Ohio Cooperative Living April 2022 - Midwest

OHIO

APRIL 2022

COOPERATIVE Midwest Electric, Inc.

Life on the line

Celebrating lineworkers

The people behind your power Celebrating lineworkers

ALSO INSIDE Popping along Scout’s honor Ohio’s ‘second roof’

Lineworker Appreciation Month

BUILD. MAINTAIN. REPAIR. REPEAT. That's how lineworkers power our lives Thank you, lineworkers, for your dedication, talent, and passion while performing one of the most dangerous – and most important – jobs in America: keeping the lights on.

ohioec.org/purpose

OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2022

INSIDE FEATURES 24 UNION SAVER

An admiration of Ohio’s own U.S. Grant on his 200th birthday.

28 SCOUTS WHO SOAR

Projects show the determination, diligence, and can-do spirit of aspiring Eagle Scouts.

32 HIGH POINT

Check out the beauty and history of Buzzardsroost Rock — Ohio’s “other roof.”

Cover image on most editions: Holmes-Wayne Electric Cooperative lineman Mike Rowe and apprentice Hunter Flinner work to restore power in southern Holmes County (photo by Taylor Harris, Holmes-Wayne Electric Cooperative).

This page: The panoramic scene from the top of Buzzardsroost Rock in Adams County has been called Ohio’s most spectacular view (photo by Kevin Williams).

MARCH APRIL 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 1

UP FRONT

Energy security T

he recent invasion of Ukraine by Russia is a stark reminder of what a cold, harsh place the world can be. I have no idea how bad this invasion will turn out to be. Most of us can only wait for news and pray for the safety of the Ukrainian people enduring this brutal attack.

As shock waves of this assault — launched during a time of relative peace — reverberate around the world, it demonstrates once again how important it is to nurture an “all of the above” energy strategy for our country. We cannot isolate ourselves from the effects of world events, but we must ensure an adequate supply of energy resources to meet our most basic security needs.

All the world’s nations, and especially those in Europe, are being taught a lesson in vulnerability.

There are voices saying the lesson to be learned is to abandon fossil fuels in favor of green energy as a way to insulate us from the effects of an energysupply crisis. Unfortunately, that is simply not realistic in the next 20 to 30 years. The non-fossil fuel technologies required to “firm up” the intermittent nature of wind and solar — nuclear power, battery storage, hydrogen — are all at least 20 years away from making a meaningful impact on our energy infrastructure. We will certainly make progress during that time, but we’ll still be dependent on diverse fossil fuel resources if we are to have an affordable, reliable, on-demand supply of energy that our current way of life requires.

In the meantime, your electric cooperatives will continue to promote policies that encourage the efficient and environmentally responsible development of energy resources of all types. The risks of favoring limited-supply sources, like only renewable energy, however, have been made all too clear.

Let’s pray for peace but be strong enough to endure the threats that exist.

2 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2022

Pat O’Loughlin

PRESIDENT & CEO OHIO’S ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES

All the world’s nations, and especially those in Europe, are being taught a lesson in vulnerability.

APRIL 2022 • Volume 64, No. 7

Ohio Rural Electric Cooperatives 6677 Busch Blvd.

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

4 DEPARTMENTS

President & CEO Director of Communications Managing Editor Associate Editor

Contributors: Colleen Romick Clark, Getty Images, W.H. “Chip” Gross, Catherine Murray, Jamie Rhein, Craig Springer, Damaine Vonada, and Kevin Williams.

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.

4 POWER LINES

Duty calls: Lineworkers operate under dangerous conditions, so when Mother Nature issues a challenge, they’re more than prepared to answer the call.

6

6 WOODS, WATERS, AND WILDLIFE Sky dancer: April is the best time to

catch the aerial display of one of Ohio’s oddest birds.

10

10 CO-OP PEOPLE

Popping along: The Pence family

of concessionaires has fed fairgoers for more than a century.

Rootin’, tootin’ & shootin’: Co-op

member Jerry Swank lives the life of an Old West cowboy.

15

15 GOOD EATS

Wrap ’n’ roll: For a snack that’s both

delicious and convenient, wrap it up in a neat little package.

19 LOCAL PAGES National/regional advertising inquiries, contact

Cheryl Solomon

News and information from your electric cooperative.

37 CALENDAR

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

What’s happening: April/May events and other things to do around Ohio.

Ohio-based advertisers contact

Rheta Gallagher 614-940-5956 | rgallagher@ohioec.org

37

40 MEMBER INTERACTIVE Scout’s honor: Scouting makes

Cooperative members:

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

Alliance for Audited Media Member

memories that last a lifetime, as our readers share.

40

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

APRIL 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 3

POWER LINES

4 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2022

DUTY CALLS L

ineworkers operate under dangerous conditions even on the best of days, so when Mother Nature issues a challenge, they’re more than prepared to answer the call.

This season’s winter storms have done a number on numerous electric cooperatives’ systems — both in Ohio and beyond — that have called Ohio crews into action.

More than 40 Ohio lineworkers spent a good chunk of January in Virginia, helping to restore power to more than 80,000 co-op members after a storm there. Then in early February, 63 lineworkers from 20 cooperatives around the state jumped into action to help restore power to more than 30,000 Ohio coop members when winter storm Landon put a coating of ice over some of the most difficult-toreach areas of the southern part of the state.

Line work is not a glamorous or easy profession.

It takes years of specialized training, ongoing education, dedication, and — equally important — a sense of service and commitment. How else could someone explain their willingness to leave their families to tackle a challenging job in difficult conditions, when most others are sheltering comfortably at home? This dedication and sense of service to the community are truly what sets them apart. That’s why we set aside the second Monday in April to celebrate and recognize the men and women who work around the clock to keep the lights on.

APRIL 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 5

dan

cer

WOODS, WATERS, AND WILDLIFE

S ky

April is the best time to catch the aerial display of one of Ohio’s oddest birds.

STORY AND PHOTOS BY W.H. “CHIP” GROSS

H

ead outdoors with me after supper some evening during the month of April, and remember to take a jacket, as it will be chilly by the time we return after dark. What we’ll be seeking is an open meadow, grassy clearing, or abandoned field with low groundcover near a moist, brushy thicket. What we’ll be hoping to see — and hear — is one of the most spectacular courtship displays around, from one of Ohio’s oddest birds: the woodcock.

Similar in appearance, both male and female look as if they were designed by a committee. About the size of a robin (only with a shorter tail), woodcock have a long, slender bill, very short legs, a large head connected to a chunky body by a short neck, and large, dark eyes placed well back on the sides of their head. The birds are mostly nocturnal, and, being colored a mixture of browns and grays, are well camouflaged. Normally very secretive, woodcock are usually only seen for a few short seconds when flushed.

But during early spring when the birds have mating on their minds, they toss caution to the wind.

6 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2022

Ask

chip!

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

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

www.ohiocoopliving.com

You’ll likely hear a woodcock long before spotting one, the sound beginning just after sunset. The woodcock’s call has been described as a single loud “peent” or “buzz,” spaced every few seconds. That usually continues for several minutes before the male finally takes wing in a spiral flight skyward, making a twittering sound as he climbs.

Higher and higher he’ll rise, erupting in a bubbling song near the apex of his spiral. He may even go completely out of sight before zigzagging back to earth in a zooming, kamikaze dive accompanied by more twittering. Landing near where he took off, he struts about much like a miniature wild turkey gobbler, then mates with any female woodcock (woodhen) that has been properly impressed.

This show may go on repeatedly for several hours — sometimes all night as the male makes dozens of courtship flights before calling it quits. Then he’s back at it well before dawn the next morning — ending his performance just before sunrise as daylight increases. Display flights can continue through May, sometimes even into June. One macho woodcock was once reported still displaying near Cincinnati in mid-July.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service considers the woodcock a migratory game bird, and says there are two major woodcock populations in North America, each population inhabiting a separate region. The Eastern Region stretches from the Appalachian Mountains east to the coast; the Central Region from west of the Appalachians to the Great Plains. According to Mark Wiley, a wildlife biologist with the Ohio Division of Wildlife, ODNR staff members run 30 to 40 woodcock singing-ground survey routes each spring in the Buckeye State to tally the number of birds.

woodcock watches during April, so if you are unsure what you’re looking for, tagging along on one of these free, fun programs will help get you started.

The yearly spring spectacle of woodcock flights has always been somehow haunting to me, possibly because they happen under cover of darkness, or nearly so — a dusk-and-dawn activity wildlife biologists refer to as “crepuscular.” Once it grows too dark to see the birds silhouetted against the western evening sky, I’ll reluctantly head home. And as I walk, still hearing the faint peenting/buzzing and twittering in the darkness behind me, I’m reminded of how little we know and understand of the natural world. But that’s part of the mystery and magic that continually draw us outdoors.

Don’t miss the show.

Woodcock are known regionally by many names: timberdoodle, bogsucker, hookumpake, night peck, hill partridge, wood snipe, and others.

“Range-wide, the woodcock population is fairly stable in the short term,” says Wiley, “but there has been a gradual long-term decline.”

The Washington, D.C.-based Wildlife Management Institute says American woodcock populations have steadily decreased over the last quarter-century at a rate of around 1% to 2% per year. Wildlife researchers attribute the decline to the loss of young forest and shrubland areas in the eastern and central United States due to human development and changing forestry management practices.

Woodcock return to Ohio during late February and early March each year; April is the best month for viewing courtship-flight displays. Many park districts throughout the state offer

APRIL 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 7

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Stau e r … A f f or d the E x tr aor d i nar y .® APRIL 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 9

CO-OP PEOPLE

Popping along The Pence family of concessionaires has fed fairgoers for more than a century.

STORY AND PHOTOS BY DAMAINE VONADA

O

ne of Michael Pence’s earliest memories dates to the 1950s, when he traveled to the Indiana State Fair with his parents to sell popcorn. He was only 5 years old at the time — but his daughter, Leslie, got her start in the family’s mobile concessionaire business at an even younger age. “I went to my first fair in 1971,” says Leslie Pence. “It was a street fair in Auburn, Indiana, and I was 2 days old.” The week before she was born, Michael and his wife, Etta, had worked a fair in nearby Bluffton, where the mom-to-be also bought Leslie’s baby clothes.

Today, Michael, Etta, Leslie, and Michael’s brother, Kevin Pence, own and operate Pence’s Concessions from their headquarters at Pence’s Carmel Corn Shoppe (they use the old-fashioned spelling without the second “a”), a multipurpose manufacturing, distribution, and concession trailer facility that sits along U.S. 6 near Bryan, Ohio.

