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Not just gouda but grate cheese advice

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Talk of Iowa, hosted by Charity Nebbe

Chris Luken knows cheese more than almost anyone else and has gained some prestigious titles to back that up.

On this episode of Talk of Iowa, Melissa Tully, director of the School of Journalism at the University of Iowa, joins host Charity Nebbe to discuss The Daily Iowan's acquisition of the Mt. Vernon-Lisbon Sun and the Solon Economist. Then, Hy-Vee cheese professional Chris Luken joins the program to explain how he gained the prestigious titles of new certified cheese professional and certified cheese sensory evaluator.

Lastly, the Rae Jeanne Kilberger Foundation donated 83 acres of land and funding assistance for another 57 acres of neighboring woodland to create the Linn County Bird Preserve. The donation fulfills a promise Kilberger made to her grandfather 50 years ago.

Guests:

  • Melissa Tully, director, School of Journalism and Mass Communication, University of Iowa
  • Chris Luken, certified cheese sensory evaluator
  • Rae Jeanne Kilberger, retired farmer
Charity Nebbe is IPR's 'Talk of Iowa' host. She also hosts IPR's podcasts 'Garden Variety' and 'Unsettled'. Since 2010, Nebbe has interviewed, conversed with, and shared ideas from guests of all backgrounds and locations, and has helped listeners better understand, appreciate, and explore their state and the world around them. Nebbe has a bachelors degree from Iowa State University.
Dani Gehr is a talk show producer for Iowa Public Radio. She holds a bachelor's degree from Iowa State University. Since 2022, Gehr has worked with IPR's talk team to bring news and features to IPR's listening audience.
Madeleine Willis is IPR's Production Assistant supporting the talk shows and The Sunny Side Project. Willis has experience in audio production, reporting, writing and editing stories and conversations. She's reported and produced conversations on womanhood, sports, and good news from across Iowa. Willis will receive her bachelors degree from the University of Iowa in May 2025.