Ohio Cooperative Living - September 2019 - Midwest

OHIO

SEPTEMBER 2019

COOPERATIVE

Living

Official publication your electric cooperative | www.ohioec.org Midwest Electric, of Inc.

Youth movement The next generation in agriculture

ALSO INSIDE Farm Science Review Reader recipe contest winners Fly-in fun

OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • SEPTEMBER 2019

INSIDE FEATURES 26 NEXT GENERATION From soybeans, beef, and bees to battling the brutal Ohio weather: It’s all in a day’s work for these young farmers.

30 BIRTH AND REBIRTH Restoring and creating trails in Ohio’s most popular state park can be a test of patience and perseverance.

34 FLY-IN FUN Small-plane pilots flock together for food and camaraderie at airstrip gatherings like this one in Cardington.

38 A BIT ABOUT BUCKEYES The state tree and mascot of Ohio’s largest university has a relatively short scientific history.

Cover image on most issues: Tyler and Jessica Basham are raising their children on the family farm near New Concord.

SEPTEMBER 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 1

UP FRONT

IT’S SIMPLE? W

e’ve all heard some form of the notion that a butterfly flapping its wings in Brazil can set in motion a chain of events that causes a hurricane in China. It’s a way to express how complex systems like our weather or the environment are tied together by complex relationships that are difficult to recognize or understand.

This past year, much of Ohio experienced above-normal precipitation.

Many of our farmers were severely impacted — the unusual weather disrupted their planting season and production routines and affected their livelihood. Ohio farmers (especially in the northwestern part of the state) have spread only a small fraction of manure and applied a greatly reduced quantity of fertilizer on their fields as compared to recent years. Yet, destructive algae blooms in Lake Erie will again present a major problem.

While many experts have been saying reduced application of manure and fertilizer to fields in northwest Ohio is the answer to Lake Erie’s woes, it appears that is not the case. It goes to show that this issue, like many others, is far more complicated than it might seem at a first glance. Solutions to environmental and other complex problems (such as climate change, immigration, opioid addiction, and more) are never quite as easy as some folks claim. We’d all like the answers to our difficult problems to be easy, but they rarely are.

Generators of electricity, such as Buckeye Power, often feel that same pinch. We’ve invested more than $1.5 billion to make our operations cleaner and cleaner and to reduce our environmental impact. We believe it’s the right thing to do — both as your trusted energy source and as your neighbor.

We strive for nothing less than to produce safe, reliable, and affordable electricity with a minimal environmental footprint, but each change to the system has its own set of consequences. It can be difficult or even dangerous to assume an easy solution to a complicated situation.

We will continue to do our due diligence in anticipating those consequences as we focus on our mission of providing electricity to Ohio’s cooperative consumer-members.

2 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • SEPTEMBER 2019

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

Solutions to environmental and other complex problems (such as climate change, immigration, opioid addiction, and more) are never quite as easy as some folks claim.

SEPTEMBER 2019 • Volume 61, No. 12

MORE INSIDE DEPARTMENTS

Ohio Rural Electric Cooperatives 6677 Busch Blvd.

Columbus, OH 43229 614-846-5757 memberinteract@ohioec.org www.ohioec.org

4 POWER LINES

Poppin’ good time: Popcorn draws ’em in, but OEC’s Education Center has something for everyone at the Farm Science Review.

Patrick O’Loughlin President & CEO

Patrick Higgins Director of Communications

Jeff McCallister Managing Editor

Rebecca Seum Associate Editor

Anita Cook Graphic Designer

Dava Hennosy Editorial Intern

South Central Power Company: Ohio’s largest electric cooperative stretches across almost the entire southern half of the state.

Contributors: Colleen Romick Clark, Victoria Ellwood, W.H. “Chip” Gross, Sarah Jaquay, Catherine Murray, Craig Springer, Damaine Vonada, Kris Wetherbee, and Rick Wetherbee.

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

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

6 CO-OP SPOTLIGHT

4

8 OHIO ICON Carew Tower: The “city within a city” is a beloved Cincinnati symbol and the quintessential feature of its skyline.

8

10 CO-OP PEOPLE

Ben’s Mustard: Electric cooperative members turn a campground condiment into a booming business.

12 IN THE GARDEN

Addition through division: Gain new plants and increase blooms by dividing those overcrowded perennials.

10

14 WOODS, WATERS, AND WILDLIFE

Comeback story: Sandhill cranes, prevalent elsewhere, are now on the rise in Ohio.

12

17 GOOD EATS

Soup’s on: Colorful borscht takes top honors in our reader recipe contest.

21 LOCAL PAGES

News and important information from your electric cooperative.

17

41 CALENDAR

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

44 MEMBER INTERACTIVE

Back to school: Time once again for kids to head to the classroom and hit those books!

44

SEPTEMBER 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 3

POWER LINES

Poppin’ good time Midwest Electric director’s crop helps make memories at Farm Science Review.

BY JEFF MCCALLISTER

Roger Rank donates every kernel of the popcorn served in the Ohio’s Electric Cooperatives Education Center at Farm Science Review.

R

oger Rank has grown popcorn on his fields near Van Wert for almost 40 years. For much of that time, the early part of each harvest has had to go to waste in order to comply with some of the regulations and demands of the distributors who bought the crop.

But lately, he’s found a use for those first kernels of the season. Instead of disposing of them, he donates a portion of that crop to various organizations.

4 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • SEPTEMBER 2019

Anyone who visits the Ohio’s Electric Cooperatives Education Center at the 2019 Farm Science Review Sept. 17–19 in London will know exactly where part of that donation has gone.

“The smell of popcorn popping is one of the lasting memories people take away from our building,” says Janet Rehberg, director of cooperative development at OEC. “People come back and visit us year after year, and

Sherri Bickel (left) and Patty Miller will appear in the OEC Education Center for their 30th year of creating microwave magic.

one of the first things they do is head for the popcorn stand. So we’re grateful to Roger, who has been very generous in donating the popcorn we’ve served for the past couple of years now.”

Rank, who also grows field corn, soybeans, and wheat on about 1,800 acres, sells the majority of his popcorn crop to Weaver Popcorn, though demand has fallen in recent seasons — leaving plenty for him to provide for area schools to use at their concession stands and for serving to visitors at Farm Science Review.

“People always liked it and thought it tasted good,” says Rank, who’s also a co-op member and on the board of directors at Midwest Electric in St. Marys. “I’ve really enjoyed being able to make the donation and see people enjoy it and groups benefit from it.”

The OEC building, however, has gotten a comfort boost thanks to Enertech and Geo-Flo, which donated an entire geothermal heating and cooling system; and Hydron Module dealers Danco Enterprises of Springfield and Shafer Heating and Cooling of Hillsboro, which donated all labor for the installation of the system for use — and demonstration — in the building.

Farm Science Review attracts upward of 140,000 visitors from all over the United States and Canada to the Molly Caren Agricultural Center. The review includes 4,000 product lines from 600 commercial exhibitors and features the latest in agricultural production. The 80-acre exhibit area allows visitors and exhibitors to experience all aspects of agricultural production. Inside the exhibit area are static displays, but Farm Science Review dedicates over 600 acres of land for field demonstrations, such as corn and soybean combines, tillage, nutrient and lime applications, and drainage installations.

Tickets are $7 in advance at fsr.osu.edu, or $10 at the gate.

Ohio electric cooperative members can enter to win a $100 bill credit by completing the entry form on the inside back cover of their August or September edition of Ohio Cooperative Living and bringing it to the OEC building.

The popcorn is just part of a wider food theme inside the OEC building. There will be a full slate of cooking demonstrations as familiar faces Patty Miller and Sherri Bickel appear for their 30th year of microwave magic. They’ll be joined by educators from Ohio State University Extension’s 4-H Youth Development and Family and Consumer Sciences programs during the course of the event.

The chefs won’t be the only OSU feature in the OEC building, either. The 2016 Chevrolet Camaro modified by the OSU Center for Automotive Research team that won the national EcoCAR 3 competition will be on hand as well.

Regular attendees at the review know the weather in mid-September isn’t always at its most cooperative.

Attendees can get an up-close look at the Chevrolet Camaro that was a national champion for Ohio State University in the EcoCAR 3 challenge.

SEPTEMBER 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 5

CO-OP SPOTLIGHT

SOUTH CENTRAL POWER COMPANY

A

s the largest co-op in Ohio, South Central Power Company serves a broad population.

From suburban city life to the beautiful greenery of Hocking Hills, South Central Power serves more than 120,000 residential, industrial, and commercial consumers across 24 counties.

Founded in 1936, South Central Power started small.

The cooperative doubled in size after a merger with Ohio-Midland in 1962 and grew once more following a merger with Inter-County. In 1992, they merged with Belmont Electric Cooperative, expanding to the east.

Today, South Central Power stretches as far east as Jefferson County and as far west as Clermont County.

Suburban city life Pickerington and Canal Winchester are two of the biggest cities in South Central Power territory. A suburb of Columbus, Canal Winchester features city-centric attractions while offering natural scenery.

Canal Winchester is full of historical landmarks, including the National Barber Museum and the Bergstresser/Dietz Covered Bridge, the last remaining covered bridge in Franklin County. It’s also home to Slate Run Metro Park, a 1,705-acre park featuring open grasslands, wetlands, and meadows. Slate Run offers day camps and horseback riding to its visitors, in addition to free activities like fishing and picnicking.

Just south of Columbus, South Central Power serves Rickenbacker International Airport and many of the surrounding businesses and industries in logistics, distribution, and advanced manufacturing.

Additionally, it serves energy-intensive members in industry sectors such as oil and gas, automotive suppliers, food and beverage, and more.

Rural living Hocking Hills State Park is perhaps one of the most beautiful parks in the state of Ohio and is served by South Central Power. An activity-packed destination perfect for avid hikers, campers, and anyone who wants to explore the great outdoors, the park offers activities from canoeing to ziplining to horseback riding. For visitors interested in hiking, there are paths for beginners and paths for the most experienced hikers. Old Man’s Cave, Cantwell Cliffs, Ash Cave, and more can be found in the state park. Hikers can expect to see huge rock formations, cliffs, and even waterfalls.

There’s lodging for every preference, including cabins, lodges, RVs and campers, and classic tent camping.

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

6 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • SEPTEMBER 2019

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OHIO ICON

CAREW

TOWER Cincinnati

BY DAMAINE VONADA

Location: In the heart of downtown Cincinnati, Provenance: Described by developer John J.

Emery as a “city within a city,” Carew Tower was dedicated in 1930 and pioneered the idea of a mixed-use skyscraper complex, anchored by a common base. It originally included a 49-story office tower, the 29-story Netherland Plaza hotel, an 18-story parking garage, the Mabley & Carew department store, and an upscale shopping arcade. Carew Tower derived its name from retail magnate Joseph T. Carew, while “Netherland” alluded to the hotel’s location in the basin between the Ohio River and the crescent of hills that shape Cincinnati’s landscape.

