August 28, 2025 • 29 mins
This Labor Day, Kentucky Focus takes a deep dive into the story of work in the Bluegrass. Host Scott Fitzgerald talks with Kentucky AFL-CIO President Dustin Reinstedler about the state of labor today, from shifting industries to the future of organized work. We also look back at Kentucky’s rich labor history, including the coal miners’ strikes that shaped generations. Plus, we celebrate the winners of Kentucky Living’s “Best in Kentucky,” highlighting the people, places, and experiences that make our state shine.
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Speaker 1 (00:02):
Welcome to Kentucky Focus. I'm Scott Fitzgerald. Labor Day Weekend
is here, yes, and time to pause and reflect on
the contributions at workers across Kentucky.
Speaker 2 (00:11):
And the nation.
Speaker 1 (00:13):
From the hills of eastern Kentucky to cities and towns
across the Commonwealth, the meaning of work has evolved and
continues to evolve. On today's special edition of Kentucky Focus,
we'll explore.
Speaker 2 (00:22):
The legacy of Labor Day in our state.
Speaker 1 (00:25):
Here from leaders who represent and advocate for workers, and
celebrate the people, places, and traditions that make Kentucky such
a special place to call home.
Speaker 2 (00:35):
I'm scotfience Gerald.
Speaker 1 (00:36):
We're back to break it all out for you on
this Kentucky Focus.
Speaker 3 (00:40):
Welcome to Kentucky Focus on the Kentucky News Network, the
show that looks at issues affecting the Commonwealth and its citizens.
We cover state politics and history, human interest stories, sports,
and even entertainment. It's Kentucky Focus on kN N.
Speaker 4 (01:01):
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(01:22):
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Speaker 5 (01:25):
The word father means a lot to me. Be in
that support system for them, and as a man, that's
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they may not know how to ask. It's hard for
a man to speak his emotions. Those tears, they mean
some you know, wrap away. Tears are water and water
(01:49):
is life. And when you shed those tears, that's love,
that's real love. Sometimes as dads, 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
(02:09):
pray for yourself as well as for everybody else. But
never forget yourself.
Speaker 6 (02:15):
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Speaker 7 (02:25):
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Speaker 6 (03:23):
Today.
Speaker 1 (03:27):
Welcome back to Kentucky Focus. I'm Scott Fitzgerald. Our first
conversation takes us into the heart of Kentucky's labor history
and its present day workforce.
Speaker 2 (03:35):
Later we'll highlight some of the winners.
Speaker 1 (03:37):
Also from the Best in Kentucky issue of Kentucky Living Magazine.
A showcase of the favorite destinations, businesses, and traditions that
make our commonwealth you need. This week on Kentucky Focus,
we're celebrating Labor Day weekend by taking a closer look
at the meaning and impact of this holiday on this
great state of ours. Joining us as Dustin ran Stetler,
president of the Kentucky AFL CIO and has dedicated his
(04:01):
career to advocating for Kentucky workers and well hear his
perspective on the legacy of the Labor Day holiday, the
current state of organized labor, and the challenges and opportunities
facing workers across the state.
Speaker 2 (04:13):
Dustin, Welcome to Kentucky Focus.
Speaker 1 (04:16):
To start, what does Labor Day personally mean to you,
both as an individual and president of the Kentucky a
FL CIO.
Speaker 2 (04:23):
Well, I wear.
Speaker 8 (04:23):
Many hats, but I'm still a dues paying union bricklayer,
So you know, I know about working hard. I know
about working in the heat and the cold, lifting heavy objects,
breathing dust, all the stuff that you would think of
as a bricklayer. So it's always been an honor to
take that day off since before my days in union
(04:45):
leadership all the way up until right now. Is my
hat with being president of Kentucky State fl CIO, though
it often comes with kind of some reflections.
Speaker 2 (04:56):
Some good and some bad.
Speaker 8 (04:59):
You know, if you think about out the good, you're
talking about everything that you know, working class people have
done for this country to get it to come together
in times of need to come together, to put this
country forward, and then you think about the bad things,
the attacks on the working class. So it's kind of
a god its pluses and minuses for me right now.
Speaker 2 (05:21):
Absolutely it does.
Speaker 1 (05:22):
Having a great conversation Dustin rein Stetler, he is the
president of the Kentucky a fl CIO, on this Labor
Day holiday weekend, and Dustin, how do you see the
legacy of Labor Day reflected in Kentucky's workforce today?
Speaker 8 (05:35):
People need to day like Labor Day now more than ever.
We just see these continued attacks on workers coming out
of Washington, d C. The Executive branch. We are actually
shifting our focus back to what's called May Day.
Speaker 2 (05:51):
And I hope, I hope.
Speaker 8 (05:52):
Many of your listeners know about May Day. If not,
I encourage them to look that up. You can really
go to some rabbit holes, but May Day is the
original Labor Day.
Speaker 2 (06:02):
And from your perspective.
Speaker 1 (06:03):
Dustin, how would you describe the current state of organized
labor here in Kentucky.
Speaker 8 (06:07):
One word zums it up. And that's growing, you know,
if you really want to dive deep, it's We're up
to one hundred and thirty one thousand union members in Kentucky. Now,
that is the largest union density in basically the Southern
States of America. Kentucky has some deep roots in labor history,
(06:29):
from the coal miners that stood up and fought greedy
business people that turned militias on them, to the great
construction workers, to the steel workers who produce all the
women across Kentucky, to recently all the baristas in Louisville
and Lexington that are coming together and organizing for better
(06:52):
working conditions, better wages, and even blue oval. So we
are coming together.
Speaker 2 (06:59):
We just say we're leaning towards it getting better.
Speaker 8 (07:01):
Definitely, I see it every day. It's very positive. Again,
you know, I don't want to paint this picture of
doom and gloom when I talk about the attacks that
are coming out of d C on us right now
in the working class. But people will see through that stuff.
And honestly, I think because of the technology that everybody
has in their pocket with the smartphones and all, you know,
(07:22):
you can do a little research and find out that
there is a lot agreed, a lot of corporate welfare,
a lot of tax breaks, and working class people are
just seeing through it and they're seeing that they're not
getting their fair share. And I think they're coming together,
meeting up with unions and learning about their rights to
organize their workplace.
Speaker 1 (07:44):
What are the biggest issues right now in challenges that
are facing organized labor in Kentucky.
