Ohio Cooperative Living – December 2025 - Frontier
Co-op members fulfill their son-in-law’s dying wish for an heirloom car.
BY MARGIE WUEBKER
Todd McMullen’s dream was to buy a Ford Mustang Cobra convertible and take his family on rides at dusk underneath a sky ablaze with color.
But that dream hinged on a more serious goal: First, he had to beat his glioma.
Todd had grown up in rural Darke County. He and his wife, Sara, were married in 2010, and he had found success working in the insurance field. But he began feeling unexplainably dizzy and had a lingering headache, and in 2012, doctors gave him the news that no one ever wants to hear.
Glioma is a fast-growing type of cancer that affects the brain and nervous system. Its survival rate varies widely depending on the specific type and how early it’s caught. He immediately began treatment — he followed the specific protocols his specialists ordered and underwent multiple surgeries — and it worked. Periodic follow-up MRIs indicated no suspicious growth.
Todd and Sara started a family — sons Colin and Corey were born a few years apart — and lived each day as a special gift.
The Mustang
At the time, Todd drove a 1989 Ford Mustang convertible, but decided to sell it shortly before they bought their first home in Columbus. “He always regretted doing that,” Sara says. Later, as the boys were getting older, they enjoyed attending the annual London (Ohio) Cobra Show.
“My husband was a dreamer,” Sara says with a chuckle. “Each year we attended that show, he talked about building three Carroll Shelby Cobras — one for Colin,
one for Corey, and one for us. Those were ambitious plans, considering it takes at least a year and a half to build each one.”
And so life went on, including those periodic discussions about that dream car and talks about those sunset drives with the top down. But the dream was interrupted by another dose of reality.
At the beginning of 2024, Todd did not feel well and knew something was amiss. Tests at the Cleveland Clinic confirmed his suspicions — the tumor was no longer dormant, and doctors also found at least three additional disorders that further complicated his condition, and soon he began feeling pain that was unrelenting.
Motivation
Sara, a former service coordinator with the Franklin County Board of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities, used her skills to investigate holistic treatments and other approaches when traditional protocols like radiation offered little relief.
“Todd would get up in the morning and slowly make his way down the stairs to his recliner,” Sara says. “He could no longer drive due to double vision, there were mobility issues on his right side, and he developed short-term memory problems. But he never complained despite the pain and everything else.”
In July of that year, Sara saw the black Ford Cobra sitting in a neighbor’s yard, a “for sale” sign in the windshield. She knew it was the motivation Todd needed. She helped him to their golf cart and a smile flashed across his face as soon as he saw the vehicle with its distinctive Cobra designs on the seats.
Dreamsat
atsunset
“Todd wanted that car,” Sara says.
He spoke a lot about the Cobra during the ensuing weeks, pointing out that Sara would have to do the driving, or planning which shows he wanted to take it to, or deciding whom he wanted to take around on those sunset drives.
The family spent much of the following months at the Cleveland Clinic, where doctors offered little hope after more tests indicated the cancer had spread to fluid around the brain and to the spinal cord. The disease ultimately claimed his life Oct. 24, 2024, exactly 12 years to the day from his initial diagnosis. He was 42.
Signs, and a decision
The idea of buying the car and fulfilling Todd’s wishes came as the family drove home from the Cleveland Clinic after his death.
Sara says a large truck emblazoned with “Ford” seemed to shadow them during the drive, which she, Colin (then 10), and Corey (6) found comforting because they all knew he was definitely a “Ford man.”
But there was also that sky.
Sara’s parents, Dave and Julie Heuing, members of Piquabased Pioneer Electric Cooperative, were on their way back to their home in Russia (Ohio), and couldn’t help but to be reminded of their son-in-law. “The sunset was unusually beautiful that day and we knew Todd would have loved it,” Julie says. By the time they all got home, she had made a decision.
“I did a lot of praying about buying the car, and I told Sara I wanted to do it for Todd,” Julie says. “I needed to
talk to my husband first, but Dave was in agreement that we should do it for Todd and the boys. My dad had two Mustangs when I was growing up and everything seemed so right.”
The Heuings test drove the Cobra and ended up purchasing it this past summer.
“The first time I took it out I could sense Todd in the passenger seat,” Julie says. “I looked over and told him to fasten his seatbelt because we were going for a ride.”
Sara says she and the boys also feel Todd’s presence when they take a ride in “daddy’s car.” Julie says she may take it to some car shows and might even take a spin along legendary Route 66.
“I am keeping Todd’s dream alive while enjoying the car myself,” she says. “When the time comes, I will pass it on to the boys, just as their dad planned.”
Julie Heuing takes a ride in the Mustang Cobra with her daughter, Sara McMullen, and grandsons Colin and Corey McMullen, who will inherit the car one day.
RECIPES AND PHOTOGRAPHS
BY CATHERINE MURRAY
Day-old delights
Don’t toss that old loaf — save some dough and upcycle that stale bread for some classic people-pleasers.
PEACHES AND CREAM BREAD PUDDING
Prep: 20 minutes | Bake: 1 hour | Servings: 8
6 cups 1 1/2-inch cubed bread*
3 cups fresh or frozen peaches (thawed)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
3 large eggs
1/3 cup sugar
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
*Bread can be frozen for up to 6 months! Keep a bag of bread ends and/or stale bread to use for croutons, bread pudding, and strata. Mixing different kinds, such as white, wheat, rye, sourdough, buns, and baguettes, works well for croutons. Skip adding sweet breads, such as cinnamon raisin, and thaw bread before making into croutons.
