Ohio Cooperative Living – January 2026 - Midwest

OHIO

JANUARY 2026

COOPERATIVE Midwest Electric, Inc.

Trip of aPublic lifetime Youth Tour’s Day Safety lasting legacy

Jan. 22 sessions to teach electric safety (page 18B)

ALSO INSIDE Squirrel migration Ice, in photos Bedtime routines

Building the next generation of LEADERS

We’re building the next generation of leaders by supporting their education through programs like college, technical, and trades scholarships and the Washington, D.C., Youth Tour.

Contact your electric cooperative youth program coordinator to learn more about its youth programs.

ohioec.org/education-youth

OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JANUARY 2026

INSIDE FEATURES

22 PIECE BY PIECE

Mosaic maestros give new life to old spaces by turning recycled materials into works of art.

26 COLD, HARD TRUTH

If it’s January in Ohio, we can count on ice — lots of it, everywhere. From the treacherous and violent to the tiny and delicate, our intrepid ice-chaser set out to capture scenes of wintry wonder.

Cover image on most editions: Kyle Hicks says the experience of attending the Electric Cooperative Youth Tour when he was in high school changed the course of his career — and his life.

See Kyle’s story beginning on page 4 (photograph by Shelby Bradford Moore).

This page: Photographer James Proffitt warns that some of the images that went into his “Cold, Hard Truth” photo essay, which starts on page 26, were taken in what he describes as NSFW conditions — Not Safe for Wading — including this image of a sunrise taken from beneath an ice ridge on Lake Erie.

JANUARY 2026 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

1

UP FRONT

Celebrating independence Happy New Year! It’s hard to believe that a full year has passed since I began writing these messages as CEO of our statewide association of electric cooperatives. 2025 was a fulfilling year, filled with both highlights and challenges, and I’ve been grateful for the opportunity to share my thoughts and to reflect on our progress.

This year, we’ll celebrate a historic milestone: the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. It’s a good time to pause and reflect on the values that have shaped our nation: liberty, self-governance, and working together for a better future. It seems to me that these same values are at the heart of electric cooperatives. Just as our nation was built through unity and shared purpose, Ohio’s electric cooperatives have thrived by working together while maintaining independent local control. The independence of the local co-op boards allows them to be flexible, innovative, and responsive to members’ needs as they make decisions that best serve their specific communities.

There’s much to be optimistic about in the new year. Several electric cooperatives in Ohio have experienced stable load growth, thanks to new opportunities and expanding communities. We hope this positive trend will not only continue but also spread to more areas of rural Ohio. Rest assured, the generation facilities owned by the cooperatives, and therefore by their members, stand ready to power that growth, and we are committed to keeping those resources operating for their full, useful lives.

As we fulfill our mission to provide that reliable, affordable electricity to cooperative members around the state, it’s helped that we’ve seen some much-needed regulatory reform at the federal level. It couldn’t have come at a better time, as there’s been a growing sense of uncertainty in our industry caused by the increasing number of data centers coming online.

While it’s not an immediate problem, the amount of electricity those centers demand has raised concerns about whether new power generation can be developed quickly enough to keep up. As with many challenges our country has faced before, I am confident that we will work through this one, too. It will take time, but I believe in our ability to adapt and develop solutions that solve problems. In the meantime, though, it’s important that our political and regulatory leaders stay focused on maintaining reliability and protecting the U.S. power grid — one of our nation’s most valuable assets.

As we honor the 250th anniversary of American independence, let’s celebrate both the spirit of independence and the strong bonds that hold us together.

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OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JANUARY 2026

Craig Grooms

PRESIDENT & CEO OHIO’S ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES

Just as our nation was built through unity and shared purpose, Ohio’s electric cooperatives have thrived by working together while maintaining independent local control.

JANUARY 2026 • Volume 68, No. 4

Ohio Rural Electric Cooperatives 6677 Busch Blvd.

Columbus, OH 43229 614-846-5757 www.ohiocoopliving.com Craig Grooms Caryn Whitney Jeff McCallister Amy Howat Neal Kindig

4 DEPARTMENTS 4 POWER LINES

President & CEO Director of Communications Senior Managing Editor Assistant Managing Editor Graphic Designer

Contributors: Colleen Romick Clark, Getty Images, W.H. “Chip” Gross, Shelby Bradford Moore, Catherine Murray, James Proffitt, Theresa Ravencraft, and MJ Zindars.

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 $6.48 to $7.92 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 Berne, IN 46711, 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.

The Youth Tour effect: A former

delegate says the long-lasting connections and eye-opening experiences on the co-op-sponsored event made it “more than just a trip.”

8

8 WOODS, WATERS, AND WILDLIFE

High-tail it outta here! The

reasons behind the seemingly random sessions of squirrel mass migration remain a mystery.

10 CO-OP PEOPLE

10

Building bridges: Steve Stolte has dedicated his life to preserving covered bridges to showcase their historical significance.

13 GOOD EATS

Get steamed: The gentle,

consistent heat created by simmering water cooks food to perfection, preserves nutrients, and warms you up on a cold winter day.

13

17 LOCAL PAGES

News and other important information from your electric cooperative.

National/regional advertising inquiries, contact

Cheryl Solomon

What’s happening: January/

February events and other things to do around Ohio.

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

Cooperative members:

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

Alliance for Audited Media Member

33 CALENDAR

33

36 MEMBER INTERACTIVE Bedtime: Members document

their pre-sleep routines — even those of fur-babies like Riley and Sadie, pictured at right in this photo submitted by South Central Power Company member Tammy Wade.

36

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.

JANUARY 2026 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

3

POWER LINES

The Youth Tour effect

A former delegate says the long-lasting connections and eye-opening experiences on the co-op-sponsored event made it ‘more than ‘just a trip.’

BY SHELBY BRADFORD MOORE

K

yle Hicks, the new senior government affairs analyst at Ohio State University’s College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences, hadn’t always planned to pursue a career in public policy — he wanted to be a teacher.

For Hicks, his career trajectory (perhaps his life trajectory) changed in 2019, when he was sponsored by his co-op, Lancaster-based South Central Power Company, to attend the Electric Cooperative Youth Tour of Washington, D.C.

More than just a trip Youth Tour’s origin dates to the 1957 annual meeting of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, where then-Senator Lyndon Johnson shared his vision of “sending youngsters to the national capital where they can actually see what the flag stands for and represents.” Co-ops started sending teens to D.C. that very summer, and since then, 4

OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JANUARY 2026

electric cooperatives around the country have sponsored more than 100,000 students from their communities to take the weeklong, all-expensespaid trip.

Hicks decided to apply to take the trip after hearing about the experiences his mom and sister had when they went on Youth Tour in 1994 and 2017, respectively. South Central Power selected him as one of its delegates as he was finishing his junior year at Amanda-Clearcreek High School, and that summer, he boarded a D.C.-bound bus with 30 other Ohio students who had been sponsored by their own co-ops.

They explored all that the capital has to offer, met with policymakers, and learned about electric cooperatives’ role in the history of the country.

The cherry on top: Hicks was elected as Ohio’s representative to the Youth Leadership Council by his fellow delegates, which meant his involvement with co-ops was only just beginning.

The following February, he traveled to New Orleans (his first-ever flight!) to work alongside 42 other states’ YLC representatives at PowerXchange, the NRECA’s annual national conference. In their support roles, they had the opportunity to meet leaders from cooperatives across the country, and were recognized on the conference’s main stage.

Friendships that will last a lifetime

PHOTOGRAPH BY MJ ZINDARS

By the time it was over and they all prepared to head home, Hicks and the other YLC reps knew they’d bonded in a way few others will ever experience. “We stayed up all night until our early flights the next day because we knew we’d probably never be together as a full group again,” he says. “As heartbreaking as it was, it’s a night I’ll remember for the rest of my life.”

He says he still talks with his friends from Youth Tour and YLC on a weekly basis, leaning on each other’s expertise, getting advice, and simply cheering one another on from every corner of the country.

Soon after, he enrolled at Ohio State, with a double major in political science and agribusiness and applied economics, but it didn’t take him long to realize he wasn’t ready to be done with the cooperative programs that had given him so much, and served as one of NRECA’s staff assistants Continued on page 6

JANUARY 2026 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

5

Continued from page 5

for the 2022 Youth Tour. Formerly referred to as “blue shirts” for the royal blue polos they don during the event, the staff assistants work during Youth Tour to ensure delegates have a memorable, seamless trip.

