Ohio Cooperative Living - March - North Western

OHIO

MARCH 2022

COOPERATIVE North Western Electric Cooperative

High-tech highway The future of transportation

ALSO INSIDE Home solar Q&A The cruelest month Storm’s brewing

m o W en in Ut i l i t i es The best service is cultivated by a variety of backgrounds, thoughts, education, and experiences.

During National Women’s Month, Ohio’s Electric Cooperatives proudly recognizes the contributions of all our female staff in providing reliable, affordable, and environmentally responsible electric power to our consumer-members.

www.ohioec.org

OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • MARCH 2022

INSIDE FEATURES 24 HIGH-TECH HIGHWAY Ohio’s 33 Smart Mobility Corridor is helping to develop the future of transportation.

28 FUN WITH A PURPOSE Columbus-based Highlights for Children lets kids have fun while learning life lessons.

32 DEEP BLUE MYSTERIES “Bottomless” blue holes are geologic oddities that happen to be perfect spots for raising fish.

Cover image on most editions: Someday, driverless cars may be the rule of the road, where autonomous vehicles sense and communicate with one another while getting their passengers and cargo safely from one place to another (photo illustration by metamorworks/via Getty Images).

This page: As spring rolls in, so do stormy skies, like those in this photo submitted by South Central Power Company member Laurence Landon of Pickerington for this month’s Member Interactive feature. See page 40 for more storm photos.

MARCH 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 1

UP FRONT

Working together for 80 years O

hio’s 24 electric cooperatives have been through a lot together over the past 80 years. Each has had periods of celebration and success and times of trial and challenge. Each has experienced both growth and loss, and, like everyone, adapted to changes in technology, work practices, attitudes, and expectations. Through the last 80 years, Ohio’s electric cooperatives have remained united in their support for and participation in their statewide association. Since the 1960s, they have all been joined together through the formation and operation of Buckeye Power to produce electricity from power plants that none could have developed or operated alone. Cooperation among cooperatives has provided benefits to each and every electric cooperative throughout its history.

That cooperation proved its value again last month when winter storm Landon dropped snow and ice over a huge swath of the nation. It hit southeast Ohio especially hard, as ice-crusted trees brought down electric lines and utility poles in some of the state’s most difficult-to-reach terrain — a lot of that in areas served by electric cooperatives. More than 60 cooperative lineworkers from around the state rallied to assist those co-ops in getting the lights back on for their members. Despite challenging weather conditions and nearly impassable roadways, they worked together to reduce outage times for thousands of cooperative members. It was a team effort, conducted safely and efficiently due to preparation and cooperation. The joint effort to create the Central Ohio Lineworker Training program, which develops and trains new lineworkers with consistent practices across the state; our participation in a statewide emergency response radio system to allow for communication between crews from 20 different cooperatives; and a coordinated emergency work plan all helped to get power back on more quickly and without injury.

Each cooperative remains independent and locally controlled. Each is as different as the communities that they serve. Yet all are stronger because of their commitment to working together in a unified manner to solve their common problems. Bad weather, economies of scale, new technologies, changing work force, government intervention — those are all challenges we can expect. Working together, cooperatively, we’ve been able to lower costs, provide a reliable electricity supply, better prepare our workforce, and implement new and improved technology. That is the power of cooperation.

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

All cooperatives are stronger because of their commitment to working together in a unified manner to solve their common problems.

MARCH 2022 • Volume 64, No. 6

Ohio Rural Electric Cooperatives 6677 Busch Blvd.

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

4 DEPARTMENTS 4 POWER LINES

President & CEO Managing Editor Associate Editor Graphic Designer

If you ask me: When it comes to home solar, energy advisors say there are no stupid questions.

Contributors: Alicia Adams, Margo Bartlett, Colleen Romick Clark, Getty Images, W.H. “Chip” Gross, Catherine Murray, and James Proffitt.

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.

8

8 WOODS, WATERS, AND WILDLIFE Hope for the winter-weary: After a long, cold, gray Midwestern winter, March has ways to remind us that spring is right around the corner.

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12 CO-OP PEOPLE

Lizards and turtles and frogs — oh my! A co-op member is one of the state’s top experts on reptiles and amphibians.

15 GOOD EATS

15

Full of beans: High in fiber and loaded with protein, the “musical fruit” is among the most versatile — and delicious — foods in the world.

19 LOCAL PAGES News and information from your electric cooperative.

For all advertising inquiries, contact

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

37

37 CALENDAR What’s happening: March/April

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

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

events and other things to do around Ohio.

40 MEMBER INTERACTIVE Storm’s brewing: Members capture some images of the ominous skies that come with stormy weather.

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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.

MARCH 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 3

If you ask me … home solar

When it comes to home solar, energy advisors say there are no stupid questions.

BY REBECCA SEUM

M

arch is the time of year when Ohioans are treated to an occasional teasing day of sunshine and warmth before winter reminds us that it’s not done just yet. Still, the blue skies and abundant sun Ohio will get in the next few months may have you thinking about putting that weather to work for you in the form of a home solar array.

There’s a lot to learn about home solar before you sign on the dotted line, though, and sometimes, homeowners get stuck because they don’t know what they don’t know. Fortunately, as a member of a not-for-profit electric cooperative, you have access to an expert you can count on to give you impartial advice — your cooperative energy advisor.

We asked a handful of energy advisors from across the state to get us started with some basic information and a few questions to ask as you do your research. All of them agree on the most important step: Contact your electric cooperative before signing any agreement. This is a crucial part of the procedure, not only to ensure that your array is built correctly and properly connects to the cooperative’s system, but also to get an understanding of exactly how solar is going to work for you.

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Will solar work on my home?

Left: Contractors sometimes subcontract installation work. Make sure you ask about any additional companies that will be working on your installation.

Bruce Warnecke, energy services advisor at Hancock-Wood Electric Cooperative, emphasizes the importance of a critical evaluation of your home. “Make sure your roof is in good condition first. If you need to replace your roof, that’s going to add to the cost.” Ideally, he says, your roof should face south, but other directions may work as well. “Take a look at the trees near your home,” Warnecke says. “Do they shade the roof? Anything that shades the roof will decrease your energy production, so you might need to look at removing trees as well.”

Above: To maximize your solar productivity, ensure that your roof is in good condition and isn’t shaded throughout the day.

Additionally, he stresses that this is the time to assess your home for easier, cheaper energy fixes. “It may be more beneficial to improve the envelope of the home to increase its efficiency rather than financing an expensive solar system for many years,” Warnecke says. Ensuring that your home is not leaking any of the air you’ve already paid to heat or cool will provide an immediate return on investment.

Which company should I work with?

“Check their qualifications first,” says Michael Wilson, director of business development and communications at Logan County Electric Cooperative. “Ask about their licenses, insurance, and certifications.” Don’t forget to ask about subcontractors, too — the company installer should be able to tell you what company the subcontractors will be hired from and what experience they have.

When it comes to prices, Wilson says, “Get a free quote or bid from multiple contractors to compare, but be sure to look beyond the lowest price; that could be indicative of poor workmanship and bad service.” Wilson stresses the importance of asking for references from previous customers and reading online reviews. Then, he says, ask about their products. “Experienced contractors know their products.

Ask what products they carry, how they differ, and which one they’ve selected for your home. If they’ve successfully installed them multiple times before, they’ll know what they’re talking about.”

MARCH 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 5

Peter Niagu, energy advisor at Paulding Putnam Electric Cooperative, consults with a member about solar generation.

Will solar save me money on my electric bill?

Ray Crock, energy advisor at Guernsey-Muskingum Electric Cooperative, says, “The short answer is — of course it will save you money on your electric bill. But the real question is whether it will save you money overall, with the cost of solar accounted for.”

Crock relates the story of a solar consultation and energy audit he performed a few years ago: “At that time, electricity was costing them about 14 cents per kWh, but the solar salesman told them that price was forecast to rise to 18 cents in five years. Here we are, five years later, and the cost is closer to 12.5 cents. It doesn’t make sense to invest in something that has a 20- to 30-year payback when it will be worn out in 20 to 25 years. My point is to really check the numbers — and have a sharp pencil.”

How much will a solar array cost?

“There are many factors that play into the cost of a solar array,” says Jacob Atkins, energy advisor at South Central Power Company. “One of the contributors of cost is the system size — the larger it is, the more it will cost overall, but it will have a lower cost per watt. The average cost per watt for a system is between $2.50 and $3.50. Another thing to account for is the installer that is putting in the system. Each installer has a different brand of equipment and cost of labor, which will affect the overall price. Also look out for permitting and interconnection fees. The municipality you live in could have permit fees, and your utility could have a fee for interconnecting your array. If taking out a loan, pay attention to the interest rate and associated terms that will impact your loan.”

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Can I use batteries to store my energy?

“In a word, yes,” says Chris Bear, energy advisor for North Central Electric Cooperative. But it’s complicated. “You have to install an inverter that will convert the AC power into DC power and then choose where to send the power from the solar panels — either to the house, back to the grid, or to the battery storage system.” He continued, “Battery storage can be installed inside or outside of the structure. The sizing of the battery storage depends solely on the load needed to run. Is the focus on just the minimum household equipment during an outage or running the entire house at any given time? You can add batteries to existing solar arrays, especially if they had the system designed for a future battery backup. It does get more complex if the system was originally not designed for a battery backup.”

Batteries, he says, can last about 7 to 10 years depending on the type and on how often they’re discharged — so replacements should be factored into the overall cost of the system.

What are my co-op’s net billing policies?

“Cooperatives’ rates weren’t originally designed to accommodate solar, and in many cases, rates change,” says Peter Niagu, energy advisor for Paulding Putnam Electric Cooperative. Previously, many co-ops used net metering, which credited members for excess energy at retail costs. That’s given way to net billing, a more equitable system in which the utility, in this case your co-op, pays for the electricity coming from a solar system at the same rate as it would for electricity it generates itself — basically the difference between a retail and a wholesale rate. Niagu cautions to be sure to communicate with the co-op about its policies so you can calculate costs and savings using the proper rate. “There’s a substantial difference between the two main methods of metering,” Niagu says.

There’s much more to learn about home solar, and your electric cooperative energy advisor is committed to making sure you know all you can before your purchase. For even more questions to ask and topics to consider, visit www.energy.gov/eere/solar/homeownersguide-going-solar. Then call your electric cooperative to take advantage of one of the benefits of your membership and the fifth cooperative principle of education, training, and information.

Solar arrays don’t necessarily need to be built on a house rooftop.

This Carroll Electric Cooperative member chose a free-standing array for best efficiency.

Top 10 steps when considering home solar 1. Research, research, research, before investing in a solar system.

2. Make your home more energy efficient before buying a solar system — it may be a better money-saving option.

3. Understand how a solar system meshes with your cooperative’s system — a call to the co-op early in the process is always a good idea.

4. Review your current energy use so you can determine what size PV system to install.

5. Tally upfront costs.

6. Search for incentives, rebates, and tax credits.

7. Establish a project partnership between you, your contractor, and your electric cooperative.

8. Follow all safety precautions.

9. Choose a reputable contractor/installer — check reviews and ask for references.

10. Maintain good records, both financial and notes from conversations.

MARCH 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 7

WOODS, WATERS, AND WILDLIFE

HOPE for the winter-weary PHOTO ESSAY BY W.H. “CHIP” GROSS

The nearly nightly freezing and thawing coaxes moisture from tree roots, and all across the state, folks will be tapping their sugar maple trees this month (center photo above), then boiling the sap into the maple syrup that helps me survive until April (I prefer mine poured over a scoop or two of vanilla ice cream, thank you).

