Ohio Cooperative Living – March 2026 - Consolidated

OHIO

MARCH 2026

COOPERATIVE Consolidated Cooperative Consolidated Cooperative

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OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • MARCH 2026

INSIDE FEATURES 21

UPWARD BOUND

Indoors or outdoors, the sport of rock climbing is on a rising trajectory.

26 SEED SWAP

Little free libraries of a different kind help spread beauty and expand habitats for pollinators.

30 HORSE WHISPERER

An 1800s farm boy with a talent for equine affairs is still an inspiration in his Ohio hometown.

Cover image on most editions: Purple coneflowers, the only echinacea species native to Ohio, are a key source of pollen for butterflies, bees, and other insects during the summer months, and their seeds are among those available in “seed libraries” sprouting up around the state (photograph by Vladimir Sotnichenko/via Getty Images).

This page: A statue of Cruiser, a supposedly untamable horse, greets visitors at the community rec center in Groveport (photograph by Damaine Vonada).

MARCH 2026 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

1

UP FRONT

When it matters most W

hen severe winter weather recently swept across Ohio and much of the eastern United States, it put significant strain on the electric grid. As temperatures dropped, electricity demand surged and fuel systems tightened. It was a challenging period that once again showed what truly matters during extreme cold: a reliable, diverse power supply that performs under pressure.

Within our 13-state region of the grid, known as the PJM Interconnection, coal, nuclear, and natural gas resources did exactly what they were built to do: keep power flowing when conditions are at their worst. Together, they supplied more than 90% of the electricity used during the coldest of those days.

The fleet of generation resources that power Ohio’s electric cooperatives stood strong as well. All three coal-fired units at our Cardinal Power Plant remained online, as did all 11 Ohio Valley Electric Corporation coal units. Natural gas plants owned by cooperative members stayed online as well, despite extremely high gas prices and heavy strain on the natural gas delivery system. That balanced mix of resources helped maintain reliability across PJM and avoided potential power shortages during some of the most extreme conditions we’ve seen in quite some time.

One of the key lessons from that weather event was the importance of readily available fuel.

Coal and nuclear plants store fuel on-site, which protects against sudden price spikes and fuel delivery interruptions. We saw what a difference that made when natural gas supplies became tight and prices rose sharply. While natural gas plants owned by Ohio cooperatives do maintain limited on-site backup fuel, it’s typically only enough for a few days of operation. Coal and nuclear plants, meanwhile, store enough fuel to run for weeks or even months at a time. That’s a real safeguard that helps manage both reliability risks and spiking costs, providing a critical buffer during the prolonged severe weather.

None of that reliability happens by accident, or without people. The operations, scheduling, and dispatch teams at our coal and natural gas plants worked around the clock, in difficult conditions, to secure fuel supplies, manage pipeline flows, and monitor rapidly changing grid conditions to keep those units operating safely and reliably.

Their dedication and expertise helped keep the lights on and homes heated when Ohio families needed it most.

2

OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • MARCH 2026

Craig Grooms

PRESIDENT & CEO OHIO’S ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES

Coal, nuclear, and natural gas resources did exactly what they were built to do: keep power flowing when conditions are at their worst.

March 2026 • Volume 68, No. 6

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

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

Contributors: Margaret Buranen, Colleen Romick Clark, Getty Images, W.H. “Chip” Gross, Catherine Murray, and Damaine Vonada.

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.

National/regional advertising inquiries, contact

Cheryl Solomon

American MainStreet Publications 847-612-9015 | cheryl@amp.coop or email advertising@ohioec.org

4 POWER LINES

The power beneath your feet:

Geothermal systems take advantage of nature and physics to provide clean, efficient heating and cooling.

8

8 WOODS, WATERS, AND WILDLIFE

In search of... After many fruitless years, author’s quest for an elusive “bull can” takes a different tack.

10 CO-OP PEOPLE

10

The problem with beavers: Sometimes the busy little things, cute but industrious as they are, can be a real headache.

13 GOOD EATS

Tea time! We all can appreciate a

good cuppa, but the joys of tea don’t have to be limited to a mug.

13

17 LOCAL PAGES

News and other important information from your electric cooperative.

33 CALENDAR

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

33

36 MEMBER INTERACTIVE

Tea party: Anytime can be a special

Cooperative members:

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

Alliance for Audited Media Member

occasion when you put on a kettle for friends and family — as shown in South Central Power Company member Greg Schumacher’s photo (on the right) of his setup for “high tea with the bride-to-be.”

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.

MARCH 2026 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

3

The power

beneath your feet

Geothermal systems take advantage of nature and physics to provide clean, efficient heating and cooling.

BY AMY HOWAT

W

hen people consider renewable energy sources, they tend to look up. Solar power, after all, is a common choice for someone looking to go green or potentially save money on electricity.

