Ohio Cooperative Living - June - LorainMedina

OHIO

JUNE 2022

COOPERATIVE Lorain-Medina Rural Electric Cooperative

Lake life

Memories in the making

ALSO INSIDE Beat the peak No-waste kitchen Ghost parks

THE VALUE OF ELECTRICITY The cost of everyday items has gone up dramatically over the years.

Electricity being the exception.

$4.43/LB VS $0.11 /kWh

We know you like your coffee hot and your electricity affordable.

For more than 80 years, we’ve helped keep it a stable value.

ohioec.org/energy

OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JUNE 2022

INSIDE FEATURES 23 BRICK BY BRICK

A childhood passion for the plastic building blocks grows into a world-class (unofficial) Lego museum in Bellaire, Ohio.

26 GHOST PARKS

Old amusement parks often leave behind reminders of a glorious heyday.

30 EYES IN THE SKY

The UAS Center in Springfield helps Ohio lead the nation in the next generation of aviation innovation.

34 TALL SHIPS

Two tall ships festivals return to Lake Erie this summer, offering vistors a chance to see the old galleys up close.

Cover image on most editions: Lake life is a state of mind — total relaxation for some, fun-filled adventures on the water for others. Sandra Post, a member of Midwest Electric, took this photo of her daughter, Catherine, 13, learning to water-ski at the family cabin. More members’ lake life photos are on page 40.

This page: Photographing black bears in the wild can be a thrilling experience, says Outdoors Editor Chip Gross in this month’s Woods, Waters, and Wildlife, but above all else, it must be done with utmost safety in mind (photo by Matt Cuda/Getty Images).

JUNE 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

1

UP FRONT

Hello, sunshine!

A

fter a damp and chilly spring, most of us were more than ready for the arrival of bright days filled with warmth and sunshine. Your electric cooperative is ready for summer, too.

Every year at this time, we make sure we’re ready to keep your lights on and your air conditioning powered up — even on the hottest days of the year, when the demand for electricity is typically 20% to 30% higher than on an average summer day. In fact, the demand for electricity between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. on those hottest of days can be more than double what it was just a few hours earlier. That means our power generators and distribution equipment needs to be ready for duty.

For decades, Ohio’s cooperatives have helped you save money by showing you ways to use electricity wisely and trim unnecessary demand — especially during those peak periods when systems are strained and costs are higher. It’s particularly important now, when we already can expect higher prices due to higher fuel costs.

We also recognize that because many older power plants across the country have shut down in recent years, our overall grid is more vulnerable during those peak periods. Rest assured that Ohio’s cooperatives have maintained a sufficient supply of generation to meet your needs every hour of every day of the year, but we are just a small part of the overall grid.

So when your cooperative issues a peak alert to let you know summer power is in particularly high demand, you can both save some money and keep our grid more secure by paying attention and doing even small things to reduce your usage (see our story about peak alerts on page 4).

Meanwhile, your cooperative will keep working to make sure we meet your needs. We invest in our existing power plants to make them as reliable and environmentally responsible as possible, and we’re also steadily adding new resources to our supply mix. A little later this summer, in fact, our next solar facility, located in Hancock County, will begin to contribute to powering your homes and businesses. It’s just another way we work to maintain a diverse, reliable supply of electricity to keep your lights on and your A/C cool.

Hope you all enjoy a great summer.

2

OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JUNE 2022

Pat O’Loughlin

PRESIDENT & CEO OHIO’S ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES

When your cooperative issues a peak alert to let you know summer power is in particularly high demand, you can save some money by doing even small things to reduce your usage.

June 2022 • Volume 64, No. 9

Ohio Rural Electric Cooperatives 6677 Busch Blvd.

Columbus, OH 43229 614-846-5757 www.ohiocoopliving.com Patrick O’Loughlin Caryn Whitney Jeff McCallister Rebecca Seum

4 DEPARTMENTS

President & CEO Director of Communications Managing Editor Assistant Managing Editor

Contributors: 2Shea Creative, Alicia Adams, Margo Bartlett, Jodi Borger, Colleen Romick Clark, Getty Images, W.H. “Chip” Gross, Catherine Murray, Kevin Williams, and Margie Wuebker.

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

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.

National/regional advertising inquiries, contact

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

4 POWER LINES

Beat the peak: Reducing electricity usage during summer’s hottest days can make a real difference in members’ bills.

10

6 Top scholars: Ohio’s Electric

Cooperatives awards $44,200 to children of co-op members.

10 CO-OP PEOPLE

Great clips: When livestock need their nails done, it takes a special kind of manicurist.

12

12 WOODS, WATERS, AND WILDLIFE

Shooting black bears: With a camera, of course! Outdoors Editor Chip Gross explains the best way to get the best images of those majestic — and elusive — creatures.

15

15 GOOD EATS

Waste not, want not: Kitchen scraps don’t have to go into the garbage.

Instead, put them to use in some delicious new ways.

19 LOCAL PAGES

News and information from your electric cooperative.

37

37 CALENDAR

Ohio-based advertisers contact

Rheta Gallagher

What’s happening: June/July

614-940-5956 | rgallagher@ohioec.org

events and other things to do around Ohio.

Cooperative members:

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

Alliance for Audited Media Member

40 MEMBER INTERACTIVE

Lake life: Fun in the sun or all-out relaxation — members share how they spend time by the water.

40

Visit Ohio Cooperative Living magazine online at www.ohiocoopliving.com! Read past issues and watch videos about our articles or our recipes. Our site features an expanded Member Interactive area where you can share your stories, recipes, and photos and find content submitted by other co-op members across the state.

JUNE 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

3

POWER LINES

Beat

the

peak

Reducing electricity usage during summer’s hottest days can make a difference in members’ bills.

BY JEFF MCCALLISTER

S

ometime soon — perhaps sometime this month, but certainly in July and August — you’re likely to see a “peak alert” notice from your electric cooperative.

It could be an email or text or it could be on social media.

Whatever form that alert takes, members across the state should know that while it’s not an emergency or a shortage of electricity, it IS an opportunity for them to save money.

“As we head into the summer months and hot, humid weather, we provide our members with peak alert notifications to help raise awareness of the power grid status, especially during busy periods in the mornings and evenings,” says John Metcalf, president and CEO of MidOhio Energy Cooperative in Kenton.

What’s the peak?

It’s important that consumer-members are aware of those peaks because electric rates for the entire year are based on the highest points of usage during the year, referred to as “peak demand.”

On the hottest days of the summer, when air conditioners and heat pumps across the state are often turned up full blast (it also happens during the most frigid days of winter), the demand for electricity generation inches higher. When your co-op and Buckeye Power — the generation and transmission cooperative that provides the electricity your co-op brings to its members — see that demand heading toward a new peak, they do everything they can to avoid that peak that would trigger a higher rate for the coming year.

While reducing usage during those potential peaks won’t lower rates, it will keep future bills from going higher.

Kevin Zemanek, assistant vice president of operations at Buckeye Power, says beating those peaks can save the coops $6.5 million to $7.5 million annually.

“As much as 25% of a member’s bill can be affected by those peaks that happen in six hours of the year,” says Ben Wilson, director of power delivery engineering at

4

OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JUNE 2022

Buckeye Power. “If we’re able to hold them down through our various measures, it saves the co-ops money as they purchase electricity, and of course, the not-for-profit coops in turn pass those savings on to their members.”

All in it together Those peak alerts the co-op sends out are one way to “beat the peak” — asking members to voluntarily reduce their consumption. Consumer-members can help by avoiding the use of high-energy appliances such as clothes dryers, electric ovens, dishwashers, and the like during those times, or by turning the thermostat up a few degrees to run those cooling units a bit less. Turning off unneeded lights and smaller appliances, while always a good idea to reduce your electric bill, also helps during those peak alerts.

Co-ops can also decrease some of that usage themselves, by controlling some individual water heaters or airconditioning units. With the member’s permission, some co-ops will install a radio-controlled switch on one or both of the units, and as a potential peak approaches, Buckeye Power can send a signal that cycles those appliances on and off for a short period.

Behind the scenes There are more than 100,000 water heaters and 15,000 A/C units around the state that members have allowed the co-op to enroll in the load management program — often in exchange for a rebate or bill credit (the programs differ around the state, so call your co-op to see if and how they participate). Most members who sign up for the program report that they have never noticed when the switching takes place.

While one remote switch on a single water heater may not make a huge difference, the overall impact of the program conserves a large amount of electricity — and saves everyone money.

“The reason we do anything is for the benefit of our members,” says Consolidated Cooperative CEO Phil Caskey. “Whether it’s load management, another rebate program, or anything else, our goals are to provide reliable service at a reasonable price and to improve the quality of life for the people we serve.”

How to use less

In times of extremely high electricity usage (usually during the hot afternoon and early evening hours in the summer), consumer-members can help reduce the overall volume and hold down future rate increases with some simple steps: • Defer tasks like doing laundry, running the dishwasher, or charging electric vehicles until after the peak alert has passed.

• Use programmable thermostats, with the settings adjusted so your heating/cooling system syncs up with the off-peak rate period — or simply adjust the thermostat a few degrees upward (or downward in frigid weather).

• Use automatic timers to run hot tubs, pool pumps, water heaters, and other appliances during off-peak hours.

• Close window shades or curtains to keep your house cooler during the hottest parts of the day.

• Take shorter showers.

JUNE 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

5

Children of Members

scholarship winners

OTHER WINNERS Ben Olenick Butler Rural Electric Cooperative Megan Westbrook Holmes-Wayne Electric Cooperative Elyse Wilson Pioneer Rural Electric Cooperative

Sara Newsome

O

Owen Van Horn

Carrie Rhoades

hio’s Electric Cooperatives awarded 24 scholarships to outstanding high school seniors in its annual Children of Members Scholarship competition.

Students from member households representing each of the Ohio-based electric distribution cooperatives competed for $44,200 in scholarships. A panel of independent judges reviewed applications and conducted interviews with the students.

FIRST PLACE: Sara Newsome, South Central Power Company Ranked first in her class at Hillsboro High School, Sara is accomplished academically and personally. Sara is a member of the National Honor Society and student council, serves the local homeless shelter and humane society, and has earned an Associate of Arts degree. After graduation, Sara plans to study psychology and neuroscience in college with a focus on pre-law. One of her high school instructors commends Sara’s ambition, curiosity, and desire to understand how and why concepts connect.

SECOND PLACE: Owen Van Horn, Paulding Putnam Electric Cooperative Owen has ambitions to study physics, astrophysics, and astronomy in college, and has spent his high school career fine-tuning the skills and character traits needed to be successful. Within his community, Owen has served the St. Jude Youth Ministry and St. Vincent de Paul Society, participated on the 4-H Board of Directors and student council, and was active with Emerging Rural Leaders and Saints & Scholars.

One of his instructors says, “Owen embodies the values of hard work, integrity, leadership, and scholarship.”

