Ohio Cooperative Living - April 2019 - Midwest

OHIO

APRIL 2019

COOPERATIVE Official publication of Midwest Electric, Inc. | www.midwestrec.com

The FACES behind your

POWER ALSO INSIDE

$1 million returned to members Giving vinyl a spin Scientist captains

Living

Celebrate National Lineworker Appreciation Day: April 8

Lineworkers serve on the front lines of our nation’s energy needs, and we honor the men and women who work in challenging and oft en dangerous conditi ons to keep the lights on.

To recognize your co-op’s dedicated employees, #ThankALineworker this April.

ohioec.org/purpose

OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2019

INSIDE HIGHLIGHT 24 GIVING VINYL A SPIN Cleveland’s Gotta Groove rides a wave

of nostalgia in the recording industry.

FEATURES 30 SCIENTIST CAPTAINS

Academics studying Lake Erie have found an invaluable, if unexpected, source of data.

34 THESE WALLS CAN TALK Dozens of Ohio post offices contain history lessons on community and American can-do spirit.

Cover image on most issues: Union Rural Electric Cooperative crew leader Sean Luellen captured this image of URE line technician Sam Bevis at work in the bucket during a gorgeous autumn day. Lineworker Appreciation Day is April 8.

APRIL 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 1

UP FRONT

ALWAYS ON DUTY April showers bring out the best in cooperatives.

A

cross the state, Ohio’s electric co-ops invest in new and updated equipment to bring electricity to your home or business on a continuous and uninterrupted basis. Cooperatives engage technological advances to track the performance of our electric distribution networks and to solve problems quickly. We train our staff to be available when you need us and to resolve issues safely and reliably.

Today, more than ever, our world is powered by our electric system. Yet, in spite of investments in technology, time, and preparation, Mother Nature still puts us in our place from time to time.

The past winter brought an unexpected ice storm to northwestern Ohio, followed by a brutal February windstorm that caused power outages across the state. Now, as the season thaws into spring, we brace ourselves for inevitable thunderstorms, while crossing our fingers to ward against tornadoes.

Your electric cooperative is staffed with dedicated employees who respond to each and every event that comes our way. From the member service representatives who take your calls to the engineers and managers who formulate appropriate action plans to the linemen who brave the elements to restore your electric service, each member of the team is committed to the three “R’s” — respond, restore, and reassure.

April 8 is Lineworker Appreciation Day, when we recognize the professionals who put themselves in peril to provide the power that energizes us. Even under the best circumstances, line work is a difficult and potentially dangerous job. As recent events remind us, the skills of lineworkers are most crucial when conditions are worst.

To do the job effectively and consistently, lineworkers rely on their support systems. Training, obviously, is of utmost importance, and your co-op ensures that lineworkers stay up to date on best practices. The rest of the co-op team is there to be sure that work is dispatched efficiently and that proper materials and equipment are on hand for repairs. They let our members know what to expect. Often overlooked, but perhaps most important, is the pillar of our families, as we respond to routine and emergency calls alike.

Electric cooperatives are sometimes compared to a big family — check out page 4 to read about a few Ohio linemen who have taken that to another level … and the next time you turn on a light, thank a lineman.

2 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2019

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

April 8 is Lineworker Appreciation Day, when we recognize the professionals who put themselves in peril to provide the power that energizes us.

April 2019 • Volume 61, No. 7

MORE INSIDE

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 Contributors: Brian Albright, Colleen Romick Clark, Victoria Ellwood, W.H. “Chip” Gross, Catherine Murray, James Proffitt, Jamie Rhein, Damaine Vonada, and Kris Wetherbee.

OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING (USPS 134-760; ISSN 2572-049X) is published monthly by Ohio Rural Elec­tric Co­op­eratives, Inc. It is the official com­mun­ication 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.

DEPARTMENTS 4 POWER LINES

FAMILY AFFAIR: Line work is a profession that often sees fathers and sons, or even brothers, follow in each other’s footsteps.

8

WOODS, WATERS, AND WILDLIFE

SQUATCHER GATHERING: A Salt Fork State Park conference is the epicenter of Ohio’s Bigfoot phenomenon.

10 OHIO ICON

MIAMISBURG MOUND: The Adena mound near the Great Miami River is one of the nation’s tallest earthworks.

12 IN THE GARDEN BROCCOLI BASICS: It takes a bit of finesse to grow a stalk that’s

head and shoulders above the rest.

15 GOOD EATS

FLAVORFUL FUNGUS: High in fiber and vitamin-rich, mushrooms are a healthy and versatile way to enhance any meal.

18 CO-OP SPOTLIGHT

GUERNSEY-MUSKINGUM ELECTRIC: The east-central Ohio co-op counts The Wilds and Ohio’s largest state park among its members.

19 LOCAL PAGES For all advertising inquiries, contact

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

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

Alliance for Audited Media Member

News and important information from your electric cooperative.

28 CO-OP PEOPLE RAMPING IT UP: After a fortuitous find, South Central Power Company members specialize in aromatic agriculture.

37 CALENDAR

WHAT’S HAPPENING: April/May events and other things to do.

40 MEMBER INTERACTIVE MUD SEASON: Readers get down and dirty after April showers.

IN THIS ISSUE Marietta (p.4) New Concord (p.4,18) Paulding (p.5) Marysville (p.5,6,34) Newark (p.6) Lore City (p.8) Miamisburg (p.10) Cleveland (p.24) Gibralter Island (p.30)

Ada (p.34) Waverly (p.34) Granville (p.34) Springfield (p.34) Fairborn (p.34) New London (p.34) Georgetown (p.34) Portsmouth (p.34)

Ohio’s Electric Cooperatives is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

APRIL 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 3

POWER LINES

ALL IN THE Electric cooperatives are often thought of as “family” — after all, they share common principles and a commitment to their communities that make for relationships that go deeper than just another business or utility.

Sometimes, though, “family” is literal. Line work, especially, is a profession that often sees fathers and sons or brothers, perhaps, follow in each other’s footsteps on the job. Here are some of their stories.

BY VICTORIA ELLWOOD

Frank Wells and Jake Wells Between the two of them, brothers Frank and Jake Wells have more than half a century of service working on co-op lines. Jake is a crew foreman at Washington Electric Cooperative, based in Marietta, while Frank, the younger of the two, is a journeyman lineman with Guernsey-Muskingum Electric Cooperative, based in New Concord.

Frank got into the business first, citing the compensation and chance to work outdoors as incentives. He didn’t waste time in sharing those attributes with his brother.

“I tried everything else first — all sorts of different jobs,” Jake says, “but Frank kept trying to talk me into working with him as a lineman. At first I said ‘no way.’ I was scared to death to climb those poles.

Not because I was afraid of heights, but because of the hazards of working with electricity.”

He soon came around. “Back then, you just had to be brave enough to try it,” he says. While most line crews primarily use bucket trucks to maintain lines these days, Jake says he still climbs regularly. “We’re currently replacing 150 poles. I’m getting my hooks out and helping pave the way for the contractors.”

The brothers grew up together on the family farm — where Jake still lives — north of Marietta. He cares for about a dozen head of cattle on his 60 acres and raised show pigs for a long time. Frank, on the other hand, calls his acreage a “hobby farm,” with some horses and a couple of pigs and “just enough land to keep me busy.”

The brothers also enjoy caring for their co-op members. “You meet all kinds of different people, and I like that aspect of my job,” Jake says. “At the end of the day, when you get 400 to 500 people’s power back on when it’s five below zero, you feel pretty darn good.”

4 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2019

Mike Klima and Jake Klima Mike Klima, a journeyman lineman for 22 years at Paulding Putnam Electric Cooperative in Paulding, says he thinks he inspired his son, Jake, to follow in his career footsteps. “He saw that I liked my job and enjoyed the work,” Mike says. “We have a lot in common — working outside and doing things with our hands — so the job seemed like a good fit. I’m very proud of him.”

Jake, a journeyman lineman at Union Rural Electric Cooperative, based in Marysville, is proud of his dad, too. “As a boy, it was normal for Dad to leave family functions and holidays when he was on call,” he remembers. “We kids understood that. It made us proud that he was helping people and restoring their electricity. I learned from him at an early age what the co-op was all about — we put our members’ needs first — so, when I was a senior in high school, I made my decision to be a lineman, too.”

Getting to know the co-op members is central to the job, Mike says. “It’s a very rewarding career, especially as you get to know the customers. We always talk to people before we work on their property. We explain what we’ll be doing. They’re so appreciative of us working out there in all kinds of weather — rain or snow or 10 below zero.”

Father and son also enjoy hunting and fishing together, whether angling on the waters of Lake Erie or dropping a hook in a pond near Jake’s house.

The best thing, they both say, is swapping stories. “We can talk shop, share information, and compare how we do our jobs. Usually, I give Jake a call early in the morning to see how his day’s going to go,” says Mike. Adds Jake: “It’s fun to discuss different ways to get the job done.”

APRIL 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 5

Dana Springer, Ernie Springer, and Tyler Springer When Dana Springer was a youngster, he and his siblings could hear electric company dispatches come through on a scratchy radio at home when his dad, Ernie, was on call. Ernie, now retired, worked as a lineman and line supervisor for 35 years for Licking Rural Electric Cooperative, now The Energy Cooperative, based in Newark. “We could hear that old radio all night long.

But we didn’t mind,” Dana says.

In fact, it probably inspired him. Dana went to college for a couple of years and then worked on the family’s 1,000acre farm in eastern Ohio, where they grew corn and soybeans and raised cows and pigs. “Farming wasn’t very profitable in the 1980s, so I sent an application to the coops and started as an apprentice lineman at Union Rural.

Now, I’ve been on the line crew for almost 34 years.”

His dad, however, hasn’t completely given up the farm.

Now retired from the co-op for more than three decades, Ernie still farms about 80 acres, and Dana still helps out during harvest time.

6 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2019

The two enjoy hunting and fishing together, and they also like to talk shop. “We get together and talk about how things are done,” says Dana. “He still looks at the lines when we’re driving down the road; it’s hard to get it out of your system.”

Dana’s son, Tyler, has followed in his dad’s and grandpa’s footsteps, too, and works as a transmission operations reliability supervisor for AEP; his team is responsible 24/7 for the regional AEP transmission system, monitoring power flows and voltages.

Dana says he’s always appreciated his job’s challenges.

“I like working outside and doing something different every day, no matter what’s happening. A couple of weeks ago, we had two car wrecks that damaged poles and a windstorm that made a tree come down and break a pole.”

Through the challenges, Dana always keeps some longtime advice in mind. “Dad’s always said, ‘Keep your mind on the job, keep your eyes on what you’re doing, make sure you get home at night. Be safe.’”

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WOODS, WATERS, AND WILDLIFE

SQUATCHER Salt Fork State Park conference is the epicenter of Ohio’s Bigfoot phenomenon STORY AND PHOTOS BY W.H. “CHIP” GROSS

D

o I believe in the existence of Bigfoot, a hair-covered, 8-foot-tall mysterious monster that smells bad and has been rumored to live in remote Ohio woodlands since the mid-1700s? No. No, I don’t.

But many people do. So many, in fact, that the Buckeye State has no less than three annual conferences dedicated to Bigfoot believers. Much of the activity takes place in and around Ohio’s largest state park, Salt Fork State Park in Guernsey County near Cambridge.

“The Bigfoot page is the most visited section of our website,” says Debbie Robinson, executive director of the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors and Convention Bureau.