For some, however, it can pay to look down. Geothermal systems take advantage of the naturally consistent temperature underground to provide energy-efficient heating and cooling year-round.

“People choose geothermal for the environmental benefits and to save money,” says Tim Litton, director of marketing for WaterFurnace, an Indiana-based geothermal system manufacturer. “Geothermal is twice as efficient as any traditional heat pump, which means people can save more money on heating and cooling.”

Avoiding extremes Home geothermal systems work generally the same as the more common air-source heat pumps, which use refrigerant and a compressor to transfer heat, says Bruce Warnecke, energy service advisor at HancockWood Electric Cooperative in North Baltimore. “But

4

OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • MARCH 2026

geothermal uses ground temperatures, which remain constant compared to air temperatures, which fluctuate widely,” he says.

In the Midwest, the temperature just a few feet under the ground stays at a consistent 55 degrees, no matter the air temperature above. “The system uses pipes that circulate liquid through the ground to either extract warmth to heat the refrigerant or deposit the heat to cool the refrigerant,” Warnecke says. “On a day when it’s 90 degrees outside, it’s much more efficient to use 55-degree water to cool than to use 90-degree air. If it’s 15 degrees outside, it’s much more efficient to use 50degree water than that extremely cold air.”

The harder the system works, the more electricity it uses, raising the homeowner’s electric bill. “In the winter, the colder it gets, the harder a traditional heat pump has to work to get heat from the outside air,” Litton says. Extremely cold days can push air-source heat pumps to switch to auxiliary or supplemental electric heat, which can use five or 10 times as much electricity as the normal heat-pump mode. Geothermal

URE: LEED-ing by example

E

lectric cooperatives frequently advise and educate members about energy efficiency.

When Marysville-based Union Rural Electric Cooperative built its new headquarters in 2007, the cooperative led by example, constructing a LEEDcertified green building.

A major component of its energy-efficiency plan was a geothermal system for heating and air conditioning, says Matt Zarnosky, URE’s chief operating officer and vice president of engineering.

“We have geothermal for the whole building,” he says. “We have 18 compressor units in the building for geothermal heating and air conditioning. If you put geothermal in your house, you’d have just one.”

The co-op benefits both from lower overall energy usage and from consistent costs throughout the year. “Because the temperature of the ground is always constant, we don’t see huge spikes in cost during especially hot or cold weather.”

URE’s building is raised off the ground and heat comes through vents in the floor, Zarnosky says, and a glass section of flooring makes that space visible.

Additionally, some of the geothermal units may be seen behind glass doors in the co-op building.

The co-op’s building also has an enthalpy wheel, an energy-recovery unit that saves heat from exhaust air.

heat pumps almost never use backup heat, Litton says, because of the consistent ground temperature.

Real-life application Hancock-Wood member Doug Schwiebert of Hamler recently put a geothermal system into a newly constructed barndominium in Henry County. The choice was easy, he says, because he’d had a positive experience using geothermal in an old farmhouse.

“It transfers heat from exhaust air to intake air, and tempers the air as we’re bringing in fresh air,” Zarnosky says.

“We don’t let any heat go to waste.”

“The one in the farmhouse is 20 years old,” Schwiebert says. “When we put it in, our electric bill did drop. It’s also been really reliable. We just clean the furnace filter and we haven’t had to do anything else to it.”

Litton says longevity is another advantage of these systems. “A geothermal unit lasts about 25 years, while most other types of HVAC units are expected to last 15 to 18 years. There’s no combustion, no flames or fumes, and no outdoor components. It’s quieter and there’s no risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.”

Continued on page 6

MARCH 2026 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

5

Continued from page 5

Schwiebert’s systems use horizontal loops buried in the ground.

depending on the initial costs, incentives, and other variables.

“We’re in the middle of a field, so we’ve got plenty of room here,” he says. Other configurations include vertical loops that go straight down and open-loop systems that use water from a nearby pond.

Another factor to consider is rebates from electricity providers and possible state or local tax credits or incentives as well. “Our cooperative offered a rebate and we also got a 30% federal tax credit,” Schwiebert says.

“That made the investment much closer to what we might have paid for another type of system.”

Investing in efficiency Geothermal systems can be a good option for people building new homes, especially if they have available land for a horizontal loop, which is the most costeffective option, Warnecke says. Geothermal may also be installed in existing homes. The choice makes the most sense for people who plan to stay in their homes for a significant time, he says.

“They cost more up front to purchase, often about one and a half to two times a traditional system,” he says.

“But the month-to-month energy savings will pay off.”

How long that payoff takes varies, he says, but a good contractor can provide a cost-savings analysis to help homeowners decide whether geothermal is a good investment in their particular situation.

