April 29, 2025 • 29 mins
The Bluegrass State’s world-renowned Bourbon Industry is booming — and this week we’re talking with Eric Gregory, President of the Kentucky Distillers’ Association, about the economic impact, global reach, and the bold future of bourbon. From heritage brands to new craft distilleries, you'll hear how Kentucky continues to lead the world in America’s native spirit amid tarriff and other challenges.
Plus — it's a milestone moment for the Kentucky Derby Museum as it celebrates 40 years of preserving the legacy of the most exciting two minutes in sports. We’ll sit down with Katrina Helmer to explore what it takes to keep Derby history alive, the behind-the-scenes care that goes into curating one of Kentucky’s crown jewels, and what exciting exhibits and experiences are on the horizon. From the barrel to the backstretch — it’s a show steeped in tradition, innovation, and Kentucky spirit.
Plus — it's a milestone moment for the Kentucky Derby Museum as it celebrates 40 years of preserving the legacy of the most exciting two minutes in sports. We’ll sit down with Katrina Helmer to explore what it takes to keep Derby history alive, the behind-the-scenes care that goes into curating one of Kentucky’s crown jewels, and what exciting exhibits and experiences are on the horizon. From the barrel to the backstretch — it’s a show steeped in tradition, innovation, and Kentucky spirit.
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Episode Transcript
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Speaker 1 (00:03):
And welcome to Kentucky, Folcus, where the stories of our
commonwealth come to life. I'm Scon Fitzgerald and we're coming
to you from historic Churchill Down's taking you behind the
scenes of two of the Bluegrass State's most iconic traditions,
Bourbon and the Derby itself. As the eyes of the
world turned to the Twin Spires, there's another Kentucky signature
drawing global attention, Berbon.
Speaker 2 (00:24):
And it's more than just a drink.
Speaker 1 (00:25):
It's a nine billion dollar economic engine, deeply woven into
our culture or economy, and yes, even our sense of pride.
This week, we're joined by Eric Gregory, president of the
Kentucky Distillers Association, to talk about the state of the
bourbon industry, how it's growing, where it's headed, and how
it remains right here in Kentucky.
Speaker 2 (00:42):
Yes, even about those tariffs.
Speaker 1 (00:44):
And later we'll head over to the Kentucky Derby Museum,
just a stone's throw for the Twin Spires, where they're
celebrating their fortieth anniversary. Betrina Helmer joins us to reflect
on four decades of Derby storytelling and how they're honoring
the history, pageantry, and magic that make this race more
than just two minutes of excitement. So whether you're in
the infield at home with them and Julip are just
(01:05):
soaking in the spirit of the season.
Speaker 2 (01:06):
We're glad you're with us.
Speaker 1 (01:08):
It is the Kentucky Derby and the Bluegrass and this
is Kentucky Focus.
Speaker 3 (01:13):
Welcome to Kentucky Focus on the Kentucky News Network, the
show that looks at issues affecting the Commonwealth and it's citizens.
We cover state politics, in history, human interest stories, sports,
and even entertainment. It's Kentucky Focus on kNN.
Speaker 4 (01:32):
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Speaker 5 (02:32):
The word father means a lot to me. Be in
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(02:56):
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(03:18):
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Speaker 2 (03:34):
Oh with the Kentucky Derby just around the corner.
Speaker 1 (03:36):
All eyes of course on the Bluegrass State, not just
for the horses, hats and men julips, but for one
of our proudest exports, Bermitt joining us is somebody knows
about the heartbeat of that industry better than most. Eric Gregory.
He is the president of the Kentucky Distiller's Association.
Speaker 8 (03:51):
Eric.
Speaker 2 (03:51):
Welcome back, Hey Scott, Thanks for having me.
Speaker 1 (03:53):
Always great to talk to you this time of year,
my friend. And we'll get into some of the interesting
things that are going on with bourbon. But I want
to start out by you know, bourbon's become really a
global phenomenon, and this will lead to other conversations down
the road. It wasn't that long ago though bourbon was
considered our grandfather's drink.
Speaker 2 (04:10):
What has sparked this bourbon rush lately?
Speaker 9 (04:13):
Yeah, man, you're so right. Well, there's three things that's
happened in the past. I'm gonna say twenty years or
so that's really contributed to the bourbon boom. One of
them were the free trade deals that we passed in
the nineteen nineties, the NATA deal with US with Canada,
Mexico and then the EU deal, and that finally put
us on a level playing field from a tariff standpoint
(04:34):
with Scotch and allowed to stampete with them on a
global scale. The second is the rise of the premium bourbons.
You know, the single barrel and small batch whiskeys that
we've been producing are some of the best whiskeys that
the Bluegrass has ever crafted. And not only are they
fantastic to sith or put on rocks, but they make
(04:56):
incredible cocktails, which leads me to the third point, the
mad Men Revolution. The classic cocktails are back in vogue.
And when people watch mad Man, if you're still you know,
that's been a long ago when Madman was all right,
if you still remember Madman, Don Draper was muddling his
old old fashion and people were like, man, I want
(05:16):
to see what that tastes like.
Speaker 3 (05:18):
And so the old.
Speaker 9 (05:18):
Fashion, the Manhattan, and the jewlip that you mentioned, all
those are among the top drinks again at the world's
best restaurants and bars and suddenly Bourbon takes off.
Speaker 2 (05:29):
Wow.
Speaker 1 (05:30):
Eric Gregory joining us when he's president of the Kentucky
Distillers Association talking to him during this Derby week, of course,
that is going to be front and center, right alongside
the horses. And you know, it's been quite a ride, Eric,
but not without its bumps. One of the biggest hurdles
in most recent years, of course, has become the international
terror situation. How hard has that hit Kentucky distillers And
(05:50):
do we see any light at the end of the tunnel?
Speaker 9 (05:53):
Yeah, this has been a rough time and it's really
been a rough time because it's frustrating that a lot
of these trade decisions are really you know, out of
our control. They're above our pay grade. And when you
look at the ten years between about two thousand and
eight and twenty seventeen, before the tariffs took effect, our
exports were up over one hundred percent, and you know,
(06:14):
again leading to you know, this incredible growth here in
the Commonwealth of Bourbon and expansion with the distilleries. Since
the tariffs hit in twenty eighteen, not only we lost
all that momentum, we have gone down over twenty percent
and exports that you know, we got some reprieves during
that time point. We worked some things out during that
(06:36):
time with Canada and Mexico, so that one wasn't much
of a blip really on the international radar. The EU
one was the one that really I think took a
bite out of us most during those days. And you know,
that is our largest export market. Canada is our largest
export country, but the EU is our largest export market.
(06:57):
So when when those tears were paused for a couple
of years to the EU, you know, we started to
climb back and get some of those those sales back.
But now with you know, the situation we got going
on in Canada, Mexico, the EU is paused again, thankfully,
because that was going to come back at fifty percent.
