As I flipped through the Kentucky Living archive recently, I was struck by this thought: electricity really is the gift that keeps on giving. 

It's hard to imagine now, but during the early history of Farmers RECC, one of our challenges was educating people about why they should use electricity - helping them understand the many ways electricity could make their lives better.

That's why we spent so much time in early issues of this magazine talking about kitchen appliances that could save time and effort, household tools like vacuum cleaners and farm equipment like water pumps, barn lights and broader lamps. 

"Too many rural people still think of electricity as merely a luxury," the editors wrote in February 1950. "Electricity on the farm should be thought of and use as a never-tiring work hand; a servant that will make money for you." 

Just 10 years later, 97% of American farms were electrified, and power was no longer seen as a luxury - it was a baseline resource for every home. Farmers RECC had helped transform our communities, and we were already looking ahead, planning for growth and ensuring reliability.  

In 2025, we face a different challenge when it comes to communicating about electricity. We no longer have to convince anyone that it's important, because electricity supports nearly every aspect of our lives. Instead, we must remind ourselves not to take it for granted. In January 1958, Women's Editor Mary Alive Willis wrote in this magazine that a "box-like oven that cooks with microwaves instead of heat is destined to begin a new era in cooking." Today, you might have not only a microwave in your kitchen, but also an electric coffee pot, refrigerator, dishwater and toaster. You might have an electric range, slow cooker or pressure cooker. In 1950, we wrote about the safety benefits of electric Christmas lights. This December, entire front yards will be illuminated for the holiday season.

We've come a long way since the early days of electrification, and while the benefits of electricity are greater than ever, they're easier to miss. This season, every Christmas light display will remind me of our blessings, and the pride we take in serving you. From all of us at Farmers RECC, merry Christmas! 

Toby Moss, President & CEO