Litton said that, on average, homeowners recoup the costs of a geothermal system in about 10 years,

6

OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • MARCH 2026

On its website, WaterFurnace offers a calculator to help potential customers estimate their savings and also directs them to available local incentives, Litton says.

A win-win for co-ops Because geothermal systems avoid the worst energyuse spikes in extremely hot or cold weather, they keep homeowners’ bills more constant. At the same time, they don’t contribute to the energy demand surge that comes with extreme temperatures, benefiting utilities, which have prices set based on their peak energy use. For co-ops, lower peak demand means lower costs for everyone.

“For every 1,000 homes that adopt geothermal, it reduces peak demand by about 10 megawatts,” Litton says. “That’s why utilities offer geothermal incentives.”

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MARCH 2026 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

7

In search of…

After many fruitless years, author’s quest for an elusive ‘bull can’ takes a different tack.

STORY AND PHOTOS BY W.H. “CHIP” GROSS

D

ecades ago, when I was a much younger man, I was a serious waterfowl hunter. I enjoyed the history and traditions of the sport nearly as much as the hunting itself — so much so that for several years, I owned and hunted from an original Dan Kidney sneak boat, built by the legendary boatbuilder in 1919 at his shop in De Pere, Wisconsin. A buddy and I hunted from the antique wooden craft for several years, mainly offshore along the famous Lake Erie marshes that ring the lake’s Western Basin, as well as on adjoining Sandusky Bay.

8

OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • MARCH 2026

The Ohio Decoy Collectors and Carvers Association’s annual show near Cleveland includes several decoy painting demonstrations, and prizes are awarded to the decoys judged most lifelike (below).

One species of waterfowl, however, always seemed to elude us: the so-called king of ducks — the canvasback.

Large, handsome, fast-flying birds, canvasbacks were not exactly numerous during those years, but they were plentiful enough to be considered fair game. No matter how hard we hunted, however, we never bagged a single one.

I retired from duck hunting and sold the boat decades ago, but in truth, I never totally lost the desire to bag a “bull can,” as hunters call the male (or drake) canvasback. Recently, I realized that I’m not getting any younger, and I decided that if I’m ever going to do it, I should probably do it soon.

And I knew exactly where to begin my “hunt.”

The Ohio Decoy Collectors and Carvers Association (www.odcca.net) holds its annual, weekend-long show and sale in mid-March just south of Cleveland, this year’s gathering being the 47th. Open to the public with a nominal admission charge, it’s a celebration of all things waterfowl, from vintage duck decoys to present-day, intricately carved and hand-painted nongame birds that look as if they could come alive in your hand if you picked them up. There are also decoy carving and painting demonstrations, as well as serious competitions to determine the most lifelike birds.

He was just 21 years old and studying at the Columbus College of Art and Design in 2000 when he won the award for the first time with a painting of a single mottled duck (he’s still the youngest artist ever to earn the award). He took the top prize again in 2014 with his rendering of a pair of canvasbacks, and he won for the third time in 2024 with a painting of a pair of spectacled eiders. I interviewed him shortly after that first win and immediately became a fan of his art, rooting him on from the sidelines ever since.

Incidentally, only two other Ohio wildlife artists have ever won the federal Duck Stamp competition: Bob Hines in 1946 and John Ruthven in 1960 — both with paintings of redhead ducks.

But back to my quest to bag my long-sought-after bull can. Mission accomplished! At the 2025 ODCCA show, I met Robert Lewis of Eastpointe, Michigan, who’s been carving and painting waterfowl decoys professionally for half a century. His work included a beautiful drake canvasback in a resting pose (see photo on the far left), and I ordered one then and there. The bird arrived by mail a few months later, and now sits on my writing desk, forever snoozing, with its head resting comfortably on its back.

The yearly ODCCA show and sale runs concurrently with the annual meeting of the Great Lakes Decoy Association, so it’s really a combination of two shows in the same location at the same time, and Brad Falkinburg, the ODCCA president, tells me it’s the largest collecting and carving show in the Midwest.

Adam Grimm (www.adamgrimm.com), a full-time professional wildlife artist, will return to the event this year to meet and greet attendees and display some of his award-winning artwork. Grimm, who was born and raised in Ohio and now lives in South Dakota, is a bona fide celebrity in the field. For a wildlife artist to win the federal “Duck Stamp” art contest — the oldest and most prestigious wildlife art competition in America — even once is a career-defining moment. Grimm has won three times.

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

MARCH 2026 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

9

CO-OP PEOPLE

The problem with

beavers

Sometimes the busy little things, cute but industrious as they are, can be a real pain.

STORY AND PHOTOS BY W.H. “CHIP” GROSS

W

ith the exception of humans, likely no other species on earth can control its environment like the beaver. They do so, of course, by building dams — creating habitat not only for themselves but for other wetland wildlife species as well.