(07:20):
You know, that would have been devastating. So you know,
we're we're very anxious right now. I guess I would
say to get back to the zero to zero tariffs
that we'd had for you know, twenty plus years that
allowed us really to expand and invest not only overseas
but here in the Commonwealth and create more jobs. And
(07:41):
you know, it's again just just frustrating, but you know,
we were under a ninety day pause right now, and
we hope that we can, you know, get some negotiations
going amon world leaders and really get America's need a
spirit back on the shelves and back overseas.
Speaker 1 (08:00):
Eric Gregory joining US, president of the Kentucky Distillers Association,
Bourbon's certainly saying it's no, it's fair share of ups
and downs.
Speaker 2 (08:07):
We'll put it that way.
Speaker 1 (08:08):
Eric, Let's turn to a much more I guess, enjoyable
side of the story when it comes to Bourbon. Now,
the Derby season is here. That means big crowds. How
many visitors do you expect to pass through distillery doors
during this week?
Speaker 3 (08:21):
Really?
Speaker 9 (08:21):
Oh gosh, thousands? I would say. Last year we set
another record with two point seven million visits to the
Kentucky Bourbon Trail and we now have over sixty distilleries
on the Bourbon Trail. Who are you know? And again
those are from the truly large ones you know, like
Beam and Whooper Reserve and o Forester, downtown Louisville, Evan
(08:43):
Williams and things like that, to the small ones you know,
located around Louisville and even in Louisville like Kentucky Peerless
and Buzzard's Roosts, and you know all these great distilleries.
Angels Envy, you know, is another fabulous one downtown that
has really grown and done a fantastic job. You know,
(09:05):
there's so much to see and do during Derby Week
and we definitely want people to come to distilleries and
visit and you know, hopefully then take home some of
our signatures.
Speaker 5 (09:15):
Sperit.
Speaker 1 (09:16):
Eric greg rejoining us spending a few good minutes with
me as president of the Kentucky Distillers Association, talking about
Bourbon on this most sacredive weeks f us here in
the Commonwealth.
Speaker 2 (09:25):
And aside from.
Speaker 1 (09:26):
The tariff issue, Eric, if we get that result, we
know Bourbon is at the top of the list for
a lot of folks.
Speaker 2 (09:33):
Is there still room to grow for bourbon?
Speaker 9 (09:35):
Yeah, I think so. You know, we've got markets that
we've never really expanded into, and again a lot of
that's because of the tariff level. India is a really
good example that the tariff to India has been one
hundred and fifty percent, which is backbreaking. Tariff is a
wall you know around that country that not only would
(09:55):
it be tremendously expensive for consumers there, you know, to
enjoy our products. If we could get in, the distilleries
just won't invest in that knowing that, you know, it's
going to take a lifetime to convince somebody at that
price point, you know, to switch from what they were drinking. Recently,
the tariff on that has been reduced to one hundred percent,
(10:17):
still incredibly high, but you know, it gives us hope
that negotiations can continue and get that down even lower.
I mean, India is the world's largest spirits market, uh,
and we don't have even i would say a percentage
point of that. So if we could get a little
bit of that market, there wouldn't be enough whiskey in
(10:38):
the Commonwealth, uh, you know, to to make it to India.
Speaker 10 (10:42):
You know.
Speaker 9 (10:42):
And then there's a lot of other world markets out
there again that have really never experienced Kentucky bourbon. And
we've even started some international campaigns for the Kentucky Bourbon
Trail to convince people will come over here, visit you
know us in Kentucky, taste our spirit and then you know,
maybe we can convince them to go back and tell
their friends. We call that pollinating and go back and
(11:04):
pollinating among your friends and family, and then they can
go to the liquor stories and start and asking for
it and we can start working on it.
Speaker 1 (11:11):
One of my favorite conversations of Derby Week that is,
of course, talking with Eric Gregory, president of the Kentucky
Distillers Association, and.
Speaker 2 (11:17):
Eric, before we let you go.
Speaker 1 (11:18):
For someone coming to the Derby and maybe Derby Week
visiting for the first time, even in distillery, what's your
advice to them.
Speaker 9 (11:25):
Well, I would say that is, you know, this is
a good horse racing analogy. It is a marathon, not
a sprint. Take it slow, relax, enjoy your time in Kentucky.
You know, there are so many distilleries to visit these days.
It's it's not like the days when you could just
you know, hop it into uber or something and visit
three or four and one day. Right, you know, really
(11:48):
enjoy your time here, you know, soak up our our
bourbon responsibly, of course, soak up our southern hospitality and
and and hope for good weather. So we really are
welcoming everybody to the commonwealth here the next week, you're
all Kentuckians when you're here with us, drinking our whiskey
and enjoying our horses and we hope you come.
Speaker 2 (12:10):
Back Happy Derby Week.
Speaker 10 (12:11):
Eric.
Speaker 2 (12:12):
I appreciate you as always my friend and joy.
Speaker 9 (12:14):
Thank you, sir, Happy Derby.
Speaker 1 (12:16):
Thank you again to President of the Kentucky Distillers' Association,
Eric Gregory. And if you want more information on bourbon,
simply go to Kybourbon dot com. Coming up, when it
comes to preserving the history of the Kentucky Derby, One
organization is celebrating a significant milestone.
Speaker 2 (12:30):
We'll tell you more. Coming up. I'm Scott Fitzgerald than
this is Kentucky Focus.
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Speaker 1 (13:40):
Joining us today is Katrina Helmer, director of Communications for
the Kentucky Derby Museum. She's going to talk about well,
the museum's fortieth anniversary and how they're preparing for Derby
one fifty one and what it's like to be the
epicenter of Derby history and tradition.
Speaker 2 (13:55):
Katrina, welcome, Oh, thank you so much.
Speaker 10 (13:58):
This is my favorite time of year.
Speaker 2 (14:00):
It's a big deal.
Speaker 1 (14:01):
In fact, I was just watching a special Jim McKay,
the legendary broadcaster for ABC, talking about when you broke
ground and put the Derby Museum in and I just
want to say congratulations on forty years of the Derby Museum.
That's an amazing milestone. What is the anniversary of the
museum and means to the really the Derby community and
those of us here in Louisville at large.
Speaker 10 (14:21):
Yeah, forty years.
Speaker 8 (14:22):
I mean, think how much the museum has grown up
with the track, right, So we're proud of the big
four to zero.
Speaker 10 (14:30):
We're not scared of a little glow up and.
Speaker 8 (14:33):
We're really it's been so much fun this year digging
back through our own archives and seeing all of those
old stories and pieces and photos back from the eighties
and seeing how the museum has changed and hasn't changed
at the same time.
Speaker 10 (14:49):
I mean, you think about our iconic.
