Kentucky
Every Northern Kentucky city voted to allow medical cannabis operations this election. What happens next?
KENTON COUNTY, Ky. — In a strong show of support, 106 Kentucky cities and counties voted to allow medical cannabis businesses to operate where they live during this November’s election.
Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear made the announcement during a Nov. 7 Team Kentucky update.
The list includes 10 Northern Kentucky cities: Alexandria, Bellevue, Crestview Hills, Elsmere, Florence, Independence, Ludlow, Southgate, Union and Wilder.
“This signals what we have known for a long time, which is that the jury is no longer out on medical cannabis,” Beshear said. “Kentuckians want their families, friends and neighbors who have serious medical conditions like cancer, multiple sclerosis or PTSD to have safe and affordable access.”
The ample demand for medical marijuana business is met with a low supply of operating licenses, Bellevue Mayor Charlie Cleves said.
“I mean, we are a tiny little piece of this great big puzzle,” Cleves said. “The odds are against us getting it. We’re so tiny and we had so few applications compared to cities like Covington [and] Newport.”
Cleves said voters in his city approved the ballot measure by about three-to-one.
“I was surprised at the amount it passed in Bellevue,” he said. “Some of the residents that I speak to are dead bang against it … a lot of the younger people think of it as a good thing. So I just tell them whatever happens, happens.”
Kentucky Office of Medical Cannabis
A state-run lottery for processor and cultivator licenses has already taken place, with zero licenses issued to businesses in Boone, Kenton or Campbell counties. Kentucky has two more lotteries scheduled this year to deal out dispensary licenses.
The first dispensary lottery, scheduled for Nov. 25, will draw license winners in nine of Kentucky’s 11 medicinal cannabis regions, including the Northern Kentucky region.
Each region will be awarded four licenses, with a limit of one dispensary license per county.
The Northern Kentucky region is comprised of the following counties: Boone, Bracken, Campbell, Carroll, Gallatin, Grant, Kenton, Owen and Pendleton.
That means out of 395 businesses that applied in the Northern Kentucky region, only four will receive licenses.
Kentucky Office of Medical Cannabis
The second lottery will take place on Dec. 16 for Louisville, the Kentuckiana Region, and Lexington, the Bluegrass Region. Due to their size, the counties located within the regions, Jefferson and Fayette counties, will receive an additional two licenses each.
Before medical marijuana operations commence, cities are responsible for creating zoning regulations to make way for (or not allow) those types of businesses to run.
“I think it’s a long shot we’re going to get a business,” Independence Mayor Chris Reinersman said. “We are neither advocating nor trying to deter businesses.”
Reinersman said zoning changes are already in the works, thanks to a “model ordinance” drafted by the Planning and Development Services of Kenton County.
He said the Independence City Council will hold a second reading of the ordinance during its Monday meeting.
“Assuming it passes, we’ll have the zoning in place Jan. 1,” he said.
Reinersman said Independence will review its employment policies too.
“For our 50-plus city employees — particularly, we have police officers and that’s a concern there — we want to make sure we have those bases covered,” he said. “We’re working with other cities and the Kentucky League of Cities [on that].”
According to the Office Of Medical Cannabis, those who apply for a medical marijuana card must be a Kentucky resident, have no disqualifying felony offenses and be diagnosed with at least one of the following medical conditions:
- Any type or form of cancer;
- Chronic or severe pain;
- Epilepsy or other intractable seizure disorder;
- Multiple sclerosis, muscle spasms or spasticity;
- Chronic nausea or cyclical vomiting syndrome and;
- Post-traumatic stress disorder.
Kentucky will begin accepting applications for cards on Jan. 1, 2025. Before applying, those seeking a card must get a “written certification for medical cannabis from an authorized medical practitioner,” according to the Office Of Medical Cannabis.
Fourth of July festivities to celebrate in Louisville
See the Fourth of July festivities planned in Louisville for America’s 250th birthday celebration.
Nothing says summer like celebrating the Fourth of July with grilled food, parades, concerts, and, of course, fireworks.
And this year is extra special as we celebrate America’s 250th birthday. July Fourth, also known as Independence Day, is the federal holiday set aside to commemorate the Continental Congress formally adopting the Declaration of Independence in 1776.