The problem, however, is that the ponds beavers create can also inundate homes, roadways, crop fields, and countless other bits of human environment, causing significant damage every year.

The rodents are so large (weighing up to 60 pounds) and unrelentingly industrious (“busy as a beaver,” of course), sometimes it may seem their secret motto is “Dam the Humans!”

Until recently, the main solution to beaver issues has been to do away with the beaver; eliminate the beaver and you eliminate the problem, or so goes the theory. But that kind of thinking is slowly beginning to change. Many rural landowners enjoy having beavers on their property, along with other wildlife their ponds attract — as long as the beavers and their dams can be kept under control.

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OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • MARCH 2026

Take, for example, Chris and Hyla Skudder, members of Mount Gilead-based Consolidated Cooperative who live on 22 acres near Cardington that include a small wetland.

“Two years ago, a pair of beavers moved in and began damming the wetland to increase its size,” Hyla says.

“That was unacceptable to us because our house sits near the wetland and the water level was rising toward our foundation. Each morning, we’d have to spend an hour or two tearing out the section of the dam the beavers had built the previous night. It was dirty, wet, exhausting work.”

Finally, the Skudders had to admit the beavers were winning.

So they made a call to Steve Ecrement, a certified wildlife biologist, professional wetland scientist, and certified beaver coexistence professional. Ecrement and his company, Ohio Beaver Strategies, solve beaver problems for landowners. If at all possible, they do so using nonlethal methods — in other words, without killing the beaver.

Pond-leveling intake pipes are guarded by industrialgrade fencing; (right photo): Steve Ecrement (left) discusses beaver-management strategies with Chris and Hyla Skudder.

“Trap and kill a beaver and all you’re doing is beginning a cycle where you’ll have to trap and kill more beavers as they move into the unoccupied habitat,” Ecrement says. “Instead, the solution is to outsmart a beaver. The goal is to stabilize the situation for both the landowner and the beaver, which solves the problem.”

Of course, that’s easier said than done. In the case of the Skudders’ property, Ecrement installed a Flexible Pond Leveler pipe system, a flow device that creates a permanent leak through the beaver dam that beavers can’t plug. “That eliminates the need for repeated trapping despite the presence of beavers.”

In order for the pipe system to be effective, it must be designed so that beavers can’t detect the flow of water into the pipe. The Flexible Pond Leveler does this by surrounding the submerged intake of the pipe with a large cylinder of fencing that is placed in water that’s as deep as possible. As a result, beavers do not try to clog the pipe with sticks and mud, and a safe, steady water level is maintained. Ecrement said that every situation he encounters is a bit different, but he’s seen plenty of beaver damage during his career and he usually wins the battle.

Beavers in the Buckeye State Beavers could be found all over Ohio during pioneer times, but they disappeared from the Buckeye State by the late 1800s due to habitat loss and the unregulated trapping of the animals for their valuable, luxurious pelts.

“Working with Steve has been a big win for us,” says Chris Skudder.

“We now have the water level in our wetland stabilized, and yet we have beavers, too.”

To contact Ohio Beaver Strategies, email steve@ohiobeaverstrategies.com or visit https://ohiobeaverstrategies.com.

MARCH 2026 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

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Tea

time!

GOOD EATS

RECIPES AND PHOTOGRAPHS

BY CATHERINE MURRAY

We all can appreciate a relaxing cuppa, but the joys of tea don’t have to be limited to a mug.

CHERRY HIBISCUS BREAD Prep: 30 minutes | Soak: 2 hours | Bake: 55 minutes | Servings: 16 4 cherry hibiscus tea bags 1½ cups hot water 12 ounces dried cherries and plums, chopped zest of one lemon 1 cup packed light brown sugar 2 large eggs

1½ cups flour (spooned and leveled) 1½ heaping teaspoons baking powder ¼ heaping teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon nutmeg ½ teaspoon ginger ¼ teaspoon cinnamon ½ cup powdered sugar

Steep tea bags in the hot water for 10 minutes. In a small container with lid, mix together dried fruit, lemon zest, and 1¼ cups of the tea; cover and let soak at least 2 hours. Reserve remaining ¼ cup of tea for icing.

Preheat oven to 350 F. In a large bowl, beat brown sugar and eggs together using a wooden spoon, then stir in flour, baking powder, salt, and spices until incorporated (batter will be quite thick). Mix in teasoaked fruit until all liquid is incorporated and fruit is well dispersed. Transfer batter into an 8x8-inch greased baking dish and bake 50 to 55 minutes, until toothpick comes out clean.

Whisk together powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of reserved tea, adding more tea until icing reaches desired consistency. Once bread has completely cooled, drizzle icing across top.

Per serving: 189 calories, 1 gram fat (0 grams saturated fat), 43 grams total carbohydrates, 23 milligrams cholesterol, 213 milligrams sodium, 1 gram fiber, 2 grams protein.