“Our 2019 events calendar includes the annual Ohio Bigfoot Conference, Bigfoot Adventure Weekends, Creature Weekends, and monthly Bigfoot night hikes at the park.”

Another name for Bigfoot is Sasquatch, and true believers refer to themselves as “Squatchers.” USA Today even ranked Salt Fork as one of the top 10 “Squatchiest” places in the country.

John Hickenbottom, a state naturalist at Salt Fork, coordinates the monthly summer Bigfoot night hikes, which take place during the holiday weekends of Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, and Labor Day. “The hikes have become very popular,” says Hickenbottom, “with anywhere from 150 to 300 people attending each time we hold one. We offer both a family-friendly hike and one for adults only.”

Saturday, May 4, will mark the eighth annual Ohio Bigfoot Conference at Salt Fork. Attended by several thousand people including vendors, the official conference is only one day, but activities extend over the entire weekend. Its website says the conference has grown into the world’s premier Bigfoot conference.

One of a half-dozen Bigfoot experts and celebrities who spoke at last year’s conference — and who is scheduled to appear again this year — is James “Bobo” Fay. Hailing from California, Fay is best known for his role on the Animal Planet TV show Finding Bigfoot. Fay says he sighted his first Sasquatch in 2001 in northern California and has seen several more in various places across the country. He’s not yet spotted a Sasquatch during his visits to Ohio, but claims to have heard two, both at Salt Fork State Park.

8 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2019

GATHERING A carved Bigfoot family tries to look inconspicuous at the Ohio Bigfoot Conference (left); Bigfoot expert Bobo Fay (black shirt) poses for a photo with a fan.

Asked why he believes Salt Fork is so “Squatchy,” Fay says that it’s the perfect Bigfoot habitat. “Sasquatch are omnivores, eating both vegetation and preying on other animals, and Salt Fork is a large natural area with plenty of wild foods. It also has a huge white-tailed deer population, which helps a Bigfoot survive the winter.”

Bigfoot sightings have been reported from every state except Hawaii and by all demographics. “The number of reports nationally tends to correlate with rainfall totals,” Fay says. “For instance, 95 percent of Bigfoot reports come from areas with at least 20 inches or more of annual rainfall. In desert regions, there are very few sightings, virtually none. So, a Bigfoot sighting is not a cultural phenomenon — it’s a biological phenomenon.”

According to Fay, the Ohio Bigfoot Conference is the oldest, biggest, and best-run Bigfoot conference in the country. “It’s a great time and definitely something people should check out,” he says.

By the way, Salt Fork State Park is on Guernsey-Muskingum Electric Cooperative lines. Would that make any Bigfoot found living within the park an electric co-op member?

For more information, visit www.ohiobigfootconference.org and www. visitguernseycounty.com.

W.H. “CHIP” GROSS (whchipgross@gmail.com) is Ohio Cooperative Living’s outdoors editor, and in all his years spent outdoors, he’s not yet spotted a Bigfoot ... but he’s looking!

APRIL 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 9

OHIO ICON

THE MIAMISBURG MOUND Miamisburg

BY DAMAINE VONADA

Location: On a 100-foot-high bluff near the Great Miami River in Miamisburg Mound Park.

Provenance: Originally measuring 68 feet or more in height, the conically shaped Miamisburg Mound was built by members of the Adena culture, who flourished in what is now southern Ohio from approximately 800 B.C. to 100 B.C. The Adena — and later, the more sophisticated Hopewells — built thousands of earthworks near the Ohio River and its tributaries, and it’s believed that the Miamisburg Mound was constructed layer by layer as a burial place. “The Miamisburg area was probably an Adena gathering site,” says Miamisburg Historical Society curator Gary Petticrew. “We don’t know when they started the Miamisburg Mound, but it probably took hundreds of years to reach its zenith.”

Pioneer Jacob Lawres purchased acreage containing the mound in 1806 and subsequently sold it to John Treon, who appreciated the mound’s historical and archeological significance. Although most ancient earthworks were leveled to make way for farms, quarries, roads, and factories during the 1800s, Treon and his descendants protected the Miamisburg Mound. In 1920, the Treon family sold it to Dayton industrialist Charles Kettering, who later donated the mound and 37 surrounding acres of parkland to the state historical society. The Civilian Conservation Corps constructed stone steps as a public works project in the 1930s, allowing visitors to ascend from the base to the top of Miamisburg Mound.

Significance: Despite an 1869 excavation attempt that likely diminished its height to 65 feet, the Miamisburg Mound remains Ohio’s tallest — and one of the nation’s largest — conical earthworks. With 116 steps leading to an observation platform at its summit, the mound also is famous for its panoramic views of the Great Miami River Valley.

Currently: The Ohio History Connection owns the Miamisburg Mound, the city of Miamisburg maintains Mound Park, and the Miamisburg Historical Society organizes tours and special events.

It’s a little-known fact that: Two pioneering archaeologists from Chillicothe — newspaper editor Ephraim Squier and physician Edwin Davis — surveyed the Miamisburg Mound for their landmark scientific research study, Ancient Monuments of the Mississippi Valley. Released in 1848, Ancient Monuments was the Smithsonian Institution’s debut publication, and its very first figure depicts the “Great Mound at Miamisburgh, Ohio.”

The Miamisburg Mound, 900 Mound Rd., Miamisburg, OH 45342. For additional information, call 866-580-6508 or 937-859-5000 or visit www.ohiohistory.org/visit/museum-and-site-locator/ miamisburg-mound or www.historicalmiamisburg.org.

10 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2019

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APRIL 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 11

IN THE GARDEN

BROCCOLI BASICS Broccoli is one of the easiest of veggies to grow, but it takes a bit of finesse to finish with a cut that’s head and shoulders above the rest.

BY KRIS WETHERBEE; PHOTO BY RICK WETHERBEE

M

any of us gardeners have our vegetable favorites, but truth be told, I’m a bit biased when it comes to broccoli. Not only do its flowers attract beneficial insects, but its culinary versatility and ease of growing make this cool-season favorite one of the most desirable vegetables to grow in the kitchen garden. When grown in the cool weather of spring or fall, the result is a sweeter-tasting head with gourmet flavor. Growing broccoli with sweet, tender, tasty heads is all about getting plants off to a good start, keeping them content, and heeding the signs.

The need for speed — One of the best-kept secrets to growing a prime head of broccoli is to grow it fast. Any setbacks that slow down the plant’s growth will result in inferior-tasting heads. Transplants are key for early-spring plantings. Set out four- to six-week-old hardened-off starts in the ground about four weeks before your last spring frost (young seedlings can withstand a light frost, but be sure to cover them if a heavy frost is expected). For fall-harvested crops, seeds sown directly into the ground in July to early August may produce more vigorous plants.

Another way to speed things along is with the right amount of sun, soil, and water.

Choose a sunny location with at least five hours of daily sun. Moist but well-draining soil rich in organic matter is best, with a soil pH between 6.0 and 6.8 and soil temperatures between 55 and 75 degrees. Deep, consistent moisture is key — lack of adequate moisture can result in premature, poor-quality heads. Mulch helps to maintain soil moisture, moderate soil temperatures, and keep roots cool.

Happy plants make for tasty heads — Broccoli is a moderately heavy feeder, so keep plants well-fed by digging in a 2- to 4-inch layer of compost or a thin layer of rotted manure before planting. Work in about a half shovelful of either aged manure or compost or mix in 1/4 cup (per plant) of complete, nitrogen-rich organic fertilizer.

If your soil fertility needs a boost, you may also need to side-dress plants with additional compost, rotted manure, or other nitrogen-rich fertilizer, such as fish meal. Start with a light side dressing when the central head is about an inch across.

More may be needed once the central main head has been cut.

Heed the harvest signs — All your efforts to grow broccoli with great taste will be in vain if you miss the signs on when to harvest the head. For best flavor, harvest when the unopened flower buds are just starting to swell, but before they begin to yellow. Wait too long and the stalks will become tough, with stronger-tasting heads.

Harvest heads in the cool of the morning before the heat sets in the plant. Cut the central stalk at a 45-degree angle, about 5 to 8 inches below the head. Doing so will encourage side-shoot production and increase plant yield. Harvesting these side shoots regularly will encourage continued production.

KRIS WETHERBEE is a master gardener from Oregon.

12 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2019

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READER RECIPE CONTEST

Meatless Monday

Ground rules • Entrants must be electric cooperative members or residents of an electric cooperative household.

Does your family do “meatless Mondays” or something similar? Are you a full-time vegetarian, or maybe just an occasional one?

For our 2019 Ohio Cooperative Living reader recipe contest, we’re looking for the best meatless main dish recipe in Ohio. Whether it’s extra hearty or more on the lighter side, send us your best!

The grand-prize winner will receive an Ohio-made KitchenAid stand mixer.

• To enter, write down your recipe, including all ingredients and measurements, directions, and number of servings. Then tell us the basic story behind your recipe — when, why, or how YOU do meatless. Is your recipe a family tradition, passed down through generations? Or did you make it up one day out of thin air? A good back story can never hurt!

• Submissions may be an original recipe or one adapted from an existing recipe published elsewhere, with at least three distinct changes from the published version.

• On each recipe, include your name and address, a phone number and email address where you can be contacted, and the name of your electric cooperative.

• Entries should be submitted by email to memberinteract@ohioec. org, or sent to Catherine Murray, care of Ohio Cooperative Living, 6677 Busch Blvd., Columbus, OH 43229.

• Limit of three recipes per entrant.

Two runners-up will receive consolation gifts.

Entry deadline: May 16, 2019

• Contest winners will be announced in the September edition of Ohio Cooperative Living.

Technical Scholarships Available for Adult and High School Co-op Members Rules and applications are available at www.ohioec.org/TechnicalScholarship APPLICATION DEADLINE: April 30

14 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2019

GOOD EATS

Ffungus lavorful

High in fiber and vitamin-rich, mushrooms are a healthy and versatile way to enhance any meal.

SIMPLE MUSHROOM SALAD Prep: 5 minutes | Servings: 4 Le aves from 1 large head bibb lettuce, washed 16 ounces white mushrooms, sliced thin 2 tablespoons oregano

2 teaspoons garlic salt 1/2 teaspoon pepper 4 tablespoons olive oil 1 lemon, juiced

On four salad plates or a large platter, lay down lettuce leaves. Top with sliced mushrooms and sprinkle with oregano, garlic salt, and pepper. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice. Serve cold.

Per serving: 172 calories, 15 grams fat (2 grams saturated fat), 7.4 grams total carbs, 3 grams fiber, 4.6 grams protein

APRIL 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 15

PORTOBELLO BEEF BURGUNDY Prep: 20 minutes | Cook: 7–9 hours | Servings: 6 3 tablespoons canola oil 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 11/2 cups dry red wine 1 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon beef bouillon 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 pound sliced baby portobello 1/2 teaspoon thyme mushrooms 1 teaspoon rosemary 1 pound egg noodles, cooked 1/2 teaspoon pepper parsley for garnish (optional) 2 pounds stew beef In a large bowl, combine first six ingredients. Add beef, tossing to coat.

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown beef in a single layer, flipping to brown all sides. When done, transfer to slow cooker.

Add wine to skillet, stirring to loosen browned bits from pan. Add bouillon and bring to a boil. Transfer to slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 7 to 9 hours, until meat is tender. Stir in mushrooms. Cover and cook on high 30 minutes longer, until sauce is slightly thickened.

