is making a difference...while getting a glimpse into what makes them tick and their apparent fascination with food - and Cracker Barrel. You might even hear Neil's opinion on an iconic moment (sad but true) in American History...and some Appalachia books you can read - other than "Hillbilly Elegy." Also, don't forget the #AppBiz(s) of the week: Idly Dosa Cafe; and CoBiz Richmond! Gaby Seltzer (and ERC Project) - https://economicrecoverycorps.org/fellow-information/gaby-seltzer/ Bret Sweet - https://bretsweet.com City of Antioch - www.antiochca.gov App News: ARC Chartbook - www.arc.gov/about-the-appalachian-region/the-chartbook/ Rare Earth Elements (in Appalachia) - https://apnews.com/article/rare-earth-elements-clean-energy-national-security-7a4aee1c88dad6543b6f67f22f0580aa 10 Books to Read after "HE" - https://people.com/10-appalachian-books-to-read-after-hillbilly-elegy-8678815 #AppBiz: Idly Dosa Cafe - www.dosa.company CoBiz Richmond - www.cobizrichmond.com

In this episode Neil and Will sit down with Claudean Oakley a past nursing director, naturalist and wellness expert that has written a book "Pastology", about not letting your past predict your future. More specifically, it was an opportunity for her to remind Appalachians, they are becoming highly esteemed; they appreciate their surroundings, culture, past history and embrace opportunities to grow. In a time when a lot of Appalachian Authors are writing about the natural beauty, poverty or coal mining - this book takes a different reflection, specifically on the past. Take a listen as Claudean describes her own past and how she took insight from viewing cadavers, among other things. In addition, some like it hot - that would be Neil and Will - and it's someone's bday! Also, don't forget the #AppBiz of the week: Love is Real Wellness Cafe! App News: ARC ARISE - www.arc.gov/news/arc-awards-nearly-1-6-million-to-expand-outdoor-tourism-and-sustainable-aviation/ ARC Chartbook - www.arc.gov/about-the-appalachian-region/the-chartbook/ #AppBiz: Love is Real Wellness Cafe - www.facebook.com/loveisrealwellness/ Extra: Boone's Ridge - https://boonesridge.com

In this episode Neil and Will sit down with Lynn Faust a self trained expert on Fireflies...or Lightning Bugs as she prefers to keep it - some would even say she's the "Lightning Bug Lady." From caring for her children in her 30's in a cabin in Elkmont Tennessee to being one of the most reputable firefly experts in the world, Lynn's passion has taken her throughout the Appalachians and beyond. It's her passion for those mountains and the Appalachian region that shines through the most. Hear from Lynn as she describes how her passion for lightning bugs grew (slowly) and how she got to where she is today. She further explains the science behind synchronization and how even the darkness can be mind blowing. Ever wonder if you can ever catch the synchronization and where to even look? Take a listen to find out some of Lynn's favorite locations to see the synchronous fireflies and how your own backyard can be just as magical. A mason jar with holes in the lid can quickly take me back to my childhood - chasing fireflies - hear Lynn explain that experience is overwhelming at any age. Her book, "Fireflies, Glow-Worms and Lightning Bugs" was one of the first comprehensive firefly guides that DIDN'T just belong in the children's section at your local library. Lynn's expertise and sheer enthusiasm for nature and lightning bugs "lights" up this magical epsisode...sit back and let her explain. You might even hear about Neil's annual explosion and hear some sound from a "Reed" experience Neil and Will went through on vacation last week...oh yeah, the guys took a little hiatus last week - a much needed vacation with the family. Also, don't forget the #AppBiz of the week: New River Gorge Eco Tours! Lynn Faust - https://ugapress.org/author/lynn-frierson-faust/ "Fireflies, Glow-Worms and Lightning Bugs" - https://ugapress.org/book/9780820348728/fireflies-glow-worms-and-lightning-bugs/ App News: Healing Appalachia - https://healingappalachia.org Country Music Highway Tribute Show in Louisa, July 12-13 - https://soar-ky.org/cmh/ Museum of Appalachia Annual Independence Day Anvil Shoot - www.museumofappalachia.org/independence-day/ #AppBiz: New River Gorge Eco Tours - www.newrivergorgeecotours.com Extra: Reed Sheppard Draft Day - www.cbssports.com/nba/news/reed-sheppard-to-rockets-with-no-3-pick-in-nba-draft-2024-kentucky-freshman-standout-lands-in-houston/ Mic'd Up - www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1602245000349376

