Setting the Stage for Success

Paramount Arts Center Understands Importance the Performing Arts are for Youth Development

By: Sasha Bush

The Ashland Beacon

Theatre, with its ability to captivate, inspire and provoke thought, plays a vital role in helping to shape our youth into thriving adults. Beyond mere entertainment, engagement with the performing arts offers a great deal of benefits that contribute to the holistic growth and development of all those who experience it.

By participating in theatrical productions or attending performances, young people are being exposed to diverse narratives and perspectives, fostering empathy, understanding, and appreciation for the world around them. Through the exploration of different characters and scenarios, our children can develop their capacity for empathy, learn to see the world through the eyes of others and recognize the shared humanity that binds us all together. Oscar Wilde said it best, “I regard the theatre as the greatest of all art forms, the most immediate way in which a human being can share with another the sense of what it is to be a human being.”

Being involved in theatre provides the perfect opportunity for kids to express themselves and explore their love of acting, singing, dancing and other performing arts. Introducing your kids to theatre can also be an important step in your child’s overall development, as well as an enriching way for children to become part of an amazing community.

From acting and directing to set design and costume creation, every aspect of theatre production offers opportunities for personal growth and skill development. Whether onstage or behind the scenes, participation in theatrical productions encourages creativity, problem-solving and collaboration, as individuals work together to bring a shared vision to life.

Stepping onto a stage in front of an audience requires courage and vulnerability, as performers expose themselves to the possible scrutiny of others and risk failure. Through this process, our children are able to learn resilience, perseverance, and the importance of taking pride in their accomplishments, no matter how small, all aid them in all aspects of life both onstage and off the stage.

No one understands just how big of an impact that the performing arts can have on our children better than the Paramount Arts Center’s (PAC) Paramount Players. Led by Artistic Director Rick Payne and Education Director Matt Hammond, the Paramount Players help to create a safe and artistic environment for local artists to thrive. From standing center stage to building sets, PAC’s Paramount Players help create both a phenomenal, professional quality show and a creative working environment for people of all ages.

PAC is no stranger to producing high caliber shows with high caliber talent. Join the Paramount Players April 19 and 20 at the iconic Paramount Arts Center for their highly anticipated performance of The Little Mermaid. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and the show starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online at paramountartscenter.com or at the box office during regular business hours. Artistic Director Rick Payne shared, “This show is going to be AMAZING!”

From Crisis to Composure

The Emotional Rollercoaster of Being a 911 Dispatcher

By: Sasha Bush

The Ashland Beacon

In the world of emergency response, amid the sirens and flashing lights, lies a group of individuals whose voices are rarely heard but whose impact is immeasurable- the 911 dispatchers. From the moment they don their headset to the final call of their shift, these unsung heroes navigate a whirlwind of chaos, calamity, and compassion, all while orchestrating lifesaving interventions with poise and precision.

These selfless individuals, stationed in call centers across the nation, serve as the first line of defense, guiding panicked callers through some of the most terrifying moments of their lives, dispatching responders to the correct locations, and navigating through lifesaving interventions. Yet, behind the scenes, the role of a 911 dispatcher is not without its emotional toll.

At the heart of the dispatcher's duty lies the weight of human suffering. Day in and day out, the dispatcher bears witness to the rawest of human emotions — panic, grief, fear, hopelessness, anger, desperation. From the harrowing screams of a victim to the agonizing silence of a life slipping away, a dispatcher navigates a minefield of trauma with every call answered.

The emotional toll of the job is compounded by the relentless nature of the work, long hours, and often calls pouring in without respite. Jessica Caudill, Dispatch Supervisor of the Boyd County Public Safety- Boyd County 911 for 13 years, shared, “The hours are hard when you have a family. We miss a lot of things in exchange to serve the public like all first responders do. Within an eight-hour working window, we typically handle about 80-150 calls per shift, midnights are a little slower and, in the summertime, or really bad weather the calls can triple.” Each ring of the phone heralds a new crisis, a new test of the dispatcher's resolve. Yet, amid the chaos, the dispatcher must remain calm, composed, and in control — the lifeline for those in need.

Long after the headset is removed and the shift is over, the echoes of the day's calls linger in the dispatcher's mind. The faces of those who were helped and the voices of those who couldn't be saved haunt the dispatcher's dreams and weigh heavy on the heart. The emotional toll of the job can manifest in a myriad ways from sleepless nights to strained relationships. The constant exposure to this type of trauma can lead to burnout, compassion fatigue, and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Despite the toll it takes, many dispatchers soldier on, driven by a sense of duty and a deep-seated desire to help others.

