Matt Kelley

The Greater Cincinnati Energy Alliance is helping people in Hamilton County and Northern Kentucky save money through reduced price energy audits and making repairs using their own certified contractors. Spokesperson Lilah Glick says the program not only reduces our carbon footprint, it’s creating jobs. Glick explained how the alliance works  to WNKU’s Matt Kelley. ( Get more information at www.greatercea.org)

If you’re near the Little Miami River this weekend, you may be hearing some woofs and barks. This Saturday the SPCA Cincinnati will be holding its’ “Dog Paddle” fundraiser; and people are invited to bring their four-legged friends with them for a trip down the river, a hike on the bike trail, and an after-party featuring adoptable pets. Spokesperson Kelly Burke talked to WNKU’s Matt Kelley about this years’ event. (Get details at www.spcacincinnati.org)

For most students across the region the school year is winding down; but kids involved with “Blues in the Schools” are just beginning to gear up for performances this summer. The Cincy Blues Society created the program 23 years ago to introduce and educate children from all walks of life about the art form. President James Czar explained how the program works to WNKU’s Matt Kelley. ( get more information at www.cincyblues.org/bits )

By Greg Kocher
Lexington Herald-Leader

     WEST LIBERTY — Banks typically don't give money away, but one lender is doing just that to help Kentucky tornado victims. The Federal Home Loan Bank of Cincinnati has a program in which homeowners and renters who were displaced or who suffered damage to their primary homes might be eligible for grants of as much as $20,000 toward the purchase, construction or repair of a home. Because these are grants, the money doesn't have to be repaid.

Residents in Portsmouth will be turning out to support local businesses with a “cash mob” on the third Thursday of each month beginning this week. Mainstreet Portsmouth’s Jennifer Foster says it’s a great way to help the community and meet your neighbors.  WNKU’s Matt Kelley asked foster to explain exactly what a “cash mob” is. (get more details by calling 740.464.0203 or email program.msp@gmail.com) 

The heritage Village Museum will be presenting its annual Civil War Weekend may 19th and 20th. Spokesperson Emily Cedargren says the reenactment will feature the “Hornet’s Nest” skirmish. She told WNKU’s Matt Kelley the 150th anniversary of the battle of Shiloh is the perfect time to begin the season. ( get more information at www.heritagevillagecincinnati.orgor call 513.563.9484 )

The Home Builders Association of Dayton will be celebrating the first Eco-Rehabarama with a ribbon cutting ceremony tomorrow. Executive Director Walt Hibner says ten homes in the Huber Heights neighborhood have been gutted and completely restored, featuring low maintenance eco-friendly designs . WNKU’s Matt Kelley asked Hibner why the they chose Huber Heights this year. ( for more information go to www.HBADayton.com)

Ledger Independent reports that motorists who use Kentucky 8 in Maysville as their main travel route need to find a detour for the next several days. Due to a landslide west of Maysville and east of the William Harsha Bridge that occurred Saturday night, officials with the Kentucky Department of Highways have closed the roadway through at least Wednesday. The closure is necessary so highway crews and contractors can work to clean up the dirt and debris and to also cut down trees that are leaning on the hillside.

People Working Cooperatively will be celebrating thirty years of the “Repair Affair” this weekend. The program is designed to help low income individuals make household repairs that they either can’t afford, or can’t do themselves. WNKU’s Matt Kelley asked PWC president Jock Pitts if it’s hard to find skilled volunteers after three decades of helping people. (to get more information on how to get involved go to www.pwchomerepairs.orgor call 513-351-7921 )

People from across the buckeye state are finding out what it’s really like to walk a mile in someone else’s shoes. The Food Stamp Challenge; sponsored by the Ohio Association of Community Action Agencies asks participants to feed themselves for week on the equivalent of the average food stamp recipient gets, which is about twenty three dollars .Executive Director Phil Cole explained how the challenge works to  WNKU’s Matt Kelley.