Speaker 8 (14:51):
Three hundred and sixty degree movie right that everyone just
gets the goosebumps and the chills when they watch, maybe
brings a tear to your eye. That theater has been
there since nineteen eighty five. They built the museum with
a vision in mind and having this you know, oval
racetrack shaped theater having a slide show on it that
was wild tech at the time. And now think how
(15:14):
far that exhibit has come and has changed really immersive
experiences for a lot of attractions and has really pushed
that boundary when you think of museums across the country,
so I think having a gem like this in your
backyard in Louisville sometimes you take it for granted, but
(15:35):
this is really just a stunning attraction and it brings
in over two hundred and fifty thousand people from all
across the world each year now and shining a beautiful
light on our city.
Speaker 2 (15:47):
We're talking with Katrina Helmer.
Speaker 1 (15:49):
She's structor Communications for the Kentucky Derby Museums. They celebrate
their fortieth anniversary ahead of Derby one fifty one. Are
there any significant events, Katrina, that you're planning surrounding the
anniversary in Derby time.
Speaker 2 (15:59):
Yeah, so we've.
Speaker 8 (16:00):
Had a lot of exciting events all spring leading up
to Derby. Our biggest fundraiser of the years, of course,
our annual gala that's the night before Opening night. But
for us at the museum Derby excitement doesn't stop at
Derby Week, so we still have new exhibits that we're
(16:22):
planning for the summer, so there's always something exciting going
on at the museum.
Speaker 2 (16:28):
That's awesome.
Speaker 1 (16:28):
Katrina Helmer joining us from the Kentucky Derby Museum as
they celebrate in forty years, Katrina, take us behind the curtain,
if you will, because a lot of people see what
you guys put on the outside. But for folks that
come in, what are some of the behind the scenes
efforts that you and your staff do there in preparation
for something like Derby Week.
Speaker 8 (16:47):
Yeah, we have a staff of one hundred people, so
that is from tours and retail operations and facilities and
everything in between. I mean, this is a large building
and being able to host this many people just through
Derby Week, I mean takes a lot of work. So
(17:09):
when we hit Derby Week, we have security and staff
in the museum twenty four to seven in order to
make sure that it is turnkey and ready to go
for the next day and for the next round of people.
So there is a lot that goes on behind the scenes.
There is never a dark moment in that museum. Derby
Week a lot of early hours, but I mean, this
is what we live for. This is when it's electric
(17:31):
and exciting, and from Derby Week all the way through
the entire year. You just think of the amount of
work our curatorial team does.
Speaker 10 (17:40):
It blows my mind all the time.
Speaker 8 (17:43):
And how we have all these stunning artifacts right throughout
the museum, but we're in charge of protecting and taking
care of twenty thousand items. The vast majority of those
are not on display, and so the work does not
stop even though Derby is being able to make sure
that we are archiving and collecting and protecting and maintaining
(18:05):
these items throughout this week. And then our curatorial team
is also on Derby Trophy duty and managing all of
that put together in twenty four hours in one day,
that's a feat.
Speaker 1 (18:20):
Well, Katrina Helmer's joining us, we're spending a few minutes.
Speaker 2 (18:23):
Whether she's in the Derby Museum.
Speaker 1 (18:25):
We're celebrating their fortieth anniversary head of Derby one fifty one.
What's the farthest, Katrina, You think someone's traveled to visit
the Derby Museum.
Speaker 8 (18:33):
Oh, go all over the world truly, and you think
too of where horse racing is really popular, right, and
there will be people from those countries that this is
a bucket list item destination trip for them, So especially
from Japan. There's a huge horse racing community in Japan
(18:54):
and we see visitors not just this time of year
but all year round coming through and being a people
to have that touch point of you know, what is
this pinnacle of horse racing in Kentucky and being able
to have kind of that historic perspective on it. So
we love seeing our friends from Japan from all across
(19:14):
the globe.
Speaker 1 (19:15):
Do you see a growing interest from younger audiences, especially
with how social media has kind of changed the game
with the way people experience in share events like the Derby?
Speaker 2 (19:23):
Do you see some younger folks coming through there?
Speaker 10 (19:26):
Yeah, we do.
Speaker 8 (19:27):
Actually, you know, we from a marketing and a pr perspective,
we're always curious about the demographics right of who's interested,
and so being able to keep track of that is
really important to us. And that's been a big queue
to us at the museum too, and how we shift
our focus on when we're building a new exhibit, how
(19:49):
are we catering this information? How are we presenting this
information so that all of our audiences are engaged in
learning and having fun. So, I mean, and that's a
big piece of the puzzle every single time, because we
are seeing a younger crowd and a younger audience saying
maybe they don't know what horse racing is necessarily as
(20:09):
an industry or as a sport, but they're like, this
looks fun, and that is the perfect opportunity for us
to grasp a new audience and say, hey, there's a
lot involved in this. So whether you're interested in fashion
or culture and tradition or food, whatever it may be,
that's kind of a new and fun, unique way to say,
here's this new audience, let's introduce them to something that's
(20:32):
really important to Kentucky.
Speaker 1 (20:33):
Spending a few minutes with Katrina Helmer, she's director of
Communications for the Kentucky Derby Museum and talking about their
fortieth anniversary, Just a couple more questions for you, Katrina,
because that was a very busy time for you. You've got
a lot going on, that's for sure. What are some
of you mentioned the Circle theater that captivates everybody, no doubt.
What are some exhibits or experiences outside of that that
(20:55):
you notice off the top of your head. Guess maybe
first time visitors are surprised by the most.
Speaker 10 (21:00):
So we have some pretty cool exhibit.
Speaker 8 (21:02):
I know everyone talks about Secretariat and he has legardary
and we have a permanent exhibit up on the second floor,
and you know, whenever we walk around, we just see
people stopped in front of that massive screen with their
mouth just their jaws on the floor watching Secretariat win
his triple crown.
Speaker 4 (21:20):
Right.
Speaker 10 (21:20):
That will give you the goosebumps anytime.
Speaker 8 (21:22):
But there's a couple exhibits that are kind of tucked
away in the museum that I think are just hidden gems.
We have something called the time machine, and this was
an exhibit that we started with in nineteen eighty five
and have evolved with. But you can sit down at
these little time machines and go ahead and scroll through
some of the oldest video that we have been able
(21:45):
to uncover of different races.
Speaker 10 (21:47):
So that that is just really cool.
Speaker 8 (21:49):
So you're not talking about just like watching more current races,
and we have you know, post interviews and things like that,
so you're not just watching the race itself by the year,
but you're talking about going way way back to like
black and white newsreels and silent video, and those are
things that as we've been able to spend more time
(22:11):
digging through and finding bits and pieces of history and
putting the puzzle pieces together, we've been able to put
these on display for people so that they can go
back in time truly and that's just.
Speaker 10 (22:24):
One of the exhibits that it's kind of.
Speaker 8 (22:27):
Tucked away and it's a little hidden, a little secret spot,
and I just love that one nice.
