April's Newsletter is proudly presented by:

Congratulations to all of the

2024 Women of Distinction nominees for Women's History Month!

Presented by:

Highlights from March and

what's happening in April

March 1 - Bee Taylor and Eric Bolander on The Set List with Kate Smith LIVE from The Virginia

The Set List embarked on its inaugural road trip to conduct an interview with Bee Taylor and Eric Bolander from The Virginia in Downtown Somerset, KY on Friday March 1, 2024. With special guest and manager, Tiffany Finley.

Kate sat down with Bee first. Originally from East Texas, Bee saved up her earnings from pig-raising to purchase her first guitar. She now resides in Nashville and performs all over the country, including several shows here in Somerset. In addition to her guitar skills, Bee's proficiency extends to the piano, drawing inspiration from the Jazz scene of New Orleans. Her songwriting embodies heartfelt sentiments, infused with eccentrically fun elements, rendering her relatable to audiences. Beyond music, Bee exudes warmth and authenticity across various pursuits, whether in fashion, poetry, or crafting Paper Mache alligators—remaining steadfastly true to herself, endearing her to fans. Original Bee Taylor songs played during the interview were Company, Warmer Weather, and The Way I Am. You can listen to those and all of Bee's music anywhere music is streamed. Bee is steadfastly working on a new album and is looking forward to releasing it soon.

Eric Bolander, hailing from the quaint town of Garrison, KY nestled in the picturesque foothills of Appalachia, now calls Richmond, KY his home. He leads a band and we had the opportunity to chat with drummer, Buck and cellist, Seth. Eric chuckled as he mentioned that he is surrounded by talented musicians who have all received formal training in music, while he is the only one who did not. Despite not having a formal music education, Eric's songwriting and guitar skills are exceptional. His songs are infused with his Appalachian roots, making the sound uniquely Eric Bolander. In addition to music, Eric has been an art teacher at a high school for several years. He joked that his students show little interest in him being a musician. Original Eric Bolander songs played during the interview were One More Ride, Cold Men, and Montgomery Hill. You can listen to those and all of Eric's music anywhere music is streamed. Eric plans on releasing a new album in the near future.

Listen to the full interview to hear more about Bee and Eric and what their manager, Tiffany Finley had to say about these amazing singer-songwriters.

You can find Bee Taylor and Eric Bolander anywhere music is streamed and online at www.beetaylormusic.com/ and at www.ericbolander.com/

Bee Taylor and Eric Bolander are managed by Black Mountain Management Company founded by Tiffany Finley, David Helmers, and John Smithwick. Find them at www.blackmountainmanagement.org/.

Listen to the Bee Taylor/Eric Bolander Interview

PHOTO L to R: Greg Moore, Bee Taylor, Tiffany Finley, Kate Smith

PHOTO L to R: Bee Taylor, Eric Bolander

March 4th - Dr. Brandi Prather on Mid-Mornings with Amy

It was great seeing Brandi Prather, DMD Pediatric Dentistry back on the show Monday, March 4th! It's been so long since we'd seen her, so she just received her Christmas cookies! Dr. Brandi joined us to talk about the importance of proper oral health for kids - which included taking them to the dentist by the age of one. Dr. Brandi's fun office makes the dentist experience better for kids AND adults, so call today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Brandi - 606-679-5437.

March 6th - Brooke Bowers and Jessica Nava from the Pulaski County Public Library on Mid-Mornings with Amy

Wednesday morning, March 6th, Brooke Bowers and Jessica Nava from the Pulaski County Public Library stopped by to talk about all the events going on at the library in March! The Lyle, Lyle Crocodile Party, a painting class, a lava lamp experiment event, and Don't Forget Your Passport are a few fun events happening this month at the library. Visit their Facebook page to see a calendar of events. Thanks for visiting our show and bringing a great giveaway, Brooke and Jessica!

March 15th - MARSHULL on The Set List with Kate Smith

Although Kate's not one to make bets, she has no doubt that Marshull will be gracing arena stages in the near future. This talented band from Richmond, Kentucky first formed as a full group two years ago. Lead singer Jared Shoemaker's voice is reminiscent of both Chris Stapleton's sultriness and Ronnie Van Zant's iconic sound from Lynard Skynard. However, Jared possesses his own unique style and effortlessly transitions between rock, southern rock, blues, and country - a sound fittingly refered to as "Y'all-ternative." Let's admit it, every member of the band has the ability to captivate audiences with their seamless genre switches. Tristan Lambert on slide and bass adds an extra layer of magic to their performances while Justin Harris brings his own rebellious flair on drums. And let's not forget vocalist/guitarist Camden Baso whose harmonies and flair for picking are simply beautiful. These young men are individually gifted musicians, but together they're bound to be unstoppable. They just released their first single, "Rock 'N Roll Cowboy" everywhere music is streamed, so go listen RIGHT NOW. They performed their new release and several other songs in studio that will be released on their upcoming EP. Stay tuned to their social media for details.