THIRD PLACE: Carrie Rhoades, Darke Rural Electric Cooperative

Aiden McDougal North Central Electric Cooperative Lily James Mid-Ohio Energy Cooperative Jessi Cramer Carroll Electric Cooperative Bailey Barnette Buckeye Rural Electric Cooperative Jared Bradford Lorain-Medina Rural Electric Cooperative Caridad Dupote-Fosnot Union Rural Electric Cooperative Sarah Garretson Frontier Power Company Alyssa Heinrichs Midwest Electric Cheyenne Hill Logan County Electric Cooperative Kaitlyn Mull The Energy Cooperative Grace Schroeder North Western Electric Cooperative Jack Sears Consolidated Cooperative Morgan Shupert Adams Rural Electric Cooperative Sheldyn Stewart Guernsey-Muskingum Electric Cooperative

An agriculturalist at heart, Carrie has been heavily involved in 4-H, FFA, and the Darke County Fair, and plans to follow her passion to college where she will study agricultural communications and agribusiness. During high school, Carrie has excelled in public speaking competitions and advanced English courses. Carrie’s English teacher says, “She is an excellent student with lots of energy and ambition, and I have no doubt that her academic and personal goals will be achieved.”

Mason Stottsberry Washington Electric Cooperative

Congratulations to all participants

Leah Whitford Tricounty Rural Electric Cooperative

6 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JUNE 2022

Sydney Swisher Hancock-Wood Electric Cooperative Morgan Welch Firelands Electric Cooperative

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9

CO-OP PEOPLE

Martin Watson prepares to open a gate for his next customer

Great clips When livestock need their nails done, it takes a special kind of manicurist.

STORY AND PHOTOS BY MARGIE WUEBKER

Joel Litt of Lakeville uses a grinder to remove high spots on a hoof he’s trimming for a farmer in Guernsey County.

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OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JUNE 2022

T

he statuesque fellow known as Number 43 definitely needs a pedicure before heading to the big show. He won’t, however, be strolling into the neighborhood salon.

Instead, his technician will be coming to him — in a pickup truck, pulling a trailer full of power sanders, stiff bristle brushes, sharp picks, heavy-duty hydraulic tables, and even a padded chute to help with the job.

Number 43 is a 1-year-old Hereford, and his owner relies on the services of hoof trimmers like Joel Litt of Lakeville or Martin Watson of Claysville to get ready for the many fairs and cattle shows that come along during the course of the year.

“First-timers sometimes kick up a fuss,” says Litt, a member of Holmes-Wayne Electric Cooperative. “This one is used to the process and knows its hooves will feel better after I’m done.”

Once the animal is calmly on its side on the bed, the process involves using a hook-like tool to remove accumulated debris from the hoof bottom and between the toes. The thick, horny surface is removed with a power grinder, sending forth a spray of keratin flakes not unlike human fingernail material. A power sander then reshapes and smooths the remaining hoof. The entire process takes 20 minutes or less.

“Most people assume county fair season is our busiest time of the year,” says Litt. “Most of our business Martin Watson of Claysville prepares to open a involves show cattle, though, and gate for his next customer. shows take place year-round.” Litt and his ilk, then, are fully accustomed to working in all types of weather conditions, from pelting rain and gusting wind to driving Watson, a member of Guernsey-Muskingum Electric snow or blazing sun.

Cooperative in New Concord, says cows have cloven hooves, meaning each has two separate claw-like toes on Watson has been trimming hooves for 35 years. He depends each of their four feet. on word of mouth from satisfied customers and says he’s placed only a single advertisement in all that time.

Those hooves grow approximately 2 inches per year, so they need to be trimmed about twice per year — Under the supervision of his father, Litt began trimming especially for cattle who spend considerable time on hard the hooves of the family’s 4-H steers at the age of 12. He surfaces instead of pasture land. The hooves must be continued the work and eventually took a post managing flat on the bottom and equal on each hoof to maintain a dairy herd after graduating from Ohio State University’s optimal balance. Overgrown and uneven hooves can Agricultural Technical Institute in Wooster. affect the way an animal walks and make it difficult to “I bought my trailer in 2005 because I thought it would get to food and water. Untrimmed hooves can lead to make a good retirement project,” he says. “I was right.” lameness — often temporary but sometimes permanent — which necessitates treatment that’s much more costly Litt generally works seven days a week, with 75% of his than the $25 to $35 hoof trimming. Dairy cattle owners business being show cattle — the rest is mostly dairy often report milk production increases after a cattle and donkeys. He travels 70,000 miles a year, with bovine pedicure. assignments taking him to 73 out of Ohio’s 88 counties as well as to Pennsylvania, Indiana, and West Virginia.

The actual trimming process begins before an animal is led into an attached chute. With years of experience Watson used to travel around 50,000 miles a year, under their belts, the trimmers can often spot potential including appointments in Kentucky, Michigan, hoof problems by merely watching the animal walk. A Missouri, Virginia, Tennessee, and West Virginia. Now subsequent examination usually confirms their suspicions. he offers owners the opportunity to bring their cattle to him. The arrangement allows him to trim four to five Both men use hydraulic tables for their work. Once an animals per hour without the need to tow his trailer over animal is safely ensconced and belted into the attached sometimes icy and salted roadways. chute, the padded bed is tipped onto its side. Number 43 remains quiet during the process, calmly munching on a “My dad wasn’t sure I could make a living at this,” he says treat. The farrier quickly straps all four legs into sturdy with a smile. “I love working with show cattle, I’m semistraps to prevent flailing hooves from inflicting damage. retired, and I work when I want. I made the right choice.”

JUNE 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

11

WOODS, WATERS, AND WILDLIFE

Shooting black bears!

(...With a camera, of course) STORY AND PHOTOS BY W.H. “CHIP” GROSS

I

12

’ve lived in Ohio all my life, spent tons of time in the outdoors, and have never encountered a black bear in the wild in the Buckeye State. That’s not to say they’re not here, of course. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources estimates Ohio’s black bear population at only five to 15 resident individuals and anywhere from 50 to 100 transient bruins. Given the size of our state, that puts the chances of finding a cooperative bear to photograph somewhere near those of me winning a beauty contest.

Predictably unpredictable, black bears are not the bumbling oafs or cuddly teddy bears they are portrayed to be on some television nature programs. No matter where they live, by nature a bear is still a bear, and they are much stronger, smarter, and more adaptive than most people realize. They are also fast, able to run 30 miles per hour for a short distance (the best an Olympic sprinter can do is in the low 20s). It is the wise wildlife photographer who gives bears a wide berth.

There’s another option, however, and not too far from Ohio, for anyone who’s always wanted to photograph, or at least see, a black bear in the wild. But first — and this is important — understand that although photographing a bear is a thrilling experience, it obviously must be done safely, or the encounter could become a bit too thrilling. A sow defending her cubs or a male defending his territory can be particularly dangerous.

How best, then, to safely photograph bears? Shooting bears with a camera is one instance when a telephoto lens is an absolute necessity, as it gives you plenty of working distance yet still allows you to fill the frame of your camera’s viewfinder with the photo subject. So how close is too close? A good rule of thumb is that if your presence changes the natural behavior of a bear, you’re too close.

OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JUNE 2022

My personal choice of photography equipment for bears and other wildlife is a Canon EOS 7D Mark II camera body attached to a 100–400 mm Canon zoom lens. Though certainly not the latest and greatest body, this camera was designed for sports/wildlife photography and has been a workhorse for me for years. In fact, most of my photos that have accompanied my features in Ohio Cooperative Living magazine through the years were taken with this camera.

In addition, I often mount a 1.4X teleconverter (multiplier) between the body and lens, giving me 560 mm of reach. I sometimes steady the camera and lens with a monopod.

A telephoto lens allows you to fill the frame with the photo subject without getting too close for comfort.

Cade’s Cove, a paved, 11-mile-loop auto and bicycle trail. Visiting during this time of year helps tilt the odds of seeing a bear in your favor, as they’re fattening up — literally “hungry as a bear” — after losing weight during winter hibernation. For a photographer, that means more potential encounters with bears.

Cade’s Cove at Great Smoky Mountains National Park: a sweet spot for shooting black bears.

If you don’t care to invest in traditional photo equipment, some late-model cellphones have excellent zooming capabilities and produce professional-quality images.

An added benefit of cellphone photography is that most people carry their phones with them all the time.

All that said, what is my suggestion for where and when to shoot photos of black bears? Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP), on the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, is within a day’s drive of Ohio. It is the most visited national park in the country, and it’s loaded with bears. As a result, black bears are so used to seeing people that most pay little attention to visitors, often ambling by just a few yards away.

GSMNP encompasses a huge area, and bears are where you find them — but a good place to begin looking is

Ask

chip!

While photographing bears when other photographers are near and working the same subject, remember common courtesy. For instance, just this past spring I was photographing a yearling black bear at Great Smoky Mountains, the bear only a few feet off the road.

As I started shooting, however, I heard a vehicle pull up behind me, stop, and a car door open. A young man in his twenties jumped out, ran up with cellphone in hand, positioned himself squarely between me and the bear, and took a selfie with the bear in the background. He then yelled to his buddies in the car, “Got it!” Running back to the vehicle, he jumped in, slammed the door, and the car roared off.

The young man was way too close to the bear for his own safety, but fortunately the yearling was spooked into the underbrush and didn’t come at him. Nevertheless, it was game over for me and the other few photographers who had been shooting that particular bear. It should go without saying, but don’t be “that guy.”

Email Chip Gross with your outdoors questions at whchipgross@ gmail.com. Be sure to include “Ask Chip” in the subject of the email.

Your question may be answered on www.ohiocoopliving.com!

www.ohiocoopliving.com JUNE 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

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OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JUNE 2022

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GOOD EATS Those kitchen scraps don’t have to go into the garbage — with a little imagination, there are lots of delicious ways to put them to use.

RECIPES AND PHOTOGRAPHS BY CATHERINE MURRAY

SMOKY GREENS AND BEANS

Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 30 minutes | Servings: 4 1 tablespoon olive oil 8 cups coarsely chopped greens 1 large onion, chopped 1 to 3 chunks Parmesan rind 2 garlic cloves, chopped (optional) 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes 2 cups cooked cannellini, great in juice northern, and/or butter beans 1½ cups vegetable or chicken ¼ cup shaved Parmesan cheese broth 1½ teaspoons smoked paprika Heat oil in a large cast iron or nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and sauté until soft and beginning to brown, 5 to 7 minutes. Add garlic, tomatoes with juice, broth, and smoked paprika. Bring to a boil. Add greens a handful or two at a time, stirring so they begin to wilt. Submerge Parmesan rind in the liquid. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer about 5 minutes. Add beans and simmer 1 to 2 minutes to heat through. Divide among bowls; top with cheese, if desired. Eat solo or serve with Polish or Andouille sausage.

Per serving: 507 calories, 11 grams fat (4 grams saturated fat), 14 milligrams cholesterol, 699 milligrams sodium, 72 grams total carbohydrates, 29 grams fiber, 34 grams protein.

When it comes to edible greens, there are the usual suspects: collard greens, Swiss chard, mustard greens, and kale, for instance. But plenty of greens are edible that you might not expect; leaves from beets, turnips, radishes, sweet potatoes, and broccoli are delicious and nutritious. Use one type of green or mix and match multiple kinds. On top of using greens that might have otherwise been discarded, the extra hard rind at the end of your Parmesan wedge, which doesn’t slice or grate as easily as the rest, will infuse terrific flavor into the broth, and the rind becomes soft and scrumptious. Parmesan rinds can be stored in the freezer until ready to use.

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CARROT-TOP PESTO Carrot greens (also called leaves and fronds) look a lot like parsley and taste a bit like it, too. Many herbs and greens can create a variety of pestos: arugula, parsley, basil, spinach, mint, kale, Swiss chard.

With different combinations of nuts, cheeses, and oils, the possibilities are endless.