Speaker 8 (07:48):
Particularly to Kentucky. The biggest challenge right now is what's
happening again with the federal government, specifically coming at the
executive branch. These tariffs have killed thousands of jobs already,
and I fear what's coming next. Particularly the bourbon industry
has been hit, and some of our manufacturing industries as well,
(08:09):
just because of where they source products from. And then
of course we all know about the cuts to medical
you know, we're looking at maybe thousands or so jobs
in rural eastern Kentucky and closing of hospitals.
Speaker 1 (08:26):
Usin Ran Settler joining us for just a bit here,
he is president of the Kentucky a fl CIO. Here
in Kentucky of course, talking and celebrating Labor Day and
our workers on this Labor Day weekend, and Dustin, what
steps can unions and workers take to strengthen labor's voice here?
Speaker 8 (08:41):
And then'll tell you what they can do is realize
that whether you're in a union or not, whether you
are a barista or a bricklayer, or a teacher, or
a teamster or you know, even a radio host. You know,
I think we're all working class. None of us are
getting rich, and there is a wealthy class that definitely
controls everything from our government on down to know how
(09:05):
much we make, where we spend it, how much we
spend on these things. And we need to wake up
and realize that we do have strength to numbers, and
we do have power, and we should exercise.
Speaker 1 (09:15):
That together again, President of the Kentucky a fl CIO,
Dustin Ryan Stetler joining us and Dustin, finally, for younger
workers entering the workforce today, what message would you share
about the value of organized labor?
Speaker 8 (09:26):
Oh, great question. October twenty fourth, we're having our first
ever Young Workers conference. It's going to be held at
IBW three sixty nine, and I want young workers to
know that this is your union. Exercise your voice. There's
a lot of you. You have strength in numbers. I
asked that you study labor history for two reasons.
Speaker 2 (09:46):
To study what.
Speaker 8 (09:47):
Went wrong, not only with unions, but with our government
and with business, and study for the things that worked
and recreate those to kind of a more modern fit.
Speaker 1 (09:58):
Dustin Ryan Stettler, he is the president of the Kentucky
AFL CIO. He is if anyone dialed in on this
Labor Day weekend, and I know you're busy, busy man, Dustin,
and I certainly appreciate you taking the time to talk
to us, and hopefully you and I can catch up,
not just down Labor Day, but let's talk about some
more issues facing our labor workforce here in the Commonwealth.
Speaker 2 (10:17):
Certainly is a hot topic in the news right now,
for sure, my man.
Speaker 8 (10:20):
Thank you very much. Brother, you have a happy labor
to n be safe.
Speaker 1 (10:23):
And again a big thank you to Dustin Ryan Stetler,
President of the Kentucky AFL CIO. Coming up, we'll take
a look back at Kentucky's history with labor, specifically in
the eastern part of the state with the coal miners.
I'm Scott Fitzgerald and you're listening to Kentucky Focus.
Speaker 6 (10:43):
We are Kentucky Broadcasters. You're hometown radio and television stations.
We bring you breaking news, We keep you safe. We
serve your community in good times and in bad. Your
local broadcasters are always there. We are deeply rooted in
you're small owns and your big cities. We champion a
strong sense of civic pride. No matter how we connect
(11:06):
over the air, online and on your device, we are
Kentucky broadcasters there when that matters.
Speaker 9 (11:13):
The mission of Kentucky State Police is a safeguard and
enforce the laws across the commonwealth. One of our priorities
is making sure families across our New Kentucky home are safe,
not only safe, but also they feel safe when we
have someone that commits a crime, and we want to
ensure that those pay their debt to society. And they do.
(11:36):
But once they finish that, and that's when we want
to incorporate these re entry programs for those to be
able to go back in their communities. And what that
does and that they become contributed members is socided they
have an income they can provide for their family and
by that then they're not committing further offenses, which makes
Kentucky a safer place, and by Kentucky being a safer place,
(11:58):
that's also safer for law enforcement acrossler commonwealth. Now we
will collaborate with other public agencies and other law enforcement
entities to ensure that people can have a better live
for themselves and their family.
Speaker 10 (12:12):
We're discussing child development with some experts. Tell me what's
the normal.
Speaker 2 (12:16):
Development of say a two year old?
Speaker 10 (12:18):
Hi, so saying two to forward phrases and engaging in
pretend to play?
Speaker 2 (12:24):
And what about social development?
Speaker 10 (12:27):
Ah being enthusiastic about the company of other children. Thank you.
Speaker 11 (12:31):
It's time to change how we view a child's growth.
It's not just physical. There are milestones your child should
reach and how he plays, learns, speaks, and acts. A
delay in any of these areas could be a sign
of a developmental problem, even autism. The good news is
the earlier it's recognized, the more you can do to
help your child reach his full potential. Talk with a doctor.
(12:52):
Visit CDC dot gov, slash act early, or call one
eight hundred CDC info. A message from the US Department
of Health and Human Services Centers Disease Control and prevention.
Learn the signs Act early in Kentucky.
Speaker 12 (13:04):
Call five h two eight five two, seven, seven nine
nine or visit Kyautism dot org.
Speaker 1 (13:14):
Welcome back to Kentucky Focus. I'm Scop Fitzgerald.
Speaker 13 (13:17):
These families came here to work.
Speaker 14 (13:19):
They came to build.
Speaker 13 (13:21):
Others came to America in different ways from other lands,
under different and often harrowing conditions. But this place symbolizes
what they all managed to build. No matter where they
came from, or how they came, or how much they suffered,
they helped to build that magnificent city across the river.
(13:43):
They spread across the land, building other cities and other
towns and incredibly productive farms. They came to make America work.
They didn't ask what this country could do for them,
but what they could do to make this, this refuge
that the greatest home of freedom in history. They brought
with them courage, ambition, and the values of family, neighborhood, work,
(14:10):
peace and freedom.
Speaker 1 (14:12):
Labor Day, celebrated on the first Monday in September, honors
the contributions of working.
Speaker 2 (14:17):
Men and women across America.
Speaker 1 (14:19):
Its ruts go back as early as the late nineteenth century,
when unions were fighting for safer workplaces, fair wages, and
the eight hour workday, and have continued throughout history. In Kentucky,
labor activism began in Louisville and spread state wide, and
nearly just a year after the first Labor Day, rallies
and marches brought attention to worker challenges in industries like
(14:40):
tobacco manufacturing, in railroads, and continued throughout the century.
Speaker 15 (14:45):
Those who may find fault with the American labor movement
today in the United States, as they find fault with
so many things in this country, you'd only look abroad
in Latin America, in Europe.
Speaker 16 (14:58):
In all parts of the world and see labor unions
controlled either by the communists or by the government, or
no labor union. And when they find either one of
those three conditions, they find inevitably poverty or totalitarianism.