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M

arch has the decision-making skills of a squirrel dodging city traffic — darting one day toward spring with 50-degree temperatures and sunshine, then back to winter with more ice and snow the next.

At a time of year when Ohioans are trying to recoup from yet another long, cold, gray Midwestern winter, what does March offer us as the first “wildflower” of spring? Skunk cabbage (right photo, opposite page). In short, March has no rules. The obligatory transition from winter to spring is nothing but a tease. In like a lion and out like a lamb? Well, maybe. It might be in like a lion and out like a lion. Or, in like a lamb and out like a lamb. We just never know.

Weather folklore says to expect three snows after the forsythia blooms (left photo, opposite page) — and more years than not, that’s correct. What we can count on is that April is just around the corner — and once we then reach the warm, welcoming days of May, these few bleak days of March mud will be a barely remembered blip on the yearly cycle of the natural world in the Buckeye State. So, hang in there, fellow sufferers: The equinox, the official start of spring, arrives on March 21. Until then, here are a few things to look out for this month.

Bird migration gets underway in March.

Male red-winged blackbirds (left) will show up early in the month — a few even in late February — bobbing on cattail stalks while singing and squabbling over breeding territories.

The females will be along in a few weeks.

A songbird that says its name, phoebe (right), will arrive mid- to late-month.

Wild turkey toms (left) begin gobbling in earnest this month.

Waterfowl are already on the move (right), seemingly pushing the

ice on ponds and lakes northward ahead of them as they go. Hardy diving ducks, as a group, lead the parade, with the dabblers close on their tails.

MARCH 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 9

Woodchucks (bottom left) and chipmunks (top) emerge from their long winter’s sleep in March, and spring peepers start their, well, peeping. It will be only a few at first, but their chorus will gradually rise to a roar from swamps and marshes by late month. At other more temporary wetlands called vernal pools, “mole” salamanders (bottom right) in untold numbers make their annual breeding trek under the cover of darkness on the first relatively warm, rainy nights.

Woodcocks arrive in March, too — the males “peenting” and sky-dancing at dusk and dawn, trying to impress the females (I’ll be writing in-depth next month about these odd birds that appear to have been put together by committee).

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Eagles (top) and owls are already nesting, and hawks are about to.

Vultures — turkey vultures (bottom) and black vultures — will be tilting in March winds as they soar aloft.

For a splash of color on the bland, brown forest floor this time of year, look for scarlet cup fungus (middle) growing on hardwood branches fallen from trees.

MARCH 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 11

CO-OP PEOPLE

Co-op member is one of the state’s top experts on reptiles and amphibians.

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

T

here are countless unique ways to earn a living in 21st-century America, but not many more unusual than that of a professional herpetologist. The study of amphibians and reptiles, herpetology deals with wild critters that lots of people find repulsive. Even Carl Linnaeus (1707–1778), the father of modern taxonomy, described them as “so foul and loathsome that our Creator saw fit not to make too many of them.”

A few folks, however, seem inexplicably drawn to snakes, lizards, turtles, frogs, and their ilk. Greg Lipps, a member

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of Tricounty Rural Electric Cooperative in northwest Ohio, is one of them.

“I grew up in Cincinnati, where my father owned a pet store and delivered supplies to other pet stores,” Lipps says. “I rode along with him whenever I could and was always fascinated by the animals in the various shops we visited — particularly the reptiles and amphibians.”

Lipps was so taken with wildlife that he actually attended high school at the Cincinnati Zoo. “At that time, the zoo had a work-study program where I and a dozen other

Tricounty Rural Electric Cooperative member Greg Lipps, in his element studying Ohio’s amphibians.

juniors and seniors took formal classroom studies in the morning, then worked in the various departments of the zoo in the afternoon,” he says. “I absolutely loved it, and learned a ton. In fact, when I graduated, a zoo elephant handed me my high-school diploma.”

Lipps went on to attend the University of Cincinnati and Bowling Green State University, earning undergraduate and graduate degrees in biology. He is now the amphibian and reptile conservation coordinator at Ohio State University — in essence, the “head herp” for the entire Buckeye State.

“One of the things I’ve enjoyed most about my career is the hands-on aspect of it,” Lipps says. “I really like getting into the fields and forests, swamps and marshes, studying wildlife, then actually seeing the work I do with these animals make a long-term difference — especially concerning endangered species.”

Lipps’ favorite species is the Eastern hellbender, a totally aquatic salamander. “They’re so large (as much as 2 feet or more in length) and are such a prehistoric-looking animal, and they have such an interesting life history, that even after seeing and handling hundreds of them in the wild, I still get a thrill every time I snorkel up on one in a river or stream.”

As might be imagined, Lipps has lots of interesting stories to tell about his years afield. One has to do with driving rural roads on warm, rainy nights gathering live frogs to study their population densities and distribution.

“Since I’m often working odd hours in odd places, it’s pretty common for me to get stopped by law enforcement officers,” Lipps says. “Most of those encounters simply involve the officer checking my driver’s license and a short discussion about what I’m doing. But one of them told me he didn’t care what I was doing and that I was to leave his jurisdiction immediately and never come back — which I did.”

Lipps eventually purchased a vanity license plate for his work truck (AMPHIB, short for amphibian) in hopes of shortening his time spent explaining his activities to police. He said it seems to have helped, at least somewhat. However, his brother, who is an auto mechanic, once took Lipps’ truck into his shop to do some maintenance work, and the other mechanics looked at the license plate and wanted to know what made the truck amphibious.

Today, Greg Lipps spends much of his time mentoring the next generation of herpetologists entering the profession. “Most of these people are young, enthusiastic, incredibly bright recent college graduates.

For instance, one of my first seasonal field employees (Maddie Sophia) has become a regular reporter for National Public Radio’s science programming, and to now hear her voice on the radio is incredibly satisfying and fulfilling for me.”

MARCH 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 13

The Invention of the Year The world’s lightest and most portable mobility device Once in a lifetime, a product comes along that truly moves people. Introducing the future of battery-powered personal transportation . . . The Zinger.

Throughout the ages, there have been many important advances in mobility. Canes, walkers, rollators, and scooters were created to help people with mobility issues get around and retain their independence. Lately, however, there haven’t been any new improvements to these existing products or developments in this field. Until now. Recently, an innovative design engineer who’s developed one of the world’s most popular products created a completely new breakthrough . . . a personal electric vehicle. It’s called the Zinger, and there is nothing out there quite like it.

“What my wife especially loves is it gives her back feelings of safety and independence which has given a real boost to her confidence and happiness! Thank You!” –Kent C., California The first thing you’ll notice about the Zinger is its unique look. It doesn’t look like a scooter. Its sleek, lightweight yet durable frame is made with aircraft grade aluminum. It weighs only 47.2 lbs but can handle a passenger that’s up to 275 lbs! It features one-touch folding and unfolding – when folded

Now available in a Joystick model (Zoomer Chair)

Available in Green, Black (shown) and Blue

10”

it can be wheeled around like a suitcase The Zinger folds to a mere 10 inches. and fits easily into a backseat or trunk. Then, there are the steering levers. They enable the Zinger to move forward, backward, turn on a dime and even pull right up to a table or desk. With its compact yet powerful motor it can go up to 6 miles an hour and its rechargeable battery can go up to 8 miles on a single charge. With its low center of gravity and inflatable tires it can handle rugged terrain and is virtually tip-proof. Think about it, you can take your Zinger almost anywhere, so you don’t have to let mobility issues rule your life.

Why take our word for it. You can try the Zinger out for yourself with our exclusive home trial. Call now, and find out how you can try out a Zinger of your very own.

Zinger Chair® Call now and receive a utility basket absolutely FREE with your order.

1-888-610-2846

Please mention code 116491 when ordering.

The Zinger and Zoomer Chairs are personal electric vehicles and are not medical devices nor wheelchairs. They are not intended for medical purposes to provide mobility to persons restricted to a sitting position. They are not covered by Medicare nor Medicaid. © 2022 Journey Health and Lifestyle

85229

Joystick can be mounted on the right or left side for rider’s comfort

GOOD EATS

Full of beans

High in fiber and loaded with protein, the ‘musical fruit’ is among the most versatile — and delicious — foods in the world.

RECIPES AND PHOTOGRAPHS BY CATHERINE MURRAY

SOOTHING MINESTRONE SOUP Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 50 minutes | Servings: 6 2 tablespoons olive oil 1½ teaspoons dried oregano 1 small white onion, diced small ½ teaspoon dried basil 3 stalks celery, diced small ½ teaspoon dried thyme 1 large carrot, diced small 1½ teaspoons salt 4 cloves garlic, minced ½ teaspoon black pepper 3 cups vegetable broth 4 cups hot water 2 15-ounce cans red kidney ¾ cup dry small shell pasta beans, drained and rinsed 1 14.5-ounce can Italian green 2 15-ounce cans great northern beans, drained beans, drained and rinsed 1 small zucchini, diced 1 14.5-ounce can petite 4 cups chopped diced tomatoes fresh spinach 2 tablespoons dried parsley Heat oil over medium heat in a large stockpot. Sauté onion for 5 minutes. Add celery, carrots, and garlic, cooking until soft, about another 5 minutes. Slowly stir in vegetable broth, kidney beans, great northern beans, tomatoes in juice, and spices. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cover with lid for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add hot water, dry pasta, green beans, zucchini, and spinach. Cover and cook another 15 to 20 minutes, stirring once or twice.

Per serving: 1,101 calories, 9 grams fat (2 grams saturated fat), 0 milligrams cholesterol, 1,042 milligrams sodium, 194 grams total carbohydrates, 55 grams fiber, 69 grams protein.

MARCH 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 15

FLOURLESS BLACK BEAN BROWNIES Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 30 minutes | Servings: 9 1 15-ounce can black beans, 2/3 cup sugar drained and rinsed ½ teaspoon baking powder 3 large eggs ¼ teaspoon salt 3 tablespoons canola or sunflower oil ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Powdered sugar for dusting (optional) ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder Preheat oven to 350 F. Grease an 8 x 8-inch baking pan. In a food processor or blender, purée black beans, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract for 90 seconds.

Transfer to a medium bowl. In a small bowl, combine cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Pour dry ingredients into wet ingredients and mix with a spatula until well combined. Stir in chocolate chips, then pour batter into greased baking pan and pop in the oven for 30 minutes, until edges start to pull away from the pan. Cool before dusting with powdered sugar and cutting into squares.

Per serving: 361 calories, 11 grams fat (3.5 grams saturated fat), 62 milligrams cholesterol, 92 milligrams sodium, 55 grams total carbohydrates, 8 grams fiber, 14 grams protein.

PAN-FRIED FALAFEL Prep: 15 minutes | Cook: 25 minutes | Chill: 30 minutes | Servings: 6 6 cups cooked garbanzo beans 1½ teaspoons baking powder (chickpeas) 1 teaspoon salt 1 small onion, peeled, cut in half 1 teaspoon ground coriander ½ cup chopped fresh curly parsley 1 teaspoon black pepper 3 garlic cloves ¼ cup sesame seeds 3 tablespoons flour 2 cups vegetable oil for frying 2 teaspoons ground cumin Note: Serve falafel alongside tzatziki sauce or hummus as an appetizer, roll into a pita sandwich, or serve on top of a Greek salad.

Pat dry the garbanzo beans, then place in food processor along with all ingredients except sesame seeds and oil. Pulse until a pasty “dough” forms when rolled into a ball. If mixture crumbles apart, add a tiny bit of water at a time until mixture holds together. Let rest in refrigerator for 30 minutes.