MARCH 2026 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

13

GREEN TEA NOODLE SOUP Cook: 30 minutes | Servings: 4 5 cups water 2 cloves garlic, minced 6 bags decaffeinated green tea 5 cups chicken stock or broth 2 tablespoons unsalted butter ½ teaspoon dried thyme leaves 1½ cups diced yellow onion 1 bay leaf (approx. 1 medium) ½ teaspoon pepper 1½ cups diced carrots 4 ounces wide egg noodles (approx. 2 large) 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken 1½ cups diced celery (approx. 4 stalks) Using the 5 cups of water, prepare green tea according to package directions. Melt butter in a large stockpot over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery; sauté until soft, 5 to 7 minutes. Add garlic and sauté another minute. Add green tea, chicken stock, thyme, bay leaf, and pepper. Increase heat and bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Stir in noodles, cover with lid, and cook for 15 minutes. Add chicken and continue cooking uncovered until noodles are tender.

Serve hot.

Per serving: 224 calories, 10 grams fat (4 grams saturated fat), 21 grams total carbohydrates, 47 milligrams cholesterol, 283 milligrams sodium, 2 grams fiber, 13 grams protein.

MATCHA RICE CRISPY TREATS Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 5 minutes | Cool: 10 minutes | Servings: 12 3 tablespoons unsalted butter 10 ounces marshmallows 3 tablespoons unsweetened matcha powder (see notes) 6 cups crispy rice cereal Spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Melt butter in a large nonstick stockpot over medium heat. Add marshmallows, stirring until fully melted. Remove from heat; stir in matcha powder until uniform in color, then stir in cereal until fully coated.

Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish; coat hands with cooking spray and press mixture into an even layer. Cool 10 minutes before cutting.

NOTES: Culinary-grade matcha powder is available at most grocery stores. If powder has clumps, sift before adding. Not a fan of matcha tea? Try 2 teaspoons of a chai spice blend instead.

Per serving: 149 calories, 3 grams fat (1.5 grams saturated fat), 31 grams total carbohydrates, 7 milligrams cholesterol, 141 milligrams sodium, 1 gram fiber, 2 grams protein.

14

OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • MARCH 2026

EARL GREY CUSTARD CREAM PUFFS

Prep: 1 hour | Chill: 3 hours | Bake: 30 minutes | Servings (bite-size): 40 CUSTARD CREAM 2 cups whole milk 6 Earl Grey tea bags ¼ cup + 2 teaspoons cornstarch, divided ½ cup sugar

5 egg yolks 2 teaspoons vanilla extract pinch of salt ½ cup heavy whipping cream 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (plus more for sprinkling)

CHOUX DOUGH ½ cup unsalted butter 1 cup water 1 teaspoon sugar pinch of salt 1 cup flour 4 large eggs, room temperature

For the custard: In a saucepan over medium heat, bring milk to a simmer. Turn off heat, add tea bags, and cover with lid to steep. In a large heat-safe bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of the cornstarch, sugar, and egg yolks until pale yellow in color. Lift tea bags from milk; with a pair of tongs, squeeze excess liquid back into saucepan and discard bags. Heat milk over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until temperature reaches 180 F. Remove from heat and slowly drizzle hot milk into the egg yolks while whisking constantly. Transfer back to saucepan and bring to a light boil over medium-high heat, whisking constantly until thickened. Remove from heat and whisk in vanilla and salt. Transfer back to bowl; smooth out top with a spatula and seal custard’s surface with plastic wrap. Once cooled to room temperature, refrigerate 2 hours.

For the choux dough: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter into water, then add teaspoon of sugar and pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat and add flour; stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until a thick paste is formed. Return to heat and cook, stirring constantly until dough pulls away from the saucepan’s sides. Transfer to the bowl of a stand mixer with paddle attachment and let cool to below 125 F. Beat in one egg at a time until dough goes from shiny/smooth to dull/coarse. Beat for 1 minute after adding the last egg; dough will be sticky and smooth.

To bake puffs: Preheat oven to 400 F. Add dough to a pastry bag tipped with a ½-inch round tip.

On parchment- or silicone-lined baking sheets, pipe 2 or 3 equal-sized mounds at a time (about 1½ inches in diameter and 1 inch tall) about 2 inches apart. Dip finger in water and gently press peaks to round the tops, repeating 2 or 3 at a time with remaining dough. Bake 20 minutes, then turn oven off, leaving puffs in to continue baking to a medium brown (don’t peek, as they may deflate if oven is opened). Remove from oven and slice each puff in half horizontally to allow steam to escape. Return to oven for 5 to 10 minutes, leaving door open, until puffs don’t yield when lightly tapped.