Serve hot over noodles and garnish with parsley if desired.

Per serving: 474 calories, 18 grams total fat (1 gram saturated fat), 28 grams total carbs, 2 grams fiber, 40 grams protein

MUSHROOM AND SUN-DRIED TOMATO CROSTINI Prep: 15 minutes | Cook: 25 minutes | Servings: 12 8 ounces sun-dried tomatoes in French or Italian baguette olive oil 1/4 cup olive oil 4 ounces Parmesan cheese, divided 1 teaspoon salt 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard 1/4 teaspoon pepper 11/2 teaspoons garlic powder 1 pound white mushrooms 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper Preheat oven to 350 F. Cut baguette into ½-inch slices. In a shallow dish, pour olive oil and mix in salt and pepper. Dip each slice into olive oil, coating both sides, and place on an ungreased baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes or until bread is golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through. Remove crostini and let cool.

In a food processor, finely chop mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, and 2 ounces of Parmesan cheese. Stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper. Place mushroom mixture in large skillet and sauté on medium heat until hot and bubbling. Serve on top of crostini, garnished with Parmesan cheese.

Per serving: 158 calories, 11 grams fat (2.5 grams saturated fat), 10 grams total carbs, 1.6 grams fiber, 6 grams protein

16 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2019

BAKED MUSHROOM AND SPINACH TAQUITOS Prep: 15 minutes | Cook: 15 minutes | Servings: 4 1/2 pound portobello mushrooms, sliced thin 6 ounces lite cream cheese, softened 1/3 cup plus 1/2 cup light sour cream 4 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, divided 1 teaspoon plus 1/4 teaspoon cumin 2 cups spinach 11/2 cups shredded colby jack cheese 12 6-inch corn tortillas cooking spray 1 tablespoon minced fresh cilantro 1 teaspoon lime juice 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder Preheat oven to 425 F. Cook mushrooms in a single layer in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes to release moisture.

In a food processor, blend cream cheese, 1/3 cup sour cream, 2 chipotle peppers, and 1 teaspoon cumin until smooth. Add mushrooms, spinach, and colby jack cheese, pulsing to combine.

In batches of 4, spread tortillas out on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel and microwave for 30 seconds. Take out of microwave and remove one tortilla at a time from plate. Place filling on one end of tortilla and roll tightly, careful not to overfill. Place seam-down in a 9 x 13-inch baking dish coated with cooking spray. Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.

Spray top of taquitos with cooking spray. Bake 13 to 15 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

To make dipping sauce, chop remaining two peppers and combine them with remaining 1/2 cup sour cream, 1/4 teaspoon cumin, cilantro, lime juice, and garlic powder. Serves 4 as appetizers, 2 as a meal.

Per appetizer serving: 496 calories, 27 grams fat (17 grams saturated fat), 45 grams total carbs, 8 grams fiber, 21 grams protein

APRIL 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 17

CO-OP SPOTLIGHT

GUERNSEY-MUSKINGUM ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

G

uernsey-Muskingum Electric Cooperative (GMEC) serves 17,091 consumer-members in east-central Ohio. The unglaciated terrain doesn’t lend itself to wide swaths of farmland, but the hills make for fine pasturelands for cattle raising, and poultry barns fit nicely in the valleys. Because it’s situated in the midst of the Utica Shale, the oil and gas industry is a strong economic driver for the region.

Avon calling!

GMEC’s largest consumer-member, in terms of electricity use, is the Avon distribution center in Zanesville. Around 2.8 million Avon products are handled in this nearly 600,000-square-foot facility every day.

Proud heritage Astronaut and Senator John Glenn and his wife, Annie, grew up in the area and attended nearby Muskingum University. The John and Annie Glenn Museum in New Concord offers tours that enlighten visitors about the statesman’s life and career.

The great outdoors The area has much to offer for outdoorsmen and women. Hunting is a popular pastime in this area of the state, and an abundance of state-owned and privately run spaces in the area served by GMEC means there’s no lack of opportunities for getting back to nature.

One of GMEC’s best-known consumer-members, The Wilds is a 10,000-acre conservation and education center operated by the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium.

Visitors ride in open-air vehicles through the habitats of wild creatures, including rhinos, zebras, giraffes, and ostriches. Wild animals aren’t always friends to electrical distribution, though. GMEC once had to help the facility safely relocate ospreys that thought the tops of electrical poles were a good place to build their massive nests.

GMEC also powers Ohio’s largest state park. Hiking, fishing, golfing, a public beach, educational programs led by a naturalist, and more are available within the 17,229 acres of Salt Fork State Park. Fully equipped cabins are available to rent, as are accommodations with plenty of amenities at the lodge.

Most recently, the state opened the Jesse Owens State Park and Wildlife Area, adding 5,735 acres of recreational land to the region, with a promise to expand to over 13,000 acres.

Deerassic Park Education Center holds programs and events designed for the whole family to learn about and enjoy the outdoors. A herd of 30 deer call the property their home. Guernsey-Muskingum Electric Cooperative hosts a family fun day there every year, providing food and activities for members and their families.

18 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2019

MIDWEST ELECTRIC LOCAL PAGES

more

MESSAGE FROM THE CEO

$1 MILLION

IN CASH BACK

We’re returning additional money to members this month!

We’re returning another $1 million in patronage cash back to Midwest Electric members this month. The average residential member from 2018 will receive a $71 check.

This $1 million patronage cash back is in addition to the $1.5 million cash back (bill credits) we paid out in November. This Matt Berry, CEO month’s $1 million is due to the MBERRY@MIDWESTREC.COM high margins we had in 2018.

Even though we’re not-for-profit, we need to generate a small profit (margins) to help pay for electric system reliability upgrades. But those margins still belong to you, the member-owners. We had budgeted $2.6 million in margins for 2018. Due to high sales and lower expenses, our actual margins came in at $3.6 million.

We could’ve just kept it at that and returned the $3.6 million to you at a later date. We’re currently on a 16-year patronage cycle, so that would be the year 2034.

But since 2018’s margins are so much higher than budget, our equity position is healthy, and returning a portion of the margins to you now will not impact electric rates, we decided to return $1 million today. We’re in a good financial position to be able to do this. This doesn’t mean 2018’s higher margins were caused by our electric rates being “too high;” rather, sales were much higher than expected and expenses lower. In fact, we haven’t had a rate increase since 2010.

This month’s $1 million patronage cash back will go to those who were members in 2018. The amount you receive is based on the amount of electricity you used in 2018. The average residential member will receive $71. Amounts under $20 will be a bill credit on the March electric bill. The average small commercial member will receive $631. Our larger commercial accounts will get thousands of dollars back.

This is a special, one-time event. This is the first “special retirement” we’ve ever done. (Retirement is a fancy way of saying we’re paying out the cash to you now.) It’s not likely that this will happen again next spring. We typically return at least $1 million to you every November in our

“general retirement” and at this time, we expect to continue that. Those payments go to members for electric use from 16 years ago. If we do a general retirement this November, it would likely be for electric use in 2003. This month’s special retirement is for electric use in 2018.

Be on the lookout for your check in the mail!

Two things to notice about your patronage this month: 1. On your electric bill mailed in late March, near the top right on the bill, is the amount of 2018’s margins that have been allocated, or assigned, to your patronage account.

This amount is payable to you at a future date, as we’ll be using it to pay for electric system reliability upgrades over the coming years. As a consumer-member, all the margins you pay us throughout the year — above our operating costs — are tracked and entered into a special patronage account earmarked for each individual member. This is patronage allocation; we do it every year.

2. You’re getting a check this month, as explained above.

This is the amount of your 2018 allocated margins that we’re retiring (or patronage cash back) this year. The remainder of your 2018 allocated margins are payable at a future date, such as 16 years. The patronage cash back you’re receiving this month represents 27 percent of your 2018 allocated margins; the rest is payable to you at a future date.

The patronage allocation and retirement are examples of the cooperative difference. You won’t get this from an investor-owned utility (AEP and DP&L), nor from municipal electric utilities. Only electric cooperatives have this member-owner aspect and all the benefits that come with it.

Since our last rate increase — nine years ago — we’ve invested more than $17 million in reliability upgrades and returned $11 million in patronage cash back … all without raising rates.

I want to thank our employees for their high level of productivity and efficiency to help make this happen. And thank you to our board of directors, who ultimately made the decision to do this special patronage cash back. Please enjoy this perk of your Midwest Electric membership!

APRIL 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 19

MIDWEST ELECTRIC LOCAL PAGES

$2 Million

Rural Economic Development Loans

$50,000

Annual Community Donations

$

2 Million

annual taxes Paid

HISTORY

Lineman Appreciation Month

When is the last time you thought about lineworkers during an outage?

The U.S. power grid was recently declared the most significant engineering achievement of the 20th century by the National Academy of Engineering. The lineman’s work helps improve the quality of life and productivity of our nation, and that’s why we salute them.

“THE LINEMAN” Up on the storm-swept crossarm, Where the winds blow wild and free, A cowhide belt and a chip of steel ‘Twixt him and eternity.

When the thunder peals O’er the tree tops, And the lightning gleams on the hills, It’s then his work is awaiting him, And he gets plenty of thrills.

When folks in houses cringe and shake Before the storm has passed, He handles death at his fingertips To make the hot wires fast.

One slip of the hand and he’s gone To at least long days of pain, But let him out and sure as sin He’ll be up on the poles again.

20 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2019

Please join us in thanking a lineworker by sending a card, giving him a high-five, or using the hashtag #ThankALineman on social media.

BY ERNEST MILLER

There’s times he holds In his very hands The life of a pal he loves, And prays that he fails not in his trust By a flaw in his rubber gloves.

But for all of that he’s a common guy, And very much carefree, And he’ll stick to you Through everything, The best pal you ever did see.

So sometime in a thunder storm, When everything goes black, Just think of the poor guy working hard To get those hot wires back.

500,000

$

2–3 Million $

99.97%

POWER AVAILABILITY

NO

$

Annual peak load control savings

Annual power system upgrades

LIVE

ELECTRIC RATE INCREASE SINCE

ANSWER PHONES

2010

ENERGY AUDITS

MEMBER REBATES

33 Million Patronage returned to our members

HOURLY, DAILY & MONTHLY ELECTRIC USE DATA

METERING

ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Sealing air leaks Easy DIY steps to improve your home’s winter comfort

A

ir leaks in your home can wreck havoc on your energy bills, so finding and sealing those leaks will save you time and money and help provide peace of mind.

Caulking cracks and openings to the outside can save 10 to 20 percent on your heating costs. First, you will need to find the air leaks Dave Waltermire BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT in your home. One way to do that COORDINATOR is to wait for a windy day and then carefully hold a lit incense stick or a smoke pen next to your windows, doors, electrical outlets, and other spots where air could be leaking into your home from outside. If the smoke stream moves horizontally, you have found an air leak that needs to be sealed.

Use caulk to seal around the frames where you find gaps.

I recommend using silicone caulk, which is waterproof, flexible, and long-lasting. Caulk can seal cracks and gaps that are less than ¼-inch wide. Remove any old caulk and clean the surface before applying new caulk. Fresh caulk takes several hours or longer to dry, so it’s best to do the job

We want to hear from

on a dry day when the humidity is relatively low and the temperature is above 45 degrees. You can also use lowexpansion spray foam to seal larger leaks. Weatherstripping around doors and windows works well when you can see daylight between the frame and the wall or floor.