Prep: 15 minutes | Servings: 4 1 large bunch of carrot-top 1/3 cup walnuts greens, stems, and leaves 2 green onions, greens only 1 clove garlic 2+ tablespoons olive oil half a lemon, juiced 1/3 cup fresh mint leaves In a medium pot, boil 5 or so cups of water. Roughly chop carrot-top greens and toss them in the boiling water for about 60 seconds, then immediately strain and rinse with cold water. (This mellows their slight bitterness.) Place all ingredients in a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped and beginning to form a paste, adding enough olive oil to loosen the pesto and make it scoopable. Serve hot or cold with raw or cooked vegetables, on crackers, atop carrot soup, or in pasta like a traditional pesto.

Per serving: 146 calories, 13.5 grams fat, 1.5 grams saturated fat, 0 milligrams cholesterol, 60 milligrams sodium, 5 grams total carbohydrates, 3 grams fiber, 4 grams protein.

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Do you have bread ends you don’t like eating? Half-eaten baguettes that are a bit too hard? Instead of discarding them, put leftover breads in a ziplock bag in the freezer.

Once you’ve collected enough, you can make a variety of stuffings, croutons, breakfast casseroles, and bread puddings. Mix and match — French, Italian, white, wheat, even a bit of rye. Don’t be afraid to use up more ingredients from your fridge. Broccoli, green beans, kale, fresh herbs — it’s hard to go wrong.

Along with leftover bread, this recipe is a good way to use up an excess of garden tomatoes (simply blanch, peel, and seed them) along with the last bit of a gallon of milk or bottle of wine.

TOMATO AND HERB SAVORY BREAD PUDDING

Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 45 minutes | Servings: 6 6 cups leftover bread, cut into 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce 1-inch cubes 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, 2 teaspoons dried basil divided 1 teaspoon oregano 3 eggs 1 teaspoon rosemary ¾ cup whole or 2% milk ½ cup shredded Swiss and/or ¼ cup white wine or chicken stock Gruyère cheese Preheat oven to 350 F. Grease 6 ramekins (or a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish) with some of the butter. Melt remaining butter. Spread bread cubes out on a cookie sheet and drizzle melted butter on top. Bake 10 to 15 minutes to toast bread.

Let cool a few minutes.

In an extra-large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, wine, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir in tomatoes, basil, oregano, rosemary, and half the cheese. Toss bread in milk mixture to coat. Using tongs, fill each ramekin (or casserole dish) with bread. Pour any leftover liquid in the middle of each ramekin.

Bake until a golden-brown crust forms, 25 to 35 minutes. Top with remaining cheese and bake another 5 minutes, or until cheese has melted. Serve hot.

Per serving: 219 calories, 14.5 grams fat (8 grams saturated fat), 114 milligrams cholesterol, 258 milligrams sodium, 14 grams total carbohydrates, 1.5 grams fiber, 7 grams protein.

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This recipe is a great way to use orange peels before making orange juice, or, if you love eating oranges regularly, peel them in batches and store the fruit wedges to snack on later.

This same recipe can be used to candy peels of 3 grapefruits or 6 lemons/limes. Grapefruit should simmer longer than the other fruits. Eat candied peels as is or use them on/in muffins, breads, cakes, and cocktails. A byproduct of making candied peels is a citrus-infused simple syrup to flavor beverages or drizzle over ice cream, pancakes, or snow cones.

CANDIED ORANGE PEELS AND ORANGE-INFUSED SIMPLE SYRUP Prep: 20 minutes | Cook: 2 hours | Cool: 12 to 24 hours | Servings: 12 4 large oranges 3 cups sugar, divided 1 to 1½ tablespoons citric acid (optional, for sour candy flavor)

Note: Citric acid is a powder used for many things, including making sour candy. Find it in the canning supplies section.

Wash and lightly scrub the outsides of the oranges. Pat dry. Cut off ends, then slice the peel from end to end, sectioning it into quarters. Use your fingers to gently peel off each section.

Cut peels into thin, equally sized strips and place in a medium-sized pot. Fill pot with water until peels are covered. Top with a lid and bring to a boil. Continue boiling for another 5 minutes. Drain in a colander and repeat the boiling process with fresh water two more times to eliminate bitterness. After the third time, drain water and leave peels in colander for a few minutes.

In the same (now empty) pot, whisk together 2 cups sugar and 1¾ cups water. Turn burner to medium-high and cook until temperature reaches 230 F (10 to 15 minutes). Add the orange peels and continue to simmer on medium-low for 40 to 60 minutes. Check on the peels every 10 minutes or so, swirling the pot occasionally to ensure peels are covered with syrup. (Don’t stir, as stirring may cause crystallization.) When peels become translucent, remove pot from heat.

Pour the remaining cup of sugar into a shallow bowl. To give the candied peels a sour-candy kick, mix up to 1½ tablespoons citric acid into the sugar. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove a few of the peels at a time from the pot, letting excess syrup drip off for a few seconds. Toss peels in the sugar to coat, separating any pieces that stick together. Spread candied peels out on wire racks above cookie sheets. Continue process with the rest of the peels.

When done coating, pour the remaining sugar into the pot with the leftover syrup, add a touch more water, and heat until sugar has dissolved. (Keep in mind that if you made them sour, you’ll have sour syrup!) Pour syrup into an airtight container and store in fridge for 2 to 3 weeks to use as an orange-infused simple syrup. Let peels continue to dry for 12 to 24 hours, until they are no longer sticky to the touch. Store in an airtight container for up to 1 month.

Per serving: 21 calories, 0 grams fat, 0 milligrams cholesterol, 0 milligrams sodium, 57 grams total carbohydrates, 1.5 grams fiber, 0.5 gram protein.

Have you tried one of our recipes? Do you have a recipe to share with other Ohio co-op members? Visit the Member Interactive page on www.ohiocoopliving.com to find recipes submitted by our readers and to upload yours.

www.ohiocoopliving.com While you’re there, check out a video of a few of our recipes being prepared.

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KEY CO-OP TOPICS WITH ED

LIT COMMUNITIES LAUNCHES A NEW FIBER PROJECT IN MEDINA COUNTY

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s I am sure many of you have heard, for our members in Medina County, the days of slow internet and little to no connectivity are soon coming to end. While this won’t happen overnight, a new fiber project was announced on Wednesday, April 27, to connect LMRE members in Medina County through a partnership between LMRE, Lit Communities, Medina Fiber, and Medina County Fiber Network.

Since at least 2019, we have been working to find a way to ensure the growth of fiber internet into our territory for our members. We have done countless surveys to provide data to entities. We partnered with other organizations to apply for grant funding. We even spoke at numerous meetings of government officials and agencies. Your cooperative undertook this task because we understand that the need for high-speed connectivity in rural America is as important today as electricity was back in the 1930s.

Reliable access is no longer a luxury but a requirement for our daily lives. It is essential to our members, businesses, education, and our everyday quality of life.

It has been a long time coming, and these are only the initial steps, but we are excited to finally see actual progress being done to bring this service to our members. Construction is scheduled to begin by the first quarter of 2023, with service becoming available to the first residents in mid to late 2023.

The project will expand broadband access to the Village of Spencer and the townships of Litchfield, Chatham, Harrisville, Homer, and Spencer over the next few years. Residents and businesses will be able to purchase service through a new brand called Lit Fiber, powered by Medina Fiber in Seville.

More information about when and how to sign up will be made available everywhere as soon as possible. Until then, please bear with us, but know that we have not given up. It remains our mission to ensure all members

have access to this essential necessity of life. For now, we have targeted Medina County as our proof of concept of public/ private/semi-public partnership.

Eventually though, we hope to expand this offering by continuing to partner with providers and government entities with the eventual goal of getting access to all LMRE members.

Ed VanHoose

About the partners

GENERAL MANAGER

Medina Fiber is a locally operated internet service provider powered by Lit Communities. Medina Fiber is constructing a network to bring fiber internet to 45,000 residents and businesses in Medina County. Fiber broadband will provide access to fast, reliable internet for online schooling, remote work, streaming, telehealth services, and more.

The Medina County Fiber Network is a 151-mile fiber broadband infrastructure that covers all of Medina County and parts of Summit and Cuyahoga counties.

The network serves approximately 250 medium to large businesses with internet, voice, and data center solutions. Founded in 2010, the network is owned and controlled by the Medina County Port Authority for the Medina County community.

Lorain-Medina Rural Electric Cooperative is a notfor-profit electric distribution cooperative serving the needs of about 16,000 consumers in Ashland, Huron, Lorain, Medina, and Wayne counties in northeast Ohio.

Founded in 1935, Lorain-Medina Rural Electric has been serving the area for over 85 years and is owned and controlled by the members they serve.

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LMRE BOARD MEETING HIGHLIGHTS, APRIL 2022 To provide additional transparency to the membership, highlights of the board meetings each month will now be published in the monthly Ohio Cooperative Living (OCL) magazine. Due to the expansive number of topics and discussions, these are only the highlights. In accordance with the Code of Regulations, full meeting minutes are available to all members in person at the co-op during regular business hours.

Call to order Meeting was called to order at 6:04 p.m.

Attendance All trustees were present as well as legal counsel, general manager, and senior staff (minus one). Financial auditing company representative Earl Ridlen was also present to deliver the annual audit report.

Audit presentation Earl Ridlen presented the LMRE 2021 Audit Report to the board. It was reported to be a very clean audit. He commended the accounting department for all their work.

Approval of the consent agenda Approved consent agenda consisting of prior meeting minutes, new members, collection report, delinquent graph, deceased estates, and outage reports.

LMRE action items • LMRE and OEC safety reports reviewed and approved.

• Work order inventories totaling $1,001,824.19 and special equipment summaries totaling $248,973.63 approved as presented.

Departmental reports • Monthly financial reports and weekly reports reviewed with the board.

• GM VanHoose reported on the projected increases that will be coming from Buckeye Power. Also reported on the Hubbell March 2022 business report (manufacturer of electric materials). Freight costs and long lead times on materials are projected to become higher and longer than even previously incurred.

Reviewed progress report on strategic priority #1.

• Operations, IT, communications, and key accounts/ economic development presented monthly reports.

The LMRE employee appreciation luncheon will be next week, and board members are welcome to attend.

• Administrative Policy AP 200, Organizational Policy OP 109, Organizational Policy OP 112, and the Federated Annual Safety & Loss Prevention Assessment report were reviewed, with no recommended changes at this time.

• Reported that Our Solar II will be constructed in the Hancock-Wood territory.

Legal The March NRECA Legal Reporting Service Bulletins were reviewed with the board. The attorney reported that the review of Code of Regulations is underway.

Cooperative associations reports Reviewed the Buckeye Power/OEC President’s report.

Other associations

• LMRE capital credit allocations approved as presented.

Reviewed Cooperative Finance Corporation Solutions NRECA training, and attendees shared their reports.

• Administrative Policy AP 201 as amended, “adding trustee to also cancel” (regarding travel arrangements), Administrative Policy AP 203, Personnel Policy 5, and Personnel Policy PP 305 approved.

Adjournment

• Tree trimming contract reviewed and approved.

• LMRE voting delegate appointed for the CFC, CRC, and NCSC annual meetings.

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The meeting adjourned at 9:29 p.m.

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Maintenance: Who’s responsible?

Proper maintenance and care for and around your electrical equipment are essential to its longevity, reliability, security, and operability.

In order to perform service, LMRE must be able to make repairs or conduct maintenance on the equipment.