1 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Preheat oven to 375 F. Coat an 8x8-inch baking dish (or double recipe for a 9x13-inch dish) with cooking spray and fill with bread. For a firmer pudding, toast bread in oven for 10 to 15 minutes (optional). Meanwhile, in a small bowl, coat peaches with lemon juice; set aside. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, cream, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg. With a slotted spoon, spread peaches over bread, then pour remaining juice across the top. Pour in egg mixture, ensuring all bread visible on top has been coated with liquid, then pour the rest into the crevices. Press down with a spatula so bread soaks up liquid. Bake 55 to 65 minutes, until tips of bread are toasted brown and center is firm when pressed down upon. Dust with powdered sugar (optional) and serve warm.
No matter how you cut it, diagonal, crisscross, or tiny bites, grilled cheese and tomato soup are the perfect pairing on a cold, rainy day.
Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 20 minutes | Servings: 4
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 (28-ounce) cans whole peeled tomatoes in juice
1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano cayenne, salt, and pepper to taste
10 slices stale white bread, divided 2 tablespoons spreadable butter
6 ounces sliced cheese of choice
In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, sauté onion in olive oil for 5 minutes; add garlic and sauté another minute. Transfer onion mixture to a blender or food processor, along with tomatoes in juice. Remove crust of 2 pieces of bread and tear in pieces; add to blender and puree until smooth. Transfer soup back to saucepan; add broth, sugar, basil, oregano, and cayenne, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring regularly, then reduce to a simmer; let cook 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Meanwhile, heat a large skillet (or an electric skillet if making all 4 at once) to medium-high. Butter bread on the outer facing sides of each sandwich and place the 4 bottom pieces butterside down in skillet. Top each piece with 2 slices of cheese and place second piece of bread on top, butter-side up. Cover with lid and grill, checking bottom of bread with a spatula after 3 minutes and continuing until bottoms are a medium brown and flip with ease. If cheese isn't fully melted, replace lid while grilling second side. Continue until bread is equally grilled on both sides and cheese is fully melted.
3 1/2 cups 1-inch cubed bread* garlic powder and black pepper for sprinkling
Melt butter in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. When butter is foaming, add cubed bread; stir multiple times to coat. Sprinkle with garlic powder and black pepper, stir, and sprinkle again. Stir once or twice a minute for 5 to 7 minutes, until golden brown on all sides. To keep for up to 2 weeks, cool completely before placing in an air-tight container and store in a cool, dry place.
When bread loses its freshness over time, it becomes optimal for turning into panko breadcrumbs you can use to create crispy appetizers and fried favorites. It’s a flavorful coating for breaded meats and vegetables, or as a crunchy topping for casseroles. Stale bread becomes a treasure trove of possibilities for your next culinary adventure — such as the eggplant Parmesan pictured below.
AIR FRYER PANKO BREADCRUMBS
Prep: 10 minutes | Fry: 5 minutes | Servings: 6*
4 slices day-old white bread
1 tablespoon olive oil
salt
Cut off bread crusts and discard. Dice bread into evenly sized cubes, approximately 1/2 inch. Discard any crumbs, as they soak up the oil and fall through the fryer basket. Spread oil on the bottom and sides of a large container or bowl with matching lid. Pour in diced bread; cover and toss to coat. Sprinkle lightly with salt; cover and toss once more. Fill fryer basket with a loose single layer of bread cubes.
Cook on air fryer setting (300 F) 3 minutes, rotate tray 180 degrees and continue cooking, keeping a close eye until lightly toasted. Set tray on a heatsafe surface until cooled, then toss cubes into food processor and pulse into small crumbs. Store in an airtight container in pantry for up to a week, in fridge for up to a month, or in freezer for 3 months. Makes approximately 1 cup.
Frontier Power upgraded our Darling Substation this past summer by removing four smaller transformers and installing one 7.5-MVA transformer. Three new regulators managing voltage going out onto our system were also installed. This will increase the capacity of the substation, enhance reliability, and improve efficiency. This increased capacity will allow us to restore power more quickly should another substation experience an outage.
These upgrades help with growing demand, replacing aging equipment, and integrating new technology. Previous upgrades were completed in 2018. Frontier Power continues to keep our system in excellent condition to better serve our members.
Payment assistance options
We understand hard times happen. If you need help with your electric bill, please review the options below. Call our office at 740-622-6755 for more information.
Payment extensions
Members having trouble paying their electric bills by the due date can sign up for a payment extension, which enables the member to extend the due date for the past-due amount. Payment extensions must be completed prior to the scheduled disconnection. If a member defaults on the payment extension, the service is subject to immediate disconnection without notice. Members are REQUIRED to call in to our office during business hours to make a payment extension. Frontier Power can be reached 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at 740-622-6755
Winter Crisis Program (Local Emergency HEAP Program)
The Home Energy Assistance Winter Crisis Program helps Ohioans with household income at or below 175% of the federal poverty guidelines who are facing disconnection or have been disconnected. The program runs November 1 through May 1.
KnoHoCo (Knox, Holmes, Coshocton counties)
Coshocton County: 740-622-9801
Knox County: 740-397-0378
Holmes County: 330-674-1111
Harcatus (Harrison, Carroll, Tuscarawas counties) Tuscarawas County (Dover): 330-343-8770
GMN Tri County (Guernsey, Muskingum, Noble counties) Muskingum County: 740-453-5278 Guernsey County: 740-685-2422
There is also a one-time Ohio HEAP benefit available from the state. Visit development.ohio.gov for information and application.
Depending upon your criteria, you MAY qualify for assistance from the following agencies:
Job & Family Services, Coshocton County: 740-622-1020
Job & Family Services, Tuscarawas County: 330-339-7791
Job & Family Services, Muskingum County: 740-454-0161
Coshocton Salvation Army: 740-622-0971
Tuscarawas Salvation Army: 330-364-3811
Coshocton Veterans office: 740-622-2313
Tuscarawas Veterans office: 330-339-1163
Coshocton United Way: 740-622-4567
Tuscarawas United Way: 330-343-7772
WE DO ACCEPT PAYMENTS AND VOUCHERS FROM LOCAL CHURCHES AND LOCAL CHARITY GROUPS.
week of building memories, skills, leadership, and friendships that will last a lifetime! Experience the trip of a lifetime with Youth Tour!