Roll mixture into small, 1½-inch balls. Set falafel balls on a plate and return to refrigerator. In a deep, wide skillet, heat 2 cups of oil on medium-high until it reaches 350 F. Drop a small piece of falafel batter into the oil. It should sizzle immediately, then turn golden brown in less than a minute. If oil begins to smoke, turn the heat down. If it doesn’t sizzle, wait a little longer.

Place sesame seeds in a small bowl and roll each falafel ball in the seeds. (This will make the falafel coating crunchier and add a nutty flavor.) Pick up falafel balls with a heat-safe utensil and gently lower into the oil, cooking 3 or 4 at a time. Cook each side until dark brown, 1 to 2 minutes per side, then place on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Makes 18 small falafel.

Per serving: 870 calories, 24 grams fat (3.5 grams saturated fat), 0 milligrams cholesterol, 442 milligrams sodium, 129 grams total carbohydrates, 36 grams fiber, 41 grams protein.

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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.

REFRIED BEAN AND PICKLED CABBAGE TOSTADAS Prep: 30 minutes | Cook: 20 minutes | Servings: 4 1 cup shredded red cabbage ½ cup chicken or vegetable stock 1 teaspoon sugar 1 jalapeño or serrano pepper, seeded and diced fine ½ teaspoon salt 2 garlic cloves, minced 2 black peppercorns (optional) ½ teaspoon salt ¾ cup apple cider, white, or rice vinegar ½ teaspoon black pepper 1 cup boiling water 1 lime, juiced 1 tablespoon olive oil (or pork fat) 8 6-inch corn tortillas 1 small yellow onion, diced fine 4 ounces crumbled queso fresco or shredded Monterey ½ teaspoon chili powder Jack cheese ½ teaspoon ground cumin 1 ripe avocado, sliced ½ teaspoon ground coriander handful fresh cilantro, 2 15-ounce cans pinto beans, roughly chopped drained and rinsed In a large jar with lid, place cabbage, sugar, ½ teaspoon salt, black peppercorns, and vinegar. Pour boiling water on top and seal with lid (but not too tight). Swish or shake jar to aid in the salt and sugar dissolving and dispersing. Chill in fridge to pickle for at least half an hour. It’ll keep for a few weeks in the fridge.

In a medium pot, heat olive oil and add diced yellow onion.

Cook until onions are translucent, about 7 minutes. Add chili powder, cumin, and coriander. Stir and cook another minute or two. Add pinto beans, chicken stock, jalapeño, garlic, ½ teaspoon salt, and black pepper. Turn temperature down to medium-low, partially cover with a lid, and continue cooking 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally and adding a little water if the beans become too dry. Remove from heat and let cool a few minutes before blending in lime juice and pulsing with an immersion blender or food processor.

Preheat oven to 425 F. Generously spray both sides of each tortilla with cooking spray and arrange in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake 4 minutes, flip, then bake an additional 4 to 6 minutes, until tortillas are lightly browned and crispy.

Top tortillas with a layer of refried beans, crumbled queso fresco, pickled cabbage, avocado slices, and fresh cilantro. Serve immediately. If there are leftovers, store the elements separately.

Per serving: 1,142 calories, 21 grams fat (6.5 grams saturated fat), 9 milligrams cholesterol, 549 milligrams sodium, 186 grams total carbohydrates, 40 grams fiber, 55 grams protein.

MARCH 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 17

t s e t n o c e p i c e r r reade

s d a l a S

When you think of “salad,” what comes to mind?

A bowl of chopped iceberg lettuce with a glop of dressing on top? A can of tuna mixed with a heaping spoonful of mayo? A giant bowl of colorful, cut-up fruit?

For our 2022 Ohio Cooperative Living reader recipe contest, we’re looking for your most delicious SALAD! Whether it’s extra healthy or more on the decadent side, we want to hear all about it!

The grand-prize winner will receive an Ohio-made KitchenAid stand mixer. Two runners-up will receive consolation gifts.

Entry deadline is April 15, 2022!

18 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • MARCH 2022

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

• Entries may be submitted by email to memberinteract@ ohioec.org; uploaded to www.ohiocoopliving.com/ memberinteractive, or mailed to Catherine Murray, c/o Ohio Cooperative Living, 6677 Busch Blvd., Columbus, OH 43229. Limit of three recipes per entrant.

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

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

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

• Winners will be featured in the August issue of Ohio Cooperative Living.

NEWS AND VIEWS

DRIVE-THRU ANNUAL MEETING SATURDAY, APRIL 9, 2022 DROP OFF YOUR BALLOT ANY TIME BETWEEN 9 A.M. AND NOON NWEC OFFICE: 4125 STATE ROUTE 576, BRYAN

TWO WAYS TO CAST YOUR BALLOT 1. Vote online through your secure SmartHub account by April 8 at noon. Visit nwec.com and click the “My Account” button at the top of the page to create a SmartHub account, or download the free mobile app.

2. OR vote in person at the drive-thru annual meeting at our office between 9 a.m. and noon on Saturday, April 9. Your paper ballot will arrive in March; if not, additional copies will be available at the drive-thru meeting.

Watch your mailbox for the envelope labeled “Annual Meeting Documents” arriving later this month

If you plan to vote in person, do NOT also vote online. You can only vote once.

Please do not mail your ballot to our office.

Paper ballots will only be accepted when delivered on April 9 between 9 a.m. and noon by the member-owner whose name is on the registration page that was mailed to them.

Have questions or need assistance? Call us at 800-647-6932.

RECEIVE A $20 BILL CREDIT JUST FOR PARTICIPATING In lieu of a gift bag, every membership who participates in the annual meeting, either by casting their ballot at the drive-thru event or voting online via SmartHub, will receive a $20 bill credit on their August electric bill (the one you receive at the end of July that is due by Aug. 10).

MARCH 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 19

NORTH WESTERN ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

OFFICIAL NOTICE OF THE ANNUAL MEETING OF MEMBERS The annual meeting of the member-owners of North Western Electric Cooperative, Inc. (NWEC) will be held on Saturday, April 9, 2022, at the cooperative building located at 04125 State Route 576 in Bryan, Ohio. Due to the ongoing threat of the COVID-19 virus, this meeting will be held as a drivethru-only meeting. The drive-thru will be open from 9 a.m. to noon on that day to allow memberowners to deliver their completed paper ballots to be included in the election.

No nominating petitions were received for District 3 or District 7; therefore, the following incumbents are considered elected by affirmation and will not appear on the official ballot.

District 3 District 7 Kim Shoup (incumbent) Richard Polter (incumbent) 10349 County Road 12 14240 Mud Creek Road Montpelier, OH Sherwood, OH The official ballot will contain options to accept or reject two proposed changes to the Code of Regulations and to accept or reject the 2021 annual meeting minutes as presented.

Member-owners who do not wish to attend the drive-thru-only meeting on April 9, 2022, may cast their votes using the SmartHub app prior to that date. __________________________ Kim Shoup, Secretary 1/24/22

family fun day

MEMBER-OWNER & CUSTOMER APPRECIATION CELEBRATION Due to COVID precautions, it’s been a while since we have been able to gather together, and we all miss that! So, join us at the Williams County Fairgrounds in Montpelier for our first annual outdoor Family Fun Day!

SEPTEMBER 24

This will be an exclusive event for NWEC member-owners and NWOP customers and their immediate families.

We are still making plans for all the fun, family-friendly activities, so watch future issues of this magazine, our websites and our Facebook pages for more details. www.nwec.com facebook.com/North.Western www.nwohiopropane.com facebook.com/nwohiopropane

20 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • MARCH 2022

NEWS AND VIEWS

Trustee Nominations No nominating petitions were received for District 3 or District 7; therefore, the incumbents are considered elected by affirmation and will not appear on the official ballot.

Kim Shoup

District 3

Dick Polter

District 7

Kim Shoup and his wife, Cindy, live in Superior Township and have three sons and three grandchildren. He is 66 years old. Prior to his retirement, he was employed as the Recycling Program Manager for Williams County Health Department. Kim is completing his fourth term as a NWEC Board Trustee, where he has served as Secretary for the past eleven years. He has successfully completed the training and received the Director Gold Certification, which is offered by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. He is a graduate of Northwest State Community College and also served in the U.S. Peace Corps in Guatemala. Kim is an Elder at West Bethesda Presbyterian Church in Montpelier.

Dick Polter and his wife, Carma, reside in Delaware Township and have three children, eight grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. He is 84 years old and is retired from Frey Office Supply. Dick was appointed in 2012, by the NWEC Board of Trustees, to complete an unexpired term and then was elected by members in 2013 to continue serving. He has successfully completed the training and received the Director Gold Certification, which is offered by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. Dick is Zoning Inspector for Mark Township and formerly served on the Community Memorial Hospital Board and Mark Township Board. He attends Mark Center Methodist Church.

Monitor energy use, pay bills, get alerts and more ...

All at your fingertips with SmartHub! North Western Electric Cooperative’s SmartHub app provides you with great tools — you can view your monthly electric usage, check your balance, receive notifications, report outages, and even schedule automatic payments. But now, that list of available features is even better!

Member-owners can now use SmartHub to cast their vote for NWEC’s 2022 elections.

Don’t miss out on this easy way to vote from the convenience and safety of your home!

DESKTOP OR LAPTOP USERS: Create an account online Visit www.nwec.com and click the “My account” button at the top. You can also go directly to nwec.com/ smarthub/coop.login.html. Click the “New User” link at the bottom.

Not a SmartHub user yet? It is quick and easy to create your account using a mobile app (for smartphones and tablets) or using your desktop computer or laptop. Have your NWEC billing account number and an email address on hand before you sign up.

MOBILE USERS: Download the SmartHub app Open your app store and search for: SmartHub

Have questions? Give our office a call, and we can guide you through the process.

MARCH 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 20A

NORTH WESTERN ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

PROPOSED CHANGES TO THE NORTH WESTERN ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE, INC. CODE OF REGULATIONS On the April 2022 official ballot, member-owners are asked to vote on two suggested amendments to the current Code of Regulations. These proposed changes have been reviewed and approved by the cooperative’s board of trustees.

Why updates are needed now The intent of the proposed changes is to bring the document up to date and uphold governance best practices based on recommendations from our national organization, National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA), and our statewide association, Ohio’s Electric Cooperatives (OEC). Similar Code of Regulations changes have been made by cooperatives throughout the nation.

There have also been many changes to the way organizations carry out business and interact with consumers since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The proposed change to the annual meeting agenda more accurately aligns with the current format of the meeting and will provide more flexibility in the manner in which the meetings are conducted in the future.

An evolving guide for the operation of your co-op The Code of Regulations, also known as the cooperative’s bylaws, is considered a living document and should be reviewed and updated regularly to ensure it serves the needs of cooperative member-owners and meets all applicable laws.

The Code of Regulations contains the rules under which the cooperative operates. It addresses key issues such as memberships, annual and special meetings, board nominations and elections, corporate officers, patronage, mergers, indemnification rights, and more.

To view the Code of Regulations in its entirety, visit www.nwec.com/cooperative-documents.

Proposed deletions are shown using strikethrough and proposed additions are underlined PROPOSED CHANGE #1: ARTICLE III - MEETING OF MEMBERS SECTION 6. Order of Business.

The order of business at the annual meeting of the members and, so far as possible, at all other meetings of the members, shall include the following matters with the order to be determined by the Board or the chairman of such meeting: a. reading of the notice of the meeting and proof of the due personal delivery or mailing thereof, or the waiver or waivers of notice of the meeting, as the case may be; b. reading of unapproved minutes of previous meetings of the members and the taking of necessary action thereon; c. presentation and consideration of reports of officers, Board members and committees; d. election of Board members; e. unfinished business; f. new business; g. adjournment.

