Fighting Back Against Backwardness: Understanding “Degraded” Appalachia

The one I noticed the most by far is a trope I’ve come to call Degraded - the idea that Appalachians are primitive, degenerate, and destitute. Sometimes, these images are meant to be funny; others, deadly serious. In all cases, Appalachians are positioned as a society wholly separate from the rest of the world - a group that is other.

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Breaking Down Appalachian Stereotypes: How a Charity Episode of American Idol Turned Me Into a Media Scholar

It became clear to me at a young age that stories were how we learned about and connected with each other. They were a source of joy, remembrance, wisdom, and humor. But as I grew up, I realized that stories can have a dark side - especially when they’re used against you. 

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Turnbuckles and Bluegrass: How Wrestling Stars in Kentucky

The next time you think about what is synonymous with our great state, don’t forget to throw professional wrestling in the mix. Kentucky is woven into the fabric of this great and entertaining brand of sports entertainment.

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New Documentary Features Successful Magnet Program at Central High School

 A Pathway Forward tells the story and celebrates the success of Central High School’s Law and Government Magnet Program through the eyes of current students and alumni. Directed by award-winner Jesse Nesser, founder of Overseas Cowboy Films, and KTW, it provides a model for other legal communities to adopt, adapt, and sustain.

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Desi Lydic Offers a New Political Discourse in Kentucky

An unwavering motivation to debunk stereotypes and offer unexpected perspectives has been consistent in Desi Lydic’s work as a correspondent on The Daily Show. It was because of this commitment that she was asked to host last Spring. “It was really a total dream come true to even get that opportunity to do it for even a brief moment,” she told KTW. But after nine years at The Daily Show, it feels like she’s just getting started.

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