Ohio Cooperative Living - June 2020 - North Western

OHIO

JUNE 2020

COOPERATIVE North Western Electric Cooperative

COVID-19 transformed learning Nominate your student to win $25 | Page 20

ALSO INSIDE Solar success “Dusting” crops Stone Lab

Interested in saving energy?

As an electric cooperative member, you have access to free information on how to save energy.

In fact, we’ve been your community’s trusted source of energy advice for more than 80 years.

Contact your cooperative and learn about how you can upgrade your home’s energy efficiency.

ohioec.org/energy

OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JUNE 2020

INSIDE FEATURES 24 BICYCLES BUILT FOR YOU

Building on Ohio’s bicycle heritage, some modern bike makers specialize in unique, individualized two-wheel customizations.

31 LITTLE GIANT Stone Lab, on Lake Erie’s tiny Gibralter Island, is a big name in the study and preservation of the lake’s ecology.

Cover image on most issues: “When the spirits are low, when the day appears dark, when work becomes monotonous, when hope hardly seems worth having, just mount a bicycle and go out for a spin down the road, without thought on anything but the ride you are taking.”

— Sir Arthur Conan Doyle in Scientific American, 1896

JUNE 2020 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 1

UP FRONT

Panic panacea T

he COVID-19 pandemic has dominated the global conversation over the past several months. Moreover, it’s dictated our personal and professional lives. In an effort to keep us as safe as possible from an invisible invader and a relentless enemy, government directives have been ever-evolving. The crisis has taken an unthinkable emotional and financial toll. Worst of all, it’s stolen lives and livelihoods. We’ll be unraveling the repercussions for years.

While the news hasn’t been good, there have been sparks of hope, borne of American optimism and the cooperative spirit. We’re not reeling from a voracious virus — we’re resolute in our resolve to recover and to prosper. We’re living through the pages of history, but our chapter has yet to conclude. We’ve been there before, and we’ll weather the storm again. We have no other choice.

The cooperative world is founded on principles that guide us through the tough times. Most crucial among those ideologies is concern for community — which extends to countless cooperative communities in 77 Ohio counties. In that vein, we offer our gratitude.

Thank you — to everyone who checked on a neighbor, friend, or relative.

Thank you — to everyone who provided internet access to allow a student to finish the school year.

Thank you — to everyone who supports and patronizes Ohio-owned businesses.

Thank you — to parents who take care of children while working from home.

Thank you — to Ohio’s 24 electric cooperatives, for keeping the lights on and the power flowing for members who found themselves unable to pay bills.

Thank you — to the staffs of our power plants, who work tirelessly to supply an essential service — electricity — that allows other fundamental service providers — health care workers, first responders, farming operations, and grocers, among others — to continue to look out for the rest of us.

Thank YOU — for your patience, strength, and determination ... for a kind word or a sympathetic gesture ... for helping to make the road a bit easier to travel as we forge an unparalleled path.

Let’s keep moving toward the light that we see at the end of the tunnel.

2 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JUNE 2020

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

The cooperative world is founded on principles that guide us through the tough times. Most crucial among those ideologies is concern for community.

JUNE 2020 • Volume 62, No. 9

MORE INSIDE Ohio Rural Electric Cooperatives 6677 Busch Blvd.

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

Patrick Higgins Director of Communications

Jeff McCallister Managing Editor

Rebecca Seum Associate Editor

Anita Cook Graphic Designer

Dava Hennosy Editorial Intern Contributors: Colleen Romick Clark, Randy Edwards, W.H. “Chip” Gross, Catherine Murray, James Proffitt, Margie Wuebker, and Patty Yoder.

OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING (USPS 134-760; ISSN 2572-049X) is published monthly by Ohio Rural Elec­tric Co­op­eratives, Inc. It is the official com­mun­ ication link be­tween the elec­­­­tric co­operatives in Ohio and West Virginia and their mem­bers. Subscription cost for members ranges from $5.52 to $6.96 per year, paid from equity accruing to the member.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to editorial and advertising offices at: 6677 Busch Boulevard, Columbus, OH 43229-1101. Periodicals postage paid at Pontiac, IL 61764, and at additional mailing offices.

Nothing in this publication may be reproduced in any manner without written permission from Ohio Rural Electric Cooperatives, Inc. All rights reserved.

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.

For all advertising inquiries, contact

Cheryl Solomon American MainStreet Publications 847-749-4875 | cheryl@amp.coop

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.

DEPARTMENTS

4

4 POWER LINES

Call us first: Going solar? The trusted energy advisors at your co-op should be one of your first calls.

6 Flying high: Ohio cooperatives collaborate to bring a Flying Squirrel to 4-H Camp Ohio.

6

8 CO-OP SPOTLIGHT

Mid-Ohio Energy Cooperative: Community-focused co-op serves an area of west-central Ohio that’s rich in history and fun times.

8

10 WOODS, WATERS, AND WILDLIFE

Where the bison roam: Ohio once was home to millions of the iconic beasts; today, only a few remain.

12 CO-OP PEOPLE

Crop duster: Aerial applicator, on the job for 30 years, helps farmers perform agriculture from above.

12

15 GOOD EATS

Fish stories: Coming home with a stringer full after a day at the lake?

Here are some fresh ideas to fix that catch of the day.

19 LOCAL PAGES

News and information from your electric cooperative.

15

37 CALENDAR

What’s happening: June/July events and other things to do around the state. Just make sure to confirm before you travel.

40 MEMBER INTERACTIVE

I want to ride my bicycle: With the

40

advent of summer, readers share their best memories on two wheels (well, sometimes more than two).

JUNE 2020 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 3

POWER LINES

“Call us first” Going solar? Your co-op’s trusted advisors should be involved early on.

BY JEFF MCCALLISTER

Nick and Amanda Kelly knew they were making a long-term investment, one they hoped would benefit not only their wallets, but the entire planet.

After a search they had begun to think would never end, they finally found their dream house on an ideal parcel of land in north-central Ohio. As they settled in, they began seeing advertisements for the installation of solar panels that sounded almost too good to be true.

“It was perfect,” Amanda Kelly says. “We could get a system with no money out of pocket that would save us money on our bills now, and by selling the extra electricity the panels generated, we’d even have a small income stream — especially once we paid off the loan. Saving money, saving the planet for our kids — it was everything we wanted.”

Today, the Kellys are in a battle with the solar company to get the panels removed and their investment returned. The salesperson, they say, wildly exaggerated the production potential of their system and subtly pressured them into signing a contract before they had a chance to investigate all the details and promises of the deal. Now, between the loan payment and their regular electric bill, the total they spend each month for electricity has quadrupled.

“It’s like most things that sound too good to be true,” says Andrew Finton, energy advisor for North Central Electric Cooperative, of which the Kellys are members. “The solar company either didn’t have or didn’t give them any information that is specific to connecting to the (co-op) system, and it would have made a big difference — things like our on- and off-peak rates and our demand charge that are designed to make our billing fair to all of our members. The numbers they were using to estimate the savings on their bill weren’t even close to real life.”

The co-op’s message: “Talk to us first.”

“People somehow think that we might be anti-solar because we sell our own electricity,” Finton says. “They don’t remember that we’re not for profit, that we have always been their trusted energy advisors. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve gone into someone’s home and showed them all kinds of ways that they could use less electricity. How many for-profit companies teach their customers how to use less of their product? Not very many.

“Those solar companies like to get that contract signed before the member even has a chance to talk to us about it, and then it might be too late,” he says. “I would never tell anyone they can’t get solar panels for their home; I just want to make sure they have all the information they need to make a good decision.”

4 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JUNE 2020

Dennis Tietje, his son, Chris, and brother, Ervin, who operate Tietje Brothers Farm near Deshler, took advantage of grants and tax incentives to install 320 solar panels to help power their homes and farm operation.

A solar system made good economic sense for Dennis Tietje and his family, who live near Deshler and are members of Hancock-Wood Electric Cooperative — though it wasn’t when they first considered it.

“Five years ago, a guy approached me and wanted to talk about installing a solar array,” says Tietje, who farms 6,500 acres with his brother, Ervin, and his son, Chris, and uses a large electric load to dry the wheat and corn he harvests. “I said right away that I needed to talk to the co-op to talk about the numbers. It turned out that it just didn’t make sense, so we walked away. We wanted to improve our operation’s sustainability, so I checked again about a year ago, and as it turned out, the price of the system was about half of what it had been, it was more efficient, and there were grants available and a big tax incentive. The co-op looked at all the numbers and was able to confirm that it seemed like a good idea.”

Dennis installed 80 panels between his house and the farm shop, Ervin had 40 installed on his house, and they had

another 200 installed for the grain drying operation. With the grants, tax credits, and some luck with the weather, the panels will pay for themselves within five years.

“Co-ops are not generally anti-solar, but we just want to help folks make sure it makes sense,” says Ryan Goolsby, senior engineer at Hancock-Wood Electric. “We know that not everyone is doing it necessarily for just monetary reasons, but costs need to be transparent and projections need to be realistic.”

In fact, electric cooperatives have supported home power installations for years. Buckeye Power, the cooperative generation provider, has even worked to simplify the process and to make cooperative policies and fees even more transparent.

“The solar companies might know about solar installations, but there’s no one who knows more about our system and your bill than we do,” Finton says. “If you’re considering solar for your home, just make sure to call your co-op and make sure there won’t be any surprises down the road.”

JUNE 2020 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 5

FLYING HIGH S

ummer camp means a week of adventure, and Camp Ohio does not disappoint. Every year, hundreds of 4-H’ers travel to Licking County to test their courage on a high ropes course, make wood-burning crafts and tie-dye T-shirts, and form lifelong friendships.

While the 2020 summer camp schedule may be altered because of the coronavirus pandemic, there’s a new feature at Camp Ohio that has gained instant popularity and will be used well into the future.

Ohio cooperatives collaborate to bring Flying Squirrel to Camp Ohio.

BY PATTY YODER

In 2016, Camp Ohio’s board of directors began searching for a new activity. Board member and Muskingum County extension educator Jamie McConnell wanted to put something exciting near the center of the hilly 544-acre campground so more kids would see it and want to try it.

On a regional bus tour of other camps, McConnell discovered the Flying Squirrel, a rope and pulley system attached to two utility poles. The activity goes like this: A group of kids on one end of the rope works together to lift a securely harnessed camper on the other end of the rope off the ground and some 30 feet into the air. The flyer swings back and forth for a bit before spinning safely back to earth.