We offer energy audits to help find problem areas in your home. There are two versions to choose between: 1) The basic energy audit, which provides a free walk-through and consultation, or 2) the advanced energy audit, which consists of a walk-through inspection with an infrared camera and a blower door test to help find air leaks This advanced audit costs $200 up front but is waived if you implement energy-saving suggestions.

Contact us at 800-962-3830 for more information about our energy audits or any of our many energy efficiency rebates. Additional details are on midwestrec.com.

Your thoughts and opinions help us to serve you better.

In April, Midwest Electric will be working with NRECA Market Research Services to complete a member satisfaction survey. The surveys will be both by phone and email, but not everyone will be contacted. If you are contacted, we would greatly appreciate a few minutes of your time to share your opinions of the cooperative.

YOU!

By participating in the survey, you will help us make decisions that benefit you, your family, and your neighbors.

All information is confidential.

APRIL 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 20A

MIDWEST ELECTRIC LOCAL PAGES

$2 Million

Rural Economic Development Loans

$50,000

Annual Community Donations

$

2 Million

annual taxes Paid

BOARD ELECTIONS

YOU could be a Midwest Electric trustee!

Petition forms available NOW to run for districts 1, 3, and 4 Three of the nine seats on the co-op board of directors are up for election. Voting will be conducted by mail and online, with results announced at the annual meeting June 1.

Nomination of trustees Any member residing in a district up for election may become a candidate by obtaining a petition form from the co-op’s office and obtaining at least fifteen valid signatures of members who reside within that district.

For this year’s elections, petitions may be filed by members who reside within the following districts: District 1 (3-year term): Auglaize and Shelby counties

Help your community

RUN FOR THE

BOARD

District 3 (3-year term): Van Wert County District 4 (3-year term): Mercer and Darke counties The board meets monthly to review the financial and operating performance of your cooperative. They review reports from the CEO and department managers and provide general direction for management decisions.

Other important issues — such as long-term planning and whether to change electric rates — are also acted upon by the board.

20B OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2019

Districts 1, 3, and 4 are up for election. call 800-962-3830 to learn more.

Candidates must complete the official petition form and file it in the co-op’s office by 8 a.m. May 2. Call us at 800-962-3830 for more information or for an application.

500,000

$

2–3 Million $

99.97%

POWER AVAILABILITY

NO

$

Annual peak load control savings

Annual power system upgrades

LIVE

ELECTRIC RATE INCREASE SINCE

ANSWER PHONES

2010

ENERGY AUDITS

MEMBER REBATES

33 Million Patronage returned to our members

HOURLY, DAILY & MONTHLY ELECTRIC USE DATA

METERING

ENERGY EFFICIENCY

NEW PROGRAM:

Cool Returns

Let us put a switch on your AC unit, and we’ll pay you!

Ready to join our Cool Returns program and earn $12 a year, plus a free one-time AC cleaning? Allow the cooperative to install a radio-controlled load management switch on your central air conditioner and earn a $1 monthly bill credit year-round. Existing equipment will receive a one-time clean and checkup from a local heating and cooling contractor ($100 value), all at no cost to you.

Ready for

Looking to buy a new AC unit this summer?

We’ll help pay for that, too! You can also receive a $100 rebate for purchasing an ENERGY STAR-certified central AC or minisplit unit with a minimum 14 SEER rating, as long as you install a Cool Returns switch.

The switch cycles the compressor on your AC unit for brief periods during the summer when we have peak alerts when electricity is most expensive. Cool air will continue to circulate in your home, and most members don’t recognize a difference in their home’s comfort.

Load control saves the cooperative $500,000 a year in lower power costs and is one reason why we haven’t had a rate increase since 2010!

RATE US ONLINE!

Cool Returns?

Call now!

To see a full list of our rebate programs, visit midwestrec.com > My Home > Rebates. Call 800-962-3830 for more information or to enroll in Cool Returns.

HAVE YOU HAD A POSITIVE EXPERIENCE WITH US? Maybe you like reading this magazine, one of our member service reps took time to explain something to you over the phone, or our linemen went out of their way to help you. Or maybe you’re just happy we work quickly and safely to restore your power after an outage.

If so, please take a minute to review Midwest Electric on Google and recommend us on Facebook. A five-star rating is our goal.

Thank you for your feedback, so we can keep improving!

APRIL 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 20C

MIDWEST ELECTRIC LOCAL PAGES

$2 Million

Rural Economic Development Loans

$50,000

$

2 Million

annual taxes

Annual Community Donations

Paid

DID YOU KNOW?

OH, WHAT YOU

CA N

DO FOR JUST $1

ELECTRICITY IS AN INCREDIBLE VALUE.

There is no greater value than electricity. The problem is that we all take it for granted. But consider what you can do with just $1 of electricity from Midwest Electric: • Watch Netflix on TV for 38 hours • Play video games for 125 hours • Work on a computer for 56 hours • Wash clothes for 20 hours • Dry clothes for two hours • Run a dishwasher for six hours • Run a coffee maker for 10 hours

• Dry your hair for seven hours • Vacuum your home for eight hours • Microwave food for nine hours The typical family spends only 3 percent of its income on electricity, according to Woods & Poole Economics Inc. Make your own list of everything you get for only 3 percent of your income.

The average Midwest Electric bill is less than $6 a day. That’s about the cost of a fast food value meal. Which is the greater value? A Big Mac meal or everything that electricity does for your family — lights, fans, heat, air, refrigeration, cooking, cleaning, entertainment, and so much more?

outage texting Get texts through SmartHub. Fast. Convenient. Easy.

Enroll Now! Download the SmartHub mobile app or create an account from our website and start saving time by reporting your outages and enrolling in text notifications for updates including outage causes and estimated restoration time. You can even pay your bill, monitor energy use, and more using our all-in-one SmartHub account manager!

20D OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2019

2–3 Million $

99.97%

POWER AVAILABILITY

NO

Annual power system upgrades

500,000

$

Annual peak load control savings

LIVE

ELECTRIC RATE INCREASE SINCE

ANSWER PHONES

2010

$ ENERGY AUDITS

MEMBER REBATES

33 Million Patronage returned to our members

HOURLY, DAILY & MONTHLY ELECTRIC USE DATA

METERING

EMPLOYEE NEWS

Carter and Klaus earn statewide safety supervision certificates Midwest Electric is committed to a strong safety culture — so much so, in fact, that two employees, Line Supervisor Bill Carter and Crew Leader Chad Klaus, recently earned their statewide Supervising for Safety certificates after completing a two-day in-depth workshop in Columbus, Ohio.

This workshop, held by Midwest Electric’s statewide trade association — Ohio’s Electric Cooperatives (OEC) — was a follow-up to the successful

Safety Supervisory Series through the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA). Taught by Practical Energies President Bryan Singletary, who has more than 30 years of electric utility experience and is a national lecturer and trainer, the workshop curriculum prepares cooperative employees to better understand frontline supervisor roles and responsibilities.

Bill Carter

Chad Klaus

LINE SUPERVISOR

CREW LEADER

A PARTNERSHIP OF OHIO’S ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES AND INDIANA ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES

Schmidt completes comprehensive five-month Leadership Edge program Midwest Electric Manager of Finance and Member Service Kevin Schmidt is committed to leadership, and he affirmed that commitment by completing six courses and personality assessments to earn his Cooperative Leadership Edge certificate.

to execute a capstone project that directly impacted the cooperative, complete with a board presentation.

Vital Strategies for Leaders

A deep dive into two individual assessments, the DiSC Assessment and the EQ-i 2.0 Assessment, revealed Schmidt’s strengths, guiding him through a personal development Electric’s statewide trade association — plan aimed at fine-tuning his leadership The Cooperative Leadership Edge certificate program is designed to be Ohio’smore Electric Cooperatives (OEC)experience — and the skills.

Coursework focused on coaching, time than just training; it is a learning with measured results throughout the program to gauge impact. Between courses, management, learners will neighboring Indiana Electric Cooperatives, emotional intelligence and participate in structured and unstructured activities to refresh, expand and was based in Columbus, Ohio, where Schmidt conflict, adapting communication approaches, apply the learned skills. To put the learning into practice, the participant was assigned a mentor coach.

He also worked and their manager will select and execute a capstone projectcarrying after the out difficult conversations, business coursework is completed. alongside Midwest Electric CEO Matt Berry and finance writing, and time management.

The cost to participate in the Cooperative Leadership Edge Program is $500 per person.

This five-month program, held by Midwest

Kevin Schmidt MANAGER OF FINANCE AND MEMBER SERVICE

What does it take to complete the Cooperative Leadership EDGE? A partnership of

The Cooperative Leadership Edge certificate program is anchored around two individual assessments: the DiSC Assessment and the EQ-i APRIL 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 21 2.0 Assessment. In addition to completing both assessments, participants will be required to complete four core courses (listed on reverse), two

$2 Million

MIDWEST ELECTRIC LOCAL PAGES

$

2 Million

Rural Economic Development Loans

$50,000

annual taxes

Annual Community Donations

Paid

Come to your

annual meeting Saturday, June 1 • St Marys Memorial High School, 2250 State Route 66, St. Marys 8:15 a.m.

New annual meeting scholarship rules:

This $1,000 scholarship is not related to our general scholarship program. It’s a random drawing done at the annual meeting. Winner must be present.

Registration, FREE breakfast buffet, and activities begin

9:15 a.m.

Business meeting — lasts only 45 minutes!

Any Midwest Electric member who will be a college or trade school student in the fall of 2019 is eligible. Members or children of members must enter at the annual meeting on June 1, where the winner will be drawn. The winner must be present to win.

• $3,000 in cash prizes • $1,000 scholarship drawing; must be present to win • Energy efficiency and renewable energy booths • Q&A with co-op leaders, plus learn about the power grid

Money will be disbursed in February 2020 following confirmation of college or trade school enrollment with a minimum 2.5 GPA.

• Health fair with various FREE tests • Trustee election results • Children’s activities include bounce land, games, and more

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

OFFICE

06029 County Road 33A St. Marys, OH 45885 CONTACT

800-962-3830

ACCESS YOUR ACCOUNT ONLINE

www.midwestrec.com Report an outage and pay your bill through our free mobile SmartHub app.

Larry Vandemark, president James Wiechart, vice pres.

Randy Heinl, secy./treas.

Steve Bauer Bob Barnt Kathy Brake Gary R. Knapke Gary Profit Roger W. Rank Courtney Burton

OFFICE HOURS

Attorney

Monday–Friday 7:30 a.m.–4 p.m.

CEO

22 OHIO 2019 22 OHIOCOOPERATIVE COOPERATIVELIVING • APRIL LIVING • MARCH 2018

A copy of Midwest Electric, Inc.’s Articles of Incorporation and Code of Regulations is available from the co-op office and online at midwestrec.com.

Call us to receive your copy.

@midwestrec

Matt Berry mberry@midwestrec.com

facebook.com/ midwestelectric

#

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APRIL 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 23

revival Cleveland’s Gotta Groove finds success in record revival.

BY BRIAN ALBRIGHT

24 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2019

COURTESY OF GOTTA GROOVE RECORDS

GIVING VINYL A SPIN

W

According to the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), vinyl sales hit rock bottom in 2005, when they accounted for less than 1 percent of industry revenues. But Slusarz (a former executive at Newbury-based manufacturer Kinetico) and Earley (a record wholesaler) both felt that vinyl was about to experience significant growth, while existing manufacturing capacity was limited.