Serviced by North Western Electric, the shop encompasses a kitchen as well as a year-round retail store.

When customers step inside, they’re sure to notice two things: the irresistible aroma of freshly made popcorn and multiple generations of the Pence family busily doing everything from pouring kernels into a popping machine to stocking the shelves. The Pences produce 18 different kinds of popcorn in flavors ranging from tried-andtrue cheese and kettle corn to trendy chocolate mint and banana pudding popcorn, yet caramel corn remains their signature popcorn and a perennial bestseller.

10 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2022

Pence family members inside Pence’s Carmel Corn Shoppe (from left): Alexis Stewart, baby Jameson Stewart, Leslie Pence, 3-year-old Emmalyn Stewart, Etta Pence, Easton Kime, and Michael Pence.

“We make the caramel corn from a secret family recipe, and a lot of people tell us they won’t buy any caramel corn but ours,” says Leslie.

Pence’s Concessions originated in 1902, when Michael’s grandfather, Clarence Pence, started selling popcorn and peanuts from a pushcart at state fairs. Michael’s father, Don Pence, continued the business in homebuilt trailers that he towed to fairs and festivals. “My dad didn’t get a manufactured trailer until 1957,” recalls Michael. “I still have that trailer, but it doesn’t travel anymore because we use it for making candy.”

In the 1980s, Michael decided to make the company’s concession trailers pink and green. “I picked that combination because I think it looks good and is very colorful,” he says. “Now people recognize those colors and associate them with Pence’s popcorn.”

Beside popcorn, the Pences make and sell a complete menu of such fair-food favorites as candy apples, caramel apples, cotton candy, taffy, corn dogs, and both Italian sausage and Philly steak and cheese sandwiches. “My family has done a very good job of keeping up our quality and reputation,” says Leslie. “Everyone expects our products to be good.” Savvy fairgoers, for example, know that on a warm and sticky July afternoon, nothing is more refreshing than Pence’s fresh-squeezed lemonade.

“We make it with real lemons, water, ice, and sugar, then shake it just enough,” says Leslie.

From mid-spring through the summer, the shop serves as mission control for 18 concession trailers that rotate to and from county fairs, street fairs, and community festivals within a 120-mile radius of Bryan. Typical destinations include Holland, Michigan; Auburn, Indiana; and the Williams, Defiance, and Fulton county fairs in Ohio. Pence’s Concessions, in fact, is practically an institution at the Williams County Fair, which presented the company with an award for 108 years of service. By the time September rolls around, the Pences have dispatched trailers to events in Missouri, Kansas, and Arkansas, and during the winter, they go to expos and fairs in Florida.

“We’re never in one location for more than two weeks,” says Leslie, “so we get to experience big cities, small towns, and differences in regional tastes and cultures.”

As it turns out, those differences include candy apples.

“We make the coating for our candy apples from scratch with cinnamon flavoring, but once we get south of Cincinnati, customers want them without any flavoring at all,” says Leslie.

Since Leslie’s daughter, Alexis Stewart, works alongside Etta making candy apples, fudge, peanut brittle, and, of course, popcorn, for the retail store, Pence’s Concessions proudly claims five generations of continuous family involvement. Make that six generations, if you count Leslie’s 3-year-old granddaughter, Emmalyn Stewart, who likes to taste test the cotton candy. “For us, this isn’t just a job,” Leslie says. “It’s our life.”

Pence’s Carmel Corn Shoppe, 10010 U.S. 6, Bryan, OH 43506. 419-636-0888 or 877-8296127, www.pencescarmelcorn.com.

APRIL 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 11

Rootin’, tootin’ & shootin’

Co-op member lives the life of an Old West cowboy.

STORY AND PHOTOS BY DAMAINE VONADA

W

hen Jerry Swank married his wife, Carolyn, in 2003, he wore a rancherstyle felt hat, boots with spurs, and three replicas of the legendary Colt .45 single-action Army revolver that helped tame the American West.

The newlyweds left the ceremony in a white, vis-à-vis carriage pulled by a Percheron mare, and their guests gave them quite a sendoff. “We had 180 people at the wedding, and since about 60 of them carried guns loaded with blanks, we had quite the salute,” Swank says.

Of course Swank would have a Western-style wedding, given his favorite pastime: He’s been a decades-long devotee of cowboy action shooting, a timed, targetshooting sport that utilizes the guns of the Old West. “I compete with single-action

12 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2022

revolvers, a lever-action pistol-caliber rifle, and a shotgun that was designed before 1899,” he says.

Swank and his wife are South Central Power Company members who reside on 81 acres of farmland in the Hocking Hills. His interest in guns began when he was growing up in the Middletown area. He was introduced to shooting sports as a member of the Boy Scouts and while hunting with his father, and learned Western riding because his parents and grandparents kept horses.

As an adult, he worked in sales, but he also parlayed his knack for riding and training horses into a carriage ride business in downtown Columbus.

Swank first heard about cowboy action shooting in the early 1990s. “I was reading a car magazine and saw an advertisement about a shooting club starting in central Ohio,” he recalls. Soon after, Swank became a founding member of the Scioto Territory Desperados — he served as its president for several years. “Now we have members from all around the state,” Swank says. The club holds matches at the Cardinal Center shooting range near Marengo.

The Scioto Territory Desperados is an affiliate of the Single Action Shooting Society (SASS), an Indiana-based organization that promotes cowboy action shooting and serves as the sport’s governing body. “A single-action gun can only be fired after it has been manually cocked,” explains Swank, who is a SASS life member. At shooting events, SASS requires contestants to convey the history and traditions of the post-Civil War and cattle-drive eras by donning period outfits and adopting Old West aliases.

Names of real people — such as Bat Masterson or Jesse James — were taken early on after the club started, so most Desperados these days simply invent their own aliases, such as “Bushwacker Al,” “Stagecoach Hannah,” and “I.B. Gunninferya.” Swank chose “Lucky Levi Loving” for his moniker. “Levi” is simply a Western-sounding version of his given middle name, Lee, but he borrowed “Loving” from a cattle driver who made history. “Oliver Loving helped develop the Goodnight-Loving Trail that went from Texas to Montana,” Swank says.

As for Western get-ups, Swank habitually looks like he just stepped out of the O.K. Corral. “I’ve been in boots and blue jeans my whole life,” he says, “so dressing cowboy is easy for me.” Besides cavalry-style bib shirts and his star-shaped SASS badge, Swank sports a handsome handlebar mustache that would have made Wyatt Earp proud. “My mustache used to be long enough to reach my ears, but now I just use a little wax to keep it neat and curled,” he says.

Swank chose “Lucky Levi Loving” for his Old West moniker. “Levi” is simply a Westernsounding version of Swank’s given middle name, Lee, but he borrowed “Loving” from a cattle driver who made history.

For many years, Swank had a home-based business — appropriately called Lucky Levi’s Leather — where he crafted shooting gear and accessories. “If it’s leather, I’ve made it,” he says. “I did gun belts, holsters, chaps, spur straps, scabbards, and even saddlebags.” Items Swank made for himself include concealed-carry suspenders for his Derringer as well as right-hand and left-hand holsters for the pair of Ruger Vaquero revolvers that he often takes to competitions. “They’re slightly larger versions of the historic Colt .45 and have scrimshaw on the handles,” he says. “One side shows a cowboy on a bucking horse, and the other has double L’s for Lucky Levi.”

Swank closed his leather shop earlier this year, however, and now has set his sights on a retirement career as a certified health coach. Of course, since old cowboys never die, he aims to keep reloading as a cowboy action shooter.

“One reason I got rid of the shop is that it cut into my shooting time too much,” Swank says. “I even lost 165 pounds so I could get on a horse and continue to shoot.”

For more information, visit www.sciotodesperados.com.

MARCH APRIL 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 13

t s e t n o c e p i c reader re

s d a Sa l

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!

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.

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GOOD EATS

For a snack that’s both delicious and convenient, wrap it up in a neat little package.

RECIPES AND PHOTOS BY CATHERINE MURRAY

MARCH APRIL 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 15

BLUE CHEESE AND GRILLED CHICKEN WRAP Prep: 15 minutes | Servings: 4 1 small daikon radish (or red radish) 1 cucumber 1 pound precooked grilled chicken breast, cut into strips

BAKED EGG ROLLS (from page 15) Prep: 25 minutes | Cook: 25 minutes | Servings: 6

FOR EGG ROLLS 2 tablespoons sesame oil 1 large onion, chopped fine 1 cup shredded carrot 1 pound ground beef, pork, turkey, or firm tofu 3 teaspoons minced garlic 1 teaspoon ground ginger

1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce ¼ cup water 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds 4 cups shredded cabbage 1 pound package pre-made egg roll wraps

FOR DIPPING SAUCE ½ cup honey 1 teaspoon sesame oil 1 teaspoon rice wine vinegar

¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce ½ teaspoon ground ginger 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds

Notes: Egg roll wraps are often found in the refrigerated produce section of the grocery store or in frozen foods.

To make the egg rolls, heat sesame oil over medium in a large skillet.

Add onion, carrot, and ground beef, sautéing until beef is cooked through, stirring regularly. Stir in garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and water, stirring to incorporate. Top with sesame seeds and shredded cabbage.

Cover with a lid and let cabbage steam for a few minutes until wilted and easy to stir. Uncover and remove from heat.

Preheat oven to 400 F. Prep a smooth, dry surface and place a small dish of water nearby. Lay out one egg roll wrap at a diagonal (one of the corner points facing you). Spoon a small amount of filling into the middle of the wrap. Fold the bottom corner on top of the filling, then snugly roll it halfway up. Fold both sides inward toward the middle so it looks like an envelope, then tightly wrap until closed. Dip your finger in the dish of water and run it along the underside of the remaining point to seal the layers together. Place seam-side down on a greased baking sheet, 1 inch apart. Continue with each egg roll wrap until all the filling is gone. For a crispy texture, lightly spray the tops of each egg roll with cooking spray. Bake 20 to 25 minutes, flipping egg rolls halfway through. In a small bowl, whisk together dipping sauce ingredients.

Serve dipping sauce with egg rolls.

Per serving: 668 calories, 12 grams fat (3 grams saturated fat), 88 milligrams cholesterol, 1,602 milligrams sodium, 103 grams total carbohydrates, 5 grams fiber, 40 grams protein.

16 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2022

4 10-inch flour tortillas 8 large romaine lettuce leaves 1 large avocado, sliced 4 tablespoons chunky blue cheese dressing

Use a mandolin or vegetable peeler to shave the daikon radish and cucumber. Heat chicken to desired temperature, then microwave tortillas for 10 to 20 seconds to make them pliable. Begin placing fillings in the center of each tortilla, starting with the lettuce leaves, then chicken strips, daikon radish, cucumber, avocado slices, and blue cheese dressing. Fold the bottom third of the tortilla up toward the top, then fold in each side, tucking one side into the other.