Beyond the blue shirt Hicks says his exposure to life outside of the small rural town where he grew up had been limited before Youth Tour. But after the experience, he says he evolved from an average high school student to a young person buzzing with excitement for the future.

More profoundly, thanks in part to the dozens of new connections from across the country and experiences that gave him a more diverse outlook on the world and his role in it, he found a new career ambition.

“Before Youth Tour, I wanted to be a teacher,” Hicks says.

“That experience gave me the confidence to try and succeed in a career I knew little about at the time: politics.”

Hicks has maintained his connections with NRECA, South Central Power, and Ohio’s Electric Cooperatives, the statewide association that serves Ohio’s co-ops — and after landing his new job in government affairs at Ohio State, he was quick to reach out to his cooperative peers.

“In the political world, it’s easy to narrow your focus on what you believe is the ‘right way’ and block out viewpoints that differ from yours,” he says. “In those situations, I think about the incredible group of people I was surrounded by during Youth Tour and how we all had different backgrounds and perspectives — none of which was more important than the next. When we’re creating and shaping policies, it’s essential that we work together, not against one another, and consider the needs of others.”

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OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JANUARY 2026

What effect will Youth Tour have on you?

Nearly all of Ohio’s 25 electric cooperatives participate in Youth Tour by sponsoring delegates, which means that students selected will pay nothing out of pocket to attend — all travel, lodging, food, and experiences are fully covered by a delegate’s sponsoring co-op.

This year’s tour will take place June 14 to 20.

Those interested are encouraged to visit their local electric cooperative’s website to see if they are accepting Youth Tour applications.

Most co-ops’ applications are due between February and March.

What will I see on Youth Tour?

• The U.S. Capitol Building • Gettysburg Battlefield • Arlington National Cemetery • National Archives • Library of Congress • The Kennedy Center • Museums: Natural History, American History, U.S. Holocaust Memorial • Monuments and memorials: Jefferson Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, FDR Memorial, MLK Jr. Memorial, 9/11 Pentagon Memorial, WWII Memorial, Washington Monument

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WOODS, WATERS, AND WILDLIFE

High-tail it outta here!

The reasons behind seemingly random sessions of squirrel mass migration remain a mystery.

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

G

ray squirrels are the bane of those of us who attempt to keep backyard bird feeders filled with birdseed. In large cities, small towns, and even rural areas across the Buckeye State, these arboreal aerialists seem to defy gravity in getting to places we don’t want them to be. But there was a time in Ohio history when gray squirrel populations were even higher than today — much higher.

Prior to statehood in 1803, Ohio was covered with mature forest from north to south and east to west.

Add in various species of nut trees — oaks, hickories, chestnuts — and this vast area was gray squirrel paradise; they thrived in untold millions.

For instance, a very early Columbus resident and hunter shot 67 gray squirrels in one day from just one

8

OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JANUARY 2026

tree in the middle of a cornfield on what today is the Statehouse lawn. In 1807, gray squirrels had become such a nuisance due to destroying corn and other crops that the Ohio General Assembly passed a law stating that each person subject to payment of a county tax “…shall in addition thereto, produce to the clerk of the township in which he may reside, such number of squirrel scalps as the trustees shall, at their annual meeting, apportion, in proportion to their county levees, provided that it does not exceed 100 or be less than ten.”

In addition to high squirrel numbers — or possibly because of it — an even more amazing phenomenon occurred during those early years that we no longer

see today: mass gray squirrel migrations. It seemed to happen every five years or so. A few restless squirrels would begin moving together through the treetops, soon to be joined by dozens more, then hundreds, then thousands, then tens of thousands, with all the squirrels continually moving rapidly in the same general direction. Even when the squirrels encountered a large stream or river, they didn’t hesitate; they just jumped in, began swimming, and once on the other side simply crawled out, climbed a tree, and kept going.

Early Ohioans who observed these gray squirrel migrations firsthand reported that the squirrels did not appear to be starving or in poor health. In fact, they oftentimes left areas of abundant food. Milton Trautman, a well-respected Ohio biologist of the 20th century, wrote the following: “The [scientific] literature contains many diverse statements about these movements, of many squirrels that drowned attempting to swim across the Ohio River. It is stated that whenever mass drownings occurred, if one stood on a high hill considerably removed from the river, the river’s course could be observed to be outlined by vultures flying above it, searching for drowned squirrels upon which to feed.”

So, why did gray squirrels occasionally move to new locations? Unfortunately, wildlife biologists today simply do not know. What we do know, however, is that as Ohio’s virgin forests were cleared for settlement, and the gray squirrel population declined as a result, their periodic migrations gradually declined as well, until eventually stopping altogether.

Of course, more than a few tall tales grew up around squirrel migrations, especially having to do with how they crossed rivers. The “tallest” of the stories stated that some gray squirrels, upon reaching the Ohio River and seeing its huge size and powerful current, would grab a shingle from a pile of wood meant for the roof of a nearby log cabin, place it in the water, jump aboard, then lift and spread their tail to act as a sail, and cross the river to the Kentucky or West Virginia bank, arriving high and dry.

A reenactor demonstrates how early frontiersmen hunted squirrels using a muzzleloader.

I seriously doubt that ever happened.

Ask

chip!

W.H. “Chip” Gross is Ohio Cooperative Living’s outdoors editor.

Email him 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

JANUARY 2026 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

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CO-OP PEOPLE

bri g n d i ge d

l i u B

s

Steve Stolte has dedicated his life to preserving covered bridges to showcase their historical significance.

STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHS BY THERESA RAVENCRAFT

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OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JANUARY 2026

S

teve Stolte was a civil engineering student at Ohio State University when the Silver Bridge, which connected Gallipolis to Point Pleasant, West Virgina, on busy U.S. Route 35, collapsed into the Ohio River.

He had been inspired to study civil engineering while he worked at his father’s construction company in high school, but he didn’t start focusing on bridges until that 1967 disaster, which killed 46 people.

“The collapse of Silver Bridge impacted me significantly,” Stolte says. “It heightened my interest in bridge construction and changed the course of my career.”

After the collapse, Ohio began to require that all bridges in the state be inspected once each year. Seeing an opportunity to both make some money and potentially save some lives, Stolte and some of his college friends started up a new business.

They attended classes during the week, but on weekends they traveled into rural counties throughout the state to perform those mandated bridge inspections.

“We learned quickly to drive across each bridge prior to doing our inspection, because we often didn’t want to drive across after seeing the condition they were in,” he says.

The experience broadened his knowledge of construction and fueled his burgeoning passion for bridges — particularly the covered bridges of Union County, much of which is served by URE–Union Rural Electric Cooperative.

After he graduated in 1969, Stolte took a job in Union County and soon became a partner in the engineering firm

of Fleming, Page, and Stolte. One of the other partners, Jim Page, an environmental engineer, worked together with Stolte to create the grid system that numbered all the homes in Union County. It was a massive undertaking, but it gave him a better understanding of the area.

In 1984, Stolte decided to run for county engineer. “It was time for change,” he says. “I wanted to be more progressive and apply for grants to make improvements.”

He would serve in that role for nearly 25 years, working tirelessly to update both equipment and infrastructure throughout the county. Later, he was elected as a county commissioner and served another 10 years in office. In that time, the county replaced more than 200 bridges, widened 100 miles of road, improved traffic signage, and installed thousands of feet of modern guardrails.

But one aspect of his tenure stands out: his work on covered bridges.

“We discovered the covered bridges in Union County when we inspected them in college,” Stolte says. “I’m most proud of building two new covered bridges, Buck Run Covered Bridge and North Lewisburg Covered Bridge. We also elevated all covered bridges from 5 to 8 tons to a higher load limit, so school buses and farm equipment could go over them.”

The Buck Run Covered Bridge, built in 2006, spans Darby Creek and is the longest single-span wooden bridge in Ohio at 160 feet in length. The two-lane North Lewisburg Covered Bridge was completed that same year to replace the original 1868 Pottersburg Bridge, which was relocated and restored — and dedicated to Stolte in 2022.

Together with his wife, Mardy, Stolte still devotes his time and efforts to educating visitors about covered bridges through local events, such as Dine on a Covered Bridge, designed to showcase and celebrate the history of covered bridges in Union County. The event draws hundreds of people from across the state. From July through October every year, visitors are offered guided tours, lunch or dinner made with locally sourced ingredients, and live music on the bridge.

