Both Joe Phelps and Drew Curtis are leaders of large groups of followers, in totally different worlds, and demonstrate their leadership in smart and thoughtful ways. And both are critical of Gov. Matt Bevin.
Phelps, the pastor at Highlands Baptist Church, told me he never sought publicity, but instead was presented with an opportunity to help solve an enormous problem — the plight of those who live in the West End who face the possibility of violence entering their lives every day. Phelps is all about inclusion and has reached out to the black community, befriending Rev. Kevin Cosby and leading talks about race.
Which is why he was so upset, publicly, at Bevin’s appearance in Louisville and his suggestion that prayer groups are the answer to the escalating problems in West Louisville.
Curtis, the founder of FARK.com, lives in Versailles and operates the hugely successful web site that showcases absurd and unusual news stories, all submitted by members of the FARK community. We talk about his run in the Governor’s race, and why he felt compelled to do it. He’s got a new book coming out next year, and was in town to talk with members of the Louisville Digital Association.
The news is full of absurd stories involving local officials — including the Metro Council President’s fistfight at a football game. Councilman Dan Johnson has now threatened legal action against the women who accuse him of fondling and indecent exposure. And Sen. Morgan McGarvey is the latest sensible state politician to try to push Kentucky into the 21st century by suggesting that it’s time to pass medicinal marijuana legislation.
There’s plenty more in this all-star episode of the Rusty Satellite Show.