20B OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • MARCH 2022

The order of business at the annual meeting of the members and, so far as possible, at all other meetings of the members, whether in person or by electronic means, shall be essentially as follows: a. Acknowledgment of proper notice requirements for the meeting or any waivers of notice; b. Review of minutes of previous meetings of the members and taking any action necessary; c. Presentation of reports from the board officers, trustees, committees and management; d. Presentation of election results, if any; e. Adjournment; The annual meeting of the members shall be generally considered an informational meeting where election results are reported, and the general economic condition of the cooperative is presented to the membership.

NEWS AND VIEWS PROPOSED CHANGE #2: ARTICLE IV - BOARD OF TRUSTEES SECTION 3. Qualifications.

No person shall be eligible to become or remain a member of the Board who: a. is not a member; or is a member whose permanent residence is not located in the particular district within the service area of the Cooperative which such member is nominated or elected to represent; b. is significantly involved by employment, contract, or financial interest in a competing enterprise or a business selling electric power and energy or supplies to the Cooperative or its members; c. has a spouse, father, mother, brother, sister, son or daughter, existing by reason of blood, marriage or adoption, in the employ of the Cooperative. c.

is a Close Relative of a trustee or employee of the Cooperative or a subsidiary of the Cooperative; The term “Close Relative” means an individual who: 1. through blood, law, or marriage, is a spouse, child, stepchild, father, stepfather, mother, stepmother, brother, stepbrother, half-brother, sister, stepsister, half-sister, grandparent, grandchild, father-in-law, mother-in-law, brother-in-law, sister-in-law, son-in-law, or daughter-in-law; or 2. resides in the same residence. d. within the past ten years has been convicted of a felony offense or a misdemeanor offense involving dishonesty; e. during the three years immediately before becoming a trustee was an employee of the Cooperative or a subsidiary of the Cooperative.

Nothing contained in this Section shall affect in any manner whatsoever the validity of any action taken by the Board.

SECTION 4. Nominations.

Trustees shall be nominated by a procedure commencing with the mailing of a letter by the Secretary or a designee to each member residing within the district or being eligible to vote within the district for which a trustee is to be elected not less than one hundred twenty (120) days prior to the annual meeting. Each letter shall contain all necessary instructions for obtaining and completing a Nominating Petition and the name of the trustee whose term is expiring. Any member residing within the district for which a trustee is elected and who is qualified shall be eligible to complete the Nominating

Petition. If an incumbent chooses to remain a candidate and is still eligible then he or she will automatically be placed on the ballot and will not need to submit a Nominating Petition.

A Nominating Petition shall include all of the following to be considered complete: a. Name, address and account number of eligible qualified member who consents to be nominated. b. District for which the trustee is to be elected. c. Signature, name and address of no fewer than twenty (20) members residing in the district from which the trustee is to be elected. d. Signature of member consenting to and submitting the Nominating Petition. e. Copy of the Code of Regulations sections on the qualifications and election process for trustees. f. Date of the annual meeting at which the election results will be announced.

All Nominating Petitions must be delivered to the principal office of the Cooperative in Bryan, Ohio no later than ninety (90) days prior to the annual meeting of the members. The election committee (with assistance from Cooperative personnel), which consists of the Secretary and two (2) other members of the board named by the board, shall meet to review and verify all Nominating Petitions and all member signatures. If necessary, the Cooperative attorney may be called upon for legal advice regarding a Nominating Petition qualification(s).

The Secretary or designee shall prepare and post at the principal office of the Cooperative at least 75 days prior to the annual meeting a list of eligible candidates and their addresses, which shall be placed on the ballot to be voted on at the next annual meeting of the members.

Should there be (a) no incumbent eligible and only one Nominating Petition submitted or (b) only the eligible incumbent and no Nominating Petition submitted then that member shall be considered elected by affirmation and no election shall be deemed necessary for that particular district. Should there be no incumbent and no Nominating Petition submitted for a district, then this shall be considered a vacancy and will be treated as such.

At the meeting at which Board Members are to be elected, the Chairman or his or her designee shall call for additional nominations from the floor. No person shall be voted upon for membership on the Board who has not signified a willingness to serve if elected. Nothing contained in this Section shall affect in any manner whatsoever any action taken by the Board.

MARCH 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 20C

NORTH WESTERN ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

We want to hear from you!

Your thoughts and opinions about North Western Electric Cooperative help us to serve you better.

In March, NWEC 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 the cooperative.

We strive to provide all member-owners 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.

Thank you!

All information is confidential.

Looking for spring?

It will officially be here soon! Before it arrives, now is the time to make plans to install a new propane tank or switch providers.

If you’re installing propane for the first time, you can get 25 feet of propane line installed for FREE. If you already have a tank but want to switch providers, it’s easy, even if your current tank has fuel in it.

Give us a call to discuss service options for your home, farm or business propane system.

844-636-NWOP (6967) 20D OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • MARCH 2022

NEWS AND VIEWS

GIVE US AN “A” with a twist WINNERS

Nominated by their parents, the fourth-quarter winners of our special Give Us An “A” with a twist contest performed well at school, at home and in their community and earned an “A” and a check for $25! Plus the parents also won a gift, just for nominating them!

Do you have a student (age 5 through 21) who is putting forth an “A” effort? Send us their photo and tell us why you think they deserve to be recognized. The next contest ends on April 1.

Find all the details at www.nwec.com/give-us-twist.

tatym swank Age 11 Hicksville Elementary Nominated by his mother, Chanda “Tatym deserves an ‘A’ because he went above and beyond helping around the house during the Christmas break. He did chores before he was told and did extra things to help out as well.”

katelyn smith Age 21 Defiance College Nominated by her mother, Janet: “Katelyn is an honor student (on the Dean’s List) and cross country runner. Her typical day is 6 a.m. cross country practice, classes and practice again. One night each week, she runs with the Fairview cross country teams.

She spends Saturday at meets of her own or Fairview’s. Katelyn continues to be positive, involved, and supportive. We are very proud of her work ethic.”

Bridgette bussing Age 6 Hicksville Elementary Nominated by her mother, Carrie: “Bridgette is a caring and hardworking young lady. Bridgette listens well at school and helps when needed. She always tries to include others, and makes sure others are feeling happy. She is also a young entrepreneur with a business making jewelry. She saves money for big items, as well as donates to her local community. Bridgette has a big, generous heart!”

molly kuney Age 6 Millcreek West Unity Nominated by her mother, Allison: “Molly has been doing so good in first grade. Not only is she doing fantastic on her spelling tests every week but her teacher has said that she is kind to all her classmates, which is so important. We are so proud of her vibrant personality and kind heart!”

MARCH 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 21

NORTH WESTERN ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

E M P L OY E E N E W S Promotions announced Effective Jan. 1, 2022, Bob Carter has been promoted to the position of Director of Operations.

Bob first began his career at NWEC in January 2017 when he accepted the position of GIS Engineer. Bob briefly left the cooperative only to return in October 2021 as the cooperative’s System GIS Engineer.

Bob Carter With Bob’s experience and supervisory knowledge he has gained, we are sure he will excel in his new position.

Newest team member

We are also pleased to announce that effective Jan. 1, Preston Knecht has been promoted to the position of Staking Technician/Fleet and Safety Manager.

Preston began his career at NWEC in February 2021, when he accepted the Staking/ Field Technician position. We Preston Knecht congratulate Preston on his promotion, and we’re certain he’ll be successful in his new role.

First aid/CPR training Administering first aid or CPR is something that the NWEC and NWOP employees hope they never have to do in real life, but they are prepared, if needed.

On Monday, Jan. 24, Shane Zulch joined the NWEC team as our Staking/Field Technician. Shane is an Edon-Northwest School graduate and still resides in the Montpelier area. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time outdoors, hunting, and fishing.

The employees recently received training and hands-on experience performing CPR, the proper use of an AED and personal protection safety while assisting an injured person.

For some, it was their first time to become certified, for others, it was a recertification of the tasks.

Pictured (left to right) is Dakota Parrish, NWOP Delivery Driver/Service Tech; Preston Knecht, Staking Technician/Fleet and Safety Manager; Levi Brandt, Apprentice Lineman; and Rich Klingel, COLT Instructor.

CONTACT

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

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

Andrew Farnham

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

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

CHAIRMAN

Ryan Wehri VICE CHAIRMAN

Kim Shoup SECRETARY

Chris Oberlin Jordan Ruffer Mitch Headley Richard Polter TRUSTEES

Pearl Rakes

Darin Thorp

EDITORS

PRESIDENT/CEO

22 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • MARCH 2022

2021 Annual Report

Management Summary 85 years of responsive service

T

he past year — and our entire 85-year cooperative history — can be summed up in a single word: responsive.

That describes how North Western Electric Cooperative (NWEC) has reacted to the many changes and difficulties associated with the pandemic, material shortages, and ongoing Andrew Farnham uncertainty everyone Chairman of the Board is experiencing with this “new normal.” Your cooperative has had to adapt and become responsive to our members’ changing needs.

That was the case in 1936, and it’s still true today.

Eighty-five years ago, after President Roosevelt passed the Rural Electrification Act, six rural men (Arthur Sherman, Paul McCoy, Burl Rigg, Paul Kimpel, Louis Balser, and Forrest Traxler) decided they wanted the same benefits of electric service as people living in the city. So, they formed NWEC — an electric co-op built by and for those it serves. Our first office was at 417 W. Main Street in Montpelier. By 1938, NWEC took out its first REA loan and energized our first power line to serve 1,000 rural member-owners. The average monthly energy use was 40 kilowatt-hours.

Today, we serve nearly 6,000 member-owners with 1,000+ miles of distribution line and 83 miles of our own transmission. The average monthly electric use of our members is now 1,246 kWh. Needs have certainly changed.

We were responsive: As we expanded our territory, the members needed a more central location to visit us, so we moved our offices to Bryan. When members needed help reducing electric load during peak demand, we launched our radio-controlled switch program in 1974. When members wanted to reach us on the internet, we built a website in 1997. When members wanted more data and convenience, we began installation of Turtle automatic meter reading (AMR) systems in 2000, which eliminated the need for members to send in monthly readings. The desire for

greater service reliability and renewable energy led us to energize a new 11-mile, 69-KV transmission loop and construct a community solar array in 2016.

And we’re still responding. In 2021: •

COVID-19 forced us to respond with a drive-thru annual Darin Thorp meeting, which President/CEO 400+ attended (an increase from 2020 attendance). We enabled voting through SmartHub for the first time ever and received 359 votes through the online account manager.

•

We revamped our website with an added Facebook feed, outage map, and improved navigation features, in response to the increase in online traffic.

•

Our Give Us An “A” With a Twist program adapted from accepting only A’s on report cards to asking parents how their students excelled during the pandemic. The entries show the resilience of even our youngest member-owners. Each one of our 11 winners deserved their $25 reward, and we even gave their parents a prize, too.

•

Our propane subsidiary, NW Ohio Propane, continues to grow, with a total of 2,217 customers across northwest Ohio, southern Michigan, and northeast Indiana.

•

We celebrated milestone anniversaries for five employees with 70 combined years of providing superior service for our member-owners. We also hired several new employees to build the future of that knowledge base.

•

Board Trustee Kim Shoup earned his Director Gold Certification from NRECA, demonstrating the emphasis on education and excellence that our trustees prioritize. NWEC launched a Trustee Spotlight three-part series in Ohio Cooperative

NORTH WESTERN ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE, INC. • 2021 ANNUAL REPORT

Living magazine to introduce our memberowners to all seven of the trustees who represent them.

•

Our linemen participated in several events and demonstrations with local schools like Fairview and St. Patrick’s Catholic to answer students’ questions, allow them to try on gear, and inform them of career opportunities.