“A lot of the new records were being made by indie rock acts, but there weren’t enough copies being made,” Earley says. “It was a challenge at the wholesale level because once a record sold out, it was a long time before you could get more pressed.”

BRIAN ALBRIGHT

hen Vince Slusarz and Matt Earley teamed up to open Gotta Groove Records in Cleveland, a casual music fan might have wondered if they were out of their minds. In 2009, the facility was one of the first new record-pressing plants to open in decades — long after sales of vinyl LPs had been eclipsed by CDs, downloads, and musicstreaming services.

Slusarz had retired and was interested in starting his own company — one that would create manufacturing jobs in the region. He was a longtime fan of vinyl and took note when his college-age daughter started buying new vinyl records.

“I looked at the statistics and saw that vinyl sales were creeping up, and I wondered if there could be a potential business in it,” Slusarz says.

Earley, meanwhile, had come to a similar conclusion about the vinyl market.

He reached out to the same New Jersey pressing plant to make an offer on the equipment, but Slusarz already had the presses. Earley made contacted Slusarz, and after a few months of meetings, he stepped in as Gotta Groove’s vice president of sales and marketing.

Continued on page 26

BRIAN ALBRIGHT

Slusarz had to clear two hurdles, though: He didn’t know anything about making records, and there hadn’t been any new record presses made in decades. He was able to buy his first presses from a New Jersey plant that was about to shut down. He drafted a mechanic from his former company to help set up the equipment.

COURTESY OF GOTTA GROOVE RECORDS

Above: Gotta Groove owner Vince Slusarz displays raw vinyl (top) as well as a lacquer disc used to create the metal record pressing plates. Opposite, a newly pressed record comes off of the stamper. Below, there’s just something about playing a record on a turntable that streaming can’t match.

APRIL 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 25

Sounds of success Gotta Groove almost immediately attracted clients because of the dearth of pressing plants in the U.S. at the time (there are now around 30), but Slusarz has since grown the business by targeting underserved clientele.

While roughly 20 percent of Gotta Groove’s business comes from major labels, the company primarily fills a niche by providing one-stopshop record production and distribution services for smaller labels and independent artists.

BRIAN ALBRIGHT

Continued from page 25

Gotta Groove occupies part of a sprawling, century-old industrial complex that used to house Tyler Elevator Products. A few dozen employees (many of them local musicians themselves) work at the factory, which operates eight presses and two shifts.

Slusarz’s bet on vinyl has paid off. The RIAA reports that vinyl sales rose from $66 million in 2009 to $395 million in 2017. Gotta Groove now presses 1 million records or more each year — everything from a reissue of Fleetwood Mac’s Greatest Hits to local indie releases.

They also press records for a number of Ohio-based labels, including Rockathon Records, home to Dayton-based indie rock veterans Guided by Voices.

“There’s a desire among people to own something tactile and physical, and there’s some backlash to digital music, too,” Slusarz says. “For younger people, there’s also a social aspect to vinyl. No one says, ‘Come over to my house and listen to streaming music.’ But you can invite people over to put on records, and they can thumb through your albums while they listen. It’s a pleasurable experience.”

Gotta Groove Records is located at 3615 Superior Ave., Suite #4201A, Cleveland, OH 44114. Visitors can tour the plant — just call ahead at 800-295-0171.

Visit their website at www.gottagrooverecords.com.

26 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2019

BRIAN ALBRIGHT

Making a record is a multistage process. Master recordings are first transformed into a lacquer disc, which is used to create a two-part metal stamper. Those stampers are affixed to the record presses at Gotta Groove, where chunks of raw vinyl are pressed between them, like batter in a waffle iron. Cold water stiffens the vinyl, and after the excess is trimmed off the edges, the records drop into a stack. Quality control staff inspect the records and listen to a sample of each batch before they are packaged and prepared for shipping.

Gotta Groove employees Heath Gmucs (closest to the press) and Kevin McCann inspect one of the company’s record presses (bottom). Once the record is pressed, the excess vinyl is trimmed and the finished record is dropped onto a stack (top).

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APRIL 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 27

CO-OP PEOPLE

RAMPING it up fter a fortuitous find, South A Central Power Company members specialize in aromatic agriculture.

T

he pursuit of fortune often leads people far from home. Sometimes, however, Lady Luck shows up unannounced literally right in your own backyard.

In 1976, David and Jane Kunkler purchased 40 rural acres in Perry County at a sheriff’s sale, built a home, and moved in. “The land had been uninhabited since 1888,” David Kunkler says. “A family by the name of Elder last lived on it. The husband and wife raised 13 children here.”

The Kunklers, members of South Central Power Company, enjoyed their picturesque property immensely, but they were often curious about the small, green plants that emerged from the forest floor during late winter each year. Growing in profusion, the plants covered 5 acres or more.

28 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2019

“It wasn’t until 2008, while reading an issue of Bon Appetit magazine, that I discovered the plants were ramps,” Kunkler says. “I learned that some people were paying big money for them — $13 per pound on the East Coast.”

Also known as spring onions, wild leek, wood leek, or wild garlic, ramps grow wild throughout much of the eastern U.S. and north into eastern Canada. According to the Kunklers, the epicenter of ramps in North America is West Virginia. Huntington’s annual April ramp party — April 27 this year — is known as Stink Fest.

Ramps smell and taste much like a crisp, garlicky onion.

The Kunklers prefer them minced into sauces or chopped up and cooked with rice and a little butter. Sliced and fried with potatoes and eggs is also tasty. During spring, the entire plant is edible, including bulb, stem, and slim leaves that measure about 10 to 12 inches long.

David Kunkler, left, shows off part of his harvest from the family ramp-farming operation in Perry County. Kunkler and his wife, Jane, came across acres of ramps growing on their property shortly after they bought it in 1976, and they have turned the find into a profitable mail-order business.

The Kunklers sell ramp seeds (60 seeds for $4) and bulbs ($10 per pound) year-round. They sell whole plants (also $10 per pound) during spring.

“People buy whole plants to eat, but they buy the seeds and bulbs to begin growing their own ramp gardens,” Kunkler says. “It takes five years for seeds to develop into a harvestable ramp patch, but much less time if you plant bulbs.”

The Kunklers are split about how the ramps came to be growing on their property and not on those of any of their neighbors. “I believe it was the Elder family who planted them years ago,” Kunkler says. “Winter vitamin deficiencies were common during the 1800s, and eating spring ramps literally saved people’s lives.”

His wife disagrees, however. “I think that ramps have always grown here naturally, as our land is too steep and rocky for farming. As a result, it has never been plowed or even timbered,” she says.

Jane and David first began selling their ramps to a market in Columbus’s Short North District, as well as to a few highend restaurants in central Ohio. Today, they sell mainly online, shipping 500 to 600 pounds of ramps annually to gourmets in every state except Alaska and Hawaii.

“Our local postmistress in Somerset tells us she knows exactly when one of our boxes arrives for shipping,” Jane Kunkler says. “She can tell by the smell.”

For more information on the Kunklers’ ramp business or to order, visit www.ledgerockfarms.com.

APRIL 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 29

Scientist CAPTAINS

Academics studying Lake Erie have found an invaluable, if unexpected, source of data.

PHOTO COURTESY OF OHIO SEA GRANT

BY JAMES PROFFITT

Charter captain Dave Spangler (in yellow) practices a little citizen science aboard a Stone Lab vessel near Middle Bass Island.

I

t’s no secret that Lake Erie’s recent algae blooms have a small army of scientists and conservationists working nonstop to remedy its troubles. But a little-known faction has been feeding valuable data to those problemsolvers: charter captains.

Now, more than a dozen captains provide a steady seasonlong stream of info to scientists. “We give the exact location we were when we sampled and offer the water temperature, depth, clarity, and also wind conditions and anything else that’s happening at the time,” Spangler says.

“We first started with the Ohio EPA,” says Dave Spangler, longtime captain and vice president of the Lake Erie Charter Boat Association (LECBA). The EPA, he says, sent lab technicians wading near shore to collect samples. “The better part of the Western Basin just wasn’t getting covered,” he says. “We’re all out there every day already, so why not (make use of us)?”

Algae blooms, which can create harmful toxins in the water, have been around for years, but gained notoriety in 2014, when a massive bloom caused Toledo’s drinking water to become unusable for three days. The Toledo water crisis made international news — and it was terrible for tourism, including the fishing business. Captains’ work as scientists has been expanding ever since.

30 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2019

PHOTO BY JAMES PROFFITT

Ohio Wildlife Council member George Klein takes a break from fishing to check out the most recent data compiled by charter captains.

“During the past two seasons, we’ve been sport fishing out on the lake with Ohio Division of Wildlife, and we implant walleye with radio telemetry transmitters,” says Paul Pacholski, LECBA president. Pacholski works nearly full time on education, public relations, and data collecting for the group. “We’ve recently worked with Wayne State University on an invasive species study and Heidelberg University on a Maumee River water flow study,” he says. In fact, Pacholski says he and other charter captains have worked with just about every university in the region on not only Lake Erie-related research projects, but also inland marshes and estuaries.

When asked if charter captains weren’t supposed to be out on the lake during the algae crisis, Pacholski laughs. “My mom wrote me a note that said I can go anywhere I want,” he brags.

Justin Chaffin, research coordinator at Stone Lab, Ohio State University’s island science spot (situated on tiny Gibraltar Island at Put-in-Bay), says the partnership works well. “We train the captains to collect the samples, but also to talk about the data and issues with their customers, and that translates into a really great outreach project.”

Chaffin says info from charter captains gets compared to bona fide, professional data — and it’s solid. “It’s surprising how accurate the charter captain data set is,” he says. “The added benefit is they have opportunity to talk with the public about all the issues and disseminate accurate information.”

Captains have their fishy fingers into more than just algae blooms and radio telemetry. Another Stone Lab study determines how water turbidity and algae affect the vision of both walleye and their favorite food, emerald shiners.

“We’re learning some really cool things about which lure colors that walleye prefer under different conditions,” says Suzanne Gray, assistant professor of aquatic physiological ecology at Ohio State. Spoiler alert: “When there’s an algae bloom, I believe having black components in the lure is beneficial,” she says.

While Gray and staff have been working with fish in the laboratory, captains are doing the same on the lake via a cellphone app developed by graduate student Chelsey Nieman. The app allows captains to capture and send on-the-water data — and photos — back to Stone Lab. The photos provide information as detailed as a fish’s eye size, exact location of a catch, and an image of water at the site, all of which is meshed with satellite imagery and info from scientific buoys and weather stations.

“They have a vinyl sheet with a ruler on it,” Gray says.

“There’s a color wheel and a place to put the lure that caught the fish. They place fish on the ruler, the lure in the box, and take a photo off the side of the boat. Some of the charter captains love to email Chelsey with their stories. I think it’s great.”

This summer, Gray, staff, and students will fish with captains in controlled angling studies. “So far, they’re only telling us what’s successful, not all the lures they switched out, all the ones that didn’t catch fish. This is the first time I’ve tapped into the expertise of people who are actually out there, the ones on the water. They know the lake and they know the fish, and that’s been truly awesome.”

JAMES PROFFITT is a freelance writer from Marblehead.

