Stormey and Darryl Brown from the Williamstown American Legion join us to share the rich history and vital role of the Legion in supporting local veterans. They highlight the various ways the Legion raises funds and resources to give back to those who have served our country. Both Stormey, as the post commander, and Darryl, the post adjutant, emphasize the importance of community involvement and encourage veterans, as well as the public, to participate in events and initiatives. From bingo nights to collecting donations for local charities, their passion for helping veterans shines through. This episode not only sheds light on the Legion's activities but also invites everyone to join in and support those who have dedicated their lives to serving others.

Engaging with Stormy and Darryl Brown from the Williamstown American Legion Post 0137 was an enlightening experience that showcased the vital role this organization plays in supporting veterans and the community. Stormy, the commander, shared her extensive history with the Legion, which began in 1989, and highlighted her dedication to helping veterans and their families. Together with her husband Darryl, the post adjutant, they emphasized the importance of creating a welcoming environment for all veterans, regardless of their discharge status. They discussed the significance of membership and how it fosters a sense of belonging among veterans, encouraging honorably discharged individuals to join and actively participate in the Legion's activities.

During our conversation, we explored the various ways the Legion raises funds to support its initiatives. The Browns detailed their ongoing bingo nights, which not only serve as a source of income but also as a community gathering event that fosters friendships and connections. They shared heartwarming stories of how the Legion has provided essential support to local veterans, including medical equipment and assistance with VA benefits. The emotional depth of their stories illustrated the profound impact the Legion has on individuals' lives, reinforcing the idea that it is more than just a social club—it is a lifeline for many.

As the discussion progressed, the need for community involvement became increasingly apparent. Stormy and Darryl emphasized that the Legion relies heavily on the support of local citizens, encouraging everyone to participate in events, volunteer their time, or make donations. They expressed a desire to dispel any misconceptions about the Legion being solely a place for drinking and socializing, instead presenting it as a family-friendly environment focused on service and support. Their genuine passion for their work and the community shone through, leaving a lasting impression that the American Legion is a place where veterans can find support, camaraderie, and a sense of purpose. The episode concluded with a heartfelt invitation for everyone to get involved, whether through volunteering or simply attending events, highlighting the collective responsibility we all share in supporting our veterans.

Takeaways:

• The American Legion is a vital support network for veterans, encouraging camaraderie and assistance among those who served.
• Stormy Brown, the commander, emphasizes the importance of giving back to veterans and the community.
• Darryl Brown highlighted the various services the Legion offers, like loaning out medical equipment and helping veterans navigate VA benefits.
• The Legion hosts events like bingo nights to fundraise and engage the community in a family-friendly atmosphere.
• Membership at the Legion is open to all honorably discharged veterans, providing a space for veterans to connect and support one another.
• Community involvement is crucial for the Legion’s sustainability, and they encourage locals to volunteer or participate in events.

Mentioned in this episode:

Toad Talk...

Shirley Dubay from Riding with Rhythm joins us to share her journey in horsemanship and the community impact of her riding school. From her early days in vocational school to her certification at Meredith Manor, Shirley’s background is rich with experiences—from working with thoroughbreds on the track to becoming a head riding instructor in Colorado.

With her decades of experience, Shirley teaches riders of all ages, focusing on building confidence and skills through engaging lessons. In our conversation, we explored various teaching methods, including games she uses to help students learn while they are in the saddle. She highlights the importance of understanding horse care and the commitment that comes with horse ownership, dispelling common misconceptions along the way.

She discusses her unique facility in Pendleton County, where she offers a range of programs, including private and semi-private lessons, as well as badge work for community organizations like the Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts.

If you're interested in horsemanship or simply want to learn more about the world of horses, this episode is a perfect blend of education, inspiration, and heartfelt stories from someone who truly lives and breathes her passion for riding and teaching.

Takeaways:

• Shirley Dubay shares with us her vast experience and training with horses
• Shirley offers a variety of lessons and community programs, including scouting badge work and hands-on classes for kids.
• Shirley stresses the importance of understanding horse care in addition to learning how to ride.
• She discusses some common misconceptions about horse ownership and gives a warning to parents who may not know the major commitment of time and money involved with making a purchase of a horse.
• Shirley's teaching style emphasizes patience and connection, and her use of games to encourage learning through fun.

Links referenced in this episode:

• ridingwithrhythm.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Riding with Rhythm
• No Blink Pictures
• Toad Talk Media
• We Are Grant County

We're diving into an inspiring conversation with Mona Lazarus and her daughter, Rachelle, the dynamic duo behind the Kentucky Y' All Icebox and the nonprofit Dream Grant County. At the heart of our chat is how these two are transforming lives in Grant County, one scoop of ice cream at a time, by creating meaningful employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. We explore the journey that led to the birth of Dream Grant County, which aims to empower and accept those with differing abilities, ensuring they have a place in the community. Mona shares her vision for a future complex that will feature recreational activities, an art studio, and a bakery, all designed to provide jobs and a sense of purpose. Join us as we celebrate their mission and discuss how this local gem is not just serving delicious ice cream but also fostering inclusivity in their community.

Takeaways:

• Dream Grant County focuses on creating meaningful employment opportunities for differently abled individuals in our community.
• The Kentucky Y'All Icebox not only serves delicious ice cream, but also acts as a platform for social change.
• Their vision for Dream Grant County includes expanding to a larger facility with various recreational activities and job roles for all ability levels.
• Community involvement is crucial; local support helps sustain their mission and initiatives effectively.
• The Kentucky Dream Storytelling Festival: A wonderful event designed to raise awareness and support for Dream Grant County. Festival is happening on Saturday, Oct. 18., at the Williamstown Performing Arts Center at Williamstown Independent Schools.
• The all-day festival runs from 9:30 a.m. til 8:30 p.m. and features nationally known storytellers Andy Offutt Irwin, Kevin Kling, Kim Weitkamp, and Rachel Pollock.

Links referenced in this episode:

• dreamgrantco.org
• Toad Talk Media

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Kentucky Y' All Icebox
• Dream Grant County
• Photography and video content provided by No Blink Pictures, LLC
• Toad Talk Media