This means clear access to the electric meter, overhead lines, underground cable, pole, and transformer needs to be maintained. When adding a fence, bushes, or other landscaping, be sure that they don’t prevent workers from being able to service the equipment. When your equipment is clear and accessible, that means less work and easier maintenance (and less outage time for you!) should your equipment require repair.

equipment. If you don’t provide notice, you may be responsible for any damage to cooperative equipment caused by the unreported additional load.

Call before you dig For your safety as well as ours, please call the cooperative office before you do any digging. It is possible that there may be an underground cable you are not aware of in the area. Members are also required by law to call the Ohio Underground Protection Service at 811.

So, who is responsible for what?

The cooperative is responsible for all the material and wires up to your point of attachment or delivery point — this is where the wire or wires attach to your home, building, or pole. The cooperative is also responsible for your service meter. Anything else beyond the point of service attachment is the member’s responsibility. This includes wires, service entrance cable, meter base, and the wiring in your home or building.

All line equipment supplied and installed by the cooperative has a definite capacity, which means it can handle only a certain amount of electricity. It is the member’s responsibility to notify the cooperative before any changes that could significantly increase the amount of electricity you are using. Please notify us if you plan to install appliances or equipment that requires heavy power use, such as commercial grade

If you have more questions about maintenance, rightof-way, or any other LMRE program, check out our electronic member handbook online at www.lmre.org/lmrenew-member-handbook.

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LMRE 2022 Board Elections

Lorem ipsum

This month, voting will begin for the contested District 9 seat on the Lorain-Medina Rural Electric board of trustees.

All members will receive a ballot in the mail in mid-June with biographical summaries of each candidate. Video profiles featuring both candidates will be posted online for members to learn more about them.

All LMRE members, regardless of what district they reside in, will vote for one candidate in the District 9 race and will have the option to return the ballot by mail or cast their vote online.

In Medina County, Rick Dumperth and William “Lonnie” Montgomery are running for the District 9 seat. On the following page are the biographies and information for both candidates.

All candidates submitted nominating petitions bearing at least 25 signatures of members within their respective districts.

Election announcements were mailed to all members of districts 3, 6, and 9 in January and February and announced in Ohio Cooperative Living magazine.

During the virtual annual meeting on July 12, LMRE will announce the results of the District 9 election.

Voting begins Wednesday, June 8, and will remain open until Wednesday, June 29, at 11:59 p.m. All votes must be received by this time.

The most cost-effective method to cast a ballot is online at the cooperative’s website, www.lmre.org.

Vote for one candidate in District 9.

Voting is open to all Lorain-Medina Rural Electric members, even those outside of District 9.

Winners will be announced during the virtual annual meeting on July 12.

Uncontested Seat - District 6 Joe Swinko of Litchfield Township (District 6) faces no opposition for his seat up for election this year. Per the code amendment voted in by the membership at the 2020 annual meeting, members who run unopposed for a board seat automatically assume the position without the need, or expense, for a member vote.

During the virtual annual meeting on July 12, LMRE will officially recognize Swinko as the District 6 trustee.

District 3 received no nominating petitions for the seat up for election this year, so the board is required to appoint someone to serve upon the vacancy of the seat.

Joe Swinko DISTRICT 6

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DISTRICT 3

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District 9 Seat Candidate Bios Lorem ipsum

Rick Dumperth, 61, of Chatham Township in Medina County, has been a cooperative member for 32 years.

He and his wife, Lora, have two children and four grandchildren.

Dumperth is retired from Wolff Bros Supply Inc., where he was employed for 42 years.

He previously served as Rick Dumperth a board member of the United Way of Medina County from 2018–2020 and currently serves as a board member for Leadership Medina County and Habitat for Humanity of Medina County. Dumperth also serves as a Chatham Township trustee.

What does being a member of a cooperative mean to you?

“Being a co-op member means I am a stakeholder in a partnership where service is not sacrificed for profit, where

William “Lonnie” Montgomery, 41, of Harrisville Township in Medina County, has been a cooperative member for over two years.

Montgomery is currently employed at Murphy Tractor and Equipment and has five children with his wife, Sarah. He has previous involvement in the Boy Scouts of William “Lonnie” Montgomery America and “Keep Rio Rancho Beautiful.”

What does being a member of a cooperative mean to you?

I am continuously informed and equipped, and where I have a voice and participate in decisions that shape the future. A partnership that collaborates and cooperates with other co-ops, exchanging resources, best practices and ideas for continuous improvements in an ever-changing world.”

What are your top three reasons for being interested in becoming a trustee?

“I would enjoy being involved in the financial and management decision-making. Secondly, I like the community engagement and involvement that LMRE delivers. I would also like to expand my education. Electric utilities have always interested me, having sold low-voltage distribution products my entire career. I am interested in this large-scale non-profit opportunity, as profit margins were a primary focus in my sales career.”

If elected, what are three goals you would like to see achieved as a LMRE trustee?

“My first goal is the continued distribution of reliable, affordable electricity. The next goal of mine is providing broadband to our members. Finally, my last goal is the construction of a new facility in Spencer.”

What are your top three reasons for being interested in becoming a trustee?

“I want to be part of my local community and represent their needs. I also look forward to meeting new people, being involved, and supporting local interests. Finally, I want to impact change for my neighbors that feel like their voices may not be heard.”

If elected, what are three goals you would like to see achieved as a LMRE trustee?

“My first goal will be to meet every member of the cooperative in District 9. Secondly, I want to bring the perspective of a younger generation to the board and represent families impacted by changes made. Finally, I want to be part of the process to streamline the rollout of fiber to LMRE customers.”

“As a cooperative member, we are part of a community.

We can collectively work together for change and can control the destiny of our local power distribution. We are not leaving our future in the hands of a large corporation or for-profit entity. I love the fact that as part of a cooperative, we are part owners and have the opportunity to conserve energy and be responsible users of electricity.”

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We want to hear from you!

Your thoughts and opinions about Lorain-Medina Rural Electric help us to serve you better.

In June, Lorain-Medina Rural Electric will be working with NRECA Market Research Services to complete member satisfaction surveys.

The surveys will be both by phone and email, but not everyone will be contacted. If you are contacted, we would greatly appreciate a few minutes of your time to share your opinions of your local not-for-profit cooperative.

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We strive to provide all members with safe, affordable, reliable, and clean electric service.

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

All information you provide is confidential.

Thank you!

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Power restoration: lessons learned from line crews Whether the lights go out because of weather or squirrels, safety comes first for lineworkers.

You can learn a lot about power outages and restoration by seeing a Lorain-Medina Rural Electric crew at work.

The first thing you’ll notice is the deliberate, careful pace.

They deploy signs to alert motorists. They mark the work area with orange cones. Always in hardhats and fireprotective clothing, anyone working on a power line pulls on heavy rubber gloves. Those gloves have been tested by a machine that blows air into them to make sure there’s not even a pinhole that could allow a deadly electric current to pass through.

And there’s more that you won’t see. You won’t see the hours and hours of safety training and updates they engage in, nor the culture of safety that we have here at LMRE. If you ever wonder why restoring electricity after an outage can take a while, there’s a good answer: Line crews never compromise on safety.

Electric cooperatives devote a lot of time and resources to urging and enforcing limits on planting anything too close to power lines.

One fairly common cause of outages you probably won’t learn about by watching a crew make repairs is wildlife.

Squirrels and other critters routinely crawl around utility equipment, occasionally making a connection between high-voltage wires. Sometimes crews need to investigate and correct the cause. Often the system will reset itself after only a brief power interruption.

Lessons from the lineworkers? Outages can be caused by a variety of factors. Restoring power is an intricate process in a complex utility system. And safety — for crews and the community — will always be the top priority.

Making safety a habit The next thing you can learn from watching a line crew at work comes from seeing what task they’re doing. There’s a good chance they’re replacing old equipment. Poles and transformers wear out, and failing equipment is one significant cause of power outages.

You might see them replacing a downed utility pole, a painstaking process of removing the old and hauling in and raising the new, using trucks specifically designed for the job.

Trees vs. power lines The pole might be down because a motorist ran into it — another cause of outages. Or it could be weather related. Wind, ice, fires — these natural disasters cause about 80% of power outages. If one pole is down, lots of others could be as well.

That means crews will be repeating the polereplacement process, one job at a time.

That’s why bringing the lights back on after a major storm with widespread outages can take days, or even weeks.

It’s also likely the crew you’re watching will be trimming trees. Trees are beautiful but a common cause of outages as wind and nearby branches can lead to wires getting knocked to the ground.

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SAVE THE DATE!

Lorain-Medina Rural Electric Cooperative 86th annual meeting of members The 86th annual meeting of members will be held on Tuesday, July 12, 2022, starting at 6 p.m. Members who attend electronically will receive a $25 credit on their bill. Only one credit per member account is available.

More information about this meeting, including how to register, will be available on our website at www.lmre.org/annual-meeting.

Mark your calendars!

LORAIN-MEDINA ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE, INC. CONTACT

800-222-LMRE | 440-647-2133 www.lmre.org OFFICE

22898 West Road Wellington, Ohio 44090 OFFICE HOURS

8 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

GENERAL MANAGER

Rodney L. Eaton

Edward VanHoose

President, District 4

Gary L. Rowland

Secretary, District 7

Keith E. Lowe

HAVE A STORY SUGGESTION?

Brenda J. Wolfe

Treasurer, District 8

James R. McConnell Trustee, District 

Richard K. Indoe Trustee, District 9

Judy A. Pickworth Trustee, District 5

Kathleen E. Norton Fox Trustee, District 3

Joe Swinko Trustee, District 6

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LOCAL PAGES EDITORS

Justis A. Clifford, Director of Communications Holly M. Storrow, Communications Specialist Addie M. Martin, Communications Specialist

Vice President, District 1

Email your ideas to: LMRE@fesco-oh.org

A childhood passion for Legos grows into a world-class (unofficial) Lego museum.

STORY AND PHOTOS BY MARGO BARTLETT

L

ike many kids, Conrad Brown loved Legos. He knew his dad shared that love, too. “I didn’t realize how much we were into Legos,” he says, until his father, Dan Brown, bought Bellaire’s former Gravel Hill school in 2007, with the intent to store his Lego collection in the 1915 building.

It wasn’t long before the former school became the Toy and Plastic Brick Museum.

The original plan had been to open an official Lego museum, says Conrad, now 26, but the Danish toy company ultimately backed out, and so the museum is an “unofficial” Lego site. Nevertheless, its displays include many that have been specifically licensed by

Lego and given to the museum when they were retired from official Lego sites.

The building’s main hallway features life-sized Larry Byrd and Kobe Bryant figures, among others. A prone man made of red Legos appears contemplative

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inside a case; nearby, a Lego dragon sits at a Lego campfire, roasting a Lego marshmallow.

The school building’s classrooms and wide corridors lend themselves to displays, which have been built by Brown and other masters of the plastic brick, including Brian Korte, founder of Brickworkz.com, who in 2007 helped create a gymnasium-floor-sized mosaic with the help of the Bellaire community, including 250 children. “It was a huge team effort to build it,” Dan Brown says.

Almost all the displays are glued — which may be a relief to visitors whose toddlers are given to sudden lunges. Most Lego artists, Dan says, glue each piece as they build their intricate displays.

Some of the ever-changing museum exhibits were donated, while others are tracked down and purchased. A few, including a display of Dora the Explorer, with Diego and the monkey Boots, showed up one day at the museum’s door. The Browns were unable to locate the donors. “We’d love to thank them, but we could never find them,” Conrad says.