• Explore Washington, D.C., through historic monuments, world-class museums, and visits with elected officials.
• Build leadership skills and discover how you can make your mark on the future.
• Connect with students from across the country and form friendships that last a lifetime, all sponsored by Frontier Power Company.
Learn more about applying at www.frontier-power.com/ youth-opportunities
To obtain rules and applications for the Children of Members Scholarship, visit www. frontier-power.com/youth-opportunities. Deadline to apply: Feb. 2, 2026 Are your parents Frontier Power members? If so, you could win up to $4,600 in scholarships!
Portable space heaters: using them safely
Electric heaters can make your home cozy, but they come with risks. Learn how to stay safe and warm.
Many people rely on portable electric space heaters for supplemental heat when the cold weather arrives. However, this popular appliance comes with some risks. The Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates that more than 1 ,700 residential fires every year are associated with the use of space heaters, resulting in an average of 70 deaths and 160 injuries annually.
This winter, protect your home and family with these safety tips:
• Look for the safety certification logo. Ensure the portable heater you purchase has been safety-certified by an independent testing laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL).
• Commit to the 3-feet rule. Portable heaters should be positioned at least 3 feet from combustible materials such as curtains, papers, clothes, and furniture.
• Place the space heater on a flat, stable surface. Position the heater on the floor rather than on a table to eliminate any chance that it could be knocked over. And keep it away from areas with high foot traffic.
• Keep children and pets away from your space heater. Never leave a child unattended in a room with a space heater.
• Look for safety shut-off features. Newer heaters are equipped with a smart sensor that automatically shuts off the heater when it overheats and a tip-over switch that does the same when the heater topples over.
• Plug the space heater directly and securely into the wall outlet. Make sure the cord is not frayed or damaged, and never use an extension cord or power strip.
• Keep an eye on your portable heater. Turn off the heater or unplug it when you leave the room or when you’re sleeping.
• Avoid using a portable electric heater around water. Most space heaters don’t have a GFCI (ground-fault circuit interrupter) plug, which prevents electrical shock. Touching the heater when you’re wet could result in shock or electrocution.
• Keep portable heaters away from flammable liquids. This is especially true in the garage or other work areas where paint and gas cans may be stored.
Space heaters can be an effective way to boost the heat in your home, but they can also add significantly to your electric bill. Running one 1 , 500 -watt space heater for eight hours per day can cost more than $ 40 in electricity per month.
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Cracking good time
The world’s largest collection of life-sized nutcrackers transforms Steubenville for the holidays.
BY MARGIE WUEBKER; PHOTOS COURTESY OF MADELINE STUTZMAN
The idea first came to Steubenville business owner Jerry Barilla in 2015 , when he thought that the sight of empty storefront windows deterred folks from coming to the downtown area to do their Christmas shopping. So, he set up a few nutcracker displays in those windows to make the area a bit more festive.
Fellow businessman Mark Nelson, however, put the concept in overdrive when he and his son-inlaw, Brodie Stutzman, built and erected a life-sized
nutcracker named Junior nearby. “He spent an entire year outside so we could see how he weathered heat, cold, rain, and snow,” Stutzman says. “He was such a hit that we created 150 more over the next few years.”
And so now, a decade after those first displays brought the area to life, more than 200 life-sized nutcrackers — the world’s largest such collection — transform downtown Steubenville each holiday season into the Nutcracker Village. This year’s event will continue through Jan. 9
Visitors to the Nutcracker Village encounter just about any character they could imagine in nutcracker form — from whimsical storybook heroes and cartoon characters to real-life movie and television stars; from historical legends and religious leaders to first responders and service members from the various branches of the military.
Rosie the Riveter is there, along with Charlie Brown, Captain Nemo, Shirley Temple, Pope John Paul II, Scarlett O’Hara, and John Glenn. Notable Steubenville
native Dean Martin has come home in nutcracker form, along with fellow “Rat Pack” members Joey Bishop, Sammy Davis Jr., and Ol’ Blue Eyes himself. New nutcrackers are added every year. (Famed soldier-turnedmovie-star Audie Murphy used to be here, but though most of the creations remain in the community, an outof-town visitor purchased Murphy’s figure to place in a Texas museum honoring the American hero.)
Stutzman says most of the nutcrackers he makes stand around 6 feet tall — with a notable exception. “I made
Continued on page 24
Cracking good time
continued from page 23
the Mouse King is 9 feet tall because I wanted him to look big and impressive,” he says.
The nutcrackers are carved from Styrofoam, which obviously makes the finished product easier to handle than wooden forms. The foam comes in 200-pound blocks — enough material for 14 figures. It takes roughly 400 hours to design, carve, and paint each one, and at the end of the process, they all get a fiberglass outer skin to afford some protection from the elements. Stutzman
estimates an additional 400 hours are spent each year on upkeep and repairs.
All that upkeep couldn’t happen without a legion of volunteers helping with everything from base-layer spray painting to making a twinkle in a Styrofoam eye and updating or repairing wardrobes.
“All the added detail brings each nutcracker to life and gives it personality,” says volunteer Gretchen Nelson, while working on one of the figures with her husband,
Mark. “Painting faces is the hardest part, but doing the hair can be tricky, too. Sometimes you have to take wigs apart and then glue the hair back on in layers, a few strands at a time.”
The wardrobes can also be complicated, depending on the specific character. Nelson recalls having trouble finding just the right fabric, for example, to make a skirt for Glinda the Good Witch. Even finding wands and other accessories is not as easy as it may sound.