Emery planned Carew Tower during the economic boom of the Roaring ’20s, but the concept was so new and expensive that no bank would fund it. Certain of success, he liquidated investments to underwrite the $33 million project shortly before the stock market crashed. Carew Tower thus not only saved Emery from financial ruin but also provided sorely needed jobs during the Great Depression. Built with a steel skeleton covered by limestone and buff-colored brick, the complex had a prestigious pedigree. Principal architect Walter W. Ahlschlager, who had designed the luxurious Peabody Hotel in Memphis and the InterContinental hotel on Chicago’s Magnificent Mile, created its art deco styling. The contractor was Starrett Brothers Inc., which also constructed the Lincoln Memorial and the Empire State Building.

Pre-dating New York’s Rockefeller Center, Carew Tower cemented Cincinnati’s image as a modern and progressive city. The 574-foot-high skyscraper reigned as the Queen City’s tallest building for 80 years, before being usurped by the 665-foot Great American Tower in 2011. The complex has had only three owners (the Emery family, 8 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • SEPTEMBER 2019

The Carew Tower offices and observation deck, 441 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45202. Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza, 35 W. Fifth St., Cincinnati, OH 45202.

For additional information visit www.facebook.com/ carewtower; www.cincinnatinetherlandplaza.hilton.com; or https://cincinnatiusa.com/things-to-do/attractions/carewtower-observation-deck.

Belvedere Corporation, and commercial real estate broker Greg Power), and its most significant change was the parking tower’s demolition in the 1980s.

Significance: Epitomizing skyscraper modernism, Carew Tower is a beloved Cincinnati symbol and quintessential feature of its skyline. It became a National Historic Landmark in 1994.

Currently: The Carew Tower complex houses offices, shops, restaurants, and the Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza hotel, with wow-worthy French art deco décor.

A charter member of the Historic Hotels of America, Netherland Plaza’s guests have ranged from Winston Churchill and George H.W. Bush to Elvis Presley and Natalie Portman. Its flagship restaurant — Orchids at Palm Court — is Ohio’s only AAA Five Diamond restaurant and one of only 67 in North America.

It’s a little-known fact that: Carew Tower’s 49th-floor observation deck affords visitors spectacular views of Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CINCINNATI USA CVB

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CO-OP PEOPLE

BEN’S MUSTARD It’s a sweet — with heat! — success story for Bruce and Karen Neff.

STORY AND PHOTOS BY DAMAINE VONADA

A

ccording to the wall clock in the Ben’s Mustard cannery, it’s 1 p.m., but owners Bruce and Karen Neff have already put in a full day’s work.

The South Central Power Company members live in the Ross County village of Kingston, in a Civil War-era house that’s only steps away from the cannery they built in the

10 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • SEPTEMBER 2019

backyard in 2005. In addition to helping some longtime neighbors move and getting shipments ready for a UPS pickup, the Neffs spent the morning making 80 gallons of their signature product, Ben’s Sweet & Hot Mustard.

They were in the middle of pouring it into jars when three women searching for Ben’s Mustard showed up.

mustard on a hot dog or brat,” says Karen, “it’s a perfect combination of salty and sweet that everyone just loves.”

After operating the campground for 18 years, the Neffs sold it and moved to Kingston. Instead of slowing down, however, they decided to turn Karen’s homemade mustard into a business by building the 960-square-foot cannery and obtaining the required commercial kitchen license and canner certifications. The whole family pitched in to make the mustard a success. While Nathan served samples on hot dogs at trade shows, county fairs, and festivals, Shawn and Natalie took a plastic container packed with meat, cheese, crackers, and mustard to independent grocers and asked them to taste it. “On our very first day,” says Shawn, “we got Ben’s Mustard into 10 local stores.”

Opposite: Karen Neff enjoys a Ben’s Mustard snack on the porch of her home. Above: Bruce Neff with frozen jalapeno peppers. Below: Shawn Neff labels jars of Ben’s Mustard.

“We always tell people to call before they come because we’re not always here,” says Bruce. “Luckily, we were able to help those ladies because they said they like our mustard so much that they drove from Columbus just to buy some.”

Today, Ben’s Sweet & Hot Mustard is available in the made-in-Ohio section of Kroger stores, as well as numerous Amish markets and regional grocery chains. With Karen’s culinary input, the Neffs have introduced additional specialty foods — including Ben’s Meat Rub and Ben’s Sweet & Hotter Habanero Mustard — and sell their company’s entire line to customers around the world via their website. Ben’s Sweet & Hot Mustard is still their most popular item,

When the Neffs finally take a break, they settle into chairs on their home’s back porch, a shady and inviting spot lavished with old-fashioned latticework straight out of a Norman Rockwell painting. Their son Shawn, who works in the cannery and handles sales and marketing, joins them as Karen prepares snacks garnished with golden dollops of the family business. “We put jalapeno peppers in the mustard, but use just enough to make it tantalizing,” she says. “You get two flavors in one bite: first sweet, then a bit of heat.”

Karen created Sweet & Hot Mustard at the campground near Circleville that the Neffs purchased in 1984.

Because Bruce worked full time at the Kenworth truck plant in Chillicothe, Karen ran the campground while raising Shawn and his younger siblings, Nathan and Natalie. Although she is an accomplished home cook who routinely cans tomatoes, beans, and other foods, it took Karen five years to refine the mustard’s recipe.

“We called the first batch I made the ‘towering inferno’ because I used 40 jalapenos, which was way too much,” Karen recalls with a laugh. Because she dislikes strong, vinegary mustard, Karen developed a mellow-tasting version and gave it the acronym “Ben’s” by combining the first letters of her husband’s full name — Bruce Edward Neff. The sweet-hot condiment quickly became a hit at picnics with their campground guests. “When you put the

and they not only produce 8,400 gallons annually, but also grow all the peppers needed to make it. This year alone, the Neffs will harvest peppers from 300 plants.

“We don’t use pesticides, insecticides, or herbicides,” notes Shawn. “They’re grown with sunshine, dirt, and a little bit of God’s love.”

Ben’s Mustard, 10 Church St., Kingston, OH 45644 740-642-6334; www.bensmustard.com

SEPTEMBER 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 11

IN THE GARDEN

10 Tips

for dividing perennials

Fill the empty spaces of your yard and beautify your outdoor space by dividing overcrowded perennials that already exist in your garden.

BY KRIS WETHERBEE; PHOTO BY RICK WETHERBEE

ooking for a quick and easy way to rejuvenate your garden and generate more plants? Then it’s time to dig in and divide your old or overcrowded perennials. It’s one of the easiest and fastest ways to gain more plants. Division not only helps to control the size of aggressive perennials but will also revitalize new divisions so they bloom more freely and increase the overall performance for years to come.

L

5. Have the right tools on hand

1. Start with the right plants

6. Prepare holes ahead of time

Not all perennials are suited for dividing and replanting.

For starters, they need to be herbaceous plants that have fleshy aboveground growth, as opposed to woody stems.

You most likely have a few perennials of your own that are good candidates. Some perennials that can be divided in fall include asters, bee balm, catmint, chrysanthemums, coreopsis, daylilies, gaillardia, hostas, iris, ornamental grasses, purple coneflower, rudbeckia, salvia, and yarrow.

To get new divisions off to a strong start, be sure to prepare the planting space ahead of time, making sure to amend the area or planting holes with compost.

2. Know your roots Some plants, such as iris, grow from rhizomes, which are swollen underground stems that grow horizontally.

Astilbe, daylily, and other plants have thick fleshy crowns and a clumping root system with multiple growing points.

Plants such as asters and rudbeckia have spreading and/ or fibrous root systems. Knowing the type of root system will give you a clue as to whether plants will pull apart easily or require a knife or spade.

3. Look for signs Most fully grown herbaceous perennials can be divided every three to five years. Prime signs for division include a plant with smaller than usual blooms or blooms that are fewer in number, bottom foliage that looks sparse or inadequate, or the plant’s center appearing woody, barren, or dead..

4. Timing counts September is a great month for dividing spring and summer bloomers when the cooler nights have set in; perennials that bloom in fall should be divided in early spring, after growing tips have emerged.

12 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • SEPTEMBER 2019

Essential tools of the trade begin with a sturdy shovel or spade for digging and dividing. You will also need a sharp knife and a pruning saw or billhook, which is a versatile tool used for cutting, clearing, trimming, and dividing.

Pruners, trimmers, or sharp scissors, as well as a garden hose and watering nozzle with spray settings dialed to mist or shower, will also come in handy.

7. Dig in The best time to dig and divide is on a cloudy day. Use a shovel or spade to dig all the way around the plant, then gently lift it from the ground, keeping as much of the roots intact as possible. Remove or shake off any loose soil so you can easily see the crown and roots.

8. Time to divide Divide the plant into smaller clumps or pieces using your hands or a sturdy knife, sharp spade, or billhook.

Each division should have at least two to five vigorous shoots with ample roots attached. In other words, more roots than shoots.

9. Trim and top Remove any damaged or dead areas, then cut back the top growth down to about 6 inches or half the plant’s height.

10. Plant your new divisions Immediately replant the newly divided pieces directly in their new location. Leave the top of the rhizome exposed when replanting iris divisions. Set each plant at the same depth as before. Water thoroughly and keep the soil evenly moist, while the newly divided plants re-establish themselves. Mulch to keep soil from drying out and to protect plant roots from hard frost. If you have extra divisions remaining, simply plant them in pots filled with potting mix and give them as gifts.

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SEPTEMBER 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 13

WOODS, WATERS, AND WILDLIFE

COMEBACK

CRANE

Sandhills, common in the western and southern U.S., are on the rise in the Buckeye State.

STORY AND PHOTOS BY W.H. “CHIP” GROSS

S

tanding 4 feet tall with a wingspan up to 7 feet, sandhill cranes are hard to miss. To make identification even easier, adults sport the colors of a certain prominent college football team: scarlet and gray. Young cranes, known as colts, begin life as little balls of golden-brown fluff.

Unfortunately, there are relatively few of these birds in Ohio. So few, in fact, they’re considered a state-threatened

14 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • SEPTEMBER 2019

species. That’s not the case nationally, as sandhill cranes are so numerous in some southern states and many states west of the Mississippi, they’re considered game birds, with hunting seasons set annually.

The good news is that the population of sandhill cranes in Ohio has increased in recent years.