Speaker 1 (22:33):
And do you have a favorite Derby traditional moment that captures.
Speaker 2 (22:37):
The spirit of Derby Week for you personally, Katrina.
Speaker 10 (22:40):
Oh gosh.
Speaker 8 (22:41):
For me personally, it would have to be the backside
morning interviews that we help coordinate for everyone. So a
lot of my role at the museum is making sure
that we can get the right people in front of
the right microphones and the right cameras in order to
share our story. And we love being able to take
the trophies back to the to the media tents on
(23:04):
the backside Derby Week and share that bit of history
and just feeling the energy back there right that whole week.
Speaker 10 (23:14):
That's what gets me.
Speaker 8 (23:15):
And being able to see the track and to see
the hustle and bustle and how everyone is just sharing
the stories have been the Derby magic.
Speaker 10 (23:24):
That's what gets me excited every single year.
Speaker 1 (23:27):
Thank you again to Katrina Helmer with the Kentucky Derby Museum.
Speaker 2 (23:30):
And if you'd like to plan your next visit or
maybe you have.
Speaker 1 (23:32):
Folks coming in from out of town, or just want
to make a good recommendation. It's very simple. Just visit
Derby Museum dot org. We're back to wrap things up
after this, and.
Speaker 15 (23:45):
We're live here outside the Perez family home, just waiting
for the.
Speaker 2 (23:49):
And there they go, almost on time.
Speaker 3 (23:52):
This morning.
Speaker 15 (23:52):
Mom is coming out the front door strong with a
double arm kid carry. Looks like Dad has the bags.
Daughter is bringing up the rear. Oh, but the diaper
bag wasn't closed. Diapers and toys are everywhere.
Speaker 2 (24:05):
Ooh, but mom has just.
Speaker 15 (24:07):
Nailed the perfect car seat buckle.
Speaker 2 (24:09):
For the toddler. And now the eldest daughter, who looks
to be about.
Speaker 15 (24:13):
Nine or ten, has secured herself in the booster seat.
Speaker 2 (24:16):
Dad zips the bag closed and they're off.
Speaker 4 (24:19):
Ah.
Speaker 15 (24:20):
What looks like Mom doesn't realize her coffee cup is
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Speaker 11 (24:43):
Brought to you by Nitza and the AD Council.
Speaker 16 (24:46):
Most people out here think that taking care of one
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Speaker 1 (25:47):
As we bring this special Derby weekend of Kentucky Focused
to a close, we're reminded once again of just how
much this time of year means to all this here
in the Commonwealth. It's more than a race. It's a
celebration of tradition, pride in the spirit that it makes
us states so unique. Rolling rick houses filled with aging
bourban to the thundering Who's between the Twins spiers, the
weekend showcases the very best of who we are. Our craftsmanship,
(26:09):
our hospitality, and our love.
Speaker 2 (26:10):
For history and heritage.
Speaker 1 (26:11):
Thank you again to Eric Gregory from the Kentucky Distillers
Association for giving us a look at the pulse of
our signature industry, and to Katrina Homer from the Kentucky
Derby Museum as they celebrate forty years of preserving and
sharing the magic of the Kentucky Derby. Whether you're a
lifelong Kentucky and are just falling over the state this weekend,
we hope you feel something special in the air, because
during Derby Weekend, Kentucky just doesn't put out a show.
(26:34):
They open their hearts to the world. I'm Scott Fitzgerald.
Thank you for taking time to join us here on
Kentucky Focus. We'll talk to you next time, and in
the meantime, stay safe and have a happy Derby.
Speaker 3 (26:45):
Kentucky Focus on the Kentucky News Network, the show that
looks at issues affecting the Commonwealth and its citizens. We
cover state politics, in history, human interest stories, sports, and
even entertainment. It's Kentucky Focus on KNA.
Speaker 6 (27:02):
We asked parents who adopted teens to share their journey.
Speaker 17 (27:05):
Nathan has taught me to embrace them moment age wise.
I mean, I'm just I'm in the late sixties, I'm
old of his grandfather will be embarrassed he acknowledge me
as his dad. I think the most important thing we
can do is let them know that they're safe, that
they're valued and cared for and loved, and that they're important.
Speaker 18 (27:27):
I knew I wanted to be adopted by him because
of how he taught me to be the person who
I am today. And it's coming from a dad that
didn't expect to become adapt and I feel very proud
to be his son.
Speaker 17 (27:40):
That I was what he needed and he was what
I needed. Every day is full of new opportunities. That's
what it's been about, realizing the simple things that it
takes to make such a huge difference in these kids' lives.
Speaker 6 (27:52):
Learn about adopting a teen from foster care at adopt
us Kids dot Org. Brought to you by adopt Us Kids,
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AD Council.
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Lay in a bloom for the Bail Project.
Speaker 19 (28:04):
Imagine your stuck in a jail cell and you can't
afford beall, and someone offers you a way out. Just
plead guilty and you can go home and kiss your
kids good night.
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What do you do?
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What?
Speaker 19 (28:15):
Thousands have you plead guilty whether you are or not.
Cash Bell makes poverty a crime. That's why the Bell
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Speaker 11 (28:30):
Brought to you by the AD Council.
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Speaker 12 (29:03):
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I'd like to isolate each instrument, the rhythmic bage, the
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Speaker 5 (29:17):
Hi, careful, bad, there's someone crossing the streets.
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If you feel different, you drive different.
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Don't drive high. It's dangerous and illegal everywhere.
Speaker 3 (29:29):
A message from NITZA and the AD Council
And welcome to Kentucky, Folcus, where the stories of our
commonwealth come to life. I'm Scon Fitzgerald and we're coming
to you from historic Churchill Down's taking you behind the
scenes of two of the Bluegrass State's most iconic traditions,
Bourbon and the Derby itself. As the eyes of the
world turned to the Twin Spires, there's another Kentucky signature
drawing global attention, Berbon.
Speaker 2 (00:24):
And it's more than just a drink.
Speaker 1 (00:25):
It's a nine billion dollar economic engine, deeply woven into
our culture or economy, and yes, even our sense of pride.
This week, we're joined by Eric Gregory, president of the
Kentucky Distillers Association, to talk about the state of the
bourbon industry, how it's growing, where it's headed, and how
it remains right here in Kentucky.
Speaker 2 (00:42):
Yes, even about those tariffs.
Speaker 1 (00:44):
And later we'll head over to the Kentucky Derby Museum,
just a stone's throw for the Twin Spires, where they're
celebrating their fortieth anniversary. Betrina Helmer joins us to reflect
on four decades of Derby storytelling and how they're honoring
the history, pageantry, and magic that make this race more
than just two minutes of excitement. So whether you're in
the infield at home with them and Julip are just
(01:05):
soaking in the spirit of the season.
Speaker 2 (01:06):
We're glad you're with us.
Speaker 1 (01:08):
It is the Kentucky Derby and the Bluegrass and this
is Kentucky Focus.