Per serving: 545 calories, 27 grams fat (5.6 grams saturated fat), 75 milligrams cholesterol, 734 milligrams sodium, 43.5 grams total carbohydrates, 5 grams fiber, 31 grams protein.

“ITALIAN SUB” PINWHEELS

Prep: 20 minutes | Chill: 1 hour | Servings: 20 8 ounces cream cheese 8 ounces boiled deli ham ¼ cup Italian dressing 8 ounces ultra-thin sliced provolone ½ cup mild banana peppers 8 ounces salami 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning 8 ounces pepperoni 8 8-inch spinach flour tortillas (12.7 ounces) Note: Meat and cheese slices will probably vary in size.

Divide up the number of slices of each ingredient between the number of tortillas so they will be evenly distributed between each pinwheel. If there’s any cream cheese mixture left over, spoon it into a bowl and let guests spread a little extra on top of their pinwheels.

In a food processor, blend cream cheese, Italian dressing, banana peppers, and Italian seasoning.

Lay out one tortilla on a dry, flat surface. Spread a thin layer of the cream cheese mixture on the tortilla, almost to the edge.

Next, evenly spread out a thin layer of ham, then provolone, salami, and pepperoni across the tortilla. Begin tightly rolling the end closest to you toward the middle, creating a log.

Repeat with remaining tortillas and ingredients.

Wrap each log in aluminum foil and chill for an hour in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, slice into 1-inch-thick pinwheels. Makes approximately 40 pinwheels.

Per serving: 233 calories, 17 grams fat (8 grams saturated fat), 49 milligrams cholesterol, 662 milligrams sodium, 10 grams total carbohydrates, 0.5 gram fiber, 10.5 grams protein.

MARCH APRIL 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 17

ZESTY ORANGE SWEET ROLLS

Prep: 45 minutes | Cook: 25 minutes | Rise time: 1½ hours | Servings: 16 2 packages dry yeast (about 3½ cups all-purpose flour 4½ teaspoons) ¼ cup cinnamon ½ cup warm water (100 F to 110 F) 4 tablespoons orange zest, divided 1 cup granulated sugar, divided (about 2 large oranges) 14 tablespoons unsalted butter, ½ cup half and half (optional) softened and divided 4 ounces cream cheese, softened ½ cup light sour cream 2 tablespoons orange juice 1 teaspoon salt (approximately 1 orange) 1 large egg 2 cups powdered sugar Hints: To make the rolls ahead of time, follow the recipe until just before the second rise time. Place in the fridge, and pull out within 24 hours. Allow to rise before baking. Frosting can be prepared ahead and stored covered in the fridge for up to a week.

In a large mixing bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Let stand 10 minutes for it to foam up. Add ¼ cup of the granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of the softened butter, sour cream, salt, and egg to the yeast mixture. Beat with a mixer with whisk attachment at medium speed until smooth.

Leaving ½ cup of flour aside, lightly spoon 3 cups of flour into a measuring cup 1 cup at a time, level off with the flat edge of a knife, and add to the yeast mixture, beating until smooth each time until a soft dough forms.

Continue with a stand mixer and switch to a dough hook attachment on medium-low speed (or knead dough by hand on a floured surface). Knead dough, adding 1 spoonful of flour at a time until dough is smooth and elastic and only slightly tacky to the touch, about 2 to 3 minutes in a mixer or 10 minutes by hand.

Place dough in a large bowl coated with cooking spray, turning to coat top of the dough to help it rise. Cover with a tea towel and let rise in a warm place (85 F) for 1 hour or until doubled in size. (This can be done in the oven with a casserole dish filled with steaming water on the bottom rack and the dough on the top rack.) Gently press the dough. If indentation remains, the dough is ready. Punch dough down with your fist, cover, and let rest 5 minutes.

When the dough is ready, mix together cinnamon, ¾ cup of the granulated sugar, and 2 tablespoons of the orange rind in a small bowl. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thick and in a slightly rectangular shape. Evenly spread 8 tablespoons (1 stick) of the softened butter across the surface of the dough, all the way to the edges, then evenly pour the cinnamon and sugar mix across butter layer. Starting at the longest side, roll the dough up into a log. Cut log into 16 rolls and place cut-side up in two greased 9-inch round cake or pie pans. Cover with a tea towel and let rise 30 minutes or until doubled in size. At this point, if you’re wanting extra-gooey rolls, pour half and half evenly across the top of rolls, letting it soak down to the bottom of the pan. If you prefer your rolls to be a bit more bread-like, skip that step. Bake uncovered at 350 F for 25 minutes or until golden brown.

In a medium mixer bowl, cream together remaining 4 tablespoons butter, cream cheese, 2 tablespoons orange zest, and orange juice until smooth.

Slowly add the powdered sugar, then beat on high until smooth. Frost rolls while they’re still warm (or if not eating right away, warm up refrigerated frosting a bit in the microwave and stir).

Per serving: 336 calories, 13 grams fat (8 grams saturated fat), 46 milligrams cholesterol, 239 milligrams sodium, 51 grams total carbohydrates, 2 grams fiber, 4.5 grams protein.

18 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2022

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.

MIDWEST ELECTRIC LOCAL PAGES

MESSAGE FROM THE CEO

HOW HAVE WE GONE 12 YEARS WITHOUT A RATE INCREASE? Our last electric rate change was August 2010. You’re paying the same rate for electricity today that you paid 12 years ago. How many other consumer goods or services can you say that about?

When you think about it, that’s pretty amazing. So it begs the question — how have we been able to do that?

I have to start with our business model as being the overall umbrella under which all of our decisions are made — the electric cooperative model. We are owned and governed by you, the member-consumer.

We are not for profit. Any and all margins we make at the end of the year are 100% allocated back to you in the form of patronage equity and then eventually paid back to you. An electric cooperative is committed to providing reliable and affordable power and high quality customer service.

Here are some items that have helped us manage costs: • Peak load management: This is when we install the free switch on your water heater or air conditioner (and provide you with rebates). We use the switch during the extreme region-wide high-use times and temporarily interrupt power to just that appliance. This reduces our co-op’s system peak. And it saves us about $600,000 a year. Plus, the peak control times only occur less than 1% of all the hours in a year, so we try to keep it non-noticeable to you.

• Paperless billing and payments: More members using Auto Pay, e-bill, and online tools saves the cooperative money in Matt Berry, CEO mberry@midwestrec.com printing and postage and helps to maximize the productivity of our office functions.

• Shared services: For five years now, we have had a successful shared services arrangement with Paulding Putnam Electric Cooperative, sharing a couple of marketing communications employees. This has provided significant savings along with enhanced member communications.

• Organizational alignment: Thanks to technology, the high skill level of our employees, and our openness to periodically redesigning positions or jobs here, we have a very high level of employee productivity. In fact, we have fewer employees today than we did in the 1980s but serve 50% more members.

• Sales: While we see modest growth in new construction, we have enjoyed noticeable growth in small commercial (business) kilowatt-hour sales. This is due to many factors, partly including our economic development low-interest loan program. The increased kWh sales gets spread across our fixed costs and helps lower our average unit costs, thus maintaining rate stability.

Continued on page 20

Did you hear?

NO RATE INCREASE PLANNED FOR 2022 ...That's a 12-year streak!

APRIL 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 19

MIDWEST ELECTRIC ON THE COVER: Back row, left to right: Steve Horn, Chad Klaus, Greg Grieves, Eric Schaaf, Bill Russell. Front row, left to right: Todd Elsass, Dan Severt, Jesse Tuente, Andrew Roettger, Travis Russell. Not pictured: Travis Pottkotter

April 11, 2022 | #ThankALineworker

You don’t have to know a lineworker to celebrate National Lineworker Appreciation Day with us on April 11, 2022. Give a shoutout on social media to linemen everywhere, tag us, or use the hashtag #ThankALineworker.

You can also mail us a note if handwritten is more your style — our linemen would appreciate hearing from our members about a time they did a great job, or simply letting them know their hard work in all weather conditions doesn’t go unnoticed!

Continued from page 19 (Message from the CEO)

• Power supply: Buckeye Power is the electric generation provider for Midwest Electric and Ohio’s 24 electric distribution cooperatives. Power supply (generation and transmission) accounts for 66 cents of every dollar you send us, while Midwest Electric distribution is 34 cents of every dollar you send us. Buckeye’s costs have been very stable in recent years, although we are seeing increased transmission investments, causing some upward pressure on that part of our wholesale power supply bill.

• Industry partners: Being a small company, there is so much of our business that we cannot economically do ourselves. This includes our state-of-the-art billing, accounting, mapping, outage management, and related software programs. For that, we’ve joined with about 600 electric cooperatives nationwide to be part of National Information Solutions Cooperative (NISC). NISC is a highly recognized IT leader that creates and manages our software-dependent environment. For after-hours dispatching, we use a company called Cooperative Response Center (CRC; co-owned with about 300 electric cooperatives). CRC can also take electric payments after hours and conduct other business with you.

20 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2022

•

Employee benefits: On our own, we could not economically have a competitive insurance and retirement benefits package. But America’s 900 electric cooperatives, with tens of thousands of employees, are able to offer highly competitive packages thanks to the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association doing it for all of us.

We are accountable to our consumermembers, not outside investors. The cooperative business model works because all members contribute to the cooperative and democratically control our capital resources.

The member-elected board of directors approves our rates to protect the members’ access to safe, affordable, and reliable power. The board of directors desires to offer reliable electric service to members at the lowest possible cost while maintaining strong financial stewardship. This means striking a balance between keeping electric rates reasonable while ensuring the financial health of the cooperative and maintaining a high level of investments in electric reliability.

How has our cooperative business model helped you? What do you appreciate about being a member of a stable co-op?

Email me at mberry@midwestrec.com.

The Value of

Electricity

to Members

3 reasons why your Midwest Electric membership is valuable: •

No rate increase in 12 years Midwest Electric has been proud to maintain the same rates since August 2010 (at an average of only $6 per day), marking 12 years of value and stability for our members.

•

Timely restoration efforts Our lineworker crews work round-the-clock to restore power when you need it most. Midwest Electric also provides real-time outage notifications through SmartHub to keep you informed of restoration efforts.

•

Unmatched power reliability We invest over $2–3 million every year in upgrades to our electric system and use the most effective power restoration technology, resulting in a 99.98% rate of power availability for members.