This is leading to a concerning trend that is emerging — a national shortage of dispatchers leaving many communities vulnerable and overburdened. Across the United States, the demand for 911 dispatchers has surged, fueled by population growth, technological advancements, and the evolving nature of emergencies. However, the supply of qualified dispatchers has failed to keep up with the pace, which has ultimately led to staffing shortages that strain an already stretched emergency response system.

          The consequences of this dispatcher shortage are far-reaching. In understaffed call centers, wait times may increase, delaying critical assistance to those in need. Dispatchers, already burdened with heavy workloads, may struggle to provide adequate support, jeopardizing the safety of both callers and responders.

          We must address this shortage, and the best place to start is with awareness. Many people may not realize that they can become a 911 dispatcher without having any prior experience or schooling. Caudill shared, “The awesome thing about working at a 911 center is that all your training is provided. To be a dispatcher in KY, you are required to attend a four-week in-person training at the Dept of Criminal Justice in Richmond, Ky after you are hired, which is followed by six months of on-the-job training.”

Caudill added, “If you are interested in helping the community and seeking a career as a first responder, DO IT! There is a national shortage of 911 Telecommunicators, especially in this area (Boyd County). The field is desperate for hardworking individuals looking for a career. You can start at around 45k/year with zero schooling required prior to accepting the job, and the benefits are excellent.”

          Being a 911 dispatcher is not for the faint of heart, but it can be a very rewarding job. Caudill commented, “There are a lot of things I do love about this job. My favorite personal thing is getting to talk to the elderly who are lonely. It’s not an actual “task” because lots of times they are just misdirected and need assistance finding another number or resource, and then we would typically disconnect. However, I like to take a personal interest in listening to them. Oftentimes, they are just frustrated because their remote isn't working or they can’t get ahold of a family member. The five minutes I get to talk to them and calm them might make their entire day- I love when they call in and are upset and by the end of the call they are talking about what they are going to each for lunch and have totally forgot what they were upset about. Those days I feel like I’ve made a difference on those days.”

          The role of the 911 dispatcher is both demanding and indispensable. The job itself brings with it burdens and rewards. From the chaos of the dispatch center to the quiet moments of connection with elderly callers, these dedicated individuals embody the true essence of compassion, strength, and courage. Though their efforts may go unnoticed by many, their impact resonates far and wide, ensuring that help is always just a phone call away.

Kailee’s Swift Journey

Overcoming Challenges with Every Song

 By: Deidra Bowling-Meade

The Ashland Beacon

Kailee Sharp's melody stands out, each note a testament to her resilience and uniqueness. As Taylor Swift croons, "And I think about summer, all the beautiful times," Kailee embraces her journey with Infantile Quadriplegic Cerebral Palsy, finding beauty in the moments that others may overlook. She's the star in her own story, shining brightly amidst the challenges she faces. Blessed with a spirit that defies limitations, Kailee knows that being different is her superpower, and she wouldn't change a single note of her extraordinary tune.

At just two years old, Kailee’s life took an unexpected turn when she was diagnosed with Infantile Quadriplegic Cerebral Palsy. This condition, characterized by impaired muscle movement and coordination, meant that Kailee would face challenges most of us couldn't fathom.

Kailee explained, “I got my first wheelchair when I was five years old. My family has always taken care of me and helped me to do as many things that a child without disabilities can do. My life has consisted of therapy appointments, doctor visits, surgeries and hospital stays. I cannot feed myself or do anything for myself, but my wheelchair gives me the independence to get around as I cannot walk.”

Living with cerebral palsy presents numerous hurdles, both physical and emotional. Simple tasks that many take for granted become monumental feats for Kailee. According to Mayo Clinic, “cerebral palsy is a group of conditions that affect movement and posture. It's caused by damage that occurs to the developing brain, most often before birth. Symptoms appear during infancy or preschool years and vary from very mild to serious. Children with cerebral palsy may have exaggerated reflexes. The arms, legs and trunk may appear floppy or they may have stiff muscles, known as spasticity. Symptoms also can include irregular posture, movements that can't be controlled, a walk that's not steady or some combination of these.

Cerebral palsy may make it hard to swallow. It also can cause eye muscle imbalance, in which the eyes don't focus on the same object. People with the condition might have reduced range of motion in their joints due to muscle stiffness.”

Kailee maintains a positive outlook, refusing to let her condition define her. Kailee's spirit shines bright through her unwavering determination and infectious smile. She focuses on her passions: going to church, the mall, library and park. Kailee also likes to spend time with her boyfriend Brody and tries visiting him at least once a week. She enjoys watching basketball games and playing on the Challenger Basketball team.