In this episode we're having a throwback Friday (while Neil's on vacation) to commemorate the Juneteenth holiday. It's a throwback with DeJuana Thompson as she talks about the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute that enlightens each generation about civil and human rights in Appalachia and beyond. It works to explore our common past and work together in the present to build a better future. They stand strong as THE CORNERSTONE of the civil rights story, a living memorial with an ongoing mission. Take a listen... Birmingham Civil Rights Institute - www.bcri.org

In this monthly Economic Recovery Corps (ERC) Fellow "Spin and Chat," Neil and Will sit down with George Williams - someone who calls overseas home just as much as the states and current Fellow in Cleveland Ohio. Hear from George as he describes his role with the Fund for our Economic Future - a creative space for philanthropic funders and civic leaders to explore what matters and implement what works to achieve equitable economic growth, emphasizing systemic, long-term change. He also speaks about the challenges not only in Northeast Ohio, but with the Fellowship as well as the best parts and the reason this work resonates so deeply with his secret to success. "Oh, the places you'll go" - take a listen to George speak to his background, his travel desires and the real reason he chose the Host community in Cleveland - the empowerment of making an impact had something to do with it. You might even hear about Will's "smelly" problem or Neil's solution to get rid of it - there's nuances involved here. Also, don't forget about the #AppBiz of the week: R&R Fly Fishing! Economic Recovery Corps - www.economicrecoverycorps.org Fund for Our Economic Future - https://thefundneo.org App News: The Appalachian Fair - www.appalachianfair.com ETSU Center for Rural Health Research (ARISE) - www.etsu.edu/etsu-news/2024/06-june/crr-arc-arise-grant.php ARC Conference Registration (Open June 17th) - www.arc.gov/event/arc-2024-annual-conference/ #AppBiz: R&R Fly Fishing - https://randrflyfishing.com

This is a "Fall Back Friday" episode celebrating the Laurel Cove Music Festival that is happening this weekend (June 7th and 8th)...if you're near Pineville, KY definitely check it out (although it's sold out this year)! This episode is from last year with Jon Grace, the Bell County Tourism Director and Organizer of the Festival. Take a listen (it you didn't last year) to hear more about the festival and the area in general...and hear about what some refer to as the "RED ROCKS OF APPALACHIA" - the Laurel Cove!!!! The Laurel Cove Music Festival (2024) - www.laurelcovemusicfestival.com

In this (different) episode you'll hear a piece from "Inside Appalachia" about the Grand March of the 2023 Kentucky Mountain Laurel Festival. You'll also hear an acceptance speech from an "Honorary Director" of the 2024 Kentucky Mountain Laurel Festival - it might give you an idea of just how people from the community feel about the KMLF. We've spoken before about the importance of festivals in small town Appalachia. This episode is no different, highlighting one of our favorite festivals of all time. We may be biased, but it really is "something everyone should experience at least once." Till next time... "Inside Appalachia" (Folkways Report) - https://wvpublic.org/ball-gowns-curtsies-and-a-queen-pineville-kentucky-hosts-elaborate-dance-tradition-with-polish-roots/