Here is a list of fireworks shows and other Independence Day events taking place in the Louisville area, and across Kentucky, between now and July 4.
Fourth of July events in Louisville, Kentucky
June 26-28
WHAT: Join the Louisville Chorus for its annual tribute to America and our troops. Celebrate America’s 250th birthday with a spirited afternoon of music, community, and patriotic pride.
WHERE:
- June 26: St. Mary of the Annunciation, 415 E. 8th St., New Albany, Ind.
- June 27: St. Matthews Baptist Church, 3515 Grandview Ave.
- June 28: Crestwood United Methodist, 7214 Kavanaugh Road
WHEN: June 26, 7 p.m.; June 27 and 28, 3 p.m.
COST: Free, donations accepted
MORE INFORMATION: louisvillechorus.org.
July 2
WHAT: Louisville Orchestra, under the direction of Teddy Abrams, will present “Play America,” a mix of classical and contemporary pieces. From “The Star-Spangled Banner” and Leonard Bernstein’s spirited “Candide Overture,” alongside playful surprises including a heavy metal inspired take on “Grieg’s In the Hall of the Mountain King,” closes with iconic film music from John Williams’ “Star Wars.” The festivities kick off with a variety of food trucks and the Family Field with balloon creations, bounce houses, face painting and crafts. Sponsored by the Jasteka Cultural Center.
WHERE: America Place at River Ridge, 101 Logistics Ave, Jeffersonville, Indiana
WHEN: July 2, 6-10 p.m. Food trucks and activities, 6-8:30 p.m.; concert 8:30-10 p.m.
COST: Free, registration is requested
MORE INFORMATION: Bring your lawn chairs and blankets. louisvilleorchestra.org/events/free-community-events.
July 3
WHAT: Fun run for ages 9 and younger. Distance: 49-yards for ages 6 and younger; 84-yards for ages 7-9.
WHERE: Independence Bank, 3902 Shelbyville Road
WHEN: July 3, 4 p.m.
COST: $10
MORE INFORMATION: rivercityraces.com/upcoming-events-1/2026
WHAT: Concert featuring music by Sight Unseen. Fireworks after the show. Food truck and adult beverages.
WHERE: Springs Park Pavilion, 110 S. Second St., La Grange, Kentucky
WHEN: July 3, 6-10 p.m. Fireworks, 9:30 p.m.
COST: Free
MORE INFORMATION: Bring lawn chairs. lagrangemainstreet.org.
WHAT: Soar, splash, and kick off the Fourth of July weekend with a boom. Celebrate Independence Day as America turns 250 at Kentucky Kingdom with live bluegrass and patriotic music, rides, swimming and water rides at Hurricane Bay, specialty foods and fireworks. Music by Mountain Highway and Tooth & Nail String Band.
WHERE: 937 Phillips Lane
WHEN: July 3-4, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Hurricane Bay: July 3-4, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
COST: Admission starts at $42.99. Parking $15
MORE INFORMATION: kentuckykingdom.com.
July 4
WHAT: Celebrate America’s 250th birthday at Locust Grove. Beginning at 5 a.m., gather in silence around a sacred fire in the meadow near the Pavilion. At sunrise (6:32 a.m.), begin a multicultural observance of Indigenous song and dance, blessings to the four winds, and other interfaith celebrations. A free, community breakfast catered by Caked up Ent. Catering will follow (8-10 a.m.). Presented by presented by the America250KY Committee and supported by Locust Grove’s Civics Pillar sponsor, Independence Bank.
WHERE: 561 Blankenbaker Lane
WHEN: July 4, 5-10 a.m.
COST: Admission is free
MORE INFORMATION: 502-897-9845; locustgrove.org.
WHAT: Part of the River City Races Run the 502 series. Awards, door prizes, race goodie bag with packet pickup, race photo and food. Awards and door prize drawings will take place in the parking lot following the race. Proceeds benefit St. Matthews Baptist Church’s annual “Love 40207” campaign. Presented by Independence Bank.
WHERE: Begins and ends at St. Matthews Baptist Church, 3515 Grandview Ave.
WHEN: July 4, 8 a.m.
