Ohio Cooperative Living - December 2019 - Firelands

OHIO

DECEMBER 2019

COOPERATIVE Firelands Electric Cooperative

Silent night ALSO INSIDE Youth Tour all-star Cardinals on the rise Fun holiday events

Winter energy efficiency tips ❆ Seal air leaks and insulate well to prevent heat from escaping and cold air from entering your home. ❆ Open blinds and curtains during the day to allow sunlight in to warm your home.

❆ Lower your water heater temperature.

The Department of Energy recommends using the warm setting (120 degrees) during fall and winter months.

❆ Close blinds and curtains at night to keep cold, drafty air out. ❆ Set your thermostat at a maximum of 68 degrees during cold weather.

ohioec.org/energy

OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • DECEMBER 2019

INSIDE FEATURES 14 O TANNENBAUM Is this the year to go with a live tree that you can plant after the holidays?

25 HOLIDAY TRAVEL Eight close-to-home holiday destinations that evoke the story of the first Christmas, foster good cheer, and brighten spirits.

34 SNOWSHOEING Check out a fun, healthy, and relatively inexpensive way to keep exercising — outdoors — during those snowy winter months.

Cover image on most issues: ’Tis the season of hopes and dreams, silence and celebration, wonder and delight.

Make sure to check out our guide to holiday-themed events around the state, beginning on page 25, and a full listing in our calendar section.

DECEMBER 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 1

UP FRONT

ANOTHER YEAR BETTER

Y

our electric cooperative has no higher purpose than to provide its consumermembers with reliable and affordable electricity and to do so in a safe and environmentally responsible manner. Looking back on 2019, a lot has happened that affects those goals.

Improving reliability: Significant investments in the high-voltage grid — lines that move electricity across the state from our generation sources to each co-op — improve reliability in many parts of rural Ohio, but much-needed upgrades are expensive and inevitably lead to escalating costs for the delivery of power to your co-op.

Holding down costs: We’ve been able to keep Buckeye Power’s cost to produce and deliver wholesale power to your co-op steady for the past seven years, despite the rising costs of a more reliable grid. We expect we will able to do so again next year; 2019 was our first full year handling operational responsibility at our Cardinal Plant, which generates the lion’s share of the electricity used by our members. In that time, we’ve been able to find efficiencies and operational savings that have enabled us to hold down costs.

More common-sense environmental regulations: When U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Andrew Wheeler needed a host to roll out the EPA’s new Affordable Clean Energy rule in July, he chose the Ohio’s Electric Cooperatives statewide office — a nod to how hard co-op leaders around the state have worked to achieve common-sense environmental improvements at the plant, which should keep it viable well into the future.

Member satisfaction: Collectively, consumer-members of Ohio electric cooperatives gave their co-ops an unprecedented high score on the American Consumer Satisfaction Index — citing service reliability, friendly and helpful employees, good communications, and having the members’ best interests at heart. Our scores compare favorably to some of the nation’s most popular brands, such as Chick-fil-A, Costco, and Amazon.

A few other significant notes from 2019: • The staff at Ohio Cooperative Living magazine won the George W. Haggard Memorial Journalism Award, presented annually to the nation’s top electric cooperative statewide consumer publication.

• The Central Ohio Lineworker Training (COLT) center set another record for the number of employees participating in job training and safety programs — preparing our people to meet your needs now and into the future.

• The employees at our statewide office and our families took part in the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s Light the Night walk in Columbus. We were among the top teams for fundraising and participation in the fight against cancer.

I’m looking forward to another great year in 2020. Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a blessed holiday season!

2 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • DECEMBER 2019

Pat O’Loughlin PRESIDENT & CEO OHIO’S ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES

Collectively, consumer-members of Ohio electric cooperatives gave their co-ops an unprecedented high score on the American Consumer Satisfaction Index.

DECEMBER 2019 • Volume 62, No. 3

MORE INSIDE DEPARTMENTS

Ohio Rural Electric Cooperatives 6677 Busch Blvd.

Columbus, OH 43229 614-846-5757 memberinteract@ohioec.org www.ohioec.org Patrick O’Loughlin President & CEO

Patrick Higgins Director of Communications

Jeff McCallister Managing Editor

Rebecca Seum Associate Editor

Anita Cook Graphic Designer

Dava Hennosy Editorial Intern Contributors: Colleen Romick Clark, W.H. “Chip” Gross, Catherine Murray, Craig Springer, Damaine Vonada, Margie Wuebker, and Patty Yoder.

OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING (USPS 134-760; ISSN 2572-049X) is published monthly by Ohio Rural Elec­tric Co­op­eratives, Inc. It is the official com­mun­ ication link be­tween the elec­­­­tric co­operatives in Ohio and West Virginia and their mem­bers. Subscription cost for members ranges from $5.52 to $6.96 per year, paid from equity accruing to the member. Nothing in this publication may be reproduced in any manner without written permission from Ohio Rural Electric Cooperatives, Inc. All rights reserved.

4 POWER LINES

Are we there yet? From Youth Tour to Youth Leadership Council to Harvard, Olivia Velasquez doesn’t shy away from the unfamiliar.

6 CO-OP SPOTLIGHT

Washington Electric Cooperative: The co-op’s rugged service territory includes mountain views, rolling hills, and the Ohio and Muskingum rivers.

8 OHIO ICON

Hanby House: Benjamin Hanby made his name by penning “Up on the House Top,” and for his family’s efforts to aid freedom seekers through the Underground Railroad.

Cheryl Solomon American MainStreet Publications 847-749-4875 | cheryl@amp.coop The fact that a product is advertised in Ohio Cooperative Living should not be taken as an en­dorse­ment. If you find an advertisement mis­leading or a product unsatisfactory, please not­ify us or the Ohio Attorney General’s Of­fi ce, Consumer Protection Sec­tion, 30 E. Broad St., Col­um­bus, OH 43215.

Periodicals postage paid at Colum­bus, OH, and at additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to editorial and advertising offices at: 6677 Busch Boulevard, Columbus, OH 43229-1101

8

10 CO-OP PEOPLE

Bright Christmas: Thousands of visitors flock each year to this winter wonderland home in Darke County.

12

12 WOODS, WATERS, AND WILDLIFE For all advertising inquiries, contact

4

Cardinals: Ohio’s state bird — the highly recognizable “Big Red” — enjoys a population boom in the Buckeye State.

16 GOOD EATS

Going nuts: Chestnuts roasting on an open fire? Winter’s a great time to enjoy a bountiful supply of numerous nutty favorites.

16

19 LOCAL PAGES

News and information from your electric cooperative.

Cooperative members: Please report changes of address to your electric cooperative. Ohio Cooperative Living staff cannot process address changes.

Alliance for Audited Media Member Ohio’s Electric Cooperatives is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

37 CALENDAR

What’s happening: December/ January events and other things to do around the state.

40

40 MEMBER INTERACTIVE

Silent night: Members pause for a moment to embrace the holiday cheer.

DECEMBER 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 3

POWER LINES

ARE WE THERE YET? From Youth Tour to Youth Leadership Council to Harvard, Olivia Velasquez doesn’t shy away from the unfamiliar.

BY REBECCA SEUM

O

livia Velasquez grew up in Gilboa, a tiny, two-road village in northwest Ohio, and though her path has taken her far away, her home remains the center of her compass.

In 2013, as a sophomore at Pandora-Gilboa High School, Olivia was chosen

by Hancock-Wood Electric Cooperative as a delegate to the Ohio’s Electric Cooperatives Youth Tour, an annual leadership program for high school students from families served by electric cooperatives. Since then, she’s made the most of each experience that has come her way.

Much more than a sightseeing trip, Youth Tour was established to inspire our next generation of leaders. The Ohio contingent joins cooperative youth from all over the country for a weeklong trip to Washington, D.C. Students visit important sites, meet members of their congressional delegation, and learn about both public service and the cooperative business model.

Olivia has taken the cooperative values to heart, incorporating Commitment to Community in her personal and professional life. “The Youth Tour trip enlightened me,” she says, “showing me that not only do cooperatives light up homes, but lives as well, by representing us, caring about us, and striving to make progress.”

Step by step Youth Tour participants return home with a deeper understanding of what it takes to be a leader and the skills to put that into action. During the trip, each state selects a delegate to serve on Youth Leadership Council, which meets in D.C. about a month after Youth Tour concludes. Olivia was chosen by her peers to represent Ohio on YLC. Olivia’s parents, Rick and Amy Velasquez, recognized her leadership characteristics from the outset. “Ever since she was small, she’s always been outspoken and independent,” Amy says. Olivia was a voracious reader, first listening to her mother read aloud to her and her sisters, then taking the books in her own hands. “I believe her love of learning came from all that reading,” Amy says.

YLC delegates play an important role during the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s annual meeting the following spring — they’re not only recognized on stage, but they have a hands-on experience with virtually every facet of the meeting. Olivia took her experience even another step; from the pool of YLC delegates nationwide, she was selected to be that year’s Youth Leadership Council national spokesperson — the first delegate from Ohio to win that honor.

Olivia’s speech at the NRECA annual meeting centered on the enduring lessons she gained from Youth Tour. “Although Youth Tour ended a mere week after we boarded that bus, the lessons I and my new friends learned 4 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • DECEMBER 2019

“People in little towns like mine are heard, and this is how it’s done.” will last a lifetime,” she said. “I finally figured out my own answer to that question: Are we there yet? Youth Tour taught me that we will never be there. Instead, we must continually ask ourselves these questions — make changes in the directions to make progress. In the end, that progress is our destination.”

After YLC Not long after her YLC experience, Olivia was awarded the Ronald McDonald House Charities HACER National Scholarship, which was created in 1985 to help Hispanic high school students finance their college education. Given to only four students nationwide, the dollar amount is substantial — $100,000 — and with it, Olivia was able to take advantage of her acceptance to Harvard University.

Her participation with Youth Tour and YLC allowed her to meet people from all over the country whom she would never have had the chance to otherwise, and at Harvard, she expanded her scope even further — she tried Latin dancing, became a peer counselor, did laboratory research, studied abroad in Argentina, and made friendships with Alzheimer’s patients. “I felt like my mind was being opened day to day,” she says.

This spring, she graduated from Harvard with a degree in integrative biology and a secondary in mind, brain, and behavior. Now, she’s working at McLean Hospital, the Harvard-affiliated psychiatric facility, co-leading group therapy sessions and orienting new patients, with an eye toward medical school.

Olivia Velasquez (above) delivers her powerful speech to the delegates of the NRECA annual meeting — an experience that helped propel her to attend Harvard University (below).

New experiences, new challenges Olivia says her Youth Tour and YLC experience allowed her to meet people with big goals. She felt inspired by those around her, who were ambitious, yet grounded in their communities and their families.

“You know you can do anything you want to do,” she says, “but you don’t really believe it until you see it in the people around you.”