Lego artist Eric Harshbarger created the museum’s portrait of Mona Lisa. On Harshbarger’s own

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internet site, he says he’s the first independent Lego builder to make a living with the plastic bricks. (He also designs puzzles.) Elsewhere in the museum is a Harshbarger chessboard and pieces.

Nathan Sawaya, by some accounts the most famous Lego builder in the world, has a signed — and working — Carrier air conditioner, a speedboat that once held a record for size, a Statue of Liberty with a lightsaber, and in the Western room, a cash register. “Getting a Nathan Sawaya piece is very, very hard,” Conrad says.

Former classrooms house loosely categorized exhibits. In addition to Sawaya’s cash register, the Western room features four card players around a table and Bart Simpson guarding a jailed Milhouse. The Zoo room holds a banana-eating monkey, Garfield the cat, Winnie the Pooh, and a Lego giraffe and baby. The Aqua room has boats: speedboats, sailing ships, Navy and Coast Guard vessels. The Circus room … but you get the idea.

Spider-Man, built by Lego for the 2002 movie of the same name — the Tobey Maguire version — is remarkable in that its plastic blocks look as stretchy

The Toy and Brick Museum is filled with displays that delight old and young alike: Two of the prize pieces are a working air conditioning unit and a once-record-setting boat built by famed Lego Master Nathan Sawaya (left two photos); Dora the Explorer simply showed up on the museum’s doorstep one day, while Spider-Man, Scooby Doo, and Hagrid were once used to promote various movies and TV shows. A red creature whose identity is best decided by the individual viewer is one of the few pieces that was built on-site. Meanwhile, a three-piece band moves and dances to the old Lego theme song, “Just Imagine.”

as elastic. A portrait of Harry Potter, a Hagrid sculpture, a pachyderm physician attending a bedridden elephant, and a Yoda at the controls of a starship are only a few of the sculptures that fill today’s Gravel Hill school.

One sculpture was created in the museum itself, by an artist visiting from Alaska. “The most creative people make such cool things,” Conrad Brown says.

Its actual identity is open to interpretation — could be a dragon, could be a molting chicken or a space creature or maybe a fluffy robot.

In the former principal’s office, near a man in the moon bearing the warning “unglued prototype,” hang the schematics for a trio of leggy musicians — a Lego band that has played gigs all over the museum — currently on a stage in the basement gymnasium, overlooking the giant Lego mosaic created by Dan Brown, Korte, and hundreds of local helpers.

When turned on, the band figures light up, play instruments, and sing “Just Imagine” — an old Lego theme song.

A party room is lined with chalkboards, filled with scribbled signatures and comments by celebrants.

The gift shop, where visitors also buy tickets, offers a variety of Lego products as well as a bin of loose pieces. Visitors are invited to fill the bag size of their choice.

Still, the focus is on displays that run the gamut from a 13,000-piece Glass City Skyway bridge, a collection of all-white architectural pieces made in China, and a lassoing cowboy on a bucking horse.

Lego fanatics will be delighted, and even those who don’t know that “Lego” is derived from “leg godt” — Danish for “play well” ­— will play very well here.

Toy and Plastic Brick Museum, 4597 Noble St., Bellaire, Ohio, www.brickmuseum.com.

Open Tuesday–Sunday, May through August, and select hours during the off-season.

Tickets are $8 for adults, $6 for children.

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25

A rusting old Ferris wheel, gradually being obscured by the surrounding forest, was one of the last surviving bits of evidence of the former Chippewa Lake Amusement Park in Medina County (photo by Dana Beveridge/via Flickr).

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OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JUNE 2022

Old amusement parks often leave behind reminders of a glorious heyday.

BY KEVIN WILLIAMS

T

heme parks never really die. Even long after the exuberant screams of happy thrillseekers have faded and the last caramel corn has been munched, if you find the right spot, you can still almost hear the sounds of the midway and even recognize some of the physical remains of long-abandoned amusement rides that may have entertained generations of carnival-goers past ...

Perhaps no state — except maybe Florida — is more synonymous with amusement parks than Ohio. Cedar Point to the north and Kings Island to the south draw millions of visitors each year and are among the top theme parks in the world.

Amusement parks in Ohio date as far back as the mid-1800s. In fact, Cedar Point originally opened as a public beach in 1870. Kings Island, while celebrating its 50th anniversary this summer, traces its origins to nearby Coney Island, which also opened originally in 1870.

They are far from the only parks to open and close within the Buckeye State. Along with the 15 or so parks in operation today, the National Amusement Park Historical Association lists nearly 100 “lost” amusement parks in Ohio. Jeffrey Stanton, who runs the website www.lostamusementparks. napha.org, says that smaller parks couldn’t compete with the larger ones.

“The younger generation likes only thrill rides, so the big parks remove the older rides that once appealed to my generation and add only thrill rides,” Stanton says. The smaller parks didn’t have the budget to compete, he says, and it didn’t help

that the land they occupied became more valuable than the dollars they could generate.

“So rather than make $50,000 a year running the park, some developer offers $10 million for the land,” Stanton says.

These amusement parks weren’t just places for families to spend a day in the sun; they also provided first summer jobs for countless kids, from lifeguards to ride supervisors. Carolyn Enderson, 52, remembers working for nine summers — from when she was 16 to age 24 — at Americana Amusement Park outside of Monroe.

The park was a rumpled, smaller alternative to the flashier Kings Island, not 20 miles away, with an adjacent park called Fantasy Farm — complete with farm animals and barn-themed rides.

Americana was a place for families and corporate picnics, where July days crawled by, and guests bought frozen bananas on a stick to battle the heat.

“I liked making new friends each season and meeting lots of people each day,” Enderson says. “I think I prefer the small parks. It’s not so busy, and you can enjoy walking around because it’s smaller.”

JUNE 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

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“My first memory of Americana was back when it was called LeSourdsville Lake,” remembers Linda Nienaber. “It was in the spring of 1970, toward the end of first grade.

We had a great time there. I remember sliding down a giant slide, riding on the mini roller coaster, and having a picnic on the grounds for our lunch. A couple of years later, my family and I went there for my dad’s company picnic. That was the first time I rode on the roller coaster with my older sister.”

One of the biggest and best parks of its day was Woodsdale Island Park, located on a now-long-gone island in the Great Miami River. The late Trenton historian Doris Page often talked of the park as the Kings Island of its day, according to her son, Gary Page, drawing tourists by train from Cincinnati and Dayton to its wooded banks.

In its heyday, it boasted a restaurant, merry-go-round, boathouse, and other entertainment amenities.

Few people are around today, however, who even know exactly where that park stood — it was wiped out during the great flood of 1913, and the river’s fickle channel has changed often over the years.

“I’ve talked to others about the location — no one can give me an answer,” Page says. “I believe the river channel has moved so many times over the years, it’s hard to imagine that there was an island in the river.”

Farther north, on the western edge of Dayton in what is now Possum Creek MetroPark, the crumbling remains of a dance floor and rusting hulks of old street cars sit silent sentinel at the site of what used to be Argonne Forest Park.

Steps to the park’s old swimming pool can still be seen.

Michele Taggart of Youngstown recalls Idora Park, one of the nation’s only urban amusement parks, which operated on the south side of town from 1899 until 1984.

“It was so fun — they even had a lion’s mouth on the garbage can, so it was fun to throw away trash,” Taggart says.

Chippewa Lake Amusement Park in Medina County has proved nearly impossible to kill off. It operated for a century, beginning in 1878 with a roller coaster that had to be manually pushed to the top of the first hill. After the park closed in 1978, it sat largely intact as nature and the elements took their toll. Today, the skeletons of a few old rides and buildings still haunt the now-overgrown park, but the Medina County Park system owns the land, with plans to open it as a public park and wetland. Some old park structures will survive as historical homage.

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OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JUNE 2022

The author of this story explored numerous abandoned Ohio amusement parks with his daughters — finding remains such as the old Sky Ride machinery at the former Americana Park outside Monroe and what’s still left of the old dance floor at Argonne Forest Park, which is now part of Possum Creek MetroPark near Dayton (photos by Kevin Williams).

Mary Boulton grew up in Brunswick, Ohio, and remembers the park well.

“I remember when my family, including five siblings, made our yearly trek to Chippewa Lake Amusement Park,” she says. “My dad’s company picnic was held there every summer. We all looked forward to that yearly event, and it would be the one time a year we could catch up with old friends and make new ones.”

CALL FOR ENTRIES

Ohio Cooperative Living magazine is seeking photography submissions from our electric cooperative members. Submissions may fall within the following categories: best wildlife, best landscape, best floral, and best overall photo. Winning submissions will receive a cash prize and be published in the 2023 edition of the cooperative wall calendar. For more information, visit OhioCoopLiving.com/calendar.

Requirements • • • • •

COOPERATIVE CALENDAR

Photo Contest

• •

One photo entry per household.

High-resolution, color, digital images only.

Only JPEG or TIF file formats will be accepted.

Please send submissions by email attachment only to photo@ohioec.org.

Photo format must be horizontal and capable of filling an 8 x 11-inch image area.

Provide an explanation of the photo — the where, what, when — as well as who took the shot.

Include your name, address, phone number, and the name of your co-op.

Deadline for submission: August 15, 2022

JUNE 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

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Eyes in the sky The Ohio UAS Center helps lead the nation in the next generation of aviation innovation.

BY ALICIA ADAMS

A

t the beginning of the 20th century, two brothers from Ohio launched a revolution in air technology at Huffman Prairie, a cow pasture located just outside of Dayton. On that grassy field, Orville and Wilbur Wright researched and developed reliable, controllable aviation — and with it, the ability to connect people and businesses across the globe.

Ohio has led the nation in airspace innovation ever since. In Springfield, about 30 miles east of Huffman Prairie, sits the Ohio Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Center, where the state manages and helps develop the next generation of air technology: drones, and the communications and systems that control them.

The Ohio Department of Transportation uses drones from the UAS Center to help with a variety of projects. In 2021, the center’s drone flight team logged over 2,200 flights for ODOT, including

Electric cooperatives have been using drones for several years as a way to make up-close inspections of co-op infrastructure such as this substation in Delaware County.

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OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JUNE 2022

bridge inspections, construction assessments, facility inspections, mapping, and traffic and roadway monitoring.

Why does ODOT use drones? “It’s ultimately about safety, both for drivers on the roads and for people who are working on them,” says Luke Stedke, managing director of communications and policy at DriveOhio, a state organization that serves as a single point of contact for all of Ohio’s smart mobility initatives. “Drones can be used in situations that are potentially dangerous to our crews, such as bridge inspections on busy highways.”

Adaptable, efficient, economical, and capable in a variety of tasks, the center’s drones have also conducted roller coaster inspections for the Department of Agriculture, assisted the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency with debris obstructions and spills,

The Ohio Department of Transportation uses drones to inspect bridges and highway systems. Here, pilot David Gallagher of ODOT’s Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) prepares to inspect the Veterans Glass Bridge in Toledo (photos by Bruce Hull/courtesy of Ohio UAS Center).

and provided disaster relief and searches for the Ohio National Guard.

In addition to managing the state’s drone operations, the center offers a high-tech environment for collaboration between government, research, and private industry partners on unmanned aircraft and advanced aviation technologies.