COST: Registration is $45 through July 4 and includes a choice of unisex short-sleeved tech shirt or a women’s tech tank, free race photo, goodie bag, post-race food, awards and door prizes.; virtual 5k, $50 includes shipping of shirt, bib and finisher medal after July Fourth.
MORE INFORMATION: Pre-race packet pickup and late registration July 2, from noon to 6 p.m. at Independence Bank, 3901 Shelbyville Road. Day of race pickup at St. Matthews Baptist Church, from 7-7:45 a.m. rivercityraces.com/upcoming-events-1/2026
WHAT: The Louisville Potters are celebrating 50 years and the 4th of July with a summer market at the Masonic Homes of Kentucky. The market features ceramic artists designs in clay including bowls, platters, plates, vases and mugs, as well as one of a kind sculptural items and just cool pieces.
WHERE: Masonic Homes of Kentucky, 3701 Frankfort Ave.
WHEN: July 4, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
MORE INFORMATION: louisvillepotters.org.
WHAT: Celebrate July Fourth with a day of free family fun and entertainment including an art fair, food trucks, craft beer, live music, cake wheel, silent auction, magician, pet contest, cake baking contest, children’s field games and more. The day will end with the national anthem and fireworks (10 p.m.). Performers: Gary Falk & the Falklanders, Allen Lane Band, Stonewheel and magician Jack Rose.
WHERE: Peterson-Dumesnil House, 301 S. Peterson Ave.
WHEN: July 4, 10 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
COST: Free
MORE INFORMATION: For a complete schedule go to: crescenthill.us/4th-of-july-event
WHAT: Celebrate America turning 250 at Paristown. Features an outdoor artisan market with a curated collection of handmade goods, jewelry, candles, artwork, and decor on Brent Street; Jeff’s Donuts’ “Donut Hole Eating Contest,” with a $1,000 grand prize; music by Top Shelf and ends with Zambelli fireworks show (9:45 p.m.). Presented by Jack Daniels.
WHERE: Christy’s Garden, Paristown Arts & Entertainment District, 720 Brent St.
WHEN: July 4. The market is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (on Brent Street). Concert and fireworks: gates open at 5:30p.m.; Top Shelf, 6:30-9:45 p.m.; Donut Hole Eating Contest, 8 p.m.; fireworks, 9:45 p.m.
COST: Admission is free for the outdoor market. Concert and fireworks tickets are $12 in advance, $15 the day of the show, and include access to Christy’s Gardens, Brent Street bars, Village Market Food eateries and vendor market. Children ages 10 and younger are free with a ticket-holding adult. Limit one child per adult ticket. Reserved picnic table start at $100.
MORE INFORMATION: One personal lawn or folding chair permitted per person for concert. paristown.com.
WHAT: Celebrate Independence Day with classic family fun at Bernheim. Gather with loved ones for a picnic and enjoy an afternoon of outdoor games, activities, and shared time in the beauty of the forest.
WHERE: 2075 Clermont Road, Clermont
WHEN: July 4, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
COST: Free, a $15 donation is suggested
MORE INFORMATION: bernheim.org.
WHAT: This July Fourth, celebrate 250 years of American spirit through music, culture, and community. With family-friendly activities, food and beverages, and live performances curated by the Kentucky Performing Arts and produced by Jou Jou Presents. From gospel and Appalachian traditions to Latin fusion, Americana, and soul, the evening showcases the sounds that continue to shape American music. The night ends with Louisville’s A250 Fireworks Show, an expanded display over the Ohio River celebrating the spirit, creativity, and community that define our region. Part of the A250 commemoration. Presented by Louisville Metro Government, Mayor Craig Greenberg, and Ford.
- 5-9 p.m.: Family fun area with Kentucky Science Center, Jug Band Jubilee, appearance by Catfish Louie, displays from Louisville Metro Police and Louisville Fire Department, foam party experience, face painting, putt-putt golf and antique military equipment display by KILROY.