There are some subtler learning opportunities inherent to Youth Tour that go beyond the history and the monuments. “Going to a brand-new place with people you don’t know is daunting, but it really is a great opportunity to learn how to get to know people,” Olivia says. Additionally, the trip opened her eyes to her own community.

“I gained a lot of pride in my state and my town, juxtaposing it with D.C.,” she says. “People in little towns like mine are heard, and this is how it’s done.”

DECEMBER 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 5

CO-OP SPOTLIGHT

WASHINGTON ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

W

ashington Electric Cooperative lies in the hilly Appalachian region of southeastern Ohio. Though there is farmland in the western part of the service territory, the best way to describe the surrounding landscape would be “rugged.” The terrain includes mountain views, rolling hills, and the Ohio and Muskingum rivers.

About 75% of Washington Electric’s 10,500 members are residential, but the co-op also serves some prominent commercial businesses, including several in the oil and gas industry.

Wayne National Forest and Seneca Lake A good bit of Washington Electric’s territory is located within the eastern portion of Wayne National Forest. In the Appalachian foothills, visitors can appreciate the natural beauty of the park, including rock formations and wildlife. Wayne National Forest is renowned for its biking, camping, and fishing opportunities. The forest has more than 300 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and ATV riding.

Seneca Lake Park is open year-round, with special events and activities during the summer. The lake, Ohio’s third-largest inland waterway, serves as a border with neighboring Guernsey-Muskingum Electric Cooperative, and is known for its boating, fishing, and other opportunities for family fun. Summer activities include a moonlit kayak tour, a magic show, and a movie at the lake. There is also a swimming beach with inflatable water toys for the kids.

Nearby festivals Nearby Marietta hosts a variety of festivals and events that draw tens of thousands to the area. The Marietta Riverfront Roar showcases professional powerboat racing on the Ohio River. Racers and their crews come from around the country for the event.

Spectators get free admission, a close-up view of the boats, and the opportunity to meet the drivers and crews. Marietta also hosts the Ohio River Sternwheel Festival, where 30 to 35 authentic old sternwheelers line the riverbank. The festival brings an estimated 100,000 visitors to the area over the weekend and preserves the town’s riverboat heritage. Beyond the sternwheelers, the festival offers family entertainment such as a car show, a photo contest, live music, and fireworks. After the events, visitors can explore downtown Marietta’s dining and unique shopping.

6 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • DECEMBER 2019

Co-op Spotlight appears regularly in Ohio Cooperative Living to give a glimpse into the land and the people of Ohio’s 24 electric cooperatives.

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OHIO ICON

HANBY HOUSE

Westerville

BY DAMAINE VONADA

Location: In the Columbus suburb of Westerville near the western edge of Otterbein University’s campus.

Provenance: Built in 1846, Hanby House was the home of Rev. William Hanby and his family from 1854 to 1870. Hanby was a bishop of the Church of the United Brethren in Christ, a co-founder of Otterbein University, an active temperance advocate, and an ardent abolitionist who used the house as a station on the Underground Railroad. Inspired by the story of a broken-hearted slave separated from his sweetheart, Hanby’s son Benjamin wrote a song — “Darling Nelly Gray” — that he debuted in 1856 at a musical gathering in the home’s parlor.

Benjamin Hanby’s ballad became enormously popular and helped crystallize anti-slavery sentiment prior to the Civil War. Hanby started a singing school in New Paris, where in 1864, he composed the jolly tune “Up on the House Top” for a children’s Christmas program. Hanby wrote more than 80 songs before dying of tuberculosis at age 33 in 1867.

In the 1920s, Otterbein graduates John and Dacia Shoemaker rescued the dilapidated house from the wrecking ball and organized a renovation that turned it into a museum. Hanby House opened to the public in 1937.

8 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • DECEMBER 2019

Significance: Operated by the Westerville Historical Society, Hanby House is part of the Ohio History Connection’s statewide system of historic sites and museums and is an identified destination on the National Park Service’s National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom.

Currently: Hanby House honors Benjamin Hanby’s musical legacy as well as his family’s efforts to aid freedom seekers. The exterior of Hanby House recently was painted, changed from white to its original butternut color. According to the site’s manager, Pam Allen, “A paint specialist determined that color by using an electron microscope to analyze all the layers of paint on the house.”

It’s a little-known fact that: Christmas open houses at Hanby House feature tours led by guides in period costumes, traditional refreshments such as mulled cider and ginger snaps, and live performances of “Up on the House Top” and other holiday songs.

Hanby House, 160 W. Main St., Westerville, OH 43081.

Christmas open houses Dec. 3 and Dec. 7, 2019.

For information, call 800-600-6843 or visit www. hanbyhouse.org.

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CO-OP PEOPLE

DREAMING OF A

BRIGHT CHRISTMAS

BY MARGIE WUEBKER

D

ick and Dianne Brown of Greenville welcome visitors by the thousands to their winter wonderland every year, treating guests to holiday trees, whimsical characters, sweet treats, and no fewer than 100,000 brightly colored lights.

2019 marks the 26th year for the Darke County display, and never has a design been repeated from the past — each new season brings a new twist, which draws people from near and far.

Dick Brown, a former business owner and real estate appraiser, remembers when holiday preparations involved putting up just two strings of lights — one on each side of the front door.

A move to a different house sparked his interest in more lights, and the addition of two daughters only intensified that interest. Soon, Brown had pushed his display to upward of 10,000 bulbs. “There were some problems with not enough outlets,” he recalls with a smile.

The Browns even accounted for their display in the plans for their current home on Requarth Road, which includes underground electrical service along the paved driveway and a 300foot swath that serves as a runway for Santa’s reindeerdrawn sleigh. Electricians added 200-amp service in the

10 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • DECEMBER 2019

drawn sleigh. Electricians added 200-amp service in the garage to handle the anticipated load.

Brown says it takes a month to complete the decorating once he starts in mid-October. He starts with the tree ornaments, because arranging the group displays and laying cords for the lights must wait until lawn mowing is done for the season.

“I prefer to work at my own pace,” he says. “Sometimes I work a while in the morning and then come back outside in the afternoon or the evening.”

A 40- by 100-foot barn, which his granddaughter calls “Paw-Paw’s Christmas House,” houses all the decorations. Carefully labeled plastic totes contain lights and smaller items, and paths wind in and around the statues and larger decorations that are arranged on the concrete floor. A 50-foot counter provides space to perform any needed repairs.

The display is open for public viewing from 6 to 11 p.m. from Thanksgiving through Christmas. People can stay in their vehicles for a slow drive through the

wonderland. Others accept invitations to come inside for a quick peek at Dianne’s interior decorations, which include a quaint snow village and a majestic purple tree.

“We give everybody who comes a full-size candy cane,” Dick says. “That amounted to 10,000. I gave out the traditional peppermint ones, but Dianne had more than 90 flavors to choose from.”

Some visitors come bearing homemade treats or small gifts to show their appreciation, and the Browns sometimes find ornaments or other decorations on their doorstep.

“People also want to give us money to help with the cost,” Brown says. “We don’t want anything, because this is our gift to the community.”

The Browns reside at 5480 Requarth Road (at the intersection with Jaysville-St. John Road) near Greenville.

DECEMBER 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 11

WOODS, WATERS, AND WILDLIFE

Big Red Cardinals enjoy a population boom in the Buckeye State.

STORY AND PHOTOS BY W.H. “CHIP” GROSS

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ublished in 2016, The Second Atlas of Breeding Birds in Ohio is not a casual read. A true tome totaling nearly 600 pages, the book is an inch and a half thick and weighs 6.5 pounds (don’t drop it on your toes).

It’s the go-to source for professional ornithologists and serious amateur birders in the Buckeye State for all things bird-related concerning the more than 200 species nesting here. It has some encouraging things to say about the northern cardinal, Ohio’s state bird (and that of six other states, too).

For instance, the atlas estimates the number of singing male cardinals in the state at a whopping 2.1 million, with the cardinal population as a whole having increased 1.1% per year since 1966. Yet as common as cardinals are, whether viewed on Christmas cards this time of year or on birdfeeders year-round, they have not always been numerous in Ohio.

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When our state was first being settled and the virgin forests cleared, cardinals were found primarily in the southern half of Ohio, expanding their population north during the late 1800s and early 1900s. Today, the familiar red birds are found statewide, but are most numerous in southwest counties where National Audubon Society Christmas Bird Counts can exceed 2,000 individuals.

Unlike many other songbirds, cardinals are the paragon of fidelity. Not only are they monogamous for life, or at least until their partner dies, they even stay together throughout the year, not just during breeding season.

In preparation for breeding, both sexes begin singing as early as mid-to-late winter. The singing is sometimes solo, but more often counter-singing — one mate begins a song that the other finishes. You could say they complete each other’s sentences, the ultimate sign of both devoted avian and human couples.

Cardinals (male, left; female, right) mate for life and remain together even when it’s not breeding season.

Once spring arrives, the male begins courtship feeding the female by bringing her tidbits of food, their beaks touching briefly — a kiss? — as she accepts the morsel.

Due to her muted protective coloration, the female has exclusive control of nesting. She selects the site, usually in dense shrubbery or a brushy field border, constructs the nest, then performs the nearly two weeks of incubation required to hatch her two to five eggs.

During that time, the male isn’t just free to go hang out with the boys. He remains somewhere close with an ear cocked, awaiting his mate’s call for food when she grows hungry.

Once the eggs hatch, both male and female bring the nestlings food, which is almost exclusively insects, due to their high protein content. After about 11 days, the fledglings leave the nest, and the male is in charge of feeding them on the ground. The female then

immediately begins a second nesting, producing as many as three or four broods of young cardinals per season in Ohio — hence the high population.

The next Ohio breeding bird atlas is scheduled to be published in another 20 years; what might it have to say about cardinals? Jim McCormac, one of five editors of the current edition, speculates.

“It is safe to say that our ‘redbird’ will be holding strong when the next atlas appears. Adaptability, tolerance of a variety of habitats, and a knack for cohabiting with people should ensure that the cardinal remains abundant into the future.”

In other words, Big Red will continue to boom in the Buckeye State.

W.H. “Chip” Gross (whchipgross@gmail.com) is Ohio Cooperative Living’s outdoors editor and a member of Consolidated Cooperative.

DECEMBER 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 13

IS THIS THE YEAR TO GET

A LIVE CHRISTMAS TREE?

BY PATTY YODER

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fter a few years of getting their tree from a corner lot or cutting their own, Hilliard resident Linda Lutz decided she should find out what type of Christmas tree was best for her young family, so she read everything she could find on the subject.

“I researched which option was best for the environment — artificial, live, or cut — then I did a cost analysis to compare prices over time,” she says. “The live tree won, so we tried it.”