After spending the bulk of his life restoring the old and building the new, Stolte is convinced it was the right thing to do. “Covered bridges are a link to the past, a past that was simpler and slower-paced,” he says. “They are also a link to our transportation history. They were the very first bridge that saw widespread use in Ohio. And they are still valuable today.”

Want to visit the covered bridges of Union County?

Find more information at www.dineonacoveredbridge. com and www.unioncountyoh.com.

JANUARY 2026 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

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GOOD EATS

The gentle, consistent heat created by simmering water cooks food to perfection, preserves nutrients, and warms you up on a cold winter day.

There are products designed for steaming — steamer pots, collapsible metal baskets, stacked bamboo baskets, and steamer accessories for Instant Pots and rice cookers — but items such as mesh strainers, cooling racks, and aluminum pie pans can function as steamers, too.

VEGETABLE DUMPLINGS

Prep: 30 minutes | Proof: 30 minutes | Cook: 15 minutes | Servings: 4 ½ teaspoon salt ¾ cup hot water 2 cups flour 1½ cups minced green cabbage

¼ cup grated carrot 1 tablespoon minced chives 1 teaspoon sesame seeds 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce

cornstarch for dusting Dipping Sauce ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

1 tablespoon honey 1 teaspoon sesame oil ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

Dissolve salt into hot water. With flour in a large bowl, gradually add the salted water while stirring. Gather dough and form into a ball. Pull and knead dough by hand for 5 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic, adding more flour if too sticky. Place ball of dough back in bowl and cover with a damp cloth. Let rest 30 minutes.

With a paper towel, squeeze liquid from cabbage. In a medium bowl, mix cabbage, grated carrot, chives, sesame seeds, and soy sauce; refrigerate. Roll dough into a 24-inch rope and cut into 24 pieces. Cover dough pieces with a damp towel. Pull out one piece of dough; roll into a sphere in palm of hand, dip in cornstarch, and roll out to a 3-inch disk. Stack disks with parchment squares between them to prevent sticking.

One at a time, place a small amount of cabbage filling in the center of each wrapper. Dip finger in water and lightly wet the inside dough edge around the filling. Fold dough over the filling and pinch to seal the two sides together at the topmost curved edge while leaving the sides open. Rest straight edge of dough on surface and hold the sealed part upright between index finger and thumb; then with the other hand make 3 small pleats on each side, starting from the middle and working down the sides, pressing to seal after each pleat. Press the middle of the U-shaped corners upward, making a W shape with the dough, then pinch the W to fully seal.

Cut parchment paper to line the steamer; punch holes through paper to match the holes in the steamer.

Arrange dumplings in a single layer. Bring water to a boil, then lower to medium. Place steamer over simmering water; cover and cook 12 to 15 minutes until plump, translucent, and firm when pressed. While waiting, mix the ingredients for the dipping sauce. Carefully remove dumplings from steamer with tongs and serve with dipping sauce on the side.

Per serving: 261 calories, 1 gram fat (0 grams saturated fat), 53 grams total carbohydrates, 0 milligrams cholesterol, 977 milligrams sodium, 3 grams fiber, 9 grams protein.

JANUARY 2026 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

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CARROT GINGER SOUP Prep: 5 minutes | Cook: 25 minutes | Servings: 4 16-ounce bag baby carrots* 1 medium onion, evenly chopped 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated 4 cups vegetable broth 1 teaspoon lemon juice ½ teaspoon garlic powder ½ teaspoon ground coriander 1/8 teaspoon black pepper 13.66-ounce can coconut milk ¼ cup pepitas or sunflowers seeds *Bagged baby carrots are convenient for steaming because they're cut to a uniform size, which aids in an even cook time.

Place steamer basket into a pot and add water, leaving an inch or two of space below the steamer. Bring water to a boil, then lower temperature to medium. Add carrots to basket; cover with lid and steam 12 to 15 minutes, until easily pierced with fork yet shape stays intact. Transfer carrots to a strainer, then add onion to steamer and top with grated ginger; steam until onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. With a blender or food processor, blend together carrots, onion, ginger, and a cup or so of vegetable broth until smooth. Transfer to a pot over medium heat; stir in remaining broth, lemon juice, and spices. Add a bit of water to thin, if needed. Cook until simmering. Remove from heat, swirl in coconut milk, and serve hot, topped with seeds.

Per serving: 312 calories, 25 grams fat (21 grams saturated fat), 21 grams total carbohydrates, 0 milligrams cholesterol, 796 milligrams sodium, 6 grams fiber, 5 grams protein.

STEAMED FISH AND GARLIC GREENS Prep: 5 minutes | Cook: 5 to 10 minutes | Servings: 2 large bunch kale, collard, and/or turnip greens 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 1/3 cup dry white wine 2 teaspoons minced garlic 8 ounces boneless, skinless white fillet (cod, halibut, sea bass) salt and pepper Tear leafy greens from stems. Plunge leaves in water to wash; shake until dripping slows. Rinse fish fillets and pat dry. In a deep skillet with fitted lid, melt butter on medium-low, then pour in wine and layer in garlic, greens, then fillets. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Increase heat to medium; cover and let steam 5 minutes.

Crack lid to check fish for doneness and continue steaming until fully cooked. With a large spatula, split fish and greens between two plates and spoon sauce on top.

Per serving: 249 calories, 13 grams fat (7 grams saturated fat), 8 grams total carbohydrates, 75 milligrams cholesterol, 595 milligrams sodium, 6 grams fiber, 19 grams protein.

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OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JANUARY 2026

CHOCOLATE STEAMED BUNS Prep: 40 minutes | Proof: 1½ hours | Cook: 20 minutes | Servings: 8 2½ cups flour (spooned and leveled) 1 teaspoon instant yeast 2 tablespoons sugar ½ teaspoon baking powder ½ teaspoon salt ¾ cup whole milk, warmed to 110 F

1 tablespoon vegetable oil 2.5 ounces dark chocolate, finely chopped ¼ cup heavy cream 2 tablespoons sugar 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

Gradually pour in warm milk while mixing with a wooden spoon, forming a sticky dough. Add vegetable oil and knead 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Shape into a ball, return to mixing bowl, and cover with a damp towel. Let proof in a warm spot for 1 to 1½ hours, until doubled in size.

Meanwhile, in a small saucepan over low heat, melt dark chocolate into heavy cream, stirring regularly. Remove from heat and stir in sugar, then sift in cocoa, stirring until incorporated. Cover and set aside. Once dough has risen, punch it with fist to release air bubbles. Cut eight 3x4-inch pieces of parchment paper and evenly divide dough onto them, covering with damp towel. One at a time, roll into a ball, then stretch and press into a palm-sized disk. Spoon chocolate mixture into the center, being careful not to overfill.

Stretch opposite dough edges over filling until they meet, then pinch together. Take the two open ends and meet them in the middle, pinching dough to fully seal. Return to parchment seam-side down, again covering with towel. Repeat with remaining dough.

Fill a pot with water to an inch or two below the steamer. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Arrange buns, still on parchment, inside steamer basket with space between them. (Do in batches if needed.) Cover with lid and steam for 15 minutes. Don't peek! Slide off of hot burner and let sit covered 5 more minutes. Lift lid without tilting it so the collected water doesn't fall onto the buns. Carefully remove buns and peel off parchment. Serve warm or let cool to room temperature, then store in an airtight container in the fridge (reheat in microwave with a damp towel for 30 seconds power) or freezer (steam directly from frozen for 8 to 10 minutes).

Per serving: 260 calories, 9 grams fat (4 grams saturated fat), 39 grams total carbohydrates, 12 milligrams cholesterol, 188 milligrams sodium, 2 grams fiber, 5.5 grams protein.

Check it out!

See videos of some of our mouth-watering recipes being prepared at

www.ohiocoopliving.com JANUARY 2026 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

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16

OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JANUARY 2026

MIDWEST ELECTRIC LOCAL PAGES

MESSAGE FROM THE CEO

Lighting the way for

W

90 years

e take electricity for granted. It’s hard to imagine life without power at the flip of a switch. Yet, not so long ago, the convenience of electricity was a luxury that many could only dream of. In 1930, the rural areas of west central Ohio were still largely in the dark, with only “city folk” enjoying the benefits of electricity.

It was during this time that a group of local residents took the lead to establish Midwest Electric. Our founders’ first meeting took place at the Barr Hotel in Lima on March 17, 1936 — marking the beginning of a new era for our community. (Our original name that evening was Farm Bureau Electric Co-op District #3, Inc. ... More on that later.)