It seemed like a perfect activity for Camp Ohio, but the $10,000 price tag was far too steep for the nonprofit’s budget. Since the utility poles were the most expensive component, McConnell wondered if an electric cooperative would consider donating them to make the Flying Squirrel a reality for 4-H’ers.

McConnell ran the idea by Ray Crock, energy advisor at New Concord-based Guernsey-Muskingum Electric Cooperative, who was happy to help. An active 4-H’er growing up, Crock and his wife, Lisa, are longtime advisors for their children’s 4-H club, Flocks of Fun.

6 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • MAY JUNE2020 2020

Crock also works with The Energy Cooperative, based in Newark, so he started his fundraising campaign there. The co-op not only gave Camp Ohio the two electric poles but also donated guywires and anchors and made sure everything was installed properly at the camp.

Seven more co-ops followed suit, including Consolidated Cooperative, based in Mount Gilead; New London-based Firelands Electric Cooperative; The Frontier Power Company, based in Coshocton; GuernseyMuskingum Electric; Hancock-Wood Electric Cooperative, based in North Baltimore; Holmes-Wayne Electric Cooperative in Millersburg; and Kentonbased Mid-Ohio Energy Cooperative.

They covered the costs of the remaining materials as well as safety training.

McConnell attributes the success of the project to Crock’s advocacy, calling the experience “a teachable moment to watch.”

“This project wouldn’t have happened the way it did without the cooperatives. Their willingness to come together and chip in shows the power of each contribution to achieve a greater goal,” she says. “The widespread impact of their generosity will benefit people for years.”

Like electric co-ops, 4-H is strong in rural communities, so while Crock felt humbled by such generosity, he wasn’t surprised.

“Most co-ops are big at supporting 4-H, and this was a good cause, so everyone was

“When it comes to helping other people, think big.”

Ray Crock championed the Flying Squirrel to fellow cooperatives in counties that feed into Camp Ohio, raising enough money and donated items to add it to the 544-acre camp. Crock hasn’t tried the Flying Squirrel himself, though. At 6 feet, 4 inches, he says, “It would take a lot of kids to pick me up.”

in,” he says. “This was cooperation among cooperatives at its best, and together, we made something special happen.”

The Flying Squirrel debuted at Camp Ohio in 2019, and it was a big hit with campers, according to Taylor Zemba, a 4-H camp counselor from New Concord.

“Every session we had was full, and we had kids lining up to come back and try again,” she says. “Some kids were skeptical about whether their friends could hold them up, but they tried it, and as soon as they came down, they were ready to go up again.”

Like many 4-H programs, the Flying Squirrel teaches skills the kids can use as adults, like working together to meet a challenge, communicating effectively, and overcoming anxiety to try something new.

For Crock, the lesson was simple: “When it comes to helping other people, think big.”

Camp Ohio campers get ready to demonstrate the Flying Squirrel, a popular new attraction at the 4-H camp.

JUNE 2020 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 7

CO-OP SPOTLIGHT

MID-OHIO ENERGY COOPERATIVE

M

id-Ohio Energy Cooperative is located in the westcentral part of Ohio, between Columbus and Toledo.

The territory features historical landmarks, fun attractions, and a service-oriented community. From funding service projects to educational programs and sponsoring local events, cooperative employees continually seek ways to contribute to the community they serve.

Attractions The Ohio Historical Markers program has placed 1,800 markers throughout the state, identifying unique stories about people, places, and events in Ohio history. The 10 counties that Mid-Ohio Energy serves are home to 127 markers, and six of those fall within Mid-Ohio’s territory: Scioto Marsh, Fort McArthur Cemetery, Old Sandusky Trail and Shawnee Ford, Wheeler Tavern, the Sandusky Plains, and Killdeer Plains Wildlife Area. Scioto Marsh was formed by retreating glaciers over 10,000 years ago. What was once thought by early settlers to be a source of malaria is now a rich agricultural area. Wheeler Tavern is considered by local historians to be the first brick residence in Hardin County and was a stop on the Underground Railroad.

Attractions near Mid-Ohio Energy’s territory in the city of Marion draw visitors from around the state and nation. The Marion Popcorn Festival, the largest popcorn festival in the world, attracts more than 250,000 people each year.

Marion County is one of the top popcorn growers in all of the U.S. — and Wyandot Snacks, also located in Marion, is a top exporter worldwide of popcorn.

Community first The co-op’s Kenton headquarters features a community room for community-focused and/or not-for-profit groups.

Last winter, the Blue Star Mothers of Hardin County used the space to sort and pack 400 boxes of comfort and care items for troops deployed overseas. Mid-Ohio Energy members participated by dropping donation items at the co-op’s office.

Each year, Mid-Ohio Energy’s Community Fund provides about $40,000 in grants to help organizations and individuals in the community. The Community Fund has presented grants to first responders, food pantries, and other service projects like AMVET Riders Chapter 1994 to build wheelchair ramps for veterans in need.

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.

8 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JUNE 2020

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WOODS, WATERS, AND WILDLIFE

Where the

bison roam

Ohio once was home to millions of the iconic beasts; only a few remain.

STORY AND PHOTOS BY W.H. “CHIP” GROSS

T

he year 1803 was pivotal in Ohio history. It was a year when what had always been — the frontier — was rapidly passing away, and what would be was now arriving.

Ohio became the 17th state of the Union in 1803, an event enthusiastically celebrated by Buckeyes of the time. But another significant event occurred that same year, an event noticed by only a few. It was the year the

10 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JUNE 2020

last wild bison was shot and killed in Ohio, near the present site of Vesuvius Furnace in Lawrence County, at the southernmost tip of our state. It marked the beginning of the end of the state’s wilderness era, a time that likely will never come again.

Other large wild animals living in the state, what present-day wildlife biologists refer to as “charismatic megafauna,” were soon to follow the bison into

extirpation. Elk were gone by 1838, wolves by 1848. Some reports claim that mountain lions may have survived until as late as 1850.

The largest North American land mammal in existence today, bull bison measure 6 feet at the shoulder and can weigh a ton. Females, known as cows, are about half as large. Bison were never as numerous in the Ohio country as they were on the Great Plains — the massive herds there were estimated at 30 million to 60 million animals.

But nevertheless, Ohio once had significant numbers of bison, particularly in and around the prairie openings that interspersed Ohio’s virgin forests.

In historian David McCullough’s 2019 book, The Pioneers, an in-depth history of Marietta, Ohio, he quotes an unidentified settler who wrote in a letter to his family back east: “This country, for fertility of soil and pleasantness of situation, not only exceeds my expectations, but exceeds any part of America, or Europe, I ever was in. We have started [startled] twenty buffaloes [bison] in a drove.”

In a much earlier book, History of the Northern American Indians, written in 1780, David Zeisberger, a missionary to the Delaware Indians in Ohio, wrote of bison: “At one time these animals appeared in great numbers along the Muskingum [River], but as soon as the country begins to be inhabited by the Indians, they retire and are now only to be found near the mouth of the above-named river. Along the banks of the Scioto [River] and further south, both Indians and whites say that they may be seen in herds numbering hundreds.”

Some bison have returned to Ohio in recent years, but these are not free-roaming as their ancestors were hundreds of years ago. Rather, most of today’s bison are raised like cattle on farms for meat or kept confined as zoo animals.

A metal bison sculpture amid prairie grasses at Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park near Columbus.

If you’d like to see bison on the open range — as they would have appeared during pre-settlement times — Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park near Columbus maintains a small herd near its nature center. A good time to visit is mid- to late summer when the surrounding prairies are in full bloom. If you’re headed west on vacation this year, the National Bison Range located near Moiese, Montana, and managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is well worth a stop. Visitors are permitted to drive through the refuge to view the herds.

Established in 1908 by President Theodore Roosevelt, the national refuge helped save the American bison from extinction. By the late 1800s, the total bison population in America had dwindled to less than 100 animals in the wild. Today, several hundred freeroaming bison are maintained on the refuge, with other large herds now thriving on national and state parks throughout the West — theirs is a historic wildlife recovery story.

W.H. “Chip” Gross is Ohio Cooperative Living’s outdoors editor and a member of Consolidated Cooperative.

Bison herds still thrive at national and state parks throughout the West.

JUNE 2020 • OHIO 2020 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 11 LIVING 11

CO-OP PEOPLE

12 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JUNE 2020

Aerial applicator, on the job for 30 years, helps farmers conduct agriculture from above.

BY MARGIE WUEBKER; PHOTOS BY JUSTIN MARTIN

R

oger Trump, owner of Trump Aviation Inc. in rural Darke County, expects to be busy this year doing his part to support agriculture from high above farm fields.

Some folks call him a crop duster — a term harkening back to days when men in flying machines dropped only dry products over burgeoning fields. Today, the term “aerial applicator” more accurately describes those who spread various dry and liquid chemicals, as well as seed and cover crops, onto farm fields.

Trump’s work begins in earnest in April to early May and continues through September or early October, with eight- to 10-hour days being the rule, rather than the exception. Trump flies his 1979 Cessna A188B over a 10-county area of western Ohio and parts of Indiana — much of it territory served by electric cooperatives.

“Some people mistakenly think flying across the sky and then swooping down over fields to deliver the payload is romantic or glamorous,” he says. “It’s grueling work, and the most important part is bringing the plane home in one piece. There is never an end to routine maintenance.”

Trump has 30 seasons and more than 8,000 flights under his belt since establishing the business in 1990.

He experienced one mishap in all that time — engine failure while spraying fungicide over a field in rural Mercer County in July 2018. He successfully executed an emergency landing in a nearby soybean field, resulting in only minimal damage to the aircraft.

“There was no time to think and only six or seven seconds to react,” he says. “Thanks to experience in aerobatics in my younger days, I knew instinctively what had to be done, and it worked, because I walked away without a scratch.”

Trump, who operates one of about 10 aerial applicator businesses in the state, says many farmers have come to

view aerial application as a timesaver. At a speed of 130 miles per hour, he can accomplish more in 60 minutes than ground equipment can do in a day.

“I have to admit it takes me longer to turn my plane than the farmer takes to turn his tractor,” the 63-yearold pilot says with a smile. “My plane also burns more fuel than a tractor, but I get the work done faster.”

Of course, the aerial work isn’t just faster — sometimes it’s the only way the spreading can happen. Because of excessively wet conditions, Trump sprayed more fields in 2018 than he had in any previous season, as farmers had to avoid putting their tractors out in the soggy fields. Flying with the landing gear roughly 5 feet above the crop, he delivered needed chemicals without getting stuck or leaving deep ruts.