For several years after, Linda and her husband, Jim, would dig a hole for their Christmas tree before the ground froze and plant it after the holidays.

Then, they waited. “Because it was winter, the tree would go dormant, so it would be spring before we knew whether it would survive,” Jim says.

Some trees did not last the harshness of winter, but others did.

Years later, evergreens of various sizes dotted their yard, marking Christmas memories with their twin sons, Johnny and Justin.

“We looked at the trees in our yard as a passage of time, the way some families mark their children’s height on a door frame each year,” Jim says.

The couple agreed there are upsides and downsides to having live Christmas trees, so they didn’t get one every year. Live trees weigh around 150 pounds, so they take considerably more effort to move.

With a large root ball at the bottom, the tree itself must be smaller, so there are fewer branches for ornaments and, importantly, less room for presents underneath.

On the positive side, their boys liked celebrating Christmas with a live tree, and everyone enjoyed the evergreen scent that filled their home.

Jim Lutz poses with his twin sons, Justin (left) and Johnny, in front of the family Christmas tree, circa 1990. Linda Lutz says the family enjoyed planting their live trees after the holidays, but they had to get smaller trees to accommodate the root ball in the living room.

14 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • DECEMBER 2019

“Even our cat loved the live tree,” Linda says. “She would cuddle up next to it, thinking we went to all that trouble just for her.”

Live tree tips from an Ohio expert Matt Mongin is president of the Ohio Christmas Tree Association and owner of Spring Valley Tree Farm. With more than 30 years in the business, he offers these helpful tips for live tree care: • Select the right species for your property. Popular Canaan firs grow to be 20 feet tall and 12 feet wide, while some spruces can reach beyond 100 feet. Talk to the tree farmer about the right tree for your yard.

• Factor in the root ball. A 5-foot live tree comes with an 18-inch root ball, so choose a smaller live tree than you would a cut tree.

• Recruit a few friends. Live trees are heavy. Mongin recommends having several people to carry the tree up any steps, then setting it on a rug or plastic sheet to slide it to its final display spot. Some of his customers use skateboards to get the tree where it needs to go. Another option: Have your tree delivered.

• Store your tree until spring. After Christmas, keep the tree in a garage or other cool shelter until spring. “Add a cupful of water to the root ball every week, and it will be fine,” he says. “We have a 95% success rate with this method.”

Keep your cut tree beautiful all season Choosing a cut tree this year? Mongin offers this advice:

• Set yourself up for success. For the ultimate stability, use drywall screws to attach a traditional reservoir stand to a 3-foot by 3-foot piece of plywood. “The tree will be immovable,” Mongin says. Put a biodegradable tree bag around the stand for easy post-Christmas cleanup.

• Stop the sap. Sap on the tree base prevents water from moving up the tree. Remove the sap by cutting one-half inch off the base. If you don’t have a saw, ask the tree seller to cut it for you.

Once the tree is in the reservoir, add a gallon of very hot water to dissolve any remaining sap.

• Keep it cool. The display room should have moderate or no heat and twilight lighting.

• Check the water level daily. After the first watering, the water can be any temperature, but make sure the tree base always touches water. Additives are optional, but they can add a few more days to your tree.

• Got pets? Consider a Colorado spruce, which has prickly needles and a scent that cats don’t like. Add a hook to the ceiling to anchor the tree for more stability.

DECEMBER 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 15

GOOD EATS

Chestnuts roasting on an open fire? Winter’s a great time to enjoy a bountiful supply of numerous nutty favorites.

RECIPES AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY CATHERINE MURRAY

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BOURBON PECAN PIE Prep: 20 minutes | Cook: 35 to 40 minutes | Servings: 8 1 9-inch unbaked pie crust 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 3 large eggs 1/2 teaspoon salt 3/4 cup light corn syrup 11/2 teaspoons vanilla 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, 13/4 cups chopped pecans melted (roasted, unsalted) 3/4 cup light brown sugar, 1/4 cup whole pecans (roasted, firmly packed unsalted) 4 tablespoons bourbon Preheat oven to 400 F. Place rolled-out pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish. Crimp edges. Chill pie crust in refrigerator while you work on the next step. In a large bowl, use a fork to mix together eggs, corn syrup, butter, brown sugar, bourbon, flour, salt, and vanilla until smooth. Mix in chopped pecans. Remove pie crust from refrigerator and place on top of a cookie sheet.

Pour pecan mixture into pie pan. Decorate top of pie with whole pecans. Bake pie on bottom rack at 400 F for 15 minutes, then reduce oven temperature to 350 F and bake for another 20 to 25 minutes. To prevent crust from burning, cover crust edges with aluminum foil. Bake until just set and bubbling at the edges; the inside will still wobble. Let pie cool for an hour before serving.

For an added kick, top with bourbon whipped cream.

Per serving: 584 calories, 37 grams fat (15 grams saturated fat), 56 grams total carbs, 1 gram fiber, 6.5 grams protein.

CASHEW CHICKEN Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 20 minutes | Servings: 4 1 pound chicken breast, cut 3 cloves garlic, minced into chunks 1 tablespoon cornstarch 1 tablespoon olive oil 2 tablespoons water 1 bell pepper, sliced 3/4 cup chicken broth 1 medium onion, sliced 1/4 cup soy sauce 3 Thai (bird’s eye) red chili 2 teaspoons oyster sauce peppers, optional 1 teaspoon sesame oil 2 cups snow peas 2 cups cooked rice 3/4 cup unsalted roasted cashews In a skillet or wok over medium-high heat, add chicken and olive oil. Brown until almost cooked through. Add bell pepper, onion, and Thai chili peppers. Cook until vegetables are tender and chicken is no longer pink. Add snow peas, cashews, and garlic; cook another minute or two. In a medium bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water until a smooth paste is formed. Mix in chicken broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Pour sauce into pan and stir until incorporated. Let simmer 2 minutes or until sauce has thickened. Remove Thai chili peppers, unless you like things SPICY! Serve over rice.

Per serving: 623 calories, 11.5 grams fat (1.5 grams saturated fat), 90 grams total carbs, 5 grams fiber, 37 grams protein.

DECEMBER 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 17

ZUCCHINI ITALIANO Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 8 minutes | Servings: 2 2 cups zucchini, roughly julienned 1/4 teaspoon salt 3 cloves garlic, minced 1/4 teaspoon white pepper 1 tablespoon olive oil dash red pepper flakes 1/4 cup roasted unsalted almonds, 4 large slivers of Parmesan cheese roughly chopped Toss together zucchini and garlic. Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add a single layer of the zucchini/ garlic mixture and cook with skillet uncovered until zucchini starts to sear (brown), stirring occasionally, about 3 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside. Add another layer of zucchini, repeating steps until all zucchini is lightly seared. Bring all zucchini back to the pan.

Add almonds, salt, white pepper, and pepper flakes. Stir until heated through. Transfer to serving dish and immediately top with slivers of Parmesan. This dish can be served as an appetizer or side dish for two.

Per serving: 214 calories, 15.5 grams fat (5 grams saturated fat), 10 grams total carbs, 3 grams fiber, 12.5 grams protein.

BUCKEYES Prep: 45 minutes | Cook: 10 minutes | Chill: 1 hour | Servings: 50 2 cups creamy peanut butter (not 1/2 teaspoon vanilla all-natural) 5 to 6 cups powdered sugar, sifted 1/2 teaspoon salt 12 ounces dark chocolate (chips 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened or melting wafers) Beat peanut butter, salt, butter, and vanilla in large mixer bowl until incorporated. Mix in powdered sugar a half-cup at a time until mixture starts to become firm and pliable. Shape into 1-inch balls. If mixture is crumbly, add more peanut butter. If mixture is sticky, add powdered sugar. Dust hands with powdered sugar when rolling. Set balls on baking sheets, silicone sheets, or wax paper. Place in freezer for 1 hour to firm up before dipping.

Place chocolate in the top of a double boiler and fill the bottom level with water. Bring water to a boil, then lower to a simmer. Continually stir chocolate until smooth and melted. If chocolate is too thick, add a teaspoon of coconut oil, shortening, or butter. Remove chocolate from stove. Take peanut butter balls out of freezer in small batches so they stay cool. Use a toothpick or candy dipping tool to dip 3/4 of each ball into chocolate, leaving some of the peanut butter on top showing, like a buckeye nut. Tap each buckeye to remove excess chocolate, then place on a baking sheet to harden. Store in an airtight container. Buckeyes can be frozen, stored in refrigerator, or at room temperature if eaten within a day or two.

Per serving: 163 calories, 9 grams fat (3.5 grams saturated fat), 18 grams total carbs, 1 gram fiber, 3 grams protein.

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FIRELANDS ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE LOCAL PAGES GM’S REPORT

Champions of the

COOPERATIVE DIFFERENCE On Sept. 30, more than a hundred Firelands Electric members and employees gathered for the cooperative’s first-ever ACRE Co-op Owners for Political Action breakfast and legislative update.

The Action Committee for Rural Electrification (ACRE) is the political action committee of the nation’s electric cooperatives. Founded in 1966, ACRE focuses on educating lawmakers about the unique co-op business model and supporting candidates on both the state and federal level who will advocate for the interests of cooperatives and their members. ACRE Co-op Owners for Political Action, the consumer arm of ACRE, is made up of over 11,000 electric cooperative members from across the country — members just like you.

By joining ACRE Co-op Owners, members can make their voices heard. The group supports government officials who,

regardless of their political party, advocate for the needs of co-ops and their members. Maintaining this strong presence in the legislative process is instrumental to the longterm success of the electric cooperative program and the communities they serve.

Firelands Electric’s ACRE Co-op Owners breakfast provided the cooperative an opportunity to show Dan McNaull appreciation for these GENERAL MANAGER members’ contributions and their support in the political realm. Held at the co-op’s facility in New London, the event also allowed members to hear updates from several local and state government officials.

Legislators representing portions of Firelands Electric’s four-county service territory spoke about federally funded projects benefiting rural Americans, immigration, and gun laws. Presenting at the event were U.S. Congressman Bob Gibbs, Ohio Senator Nathan Manning, Ohio Representative Darrell Kick, and Ohio’s Electric Cooperatives’ Director of Government Affairs Marc Armstrong.

Congressman Bob Gibbs discussed the necessity of federal assistance for rural utility infrastructure projects to improve electric reliability and resilience. Gibbs also addressed immigration laws, noting that over one million immigrants legally entered the U.S. in 2018.

Ohio Representative Darrell Kick stressed the importance of protecting the second amendment for Ohio’s law-abiding citizens. He also reflected on the opioid epidemic impacting Ohio and the Continued on page 20

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FIRELANDS ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE LOCAL PAGES

Continued from page 19

desperate need for foster families it has created. Kick shared that he and his wife are foster parents and that higher numbers of Ohio children are entering foster care than ever before — over 16,000 in 2018. This number is expected to exceed 20,000 by 2020.