To finish: In the bowl of a stand mixer with whisk attachment, beat heavy cream, remaining 2 teaspoons of cornstarch, and powdered sugar until peaks are just stiff enough to hold when turned upright. Remove chilled custard from fridge and loosen with a spatula (it’ll be quite thick). Fold ¼ of the whipped cream into custard to start, then fold in the rest until evenly distributed. Fill a piping bag (tipped with an open star tip) with custard cream.

Generously pipe custard into the bottom half of each puff and replace their tops. Sprinkle with powdered sugar.

NOTE: Custard cream and pastry puffs can be refrigerated separately for up to 3 days before assembling. Leftover assembled cream puffs can be refrigerated for 24 hours.

Per bite-sized puff: 76 calories, 4.5 grams fat (2.5 grams saturated fat), 6.5 grams total carbohydrates, 50 milligrams cholesterol, 26 milligrams sodium, 0 grams fiber, 2 grams protein.

MARCH 2026 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

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100% MONEY B GUARA ACK NTEE!

SAVE ENERGY this spring!

By Phil Caskey, President and CEO As we approach the end of winter, we are heading into a

For example, you could add a tracker when you purchase

time when milder weather typically leads to lower energy

a new appliance or when you open your pool for the

use. Our Ohio weather can be unpredictable sometimes

summer. Each tracker will show up on your monthly or

(perhaps most); in general, though, you will likely use less

annual use charts to help you compare your energy use

energy from March to May than you do between December

before and after the change.

and February. I know my geothermal heat pump looks forward to some rest as the temperatures climb in the spring!

While tracking can help you better understand how you use energy, nothing can eliminate all the weather’s impact on

If you participate in our InControl Prepay program, you’re

your usage and your bill. If you’d like the convenience of

already in control of your usage; if not, you receive your

smoothing out those seasonal variations in your bill, please

bill several days after your billing period is over. That delay

look into our Budget Billing program. You’ll still pay the same

means your bill may cover some cold snaps (or heat waves)

over the course of a year, but Budget Billing helps keep your

you’ve already put out of mind. Since our only job is to serve

costs more consistent each month.

you, we offer tools to help you track, understand, and assess your energy use so that you can do your part in getting the best value for your money.

As your not-for-profit cooperative, we give you back the money we don’t need to meet our expenses, so we genuinely want to help you save. In addition to our tracking

Through your free Consolidated SmartHub account, you

and Budget Billing tools, we offer free online calculators,

can track and compare how you use energy seasonally,

rebates, in-person Home Energy Audits, and more resources

daily, or even hourly. This can help you catch certain

that are all designed to help you understand your energy use

appliances or activities that might be calling for more

and better control how much you use and when to use it.

energy than you realize.

Our team is always happy to talk to you, and ways you can

Recently, we added a new feature that allows you to add

save energy is a great topic (after 90 years serving you, we

trackers that help you visualize the way your energy use

might just know a thing or two). If you have questions or if

changes around key life events or home updates.

you notice a specific issue in your home, please reach out to us. That’s why we are here.

MARCH 2026 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

17

We have had a couple different internet providers over the years.

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OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • MARCH 2026

Generator

SAFETY Portable generators can be a huge help during power

When you use your generator, keep it outside, at least 25

outages, but they pose serious safety hazards if used

feet from your home. Make sure the exhaust is directed

incorrectly. If you have a generator, please follow these

away from windows, doors, and vents. Never operate

important safety reminders to keep your family, your

a generator in your garage, barn, porch, or any other

neighbors, and our lineworkers safe.

enclosed or partially enclosed space.

Read Your Manual

Electric Safety

Your manual will have important safety information that is

Never connect your generator directly into your home’s

unique to your generator. It can also help you determine

wiring unless you have the proper transfer switch installed

how much equipment your generator can power safely.

by a professional. Connecting without a transfer switch can

Always follow your manual’s instructions carefully.

cause power to backfeed into our distribution system.

Carbon Monoxide

During an outage, if power travels from your home onto

The exhaust from generators contains carbon monoxide, which can quickly build up indoors and cause sickness or death. Before you purchase or start a generator, make sure your home is equipped with battery-backup carbon

de-energized lines or transformers, it puts lineworkers at risk of electrocution as they work to make repairs. If your generator is backfeeding electricity once power is restored, it can damage appliances and cause fires.

monoxide detectors, and test them to ensure they are working properly.

MARCH 2026 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

19

Don’t miss your chance Consolidated Cooperative is here to serve you.

Please contact us if you have any questions.

to nominate! Districts

CONTACT US

must be postmarked or submitted online by March 9.

24-HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE: 800-421-5863 service@consolidated.coop www.consolidated.coop MAIN OFFICE 5255 St. Rte. 95 Mount Gilead, OH 43338 DISTRICT OFFICE 4993 St. Rte. 521 Delaware, OH 43015 OFFICE HOURS 7:30 a.m.–4 p.m.