These local, forward-thinking individuals began by sharing their ideas with others in the community. They organized small town meetings and visited individual farms, advocating for the benefits of electricity. The possibilities were undeniable.

not take long for the benefits of electrification to spread and soon rural residents and farmers from Auglaize, Mercer, Van Wert, and Matt Berry, CEO Allen counties were eager to join mberry@midwestrec.com the movement. Financing came from low-interest loans from the federal government. It’s important to note that these were loans — not grants — complete with principal and interest.

Our first electric project went from East Shelby Road (east of St. Marys) north to Glynwood Road, then east to Glynwood Saint Patrick Church, and west to St. Marys River Road and then north to Noble School. Today, Glynwood Saint Patrick Church remains our longest continuously served member in the same name.

By 1938, 440 homes and farms had electricity from the early cooperative, with 167 miles of line. (Today we have 1,541 miles of line.) Yet we had only two employees: Carl Presar was the first general manager, and Isabelle Goodwin managed office duties. Contractors took care of the line construction. By August 1938, we hired our first lineman, Prentiss Tomlinson. And we were off and running…

At our second board meeting, in April 1936, the directors changed the name to Western Farm Bureau Electric Co-op. By 1939, the connection with the Ohio Farm Bureau would be dropped and our name would become Midwest Electric.

Soon farmers began signing up for membership and the maps of electric lines began to take shape. It did

Our first office was in downtown Lima, the site of today’s Lima-Allen County Chamber of Commerce. The early leaders moved our office to St. Marys by mid-1937 in order to be centrally located. We bounced around three Continued on page 18

JANUARY 2026 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

17

MIDWEST ELECTRIC

Continued from page 17

different offices in downtown St. Marys before landing in the mid-1960s at our current spot east of the city.

Our 90th anniversary is March 17, 2026. Much has changed since our beginning, but our core principles haven’t. Our commitment to member service, community development, financial stewardship — those, and more, are woven into our DNA. Safety protocols have advanced significantly since the early days. Initially, lineman worked with bare hands and uninsulated tools, making every job labor-intensive and hazardous. Today, we prioritize safety, and our employees lead a strong safety culture.

While the cost of electricity has increased from an average of 5 cents per kWh in the 1930s to 14 cents today, this change is quite modest compared to the price increases of other consumer goods such as milk, eggs, homes, cars, and health care. When considering these factors, electricity remains an incredible value for the money, offering an essential service at a reasonable cost.

3.39

0.19

0.09

0.23

0.62

Gasoline per gallon

Bread per loaf

Milk per gallon

Eggs per dozen

As we commemorate this 90th anniversary, we express our heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated members and employees. And we have a humble appreciation for the groundbreaking and backbreaking work of our founders and early employees. It is their support that has propelled us forward, enabling us to overcome challenges and embrace opportunities. Together, we have built a legacy of cooperation, reliability, and empowerment. Here’s to the next 90 years of illuminating the way together.

1935

2025

Dollars 4.50

4.00

4.02

3.50

3.82

2.50 2.00

1.97

1.50 1.00 .50 0

18

Through our network with Ohio’s Electric Cooperatives and our generating company, Buckeye Power, we have expanded our energy portfolio. We continue to own and operate our power generating plants, providing us with electric rate stability compared to the wild power market swings that many other utilities are struggling with today.

By investing in cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices, we remain committed to meeting the evolving energy needs of our members. Beyond providing electricity, we have actively contributed to the social and economic development of our communities.

Through scholarships, generous contributions from our members through the Community Connection Fund program, the return of more than $45 million in patronage cash back, and our economic development revolving loan fund, we have lived our motto of being Built By the Communities We Serve.

ELECTRICITY DELIVERS VALUE Price changes from 1935 – 2025

3.00

We’ve advanced in many ways from the early days of bringing electricity to rural areas without technology and with paper maps or just someone’s memory as a guide. We have embraced innovation with tools such as Distribution Automation, allowing us to remotely monitor and control our electric grid; Geographic Information Systems, allowing us to map our infrastructure digitally; Advanced Metering Infrastructure, providing outage notification and other power reliability benefits; and SmartHub, which allows members to manage their accounts online, offering convenience and transparency in energy usage and billing.

OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JANUARY 2026

0.14 0.05

Electricity per kWh

Working together to lower demand

W

hen outdoor temperatures drop, electricity use naturally rises. Colder weather drives us indoors, where we rely more heavily on home heating systems, more lighting, and household appliances. Heating systems run longer and more frequently to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures.

Combine that with the fact that most people use electricity at the same times — typically in the mornings and early evenings — and the result is significant pressure on our electric grid.

Midwest Electric works closely with Buckeye Power, our local generation cooperative, to plan for these seasonal weather patterns and changes and ensure you have reliable power every day of the year. This partnership involves detailed resource and infrastructure planning to make certain electricity is available whenever you need it. However, it’s important to remember that our local system is part of a much larger regional and national electric grid.

During the winter months, when homes and businesses across the country are using more electricity simultaneously, overall demand can approach — or occasionally exceed — available supply. This is especially true during severe weather events, such as ice storms, sudden temperature drops, or equipment malfunctions that reduce generation capacity. In rare cases when demand threatens to outpace supply, the regional grid operator may call for temporary, controlled outages — often referred to as rolling blackouts — to prevent broader system failures. If such a situation arises, Midwest Electric will provide timely updates and information to members.

To prepare for these scenarios and minimize risks, Midwest Electric and Buckeye Power take proactive measures to strengthen reliability year-round. These include routine system maintenance, investments in grid modernization, and comprehensive disaster response

planning. These proactive steps are designed to ensure our portion of the grid remains resilient even under extreme conditions. Yet, maintaining a reliable electric system requires a collective effort — and every member plays an important role in lowering demand when the grid is under stress.

Joel Johns

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR

You can help by taking simple actions during periods of high electricity use, especially on the coldest days of winter: 1. Lower your thermostat slightly. Even reducing the temperature by a few degrees can help.

2. Delay using large appliances during peak hours, which are generally in the morning, when people are getting ready for work and school, and in the early evening, when people are coming home and preparing dinner. Run dishwashers, washing machines, and dryers during off-peak hours — typically midday or late evening.

3. Adjust your water heater. Setting it to 120 degrees Fahrenheit and spacing out showers helps conserve both energy and hot water.

4. Unplug unnecessary devices. Power used for lighting and electronics adds up and accounts for a significant portion of home energy use. Disconnect unused items to reduce energy waste.

Understanding how winter weather affects electricity demand is key to maintaining system reliability. By practicing simple energy conservation habits at home, you not only save money on your monthly bill — you also help strengthen the resilience of the grid that powers our community. Together, through small actions and shared awareness, we can ensure that our homes remain warm, our lights stay on and our local grid continues to serve us reliably throughout the season.

JANUARY 2026 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

18A

MIDWEST ELECTRIC

PUBLIC SAFETY DAY

Bring your team and experience a live-line demonstration in our shop.

You’ll learn the dangers of high-voltage electric lines and how to keep you and your team safe!

Thursday, January 22, 2026 Three different sessions to choose from.

9:00 a.m. – 60-90 minutes 2:30 p.m. – 60-90 minutes 7:00 p.m. – 60-90 minutes Refreshments provided.

RSVP by Jan. 15 to jwilliams@midwestrec.com or by calling 419-300-1316.

18B

OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JANUARY 2026

Midwest Electric members donate $14,550 to 17 local organizations

Community Connection Fund – new trustees 2026

Midwest Electric’s Community Connection Fund provides funding for charitable local purposes through current members rounding up their monthly electric bills and donating the spare change.

Midwest Electric recently donated $14,550 to 17 west-central Ohio charities and community projects through the cooperative’s Community Connection Fund.

Thanks to the 90% of members who round up their electric bills and donate to this fund, Midwest Electric has provided $1,406,504 to 1,294 local charitable causes since 1998.

Latest CCF grant recipients include: • Van Wert County Humane Society: Provide low-cost spay and neuter services, $800.

• Delphos Journey Baseball Association in Allen County: Uniforms, equipment, and tournament fees, $600.

• Marimor Legacy Foundation in Allen County: Building a restroom at the Marimor Legacy Park, $1,000.

• Cornerstone of Hope in Allen County: Expanding services across northwest Ohio, $800 • Delphos Community Christmas Project in Allen County: Providing a happy Christmas for needy children in the Delphos School District, $500.

• Family Promise of Lima Allen County: Helping families experiencing homelessness, $1,500.

• Allen County’s Sheriff Posse: Purchasing equipment and facilities for horses, $1,000.