It takes two full days to set up the elaborate display along the street and in front of sponsoring businesses. Other events taking place during the Nutcracker Village include a lantern parade led by jolly old St. Nicholas and the Children’s Corner, which offers free face painting, Christmas crafts, and photos with Santa Claus. There’s also a display of 400 Nativity scenes; a German Gluhwein Garden, where vendors set up shop to sell food and an assortment of wares; and several
productions of Woodenheart Follies, a family musical bringing to life nine nutcrackers. All the events are made possible through the Steubenville Cultural Trust, created to bring magic and hope to a city ready for its next great story.
“This all began as a way to revitalize downtown and help businesses,” Mark Nelson says. “We draw more and more people each year, so I think we’re accomplishing our goal.”
For more information, along with a full list of events, visit www.steubenvillenutcrackervillage.com.
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Call us today to lock in your savings before these incentives disappear.
My husband, Tim, and our granddaughters, Kayla and Shelby Ross,
for
Cathy
Our horses enjoying a snowy day out of their stalls. Dawn Balser, Logan County Electric Cooperative member
Cousin fun day in the snow. Janeen Melroy, North Central Electric Cooperative member
Red Dog, enjoying the snow day. Denise Beckman, Butler Rural Electric Cooperative member
Our youngest, Ula, making a pond snow angel. Rana Watt, Darke Rural Electric Cooperative member
My grandson, Elijah, is ready for fun! Tammy Offenberger, Washington Electric Cooperative member
enjoying the snow mound that he plowed up high
them.
Ross, Lorain-Medina Rural Electric Cooperative member
Our sons, Ben and Greg, teaching our grandson, Jake, the art of competitive snowball fights. Pam Long, URE–Union Rural Electric Cooperative member
Relics
of faith
A
19th-century frontier priest created one of the largest collections of religious artifacts in the U.S. — in a rural Ohio convent.
BY MARGIE WUEBKER
When Francis de Sales Brunner, a Catholic missionary priest from Switzerland, first came to what is now Mercer County in the mid-1840s, one of the substantial number of religious artifacts he brought with him was a depiction of a miracle in which the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared from the rocks of a cliff to save a young boy who had fallen. Brunner established 10 convents after he arrived in the New World. But the monastery that had been created on those Swiss cliffs, called Mariastein (literally “Mary of the Rock”), where he had been ordained, was Brunner’s inspiration when he named the convent that would house his relics: Maria Stein.
His original collection, expanded through acquisitions and donations over the years, has grown into one of the largest collections of holy relics in the country, and today, the Maria Stein Shrine of the Holy Relics draws visitors from around the world to pray and reflect among more than 1,200 documented pieces displayed in a series of three hand-carved wooden altars and assorted glass cases.
The shrine’s executive director, Mark Travis, says relics usually are objects that are associated in some way with Catholic saints, and roughly 95 percent of the collection are considered first class — meaning body parts, usually
bits of bone or hair. Second-class relics are objects, such as a book or a rosary, that were touched or used by a saint; objects that have been touched by a first- or second-class relic, such as a piece of cloth, would be considered thirdclass. The collection also includes slivers of wood that are said to have come from the crucifixion cross and the manger of Bethlehem.
Audio guides are available to help visitors learn more about the shrine, which sits on nearly 30 acres in the unincorporated town of Maria Stein.
Brunner founded the convent for the Sisters of the Precious Blood in 1844; the original frame building that served as the convent and housed the relics stood until a permanent brick building went up in 1860.
When additional relics were given to the sisters in 1875 and pilgrims began arriving, it became clear that larger accommodations were needed. Two new chapels — including one specifically to house the relics — went up in 1892, and a large, modern, four-story motherhouse was completed in 1901. Visitors can still see the outline of the original brick structure in the courtyard.
Numerous wings were added and renovation projects undertaken over the years, and the building was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1976
In the meantime, however, the order moved its motherhouse operations to Dayton, and the number of sisters residing at Maria Stein had declined to a point where the order needed help to oversee and maintain property and holdings. In December 2017, the convent transferred the deed to the shrine’s board of directors.
Travis is often amazed to see license plates from throughout the country in the parking lot. Visitors also come from places like New Zealand, Germany, and Switzerland, drawn there mostly by word of mouth.
Most visitors linger in the two chapels, viewing the relics and colorful stained glass windows imported from Germany.
In the main building, the first floor includes a reception area and a large gift shop. The Heritage Museum on the second floor offers a detailed history of the shrine, with displays showing how early nuns supported the congregation. In addition to creating and selling religious statues made from papier-mâché, they also fashioned vestments with intricate hand-sewn detail, tatted lace, and crocheted altar cloths. The order was mostly self-sufficient, growing vegetables and raising livestock.
The nuns also baked bread and pastries both for their own needs and to serve visitors. Today volunteers bake goods to be served at the Brunner Bake Shop on the third floor.
The adjacent Gathering Place is often used for meetings, programs, meals, and social events.
The building’s fourth floor has not been remodeled and is not currently in use, according to Travis — getting there would be a problem anyway, as the elevator only serves three floors.
Numerous events are held on the grounds every year. The largest of those — the three-day Maria Stein Countryfest each June — is a collaboration with the local Knights of St. John and American Legion Post 571, and features a tractor pull, amusement rides, concessions, and live music, as well as a pilgrimage that is a decades-old tradition.
Travis calls the Shrine’s 180 volunteers the “heartbeat” of the organization, since it employs a small staff. Proceeds from the ongoing heritage fundraising campaign, seasonal events, shop sales, and rental fees from the Gathering Place help maintain the facility.
“The Precious Blood sisters entrusted us with their legacy, and we are committed to preserving it for generations to come,” Travis says. “This is a place for all faiths, offering an atmosphere of peace, prayer, and hospitality.”
Maria Stein Shrine of the Holy Relics, 2291 St. Johns Rd., Maria Stein. www.mariasteinshrine.org.