The ACRE Co-op Owners breakfast hosted by Firelands Electric developed and cultivated relationships with our elected legislators, while also increasing their awareness of what electric cooperatives are and how they benefit the communities they serve. It also provided a forum for cooperative members to meet and connect with government officials. Most importantly, this exclusive event was a chance for Firelands Electric to celebrate the members who invest in ACRE Co-op Owners for Political Action and serve as champions for the cooperative difference.

For more information on ACRE Co-op Owners for Political Action and how you can become involved, visit www.firelandsec.com/content/acre-co-op-ownerspolitical-action. Additional photos from Firelands Electric Cooperative’s ACRE Co-op Owners event may be viewed at www.flickr.com/photos/firelandsec/albums.

Firelands Electric General Manager Dan McNaull and Ohio Electric Cooperatives’ Director of Government Affairs Marc Armstrong, above, talk with members during the cooperative’s ACRE Co-op Owners for Political Action breakfast on Sept. 30.

U.S. Congressman Bob Gibbs, top right, discusses the importance of rural utility infrastructure projects to improve electric reliability and resilience.

Members of ACRE Co-op Owners, bottom right, enjoy breakfast at Firelands Electric Cooperative’s new facility.

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IN THE COMMUNITY

Step Up for Soldiers annual drive It’s challenging to be far from home during the holiday season, especially for members of the military.

Thousands of people in United Service Organizations (USO) centers around the globe work tirelessly to make the holiday season bright for American service members and their families — both those stationed abroad and those returning home from deployment.

Firelands Electric Cooperative is proud to once again join forces with local radio stations WLKR-FM and K96-FM to support the USO of Northern Ohio Step Up for Soldiers annual drive. Beginning on Veterans Day, Nov. 11, members of Firelands Electric and the community can bring care package items to the co-op office, located at 103 Industrial Drive in New London.

Donations such as health and wellness items, games, snacks, canned goods, household items, and many others

will be accepted. All donated items will be packaged by volunteers and distributed to soldiers and their families from throughout northern Ohio.

Care package items can be dropped off at the Firelands Electric Cooperative office from Nov. 11 through Dec. 11, Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

A complete list of suggested donation items is available on Firelands Electric’s website, www.firelandsec.com/ content/uso-northern-ohio, and on the cooperative’s Facebook page.

NEW OFFICE HOURS Starting Dec. 2, the Firelands Electric Cooperative office will be open Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m.–4 p.m.

While our office hours are changing, Firelands Electric’s commitment to round-the-clock service will remain the same. Members will continue to have access to their co-op 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Using the methods below, members can make payments, notify us of outages, and report emergencies, anytime, day or night: • PHONE: Call us toll-free at 1-800-533-8658.

• ONLINE: Click “Report an Issue” on the co-op’s website using your computer.

• MOBILE APP: Tap “Service Status” in the SmartHub app on your smartphone or tablet.

• ONSITE: Place your payment in our 24/7 drop box, located at 103 Industrial Drive, New London.

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FIRELANDS ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE LOCAL PAGES CO-OP NEWS

REBUILDING FOR RELIABILITY 2019 work plan increases co-op’s capacity and backfeed ability Upkeep on an electrical distribution system is a lot like owning a home. Both require regular upgrades to keep them in working order. Just like a roof or patio needs occasional repair or replacement due to normal wear and tear, so do the cooperative’s poles, transformers, and wires.

Firelands Electric carries out a work plan every year to ensure that members’ electric service remains dependable. This plan is in addition to the outage restoration and maintenance duties Firelands’ crews are responsible for on a day-to-day basis. As you can imagine, this keeps the operations department and the co-op’s contractors quite busy — and 2019 was no exception.

LineTec Services, a contractor employed by Firelands Electric, is currently wrapping up the last of a five-part rebuild project. The first portion, completed in the early spring of 2019, consisted of upgrading a 3.65mile segment of the cooperative’s B line in Vermillion Township, Ashland County, to a higher capacity wire.

Part four of LineTec’s project, which was completed in October, involved two separate sections of Firelands Electric’s E8 line that serves co-op members on County Road 775 in Ashland County. The first 1.4-mile section of line was upgraded to carry and balance the power load along this and several other roads in the neighborhood.

The second segment involved relocating 1.6 miles of power lines to make them more accessible when repairs or maintenance are required.

The fifth and final phase of LineTec’s 2019 work for the cooperative is the construction of a 2.5-mile line in Huron County’s Peru Township, which will again increase capacity and Firelands Electric’s ability to balance load in the area. This final section is expected to be completed by year’s end.

Moving to Vermillion Township’s J3 line in April, LineTec Services upgraded a 3-mile portion of the co-op’s distribution system to create a tie-line between the Ashland and Jeromesville substations. With this installation, Firelands Electric is now able to more readily meet members’ needs during a power outage by backfeeding from another substation — a benefit for every member throughout the area.

After completing the second part of the work plan in June, LineTec crews traveled further south into Vermillion Township. This phase of the rebuild project involved constructing a new three-phase line, which created a connection between State Route 60 and County Road 775. This 0.65-mile span will allow Firelands to balance circuit load across multiple phases on several roads in an area that has seen significant load growth over the last several years. It also provides the cooperative a means for backfeeding many of the members who live in and around this area in the event of an outage.

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Firelands Electric linemen prepare a new pole for installation as part of the cooperative’s 2019 work plan.

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Firelands Electric’s own crews have also been extremely busy upgrading and maintaining the cooperative’s distribution system throughout 2019. Along with the construction of new services, upgrades to existing services, moving into the new facility, and a plethora of maintenance projects, the co-op’s operations team also completed a great deal of line rebuild work.

While this work included some small jobs scattered across the co-op’s system, the bulk of the rebuild projects completed by Firelands Electric’s crews in 2019 took place in the Village of New London. Due to the vast difference in population density when compared to more rural areas, the work within New London was more time-consuming than the co-op’s other rebuilds. The span lengths, or distance, between homes and businesses is much shorter, requiring more poles per mile. Also, unlike most rural construction, there are multiple services being fed from nearly every pole, which increases the time and hardware needed for the assembly of each pole. While Firelands Electric’s typical rural construction includes 20 poles, seven transformers, and eight services per mile, each mile of work done within New London involved 41 poles, 36 transformers, and 120 services.

The more urban setting of New London also meant working more often with crowded underground utilities and the frequent use of hydro-excavation to dig holes for new poles. The method, which removes soil with pressurized water, is more time-consuming than the traditional digger derrick excavation, but is a more accurate way to excavate soil and safely locate underground utilities and fiber optic cables. This is essential for protecting the cooperative’s employees from possible injury and avoiding costly damage to the underground infrastructure.

A Firelands Electric Cooperative crew installs a new pole during part of the rebuild work over the past year.

As we wrap up yet another year, Firelands Electric’s crews are already looking ahead to future projects.

The co-op has a work plan mapped out for the next four years — so that members can continue to receive the reliable, affordable electric power they have come to expect from their cooperative.

Tis the season... for holiday value 1 box of candy canes = 100 hours of lighting 10 strings of 100 LED holiday lights

1 large peppermint mocha latte = 7,500 charges of a smartphone

1 ugly holiday sweater = 1,750 days of watching a 200-watt LED television

*Figures based on average item cost, wattage, and hours of usage.

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FIRELANDS ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE LOCAL PAGES ENERGY EFFICIENCY

FACT OR FICTION:

THE TRUTH BEHIND SIX ENERGY-SAVING CLAIMS When it comes to saving energy, it can be confusing to figure out what works and what doesn’t. Below are some answers to commonly asked questions about energy efficiency.

Q: Is it true that turning lights off and on uses more energy than just leaving them on?

A: Fiction. Turning off lights definitely reduces energy use. LED and incandescent bulbs should be turned off every time you leave the room. The situation is a bit different with compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs). Turning them off does save energy but can also shorten the life of the bulb. A good rule of thumb is to turn off CFLs any time they won’t be needed for 15 minutes or more.

Q: Would replacing my old windows with new, more efficient ones really cut my energy use in half?

A: Fiction. It is possible that replacing an inefficient window with a new, energy-efficient version can cut the heat loss through the window itself in half. However, windows typically account for only about 25 to 30% of your space-heating costs. The amount of energy you use for heating and cooling is likely one-third to one-half of your total energy use, so replacing your old windows might only reduce your total energy costs by about 10%.

In the right situation, that could be beneficial, but it’s important to take into consideration the high cost of new windows and how long it would take to recoup your investment.

Q: Burning wood in my fireplace should save on my heating costs, right?

A: Maybe. Burning wood is only cost-effective if certain conditions are met. The wood needs to be dry and burned efficiently in a properly installed, properly placed, high-efficiency wood stove or fireplace insert. Otherwise, it’s likely you’ll lose as much heat through your chimney as you’re distributing throughout the house.

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Q: My kids claim using the dishwasher is just as efficient as washing dishes by hand. Are they right?

A: Fact. It can actually be more efficient! Properly used, dishwashers use less water while doing a better job, and as a bonus, they will save you more than 200 hours a year. For maximum energy savings, make sure your water heater is set to about 120 F and use the most efficient wash/dry settings.

Q: I’ve heard it’s better to heat individual rooms with an electric space heater and keep the doors closed to trap the heat. Is this true?

Maybe. It’s possible to save money with an electric space heater if you use it only a few hours a day and reduce your home’s thermostat setting by a couple degrees. Used for longer periods of time on a regular basis, space heaters can increase your energy consumption, adding $50 or more a month to your electric bill. Space heaters can cause fires, so they also need to be used wisely and should never be left unattended or used while you are sleeping.

Q: Does the age of my home determine how energy efficient it is?

A: Maybe. Newer homes tend to be more efficient because energy codes and building materials have improved, but every home can have hidden energy issues, no matter its age. If you want to evaluate the efficiency of your home, it’s best to schedule an energy consultation with a professional.

Need more help finding the large energy wasters in your home? Contact Firelands Electric’s Member Services Department at 1-800-533-8658 to schedule your FREE in-home consultation with the cooperative’s energy advisor.

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ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Carbary’s

CORNER

As we head into winter, it’s important to make sure that your heating system is operating correctly. A malfunctioning furnace or heat pump means your system will work even harder as temperatures drop. Hitting those single digits during the heart of winter can be rough enough on your energy bills, but a system that isn’t running properly will make it even harder on your wallet.

Besides having your system serviced before the onset of cold weather, it’s also a good idea to keep an eye on it throughout the heating season. Last January, one Firelands Electric member learned this lesson the hard way.