Readin, Rightin, Route 23!! THE COUNTRY MUSIC HIGHWAY! In this episode Neil and Will sit down with Kirsten Wilburn and Kristin Brown Norman of Shaping Our Appalachian Region (SOAR) to talk about the Country Music Highway - or Route 23! Kentucky's Country Music Highway has produced more stars per square mile than any stretch of roadway in the world. These two individuals are in charge of putting together a tribute show(s) that not only celebrates those stars of the past, but the future stars as well. It's important for a region to recognize and celebrate its assets and in Eastern Kentucky there are no better assets than the people. Hear Kirsten and Kristin talk about the upcoming tribute shows and why SOAR decided to put them together in the first place. It's more than just the music, however, the locations and entrepreneurial activity is just as important to highlight and support - there's "magic in them mountains," something the guys are reminded of time and time again. Take a listen to hear what The Country Music Highway is all about and why Route 23 has made and continues to make a significant impact in the region. You might even hear Neil give his take on the Top 5 Appalachian Songs and why he has decided he needs "to get out more - or add to his list." Also, don't forget the #AppBiz(s) - or in this case #AppTown(s) - of the week: Russel, Louisa and Ashland - KY! Country Music Highway Tribute Shows - www.cmhtributeshow.com Spotify Playlist 2024 Country Music Highway Tribute Shows - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/76cHcI7cx46D2MA4EwNIc3?si=ef281937614c4d75 County Music Highway Museum - https://paintsvilletourism.com/us-23-country-music-highway-museum-2/ SOAR - www.soar-ky.org App News: Invest Appalachia Fund - https://investappalachia.org/ia-fund-closes-35m/ Virginia Tech Hydrogen Future in Appalachia - https://news.vt.edu/articles/2024/04/a-hydrogen-future-seeks-sustainable-energy-and-economic-growth-f.html#:~:text=Category%3A%20research-,A%20hydrogen%20future%20could%20offer%20sustainable%20energy%20and%20economic%20growth,new%20economic%20and%20job%20opportunities Appalachia's Stalled Revival - https://thespectator.com/topic/appalachia-stalled-revival-development/ Seven Geological Wonders in Appalachia - https://appvoices.org/2024/05/09/seven-wonders/ INSIDE APPALACHIA on WVPB - https://wvpublic.org/podcasts/inside-appalachia/ 5 Songs of Appalachia - https://americansongwriter.com/5-songs-that-will-remind-you-of-growing-up-in-appalachia/ #AppBiz(s): Russell - www.russellky.net Louisa - www.cityoflouisa.org -Lawrence County Tourism Commission - https://visitlcky.com Ashland - www.ashlandky.gov -Visit AKY - https://visitaky.com EXTRA: Miguel's Pizza (Red River Gorge) - www.miguelspizza.com MUSIC (in episode, in order): 1) Readin' Rightin' Route 23 - Dwight Yoakam 2) Shake the Frost - Tyler Childers 3) Fishin' in the Dark - Nitty Gritty Dirt Band 4) Roll That Rock - Bobby and Teddi Cyrus 5) Long Haired Southern Hippie - Joe Clark 6) Till the Bitter End - Johnathon Cox 7) Those Were The Days - Cory Michael Harris 8) You'll Never Leave Harlan Alive - Patty Loveless

It's almost FESTIVAL SEASON in Appalachia!!! In this episode Will and (sans) Neil sit down with Pineville Schools. Through the Innovative Approaches to Literacy (IAL) Program Samantha North and Shannon Elliott applied for a grant through the Smithsonian Institute to allow a group of students to produce a documentary about the Kentucky Mountain Laurel Festival (the oldest festival on record in the Commonwealth of Kentucky). Speaking to nostalgia for the guys, here how Shannon and Samantha guided the students, not only through the process but through the significance of the festival itself. For a lot of people from Pineville the KMLF is more than just a festival, it's a sense of belonging, a sense of place. Take a listen to hear what it now means to Shannon and Samantha and how that carried over to the students. It proved to provide a sense of purpose for the students, one that they could learn to appreciate where they're from. Also, don't forget about the #AppBiz(s) of the week (for Youth Apprenticeship Week): DataSeam; and Cornett Farm Fresh! Smithsonian Museum on Main Street - https://museumonmainstreet.org "When the Mountain Laurel Blooms: Embracing Tradition in Pineville, KY" - https://museumonmainstreet.org/content/when-mountain-laurel-blooms-embracing-tradition-pineville-kentucky Mountain Lion News - www.youtube.com/@Mtnlionnews/videos Kentucky Mountain Laurel Festival - www.kmlf.org App News: Mother's Day (in Appalachia) - www.history.com/topics/holidays/mothers-day Foxfire Mother's of Appalachia Book: Article (Garden and Gun) - https://gardenandgun.com/articles/why-foxfire-still-resonates/ Appalachian Sustainable Finance Hub Launch Event - www.heartlandfinancehub.org/launch?emci=20b528c3-a908-ef11-96f3-7c1e521b07f9&emdi=ea000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000001&ceid=%7B%7BContactsEmailID%7D%7D ARC Arise $1.7 Million - www.arc.gov/news/arc-awards-nearly-1-7-million-to-grow-workforces-in-cybersecurity-infrastructure-and-housing-capacity-across-six-appalachian-states/ Youth Apprenticeship Week - https://blog.dol.gov/2024/05/06/youth-apprenticeship-week-is-here Festival (State) Guide - https://festivalguidesandreviews.com #AppBiz: DataSeam - www.kydataseam.com Cornett Farm Fresh - www.cornettfarmfresh.com

