Meet Andy
Andy Stone, born on May 27th, 1961, emerged from humble beginnings rooted in the heart of Kentucky, Nelson County. Coming from a family of farmers and "jacks-of-all-trades", Andy's grandparents and parents, instilled in him the values of hard work and frugality - products of surviving the Great Depression. Growing up on farms in Bardstown and Cox's Creek, he experienced the challenges of having limited resources. In his early years, he remembers drawing drinking water from a well, utilizing an outhouse when their cistern was dry and having a home warmed by a coal burning stove.
Andy's journey through education, from Foster Heights Elementary to the University of Kentucky, was marked by a pivotal moment in eighth grade when a teacher unexpectedly selected him to be the editor of the school newspaper, sparking newfound confidence - a confidence all children yearn for. Andy's experience at Nelson County High School brought cherished memories of participation in debate, student council, choral productions, and football.
His passion for aviation led him to the USAF ROTC program at the University of Kentucky, earning a "pilot slot" and fulfilling his dream of flying. It was in his junior year of school when he met the love of his life - Terri Ann Cox, from Hodgenville, Ky. The two have been married for 38 years. Together they have grown a wonderful family to include a daughter (Alyssa) and son (John) and two beautiful grandchildren, with another on the way.
Upon graduating UK with a degree in Business Administration, the United States Air Force became Andy's canvas to showcase his dedication and leadership. His journey there led him to landing his dream of completing fighter pilot training, flying the F-15 Eagle and ultimately being granted an assignment in Okinawa, Japan where he also earned a Masters Degree in Business Administration .
From there he was deployed to temporary duty in South Korea, Mainland Japan, The Phillipine Islands, Guam, and Australia. Following his time overseas, Andy was stationed at Laughlin Air Force Base in Del Rio, Texas, where he was a distinguished graduate in Flight instruction, a flight instructor and a flight commander in the T-38 aircraft.
Balancing military service and family, Andy faced a crucial decision between continuing his Air Force career or transitioning to a major airline. Opting for the latter, he joined American Airlines in 1992 as a pilot. Over the years, he navigated the challenges of the airline industry, from airline mergers and bankruptcies, economic downturns and the aftermath of 9-11.
In pursuit of entrepreneurial aspirations, Andy co-founded Keystone Cinemas in 1999. For over 20 years, Keystone was a popular entertainment spot for families in Nelson County and Bullitt County. As an owner, Andy was known for his friendly customer service, efficient operations, and giving back to the community. Despite facing challenges as all small-businesses do, the theaters thrived until the industry was reshaped by streaming and the Covid-19 crisis. This lead to the difficult decision to sell both Keystone locations in 2020 and 2022.
Andy's commitment to public service manifested in his role on the Bardstown Independent School District Board. Elected in 2012 and currently in his third term, he has contributed to the evolution of education standards, emphasizing innovation and diversity. His time on the board expanded his understanding of the challenges faced by educators and administrators. This experience drives his passion to fight for teachers and families, so that all students in Nelson County and Kentucky have access to high quality educational opportunities.
With his aviation career winding down and the theater business sold, Andy aspires to serve as the Nelson Co. State Representative. His leadership, fortified by a diverse background, positions him to be a strong advocate for District 50 in Frankfort.
Looking ahead, Andy envisions addressing the unique challenges of Nelson Co., from diversifying industries, tackling infrastructure issues, ensuring public safety, advocating for education, and fighting for a more efficient, financially conscious government. He will be the voice in Frankfort that will secure funding for the district, emphasizing the need for innovative solutions to overcome lost revenue from the repeal of the "bourbon barrel tax" and propel the county forward.
Andy Stone's story is one of resilience, adaptability, community service, and capitalizing on OPPORTUNITIES - a testament to the values instilled in him from his modest beginnings in the place he has always called home - Nelson County, Kentucky.
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