• New Knoxville Class of 2030 in Auglaize County: Providing families with financial assistance for their children’s Washington, D.C., trip, $1,000.

• New Knoxville High School in Auglaize County: Purchasing reading books for the high school English classroom library, $500.

• Wapakoneta Area Ministerial Association in Auglaize County: Annual Servants Day projects, $1,000.

The following Midwest Electric members were selected as trustees for the Community Connection Fund board: Greg Leffel, Auglaize/ Shelby County; Stephanie Bruns, Mercer/Darke County; Ashley Suever, Allen/Putnam County.

• Riverside Art Center in Auglaize County: Purchasing a new computer, $900.

• Breaking Bread Community Meal in Auglaize County: Free meal service of St. Paul’s United Church of Christ in St. Mary’s, $1,000.

• Mercer County Imagination Library: Free book gifting program in Mercer County, $1,000.

• VFW – Bailey Schockman Post 5135 in Mercer County: Doors, lighting, and paint for the building, $500.

• NextStep in Mercer County: Providing employment services, $750.

• VentureLINX in Mercer County: Building expansion, $1,000.

• MAV Youth Mentoring in Mercer County: Purchasing supplies for lunch club, $700.

ASHLEY SUEVER

GREG LEFFEL

STEPHANIE BRUNS

We want to thank the following members for the valuable service they’ve provided to the Midwest Electric Community Connection Fund Board over the past three years: Sharon Solano, Auglaize/ Shelby County; Karen Heinrichs, Mercer/Darke County; and Jim Link, Allen/Putnam County.

The other Midwest Electric members currently serving on the Community Connection Fund board are Marilyn Devita, Allen/ Putnam County; Nikki Tebbe, Auglaize/Shelby County; Shanelle Sellers, Van Wert County; Beth Miller, Auglaize/Shelby County; Tracy Klosterman, Mercer/Darke County; Brian Siefring, Mercer/ Darke County.

JANUARY 2026 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

18C

MIDWEST ELECTRIC

ENERGY STAR APPLIANCE REBATE ENERGY STAR APPLIANCE REBATE Bill credit ENERGY STAR APPLIANCE REBATE ENERGY STAR

100 $ See website for rebate form: midwestrec.com/rebates

18D

OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JANUARY 2026

Join our Member Engagement Group We’re looking for community leaders who want to learn more about YOUR electric cooperative and provide input!

The purpose of the Member Engagement Group is to further the cooperative principle of Education, Training, and Information. Our goal is for group members to become advocates for the cooperative, and provide input and feedback that could be considered for member service and operational guidance. It also serves as a helpful introduction should you have future interest in serving on our board of directors, or serving on our Community Connection Fund board.

The details:

• A small group of about 20 co-op members • Four meetings over the course of just one year at our St. Marys office, on a weekday from 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.

Meetings will cover:

• Co-op 101: Learn about our history and purpose; member-ownership fundamentals; industry partners; community involvement; board role, function and governance; etc.

• Co-op Financials 101: Learn about financial reports; key ratios; financing sources and strategies; patronage; electric rates; cost studies, plans, and financial forecasts; budgets; etc.

• Power Grid & Electric Distribution 101: Learn about work plans; capital budgeting and planning; reliability projects and challenges; SCADA, automation, metering, and other technology; transmission dependency; etc.

• Future Challenges: Power supply; transmission; regulatory; state and federal energy policy; workforce; etc.

You’ll also receive a stipend for each meeting.

Please thoughtfully consider serving your community and your cooperative on our Member Engagement Group for just four meetings over the course of just one year. You may contact CEO Matt Berry at mberry@midwestrec.com or call him at 419-300-1307 to express your interest or if you have questions. Dates have not been set, but the first meeting would likely be mid- to late February. The other three meeting dates will be set after the first meeting.

2026 GRADS

Are your parents Midwest Electric members?

If so, you could win your share of

$11,000 in scholarships!

Deadline to apply:

February 13, 2026 CHILDREN OF MEMBERS SCHOLARSHIPS ($9,500) – This scholarship has two phases; one local and one statewide. Midwest Electric will award scholarships to the top local students based upon a competition with other applicants. The top applicant will be eligible to compete for additional scholarships from Ohio’s Electric Cooperatives during the statewide competition in Columbus.

TOUCHSTONE ENERGY TRADE/TECHNICAL SCHOLARSHIP ($1,500) – Midwest Electric will award this scholarship to one high school senior attending a technical college or accredited trade school after high school.

To obtain complete rules and applications, scan the QR code or visit Midwestrec.com/scholarships.

JANUARY 2026 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

19

MIDWEST ELECTRIC CONCERN FOR COMMUNITY

Employees, board, and counsel give back during the holiday season

M

idwest Electric takes holiday giving to another level.

This year, the electric cooperative’s employees, board of directors and legal counsel joined together to donate more than $3,200 for “Christmas for Kids.” The funds went to Mercy Unlimited in Wapakoneta, Our Home Family Resource Center in Celina, and Agape Ministries in St. Marys.

Mercy Unlimited, Our Home Family Resource Center, and Agape Ministries serve more than 600 children and 800 families in Auglaize and Mercer counties. Donations will help with the purchase of pajamas, socks, gloves, and coats, as well as toothpaste and hygiene products, for local people in need.

Funding will also go toward Weekend Warrior bags to ensure hungry children have food throughout weekends while at home. Some of the programs funded include helping with

the purchase of a small toy, gift, or game to brighten a local family’s holiday season.

Each organization received $1,070 from Midwest Electric donors. The co-op’s Christmas for Kids program was started in 1993 by Midwest Electric’s employees and, after 30 years, it is still going strong and continues to grow.

• Learn more about Mercy Unlimited in Wapakoneta: www.mercyunlimited.org • Learn more about Our Home Family Resource Center in Celina: www.ourhomefrc.com • Learn more about Agape Ministries in St. Marys: www.agapeministriesinc.com

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

OFFICE

06029 County Road 33A St. Marys, OH 45885 CONTACT

419-394-4110

ACCESS YOUR ACCOUNT ONLINE

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

OFFICE HOURS

Monday–Friday 7:30 a.m.–4 p.m.

20

OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JANUARY 2026

James Wiechart, president Randy Heinl, vice pres.

Kathy Brake, secy./treas.

Steve Bauer Ann Selhorst Gary R. Knapke Roger W. Rank Larry Vandemark Adam Johnson Attorney

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, X, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn.

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JANUARY 2026 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

21

Piece by piece

Mosaic maestros give new life to old spaces by turning recycled materials into works of art.

STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHS BY THERESA RAVENCRAFT

W

hat do a church, a brewery, and an elementary school have in common? Each is home to art installations created by the Artifactory, a partnership between two Delaware County artists who work with those groups to create intricate mosaic pieces from recycled materials. They can be butterflies, birds, flowers, portraits, or abstracts, but each tells a unique story.

“We take old, recycled materials and break them up,” says Lynda Elias, a retired art teacher who founded the Artifactory at Delaware Mosaics along with fellow retired teacher Virginia Corwin. “Then we create something new and special from it — it’s truly beautiful to see. And it’s different every time, depending on the materials used and the light that is reflected from the mosaic.”

Elias attended the Tyler School of Art at Temple University. After she retired, she returned to Philadelphia for a visit and was inspired by large mosaics on the sides of many of the buildings and knew it was a technique she wanted to learn and take with her to Delaware.

Now she and Corwin teach groups in central Ohio and beyond to create those free-form mosaics that are then installed as permanent works of art.

A project begins when an organization in the community reaches out to the artists with ideas for a mosaic. Elias and Corwin meet with the group to develop a design, but it’s the group’s responsibility to gather recycled materials (or make their own tiles) to be used in the project. Once the ceramics and mirror pieces are ready, Elias draws the design on a cement board or a wall. Broken tiles are added, piece by piece. “It’s like building a puzzle,” she says.

The groups use the Zagar method, created by Philadelphia artist Isaiah Zagar. The traditional mosaic method involves placing materials in wet cement to make a design or a picture and then allowing it to dry. The Zagar method places the tiles and recycled materials on a flat surface and then adds grout around them.

Elias and her daughter, who is also a teacher, attended a workshop given by Isaiah Zagar. “I wanted to do this

22

OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JANUARY 2026

to show people that everyone can create something. I teach people this easy method as a way of expressing themselves. They can do something to make the community more beautiful,” says Elias.