2025-26 DECEMBER/JANUARY
CALENDAR
NORTHWEST
THROUGH DEC. 30 – Upper’s Winter Fantasy of Lights, Harrison Smith Park, 525 E. Wyandot Ave., Upper Sandusky, Fri.–Sun. 6–10 p.m., Mon.–Thur. 6–9:30 p.m. $10/car, $15/van, $50/tour bus. The park’s 33 acres will be ablaze with millions of lights and a myriad of unique light displays. 419294-2351 or www.uppersfantasyoflights.org.
THROUGH DEC. 31 – Lake of Lights, Saulisberry Park/France Lake, 13344 St. Rte. 67 W., Kenton, 6–9 p.m. daily. $5 per car. Drive-through lighting event. Special events held on the weekends. 567674-4567, lakeoflights08@gmail.com, or www. facebook.com/LakeOfLights.
THROUGH JAN. 3 – NWORRP North Pole Express, Northwest Ohio Railroad Preservation Inc., 12505 Co. Rd. 99, Findlay. $5; 12 and under, $3. Hop on board our quarter-scale trains for a trip through a winter wonderland of lights and festive decorations. See operating toy trains, hundreds of decorated trees, and Santa and Mrs. Claus on select nights. 419-423-2995, www. facebook.com/nworrp, or www.nworrp.org.
THROUGH JAN. 4 – “Hayes Train Special” Model Train Display, Hayes Library and Museums, Spiegel Grove, 1337 Hayes Ave., Fremont. Free; donations accepted. Operating
SOUTHWEST
THROUGH DEC. 31 – Light Up Middletown, Smith Park, 500 Tytus Ave., Middletown, 6–10 p.m. nightly. Drive-through fantasy light display, open in all weather. Admission by cash donation — you set the price! www.lightupmiddletown. org.
THROUGH DEC. 23 – North Pole Express, LM&M Railroad, 16 E. South St., Lebanon. $35–$50; under 2, $10. Visit with Santa and his elves as you take a ride on a vintage train! Children
model train display runs through an intricate Victorian holiday scene. Interactive buttons, multitiered layout. 419-332-2081 or www.rbhayes.org.
DEC. 6 – Christmas at Apollo Craft Show, Apollo Career Center, 3325 Shawnee Rd., Lima, 9 a.m.–2 p.m. $5; 12 and under free. Over 100 crafters selling homemade and handcrafted wares. Food available for purchase. www.facebook.com/apollocareercenter.
DEC. 6 – Donuts with Santa, Koenig Equipment, 306 N. Main St., Botkins, 10-11:30 a.m. Festive fun, sweet treats, and a visit from the jolly elf, plus holiday savings on John Deere toys and merchandise. www.koenigequipment.com/ resources/events.
DEC. 8–22 – Winter Wonderland Light Display, Sandusky Co. Fgds., 901 Rawson Ave., Fremont. Drive-through, Dec. 8–18 and 21–22, 6–8 p.m., $5 per car. Walk-through, Dec. 19–20, 6–9 p.m., $2, under 12 free. 419-332-5604 or www. sanduskycountyfair.com.
DEC. 19 – Classic Movie Night: It’s a Wonderful Life, Hancock Historical Museum, 422 W. Sandusky St., Findlay, 7 p.m. Free; donations accepted. Historical information presented before and discussion after the movie. Popcorn and refreshments provided; feel free to BYOB. 419423-4433 or www.hancockhistoricalmuseum.org/ special-events.
DEC. 19–20 – Hayes Home Holidays: “Spirits of Christmas,” Spiegel Grove, 1337 Hayes Ave., Fremont, 5–9 p.m., final tour starting at 8 p.m. Tour the Hayes home and hear beloved Christmas stories by Charles Dickens. Before your tour, enjoy the “Hayes Train Special” model train display in the auditorium. 419-332-2081 or www. rbhayes.org.
DEC. 19–20 – Silver Screen Classics: It’s a Wonderful Life, Valentine Theatre, 400 N. Superior St., Toledo, 7:30 p.m. $8. See Frank Capra’s perennial holiday classic on the big screen. 419-
will receive a souvenir bell and a holiday cookie. Hot chocolate available for purchase. www. lebanonrr.com/holiday-special-events.
THROUGH DEC. 28 – Ornament Blow, Neusole Glassworks, 11925 Kemper Springs Dr., Cincinnati, Wed./Thur. 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Fri.–Sun. 10 a.m.–8 p.m. (closed 24th and 25th). $45 per 15-minute session. Must be 5 years and older. With help from our professional glassblowers, you can make your own Christmas ornament from hot molten glass! Reservations required. 513-751-3292 or neusoleglassworks@hotmail.com.
THROUGH JAN. 4 – Holiday Lights on the Hill, Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park and Museum, 1763 Hamilton-Cleves Rd., Hamilton. Tues.–Thur., Sun.: 6–9 p.m.; Fri./Sat.: 6–10 p.m.; closed Mondays. $25 per carload. Drive-through tour featuring over 1 million lights and illuminated installations by local artists. www.pyramidhill. org/events/lights.
THROUGH JAN. 28 – Bluegrass Wednesdays, Vinoklet Winery, 11069 Colerain Ave., Cincinnati, Wed. 6:30–8:30 p.m. Enjoy dinner, wine, and
242-2787 or www.valentinetheatre.com.
DEC. 26–31 – Horse-Drawn Sleigh and Trolley Rides at Spiegel Grove, 1337 Hayes Ave., Fremont, 1–4 p.m. $6 trolley, $7 sleigh; 2 and under free. Rides are drawn by South Creek Clydesdales. 419-332-2081 or www.rbhayes.org.
