Co-op communities are full of surprises
THE MAY ISSUE OF KENTUCKY LIVING is yet another reminder of how much there is to discover in communities across our state.
For example, did you know that two Kentucky universities offer competitive rodeo teams, or that the Crofton-based Lone Star Rodeo Company, served by Pennyrile Electric, produces more than 40 rodeo events every year?
You’ve probably heard of—or tried—beer cheese, the delicious Kentucky creation that originated in Winchester. But did you know there’s a whole festival dedicated to the delicacy—not to mention a weeklong lead-up, during which restaurants serve their best beer cheese-inspired creations?
Unless you’ve been keeping count, you might not realize how well represented Kentucky has been on reality TV music shows. Noah Thompson, a native of Louisa, won American Idol in 2022. He’s far from the only Kentuckian who’s found success in music competitions like The Voice, American Song Contest and America’s Got Talent.
Yet another gem awaits in Flemingsburg. El Caminante Mexican restaurant, served by Fleming-Mason Energy, is a testament to the persistence, hard work and generosity of Rodolfo Lopez and his family. Enjoy their story, and guacamole recipe.
Our state is full of surprises. The closer you look, the more you see. Kentucky’s electric cooperatives know this firsthand. Powering lights in the arena, coolers in the restaurant, microphones in the studio and so much more, co-ops are truly part of their communities—they are owned by and belong to you, their members.
One of the signs that you really belong to a place is your ability to notice the things that make it special. Our communities are full of inspiring people, places worth visiting and stories worth sharing—and we’re paying attention.