Perhaps most importantly, NWEC received our highest-ever American Customer Satisfaction Index score: a 91. This proves our members know we are responsive to their needs and working in their best interests.

We’ve all seen prices increase this year, and your co-op is no different. Commodity prices impact everything we buy. Supply and material shortages were a massive challenge this year, with a single transformer increasing in cost by more than 12%. The time to order a transformer has also doubled — it currently takes longer than six months to receive one.

Despite these challenges, our employees were able to safely maintain and upgrade our system. In 2021, NWEC invested $1.9 million in capital improvements to our system. The biggest projects involved completing backup loops to improve reliability for two of our largest consumers.

Replacing aging infrastructure while keeping rates competitive is always hard work, but NWEC’s board of trustees, management, and employees have done our part to hold down costs. Based on financial projections, no rate adjustment is necessary for residential members in 2022.

Unfortunately, in 2021, most large, public events were still canceled.

This included the annual Youth Tour trip to Washington, D.C., held in June.

Our scholarship competitions experienced a new, virtual interview process that went smoothly. NWEC was able to provide scholarship awards totaling $6,000 to six local students, and one local student won an additional $1,400 in the statewide competition.

Our member-owners did their fair share of responding as well. You pitched in to help reduce costs and save energy in a variety of ways. You reduced your electricity consumption during peak alerts, which helped keep costs down for everyone, and you took advantage of our rebate programs by purchasing energy-efficient appliances whenever possible.

Many of you also did your part in helping our local communities by contributing to the Operation Round Up program every month. By rounding up your electric bill and donating that spare change, the trust was able to disburse $26,015 in 2021. In total, more than $534,744 has been distributed to local groups, organizations, schools and individuals since the program’s inception in 2001. Your willingness to improve the quality of life in our community is at the heart of this cooperative.

NWEC knows how to respond to changing circumstances. We must all adapt during these crazy times, and we’re grateful to have member-owners like you to support us through our 85th anniversary of powering lives.

We remain responsive and ready to provide you with safe, affordable, and reliable electricity — just as we did back in 1936.

NORTH WESTERN ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE, INC. • 2021 ANNUAL REPORT

Building for the future

NORTH WESTERN ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE, INC. • 2021 ANNUAL REPORT

R.E.A. Board Members (taken sometime between 1938 and 1942) Left to right; front row: Carl Kimple, Emmet Casebeer and Lewis Balsar; back row: Burl Rigg, Art Sherman, Lloyd Hays and Paul McCoy

YOUR CURRENT BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Secretary-Treasurer

Chairman

Andy Farnham District 1

Mitch Headley District 2

Kim Shoup District 3

Chris Oberlin District 4

Vice Chairman

Ryan Wehri District 5

Jordan Ruffer District 6

Dick Polter District 7

NORTH WESTERN ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE, INC. • 2021 ANNUAL REPORT

Statement of Revenue & Expenses For the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020

2021

2020

16,292,170

15,408,381

164,031

144,763

$16,456,202

$15,553,144

10,409,616

9,572,446

Operation Expense

372,350

430,063

Maintenance Expense

748,437

676,288

Customer Account Expense

372,278

403,430

36,139

51,421

1,079,340

1,025,204

$13,018,159

$12,158,852

1,271,179

1,214,963

Interest Expense

550,670

635,918

Property Tax Expense

649,013

604,514

1,892

3,466

$2,472,753

$2,458,861

$15,490,913

$14,617,713

$965,289

$935,431

Interest Income & Other

360,359

-46,297

G & T Capital Credits

400,849

477,865

$761,208

$431,568

$1,726,497

$1,366,999

4.14

3.15

REVENUE: Electric Energy Revenue – Customer Other Operating Revenue TOTAL OPERATING REVENUE OPERATING EXPENSES: Cost of Power

Sales Expense Administrative & General Expense TOTAL OPERATING EXPENSE OTHER DEDUCTIONS: Depreciation Expense

Other Deductions TOTAL OTHER DEDUCTIONS TOTAL COST OF ELECTRIC SERVICE OPERATING MARGINS ADD: NONOPERATING MARGINS:

NONOPERATING MARGINS TOTAL MARGINS TIMES INTEREST EARNED RATIO

NORTH WESTERN ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE, INC. • 2021 ANNUAL REPORT

Balance Sheet

As of December 31, 2021, as compared with December 31, 2020

2021

2020

42,466,180

40,984,217

-15,293,304

-14,636,449

27,172,876

26,347,769

98,501

234,353

Receivables – Accounts, Notes & Interest

2,600,066

2,526,080

Investments in Associated Organizations

9,943,815

9,908,761

Materials & Supplies

428,887

323,508

Other Assets

354,621

400,449

$40,598,766

$39,740,920

Accounts Payable

1,416,328

1,507,238

Accrued Taxes & Deferred Credits

1,006,777

980,877

19,015,512

19,053,725

200,000

50,000

$21,638,616

$21,591,840

13,356,242

12,654,422

5,603,908

5,494,658

$18,960,150

$18,149,080

$40,598,766

$39,740,920

46.70%

45.67%

ASSETS: Utility Plant Less: Reserve for Depreciation Book Value of Utility Plant Cash & Short Term Investments

TOTAL ASSETS LIABILITIES:

Long-term Debt Deferred Credits TOTAL LIABILITIES EQUITY: Patronage Capital – Regular Patronage Capital – G & T TOTAL EQUITY TOTAL LIABILITIES & EQUITY EQUITY RATIO

How your power bill dollar was spent Power Cost $0.63

Depreciation $0.08

Admin & General $0.07

Margins $0.06 Maintenance $0.05 Property Taxes $0.04 Interest $0.03 Operations $0.02 Member Service $0.02

NORTH WESTERN ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE, INC. • 2021 ANNUAL REPORT

Employees

Andrew Overman, Director of Finance & Accounting Bob Carter, Director of Operations Braden Miller, Journeyman Lineman Chad Livensparger, Journeyman Lineman Darin Thorp, President/CEO Doug Dulle, Journeyman Lineman Doug Hammond, Warehouse Coordinator Joe Belcher, System Equipment & Maintenance Specialist Lee Keppeler, Journeyman Lineman Levi Brandt, Apprentice Lineman Nikki Mittelstaedt, Plant Accountant Nolan Swank, Apprentice Lineman Pearl Rakes, Director of Marketing & Communications Preston Knecht, Staking Technician/Fleet & Safety Manager Shane Zulch, Staking/Field Technician Tom Clark, Crew Chief Tracey Carter, Director of Human Resources

Bryce Rufenacht, Delivery Driver/Service Representative Dakota Parrish, Delivery Driver/Service Representative David Dietsch, Director of Operations Jenni Koch, Customer Service Representative Lyndsay Villalovos, Customer Service Representative, Seasonal Peter Coolman, Service Technician

NORTH WESTERN ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE, INC. • 2021 ANNUAL REPORT

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HIGH-TECH Ohio’s 33 Smart Mobility Corridor is helping to develop the future of transportation.

BY ALICIA ADAMS

O

hio, a state long-obsessed with being in motion, has a rich history of being on the leading edge of transportation innovation.

In the late 19th century, John Lambert, from Mechanicsburg and later Van Wert County, built the first gasoline-powered vehicle in the U.S. (he also was involved in the first motorvehicle crash in the U.S.). Ohioan Charles Kettering revolutionized the auto industry when he invented the electric starter. An Ohio manufacturer was the first to put seat belts in cars.

It’s not surprising that the Transportation Research Center (TRC) near East Liberty has grown from its beginnings as an Ohio State University research center in the 1960s to become North America’s largest and most advanced vehicle proving ground.

And from that, the next generation of transportation research has sprouted — the 33 Smart Mobility Corridor, billed as the most connected highway in the world.

24 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • MARCH 2022

The 35-mile section of U.S. Route 33 runs from Dublin through Marysville and up to the gates of the TRC in East Liberty. It’s a one-of-a-kind vehicle testing ground that seeks to shape the future of connected and driverless vehicles.

What is smart mobility? Imagine this scenario: You’re driving along the highway when you receive a sudden braking alert. There is an obstacle in the road that cars ahead of you are braking hard to avoid. Those vehicles closest to the obstacle communicate a warning to other approaching vehicles to let them know to slow down to avoid the obstacle and other cars. That’s smart mobility in action.

The system can also notify drivers of potential icy spots on the roads, approaching emergency vehicles, traffic lights getting ready to change, pedestrians, or oncoming bad weather. Smart mobility helps take surprises out of driving and empowers drivers to make better decisions.

HIGHWAY “The tech infrastructure being deployed on the 33 Smart Mobility Corridor will help develop and advance transportation technologies that will make travel safer for everyone,” says Ohio Lt. Gov. Jon Husted, who serves as director of InnovateOhio, which aims to make the state a leader in technology innovation.

The Honda Motor Company and its affiliates have played a major role in the guidance and support of the corridor.

With an auto manufacturing facility as well as its research and development arm located in Marysville, Honda has deployed over 200 connected vehicles to study the interaction between drivers and smart mobility technology.

“Ohio’s 33 Smart Mobility Corridor enables us to conduct real-world testing of Honda’s ‘Safe Swarm’ technology, which uses ‘vehicle-to-everything’ communication to help mitigate collisions, improve traffic flow, increase fuel efficiency for all road users, and prepare for higher levels of automated driving features,” says Sue Bai, chief engineer at Honda Research Institute USA.

The Smart Mobility Corridor has created another Ohio first in transportation research: the world’s first fully connected city. All the intersections within the city of Marysville are connected to the 432 strands of fiber-optic cable that are the central nervous system of the project, so researchers can quickly and easily test the latest safety technology regarding traffic signal phases, traffic timing, and other data.

“What’s nice about Marysville is that we are a selfcontained, smaller-sized city with a manageable traffic flow, so we have the ability to shut down an intersection or redirect traffic for testing with minimal effort or impact on the surrounding community,” says Terry Emery, Marysville’s city manager. “We are the perfect testing playground.”

The city of Dublin serves as another live laboratory, connecting some of its intersections with the system to provide vehicle data regarding multilane roundabouts and other traffic situations.

The 33 Smart Mobility Corridor started as a local initiative in 2014 to bring fiber-optic broadband to Marysville and

MARCH 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 25

surrounding rural areas, but pivoted into a transportation test bed. That conversion has resulted in unique partnerships across local, state, federal, private, industrial, and academic institutions.

Tim Hansley, Union County administrator and president of the NW 33 Innovation Corridor Council of Governments, says the collaborative nature of those partnerships is what allows the system to work so well. “It’s unusual to have such a cooperative collaboration among all of these different groups,” he says. “We are a model for the rest of the country on how to do this.”

Obviously, having a reliable source of electricity to power the 63 roadside units that collect and distribute

26 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • MARCH 2022

data is a crucial component to the system, and Marysville-based Union Rural Electric Cooperative, Inc. (URE), has been an important partner.

“URE played an important part in bringing together the other electric utilities, ODOT, and Union County officials to efficiently power the 33 Smart Mobility Corridor,” says Anthony Smith, URE’s CEO/president. “Providing power to this project was unlike anything we had done before, and the team effort was critical to getting the job done right.

We’re proud to have played a role in such an important mobility research program.”

I ‘Bearly’ Made It Out Alive A 12-inch stainless steel knife for only $79

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t was a perfect late autumn day in the northern Rockies. Not a cloud in the sky, and just enough cool in the air to stir up nostalgic memories of my trip into the backwoods. This year, though, was different. I was going it solo. My two buddies, pleading work responsibilities, backed out at the last minute. So, armed with my trusty knife, I set out for adventure.

