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They Call Me Mr. Secretary

John Huang

What will Kentucky Book Festival visitors find on your table?
Copies of our book, “They Call Me Mr. Secretary” (and perhaps some of my back titles), along with two excited and enthusiastic authors willing to share some unique life experiences.

Whom do you invite to stop by? Who will benefit from reading your book?
Anybody and everybody–especially those with an interest in University of Kentucky Football, NFL Football, and the workings of state government. Derrick’s story will especially resonate with those who grew up with modest means and will inspire everyone to live out their dreams.

Could you please tell us something curious about you and/or your book?
Derrick and I attended UK at the same time. He was a star quarterback and became one of the most accomplished athletes in University of Kentucky history. I was a nerd and became…well, you know. Somehow, forty years later, we reconnected. The rest, as they say, is history.

Is this your first time participating in Kentucky Book Festival? If yes – what are you looking forward to the most? If you’ve participated before – what was your favorite experience at the Festival?
This is Derrick’s first time. He’s most looking forward to connecting with his readers. This is my third time at the festival. I always enjoyed speaking with first-time authors and seeing the excitement in their eyes.

About the Author

Derrick Ramsey was the first African American starting quarterback in the history of the University of Kentucky football program who went on to great success in the NFL, entrepreneurial real estate endeavors, state government, and academia. Dr. John Huang is a retired orthodontist and military veteran who currently serves as a sports columnist for Nolan Group Media and a freelance reporter for several other regional publications. A story of encouragement and inspirational leadership, They Call Me Mr. Secretary follows Ramsey’s journey from an impressionable childhood spent in segregated Hastings, Florida, up through his current role as elder statesman of both the National Football League and the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

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