BOARD OF TRUSTEES Michael Struck, Chair Mike Schuster, Vice Chair Mary Fuller, Secretary Michael Huston, Treasurer Tim Bachelder, Asst. Secretary Don Breece Megan Forman-Karbler Doug Loudenslager Larry Roof HAVE A STORY SUGGESTION? Email your ideas to: editor@consolidated.coop

If you live in Districts 4, 5, or 6, trustee nominations

To prevent any issues with mailing delays, we encourage you to submit your nomination online using the link we sent out via email on February 23.

If you prefer not to nominate online but your election ballot has not arrived in the mail, please contact us for help. We can provide a paper ballot and return envelope so you can submit your nomination to our

4, 5, or 6,

third party securely.

USE YOUR CO-OP CONNECTIONS CARD TO SAVE AT LOCAL BUSINESSES Visit connections.coop to see all local and national offers.

Thousands of members also save each year on pharmacy discounts! Need a replacement card? You can download one on the connections.coop site or call our office and we will mail one to you.

RESIDENTIAL REBATES* Dual-fuel systems — $600

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GRAPHIC DESIGNER Stephanie Daniel

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FROM THE BOARDROOM JANUARY • Jennifer Barger, CMO, reported Member Engagement updates, including increased participation in Outage Alerts and payment assistance options. She also reported that the team helped 1,475 members avoid service interruption through their proactive disconnection prevention efforts.

• Tim Applegate, COO, reported a that fiber now has 4,396 active members, and a 38% overall take rate.

• Jon Todd, Safety Director, reported that Consolidated’s Safety Committee is working with information from our recent Safety Management Observation to continue enhancing Consolidated’s Safety Improvement Plan.

• Amanda Pridemore, CFO, reported year-to-date margins and expenses. Electric, natural gas, and propane margins are more than forecast due in part to the frigid weather that has driven up sales. Fiber reported a net loss due to expected depreciation.

20

OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • MARCH 2026

bound

Upward

Indoors or outdoors, the sport of rock climbing is on a rising trajectory.

BY MARGARET BURANEN

MARCH 2026 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

21

T

ed Welser, a professor in the Department of Sociology and Anthropology at Ohio University, focuses his academic research on “the intersection of digital social systems, organizations, and social change.”

But when he’s not studying the evolving use of social media or digital inequality in Appalachia, he usually can be found on a rock somewhere.

Welser started climbing in 1989, while he was a student at Miami University in Oxford. “Miami had one of the few indoor climbing walls then,” he recalls. Through the years while both his CV and his family grew, so did his love for climbing, and he’s since climbed all over the world.

“Climbing combines physical activity — a sport-like activity — with a meaningful cultural experience,” he says. “It’s a reason to travel and experience new places. I’ve spent hundreds of days climbing in Ohio, Kentucky, West Virginia, and Alabama, traveling to places that are remote.

I’ve enjoyed meeting people there who are climbers and not climbers.”

Shortly after he earned his Ph.D. in sociology from the University of Washington, he and his wife, Laura Black, moved to Athens with their two kids to be professors at OU. He built a climbing wall in his garage, founded the Climb Athens nonprofit, and began working with the Ohio Climbers Coalition, for which he serves as Southeast Regional Coordinator. Even his kids have gotten in on the act, having started when each was about 2 years old. His older daughter has climbed internationally and has competed in the National Collegiate Climbing Competition.

Welser is also an ambassador of the sport, always eager to introduce more people to climbing. “It’s worth it to give it a try, if you haven’t done it,” he says. “It’s an activity that can help you find new horizons and new things you haven’t experienced.”

Of course, just a glance will tell folks that climbing appears to be a dangerous sport. For those worried that it seems like it might be too much, he understands, but has a ready answer.

“You have to understand that there is a risk, but we do what we can to follow safety practices,” Welser says. “In over 30 years of climbing, I’ve practiced to stay very safe. When I’m high off the ground, I always have a rope to catch me if I fall.”

22

OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • MARCH 2026

What climbing type is for you?

• The most dangerous type of climbing is free solo, where the climber has no safety equipment or anyone else to rely on. Welser says that despite the YouTube videos, it’s extremely rare because it’s beyond most people’s climbing ability and the risks of falling are so high.

• Bouldering, as its name suggests, is climbing over large rocks within a few feet of the ground. It might sound easy, but often requires climbing sideways. “It can be very intense,” he says. “It’s like a puzzle to solve.”

• Multi-pitch climbing is a way to climb a cliff or rock that is too tall to be climbed on one length of rope. Instead, the first climber climbs part of the way with a rope, then stops and anchors the rope to safety bolts already installed into the rock. The second climber then ascends that distance and they repeat the process until both climbers reach the top.