As a Midwest member,

for only

$1,

you could:

Make coffee for 10 hours

Watch TV for 113 hours

Vacuum your house for 9 hours

Toast bread for 7 hours

Learn more about how your cooperative serves you at www.midwestrec.com 1-800-962-3830 | 06029 CR 33A St. Marys, OH 45885

APRIL 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 20A

MIDWEST ELECTRIC COMMUNITY CONNECTION FUND

Your pennies add up to BIG change Midwest Electric members donate $14,650 to 11 local organizations Midwest Electric recently donated $14,650 to 11 westcentral Ohio charities and community projects through the cooperative’s Community Connection Fund.

Thanks to the 89% of members who round up their electric bill and donate to this fund, Midwest Electric has provided $1,243,744 to 1,034 local causes since 1998.

THE LATEST CCF GRANT RECIPIENTS INCLUDE: • St. Henry High School After Prom, Mercer County; $150 toward the St. Henry High School After Prom.

• Historic Main Street Van Wert, Van Wert County; $1,000 toward the purchase of a new water station with a drinking fountain, water bottle filler, and a dog bowl.

• Putnam County Council on Aging, Putnam County; $750 to help purchase lawn care equipment for chore services to county residents.

• Children’s Developmental Center of Lima, Allen County; $1,050 to purchase sensory items and safety equipment to be used with young clients.

• Auglaize County Educational Service Center, Auglaize County; $500 to purchase communications apps for iPads that are used in the classrooms.

• New Knoxville Community Park Association, Auglaize County; $3,000 for a splash pad and open-air shelter house at the community park.

The Midwest Electric Community Connection Fund is a voluntary charitable program. Participating members’ monthly electric bills are rounded up to the next dollar, with the additional pennies deposited in the fund. A board of trustees, composed of cooperative members and

20B OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2022

• Auglaize County Rescue Task Force, Auglaize County; $1,000 to purchase Rescue Task Force training equipment.

• Friends of the St. Marys Theater, Auglaize County; $3,000 toward roof repairs and restoration of the St. Marys Theater and Grand Opera House.

• Joint Township District Memorial Hospital Foundation, Auglaize County; $1,800 to support the Grand Lake Rehab Parkinson exercise and support-group program.

• Gospel Tent of Auglaize County, Auglaize County; $500 to pay for performers at the Auglaize County Fair Gospel Tent.

• Crossroads Crisis Center, Allen County; $1,900 to assist survivors of domestic violence and their children.

separate from the Midwest Electric Board of Trustees, oversees the application and allocation process.

Individuals or organizations can obtain an application by contacting Midwest Electric at 800-962-3830 or visiting midwestrec.com/community-connection-fund.

CO-OP NEWS

WE WANT

YOU!

Board petition forms available to run for districts 1, 3, and 4

If you live in Auglaize, Shelby, Van Wert, Mercer, or Darke counties, this may be your chance to be a part of the decision-making body that governs the policies of Midwest Electric and sets the cooperative’s direction and focus.

Three of the eight seats on the co-op board of directors are up for election. Voting will be conducted by mail and online, with results announced at the annual meeting June 4.

Nomination of trustees Any member residing in a district up for election may become a candidate by obtaining a petition form from the co-op’s office and obtaining at least 15 valid signatures of members who reside within that district.

For this year’s elections, petitions may be filed by members who reside within the following districts:

District 1 (3-year term): Auglaize and Shelby counties District 3 (3-year term): Van Wert County District 4 (3-year term): Mercer and Darke counties The board meets monthly to review the financial and operating performance of your cooperative. They review reports from the CEO and department managers and provide general direction for management decisions.

Other important issues — such as long-term planning and whether to change electric rates — are also acted upon by the board. Candidates commit to strive to do what is in the best long-term interests of the cooperative.

Interested? Candidates must complete the official petition form and file it in our office by 8 a.m. May 2. Call us at 800962-3830 for details or for a copy of the Code of Regulations.

VOTE COMING SOON

2022 Code of Regulations proposed update You’re not just a customer; you’re a member-owner. You have a vote on any proposed changes to our Code of Regulations. The Midwest Electric Board of Directors is asking for your support to approve the following proposed code updates. You’ll receive a ballot in May for this spring’s director elections along with the proposed code changes.

You can vote by mail or online.

Summary of Proposed Changes (addition highlighted, deleted text crossed out) Article IV – Directors; Section 3 – Qualifications (a) No person shall be eligible to become or remain a member of the Board who: (i) is not of legal age; (ii) is not a member and bona fide resident in the particular district within the service area of the Cooperative which he is to represent; or (iii) is in any way employed by or financially interested in a competing enterprise or a business selling electric power and/or energy, or electric utility distribution supplies to the Cooperative, or a business primarily engaged in selling electrical or plumbing appliances, fixtures or supplies to the members of the Cooperative.

A member who has a distributed or renewable energy system primarily to offset their own facility use but may be selling limited overproduction to the cooperative is not excluded from serving on the Board.

Explanation of reason for proposed change: Currently, a

member who is a plumber, electrician, or related trade, or sells appliances or plumbing or electrical supplies would NOT be allowed to serve on the board. We believe this is old language from decades ago, when Midwest Electric used to sell appliances and helped members with inside wiring. At that time, it would have been a conflict of interest. That is not the case today, as Midwest Electric is not engaged in those businesses.

This proposed change, recommended by the cooperative’s board of directors, would remove the phrase and thereby allow such a member to serve on the board.

In addition to removing that language, the board proposes adding language (“electric utility distribution” supplies) that would prohibit a member who sells electric utility distribution supplies from serving on the board.

Such supplies typically include poles, power line (wire), transformers, meters, etc. Such supplies are by far the cooperative’s largest material expenses every year, and it would clearly be a conflict of interest for such a member to serve on the board.

APRIL 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 20C

MIDWEST ELECTRIC ENERGY EFFICIENCY

6 WAYS TO SAVE THIS SPRING S JOEL JOHNS ENERGY ADVISOR & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR

pring is here. The weather is getting warmer, and the days are growing longer. It’s the perfect time to start those outdoor projects you’ve been planning and explore new ways to make your home more energy efficient. The following home improvements and lifestyle changes will help lower your energy bills and reduce your environmental impact.

1. Spring cleaning While you’re chasing those dust bunnies around, look for ways to save energy. Clean under and behind your refrigerator to keep it operating efficiently. Dust lightbulbs to get more light for your money. If you have a sliding glass door, wash the track. Dirt buildup can damage the door seal and create gaps where cool air can escape.

2. Check your cooling system Hire a qualified professional to inspect and clean your air conditioning system. Replace the system’s air filter and adjust thermostat settings for warmer weather. If you haven’t done so already, install a programmable thermostat. It will optimize savings and add convenience by adjusting the temperature to fit your schedule — automatically!

3. Install ceiling fans Ceiling fans circulate the air, making rooms feel cooler, which means you can raise the temperature setting up to 4 degrees without compromising comfort. Remember that ceiling fans only make you feel cooler, not the room.

Turn them off in empty rooms to avoid wasting energy.

4. Seal air leaks Gaps and cracks in doors and windows send conditioned air — and your energy dollars — outside. Weatherstrip exterior doors and seal windows with caulk. Check for any gaps around outdoor plumbing and wiring access and seal with expanding foam insulation.

5. Plant some shade Arbor Day is coming. Celebrate by planting a shade tree along the south- or west-facing side of your home. Trees help shield your home from the sun in summer, keeping 20D OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2022

you cool and reducing your energy bill. They are good for the environment, too. Remember to call 811 before you dig and consider the mature height of trees; select a location away from power lines.

6. Live greener Spring is the perfect time to renew your commitment to living a greener lifestyle. Walk or ride a bike instead of driving a car whenever possible. Start a compost bin for recycling kitchen and yard waste. Install a rain barrel to save water for landscaping. Also, remember to reduce, reuse, and recycle whatever you can!

By taking these steps, you can save energy and live more sustainably this spring and all year long.

MARCH BILL NOTICE:

You will see your 2021 patronage allocation on your March bill. This is the fund where you accrue your patronage cash back from Midwest Electric each year, based on your electric usage.

When the Midwest Electric Board retires capital patronage (typically at the end of the year), that’s when you’ll see a credit on your account.

That’s the cooperative difference: Being a member of a not-for-profit, memberowned co-op PAYS off!

Thinking about going electric? Don’t forget our $200 rebate for level 2 electric vehicle charging stations is available for members. Visit midwestrec.com/rebates or call our office for more information.

CHARGE

UP

Free Charging at

Niekamp Farm Market 6133 Olding Rd, St Henry *Free for a limited time only.

APRIL 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 21

MIDWEST ELECTRIC

ANNUAL MEETING Saturday, June 4 • Co-op updates and family fun St. Marys Memorial High School, 2250 State Route 66 8:15 a.m.

Registration, FREE breakfast buffet, and activities begin 9:15 a.m.

Business meeting — lasts only 45 minutes!

• $1,000 scholarship drawing; must be present to win

YOU MAY BE CONTACTED FOR A SATISFACTION SURVEY

If you receive a call or email asking you to take a survey about your satisfaction with Midwest Electric, rest assured it is legitimate and secure.

• $2,000 in cash prizes • Energy efficiency booths • Q&A and updates from co-op leaders • Health fair (Grand Lake Health) • Board of directors election results • Kids’ activities and bounce land

Your opinions help us to serve you better.

In April, Midwest Electric will be working with NRECA Market Research Services to complete a member satisfaction survey. The surveys will be both by phone and email, but not everyone will be contacted. If you are contacted, we would greatly appreciate a few minutes of your time to share your opinions of the cooperative.

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

All information is confidential.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

OFFICE

06029 County Road 33A Saint Marys, OH 45885 CONTACT

800-962-3830

ACCESS YOUR ACCOUNT ONLINE

www.midwestrec.com Report an outage and pay your bill through our free mobile SmartHub app.

Larry Vandemark, president James Wiechart, vice pres.

Randy Heinl, secy./treas.

Steve Bauer Bob Barnt Kathy Brake Gary R. Knapke Roger W. Rank Courtney Burton Attorney

OFFICE HOURS

Monday–Friday 7:30 a.m.–4 p.m.

22 OHIO 2022 22 OHIOCOOPERATIVE COOPERATIVELIVING LIVING •• APRIL MARCH 2018

CEO

Matt Berry mberry@midwestrec.com

A copy of Midwest Electric, Inc.’s Articles of Incorporation and Code of Regulations is available from the co-op office and online at midwestrec.com.

Call us to receive your copy.