Join more than 322,000 sharp people who collect stauer knives Well, what I found was a whole lot of trouble. As in 8 feet and 800-pounds of trouble in the form of a grizzly bear. Seems this grumpy fella was out looking for some adventure too. Mr. Grizzly saw me, stood up to his entire 8 feet of ferocity and let out a roar that made my blood turn to ice and my hair stand up.

Unsnapping my leather sheath, I felt for my hefty, trusty knife and felt emboldened. I then showed the massive grizzly over 6 inches of 420 surgical grade stainless steel, raised my hands and yelled, "Whoa bear! Whoa bear!" I must have made my point, as he gave me an almost admiring grunt before turning tail and heading back into the woods.

I was pretty shaken, but otherwise fine. Once the adrenaline high subsided, I decided I had some work to do back home too. That was more than enough adventure for one day.

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Fun with a purpose Columbus-based Highlights for Children lets kids have fun while learning life lessons.

PHOTO COURTESY OF HIGHLIGHTS FOR CHILDREN

BY MARGO BARTLETT

Highlights for Children founder Garry Meyers reads the magazine to his grandchildren.

W

hen Garry and Carolyn Meyers created Highlights for Children in 1946, they did so with the belief that children have an innate ability to think and learn and create and that they should be encouraged to share their thoughts and feelings.

28 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • MARCH 2022

“They believed that children and what they think matter and that childhood is a short, sweet season worthy of the thoughtful, loving attention of adults,” says Christine French Cully, the magazine’s current editor in chief and “chief purpose officer.” “They believed it’s important to

stand up for what’s morally right, even when it’s difficult, and that we never stop learning and growing.”

Highlights, based in Columbus, recently celebrated its 75th year of “fun with a purpose”— presenting opportunities for parents to “lean in and listen” to encourage curiosity and self-confidence.

Along with longtime favorite monthly features such as “Hidden Pictures,” the magazine offers stories, puzzles, and riddles. Readers’ writing and artwork are showcased on “My Own Pages,” and “Brain Play” asks open-ended questions such as “Name some things that can’t be cleaned with soap” and “If paintings could come to life, what would you paint?”

hard to find the untold or less-familiar stories to share with them. We don’t want to publish content they can find easily elsewhere.”

Through all the growth, evolution, and expansion, the founders’ original dream continues to resonate.

“The amazing thing about Highlights is the continuity of philosophy,” Cully says. “We still believe the things that Garry Cleveland Myers and Caroline Clark Myers believed, and we still try to show that in everything we do. We are all committed to Garry and Caroline’s belief that children are the world’s most important people.”

The Myerses lived and raised their children in Cleveland, where Garry taught at what is now Case Western Reserve University and Caroline studied early childhood education.

When they designed Highlights’ first issue, aimed for ages 2 to 12, they were 61 and 58 years old, respectively.

A few years later, they bought the magazine Children’s Activities, for which they had worked for 12 years. One of its features, “Goofus and Gallant,” created by Garry Myers, was moved to Highlights.

Another early decision was to establish the magazine’s business offices in Columbus. In 1946, just after World War II, paper was scarce. A printer in Columbus was available, and since the family knew Ohio — and Ohio knew them — it just made sense.

Over the years, the company has expanded its offerings.

Highlights, for ages 6–12, is now one of four publications.

Highlights Hello (ages 0–2) launched in 2012; High Five (ages 2–6) began in 2007; and High Five Bilingue, in Spanish and English, was introduced in 2014. The brand also includes its retail division, Highlights Press; the publishing companies Zaner-Bloser and Stenhouse Publishers; and a slew of other publications, websites, apps, and podcasts.

One 75th-anniversary puzzle asked kids to find words associated with winter (above), while the magazine also highlighted its first “Hidden Pictures” game (below) (courtesy Highlights for Children).

The big picture, though, is simple (and without hidden objects): It’s a story of enduring focus on children.

“It’s important for young readers to be able to see themselves in our products, whether it’s their race, their religion, their gender, the type of home they live in, their family makeup, their ability level, or their interests,” Cully says.

And while children today are different from those of 1946, they still care about the same things they always have: friendship struggles, school, boredom, and siblings, as well as adult topics like divorce, and national and global problems.

The difference? They’re more sophisticated, Cully says.

“They have access to so much more information. We look

MARCH 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 29

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The OEC technical scholarship offers up to $2,000 to electric cooperative members or children of members who are pursuing technical training after high school. This program is open to all adults!

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MARCH 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 31

‘Bottomless’ blue holes are geologic oddities that happen to be perfect spots for raising fish.

BY JAMES PROFFITT

At one time, the “blue hole” in Castalia was a big deal.

Really big. From the 1920s until it closed in 1990, the quaint tourist destination drew as many as 165,000 visitors each year who traveled to gaze at the geologic curiosity. The deep artesian spring exudes an intense blue color, explained by scientific jargon about the sun, light spectrum, and water depth. The main thing is — it was really cool. Robert Rogers, the British Army officer who first recorded its sighting in 1761, described it as “boiling above the ground in a column 3 feet high.” From that first sighting, its attraction was a guarantee, though by the early 20th century, a series of underground cave-ins had turned the site into more of a large, serene pool than a boiling column of water.

But, hey, it was still cool.

32 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • MARCH 2022

This 1920s postcard showing the Castalia Blue Hole gives a sense of why it drew tourists from all around; below, the Castalia Trout Club’s blue hole before it became a tourist attraction (photo courtesy of the Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library & Museums — Charles E. Frohman Collection).

Nancy Gurney remembers going to the Blue Hole on the occasional Sunday day trip to Castalia with her family in the 1950s, when she and her sister were young and her parents were farmers in Seneca County.

time. Unfortunately, when they do, they’re trespassing.

“When people blatantly disregard the ‘private drive’ and ‘do not enter’ signs, that does not fly well,” says Steve Sessler, the trout club’s manager.

“It was so nice, all landscaped and beautiful, and it had flowers,” recalls Gurney, who now lives in Lakeside. “And there was this mystery of a deep hole with no bottom they can detect.”

Gurney, later a scientist, admits that, of course, there is a bottom — though to a child and tourist, the bottomless mystery thing was way neater.

Neat enough, in fact, to attract the attention of a blind ham-radio operator named Henry McFerren, who enlisted the help of other hams in an attempt to track the source of the Castalia Blue Hole’s water. The story was detailed in a 1941 Radio News magazine article.

McFerren launched a 2-pound rubber ball (with a homemade radio transmitter inside) into an underground stream deep inside Seneca Caverns, about 30 miles to the south near Bellevue. Radio operators on the surface tracked the transmitter more than a mile before losing the signal — though the experiment was considered a success: They did track the ball toward the Castalia Blue Hole.

The Castalia Trout Club has owned the site since 1879, and while it’s no longer a tourist attraction — it’s been closed for three decades — folks still show up all the MARCH 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 33

Cold water forced from deep within limestone and dolomite formations in northern Ohio’s sinkhole region provides perfect water for hatcheries and dozens of miles of streams (photo by James Proffitt).

While the original Castalia Blue Hole sends thousands of gallons of water toward Sandusky Bay via Cold Creek every minute, there are several other, smaller blue holes in the area.

So what exactly is a blue hole? According to Douglas Davis, with the Ohio Geological Survey, a blue hole is created when the ceiling of an underground cavern — in this area, limestone or dolomite caves — collapses, creating an opening for pressurized groundwater deep below the surface to rise into the new opening.

“The area’s kind of unique because south of Castalia into Bellevue and beyond, there’s almost no creeks to speak of on the surface. It’s really crazy,” Davis says. “Most of the surface water drains into sinkholes.”

The area drained by sinkholes is more than 300 square miles. That water, Davis says, is what feeds a massive underground system that eventually sends water up through the series of blue holes in the area. The water flows at a constant temperature of 53 to 54 degrees yearround and, as a number of private clubs figured out in the 19th century, provides the perfect source for raising trout.

34 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • MARCH 2022

Luckily, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources got into the game around 1997 when one of those clubs folded and sold off its property — which included a blue hole. ODNR purchased the land and constructed the state-of-the-art Castalia State Fish Hatchery, where it now raises about a half-million rainbow and steelhead trout each year to be stocked in Lake Erie tributaries and in public lakes and ponds around the state.

The hatchery also fills the tourist void left when the Castalia Blue Hole was closed to the public. “A lot of people think this is the one they saw as a kid, so it’s kind of a daily explanation,” says Andrew Jarrett, the site’s superintendent. “I tell them, ‘This isn’t the same one, but it’s similar.’” He says about half the people who show up to the hatchery come to see the fish — the other half just want to see the natural oddity that is the blue hole itself.

Castalia Fish Hatchery, 7018 Homegardner Road, Castalia, OH 44824. 419-684-7499. The hatchery is open during the week for self-guided tours. Bring popcorn, cereal, bread, or other tasty trout chow.

And a camera.

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he’s been around for thousands of years, but she’s never gone out of fashion. We’re talking turquoise, one of the world’s most ancient gems. Egyptian queens adorned themselves with turquoise jewelry more than 3,000 years ago. And the blue beauty is even more coveted now than she was a millennia ago.

Do you know someone who’s even more beautiful now than when you first met? Then the Timeless Turquoise Pendant is for them –– a stylish circle formed from seven total carats of natural turquoise and exquisite sterling silver metalwork. And the price?

Let’s just say we made sure timeless was attainable for less than you’d think.

Time is running out for timeless turquoise. Just because turquoise is timeless, doesn’t mean supplies of it will last forever. Turquoise is only found a few places on Earth. Typically unearthed in arid climates like the American Southwest and Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula, turquoise requires a delicate balance of minerals and water to achieve its gorgeous range of blues. But even when conditions are optimal for turquoise to form, finding stones of gem-worthy quality is a challenge. There are very few turquoise mines left, and then, less than 5% of turquoise mined worldwide is of jewelry condition, making it rarer to come by than even diamonds.

There are turquoise and sterling silver pendants out there for over $1,200. And while genuine turquoise can garner a pretty penny, there’s no reason to be paying a designer price when we can bring you designer pieces for a remarkable price.

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2022 CALENDAR

MARCH/APRIL

NORTHWEST

MAR. 4, APR. 1 – Star Gazing at Schoonover Observatory, 670 N. Jefferson, Lima, 9 p.m. Free.

See the stars using the 14-inch computerized domed telescope, weather permitting. https://limaastro.com.

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

MAR. 11–13 – Lima Noon Optimist Club Home and Business Expo, Allen Co. Fgds., 2750 Harding Hwy., Lima, Fri. 4–9 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–8 p.m., Sun. 12–5 p.m.

Over 150 booths featuring more than 100 vendors of home improvement products and services. Proceeds from the show support numerous Lima-area youth activities. 567-242-3513 or http://limaoptimist.com.

WEST VIRGINIA

Send us your event Submit listings AT LEAST 90 DAYS in advance to events@ohioec.org.

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

COMPILED BY COLLEEN ROMICK CLARK

MAR. 16 – Arrival from Sweden: “The Music of ABBA,” Veterans Memorial Civic and Convention Ctr., 7 Town Square, Lima, 7:30 p.m. $29–$79. See the only ABBA tribute act that works with musicians from the original group. 419-224-1552 or www.limaciviccenter.com.

MAR. 17–18 – St. Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl, downtown Sidney. 937-658-6945 or www.sidneyalive.org.

MAR. 19 – Camp Creek Poultry Show, Allen Co. Fgds., 2750 Harding Hwy., Lima. www.poultryshowcentral. com/Ohio.html.

MAR. 24 – Straight No Chaser: “Back in the High Life,” Veterans Memorial Civic and Convention Ctr., 7 Town Square, Lima, 7:30 p.m. $29–$89. 419-224-1552 or www.limaciviccenter.com.