Speaker 15 (15:14):
And therefore I think it's a.
Speaker 16 (15:15):
Fair judgment to make that a free active, progressive trade
union movement stands for a free active, progressive country. And
that's the kind of country, and that's the kind of
country I'm proud to be president of.
Speaker 15 (15:36):
Thank you.
Speaker 1 (15:40):
Easierly efforts, of course, lay the groundwork for workers' rights.
We often take for granted, today, labor Day takes on
special meaning. Of course, in eastern Kentucky we're coal mining
shaped entire communities.
Speaker 17 (15:54):
For anything except distract you there for the company all
the way would.
Speaker 8 (15:59):
Be at.
Speaker 1 (16:01):
Mining work was and still is dangerous, with long hours,
unstable pay, and risked to life and limb. A great
example of that is the nineteen seventeen explosion of the
Number seven mine in the heart of Kentucky coal country,
Webster County.
Speaker 2 (16:14):
That took the lives of sixty two miners.
Speaker 1 (16:16):
Steve Henry, at the time county judge executive in Webster County.
Speaker 18 (16:20):
It's very sad because I feel that probably a lot
of those folks is family. A lot of those people's
family probably never knew what happened to him. They got
on the train headed for Kentucky a chance to mikeel
live and were never heard fro him again.
Speaker 1 (16:40):
The struggles of Eastern Kentucky miners sparked major labor movements,
including the strikes of the nineteen seventies and eighties. And
these strikes weren't just headlines. They affected entire towns, from
paychecks to local schools to businesses. The industry affected so
many like retired miner Kirby Thanker, who was interviewed at
the time by Lexington Herald leader Billy Staff.
Speaker 17 (17:00):
Well, you could jump out and get a job about anywhere.
Back at that time, you sayeventies, And now you can't
hard to get out and find the job anywhere. And
most of our work with co we're occupation. And I
just don't know what people's going to do around here
(17:21):
with no work.
Speaker 8 (17:22):
Boils, doing nothing for the widows, boil, doing nothing for
the pensioners.
Speaker 2 (17:27):
I'll give you this, I'll give you that.
Speaker 13 (17:31):
I'll give you pie if I can reach high enough
from the sky.
Speaker 2 (17:37):
In the suite, buy and buy well.
Speaker 17 (17:40):
The coal miners in this country are damn sick and
tired of having a.
Speaker 14 (17:44):
National president of its organization that's imped with.
Speaker 2 (17:47):
The co operators.
Speaker 1 (17:49):
Union halls became centers of community life, offering support when
miners were injured or pride of work. Labor Day celebrations
here are often featured parades, picnics, and of course family
events honoring those workers. Today, Kentucky's workforce has changed. Coal
Mining isn't the economic enginunit once was, but manufacturing, healthcare, education,
(18:09):
and service industries drive our state forward. Labor Day is
a reminder the rights workers fought for and of the
ongoing challenges they face, and the day means so much
to so many, like Dustin Roach with Teamster's Local one
thirty five, who explained to TV station WTCHI.
Speaker 3 (18:26):
SOH, it's a way for us as American citizens to
honor our brothers and sisters that are on the ground
getting a job done.
Speaker 1 (18:32):
Even in twenty twenty five, Labor Day is more than
a day off. It's a day to recognize fair wages,
workplace safety, and the value of union representation in industries
that still needed. And teachers in Lexington to nurses in Louisville,
the small business owners and service workers across Kentucky communities
continued the tradition of honoring labor with picnics, parades, and celebrations,
(18:53):
and the message is clear. Workers are the backbone of
our state and Labor Day once the moment we pause
and appre them. So as we celebrate this Labor Day,
let's remember the history, the struggle and the victories that
brought workers' rights to where they are today. And let's
also recognize the work's still ahead from all of us
here at Kentucky Focus.
Speaker 2 (19:13):
I'm Scott Fitzgerleman.
Speaker 1 (19:14):
I say Happy Labor Day and thank you to every
Kentucky and contributing to our state's growth, safety, and community.
We're back after this on Kentucky Focus.
Speaker 19 (19:28):
Do you have an injury, illness, COVID substance use, or
mental health concerns and need help? There are many reasons
Kentuckians leave their jobs. Retain Kentucky can help. If you
are thinking of leaving your job or left your job recently,
visit Kyretain dot org or call eight five nine five
(19:49):
six two three two five one to learn about services, resources,
and research to help Kentucky workers stay at work or
return to work. Retained Kentucky is funded by the US
Department of Labor and the Social Security Administration under a
grant award to the Kentucky Office of Employment and Training.
(20:09):
One hundred percent of grant funding is from federal funds.
Let's keep Kentucky working. Call Retain Kentucky at eight five
nine five six two three two five one, or visit
Kyretain dot org.
Speaker 14 (20:23):
Statistics show that roughly twenty veterans die by suicide every
day in the United States, and each day over one
thousand dogs are euthanized in shelters across the country. Knines
for Warriors is the leading nonprofit organization providing highly trained
service dogs to veterans with PTSD and other invisible wounds
(20:45):
of war.
Speaker 20 (20:46):
Hannah and I, since we've been together, we have done
so much. There's nothing I won't do now as long
as hands by my side. Without Hannah, I'll probably still
be stuck in the living room with the curtains drawn,
with my back to the wall. What probably gone on
about that?
Speaker 14 (21:01):
The majority of service dogs from Canines are rescues, and
with each pairing, two lives are changed. Forever we rescue
the dog, the dog rescues the warrior. To learn more
about how Canines for Warriors are saving lives at both
ends of the leash, please visit Canines for Warriors dot org.
That's Canines for Warriors dot org.
Speaker 21 (21:22):
When a parent sees their child's smile, they see hope.
Aleem hoped that his son, Rajib, would have an easier
life than he had. You see. Rejib, just like his father,
was born with a cleft but as a fisherman in
a small village in Indonesia, the cost of surgery was.
Speaker 2 (21:39):
Out of reach.
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Their lives were transformed thanks to Smile Train, which sponsors free,
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(22:04):
five hundred and forty babies are born with a cleft
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visit SmileTrain dot org, slash learn Smile Train changing the
world one smile at a time.