Scott Carbary ENERGY ADVISOR

After noticing an increase in electric use over the span of a few months, the member contacted the co-op to schedule a free energy consultation. During this type of visit, I typically test a home’s breaker panel for unusual activity. In this case, the only thing running was the member’s heat pump, but the readings I received indicated the unit kept switching over to the auxiliary, or backup, heating system. For this member, that meant using electric resistance heat, which is much less efficient — and more costly — than using the heat pump alone. Further investigation revealed the culprit: The outdoor portion of the heat pump was covered in almost two inches of ice.

I know what you’re thinking: It’s January, so of course there will be ice. Correct, but even during winter, a heat pump should only have a thin layer of frost, not be encased in ice. Heat pumps are designed with a defrost mode, which melts the ice to keep your system running efficiently. The control board responsible for activating this member’s defrost process had stopped working, creating a solid frozen barrier on the coils.

Why is this noteworthy? If a heat pump’s coils are blocked by ice, heat transfer between the refrigerant and the outside air won’t take place. The unit will no longer keep your home comfortable, and the emergency electric system kicks in to warm your home. While you may not notice when this happens, you will definitely see the difference on your next electric bill.

For this particular co-op member, the faulty defrost board in their heat pump increased their home’s electric use by almost 1,000 kilowatt-hours per month — which is an additional $100! Once the member knew about the issue, they got in touch with a contractor to have their heat pump fixed and got those bills back to normal.

Not only can ice buildup on your heat pump cause a significant jump in your electric bill, but it can also cause costly damage to the fan blades and outdoor coils if it becomes too thick. In a worst-case scenario, it can damage your heat pump beyond repair.

So, go check out the outdoor unit of your heat pump now. If you see more than frost or a thin layer of ice, contact a heating repair contractor right away to schedule maintenance. It might just save you some sticker shock later this winter.

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FIRELANDS ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE LOCAL PAGES YOUTH PROGRAMS

Class of 2020

COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS Do you live in a home served by Firelands Electric Co-op?

You could win up to $5,300 in scholarships • Scholarships are available to graduating seniors in both boys’ and girls’ divisions.

• Applicants must have a cumulative grade-point average of 3.5 or above on a 4.0 scale.

• Finalists in the Firelands Electric scholarship competition will be interviewed at the cooperative office on Feb. 17, 2020.

• Applicants will be judged on scholastic record, school and community activities, cooperative knowledge, and a personal interview.

• The first-place Firelands Electric Cooperative Scholarship in each division is $1,500.

• Four runners-up will also receive scholarships in each division. One student in each division will also be chosen to receive a $300 Judges’ Choice Scholarship.

• The top overall winner will be eligible to compete at the statewide competition on April 15, where he or she can win up to $3,800 in additional scholarship awards from Ohio’s Electric Cooperatives.

Complete rules and applications are available at www.firelandsec.com/content/scholarship-opportunities, by contacting Firelands Electric’s member services department at 1-800-533-8658, or by visiting your high school guidance department.

Application deadline: Jan. 31, 2020

20F OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • DECEMBER 2019

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integrity

accountability

community commitment

innovation

YOUTH PROGRAMS

HIGH SCHOOL SOPHOMORES AND JUNIORS: You could be selected for a life-changing leadership experience in Washington, D.C.

June 19–25, 2020 While on Youth Tour, students will visit: United States Capitol World War II Memorial Smithsonian Institution Lincoln Memorial Vietnam War Memorial Washington National Cathedral Arlington National Cemetery Gettysburg Battlefield ... and much more!

What is Youth Tour?

The Ohio’s Electric Cooperatives Youth Tour is an annual leadership program sponsored by Firelands Electric. A weeklong, all-expensespaid trip to Washington, D.C., Youth Tour gives outstanding high school students a personal understanding of American history and their role as a citizen. During this one-of-a-kind tour, participants have the opportunity to meet with their congressional leaders at the U.S. Capitol, make new friends from across the state and country, and see many of the famous Washington, D.C., sights.

Electric cooperatives from 43 states send about 1,800 delegates each year, including nearly 40 students from co-ops throughout Ohio.

Firelands Electric Cooperative will choose up to two delegates to attend the 2020 Youth Tour.

To apply for the Youth Tour applicants must: • Be a high school sophomore or junior.

• Reside in a home receiving power from Firelands Electric Cooperative.

• Submit a completed application, including portion completed by a school official.

• Write a 500-word essay on a topic related to electric cooperatives.

Application deadline: Jan. 31, 2020

Complete rules and application materials are available at www.firelandsec.com/ content/youth-tour-experience.

DECEMBER 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 20G

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FIRELANDS ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE LOCAL PAGES CO-OP NEWS

UPDATE Just over a year ago, Firelands Electric launched OurSolar, a community solar program that gives cooperative members an easy and affordable way to support renewable energy.

Installing a residential renewable energy system at your home can cost thousands of dollars — even tens of thousands. Some homes aren’t even compatible with solar: They could be located in an area with very little sunlight, the pitch of the roof may be at a less-than-ideal angle, or the home could need energy efficiency updates prior to installation. OurSolar is a simple, cost-effective alternative for Firelands Electric’s members.

Situated behind the cooperative’s facility at 103 Industrial Drive, New London, the 50-kilowatt, 152-panel solar array was first energized on Sept. 27, 2018. As of Oct. 10, 2019, OurSolar had produced nearly 60,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity. That’s enough power to operate a 400-watt refrigerator for over 35 years or to watch 300,000 hours of television!

2019 CHRISTMAS LIGHTING CONTEST Send us a photo of your Christmas lighting display!

Submitted photos will be posted on Firelands Electric Co-op’s Facebook page and the member with the most likes at the end of each week will win a $25 bill credit.

Contest ends on Dec. 20.

Visit www.firelandsec.com/content/contests for complete details.

20H

The OurSolar program gives Firelands Electric residential members the option to purchase renewable energy produced by the co-op’s solar array. There is no equipment for members to install, and all maintenance costs are included in the subscription rate. Firelands Electric Cooperative members can subscribe to the output of up to 10 panels. Each panel generates an average of 30 kWh per month, but output can fluctuate between 10 and 50 kWh, depending upon sunlight conditions throughout the month. Members can go green by spending just a few additional dollars a month.

For example, by investing only $5 each month, a co-op member can subscribe to five panels and generate an average of 1,800 kWh per year.

The ever-changing world of renewables can be confusing.

Your cooperative is here to help, and OurSolar is just one, inexpensive option. Contact Firelands Electric or visit www.firelandsec.com/content/renewable-energyresources for answers to your renewable questions.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

As a reminder, our office will be closed Dec. 24 –25 and Jan. 1 so that our employees may enjoy the holidays with their families. Emergency service is available 24/7 by calling 1-800-533-8658.

OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • DECEMBER 2019

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integrity

accountability

community commitment

innovation

CO-OP NEWS

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE The A Team recognizes students in grades 6–8 for their hard work and dedication to education.

Students whose parents or guardians are members of Firelands Electric Cooperative and who have a minimum of three A’s on their most recent report card are eligible to enter.

A drawing will take place at the end of each grading period, and three students will be chosen to receive an iTunes gift card. Winners will also have their photo published in an upcoming issue of Ohio Cooperative Living magazine and will be featured on the co-op’s website and social media outlets.

The next drawing is Dec. 10.

For complete details on how to enter, visit www.firelandsec.com/content/team.

Stealing electricity and meter tampering are crimes!

Stealing electricity or tampering with a meter is serious business. And it’s against the law! Theft of utility electricity is a first-degree misdemeanor if the value of the stolen electricity plus any utility equipment repairs is less than $150. It’s a fourthdegree felony if more than $150.

Tampering crimes carry similar penalties. Tampering is defined as “to interfere with, damage, or bypass a utility meter, conduit, or attachment with intent to impede the correct registration of a meter or the proper function of a conduit or attachment.”

Conviction of tampering can mean from six months in jail and a $1,000 fine to up to five years and a $2,500 fine.

Meter tampering costs all of us. And it’s downright dangerous. If you witness someone tampering with an electric meter, please contact Firelands Electric Cooperative at 1-800-533-8658.

STATEMENT OF NONDISCRIMINATION Firelands Electric Cooperative is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

If you wish to file a Civil Rights program complaint of discrimination, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, found online at http://www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust.html, at any USDA office, or call 1-866-632-9992 to request the form. You may also write a letter containing all of the information requested in the form. Send your completed complaint form or letter by mail to the U. S. Department of Agriculture, Director, Office of Adjudication, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; by fax to 202-690-7442; or e-mail to program.intake@usda.gov.

DECEMBER 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 21

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FIRELANDS ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE LOCAL PAGES COOPERATIVE UPDATE

highlights

BOARD MEETING Firelands Electric Cooperative’s board of trustees met Sept. 24 and covered the following items: • Board President Dan Schloemer reported that the cooperative received 40 membership applications for approval by the board.

• The board reviewed and approved a report on a safety meeting held Aug. 20 and a workplace safety observation conducted on Sept. 14.

• Director of Finance and Accounting Tabi Shepherd reviewed the August financials and reported on recent accounting and billing department activities.

• General Manager Dan McNaull reminded the board that People Fund appointments from Districts 1, 3, and 6 need to be made by Jan. 1, 2020.

• McNaull also advised that all of the cooperative’s former buildings have been sold.

• Director of Operations Don Englet reviewed recent activities and projects in the operations department and advised that the annual inventory audit would take place on Sept. 30.

• McNaull reviewed the 2019 maintenance tree trimming report, noting that the cooperative’s costs would come in about $38,000 under budget.

• Director of Member Services and Communications Andrea Gravenhorst reported on recent activities involving the member services and IT departments, including recent social media projects.

Firelands Electric Co-op is democratically controlled and governed by local people committed to policies that result in a safe and reliable electric system, fair rates, financial responsibility, and superior member service.

Due to the holidays, the cooperative’s next board meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 30, at Firelands Electric’s facility, located at 103 Industrial Drive, New London.

• Trent Fern from Alpha Engineering reviewed the 2020–2024 work plan.

• McNaull reviewed the cooperative’s monthly outage report for September with the board.

FIRELANDS ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE, INC.

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

GENERAL MANAGER

Dan Schloemer

Dan McNaull

OUTAGE HOTLINE

President, District 1

1-800-533-8658 OFFICE

103 Industrial Drive P.O. Box 32 New London, OH 44851 419-929-1571 OFFICE HOURS (EFFECTIVE DEC. 2)

Mon.–Fri. 7:30 a.m.–4 p.m. www.firelandsec.com

Bruce Leimbach Vice President, District 4

Carl Ayers

HAVE A STORY SUGGESTION?

Email your ideas to: members@firelandsec.com

Secretary/Treasurer, District 5

W.E. Anderson District 8

Steve Gray District 3

Gene Lamoreaux District 2

John Martin District 9

Kevin Reidy District 6

Rob Turk 22

OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • DECEMBER 2019

12-19--December.indd 12

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24 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • DECEMBER 2019

Holiday Travel ’TIS THE SEASON FOR

Think mistletoe. Think holly. Think of Ohio as one big stocking, stuffed with cool Yule celebrations. We’ve selected eight close-to-home holiday destinations that evoke the story of the first Christmas, foster good cheer, and brighten spirits — all of them ideal spots for making merry with family and friends.