- 5:30 p.m.: River City Drum Corps (interactive roving performance)
- 5:45 p.m.: Britt Taylor (Country / Americana)
- 6:30 p.m.: River City Drum Corps (interactive roving performance)
- 6:45 p.m.: Appalatin (Latin–Appalachian Fusion)
- 7:45 p.m.: Fantastic Cat (Roots Rock / Americana)
- 9 p.m.: Southern Avenue (Soul / Blues)
- 10 p.m.: Louisville’s A250 Fireworks Show
WHERE: TurfMutt, Great Lawn, Waterfront Park, 231 E Witherspoon St.
WHEN: July 4, 5-10 p.m. Talent showcase, 7 p.m. Fireworks, 10 p.m.
COST: Free
MORE INFORMATION: Bring lawn chairs, blankets and refillable water bottles. Coolers, glass, fireworks, pets, outside food, and alcohol are not permitted. There will be bicycle racks to lock up bicycles on site. ourwaterfront.org.
WHAT: Celebrate July Fourth during America’s 250 onboard the historic Belle of Louisville. Enjoy tunes from DJ Jaybird, a full bar and concessions.
WHERE: Fourth and River Road
WHEN: July 4. Board at 7:15 p.m.; cruise 8-10 p.m.
COST: Tickets are $39.99 for adults (13-64), $37.99 for seniors (65 and older), $25.99 for children (3-12) and free for children 2 and younger.
MORE INFORMATION: belleoflouisville.org.
WHAT: Celebrate July Fourth with the Sons and Daughters of the American Revolution, food trucks (Ramiro’s Cantina and Kinnard Brothers BBQ), Kona Ice Frozen Treats, DJ spinning tunes, train rides, bounce house, children’s games and fireworks at dusk.
WHERE: Cowley Park, 8028 Westover Drive, Prospect
WHEN: July 4, 6-10 p.m.
COST: Free
MORE INFORMATION: 502-228-1121; touroldham.com/fireworks-and-fenders-july-oldham-county.
WHAT: Spend July Fourth at Wendell Moore Park with pool games at the aquatic center and top off your celebration with a fireworks display set to music played through the Crossroads LaGrange App over the lake. Presented by Oldham County Fiscal Court and Oldham County Parks.
WHERE: Wendell Moore Park, 1551 N. Highway 393, La Grange
WHEN: July 4. Fireworks at 10 p.m.
COST: Free
MORE INFORMATION: Bring your chairs and blankets. touroldham.com/fireworks-and-fenders-july-oldham-county
WHAT: Celebrate the United States’ 250th anniversary at Lynn Family Stadium. LouCity FC vs Hartford Athletic followed by Independence Day fireworks in concert with Waterfront Park. The first 3,000 fans get a Stars & Stripes straw hat courtesy of Ford.
WHERE: Lynn Family Stadium, 350 Adams St.
WHEN: July 4, 8 p.m. Gates open at 6:30 p.m. for happy hour on beer, Pepsi products and Fireball at bars throughout the concourse.
COST: Tickets start at $19
MORE INFORMATION: loucity.com/july4
July Fourth celebrations across Kentucky
Bowling Green, Ky.
WHAT: Numerous events are taking place in Bowling Green the weekend of July Fourth:
- July 2, 7:30 p.m.: “A Star-Spangled Spectacular: Celebrating 250 Years of America.” Concert by Orchestra Kentucky and the Orchestra Kentucky Chorale with Steve Amerson, guest vocalist. Free. The Southern Kentucky Performing Arts Center, 601 College St. Free, reservations are required. theskypac.com/event/a-star-spangled-spectacular-celebrating-250-years-of-america-free-concert.
- July 3, 4 p.m.: Hayward Minton Thunderfest Fireworks Show and Music Festival. Enjoy family friendly activities, food trucks, vendors, kids zone, local and regional musicians throughout the day, and concert by Gracee Shriver, ending with fireworks. Ephram White Park, 885 Mt. Olivet Road. $25 per car load.
- July 4: Celebrate the 4th of July at Beach Bend Park. Experience Beech Bend Park after dark. Rides come alive with dazzling LED lights, transforming the park into a glowing wonderland. Admission includes unlimited access to all rides from 4:30-9 p.m. and entry to Splash Lagoon Water Park from 4:30-6:30 p.m. Tickets start at $36.99. Beach Bend Park, 798 Beech Bend Road. beechbend.com/amusement-park.