Speaker 3 (01:13):
Welcome to Kentucky Focus on the Kentucky News Network, the
show that looks at issues affecting the Commonwealth and it's citizens.
We cover state politics, in history, human interest stories, sports,
and even entertainment. It's Kentucky Focus on kNN.
Speaker 4 (01:32):
Out here in the middle of all these acres, it
can feel like you're the only person on earth, and
sometimes that's how it feels when you're going through tough times.
Stress builds up, you have trouble sleeping, maybe your mind
is racing and you just don't feel like yourself. So
what do we do We get help. Lots of people
(01:52):
are struggling with their mental health. It's more common than
you think. The good news is there are people in
our community who are here for us when times are tough.
Sometimes just talking to someone can make all the difference
in the world, so we don't feel so alone. One
thing you can do is Visit loveormind Today dot org
for simple steps you can take to find the right
(02:13):
solution for you, whether it's hearing stories about what other
people are going through or finding the resources we need
to navigate the stresses in our lives. Visit Love Yourmind
Today dot org. That's Love your Mind Today dot org.
Brought to you by the Huntsman in the Twelfth Institute
and the ad Council.
Speaker 5 (02:32):
The word father means a lot to me. Be in
that support system for them, and as a man, that's
important in a child's life. I think men can be
a little stubborn sometimes where they may want the help,
they may not know how to ask. It's hard for
a man to speak his emotions. Those tears they mean
some and wrap away tears are water and water is life.
(02:56):
And when you shed those tears, that's love, that's real love. Sometimes,
as Dad's I think we're too hard on ourselves. Life
can come at you really quick, and it can be
really tough at times. But then you put that one
foot in front of the other and you keep doing
the right thing. Slowly that voice goes away, you know,
or up away. You got to pray for yourself as
(03:18):
well as for everybody else, but never forget yourself.
Speaker 3 (03:22):
Never stop being your dad.
Speaker 5 (03:23):
That's dedication.
Speaker 6 (03:25):
Find out more at Fatherhood dot gov.
Speaker 7 (03:27):
Brought to you by the US Department of Health and
Human Services and the ad Council.
Speaker 2 (03:34):
Oh with the Kentucky Derby just around the corner.
Speaker 1 (03:36):
All eyes of course on the Bluegrass State, not just
for the horses, hats and men julips, but for one
of our proudest exports, Bermitt joining us is somebody knows
about the heartbeat of that industry better than most. Eric Gregory.
He is the president of the Kentucky Distiller's Association.
Speaker 8 (03:51):
Eric.
Speaker 2 (03:51):
Welcome back, Hey Scott, Thanks for having me.
Speaker 1 (03:53):
Always great to talk to you this time of year,
my friend. And we'll get into some of the interesting
things that are going on with bourbon. But I want
to start out by you know, bourbon's become really a
global phenomenon, and this will lead to other conversations down
the road. It wasn't that long ago though bourbon was
considered our grandfather's drink.
Speaker 2 (04:10):
What has sparked this bourbon rush lately?
Speaker 9 (04:13):
Yeah, man, you're so right. Well, there's three things that's
happened in the past. I'm gonna say twenty years or
so that's really contributed to the bourbon boom. One of
them were the free trade deals that we passed in
the nineteen nineties, the NATA deal with US with Canada,
Mexico and then the EU deal, and that finally put
us on a level playing field from a tariff standpoint
(04:34):
with Scotch and allowed to stampete with them on a
global scale. The second is the rise of the premium bourbons.
You know, the single barrel and small batch whiskeys that
we've been producing are some of the best whiskeys that
the Bluegrass has ever crafted. And not only are they
fantastic to sith or put on rocks, but they make
(04:56):
incredible cocktails, which leads me to the third point, the
mad Men Revolution. The classic cocktails are back in vogue.
And when people watch mad Man, if you're still you know,
that's been a long ago when Madman was all right,
if you still remember Madman, Don Draper was muddling his
old old fashion and people were like, man, I want
(05:16):
to see what that tastes like.
Speaker 3 (05:18):
And so the old.
Speaker 9 (05:18):
Fashion, the Manhattan, and the jewlip that you mentioned, all
those are among the top drinks again at the world's
best restaurants and bars and suddenly Bourbon takes off.
Speaker 2 (05:29):
Wow.
Speaker 1 (05:30):
Eric Gregory joining us when he's president of the Kentucky
Distillers Association talking to him during this Derby week, of course,
that is going to be front and center, right alongside
the horses. And you know, it's been quite a ride, Eric,
but not without its bumps. One of the biggest hurdles
in most recent years, of course, has become the international
terror situation. How hard has that hit Kentucky distillers And
(05:50):
do we see any light at the end of the tunnel?
Speaker 9 (05:53):
Yeah, this has been a rough time and it's really
been a rough time because it's frustrating that a lot
of these trade decisions are really you know, out of
our control. They're above our pay grade. And when you
look at the ten years between about two thousand and
eight and twenty seventeen, before the tariffs took effect, our
exports were up over one hundred percent, and you know,
(06:14):
again leading to you know, this incredible growth here in
the Commonwealth of Bourbon and expansion with the distilleries. Since
the tariffs hit in twenty eighteen, not only we lost
all that momentum, we have gone down over twenty percent
and exports that you know, we got some reprieves during
that time point. We worked some things out during that
(06:36):
time with Canada and Mexico, so that one wasn't much
of a blip really on the international radar. The EU
one was the one that really I think took a
bite out of us most during those days. And you know,
that is our largest export market. Canada is our largest
export country, but the EU is our largest export market.
(06:57):
So when when those tears were paused for a couple
of years to the EU, you know, we started to
climb back and get some of those those sales back.
But now with you know, the situation we got going
on in Canada, Mexico, the EU is paused again, thankfully,
because that was going to come back at fifty percent.
(07:20):
You know, that would have been devastating. So you know,
we're we're very anxious right now. I guess I would
say to get back to the zero to zero tariffs
that we'd had for you know, twenty plus years that
allowed us really to expand and invest not only overseas
but here in the Commonwealth and create more jobs. And
(07:41):
you know, it's again just just frustrating, but you know,
we were under a ninety day pause right now, and
we hope that we can, you know, get some negotiations
going amon world leaders and really get America's need a
spirit back on the shelves and back overseas.
Speaker 1 (08:00):
Eric Gregory joining US, president of the Kentucky Distillers Association,
Bourbon's certainly saying it's no, it's fair share of ups
and downs.
Speaker 2 (08:07):
We'll put it that way.
Speaker 1 (08:08):
Eric, Let's turn to a much more I guess, enjoyable
side of the story when it comes to Bourbon. Now,
the Derby season is here. That means big crowds. How
many visitors do you expect to pass through distillery doors
during this week?
Speaker 3 (08:21):
Really?