BY DAMAINE VONADA

DECEMBER 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 25

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF DAYTON

At the Manger University of Dayton, Dec. 2–Jan. 12 Artistry, imagination, and the reason for the Christmas season draw visitors to the University of Dayton’s Marian Library for At the Manger, an annual display of Nativity scenes from the library’s collection of 3,500 crèches representing more than 100 countries. The event shows how different people and cultures interpret the birth of Christ, and this year, the exhibit’s volunteers selected which Nativity scenes to display. Tour guide Ann Persensky picked “Black and Beautiful,” a contemporary crèche by a Dutch-born artist. “One of its Magi is a woman,” says Perensky, “and a curled-up sheep is cuddling beside Baby Jesus.”

PHOTOS COURTESY OF STAN HYWET HALL & GARDENS

937-229-4214; www.udayton.edu/marianlibrary/art-exhibits/at-the-manger.php.

26 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • DECEMBER 2019

Deck the Hall 2019: A Classic Comic Hero Christmas Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, Akron Select evenings, Nov. 29–Dec. 30 Held at the splendid estate created by Goodyear cofounder F.A. Seiberling and his wife, Gertrude, Deck the Hall offers an array of experiences — a million dazzling lights, wondrous holiday music, a gorgeous Christmas tree, hot cocoa, gingerbread, and boutique shopping in the carriage house — for the entire family. Since its

2019 theme is superheroes, the Manor House’s marvelous décor features Wonder Woman, Superman, Spiderman, Batman, and other comic book favorites.

330-836-5533; www.stanhywet.org/events/ deck-hall-2019-classic-comic-hero-christmas.

Dickens Victorian Village Cambridge, Nov. 1–Jan. 1

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CAMBRIDGE/GUERNSEY COUNTY VCB

With Cambridge’s Victorian-looking downtown as a backdrop, visitors stroll among more than 90 individual scenes with nearly 200 mannequins inspired by A Christmas Carol and Dickens-era England.

Continued on page 28

DECEMBER 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 27

Delightfully lifelike figures such as Tiny Tim, Bob Cratchit, carolers, lamplighters, and Father Christmas populate Wheeling Avenue, and at the courthouse, nighttime light and music extravaganzas are a joy to behold. “People tell me they’ve never seen better light shows anywhere,” says group tour coordinator Bev Keller. Also available are Victorian teas, carriage rides, and performances of an original Sherlock Holmes play, “The Case of the Christmas Carbuncle.”

PHOTOS COURTESY HAYES PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY & MUSEUMS

740-421-4956; www.dickensvictorianvillage.com.

Hayes Home Holidays tours Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library and Museums, Fremont Tours, Dec. 20–22 Rare evening tours of the mansion where President Hayes and his wife, Lucy, lived after leaving the White House present a perfectly lovely opportunity to make holiday memories. “Seeing the home at night is a special experience,” says Kristina Smith, the museums’ communications 28 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • DECEMBER 2019

manager. “Because almost all the home’s furnishings were their belongings, it feels like Rutherford and Lucy are still here to welcome you.” Other activities include the Hayes Train Special, a model railroad with traditional holiday scenery, and horse-drawn trolley or sleigh rides (depending on the weather) through the grounds surrounding the Hayes Home.

ISAAC MILLER/COURTESY HOCKING VALLEY SCENIC RAILROAD

419-332-2081; www.rbhayes.org/events.

Hocking Valley Scenic Railway holiday trains Nelsonville Depot; Select dates, Nov. 30–Dec. 31 Oh, what fun it is to ride on the HVSR’s trio of festive excursions. The Railway’s Santa Train features the Jolly Old Elf plus a grumpy Grinch, Continued on page 30

DECEMBER 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 29

while the New Year’s Eve Train stops for midnight fireworks and offers both a familyfriendly pizza and soda car and an adultoriented wine and cheese car. New for 2019 is the Holiday Express to Robbins Crossing, a re-created log village where passengers can see how the pioneers celebrated Christmas.

According to Isaac Miller, the conductor, it’s pulled by Ohio’s only operating standardgauge steam locomotive.

PHOTOS COURTESY PYRAMID HILL SCULPTURE PARK

855-323-3768; www.hvsry.org.

30 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • DECEMBER 2019

Holiday Lights on the Hill Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park and Museum Hamilton, Nov. 22–Jan. 5 Drive through tunnels of twinkling lights and alleys of gleaming candy canes at Pyramid Hill, one of the nation’s few outdoor sculpture museums and a Butler Rural Electric Cooperative consumer-member. Covering rolling terrain graced by woodlands and lakes, the self-guided tour showcases the park’s internationally acclaimed collection of monumental sculptures.

Executive director Sean FitzGibbons says the event is quite popular because it accomplishes Pyramid Hill’s mission of bringing people to art in nature.

513-868-1234; www.pyramidhill.org/holiday-lights-on-the-hill.

Nutcracker Village and Advent Market Steubenville, Nov. 26–Jan. 4

PHOTOS COURTESY HISTORIC FORT STEUBEN

This truly hometown and homegrown event in Steubenville features the world’s largest collection of life-sized nutcrackers — more than 150 of them.

They’re all made in Steubenville and depict characters and individuals ranging from Santa Claus, Jack Frost, and Charlie Brown to Mother Teresa, John Glenn, and Steubenville native Dean Martin. “People like coming during the day to see the wonderful details on the nutcrackers, but at night with the colorful lights and holiday music, they’re just magical,” says Judy Bratton of the Steubenville Visitor Center.

Adding to the enchantment is a weekend Advent Market with European-style chalets where local vendors and artisans sell holiday foods, gifts, toys, and, of course, nutcrackers.

740-283-1787; www. steubenvillenutcrackervillage.com.

DECEMBER 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 31

Yuletides of Yesteryear Sauder Village, Archbold Dec. 6–7 “Our traditional Holiday Lantern Tours offer guests an interactive look at the American Christmas traditions from 1850 through the 1920s,” says Kim Krieger of Sauder Village media relations. Sauder Village is Ohio’s largest living-history museum, and the evening tours include visits to historic houses, an original Mennonite church, a oneroom schoolhouse, and a vintage train depot where people of all ages get to enjoy old-fashioned fun such as singing carols, frosting cookies, and a reading of “’Twas the Night Before Christmas.”

PHOTOS COURTESY SAUDER VILLAGE

800-590-9755; www.saudervillage.org.

32 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • DECEMBER 2019

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Winter’s WALK Snowshoeing is fun, easy to learn — and good for you.

BY CRAIG SPRINGER

I

f you think of snowshoes as those tennis-racketlooking things strapped to your feet, like in those 1960s adventure movies, you might want to give them a closer look — especially if you’re looking for a fun, healthy, and relatively inexpensive way to keep exercising outdoors during those snowy winter months.

“If you can walk, you can snowshoe,” says Anthony Zembrodt, Midwest Regional Manager of L.L. Bean’s outdoors programs.

Snowshoes have been around for a long time, born of necessity for traversing the white stuff. Indigenous people of the north have used them for centuries, and European settlers in North America quickly adopted the concept when they arrived and began exploring in the 1600s.

Why use showshoes? When the snow gets deep, the walking gets tough. You have to pull your legs out of a hole with each and every step. It’s like slogging through a slug of mud, and it will tire you right quick. It doesn’t take much imagining for you to feel your hip flexors tiring and aching. Snowshoes, however, spread your weight over a larger area of snow, thus allowing you to travel near the surface, aloft on the snow. The less you sink, the easier the walking.

Modern snowshoes have certainly evolved from those early versions. Though the concept of the snowshoe seems nearly as involved as that of the wheel, the types of modern snowshoes range in nature depending on how they’re to be used. They’re typically made of aluminum frames with a sheath or decking of strong plastic around the part that binds to your boot.

According to Zembrodt, it’s essential that you pick a snowshoe according to your weight, not your height.

“The bigger the snowshoe, the more weight it can support,” he says. “It’s also important to consider the types of terrain you will be trekking — some shoes offer better traction than others.”

Bear in mind snowshoeing is not skiing. Shoeing is relatively inexpensive; you can buy a pair of recreational

34 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • DECEMBER 2019

snowshoes for an adult for less than $100, less than $60 for youngsters. If you venture into more specialized territory, say, long-distance trekking, the shoes become significantly more expensive.

Snowshoeing is an opportune sport; you don’t have to go anywhere special to do it — you can snowshoe out your back door. Neither do you have to get on groomed, designated trails, as you do with most skiing. The equipment is low- to no-maintenance, and there’s little chance your shoes will break under normal wear. It’s easy to learn, too, and unlike skiing, there’s almost zero chance you’ll run into trees or careen off a cliff. Even if you do fall, you’re not going far. You can snowshoe as slow or as fast as you desire.

If you are a walker or a hiker, snowshoeing is a great way to keep up your routine over the winter — and that speaks to perhaps one of the best reasons to snowshoe: for the exercise.

Snowshoeing at a moderate pace burns hundreds of calories in an hour’s time, outpacing running, cycling, or walking in terms of caloric output. “Snowshoeing is a great aerobic activity,” Zembrodt says. “A lot of folks struggle to get outside in the winter months, even if they are frequent hikers during summer. It’s a great way to get outside and have fun in winter.”

With shoeing, the learning curve is flat and the investment minimal. With half a foot of snow on the ground, the bike path, nature center, golf course, or walking trail becomes a whole new adventure and the cold, dark winter a little more pleasant.

Let’s face it, though: Strapping on an extension to your foot to walk on snow is not normal. Of course, it will be a bit clumsy at first. Outdoors-oriented stores such as L.L. Bean, Cabela’s, Dick’s, and Field & Stream, among others, have the shoes you need, and many have clinics to get you breaking trail with that first big snowfall.

DECEMBER 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 35

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DEC. 12–15, 19–22 – Winter Wonderland Light Display, Sandusky Co. Fgds., 901 Rawson Ave., Fremont. Drivethrough Thur./Sun. 6–8 p.m.; walk-through Fri./ Sat. 6–9 p.m. $1, under 12 free. Craft show, games, horse rides, train rides, music, popcorn, cookies, hot chocolate, and Santa! Donations of food items accepted for food pantry.

419-332-5604 or www.sanduskycountyfair.com.

DEC. 14 – Train Town Show and Swap Meet, Allen Co. Fgds., 2750 Harding Hwy., Lima, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.

Operating model railroads; more than 200 tables with model railroad, railfan, and general railroad items for sale.

All scales. Food service will be available. 419-228-7141.