Speaker 1 (22:24):
Welcome back to Kentucky Focus, Sime Scott Fitzgerald and before
we leave you, we want to recognize Kentucky Living magazine
has unveiled its twenty twenty five Best in Kentucky Award
winners in their September issue at celebrates thirty of the
state's favorite people, places, and experiences. This marks the sixteenth
year of the reader driven awards, chosen through online nominations
in voting. Winners were revealed during a live stream show
(22:47):
hosted by Heather French, Henry and celebrated the next day
at the Kentucky State Fair. Among this year's most popular winners,
Mammoth Cave National Park was named best road Trip Destination,
while Maker's Mark Distillery top list for best Distillery Tours.
Louisvill Zoo took home the honors as the state's favorite
kid friendly attraction. In Marion County, Country ham Days was
(23:09):
voted best festival, drawing tens of thousands each fall. Speaking
of food, Barnstown Burger was named the best Hamburg Burke's
Bakery and Danville claimed the best bakery, and the Lighthouse
Restaurant in so For.
Speaker 2 (23:21):
Weell won the best down home Restaurant.
Speaker 1 (23:24):
Music superstar Chris Stapleton was voting Kentucky's top musician well.
Louisville's own Candae Cliff and Mark Weinberg of WDRB were
recognized as the states favorite local TV personality and meteorologist.
Kentucky Living President Chris Perry says the awards quote celebrate
the people, places, and experience that make our states such
a vibrant place to live. Editor Sharon Bronx says the
(23:47):
September issue doubles as the year long tourism guide, complete
with a Kentucky Festival map and features on travel, food
and culture. For a full list of winners, you can
visit Kentucky Living dot com.
Speaker 2 (24:00):
We're back to wrap things up after this.
Speaker 12 (24:05):
Being blind doesn't always look how others may think. Stargard
disease was supposed to define me.
Speaker 22 (24:13):
Retinitis pigmentosa aimed to overwhelm my family.
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It tried to cut me down.
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A blinding eye disease intended to force me away from
doing what I was born to do.
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But it cannot stop me. I have the tools.
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I will keep moving forward.
Speaker 22 (24:34):
Pushing past the limits of this disability.
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I know where to find support and where I can
be seen.
Speaker 22 (24:43):
Great vision doesn't require great sight. Innovative research, educational resources,
supportive community. The Foundation Fighting Blindness is leading the charge
and finding treatments and cures for blinding diseases. Make your
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service message from the Foundation of Fighting Blindness.
Speaker 23 (25:04):
You said you'd never buy your kid candy from the
checkout aisle, or forget extra diapers, and never give into
a meltdown. You'd never lick your thumb to clean their face,
never let them have too much green time, and never
bribe them for just one more bite. You say you'd
(25:29):
never let them out in public without their hair brush,
never ever become a minivan mom, and you'd never give
them your phone for a quiet dinner.
Speaker 4 (25:40):
Falling boss work phone.
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So when you say you'd never leave your child in
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Speaker 24 (26:04):
A recent MIT study finds ninety five percent of the
AI pilot projects that companies have deployed have failed to
deliver any financial savings or increase in profits and investipedia.
As Caleb Silver says, that's not the only thing that
has investors worried.
Speaker 25 (26:19):
When you hear the founder of Open Ai, Sam Altman,
say he thinks that a lot of the AI companies
are overvalued, and his being one of them, you can't
help but think we may be in another cycle of
overvaluation or bubble.
Speaker 2 (26:31):
Territory, he says.
Speaker 24 (26:32):
Concerns of an AI bubble come as companies spend big
on developing large language models.
Speaker 25 (26:37):
Spending tens of billions of dollars a year to build
out their cloud computing infrastructure to hold all that data
without actually producing revenue associated with it.
Speaker 24 (26:47):
And he says if this so called bubble pops, it'll
affect more than just the tech sector.
Speaker 25 (26:51):
Investors suddenly decided they don't want to value these stocks
is highly anymore, and they start selling them out. That's
going to bring the entire market down.
Speaker 24 (26:59):
With tech trends, I'm Mike Debuski.
Speaker 12 (27:01):
Only one in five people with disabilities, including those with autism,
are employed, despite many having the skill set and desire
to work.
Speaker 21 (27:08):
Maybe it's because employers don't know what kind of jobs
they can do.
Speaker 12 (27:11):
Okay, try me. What about a programmer that is a
job for someone with autism? What about a teacher that
is a job for someone with autism?
Speaker 16 (27:21):
Oh?
Speaker 2 (27:21):
How about a healthcare worker?
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Yes, those are all jobs for someone with autism. The
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Introducing WIN, the Workplace Inclusion Now program by Autism Speaks.
(27:45):
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Speaker 1 (27:47):
Ooh what about a ranch hand?
Speaker 12 (27:50):
Yeah, sure, that's a job for someone with autism too.
To learn more, go to Autism Speaks dot org, slash
win that's Autism Speaks dot org flash win.
Speaker 1 (28:02):
That wraps up our special Labor Day edition of Kentucky Focus.
We want to extend our thanks to Dustin rein Steller
for sharing his perspective on the legacy and current state
of labor.
Speaker 2 (28:12):
In Kentucky and the Kentucky Living.
Speaker 1 (28:14):
For reminding us that the people and places that make
our states such a special place are certainly one of
a kind. And to all the hard working Kentuckians, whether
you're on the front lines, behind the scenes, or helping
to shape the future of your communities, we honor your dedication,
your skill, and your contributions. Thank you for everything you
do to keep Kentucky moving forward.
Speaker 2 (28:34):
And I speak for all of us, said Kentucky Focus
and the Kentucky.
Speaker 1 (28:38):
News Network when I say, have a safe and meaningful
Labor Day weekend.
Speaker 26 (28:46):
Floodwaters in eastern Kentucky have destroyed homes and businesses, displaced families,
devastated communities, and claim the lives of our fellow Kentuckians.
Radio and television stations across the Commonwealth have you united
as one voice to help our fellow Kentuckians in need.
Please consider supporting the Team Eastern Kentucky Flood Relief Fund today.
(29:06):
Simply go to KBA dot org and click the donate
now button. This message of hope is provided by the
Kentucky Broadcasters Association and this station.
Speaker 23 (29:15):
Snakes Zombies public speaking.
Speaker 11 (29:18):
The list of fears is endless, but the real danger
is in your hand when you're behind the wheel. Distracted
driving is what's really scary and even deadly. Eyes forward,
Don't drive distracted. Brought to you by Nitze and the
AD Council
Welcome to Kentucky Focus. I'm Scott Fitzgerald. Labor Day Weekend
is here, yes, and time to pause and reflect on
the contributions at workers across Kentucky.
Speaker 2 (00:11):
And the nation.