Speaker 9 (08:21):
Oh gosh, thousands? I would say. Last year we set
another record with two point seven million visits to the
Kentucky Bourbon Trail and we now have over sixty distilleries
on the Bourbon Trail. Who are you know? And again
those are from the truly large ones you know, like
Beam and Whooper Reserve and o Forester, downtown Louisville, Evan
(08:43):
Williams and things like that, to the small ones you know,
located around Louisville and even in Louisville like Kentucky Peerless
and Buzzard's Roosts, and you know all these great distilleries.
Angels Envy, you know, is another fabulous one downtown that
has really grown and done a fantastic job. You know,
(09:05):
there's so much to see and do during Derby Week
and we definitely want people to come to distilleries and
visit and you know, hopefully then take home some of
our signatures.
Speaker 5 (09:15):
Sperit.
Speaker 1 (09:16):
Eric greg rejoining us spending a few good minutes with
me as president of the Kentucky Distillers Association, talking about
Bourbon on this most sacredive weeks f us here in
the Commonwealth.
Speaker 2 (09:25):
And aside from.
Speaker 1 (09:26):
The tariff issue, Eric, if we get that result, we
know Bourbon is at the top of the list for
a lot of folks.
Speaker 2 (09:33):
Is there still room to grow for bourbon?
Speaker 9 (09:35):
Yeah, I think so. You know, we've got markets that
we've never really expanded into, and again a lot of
that's because of the tariff level. India is a really
good example that the tariff to India has been one
hundred and fifty percent, which is backbreaking. Tariff is a
wall you know around that country that not only would
(09:55):
it be tremendously expensive for consumers there, you know, to
enjoy our products. If we could get in, the distilleries
just won't invest in that knowing that, you know, it's
going to take a lifetime to convince somebody at that
price point, you know, to switch from what they were drinking. Recently,
the tariff on that has been reduced to one hundred percent,
(10:17):
still incredibly high, but you know, it gives us hope
that negotiations can continue and get that down even lower.
I mean, India is the world's largest spirits market, uh,
and we don't have even i would say a percentage
point of that. So if we could get a little
bit of that market, there wouldn't be enough whiskey in
(10:38):
the Commonwealth, uh, you know, to to make it to India.
Speaker 10 (10:42):
You know.
Speaker 9 (10:42):
And then there's a lot of other world markets out
there again that have really never experienced Kentucky bourbon. And
we've even started some international campaigns for the Kentucky Bourbon
Trail to convince people will come over here, visit you
know us in Kentucky, taste our spirit and then you know,
maybe we can convince them to go back and tell
their friends. We call that pollinating and go back and
(11:04):
pollinating among your friends and family, and then they can
go to the liquor stories and start and asking for
it and we can start working on it.
Speaker 1 (11:11):
One of my favorite conversations of Derby Week that is,
of course, talking with Eric Gregory, president of the Kentucky
Distillers Association, and.
Speaker 2 (11:17):
Eric, before we let you go.
Speaker 1 (11:18):
For someone coming to the Derby and maybe Derby Week
visiting for the first time, even in distillery, what's your
advice to them.
Speaker 9 (11:25):
Well, I would say that is, you know, this is
a good horse racing analogy. It is a marathon, not
a sprint. Take it slow, relax, enjoy your time in Kentucky.
You know, there are so many distilleries to visit these days.
It's it's not like the days when you could just
you know, hop it into uber or something and visit
three or four and one day. Right, you know, really
(11:48):
enjoy your time here, you know, soak up our our
bourbon responsibly, of course, soak up our southern hospitality and
and and hope for good weather. So we really are
welcoming everybody to the commonwealth here the next week, you're
all Kentuckians when you're here with us, drinking our whiskey
and enjoying our horses and we hope you come.
Speaker 2 (12:10):
Back Happy Derby Week.
Speaker 10 (12:11):
Eric.
Speaker 2 (12:12):
I appreciate you as always my friend and joy.
Speaker 9 (12:14):
Thank you, sir, Happy Derby.
Speaker 1 (12:16):
Thank you again to President of the Kentucky Distillers' Association,
Eric Gregory. And if you want more information on bourbon,
simply go to Kybourbon dot com. Coming up, when it
comes to preserving the history of the Kentucky Derby, One
organization is celebrating a significant milestone.
Speaker 2 (12:30):
We'll tell you more. Coming up. I'm Scott Fitzgerald than
this is Kentucky Focus.
Speaker 11 (12:39):
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Speaker 11 (13:08):
Michael Eric Dyson for the Bail Project.
Speaker 14 (13:11):
Our founders drafted the Eighth Amendment to prohibit excessive cash bail.
They never meant for it to hold people in jail.
They knew excessive bail would create one system of justice
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cash bail traps people in jail before they've even had
their day in court. That's why the Bail Project helps
those who can afford it while fighting to end cash
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bail because freedom should be free.
Speaker 11 (13:37):
Brought to you by the ad Councilor.
Speaker 1 (13:40):
Joining us today is Katrina Helmer, director of Communications for
the Kentucky Derby Museum. She's going to talk about well,
the museum's fortieth anniversary and how they're preparing for Derby
one fifty one and what it's like to be the
epicenter of Derby history and tradition.
Speaker 2 (13:55):
Katrina, welcome, Oh, thank you so much.
Speaker 10 (13:58):
This is my favorite time of year.
Speaker 2 (14:00):
It's a big deal.
Speaker 1 (14:01):
In fact, I was just watching a special Jim McKay,
the legendary broadcaster for ABC, talking about when you broke
ground and put the Derby Museum in and I just
want to say congratulations on forty years of the Derby Museum.
That's an amazing milestone. What is the anniversary of the
museum and means to the really the Derby community and
those of us here in Louisville at large.
Speaker 10 (14:21):
Yeah, forty years.
Speaker 8 (14:22):
I mean, think how much the museum has grown up
with the track, right, So we're proud of the big
four to zero.
Speaker 10 (14:30):
We're not scared of a little glow up and.
Speaker 8 (14:33):
We're really it's been so much fun this year digging
back through our own archives and seeing all of those
old stories and pieces and photos back from the eighties
and seeing how the museum has changed and hasn't changed
at the same time.
Speaker 10 (14:49):
I mean, you think about our iconic.
Speaker 8 (14:51):
Three hundred and sixty degree movie right that everyone just
gets the goosebumps and the chills when they watch, maybe
brings a tear to your eye. That theater has been
there since nineteen eighty five. They built the museum with
a vision in mind and having this you know, oval
racetrack shaped theater having a slide show on it that
was wild tech at the time. And now think how
(15:14):
far that exhibit has come and has changed really immersive
experiences for a lot of attractions and has really pushed
that boundary when you think of museums across the country,
so I think having a gem like this in your
backyard in Louisville sometimes you take it for granted, but
(15:35):
this is really just a stunning attraction and it brings
in over two hundred and fifty thousand people from all
across the world each year now and shining a beautiful
light on our city.