MAR. 26 – Maple Syrup Festival, Williams Co. Fgds., 619 E. Main St., Montpelier, 8 a.m.–noon. Contact the Williams SWCD at 419-636-9395 or email amichaels@ williamsswcd.org.

MAR. 27 – Flag City Model Train Show, Northwest Ohio Railroad Preservation Inc., 12505 Co. Rd. 99, Findlay, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. $5; under 13 free if accompanied by adult. Model trains, toy trains, and railroad memorabilia on display and for purchase. Quarter-scale train rides will be available (adult $3, child $2). 419-4232995, www.nworrp.org, or www.facebook.com/nworrp.

APR. 2 – OAGC Garden Symposium, Wright State University Lake Campus, James F. Dicke Hall, 7600 Lake Campus Dr., Celina, 8:30 a.m.–3 p.m. Hosted by the Ohio Association of Garden Clubs. $50 for members, $60 for non-members. Lunch included. Preregistration

required. For more information, visit www.oagc.org/ upcoming-events.

APR. 2 – Demonstration Day: Spring Blacksmithing, Wood County Historical Ctr. and Museum, 13660 County Home Rd., Bowling Green, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Free. Open forge demonstration featuring the Northwest Ohio Blacksmiths Association. Museum will be open 1–4 p.m., with regular admission. 419-352-0967 or http:// woodcountyhistory.org.

APR. 8–9 – Holy Toledo Polka Festival, Renaissance Toledo Downtown Hotel, Mosaic Ballroom, 444 N. Summit St., Toledo, Fri. 6 p.m.–Sat. 1 a.m., Sat. 1 p.m.– Sun. 1 a.m. Featuring some of the best polka bands in the industry. See website for schedule of events at other locations, beginning Apr. 7 with the Opening Night Polka Party and ending on Apr. 10 with the Sunday Dance. 419351-5031 or https://holytoledopolkadays.com.

APR. 9 – Home Sweet Home Vintage Market/Home Show, Allen Co. Fgds., 2750 Harding Hwy., Lima, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. $5; under 13 free. Our “Spring Fling” show!

Vintage, repurposed, rustics, jewelry, candles, soap, and much more. Food available. 567-204-7569 or https:// homesweethomevintagemarket.com.

APR. 8–10 – Godspell Jr., McDonald’s Youth Theatre, 991 N. Shore Dr., Lima, Fri./Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. $8–$15. Based on the Broadway musical that inspired a generation, this version is designed for a younger cast and audience. An eclectic blend of songs, ranging from pop to vaudeville, is employed to tell the story of Jesus’ life. 419-223-8866 or www.amiltellers.org.

MAR. 19 – Green Day Hike, Blackwater Falls State Park, 1584 Blackwater Lodge Rd., Davis, starts at 10 a.m. Free. Hike along the Blackwater River to the town of Davis and back, about 3.5 miles. Sturdy shoes or hiking boots are necessary. Packing a water bottle and a snack is recommended. 304-259-5216 or https:// wvstateparks.com/event.

MAR. 19 – Mountain State Maple Days, locations statewide. Join the celebration of the state’s “sweetest” product from the farm. To see participating sugarhouses, visit www.wvmspa.org.

APR. 15 – Flashlight Egg Hunt, Blackwater Falls State Park, 1584 Blackwater Lodge Rd., Davis. Meet at the Nature Center at 7:30 p.m.; hunt begins at 8 p.m. $2.

For children ages 12 and younger, accompanied by an adult. As dark approaches, the children will venture out in search of hidden eggs that contain treats and prizes.

Hot chocolate and s’mores by bonfire complete the evening fun. Please bring a flashlight and a basket for egg collection. https://wvstateparks.com/event.

SCOTT ANTIQUE MARKETS TM

America’s Favorite Treasure Hunts!

OHIO EXPO CENTER - COLUMBUS, OH

ATLANTA EXPO CENTERS - ATLANTA, GA

800 - 1200 Exhibit Booths!

3,500 Booths!

2022 Shows

2022 Shows

MARCH 26 & 27 NOVEMBER 26 & 27 DECEMBER 17 & 18

740.569.2800

www.scottantiquemarkets.com

Show Hours: Sat. 9am - 6pm Sun. 10am - 4pm

Directions: I-71 Exit 111 (17th Avenue) to Ohio Expo Center

MARCH 10 - 13 APRIL 7 - 10 MAY 12 - 15 Show Hours: Thurs. 10:45am - 6pm,

Fri. & Sat. 9am - 6pm, Sun. 10am - 4pm

JUNE 9 - 12 JULY 7 - 10 AUGUST 11 - 14 Directions: 3 miles East of Atlanta Airport, I-285 at Exit 55 (3650 & 3850 Jonesboro Rd SE)

MARCH 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 37

2022 CALENDAR

MARCH/APRIL

NORTHEAST

MAR. 4, 11, 18, 25 – Beginner Beekeeping Class, Life Church, 1033 Elm St., Grafton, 7–9 p.m. Presented

by Lorain County Beekeepers Association. $50 class fee includes one-year family membership in LCBA and monthly email newsletter. Books available for purchase at additional cost. Spouse and children are welcome to attend classes and meetings. Find registration form at www.loraincountybeekeepers.org.

MAR. 5 – Northern Ohio Fly Fishing Expo, Lakeland Community College, 7700 Clocktower Dr. (main campus, H-Bldg., south of I-90 exit 193, onto Rte. 306), Kirtland, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Adults $10, ages 12–17, $5; under 12 free.

Free with military ID. Fishing seminars, fly tying lessons, fishing gear and supplies, and more. https://www. northcoastflyfishers.com.

MAR. 9–30 – SAA Art Show, Historic Fort Steuben, 120 S. 3rd St., Steubenville, Mon.–Sat. 10 a.m.–4 p.m., or by appointment. Free. Original works by members of the Steubenville Art Association on display, some for sale.

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

MAR. 12–13 – Antlers and Anglers Sportsman’s Showcase, Ashland Co. Fgds., 2042 Claremont Ave., Ashland, Sat. 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–4 p.m. $3.

Annual event celebrating the great outdoors, from hunting and fishing to hiking. Hourly door prize drawings. www.armstrongonewire.com.

MAR. 17–20 – Cleveland Boat Show, I-X Ctr., 1 I-X Center Dr., Cleveland. Visit the “Boating Experience” Pavilion, try scuba diving, view the giant aquarium, and much more. Don’t miss the Lake Erie Market and Twiggy the Water-Skiing Squirrel! www.clevelandboatshow.com.

MAR. 18–20 – Vintage Decoys and​Wildlife Art Show and Sale, Holiday Inn South Cleveland, 6001 Rockside Rd., Sat. 9 a.m.–4 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. $5, under 18 free. Two great shows, one location, same weekend!

Hunting and fishing collectibles, antiques, wildlife art, carving supplies, exhibits, demos, workshops, contests, auctions, and more. 734-934-2548 (Dwane Ong), dwaneodcca@gmail.com, or www.odcca.net.

MAR. 19 – Mt. Hope Train and Toy Show, 8076 St. Rte. 241, Mt. Hope, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. $5, free for kids 12 and under. Over 600 dealer tables. All gauges and parts, running layouts, farm and vintage toys, diecast models, and much more. Food catered by Mrs. Yoder’s Kitchen. 330-262-7488, cathijon@sssnet.com, or www.cjtrains.com.

MAR. 19 – Pat Campbell St. Patrick’s Run Walk and Kids’ 1K Fun Run, Toronto, starting at 11 a.m. Proceeds benefit cancer research. 740-544-6439 or www. thegemcity.org.

MAR. 20 – Cleveland Comic Book and Nostalgia Festival, Doubletree by Hilton Cleveland-Westlake, 1100

SOUTHEAST

MAR. 12 – Miller’s Automotive Racers Swap Meet and Car Show, Ross Co. Fgds., 344 Fairgrounds Rd., Chillicothe. $8, under 15 free. Race cars, tools, hot rods, apparel, collectibles, and much more! www. millersswapmeet.com.

MAR. 12 – Leprechaun Chase, Chillicothe, 9 a.m. Bring the entire family and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a great run in Yoctangee Park. https://runsignup.com/ Race/OH/Chillicothe/MuddyLeprechaun4MileRunWalk.

MAR. 17 – The Quiet Man, Athena Grand, 1008 E. State St., Athens, 7 p.m. This year marks the 70th anniversary of the John Ford classic starring John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara. 740-593-8800 or www. athenagrand.com.

38 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • MARCH 2022

MAR. 18–19 – River City Blues Festival, Lafayette Hotel, 101 Front St., Marietta. Fri. $30, Sat. $40, weekend pass $85. Popular festival that brings together some of the country’s most talented blues and jazz performers.

740-376-0222 (evenings and weekends) or http://bjfm. org/blues-festival.

MAR. 19 – Flashback Dance, Pritchard Laughlin Civic Ctr., 7033 Glenn Highway, Cambridge. $25 per person.

Dance the night away to sounds of the ’60s, ’70s, and ’80s spun on vinyl. Relive dances of your youth and gather with friends from your past and present. A great way to break the winter blues, with dance competitions, costume contests, door prizes, cash bar, food, and fun.

740-439-2238 or www.downtowncambridge.com.

MAR. 19 – National Cambridge Collectors AllCambridge Benefit Auction, Pritchard Laughlin Civic Ctr., 7033 Glenn Hwy., Cambridge, preview at 8:30 a.m., auction starts at 9:30 a.m. $2. National event for the purchase and sale of Cambridge glass and ephemera for members and non-members alike. 740-432-4245 or www.cambridgeglass.org.

MAR. 20 – RUNA, Peoples Bank Theatre, 222 Putnam St., Marietta, 7 p.m. $19–$70. Interweaving the haunting melodies and exuberant tunes of Ireland and Scotland with the lush harmonies and intoxicating rhythms of jazz, bluegrass, flamenco and blues, LUNA offers a

Crocker Rd., Westlake (I-90 exit 156), $5, free for age 6 and under. 330-462-3985, jeff@harpercomics.com, or www.harpercomics.com.

APR. 2 – April Showers Craft and Vendor Show, 8820 Bender Rd., North Ridgeville, 9 a.m.–2 p.m. Free. More than 40 vendors. Handmade items, wood crafts, jewelry, crocheted and knitted items, and more! www.facebook. com/events/3096867297193030.

APR. 3 – Canton-Akron Comic, Toy, and Nostalgia Convention, St. George Event Ctr., 4667 Applegrove St. NW, North Canton, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. $5, free for age 6 and under. 330-462-3985, jeff@harpercomics.com, or www. harpercomics.com.

APR. 4–18 – Annual Spring Quilt Show, Historic Fort Steuben, 120 S. 3rd St., Steubenville, Mon.–Sat. 10 a.m.–4 p.m., or by appointment. Free. 740-283-1787 or www.oldfortsteuben.com.

APR. 9 – Mac ’n’ Cheese Throwdown, Cleveland Public Auditorium, 500 Lakeside Ave. E., Cleveland, 11 a.m.–7 p.m. Come experience the tastiest food fight and only mac ’n’ cheese festival in Cleveland! The city’s top restaurants and food trucks compete for the title of Cleveland’s “Best Mac ’n’ Cheese.” Also features your favorites in craft cocktails, breweries, and more. www. macncheesethrowdown.com.

APR. 9–10 – Strongsville Spring Avant-Garde Art and Craft Show, Strongsville Ehrnfelt Recreation Ctr., 18100 Royalton Rd., Strongsville, Sat. 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–4 p.m. $3, under 12 free. Features artists and crafters selling their original handmade items.