DEC. 20 – WinterFest and Santa’s House, Saint Andrew’s United Methodist Church, 120 W. Sandusky St., Findlay, 6–8 p.m. Free. Take a horse-drawn wagon ride around downtown, meet with Santa, and enjoy hot chocolate and sweet treats. www.visitfindlay.com.

DEC. 20, 22 – Silver Screen Classics: It’s a Wonderful Life, Valentine Theatre, 400 N. Superior St., Toledo, Fri. 7:30 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. $5. See Frank Capra’s classic Christmas tale come to life on the big screen. 419-2422787 or www.valentinetheatre.com.

DEC. 21 – Toledo Jazz Orchestra Holiday Concert, Valentine Theatre, 400 N. Superior St., Toledo, 8 p.m. $28–$38 plus fees. 419-242-2787 or www. valentinetheatre.com.

DEC. 26–31 – Horse-Drawn Sleigh Rides at Spiegel Grove, 1337 Hayes Ave., Fremont, 1–4 p.m. $5.50, under 3 free. Ride through the grounds in a horse-drawn sleigh, as President Hayes did. Rides are by South Creek Clydesdales. Horse-drawn trolley ride may be used in addition to or in place of the sleigh depending on demand and staffing. 419-332-2081 or www.rbhayes.org.

JAN. 4 – Model Train Clinic, Hayes Presidential Library and Museums, Spiegel Grove, 1337 Hayes Ave., Fremont, 1–4 p.m. $10, C. (6–12) $5, under 6 free; ticket includes access to museum. Veteran model train hobbyists assist you with advice related to model train maintenance and repair, as well as estimating the value of older model trains. 419-332-2081 or www.rbhayes.org.

JAN. 4–5 – Tri-State Gun Show, Allen Co. Fgds., 2750 Harding Hwy., Lima (2 miles east of Lima on St. Rte. 309), Sat. 8:30 a.m.–4 p.m., Sun. 8:30 a.m.–3 p.m. $6, free for members, under 18 free. Over 400 tables of modern and antique guns, edged weapons, and sportsmen equipment. 419-647-0067 or www.tristategunshow.org.

JAN. 10 – Silver Screen Classics Double Feature: Dracula and Frankenstein, Valentine Theatre, 400 N. Superior St., Toledo, 7:30 p.m. $5. Two groundbreaking horror films from 1931, in all their black-and-white cinematic glory. 419-242-2787 or www.valentinetheatre.com.

DEC. 5–8, 12–23, 26–30 – Deck the Hall, Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron, 5–8 p.m. $7–$22, under 5 free. The decorating theme this year is “A Classic Comic Hero Christmas,” featuring the stories of Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Spiderman, and others. New this season: Step inside a giant interactive snow globe for your family photos! Santa lights the tree in the courtyard each day at 5:30 p.m. 330-315-3287 or www.stanhywet.org.

DEC. 14–15 – Winter Avant-Garde Art and Craft Show, Federated Church–Family Life Center, 16349 Chillicothe Rd., Chagrin Falls, Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–5 p.m.

THROUGH DEC. 31 – Holidays at the Mansion: “Old $3, under 12 free. Artists and crafters selling their original Fashioned Christmas,” The Victorian House Museum, 484 handmade items. Full concession stand on site. www.

Wooster Rd., Millersburg, Sun.–Thur. 1–4 p.m., Fri./Sat. 1–8 avantgardeshows.com. p.m. $10; seniors and veterans/active military, $9; under 12 free. Tour the 28-room mansion, transformed into a holiday DEC. 15 – Flea Market of Collectables, Medina County Fgds. Community Center, 735 Lafayette Rd., Medina, 9 wonderland. Open house is Nov. 16, 4–8 p.m.; $5. “Santa a.m.–3 p.m. $2. Early bird special admission: 6–9 a.m., and Friend — Celebrate the Season!” is Dec. 7. 330-674$3. A treasure trove of vintage items and collectables.

0022 or www.victorianhousemuseum.org.

330-948-4300 or www.conraddowdell.com.

THROUGH JAN. 4 – Steubenville Nutcracker Village DEC. 21 – Winter Avant-Garde Art and Craft Show, and Advent Market, Fort Steuben Park and 4th and Markets Sts., Steubenville. Free. Over 150 unique, life-size Emerald Event Center, 33040 Just Imagine Dr., Avon, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $3, under 12 free. Artists and crafters selling nutcrackers in an outdoor display with lights and music. their original handmade items. Full concession stand on Market open Fri.–Sun., 3–9 p.m. 740-283-1787 or www. site. www.avantgardeshows.com. steubenvillenutcrackervillage.com.

JAN. 4 – Antique and Collectible Toy Show, Lakeland THROUGH JAN. 4 – Christmas Wonderland and Gift Community College, AFC Auxiliary Gym, 7700 Clocktower Shop, Historic Fort Steuben, 120 S. 3rd St., Steubenville, Dr., Kirtland, 9 a.m.–2 p.m. $6, C. (6–12) $2, under 6 free.

Mon.–Thur. 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–8 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Free. Christmas gifts, nutcrackers, Nutcracker New and antique toys and dolls to buy, sell, or trade.

Diecast cars, trucks, and planes; pressed steel and tin Village memorabilia, and Christmas décor. 740-283-1787 toys and models; farm toys, mechanical toys, and more. or www.steubenvillenutcrackervillage.com.

216-470-5780 (ask for Tom), cleveshows@att.net, or www. neocollectibletoys.com.

JAN. 4 – Snow Dogs Train Show, presented by Cuyahoga Valley S Gauge Association, UAW Hall, 5615 Chevrolet Blvd., Parma, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. $6, under 12 free. Free parking. All-gauge show with over 150 tables of trains and toys, operating layouts, and good food at reasonable prices. 440-833-4366, jvendlinger@gmail. com, or www.cvsga.com. Mailing address: Ken Vendlinger, 28920 W. Willowick Dr., Willowick, OH 44095.

JAN. 8–12 – Ohio RV Supershow, I-X Center, One I-X Center Dr., Cleveland, Wed.–Fri. 12–9 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–10 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–6 p.m. $14, under 13 free. $10 parking. Over 600 of the newest RVs including tent campers, travel trailers, fifth wheels, and motor homes.

330-678-4489 or www.ohiorvshow.com.

JAN. 11 – Mohican Winter Fest, 131 W. Main St., Loudonville, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Free. Aaron Costic and his crew from Elegant Ice Creations will offer six ice carving demonstrations hourly beginning at 11 a.m. Sponsored sculptures will be placed along Main Street on Friday evening or Saturday morning, weather permitting. 419994-2519 or www.discovermohican.com.

JAN. 11–12 – Medina Gun Show, Medina County Fgds.

Community Center, 735 Lafayette Rd., Medina, Sat. 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. $7. 450 tables of displays.

330-948-4400 or www.conraddowdell.com.

JAN. 12 – Winter Hike, Mohican State Park, 3116 St. Rte. 3, Loudonville, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Free. Take a 5K or 10K hike along Clear Fork Gorge. Enjoy hot soup, cookies, and drinks by the fire after the hike. 419-994-5125 or www. discovermohican.com.

NORTHWEST

THROUGH DEC. 26 – Lake of Lights, Saulisbery Park, 13344 St. Rte. 67 W., Kenton, 6–9 p.m. $5 per car. Special events on Sat. and Sun. evenings. 419-675-2547 or www. facebook.com/LakeOfLights.

THROUGH DEC. 31 – Lights Before Christmas, Toledo Zoo, 2 Hippo Way, Toledo, Sun.–Thur. 3–8 p.m., Fri./Sat. 3–9 p.m. $16–$19, under 2 free. Over 1 million lights, the award-winning Big Tree, and more than 200 illuminated animal images. 419-385-5721 or www.toledozoo.org.

THROUGH JAN. 5 – North Pole Express, 12505 Co. Rd. 99, Findlay, Fri. and Sat. 5:30–9:30 p.m., Sun. 5:30–8:30 p.m. Adults $4, children $3. Hop on board our quarterscale locomotive for a trip through a winter wonderland of sparkling lights and festive decorations. See operating model trains and hundreds of decorated trees, plus a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus (on select days). 419-423-2995 or www.nworrp.org.

NORTHEAST

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CENTRAL

performance by Columbus Children’s Choir. Hours and schedule of events at www.stateauto.com/Christmas.

DEC. 21–22 – Scott Antique Market, Ohio Expo Center, Bricker and Celeste Bldgs., 717 E. 17th Ave., Columbus, Sat. 9 a.m.–6 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Free admission; $5 parking.

America’s favorite treasure hunt! 800 exhibit booths. info@scottantiquemarket.com or www. scottantiquemarkets.com.

JAN. 3 – First Friday Art Walk, downtown Zanesville, 5–8 p.m. Stroll the downtown streets while touring over 35 participating galleries, studios, and local businesses, many of which offer demonstrations, make-and-take THROUGH JAN. 1 – Butch Bando’s Fantasy of Lights, activities, and complimentary refreshments. Free shuttle Alum Creek State Park Campgrounds, 3311 S. Old State Rd., Delaware, Sun.–Thur. 5:30–9:30 p.m., Fri./Sat. 5:30– service available on the Fun Bus. Tour maps available at participating galleries and businesses. www.artcoz.org.

10:30 p.m. $20–$30 per car. Drive-through light show.

614-412-3499 or https://butchbandosfantasyoflights.com. JAN. 3–5 – Columbus Build, Remodel, and Landscape Expo, Ohio Expo Center, Kasich Hall, Columbus, Fri. THROUGH JAN. 1 – “A Storybook Christmas,” 12–7 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–7 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $6, Zanesville and Muskingum Co. locations. Over 100 under 18 free. From top-quality exhibits, to informative participating businesses. Drive or walk by to view the decorations or to visit. Nightly light and music show at the seminars, to insightful demonstrations and more, courthouse, Sun.–Thur. 6–9 p.m., Fri./Sat. 6–10 p.m. 740- you’ll discover thousands of smart, stylish, and costeffective ways to design or renovate your home. www.

455-8282, 800-743-2303, or www.visitzanesville.com. homeshowcenter.com.

THROUGH JAN. 2 – State Auto’s Christmas Corner, 518 JAN. 5 – Columbus Paper, Postcard, and Book E. Broad St., Columbus. Free. Historic life-sized Nativity Show, Ohio Expo Center, Rhodes Center, 717 E. 17th St., display. Official lighting is Dec. 4 at 5:30 p.m., with

Columbus, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. $6. Vintage paper collectibles including postcards, books, paper advertisements, stereo view cards, trade cards, old photographs, magazines, documents, non-sports cards, military paper items, paper sports collectibles, and protective storage options.

614-206-9103 or www.facebook.com/Columbus-PaperShow-134469001768.

JAN. 10 – Improv in the May, Marion Palace Theatre May Pavilion, 276 W. Center St., Marion, 7:30 p.m. $6.