Trump also can plant cover crops by air — on a cornfield, for example — before the corn is ready to harvest, which provides a means of limiting both erosion and fertilizer runoff.

He says he may cover 30,000 acres during a busy season, or as few as 18,000 acres in years when his services are not as in demand.

Trump built model planes as a child and larger aircraft — from scratch, not from kits — as a young adult. He competed in aerobatic shows and contests around the Midwest and was even Ohio’s state aerobatics champion before he decided he needed to put his skills to use earning money, rather than funneling everything into the competitions.

Even after 30 years, he has no plans to retire anytime soon. The work may be challenging, but he takes satisfaction in knowing that he’s helping farmers produce food for the world.

Trump Aviation Inc. is located at 5992 Kruckeberg Road, northeast of Greenville.

JUNE 2020 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 13

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14 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JUNE 2020

Fish stories

GOOD EATS

Coming home with a stringer full after a day at the lake? Here are some fresh ideas to fix that catch of the day.

RECIPES AND PHOTOS BY CATHERINE MURRAY

CITRUS-GLAZED SALMON WITH ZUCCHINI NOODLES Prep: 20 minutes | Cook: 15 minutes | Servings: 4 16 ounces salmon fillets, about 11/2 inches thick 4 tablespoons honey 1 tablespoon butter 2 tablespoons white vinegar 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 teaspoon ground mustard seed 2 large oranges 1 tablespoon olive oil 2 lemons, juiced 11/2 pounds zucchini, spiraled to 1/4 inch thick NOTE: If your zucchini noodles or salmon are thinner or thicker than recommended, adjust cook time accordingly.

Rinse salmon and pat dry with a kitchen towel. Heat a skillet to medium-high and melt butter with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sear salmon skin side up for 3 to 4 minutes. Flip and sear 2 more minutes. In a medium bowl, zest rind of one orange and squeeze out all the juice. Whisk in half the lemon juice, honey, vinegar, and ground mustard seed. Move salmon to the sides of the pan and pour the orange juice mixture around the salmon. Bring to a simmer until reduced to a nice syrup.

3 cloves garlic, minced 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 cup minced flat-leaf parsley

When salmon is almost finished, start preparing the zucchini noodles. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add zucchini noodles, garlic, salt, crushed red pepper, and black pepper, sautéing for 3 minutes. Add a few tablespoons water and heat another minute or so. Noodles should have the firmness of al dente pasta. Mix in parsley and the remaining half of the lemon juice. When salmon is cooked to your liking, plate the zucchini noodles and top with salmon.

Evenly pour sauce over the salmon and noodles. Cut second orange into thin slices, for garnish. Serve hot.

Per serving: 387 calories, 21 grams fat (5 grams saturated fat), 28 grams total carbohydrates, 2.5 grams fiber, 25 grams protein.

JUNE 2020 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 15

GRILLED MAHI-MAHI WITH SUMMER CORN SALSA Prep: 15 minutes | Cook: 20 minutes | Servings: 4 3 cups shredded red cabbage 2 limes 1/4 cup sliced red onion 1/4 cup minced cilantro 2 tablespoons diced jalapeño 4 ears of corn, shucked 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar 1 pound mahi-mahi fillets, 1 inch thick 2 tablespoons olive oil 1/2 teaspoon cumin 1 tablespoon sugar 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne 1/2 teaspoon cumin 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1 avocado, cut into small chunks 1 tablespoon olive oil Note: Catfish and halibut would make good substitutes for mahi-mahi in this recipe.

In a bowl, toss cabbage, red onion, jalapeño, vinegar, 2 tablespoons olive oil, sugar, 1/2 teaspoon cumin, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. In a separate bowl, lightly toss avocado, juice of one lime, and cilantro. Cover and place both bowls in fridge. Preheat grill to high. Place corn on grill and cook, turning often until charred on all sides, about 10 minutes. Set aside to cool.

Gently pat fish fillets with a kitchen towel and sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon cumin, cayenne, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and pepper. Brush fillets with 1 tablespoon olive oil.

Place on grill until edges are opaque and the flesh releases easily, about 4 minutes per side. Let rest skin side up on a plate. Cut corn kernels off the cob and mix into the avocado salsa. Cut second lime into wedges. Plate fish with the cabbage salad and corn/avocado salsa. Serve with lime wedges.

Per serving: 356 calories, 22 grams fat (4 grams saturated fat), 19 grams total carbohydrates, 6 grams fiber, 24 grams protein.

PAN-FRIED TILAPIA WITH CANNELLINI BEANS AND SWISS CHARD Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 15 minutes | Servings: 4 1 bunch Swiss chard 2 15-ounce cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed 1 small yellow onion 1 pound tilapia fillets, 1 inch thick 2 tablespoons olive oil 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 2 cloves garlic, minced 1/2 teaspoon pepper 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup vegetable broth 1/4 cup flour 1 pint cherry (or grape) tomatoes, cut in half Note: Rainbow trout, orange roughy, or flounder would work well as substitutes for the tilapia in this recipe. If fillets are thinner or thicker than recommended, adjust cook time accordingly.

Dice chard stems and yellow onion. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Cook onion and chard stems for 5 minutes, until tender. Stir in garlic, smoked paprika, broth, and torn chard leaves, covering to simmer until leaves are wilted, about 2 minutes. Add cherry tomatoes and beans until heated through, 2 to 3 minutes. Keep burner on warm, stirring occasionally.

In a wide bowl, mix garlic powder, pepper, salt, and flour. Dust the fish in flour mixture. In a medium skillet, heat remaining olive oil on medium-high. Fry fish for 3 minutes on each side, until golden. Press down on edges of fillets so they cook evenly. Serve over beans and chard.

Per serving: 375 calories, 10 grams fat (1.5 grams saturated fat), 40 grams total carbohydrates, 10 grams fiber, 34 grams protein.

16 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JUNE 2020

SMOKED TROUT FISH PIES Prep: 15 minutes | Cook: 30 minutes | Servings: 4 1/2 pound cod zest of 1 lemon 2 cups milk 1/2 teaspoon salt 2 tablespoons butter 1/8 teaspoon black pepper 2 leeks, sliced thin 8 ounces boneless smoked trout 3 tablespoons flour 2 cups prepared and seasoned mashed potatoes 1 tablespoon horseradish 2 tablespoons butter, melted 1 cup frozen peas 1/4 cup chopped dill (set aside a few sprigs for garnish) Preheat oven to 400 F. In a medium saucepan, place cod and pour in milk. Slowly heat until milk is steaming and fish is poached, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove cod and separate into small pieces, removing any skin. Set aside. In a medium skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add sliced leeks and sauté for about 5 minutes. Stir in flour for 1 minute, or until it begins to smell nutty. Gradually whisk in horseradish and milk from poaching. Continue to whisk as sauce thickens for a few minutes.

Add peas, dill, lemon zest, salt, pepper, cod, and flaked smoked trout, stirring to combine. Divide into 4 individual ramekins. Use a piping bag or spatula to spread mashed potatoes onto the top of each ramekin, then brush with melted butter.

Place ramekins onto a baking sheet to avoid dripping and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until golden and bubbling. Garnish with dill sprigs.

Per serving: 522 calories, 21 grams fat (10 grams saturated fat), 45 grams total carbohydrates, 4 grams fiber, 39 grams protein.

JUNE 2020 • OHIO 2020 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 17 LIVING 17

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18 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JUNE 2020

NEWS AND VIEWS NWEC GAINS NEW TERRITORY AND POTENTIAL LOAD GROWTH IN WILLIAMS COUNTY North Western Electric Cooperative (NWEC) recently gained four new service territories in Williams County — including Northwest Township’s Mid-Toll area off the Ohio Turnpike — as a result of reallocation by the Ohio Public Utilities Commission (PUCO). These lots, previously listed under neighboring electric utility

Toledo Edison but served by NWEC, were deemed “mutually equitable and practical” for reallocation by NWEC President/CEO Darin Thorp and Toledo Edison Regional President Richard Sweeny.

Each electric provider has their own territory they can provide electricity within, enforced by the PUCO (see box below).

“I have been working with Toledo Edison for six years to resolve long-standing discrepancies,” says NWEC President/CEO Darin Thorp. “Coming to this agreement is great news for the future of NWEC.” Three of the four locations are residential homes, while the fourth includes the Mid-Toll area north of the turnpike on State Route 49 in Edon. Located southwest of the lot is the new Love’s Travel Stop.

The Mid-Toll lot includes businesses like Subway, a truck tire shop, and the township water tower and wastewater facility. Due to heavy traffic there, NWEC is preparing for future economic development opportunities. New businesses would mean increased electric load for the cooperative, which benefits NWEC member-owners.

“The potential for growth here is major for our community and economy,” Thorp says. “More jobs to support local families is something we’d all like to see.”

NWEC continues working together with neighboring utilities Toledo Edison and the cities of Bryan and Montpelier, all of which the co-op shares a mutual aid agreement with. Should there be a crisis, such as a snowstorm that causes mass damage, the other utilities will come to the aid of the utility in need.

What is the PUCO? How were service territory lines set?

In 1936, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt issued the Rural Electrification Act, which provided federal loans for the installation of electric distribution systems to serve rural, isolated areas of the United States. Electricity was already commonplace in large cities, but due to high costs, no providers wanted to extend service to rural areas like farms, ranches, and country homes. Rural citizens who wanted power banded together to create not-for-profit electric cooperatives to serve their remote locations.

However, as all the types of electric providers grew (electric cooperatives, investor-owned utilities, and city municipalities), the Ohio Public Utilities Commission (PUCO) had to regulate their territories, drawing clear lines as to which company would serve certain areas. The Ohio Certified Territories Act of 1978 helped legally establish boundary lines for utilities, most of which were mutually agreed upon by all electric companies.

JUNE 2020 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 19

NORTH WESTERN ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

GIVE US AN “A” For many years now, the Give Us An “A” program has provided an incentive for children of cooperative member-owners to earn better grades in school. This year, due to the current COVID-19 crisis, school has taken on a different look, with students having to complete assignments remotely. As a result of this, some students may not be receiving their normal report cards or the same type of grades as they have in the past. Also, in order to conform to the “stay-athome” directive by the governor, it meant that some parents have had to assist their children more than ever before with academics, emotional support and relief from boredom!

So, we have given our Give Us An “A” program a little twist, which will allow students to still have a chance at being rewarded for their unprecedented efforts and adds a reward for the parents/guardians, too.

WITH A

twist

years old (enrolled in kindergarten) and no older than 21 years old (enrolled in college or technical school).

Students can also be homeschooled.