In this inaugural (and monthly) Economic Recovery Corps (ERC) Fellow "Spin and Chat," Neil and Will sit down with Mick Thornton - a self described builder of things and current Fellow in San Juan County, Utah. In a previous episode (episode 139) Nathan Ohle, President and CEO of the International Economic Development Council, explained the purpose of the ERC - as described on the website - "a new collaborative initiative designed to accelerate recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic in distressed communities and regions throughout the U.S. by connecting organizations with the talent and capacity needed to advance new ways of doing economic development that promote economic resilience and transformative change." It connects a Fellow to a Host community in order to build capacity and drive transformative change. Mick Thorton is one of those Fellows! Hear from Mick as he describes why he applied and all about his project in San Juan, UT - and how challenges there (and other regions) are much more similar to challenges in Appalachia than they are different. You'll also hear about Mick's background, what he hopes to accomplish and maybe a little about the "adventure" he and his family have been on the two years prior to accepting the fellowship - in the end, it's about the people! As a former Pastor and Radio Host, those learned skills for Mick have seamlessly been adapted to the ever expanding (and new) field of economic development - or as Mick describes, a field built on connections. Take a listen to get a true understanding of why Mick does what he does - and how the region he works in is better for it. You might even hear Neil and Will talk about the "greatest two minutes in sports" - or why Neil has turned his back on the unofficial drink of Kentucky. Also, don't forget about the #AppBiz of the week: Horse Soldier! Learn about the Fellow: https://economicrecoverycorps.org/fellow-information/rev-mick-thornton-b-a-m-div/ Learn about the Host (San Juan County, UT) Project: https://economicrecoverycorps.org/projects/ Mick's Minute - www.micksminute.com The Good Talk (App) - www.thegoodtalkapp.com App News: Connect Humaniy/Microsoft IDEA Fund in Appalachia - https://connecthumanity.fund/idea-fund-partnership-microsoft/ Ohio Grant for Recreational Opportunities and Quality of Life in Appalachia - https://governor.ohio.gov/media/news-and-media/transformative-154-million-investment-in-appalachian-downtowns-and-destinations#:~:text=The%20%24154%20million%20will%20be,where%20these%20opportunities%20have%20not PBS Docuseries Episode 2 on Appalachia with Amythyst Kiah (article) - www.johnsoncitypress.com/living/arts-entertainment/amythyst-kiah-to-be-featured-in-new-pbs-docuseries/article_8010291e-023f-11ef-8c53-2731d0dc7c32.html PBS Docuseries Episode 2 "The Express Way with Dule Hill" - www.pbs.org/video/appalachia-dbxwz4/ SOAR Country Music Highway Tribute Show(s) - www.cmhtributeshow.com SOAR Country Music Highway Tribute Show Facebook Page - www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558753064401 #AppBiz: Horse Soldier - https://horsesoldierbourbon.com Extras: The Round Robin Bar ("Mint Julep Bar") in DC - https://washington.intercontinental.com/food-drink/round-robin-bar/ The Mint Julep (Official Kentucky Derby Recipe) - www.kentuckyderby.com/recipes/drinks/woodford-reserve-mint-julep/ Music: "Achy Breaky Heart" - Billy Ray Cyrus "Up" (Mick's Choice) - Forrest Frank "Black Myself" - Amythyst Kiah

