Kentucky by Heart: Seasoned journalist Michael Embry finds new voice through fiction in retirement

By Steve Flairty
Special to KyForward
For decades, journalist Michael Embry pretty much had what he wrote assigned to him; it largely depended on the news — often sports — that happened around him. He simply (and skillfully) reported.
As an editor for a lengthy period at Kentucky Monthly, he did the assigning. Additionally, during those journalism years, he found time to follow his interests...
Kentucky by Heart: Books demonstrate history is best explained by good stories told well

By Steve Flairty
KyForward columnist
It’s been said that the learning of history is most effectively done when taught in authentic context through the element of stories.
Following are a sampling of books I’ve previously reviewed for Kentucky Monthly that demonstrate the telling of Kentucky history in such a way. One deals with the topic of Confederate fighters in the American Civil War, a book...
Everyday Heroes: Volunteers come together for Surgery on Sunday free service to needy
There are about 500 surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses and others who volunteer their services on Sundays to income-eligible people who do not have health insurances. (Photo from Facebook)
By Steve Flairty
KyForward columnist
It’s a crisp early Sunday morning and inside the Lexington Surgery Center on the first floor, energetic people are dressed in surgery garb, mostly bluish in...