FIND US ON:

Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

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24 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2022

Union Saver

An admiration of Ohio’s own U.S. Grant on his 200th birthday.

BY CRAIG SPRINGER

O

hio is known for producing more United States presidents than any other state in the Union — eight in all, including several who were veterans of the Civil War. First among the veterans, and perhaps appropriately so, was General Ulysses S. Grant.

American victory at Bunker Hill in the American Revolution. Perhaps, then, it was no surprise that the 5-foot, 2-inch 17-year-old Grant would accept an appointment to the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York, in 1839.

Grant had the benefit of education as a boy, as his parents were of apparent means to pay for schooling.

Grant attended private schools in Georgetown, as well as the Maysville Seminary across the river in Kentucky.

In his late teens, he attended a school operated by the Presbyterian minister John Rankin in Ripley, Ohio. Rankin is perhaps best known as an ardent and outspoken abolitionist. He was perhaps the most significant conductor of freedom-seeking slaves on the Underground Railroad. It’s no great intellectual leap to think that Rankin’s ethos toward individual liberty affected the future warrior-president.

His father, Jesse, a tanner by trade, was an avowed abolitionist Whig — as were many southern Ohioans at the time. He petitioned Congressman Thomas Hamer, a Georgetown, Ohio, schoolteacher, lawyer, and former speaker of the Ohio House of Representatives, for his son’s appointment to the military academy. Hamer obliged.

Grant descended on his father’s side from a family longestablished in America, dating to the Massachusetts Bay Colony circa 1630. His great-grandfather served the British in the French and Indian War, and his grandfather aided the colonists’ cause at the famed

The irony is palpable: Hamer was a pro-slavery Jacksonian Democrat. And there’s this: Hamer did not know the Grant family well, and his recommendation for the teenager erroneously named him “Ulysses S. Grant,” assuming the young man took his mother’s maiden name as a middle name. The congressman’s mistake in nomenclature turned Hiram in to “U.S.,” which became his nickname at the academy — short also for “Uncle Sam,” which also explains why friends and close associates also called him “Sam.” Grant completed his studies at West Point in 1843, by then having grown another 5 inches. The 5-foot, 7-inch

He was born Hiram Ulysses Grant two centuries ago this month along the Ohio River where it starts to make its serious bend to the north toward Cincinnati in Clermont County. It was April 1822 — not too far removed from the frontier period. His parents, Jesse and Hannah Simpson Grant, had made a home in Point Pleasant, Ohio, a year earlier, and in fact, just a few years after the tiny river town was platted.

APRIL 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 25

Grant’s successes in the South were legion, and that convinced Lincoln to have Grant lead the whole affair and draw the horrible war to a close. Grant vanquished Lee at Appomattox Courthouse, and there signed the terms of the South’s surrender.

second lieutenant landed at Jefferson Barracks, Missouri, where he served in the infantry (despite his demonstrable horsemanship) and also met and married a Missourian, Julia Dent.

Jefferson Barracks was commanded by General Stephen Kearney and would serve as the launching point from where the U.S. Army would invade Mexico in 1846 and take over much of today’s American Southwest.

Grant, serving in a regiment of regulars, served with great distinction, but the affair left him questioning the legitimacy of vanquishing an easily conquered foe and examining his own conscience in the matter.

In 1854, following bouts with drunkenness, he resigned his Army commission and returned to civilian and family life in Missouri. By turns he failed at several endeavors: farming, tannery, firewood sales, and real estate speculations. When the Civil War began, he accepted a commission as a U.S. Army colonel to lead a regiment of Illinois volunteers. His experience in Mexico served the Union cause well, as he understood that victories are made in supply lines away from the tactical battlefield.

Grant’s successes in the South were legion, and that convinced Lincoln to have Grant lead the whole affair

26 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2022

and draw the horrible war to a close. Grant vanquished Lee at Appomattox Courthouse, and there signed the terms of the South’s surrender.

His popularity soared, and he ascended to the presidency in 1869. He would sign into law Reconstruction and Civil Service acts, macerate the Klan, champion the 15th Amendment, create the U.S. Fish Commission, and establish our first national park, Yellowstone.

Along with Grant’s bicentennial birthday, this year also marks the sesquicentennial of his 1872 reelection. Grant, a Radical Republican, was challenged in the primary by Ohioan Salmon P. Chase, who holds the distinction of having served in Congress, in a presidential cabinet, and on the U.S. Supreme Court. The Democrats did not put up a candidate, and instead endorsed Horace Greeley, from a splinter group called the Liberal Republicans, who was selected at that group’s convention in Cincinnati in May of that year. Grant vanquished Greeley in November.

Grant had another nickname from his initials and from his war exploits: “Unconditional Surrender.” But he surrendered to throat cancer in 1885 at the age of 63.

Fortunately for us, the Union survived because of a tenacious patriotic Ohioan shaped by his youth along the north-flowing bend in the river.

SCOUTS WHO

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Projects show the determination, diligence, and can-do spirit of aspiring Eagle Scouts.

STORY AND PHOTOS BY JAMIE RHEIN

H

ead to most parks around the state — from small-town playgrounds to urban greenspace to metroparks — and you’ll often see something that’s been added or improved as the result of an Eagle Scout project. Using a combination of can-do spirit and hours of labor, Eagle Scouts have provided parks (and schools and municipalities and lots of other entities) with benefits such as animal habitats, walkways, footbridges, landscaping, shelter revamps, and much more.

Often armed with wood, cement, and a variety of tools, along with fierce determination, members of Scouting BSA (formerly Boy Scouts of America) from across the country aim for the Eagle rank. Since 1911, when Eagle Scout became the organization’s highest level of achievement, only 4% of Scouts in the U.S. have earned the honor. Nine U.S. presidents have been involved in Scouting, but of them, only Gerald Ford rose to its highest rank.

The path to Eagle Scout includes a rigorous set of requirements that must all be completed before the Scout turns 18: positions of troop leadership, a selection of required and optional learning on a wide variety of subjects (merit badges), and, most famously, completion of a project that benefits the community.

Before his 18th birthday, Alan Rosenbeck, now assistant park manager at Highbanks Metropark between Columbus and Delaware, looked to Preservation Parks in Delaware County for his Eagle project. The wood duck boxes he built years ago in Char-Mar Park are still in use. Today, Scouts from around the region look to him for their own project support.

“I have Eagle Scouts coming every year,” he says. “Scouts have built barred owl and flying squirrel boxes, taken on repairs, rebuilt structures, or upgraded landscaping.”

In 2020, Nishanth Kunchala of Troop 428 from Powell took on several Highbanks initiatives. “The more he did, the more he wanted to do.” By the time Kunchala was done, he, along with fellow Scouts and others, revamped a picnic shelter building, replaced picnic table boards, and installed ADAaccessible grills and a new brick patio base.

“Currently, we are developing a natural play station.

Another Scout designed and mulched the trail leading to that project,” says Rosenbeck. The trail also curtails invasive species, which was the Scout’s original idea. Along with boosting park offerings, Rosenbeck sees Eagle projects as a way Scouts learn what’s possible.

28 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2022

Luke Steffens learned what was possible 10 years ago when his Eagle project transformed a nondescript patch of invasive weeds and dirt in Scioto Audubon Metro Park south of downtown Columbus into a riot of color — a native-species flower garden that serves as a monarch butterfly way station. “I’m glad I helped the park do its mission of attracting native wildlife,” Steffens says. The core of the garden’s pathway near the nature center is still intact, and the New England asters, coneflowers, and butterfly weeds continue to attract butterflies.

Heather Williamson has been with the metroparks system for more than 20 years. “It’s a pleasure to watch how Scouts grow throughout the projects,” she says. At Rocky Fork, one of the parks she manages, Scout-made feeders offer birds a place to fuel up, and a new dog park shelter offers visitors a respite from the sun or rain.

Anthony Steines, a member of Troop 101 in Warren, turned to technology for his Eagle project. One of the troop’s annual projects is to place flags on veterans’ graves in Warren’s Oakwood Cemetery. The historic cemetery, opened in 1848, is a peaceful place of leafy trees and graves that date to the Revolutionary War. Many of them, weathered over time, are difficult to read, and Scouts would have a difficult time each year finding which stones needed flags. So Steines created a map and website, with photos and descriptions, that allow both the troop and public at large to find those graves and honor those veterans. “By giving back to the community, you’re able to see what’s needed” and then fill that need as an Eagle project, says Matt McCracken, scoutmaster of Troop 101 and himself an Eagle Scout.

Since girls were first allowed to join Scouting BSA in 2019, more than 31,000 girls have joined — including Libby Greenbaum, Union County’s first female Eagle Scout. Her father, Lanny, an Air Force veteran, inspired Libby to renovate the entrance of the American Legion Post in Marysville. She removed the ripped tarp and broken plexiglass that had covered the entrance and led a project to build a covered, wood-sided entryway. As part of American Legion Park, the building is next to the municipal pool and the walking path. Its fresh look shows off the community pride and the Eagle Scout’s can-do spirit. “I was very impressed with what she did,” says Mel Cantrell, the post commander. Greenbaum’s work “made a huge difference.”

Notable Ohio Eagle Scouts • Astronaut Neil Armstrong earned his Eagle Scout award in 1947 as a member of Troop 14 in Wapakoneta.

• U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown earned his Eagle in 1967 in Mansfield, in a ceremony that was attended by John Glenn.

• Milton Caniff, the cartoonist famous for comic strips Terry and the Pirates and Steve Canyon, earned his Eagle while growing up in Hillsboro.

Libby Greenbaum (top), Union County’s first female Eagle Scout, renovated the entrance to Marysville’s America Legion Post for her Eagle project; from left: Lars Haapala is one of numerous Scouts guided each year by Alan Rosenbeck, assistant manager at Highbanks Metropark; Luke Steffes’ project in Scioto Audubon Metro Park still draws monarch butterflies 10 years after its completion; Anthony Steines created a digital map to aid Scouts as they place flags at veterans’ graves in Warren.

APRIL 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 29

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HIGH POINT Check out the beauty and history of Buzzardsroost Rock — Ohio’s ‘other roof.’

BY KEVIN WILLIAMS

H

igh ground is challenging to find in Ohio. Alaskans, with their towering Denali, or even Arkansans, with their Ozarks, probably chuckle at the thought of our “high spots.”

Of course, the best-known Ohio pinnacle — the highest point — is Campbell Hill, which rises 1,550 feet above the surrounding plains.

But with the manicured lawns of the Ohio Hi-Point Career Center technical school atop it, one doesn’t necessarily get much of a “wilderness” vibe there.