- July 4, 6 p.m.: Bowling Green Hot Rods 4th of July Spectacular. The Hot Rods are the city’s Minor League Baseball team. They are not playing but enjoy live music from The Spazmatics and a DJ, hot dog eating contest, carnival games, a large fireworks show and more. Admission starts at $16.50.
- July 4, 9 p.m.: Friends of Barren River Lake 4th of July Fireworks Show. Barren River Lake State Resort Park will have fireworks. Watch from hillside, tennis courts or from the water. 1149 State Park Road, Lucas, Kentucky.
WHERE: Various locations
WHEN: July 2-4
MORE INFORMATION: visitbgky.com/blog/post/where-to-celebrate-americas-250-in-bowling-green-kentucky
Fort Knox, Ky.
WHAT: Celebrate America 250th Birthday at Freedom Fest with live music, K-9 demonstration by Fort Knox’s 905th Military Working Dog Detachment, parade of state and territorial flags with the firing of 51 artillery cannon rounds, kids zone and fireworks (10 p.m.).
Schedule:
- 6-8 p.m.: Inflatables
- 6-9 p.m.: Kids activities and tattoos
- 7-10 p.m.: Live Music
- 7:30-8 p.m.: Military Working Dog Demonstration
- 9-9:30 p.m.: Salute to the Nation Ceremony
- 10 p.m.: Fireworks
WHERE: Brooks Field, Old Ironside Ave., Fort Knox
WHEN: July 4, 6-11 p.m.
MORE INFORMATION: militaryspot.com/news/celebrate-america-250-with-july-4-freedom-fest.
Frankfort, Ky.
WHAT: Celebrate America’s 250 birthday in Frankfort with an American 250 Music Festival (July 3) and Kentucky Celebrates America250 (July 4).
- July 3, 2-10 p.m.: Liberty Hall-er America 250 Music Festival. Liberty Hall Historic Site, Ward Oates Amphitheater, Riverview Park, 404 Wilkinson Blvd. Performers include Cole Chaney, The Local Honeys, Hancock and Shouse, Mash Grass, Violet & the Newsroom, Jeri & Nat. Also activities, food trucks and vendors. Free.
- July 4, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.: Kentucky Celebrates America250. Kentucky Historical Society Campus, 100 W. Broadway St. A day of free family fun in historic downtown Frankfort, explore Kentucky’s past with genealogy workshops; stop by the Keeneland galleries for a talk on Daniel Boone; children’s activities (games, giant checkers, Jenga, and cornhole) and free hot dogs while supplies last at the the Cralle Day Garden; sign a replica of the Declaration of Independence with quill and ink and end the day at the Old State Capitol grounds with music from Kentucky Blue, Walker Montgomery, The Louisville Orchestra, Dr. Everett McCorvey will sing the National Anthem and “America the Beautiful,” and Ben Sollee will perform “My Old Kentucky Home.” Gov. Andy Beshear will give welcoming remarks, followed by orchestral selections and a grand fireworks finale set to music.
WHERE: Kentucky Historical Society Campus, 100 W Broadway St., Frankfort
WHEN: July 3, 2-10 p.m.; July, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
MORE INFORMATION: history.ky.gov/events/kentucky-celebrates-america250.
Hodgenville, Ky.
WHAT: Hodgenville’s tribute to America250 will be held in Creekfront Park. This family-friendly event features numerous free activities including bounce houses, playgrounds and games for the young and young at heart along with lively musical performances from the bandstand. Food vendors, face painting and fireworks (9:30 p.m.).
WHERE: Hodgenville Creekfront Park, 250 Tonieville Road, Hodgenville
WHEN: July 4, 4-10 p.m.
CST: Free
MORE INFORMATION: america250.org/event/4th-of-july-celebrate-freedom/
Lexington, Ky.
WHAT: Lexington will celebrate America’s 250th birthday with events from June 26 through July 5
- June 26, 7 p.m.: Friday Flicks: “Hamilton” Broadway movie. Jacobson Park, 4001 Athens-Boonesboro Road. Activities, 7 p.m.; movie, dark.
- June 27, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.: Bluegrass 10,000 Wellness Expo, Phoenix Park, 100 E. Main St. and Pam Miller Downtown Arts Center, 141 E. Main St.