An evening of improvisation comedy featuring audience interaction and suggestions for skits and games. 740-3832101 or www.marionpalace.org.

JAN. 10–19 – Ohio RV and Boat Show, Ohio Expo Center, 717 E. 17th St., Columbus, Wed.–Fri. 12–8 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–8 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–5 p.m. $14, C. (6–13) $3, under 6 free. Hundreds of campers and boats from over 21 dealers, plus camping gear, equipment, and related products. www.ohiorvandboatshow.com.

JAN. 11–12 – Columbus Weddings Show, Ohio Expo Center, Kasich Hall, 717 E. 17th St., Columbus, 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Sample wedding cakes and reception food, see the latest in wedding styles, and meet hundreds of wedding specialists. Daily runway shows. $12 at door; online discount and packages available. http:// cbusweddings,com.

SOUTHEAST

Muskingum Valley bluff between 4 and 4:30 p.m. in near perfect alignment with Sacra Via. Maps and a brief commentary will be provided by Castle archaeologist Wes Clarke. 740-373-1480 or www.mariettacastle.org.

DEC. 28 – Visit with the Pioneers, Campus Martius Museum, 601 Second St., Marietta. Visit the home of General Rufus Putnam to meet with some of Marietta’s citizens from the early 19th century. 740-373-3750 or www.campusmartiusmuseum.org.

DEC. 31 – New Year’s Eve Dance, 26100 Legion Rd., Langsville, 8–12 p.m. $10 cover charge. The Cadillacs out of Racine, Ohio, will be performing live. 740-669-1020 or josephfreeman476@gmail.com.

DEC. 31 – New Year’s Eve Gospel Sing, Harvest Christian Fellowship. Free. 740-704-1487.

DEC. 31 – New Year’s Eve Train and Fireworks, Hocking Valley Scenic Railway, Nelsonville Depot, 33 W. Canal St., Nelsonville, 10:30 p.m.–12:30 a.m. $22–$35. 740-2491452 or www.hvsry.org/trainlist.

JAN. 12 – Rhonda Vincent and The Rage, Stuart’s Opera House, 52 Public Square, Nelsonville, 3 p.m. $29–$39. A special matinee performance from “The New Queen of Bluegrass” and her award-winning band. 740-753-1924 or www.stuartsoperahouse.org.

performed each evening. 800-933-5480 or www. dickensvictorianvillage.com.

THROUGH JAN. 5 – “Space: A Journey to Our Future,” Bossard Library, 7 Spruce St., Gallipolis. Free. Interactive exhibition presented in cooperation with NASA and as seen at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum. www.bossardlibrary.org.

DEC. 15 – It’s a Wonderful Life: The Musical, Majestic Theatre, 45 E. Second St., Chillicothe, 3 p.m. Presented by the Chillicothe Civic Theatre. Based on the beloved 1946 film, the musical faithfully follows George Bailey’s life THROUGH DEC. 22 – Santa Train, Hocking Valley Scenic from his childhood dreams to his midlife disappointments and beyond, as we all take a journey to discover whether Railway, Nelsonville Depot, 33 W. Canal St., Nelsonville, every Sat. and Sun., 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., and every Fri. at 6 his life has mattered at all. 740-772-2041 or www. majesticchillicothe.net. p.m. beginning on Nov. 30. $16–$21, under 3 free. www. hvsry.org/trainlist/#santa.

DEC. 18 – Phil Dirt and the Dozers, Majestic Theatre, 45 E. Second St., Chillicothe, 8 p.m. $20–$22. Fans THROUGH JAN. 1 – Dickens Victorian Village, of all ages can enjoy this family-friendly stroll through downtown Cambridge. Stroll the streets to view scenes the band’s oldies-but-goodies along with some of depicting life in 1850s England, featuring life-sized, their favorite Christmas songs. 740-772-2041 or www. handmade mannequins wearing real vintage clothing. majesticchillicothe.net.

800-933-5480 or www.dickensvictorianvillage.com.

DEC. 21 – Solstice Watch, Sacra Via Park (between Third THROUGH JAN. 1 – Guernsey County Courthouse and Second Sts.), Marietta, 4–5:30 p.m. If the weather Holiday Light Show, Cambridge, 5:30–9 p.m. cooperates, we will view the sun setting on the western nightly. Four different light and music shows

WEST VIRGINIA

THROUGH JAN. 1 – Winter Festival of Lights, Oglebay Resort, Wheeling. Featuring 300 acres of twinkling lights over a 6-mile drive. 3D holographic eyewear transforms every point of light into a magical display. Per-car donation requested; valid for the entire festival season. 877-4361797 or https://oglebay.com/events/festival-of-lights.

NOV. 22–DEC. 28 – Celebration of Lights, Morris Park, Fairmont, Fri.–Sun., 6–10 p.m. Suggested donation of $10 per car. See over 475 holiday light displays in this drive-through tour. 304-366-4550 or www. celebrationoflightswv.com.

38 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • DECEMBER 2019

PLEASE NOTE: Ohio Cooperative Living strives for accuracy, but urges readers to confirm dates and times before traveling long distances to events. Submit listings AT LEAST 90 DAYS prior to the event to Ohio Cooperative Living, 6677 Busch Blvd., Columbus, OH 43229 or send an email to events@ohioec.org. Ohio Cooperative Living will not publish listings that don’t include a complete address or a number/website for more information.

SOUTHWEST

chocolate and cookies and entertainment by Santa’s elves. Reservations recommended. 513-933-8022 or www.lebanonrr.com/northpole.

THROUGH DEC. 31 – Light Up Middletown, Smith Park, 500 Tytus Ave., Middletown, 6–10 p.m. daily. Admission by cash donation — you set the price! A drive-through fantasy light display, open in all weather. Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus every Fri. and Sat., 7–9 p.m., through Dec. 21. www.lightupmiddletown.org.

THROUGH JAN. 1 – Christmas at the EnterTRAINment Junction, 7379 Squire Court, West Chester. See the magic of Christmas at the home of the world’s largest indoor THROUGH DEC. 24 – Christmas in the Greenhouse, train display. Take the family on a “Journey to the North Milford Garden Center (in the Milford Shopping Center), Pole” where you’ll meet Santa and Mrs. Claus. 513-8981025 Lila Ave., Milford. Free. The greenhouse turns into a 8000 or www.entertrainmentjunction.com.

Christmas store, with cut and live trees for sale, crafts and goods made by local vendors, a large train display layout, THROUGH JAN. 5 – Holiday Lights on the Hill, Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park and Museum, 1763 Hamilton-Cleves and trains for purchase. Wreath-making classes weekly, Rd., Hamilton. Mon.–Thur. 6–9 p.m., $20 per car; Fri.– and Santa visits on Saturdays! Check website or call for updated hours. 513-248-4531 or www.grantsgreenhouses. Sun. 6–10 p.m., $25 per car; museum members $15. A 2-mile drive-through light display. 513-868-1234 or http:// com. pyramidhill.org/holiday-lights.

THROUGH DEC. 28 – North Pole Express, LM&M DEC. 13–14 – “Songs of the Season”: Oxford Musicians Railroad, 16 E. South St., Lebanon. $22–$35; children Holiday Concert, Oxford Community Arts Center, Oxford, under 2, $5. See website for days and times. Take a 7:30 p.m. $10. Each group does two or three numbers. ride on a vintage train to visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus!

Vernon McIntyre’s Appalachian Grass plays on Sat., Dec. Children will receive a small gift from Santa. Enjoy hot

14; exact time to be announced later. 513-524-8506, info@ oxarts.org, or www.oxarts.org.

DEC. 15 – Winter Avant-Garde Art and Craft Show, Oasis Golf Club and Conference Ctr., 902 Loveland-Miamiville Rd., Loveland, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $3, under 12 free. Artists and crafters selling their original handmade items. Full concession stand on site. www.avantgardeshows.com.

DEC. 21 – Winter Solstice Sunset Observance, Serpent Mound, 3850 St. Rte. 73, Peebles, 4–5:30 p.m. 937-2050094 or www.serpentmound.org.

JAN. 1 – World Race for Hope 5K, Hobart Arena, 255 Adams St., Troy, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. Free. Join runners and walkers on New Year’s Day to kick off National Slavery Prevention and Human Trafficking Awareness Month.

Donations support the nonprofit Free To Run Foundation’s awareness/education programs and charity partners.

Register by Dec. 31 at https://runsignup.com/Race/OH/ Troy/WorldRaceforHopeTroy.

JAN. 4–5 – Wedding Expo and Show, Wright State University Nutter Center, McLin Gym, 3640 Colonel Glenn Hwy., Dayton, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. $5 in advance, $8 at door.

Fashion shows at 1 and 3 p.m. Giveaways, door prizes, demonstrations, and seminars. www.weddingapolis.com.

DECEMBER 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 39

MEMBER INTERACTIVE 1

2

night

SILENT 1. A tranquil early winter night in our neighborhood.

Lorie Wilber

3

Lorain-Medina Rural Electric Cooperative member

4

2. The Kirk triplets awaiting Santa’s arrival! My children Steel, Volt, and Sterling.

Justin Kirk Guernsey-Muskingum Electric Cooperative member

3. Curiosity is the cat! Our cat, Chloe, was fascinated by the lights on our Christmas tree.

Toni Kellar

5

Washington Electric Cooperative member

4. Chloe, our English springer spaniel, quietly waits for her Christmas treats from Santa.

Ingrid Benn Weaver Consolidated Cooperative member

5. A winter walk at home.

Richard Breitenbach 6

South Central Power Company member

6. Our 3-year-old granddaughter, Millie Nicholson, up bright and early checking out the Christmas tree.

Perry and Dawn Hamman

7

Hancock-Wood Electric Cooperative member

7. A view of our barn nestled among the trees during a silent winter night.

Julie Wilhelm Tricounty Rural Electric Cooperative member

Send us your picture!

For March, send “Tip of the Hat” by Dec. 15; for April, send “Easter Egg Hunt” by Jan. 15. Upload your photos at www.ohioec.org/ memberinteractive — and remember to include your co-op name and to identify everyone in the photos.

40 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • DECEMBER 2019

HOW DO CAPITAL CREDITS

WORK?

Co-ops are not-for-profit, so when there’s money left after bills are paid, it’s returned to members as “capital credits,” or “patronage capital.”

Ohio electric co-ops returned $34 MILLION to members in 2018.

Nationally, electric co-ops returned $1.1 BILLION to members in 2017, and $16 BILLION since 1988.

Members paying their bills generates operating revenue for the co-op.

When all the bills are paid, the extra money at the end of each year, called “margins,” is allocated back to each member based on how much electricity they purchased that year.

ohioec.org/purpose

The co-op’s board approves a return of that money to members, often called “capital credits” or “patronage capital.”