Full concession stand on site. 440-227-8794 or www. avantgardeshows.com.

thrilling and redefining take on traditional music. www. peoplesbanktheatre.com.

MAR. 20 – Southeastern Ohio Symphony Orchestra Children’s Concert, Pritchard Laughlin Civic Ctr., 7033 Glenn Hwy., Cambridge, 3:30 p.m. $15. 740-826-8197 or www.seoso.org.

MAR. 25, APR. 1, 8 – Bluegrass Concerts, Pennyroyal Opera House, off I-70 at exit 198, Fairview, 7 p.m. $15, under 13 free. Doors and kitchen open at 5 p.m. Mar. 25 – Silas Powell Band/Brother Randall & Friends; Apr. 1: Junior Sisk/3 Rivers Band; Apr. 8 – Kenny Stinson & Perfect Timing/Bean Boys. 740-827-0957 or www. facebook.com/PennyroyalBluegrassOhio.

MAR. 26–28 – Cambridge Lions Club Music and Comedy Show, Scottish Rite Auditorium, 941 Wheeling Ave., Cambridge, 7:30 p.m. 740-260-1149 or www. cambridgelions.com.

APR. 8 – Living Word Banquet and Auction, Pritchard Laughlin Civic Ctr., 7033 Glenn Hwy., Cambridge. Doors open at 5 p.m., program and dinner begin at 6 p.m. $30.

740-439-2761 or www.livingworddrama.org.

MAR. 20 – Columbus Toy and Game Show, Ohio Expo Center, Lausche Bldg., 717 E. 17th Ave., Columbus, 8 a.m.–4 p.m. $10 at door; early buyers (8–9 a.m.), $14; age 10 and under free. Buy, sell, or trade new and retro toys, video games, and collectibles. https:// ctspromotions.com or www.ohioexpocenter.com.

MAR. 25–26 – Quilt Spectacular 2022: “Where the Heart Is,” Franklin Co. Fgds., 4200 Columbia St., Hilliard, Fri. 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. $6 per day or $9 for both days. Over 100 quilts. Silent auction, quiltingrelated demos and vendors, garage sale, and door prizes. Refreshments available. www.cmquilters.org.

MAR. 8, APR. 12 – Inventors Network Meeting, MAR. 25–26 – Columbus Scrap and Stamp Show, virtual meeting, 7 p.m. Educational presentations and Ohio Expo Ctr., Lausche Bldg., 717 E. 17th Ave., Columbus, discussion about the invention process. Meetings are Fri. 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $8/day or 2-day held the 2nd Tuesday of each month virtually. 614-470pass for $12; cash only. All-day cropping packages also 0144 or www.inventorscolumbus.com. available. The ultimate cropping, shopping, and learning experience! www.greatlakesscrapbookevents.com/ MAR. 12 – St. Patrick’s Day Celebration and Parade, events/columbus. downtown Dublin, 7 a.m.–12:15 p.m. Free. Celebrate the greenest and grandest day of the year! Events MAR. 26 – “Go for Baroque: Bach, Vivaldi, and throughout the city, starting at 7 a.m. with an all-you-can- Teleman in Concert,” Marion Palace Theatre, May eat pancake breakfast with green syrup! Parade begins Pavilion, 276 W. Center St., Marion, 2:30 p.m. $15. at 11 a.m. 800-245-8387 or www.irishisanattitude.com.

Performed by a chamber ensemble from the Central Ohio Symphony. 740-383-2101 or www.marionpalace.org.

MAR. 12–13 – Maple Tapping Festival, Hocking Hills State Park, 19852 St. Rte. 664 S., Logan, 12–4 p.m. Savor MAR. 26–27 – Columbus Gun Show, Ohio Expo Ctr., the taste of the season as we boil down our local maple Buckeye Bldg., 717 E. 17th Ave., Columbus, Sat. 9 a.m.–5 sap. Discover the many methods used throughout history p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.–4 p.m. $10; free for children under 12 to make this tasty treat. Meet at the Naturalist Cabin if supervised by adult. Purchase, trade, and sell firearms, located behind the Old Man’s Cave Visitor Center. 740ammo, and related merchandise. www.cegunshows.com.

385-6842 or http://parks.ohiodnr.gov/hockinghills.

MAR. 26–27 – Scott Antique Market, Ohio Expo Ctr., Bricker Bldg., 717 E. 17th Ave., Columbus, Sat. 9 a.m.–6 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Free admission; $5 parking.

800 exhibit booths. info@scottantiquemarket.com or www.scottantiquemarkets.com.

MAR. 27 – Spring Avant-Garde Art and Craft Show, Makoy Event Ctr., 5462 Center St., Hilliard, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. $3, under 12 free. Large show featuring artists and crafters selling their original handmade items at this beautiful venue. Concession stand on site. www. avantgardeshows.com.

APR. 1–2 – Clue: On Stage, Marion Palace Theatre, 276 W. Center St., Marion, 7:30 p.m. $22. This family-friendly comedy whodunit will keep you guessing until the final twist! 740-383-2101 or www.marionpalace.org.

APR. 1–2 – Columbus Home Improvement Show, Ohio Expo Ctr., Kasich Hall, 717 E. 17th Ave., Columbus, Fri. 12–7 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–7 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $6, under 18 free. The latest innovations and design trends, hundreds of exhibitors, and remodeling/building experts from the Columbus area. www.homeshowcenter.com/ overview/columbushome2.

APR. 7–10 – Equine Affaire, Ohio Expo Ctr., 717 E. 17th Ave., Columbus, Thur.–Sat. 9 a.m.–7 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. $8–$15, free for ages 6 and under. Tickets for the Fantasia show are purchased separately. The nation’s premier equine expo, featuring educational clinics, seminars, and demos presented by top industry pros; hundreds of exhibitors; and equine entertainment and competitions. 740-845-0085 or www.equineaffaire.com.

SOUTHWEST

$25–$40 single-day tickets; $90–$100 for three-day passes. Formerly known as the Southern Ohio Indoor Music Festival, this three-day event features the best in bluegrass and American roots music. See https:// industrialstrengthbluegrass.com for schedule.

MAR. 26 – Hello Spring Craft Show, EnterTRAINment Junction, Expo Ctr., 7379 Squire Ct., West Chester, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Free. 513-898-8000 or https:// entertrainmentjunction.com/calendar.

APR. 1 – Clark-Jones Trio, First United Methodist Church, 120 S. Broad St., Middletown, noon–1 p.m. Free; handicapped accessible. Celtic music and folk favorites featuring vocals, fiddle, boudrain, and harp. Bring your lunch if you like. 513-423-4629 or www.myfumc.net.

APR. 2 – Cabin Fever Arts Festival, Southern State Community College, Patriot Ctr. Gymnasium, 100 Hobart Dr., Hillsboro (off U.S. 62), 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Free. Showcase of handcrafted quality arts and crafts presented by Appalachian Artisans Guild. www. appartguild.com or cabinfeverartsfestival@gmail.com.

APR. 9 – Spring Fashion Doll Show and Sale, EnterTRAINment Junction, Expo Ctr., 7379 Squire Ct., West Chester, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. $5, under 12 free.

Featuring Barbie, Madame Alexander, Tonner, action figures, and other fashion and collectible dolls. https:// entertrainmentjunction.com/calendar.

CENTRAL

THROUGH MAR. 12 – “Genius of the Needle: Women’s Creations in the Victorian Era (1830– 1900),” Harmon Museum, 105 S. Broadway, Lebanon, Tues.–Sat. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. $6–$10, under 5 free. 513932-1817 or www.wchsmuseum.org.

THROUGH APR. 27 – Bluegrass Wednesdays, Vinoklet Winery, 11069 Colerain Ave., Cincinnati, Wed. 6:30–8:30 p.m. Enjoy dinner, wine, and an evening of free bluegrass by Vernon McIntyre’s Appalachian Grass.

Reservations strongly recommended. 513-385-9309 or vinokletwinery@fuse.net.

MAR. 2–APR. 30 – Workshops: Easter Egg Paperweight or Bunny Paperweight, Neusole Glassworks, 11925 Kemper Springs Dr., Cincinnati, Wed./Thur. 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Fri. 10 a.m.–8 p.m., Sat./ Sun. 8 a.m.–8 p.m. $50/person per 30-min. session

(one project per workshop). For ages 5 and older. With the help of our professional glass artists, you can sculpt an Easter egg paperweight or a bunny paperweight out of solid molten glass! Ready for pickup in 7 days.

Registration required; check availability by phone or email: 513-751-3292 or neusoleglassworks@hotmail. com. More information: http://neusoleglassworks.com.

MAR. 18–20 – Greater Cincinnati Home Expo, Sharonville Convention Ctr., 11355 Chester Rd., Sharonville, Fri. 12–7 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–7 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $5, under 18 free. The latest innovations and design trends, hundreds of exhibitors, and remodeling/ building experts from Greater Cincinnati. www.homeshowcenter.com/overview/cincinnati2.

MAR. 20 – Cincinnati’s Premier Wedding Show and Expo, The Manor House, 7440 Mason-Montgomery Rd., Cincinnati, 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Register online for free tickets in advance. $10 at door; free for 12 and under. Meet face-to-face with over 75 wedding professionals! Fashion show at 1:30 p.m. https://ohioweddingshows.com.

MAR. 20 – Spring Avant-Garde Art and Craft Show, R.S.V.P. Event Ctr., 453 Wards Corner Rd., Loveland, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. $3, under 12 free. A variety of local artists and crafters selling original handmade items. Concessions nearby. 440-227-8794 or www. avantgardeshows.com.

MAR. 24–26 – Industrial Strength Bluegrass Festival, Roberts Convention Ctr., Wilmington.

MARCH 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 39

MEMBER INTERACTIVE 1

Storm’s brewing

2

3

1. Wicked sky over our home.

Kirsten Hatfield Guernsey-Muskingum Electric Cooperative member

4

2. Storm clouds off the east side of Kelleys Island.

Leslie Scaletta Hancock-Wood Electric Cooperative member 3. Ominous storm coming our way in Guernsey County.

Anna Miller Guernsey-Muskingum Electric Cooperative member 4. Storm rolling in over a wheat field on our farm.

Ethan Roush South Central Power Company member

5

5. Storm rolling in across the fields in southwestern Lucas County.

Kevin Deck Tricounty Rural Electric Cooperative member

6

6. Nighttime storm near my house.

Bob Westbrook Washington Electric Cooperative member Below: Storm brewing in Baltimore, Ohio.

Jennifer Smith-Stanton South Central Power Company member

Send us your picture!

For June, send “Lake life” by March 15; for July, s end “Sparklers” by April 15.

Upload your photos at www.ohiocoopliving.com/memberinteractive.

Your photo may be featured in our magazine or on our website.

40 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • MARCH 2022

READY TO PLUG IN

AND DRIVE OUT?

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Contact your electric cooperative; we’re here to support all your energy-related projects.

ohioec.org/energy

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40’x60’x12’ • Garage/Hobby Shop

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30’x40’x10’ • Garage/Hobby Shop

•2-10x10 Garage Doors

•2-9x8 Garage Doors

•1-3’ Entry Door

•1-3’ Entry Door

•Sof�it/Wainscot Optional

30’x60’x12’ • Storage Building

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24’x32’x10’ • Garage/Hobby Shop

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30’x36’x10’ Horse Barn with 8’ Lean-to

Installed •10’ Split Slider w/Windows •1-3’ Entry Door •3-4’x7’ Dutch Doors •Sof�it Optional

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30’x48’x16’ • Drive Thru RV Storage

Installed •2-12x14 Garage Doors •1-3’ Entry Door •Sof�it/Wainscot Optional