- June 30, 7-8:30 p.m.: Big Band and Jazz: Patriotic Night. Featuring the Lexington Summer Concert Band. Moondance Amphitheater, 1152 Monarch St.
- July 1, 5:30-8 p.m.: America 250 Birthday Party & Ice Cream Social. Fifth Third Bank Pavilion, Tandy Park, 251 W. Main St.
- July 2, 7 p.m.: Southland Jamboree: Patriotic Edition. Featuring Six String Soldiers U.S. Army Band. Moondance Amphitheater, 1152 Monarch St.
- July 3, 5-9 p.m.: Patriotic Concert. Transylvania University and Gratz Park, 250 W. Third St. Pre-show, 5 p.m. with Young at Heart; main show, 7:30 p.m. with Lexington Philharmonic.
- July 4, 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.: 50th Annual Bluegrass 10,000, 5K and Fun Run. Corner of Main St. and N. Limestone St. (7:25 a.m.); Fourth of July Festival & Market. Robert F. Stephens Courthouse Plaza, 120 N. Limestone St. and Fifth Third Bank Pavilion, Tandy Park, 251 W. Main St. (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.); Public Reading of the United States Declaration of Independence, Lexington Courthouse, 215 W. Main St. (10 a.m.); Fourth of July Parade. Main St. (downtown from Midland Ave. to N. Mill St.) noon; Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular. Launched from the R. J. Corman rail yard, near intersection of Main St. and Oliver Lewis Way (10 p.m.).
- July 5, 7-9 p.m.: Summer Nights: Red, White & Blues with Tee Dee Young. Moondance Amphitheater, 1152 Monarch St.
MORE INFORMATION: lexingtonky.gov/news/red-white-blue-250-years-america-lexington-plans-star-spangled-fourth-july-celebration
Shelbyville, Ky.
WHAT: The July Fourth celebration starts with the Shelbyville Independence Day Parade on Main Street (leaving from the Shelby County Fairgrounds at 10 a.m.) and proceeding down Main Street; following the parade head to the Shelby County Historical Society Museum for a dramatic reading of the Declaration of Independence, and the Daughters of the American Revolution will lead the ringing bells for a nationwide movement known as Freedom Bells at noon.
WHERE: 627 Main St., Shelbyville
WHEN: July 4, 10 a.m.
MORE INFORMATION: kentuckyliving.com/event/july-4th-parade-historical-celebration.
Simpsonville, Ky.
WHAT: Outlet Shoppes of the Bluegrass will host the Fourth of July weekend celebration in honor of America’s 250th birthday. Featuring living history experiences, Independence Market, live patriotic presentations, interactive entertainment, character appearances and ending with Simpsonville’s The Boom (fireworks, July 4, 10 p.m.) at Corner of Buck Creek Road and US 60.
WHERE: The Outlet Shoppes of the Bluegrass, I-64, exit 28, Simpsonville, Ky.
WHEN: July 3-6
COST: Free
MORE INFORMATION: Parking is located along US 60, Simpsonville Park and Wiche Park. For a complete schedule of events go to, theoutletshoppesofthebluegrass.com.
July 4 events happening in southern Indiana
Jeffersonville, Ind.
WHAT: Jeffersonville celebrates freedom with the Jeffersonville Celebrates Freedom Parade. Following the parade is a celebration in Warder Park (109 E. Court Ave., Jeffersonville) with face painting, balloon-making, hot dogs, and more.
WHERE: Along Spring Street from 200 to 500 blocks of Spring St. Jeffersonville, Indiana.
WHEN: July 4, 10 a.m. to noon
MORE INFORMATION: Food and drinks will be available for purchase. jeffmainstreet.org.
WHAT: Celebrate Independence Day with a journey through 250 years of American history, culture, and music. The celebration features the 4th of July Night Market, pie walk, games, face painting, travel back in time with interactive tents from different eras of American History, food trucks, kids’ zone, beer garden and cocktails. The concert features Detroyia and The Ultimate Show Band, Back to Mac and Lefty & the Lunatics. Sponsored by First Savings Bank.