DEC. 31 – Lima Symphony NYE Pops: Queen in Concert, Veterans Memorial Civic and Convention Center, #7 Town Square, Lima, 7:30 p.m. $40–$50. Ring in the new year with this rock spectacular that brings the iconic music of Queen to life. 419-222-5701 or www.limasymphony.com.
JAN. 3 – Model Train Clinic, Hayes Presidential Library and Museums, Spiegel Grove, 1337 Hayes Ave., Fremont, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. $5; 5 and under free. Veteran model train hobbyists will examine your model train and help you with issues. You can also run your trains on the “Hayes Train Special” track. 419-332-2081 or www.rbhayes.org.
JAN. 3–4 – Tri-State Gun Show, Allen Co. Fgds., 2750 Harding Hwy., Lima, Sat. 8:30 a.m.–4 p.m., Sun. 8:30 a.m.–2 p.m. $8; 18 and under free. Cash only. Over 400 tables of modern and antique guns, edged weapons, and sportsmen equipment. 419-647-0067 (Manetta Obringer) or www. allencofair.com/events-calendar.
JAN. 6–MAY 12 – Line Dancing, Delphos Eagles Aerie #471, 1600 E. Fifth St., Tues. 6–7:30 p.m. $5 Step-by-step instructions given at the beginning of each class. Everyone can learn! Private lessons also available. Taught by Kelly Jackson Kroeger (see her Facebook page). www.visitgreaterlima. com/calendar.
JAN. 8 – Alter Ego: The World of Rock n’ Roll, Crouse Performance Hall, Veterans Memorial Civic and Convention Center, #7 Town Square, Lima, 7:30 p.m. $25–$76. Tribute show catapulting you through a time warp where ’70s disco fever clashes with ’80s rock rebellion and ’90s pop anthems. 419-224-1552 or www.limaciviccenter.com.
an evening of free entertainment by Vernon McIntyre’s Appalachian Grass. Reservations recommended. 513-385-9309, vinokletwinery@ fuse.net, or www.vinokletwines.com.
DEC. 1–31 – ParkLights at Caesar Ford Park, 520 S. Stringtown Rd., Xenia, 6–9 p.m. Drivethrough dazzling light display. 937-562-6440 or www.gcpkstrails.com/events/parklights.
DEC. 10–11 – “Jingle Jazz: The Nutcracker Remix,” The Redmoor, 3187 Linwood Ave., Cincinnati, 7 p.m. $10–$35. This swinging holiday tradition features jazzy takes on classic carols and soulful seasonal surprises. We also will be celebrating the release of CCJO’s brandnew Nutcracker Remix album. 513-227-1039 or www.cincinnatijazz.org.
DEC. 19 – A Madcap Christmas Carol, Oxford Community Arts Center, 10 S. College Ave., Oxford, 7–8 p.m. Featuring Madcap Puppets. A brand-new, family-friendly twist on a classic tale. Recommended ages: 4–10 513-524-8506 or www.oxarts.org.
NORTHEAST
THROUGH DEC. 28 – Ashtabula County’s Lights on the Lake, Lakeshore Park, 1700 E. 1st St., Ashtabula, Fri.–Sun. 6–9 p.m.; Dec. 24–25, 6–9 p.m. Car/van $5, bus $1/person, mini bus $20 Largest holiday light display on Lake Erie, with over 70 displays on 54 acres of rolling hills and the majestic backdrop of Lake Erie. 440-993-1051 or www.aclotl.com.
THROUGH DEC. 28 – Elegant Illusions DriveThrough Park, Portage County Randolph Fgds., 4215 Fairground Rd., Atwater. $20 car; $40–$50 limo/tour bus. All-new LED displays, the latest in animatronics, and over 50 holiday scenes, plus visits with Santa and Mr. Grinch. 330-947-2974 or www.elegantchristmaslighting.com.
THROUGH DEC. 31 – “Brightman Family Christmas: Holidays at the Mansion,” Victorian House Museum, 484 Wooster Rd., Millersburg, Sun.–Thur. 1–4 p.m., Fri./Sat. 1–8 p.m. $10; seniors and veterans/active military, $9. Step back in time and celebrate the holidays in
WEST VIRGINIA
Victorian splendor! 330-674-0022 or https://www. holmeshistory.com/museum.
THROUGH JAN. 3 – Christmas at the Fort, Historic Fort Steuben, 120 S. 3rd St., Steubenville. Holiday Market, colorful lights and decorations, puppet shows, photo opportunities, music, Christmas Shoppe, Holly Trolley rides, and tours of Fort Steuben. www.oldfortsteuben.com.
THROUGH JAN. 9 – Steubenville Nutcracker Village, downtown Steubenville. Free. See 200 large-as-life, unique nutcrackers stationed amid lights and holiday decorations throughout the downtown 24/7. Also enjoy hayrides, children’s activities, music, crafts, and much more! 740-2834935 or www.steubenvillenutcrackervillage.com.
DEC. 4–23, 26–30 – Stan Hywet’s Deck the Hall, Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron, 3–8 p.m. $13–$28; 2 and under free. Over 1 million holiday lights across the estate, dazzling winter-themed décor inside the Manor House, shopping, refreshments, and visits with Santa. 330-315-3287 or https://stanhywet.org/ events/deck-hall.
DEC. 5–7, 12–14 – Candlelight Holiday Tours of the Big House, Malabar Farm, 4050 Bromfield Rd., Lucas, Fri./Sat. 5–8 p.m., Sun. 1–4 p.m. $6 adults, $4 children. Self-guided tours of Louis Bromfield’s historic home, all decked out for the holidays. Enjoy cookies and warm drinks after the tour. 419-892-2784 or www.facebook.com/ MalabarFarm/events.