Kailee shared, “I’m very thankful that I can do the things I do and be with people I love. I communicate with lots of people on social media and am friends with several that have CP as well, and we encourage each other. I have lots of friends and family that love me and support anything I try to do. My teachers at Poage, AMS, and Blazer have been an inspiration to me as well. I’m very lucky to have so many people in my life who love me because I know not all kids have that.”

Above all, Kailee has an adoration for Taylor Swift. Kailee commented, “I love Taylor Swift because she loves her fans and does a lot of good things for people. She is my favorite artist. Her favorite number is 13, and that’s the number I picked for my basketball jersey on the Challenger team.”

Taylor Swift's music has been a source of comfort and inspiration for Kailee through the years. Her powerful lyrics and compelling melodies have provided solace during difficult times, serving as a soundtrack to Kailee's journey. Swift's songs resonate deeply with Kailee, offering a sense of camaraderie and understanding that transcends the barriers imposed by her condition.

Kailee shared, “I started to listen to Taylor Swift in 2014. My favorite song is ‘This is Me Trying.’ The reason it is my favorite song is it helps me get through struggles in life; it calms me when I’m anxious. Taylor helped me through my surgeries. All my doctors know I love her, and they play her songs to help me be calm during tests and surgeries. Taylor’s music has always been able to cheer me up and put a smile on my face.” 

Kailee has set her sights on a dream: attending Taylor Swift's concert in Indiana on November 2nd. It's more than just a night out for Kailee; it's a chance to experience pure joy and fulfillment amidst life's challenges. However, attending the concert is no easy feat for Kailee and her family. It requires careful planning, accessibility accommodations, and financial resources beyond their means.

To make her dream a reality, Kailee has embarked on a fundraising journey, reaching out to her community and beyond for support. Kailee remarked, “Last year Taylor had her Eras tour, and I wasn’t able to go, but she is having a concert again this year. I just turned 22 on March 7. What better age to go to a Taylor Swift concert! My Swifties will know the reference!”

It just so happens that Taylor Swift has a song titled “22” that celebrates all the emotions Taylor experienced at the age of 22. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if Kailee got the opportunity to attend Swift’s concert or even better get to meet her?

Kailee continued, “My sister Emma knows how much I love Taylor Swift and want to see her in concert. She talked to me about doing things to raise money to help me make my dream come true. There will be clay molds, wooden crafts, car washes, lemonade/bake sale. The only thing that will be priced will be the wooden crafts, and they will be $7.00 each. Everything else will be by donation.”

Tickets for the concert are being sold right now for $1,700 per ticket. Kailee has only collected $550 so far. Donations can be made to Kailee Sharp directly if you want to reach out on Facebook. A Venmo account is also setup @Dorothy-Giles.

Kailee’s determination and resilience have garnered attention and admiration, as people rally behind her cause. Her story isn't just about attending a concert; it's about defying odds, chasing dreams, and spreading hope in the face of adversity.

Micah Horton commented, “In 2017, Kailee Sharp was just 15 when I met and began to work with her. I was her instructional assistant at the Ashland Middle School and Paul Blazer High School. I’m honored and blessed to be apart of this young woman’s life, and I am a better human being because of knowing her. Kailee is wise beyond her years and isn’t afraid. She is hardworking and can always put a smile on anyone’s face.”

Tami Cook who is the librarian at Ashland Middle School agreed, “Kailee possesses a smile that lights up the room; her laughter is contagious. Being in a bad mood around her is simply impossible.”

Everyone who meets Kailee not only sees her extraordinary character but sees her face light up more whenever Taylor Swift is the topic. 

Cook continued, Kailee stands out as one of the most fervent Taylor Swift enthusiasts I've encountered. In an engaging activity, I once crafted a presentation board challenging students to discern between Taylor Swift song lyrics and lines of poetry by Robert Frost. Kaylee excelled, distinguishing herself by recognizing every lyric to every Taylor Swift song, outperforming her peers with her impressive knowledge.”

Stephanie Phillips from Blazer High School stated, “As an educator, many students make a lasting impact on my heart, but a student like Kailee is one in a million. The impact she has made on me is lifelong. She made my room and my life brighter through her smile and laugh. She kept all of her classmates laughing and, like Taylor Swift, is a fan favorite! Even when Kailee was having a down day or dealing with pain, she didn’t allow those things to take away her smile, her joy, or love for her friends! I used a Taylor Swift theme for my classroom expectations this year. The entire time I created the posters, I thought about how much Kailee would love them! There is absolutely no bigger Swiftie than Kailee!”

Horton remarked, “Kailee is the only one I know that literally knows every word to every Taylor Swift song. Her room is decorated like a Swiftie. She talks as if Taylor is her best friend. If Taylor knew this, I don’t doubt for a minute that she would want to meet thee Kailee Sharp because there is only room for one in my book! I love this girl more than anything, and it really would be enchanting if she met Taylor.”