WHERE: Jeffersonville RiverStage, 100 W. Riverside Drive, Jeffersonville, Indiana
WHEN: July 4, 3-11 p.m.
COST: Free
MORE INFORMATION: Chairs, blankets and small coolers are allowed. Pets, smoking and alcohol are not permitted. jeffparks.org/jeffriverstage
Reach Features Clerk Gege Reed at greed@courier-journal.com
Kentucky
Born 35 Years Ago Today in Kentucky, the Grammy-Winning Wanderer Who Gave Voice to the Appalachian Working Class
On this day (June 21) in 1991, Timothy Tyler Childers was born in Lawrence County, Kentucky. Coal and country music reigned supreme in the region near the West Virginia border, with artists like Dwight Yoakum, Loretta Lynn, and Chris Stapleton all hailing from nearby. Today, as he celebrates his 35th birthday, Tyler Childers has earned his place among those names.
How Appalachia Made Tyler Childers
He was born with clubfoot, a congenital disorder that caused both of his feet to twist out of shape. It required surgery when Childers was just 18 months old, followed by a second procedure after he turned five.
Videos by American Songwriter
Once spending an entire year in the wheelchair, the “In Your Love” crooner had to relearn how to walk.
He needed regular checkups at Shriners Children’s hospital in Lexington until he turned 18, and spent much of his recovery time reading.
Much like Bob Dylan, the Grateful Dead, and Tom Waits before him, Childers fell under the spell of writer Jack Kerouac, and those influences are still palpable in his music today.
“Kerouac was my first real permission slip to be a spiritual wanderer and say it’s okay to do that, and that it doesn’t automatically mean you are on your way to the wailing and gnashing of teeth,” he told GQ last year.
Aside from reading, music was another escape. The Americana Music Award winner sang in church on Sundays, learned guitar from his grandfather, and began writing songs at age 13.
Graduating high school in 2009, Childers tried college before dropping out to work odd jobs and fund his music career.
The Winding Path to Stardom
Tyler Childers released his debut album, Bottles and Bibles, in 2011. However, commercial success was still nearly a decade away.
That came with his 2017 album Purgatory, produced by fellow Kentuckian Sturgill Simpson (who also played guitar and sang backing vocals). Purgatory debuted at number 17 on the Billboard country albums chart and earned a Platinum certification—all without the aid of country radio.
[ Tyler Childers Postpones Tour Dates for the Best Reason Possible]
Building off that momentum, Childers released Country Squire two years later, earning a Grammy nomination for the single “All Your’n”. Then came Long Violent History (2020); Can I Take My Hounds to Heaven? (2022); Rustin’ in the Rain (2023); and Snipe Hunter (2025).
In 2023, he scored his first top 10 hit with “In Your Love”.
Featured image by Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic
There is an old saying that there is no such thing as a minor procedure when it happens to you. But that’s exactly what happened over the spring football season as top transfer Lance Heard had surgery on an undisclosed injury that was deemed “minor.”
While Kentucky did not release what exactly the big left tackle had surgery on, anytime you are down your starting left tackle over Spring is not ideal. The good news is Heard has plenty of SEC experience, starting at LSU before transferring to Tennessee.
The biggest thing for an offensive line is reps, but offensive coordinator Joe Sloan told KSR he was happy with what he was seeing.
“You’re starting to see them work really well together, and they have an opportunity to be a strength of our team.” If that comes to fruition, Kentucky will have a really good year. As for the fans, expect a different style this year in Kroger Field.
Kentucky’s offense will be different
Under Mark Stoops, the calling card became a physical offensive line, a punishing run scheme, and a ball control style. That offense will be very different this year, not because of a shift away from the run game, but because there will be a lot more chances taken.
Sometimes, that is a good thing, and other times it causes turnovers. Will Stein said he never called a play he didn’t think would score a touchdown. That aggressive style is what will define Stein’s time in Lexington. He chose a defensive coordinator known for dialing up the blitz. He has gone after nearly all the top recruits, and he isn’t backing down from saying he expects to be the best head coach in the country.
Will it work? I don’t know, but I do know it will look different than what Mark Stoops was putting out. But it all depends on the health of the key players Stein brought in, and that starts with a healthy offensive line.
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