FlyOhio, an initiative of DriveOhio that promotes research in lower-altitude airspace technology, oversees testing areas at the nearby Springfield-Beckley Municipal Airport. Those areas have special permission from the Federal Aviation Administration to fly unmanned and experimental aircraft beyond the visual line of sight, which is the current FAA regulation.

The Ohio UAS Center, in partnership with the Air Force Research Laboratory, has developed and installed a special low-altitude, detect-and-avoid radar system called SkyVision that allows sensor technology testing as well as tracking of UAS technologies in lower-altitude airspace. That lower altitude (below 2,000 feet) is the area where most commercial drones operate — Continued on page 33

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Top, the control room in the UAS Center’s mobile command vehicle, called the SkyVision Bus. The SkyVision program at the Springfield-Beckley Municipal Airport has enabled the center to aid in testing systems that can allow beyondline-of-sight drone flight. Middle and below, Brent Ransome of Kenton-based Mid-Ohio Energy Cooperative examines a radio tower as well as some of the components of one of the coop’s substations using a drone.

The drones save time and manpower by identifying needs before crews have to take an up-close look.

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OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JUNE 2022

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including package delivery, cargo transport, and healthcare delivery.

The emerging advanced aerial mobility market has the potential to bring significant economic benefits to the state. According to recent research conducted on behalf of the Ohio UAS Center, the state can expect $13 billion in economic impact over the next 25 years by investing in the advanced autonomous aircraft sector.

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“Technology is evolving and so are the economic opportunities,” Stedke says.

“The jobs of tomorrow are going to be in these fields. What we are working toward with the Ohio UAS Center is to ensure the state leads that 21stcentury air mobility accountability by not only encouraging technology and research but also through workforce development programs so we can fill the industry jobs that are being created.”

In essence, the center will serve as the state’s one-stop shop for unmanned aircraft operations and advanced aviation technologies.

“I truly believe that the Ohio UAS Center is going to be the next Huffman Prairie,” Stedke says, “connecting people and businesses across the world with the next generation of aviation innovation.”

JUNE 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

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TALL SHIPS STORY AND PHOTOS BY W.H. “CHIP” GROSS

O

n Sept. 10, 1813, a few miles northwest of the Bass Islands on Lake Erie, a David-versus-Goliath confrontation pitted the fledgling United States Navy against a fleet of mighty British warships during the War of 1812. The outcome of that battle — the Battle of Lake Erie — was in doubt for hours, but the final result changed the course of American history.

Then-28-year-old Master Commandant Oliver Hazard Perry commanded the fleet of nine U.S. ships in the battle. After his flagship, the Lawrence, was severely damaged and disabled, he transferred to the U.S. Brig

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OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JUNE 2022

Niagara, from which he and his crews kept fighting.

Shortly after the cannon smoke cleared, Perry scrawled what has since become a famous note on the back of an envelope to send to his commanding officer, Maj. Gen. William Henry Harrison (who would, of course, go on to become the ninth president of the United States): Dear General: We have met the enemy and they are ours.

Today, the reproduction of the Niagara is one of the most historically authentic tall ships in America, each summer representing her homeport of Erie, Pennsylvania,

Tall ships festivals are scheduled at two Lake Erie ports this summer: Cleveland in July and Erie, Pennsylvania, in August. In addition to boarding and touring the tall ships, you can also enjoy a brief cruise, if you’d like.

throughout the Great Lakes. It will be one of eight replica and restored fully rigged sailing ships that will be featured at two popular tall ships festivals this summer, both on Lake Erie. They go first to Cleveland on July 7–10, then on to Erie, Pennsylvania, Aug. 25–28.

It’s a rare chance to catch a glimpse, step aboard, or, if you choose, even go sailing for a few hours. Along with the Niagara, the 2022 fleet from the U.S., Canada, and Spain is scheduled to include the Appledore IV, Empire Sandy, Inland Seas, Nao Trinidad, Pride of Baltimore II, St. Lawrence II, and Utopia.

One of the more majestic moments of the four-day events is always the spectacular arrival of the visiting ships —

known as the Parade of Sail — which occurs late the Thursday afternoon of each festival. The next three days offer opportunities to board and tour the ships, when visitors can chat with the various captains and crews.

Some of the crew members are young people, ages 13 to 25, learning to sail.

The 2022 tall ships festivals include the regular fare: food and beverages, live music, street performers, kids’ activities, a marketplace, and other familyfriendly activities. Ticketing, parking, and other information is available at www.tallshipscle.com/ event-details for the Cleveland event or www. tallshipserie.org for Erie.

JUNE 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

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JUNE/JULY

NORTHEAST

THROUGH JUL. 28 – Fort Steuben Summer Concert Series, Berkman Amphitheater, Fort Steuben Park, 120 S. 3rd St., Steubenville, 7 p.m. Bring a blanket and picnic basket. 740-283-1787 or www.oldfortsteuben.com.

JUN. 12–JUL. 24 – “Celebrate Steubenville: 225 Years,” Historic Fort Steuben, 120 S. 3rd St., Steubenville.

Free exhibit and programs on the development of one of the oldest cities in the state, from frontier fort to industrial powerhouse to 21st-century changes and adaptations.

740-283-1787 or www.oldfortsteuben.com.

JUN. 16–18 – Eastern National John Deere Expo XI, Wayne Co. Fgds., 199 Vancouver St., Wooster, Thur./ Fri. 8 a.m.–9 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m.–2 p.m. Everything John Deere! 400 + tractor displays, seminars, antique tractor pull, demos, lawn and garden tractors, parades, tractor games, pedal tractor pull, auction, vendors, food, collectibles, Trading Post. 330-466-0197 or www. ohiotwocylinderclub.org.

JUN. 17–18 – Steubenville’s Dean Martin Hometown Celebration, Fort Steuben Park, 120 S. 3rd St., Steubenville. Free. Music, crafts, food, entertainment, and displays on the life of native son Dean Martin. 740-2831787 or www.oldfortsteuben.com.

JUN. 18 – Tom O’Grady: “Lord Dunmore’s War and the Fort Gower Resolves,” Fort Laurens Museum, 11067 Fort Laurens Rd., Bolivar, 11 a.m.–noon. Free. www. fortlaurensmuseum.org.

JUN. 18 – Zoar Garden Tour, various locations in Zoar. $10; free for ages 12 and under. Tour the beautiful private gardens of Zoar residents, and be treated to local artist demos and sales throughout those gardens. Featured art includes pottery, paintings, fiber, and photography. Food available from the Zoar Bakery. 800-262-6195 or www. historiczoarvillage.com.

JUN. 18–JUL. 31 – The Ohio Light Opera, College of Wooster, Freedlander Theatre, 329 E. University St., Wooster, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Shows include Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella, Hello, Dolly!, The Student Prince, and The Pirates of Penzance, to name a few. 330263-2090 or www.ohiolightopera.org.

JUN. 19 – Grace Church Father’s Day Car Show, 4599 Burbank Rd., Wooster, registration 8–10 a.m.; show until 2 p.m. with trophies at 1:30 p.m. No entry fee. All makes,

WEST VIRGINIA

CALENDAR

models, and years; bikes and imports. Free food and music. Rain date: Jun. 26. Services 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.

Information and registration at https://woostergrace.org or call 345-465-8009.

JUN. 24–25 – Ohio Scottish Games, Lorain Co. Fgds., 23000 Fairgrounds Rd., Wellington, Fri. 5–10 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m.–10 p.m., Sun. 6–10 p.m. $8–$20, under 5 free. Highland dance and other competitions, whiskey tasting, axe throwing, genealogy, and much more. www. ohioscottishgames.com.

JUN. 24–26 – Cy Young Days Festival, Newcomerstown. Food, live music, entertainment, contests and competitions, car show, old-fashioned baseball games, and grand parade. Special guest and parade marshal will be John Denny, 1983 National League Cy Young Award winner. www.cyyoungdaysfestival.com.

JUN. 24–26 – Lorain International Festival and Bazaar, Black River Landing, Black River Lane, Lorain, Fri. 5–11 p.m., Sat. 12–11 p.m., Sun. 12–6 p.m. Parade Sun. 11 a.m. $3 daily. www.loraininternational.com.

JUN. 25 – All Mopar Car and Truck Show, Car Corral, and Swap Meet, Wayne Co. Fgds., 199 Vanover St., Wooster, 8 a.m.–4 p.m. Registration 8–11 a.m.; no preregistration needed. $10 admission for car, driver, and one passenger; each additional passenger $5; kids under 12 free. Spectator admission $5. Free parking. 330-4646613 or www.facebook.com/midohiomopars3.

JUN. 25 – Flea Market, Ashland Co. Fgds., Mozelle Hall, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Free. https://ashlandcountyfair.com/ calendar.

JUN. 26 – Akron-Summit Comic Con, Summit Co. Fgds., 229 E. Howe Rd., Tallmadge, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. $6, under 7 free. Best all-comic show in northeast Ohio. 330-462-3985, jeff@harpercomics.com, or www. harpercomics.com.

JUN. 25–26 – Kelleys Island Motorcycle Tour, throughout Kelleys Island. Registration Jun. 25, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., at Mad River Harley-Davidson dealership in Sandusky; $10 per participant. Grand prize vacation package worth over $1,300! Completed scorecards must be returned to the Mad River dealership by Jun. 26 at 3 p.m. Winner will be drawn on Jun. 27. 419-746-2360 or www.kelleysislandchamber.com.

JUN. 29–JUL. 3 – Orrville Firefighters’ Fire in the Sky July 4 Celebration, Orr Park, Orrville. Midway opens at 6 p.m. weekdays and 12 p.m. weekend. Closing time 11 p.m. every day. Parade Jun. 29 at 7 p.m. Fireworks Jul. 3 at 10:15 p.m. 330-684-5051 or www.orrvillefireinthesky.com.

JUL. 1 – First Fridays on Fourth, 155 N. 4th St., Steubenville, 6–10 p.m. Free. Monthly themed celebration featuring art, crafts, games, food trucks, live entertainment, and activities to stimulate the imagination. www.theharmoniumproject.org/first-Fridays.

JUN. 29–JUL. 4 – Ripley Fourth of July Celebration, Court Street, Ripley. The USA’s largest small-town Independence Day celebration includes the Firecracker 2-Miler, free concerts, grand parade, carnival, pageants, fireworks, and much more. 304-514-2609 or https:// visitripleywv.com/festivals.

JUL. 6–8 – Wild and Wonderful Craft Festival, Jackson Co. Jr. Fgds., Cottageville (6 miles from Ripley). $10. Artisans offering handmade crafts, local musicians, children’s pageant, cruise-in, quilt show, food vendors.

304-531-2009 or https://wvtourism.com/event/wildwonderful-arts-crafts-festival.

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JUL. 1–2 – Loudonville Antique Festival, Central Park, Loudonville. Buy, sell, and trade antiques and collectibles.

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

JUL. 2 – Annual Classic Car Show, downtown Loudonville, 8 a.m.–4 p.m. Free. Over 500 classic cars from all eras. Preregistration and registration fees required for vehicles in the show. 419-994-4789 or www. discovermohican.com.

JUL. 7–9 – Olde Canal Days Festival, 123 Tuscarawas St., Canal Fulton, Thur./Fri. 5–11 p.m., Sat. 11 a.m.–11 p.m.

Rides, games, arts and crafts, concessions, canal boat rides, and more. Grande Parade Sat. 11 a.m., fireworks Sat. 10 p.m. 330-854-9095 or www.discovercanalfulton.com.