Taylor Swift, known for her philanthropy and connection with her fans, has the opportunity to make a profound impact on Kailee's life. Meeting Kailee would not only bring immense joy to a devoted fan but also serve as a reminder of the power of empathy and compassion. Taylor has the chance to uplift Kailee's spirits and inspire countless others by recognizing her strength and resilience.

In a world often fraught with challenges and uncertainties, Kailee Sharp's story serves as a beacon of hope and resilience. Despite facing immense obstacles, she continues to radiate positivity and determination, reminding us all of the power of perseverance and the importance of chasing our dreams. As Kailee sets her sights on meeting her idol, Taylor Swift, she embodies the spirit of resilience, proving that with unwavering determination, anything is possible.

Let’s make this young lady’s dream a reality and get Kailee Sharp to Indiana to see Taylor Swift!

Hope and Help for the Journey

Ellen Keaton

The Ashland Beacon

Addiction … the word brings so many emotions and stigmas to mind when spoken … shame, sadness, heartache, desperation, judgment … terms such as drunk, junkie, crackhead. The drug epidemic has touched every family in our community in one way or another. Finally, there is help and hope for the journey to recovery for anyone and everyone who is in need. Last week three new facilities were opened in Ashland to aid in treatment and recovery.

The Journey, located on U.S. 60 in Summit was one of these. Jennifer Willis, CEO explained the Journey is a merger of two smaller facilities, The Journey House and A Mother’s Journey. “These beds are available to any woman whether she is pregnant or newly postpartum. She can keep her baby here with her so that both are safe where she can recover effectively and with love in addition to any other woman that may need treatment … so this facility is open to any woman.” She added, there are a total of 25 beds at the Journey.

The Journey features a very homelike setting inside with a large inviting gathering area, play area for the babies, laundry room, kitchen, and dining area. The bedrooms are decorated with bright-colored bedding and décor as well as a crib in each room. The home will be staffed with a full complement of support and help these women need to aid in their recovery. In addition, they will receive help to return to the workforce in good jobs to support themselves or their families.

Gov. Andy Beshear was present for this special opening. “Just look around you and at how much has changed in the last eight to ten years. Opposed to a stigma and judgment, we celebrate those who would walk through these doors and accept the type of help to improve their lives.” Beshear promised the mothers present with their babies who would be living in the home, “We will do everything we can to help you.”

According to the governor, a recent study showed Kentucky has more treatment beds per capita than any other state in the United States. For many years, the cost of treatment prevented many from seeking the help they so desperately needed. The governor continued, “When you have the level of addiction that Kentucky has seen, it requires an unprecedented level of response. As we sit here today, any Kentuckian in need that is ready, we have a bed for you, and we can make sure it is paid for … cost is no longer an impediment … we can help every single person who needs it.”

Tanya Unrue Lemaster, who is the Director of Operations, shared her heart for the work at the Journey. She asked the question, “Why are we here?” In response, she shared that untreated substance abuse in pregnant women can lead to placental abruption, fetal growth restriction, preterm labor and sometimes even the death of the baby. Lemaster explained that EMS had been called to several businesses surrounding the new facility for drug overdoses in the bathrooms and parking lots. The need is in the community for help and recovery. “I’m really grateful to be here, grateful we are all here to help fight this epidemic … we are making a difference.” Speaking from her heart, with a break in her voice, she shared that treatment helped people stay employed, take care of their children, engage with their families and communities in a positive and impactful way. Pointing to her family, she continued, “My family is right there, and I’m a peer support specialist in recovery myself.” This is a testament to the success of treatment and recovery.

Rocky Adkins, who is Senior Advisor to the governor shared with the Ashland Beacon, “What we are doing here today is just really who we are as people. This is how we put our arm around people that we all know and have been impacted in some shape form or fashion by addiction whether it’s been ourselves, a family member or a friend.  We all know people who have died from overdoses and understand the scourge that has come across our country.” Adkins challenged anyone suffering from an addiction to know there is help, but they have to raise their hand and be willing to ask for the help. “This is no longer something that is hidden in a closet. It’s something that has impacted every individual in our community and throughout Kentucky, but we have been hit harder because the big drug companies have targeted our small rural communities.  This is about who Kentuckians are, this about Boyd County … family, reaching out so they know we are here, really here to help them to get back on their feet … to become the person they want to be.”

If you are suffering from an addiction there is help. You can reach out to Pathways at 606.324.1141. If you are having an emergency or a crisis, call 1.800.562.8909.