“Sandhill’s a wetland-dependent species, and its numbers were low for a long time in the Great Lakes region and eastern U.S.,” says Laura Kearns, a wildlife biologist with the Ohio Division of Wildlife. “But with protection from unregulated hunting, coupled with wetlands protection and restoration, they have been gradually increasing since the mid-1900s. Populations in neighboring states and

Where to see the sandhill crane If you’d like to see sandhill cranes in the wild, grab your binoculars and visit any of these Ohio wildlife areas or refuges: • Funk Bottoms Wildlife Area (Wayne County) • Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge (Ottawa County) • Sandy Ridge Reservation of Lorain County Metro Parks (Lorain County) • Mosquito Creek Wildlife Area (Trumbull County) • Lake La Su An Wildlife Area (Williams County) • Deer Creek Wildlife Area (Pickaway County)

provinces like Michigan and Ontario have been increasing dramatically, so there is some spillover into Ohio from those populations, as well.”

Kearns says the sandhill cranes migrating through Ohio each fall — beginning as early as September — are headed south to spend the winter in states such as Kentucky, Tennessee, Georgia, and Florida. Although most of the sandhills returning north through Ohio again in the spring do not nest here, more and more reproduction is being documented. Last year, 45 breeding pairs and 25 young were observed statewide.

Kearns says those are conservative estimates, based largely on reports from the public.

If you’re in the mood for a longer road trip, JasperPulaski Fish and Wildlife Area in northwest Indiana is highly recommended. Migrating sandhill cranes pile into the refuge by the thousands from surrounding crop fields each evening during fall, with November being the peak month. So many birds use the refuge annually that a huge observation platform has been built for viewing. As flock after flock of cranes wings in, circling and calling to one another, the sights and sounds are truly spectacular — a wildlife experience you’ll remember for a lifetime.

Perhaps the most unique characteristic of the sandhill crane is its tendency to “dance.” Although it’s an integral part of their courtship display, the birds can be seen pirouetting any time of year. The dance of the sandhill includes many quick steps, wings half-spread, with an occasional leap into the air as high as 8 feet off the ground. Part of this ceremony also includes bowing toward one another. It’s an important part of the bird’s spring courtship, but researchers aren’t sure why the behavior often continues throughout the year.

Sandhill cranes migrate during daylight hours and at high altitudes, usually thousands of feet in the air. Surprisingly, they don’t flap their wings much when doing so. Instead, they prefer to spiral up on heat thermals then gradually glide down, repeating that sequence time after time until they get where they want to go.

Even though thousands of cranes may be on the move simultaneously, they are migrating in relatively small flocks of only a dozen or so birds per group. Unlike with many other birds, crane migration routes are a learned behavior, meaning the adults must show the young where to go their first fall and where to return the following spring.

W.H. “Chip” Gross, a Consolidated Cooperative member, is Ohio Cooperative Living’s outdoors editor and may be reached at whchipgross@gmail.com.

SEPTEMBER 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 15

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GOOD EATS

SOUP’S ON!

Colorful borscht takes top honor for meatless main dish in our 2019 reader recipe contest.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CATHERINE MURRAY

Beth Wallace loves to cook — and she really loves to cook soup. That’s a great thing for her husband, Victor, who says his wife’s soups make up the majority of his favorite meals.

But her borscht is THE favorite. Its flavors are as bright as its beet-red color, and since its ingredients can be tweaked depending on what’s in season, it makes a great meal any time of year.

It’s also the winner in Ohio Cooperative Living’s Meatless Main Dish 2019 reader recipe contest, earning a new Ohio-made KitchenAid stand mixer for Wallace, a Carroll Electric Cooperative member from Malvern.

“I love to put soup on in the morning and let it simmer all day,” she says.

“The house fills with the wonderful aroma while we’re working on different things and has us looking forward to dinner the whole time.”

Wallace says she doesn’t remember which of the more than 800 cookbooks she has owned at one time or another that the recipe came from (her current stash is “only” about 150), but it doesn’t really matter because she tweaks the ingredients almost every time she makes it.

“I may throw in turnips or parsnips instead of carrots or potatoes on any given day, or use different kinds of mushrooms or leave them out altogether,” she says, “but the point is that it’s really hearty, even though there’s no meat in it.”

Continued on page 18

SEPTEMBER 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 17

Continued from page 17

Findlay resident Lauren Hoffa, a member of HancockWood Electric Cooperative, has spent more than a year tweaking a recipe she found online, and the resulting version of Thai cabbage salad earned one of the runnerup honors in the contest.

“My husband and I are becoming more intentional with our daily vegetable intake,” Hoffa says. “When I make a meal, I try to maximize the vegetables while I pack in a lot of flavor and texture. I love the crunch of cabbage and the buttery texture of the avocado in this salad.”

Firelands Electric Cooperative member Judy White got her recipe for winter squash pizza, the other runner-up dish, from her sister, Jo, who Judy says often re-creates restaurant dishes she particularly enjoys. The addition of feta instead of mozzarella or even goat cheese gives it an unexpected twang of flavor.

“We like to cook out of our own garden, so we make this pizza all fall and winter after we bring in the butternut harvest,” White says. “It fills the kitchen with a wonderful aroma, especially if you use fresh rosemary.”

Both runners-up received vegetarian cookbooks for their entries.

BORSCHT Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 50 minutes | Servings: 8 to 10 6 cups water or vegetable stock 3 stalks celery, diced 5 tablespoons olive oil 4-ounce can sliced mushrooms 2 large onions, diced 2 bay leaves 4 cloves garlic, chopped 1 tablespoon sugar salt and pepper to taste 1/4 cup lemon juice 3 large potatoes, in medium 1 tablespoon white vinegar chunks 20 peppercorns 2 large carrots, chopped 3 or 4 large beets (fresh is best), 1 bell pepper, any color, chopped peeled and grated 28-ounce can diced tomatoes sour cream and sliced green olives for garnish (optional) 1 small head cabbage, chopped dark crusty rolls or rye bread, 1/4 cup each dill and parsley, fresh for serving or dried

18 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • SEPTEMBER 2019

Heat water (or vegetable stock) until steaming in a stockpot. In a large skillet, heat olive oil. Add onions and garlic, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until tender.

Add potatoes and sauté until tender. Transfer entire mixture to stockpot. Add carrots and bell pepper to skillet and sauté until tender. Add to stockpot. Add tomatoes with liquid to pot. Add cabbage to pot and simmer 30 minutes. Add dill, parsley, celery, mushrooms, bay leaves, sugar, lemon juice, vinegar, and peppercorns. Add grated beets and simmer 15 minutes. Re-season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle soup into bowls and top with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of green olives. Serve with rolls or bread.

Per serving: 287 calories, 95 grams fat (1.5 grams saturated fat), 48 grams total carbs, 11 grams fiber, 7 grams protein.

THAI CABBAGE SALAD WITH PEANUT DRESSING Prep: 20 minutes | Servings: 4 to 6 FOR THE DRESSING 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar zest of 1 lime (approx. 1–2 tablespoons) 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice 1 tablespoon sesame oil 1 tablespoon soy sauce 2 tablespoons honey

21/2 tablespoons sugar 2 garlic cloves, roughly chopped 1-inch-square piece fresh ginger, peeled and roughly chopped 1 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes 2 teaspoons fresh cilantro leaves (optional)

Combine all ingredients in a blender and process until completely smooth. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

FOR THE SALAD 1 small cucumber, halved lengthwise, seeded and 4 cups chopped napa cabbage or thinly sliced shredded coleslaw mix 1 cup cooked and shelled 1 cup prepared shredded carrots edamame (can use frozen) 1 avocado, roughly chopped 15-ounce can yellow corn, drained 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced into 2 medium scallions, thinly sliced bite-sized pieces

Note: I like to toss in a little shredded red cabbage for color.

Combine ingredients in a large bowl and toss to combine. If serving right away, drizzle the peanut dressing over top and toss; otherwise, serve the dressing on the side so the salad doesn’t get soggy.

Per serving: 349 calories, 18 grams fat (3 grams saturated fat), 42 grams total carbs, 8 grams fiber, 13 grams protein.

WINTER SQUASH PIZZA Prep: 15 minutes | Cook: 75 minutes | Servings: 4 to 6 11/2 pounds (or more) winter 3 tablespoons olive oil squash, peeled and sliced 2 to 3 tablespoons olive oil into thin pieces 1 tablespoon chopped garlic 1 large onion, sliced very thin 1/2 teaspoon salt (not diced) 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary 1 large or 2 medium pizza crusts (or 1 tablespoon dried) 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese 1 teaspoon dried crumbled sage 1 cup crumbled feta cheese 1 teaspoon salt (or more) 1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper (or less) Mix the squash, onion, rosemary, sage, salt, pepper, and 3 tablespoons olive oil and place in a 9 x 13-inch pan, cover with foil, and bake at 325 F for about an hour, until tender but not mushy.

If you take off the foil for 10 minutes near the end, the onions will caramelize and become sweeter, but that is optional. Mix 2 to 3 tablespoons olive oil, chopped garlic, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper and spread on pizza crust(s). Sprinkle Parmesan on top. Arrange the squash/onion mixture onto the crust. Finally, top with crumbled feta cheese. Bake at 375 F for about 15 minutes or until as brown as you like it.

Per serving: 339 calories, 21 grams fat (9 grams saturated fat), 23 grams total carbs, 3.5 grams fiber, 14 grams protein.

SEPTEMBER 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 19

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MIDWEST ELECTRIC LOCAL PAGES

MESSAGE FROM THE CEO

Net metering

and your cooperative

Matt Berry, CEO

mberry@midwestrec.com

Let’s say you run a grocery store. You sell apples for $1 per pound. You have long-term contracts with some apple suppliers for good-quality, affordable apples at about 75 cents per pound.

This leaves you with enough profit margin to cover the cost of running the store. But one day, another apple farmer visits your store and demands that you buy his apples.

“I already have enough apples,” you reply.

“Well, I’m sorry, but I want you to buy these and pay me $1 per pound,” the farmer says.

“But that’s the retail price I sell them for,” you reply. “If I pay you $1 per pound for something that I sell for $1 per pound, I won’t make any money. In fact, I’ll lose money. I wouldn’t be recovering my costs if I paid you $1 and then sold them for $1.”

In simple terms, that’s what your electric cooperative is facing when it comes to our net metering rate for distributed generation (such as rooftop solar panels).

With net metering, we’re effectively paying the homeowners 12 cents per kWh for the electricity they send back to us — so we’re paying more than we have to and we’re not recovering our distribution costs.

To initially help get the program off the ground, we offered a retail “net metering” rate. That means we’re buying electricity produced by the solar members for the same rate that we sell it. Like the grocer above, we’re losing money on those transactions. Since we’re a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative, we strive to develop electric rates that are fair to all.