What’s the twist?

Getting an “A” is about putting forth your best effort on something and completing it until the end, so tell us in 50 words or less why your student deserves an “A”!

It can be a school-related situation such as completing all their required work on time, doing a particular assignment with no errors, etc. or it can be a nonschool-related situation such as a kind act toward a sibling, learning a new task/hobby or something similar. As long as you feel your student put forth their best effort and completed the task, it will qualify.

Please include a photo of your student working on their task or of the finished project along with the form.

Here’s how it works:

All entries must be submitted by noon on July 15.

Complete the form on the next page. To qualify, the student must be the child or legal ward of an NWEC member-owner and must permanently reside in a home serviced by NWEC. He or she must also be at least 5

Four students will be chosen to receive a $25 check, plus the winning parents will receive a special prize.

Winners be featured in our communications as well.

Give Us An “A” Winners NWEC is proud to announce the winners of the Give Us An “A” program for the first quarter of 2020. Each student received a $25 check for receiving an A on their report card. Unfortunately, due to COVID-19 circumstances, the students could not come into our office for a photo. However, we still want them to receive the recognition they deserve!

20 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JUNE 2020

Winners included Valaina Entenman (Edgerton Elementary School), daughter of Vaughn and Vanessa Entenman; Jayci Schooley (Fairview Middle School), daughter of Jason and Kristi Schooley; Kolton Schooley (Fairview High School), son of Jason and Kristi Schooley; and Kenneth Miller II (Edgerton High School), son of Kenneth and Lisa Miller.

Congrats for your hard work!

NEWS AND VIEWS

ENTER YOUR STUDENT FOR THEIR CHANCE TO WIN $25!

School has taken on a different look this year, and students are adapting to learn and try new things. Though students aren’t receiving normal report card “A’s,” we know they are still working hard. Tell us why your student — age 5 through 21 — has put in the work to get an “A” during the COVID-19 crisis. They could win $25, and you (as their parent) will receive a special prize, too! Homeschool students are eligible.

This form is also available online at www.nwec.com/content/give-us-contest-twist-entry-form.

GIVE US AN “A” with a twist CONTEST ENTRY FORM Please print clearly!

STUDENT INFORMATION FIRST NAME: ____________________________ LAST NAME: _________________________________ AGE: _____ MAILING ADDRESS: ________________________________________________________ CITY: __________________________ SCHOOL NAME: ______________________________________

PARENT/GUARDIAN INFORMATION FIRST NAME: ____________________________ LAST NAME: _________________________________ NWEC ACCOUNT # (6 digit # found in the top right corner of your billing statement): _________________ YOUR RELATIONSHIP TO STUDENT:

MOTHER

FATHER

GUARDIAN

EMAIL: _________________________________________________ PHONE: ____________________ IN 50 WORDS OR LESS, PLEASE TELL US WHY YOUR STUDENT DESERVES AN “A”: __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ If you would like to include a photo with your entry, please email it to pearl@nwec.com Mail your completed form to: NWEC, Attention: Pearl Rakes, PO Box 391, Bryan OH 43506 or drop it in one of our payment drop boxes located at 04125 State Route 576 in Bryan.

E ntr ies m us t b e re ce iv ed b y no o n o n Ju ly 1 5 , 2 02 0 .

JUNE 2020 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 20A

NORTH WESTERN ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

HEALTH RELY ON ELECTRICITY?

DOES YOUR

WHAT WILL YOU DO IF THE POWER GOES OUT?

NWEC cares deeply about the health and safety of our member-owners. We know that some of our memberowners’ health is dependent on having electricity.

As much as we would like to be able to keep your power available every moment of every day, unavoidable power outages due to severe weather or a nearby accident could leave you without power for hours or even days. We encourage all of our member-owners — and in particular, those with special health needs — to develop an emergency plan in the case of a power outage.

Plan ahead • Talk with your family and friends about what you would do in the event of a long power outage. Do you have an alternative place to stay? Does your town or city have an emergency shelter?

• Many medical devices use electricity or are battery dependent, including breathing machines, power wheelchairs, oxygen, and home dialysis equipment. Some equipment is vital to keeping you alive! Read the equipment instructions and talk to the equipment suppliers about your backup power options.

Cellphone • Keep your cellphone charged so that you can call for help or be reached by someone else.

Batteries • If your devices are battery-operated, make sure you have extras on hand and check them periodically — unused rechargeable batteries may need to be charged.

• Portable battery packs will supply hours of backup energy.

Use the car • Can your devices be plugged into or recharged through the power outlet in your vehicle? If you plan on using your car for your backup power, make sure you keep the fuel tank at least half full.

Generators • Consider whether your needs require you to invest in a generator for your home. Begin by identifying your basic electrical needs in the event of a power outage and calculating the number of watts you’ll need. You may want a generator that produces more power than all the equipment combined plus the initial surge when it is turned on. Contact an electrician to determine your energy needs. There are two types of generators: standby and portable.

STANDBY GENERATORS are installed directly to the house and are typically powered by natural gas or propane. They will start automatically when the power goes out.

• An approved generator transfer switch, which keeps your generator separate from the electric co-op lines, must be installed by a professional.

PORTABLE GENERATORS are usually gas powered and can be moved around. They must be used outside the home. Make sure you keep enough fuel on hand to last at least 24 hours.

• Start the generator before connecting appliances.

• Operate your generator once a month for at least 10 minutes to ensure that it is running properly.

• Keep the generator where it will be easily accessible and weatherproof.

Continued on next page

20B OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JUNE 2020

NEWS AND VIEWS

Let’s talk about scams (and how to stay safe) T

he energy industry is undergoing rapid change, and technology is paving the way for innovation in the way energy is used, produced, stored, and shared. Consumers are interested in more green energy alternatives while smart homes and apps make managing energy use and paying your electric bill more convenient than ever. While the changing energy market has created more options for consumers, it has also resulted in more scams.

Avoid phone or online payment scams A common phone scam typically begins with a phone number that appears to be from a valid utility company. The scammer will claim you owe a past due amount and threaten to disconnect service or take legal action. The scammer will typically demand that you use a prepaid debit card or money order, often within a very short, urgent time frame, to pay the “past due” balance.

You can combat this scam by being aware of the status of your account. Never give your banking or personal information over the phone to someone you did not call.

If you have a question or concern about your energy bill, call us directly at 800-647-6932. Do not use the phone number given by the scammer.

You should also never pay your electric bill through online third-party vendors like Doxo.com. If you Google our co-op, they may pop up; however, these services often charge a fee to use and don’t ensure your payment will arrive to us on time. Please use our online SmartHub payment system available at www. nwec.com or via our free SmartHub mobile app.

Avoid solar scams Homeowners with rooftop solar may receive a sales call offering an accessory, upgrade, or extended warranty to their solar array. The calls could be from crooks claiming to represent a solar company, promising to replace faulty or broken parts or improve efficiency. Again, if you are not expecting the call, don’t be fooled. Call us or the company that installed the solar array if you think there may be a problem.

Other than occasional cleaning, rooftop solar (if installed correctly) is virtually maintenance-free.

Use trusted sources If you’re considering solar for your home, make sure you are working with a reputable company.

Because this is still an emerging industry with evolving technology, there have been a proliferation of popup companies in the market looking to make a quick buck.

Representatives of rooftop solar companies may have more sales experience than knowledge of the energy industry, and their primary goal could be making a sale and moving on to the next prospect.

NWEC can offer a candid assessment to determine whether rooftop solar is right for you. We have a different “bottom line” that is not directly tied to the sale of a product or service. We take a more holistic, objective view of how to achieve energy and cost savings for our member-owners.

In this ever-changing environment, it’s important to remember you have a trusted energy advisor — your local, community-focused electric cooperative.

Remember, we’re just one call or click away, so please reach out with any questions.

Continued from previous page

Medications • Do you have medications that need to stay in a cool, dry place? If the power goes out, a refrigerator should hold its temperature for two to four hours, if you keep it closed.

• After four hours, empty the ice from the freezer into a cooler and keep your medication in that cooler. It should be safe in there for a day or two.

If you have any questions about developing your emergency plan in the case of a power outage, please call us at 800-647-6932.

JUNE 2020 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 20C

INTERESTED IN SOLAR? ASK NOW — AVOID SURPRISES LATER!

Solar panels are a major home investment. Our employees can provide some valuable advice throughout the process so there are no surprises down the road.

1. Be clear about your goals Are you making this investment to reduce your electric bill or for environmental benefits? Research both potential outcomes and seek clarity from your contractor.

2. Choose the right contractor A good contractor will take time to understand your goals and if your home or property makes sense for solar. From the beginning, they will involve your electric cooperative to discuss the best solution.

3. Understand the process and details of connecting to the grid A positive contractor-homeowner-energy advisor partnership will be transparent so there are no surprises down the road. Key considerations are the interconnection application process/fees, policies, and electric cooperative make-ready costs.

4. Make your home energy efficient Member-owners looking to save money with solar often find energy efficiency investments provide a better payback and better resale value for your home. Consider insulation and air sealing and replacing old, inefficient appliances in any energy solution.

5. Read the contract fully Read the fine print to avoid misunderstandings about financing, transfer of ownership, maintenance responsibility, companies that have access to your data, and other details.

Call NWEC at 800-647-6932 or visit ohiosolar101.com/NWEC to learn more.

CLEAN FUEL FOR YOUR MODERN FARM. PROPANE CAN DO THAT.

844-636-NWOP (6967) 04125 ST. RTE. 576, BRYAN NWOHIOPROPANE.COM FIND US ON FACEBOOK: @NWOHIOPROPANE 20D OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • MAY 2020

NEWS AND VIEWS

Help us keep your rates affordable!

PEAK ALERTS 101 Did you know that during the peak times of 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. on the hottest and coldest days, electricity costs more?

If you can lower your family’s electric use during peak hours (we call them peak alerts) on the extreme hottest days or coldest winter days, you can save money and help keep our electric rates stable. We have not changed our distribution rates since 2016, partly because of our peak load management.

Please try to shift your use of electricity to earlier or later in the day during extremely hot days (and the coldest winter days). Make sure to turn off things that are not in use or not necessary. Whether you can put off laundry, wait to shower, or turn up the thermostat a few degrees, it all helps immensely.

When we have peak alerts, we will notify our members on our website, nwec.com, and our Facebook page, letting you know the estimated time frame of the peak. They are usually between 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. but can vary.

Member-owners with radio-controlled switches installed on their electric water heaters will notice a red light on the switch during peak alerts. This means Buckeye Power, our generation and transmission cooperative, is temporarily controlling your water heater to save costs during the peak. During all other times, a green light will be displayed (see switch image at right).