The interactive aspect of creating a mosaic has always been important to Corwin, who has 40 years of experience teaching and counseling children with special needs. “The process brings people together,” she says. “It encourages collaborative creativity and interaction.”

Elias and Corwin work with teachers and students at schools in the region as part of their art classes, to prepare large mosaics to be installed at the schools.

“They get to use hammers to break things and use dangerous materials to make art. It’s empowering,” Corwin says.

At Wickliffe Progressive Elementary in Upper Arlington, for example, students created “Beatles Garden” to honor the school’s late principal and his love for Beatles music. Each large mosaic represents a different Beatles song, including “Yellow Submarine” (in the bottom photo on the opposite page) and “Here Comes the Sun” (top photo, this page).

Students selected the songs and created the mosaics as part of their curriculum.

Wickliffe’s art teacher, Lindsay Bennett, invited Elias and Corwin to the school because she saw the project as one that would include every student in every grade level.

“This project was fun and meaningful for all our students, who have a wide range of abilities. From kindergarten through fifth grade, everyone was to participate.”

Opposite page: Virginia Corwin (top photo, left) and Lynda Elias (right) are founders of the Artifactory at Delaware Mosaics. They help their clients and their students create mosaic artwork that’s on display at schools, hospitals, libraries, and numerous businesses across the region.

For more information, visit www.delawaremosaics.com.

In addition to Wickliffe Elementary, some of the organizations and businesses that have commissioned and created mosaics include Smith Elementary School, Heritage Middle School in Hilliard, Stratford Ecological Center, Restoration Brew, the City of Dublin, the Senior Center of Delaware County, and the Orange Branch of the Delaware Public Library.

The artists take pride in building connections through their art. “We want the mosaics in our community to be accessible and enjoyed by all people,” says Corwin.

JANUARY 2026 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

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Cold,

hard

truth If it’s January in Ohio, we can count on ice — lots of it, everywhere.

From the treacherous and violent to the tiny and delicate, our intrepid ice-chaser set out to capture these scenes of wintry wonder.

PHOTO ESSAY BY JAMES PROFFITT

26

OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JANUARY 2026

Spray from turbid water freezes into a work of art on a handrail at Miller Ferry on Catawba Island.

Slabs of Lake Erie ice appear blue due to sunlight’s behavior — red wavelengths are absorbed into ice, and blue is transmitted and scattered. The longer it travels in ice, the more blue it appears.

North winds combined with retreating late-winter ice mean acres of rafting ice against Ohio’s north shore on Lake Erie.

Remnants of Lake Erie’s ice hang on as late as March, with wind, waves, and warming water developing arches and caves along the shoreline.

JANUARY 2026 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

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A delicate snow-ice sculpture plucked from a parking lot in Castalia.

The image of a horse emerges from melting ice on Lake Erie.

The lines on this ice on the canal in Cleveland are reminiscent of a topographical map.

As late-winter ice melts, the form of an eagle lands on East Harbor.

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OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JANUARY 2026

Beautiful, feathery hoar ice, which forms instead of dew when air is both moist and freezing, juts off a patch of moss in Highland County.

Last season’s dried-out fields take on an ephemeral spun-glass feel as they become encased in clear ice by a winter storm.

Spring water erupting from rock faces at Highlands Nature Sanctuary freezes into some majestic frozen falls.

A collection of icicles, which might be considered both stalactites and stalagmites, forms in a shallow southern Ohio cave.

On the Cuyahoga River, subsiding water levels leave icicles on any host they can find.

JANUARY 2026 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

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Ridges, caves, smooth ice, floes, and pancake ice on Lake Erie.

From beneath massive ice slabs, looking east at dawn on Lake Erie...

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OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JANUARY 2026

On Sandusky Bay, two opposing snow-covered ice sheets buckle as the currents below slowly propel them into one another.

...and the fiery reward for those frostbitten feet and a bit of patience.

Pancake ice forms on Lake Erie during a late-winter thaw, with rounded, raised edges. Here it has refrozen into a sheet of new ice.

Come January or February, families hit the remaining ice along the Lake Erie shore for some (dangerous) excitement.

To read more commentary and to see more photos from James Proffitt’s ice quest, scan the QR code  JANUARY 2026 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

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OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JANUARY 2026

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2026 CALENDAR NORTHWEST

THROUGH 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. 16–18 – Camp Perry Open: Civilian Marksmanship Program, Gary Anderson CMP Competition Center, 1000 N. Lawrence Rd., Port Clinton. Includes a three-position air rifle competition, a 60-shot standing air rifle event, and a 60-shot air pistol event. 419-635-2141 ext. 704 (Catherine Green) or https://thecmp.org/cmpmatches/camp-perry-open.

JAN. 22 – Mrs. Doubtfire: The New Musical Comedy, Crouse Performance Hall, Veterans Memorial Civic and Convention Center, #7 Town Square, Lima, 7:30 p.m. $62+. Based on the beloved film, the musical tells the hysterical and heartfelt story of an out-of-work actor who will do anything for his kids. For ages 8 and up. 419-2241552 or www.limaciviccenter.com.

JAN. 23–25 – Eight Minutes Left, McDonald’s Youth Theatre, Encore Theater, 991 N. Shore Dr., Lima. $10; 10 and under, $5. At exactly 4:44 p.m.,

JANUARY/FEBRUARY the world will end, and no one is ready. This keenly observed dramedy follows the residents of Charlesville, NJ, as they navigate their final moments on earth. www.amiltellers.org.

JAN. 24 – Josh Turner: This Country Music Thing Tour, Crouse Performance Hall, Veterans Memorial Civic and Convention Center, #7 Town Square, Lima, 7:30 p.m. $46+. 419-224-1552 or www. limaciviccenter.com.

JAN. 24–25 – Youth Production: Into the Woods, Van Wert Civic Theatre, 118 S. Race St., Van Wert, Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. Get ready for a whimsical adventure, where your favorite fairy-tale characters find their paths hilariously tangled. 419238-9689 or www.vwct.org.

JAN. 25 – Dinosaur World Live, Crouse Performance Hall, Veterans Memorial Civic and Convention Center, #7 Town Square, Lima, 3 p.m. $31–$61. Interactive show for the whole family. Join our intrepid explorer and discover a prehistoric world of astonishing (and remarkably lifelike) dinosaurs. 419-224-1552 or www. limaciviccenter.com.

JAN. 30–FEB. 1 – Greater Toledo Auto Show, Glass City Center, 401 Jefferson Ave., Toledo, Fri. 12–9 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–9 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $8; Srs./Stds. $6; 9 and under free. Explore the newest models and automotive technologies. www.toledoautoshow.org.

JAN. 31–FEB. 1 – “English Elegance”: Candlelight Concert, Trinity United Methodist Church, Lima, Sat. 7:30 p.m.; St. Michael’s Catholic Church, Kalida, Sun. 4 p.m. $35.

Experience the grace and depth of English classical music performed in the sanctuaries of two beautiful churches. 419-222-5701 or www. limasymphony.com.

FEB. 5 – Theresa Camputo Live, Crouse Performance Hall, Veterans Memorial Civic and

COMPILED BY COLLEEN ROMICK CLARK

Convention Center, #7 Town Square, Lima, 7:30 p.m. $56.75+. Through personal life stories, candid humor, and intimate details about her gift to communicate with those who have passed on, the beloved television personality and bestselling author delivers healing messages to her audience.

419-224-1552 or www.limaciviccenter.com.

FEB. 6–8, 13–15 – Barefoot in the Park, Van Wert Civic Theatre, 118 S. Race St., Van Wert, Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. This Neil Simon classic explores the clash of personalities and comedic struggles found in newlywed life. 419-238-9689 or www. vwct.org.

FEB. 7 – Ice-A-Fair, 685 Main St., Vermilion. Free winter event for the entire family, featuring ice sculptures on display throughout downtown and ice carving demos throughout the day. Kids’ train rides, trolley tours, prizes, raffle baskets, and more.

Ends with the towering Fire & Ice display at 6 p.m.

440-963-0772 or www.mainstreetvermilion.org/ice.

FEB. 7–8 – 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. Over 400 tables of modern and antique guns, edged weapons, and sportsmen equipment. 419-6470067 (Manetta Obringer) or www.allencofair.com/ events-calendar.

FEB. 8 – Winter Hike, Grand Lake St. Marys State Park, 834 Edgewater Dr., St. Marys, 1–3 p.m.

Guided hike. Please bring water and snacks. Dress for the weather. Pets must be on leash. 440-6475749 or https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/ find-a-property/grand-lake-st-marys-state-park.

