Careful of artificial intelligence
I’m a longtime subscriber to the Sun, and cannot understand why any Woodford County resident would not subscribe.
I have a suggestion: I would be sure to identify AI-generated photos as AI.
The hilarious photo of Ken Glass and Anthony Vanover in the April 30 edition of the Sun should have been identified as AI. Anthony makes us laugh with his AI photos on Facebook posts, but Facebook is not a news organization.
Thanks for keeping community journalism alive. We appreciate the Sun.
Genie Graf
Midway
Regarding Castle & Key, a fan’s thoughts
I am a fan of Castle & Key, mainly because I grew up in Woodford County seeing it on Sunday drives when it was an abandoned monstrosity, which looked so intriguing in its potential. If only someone had unimaginable amounts of money to dream with.
And then, during the bourbon boom, it happened! And today, we have it.
I am not a big drinker, but I was thrilled by reports in the Sun to learn our famous Kentucky urban gardener, Jon Carloftis, was commissioned to restore the historic garden. I go there often to visit the garden, follow its curated paths and enjoy pensive time on the seating by Glenn’s Creek.
You all, this is FREE! I regularly take out-of-town guests. It does not cost a cent unless we buy a drink or visit the food truck. It belongs on Tourism’s new Kentucky Garden Trail, and I will advocate for such.
Then I attended a catered evening event . . . dreamy. So carefully and artfully restored. And so much lingering potential.
This is a treasure, in my view. Locally owned, stand-alone, what we like to call “Uniquely Woodford.”
I know nothing of the financing of Castle & Key. The pandemic hit just as they were opening, and then the flood. I cannot imagine the original debt can be paid down. I can imagine that adding food and sleeping accommodations could enhance the appeal to what was conceived in its earliest days, the late-nineteenth century, as a whimsical tourist attraction.
Does Woodford have too many distilleries? In Midway, Mayor Grayson Vandegrift created a task force, which successfully found Bluegrass Distilleries for us . . . also locally owned, historic and unique. We went to great lengths to help them financially.
I imagine Castle & Keys’ proprietors believe they must expand to survive, to have additional streams of income. This is what I understand a bond is for . . . to garner capital with which to build.
I am absolutely NOT for corporate welfare!
So, the question: Is the cost to us in lost taxes worth the gamble for greater future revenue?
There must be more financial information to evaluate. For instance, what was the previous tax benefit before the millions now invested? What do they pay now and under the proposed PILOT? What does Old Crow pay, a distillery on a similar timeline, which did not invest in restoration and tourism?
What will be the tax benefit of $90 million more investment?
I am grateful for this chance at public scrutiny and civic education. I understand government policy can and does support the economy and is exposed to the risks and benefits involved. I appreciate those who have made the effort to inform us. I believe it is to our advantage for the Fiscal Court to hear from us.
If you have not been there, do go.
Helen Rentch
Community Engagement Matters
There is a great deal of negativity in politics today, but in Woodford County, there is a bright spot worth recognizing. The Democratic Women’s Club of Woodford County (DWCWC) is putting community engagement and public service into action where it matters most – locally.
Rather than focusing on divisive politics, the DWCWC is committed to building a more connected and supportive community. This year, the club raised funds to award two $1,000 scholarships to outstanding Woodford County seniors – young women who have shown leadership both in and out of the classroom. Through these scholarships, the club is not just honoring achievement – it’s helping cultivate the next generation of community leaders.
The club’s efforts extend beyond scholarships. At monthly meetings, members collect donations for the Woodford County food pantry and raise additional funds through a 50/50 raffle. Addressing hunger is a shared responsibility, and these contributions make a meaningful difference.
On Saturday, April 25, in partnership with the Woodford County Democratic Party, the DWCWC hosted a community carnival at Falling Springs Park. Over 250 people attended this free, family-friendly event. With activities ranging from a bounce house and games to face painting, a photo booth and a popular cake walk, the event offered something for all ages. A local BBQ truck provided some mighty fine food, and the first 100 children received a free scoop of ice cream.
Events like this serve as a reminder that strong communities are built through connection, generosity and shared experiences. The DWCWC’s message is simple but important: Woodford County is at its best when we come together in support of one another and the democratic values we share.
Karen Isberg
President, Democratic Women’s Club
of Woodford County