APRIL 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 31

Chicago Doctor Shakes Up Hearing Aid Industry

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This new hearing aid is packed with all the features of traditional hearing aids found at clinics for a mere fraction of the cost. Now most people with hearing loss are able to enjoy crystal clear, natural sound — in a crowd, on the phone, in the wind — without suffering through “whistling” and annoying background noise.

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APRIL 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 33

These walls can talk Dozens of Ohio post offices contain history lessons on community and American can-do spirit.

BY JAMIE RHEIN

D

uring the Great Depression, two federal programs — the Public Works of Art Project (PWAP) and the Federal Art Project (FAP), which was a part of the Works Progress Administration (WPA) — put thousands of artists to work. Murals were painted across the U.S., including more than 60 in Ohio, with post offices reaping the bounty.

The post offices, several of which themselves were built with WPA money, “are a great snapshot of Ohio history and public art,” says Barbara Powers, head of the State Historic Preservation Office. “So many murals focused on scenes with local connections and an element of nostalgia.” Many of the buildings still retain their original woodwork and features.

The murals, mostly oil on canvas and glued to the walls, are as varied as the communities that inspired them.

When artist Albert Kotin took on the Ada post office mural in 1939, he imagined life in the 1800s when “people had settled down to peaceful pursuits,” he wrote.

His Country Dance is a lively mix of musicians, partnerswinging couples, and children joining in.

In Marysville, James Egleson’s nostalgic view depicts two farmers, hoes propped nearby, reading their newspapers as their cows look on. In 1940, Egleson painted The Farmer fresco-style, directly on a post office wall.

Ron Best’s 1942 mural in the Waverly post office also tells of nostalgic times. Arrival of the Packet shows a boat with passengers traveling along a canal while townspeople look on.

Artist Wendell Jones turned to Granville’s religious past for inspiration. In the 1938 First Pulpit in Granville, settlers join in thanks after cutting down a tree for their first altar

34 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2019

and pulpit. For Jones, his painting shows Americans as those who “shall never be destroyed.”

At age 13, Herman Wessel went to the Cincinnati Art Academy, beginning a career that spanned the world. His two 7-foot murals in the Springfield post office depict the city’s early industries. Printing in Springfield and Manufacture of Farm Implements are in the post office’s original section, which is now a museum. The detailed, art deco postal windows and the period artifacts round out the artistic touches in the room.

Like the Springfield post office, other post offices have changed. The original post office in Fairborn has been turned into a library. Fortunately, the 1941 Wright Brothers in Ohio mural by Henry Simon was moved to the town’s new post office.

In 1940, when Lloyd R. Ney painted his New London Facets in the New London post office, town resident Vaughn Neel was 11 years old. Later, as the post office’s window clerk, Neel created a binder of mural-related correspondence and articles. “This is one of three murals like it in the U.S.,” recalls Neel, who at 88, recently retired as treasurer of the New London Historical Society. Ney pushed for his abstract design to be accepted by the FAP, which leaned toward realistic scenes. Recently cleaned, the mural showcases the bright colors of Ney’s vision, and the post office still has the binder that Neel created.

Ohio native Richard Zoellner has murals in two post offices.

Tobacco Harvest, painted in 1938 for the Georgetown post office, shows farmers in a tobacco field with Georgetown’s prominent buildings in the background. His smaller 1937 murals in the Portsmouth post office, Coal Barges and Waterfront, depict that town’s river history.

Also at the Portsmouth post office, town native and artist Clarence H. Carter’s four murals, Characteristic Local Scenes in Portsmouth, cover three walls. Although Carter’s visual story of Portsmouth’s riverboat, farming, and factory history is stunning, for longtime resident Robert Mohl, the mural of the town’s 1937 flood is most remarkable. “See how the sacks were filled to try to stop the water,” he says, pointing to the frantic scene.

For Mohl, 80, the murals opened his mind when he was a child. “When you are a kid, you are down so low — the murals are up so high.

It’s staggering to realize that the world isn’t billboards once you appreciate the world of handmade, of brushes, colors, and ideas.”

JAMIE RHEIN is a freelance writer from Columbus.

Opposite page: Richard Zoellner’s Tobacco Harvest adorns the wall at the post office in Georgetown; Manufacture of Farm Implements (above) is one of two murals Herman Wessel created for the post office at Springfield; right, top to bottom: Country Dance in the Ada post office imagines life in the 1800s; Lloyd R. Ney had to lobby the Federal Art Project to accept his abstract design for the New London post office; Clarence H. Carter painted four murals that cover three walls at the post office in Portsmouth.

APRIL 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 35

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CALENDAR

APR. 13 – Bucyrus Model Railroad Association Train Show and Swap Meet, Crawford Co. Fgds., 610 Whetstone St., Bucyrus, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. $5, under 12 free. Club Room will be open with operating layouts for all to enjoy. Exhibit tables available for selling, trading, and swapping. 866-562-0720 or 419-462-5035.

APR. 13 – CMP Monthly Air Rifle and Air Pistol Match, 1000 Lawrence Dr., Port Clinton. Free admission and parking. Competitions feature a Junior Air Rifle 3x20 and 3x10; 60 Shots Air Rifle and Air Pistol match; and 20shot Novice Prone match. Rental equipment is available for a small fee. 419-635-2141 (Brad Donoho), lsherman@ THROUGH APR. 28 – “Expanded Views: Native thecmp.org, or www.thecmp.org.

American Art in Focus,” Toledo Museum of Art, 2445 APR. 20 – Hayes Easter Egg Roll, Spiegel Monroe St., Toledo. Both historical and contemporary Grove, Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library and Native American art is featured, including new acquisitions Museums, Fremont, 2–3:30 p.m. Admission is three and a large-scale work by James Lavadour. 419-255-8000 hard-boiled colored eggs. For kids age 3–10. Prizes, or www.toledomuseum.org. games, crafts, and visits with the Easter Bunny. 419APR. 5, 12, 19, 26; MAY 3, 10 – First Fridays, 332-2081 or www.rbhayes.org. downtown Sidney. Participating shops and restaurants APR. 20 – Easter Egg Hunt, Northwest Ohio stay open later, and many offer a First Friday discount.

Railroad Preservation Inc., 12505 Co. Rd. 99, Findlay.

937-658-6945 or www.sidneyalive.org.

Adults, $3; children 12 and under, $2 (includes a train ride).

APR. 7 – Toledo Doll, Bear, and Toy Show, Lucas Continuous egg hunt with multiple age divisions from Co. Fgds., Maumee Rec. Ctr., 2901 Key St., Maumee, 10 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Quarter-scale train rides continue until a.m.–4 p.m., early admission 8:30 a.m. Admission $6; 4 p.m. 419-423-2995, www.nworrp.org, or www. early bird, $20. Free parking. Antique, vintage, artist, and facebook.com/nworrp. modern dolls and bears, as well as accessories, antique APR. 21 – Easter Egg Hunt on the Square, 109 S. toys, vintage holiday items, appraisals, and on-site doll Ohio Ave., Sidney. The hunt starts promptly at 11 a.m. Four stringing. 734-282-0152, sandy4085@hotmail.com. or groups: ages 1–2; 3–5; 6–8; and 9–11. 937-658-6945 or www.toledodollshow.com. www.sidneyalive.org.

APR. 11 – Through the Drinking Glass Tasting APR. 22, 24 – Hidden Spaces, Secret Places and Pairing Event: Ohio Wines, 109 S. Ohio Ave., Tour, downtown Sidney. Tour starts at 109 S. Ohio Ave. Sidney. Time to be determined. 937-658-6945 or www.

Tickets available on website; space is limited. 937-658sidneyalive.org.

6945 or www.sidneyalive.org.

APR. 12–13 – Home Sweet Home: A VintageAPR. 27 – Chocolate and Wine Walk, 5495 Liberty Inspired Market, Allen Co. Fgds., 2750 Harding Hwy., Ave., Vermilion, 11 a.m.–5 p.m. $20. Take a stroll through Lima, Fri. 5–8 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.–4 p.m. $5, under 12 free. downtown Vermilion while sampling chocolate treats and/ Free swag bags to the first 50 guests. Vintage, rustic, or wine as you visit the quaint shops. 440-967-4477 or primitive, shabby chic, antiques, repurposed, and upcycled http://vermilionchamber.net. items. Food trucks on site. 419-230-1756 or http:// APR. 27–28 – The Fantastic Tiffin Flea Market, homesweethomevintagemarket.com.

Seneca Co. Fgds., 100 Hopewell Ave., Tiffin, Sat. 9 APR. 12–14 – Southern Gospel Expo, Trinity a.m.–4 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Free admission and Friends Church, 605 N. Franklin St., Van Wert, Fri. 5 p.m., parking; handicap accessible. 250 to 400 dealers per Sat. 4 p.m., Sun. 6:30 (doors open at 4 p.m.). Free. Over show. 419-447- 9613, tiffinfleamarket@gmail.com, or 25 gospel groups from around the country. Food court www.tiffinfleamarket.com. available each night. 419-238-2788 or www.trinityvw.com.

APR. 27–28 – Ghost Town Spring Crafts and APR. 12–14 – Zombie Prom: Atomic Edition, Antiques Festival, 10630 Co. Rd. 40, Findlay, Sat. 9 McDonald’s Youth Theatre, 991 N. Shore Dr., Lima, Fri./ a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. www.facebook.com/ Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. A girl-loves-ghoul rock ‘n’ roll Ghost-Town-Findlay-Ohio-1525098627787387. off-Broadway musical set in the 1950s. www.amiltellers.org.

NORTHWEST

WEST VIRGINIA

APR. 6 – Wheeling Jamboree Anniversary Show, Capitol Theatre, 1015 Main St., Wheeling, 7–10 p.m. $20–$65. This annual event celebrates the occasion when

the country music program left the radio studio to become the second-oldest country broadcast stage show in history.

304-243-4470 or www.capitoltheatrewheeling.com.

APR. 21 – Easter Day Buffet, North Bend State Park, 202 North Bend Park Rd., Cairo, 11 a.m.–3 p.m. $23.95.

Reservations recommended. Easter egg hunt at 2 p.m.

304-643-2931 or www.northbendsp.com.

MAY 1–OCT. 27 – Blennerhassett Voyage Package, North Bend State Park, 202 North Bend Park Rd., Cairo. $130, includes one night of lodging at North Bend, sternwheeler ride to and from Blennerhassett Island, wagon ride tour of the island, and tour of Blennerhassett Mansion. 304-643-2931, www.northbendsp.com, or www. blennerhassettislandsatatepark.com.

APR. 28 – Glass City Marathon, 2801 W. Bancroft St., Toledo. 26.2-mile marathon, 13.1-mile half marathon, 5K, and five-person relay. www.glasscitymarathon.org.

MAY 1–5 – Annual Quilt Show, Founder’s Hall at Sauder Village, 22611 St. Rte. 2, Archbold, Wed.–Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Quilts on display from around the region, vendor market, exhibits, and workshops. Appraisals Thur. and Fri., and Sat. by appointment only. 800-590-9755 or https:// saudervillage.org.

MAY 3–12 – Biggest Week in American Birding, Maumee Bay Lodge and Conference Ctr., 1750 State Park Rd., Oregon. Free. Enjoy the spectacular birding in northwest Ohio, the “Warbler Capital of the World.”

Activities include guided walks through Magee Marsh, bird ID workshops, birding by canoe, and birder’s marketplace. 419-898-4070 or www. biggestweekinamericanbirding.com.