Speaker 1 (00:13):
From the hills of eastern Kentucky to cities and towns
across the Commonwealth, the meaning of work has evolved and
continues to evolve. On today's special edition of Kentucky Focus,
we'll explore.
Speaker 2 (00:22):
The legacy of Labor Day in our state.
Speaker 1 (00:25):
Here from leaders who represent and advocate for workers, and
celebrate the people, places, and traditions that make Kentucky such
a special place to call home.
Speaker 2 (00:35):
I'm scotfience Gerald.
Speaker 1 (00:36):
We're back to break it all out for you on
this Kentucky Focus.
Speaker 3 (00:40):
Welcome to Kentucky Focus on the Kentucky News Network, the
show that looks at issues affecting the Commonwealth and its citizens.
We cover state politics and history, human interest stories, sports,
and even entertainment. It's Kentucky Focus on kN N.
Speaker 4 (01:01):
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at National Kasa g al dot org.
Speaker 5 (01:25):
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 you know, wrap away. Tears are water and water
(01:49):
is life. And when you shed those tears, that's love,
that's real love. Sometimes as dads, 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
(02:09):
pray for yourself as well as for everybody else. But
never forget yourself.
Speaker 6 (02:15):
Never stop being dead. That's detication. Find out more at
fatherhood dot gov. Brought to you by the US Department
of Health and Human Services and the ad Council.
Speaker 7 (02:25):
Childhood should be the happiest time of life, but for
many children living in poverty with blindness, facial deformities and
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And many men and women too, are now restored, accepted,
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hope to one person, one child at a time. Volunteers
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the world, one child at a time, go to Mercyships
dot org.
Speaker 6 (03:23):
Today.
Speaker 1 (03:27):
Welcome back to Kentucky Focus. I'm Scott Fitzgerald. Our first
conversation takes us into the heart of Kentucky's labor history
and its present day workforce.
Speaker 2 (03:35):
Later we'll highlight some of the winners.
Speaker 1 (03:37):
Also from the Best in Kentucky issue of Kentucky Living Magazine.
A showcase of the favorite destinations, businesses, and traditions that
make our commonwealth you need. This week on Kentucky Focus,
we're celebrating Labor Day weekend by taking a closer look
at the meaning and impact of this holiday on this
great state of ours. Joining us as Dustin ran Stetler,
president of the Kentucky AFL CIO and has dedicated his
(04:01):
career to advocating for Kentucky workers and well hear his
perspective on the legacy of the Labor Day holiday, the
current state of organized labor, and the challenges and opportunities
facing workers across the state.
Speaker 2 (04:13):
Dustin, Welcome to Kentucky Focus.
Speaker 1 (04:16):
To start, what does Labor Day personally mean to you,
both as an individual and president of the Kentucky a
FL CIO.
Speaker 2 (04:23):
Well, I wear.
Speaker 8 (04:23):
Many hats, but I'm still a dues paying union bricklayer,
So you know, I know about working hard. I know
about working in the heat and the cold, lifting heavy objects,
breathing dust, all the stuff that you would think of
as a bricklayer. So it's always been an honor to
take that day off since before my days in union
(04:45):
leadership all the way up until right now. Is my
hat with being president of Kentucky State fl CIO, though
it often comes with kind of some reflections.
Speaker 2 (04:56):
Some good and some bad.
Speaker 8 (04:59):
You know, if you think about out the good, you're
talking about everything that you know, working class people have
done for this country to get it to come together
in times of need to come together, to put this
country forward, and then you think about the bad things,
the attacks on the working class. So it's kind of
a god its pluses and minuses for me right now.
Speaker 2 (05:21):
Absolutely it does.
Speaker 1 (05:22):
Having a great conversation Dustin rein Stetler, he is the
president of the Kentucky a fl CIO, on this Labor
Day holiday weekend, and Dustin, how do you see the
legacy of Labor Day reflected in Kentucky's workforce today?
Speaker 8 (05:35):
People need to day like Labor Day now more than ever.
We just see these continued attacks on workers coming out
of Washington, d C. The Executive branch. We are actually
shifting our focus back to what's called May Day.
Speaker 2 (05:51):
And I hope, I hope.
Speaker 8 (05:52):
Many of your listeners know about May Day. If not,
I encourage them to look that up. You can really
go to some rabbit holes, but May Day is the
original Labor Day.
Speaker 2 (06:02):
And from your perspective.
Speaker 1 (06:03):
Dustin, how would you describe the current state of organized
labor here in Kentucky.
Speaker 8 (06:07):
One word zums it up. And that's growing, you know,
if you really want to dive deep, it's We're up
to one hundred and thirty one thousand union members in Kentucky. Now,
that is the largest union density in basically the Southern
States of America. Kentucky has some deep roots in labor history,
(06:29):
from the coal miners that stood up and fought greedy
business people that turned militias on them, to the great
construction workers, to the steel workers who produce all the
women across Kentucky, to recently all the baristas in Louisville
and Lexington that are coming together and organizing for better
(06:52):
working conditions, better wages, and even blue oval. So we
are coming together.
Speaker 2 (06:59):
We just say we're leaning towards it getting better.
Speaker 8 (07:01):
Definitely, I see it every day. It's very positive. Again,
you know, I don't want to paint this picture of
doom and gloom when I talk about the attacks that
are coming out of d C on us right now
in the working class. But people will see through that stuff.
And honestly, I think because of the technology that everybody
has in their pocket with the smartphones and all, you know,
(07:22):
you can do a little research and find out that
there is a lot agreed, a lot of corporate welfare,
a lot of tax breaks, and working class people are
just seeing through it and they're seeing that they're not
getting their fair share. And I think they're coming together,
meeting up with unions and learning about their rights to
organize their workplace.
Speaker 1 (07:44):
What are the biggest issues right now in challenges that
are facing organized labor in Kentucky.
Speaker 8 (07:48):
Particularly to Kentucky. The biggest challenge right now is what's
happening again with the federal government, specifically coming at the
executive branch. These tariffs have killed thousands of jobs already,
and I fear what's coming next. Particularly the bourbon industry
has been hit, and some of our manufacturing industries as well,
(08:09):
just because of where they source products from. And then
of course we all know about the cuts to medical
you know, we're looking at maybe thousands or so jobs
in rural eastern Kentucky and closing of hospitals.
Speaker 1 (08:26):
Usin Ran Settler joining us for just a bit here,
he is president of the Kentucky a fl CIO. Here
in Kentucky of course, talking and celebrating Labor Day and
our workers on this Labor Day weekend, and Dustin, what
steps can unions and workers take to strengthen labor's voice here?