FEB. 15 – Motorcycle Swap Meet, Allen Co. Fgds., 2750 Harding Hwy., Lima (2 miles east of Lima on St. Rte. 309), 9 a.m.–2 p.m. $8; 12 and under free. Buy, sell, and trade motorcycle parts, bikes, gear, and accessories. 260-223-1409 or www. hugeswapmeet.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.

JANUARY 2026 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

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2026 CALENDAR

JANUARY/FEBRUARY

NORTHEAST

JAN. 10–11, FEB. 7–8 – Medina Gun Show, Medina County Fgds. Community Center, 735 Lafayette Rd. (St. Rte. 42), Medina, Sat. 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. $8. 450 tables of displays. 330-948-4400 (Jim Conrad) or www.conraddowdell.com.

JAN. 15–18 – Cleveland Boat Show, I-X Center, 1 I-X Center Dr., Cleveland, Thur. 12–9 p.m., Fri./ Sat. 10 a.m.–9 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $20, Srs./ Military $15, under 7 free. Wide variety of watercraft, knowledgeable marine vendors, lifestyle exhibits, delicious local food, family-friendly activities, and live entertainment. www.clevelandboatshow.com.

JAN. 22 – Soup at Six: “McKinley’s Front Porch Campaign,” McKinley Presidential Library and Museum, 800 McKinley Monument Dr. NW, Canton,

6 p.m. $25; includes soup, bread, and dessert.

Preregistration required by Jan. 15. In-depth look at how McKinley’s campaign “from home” led to his White House victory. 330-455-7043 or www. mckinleymuseum.org/events.

JAN. 24 – Winter Craft and Vendor Show, Lorain County Community College, 1005 N. Abbe Rd., Elyria, 9 a.m.–2 p.m. Free admission. Unique items such as handmade candles, wood crafts, gnomes, wreaths, jewelry, knitted items, and much more. www. hometownvendors.org/events.

JAN. 25 – George Foley and the EEJ Trio: “1920s Stride Piano,” Wadsworth Public Library, 132 Broad St., Wadsworth, 2–3 p.m. Free. Foley and the trio will perform and tell us about stride piano, ragtime, and the roots of jazz music. Seating is on a first-come, firstserved basis. 419-853-6016 or www.ormaco.org.

JAN. 30–FEB. 8 – The Great Big Home and Garden Show, I-X Center, 1 I-X Center Dr., Cleveland. $5–$15; 5 and under free. See website for hours and schedule of events. Explore hundreds of exhibits, meet industry experts and home professionals, and enjoy unique feature displays such as the garden showcase. www. greatbighomeandgarden.com.

FEB. 1 – Model Railroad and Toy Show, Medina Co. Fgds. Community Center, 735 Lafayette Rd. (St. Rte. 42), Medina, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. $8. 330-948-4400 or www.conraddowdell.com.

FEB. 7 – 5K Winter Hike, Findley State Park, 25381 St. Rte. 58, Wellington, 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Experience

CENTRAL

Register at Eventbrite for your free ticket. Start off the new year with a 5-mile hike. Warm refreshments served afterward. Dress appropriately for outside conditions and walking on a paved surface. An adult must accompany all children under 12. Program will be canceled in the event of inclement weather. www. pickawaycountyparks.org.

JAN. 17 – Annual Hocking Hills Winter Hike, 20160 St. Rte. 664 S., Logan, continuous starts from 9 to 11 a.m. Free. Challenging 6-mile hike from Old Man’s Cave to Ash Cave. Layered clothing and good footwear recommended. Bean soup and corn muffins will be served at Cedar Falls; donations appreciated.

Shuttle bus returns hikers to the parking area.740385-6841 or www.hockinghills.com.

THROUGH FEB. 28 – Wonderful Winter Birding, JAN. 24 – Winter Jam 2026, Schottenstein Center, Dawes Arboretum, 7770 Jacksontown Rd., Newark, 555 Borror Dr., Columbus, 6 p.m. Doors open 5 Sat. 10 a.m.–12 p.m. Included with Arboretum p.m. $15 donation at the door; no tickets required. admission. Join us for winter bird watching. Hone Lineup includes Chris Tomlin, Matthew West, Katy your identification skills and get some winter feeding Nichole, Hulvey, Disciple, Emerson Day, NewSong, tips! Come early to participate in Project Feederwatch, and speaker Zane Black. www.facebook.com/ a citizen science initiative to monitor winter bird events/3790050297965673. populations. 740-323-2355 or www.dawesarb.org.

JAN. 24–25 – Scott Antique Market, Ohio JAN. 11 – Motorcycle Swap Meet, Marion Co. Fgds., Expo Ctr., Bricker and Celeste Bldgs., 717 E. 17th 220 E. Fairground St., Marion, 9 a.m.–2 p.m. $8; 12 Ave., Columbus, Sat. 9 a.m.–6 p.m., Sun. 10 and under free. Buy, sell, and trade parts, leather, a.m.–4 p.m. Free admission; $7 parking. 800 exhibit jewelry, patches, and accessories. 260-223-1409 or booths. info@scottantiquemarket.com or www. www.hugeswapmeet.com. scottantiquemarkets.com.

JAN. 17 – First Pickaway Annual Winter Hike, Canal JAN. 30–FEB. 1 – The Log and Timber Home Park, 23352 Canal Rd., Circleville, 10 a.m.–1 p.m.

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OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JANUARY 2026

the beauty of winter as you hike through the park’s woodlands and around the lake. Cornbread and bean soup after the hike; donations accepted. Dress for the weather. 440-647-5749 or https://ohiodnr.gov/go-anddo/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/findley-state-park.

FEB. 7 – Love Struck Craft and Vendor Show, Residence Inn by Marriot Cleveland Avon, Emerald Event Center, 33040 Just Imagine Dr., Avon, 9 a.m.–2 p.m. Free admission. Hand-created home decor, wood crafts, baked goods, soaps, books, hand-sewn items, and more. www.hometownvendors.org/events.

FEB. 7 – Wayne County Farm Toy Show, Smithville High School, 200 Smithie Dr., Smithville, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. $3. Vendors selling farm toys and implements, literature, and local memorabilia; FFA fundraiser. 330669-9455 or gren_sheppe@tccsa.net.

FEB. 8 – Don Goodman and the Jazz Shepherds: “1930s Swing Band,” Wadsworth Public Library, 132 Broad St., Wadsworth, 2–3 p.m. Free. The band will perform songs from the swing band era, including the music of Fletcher Henderson, Paul Whiteman, and Duke Ellington. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. 419-853-6016 or www.ormaco.org.

FEB. 15 – Flea Market of Collectables, Medina County Fgds. Community Ctr., 735 Lafayette Rd. (St. Rte. 42), 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 www. conraddowdell.com.

Design-Build Expo, Ohio Expo Center, Rhodes Bldg., 717 E. 17th Ave., Columbus, Fri. 1–7 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. $10– $12; 18 and under free. $7 parking. Tickets good all weekend. An expo for log home, timber frame home, and rustic furniture enthusiasts. www.loghomeshows.com.

JAN. 30–FEB. 1 – National Fishing Expos– Columbus, Ohio Expo Center, Bricker Bldg., 717 E. 17th Ave., Columbus, Fri. 12–7 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–3 p.m.. Three days of sport fishing education and fun. Every major line of boats, rods, guides, tackle, and Canadian outfitters, all under one roof. 614-361-5548 or www.nationalfishingexpos.com.

JAN. 31 – Apostle Jones, Marion Palace Theatre, 276 W. Center St., Marion, 7:30 p.m. $16–$39. This 10-piece Cleveland-based band fuses rock, gospel, blues, funk, and R&B into an unforgettable live experience. 740-383-2101 or www.marionpalace.org.

FEB. 6 – First Friday Art Walk, downtown Zanesville, 5–8 p.m. Come downtown on the first Friday of each month, when all our participating galleries, studios, and small businesses are open at the same time! https://artcoz.org/arts-district-map.

FEB. 7 – John Mueller’s Winter Dance Party, Marion Palace Theatre, 276 W. Center St., Marion, 7:30 p.m.

The official and critically acclaimed tribute to rock ’n’ roll pioneers Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and The Big Bopper, re-creating the final tour of these legendary performers. 740-383-2101 or www.marionpalace.org.

SOUTHWEST

growth. www.visitchillicotheohio.com/event.