Beyond the music, listen to this full interview to find out who was in the Navy, who has 6 Jr. Olympic medals, who went to college for Biochemistry, and who likes to turn a wrench or two. These guys are awesome!

Listen to the MARSHULL Interview

PHOTO L to R: Tristan Lambert, Jared Shoemaker, Kate Smith, Justin Harris, Camden Baso

March 16th - Live Broadcast with Greg Moore from the 12th Annual Shamrock Shuffle 5K

Greg Moore was live and on location in Downtown Somerset for the 12th Annual Shamrock Shuffle. Nearly 650 people registered this year! For more information visit: https://runsignup.com/Race/Photos/KY/Somerset/ShamrockShuffle5K

Watch the Facebook Live Video

March 18th - Princess Prom Project with School Family Rescource Centers on Mid-Mornings with Amy

On Monday, March 18th. Amy spoke with guests Kelly Leigh and Jennifer Johnson!

The Somerset Independent Schools and Pulaski County Schools' Family Resource Centers are again organizing the Princess Prom Project. Princess Prom helps girls who can't afford prom dresses, shoes, and jewelry get them, so they can enjoy their proms! The resource centers also arrange for the girls to have their hair and makeup done on prom day.

Princess Prom needs more dresses, shoes, and jewelry, so if you have any you can donate, you can drop them off at First Baptist Church or at any of the Somerset and Pulaski County high schools! Thank you, Kelly and Jennifer!

PHOTO L to R: Jennifer Johnson, Kelly Leigh

March 22nd - Mid-Mornings with Amy on location at the ColoRectal Awareness Resource Expo

March was ColoRectal Cancer Awareness Month. Amy Stroud was on location for Mid-Mornings with Amy during the March ColoRectal Awareness Expo held at the Somerset Mall. The Expro was presented in part by Mid-Mornings with Amy, the United Way of South Central Kentucky, and Faith Healthcare. Pictured L to R: Crystal Cox of UWSCK, Amy Stroud of Mid-Mornings with Amy, and Farrah Dobbs of Faith Healthcare. For more information regarding ColoRectal Cancer, visit: https://colorectalcancer.org/get-involved/advocate/colorectal-cancer-awareness-month

PHOTO L to R: Crystal Cox, Amy Stroud, Farrah Dobbs

March 23rd - Live Broadcast from the Pre-school Palooza

Somerset 106 is live and on location this Saturday morning at Preschool Palooza, hosted by the Pulaski County Community Early Childhood Council. Over 30 organizations who can help families with children birth to age 5, were set up at the Rocky Hollow Park Recreation Center with free giveaways and information at the free event.

Rebecca McCord, from the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, with son, River.

March 29th - Good Friday with the Gospel Hour Band on The Set List

The Jarfly Gospel Hour Band needs no introduction in this neck of the woods. Tommy Cate (vocals/guitar/harmonica), Paul Davis (banjo), Daniel Stroud (bass), Jimmy Seville (mandolin), June Burton (signing and singing), John Franklin (harmonica) and Steve Kernstock (12-string) have been making a joyful noise in downtown Somerset, Kentucky one Sunday per month since 2018 at the city's beloved Jarfly Brewing Company. 4 of those members, Tommy, Jimmy, June, and Steve, joined Kate in studio on Friday, March 29, 2024 which just happened to be the Christian observance of Good Friday. What a perfect day for some good 'ol Kentucky gospel music.

You may be wondering how a gospel band becomes a regular at a bar, particularly in the Bible belt. Let's start at the beginning.

Jarfly, the first bar to open in the city's center after Somerset went wet in 2012, has welcomed talented musicians from all walks of life and various genres. They have hosted everything from traditional Irish music on St. Patrick's Day to Punk Nights, Vinyl Nights, Drag Shows, and everything in between. Additionally, Jarfly has been a strong supporter of local citizens and non-profits. So many lives have been touched by the generosity of Jarfly and its patrons. The bar truly fostered a sense of community by welcoming everyone. It's no surprise that gospel eventually also found its way onto Jarfly's diverse musical roster.

Just days after their debut on The Set List on Somerset 106, the Jarfly Gospel Hour Band played their final show in front of loyal patrons at the beloved brewery on Easter Sunday. Sadly, Jarfly closed its doors soon after the bittersweet performance. Tommy said, "It was the best Gospel Hour we've ever had. And the most meaningful."