If you run a grocery store selling apples, you have fixed costs to keep your store open. You can't sell your apples for the same price as you buy them, or you wouldn't be recovering your costs. The same goes for electricity.

It costs us about 7 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh) that we buy from our generation and transmission supplier, Buckeye Power. We sell it to you for about 12 cents per kWh, which pays for the generation and transmission cost and our distribution costs. With net metering, we’re effectively paying the homeowners 12 cents per kWh for the electricity they send back to us — so we’re paying more than we have to and we’re not recovering our distribution costs.

We want to cooperate with the solar and other distributed generation members and help them with their projects. We want to provide a fair rate, valued at what the electricity is actually worth to the cooperative. We don’t want to underpay for those electrons … but we also cannot afford to overpay as we currently are.

We think it’s important to send the proper price signal to our members.

We tried to inform interested members and solar panel companies that our net metering rate would not — and could not — continue forever. However, some solar companies don’t contact us prior to working with our members. So we don’t know what information they provided the customer and we also did not have the chance to talk with those members before they made their decision. Most likely, those companies provided the customer with inflated numbers. Otherwise, solar is difficult to justify economically, even with net metering.

Even though we have an adequate, sufficient, affordable, and reliable power supply for the foreseeable future, we still desire to work with any member who wants to install solar panels or windmills. But we hope you’ll understand that we’re also balancing the need to buy the power at a rate that is fair for all members — a rate that properly supports the value of the distributed generation.

Do you know of any other businesses that encourage direct competition? We do, by providing a fair price for your distributed generation. Do you know of any other businesses that promote ways to help the customer NOT buy what Continued on page 22

SEPTEMBER 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 21

MIDWEST ELECTRIC LOCAL PAGES Continued from page 21

we sell? We do, with our energy-efficiency services. As a cooperative, we are a not-for-profit — a different business model than you’ll find elsewhere.

Before considering renewables, talk to us It is important for consumers to fully understand the true costs, the operational reality of this form of energy, and actual energy savings. To determine whether rooftop solar

is right for their particular situation, homeowners must undertake their due diligence.

As your trusted energy advisor, Midwest Electric can offer a candid assessment of your specific situation. After all, we have a different “bottom line” that is not directly tied to the sale of a product or service. We constantly strive to find new ways to help you use energy more efficiently.

Whatever your goals are, we can help you meet them.

What is Net Metering?

The solar panels receive energy from the sun, and with an inverter, make it usable at your home.

The energy is used at your home.

A bi-directional meter measures the power being purchased from the cooperative and the excess created at your home.

Net metering allows renewable members to generate electricity for personal use and sell excess to the co-op at retail prices, while purchasing power at the retail rate.

Is rooftop solar

right for you?

To help determine whether rooftop solar is right for you, our energy advisors will look at the: • Overall energy efficiency of the home/building • Age and pitch of the roof • Orientation of the sun in relation to the home/building • Tree coverage near the home/building • Weather patterns for the region Unlike a solar company that has one objective — to sell their products and services — we look at the total energy picture and help you determine the best options for your home.

Rooftop solar isn’t the answer for everyone. A co-op energy advisor will also discuss the many financial considerations: • Is there a large, up-front payment required or are fees spread out over time?

• Will the homeowner own the panels or will they be leased?

• Are there any hidden costs (e.g., does the roof need to be replaced before installing the panels)?

• Are there ongoing maintenance fees?

• Are there rebates or other financial incentives available?

• Is the estimated energy savings worth the investment?

22 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • SEPTEMBER 2019

• Is it more cost-effective to invest in other energy-saving measures?

Most importantly, an energy advisor will provide perspective on the total energy puzzle. Taking into account current energy consumption, the home “envelope,” and the age and efficiency of the HVAC system and home site, we can help co-op members determine whether rooftop solar is the best choice given the homeowners’ objectives.

When assessing solar options, it is an excellent time to examine other potential energy efficiency improvements for your home. For example, it may make sense to insulate the attic at the same time as installing solar.

We recognize that consumer interest in green energy sources and renewables is at an all-time high, and we stand ready to help our members determine their best options.

Want to empower local organizations and make a difference?

Our Community Connection Fund is looking for a trustee from Allen-Putnam, Mercer-Darke, and AuglaizeShelby counties to serve on the board. You'll be reimbursed for expenses, and no background is necessary.

Current trustees say serving gives them “tremendous satisfaction" and teaches them about local needs.

Contact Dave Waltermire at dwaltermire@midwestrec.com if you’re interested or want more information.

Helping our

COMMUNITY CONNECTION FUND

Community

Midwest Electric members donate $15,975 to 13 local causes Members of Midwest Electric recently donated $15,975 to 13 west-central Ohio charities and community projects through the cooperative’s Community Connection Fund.

Thanks to the 88% of our members who round up their electric bill and donate those pennies to this fund, Midwest Electric has provided $1,096,284 to 916 local charitable causes since 1998.

A board of trustees, composed of cooperative members and separate from the Midwest Electric Board of Trustees, oversees the application and allocation process.

Individuals or organizations can obtain an application by contacting Midwest Electric at 800-962-3830 or going online to www.midwestrec.com > My Community > Community Connection Fund.

The Community Connection Fund’s latest recipients include: • St. Marys Holy Rosary School; $2,400 for speakers and message boards • Marimor Legacy Foundation (Allen County); $2,000 for All Abilities Park playground equipment

• Auglaize County CERT; $1,250 to uninsured tornado/flood victims • Celina Rotary Club; $1,250 to uninsured tornado/flood victims • Autism Life Center of Allen County; $1,200 for the Sensory Saturday program

• Ohio City Fire Dept.; $1,500 for new gear and hose dryer • Van Wert Middle School; $1,500 for trip to Gettysburg and U.S. capital

• Community Action Life Line of Mercer County; $1,000 for weekend backpack program (two daily meals)

• Children's Hometown Holiday (Auglaize County); $1,000 for outdoor skating rink rental fees • Mercer County DARE; $1,000 toward T-shirts and graduation • Lima Symphony Orchestra; $750 to fund two kids’ concerts • Mercy Unlimited of Auglaize County; $650 for five shopping carts for food pantry • St. Henry Stingrays of Mercer County; $500 for computerized timing pool equipment

SEPTEMBER 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 23

$2 Million

MIDWEST ELECTRIC LOCAL PAGES

$

2 Million

Rural Economic Development Loans

$50,000

annual taxes

Annual Community Donations

Paid

CO-OP NEWS

Midwest Electric and PPEC decide not to merge Discussions about a merger between Midwest Electric and Paulding Putnam Electric Cooperative (PPEC) will no longer move forward. The original concept was to reduce operating costs by streamlining the two organizations into one. After both boards reviewed the full study results, it was decided it was in the best interests of the memberships to remain separate cooperatives. Members will not see any changes, as both co-ops will continue business as before.

The neighboring cooperatives forged common ground with their shared service program and will continue to maintain that strong working relationship. Currently, the two co-ops share a communications coordinator and an energy advisor.

This program has been very beneficial when it comes to cost savings — so much so that despite the merger not

moving forward, both CEOs and boards have decided to look at expanding this program.

Midwest Electric serves 10,772 members in west-central Ohio, while Paulding Putnam Electric Cooperative serves 13,063 in northwest Ohio and northeast Indiana. The two co-ops’ service territories meet at Van Wert and Putnam counties.

Please call 800-962-3830 with any questions.

Save the date: Nov. 6 and 7

Member Appreciation Days & ACRE political action breakfast • Free food, CASH giveaways, door prizes, legislative updates affecting you and your co-op, high-voltage safety demos, energy advice and booths, 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.– p.m.

CEO

24 OHIO 22 OHIOCOOPERATIVE COOPERATIVELIVING • SEPTEMBER LIVING • MARCH 20182019

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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SEPTEMBER 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 25

Soybeans, beef, bees, and battling the weather More and more, younger Ohioans are moving back to work on the farm.

BY VICTORIA ELLWOOD

ome members of today’s younger generations — millennials and Gen Zers, if you will — favor a trendier, urban lifestyle, with conveniences like Uber rides and food trucks, bike-sharing, live entertainment, and ethnic eateries. But we found some young adults who prefer working the land, carrying on centuries-old legacies, rearing kids with an appreciation for nature, and growing acres (and acres!) of crops, raising livestock — even tending bees.

We talked to three young farm families — each of them a member of an Ohio electric cooperative. They’re among more than 30,200 farmers aged 44 and under across the state, according to 2017 USDA agriculture census data. Their numbers are growing. Five years prior, the same age group came in at about 26,300 farmers.

Jessica and Tyler Basham with their children, Wyatt, McKenzie, and baby Dallas.

What’s it like to be a young farmer today?

Tyler and Jessica Basham (Guernsey-Muskingum Electric Cooperative)

I wanted to be self-sufficient. I enjoy being outside, and I’ve always liked equipment and animals.”

The rolling, 112-acre farm near New Concord has been part of Tyler Basham’s family for over a century — but the last family member to actually labor the land was his great-grandfather. Until now.

Put those interests together, and Tyler’s career was hatched. He had helped a neighbor farm in the past, but he admits he didn’t have an agriculture background. “I learned a lot just by doing it — and sometimes by doing it wrong the first time.”

Tyler lives with his wife, Jessica, and their three young children in a pole-building-style home, from which he has happily taken over farm operations. His grandparents still live in the original farmhouse, and his parents also built a home on the property.

“The fields had been rented to neighbors for many years,” Tyler says, “but farming has always interested me.

26 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • SEPTEMBER 2019

Today, he raises show pigs and crop-farms hundreds of acres. His sows produce up to 150 piglets each year, sold in the spring to local 4-H kids who bid on the 12-week-old animals.

“Once the pig sale is over, we get out in the fields,” Tyler says. He plants corn and soybeans on 500 to 600 acres (his own plus rented fields). He also raises cattle.

PHOTO BY CINDY BASHAM

S

PHOTO BY CINDY BASHAM

He and Jessica — whose first date was at a tractor pull at the county fair — have a son, 6, and daughter, 4, who are “all about being outside,” Tyler says. Their newborn son, Dallas, is named after Tyler’s great-grandfather.

“I really enjoy farming — the whole lifestyle,” he says.

“But it has its ups and downs like any job.”

Biggest struggle? “The weather. Without a doubt,” he says. “Anyone who works outside will tell you the weather is the most challenging thing. You have no control over it. But (the work) always gets done … even if we have to pull a few all-nighters.”

Josh is a big proponent of farm life. “I like everything about it,” he says. “It’s great to be able to be outside and work the land. You see the crops grow, see the livestock grow.”

At the same time, the things that make farming good are also sometimes a challenge. “You’ve got the weather and the pests to deal with,” he says. “But we’re working to improve nature, to improve the land. It’s very rewarding.”