MAY 4 – Kentucky Derby Affair on the Square, 109 S. Ohio Ave., Sidney. Time to be determined. Get your hats and bow ties ready! Vote for your favorite jockey, and enjoy southern fare and bourbon mint juleps at the cash bar (21 and over). 937-658-6945 or www. sidneyalive.org.

MAY 4–5 – “Springtime in Ohio” Art and Craft Show, Hancock Co. Fgds., 1017 E. Sandusky St., Findlay, Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–4 p.m. $6 for unlimited entry both days; under 12 free. Repurposed goods and furniture, décor, jewelry, kids’ activities, and demos. 419436-1457 or http://cloudshows.biz/event-calendar.

MAY 5 – Fort Recovery Museum Opening, 1 Fort Site St., Fort Recovery. 1 p.m. Free. Dedication of battlefield exhibits; virtual tour; unveiling of 1793 fort wall discovery/demarcation. Speaker at 3 p.m. 419-375-4384, www.fortrecoverymuseum.com, or find us on Facebook.

MAY 11 – Lilac Festival and Street Fair, downtown Defiance. Celebrate the official flower of Defiance with the community’s largest arts and crafts fair. Free lilacs to the first 500 attendees. 5K race, the Power of Purple parade, music, vendors, and kids’ activities. 419-782-0739 or http:// visitdefianceohio.com/annual-events.

MAY 11 – Spring on the Farm, Sauder Village, 22611 St. Rte. 2, Archbold, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Explore the farm with your children through great books and many fun hands-on activities. 800-590-9755 or https://saudervillage.org.

Continued on page 38

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 events@ ohioec.org. Ohio Cooperative Living will not publish listings that don’t include a complete address or a number/website for more information.

APRIL 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 37

2019 CALENDAR

APRIL/MAY

Continued from page 37

Stop by the Visitor Center at 120 S. 3rd St. to get a map.

740-283-1787 or www.visitsteubenville.com/events.

APR. 25–28 – Geauga County Maple Festival, Historic Chardon Square, Chardon. Arts and crafts, lumberjack competition, beard and mustache contest, bathtub races, pageants, and other events. Enjoy allyou-can-eat Pancakes in the Park every day, 8 a.m.–2 p.m.: adults $8, under 6 free. 440-286-3007 or www. maplefestival.com.

APR. 26–27 – 55th Annual International Watch Fob Association Show and Sale, Lakeside Sand and Gravel, 3540 Frost Rd., Mantua, Fri. 9 a.m.–8 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Free admission. The world’s largest watch fob, construction memorabilia, and toy show. Free refreshments. 440-816-1882 or chuck@ dhsdiecast.com, www.watchfob.com, or www.facebook. com/iwfai.

APR. 27 – Medina Spring Avant-Garde Art and Craft Show, Medina Community Rec. Ctr., 885 Weymouth Rd., Medina, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $3, under 12 free.

Join us at our newest show launching this spring! Feature artists and crafters selling their original handmade items. www.avantgardeshows.com.

APR. 27 –18th Annual Lakeside Sand and Gravel Open House and Antique Equipment Show, 3450 Frost Rd., Mantua, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

Antique construction and mining demos. Bus tours of the company’s sand and gravel operations. Lunch provided with donation. 330-274-2569 or www. lakesidesandgravel.com.

APR. 27–MAY 11 – Annual Spring Art Show and Sale, Eastern Gateway Community College, 4000 Sunset Blvd., Steubenville. Sponsored by Steubenville Art Association. 740-264-2959.

MAY 3–4 – Dandelion May Fest, Breitenbach Wine Cellars, 5934 Old Rte. 39 NW, Dover, Fri. noon–7 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.–7 p.m. Dandelion food and wine tastings, dandelion sangria, dandelion picking contest and jelly-making, entertainment, and vendor fair. 5K run.

330-343-3603 or www.breitenbachwine.com/events/ dandelion-festival.

MAY 4–5 – Ohio Civil War Show and Artillery Show, Richland Co. Fgds., 750 N Home Rd., Mansfield, Sat. 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. $7, under 12 free.

Free parking. Military items, relics, and memorabilia to buy, sell, or trade. Cannon firing and WWII small arms demos, Civil War hospital scenario and encampments, and much more. www.ohiocivilwarshow.com.

MAY 4–5 – Model Train Days, Painesville Railroad Museum, 475 Railroad St., Painesville, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $5, C. (3–12) $3, Family $12. Operating layouts in N, HO, and S scale, and O and G gauge. Flea market on grounds.

Food and drinks available. 440-417-6746 or www. painesvillerailroadmuseum.org.

MAY 5 – Harrison Career Ctr. FFA Tractor, Truck, Engine, and Car Show, Harrison Co. Fgds., 550 Grant St., Cadiz, 11 a.m.–4 p.m., registration starting around 9:30 a.m. Donation for admission. 330-440-5578, HCCFFA@yahoo.com, or www.facebook.com/HCCFFA. MAY 11 – Harrison Coal & Reclamation Historical Park Dinner/Auction, Wallace Lodge, Sally Buffalo Park, 100 College Way (43000 Industrial Park Rd.), Cadiz. $18. Doors open at 5 p.m., dinner at 6 p.m., followed by speaker and auction. For reservations or to donate items: 740-391-4135, 740-942-3895, info@ hcrhp.org, www.hcrhp.org, or www.facebook.com/ HCRHP. MAY 11 – German Maifest, Historic Zoar Village, 198 Main St., Zoar, 10 a.m – 5 p.m. Free. Traditional German food and drink, music, dancing, games, art projects, and a Maypole. Grand opening of the “Sense of Zoar” art exhibit at the Bimeler House. 800-262-6195 or www. historiczoarvillage.com/events.

MAY 11 – Avon Spring Avant-Garde Art and Craft Show, Emerald Event Ctr., 33040 Just Imagine Dr., Avon, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $3, under 12 free. www. avantgardeshows.com.​ MAY 11 – Zoar Plant Sale, Zoar Garden, 168 W. 4th St., Zoar. 8 a.m.–4 p.m. Annuals, perennials, hanging baskets, vegetables, shade plants, and shrubs. www. historiczoarvillage.com/events.

tickets, and raffle. Lunch at 12:30 with the Style Show to begin shortly afterward. 740-439-8151 or http:// seormc.org.

APR. 13 – Patty Griffin, Stuart’s Opera House, 52 Public Square, Nelsonville, 8 p.m. $43–$58. 740-7531924 or www.stuartsoperahouse.org.

APR. 14 – Ben-Hur, Athena Grand, 1008 E. State St., Athens, 6 p.m. $12.50. 60th anniversary of this film classic. 740-593-8800 or www.athenagrand.com.

APR. 20 – Earth Gathering Festival, Pump House Ctr. for the Arts, 1 Enderlin Circle, Chillicothe, 11 a.m.–6 THROUGH DEC. – Athens Farmers Market, p.m. Free admission. Juried art festival with an Earth 1000 E. State St., Athens, Wed. 9 a.m.–1 p.m., Sat., Day theme. Affordable handmade art and great music 9 a.m.–noon. Farmers, orchardists, specialty food from local and regional artists. 740-772-5783 or http:// producers, bakers, horticulturalists, cheese makers, and visitchillicotheohio.com. more. 740-593-6763 or www.athensfarmersmarket.org.

APR. 20 – Easter Egg Hunt, Deerassic Park APR. 12–14 – Annual Wildflower Pilgrimage, Education Ctr., Cambridge, 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Free. Youth Highlands Nature Sanctuary, 7660 Cave Rd., Bainbridge. under 12 hunt eggs for tickets and prizes. 740-435-3335 Join us for a weekend of guided hikes, delicious meals, or www.deerassic.com. and special talks from our guest speakers. Our 2019 APR. 25–28 – Pike County Dogwood theme is “Signature Animals of the Great Eastern Festival, Main St., Piketon. Daily entertainment, Forest.” Space is limited and registration is required. food, contests, rides, parade, and more. www.

937-365-1935 or www.arcofapplachia.org/annualpikecountydogwoodfestival.com. wildflower-pilgrimage.

APR. 27–28 – Lucasville Trade Days, Scioto Co. APR. 13 – 51st Wing 12 Daffodil Luncheon, Fgds., 1193 Fairground Rd., Lucasville. $3, under 13 free; Pritchard Laughlin Civic Ctr., 7033 Glenn Hwy., early bird admission, $4. Free parking on fairground lots.

Cambridge. Doors open at 11:30 a.m. Vendors, quilt 937-728-6643 or www.lucasvilletradedays.com.

APR. 28 – Spring Hike, Adena Mansion and Gardens, 847 Adena Rd., Chillicothe, noon–4 p.m.

Free. Guided woodland hike, limited to the first 30 who register the day of the hike. Two hikes, at noon, and 2 p.m. Children must be accompanied by an adult. http:// visitchillicotheohio.com/event/spring-hike-2.

MAY 2–5 – Wild Turkey Festival, 100 E. Main St., McArthur, Thur. 5–11 p.m., Fri./Sat. 11 a.m.–11 p.m., Sun. noon–5 p.m. Carnival rides, games, car show, quilt show. Parade and crowning of the Wild Turkey Festival Queen at 6 p.m. Saturday. 740-591-1118, chriscram59@ gmail.com, or www.wildturkeyfestival.com.

MAY 3–5 – Spring Women’s Retreat, Highlands Nature Sanctuary, 7660 Cave Rd., Bainbridge. Enjoy the company of other like-minded women and get back to nature in the way that suits you best. Space is limited.

Register at http://arcofappalachia.org/womens-retreat/ or 937-365-1935.

MAY 3–SEPT. 27 – Rise and Shine Farmers Market, 2135 Southgate Pkwy., Cambridge, Fridays, 8 a.m.–noon. 740-680-1866.

MAY 4 – Spring Fest, Deerassic Park Education Ctr., Cambridge. 740-435-3335 or www.deerassic.com.

NORTHEAST

THROUGH APR. 22 – I-X Indoor Amusement Park, IX Center, One I-X Dr., Cleveland. Annual spring event offers a full day of family fun at a budget-friendly price! Rides, games, food, and attractions, all under one roof. 216-265-2586 or www.ixamusementpark.com.

APR. 1–13 – Spring Quilt Show, Historic Fort Steuben Visitor Ctr., 120 S. 3rd St., Steubenville, Mon.–Fri. 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Sat. noon–4 p.m. 740-283-1787 or www. oldfortsteuben.com.

APR. 4–6 – Vernal Poolooza Science Conference, Ashland University Convocation Ctr., 638 Jefferson St., Ashland. www.ohwetlands.org/ vernalpoolooza-2019.

APR. 13 – Canton Spring Avant-Garde Art and Craft Show, St. George Serbian Ctr., 4667 Applegrove St. NW, North Canton, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $3, under 12 free.

440-227-8794 or www.avantgardeshows.com.

APR. 14 – Black Violin: Classical Boom, Connor Palace, Playhouse Square, 1519 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, 7 p.m. $10–$45. 216-771-4444 or www.playhousesquare. org/events.

APR. 19–MAY 12 – Shrek the Musical, Geauga Lyric Theater Guild, 101 Water St., Chardon, Fri./Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. $10–$18. Based on the Oscar-winning film. 440-286-2255 or www.geaugatheater.org.

APR. 21–MAY 12 – The Great Steubenville Eggsibition, various locations, Steubenville. Huge handpainted “eggs” offer a downtown scavenger hunt!

