Describe the Issue or Situation.

The culinary history of Kentucky is important for several reasons, as it reflects the state's rich cultural heritage, diverse influences, and its role in shaping Southern and American food. Additionally, Kentucky is renowned for its bourbon, which has deeply influenced Kentucky’s culinary identity as well as being a driver of tourism. Moreover, family gatherings often center around traditional dishes that have been passed down through generations, plus food connects people to their past and plays a role in shaping their present and future.

Describe the Outreach or Educational Program Response (and Partners, if applicable).

The Pennyrile FCS Agents in Livingston, Lyon, and Todd counties worked with an area homemaker committee to plan the 2025 Pennyrile Area Homemaker seminar,  A Culinary Journey Across Kentucky. The seminar, held in conjunction with the area cultural arts day, was attended by 92 people. The agents made presentations about the history of Kentucky foods, demonstrated recipes, and let the audience taste-test each recipe. Lunch featured three additional well-known Kentucky foods.

Provide the Number and Description(s) of Participants/Target Audience.

Eighty-six participants returned an end of the meeting evaluation with these results: 100% learned more about the history of well-known Kentucky foods; 98% increased their knowledge about preparing and/or techniques demonstrated in one or more of the recipes; 87% planned to try a new cooking method or recipe; and 89% felt that attending the seminar made them feel more socially connected to people from their own or other counties. 

 Provide a Statement of Outcomes or Program Impact. Please note that the outcomes statement must use evaluation data to describe the change(s) that occurred in individuals, groups, families, businesses, or in the community because of the program/outreach.

In addition, participants gave feedback such as “I learned a lot about Kentucky I didn’t know. I enjoyed interaction during presentations; " “I really enjoyed the cooking demonstrations. Love the themed cooking, especially today’s dishes I have never tried before. I like all. I’ve never liked candy made with bourbon or rum, but I like the one I tried today because I didn’t taste the bourbon.” Members also stated intentions to “incorporate tips and ideas into their cooking;” “try each recipe for family/or Homemaker club;” and “prepare all three of the recipes for guests from another state.”