Josh and Cristen Fiebiger Josh Fiebiger is the eighth generation of his family to farm land that straddles Miami, Shelby, and Champaign counties in western Ohio. A descendant of immigrants hailing from Caven County, Ireland, Josh and his family oversee row crops on their land, offer customapplication of crops, run a seed dealership, and raise beef cattle and show-calves.

“We all live close — Grandma and Grandpa live north, Dad lives south, and Cristen and I live right in the middle,” he says. The couple grew up in the close-knit farm community, and they were set up on their first date by their moms. They are now raising their 17-month-old son, the next generation of the farm family.

“Farming is really rewarding, especially when you have young kids,” Cristen says. “It’s good working together, but it can also mean long hours apart, depending on the day and the season. You can do a lot together as a family, though — our son even helped plant seeds this year.”

Josh and Cristen Fiebiger with their son, Garner.

PHOTO BY NICOLE ZIMMERMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

(Pioneer Electric Cooperative)

SEPTEMBER 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 27

The farm also produces herbal-infused honey, handcrafted soap, lip balm and salves, and beeswax candles. Products are sold online and at central Ohio grocery stores and farm markets.

The Barnes also lend their bees to help pollinate other crops, trucking the hives during the night to fruit orchards and pumpkin patches. The bees orient themselves in the morning, do their job during the day, and return to the hives at night.

PHOTO BY VICTORIA ELLWOOD

Like other farmers, Isaac says weather is the biggest challenge. “During a dry year, bees may produce 110 pounds of honey per hive. But in years that are rainy and wet, they might produce only about half that much.

Looking back, I didn’t expect the years to be so variable.”

Even so, the family fully embraces their beekeeping endeavor. “I love working for myself and building our family business. Every day and every season are different,” Isaac says. “There’s a peacefulness that comes from this kind of work. You pay attention to the life around you.”

A little summer honey drizzled on toast in the morning isn’t bad either.

Isaac and Jayne Barnes (South Central Power Company) Thirty-four million bees.

That’s right — 34 million. In 700 hives. Producing roughly 50,000 pounds of honey each year.

That sums up Isaac and Jayne Barnes’ Honeyrun Farm near Williamsport, about an hour south of Columbus.

The two both grew up in farming families, in different parts of the state. They met in college and now have four children — Mason, Maizy, Bridger, and Eden. Early in their courtship, Jayne gave Isaac a beehive for Christmas.

“He liked honey, he liked projects, and he liked science,” she says. The rest is history.

Back in Ohio, they settled on Isaac’s family land and set their sights on beekeeping. Before long, he quit his job as a high-school science teacher and the two established their thriving Honeyrun Farm.

Honeyrun has three “honey flows” a year, yielding different varieties of raw honey. Depending on what flowers the bees are visiting at the time, each is distinctive: a delicate, light spring honey; the mild and “typical” summer honey; and a dark, rich fall honey.

28 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • SEPTEMBER 2019

PHOTO BY CATHERINE MURRAY

The two moved to Montana, where she went to grad school and he worked for a commercial beekeeper, who had a whopping 5,000 hives.

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SEPTEMBER 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 29

BIRTH AND REBIRTH Restoring (and creating) trails in Ohio’s most popular state park.

BY SARAH JAQUAY

J

im Schaefer is a northeast Ohio native who’s dedicated his life to “improving Ohio.”

Jim and his wife, Joan, have a particular passion for Hocking Hills State Park, where their family has visited for more than 30 years.

Indeed, the Schaefers’ enthusiasm for the undulating, sylvan southeast corner of Ohio is widely shared. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources doesn’t track visitation because the entire state park system is free, but Hocking Hills Tourism Association estimates more than 4 million people visit annually, making it Ohio’s most popular state park.

Hocking Hills is nationally known for its interesting geological formations and waterfalls, such as Old Man’s Cave, Ash Cave, and Cedar Falls. Since 2017, another pair of hiking destinations have been drawing crowds — and their story is one of persistence and timing.

The Schaefers were a driving force in getting the previously unused Hemlock Bridge Trail reopened and in starting the process that led to the opening of a new spur trail to the little-known but astonishing Whispering Cave — one of Ohio’s largest recessed caves.

Jim is a retired Cleveland businessman. He’s never worked for ODNR nor any park system. He is, however, a self-described change agent, with the skills to get complicated projects done. When asked what it takes to get a new state park trail or an old one restored, Schaefer is succinct: “Persistence.”

In 2014, he read an article in The Plain Dealer calling for suggestions about new services in Ohio’s parks. Schaefer proposed restoring a then-dilapidated trail that started at Hocking Hills Lodge’s former dining hall (which burned down in 2016 but is being rebuilt as part of an overnight lodge and conference center, slated to break ground in 2020) and led to an observation deck and ultimately to Old Man’s Cave.

He articulated three advantages to reopening Hemlock Bridge: It would increase trail mileage in Ohio’s most popular park, it would increase patronage at the desolate dining hall (which has an adjacent

30 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • SEPTEMBER 2019

180-space parking lot), and it would ease parking congestion at Old Man’s Cave’s crowded lot because hikers could park at the lodge and walk the half mile to Old Man’s Cave.

Schaefer encountered reluctance because of the amount of staff that would be required to restore and maintain the trails, but he had answers for every objection. He found an energetic ally in Gary Obermiller, ODNR’s chief of state parks at the time.

The pair hiked Hemlock Bridge Trail together and Obermiller immediately got on board. “Hocking Hills is our premier state park and anytime we [ODNR] can offer additional recreational opportunities — well, that’s our job,” he says.

Along the way, Schaefer and Obermiller discovered a remarkable recessed cave that hardly anyone knew about — some local firefighters practiced rappelling there, but that was about it.

The restoration process was complex. It required building a new swing bridge over a small, flood-prone creek along the Hemlock Trail and getting people and equipment down to Whispering Cave — which required rappelling. Schaefer says the Hocking Hills maintenance staff loved working on the project because of that.

Since the two trails opened in May 2017, Obermiller, now retired from ODNR, says he can’t even quantify all the positive feedback the department received about them. “It was worth all the effort. Even most of the Hocking Hills staff didn’t know about these trails, and now they’re among the most popular there. I’m a big believer that we’re public servants. Anytime we [ODNR] have the chance to redistribute people on our trail system, we’re interested.”

See http://parks.ohiodnr.gov/hockinghills for general information and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pDpU13Av2nU for a video about the opening.

Opposite page, bottom: Joan Schaefer was one of the driving forces behind the restoration of the Hemlock Bridge Trail at Hocking Hills State Park. Staff at the park enjoyed working on the project because some of it required a rappel to carry in materials. This page: Jim Schaefer shows off the swinging bridge that’s now part of the Hemlock Bridge Trail — the restoration of which led to, among other things, the discovery of a fascinating but mostly forgotten recessed cave nearby.

SEPTEMBER 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 31

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SEPTEMBER 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 33

Fall fly-in STORY AND PHOTOS BY W.H. “CHIP” GROSS

S

cattered across the rural landscape of the Buckeye State are hundreds of small, grass airstrips, their owners housing vintage airplanes in nearby hangars and barns. A private plane, even though dated, is not inexpensive to purchase or maintain; the pilots — both men and women — do so for one simple reason: their love of flying.

Like birds of a feather, they also enjoy flocking together. Their gatherings are known as fly-ins, where like-minded pilots arrive via their aircraft to share a meal and spend a day talking all things aviation. Fly-ins are the airplane equivalent of cruise-ins for classic car owners.

Continued on page 36

Top: Dan Hempy of Marion flies his RV-7 experimental airplane with its smoke system activated. Above: Dewey Davenport stands on the wing of his red 1930 New Standard D-25 biplane while he awaits a passenger for a ride. Right: Jerry McKnight of Centerburg flies an open cockpit airplane, which requires goggles and a leather flying helmet.

Opposite: Crowds file in to Joe Dreyer’s fly-in while Stephen Beaver flies his Bücker Jungmann biplane over the crowd.

34 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • SEPTEMBER 2019

! n u f

SEPTEMBER 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 35

Continued from page 34

One of the larger local fly-ins in the state takes place annually at the farm of Joe Dreyer, a Mid-Ohio Energy Cooperative member who lives near Cardington.

Clockwise, from bottom: Flying machines of all shapes, sizes, and colors attend Dreyer’s flyin. Jim Baldwin, an experienced builder and owner, along with young and old alike, enjoys watching the take-offs and landings throughout the day.

Above: John Wolfe of Marysville flies his modern-day gyrocopter to the event.

“This will be our seventh year, and each year the fly-in seems to grow a little larger,” Dreyer says. “Last year, about 100 planes flew in and out during the day, and we estimate 1,000 people attended, many of them driving in. We also fed everyone, so that’s 1,000 free meals served. It’s family-friendly fun in a rural setting — a way for us to give something back to aviation, our friends, and neighbors.”

Bob and Jill Jenkins have attended Dreyer’s fly-ins for years. The Consolidated Cooperative members have three aircraft in their family. “We own a 1947 Cessna 120 and a 1946 Piper J-3 Cub,” Bob says. “I also co-own a 1972 Cessna 172 with my son, Shawn.”

Jill Jenkins enjoys the camaraderie of fly-ins. “You can talk to most anyone, and within a few minutes, feel as if you’ve known them for years,” she says. “It really makes for a relaxed, fun fall day.”

36 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • SEPTEMBER 2019

Known as the My Place Annual Fly-In, Dreyer’s event is Oct. 13 this year and is always the second Sunday in October. Airplane and helicopter rides are available, as well as many kids’ activities. The public is invited; for details go online to the Facebook page: My Place 3OH7.

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A BIT ABOUT

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BY CRAIG SPRINGER

T

he nasally call of summer insects has begun to fade away, and the shiny wax coating of tree leaves is beginning to lose its luster. As summer turns toward fall, buckeye seeds come to rest on the forest floor, where they will sink into the soil and take root, as they’ve done since the Pleistocene winter of 10,000 years ago.

Coded in that inedible promise of a would-be tree lies all the information the seed needs in order to make a living in Ohio’s rich and varied soils — just add water and light.

Where there’s natural water in the bottomlands or moist hillsides, you’re sure to find Ohio’s official state tree, says retired state parks naturalist and ranger Chris Grupenhof. He spent a 27-year career teaching park visitors about Ohio’s natural wonders — and he knows his trees, having worked at Burr Oak and Hocking Hills state parks, some of the most heavily treed parks in the state.

“Buckeye trees prefer limestone soil versus acidic soil that’s most common in the southeast,” says Grupenhof. “They like to have their feet wet, and they occur naturally with silver and red maples, hackberry, and black walnut.”