For a taste of rural and wild, head to Buzzardsroost — Ohio’s “other roof” — a rocky outcropping overlooking the untamed and chocolate-colored Brush Creek, which carves a treacherous valley through Adams County. The view atop Buzzardsroost is one of the best Ohio has to offer. And at close to 1,000 rocky feet high, it seems like one of the state’s highest points.

Each time of year offers something different.

Winter is a solitude of quiet and barren beauty.

Spring is a time of reawakening and colorful songbirds. Summertime cloaks the hills in emerald beauty and wildflower bouquets. And autumn? Stake out a spot and watch the trees covering the valley alight in flaming oranges, crimson reds, and crisp rusts.

Adams County is a study in contrast to the rest of the state. The hardscrabble hills are honeycombed with creeks that pour down from the rocky ridges. Black bear meander into the county from the east in search The increased popularity of the trail to Buzzardsroost Rock has spurred a spate of improvements, such as a boardwalk and steps up part of the trail.

32 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2022

of summer fruits and honey-filled hives. The hills of Adams County are the westernmost whisper of the Appalachians. The county’s rocky ridges shrouded in a summer haze have earned them the moniker of the “Little Smokies,” miniature cousins of their Tennessee counterparts. The place is also steeped in Civil War lore, and the ghosts of Morgan’s Raiders still haunt from their trail of terror through the Union hinterlands.

The Buzzardsroost trailhead is well marked off Route 125 near the town of Lynx — the name an homage to the bobcat, which still prowls these forests. There’s an overflow parking lot on the other side of 125 if the smaller trailhead lot is full — which happens at certain times of year.

An estimated 8,000 hikers have been coming to Buzzardsroost each year recently, according to Mike Hall, Appalachia forest manager at the Nature Conservancy, which manages the trail.

“The secret’s out,” says Carly Powell, a hiker in the Cincinnati Hikes Facebook forum of Buzzardsroost, advising people to arrive early in the day for a hike to avoid crowds.

The Buzzardsroost preserve honors Emma and Christian Goetz, siblings and scions of the well-known Cincinnati beer barons, who would come here to escape the city. A century later, people are still coming here to escape the city.

The trail underwent significant upgrades over the past couple of years, making the Buzzardsroost beauty Continued on page 34

APRIL 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 33

Continued from page 33

Notes from the trail Make sure not to ost confuse Buzzardsro H. Rock with The Earl ’s rd Barnhart “Buzza erve Roost” Nature Pres . in Ross County Buzzardsroost Rock is located on State Route 125 near the town of Lynx.

Take a water bottle and a snack and pla n for a 2 /1 2-hour hik e.

Explore the nearby Wilderness Trail, which runs a 2.4-mile loop through the Edge of Appalachia Preserve.

easier to access. While the hike is still rigorous, wooden planks and boardwalks now make the terrain easier to traverse.

Look closely and you will notice lizards skittering up many of the trees. Eastern fence lizard numbers have been on the decline in Ohio in recent decades, but they’re common on the rocky top of Buzzardsroost, where they sun themselves.

About halfway up Buzzardsroost, the trail splits into a loop: one branch off to the right, the other to the left. The right side is slightly longer at 1.2 miles, the left is an even mile. I decided to take the long journey up and save some time down with the shorter route. I enjoyed the solitude, as this rural outpost had rendered my phone signal-less and I was relishing the quiet.

The recent improvements to the Buzzardsroost trail were born from necessity, says Chris Bedel, preserve director.

The growing popularity of the trail was a continuing threat to the native vegetation that occurs there. There’s also the issue of the steep cliffs — if you meander off the path, enticed by the beauty of a view, you may find yourself on the edge of a drop of hundreds of feet.

If you meander too far off the trail, you may find yourself on the edge of a drop of hundreds of feet.

34 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2022

All of the improvements have been made with one eye on the future, but one looking back in homage to E. Lucy Braun, the famed ecologist from the University of Cincinnati who studied the area back in the late 1920s and ’30s. “The photo on the sign is E. Lucy knee-deep in prairie vegetation instructing a group of college students, thus showing the lushness of what the prairie vegetation looked like prior to heavy visitation,” Bedel says, adding that Braun was instrumental in the protection of Buzzardroost through her research, advocacy, and even her efforts to form what would become The Nature Conservancy itself.

As I ascended Buzzardsroost, the sounds of cars on 125 faded, and a whispering wind from the south dredged up warm valley air. When I finally made it to the top, I was greeted with a serene panorama of Adams County’s rugged beauty. I wanted to linger and soak in the history and majesty of the area. I munched on granola and watched vultures ride the thermals as they rose from the valley. And I was high enough above Brush Creek to catch a phone signal. My solitude was broken by the ping of a text and suddenly my escape into the wilderness was interrupted. Next time, I’ll turn off my phone.

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APRIL/MAY

COMPILED BY COLLEEN ROMICK CLARK

APR. 16–17, APR. 29–MAY 1 – AKC Fast CAT, The Gated Dock-Canine Enrichment Ctr., 7251 OH-98, Shelby.

Come watch the dogs compete in Fast CAT (Coursing Ability Tests). 419-961-4711, www.thegateddock.com, or find us on Facebook.

APR. 19, 21 – Flowerpot Workshop, Crossway Farms Greenhouse, 2211 Cisco Rd., Sidney. Join us at the greenhouse to plant a flowerpot for downtown and one for yourself. 937-658-6945 or www.sidneyalive.org.

APR. 22–23, MAY 14–15 – The Fantastic Tiffin Flea Market, Seneca Co. Fgds., 100 Hopewell Ave., Tiffin, Sat. 9 a.m.–4 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.–3 p.m., rain or shine. Free; APR. 10, 17, 24 – Glass Art Workshop, Toledo Museum handicapped accessible. 250 to 400 dealers per show. A of Art, Glass Pavilion Hot Shop, 2445 Monroe St., Toledo, browser’s delight! 419-447- 9613, tiffinfleamarket@gmail. com, or www.tiffinfleamarket.com.

12 p.m. $42 for members, $52 for non-members. You decide which glass object you’ll make. 419-255-8000 or APR. 23 – Chocolate and Wine Walk, 5495 Liberty www.toledomuseum.org.

Ave., Vermilion, noon–4 p.m., rain or shine! $20.

Take a stroll through downtown Vermilion while APR. 16 – Easter Egg Hunt, Northwest Ohio Railroad sampling chocolate treats and/or wine as you visit the Preservation Inc., 12505 Co. Rd. 99, Findlay, 10 a.m.–2 participating shops. This year’s theme is Derby Hats, p.m. $3 adults, $2 children 12 or under (includes a train so get creative to win a prize! 440-967-4477 or www. ride). Continuous egg hunt with multiple age divisions from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Fun and treats for all participating vermilionohio.com. youngsters! Quarter-scale train rides until 4 p.m. 419-423- APR. 24 – Glass City Marathon, 2801 W. Bancroft 2995, www.nworrp.org, or www.facebook.com/nworrp. St., Toledo. One of the fastest marathon courses in the APR. 16 – Easter Egg Hunt on the Square, 109 S. Ohio Midwest, regularly in the top list of Boston Marathon qualifying events. 26.2-mile marathon, 13.1-mile half Ave., Sidney. Children ages 1–11 (through 5th grade) search around the Historic Court House for hidden eggs. marathon, 5K, five-person relay, and kids’ run (ages 5–12). www.glasscitymarathon.org.

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

APR. 30 – Toledo Doll, Bear, and Toy Show, Total APR. 16 – Hayes Easter Egg Roll, Spiegel Grove, Sports Rossford, 10020 S. Compass Dr., Rossford, Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library and 10 a.m.–3:30 p.m., early admission 8:30–10 a.m. $7, Museums, Fremont, noon–3 p.m. Each child should under 13 free; early bird, $20. Antique, vintage, artist, bring three hard-boiled colored eggs. Children ages and modern dolls and bears/critters; related items, 3–10 are invited to participate in a variety of egg games that replicate the famous White House Easter accessories, and much more. Door prizes, ID/valuation, and on-site restringing. www.toledodollshow.com.

Egg Roll started by President Hayes. Enjoy games, crafts, and a visit with the Easter Bunny. 419-332MAY 4–7 – Annual Quilt Show, Founders Hall at 2081or www.rbhayes.org.

Sauder Village, 22611 St. Rte. 2, Archbold, Wed.–Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Hundreds of quilts on display from around

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APR. 23 – Ramps and Rails Festival, Elkins Depot, 315 Railroad Ave., Elkins. Ramp-themed foods, live music, and craft vendors. 304-365-7803 or www. elkinsdepot.com/events/ramps-and-rail-festival.

APR. 23 – West Virginia Food Truck Festival, Eleanor Park & Fair Grounds, Park Road, Eleanor, 12–5 p.m.

Free. Food trucks, artisan vendors and demonstrations, a corn hole tournament, and great live music 304-7577282 or www.wvfoodtruckfestival.com.

the region, as well as a quilt shop and vendor market, special exhibits, demos, and workshops. Quilt appraisals on Thursday and Friday, and by appointment on Saturday. 800-590-9755 or https://saudervillage.org.

MAY 7 – Kentucky Derby Affair on the Square, 109 S. Ohio Ave., Sidney. Get your hats and bow ties ready for this derby-themed fundraiser for Sidney Alive. Join us for a garden soirée on the Square, including a derby foot race featuring local celebrity jockeys! Email your celebrity nomination to events@sidneyalive.org. 937658-6945 or www.sidneyalive.org.

MAY 7 – Spring Fest Car Show, Van Wert Co. Fgds., Van Wert, 4–7:30 p.m. $10 fee gives access to all vendors. All cars welcome; only those prior to 1986 will be judged. Dash plaques for first 75; door prizes and goody bags; live DJ spinning the ’50s and ’60s records.

419-733-0055 or www.vanwertcountyfair.com.

MAY 7–8 – “Springtime in Ohio” Old Mill Stream Craft Show, Hancock Co. Fgds., 1017 E. Sandusky St., Findlay, Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–4 p.m. $6, under 12 free. Early-bird shopping, Sat. 8–10 a.m., $8.

419-436-1457 or http://cloudshows.biz.

MAY 13–15 – NADD Dock Diving Competition, The Gated Dock-Canine Enrichment Ctr., 7251 OH-98, Shelby. Spectators are welcome at the entertaining North America Diving Dogs competition. 419-961-4711, www.thegateddock.com, or find us on Facebook.

MAY 13–15, 20–22 – A Fox on the Fairway, Encore Theatre, 991 N. Shore Dr., Lima, Fri./Sat. 8 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. A charmingly madcap adventure about love, life, and man’s eternal love affair with … golf. 419-223-8866 or www.amiltellers.org.

