Ohio Cooperative Living - March - Paulding Putnam

OHIO

MARCH 2022

COOPERATIVE Paulding Putnam Electric Cooperative

ALSO INSIDE Home solar Q&A

Virtual annual meeting Details on page 19

Saturday, March 19, 2022 Begins at 10 a.m.

Livestream video on Facebook and YouTube Don’t miss your chance to win a bill credit! Simply comment on the livestream video to be entered in the drawing.

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.

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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

12 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • MARCH 2022

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.

PAULDING PUTNAM ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE LOCAL PAGES

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

THE NEW WORLD By now, we all had hoped life would be back to “normal.” However, the COVID-19 pandemic has changed the world, and many of the changes will be permanent. We have moved into a new world. Obviously, your George Carter PRESIDENT AND CEO electric cooperative is caught up in many of the changes. One of the major changes brought on by the pandemic is the virtual annual meeting. That change is here to stay.

The board of trustees have debated for many years on updating or revising the annual meeting. Attendance at the old, traditional meeting had dropped in recent years.

Several years ago, the cooperative held its first Member Appreciation Day. This event drew more members than the annual meeting. Lights began to go off (so to speak). Subsequent years saw the same thing — greater attendance at the member appreciation event than at the annual meeting.

This issue includes your “Official Notice of Annual Meeting” to be held virtually on March 19, 2022, at 10 a.m. The meeting will be available on YouTube and Facebook Live.

The cooperative’s website will also have a direct link to the broadcast. Members can watch the meeting, ask questions, and provide comments. All members submitting comments will be entered to win one of many $50 bill credits.

The annual meeting will include the announcement of the board of trustees election. Each year, three board seats are up for election. In District 2 (William Dowler) and District 5 (Steven McMichael), the incumbent trustee will be elected by affirmation as no other nominations were received. In District 4, incumbent Jay Dangler did not seek reelection. Nominating petitions were submitted by the following members: William (Bill) Beckman, Fred Pieper, and Scott Strahley. Members in District 4 will be voting for these candidates.

I am one member who really enjoyed the in-person annual meeting. Over my career with the co-ops, I have attended over thirty of my own annual meetings plus countless other co-op annual meetings. The in-person meetings will be missed by many. However, that gives us the opportunity to have an even better member appreciation event this summer. Look for additional information in the coming weeks as we announce our big plans for that event.

2022 VIRTUAL ANNUAL MEETING AGENDA

Saturday, March 19, at 10 a.m. via Facebook Live and YouTube 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

Call to order. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Board Chairman Dr. John Saxton Approve minutes from last year. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Saxton Treasurer’s report . . . . . . . . . . . . . Board Secretary-Treasurer Dr. Ron Black Chairman’s report. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Saxton President’s report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . CEO George Carter Trustee election results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Carter Introduction of new board member. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Saxton New/old business Adjourn MARCH 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 19

PAULDING PUTNAM ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

BALANCE SHEET

UNAUDITED For the year ending Dec. 31, 2021

Assets Plant Property and Investments: Total Plant. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 110,376,589 Construction work in progress. . . . . . . . . . $ 1,341,425 Accumulated Depreciation. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ (25,137,200) Net Plant. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 86,580,814 Investments: Invest. in Assoc. Org. - Patronage Capital. . $ 18,343,407 Associated Organization. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,439,906 Total Plant and Investments . . . . . . . . $ 107,364,127 Current Assets and Debits: Cash. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 436,629 Temporary Investments/Special Deposits.$ 1,722,626 Receivables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 3,132,014 Merchandise Inventory. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 687,041 Other Current Assets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 271,462 Total Current Assets and Debits. . . . . $ 6,299,772 Deferred Debits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 36,006 Total Assets and Debits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$ 113,699,905

Liabilities and Equity Current Liabilities and Credits: Accounts Payable. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 3,059,250 Short-term Notes Payable. . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,300,000 Consumer Deposits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 180,900 Other and Accrued. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,041,906 Total Current Liabilities and Credits $ 7,582,056 Noncurrent Liabilities and Credits: Long-term Debt. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 33,477,477 Deferred Liabilities and Credits . . . . . . . . . $ 437,833 Total Liabilities and Credits. . . . . . . . . $ 41,497,366 Equity: Operating Margins Prior/Other. . . . . . . . . . $ 6,517,209 Memberships. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 65,163 Patronage Capital. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 65,620,167 Total Equity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 72,202,539 Total Liability and Equity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 113,699,905

Please note these financials are pre-audit, due to printing time constraints. A complete copy of the audit report as presented by the firm of Bashore Reineck Stoller & Waterman, Inc., certified public accountants of Paulding, Ohio, is available for examination at the cooperative’s office during normal business hours.