Not only are they pretty to look at, but cavity-nesting birds such as nuthatches and chickadees take up housekeeping in the crannies of the bigger buckeyes.

Hummingbirds take to the flowers in the spring.

The tree didn’t get its scientific name, Aesculus glabra, until Ohio was 6 years old. In 1803, German botanist Carl Willdenow received Ohio buckeye seeds from some unknown site and planted them at the Berlin Botanical Garden and Botanical Museum.

In 1809, he used those trees growing in Berlin to describe what would eventually become Ohio’s state tree — and there the specimen remains.

The buckeye seed is distinctive in its smooth, chocolate-brown coating, but if you have a difficult time finding the source tree in the woods, Grupenhof has a hack: Look for leaves formed like five fingers in a palm.

About the time that the Ohio State Buckeyes are playing their fourth football game and mascot Brutus Buckeye fires up the fans, the leaves of Ohio buckeye trees are burnished rust, the color of autumn. They are among the first to grow leaves anew in the spring and are the first to drop their leaves in the fall.

38 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • SEPTEMBER 2019 101⁄2

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SEPTEMBER 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 39

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CALENDAR NORTHWEST

THROUGH OCT. 12 – The Great Sidney Farmers Market, 109 S. Ohio Ave., Sidney, Sat. 8 a.m.–noon. Fresh produce, baked goods, jams and jellies, crafts, plants, and flowers. 937-658-6945 or www.sidneyalive.org.

SEPT. 14 – Lima Area Concert Band: “Music of the Greatest Generation,” Veterans Memorial Civic and Convention Ctr., #7 Town Square, Lima, 7:30 p.m. $15; free for students. 419-222-6075 or www.visitgreaterlima.com.

SEPT. 20–22 – Delphos Canal Days and Parade, downtown Delphos, Fri. 4 p.m.–12 a.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–12 a.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Free admission. Kids’ activities, music, food, car show, and more. 5K walk/run and parade Sunday. at 2 p.m. https://delphoscanaldays.com.

SEPT. 21 – Harrison Rally Day Festival, downtown Perrysburg, 9:30 a.m.–4 p.m. Arts and crafts, marketplace area, food trucks, family-friendly activities. Parade at 10 a.m. 419-874-9147 or www.perrysburgchamber.com.

SEPT. 21–OCT. 20 – Pumpkin Train, Northwest Ohio Railroad Preservation Inc., 12505 Co. Rd. 99, Findlay, Sat./ Sun. 1–5 p.m. $3; ages 12 and under, $2. Ride a quarterscale train to the pumpkin patch to find that special pumpkin, then take one more trip around the track to return to the station. Pumpkins $5 each, but no purchase required for the train ride. 419-423-2995, www.nworrp. org, or www.facebook.com/nworrp.

WEST VIRGINIA

THROUGH SEPTEMBER – Quest Class: Kayaking Basics, North Bend State Park, 202 North Bend Park Rd., Cairo. Two-hour kayaking excursion to introduce and improve basic kayaking skills. $175 fee includes one-night lodging for two, kayak rentals, guide,

SEPT. 28 – Bluffton Fall Festival, downtown Bluffton, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Kids’ activities, food, horse-drawn wagon rides, antique tractor show, quilt show, farmers market, and much more. www.blufftonfallfestival.com.

SEPT. 28 – Elida Mennonite School Benefit Breakfast, Lunch, and Auction, Delphos, 7:30 a.m.–3? p.m. Enjoy a country breakfast featuring locally made whole-hog sausage; Elida’s famous 1-lb. smoked pork chops for lunch; homemade doughnuts, pies, and other baked goods; softserve ice cream and kettle corn; and apple butter made on site! Kids’ entertainment includes barrel train rides and bounce house (weather permitting). Auctioned items will include Amish crafted furniture, locally made products, antiques, home-canned foods, and more. 419-233-0567 or www.facebook.com/emsauction.

SEPT. 28 – Fostoria Rail Festival, Fostoria Jr./Sr. High School, 1001 Park Ave., Fostoria, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. $4, under 10 free. Model train displays, train merchandise and memorabilia, historic rail tours, kids’ train rides, photo contest. 419-435-1781 or www.fostoriairontriangle.com.

SEPT. 28–29 – Pumpkin Fest with Tracks to the Past, Northwest Ohio Railroad Preservation Inc., 12505 Co. Rd. 99, Findlay, 11 a.m.–5 p.m. $10. Pumpkin Train rides, pony rides, bounce houses, face painting, miniature horse cart rides, antique power show. 419-423-2995, www.nworrp. org, or www.facebook.com/nworrp.

OCT. 4–5, 11–12 – Lima Lantern Tours, historic downtown Lima. Walking tours start at 5:30 p.m., trolley tours at 6:30 p.m. Allow approximately three hours for the tour. $15–$25. 419-222-6075 or www. visitgreaterlima.com.

OCT. 5 – Annual Downtown Chocolate Walk, downtown Sidney. $15. For ages 21 and over. Tour downtown businesses while enjoying samples of delicious chocolate treats. Limited number of tickets; available on website.

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

OCT. 5 – Henry County Ducks Unlimited: Annual Banquet Dinner, Napoleon Area Legion, 500 Glenwood Ave., Napoleon, doors open at 5:30 p.m. Contact TJ Hershberger for more information: 419-966-1054. taxes and fees. Register at 304-643-2931 or www. northbendsp.com.

THROUGH OCT. 27 – Blennerhassett Voyage Package, North Bend State Park, 202 North Bend Park Rd., Cairo. $130 package includes one night of lodging for two at North Bend, plus two tickets for a sternwheeler ride to and from Blennerhassett Island, a wagon ride tour of the island, a tour of Blennerhassett Mansion, and passes for the Blennerhassett Regional History Museum.

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

SEPT. 26–29 – Preston County Buckwheat Festival, 115 Brown Ave., Kingwood. Buckwheat cakes and sausage breakfast served all day. Car show, livestock shows and competitions, carnival rides, art and crafts, and a buckwheat cake eating contest. info@ buckwheatfest.com or www.buckwheatfest.com.

OCT. 5–6 – “Christmas in October” Craft Show, Hancock Co. Fgds., 1017 E. Sandusky St., Findlay, Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–4 p.m., rain or shine. $6; under 12 free. Over 300 exhibitors. Repurposed goods and furniture, vintage, shabby chic, farmhouse decor, Americana, and much more; food, live music, and kids’ entertainment. $1-off coupon available at http://cloudshows.biz/coupons. 419-436-1457 or find us on Facebook.

OCT. 5–6 – The Fantastic Tiffin Flea Market, Seneca Co. Fgds., 100 Hopewell Ave., Tiffin, Sat. 9 a.m.–4 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Free admission and parking; handicap accessible. 250 to 400 dealers per show. 419-447-9613, tiffinfleamarket@gmail.com, or www.tiffinfleamarket.com.

OCT. 5–6 – Johnny Appleseed Festival, Auglaize Village and Farm Museum, 12296 Krouse Rd., Defiance.

Step back in time to the pioneer days. Demonstrations, cooking, apple cider making, vendors, and food. 419-9900107 or villageauglaize@gmail.com.

OCT. 6 – Farm Toy Show, Van Wert Co. Fgds., 1055 S. Washington St. (U.S. 127), Van Wert, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. $2; under 12 free. Food and drink available. Parts dealer present. 937-826-4201.

OCT. 6 – Gymanfa Ganu: The Welsh Singing Festival, Gomer Congregational Church, 7350 Gomer Rd., Gomer, 7 p.m. Free. Contact Susan Siefker at 419-642-2681.

OCT. 12 – Sidney Fall Festival, 109 S. Ohio Ave., Sidney, 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Costume contest for ages 0–12 years.

Candy and activities at various locations downtown. 937658-6945 or www.sidneyalive.org.

OCT. 12 – Van Buren Lions Club Apple Butter Fest, Van Buren High School, 217 S. Main St., Van Buren, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Free. Enjoy apple butter and bean soup cooked over open fire on-site. Food vendors, craft and quilt show, farmers market, popcorn and nuts, kids’ area, Wind Beneath Our Wings animals, and Buttons the Clown with balloons. Something for the whole family! 419-299-3628 or vanburenapplebutter@yahoo.com.

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.

Continued on page 42

SEPTEMBER 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 41

2019 CALENDAR

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER

Continued from page 41

NORTHEAST

SEPT. 27–28 – Ohio State African Violet Society Show and Sale, Kingwood Center Gardens, 50 Trimble Rd., Mansfield, Fri. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. (sale), 1–5 p.m. (show); Sat. 9 a.m.–4 p.m. (show and sale). 937-654-7014, melsgrice@ gmail.com, or www.osavs.org.

SEPT. 27–28 – Woosterfest, downtown Wooster, Fri. noon–11 p.m., Sat. 11 a.m.–11 p.m. Traditional Oktoberfest celebration. 330-262-5735 or www.woosterfest.com.

SEPT. 28 – Oktoberfest, Wolf Creek/Pine Run Grist Mill, St. Rte. 3 S., Loudonville, noon–11 p.m. Ages 21+, $5; ages 10–20, $1; under 10 free. Beer, wine, live music all day, SEPT. 9–22 – “Celebrate the Constitution,” Historic Fort and food vendors. www.wolfcreekmill.org/events.html.

Steuben, 120 S. 3rd St., Steubenville, Mon.–Sat 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Free displays and activities. 740- OCT. 5 – Lorain County Beekeepers Association 100th Anniversary, Lorain Co. Fgds., 23000 Fairgrounds Rd., 283-1787 or www.oldfortsteuben.com.

Bldg. #19, 5 p.m. www.loraincountybeekeepers.org.

SEPT. 20 – Adult Swim: Greater Cleveland OCT. 5 – Richard Haldi, “The Ohio and Erie Canal: Ohio’s Aquarium, 2000 Sycamore St., Cleveland, 7–10 p.m.

First Super Highway,” Zoar Schoolhouse, 254 4th St., Zoar, $30–$40. Light hors d’oeuvres, 20 tasting tickets, 11 a.m.–noon. Free. https://historiczoarvillage.com. and a souvenir tasting glass. 216-862-8803 or www. greaterclevelandaquarium.com.

OCT. 5–6 – The Great Berea Train Show, Cuyahoga Co. SEPT. 20–22 – Great Mohican Indian Pow-Wow, 23270 Fgds., 19201 E. Bagley Rd., Middleburg Heights, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. $8; under 16 free with adult; $10 for 2-day pass. Over Wally Rd., Loudonville, Fri./Sun. 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–7 p.m. $8, C. (6–12) $4, under 6 free. 800-766-2267 500 dealers featuring model trains, accessories, and supplies, for all scales. www.thegreatbereatrainshow.org. or www.mohicanpowwow.com.