JUL. 9 – Dan Jungclas: “German Church Book (Kirchenbuch) and Municipal Records,” Historic Zoar Village, School House, Zoar, 11 a.m.–noon. Free. 800-2626195 or www.historiczoarvillage.com.

JUL. 9 – Jazz Under the Stars: IndiGo Jazz Ensemble, Uptown Park, Medina, 7 p.m. Free. Cleveland-based vocalist SaVon Bass and her jazz band IndiGo will present popular vocal and instrumental swing, Latin, and jazz standards. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and picnics. In the event of rain, the concert will be held at the United Church of Christ, 217 E. Liberty St. 419853-6016 or www.ormaco.org.

JUL. 9–10 – Ashland County Yesteryear Machinery Club Show, Ashland Co. Fgds., 2042 Claremont Ave., Ashland. Free admission and parking; donations accepted.

Tractors, garden tractors, engines; farm toy show both days; car show Sun. 10 a.m., garden tractor pulling Sun. 12 p.m. 419-651-4109 or www.yesteryearmachinery.org.

JUL. 10 – Concert in the Country: James Marron, HeARTland, 8187 Camp Rd., Homerville, 2 p.m. Free.

The Akron-based guitarist will present an eclectic selection of classical guitar tunes, including some original compositions. In the event of rain, the concert will be held at the Homerville United Methodist Church, 8964 Spencer Rd. 419-853-6016 or www.ormaco.org.

JUL. 12–16 – Ashland Chautauqua 2022: “The Famous and Infamous,” Ashland. Living history performances and daytime workshops on Lizzie Borden, Malcolm X, Mary Surratt, Marie Curie, and Annie Oakley. Evening performances will be held at the Myers Memorial Band Shell at Brookside Park. info@ashlandchautauqua.org or www.ashlandchautauqua.org.

JUL. 12–17 – 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. 15–16 – Ohio River Valley Texas Longhorn Show, Wayne Co. Fgds., 199 Vanover St., Wooster, 8 a.m.–4 p.m. Free. Fun family event! 330-466-0515 or www.wccvb.com/events.

Get listed in our calendar Submit listings AT LEAST 90 DAYS prior to the event to Ohio Cooperative Living, 6677 Busch Blvd., Columbus, OH 43229 or email events@ohioec.org. Ohio Cooperative Living will not publish listings that don’t include a complete address or a number/website for more information.

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2022 CALENDAR

JUNE/JULY

JUN. 24–26 – NADD Dock Diving Competition, The Gated Dock-Canine Enrichment Ctr., 7251 OH-98, Shelby.

Spectators are welcome at the entertaining North America Diving Dogs competition. 419-961-4711, www. thegateddock.com, or find us on Facebook.

JUN. 25 – Annual Lake Seneca “Miles of Garage Sales” and Chicken Dinners, off N. St. Rte. 576, 1-1/4 miles north of U.S. 20, Montpelier (Bridgewater Township). Chicken dinners will be ready around 10:30 a.m. at Arrowhead Lodge, plus other food. Homemade bake sale items sell out quickly, so come early! With COVID-19 restrictions, we may be “carry-out” only. 419-485-0393.

THROUGH OCT. 15 – Great Sidney Farmers Market, 109 JUN. 25 – Perrysville Lions Car Show, S. Bridge St., S. Ohio Ave., Sidney, Sat. 8 a.m.–noon. Fresh produce, Perrysville, 10:30 a.m.–1 p.m. Registration 9–10:30 a.m. baked goods, jams and jellies, crafts, plants, and flowers. All makes and models welcome. Dash plaque for first 50 937-658-6945 or www.sidneyalive.org. entries; trophies awarded at 1 p.m. 50/50 drawing, door prizes. 50s, 60s, 70s, and 80s music. 419-606-4890.

JUN. 11–12, JUL. 2–3 – The Fantastic Tiffin Flea Market, Seneca Co. Fgds., 100 Hopewell Ave., Tiffin, Sat. JUN. 30–JUL. 2 – Old Fashioned Farmers Day, Van 9 a.m.–4 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.–3 p.m., rain or shine. Free; Wert Co. Fgds., 1055 S. Washington St., Van Wert. handicapped accessible. 250 to 400 dealers per show.

Tractor pulls, Tug-A-Truck, antique car show, live music, 419-447-9613 or www.tiffinfleamarket.com. kids’ games, food, fireworks, and much more. www. oldfashionedfarmersdays.com or find us on Facebook.

JUN. 16–19 – Fort Recovery Harvest Jubilee, Fort Recovery. Rides, games, live music, antique tractor display, JUL. 4 – Independence Day Concert, Rutherford B. food, pie baking contest, pet parade, fireman’s parade, Hayes Presidential Library and Museum, Spiegel Grove, raffle, and more. 419-852-5066, www.fortrecoveryjubilee. Fremont, 2–3:30 p.m. Free patriotic concert performed com, or find us on Facebook. by the Toledo Concert Band on the verandah of the JUN. 17–18 – Sidney Music and Arts Festival, downtown historic Hayes Home. Civil War reenactors will fire cannons in sync with the “1812 Overture.” Bring your Sidney. Two stages, artists and makers, kids’ zone, the own chair or blanket. Food trucks will be on-site. 419Great Sidney Farmers Market, food vendors, and more!

332-2081 or www.rbhayes.org. info@sidneyalive.org or www.sidneyalive.org.

JUL. 8 – Convoy Community Days Car Show, Convoy, JUN. 24–26 – Maria Stein Country Fest, Shrine of 5:30–8:30 p.m. $10. Meet at the Water Tower. Dash the Holy Relics, 2291 St. Johns Rd., Maria Stein. Free plaques to first 75 registered; 23 awards for cars built admission, parking, and entertainment. Tractor Square Dancers, cruise-in car show, live music, horse and wagon before 1987. Food, door prizes, goody bags, 50/50 rides, food, and more. 419-586-1146 (John Garman), www. drawing. Contact Sandy Harting at 419-203-1410. mscountryfest.com, or find us on Facebook.

NORTHWEST

SOUTHEAST

JUN. 16–SEP. 4 – Tecumseh!, 5968 Marietta Rd., Chillicothe, Mon.–Sat. 8 p.m. $25–$45. www. tecumsehdrama.com.

THROUGH SEP. 28 – Courtside Open Air Market, 801 Wheeling Ave., Cambridge, Fri. 8 a.m.–noon. 740-6801866 or find us on Facebook.

THROUGH DECEMBER – Athens Farmers Market, 1000 E. State St., Athens, Sat. 9 a.m.–noon; Wed. 9 a.m.–1 p.m., April–November. 740-593-6763 or www. athensfarmersmarket.org.

JUN. 14 – Cambridge City Band Concert, Harper Cabin, 20 W. Main St., New Concord, 7 p.m. Free.

740-826-7671 or www.facebook.com/Cambridge-CityBand-799535703711168.

JUN. 16 – Cambridge City Band: Concert in the Park, Cambridge City Park, 1203 N. 8th St., Cambridge, 7:30 p.m. Free. www.facebook.com/Cambridge-CityBand-799535703711168.

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OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JUNE 2022

JUN. 16 – “DNA Matching and Sorting,” Guernsey County Genealogical Society, 125 N. 7th St., Cambridge, 6 p.m. Registration required. 740-432-9249 or www. facebook.com/GuernseyGenealogy.

JUN. 17 – Fishing Derby, Deerassic Park Education Center, 14250 Cadiz Rd., Cambridge, 6–8 p.m. For ages 5–15. Tackle, bait, and poles will be provided! Come for a night of fishing, food, prizes, and games. 740-435-3335 or www.deerassic.com.

JUN. 18 – Bike Show and Ribfest, downtown Cambridge, 11.am.–7 p.m. Hot rods, Harleys, Yamahas, and more. Live entertainment, vendors, food trucks, and more. 740-439-2238 or www.downtowncambridge.com.

JUN. 18 – Kenworth Truck Parade, downtown Chillicothe, 8 p.m. Free. Over 50 new, classic, and customized semi-trucks from all over the U.S. and Canada. http://visitchillicotheohio.com.

JUN. 25 – Glass Dash, St. Benedict’s Gymnasium, 701 Steubenville Ave., Cambridge, 7–8:30 a.m. early bird admission, $10; 8:30–11 a.m., $5. For more information, visit www.cambridgeglass.org.

JUN. 25 – Kicking Bear, Deerassic Park Education Ctr., 14250 Cadiz Rd., Cambridge, Fri. 4–9 p.m., Sat. 7 a.m.–2 p.m. Free event, but preregistration is required. For ages 5–13. 740-435-3335 or www.deerassic.com.

JUN. 24–25 – Annual NCC Convention and Glass Show, Pritchard Laughlin Civic Center, 7033 Glenn Hwy., Cambridge, Fri. 1–5 p.m., Sat. 10:30 a.m.–4 p.m. $5. For more information, visit www.cambridgeglass.org.

JUL. 8–9 – World War II Reenactment, Auglaize Village, 12296 Krouse Rd., Defiance. Setup on the 8th.

Camp area open to the public; stations with soldier reenactors. Public “battle” Saturday afternoon. Visit www.auglaizevillage.com for details. To participate, contact Bo Johnstone at trpa121cav@hotmail.com or Bob Mergel at rjmergel@gmail.com.

JUL. 8–10 – Flag City Daylily Tour, locations throughout Findlay and Hancock counties. Fri./Sat. 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Sun. 12–6 p.m. Free. Tour six beautiful daylily gardens at your leisure and see several thousand different registered daylilies. Some sites will have plants for sale. 419-8898827, anders@findlay.edu, www.pplantpeddler.com, or find Flag City Daylily Tour on Facebook.

JUL. 9 – Defiance Jazz Festival, Kingsbury Park, 118 Auglaize St., Defiance, gates open 3:30 p.m., jazz begins at 4 p.m. $10; free for children and students.

Will be live streamed free on social media. Bring lawn chairs or blankets. Food and beverage vendors on site. www.defiancejazzfestival.com or www.facebook.com/ defiancejazz.

JUL. 9 – Summer on the Farm, Sauder Village, 22611 St. Rte. 2, Archbold, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Bring the kids for this special event. Learn about our farm animals, enjoy nature-themed activities, play old-fashioned games, and try hands-on activities in our historic homes and shop.

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

JUL. 10 – Motorama, Auglaize Village, 12296 Krouse Rd., Defiance, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. $5 suggested donation.

Open to self-propelled, motorized, or powered “anything,” including antique cars, custom rods, fire trucks, and cycles.

No registration or fee. Cinnamon roll and sausage gravy biscuit breakfast served until 9 a.m.; concession food till 2 p.m. Oldies music with DJ. Key auction at 2 p.m. www. auglaizevillage.com.

JUL. 1–3 – Ohio Jeep Fest, Ross Co. Fgds., 344 Fairgrounds Rd., Chillicothe. $10–$30. Drivers test their wheeling skills and participate in trail-rated challenges.

Daily kids’ zone, vendors, obstacle course, mud pits, and much more. www.ohiojeepfest.com.

JUL. 2–3 – 4-H Camp Hervida’s 100th Anniversary Celebration, near Waterford. Hiking, dining, singing, vespers, crafting, swimming, reminiscing, flag lowering, ice cream, camp tours, playing in the creek, and activities for all ages. www.camphervida.org.

JUL. 3 – 19th-Century Independence Day Celebration, Adena Mansion and Gardens, 847 Adena Rd., Chillicothe, 2–3 p.m. Free. Readings of the Declaration of Independence, poems, , a toast to George Washington, and a 21-gun salute! www.adenamansion.com.

