The next Kentucky Life puts a destructive bug under the microscope, visits a thriving commercial area in Lexington and much more. The program, hosted by Dave Shuffett, airs Saturday, Feb. 20 at 8/7 p.m. CT on KET; Sunday, Feb. 21 at 4:30/3:30 p.m. CT on KET; and Sunday, Feb. 21 at 7:30/6:30 p.m. CT on KET2.

First, Kentucky Life visits southeastern Kentucky to hunt down a threat to the face of the Appalachian forest: the Hemlock Wooly Adelgid, a small insect that attacks and overwhelms hemlock trees. This deadly bug has killed up to 90 percent of hemlock trees in forests and groves across the Appalachians. A network of Kentucky conservation and education institutions is attempting to stop the spread of the Hemlock Wooly Adelgid in Kentucky’s pristine Hemlock forests.

Next, Dave strolls through Lexington’s bustling Southland Drive, a unique small business corridor and active community.

Then, Kentucky Life explores the history of a World War I memorial in Wayne County. The Spirit of the American Doughboy sits in the center of downtown Monticello. Sculpted by E.M. Viquesney, this statue is one of seven identical ones in Kentucky, several of which have been damaged or destroyed. Harlan Ogle, who has written a book about the history of this memorial, shares the background of the sculpture from idea to dedication.

Finally, the program meets Marshall County artist Shannon Duffy, who makes children’s toys at her home. Duffy’s toys are individually crafted for each child. She began her artistic career in metal work, but once she had children she found a safer alternative to express herself. She turned to sewing, and today she has a line of felt children’s toys that appeal to kids’ imaginations.

Kentucky Life is a KET production, produced by Brandon Wickey. Segment producers are Jessica Gibbs, Shuffett, Valerie Trimble and Wickey. More information about Kentucky Life, including streaming video, is available at www.ket.org/kentuckylife.