MAY 14 – Lilac Festival and Street Fair, Clinton Street, Defiance, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Free. Celebrate the official flower of Defiance with the community’s largest arts and crafts fair. Free lilacs to the first 750 attendees. Arts and craft vendors, unique food vendors, and kids’ activities.

419-782-0739 or http://visitdefianceohio.com/events.

MAY 14–22 – West Virginia Strawberry Festival, downtown Buckhannon. Food vendors specializing in strawberry treats of all kinds, arts and crafts show, horse and carriage parade, carnival, exhibits, and much more!

304-472-9036 or www.wvstrawberryfestival.com.

Make sure you’re included in our calendar!

Submit listings AT LEAST 90 DAYS prior to the event to Ohio Cooperative Living, 6677 Busch Blvd., Columbus, OH 43229 or send an email 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.

MARCH 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 37

2022 CALENDAR

APRIL/MAY

NORTHEAST

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. 15–MAY 8 – The Great Steubenville Eggsibition, downtown Steubenville, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Three-foot-tall Easter eggs will be placed in downtown businesses for an all-city, all-ages Easter egg hunt! The 28 giant eggs were painted by local artists. Maps available at Leonardo’s Coffeehouse, the Steubenville Visitor Center, and many local shops. Call 740-632-8909 or www. steubenvillenutcrackervillage.com/eggsibition.

APR. 16 – Avon Spring Avant-Garde Art and Craft Show, Emerald Event Ctr., 33040 Just Imagine Dr., Avon, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. $3, under 12 free. Artists and crafters sell original handmade items. Full concessions on-site. 440227-8794 or www.avantgardeshows.com.

APR. 21–24 – Geauga County Maple Festival, Historic Chardon Square, Chardon, Thur. noon–10 p.m., Fri./ Sat. 10 a.m.–11 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–7 p.m. Maple syrup and candy contest, lumberjack competition, beard and mustache contest, bathtub races, pageants, and much more. All-you-can-eat Pancakes in the Park every day, 8 a.m.–2 p.m. 440-286-3007 or www.maplefestival.com.

APR. 22–23 – Earlier Times Antiques and Folk Art Show, Harvest Ridge, Holmes Co. Fgds., 8880 St. Rte. 39, Millersburg, Fri. 4–7 p.m., Sat. 10:30 a.m.–3 p.m. For more information, contact Cheryl Williams at 614-9895811 or cew3557@yahoo.com.

APR. 23 – Spring Craft and Vendor Show, Market Square at Crocker Park, 239 Market St., Westlake, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Free. Crafters, artists, and small businesses to shop. www.facebook.com/events/602458850949602.

APR. 23–24 – Wayne County Home and Garden Show, 199 Vancouver St., Wooster, Sat. a.m.–6 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Free. More than 200 exhibitors offering services and products. 330-262-5735 or www. woosterchamber.com/wayne-county-home-garden-show.

APR. 24 – Wayne County Coin Club 68th Annual Coin Show, Wooster High School, 515 Oldman Rd., Wooster, 9 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Free. Dealers and displays; door prizes.

Food on premises. 330-264-9976 or www.wccvb.com.

APR. 29–30 – Watch Fob, Memorabilia, and Toy Show and Sale, Lakeside Sand and Gravel, 3540 Frost Rd., Mantua, Fri. 9 a.m.–8 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Free.

The world’s largest display of watch fobs for show or sale, construction equipment memorabilia, gravel pit tours. Free refreshments! www.watchfob.com or www. facebook.com/IWFAI. APR. 29–30 – Wayne County Cupcake Tour, the Kidron/Orrville area, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. $15. Seven stores, seven cupcakes, one sweet tour! 800-438-5346 or www. lehmans.com/events for details and ticket information.

APR. 30 – Smithville Village Yard Sales, various locations, Smithville, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Approximately 100 yard/garage sales, all in one village! 330-669-2781.

APR. 30–MAY 1 – Ohio Civil War Show and Artillery Show, Richland Co. Fgds., 750 N Home Rd., Mansfield, Sat. 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. $7, under 12 free. Military items, relics, and memorabilia to buy,

SOUTHEAST

THROUGH DECEMBER – Athens Farmers Market, 1000 E. State St., Athens, Sat. 9 a.m.–noon; Wed. 9 a.m.–1 p.m., April–November. Buy local and support your local economy. The market showcases farmers, orchardists, specialty food producers, bakers, horticulturalists, cheese makers, and many other food-based entrepreneurs. 740-593-6763 or www. athensfarmersmarket.org.

APR. 14–16 – Annual Wildflower Pilgrimage, Highlands Nature Sanctuary, 7660 Cave Rd., Bainbridge. $150. Includes two days of field trips to botanical hot spots; three meals (pack your own light lunches); and two evening presentations. Space is limited; registration

38 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2022

is required. 937-365-1935 or www.arcofapplachia.org/ annual-wildflower-pilgrimage.

APR. 17 – Singin’ in the Rain, Athena Grand, 1008 E. State St., Athens, 7 p.m. Celebrate the 70th anniversary of this classic musical. 740-593-8800 or www. athenagrand.com.

APR. 22 – Lonesome River Band/Almost Famous, 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. 740-827-0957 or www.facebook.com/ PennyroyalBluegrassOhio.

APR. 22–23 – The Buck Fifty, Majestic Theatre, 45 E. Second St., Chillicothe, 12 p.m. Overnight, 150-mile relay race that will take runners throughout Ross County.

Runners: $500–$1,350. www.thebuckfifty.com.

APR. 23 – Central Center Car Show, 660 Central Center, Chillicothe, 9 a.m. Bring your classic cars, rat rods, trucks, sports cars, and more! $15 pre-registration gets you a free T-shirt and dash plaque. Vendors, music, trophies, 50/50 raffle, and family fun! www. visitchillicotheohio.com/events.

APR. 23 – Earth Gathering Festival, Pump House Center for the Arts, 1 Enderlin Circle, Chillicothe, 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Free. A juried-invitational art festival with an Earth Day theme designed to enlighten, entertain, and inspire the public with Earth-friendly art, music,

sell, or trade. Cannon firing demos, WWII small arms demos, Civil War hospital scenario and battleground encampments, and much more. 419-884-2194 or www. ohiocivilwarshow.com.

MAY 5 – First Fridays on Fourth, 155 N. 4th St., Steubenville, 6–10 p.m. Free. Monthly themed celebration featuring art, crafts, games, food trucks, live entertainment, and activities to stimulate the imagination. www.theharmoniumproject.org/first-Fridays.

MAY 5 – National Day of Prayer Event, LaGrange Community Park, 422 W. Main St., LaGrange, noon.

All are welcome. Please bring your own lawn chair.

440-355-4561.

MAY 6–7 – Dandelion May Fest, Breitenbach Wine Cellars, 5934 Old Rte. 39 NW, Dover, Fri. noon–7 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.–7 p.m. Dandelion wine tastings, cellar tours, dandelion sangria, dandelion food, live entertainment, arts and crafts, and vendor fair. 5K walk/run and 10K run Saturday. 330-343-3603 or www.breitenbachwine.com/ events/dandelion-festival.

MAY 7 – Annual Harrison Coal & Reclamation Historical Park Dinner/Auction, Hopedale VFD Social Hall, 103 Firehouse Lane, Hopedale, 4–10 p.m. $20.

Buffet-style dinner at 5 p.m., auction around 7 p.m. For reservations/information or to donate items, call 740391-4135 or 740-942-3895, email info@hcrhp.org, or visit www.hcrhp.org.

MAY 14–15 – Rockarama Jewelry, Gem, Crystal, Fossil, and Mineral Show, Soccer Sportsplex, 31515 Lorain Rd., North Olmsted, Sat. 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $6, free for kids under 12 and Scouts in uniform. Exhibits, demonstrations, silent/Chinese auctions, door prizes. Fun for the whole family! www. parmalapidary.com/Big1.asp.

food, products, and ideas. 740-772-5783 or www. visitchillicotheohio.com/events.

APR. 23–24 – Lucasville Trade Days, Scioto Co. Fgds., 1193 Fairground Rd., Lucasville. $5, under 13 free. Free parking on fairground lots. 937-728-6643 or www. lucasvilletradedays.com.

MAY 4–SEP. 28 – Courtside Open Air Market, 801 Wheeling Ave.., Cambridge, every Friday, 8 a.m.–noon.

Local plants, produce and flowers, handmade goods, and homemade baked goods. 740-680-1866 or find us on Facebook.

MAY 5–8 – Vinton County Wild Turkey Festival, East Main Street, McArthur. Nightly entertainment, carnival rides and games, car show, quilt show, queen and baby contests, food, and family fun. Grand Parade takes place Saturday at 6 p.m., followed by crowning of the festival queen. https://vcwtf.org/index.html or www.facebook. com/wildturkeyfestival.

MAY 6–21 – Heirloom Plant Sale, Adena Mansion and Gardens, 847 Adena Rd., Chillicothe, Wed.–Sat. 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. noon–5 p.m. Choose from among 85 varieties of herbs, tomatoes, vegetables, and flowers.

Metal art and hanging baskets will also be available for purchase. www.adenamansion.com/events.htm.

CENTRAL

THROUGH APR. 30 – Spring Farmers Market, Weasel Boy Brewing Company, 126 Muskingum Ave., Zanesville, 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Locally grown produce, homemade food, locally raised/processed meat, farm eggs, Ohio cheese, and much more! www.zanesvillefarmersmarket.org.

APR. 12, MAY 10 – Inventors Network Meeting, virtual, 7 p.m. Educational presentations and discussion about the invention process. Meetings are held the 2nd Tuesday of each month virtually. 614-470-0144 or www. inventorscolumbus.com.

APR. 15 – “Bring the Farm to You,” Franklin Park Conservatory, 1777 E. Broad St., Columbus, near Children’s Garden entrance, 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Program included in museum admission; registration not required.

A real-life farm is coming right to the Conservatory!

Kids can interact with chicks, chickens, ducks, a turkey, rabbits, sheep, goats, and a pig during this petting zoo experience. www.fpconservatory.org/events.

APR. 22–24 – Mohican Wildlife Weekend, various locations in Ashland and Richland counties. Free. A celebration of wildlife habitat, heritage, and natural history. Choose from more than 11 program sites that will offer workshops and demonstrations to interest beginners and experienced naturalists alike. 800-6428282 or www.mohicanwildlifeweekend.com.

SOUTHWEST

THROUGH APR. 30 – Workshops: Easter Egg and Bunny Paperweights, 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. 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.