20 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • MARCH 2022

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS UNAUDITED

For the year ending Dec. 31, 2021 Revenue: Sales of Electricity. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ Interest Income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ Other Income. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ Capital Credits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ Total Revenue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ Expenses: Cost of Purchased Electric. . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ Cost of Maintenance on Lines, Poles, Rights-of-Ways, etc.. . . . . . . . . . . $ Cost of Billing and Consumer Records. . . $ Cost of Member Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$ Cost of Administration and Office Operations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ Depreciation Expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ Business Taxes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ Interest on Long-Term Debt. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ Interest on Current Debt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ Total Expenses. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ Net Patronage Capital or Margins. . . . . . . . . $

44,069,375 44,648 20,145 1,281,675 45,415,843 28,744,026 2,616,539 566,545 586,674 1,932,957 3,488,972 1,261,504 1,370,280 63,689 40,631,187 4,784,656

OFFICIAL NOTICE Paulding Putnam Electric Cooperative, Inc. 86th virtual annual meeting of members Saturday, March 19, 2022 — begins at 10 a.m. Livestream video on Facebook and YouTube.

Notice is hereby given that the annual meeting of the members of Paulding Putnam Electric Cooperative will be held virtually starting at 10 a.m. on Facebook and YouTube LIVE. The following matters will be discussed and acted upon: 1. Reports of the trustees and officers.

2. Report of trustee election results.

WIN CASH BY WATCHING YOUR ANNUAL MEETING VIDEO

Comment on any one of the livestreamed videos starting at 10 a.m. to be entered to win a $50 bill credit! It’s THAT easy.

Plus, hear co-op updates, projects, election results, and more, all from the comfort of your home!

Facebook.com/Paulding.Putnam.EC YouTube.com/PauldingPutnamElectricCoop

MARCH 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 20A

PAULDING PUTNAM ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

PAULDING PUTNAM ELECTRIC CO-OP 2021 Official Annual Meeting Minutes — March 20, 2021 The Annual Meeting was held at Paulding Putnam Electric Cooperative, Inc. headquarters building, Paulding, Ohio. Dr. John Saxton, Board Chairman, called the meeting to order at 10:00 a.m. The meeting was held as a virtual/video conference. The meeting was being broadcast on the internet via Facebook Live and YouTube.

Chairman Saxton began the meeting by reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.

Chairman Saxton noted the meeting notice had been mailed to all members in the February issues of Cooperative Living (Ohio) and Indiana Connection (Indiana) and this notice contained the meeting agenda. He stated he was dispensing with the reading of the notice as it had been certified as mailed to all members. He stated the agenda would be approved as mailed.

Dr. Ronald Black gave the Treasurer’s Report. He stated his written report appeared in the Cooperative’s Annual Report, and members could obtain a copy at the office or review the audit report upon request. He further stated the audited financial report was completed by the local firm of Bashore, Reineck, Stoller & Waterman. The CPA firm had issued an unqualified or clean audit opinion.

Chairman Saxton discussed the meeting theme, “Hope isn’t Canceled,” and related it to recent events of the Covid pandemic. He stressed the importance of safety with cooperative employees. He stated much of the cooperative’s work must be performed at the office and in the field; he thanked the employees for their commitment. Chairman Saxton informed the audience of the upcoming Member Appreciation event to be held on July 24, 2021, and to look for additional details regarding the event in the near future.

CEO George Carter gave the President’s report. He stated the cooperative had seen several employees retire in the past year and he spoke of the challenges relacing the lost knowledge and experience. He stated the cooperative had a very good year both financially and operationally. He stated outage minutes were reduced due to utility line rebuilds and maintenance. Mr. Carter reviewed some of the challenges the cooperative faced during the pandemic and thanked the employees for their dedicated efforts to serve the membership.

20B OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • MARCH 2022

Chairman John Saxon addresses the board and members of PPEC during the 2021 Annual Livestream meeting.

Mr. Carter was called upon to present the trustee election results. Three (3) Districts (3, 7, and 8) were up for election: Trustee Timothy Derck (District 3) was reelected by affirmation. Districts 7 and 8 held contested elections. Kenneth Niese was re-elected in District 7 and Adam Schnipke was elected to serve in District 8.

Dr. Ronald Black was asked to review the Code of Regulation elections. He stated nine (9) revisions to the Code had been presented to the membership for approval.

Dr. Black reported over 2,100 members cast votes in the election, which was the largest number of members voting in the history of the cooperative and represented nearly 20% of all members. He reported all 9 Code of Regulation changes were overwhelmingly approved by the members.

