Culture

When it comes time to retire, most seniors are looking for the same basic things in a community – livable climate, reasonably priced housing, recreational and cultural opportunities, access to good medical care and a welcoming atmosphere. That may be why Mt. Sterling and Montgomery County are increasingly popular with retirees.

Much of the community knows it as the historic First United Methodist Church building, built in 1885. But soon the downtown church, complete with restored stained-glass windows and a performance hall instead of a sanctuary, will serve another purpose – as home of the Gateway Regional Center for the Arts.

A stunning display of quilt blocks can be seen in an art gallery of sorts along Montgomery County’s back roads. The display of five 8-foot quilt blocks on local barns is intended to get Montgomery County residents and tourists off the beaten path.

The Rev. Jeff Perkins wants his church to be known as “the servingest group of people in town.” And his 600-member congregation at First Church of God is well on its way.

For Tony Mellone, the view of Mt. Sterling from the sidelines of the soccer fields at Easy Walker Park is the best in town. The busy soccer coach and father of three boys says the community’s emphasis on children and families, as well as its superior quality of life and strong economy, make it an ideal place to work and live.

A group of 25 Montgomery County knitters gets together twice a month to knit and crochet, enjoying each other’s company almost as much as the good deeds they do.

Mt. Sterling artist John Ward has accomplished something very few people can claim – he contributed to the design of the Kentucky quarter.

Mt. Sterling and Montgomery County are building reputations as places with plenty of housing options. The city and county have choices for any budget, with home prices ranging from about $90,000 to just under $1 million. Since this is the heart of the South, historic homes also abound.