THROUGH FEB. 25 – Bluegrass Wednesdays, Vinoklet Winery, 11069 Colerain Ave., Cincinnati, Wed. 6:30–8:30 p.m. Enjoy dinner, wine, and an evening of free entertainment by Vernon McIntyre’s Appalachian Grass. Reservations recommended.

513-385-9309, vinokletwinery@fuse.net, or www. vinokletwines.com.

JAN. 16 – Mountain Dulcimer Society of Dayton Concert, Troy-Hayner Cultural Center Ballroom, 301 W. Main St., Troy, 7:30 p.m. Free. Featuring

SOUTHEAST

JAN. 10 – First Capital Lecture Series: “Chillicothe Firsts,” former Chillicothe Gazette Building, 50 W. Main St., Chillicothe, 2 p.m. Free. Presented by Ross County America 250. Chillicothe historian Julie Lambert will discuss notable people and firsts in Ross County. Artifacts from early Ohio will also be on display by the Ross County Historical Society. www. visitchillicotheohio.com/america250-rosscountyohio.

JAN. 10 – Historic 12th Night Event, Adena Mansion and Gardens, 847 Adena Rd., Chillicothe, 3 p.m. $0–$5. Enjoy a historical afternoon and learn how the feast was prepared, 1800s style, that celebrated the end of the holiday season. Includes a cooking demonstration in the Tenant House and short “candlelit” tour through the mansion. www. ohiohistory.org/visit/browse-historical-sites/adenamansion-gardens.

WEST VIRGINIA

Mandy Tyner. Hear both solo features and ensemble arrangements that highlight the versatility of the Appalachian mountain dulcimer. www.troyhayner. org/music.html.

JAN. 16–25 – Greater Cincinnati Remodeling Expo, Sharonville Convention Center, 11355 Chester Rd., Sharonville, Fri. 12–7 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–5 p.m. $5 (cash only); 18 and under free. Explore innovative displays showcasing the latest trends in design and product offerings. Meet local experts and get the advice you need to help you with your home improvement projects. www. homeshowcenter.com/overview/Cincinnati.

JAN. 24 – OVKA Kart Racing Trade Show and Swap Meet, Roberts Centre, 123 Gano Rd., Wilmington. $15; 12 and under, $10. Over 200 booths of racing products for sale. Sprint karting, road racing, dirt karting, oval racing, and vintage karts and parts; tech and performance seminars; Intro to Karting class. 513-503-4633 (Elliot Bokeno) or www. ovka.com/swap-meet.

FEB. 7 – Annual Clifton Gorge Winter Hike, Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve, 2381 St. Rte. 343, Yellow Springs, 9 a.m.–1 p.m. “Go at your own pace” 3-mile hike from John Bryan State Park to Clifton Gorge Exploration Center. Historical reenactors will share stories about the region. Dress for the weather, wear sturdy shoes, and bring plenty of water. https:// ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/ clifton-gorge-state-nature-preserve.

FEB. 7 – Cincinnati Winter Blues Experience VII, Manor House, 7440 Mason Montgomery Rd., Mason, 5 p.m. $35 advance, $40 at door. See website for artist lineup and other information. www.winterbluesexperience.com.

FEB. 7 – Greater Cincinnati Fly Fishing Show, Oasis Conference Center, 902 Loveland-Miamiville Rd., Loveland, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. $15; Scouts in uniform and kids 12 and under free. Headliner Josh Miller. Fly fishing education and demos, fly tying demos, fishing guides, casting pond, exhibitors, raffles, door prizes, and more. www.buckeyeflyfishers.com.

JAN. 16 – Concert: Bryan White, Majestic Theatre, 45 E. Second St., Chillicothe, 7:30 p.m. $25–$50. The CMA, ACM, and Grammy Award–winning country music artist, producer, and songwriter will perform at the historic Majestic. www.majesticchillicothe.net.

JAN. 17–18 – Pre-1890 Trade Fair, Canter’s Cave 4-H Camp, 1362 Cave Rd., Jackson, Sat. 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. $4; 12 and under free.

Dealers will be selling items common to the 18th and 19th centuries. For additional information, call 740-773-3891.

JAN. 18 – New Moon Hike, Lake Hope State Park, 27331 St. Rte. 278, McArthur, 5:30–7:30 p.m. Enjoy the splendor of the nighttime sky during this 2-mile hike on one of the darkest nights of the month. Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes, and dress for the weather.

740-596-3030 (Kaylin Callander) or https://ohiodnr. gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/lakehope-state-park.

JAN. 25 – Brass Express: Tribute to Chicago and More, Majestic Theatre, 45 E. Second St., Chillicothe, 7:30 p.m. $24–$37. Sit back and groove to the soul-stirring re-creations of your favorite music from Chicago; Blood, Sweat & Tears; Tower of Power; and many more. www.majesticchillicothe.net.

JAN. 25 – Marietta Symphony Orchestra: “A Celtic Celebration of Robbie Burns,” Peoples Bank Theatre, 222 Putnam St., Marietta, 3 p.m. $14–$29; Srs. $4–$19. Enjoy Scottish-themed classics such as Mendelssohn’s “Scottish Symphony” and some

of Burns’ most famous songs, including, of course, “Auld Lang Syne.” www.peoplesbanktheatre.com.

JAN. 30 – Concert: Joe Nichols, Peoples Bank Theatre, 222 Putnam St., Marietta, 8 p.m. $47+. One of country music’s most-lauded recording artists. www.peoplesbanktheatre.com.

JAN. 31 – Buckeye Trail Trek, Shawnee State Park, 4404 St. Rte. 125, West Portsmouth, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Traverse 4 miles through Shawnee’s beautiful, unglaciated, rugged terrain. Pack snacks and water, wear sturdy hiking boots, and bring a hiking stick. https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/finda-property/shawnee-state-park.

FEB. 7 – Hotel California: The Original Eagles Tribute Band, Pritchard Laughlin Civic Center, 7033 Glenn Hwy., Cambridge, 7 p.m. Free. 740-439-7009 or www.pritchardlaughlin.com.

FEB. 13–14 – Great Backyard Bird Count, Lake Hope State Park, 27331 St. Rte. 278, McArthur, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Come out to assist us with a global citizen science effort to observe and count birds.

740-596-3030 (Kaylin Callander) or https://ohiodnr. gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/lakehope-state-park.

FEB. 14 – First Capital Lecture Series: “Ohio Works, Innovation, and Industry,” Ross County Heritage Center, 45 W. Fifth St., Chillicothe, 2 p.m.

Free. Part of the America 250–Ross County, Ohio, celebration, this monthly lecture series showcases the trades, tools, and technologies that fueled Ohio’s

JAN. 10 – Abominable Snowman Jam, Canaan Valley Resort State Park, 230 Main Lodge Rd., Davis, 4–9 p.m. Join this winter celebration packed with live music, great food, and plenty of fun. Features DJ Dan Barkley, the Soda Pop Gypsies, and the crowdfavorite beard competition. www.canaanresort.com/ events/abominable-snowman-jam.

JAN. 31 – Winterfest, Oglebay Park Resort, 465 Lodge Dr., Wheeling. Celebrate the season with the Polar Plunge, a dance party, ice sculptures, ice

skating, prizes, and more. https://oglebay.com/ calendar/celebrations/Winterfest.

FEB. 13 – The Bellamy Brothers: Love Still Flows, Robinson Grand Performing Arts Center, 444 W. Pike St., Clarksburg, 7:30 p.m. Spend your Valentine’s Eve with country legends as they perform more than four decades of chart-topping music. www. therobinsongrand.com.

JANUARY 2026 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

35

Bedtime

MEMBER INTERACTIVE

1

4

2

3

5

6

1. My daughter, Meadow, is reading a book to her little sister, Charlotte, before bed. Kimberly Chave, South Central Power Company member

2. We don’t typically allow our dogs in our beds, but Zeke got special permission when “his boy” was home from college!

Patty Grasty, Butler Rural Electric Cooperative member 3. The grandkids — Jayden, Camden, and Alizah (with baby Jazmin in the crib) — over for a sleepover, doing the normal stalling, laughing, having fun routine. Katie Grubba,

4. My grandson, Wade, ready for bed — roar! Tammy Offenberger, Washington Electric Cooperative member 5. My-son-in-law, Justin Esselburn, reading a bedtime story to my grandsons, Wyatt and Rhett, during the Advent season.

Beth Fry, The Energy Cooperative member 6. Sweetie J. Moneypenny, our recent adoption, chilling out before bed. Cindy Boyer, Hancock-Wood Electric Cooperative member

South Central Power Company member

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OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • JANUARY 2026

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