Chairman Saxton took a moment to thank outgoing trustee Mr. Douglas Fortman, who chose not to seek re-election. Chairman Saxton thanked Mr. Fortman for his six (6) years of dedicated service and presented Mr. Fortman with a plaque honoring his service.

There being no further business to come before the meeting, Chairman Saxton declared the meeting adjourned.

2022 TREE-TRIMMING INFORMATION Clearing trees and limbs in the right-of-way around power lines is a vital piece of the reliability puzzle. PPEC welcomes a new right-of-way tree-trimming contractor, Mint City Utility Services, who will begin work this year in the Seiler, Hessen, Monroe, Rt. 14, and Tillman substation areas in Indiana, and the Convoy substation area in Ohio (see the green section of the map on the right). Our system is separated into sections and is on a four-year trimming rotation.

Learn more about tree trimming and safe planting practices at www.ppec.coop/tree-trimming.

Plant trees safely

Before you dig, call 811 to locate buried utility lines.

LOW TREE ZONE

MEDIUM TREE ZONE

LARGE TREE ZONE

Avoid planting within 20 ft. of power lines. If planting is unavoidable, only plant shrubs and small trees that reach a mature height of 15 ft. or less.

Plant medium trees (under 40 ft. when mature) at least 25 ft. away from power lines.

Plant large trees (over 40 ft. when mature) at least 50 ft. away from power lines.

Over 40 ft.

40 ft. high or less

Maximum tree height 15 ft.

Keep shrubs at least 10 ft. away from transformer doors and 4 ft. away from the sides.

4 ft.

10 ft.

0

10 ft.

20 ft.

30 ft.

40 ft.

50 ft.

60 ft.

70 ft.

MARCH 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 20C

USING THE CLOCK TO SAVE SAVING AROUND HOME

D

id you know the time of day you use energy can impact electricity rates? Think of times of high energy demand like rush hour traffic. These are times when a lot of people in our community are using electricity — whether getting ready for work, which involves showering and making breakfast, or coming home in the evening to cook dinner, wash clothes, bathe the kids, or wash dishes. During these times of high energy use, your electric cooperative strives to ensure there is enough electricity available to meet the needs of all consumer-members.

This often results in buying energy at higher costs (because of higher overall demand) as well as ensuring that grid infrastructure can deliver enough electricity when use is highest. This is especially true when extreme winter or summer weather pushes energy use even higher.

There are several ways members can help lower energy demand by thoughtfully timing energy-intensive activities at home: • Adjust the thermostat. Move the temperature up to 78 degrees in summer and down to 68 degrees in winter. Bump it further up or down when you’re away from home for extended periods of time.

• Postpone the use of major appliances.

Move laundry loads to later in the evening or weekends. Delay running the dishwasher until well after dinner or use the delay cycle function if your dishwasher has one.

• Your water heater uses a significant amount of energy. You can reduce its energy burden by moving showering and bathing to an off-peak time or lowering the temperature on the tank. Some models include the ability to place the water heater on a timer to turn it off during hours it won’t be in use.

• During summer, consider grilling outdoors to keep the oven off during peak heat days.

• Unplug charging cables and small appliances when they’re not in use.

For bigger items like TVs, try plugging them into a power strip that can be flipped on and off.

• If you have an electric vehicle, charge it at night when electric demand is typically low.

Lowering your energy use during peak times allows your co-op to save money on peak demand costs, ultimately saving all of us money by keeping rates lower.

20D OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • MARCH 2022

ENERGY AND MONEY TIME-OF-DAY RATE: Is it right for you?

When members choose this special rate, the price per kilowatt-hour (kWh) is dependent on the time of the day that you use it. This rate is intended to give PPEC members a financial advantage when they shift their usage to lowdemand (off-peak) hours.

• On-peak energy: $0.20382 per kWh • Off-peak energy: $0.05757 per kWh The time that kWh are purchased at the on-peak price is 2 p.m.–8 p.m., Monday through Friday. Off-peak (the lower price) is all other times, including the entire weekend and major holidays (New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day).

Members benefit with this rate because they can save money. But you have to be willing to change the way you use electricity, shifting your usage to off-peak hours. This means doing things like putting your electric water heater on a timer, waiting until after 8 p.m. to do dishes or wash clothes, and waiting to cook large meals on your electric range on the weekend, then just reheating during the week.

How will the time-of-day rate affect you?

