On The Line, In The Plant, And Going To School

Top line guy
Winchester

Clark Energy Co-op trumpets congratulations to Barney Toy for the highest score at the 2009 Kentucky Lineman’s Rodeo. Rather than roping horses, the annual event has linemen participate in several skill exercises, all emphasizing safe work practices. The rodeo included the speed climb, in which the linemen carry an egg up the pole in a bucket then climb back down holding the egg in their mouth, and rescuing a mannequin from the top of a pole. The 40-year-old, 20-year veteran lineman, says, “I was one of the older guys in my category and it felt good to beat the younger guys, especially knowing you’re going up against not only the best linemen in Kentucky, but many of the best in the world.” Clark Energy lineman Samuel Adams finished first in the beginner category. Seventy-six line workers from 11 co-ops took part in the event on the grounds of East Kentucky Power Co-op in Winchester.

Making car ingredients
Hopkinsville

Pennyrile Electric Co-op salutes the Riken Elastomers plant, which makes materials that may be in your car’s windshield, roof moldings, floor mats, and arm rests. The plant was established in Hopkinsville in 2006, and its parent company is Riken Technos, headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. The plant employs 12 people who work 12-hour shifts four days a week. Thermoplastic elastomers are a durable material that’s especially lightweight, helping with vehicle fuel efficiency.

Licking Valley scholars
West Liberty

Licking Valley Rural Electric Co-op will again sponsor a scholarship contest, with recipients announced at the co-op annual meeting May 21. The program awards a $1,000 scholarship to one senior in five counties served by Licking Valley. Application deadline is April 22. For scholarship details call Suzanne Vance at the Licking Valley office, (606) 743-3179.