OCT. 5–6 – Holmes County Antique Festival, downtown SEPT. 21–22 – Zoar Civil War Re-enactment, Zoar, Sat. Millersburg. Antique markets, parades, arts and crafts, 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.–4 p.m. $10; free for ages 12 and under. The largest Civil War event in Ohio, battles Sat. demonstrations, car show, 5K and Fun Walk. Parade Sun. at 2 p.m. http://holmescountyantiquefestival.org. and Sun., with Sat. night ball and artillery night fire. 330874-3011 or https://historiczoarvillage.com.

OCT. 5–6, 12–13, 19–20 – Fall Foliage Tours, Lorain and West Virginia Railway, 46485 St. Rte. 18, Wellington, SEPT. 21–NOV. 2 – Corn Maze, Beriswill Farms, 2200 1:30 p.m. Tickets available at the station. 440-647-6660 or Station Rd., Valley City, Tues.–Sun. 11 a.m.–6 p.m.

Flashlight nights Saturdays during October. 330-350-2486 www.lwvry.org. or http://beriswillfarms.com.

OCT. 7–19 – “Riverboats on the Ohio” Exhibit and Programs, Historic Fort Steuben, 120 S. 3rd St., Steubenville, Mon.–Sat. 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Free. 740-283-1787 or www.oldfortsteuben.com.

OCT. 11–13 – Algonquin Mill Fall Festival, Algonquin Mill, 234 Autumn Rd. SW, Carrollton, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. $8 per vehicle. A family-oriented festival in a reconstructed pioneer village. Petting zoo, model railroad, car show, kids’ activities, and homemade sauerkraut. www. carrollcountyhistoricalsociety.com/mill/millfest.htm.

OCT. 12 – Oktoberfest, Painesville Depot, 475 Railroad St., Painesville, noon–10 p.m. $5, kids (3–12) $3, family $12. German brats and krauts, potato salad, and beer.

Music and German dancing. 216-470-5780 or www. painesvillerailroadmuseum.org.

OCT. 12–13 – Annual Apple Stirrin’ Festival, Unionport Grange, Co. Rd. 39, Unionport. Everything apples!

Open-fire apple butter, cider, fritters, and more! Crafts, demonstrations, food, and entertainment. 740-944-1533.

SOUTHEAST

contests, pie and cake auction, judging for pies, cakes, and cookies. 740-384-3537.

OCT. 5–6 – Lucasville Trade Days, Scioto Co. Fgds., 1193 Fairground Rd., Lucasville, Sat. 7 a.m.–7 p.m., Sun. 7 a.m.–4 p.m. $4; free for 12 and under. 937-728-6643 or www.lucasvilletradedays.com.

OCT. 5–6 – Paul Bunyan Show, Guernsey Co. Fgds., 335 Old National Rd., Lore City, Fri./Sat. 8 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 8 a.m.–3 p.m. $10; free for 6 and under. Lumberjack competitions, demonstrations and clinics, wood crafts, and more. 888-388-7337 or www.ohioforest.org.

OCT. 10 – Ladies’ Night Out, Deerassic Park Education Ctr., Cambridge, 5–8 p.m. $25. Join us for a night out to support United Way. Luau theme. Food, drinks, vendors, games, music, 50/50 and more. Only 150 tickets sold!

Tickets must be ordered in advance Call United Way at 740-439-2667.

OCT. 10–13 – The Crucible, Chillicothe Civic Theatre, S. Walnut St., Chillicothe, Thur.–Sat. 7 p.m. and 10 p.m., Sun. 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. $12–$15. The 1953 play by American playwright Arthur Miller is a dramatized story of the Salem witch trials. http://cctchillicothe.com.

OCT. 11–13 – Chillicothe Halloween Festival, Yoctangee Park, Chillicothe, Fri. 5–11 p.m., Sat. 11 a.m.–11 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Free. Haunted attractions, themed merchandise, bands, speakers, celebrity appearances, exhibits, contests. www. chillicothehalloweenfestival.com.

OCT. 12–13 – Monroe County Fall Festival, 46760 St. Rte. 26, Woodsfield. Free admission to grounds; $10 for track events. Crafts, antique tractors, petting zoo, corn grinding, antique/classic car show, chili, ribs, pumpkin decorating, pie baking contests, square dance, 5K walk/ run, truck and tractor pull. 740-926-1466 or 740-458-1694.

SEPT. 21–22 – Old Iron Power Club Power Show and Appalachian Foothills Fall Festival, Noble Co. Fgds., Caldwell, just off I-77, exit 25. Featuring Minneapolis-Moline, Cockshutt, oil pull tractors, New Holland engines, and a fall craft festival. Contact Darlene Bettinger at 740-585-2645.

SEPT. 26–29 – Barnesville Pumpkin Festival, 117 Cherry St., Barnesville. Parade, fun contests and activities, music, pumpkin-based food, and the Great Pumpkin Weigh-Off. 740-425-2593 or www.barnesvillepumpkinfestival.com.

SEPT. 27–29 – Fall 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 937THROUGH SEPT. 27 – Rise and Shine Farmers Market, 365-1935 or http://arcofappalachia.org/womens-retreat.

2135 Southgate Pkwy., Cambridge, Fridays 8 a.m.–noon.

SEPT. 28 – Lore City Car Show, Lore City, 1–3 p.m.

740-680-1866.

Registration 10 a.m.–1 p.m. 740-685-1053.

SEPT. 7–JAN. 5, 2020 – “Space: A Journey to Our SEPT. 28 – Main Street Fall Festival, downtown Future,” Bossard Library, 7 Spruce St., Gallipolis. Free.

Interactive exhibition as seen at the Smithsonian National Cambridge, 10 a.m.–7 p.m. 740-439-2238 or http:// downtowncambridge.com.

Air and Space Museum. Presented in cooperation with NASA. www.bossardlibrary.org.

SEPT. 28 – OUC Health and Safety Fair/Touch a Truck Experience, OU Chillicothe Shoemaker Gym and SEPT. 13–15 – Forest Therapy: A Weekend of Mindfulness Practices, Nature Immersion, and Poetry, parking lot, 101 University Dr., Chillicothe, 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Free. 740-774-7200, tilley@ohio.edu or www.ohio.

Highlands Nature Sanctuary, 7660 Cave Rd., Bainbridge. edu/chillicothe.

Join us this weekend to celebrate our connection with each other and our living natural communities.

SEPT. 29 – Artists in Residence Gallery Show, Registration is required. 937-365-1935 or http:// Highlands Nature Sanctuary, 7660 Cave Rd., Bainbridge. arcofappalachia.org/forest-therapy.

Showcase and sale of paintings by the nationally known Ohio plein air artists-in-residence during their stay at the SEPT. 21 – Ghost Walk, Chillicothe, 11 a.m.–6 p.m. $10.

Tour buildings in downtown Chillicothe and discover their Sanctuary. Artists will be available for conversation and haunted history. Meet the paranormal investigators. www. questions. http://arcofappalachia.org/artist-in-residence. chillicothehalloweenfestival.com.

OCT. 5 – Buckeye Furnace Historic Site Fall Festival, 123 Buckeye Park Rd., Wellston, 10 a.m.–4 SEPT. 21 – Guernsey Gospel Jubilee Fall Gospel Sing, p.m. Free. Bluegrass music (bring chairs), food, City Park Pavilion, 1203 N. 8th St., Cambridge. Free; farmers market, crafts. Kids’ activities, pie-eating offering only. 740-704-1487 or www.gospeljubilee.org.

42 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • SEPTEMBER 2019

OCT. 12–13 – Olde Stark Antique Faire, Stark Co. Fgds., Exhibition Bldg., 305 Wertz Ave. NW, Canton, Sat. 9 a.m.–4 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. $5; under 13 free.

Antiques and collectibles. 330-794-9100 or on Facebook.

OCT. 12–13 – Wayne County Farm Tour. Self-driven tour of area farms and agricultural businesses. For a booklet, call 330-263-7456 or email wayne@ofbf.org.

OCT. 13 – Ohio Village Muffins vs. Historic Zoar Village, ballfield on corner of 1st and Park, Zoar, 2–4 p.m.

Vintage baseball game with old-time costumes and 1860s rules. Donations appreciated. 330-874-3011, zoarinfo@ historiczoarvillage.com, or https://historiczoarvillage.com.

Details at The Olde Barn at Garrett’s Mountain, Amanda, Sat. 9 a.m.–5 p.m., or www.countryshophop.com.

SEPT. 20–21 – Sims Fall Festival, 11300 ChillicotheLancaster Rd., Amanda, Fri. noon–7 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Free. Bean cook Friday. Antique farm equipment, arts and crafts, mums, pumpkins. Civil War encampment.

General Sherman’s cannon fired Fri. 6 p.m., Sat. 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Kids’ activities on Saturday. 740-969-2225 or www.simsfallfestival.com.

SEPT. 20–22 – Backwoods Fest, 8572 High Point Rd., Thornville, Fri./Sat. 8 a.m.–6 p.m., Sun. 8 a.m.–5 p.m. $9; 10 and under free. Free parking. Arts, crafts, music, and food! 740-246-4709, www.thornvillebackwoodsfest.com.

SEPT. 21 – Oktoberfest, 80 W. Church St., Pickerington, noon–10 p.m. Free admission. Local brews and wine, food and business vendors, live music outdoors all day.

Family-friendly event! www.pickeringtonvillage.com.

SEPT. 21–22 – Harvest Celebration, Smeck Park, 7395 Basil Rd, Baltimore. Free. Featuring harvesting demonstrations by the Fairfield County Antique Tractor Club. 740-681-7249 ext. 105 or www.fairfieldcountyparks. org/events/special-events.

SEPT. 27–28 – Scott Antique Markets, Fayette Co. Fgds., 213 Fairview Ave., Washington Court House, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. $1 admission, good all weekend. Free parking. America’s favorite treasure hunt! 740569-4112, info@scottantiquemarket.com, or www. scottantiquemarkets.com.

SEPT. 28–29 – Fly-In and Drive-In Car Show, Zanesville Municipal Airport, 850 Airport Rd., Zanesville.

Commemorating the 75th anniversary of D-Day. Ride on a “Whisky 7”/C-47! $95/per ride, 14 people at once. 740954-0059, www.facebook.com/eaavintage22, or www. vintageairplane.org.

OCT. 4–5 – Heart of Ohio Quilt Guild Biennial Quilt Show, Bryn Du Mansion Carriage House, 537 Jones Rd., Granville, Fri. 10 a.m.–7 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $6, Srs. $5, under 12 free. Theme: “Make New Quilts, but Keep the Old.” Quilt raffle, tutorials, quilt challenge blocks, refreshments, and quilt appraisers. https:// heartofohioquilters.com or see our Facebook page.