THROUGH MAY 25 – Bluegrass Wednesdays, Vinoklet Winery, 11069 Colerain Ave., Cincinnati, Wed. 6:30–8:30 p.m. Enjoy dinner, wine, and an evening of free bluegrass entertainment by Vernon McIntyre’s Appalachian Grass. Reservations strongly recommended. 513-385-9309 or vinokletwinery@fuse.net.

APR. 8–9 – Midwest Ceramic Association Show, Butler Co. Exhibition Bldg., Butler Co. Fgds., 1715 Fairgrove Ave., Hamilton, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Ohio’s original ceramic show. www.midwestceramics.org.

APR. 23 – Tony Danza: “Standards and Stories,” Marion Palace Theatre, 276 W. Center St., Marion, 7:30 p.m. $32–$54. Combining timeless music with wit, charm, storytelling, and a dash of soft shoe and ukulele performances, Danza performs a selection of his favorite standards from the Great American Songbook while interweaving stories about his life and personal connection to the music. 740-383-2101 or www. marionpalace.org.

APR. 23–24 – Annual Daffodil Show and Sale, 537 Jones Rd., Granville, noon–6 p.m. Free. Hundreds of daffodils will be on display throughout the historic Bryn Du Mansion. Learn how to plant, arrange, and care for these wonderful spring flowers. You can also order bulbs for your own garden. www.oagc.org.

APR. 23–24 – Ohio Button Show: “A Passion for Fashion,” Crowne Plaza Columbus-North Worthington Hotel, 6500 Doubletree Ave., Columbus, Sat. 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 9:30 a.m.–2 p.m. $5. Join us for buttons, competitions, and fun! Saturday evening presentation is “Todd Oldham’s Flair Everywhere.” 614-885-1885 or www.ohiobuttons.org/SpringShow.html.

APR. 24 – Southeastern Ohio Symphony Orchestra Concert, Brown Chapel, Muskingum University, College Drive, New Concord, 7 p.m. $15. 740-8268197 or http://seoso.org.

APR. 29 – Repose of Abraham Lincoln and Civil War Encampment, Ohio Statehouse, 1 Capital Square, Columbus, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. The 1st Ohio Light Artillery, Battery A, a group of Civil War reenactors, will provide an honor guard in the Rotunda where Lincoln lay in repose on this day in 1865. They will also hold an encampment on the statehouse lawn, with cannon firings. https://ohio. org/festivals-and-events/events.

APR. 29–MAY 1 – A Spring Gathering, Franklin Co. Fgds., Burke Bldg., 4100 Columbia St., Hilliard, Sat. 9 a.m.–4 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. $5 at door,

under 15 free. Early buyer: Fri. 9 a.m.–4 p.m., $10 (buy online). 125+ vendors. Modern made, vintage, boutique clothing, designers, growers and bakers, food trucks, and live music. 614-296-1621, http:// thevintageandmademarket.com, or www.facebook.com/ RoundBarnVintageandMadeMarket.

MAY 6 – BritBeat, Marion Palace Theatre, 276 W. Center St., Marion, 7:30 p.m. $20–$30. With mop-tops, retro costumes, vintage instruments, and harmonizing vocals, the band performs all the Beatles’ hits from the sixties.

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

MAY 6 – Pickerington Chocolate Hop, beginning at Columbus and Center streets, Pickerington, 6–8:30 p.m. $5 donation gets you a map of locations around Olde Pickerington Village where you will receive a little chocolate treat as a thank-you. Limited number of maps; donate in advance. www.pickeringtonvillage.com.

MAY 7 – Herb Day, Veterans Memorial Park, 73 W. Johnstown Rd., Gahanna, 9 a.m.–2 p.m. Join us in celebrating Gahanna’s 50th anniversary as the “Herb Capital of Ohio”! Visit our marketplace to see what our local artists and herb-based businesses have to offer.

Purchase locally sourced herbs at our plant sale. 614642-4372 or www.ohioherbalcenter.org.

MAY 7–8 – Central Ohio Folk Festival, Highbanks Metro Park, 9466 Columbus Pike (Rte. 23), Lewis Center, Sat. 10:30 a.m.–9:30 p.m., Sun. 10:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.

Suggested donation $10 per adult, $20 per family.

Three performing stages, 30+ music workshops, an ongoing “jam” tent (all welcome), kids’ programming, and more. Saturday night headliner act: The Way Down Wanderers. Food trucks on-site. 614-470-3963 or www. columbusfolkmusicsociety.org/festival.html.

MAY 7–OCT. 29 – Coshocton Farmers Market, 300 block of Main Street, Coshocton, Sat. 8:30 a.m.–12 p.m.

Fresh local-grown produce; artisans with handmade crafts. www.facebook.com/coshoctonfarmersmarket.

APR. 17 – Easter Egg Hunt, Young’s Dairy, 6880 Springfield-Xenia Rd., Yellow Springs, 2 p.m. Free. Open to children up to age 10. Each year, Young’s hard-boils and dyes over 7,000 eggs for this fun family event. 937325-0629 or www.youngsdairy.com/easter-egg-hunt.

APR. 22 – Bluegrass Night, Fibonacci Brewing Company, 1445 Compton Rd., Cincinnati, 7–9 p.m. Free.

Enjoy an evening of lively bluegrass music by Vernon McIntyre’s Appalachian Grass. Wide variety of craft beers and food truck eats available on-site. 513-8321422 or http://fibbrew.com.

APR. 22–24 – Bellbrook Sugar Maple Festival, downtown Bellbrook. Food vendors, nightly beer garden, live entertainment, craft booths, parade, kids’ activities, 6K run, dog show, pancake breakfast. Locally sourced, authentic sugar maple syrup will be available for purchase. www.sugarmaplefestival.com.

APR. 22–24 – Vintage Market Days: “Live Love Vintage,” Greene Co. Fgds., 120 Fairground Rd., Xenia, Fri./Sat. 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. $5–$7.50, under 13 free. 120 vendors offering furniture, home décor, vintage and handcrafted items, jewelry, boutique clothing, and much more. Food trucks and live music all weekend. www.vintagemarketdays.com.

APR. 23 – Vernon McIntyre’s Appalachian Grass, Sterling Bluegrass Jamboree, 26 E. Main St., Mt. Sterling, 5 p.m. Enjoy an evening of lively bluegrass music. Music kicks off at 4 p.m. with the Sterling Bluegrass Band. Home-cooked food, including pies, available on-site. 614-323-6938, sterlingbluegrassjamboree@gmail.com, or www. sterlingbluegrassjamboree.com/upcoming-events.

MAY 6 – First Friday Concert Series: Ronstadt and Fisher, First United Methodist Church, 120 S. Broad

St., Middletown, noon–1 p.m. Free; handicapped accessible. Dynamic, original, moving duets with cello and piano featuring Michael Ronstadt and Serenity Fisher. Bring your lunch if you like. 513-423-4629 or www.myfumc.net.

MAY 6 – Vernon McIntyre’s Appalachian Grass, Butler County Bluegrass Association, 5113 Huston Rd., Collinsville, 7–9 p.m. Free. Join us for an evening of lively bluegrass music. Reasonably priced home-style food available on-site. 937-417-8488.

MAY 7–8 – Appalachian Festival, Coney Island, 6201 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati, Sat. 10 a.m.–9 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–6 p.m. $3–$12, under 6 free. Handmade crafts and demonstrations, down-home food, Living History Village, educational exhibits, old-time dance, storytelling, and music. May 7 features the lively bluegrass music of Vernon McIntyre’s Appalachian Grass and many other bands. 513-251-3378 or www. appalachianfestival.org.

MAY 14 – Loveland Spring Arts and Crafts Show, Loveland Primary School, 550 Loveland Madeira Rd., Loveland, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. $3. Approximately 100 artists/crafters with unique handcrafted items, including jewelry, baby items, woodcrafts, candles, and more. Bring a nonperishable food item for a free raffle ticket. Concessions on-site. 513-476-5187 or lovelandcraftshow@gmail.com.

MAY 14 – Vernon McIntyre’s Appalachian Grass, Hamilton’s Urban Backyard, 501 Main St., Hamilton, 7–10 p.m. Free. Enjoy an outdoor evening of lively bluegrass music featuring lightning-fast instrumentals, close harmonies, and entertaining novelty songs.

Local craft brews and food trucks available on-site.

Consider bringing a lawn chair. 513-893-9482, info@ hubhamilton.com, or www.hubhamilton.com.

APRIL 2022 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 39

MEMBER INTERACTIVE

1

SCOUT’S honor

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1. Our proud Brownie Scout, Elise, age 8.

Amy Ruane Midwest Electric, Inc., member

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2. At the Memorial Day celebration in Hinckley, Ohio, a Cub Scout hands a carnation to my father, John Ascherl, a World War II Army veteran.

Antoinette Hawk Guernsey-Muskingum Electric Cooperative member 3. My son Clayton at his Eagle Scout Court of Honor.

Misty McGiffin South Central Power Company member 4. My son David is the newest Cub Scout in Frankfort’s Simon Kenton Council pack.

Linda Hurless South Central Power Company member

5

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5. My sons, Bradley and Kyle, posing before marching with their pack in our Veterans Day parade.

Brianne Moore Washington Electric Cooperative member 6. Raising of the Colors at a campout 13 years ago at the Troop 217 Scout cabin in New London. Six of the Scouts in this photo went on to earn the Eagle Scout rank.

Terry Knudsen Firelands Electric Cooperative member (and Troop 217 scoutmaster) Below: E ric Wampler and Joshua Jerome, from Troop 701 in Sunbury, at their Eagle Scout Court of Honor.

Lisa Jerome Consolidated Cooperative member

Send us your picture!

F or July, send “Sparklers” by April 15; for August, send “Sunflowers” by May 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

SPONSORED BY OHIO’S ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES

Nominate a Bright Light in Your Community Inspired by a cooperative member making a difference in your community? Tell their story and they could win $500!* Ohio’s electric cooperatives value those who elevate and energize our communities. That’s why we’re excited to announce the 2022 #WhoPowersYouOhio contest, to honor electric cooperative members who display the qualities of a servant leader in your community. Share their story with us. Together, we will celebrate the power of human connections. Nominate someone special today!

Visit ohiocoopliving.com/wpyo between May 1, and June 4, 2022. Submit a photo of your nominee. Tell us why that person inspires you and how they make a difference in your cooperative community. Deadline for entries: 11:59 p.m., June 4, 2022.

Prizes: Based on their positive impact to their electric cooperative community, up to ten nominees will be chosen to receive $500. *Visit ohiocoopliving.com/wpyo for full contest rules.

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