Thank you for your help in keeping costs down!

WHAT TO DO DURING A PEAK ALERT: Raise your thermostat 2-5 degrees (use fans)

Postpone indoor chores like laundry

What is a peak alert?

A period during extremely hot temperatures when electricity is most expensive due to high demand. Lowering your use helps keep our rates stable.

Wait until after the peak to shower

Radio-controlled switches will be activated during peak times. Watch our social media for alerts.

JUNE 2020 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 21

NORTH WESTERN ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

TRY A FREE TELE-AUDIT, a home energy audit done entirely by phone and/or virtually!

Spending more time at home doesn’t have to mean higher electric bills. That’s why we’re offering free tele-audits to help our memberowners. In other words, you can arrange for a hassle-free home energy audit done by phone or virtually!

Let a local energy advisor help you find out where your energy dollars are going and how you can lower your overall electric use, keeping more of your hard-earned money in your pocket. It’s a great value and represents another perk of your not-for-profit co-op membership!

Energy Advisor Peter Niagu can do all of the following:

• Conduct a home walk-through by phone/virtually and look for savings opportunities

• Offer customized energy-saving tips for you and your family’s unique schedule

• Answer any other questions you may have!

The first step is completing an Energy Analysis Form.

You can request one by calling 800-647-6932, emailing pearl@nwec.com, or visiting our website at nwec.com/ content/residential-energy-audits.

A NOTE ABOUT THE MONTPELIER BEAN DAYS FESTIVAL It saddens us to announce that the Touchstone Energy hot air balloon will not be appearing in Montpelier in July.

CONTACT

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

1-800-647-6932 419-636-5051 www.nwec.com

Andrew Farnham

OFFICE 04125 State Route 576 P.O. Box 391 Bryan, OH 43506

OFFICE HOURS Monday–Friday 7 a.m.–4 p.m.

CHAIRMAN

Mitchel Headley VICE CHAIRMAN

Kim Shoup SECRETARY

Dean Harrington Jordan Ruffer Richard Polter Tom Case TRUSTEES

Pearl Rakes

Darin Thorp

EDITOR

PRESIDENT/CEO

22 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JUNE 2020

ICE

SPECIAL NOT

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We draw two names each month, and those members will receive a $20 bill credit. You do not have to contact us to receive the credit — it will automatically be applied to your main NWEC account. This month’s winners are:

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READER RECIPE CONTEST

Potluck!

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

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

Is your covered dish the hit of every church carry-in?

Do friends always invite you over because they know you’ll bring that one mouth-watering morsel?

Appetizers, casseroles, desserts, and more: For our 2020 Ohio Cooperative Living reader recipe contest, we’re looking for your go-to potluck favorite.

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

Two runners-up will receive consolation gifts.

Entry deadline: June 6, 2020.

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

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

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

• There is a limit of three recipes per entrant.

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

JUNE 2020 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 23

Ohio bike makers build upon the state’s pedaling past.

BY RANDY EDWARDS

T

o the casual cyclist who buys a ride off the rack, so to speak, the choices available in the creation of a custom bicycle might seem overwhelming. Clipless or flat pedals? A performance saddle, or something easier on the backside? How many gears? Flat or curved handlebars?

But first, the geometry of the frame, from the angle of the head tube to the shape of the fork. What about construction materials? Do you want titanium? Stainless steel?

Wood? Yes, wood. We’ll come back to wood later.

Ohio has a history of bicycle making that goes even beyond the origin story of the Wright Brothers (which, obviously, is an important bit of history in its own right).

Bicycles built for

YOU

In the early part of the 20th century, Cleveland’s Murray Bikes and Daytonbased Huffy were among the manufacturers that made Ohio a national leader in the bicycle industry. Today, though there are no bicycles built at production scale in Ohio (Huffy Corp. remains headquartered in Dayton), a small number of bicycle craftsmen continue to draw focus to the Buckeye State. They create specialty rides that bring a competitive edge in a race, or simply stand out from the other bikes on the local path.

Rody Walter started creating his own bike frames in 1994, after searching in vain for a tandem bicycle that he and his wife could use for backroad camping adventures — “something that was sturdy, overbuilt, and had some suspension capability,” he recalls. Finding nothing in the retail shops

Rody Walter (right) started Groovy Cycleworks after searching in vain for a tandem bike that fit his needs. When he could not find what he needed, he decided to learn to build his own (photos courtesy of Groovy Cycleworks).

24 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JUNE 2020

Groovy Bikes, Wooster

www.groovycycleworks.com to meet his needs, Walter turned to a custom bike maker in Pennsylvania. While visiting the shop, he says, “I fell in love with the creativity inherent in the design and fabrication of custom bicycles.”

After an apprenticeship with the Pennsylvania bike maker, Walter opened his own shop, Groovy Cycleworks, just outside of Wooster, where he now makes fully custom-fabricated bikes. They are highly personalized — starting with 26 measurements of the rider’s physiology, rendered into frames hand-welded by Walter, and finished with a custom paint job.

Visited in his workshop in midwinter, Walter was working on assignments from customers in Holland and Australia, two of the 28 countries to which he has shipped his work.

Those customers are willing to pay for a unique

ride; the starting price for a Groovy bike is around $7,000.

“Most of my customers are long-term enthusiasts who want something that is unique or different,” he says.

Many are competitive racers, but others simply appreciate the craftsmanship. One of his most interesting bikes, he says, was built for a surfer who wanted a bike he could use to carry his boards over the beach.

The titanium cruiser Walter built had custom wooden fenders and a paint job imagined by the customer: an underwater scene with an octopus “to match his tattoos.”

JUNE 2020 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 25

Roll: Bicycle Company, Columbus

www.rollbicycles.com For a less bespoke and more affordable approach to custom bikes, Roll: Bicycle Company offers a buildyour-bike arrangement that begins with three basic models — Adventure, City, and Sport — and a $799 base model price tag. A customer selects a frame and then is offered a range of paint jobs and a selection of tires, saddles, handlebar grips, pedals, and accessories such as racks and panniers.

The bikes are assembled to order in a shop in Columbus by one of Roll’s bike builders, who gives the bike a test ride before shipment. The final price can be nearly twice the base for a fully decked-out model, but customers decide just what they need based on their preferences and how they plan to use the bike, explains Stuart Hunter, the company’s founder.

Hunter started out selling bikes made by major brands in his own shop in Westerville in 2006. The company expanded to two additional suburban outlets before launching its own brand three years ago. The concept caught on, and Roll now has 67 retail partners in the U.S. and Canada.

“We offer an experience that other major brands don’t offer: to have something specifically made for me as a customer. There’s nothing cooler than having a one-off that is built personally for you,” says Hunter, who described his company’s business model as based on the assumption that “bikes change lives.”

26 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JUNE 2020

Roll: Bicycle Company offers a mostly customizable, build-your-own bike shop that lets customers add their own desired components, including a variety of tires, handlebars, pedals, and paint, to any of three basic models (photos courtesy of Roll: Bicycle Company).

JUNE 2020 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 27

Sojourn Cyclery, Cedarville

www.sojourn-cyclery.com About those wooden bikes: Jay Kinsinger, an engineering professor at Cedarville University in Greene County, has nurtured twin passions for most of his life: bicycling and woodworking. He began working in bike shops as a teen and built many custom bikes out of steel before stumbling across wooden bikes on the internet several years ago.

The appeal of sculpting a wooden bicycle was irresistible, and Kinsinger was lucky to find a craftsman willing to share some basic details about building wooden bikes. “After some serious head-scratching and 400 hours later, I had my first frame.”

Despite his engineering expertise (Kinsinger has three patents to his name for designing prosthetic devices), he was wary about the durability of his first wooden creation. “The first time I got on the bike I made sure my helmet was on,” he says,

28 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JUNE 2020

Jay Kinsinger builds what he calls “rideable art” for his company, Sojourn Cyclery in Cedarville. His gleaming walnut creations are engineered to withstand all sorts of riding conditions (photos courtesy of Sojourn Cyclery).

laughing, “because I just wasn’t sure how strong it was. I later learned that wood is incredibly strong, and very comfortable for touring or commuting.”

Properly maintained, his gleaming walnut creations can last a lifetime, holding up under all sorts of riding conditions. In 2013, he and his son rode a wooden tandem from the Gulf of Mexico to Lake Erie, camping outdoors through 3½ weeks of nearly nonstop rain.

Now he builds what he calls “rideable art” for his company, Sojourn Cyclery, and his business is growing. His most expensive model is his electric bike, which sells for $9,999. Sojourn’s Versa, a multipurpose ride, starts at $5,500.

Sojourn remains a hobby business, Kinsinger says, and in some ways the business is finding its own path. He recently packed up his shop and traveled to California to conduct a bike-building workshop for Apple employees.

“It turns out that for every one person who wants to buy a Sojourn bike, there are 10 who want to build their own. I’m very excited about that part of the business.”

JUNE 2020 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 29

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Stone Lab, on tiny Gibralter Island, sets the standard for Lake Erie research.

STORY AND PHOTOS BY JAMES PROFFITT

G

ibraltar Island is just 6.5 acres, yet sports a castle, a fleet of boats, and a small-but-mighty lab. Though tiny, it has a huge footprint in Lake Erie conservation — and in the hearts of thousands of yearly visitors.

In 1864, Gibraltar, nestled in the crook of South Bass Island, was purchased for $3,001 by Union Civil War financier and industrialist Jay Cooke. He constructed a massive summer home, now called Cooke Castle, and he and his extended family spent many summers there. After his eldest daughter inherited the island, she sold it in 1925 to Julius Stone, who was a trustee at Ohio State University. Stone subsequently offered it to OSU, and the university moved its Lake Erie laboratory to Gibraltar in 1929.

It’s the oldest freshwater biology field station in America — and loved by many.

“I first attended as a high school student with my ichthyology class on a field trip in the 1970s,” says John Hageman. “After college, a job opened up, and they were willing to hire me up at the lake.” Hageman eventually spent 25 years there as lab manager.

He says he felt at home there and so did plenty of others; his tenure was marked by a steady increase in the number of visitors. “When I started, we had about 1,300 kids that came through there annually. Right now, it’s about 4,000,” he says. “The beauty of the place is the

JUNE 2020 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 31

setting. Where else can you take classes on an island surrounded by Lake Erie?”