Speaker 8 (08:41):
And then'll tell you what they can do is realize
that whether you're in a union or not, whether you
are a barista or a bricklayer, or a teacher, or
a teamster or you know, even a radio host. You know,
I think we're all working class. None of us are
getting rich, and there is a wealthy class that definitely
controls everything from our government on down to know how
(09:05):
much we make, where we spend it, how much we
spend on these things. And we need to wake up
and realize that we do have strength to numbers, and
we do have power, and we should exercise.
Speaker 1 (09:15):
That together again, President of the Kentucky a fl CIO,
Dustin Ryan Stetler joining us and Dustin, finally, for younger
workers entering the workforce today, what message would you share
about the value of organized labor?
Speaker 8 (09:26):
Oh, great question. October twenty fourth, we're having our first
ever Young Workers conference. It's going to be held at
IBW three sixty nine, and I want young workers to
know that this is your union. Exercise your voice. There's
a lot of you. You have strength in numbers. I
asked that you study labor history for two reasons.
Speaker 2 (09:46):
To study what.
Speaker 8 (09:47):
Went wrong, not only with unions, but with our government
and with business, and study for the things that worked
and recreate those to kind of a more modern fit.
Speaker 1 (09:58):
Dustin Ryan Stettler, he is the president of the Kentucky
AFL CIO. He is if anyone dialed in on this
Labor Day weekend, and I know you're busy, busy man, Dustin,
and I certainly appreciate you taking the time to talk
to us, and hopefully you and I can catch up,
not just down Labor Day, but let's talk about some
more issues facing our labor workforce here in the Commonwealth.
Speaker 2 (10:17):
Certainly is a hot topic in the news right now,
for sure, my man.
Speaker 8 (10:20):
Thank you very much. Brother, you have a happy labor
to n be safe.
Speaker 1 (10:23):
And again a big thank you to Dustin Ryan Stetler,
President of the Kentucky AFL CIO. Coming up, we'll take
a look back at Kentucky's history with labor, specifically in
the eastern part of the state with the coal miners.
I'm Scott Fitzgerald and you're listening to Kentucky Focus.
Speaker 6 (10:43):
We are Kentucky Broadcasters. You're hometown radio and television stations.
We bring you breaking news, We keep you safe. We
serve your community in good times and in bad. Your
local broadcasters are always there. We are deeply rooted in
you're small owns and your big cities. We champion a
strong sense of civic pride. No matter how we connect
(11:06):
over the air, online and on your device, we are
Kentucky broadcasters there when that matters.
Speaker 9 (11:13):
The mission of Kentucky State Police is a safeguard and
enforce the laws across the commonwealth. One of our priorities
is making sure families across our New Kentucky home are safe,
not only safe, but also they feel safe when we
have someone that commits a crime, and we want to
ensure that those pay their debt to society. And they do.
(11:36):
But once they finish that, and that's when we want
to incorporate these re entry programs for those to be
able to go back in their communities. And what that
does and that they become contributed members is socided they
have an income they can provide for their family and
by that then they're not committing further offenses, which makes
Kentucky a safer place, and by Kentucky being a safer place,
(11:58):
that's also safer for law enforcement acrossler commonwealth. Now we
will collaborate with other public agencies and other law enforcement
entities to ensure that people can have a better live
for themselves and their family.
Speaker 10 (12:12):
We're discussing child development with some experts. Tell me what's
the normal.
Speaker 2 (12:16):
Development of say a two year old?
Speaker 10 (12:18):
Hi, so saying two to forward phrases and engaging in
pretend to play?
Speaker 2 (12:24):
And what about social development?
Speaker 10 (12:27):
Ah being enthusiastic about the company of other children. Thank you.
Speaker 11 (12:31):
It's time to change how we view a child's growth.
It's not just physical. There are milestones your child should
reach and how he plays, learns, speaks, and acts. A
delay in any of these areas could be a sign
of a developmental problem, even autism. The good news is
the earlier it's recognized, the more you can do to
help your child reach his full potential. Talk with a doctor.
(12:52):
Visit CDC dot gov, slash act early, or call one
eight hundred CDC info. A message from the US Department
of Health and Human Services Centers Disease Control and prevention.
Learn the signs Act early in Kentucky.
Speaker 12 (13:04):
Call five h two eight five two, seven, seven nine
nine or visit Kyautism dot org.
Speaker 1 (13:14):
Welcome back to Kentucky Focus. I'm Scop Fitzgerald.
Speaker 13 (13:17):
These families came here to work.
Speaker 14 (13:19):
They came to build.
Speaker 13 (13:21):
Others came to America in different ways from other lands,
under different and often harrowing conditions. But this place symbolizes
what they all managed to build. No matter where they
came from, or how they came, or how much they suffered,
they helped to build that magnificent city across the river.
(13:43):
They spread across the land, building other cities and other
towns and incredibly productive farms. They came to make America work.
They didn't ask what this country could do for them,
but what they could do to make this, this refuge
that the greatest home of freedom in history. They brought
with them courage, ambition, and the values of family, neighborhood, work,
(14:10):
peace and freedom.
Speaker 1 (14:12):
Labor Day, celebrated on the first Monday in September, honors
the contributions of working.
Speaker 2 (14:17):
Men and women across America.
Speaker 1 (14:19):
Its ruts go back as early as the late nineteenth century,
when unions were fighting for safer workplaces, fair wages, and
the eight hour workday, and have continued throughout history. In Kentucky,
labor activism began in Louisville and spread state wide, and
nearly just a year after the first Labor Day, rallies
and marches brought attention to worker challenges in industries like
(14:40):
tobacco manufacturing, in railroads, and continued throughout the century.
Speaker 15 (14:45):
Those who may find fault with the American labor movement
today in the United States, as they find fault with
so many things in this country, you'd only look abroad
in Latin America, in Europe.
Speaker 16 (14:58):
In all parts of the world and see labor unions
controlled either by the communists or by the government, or
no labor union. And when they find either one of
those three conditions, they find inevitably poverty or totalitarianism.
Speaker 15 (15:14):
And therefore I think it's a.
Speaker 16 (15:15):
Fair judgment to make that a free active, progressive trade
union movement stands for a free active, progressive country. And
that's the kind of country, and that's the kind of
country I'm proud to be president of.
Speaker 15 (15:36):
Thank you.
Speaker 1 (15:40):
Easierly efforts, of course, lay the groundwork for workers' rights.
We often take for granted, today, labor Day takes on
special meaning. Of course, in eastern Kentucky we're coal mining
shaped entire communities.