DEC. 5–7, 12–14, 20–28 – Medina County Fair Drive Thru Holiday Lights, Medina Co. Fgds., 720 W. Smith Rd., Medina, Sun.–Thur. 6–9 p.m., Fri./Sat. 6–10 p.m. Cars $10, small bus/15-
passenger van $20, large bus $70 330-723-9633 or www.medinaohiofair.com.
DEC. 13–14 – Jingle Mingle Craft and Vendor Show, Ehrnfelt Recreation Center, 18100 Royalton Rd., Strongsville, Sat. 9 a.m.–2 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Free admission. Over 70 vendors selling handmade crafts, wood items, home decor, seasonal items, handmade cards, and much more. www.hometownvendors.org.
DEC. 14 – Willoughby Winter Pop-Up Shop, Willoughby Senior Center, 36939 Ridge Rd., Willoughby, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Free admission/ parking. Join us for our last show of the season, where artists and crafters will be selling their original handmade items. www.avantgardeshows. com.
DEC. 21 – Flea Market of Collectables, Medina County Community Center, 735 Lafayette Rd., Medina, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. $3. Early bird special admission 6–9 a.m., $4. A treasure trove of vintage items and collectibles. 330-948-4300 or https://conraddowdell.com/event.
JAN. 3 – Snow Dogs Train Show, Emidio and Sons Expo Center, 48 E. Bath Rd., Cuyahoga Falls, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. $6; under 12 free. Free parking. Operating layout of several gauges, many dealers, good food at reasonable prices. www.cvsga.com.
JAN. 7–11 – Ohio RV Supershow, I-X Center, Cleveland, Wed.–Fri. 12–9 p.m., Sat./Sun. 10 a.m.–9 p.m. $15–$18; 12 and under free. Discover the latest RV models, meet industry experts, and find everything you need for your next adventure. Demos, fun activities, and entertainment. www. ohiorvshow.com.
THROUGH DEC. 29 – Celebration of Lights, Morris Park, Fairmont. $10/car, $40/bus. See over 540 Christmas light displays in this 1 3-mile drivethrough tour. Wednesdays are walker nights and are closed to traffic: $5/person; under 12 free. Closed 24th and 25th. 304-366-4550 or www. celebrationoflightswv.com.
THROUGH JAN. 4 – Winter Festival of Lights, Oglebay Resort, Wheeling, nightly from dusk to midnight. Featuring 300 acres of twinkling lights over a 6-mile drive, with more than 100 lighted attractions. Suggested donation of $30 per car; pass good for the entire festival season. 877-4361797 or www.oglebay.com.
2025-26 DECEMBER/JANUARY
CALENDAR
SOUTHEAST
THROUGH DEC. 20 – The Christmas Cave, White Gravel Mines, 4007 White Gravel McDaniel Rd., Minford, Fri./Sat. 4–10 p.m. Free admission; donations appreciated. See the story of Christ’s birth unfold around you in lighted displays throughout the cave. 740-820-6161 or www. whitegravelmines.com/the-christmas-cave.
THROUGH DEC. 20 – Santa Train, Hocking Valley Scenic Railway, Nelsonville Depot, 33 W. Canal St., Nelsonville. $19–$24; under 3 free. Santa boards the train and visits with each child as the train traverses the historic Hocking River Valley. See website for dates and times. www. hvsry.org/train-rides/santa.
CENTRAL
THROUGH JAN. 4 – Butch Bando’s Fantasy of Lights, Alum Creek State Park Campgrounds, 3311 S. Old State Rd., Delaware, Sun.–Thur. 5:30–9 p.m., Fri./Sat. 5:30–10 p.m. Locally owned and family-operated drive-through holiday light show. See website for ticket information. 614-412-3499 or https://butchbandosfantasyoflights.com.
THROUGH JAN. 6 – Nativity at Cathedral Square, St. Joseph Cathedral, 212 E. Broad St., Columbus. Free. Historic outdoor life-sized Nativity display (formerly at State Auto). Lighting times: daily 6–8 a.m., 5–11:30 p.m.; until 12:30 a.m. Fri./Sat.; Christmas Eve 3 p.m. until 8 a.m. Christmas Day. Choir schedule available at www. facebook.com/catholicmuseumcolumbus.
DEC. 7 – Coshocton Community
Choir: Christmas Festival Concert, River View High School Auditorium, 26496 St. Rte. 60, Warsaw, 3–4:30 p.m. Free-will donations only. The 80-voice adult choir, the Coshocton Youth Chorale,
THROUGH DEC. 21 – The Magic of Christmas Mansion Tours, Belmont County Victorian Mansion Museum, 532 N. Chestnut St., Barnesville, Fri. 5–8 p.m., Sat./Sun. 1–4 p.m. Join us for some Christmas cheer and see our mansion museum decorated for the season. www.belmontcountymuseum.com.
THROUGH DEC. 31 – Dickens Victorian Village, downtown Cambridge. Stroll the downtown streets to view more than 100 lifelike scenes that capture the spirit of Victorian England. 800-9335480 or www.dickensvictorianvillage.com.
THROUGH JAN. 1 – Guernsey County Courthouse Holiday Light Show, Cambridge. Synchronized light and music shows nightly. More than 85,000 lights, two amazing 23-foot Christmas trees, and 60 animated displays. 800933-5480 or www.dickensvictorianvillage.com.
THROUGH JAN. 4 – Winterfest, Market Square Park, Portsmouth. Get ready to step into a winter wonderland where the festive spirit comes alive, with an ice skating rink, craft vendors, food trucks, live music, carriage rides, and even visits with Santa Claus himself! www. friendsofportsmouth.com/Winterfest.
DEC. 10 – A Christmas Carol, Peoples Bank Theatre, 222 Putnam St., Marietta, 7 p.m. $29–$54. A dazzling new adaptation of Dickens’
beloved classic Christmas story, with more than two dozen timeless Christmas carols woven throughout the production. 740-371-5152 or www.peoplesbanktheatre.com/event.