Even though the era of Jarfly Brewing Company has ended, the Jarfly Gospel Hour Band will continue to spread their message of hope and joy through gospel. Catch them at Java Springs in Russell Springs on Sunday, April 21st and every third Sunday of the month thereafter. On Sunday, May 5th they will begin playing at Birdies and Barrels in Somerset on the first Sunday of every month. Tommy expressed his hope to see all their friends at one of these venues in the future - and you will, Tommy and band. You will.

Listen to the Gospel Hour Interview

L to R: Steve Kernstock, June Burton, Jimmy Seville, Tommy Cate

Briar Jumper Baseball/Softball March Broadcasts

Somerset 106 is your home for Briar Jumper sports! Tune in to Somerset 106.1 FM, to hear live play-by-play coverage with Jon Burlew and Tim Washam of select Somerset Briar Jumpers High School Boys and Girls Basketball! Stream online at somerset106.com, via our mobile app, and on Alexa!

Recorded Games

Listen to SHS Girls Softball v. Southwestern 3-28-24

Listen to SHS Boys Baseball v. Rockcastle 4-8-24

Season Broadcast Schedule

***Airtime begins at 5:45 PM. First pitch at 6 PM***


April 15	Casey Co. at Somerset (Softball)
April 16	Casey Co. at Somerset (Baseball)
April 22	Somerset at Pulaski Co. (Softball)
April 23	Pulaski Co. at Somerset (Baseball)
April 29	Somerset at Southwestern (Baseball)

COMING UP THIS MONTH

Student Spotlights on Mid-Morning's with Amy every Wednesday

The Somerset 106 and Mid-Mornings with Amy Student Spotlights, presented by Somerset Independent Schools and Pulaski County Schools. Airs each Wednesday during the month on the show.

April 15th & 16th- Kentucky Derby Morning Line live from Kentucky Derby Museum

April 20th - Foodstock in Downtown Somerset

April 22nd - Earth Day

April 24th - Administrative Professionals Day

April 26th - Somernites Cruise Season Begins

It's back! Join Kevin Wilson as he broadcasts live from 4PM to 6PM for Friday Night Thunder! See the Somernites Cruise Schedule here: https://www.somernitescruise.com/sitepad/events/

Community Events and PSA's

If you are a local non-profit organization, church, food bank, homeless shelter, or community organization having an event or offering a free service to the public, let us know what you’re doing and we'll add the event to our community events calendar!

Submit PSA and Event Info

Somerset 106.1 FM Live Programs

The Morning Mix with Greg Moore

EVERY Monday-Friday 6AM - 10AM

Tune in for the Question of the Day, Birthday Shout-Outs, prize giveaways, funny news, special guests, and community information every morning.

Make sure you TEXT Greg your song request via the Somerset 106 TEXT LINE at 606-679-9959.

Mid-Mornings with Amy Stroud - Celebrating 10 Years!

EVERY Monday-Friday from 8:30AM - 9AM during The Morning Mix

The show is about our community and the people in our community who have stories to tell. If you know someone who has a story to tell or who is working to make our town and region better, visit me via the show’s Facebook page or by email at amstroud@forchtbroadcasting.com.

It's Finally Friday Live with Kate Smith

NOW PLAYING THE MUSIC OF YOUR FAVORITE LOCAL MUSICIANS EVERY FRIDAY!

EVERY Friday from 2PM - 6PM

Playing your favorite Hits from 80's-today. And you can plan your weekend with Nona, the Queen of the Somerset scene and hear the weekend weather report from Matthew Blum. Don't forget 90's at 3 as Kate brings you your favorite 90's hits for a solid hour!

PUB TRIVIA: One listener wins a $20 credit to Buffalo Wings & Rings every week!

Make sure you TEXT Kate your song request via the Somerset 106 TEXT LINE at 606-679-9959.

Follow It's Finally Friday on Facebook.

The Set List on Somerset 106

1st and 3rd Friday EVERY MONTH

4PM - 6PM

Local musicians live, in-studio every 1st and 3rd Friday of the month. Tune in to hear your favorite local artists play some tunes, tell some stories, and see them live in our studio on The Set List's Facebook page! It's always a good time on The Set List...where local radio and local music connect!

Check out The Set List Playlist on Spotify featuring past and future musicians on the show!

Take Two with Rikiyah and Company

On April 11th and EVERY 2nd Thursday of the month 4PM - 6PM

Take 2 with Rikiyah and Company has it all – conversation, reflections, discussions, great music, and fun!

Real conversations. Real opinions. Real issues. Real fun.

Tuesday's 3 with Amy, Chris, and James

On April 9th and every second Tuesday of each month from 3PM to 5PM, Amy Stroud, Chris Phillips, and James Taylor will gather around the Somerset 106 studio table to discuss important and relevant news topics of the day.

We’ll discuss legislation, government policies and regulations, local and state issues, and news topics that affect us all. Chat with us any time during the show by texting 606-679-9959!