Book tours and talks are rituals publishers schedule for authors to generate book sales. Authors often say they are exhausting and can be frustrating when the turnout is small and/or resulting book sales are disappointing. I view book talks differently. I love dams, and every dam has a story. I focus on talks near places that played an important role in my book. Selling books is not my primary goal. I try to paint a historical picture emphasizing the local connection with events depicted in my book that audiences can relate to and enjoy—a story they will remember and pass…

The Jackson Purchase Historical Society (JPHS) and the Paducah Historical Preservation Group (PHPG) are partnering to offer a special tour of the Helen LaFrance Collection. The PHPG recently acquired a significant number of LaFrance’s paintings as part of its effort to preserve African American history and culture in the Jackson Purchase. JPHS wants its members and others who support its mission, as well as the many historical organizations in western Kentucky, to have an opportunity to view this impressive collection. PHPG wants to share this treasure with the region. The collection is currently housed at the Paducah School of Art…