Should approval of applications for federal scientific research grants be determined by political appointees instead of scientists? The change is being proposed by the White House Office of Management and Budget. Raising concerns is Kumble Subbaswamy, former University of Kentucky Provost.

Our arts partner, Undermainarts.org, is launching a new series this week with the first installment of “The Art of the Originals: Native American Art in the 21st Century.” The article focuses on Native American tropes and stereotypes in American musical theatre. Our guest is author Trevor McChristian, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, and an actor who has appeared in many Lexington Theatre Company productions.

Also appearing this week on undermainarts.org is “Appalachian Beautiful,” a project by Blackey, Kentucky photojournalist Malcolm Wilson aimed at pushing back against stereotypes of Appalachian women. Wilson and two of the 63 women who posed for the project join us to discuss their motivations.