Speaker 17 (15:54):
For anything except distract you there for the company all
the way would.
Speaker 8 (15:59):
Be at.
Speaker 1 (16:01):
Mining work was and still is dangerous, with long hours,
unstable pay, and risked to life and limb. A great
example of that is the nineteen seventeen explosion of the
Number seven mine in the heart of Kentucky coal country,
Webster County.
Speaker 2 (16:14):
That took the lives of sixty two miners.
Speaker 1 (16:16):
Steve Henry, at the time county judge executive in Webster County.
Speaker 18 (16:20):
It's very sad because I feel that probably a lot
of those folks is family. A lot of those people's
family probably never knew what happened to him. They got
on the train headed for Kentucky a chance to mikeel
live and were never heard fro him again.
Speaker 1 (16:40):
The struggles of Eastern Kentucky miners sparked major labor movements,
including the strikes of the nineteen seventies and eighties. And
these strikes weren't just headlines. They affected entire towns, from
paychecks to local schools to businesses. The industry affected so
many like retired miner Kirby Thanker, who was interviewed at
the time by Lexington Herald leader Billy Staff.
Speaker 17 (17:00):
Well, you could jump out and get a job about anywhere.
Back at that time, you sayeventies, And now you can't
hard to get out and find the job anywhere. And
most of our work with co we're occupation. And I
just don't know what people's going to do around here
(17:21):
with no work.
Speaker 8 (17:22):
Boils, doing nothing for the widows, boil, doing nothing for
the pensioners.
Speaker 2 (17:27):
I'll give you this, I'll give you that.
Speaker 13 (17:31):
I'll give you pie if I can reach high enough
from the sky.
Speaker 2 (17:37):
In the suite, buy and buy well.
Speaker 17 (17:40):
The coal miners in this country are damn sick and
tired of having a.
Speaker 14 (17:44):
National president of its organization that's imped with.
Speaker 2 (17:47):
The co operators.
Speaker 1 (17:49):
Union halls became centers of community life, offering support when
miners were injured or pride of work. Labor Day celebrations
here are often featured parades, picnics, and of course family
events honoring those workers. Today, Kentucky's workforce has changed. Coal
Mining isn't the economic enginunit once was, but manufacturing, healthcare, education,
(18:09):
and service industries drive our state forward. Labor Day is
a reminder the rights workers fought for and of the
ongoing challenges they face, and the day means so much
to so many, like Dustin Roach with Teamster's Local one
thirty five, who explained to TV station WTCHI.
Speaker 3 (18:26):
SOH, it's a way for us as American citizens to
honor our brothers and sisters that are on the ground
getting a job done.
Speaker 1 (18:32):
Even in twenty twenty five, Labor Day is more than
a day off. It's a day to recognize fair wages,
workplace safety, and the value of union representation in industries
that still needed. And teachers in Lexington to nurses in Louisville,
the small business owners and service workers across Kentucky communities
continued the tradition of honoring labor with picnics, parades, and celebrations,
(18:53):
and the message is clear. Workers are the backbone of
our state and Labor Day once the moment we pause
and appre them. So as we celebrate this Labor Day,
let's remember the history, the struggle and the victories that
brought workers' rights to where they are today. And let's
also recognize the work's still ahead from all of us
here at Kentucky Focus.
Speaker 2 (19:13):
I'm Scott Fitzgerleman.
Speaker 1 (19:14):
I say Happy Labor Day and thank you to every
Kentucky and contributing to our state's growth, safety, and community.
We're back after this on Kentucky Focus.
Speaker 19 (19:28):
Do you have an injury, illness, COVID substance use, or
mental health concerns and need help? There are many reasons
Kentuckians leave their jobs. Retain Kentucky can help. If you
are thinking of leaving your job or left your job recently,
visit Kyretain dot org or call eight five nine five
(19:49):
six two three two five one to learn about services, resources,
and research to help Kentucky workers stay at work or
return to work. Retained Kentucky is funded by the US
Department of Labor and the Social Security Administration under a
grant award to the Kentucky Office of Employment and Training.
(20:09):
One hundred percent of grant funding is from federal funds.
Let's keep Kentucky working. Call Retain Kentucky at eight five
nine five six two three two five one, or visit
Kyretain dot org.
Speaker 14 (20:23):
Statistics show that roughly twenty veterans die by suicide every
day in the United States, and each day over one
thousand dogs are euthanized in shelters across the country. Knines
for Warriors is the leading nonprofit organization providing highly trained
service dogs to veterans with PTSD and other invisible wounds
(20:45):
of war.
Speaker 20 (20:46):
Hannah and I, since we've been together, we have done
so much. There's nothing I won't do now as long
as hands by my side. Without Hannah, I'll probably still
be stuck in the living room with the curtains drawn,
with my back to the wall. What probably gone on
about that?
Speaker 14 (21:01):
The majority of service dogs from Canines are rescues, and
with each pairing, two lives are changed. Forever we rescue
the dog, the dog rescues the warrior. To learn more
about how Canines for Warriors are saving lives at both
ends of the leash, please visit Canines for Warriors dot org.
That's Canines for Warriors dot org.
Speaker 21 (21:22):
When a parent sees their child's smile, they see hope.
Aleem hoped that his son, Rajib, would have an easier
life than he had. You see. Rejib, just like his father,
was born with a cleft but as a fisherman in
a small village in Indonesia, the cost of surgery was.
Speaker 2 (21:39):
Out of reach.
Speaker 21 (21:41):
Their lives were transformed thanks to Smile Train, which sponsors free,
life changing cleft surgeries and other essential treatments. Rejeb's surgery
marked Smile Trains two million and incredibly, a Lemes was
the two million and first. Now their smiles are a
symbol of hope for children with clefts. All over the world,
(22:04):
five hundred and forty babies are born with a cleft
each day, but through Smile Train, millions of lives have
been changed. To learn more and support the global cleft community,
visit SmileTrain dot org, slash learn Smile Train changing the
world one smile at a time.
Speaker 1 (22:24):
Welcome back to Kentucky Focus, Sime Scott Fitzgerald and before
we leave you, we want to recognize Kentucky Living magazine
has unveiled its twenty twenty five Best in Kentucky Award
winners in their September issue at celebrates thirty of the
state's favorite people, places, and experiences. This marks the sixteenth
year of the reader driven awards, chosen through online nominations
in voting. Winners were revealed during a live stream show
(22:47):
hosted by Heather French, Henry and celebrated the next day
at the Kentucky State Fair. Among this year's most popular winners,
Mammoth Cave National Park was named best road Trip Destination,
while Maker's Mark Distillery top list for best Distillery Tours.