DEC. 11, 18, 20 – Victorian Christmas Tours: The Davis Family Christmas, The Castle Museum, 418 4th St., Marietta, 7–8 p.m. $14 50; 7 and under free. Reservations recommended. Step back into 1888 and discover how the Davis family celebrated the holiday season. Enjoy engaging stories, immersive displays, and interactive moments. 740-373-1480 or www. mariettacastle.org.
DEC. 16 – Christmas with John Berry, Majestic Theatre, 45 E. Second St., Chillicothe, Time: 7:30 p.m. $32–$57. The Grammy-winning singer/ songwriter is back for his 29th annual Christmas tour, featuring classic carols, fan favorites like “O Holy Night,” and heartwarming stories. VIP packages available. www.majesticchillicothe.net.
DEC. 31 – New Year’s Eve Train and Fireworks, Hocking Valley Scenic Railway, Nelsonville Depot, 33 W. Canal St., Nelsonville, 10:30 p.m.–12:30 a.m. $25–$38. The train will travel to East Logan and return, stopping near the stroke of midnight to ring in the new year with a fireworks display! Refreshments served. www. hvsry.org/train-rides.
the Coshocton Singers, the Roscoe Brass, and additional instrumentalists will perform sacred choral music, familiar Christmas tunes, hymns, classical and popular works, and more. 740-6230554 or www.coshoctoncommunitychoir.org.
DEC. 12 – Columbus Symphony Orchestra Holiday Spectacular, Faith Memorial Church, 2610 W. Fair Ave., Lancaster, 7:30 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Adults $30, children $10 Tickets available online or by calling the CBUSArts Ticket Office at 614-469-0939 or the church office at 740-654-1711. For more information, visit www. columbussymphony.com or www.faithm.ch.
DEC. 13 – Holiday Cookie Walk, Fairfield County Genealogical Research Library, 503 Lenwood Dr., Lancaster (corner of West Mulberry and Lenwood), 1–4 p.m. Homemade cookies $6 per pound. 740653-2573 or www.fairfieldgenealogy.org.
DEC. 14 – Columbus Winter Avant-Garde Art and Craft Show, Makoy Event Center, 5462 Center St., Hilliard, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $3; under 12 free. Artists and crafters will be selling their original handmade items. Full concessions stand on-site. A portion of proceeds will benefit a local nonprofit, Hope Hollow. www.avantgardeshows.com.
DEC. 20–21 – Scott Antique Market, Ohio Expo Center, 717 E. 17th Ave., Columbus, Sat. 9 a.m.–6 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Free admission. Parking $7. America’s favorite treasure hunt! info@scottantiquemarket.com or www. scottantiquemarkets.com.
DEC. 21 – Last Chance Holiday Market, Historic Granville Inn, 314 E. Broadway, Granville, 11 a.m.–
4 p.m. Free admission and parking. A Made Local event in Ohio’s very own Hallmark Christmas village! 30 vendors. 614-937-7177 or www. facebook.com/madelocalevents/events.
JAN. 2 – First Friday Art Walk, downtown Zanesville, 5–8 p.m. Come downtown on the first Friday of the month, when all our participating galleries, studios, and small businesses are open at the same time! For a map of current participants, visit https://artcoz.org/arts-districtmap.
JAN. 2–4 – Columbus Building and Renovation Expo, Ohio Expo Center, Kasich Hall, 717 E. 17th Ave., Columbus, Fri. 12–6 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–5 p.m. $5; under 18 free. Parking $7. From top-quality exhibits to insightful demos and more, you’ll discover thousands of ways to design or renovate your home. www. homeshowcenter.com.
JAN. 9–18 – Ohio RV and Boat Show, Ohio Expo Center, 717 E. 17th St., Columbus. $13–$15; 12 and under free. Parking $7. See the new year’s RVs, campers, boats, pontoon/tritoons, PWC, golf cars, and motorcycles. www.ohiorvandboatshow.com.
JAN. 11 – Buckeye Valley FFA Alumni Annual Farm Toy Show, Buckeye Valley High School, 901 Coover Rd., Delaware (3 miles north of Delaware off Rte. 23), 9 a.m.–2 p.m. $2; 12 and under free. Vintage and new farm toys, toy trucks, farm collectibles, NASCAR items, and much more! Baked goods, food, raffle, door prizes, kiddie tractor pull (9 a.m.–noon). Breakfast $7, 8–10 a.m. (includes show admission). 740-272-1782
WINTER ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND SAFETY TIPS
Energy strategies to keep your holidays merry, bright, affordable and safe!
Energy strategies to keep your holidays merry, bright, affordable and safe!
ohioec.org/energy
Seal air leaks to prevent heat from escaping and cold air from entering your home.
Seal air leaks to prevent heat from escaping and cold air from entering your home.
Use timers indoors and out to give your decorations — and your electric bill — a break.
Use timers indoors and out to give your decorations—and your electric bill—a break.
Switch to a smart thermostat and save up to 15% on energy costs.
Switch to a smart thermostat and save up to 15% on energy costs.
Open blinds and curtains during the day to allow sunlight in to warm your home. Close blinds and curtains at night to keep out cold, drafty air.
Open blinds and curtains during the day to allow sunlight in to warm your home. Close blinds and curtains at night to keep out cold, drafty air.
Switch to LED lights. They stay cool, use up to 80% less energy than traditional bulbs, and reduce the risk of fire.
Switch to LED lights. They stay cool, use up to 80% less energy than traditional bulbs, and reduce the risk of fire.
Lower your water heater temperature to 120 degrees to prevent scalding and save energy.
Lower your water heater temperature to 120 degrees to prevent scalding and save energy.
Avoid running cords under rugs or in places where pets might be tempted to chew.
Avoid running cords under rugs or in places where pets might be tempted to chew.