During the summer, students, including middle and high schoolers, and teachers use Gibraltar and Stone Lab as a base as they explore the lake, its shores, marshes, and other sites. Hageman described students who study there as top-tier — looking toward futures in sciences or using the experience as a steppingstone to a professional career.

Chris Winslow, the director of Ohio Sea Grant and Stone Lab, describes the place as critical — especially in light of recent Lake Erie news. “Many of the questions that universities and agencies have couldn’t be answered without Stone Lab,” he says.

Tracking toxin-promoting algae in the lake and developing new algae-tracking satellites? They’re on it. Using “good” bacteria to filter drinking water and tracking microcystin in vegetables? Yep. Even figuring out which color of bait is best for walleye anglers in which water conditions — sure, Stone Lab scientists and students are working on that, too.

Each year, science and outdoor writers, legislators, charter captains, water plant operators, and other Lake Erie stakeholders visit and learn at Stone Lab. Perhaps the best outreach ever was when Kristin Stanford, the researcher known as “the Island Snake Lady,” was featured on the TV show Dirty Jobs with

32 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JUNE 2020

Mike Rowe — not once, but twice. A year after that, Rowe described the experience as one of his five worst: “You catch the water snake, and you make it vomit. Then you look under a microscope at the puke to make sure it’s healthy. What she doesn’t tell you is that when you grab the water snake, it will bite you.”

Stanford and her team of researchers and students were able to save the Lake Erie water snake, which subsequently has been removed from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s threatened and endangered species list.

While the little gem known as Gibraltar Island is owned

by OSU, it’s open to all. In fact, half the students and researchers there come from other universities.

“Right after my sophomore year, I took a six-week field zoology class,” says Mollie Knighton, a former Heidelberg University environmental science major. “It’s a lot to complete four credit hours in that time — every day it was go-go-go.” After graduating, she spent a year working for the Fish and Wildlife Service in West Virginia and credits her summer on Gibraltar for great preparation.

water sampling this season and has her eye on teaching science-related classes next year.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources is flush with Stone Labbers. Although Travis Hartman never took classes there, he worked on the island as an undergrad in 1990 and has been singing its praises ever since. He’s now the ODNR’s Lake Erie program administrator.

“I thoroughly enjoyed it. Spent the whole summer there performing a multitude of tasks,” he says. “I thought I wanted to work on Lake Erie, and being out there for a summer cemented it for me. Now I go there and give fisheries management presentations. A lot of the stuff going on there is cutting-edge that’s applied throughout the Great Lakes and the world. It’s not just work for the classroom, it’s real research for the real world.”

“It’s so completely hands-on — you’re almost never in a classroom. It forces you to engage with the environment and outdoors, plus classmates, instructors, and other researchers. I’m definitely not a person who prefers to be holed up in a lab by themselves for days on end.”

Knighton, who recently began working at the Lakeside Chautauqua program at Marblehead, will be conducting

Left page: The “Island Snake Lady,” Kristen Stanford (wearing visor), with students and snakes, in the lab (photos courtesy of Ohio Sea Grant); right page: Stone Lab’s idyllic setting makes spending a summer, or even a day there, an irresistible proposition.

JUNE 2020 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 33

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2020 CALENDAR

JUNE/JULY

NORTHWEST

THROUGH AUG. 7 – Limaland Motorsports Park Races, 1500 Dutch Hollow Rd., Lima, 7:30–10:30 p.m.

Sprints, UMP Modifieds, Thunderstocks, and more!

Pit gates open at 4:30 p.m., grandstand gates at 5 p.m., warmup laps 6:30 p.m. See website for updated information. www.limaland.com.

THROUGH OCT. 10 – The Great Sidney Farmer’s Market, Courthouse Square, 109 S. Ohio Ave., Sidney, every Saturday, 8:00 a.m.–noon. Free. Fresh produce, crafters, baked goods, jams, jellies. 937-658-6945 or www.sidneyalive.org.

JUN. 19–20 – Sidney Music and Arts Festival, downtown Sidney, starting Fri. at 5 p.m., Sat. at 8 a.m.

Free. Two stages with live music, art, and food trucks.

Saturday adds activities for children on the court square and the Great Sidney Farmer’s Market. Check website for updates. 937-658-6945 or www.sidneyalive.org.

JUN. 20 – Band Night: Reckless Operation, Walnut Grove Campground, 7325 S. Twp. Rd. 131, Tiffin, Sat. 8 p.m.–12 a.m. $2.50; age 4 and under free. 419-448-0914 or www.walnutgrovecampground.co (not com).

JUN. 20 – Findlay Country Fest, Northwest Ohio Railroad Preservation Inc., 12505 Co. Rd. 99, Findlay, gates open at 12:30 p.m.; show starts at 1:30 p.m. $10 for the whole day. Watch our Facebook page for additional information about performers and times. Quarter-scale train rides will be offered all afternoon and during intermissions. 419-423-2995, www.nworrp.org, or www. facebook.com/nworrp.

JUN. 20 – Lima Area Concert Band Concert, Veterans Memorial and Civic Ctr., 7 Town Square, Lima, 7:30 p.m. $15 for adults, free for students. Guest soloist Wayne Bergeron on trumpet. 419-224-1552 or www. limaciviccenter.com.

JUN. 20 – Midwest Shooting Center Summer Kickoff Party, 501 S. Dixie Hwy., Cridersville, 5–10 p.m.

Admission $5 if not entering gun raffle; $25 if entering raffle. Gun raffle starts at 5:30 p.m., last ticket drawn at 9:30 p.m. 10 guns will be raffled off. Kaitlyn Schmit

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and The Move will be playing from 6 to 10 p.m. Food trucks and alcoholic beverages. 419-645-6286 or www. midwestshootingcenter.com.

JUN. 20–21 – Artistry in American Glass Show and Sale, Tiffin Middle School, 103 Shepard Dr., Tiffin, Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. $5. Presented by Tiffin Glass Collectors Club. Featuring glass made by Tiffin, Fostoria, Duncan-Miller, Cambridge, Imperial, Heisey, Westmoreland, and others. Depression, carnival, art glass, and EAPG types. 419-448-0200 or www.tiffinglass.org.

JUN. 25–27 – Spencerville Summerfest, Main Street, Spencerville, begins Thursday at 5 p.m. and Saturday at noon. Rides, games, food, entertainment tent. Saturday events: craft and vendor show, parade at 4:30 p.m., fireworks at 10 p.m. Route 66 Car Show is Sat. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Cost to register car is $10. Contact Phil Briggs at 419-302-9895.

Court naturalization ceremony on July 4 at 11 a.m. 800590-9755 or www.saudervillage.org.

JUL. 4 – Fourth of July Celebration: Boat Regatta, Walnut Grove Campground, 7325 S. Twp. Rd. 131, Tiffin, 8 p.m.–12 a.m. $2.50/person, age 4 and under free. We give you the material, you build the boat to race on our pond. 1 p.m. $50 entry fee. Weather permitting, Hawks DJ Service 8–11 p.m., fireworks at dusk. 419-448-0914, or www.walnutgrovecampground.co (not com).

JUL. 4–5 – 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., rain or shine. Free. 250 to 400 dealers per show. Antiques, collectibles, furniture, crafts, produce, tools, glass, and more. 419-447- 9613, tiffinfleamarket@ gmail.com, or www.tiffinfleamarket.com.

JUL. 10–12 – Flag City Daylily Tour, Findlay and Hancock County, Fri./Sat. 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Sun. noon–6 JUN. 27 – Lake Seneca Annual “Miles of Yard Sales,” p.m. Free. Features six daylily gardens, each with its own off N. Rt. 576, 1-1/4 miles north of U.S. 20. Chicken dinners special personality. Tour at your leisure and see several ready around 10:30 a.m. at Arrowhead Lodge and plenty thousand different registered daylilies. Some sites will of extras to eat, along with our homemade bake sale have plants for sale. 419-889-8827, anders@findlay.edu, items to buy. 419-485-5205 or 419-485-0393. or www.pplantpeddler.com, or find us on Facebook.

JUN. 27 – Lima Half-Mile Motorcycle Races, Allen Co. JUL. 11 – Family Fun Day, Northwest Ohio Railroad Fgds., 2750 Harding Hwy., Lima, gates open 1 p.m., races Preservation Inc., 12505 Co. Rd. 99, Findlay, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. begin 6:30 p.m. Presale tickets $30/$35, at gate $40/$45. $10 for all-day access. Enjoy games, quarter-scale train Watch the Grand National Circuit’s top racers in the nation rides, bounce houses, and other family-friendly activities participate in the half-mile dirt track race. Before racing and events all day long for one price. Watch our website begins, fans can get up-close with the stars of the sport and Facebook page for additional information. 419-423during open pits. Food and cold beverages for purchase; 2995, www.nworrp.org, or www.facebook.com/nworrp. no coolers permitted. www.limahalfmile.com.

JUL. 11 – Ride to Remember, starting at 215 Snider Rd., JUN. 27 – Outdoor Country Concerts, Walnut Grove Bluffton. Check-in begins at 6 a.m. Registration $20 in Campground, 7325 S. Twp. Rd. 131, Tiffin. Rain date Jun. advance, $30 day of ride. The ride takes cyclists through 28. $15 pre-sale, $18 at door. Denise Ritter, 2–4 p.m.; 99 the Village of Bluffton and the surrounding countryside. to Main, 4:30–6:30 p.m.; Nashville Crush, 7–9 p.m. 419There are 5 loops where you can choose your distance, 448-0914 or www.walnutgrovecampground.co (not com). from 2 miles to 124! Proceeds benefit the Bluffton Pathways Project. www.ridetoremember.net.

JUL. 2 – Old Fashioned Farmers Car Show, Van Wert Co. Fgds., Van Wert, 4–8 p.m. Awards at 7:30 p.m.

JUL. 11–12 – Toledo Lighthouse Waterfront Festival, Dash plaques, goody bags, door prizes,’50s and ’60s Maumee Bay State Park, 1750 State Park Rd. #2, Oregon, music. Entry gives access to Old Fashioned Farmers Sat. 10 a.m.–7 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–5 p.m. $5 donation Days activities, food, flea market, and more. wrkchevy@ requested. Kids’ activities, Nautical Arts and Crafts Village, hotmail.com. food, silent auction, boat rides (reservations required).

Check website for updated information. 419-691-3788 or JUL. 3 – Band Night: Burning Daylight, Walnut Grove www.toledolighthousefestival.com.

Campground, 7325 S. Twp. Rd. 131, Tiffin, 8 p.m.–12 a.m. $2.50/person, age 4 and under free. 419-448-0914 JUL. 12 – “The Saga of Ohio’s Moravian Indians: or www.walnutgrovecampground.co (not com).