Louisvill Zoo took home the honors as the state's favorite
kid friendly attraction. In Marion County, Country ham Days was
(23:09):
voted best festival, drawing tens of thousands each fall. Speaking
of food, Barnstown Burger was named the best Hamburg Burke's
Bakery and Danville claimed the best bakery, and the Lighthouse
Restaurant in so For.
Speaker 2 (23:21):
Weell won the best down home Restaurant.
Speaker 1 (23:24):
Music superstar Chris Stapleton was voting Kentucky's top musician well.
Louisville's own Candae Cliff and Mark Weinberg of WDRB were
recognized as the states favorite local TV personality and meteorologist.
Kentucky Living President Chris Perry says the awards quote celebrate
the people, places, and experience that make our states such
a vibrant place to live. Editor Sharon Bronx says the
(23:47):
September issue doubles as the year long tourism guide, complete
with a Kentucky Festival map and features on travel, food
and culture. For a full list of winners, you can
visit Kentucky Living dot com.
Speaker 2 (24:00):
We're back to wrap things up after this.
Speaker 12 (24:05):
Being blind doesn't always look how others may think. Stargard
disease was supposed to define me.
Speaker 22 (24:13):
Retinitis pigmentosa aimed to overwhelm my family.
Speaker 2 (24:18):
It tried to cut me down.
Speaker 8 (24:20):
A blinding eye disease intended to force me away from
doing what I was born to do.
Speaker 12 (24:26):
But it cannot stop me. I have the tools.
Speaker 5 (24:31):
I will keep moving forward.
Speaker 22 (24:34):
Pushing past the limits of this disability.
Speaker 2 (24:39):
I know where to find support and where I can
be seen.
Speaker 22 (24:43):
Great vision doesn't require great sight. Innovative research, educational resources,
supportive community. The Foundation Fighting Blindness is leading the charge
and finding treatments and cures for blinding diseases. Make your
impact today. Donate now at Fighting Blindness or a public
service message from the Foundation of Fighting Blindness.
Speaker 23 (25:04):
You said you'd never buy your kid candy from the
checkout aisle, or forget extra diapers, and never give into
a meltdown. You'd never lick your thumb to clean their face,
never let them have too much green time, and never
bribe them for just one more bite. You say you'd
(25:29):
never let them out in public without their hair brush,
never ever become a minivan mom, and you'd never give
them your phone for a quiet dinner.
Speaker 4 (25:40):
Falling boss work phone.
Speaker 23 (25:43):
So when you say you'd never leave your child in
a hot car, no, it can happen. Cars get hot fast,
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Speaker 24 (26:04):
A recent MIT study finds ninety five percent of the
AI pilot projects that companies have deployed have failed to
deliver any financial savings or increase in profits and investipedia.
As Caleb Silver says, that's not the only thing that
has investors worried.
Speaker 25 (26:19):
When you hear the founder of Open Ai, Sam Altman,
say he thinks that a lot of the AI companies
are overvalued, and his being one of them, you can't
help but think we may be in another cycle of
overvaluation or bubble.
Speaker 2 (26:31):
Territory, he says.
Speaker 24 (26:32):
Concerns of an AI bubble come as companies spend big
on developing large language models.
Speaker 25 (26:37):
Spending tens of billions of dollars a year to build
out their cloud computing infrastructure to hold all that data
without actually producing revenue associated with it.
Speaker 24 (26:47):
And he says if this so called bubble pops, it'll
affect more than just the tech sector.
Speaker 25 (26:51):
Investors suddenly decided they don't want to value these stocks
is highly anymore, and they start selling them out. That's
going to bring the entire market down.
Speaker 24 (26:59):
With tech trends, I'm Mike Debuski.
Speaker 12 (27:01):
Only one in five people with disabilities, including those with autism,
are employed, despite many having the skill set and desire
to work.
Speaker 21 (27:08):
Maybe it's because employers don't know what kind of jobs
they can do.
Speaker 12 (27:11):
Okay, try me. What about a programmer that is a
job for someone with autism? What about a teacher that
is a job for someone with autism?
Speaker 16 (27:21):
Oh?
Speaker 2 (27:21):
How about a healthcare worker?
Speaker 12 (27:23):
Yes, those are all jobs for someone with autism. The
truth is qualified people with autism can do a lot
of different jobs, but often get overlooked due to outdated
stigmas and beliefs. Business is value diversity, but sometimes don't
recognize the unique strengths and abilities of the autism community.
Introducing WIN, the Workplace Inclusion Now program by Autism Speaks.
(27:45):
We help businesses lead the way in inclusive hiring.
Speaker 1 (27:47):
Ooh what about a ranch hand?
Speaker 12 (27:50):
Yeah, sure, that's a job for someone with autism too.
To learn more, go to Autism Speaks dot org, slash
win that's Autism Speaks dot org flash win.
Speaker 1 (28:02):
That wraps up our special Labor Day edition of Kentucky Focus.
We want to extend our thanks to Dustin rein Steller
for sharing his perspective on the legacy and current state
of labor.
Speaker 2 (28:12):
In Kentucky and the Kentucky Living.
Speaker 1 (28:14):
For reminding us that the people and places that make
our states such a special place are certainly one of
a kind. And to all the hard working Kentuckians, whether
you're on the front lines, behind the scenes, or helping
to shape the future of your communities, we honor your dedication,
your skill, and your contributions. Thank you for everything you
do to keep Kentucky moving forward.
Speaker 2 (28:34):
And I speak for all of us, said Kentucky Focus
and the Kentucky.
Speaker 1 (28:38):
News Network when I say, have a safe and meaningful
Labor Day weekend.
Speaker 26 (28:46):
Floodwaters in eastern Kentucky have destroyed homes and businesses, displaced families,
devastated communities, and claim the lives of our fellow Kentuckians.
Radio and television stations across the Commonwealth have you united
as one voice to help our fellow Kentuckians in need.
Please consider supporting the Team Eastern Kentucky Flood Relief Fund today.
(29:06):
Simply go to KBA dot org and click the donate
now button. This message of hope is provided by the
Kentucky Broadcasters Association and this station.
Speaker 23 (29:15):
Snakes Zombies public speaking.
Speaker 11 (29:18):
The list of fears is endless, but the real danger
is in your hand when you're behind the wheel. Distracted
driving is what's really scary and even deadly. Eyes forward,
Don't drive distracted. Brought to you by Nitze and the
AD Council
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