First, you need to determine what appliances and equipment in your house use the most electricity. In general, this would be things that heat or cool. Some highuse items include electric water heaters, space heaters, air

conditioners, electric clothes dryers, electric ranges, hot tubs/saunas, waterbeds, welders, and pool pumps. Being on the time-of-day rate means you must decide what can be shifted to off-peak hours.

How do I sign up for the TOD rate?

Call our office at 800-686-2357 or visit www.ppec.coop/ rates-billing. You can even do a trial first!

BY ADJUSTING YOUR SCHEDULE TO OFF PEAK TIMES, YOU CAN SAVE MONEY ON OUR TIME-OF-DAY RATE.

MARCH 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 20E

PAULDING PUTNAM ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

Create your SmartHub account today and get a $5 bill credit!

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

All at your fingertips with SmartHub! • Provides 24-hour access to account(s) • Sends email notifications when a new electric bill is generated • Special alerts, including power outages and peak alerts (we can text you about an outage).

• Allows you to pay electronically using Visa, MasterCard, or Discover Card or an electronic check transaction.

• Provides current and historical billing information and payment history.

• Allows you to enroll in paperless billing.

• Multiple accounts can pay with a single payment.

• Provides an easy way to report a power outage.

• Vote in trustee elections and on important code of regulations changes.

• Displays payment posting in real time.

• Graphs daily, monthly, and annual energy usage.

MOBILE USERS: DESKTOP OR LAPTOP USERS:

Create an account online

Download the SmartHub app Open your mobile device’s camera and scan the QR code.

Visit www.ppec.coop and click the “My account” button at the top. Click the “New User” link at the bottom. Have your PPEC billing account number and an email address on hand before you sign up.

Learn more by visiting ppec.coop/smarthub-online-account-management

20F OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • MARCH 2022

Sign up today for a

$5

one-time bill credit

For a limited time only, new subscribers to Paulding Putnam Electric’s SmartHub will receive a one-time $5 credit on their Paulding Putnam Electric bill.

When we save money, you save money By enrolling in SmartHub’s e-bill feature, Paulding Putnam saves money on postage and printing and passes the savings on to you. Your bills and payment records are accessible on SmartHub. This means no more hard copies you have to manage!

Goodbye late fees, hello convenience Save time and money by enrolling in SmartHub’s Auto Pay feature. With Auto Pay, you no longer have to worry about writing a check, paying for postage, or mailing your payment. Plus, your payment is always on time. Set it and forget it!

Learn more •

Visit www.PPEC.coop or contact us by email (member_ services@ppec.coop), phone (800-686-2357), or in person (M-F, 7:30 a.m.–4 p.m.).

Download the free SmartHub app on the Apple App Store or Google Play. Once the app is open, type in “Paulding Putnam Electric” as the provider. Your login information is the same for both the website and mobile app.

Your

MARCH 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 20G

PAULDING PUTNAM ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

GET YOUR DUCTS IN A ROW F

or most people, the inner workings of the HVAC system are out of sight, out of mind. The system is ignored until something goes wrong.

Understanding the basics of how a heating and cooling system works will help you create a more efficient, comfortable living space.

If you have a forced-air system, you have ducts. A forced-air system consists of the equipment that heats or cools the air and the ductwork that moves it around the home. Your furnace, or air handler, has a fan inside that pushes the heated or cooled air through the supply ducts into the rooms. The return ducts bring air back to the furnace to be heated or cooled again and sent back through the home.

Peter Niagu

ENERGY ADVISOR

This continuous loop of supply and return is susceptible to inefficient practices and leakage, but here are some steps you can take to keep your system running efficiently and maintain a comfortable living space.

Check your vent dampers Make sure the air you paid to heat or cool is freely moving through the home. Closing registers does not save energy. It can cause your system to work harder, shortening its lifespan and increasing duct leakage.

Check that your supply register dampers are open and not blocked by furniture or rugs throughout your home.

This is easy to do and costs nothing.

Seal your ducts If your ductwork travels through an attic, crawl space or other unconditioned space, it could have holes, cracks, or gaps that cause duct leakage. This wastes energy and money by heating or cooling spaces you don’t use.

The U.S. Department of Energy estimates 20% to 30% of air moved through duct systems is lost due to duct leakage.

You could have the most efficient heating or cooling unit available, but if your ducts leak, you are wasting energy.

In addition to wasted energy, leaky ducts can cause airquality issues. Leaks in the return ducts can pull air into the ducts from surrounding spaces, through the furnace, and then deliver it into the home. This can introduce dust, dirt, insulation particles, and other gross stuff that is in your attic, crawl space, or walls.