The Gnadenhutten Massacre,” Fort Recovery State Museum, 1 Fort Site St., Fort Recovery, 3 p.m. Free.

JUL. 3–5 – Old-Fashioned Fourth of July Weekend, Presentation by Seth Angel, Moravian and Schoenbrunn Sauder Village, 22611 St. Rte. 2, Archbold, Fri./Sat. 10 Village representative. 419-375-4384, www. a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 12–4 p.m. $14–$20, under 6 free, fortrecoverymuseum.com, or search “Fort Recovery veterans and active-duty military free. Enjoy handHistorical Society” on Facebook. cranked ice cream, old-fashioned games, and patriotic songs played on the reed organ. Witness a U.S. District

Submit listings AT LEAST 90 DAYS prior JUN. 20–21 – Contemporary Muzzleloader Gun to the event to Ohio Cooperative Living, Exhibit, Prickett’s Fort Visitor’s Center, 88 State Park Rd., 6677 Busch Blvd., Columbus, OH 43229 Fairmont, Sat. 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Sun. 12–4 p.m. Free. Some or events@ohioec.org. Ohio Cooperative of the finest contemporary gun builders and collections Living will not publish listings that don’t in West Virginia will be on site. Talk to the makers of include a complete address or a number/ these fine Early American firearms and learn about the website for more information. techniques and materials used for 21st-century gun building. 304-363-3030 or www.prickettsfort.org. program. Learn about the habitats, diets, and behaviors JUL. 10 – “Birds of Prey,” North Bend State Park, 202 of several birds of prey including owls, hawks, and North Bend Park Rd., Cairo, 7:30 p.m. (Please arrive eagles. 304-643-2931 or www.northbendsp.com. by 7 p.m.) Free. Three Rivers Avian Center presents live raptors as part of this impressive and educational

JUNE 2020 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 37

2020 CALENDAR

JUNE/JULY

PLEASE NOTE: Because of the developing coronavirus situation, many of these planned events may have been postponed or canceled. Please seek updated information before traveling.

NORTHEAST

JUN. 26–28 – Cy Young Days Festival, Newcomerstown.

Food, entertainment, contests and competitions, car show, old-fashioned baseball games, and parade featuring a former Cy Young Award winner. Check website for updates. www.cyyoungdaysfestival.com.

JUN. 26–28 – Lorain International Festival and Bazaar, Black River Landing, Black River Lane, Lorain, Fri. 5–11 p.m., Sat. noon–11 p.m., Sun. noon–6 p.m. Parade Sat. 11:30 a.m. $3 daily. www.loraininternational.com.

JUN. 27–28 – “The Babies Are Here” Open House, Our Little World Alpacas LLC, 16800 Cowley Rd., Grafton, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Free. Come see our newest crias JUN. 13–14 – Model Train Days, Painesville Railroad (babies). Learn about alpaca care and feeding and about Museum, 475 Railroad St., Painesville, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $5, processing the fiber. Locally hand-knitted products for C. (3–12) $3, Family $12 (max. 2 adults, 3 children). See sale. 440-724-7070 or www.ourlittleworldalpacas.com. operating layouts in ‘N’ scale, ‘HO’ scale, ‘S’ gauge, ‘O’ JUN. 27–28 – Mad River Bike Tour, Mad River Harley gauge, and ‘G’ gauge, and local modular layouts. Model Davidson, 5316 Milan Rd., Sandusky. Registration Sat. train flea market on grounds. Food and drinks available for purchase. 216-470-5780 (Tom), prrm@att.net, or www. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Begin a self-led ride to the Kelleys Island Ferry Boat Line in Marblehead, then tour the island for a painesvillerailroadmuseum.org. chance to win a vacation package. $10 for the tour, $20 JUN. 19–20 – Simply Slavic Festival, Federal Plaza per bike for the round-trip ferry ride. 419-746-2360 or East, downtown Youngstown, Fri. 5–11 p.m., Sat. 12 www.kelleysislandchamber.com. p.m.–midnight. $5; 12 and under free. Live music, JUL. 2–4 – Grindstone Festival, Coe Lake Park, Berea. folk dance performances, homemade food, children’s learning areas, educational exhibits, and ethnic vendors. Celebrate the 4th of July at Coe Lake! Enjoy paddleboat rides, an outdoor movie, live entertainment with band www.simplyslavic.org. concerts, games, rides, a parade, food vendors, and a JUN. 26–27 – Ohio Scottish Games and Celtic spectacular fireworks display over the lake to end the Festival, Cuyahoga Co. Fgds., Berea. $12–$20, under event. 440-274-5608 or www.cityofberea.org.

11 free. New location! Pipe and drum competitions, JUL. 2–5 – First Town Days Festival, Tuscora Park, 927 Highland dance competitions, animal shows, kids’ Al Maloney Midway, New Philadelphia. Fun for the whole games, and other fun activities. New for 2020: piping, drumming, and Highland workshops and open sessions family. Activities include Queen’s Pageant, baby contest, Junior Superstars, games, 5K run, tournaments, and for all levels; axe throwing; archery; haggis toss/keg fireworks, just to name a few. 330-602-2600 or www. toss. www.ohioscottishgames.com. firsttowndays.com.

JUL. 4 – Loudonville Car Show and Fireworks, 131 W. Main St., Loudonville, 8 a.m.–4 p.m. Free.

Over 500 cars on display. Enjoy music, food, and downtown shopping. Fireworks begin at dusk. http:// loudonvillechamber.com/events.

JUL. 4–5 – Loudonville Antique Festival, Central Park, Loudonville. Buy, sell, and trade antiques and collectibles.

419-994-4789 or www.discovermohican.com.

JUL. 6–12 – Trumbull County Fair, 899 Everett Hull Rd., Cortland. An array of grandstand entertainment, daily shows, local bands, exhibits, and rides. 330-637-6010 or www.trumbullcountyfair.com.

JUL. 10–12 – Great Mohican Indian Pow-Wow, 23270 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. Weekend passes available. Native American live music, dancing, drum competitions, storytelling, tomahawk throwing, and fire starting demos. 800-766-2267 or www. mohicanpowwow.com.

JUL. 11–12 – Ashland County Yesteryear Machinery Club Show, Ashland County–West Holmes Career Ctr., 1783 St. Rte. 60, Ashland. Free admission and parking; donations accepted. Featuring Buckeye Allis Club, Allis Chalmers tractors, garden tractors, and equipment; Rawleigh-Schryer engines; all makes tractors and equipment. Car show on Sunday. Wagon rides, threshing and corn husking, R/C tractor and truck pulls, and much more! 330-465-3387, www.yesteryearmachinery.org, or find us on Facebook.

SOUTHEAST

JUN. 26–27 – National Cambridge Glass Collectors Show and Sale, Pritchard Laughlin Civic Ctr., 7033 Glenn Hwy., Cambridge, Fri. 1–5 p.m., Sat. 10:30 a.m.–4 p.m. $5 admission good for both days. 740-432-4245 or www. cambridgeglass.org.

JUN. 27 – Glass Dash, St. Benedict’s Gymnasium, 701 Steubenville Ave., Cambridge, early bird admission 7–8:30 a.m., $10; 8:30–11 a.m., $5. Generally most of the glass sold is Cambridge glass. 740-432-4245 or www. cambridgeglass.org.

JUL. 3–4 – Gallipolis River Recreation Festival, Gallipolis City Park, 300 block of Second Ave., Gallipolis, Fri. noon–10 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–10 p.m. Contests and races, inflatables, food, music, arts and crafts, parade, and fireworks. 740-446-0596 or www.gallipolisriverrec.com.

JUL. 3–5 – Ohio Jeep Fest, Ross Co. Fgds., 344 Fairgrounds Rd., Chillicothe. $10–$30, under 13 free.

Drivers test their wheeling skills and participate in trailrated challenges. Daily kids’ zone, vendors, obstacle course, mud pits, and much more. www.ohiojeepfest.com or find us on Facebook.

JUL. 8–11 – Ohio Hills Folk Festival, Quaker City.

Celebrate the festival’s 116th year! Parades, car show, country store, entertainment, flea market, rides, duck race, fireworks, and more. 740-685-6590 or find us on Facebook.

THROUGH SEP. 25 – Rise and Shine Farmers Market, 2135 Southgate Pkwy. (near Tractor Supply Co.), Cambridge, Fridays, 8 a.m.–noon. 740-680-1866 or find us on Facebook.

JUN. 13 – Cambridge Lions Club “Ruff Truck,” Guernsey Co. Fgds., 335 Old National Rd., Lore City, gates open at 5 p.m. $5, kids 10 and under free.

Concession stand provided by Lions Club. All money raised goes to SEORMC for diabetes support. 740-2601604 or visit www.cambridgelions.com.

JUN. 18–20 – Southern Ohio Forest Rally, Thursday kickoff at Yoctangee City Park Stage, Chillicothe; Friday at Shawnee Forest, Portsmouth; Saturday at Zaleski Forest/ Scioto Trails Forest, McArthur/Chillicothe. 740-844-3488 or www.southernohioforestrally.com.

38 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JUNE 2020

JUN. 20 – National Road Bike Show and Ribfest, downtown Cambridge. Enjoy bikes, ribs, beers, bands, and more! 740-439-2238 or www.downtowncambridge.com.

JUN. 20 – Youth Bluegill Derby, Ross Lake, 501 Musselman Mill Rd., Chillicothe, 8 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Free.

Open to kids age 15 and under. Participants must be accompanied by an adult and provide their own fishing equipment. Plaques will be awarded in three age groups for biggest bluegill and most bluegill. 740-649-9614, kim. danny@roadrunner.com, or www.visitchillicotheohio.com.

JUN. 20, JUL. 11, 25, AUG. 8 – MOV’n Dragons, meet at the Marietta High School Boat House, 812 Gilman Ave., Marietta, 9–11 a.m. Free. Open to men, women, and youth 12–18 (parental permission required). No experience necessary; all fitness levels welcome. Experience the Muskingum River in a dragon boat, learn about dragon boating, and try out paddling with the MOV’n Dragons team. Sign up at www.facebook.com/MOVnDragons or call 740-434-5638.

JUN. 24–28 – “Trees of the Eastern Forest: Field Recognition Level II,” Highland Nature Sanctuary, 7660 Cave Rd., Bainbridge. The course focuses on field recognition of trees of the Great Eastern Temperate Forest. At the end of this course you will be able to recognize over 80 species of trees and their ecological habitats. Space is limited and registration is required.