JUL. 9 – “Party Like a Geology Rock Star,” Highlands Nature Sanctuary, 7660 Cave Rd., Bainbridge. Free family nature education event. For details, call 937-3651935 or visit www.arcofappalachia.org.

JUL. 9 – Red, White, and Blue Ice Cream Social, Adena Mansion and Gardens, 847 Adena Rd., Chillicothe, 11 a.m.–3 p.m. $5–$10. Bring your lawn chairs. www. adenamansion.com.

JUL. 9 – “Beardsley’s Battery: Civil War Artillery,” Campus Martius, 601 Second St., Marietta, 10 a.m.– noon. $25. Registration required. Reproductions of a cannon and mortar will be charged and fired. 740-3733750 or www.mariettamuseums.org/events.

JUN. 17 – United Way Day of Action, Fountain Square Park, downtown Lancaster, 9 a.m.–noon. 740-653-0643 or www.uwayfairfieldco.org.

JUN. 17–18 – Art@Wagnalls, Wagnalls Memorial, 150 E. Columbus St., Lithopolis, Fri. noon–9 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–9 p.m. Annual art festival featuring a juried art show and sale, performing arts, live music, kids’ art experiences, food trucks, and spirits. 614-837-4765 or www.wagnalls.org.

JUN. 17–18 – Dancing Under the Stars, Berlin Park, 4999 Parkwood Dr., Millersburg, 8:30 p.m. $10; under 13, $5. Three short story ballets: Cinderella, Thumbelina, THROUGH SEP. 24 – Sunbury Farmers Market, and The Selkies. Pre-show choral performance at 7 9 E. Granville St., Sunbury Square, Sat. 9 a.m.–noon. p.m., children’s hour at 7:15 p.m. 330-473-2879 or www.

740-513-9192. holmescenterforthearts.org/under-the-stars.

THROUGH OCT. 29 – Coshocton Farmers Market, 300 JUN. 18 – Aureum: An Aerial and Acrobatic Adventure block of Main Street, Coshocton, Sat. 8:30 a.m.–12 p.m.

Tale, Knox Memorial Theater, 112 E. High St., Mount www.facebook.com/coshoctonfarmersmarket.

Vernon, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. $30–$50. A high-thrills aerobatic show featuring high-flying actors, an original THROUGH OCT. 29 – Zanesville Farmers Market, soundtrack, dynamic lighting, and a gripping storyline.

Adornetto’s, 2224 Maple Ave., Zanesville, Sat. 9 a.m.– noon. Starting in June through August, the market is also 740-462-4278 or www.mvac.org. open Wed. 4–7 p.m. www.zanesvillefarmersmarket.org.

JUN. 18 – Marysville Uptown Food Crawl, 131 N. THROUGH OCT. 30 – Rock Mill Days, Stebelton Park at Main St., Marysville, 11 a.m.–2 p.m. $20 advance ticket Rock Mill, 1429 Rockmill Place NW, Lancaster, Wed./Sat. 10 required. Enjoy a stroll around uptown Marysville, sampling signature dishes at eight popular eateries. Call a.m.–2 p.m., Sun. 1–4 p.m. Free. Tour the restored 1824 gristmill, walk on the iconic Rock Mill Covered Bridge, and 937-209-2275, ext. 1, or email director@ucvgp.org for more information. enjoy Hocking River Falls. Weather permitting. 740-6817249 or www.fairfieldcountyparks.org.

JUL. 1 – Red, White & BOOM!, downtown riverfront and the Arena District, Columbus, noon–midnight. Free. We’re JUN. 14, JUL. 12 – Inventors Network Meeting, back! Come for the parade, street festival, two stages of virtual, 7 p.m. Educational presentations and discussion live musical entertainment, and Ohio’s largest fireworks about the invention process. 614-470-0144 or www. display. www.redwhiteandboom.org. inventorscolumbus.com.

JUL. 1–2 – Stars Stripes & Freedom NTPA Truck and JUN. 16–18 – Washboard Music Festival, Main Street, Tractor Pull, Hartford Fairgrounds, 4028 Fairgrounds Logan. Free. Ohio’s most unique music and arts festival, celebrating the old-fashioned washboard. Car show, craft Rd., Croton, 7–11 p.m. $15; free for ages 10 and under.

Eight classes and two tracks. Camping, vendors, demos, tours of the washboard factory, food, arts and crafts, kids’ activities, tractor show, and parade. 740-277- concessions, kiddie tractor pull. 740-893-4881 or www. starsstripesandfreedompull.com.

1806 or www.washboardmusicfestival.com.

JUL. 4 – Stars and Stripes on the River, Zane’s Landing Park, west end of Market Street (along river), Zanesville.

Live music, food, and activities for all ages. All proceeds benefit the community. www.zanesvillejaycees.org.

JUL. 4–9 – Marion County Fair, 220 E. Fairground St., Marion. Rides, livestock shows, tractor and truck pulls, live music, fireworks, and more. 740-382-2558 or www. marioncountyfairgrounds.com.

JUL. 8–9 – Coshocton Canal Quilters Quilt Show, Coshocton Christian Tabernacle, 23891 Airport Rd., Coshocton, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $5. Featured quilter is Shirley Stutz. www.facebook.com/Coshocton-Canal-QuiltersQuilt-Show-112729707876945.

JUL. 8–9 – Theatre Under the Stars: Clue, Berlin Park, 4999 Parkwood Dr., Millersburg, 8:30 p.m. A play based on the famous board game. Fun for the whole family!

330-473-2879 or www.holmescenterforthearts.org/ under-the-stars.

JUL. 8–10 – Lilyfest, Bishop Educational Gardens, 13200 Cola Rd., Rockbridge. Free, but donations appreciated!

Gardens, art sculptures, live music, and outdoor education in the Hocking Hills. 740-969-2873 or www.lilyfest.com.

JUL. 13–16 – Pottery Lovers Show and Sale, Holiday Inn Express, 1101 Spring St., 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. 14–16 – Picktown Palooza, 300 Opportunity Way, Pickerington, Thur. 5–11 p.m., Fri. 5 p.m.–midnight, Sat. 2 p.m.–midnight. $5 daily, $10 for 3-day pass. Carnival rides, Freedom 5K and kids’ fun run, food vendors, live entertainment, and car, truck, and bike show. 614-3792099 or www.picktownpalooza.org.

JUL. 18–25 – Pickaway County Fair, 415 Lancaster Pike, Circleville. $8–$15. 740-474-2085 or www. pickawaycountyfair.org.

SOUTHWEST

JUL. 1 – Concert: “Brett Greenwood Sings Broadway,” First United Methodist Church, 120 S. Broad St., Middletown, noon–1 p.m. Popular southwest Ohio performer shares his favorite songs from 50 years of Broadway hits. Free parking and handicapped accessible. Bring your lunch if you like. 513-423-4629 or www.myfumc.net.

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. Festival on the 4th starts at 10 a.m. and features 5K run, parade, arts and crafts street fair, car show, live entertainment, and food booths. 937-433-5898 or www. americanafestival.org.

JUL. 4 – Red, White and Blue Ash, Summit Park, Blue Ash, 4–10 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. 7–9 – Hillsboro Festival of the Bells, 238 W. Main St., Hillsboro. Free concerts by Caylee Hammock, Elvie Shane, and Jordan Feliz. Arts and crafts, 5K run/walk, 3 on 3 basketball, cornhole tournament, pet parade, baby parade. www.thefestivalofthebells.com.

JUL. 7–10 – Greenville Farm Power of the Past, Darke Co. Fgds., 800 Sweitzer St., Greenville. $5–$10, under 13 free. Featuring Ford, Fordson, Ferguson, MasseyHarris, and Massey-Ferguson tractors and equipment, Fairbanks-Morse engines, side-shaft engines. 937-5471845 or www.greenvillefarmpower.org.

CENTRAL

THROUGH JUL. 27 – Bluegrass Wednesdays, Vinoklet Winery, 11069 Colerain Ave., Cincinnati, every Wed. 6:30–8:30 p.m. (not Jun. 15). Enjoy dinner, wine, and an evening of free bluegrass entertainment by Vernon McIntyre’s Appalachian Grass. Reservations strongly recommended. 5133-385-9309, vinokletwinery@fuse. net, or www.vinokletwines.com.

JUN. 10 – Vernon McIntyre’s Appalachian Grass, Colerain Park Amphitheater, 4725 Springdale Rd., Colerain, 7–9 p.m. Free. Bring a lawn chair. 513-3857503 or tmolter@colerain.org.

JUN. 10–12 – Versailles Poultry Days, 459 S. Center St., Versailles. Free admission and parking. Enjoy the world-famous barbecue chicken dinners and many fun events. Grand parade Sat. 11 a.m., antique car parade Sun. 2:30 p.m. 937-526-9773 or www. versaillespoultrydays.com.

JUN. 18 – Vintage in the Village, downtown Tipp City, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Unique booths featuring handmade, vintage, and antique items; food trucks; children’s activities. www.downtowntippcity.org.

JUN. 18 – Vinoklet Annual Bluegrass Festival, Vinoklet Winery, 11069 Colerain Ave., Cincinnati. $5.

Craft show, 11 a.m.–7 p.m. Music, 12–11 p.m. Features Vernon McIntyre’s Appalachian Grass and other bluegrass bands. Bring a lawn chair. On-site food, wine, and beer. 513-385-9309, vinokletwinery@fuse.net, or https://www.vinokletwines.com/post/bluegrass-musiccraft-festival-2.

JUN. 24 – Bluegrass Night, Fibonacci Brewing Company, 1445 Compton Rd., Cincinnati, 7–9 p.m. Free.

Enjoy an evening of lively bluegrass music by Vernon McIntyre’s Appalachian Grass. Wide variety of craft beers and food truck eats available on-site. 513-832-1422 or http://fibbrew.com.

JUN. 25 – A Tour of Oxford Gardens, Oxford area, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Five gardens will be open to ticket holders to tour throughout the day. Local artists and nurseries will be selling plants and garden-related art around the home and gardens of the White Garden Inn. For tickets and additional information, visit www.desfleurs.org.

JUN. 25–26 – Pioneer Days, Caesar’s Creek Pioneer Village, 3999 Pioneer Village Rd., Waynesville, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. $6, under 16 free. See demonstrations of different tasks around the village representing how life would have been during the pioneer period. www.ccpv.us/ pioneer-days.

JUNE 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

39

MEMBER INTERACTIVE

Lake Life

Jacob, Cloie, and Carlie on the boat, enjoying Lake Erie!

Jennifer Sayre | Union Rural Electric Cooperative member

Nathan, Brady, Kathryn, and Ella enjoying Seneca Lake.

Fran Booker Guernsey-Muskingum Electric Cooperative member

First summer fishing at Paw and Maw’s new lake house at Buckeye Lake.

Amy Smith | South Central Power Company member

My daughter, Wendy Preston, son-in-law, Matt Duckson, and grandson, Finn Duckson, paddle boating on Kiser Lake.

Brad Huntsman | Pioneer Electric Cooperative member

Brady and Ella in a shaving cream fight at Seneca Lake.

Paula Walck Guernsey-Muskingum Electric Cooperative member

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My sons, Christian and Cayden, enjoying the last days of summer.

Gloria Schmitz | South Central Power Company member

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OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JUNE 2022

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