In this episode Will and (minus) Neil sit down with the "Beattyville Hillbillies!" Donnie Benton and Teresa Mays are the founders of the Backwoods Moonshine Museum in Appalachia Kentucky - a stop on the "Moonshine Trail." While the Bourbon Trail is often thought of when thinking Kentucky, the Moonshine Trail is more on the Appalachian side of the state and speaks to the rich heritage and history moonshine has in Appalachia. Take a listen as Donnie and Teresa talk about starting the museum and their history with the spirit...not to mention their stint on "Moonshiners." AMW has spoken before about the importance of festivals in small town Appalachia; hear from the "Beattyville Hillbillies" as they talk about a fairly new (in its fourth year) festival that the history of moonshine has brought to their small town. You might even hear Donnie speak of "knowing a guy that knows a guy." If nothing else, check 'em out - as they admit, it's truly in the backwoods! Also, don't forget about the #AppBiz(s) of the week: Barrel House Distilling Company; Regeneration Distilling Company; Kentucky Mist Distillery; Kentucky Mountain Moonshine; and Pauley Hollow Distillery! Backwoods Moonshine Museum - www.backwoodsmoonshinemuseum.com Moonshine Trail - www.moonshinetrail.com The Beattyville Hillbillies - www.facebook.com/p/Donnie-Teresa-The-Beattyville-Hillbillies-Backwoods-Moonshine-Museum-100039862821268/ Beattyville Bourbon and Moonshine Festival - www.beattyvillebourbonandmoonshinefest.com App News: Solar for All Program (KY) - https://kentuckylantern.com/briefs/kentucky-to-receive-62-million-to-expand-solar-energy-access-to-low-income-households/ ARC READY Local Governments Initiative - www.arc.gov/news/arc-selects-90-local-governments-to-receive-no-cost-training-access-to-funding-through-ready-local-governments-initiative/ #AppBiz(s): Barrel House Distilling Company - www.barrelhousedistillery.com Regeneration Distilling Company - www.regenerationdistilling.com Kentucky Mist Distillery - www.kentuckymist.com Kentucky Mountain Moonshine - www.kentuckymountainmoonshine.com Pauley Hollow Distillery - www.pauleyhollowdistillery.com Extra: The Bobcat Dairy Bar - www.facebook.com/thebobcatdairybar/ Brenda's BBQ Smoke Shack - www.facebook.com/BrendasSmokeShack/

Sorry for missing last week...we had a few technical (and timing) difficulties...but, like BBN (and poltergeist) - WE'RE BACK!! In this episode, Neil and Will throw it back to their favorite Appalachian Food episode of all time, with the "King of Country Ham" - Allan Benton! We also discuss the Appalachian Appetizer Final Four and who was crowned the 2024 Champion - definitely "one shining moment!" No sleepers here, there were definitely some blue bloods in the mix! Take a listen to find out which appetizer was crowned the fan favorite! We also talked about a few upcoming App News items, check 'em out in the notes below! Till next time remember to be - "Always Appalachian!" Grandma Gatewood One Act Play: https://lorainpalace.com/emma-gatewood-are-you-out-of-your-bloomin-mind-sunday-may-19th-at-200-pm-15/ https://www.morningjournal.com/2024/04/08/nathan-perry-chapter-fundraiser-to-feature-one-act-play-on-emma-gatewood/ ARC Appalachian Leadership Institute (deadline for applications is June 1st!!) - www.arc.gov/academies-and-institutes/leadership/ ARC Appalachian Entrepreneurship Academy - https://www.arc.gov/academies-and-institutes/aea/ ARC Appalachian STEM Academy - https://www.arc.gov/academies-and-institutes/stem/

In this episode Neil and Will throwback to a previous "food" episode with Melissa Booth Hall of the Southern Foodways Alliance (SFA). First though, they spend some time breaking down the Sweet Sixteen of Appalachian Appetizers! The Final Four has been set, take a listen to find out what has made the list. The guys also talk about how food is a uniter among people, not just in Appalachia but in most cultures. Find out how food is a bit nostalgic for them both - and the best way to cook a roast! Southern Foodways Alliance - www.southernfoodways.org #App News: Startup Appalachian Pitch Competition (SOAR) - https://soar-ky.org/accepting-applications-2024-soar-startup-appalachia-pitch-competition/