Speaker 2 (15:47):
We're talking with Katrina Helmer.
Speaker 1 (15:49):
She's structor Communications for the Kentucky Derby Museums. They celebrate
their fortieth anniversary ahead of Derby one fifty one. Are
there any significant events, Katrina, that you're planning surrounding the
anniversary in Derby time.
Speaker 2 (15:59):
Yeah, so we've.
Speaker 8 (16:00):
Had a lot of exciting events all spring leading up
to Derby. Our biggest fundraiser of the years, of course,
our annual gala that's the night before Opening night. But
for us at the museum Derby excitement doesn't stop at
Derby Week, so we still have new exhibits that we're
(16:22):
planning for the summer, so there's always something exciting going
on at the museum.
Speaker 2 (16:28):
That's awesome.
Speaker 1 (16:28):
Katrina Helmer joining us from the Kentucky Derby Museum as
they celebrate in forty years, Katrina, take us behind the curtain,
if you will, because a lot of people see what
you guys put on the outside. But for folks that
come in, what are some of the behind the scenes
efforts that you and your staff do there in preparation
for something like Derby Week.
Speaker 8 (16:47):
Yeah, we have a staff of one hundred people, so
that is from tours and retail operations and facilities and
everything in between. I mean, this is a large building
and being able to host this many people just through
Derby Week, I mean takes a lot of work. So
(17:09):
when we hit Derby Week, we have security and staff
in the museum twenty four to seven in order to
make sure that it is turnkey and ready to go
for the next day and for the next round of people.
So there is a lot that goes on behind the scenes.
There is never a dark moment in that museum. Derby
Week a lot of early hours, but I mean, this
is what we live for. This is when it's electric
(17:31):
and exciting, and from Derby Week all the way through
the entire year. You just think of the amount of
work our curatorial team does.
Speaker 10 (17:40):
It blows my mind all the time.
Speaker 8 (17:43):
And how we have all these stunning artifacts right throughout
the museum, but we're in charge of protecting and taking
care of twenty thousand items. The vast majority of those
are not on display, and so the work does not
stop even though Derby is being able to make sure
that we are archiving and collecting and protecting and maintaining
(18:05):
these items throughout this week. And then our curatorial team
is also on Derby Trophy duty and managing all of
that put together in twenty four hours in one day,
that's a feat.
Speaker 1 (18:20):
Well, Katrina Helmer's joining us, we're spending a few minutes.
Speaker 2 (18:23):
Whether she's in the Derby Museum.
Speaker 1 (18:25):
We're celebrating their fortieth anniversary head of Derby one fifty one.
What's the farthest, Katrina, You think someone's traveled to visit
the Derby Museum.
Speaker 8 (18:33):
Oh, go all over the world truly, and you think
too of where horse racing is really popular, right, and
there will be people from those countries that this is
a bucket list item destination trip for them, So especially
from Japan. There's a huge horse racing community in Japan
(18:54):
and we see visitors not just this time of year
but all year round coming through and being a people
to have that touch point of you know, what is
this pinnacle of horse racing in Kentucky and being able
to have kind of that historic perspective on it. So
we love seeing our friends from Japan from all across
(19:14):
the globe.
Speaker 1 (19:15):
Do you see a growing interest from younger audiences, especially
with how social media has kind of changed the game
with the way people experience in share events like the Derby?
Speaker 2 (19:23):
Do you see some younger folks coming through there?
Speaker 10 (19:26):
Yeah, we do.
Speaker 8 (19:27):
Actually, you know, we from a marketing and a pr perspective,
we're always curious about the demographics right of who's interested,
and so being able to keep track of that is
really important to us. And that's been a big queue
to us at the museum too, and how we shift
our focus on when we're building a new exhibit, how
(19:49):
are we catering this information? How are we presenting this
information so that all of our audiences are engaged in
learning and having fun. So, I mean, and that's a
big piece of the puzzle every single time, because we
are seeing a younger crowd and a younger audience saying
maybe they don't know what horse racing is necessarily as
(20:09):
an industry or as a sport, but they're like, this
looks fun, and that is the perfect opportunity for us
to grasp a new audience and say, hey, there's a
lot involved in this. So whether you're interested in fashion
or culture and tradition or food, whatever it may be,
that's kind of a new and fun, unique way to say,
here's this new audience, let's introduce them to something that's
(20:32):
really important to Kentucky.
Speaker 1 (20:33):
Spending a few minutes with Katrina Helmer, she's director of
Communications for the Kentucky Derby Museum and talking about their
fortieth anniversary, Just a couple more questions for you, Katrina,
because that was a very busy time for you. You've got
a lot going on, that's for sure. What are some
of you mentioned the Circle theater that captivates everybody, no doubt.
What are some exhibits or experiences outside of that that
(20:55):
you notice off the top of your head. Guess maybe
first time visitors are surprised by the most.
Speaker 10 (21:00):
So we have some pretty cool exhibit.
Speaker 8 (21:02):
I know everyone talks about Secretariat and he has legardary
and we have a permanent exhibit up on the second floor,
and you know, whenever we walk around, we just see
people stopped in front of that massive screen with their
mouth just their jaws on the floor watching Secretariat win
his triple crown.
Speaker 4 (21:20):
Right.
Speaker 10 (21:20):
That will give you the goosebumps anytime.
Speaker 8 (21:22):
But there's a couple exhibits that are kind of tucked
away in the museum that I think are just hidden gems.
We have something called the time machine, and this was
an exhibit that we started with in nineteen eighty five
and have evolved with. But you can sit down at
these little time machines and go ahead and scroll through
some of the oldest video that we have been able
(21:45):
to uncover of different races.
Speaker 10 (21:47):
So that that is just really cool.
Speaker 8 (21:49):
So you're not talking about just like watching more current races,
and we have you know, post interviews and things like that,
so you're not just watching the race itself by the year,
but you're talking about going way way back to like
black and white newsreels and silent video, and those are
things that as we've been able to spend more time
(22:11):
digging through and finding bits and pieces of history and
putting the puzzle pieces together, we've been able to put
these on display for people so that they can go
back in time truly and that's just.
Speaker 10 (22:24):
One of the exhibits that it's kind of.
Speaker 8 (22:27):
Tucked away and it's a little hidden, a little secret spot,
and I just love that one nice.
Speaker 1 (22:33):
And do you have a favorite Derby traditional moment that captures.
Speaker 2 (22:37):
The spirit of Derby Week for you personally, Katrina.
Speaker 10 (22:40):
Oh gosh.
Speaker 8 (22:41):
For me personally, it would have to be the backside
morning interviews that we help coordinate for everyone. So a
lot of my role at the museum is making sure
that we can get the right people in front of
the right microphones and the right cameras in order to
share our story. And we love being able to take
the trophies back to the to the media tents on
(23:04):
the backside Derby Week and share that bit of history
and just feeling the energy back there right that whole week.