SOUTHEAST

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CENTRAL

THROUGH SEPT. 15 – “Blooms and Butterflies,” Franklin Park Conservatory, 1777 E. Broad St., Columbus, daily 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $12–$19,under 3 free.

Daily butterfly releases at 1 and 3 p.m. 614-715-8000 or www.fpconservatory.org.

THROUGH AUG. 3 – “Luminous: Encaustic Works by Barbara Vogel,” Zanesville Museum of Art, 620 Military Rd., Zanesville, Wed., Fri., Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Thur. 10 a.m.–7:30 p.m. $4–$6; under 10 and members free. www.zanesvilleart.org.

APR. 5–7, 12–14 – O’Donnell’s Pub, Zanesville Community Theatre, 940 Findley Ave., Zanesville, Fri./ Sat. 8 p.m., Sun. 2:30 p.m. Comedy by Zanesville native Christopher Brooks. 740-455-6487 or www.zct.org.

APR. 6, 13, 20, 27 – Spring Farmers’ Market, Weasel Boy Brewing Company, 126 Muskingum Ave., Zanesville, 11 a.m.–2 p.m. www. zanesvillefarmersmarket.org.

APR. 7 – Ragtime Rick and the Chefs of Dixieland, Clintonville Woman’s Club, 3951 N. High St., 2–5 p.m. $15–$20. Sponsored by the Central Ohio Hot Jazz Society. 614-558-2212, www.cohjs.org, or Facebook. com/COHJS. APR. 11–14 – Equine Affaire, Ohio Expo Ctr., 717 E. 17th Ave., Columbus. $8–$15, under 6 free. Experience the nation’s premier equine exposition. 740-845-0085 or www.equineaffaire.com.

APR. 12–13 – Spring at the Round Barn, Fairfield Co. Fgds., 157 E. Fair Ave., Lancaster, Fri. 4–8 p.m. (early buying: $10), Sat. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. ($5, under 12 free). Free

SOUTHWEST

parking. An upscale market bringing together more than 125 vendors. Farmhouse décor, clothing, candles, jewelry, crafts, live music, and food trucks. 614-296-1621 or find us on Facebook.

APR. 13 – Church Basement Ladies: Rise Up, O Men, Marion Palace Theatre, 276 W. Center St., Marion, 2 p.m. $20–$35. Hilarious new national touring musical is the latest addition to the Church Basement Ladies series.

740-383-2101 or www.marionpalace.org.

APR. 13 – Midwest Scholastic Rowing Sprints, Dillon Lake, 5265 Dillon Hills Dr,, Nashport. www. midwestscholasticrowing.com.

APR. 13–14 – AG Days, presented by Hocking County Farm Bureau, Hocking Co. Fgds., 150 N. Homer Ave. Logan, Sat. 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.–4 p.m.

Historic farming practices, antique tractors, threshing machines and corn sheller, steam-powered sawmill, and hit-and-miss engines. Bluegrass band, kids’ activities.

740-474-6284 or www.ofbf.org.

APR. 13, 27, MAY 11 – Nelson T. Gant Homestead Tours, 1845 W. Main St., Zanesville, 11 a.m.–1 p.m. or call for appointment. Officially recognized as an Underground Railroad site. 740-453-0988, 740-3191157, or www.nelsontgantfoundation.org.

APR. 26–28 – Mohican Wildlife Weekend: Pick Your Path, various locations in Ashland and Richland counties. Free. A celebration of wildlife habitat, heritage, and natural history. Workshops and demonstrations. 800642-8282 or www.mohicanwildlifeweekend.com.

APR. 26–28 – Vintage Market Days, Franklin Co. Fgds., 4951 Northwest Pkwy., Hilliard, Fri./Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–4 p,m. $10 for early buyer, $5 for Sat./ Sun. only, under 13 free. An upscale vintage-inspired indoor/outdoor market featuring original art, antiques, clothing, jewelry, decor, outdoor furnishings, and more. www.vintagemarketdays.com.

APR. 27 – Earth Day Celebration, Coshocton County Career Ctr., 23640 Airport Rd., Coshocton, 12–4 p.m. Free. Exhibits and vendors including artisans, organic farmers, community groups, and Native American culture.

Explore solar power and green enterprises. Live raptor demos, kids’ activities, entertainment, and food. 740-5026546 or www.cecaware.org.

St., Hamilton, 7–9 p.m. Free. Lively bluegrass music. vaughnjh@gmail.com.

APR. 5, MAY 3 – Vernon McIntyre’s Appalachian Grass, Butler County Coon Hunters Club, 200 Warwick Rd., Hamilton, 7–9 p.m. Donations requested. Enjoy an evening of lively bluegrass music.

513-410-3625.

APR. 12–13 – Midwest Ceramic Association Show, Butler Co. Exhibition Bldg., Butler Co. Fgds., 1715 Fairgrove Ave., Hamilton, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Ohio’s original ceramic show. www.midwestceramics.org.

APR. 14 – Annual Farm Toy Show, Champaign Co. THROUGH JUNE 16 – Butterflies of Ecuador, Fgds., 384 Park Ave., Urbana, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. $2, under 12 Krohn Conservatory, 1501 Eden Park Dr, Cincinnati, 10 free. Look, buy, sell, or trade. Over 120 tables, including a.m.–5 p.m. $7, Srs. $6, C. (5–17) $4, under 5 free. 513parts dealer. 937-826-4201.

421-5707 or www.cincinnatiparks.com/krohn.

APR. 21 – Easter Egg Hunt, Young’s Dairy, 6880 APR. 1–31 – Easter Egg Paperweight Blow, Springfield-Xenia Rd., Yellow Springs, 2 p.m. Free.

Neusole Glassworks, 11925 Kemper Springs Dr., Open to children up to age 10. 937-325-0629 or www.

Cincinnati, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. $40 per 30-minute session. youngsdairy.com/easter-egg-hunt/.

For ages 5 and older. Sculpt molten glass into egg-shaped APR. 26–28 – Bellbrook Sugar Maple Festival, paperweights! Pickup in 7 days. Reservations required. downtown Bellbrook. Live bands, beer garden, parade, 513-751-3292 or neusoleglassworks@hotmail.com. children’s tent, 5K run, dog show, recycled sculpture APR. 1 – Vernon McIntyre’s Appalachian Grass, contest, and more. www.sugarmaplefestival.com.

Miami University Downtown Downhome, 221 High

APR. 27 – Ohioana Book Festival, Columbus Metropolitan Main Library, 96 S. Grant, Columbus, 10:30 a.m.–5 p.m. Free. More than 100 Ohio authors gather with readers for a day of panel discussions, readings, a book fair, children’s activities, and more. 614-466-3831 or www. ohioana.org.

APR. 27 – Taste of Marysville, Marysville High School Field House, 800 Amrine Rd., Marysville, 5–9 p.m. $10 buys 8 tasting tickets; you choose the vendors.

937-243-5833 or www.tasteofmarysville.com.

APR. 28 – Southeastern Ohio Symphony Orchestra Concert, Brown Chapel, College Dr., New Concord, 7 p.m. $15. Season finale of favorites! 740-8268197 or www.seoso.org.

APR. 28 – Zane Grey Day, National Road–Zane Grey Museum, 8850 E. Pike, Norwich, 1–4 p.m. An afternoon of fun outdoor activities. www.ohiohistory.org.

MAY 3 – Chocolate Hop, Columbus and Center Sts., Pickerington, 6–8 p.m. $5, receive a map of locations around the Olde Village where you will receive a chocolate treat. www.pickeringtonvillage.com.

MAY 3 – The Everly Brothers Experience, Marion Palace Theatre, 276 W. Center St., Marion, 7:30 p.m. $15– $28. The Zmed Brothers simulate the sound of the legendary rock ’n’ roll singing duo. 740-383-2101 or www. marionpalace.org.

MAY 4–5, 11–12, 18–19, 25–26 – Rock Mill Weekends, Stebelton Park at Rock Mill, 1429 Rockmill Place NW, Lancaster, Sat./Sun. 12–4 p.m. Free. Tour the restored 1824 gristmill. Grinding demos on May 26. 740681-7249 or www.fairfieldcountyparks.org.

MAY 4, 11, 18, 25 – Spring Farmers’ Market, Muskingum Co. Fgds., 1300 Pershing Rd., Zanesville, 9 a.m.–12 p.m. www.zanesvillefarmersmarket.org.

MAY 11–12 – Midwest Scholastic Rowing Championships, Dillon Lake, 5265 Dillon Hills Dr,, Nashport. www.midwestscholasticrowing.com.

APR. 26–28 – Vintage Market Days, Greene Co. Fgds., 120 Fairground Rd., Xenia, Fri./Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–4 p,m. $10 for early buyer, $5 for Sat./Sun. only, under 13 free. An upscale vintage-inspired indoor/ outdoor market featuring original art, antiques, clothing, jewelry, home décor, outdoor furnishings, and more. www.vintagemarketdays.com.

MAY 5 – Music at the Mound with Steve Free, Serpent Mound, 3850 OH-73, Peebles, 1 p.m.

Free admission; $8 parking fee. http://arcofappalachia. org/steve-free.

MAY 10 – Taste of the Arts, Main and Ash Sts., Piqua. An evening of fun, music, and food. Shop, enjoy live music, and sample food from various local restaurants and caterers. 937-773-9355 or www. mainstreetpiqua.com.

MAY 10–12 – Appalachian Festival, Coney Island Amusement Park, 6201 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati, Fri. 9 a.m.–9 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–9 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–6 p.m. $10, Srs. $5, C. (2–12) $2, under 2 free. Crafts, food, Living History Village, old-time dance, storytelling, and music. www.appalachianfestivalcincinnati.org.

APRIL 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 39

MEMBER INTERACTIVE 1

Mud Season 3

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4. Our grandchildren, Jeffrey and Jaime, having fun making mud pies.

Patty and Larry Quaglia South Central Power Company members

1. Our son, Kyle Ross, doing what he does best — playing in the mud.

Tim and Cathy Ross Lorain-Medina Rural Electric Cooperative members

2. DIY mud boots and gloves — Shelby, daughter of Ryan and Jen Michaels.

Jenifer Michaels North Central Electric Cooperative member

3. Our dog, Finley, LOVES the mud season.

Julie Puckett Pioneer Electric Cooperative member

5. Years ago, my son, Spencer, and his friends, Maddi and Morgan, enjoyed the end of summer at an annual Swamp Festival in Moreland.

Tonya Schmid Holmes-Wayne Electric Cooperative member

6. The Urbansky brothers, Avan and Ean, take a mud bath.

Betty Urbansky Lorain-Medina Rural Electric Cooperative member

7. My grandsons, Nick and Jake Swisher, happily riding in a field of mud!

Pat Swisher Buckeye Rural Electric Cooperative member

8. Pugs and Nubs were caught in the Pig Scramble at the Attica Fair by Lily and Lucas Pifher.

Ruth Pifher North Central Electric Cooperative member

9. Our children, Emily and Luke, enjoying the country life.

Troy and Kim Howard South Central Power Company members

10. Grandson Wesley Cadigan and grandnephew Ashton Fannin out mudding in the spring.

Steve Lemon South Central Power Company member

40 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2019

At Ohio’s electric cooperatives, we work hard to take care of our neighbors—whether that’s across town or across the globe. Ohio cooperative linemen brought electricity for the first time to three remote Guatemalan villages over two trips in two years. We’re helping to light the world, one village at a time.

ohioec.org/purpose