OCT. 4–6 – Disney’s Frozen Jr., Marion Palace Theatre, 276 W. Center St., Marion. Adults $15; age 12 and under, $12. Elsa, Anna, and the magical land of Arendelle come to life onstage. Cast of children directed by Kristi Wink.

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

OCT. 5 – Crafts for a Cure for Alzheimer’s, Isla Grande Farm Auction Barn, 2730 Harding Hwy. W., Marion, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Crafts, vendors, food, raffles. All indoors!

740-262-2286 or craftsforacure@yahoo.com.

OCT. 5–6 – Ohio Makes Festival, Zane State College, 1555 Newark Rd., Zanesville, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Free admission. Makers and manufacturers will be offering their products for sale — all Ohio-made products!

Demonstrations, food trucks, live music, and fun for the entire family. www.facebook.com/ohiomakesfestival.

OCT. 11–13 – Columbus Italian Festival, St. John the Baptist Italian Catholic Church, 720 Hamlet St., Columbus, Fri. 5–11 p.m., Sat. noon–11 p.m., Sun. noon–7 p.m. $5, under 12 free. 614-294-8259 or www. columbusitalianfestival.com.

OCT. 11–13, 18–19 – The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, Renner Theatre, 148 N. 7th St., Zanesville, Fri./ Sat. 8 p.m., Sun. 2:30 p.m. C.S. Lewis’ classic tale, set in the land of Narnia. www.therenner.org.

OCT. 11–12 – Historic Ghost Tour, presented by the Canal Winchester Historical Society, Frances Steube Senior Ctr., 22 S. Trine St., Canal Winchester. Tickets sale begins at 6 p.m., tours start at 6:30 p.m., with the last one at 7:30. 614-833-1846 or http://cwhistory.org.

OCT. 12 – Gatsby at Wagnalls, Wagnalls Memorial, Lithopolis. $50; early ticket, $45. Come dressed in your finest Roaring Twenties attire or Gatsby-themed couture.

Benefits Wagnalls Memorial Foundation. Silent auction.

Contact socialmedia@linearcreative.com, call 216-7411533, or visit www.wagnalls.org.

OCT. 12 – Grandma Gatewood’s Fall Colors Hike, Hocking Hills State Park, 19852 St. Rte. 664 S., Logan, 9 a.m. A strenuous hike that spans 6 miles, from Old Man’s Cave to Cedar Falls and back. 740-385-6841 or www. thehockinghills.org/Events.htm.

SEPT. 18 – Vernon McIntyre’s Appalachian Grass, Vinoklet Winery, 11069 Colerain Ave., Cincinnati, 6:30– 8:30 p.m. Free. Dinner and bluegrass music. Reservations recommended. 513-385-9309 or www.vinokletwines.com.

SEPT. 18–21 – Seaman Fall Festival, Seaman, day and night. Free. Contests, rides, entertainment, flea market, floral hall, horse/miniature horse and pony pulls, tractor pulls, food. Contact 937-386-2083.

SEPT. 20–22 – WACO Celebration and Fly-In, WACO Historic Airfield and Learning Ctr., 1865 S. Co. Rd. 25A, Troy.

WACO owners fly to Troy. See the beautiful aircraft, talk to the owners, tour the renovated museum, ride in an open THROUGH SEPT. 26 – Uptown Music Concert Series, cockpit biplane! Food available. www.wacoairmuseum.org.

Uptown Park, Oxford, every Thur. 7–9:30 p.m. Free. 513SEPT. 21 – Piqua Arts and Ale Fest, Canal Place, Piqua.

523-8687 or www.enjoyoxford.org.

Fine art, crafts, plein air competition, entertainment, food SEPT. 7 – Astronomy Event, Serpent Mound, 3850 and drinks, kids’ zone. www.piquaartscouncil.org.

OH-73, Peebles, 6:30–11 p.m. Free, $8 parking. Tour of the night sky the staff of the Cincinnati Observatory. http:// SEPT. 21–22 – Preble County Pork Festival, Preble arcofappalachia.org/astronomy-night-at-serpent-mound. Co. Fgds., 722 S. Franklin St., Eaton. Free. Parade Sat. SEPT. 8 – Music at the Mound with Steve Free, Serpent 10:30 a.m. Pork chops, pulled pork, ham sandwiches, and sausage. Petting zoo, kiddie tractor pull, magic show, and Mound, 3850 OH-73, Peebles, 1 p.m. Free admission; $8 racing pigs! www.porkfestival.org. parking. http://arcofappalachia.org/steve-free.

SEPT. 14 – Bret Michaels: Unbroken World Tour, Hobart SEPT. 27 – Vernon McIntyre’s Appalachian Grass, Brown Co. Fgds., Danny Gray Activity Ctr., 325 W. State St., Arena, 255 Adams St., Troy. www.hobartarena.com.

Georgetown, 3:30 p.m. $10. www.thelittlestatefair.com.

SEPT. 14 – Troy Porchfest, downtown Troy. More than 20 bands in a variety of genres play in the Southwest Historic SEPT. 27–29 – Tipp City Mum Festival, Community Park, Tipp City. Free. Parade, rides, entertainment, district. Walkable maps available. www.troyhayner.org.

concessions, and more. Cruise-in on Friday; 5K run on Saturday. 937-667-8631 or www.tippcitymumfestival.org.

OCT. 5 – Celebrate Fall at the Johnston Farm, 9845 N. Hardin Rd., Piqua, 12–5:30 p.m. Johnston home and Historic Indian and Canal Museum tours; rides on the General Harrison of Piqua, a 19th-century canal boat replica, at 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. 800-752-2619 or www. johnstonfarmohio.com.

OCT. 8–12 – Bradford Pumpkin Show, downtown Bradford. Free. Parades, concessions, rides, and contests.

Baking contest on Wednesday. Car show and smash-apumpkin on Saturday. www.bradfordpumpkinshow.org.

OCT. 12–13 – Ohio Sauerkraut Festival, Waynesville, Sat. 9 a.m.–8 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.–6 p.m. Homemade sauerkraut and many kraut-containing foods. Nonkraut foods also available. 513-897-8855 or https:// sauerkrautfestival.waynesvilleohio.com.

OCT. 12–13 – Fall Farm Fest, Lost Creek Reserve and Knoop Agricultural Learning Ctr., 2385 E. St. Rte. 41, Troy, Sat. 12–7 p.m., Sun. 12–5 p.m. Free. Corn maze, pumpkin patch, scarecrow contest, wagon and pony rides, kids’ activities, and more. 937-335-6273 or https://www. miamicountyparks.com/fall-farm-fest.

CENTRAL

THROUGH OCT. 26 – Delaware Farmers Market, N. Sandusky St. (between William and Winter), Delaware, Wed. 3–6 p.m., Sat. 9–12 p.m. 740-362-6050 or www. mainstreetdelaware.com/event/farmers-market.

THROUGH OCT. 26 – Zanesville Farmers Market, Muskingum Co. Fgds., 1300 Pershing Rd., Zanesville, every Sat. 9 a.m.–12 p.m. Through September, the market is also open every Wed. 4–7 p.m. at N. 3rd Street. www. zanesvillefarmersmarket.org.

THROUGH OCT. 27 – Rock Mill Weekends, Stebelton Park at Rock Mill, 1429 Rockmill Place NW, Lancaster, every Sat. and Sun. 12–4 p.m. Free. Tour the restored gristmill, walk on the covered bridge, and enjoy the falls.

740-681-7249 or www.fairfieldcountyparks.org.

SEPT. 14–OCT. 31 – Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch, McDonald’s Greenhouse and Corn Maze, 3220 Adamsville Rd., Zanesville. $7. 740-452-4858 or www. mcdonaldsgreenhouse.com.

SEPT. 20 – The Guess Who, Marion Palace Theatre, 276 W. Center St., Marion, 7:30 p.m. $32–$50. 740-383-2101 or www.marionpalace.org.

SEPT. 15 – North Side Jazz Band Concert, Clintonville Woman’s Club, 3951 N. High St., Columbus, 2–5 p.m. $20, members $15, music teachers/students free. BYOB, but food and soft drinks available to purchase. www.cohjs.org.

SEPT. 20–21 – The Country Shop Hop, in Amanda, Stoutsville, and Tarlton. Special offers from 14 businesses to all shop hoppers. Visit 10 locations to enter a prize drawing.

SOUTHWEST

SEPTEMBER 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 43

MEMBER INTERACTIVE 1

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1. Our granddaughter, Malia, wasn’t too excited about her first day of school, having just moved from California to Ohio.

Malia Brooks Paulding Putnam Electric Cooperative member

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2. My son, Colton, is super excited to start school.

Missy Dean Washington Electric Cooperative member 3. My grandson, Camden, getting on the school bus for his first day of kindergarten.

Katie Grubba South Central Power Company member

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4. Our children and their neighbor friends walking down the driveway on the first day of school. From left to right: our son, Cade; his friends, James, Josie, Jenna, and Jake; and our daughter, Anna.

Julie Bryant Union Rural Electric Cooperative member 6

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5. Kayla Kellar, 7, gets to the school bus stop by way of her dad, Steve Kellar, towing her across the flooded waters of Seneca Lake, following hurricanes Ivan and Frances.

Toni Kellar Washington Electric Cooperative member 6. Our grandchildren, Jaime and Jeffrey, running to the bus for their first day of school.

Patty and Larry Quaglia South Central Power Company members 7. Stella and Emma are seeing their little brother, James, off to kindergarten.

Amy Fifer Tricounty Rural Electric Cooperative member

Send us your picture!

For December, send “Silent Night” by Sept. 15; for January, send “Slumber Party” by Oct. 15. Upload your photos at www. ohioec.org/memberinteractive — and remember to include your co-op name and to identify everyone in the photos.

44 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • SEPTEMBER 2019

8. Local Amish kids going back to school.

Kathy DeHass Holmes-Wayne Electric Cooperative member

ENTER TO WIN A $100 ELECTRIC BILL CREDIT!* Bring your completed entry form to the Ohio Cooperative Living booth in our Education Center on Wheat Street at the 2019 Farm Science Review.

Name: Electric co-op name: Email address:

*Must be an Ohio electric cooperative member to enter and win. Must be original entry form — no photocopies.

FARM SCIENCE REVIEW September 17–19, 2019

This major agricultural show sponsored

by The Ohio State University draws more than 130,000 people every year. It’s a fun, educational event for farmers and non-farmers alike.

STOP BY OUR BUILDING

You'll find ways you can save energy and money in the home and on the farm. Cool off and enjoy samples from demonstrations by the cooking ladies, now in their 30th year! And, of course, the complimentary popcorn!

ohioec.org/energy