Speaker 10 (23:14):
That's what gets me.
Speaker 8 (23:15):
And being able to see the track and to see
the hustle and bustle and how everyone is just sharing
the stories have been the Derby magic.
Speaker 10 (23:24):
That's what gets me excited every single year.
Speaker 1 (23:27):
Thank you again to Katrina Helmer with the Kentucky Derby Museum.
Speaker 2 (23:30):
And if you'd like to plan your next visit or
maybe you have.
Speaker 1 (23:32):
Folks coming in from out of town, or just want
to make a good recommendation. It's very simple. Just visit
Derby Museum dot org. We're back to wrap things up
after this, and.
Speaker 15 (23:45):
We're live here outside the Perez family home, just waiting
for the.
Speaker 2 (23:49):
And there they go, almost on time.
Speaker 3 (23:52):
This morning.
Speaker 15 (23:52):
Mom is coming out the front door strong with a
double arm kid carry. Looks like Dad has the bags.
Daughter is bringing up the rear. Oh, but the diaper
bag wasn't closed. Diapers and toys are everywhere.
Speaker 2 (24:05):
Ooh, but mom has just.
Speaker 15 (24:07):
Nailed the perfect car seat buckle.
Speaker 2 (24:09):
For the toddler. And now the eldest daughter, who looks
to be about.
Speaker 15 (24:13):
Nine or ten, has secured herself in the booster seat.
Speaker 2 (24:16):
Dad zips the bag closed and they're off.
Speaker 4 (24:19):
Ah.
Speaker 15 (24:20):
What looks like Mom doesn't realize her coffee cup is
still on the roof of the car, and there it goes. Oh,
that's a shame. That mug was a fam favorite.
Speaker 11 (24:29):
Don't sweat the small stuff, just nail the big stuff,
like making sure your kids are buckle correctly in the
right seat for their agent's eyes. Learn more at NHTSA
dot gov.
Speaker 4 (24:37):
Slash the right Seat visits NHDSA dot.
Speaker 2 (24:41):
Gov Slash the Right Seat.
Speaker 11 (24:43):
Brought to you by Nitza and the AD Council.
Speaker 16 (24:46):
Most people out here think that taking care of one
another is important, and most people would step up for
a neighbor going through a tough time. Most people around
here help out friends and family when they need it,
But the funny thing is most of us won't look
for help when we need it. If you're struggling with
mental health, you should know that there are resources out
(25:08):
there that can help, and it's okay to talk about
it if you need to. One place to get started
with information is Love your Mind Today dot org. Love
Youormind Today dot org offers a range of guides, instructions,
and insights for dealing with difficult situations or getting through
a tough time. If you're struggling with mental health, get
(25:29):
the help you need because most people out here really care.
Visit Love Youormind Today dot org. That's Love your Mind
Today dot org, brought to you by the Huntsman Mental
Health Institute and the AD Council.
Speaker 1 (25:47):
As we bring this special Derby weekend of Kentucky Focused
to a close, we're reminded once again of just how
much this time of year means to all this here
in the Commonwealth. It's more than a race. It's a
celebration of tradition, pride in the spirit that it makes
us states so unique. Rolling rick houses filled with aging
bourban to the thundering Who's between the Twins spiers, the
weekend showcases the very best of who we are. Our craftsmanship,
(26:09):
our hospitality, and our love.
Speaker 2 (26:10):
For history and heritage.
Speaker 1 (26:11):
Thank you again to Eric Gregory from the Kentucky Distillers
Association for giving us a look at the pulse of
our signature industry, and to Katrina Homer from the Kentucky
Derby Museum as they celebrate forty years of preserving and
sharing the magic of the Kentucky Derby. Whether you're a
lifelong Kentucky and are just falling over the state this weekend,
we hope you feel something special in the air, because
during Derby Weekend, Kentucky just doesn't put out a show.
(26:34):
They open their hearts to the world. I'm Scott Fitzgerald.
Thank you for taking time to join us here on
Kentucky Focus. We'll talk to you next time, and in
the meantime, stay safe and have a happy Derby.
Speaker 3 (26:45):
Kentucky Focus on the Kentucky News Network, the show that
looks at issues affecting the Commonwealth and its citizens. We
cover state politics, in history, human interest stories, sports, and
even entertainment. It's Kentucky Focus on KNA.
Speaker 6 (27:02):
We asked parents who adopted teens to share their journey.
Speaker 17 (27:05):
Nathan has taught me to embrace them moment age wise.
I mean, I'm just I'm in the late sixties, I'm
old of his grandfather will be embarrassed he acknowledge me
as his dad. I think the most important thing we
can do is let them know that they're safe, that
they're valued and cared for and loved, and that they're important.
Speaker 18 (27:27):
I knew I wanted to be adopted by him because
of how he taught me to be the person who
I am today. And it's coming from a dad that
didn't expect to become adapt and I feel very proud
to be his son.
Speaker 17 (27:40):
That I was what he needed and he was what
I needed. Every day is full of new opportunities. That's
what it's been about, realizing the simple things that it
takes to make such a huge difference in these kids' lives.
Speaker 6 (27:52):
Learn about adopting a teen from foster care at adopt
us Kids dot Org. Brought to you by adopt Us Kids,
the US Department of Health and Human Services, and the
AD Council.
Speaker 11 (28:02):
Lay in a bloom for the Bail Project.
Speaker 19 (28:04):
Imagine your stuck in a jail cell and you can't
afford beall, and someone offers you a way out. Just
plead guilty and you can go home and kiss your
kids good night.
Speaker 2 (28:14):
What do you do?
Speaker 12 (28:15):
What?
Speaker 19 (28:15):
Thousands have you plead guilty whether you are or not.
Cash Bell makes poverty a crime. That's why the Bell
Project helps those who can't afford it while fighting to
in cash bail because freedom should be free.
Speaker 11 (28:30):
Brought to you by the AD Council.
Speaker 7 (28:31):
You wanted to be cool, which led you to smoking,
which led to a pack a day. Then you met
that special someone, which led to starting a life for them,
which led to wanting to live longer, which led to quitting.
Then you heard you maybe at risk for lung cancer,
which led you to getting a low dose CT scan.
(28:52):
If you smoked, get scanned, talk to your doctor and
learn more at Saved Bythscan dot org. Brought to you
by the American Lung Association and the AD Council.
Speaker 12 (29:03):
When I smoke weed. I get lost in the music.
I'd like to isolate each instrument, the rhythmic bage, the
harmonies on the piano with sticky melody.
Speaker 5 (29:17):
Hi, careful, bad, there's someone crossing the streets.
Speaker 12 (29:20):
Sorry I didn't.
Speaker 3 (29:22):
If you feel different, you drive different.
Speaker 5 (29:25):
Don't drive high. It's dangerous and illegal everywhere.
Speaker 3 (29:29):
A message from NITZA and the AD Council
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