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At Maker's Mark, Things Remain the Same Despite Leadership Change

Rob Samuels (left) and Bill Samuels, Jr.
Rob Samuels (left) and Bill Samuels, Jr.

http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wkyu/local-wkyu-951006.mp3

Loretto, Ky – Maker's Mark is the highest-selling premium bourbon brand in the world. When you visit the distillery in tiny Loretto, Kentucky, you're struck by the humility of the employees, and their desire to carry on the tradition started in the early 1950s by Bill Samuels Sr. His son, Bill Jr., is stepping down as president of the distillery after 35 years. WKU Public Radio's Kevin Willis visited the distillery to meet Bill and his son, Rob, who is set to become chief operating officer.

Kevin is the News Director at WKU Public Radio. He has been with the station since 1999, and was previously the Assistant News Director, and also served as local host of Morning Edition.