937-365-1935https://arcofappalachia.org/trees_level_2.

CENTRAL

THROUGH AUG. 8 ­— Franklinton Art Exhibit, Roy G Biv Gallery, 435 W. Rich St., Columbus, Wed.-Sun. 12–6 p.m. Free adm. Garden paintings by more than a dozen members of the Central Ohio Plein Air Society. Event is in-person, social dinstancing will be observed. (614) 2977694, www.roygbivgallery.com.

THROUGH OCTOBER – Zanesville Farmers Market, Muskingum Co. Fgds., 1300 Pershing Rd., Zanesville, every Sat., 9 a.m.–12 p.m. June through August, the market is also open every Wed. 4–7 p.m. at North 4th Street. www.zanesvillefarmersmarket.org.

JUN. 12–13 – Oorang Bang, downtown LaRue. Celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Oorang Bang, featuring a parade, car show, food and craft vendors, barnyard Olympics, and more! www. laruecommunityalliance.org.

JUN. 19–28 – Marion County Fair, 220 E. Fairground St., Marion. $5 daily, $25 for 10-day pass, under 6 free.

Rides, livestock shows, tractor and truck pulls, rodeos, live music, demolition derby, and much more. 740-3822558 or www.marioncountyfairgrounds.com.

JUN. 27 – Appalachian Artisans Guild “Toast to Summer,” Fayette County Airport, 2770 Old St. Rte. 38, Washington Court House, 1–10 p.m. www.appartguild. com/services.html.

JUN. 27 – Indian Mud Run, Lake Park, 23253 St. Rte. 83, Coshocton, 8 a.m.– 5 p.m. A 6-mile obstacle course race in the hills of Lake Park – all age groups welcome.

Have fun, win prizes, and get muddy! 740-502-7208 or www.indianmudrun.com.

JUN. 27 – “Night of Thunder,” National Trail Raceway, 2650 National Road SW, Hebron. See website for details and updates. 740-928-5706 ext. 24 or www. nationaltrailraceway.com.

JUL. 3–4 – Stars and Stripes on the River, Zane’s Landing Park, west end of Market Street (along river), Zanesville, Fri. 6–10:30 p.m., Sat. noon–11 p.m. Live music, food, activities for all ages, and fireworks display.

All proceeds go to benefit the community. www. zanesvillejaycees.org/Events/Stars-Stripes-On-The-RiverZanesville-Ohio.

JUL. 7–11 – Pottery Lovers Reunion Week, Holiday Inn Express, Zanesville. Join fellow pottery lovers from across the nation at the largest and oldest gathering of pottery collectors and dealers. 609-407-9997, potteryloversinfo@ gmail.com, or www.potterylovers.org.

JUL. 9–11 – Picktown Palooza, 89 N. Center St., Pickerington. $5 daily or $10 for 3-day pass. Fun and family-oriented event featuring live entertainment, food vendors, beer garden, Freedom 5K and kids’ fun run, rides, games, and car and bike show. 614-379-2099 or www.picktownpalooza.org.

JUL. 10 – Scraped No Prep, National Trail Raceway, 2650 National Road SW, Hebron. See website for

details and updates. 740-928-5706 ext. 24 or www. nationaltrailraceway.com.

JUL. 10–11 – Coshocton Canal Quilters Quilt Show, Coshocton County Career Ctr., 23640 Airport Rd., Coshocton, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $5, under 13 free. Free parking. Handicap accessible. This year’s theme is “Under the Stars.” Traditional and modern quilts. Special exhibit features more than 50 quilts made by Shirley Stutz. www. facebook.com/CCQQuiltShow.

JUL. 10–11 – Hull Pottery Association National Show, Crooksville High School, 4075 Ceramic Way, Crooksville, Fri. 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. for general public; members admitted at 9 a.m. both days. Free. The largest Hull Pottery show in the world, with hundreds of authentic, rare, and one-of-a-kind pieces and many other favorite pottery pieces on display. Drawings and giveaways. http://hullpotteryassociation.org.

JUL. 11 – “King of Columbus,” National Trail Raceway, 2650 National Road SW, Hebron. See website for details and updates. 740-928-5706 ext. 24 or www. nationaltrailraceway.com.

JUL. 12 — Franklinton Garden and Art Tour, begins at Columbus Metropolitan Library Franklinton Branch, 12–5 p.m. Free adm. Live music en route, art projects, demonstrations. Rain or shine, social distancing will be observed. (614) 297-7694, www.roygbivgallery.com JUL. 14 – Inventors Network Meeting, Rev1 Ventures for Columbus, 1275 Kinnear Rd., Columbus, 7 p.m. The focus of this month’s meeting is “How to Fund My Invention Project.” 614-470-0144 or www.inventorscolumbus.com.

JUN. 20 – Summer Solstice Dinner and Celebration, Serpent Mound, 3850 OH-73, Peebles. $20, plus $8 parking fee. Listen to a presentation on Ohio’s rich American Indian legacies, enjoy a meal featuring handsmoked meats and fresh vegetables, and take a guided tour around Serpent Mound. One hour before sunset, experience an hour of quiet reflection as you watch the sun set over the head of the ancient Serpent effigy.

Space is limited and registration is required. https:// arcofappalachia.org/solstice.

JUN. 20 – Vintage in the Village, 6 South 3rd St., Tipp City, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Unique booths featuring JUN. 12–14 – Versailles Poultry Days, 459 S. handmade, vintage, and antique items, as well as food Center St., Versailles. Free admission and parking. trucks and children’s activities. 800-348-8993 or www.

Enjoy our world-famous barbecue chicken dinners homegrowngreat.com/event/vintage-in-the-village. and many fun events, including a Grand Parade, JUN. 20 – West Milton Triathlon, West Milton Municipal Sat., 11 a.m., and an Antique Car Parade, Sun., 2:30 Park, 249 E. Tipp Pike, West Milton. Triathlon consists p.m. . poultrydayschairman@gmail.com, www. of 3.5 miles of canoeing on the scenic Stillwater River, a versaillespoultrydays.com, or find us on Facebook.

5-mile run over back country roads, then 17 miles of biking.

JUN. 19–20 – Southwest Ohio Quilt Expo, Roberts Starts and finishes at West Milton Park. 800-348-8993 or Convention Ctr., 3 Gano Rd., Wilmington, Fri. 9 www.homegrowngreat.com/event/west-milton-triathlon. a.m.–5 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. www.appartguild.com/ JUN. 27–28 – Vectren Dayton Air Show, Dayton services.html.

International Airport, 3800 Wright Dr., Vandalia, 9 a.m.–6 JUN. 20 – Rock ’N Roll Car Show, 326 N Main St., Piqua, p.m. $13–$25, under 6 free. One of America’s leading air 12–6 p.m. All years of cars and trucks are welcome. shows. See the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, U.S. Air Force A-10 Dash plaques will be given to the first 50 registered cars. Thunderbolt II, and other performers, as well as aircraft 800-348-8993 or www.homegrowngreat.com/event/rock- displays, helicopter rides, an airshow parade, and more. n-roll-car-show. www.daytonairshow.com.

SOUTHWEST

JUL. 3–4 – Americana Festival, Franklin and Main streets, Centerville. Free. Concert and fireworks on the 3rd at Centerville High School, 500 E. Franklin St.; doors open at 6 p.m. Festival on the 4th begins at 9 a.m. and features parade, 5K run, and street fair with 300 craft and food booths. www.americanafestival.org.

JUL. 4 – Red, White and Blue Ash, Summit Park, Blue Ash, 4–10:30 p.m. Music, rides, games, food and drink, and family fun. Concerts are followed at 10 p.m. with the biggest and best fireworks in the tri-state area. http:// blueashevents.com.

JUL. 5 – Music at the Mound with Steve Free, Serpent Mound, 3850 OH-73, Peebles, 1 p.m. Free. $8 parking fee. Join the acclaimed singer/songwriter for an open air concert. http://arcofappalachia.org/steve-free.

JUL. 9–12 – Greenville Farm Power of the Past, Darke Co. Fgds., 800 Sweitzer St., Greenville. $5, free for 12 and under. Featuring Cockshutt & Co-op and Minneapolis Moline tractors and equipment, oil field engines, gas engines, farm implements, hand tools, and much more.

937-459-6424 or www.greenvillefarmpower.org.

JUL. 9–12 – Kathy Slack Troy Summer Skating Competition, Hobart Arena, 255 Adams St., Troy.

This figure and freestyle competition draws over 300 participants from the Midwest and beyond. www. troyskatingclub.org.

JUNE 2020 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 39

MEMBER INTERACTIVE

I want to ride my 1

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BICYCLE 1. My great-niece with her super bright yellow birthday bike!

Carolyn Hoover Consolidated Cooperative member

2. Bella Hartley at Safety City during North Central Electric’s 2019 Family Fun Day. Janeen Melroy North Central Electric Cooperative member

3. My grandson, Aiden, loves riding his bike.

Robin Richards

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Carroll Electric Cooperative member

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4. This past summer, Cameron spent many happy hours riding his bike up and down our driveway.

Joy Manz Paulding Putnam Electric Cooperative member

5. My 2-year-old grandson, Cole, and his dad teaching him to ride his bike.

Audra Klatt Tricounty Rural Electric Cooperative member

6. Ida and Aaron enjoying a bike ride on our driveway. It was a beautiful afternoon on Groundhog Day! Tara Estadt Washington Electric Cooperative member

7. My great-grandson, Lewis, trying out an old-fashioned bicycle at the Smithsonian.

Patsy Smith

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South Central Power Company member

8. Kash can’t wait till he is a little bigger to ride tandem with his Papa.

Carla Lucas North Western Electric Cooperative member

9. Noelle taking her little sister, Scarlett, on her first bike ride!

Renee Taylor-Johnson Butler Rural Electric Cooperative member

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10. Little brother Miles hitching a ride on big brother Sam’s bike.

Carolyn Terwilliger Holmes-Wayne Electric Cooperative member

11. Our son, Kolt, learning to ride his bike on a camping trip at Deer Creek State Park.

Kacey Kramer South Central Power Company member

Send us your picture!

For September, send “Friday night lights” by June 15; for October, send “Scary!” by July 15. Upload your photos at www.ohioec.org/memberinteractive — and remember to include your co-op name and to identify everyone in the photos.

40 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JUNE 2020

Local. Invested. Committed.

A strong community makes a strong cooperative.

That’s why we’re not just in the electric business.

We’re in the quality-of-life business.

And we’re here to stay.

ohioec.org/purpose