20H OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • MARCH 2022

Sealing ducts can be difficult because they are hidden behind the walls, floor, and/or ceiling. Attics and crawl spaces can be hard places to work. You can hire a professional to test your duct system for leakage with specialized equipment and seal your ducts.

If you seal ducts yourself, do not use duct tape. I know it is hard to believe, but duct tape dries out quickly and loses its adhesion. Seal with metal tape or duct mastic specifically designed for the job.

One relatively easy place to seal is where the duct meets the floor, wall or ceiling. Remove the registers and look for cracks or gaps around the edges. Remember to wear gloves to protect your hands.

Change your filter The filter is on the return side of the duct system. It could be in the return registers or in the furnace. Checking your system’s filter regularly and replacing it when dirty can help you improve your heating and cooling efficiency.

When it comes to filters, one philosophy is to buy cheap and replace often. You may find you have a difficult time throwing away a $20 filter instead of a $5 filter. Save by buying filters in bulk or set up auto ship for every three months.

In most cases, filters are designed to protect the furnace, not improve air quality. If you are worried about your home’s air quality, getting the ducts cleaned and sealed can help. Add an air purifier if you need additional air filtration.

Now that you know the inner workings of your HVAC system and what it needs to run efficiently, you can improve and maintain the comfort in your home year-round.

You may be contacted for a survey!

It’s legitimate and secure!

Your thoughts and opinions about Paulding Putnam Electric help us to serve you better.

This month, Paulding Putnam Electric will be working with NRECA Market Research Services to complete member satisfaction surveys.

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

ELECTRICITY REMAINS A GOOD VALUE

The cost of powering your home rises slowly when compared to other common expenses. Looking at price increases over the last five years, it’s easy to see electricity remains a good value!

Average Annual Price Increase 2015-2020

3.5

Thank you!

All information is confidential.

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

Percent

4.0

We strive to provide all members with safe, affordable, reliable, and clean electric service. By participating in the survey, you will help us make decisions that benefit you, your family, and your neighbors.

3.4%

Electricity being the exception.

$4.43/LB $4.43/LB

vs VS

$.010/kWh $0.11 /kWh

2.8%

3.0

2.2%

2.5 2.0 1.5

1.0%

1.0 0.5 Medical Care

Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Consumer Price Index

Education

Electricity

T H AT ’ S T H E VA LU E O F E L E C T R I C I T Y.

75 VA

LUE OF EL E

CT

ST

Rent

RIC

BE

0

IT Y

MARCH 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 21 YEA RS G UARA NTEE

PAULDING PUTNAM ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE LOCAL PAGES

TIME TO UPDATE YOUR INFO If your phone number, email address, mailing address, or credit card has changed, let us know!

We need to have your most up-to-date contact and payment information on hand to make sure we can reach you for things like: • Planned outages and restoration updates • Automatic bill payments • Unusually high electric use • Tree-trimming updates • Capital credits payments (yes, even if you move off our lines, we still need your latest address so we can mail you your check!)

• And more!

Call our office at 800-686-2357 or update your information through your SmartHub account online. Learn how to create a SmartHub account at www.ppec.coop and get a $5 bill credit. You can also email us anytime at member_services@ppec.coop.

www.ppec.coop BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Dr. John Saxton Chairman

Timothy Derck CONTACT

Vice Chairman

1-800-686-2357 www.ppec.coop

Dr. Ronald Black

OFFICE

401 McDonald Pike Paulding, Ohio 45879 OFFICE HOURS

7:30 a.m.–4 p.m.

Attorney

George Carter President/CEO

HAVE A STORY SUGGESTION? Secretary/Treasurer

Steve McMichael Jay Dangler Joseph Kohnen Adam Schnipke Ken Niese William Dowler Trustees

22 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • MARCH 2022

Norm Cook

Email your ideas to: skuhn@ppec.coop FIND US ON:

Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Pinterest

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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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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?

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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?

Thinking about buying an electric vehicle?

From hybrids to full-on electric, today’s electric vehicles have a travel range of 250-350 miles on a full battery charge, at roughly half the per-mile cost of a gasoline-powered vehicle.

As an electric cooperative member, you have access to free information on how to save energy and the latest energy technologies. In fact, we’ve been your community’s trusted source of energy advice for more than 80 years.

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

Delivery Fees May Apply

STRUCTURES, LLC Installed

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

Installed

•Sof�it Optional

24’x32’x10’ • Garage/Hobby Shop

•1-60’ Sidewall Open •5-12’ Bays •3’ Overhang On Front

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

Installed

Installed •2-9x8 Garage Doors •1-3’ Entry Door •Sof�it Optional

30’x48’x16’ • Drive Thru RV Storage

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