Welser suggests that people who want to try climbing should visit an indoor climbing gym for some instruction. Indoor climbing walls are also common at community recreation centers and universities.

Noting that some indoor climbing gyms offer yoga classes, Welser says climbing requires “a balanced fitness — strength and flexibility.”

To begin climbing outdoors, it’s a good idea to book a professional instructor/guide. Such services are available at major climbing areas, such as Hocking Hills, New River Gorge in West Virginia, and Red River Gorge in Kentucky.

Climbers are always looking for new places to climb. Welser says that many good sites in Ohio are on private land.

He and other experienced climbers strive to protect climbing areas and consider access to private land as a privilege. He notes that landowners have several legal protections against any liability claims.

• Traditional, or “trad,” climbing is riskier than multi-pitch because the climber must place their own removable safety anchor points. The climber wedges cams and bolts into crevices in the rock.

• Ice — people who climb ice, such as frozen waterfalls, wear special boots that dig into the ice as they kick each foot inward. They hold a hatchetlike tool to hit into the ice for each new handhold.

For more information on climbing in Ohio, see www.ohioclimberscoalition.org.

MARCH 2026 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

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p a w s Seed Little free libraries of a different kind help spread beauty and increase habitats for pollinators.

BY MARGARET BURANEN

Teri Wickham, a staff member of the Three Valley Conservation Trust, restocks one of the organization’s wildflower seed libraries in Butler County.

26

OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • MARCH 2026

O

n a beautiful spring morning a few years ago, Randy Evans, director of Three Valley Conservation Trust in Oxford, was walking through a wooded area with the owner of the property, admiring the stunning array of wildflowers in bloom.

The woman, whose land is protected by a conservation easement secured through 3VCT, remarked how wonderful it would be if more people could enjoy the beauty of wildflowers firsthand. Suddenly, an idea began to germinate.

Evans thought of all the Little Free Libraries that were springing up at the time, offering books for anyone to take, and thought that maybe a similar program might encourage more people to plant wildflowers. It was a project, he figured, that would fit right in with 3VCT’s mission.

Three Valley Conservation Trust is a nonprofit group that promotes conservation measures in Butler, Preble, and Montgomery counties. Its 250 members mainly work to secure land conservation easements and raise awareness of the importance of protecting natural habitats and resources.

Evans and the 3VCT staff immediately jumped into some research and applied for a grant, which was approved in 2022, and “seed libraries” started springing up at various locations around Butler County in early 2023. Members of the public may take seeds from the libraries, free of charge, to plant in their backyards or wherever they choose.

“We’re creating and growing pollinator habitats throughout the community,” Evans says.

“Native plants are terrific because they take less water and are more likely to survive long-term.”

In turn, he says, those plants are a source of food and shelter for native bees and caterpillars.

“If you’ve never planted native wildflowers, you’ll be surprised at the diversity of the pollinators they attract and how easy they are to maintain.”

The 3VCT seed libraries offer seeds for 44 varieties of native Ohio wildflowers. Evans says the most popular seeds are for butterfly milkweed and other types of milkweed, cardinal flower, and blue lobelia. Other seeds available include purple coneflower, indigo, evening primrose, and columbine — stocked on a rotating basis depending on what’s available and what’s in season.

3VCT buys wildflower seeds in bulk from a seed supplier. It also receives donations of milkweed seed from the Butler County Soil and Conservation District. And now, thanks to a new Ohio law that has removed previous restrictions on collecting and sharing wildflower seeds as long as it’s for noncommercial purposes, local gardeners can also donate seeds to the cause.

Volunteers for the nonprofit divide the seeds into smaller, labeled packets and stock the libraries during the first week of every month from March until October or November.

Six 3VCD seed libraries are located in West Chester Township (at Keehner Park, Christ the King Lutheran Church, and Voice of America Park). The others are at Cherokee Park in Liberty Township, Ruder Preserve in Oxford, and Timberman Ridge in Hamilton.

The MidPointe public libraries in Monroe, Trenton, Middletown, West Chester Township, and Liberty Township also have wildflower seed libraries.

Color photographs of the wildflowers in bloom are displayed on Three Valley Conservation District’s website (https://3vct.org/what-we-do/community), along with planting instructions and directions to each of the seed libraries maintained by the trust.

Find a seed library near you

It’s likely enough there’s a free wildflower seed library near you. Some good places to find them include public libraries, local gardening clubs and Facebook groups, local chapters of Wild Ones (focuses on native plants), Soil and Water Conservation Districts, and county horticulture extension agents.

A few others we found include: ¹ Watershed Stewardship Center, Parma ¹ Cleveland Public Library ¹ Holden Forests and Gardens, Kirtland ¹ Avondale Community Garden at Franklinton Farms, Columbus ¹ Nature Center at Shaker Lakes, Cleveland ¹ Westerville Public Library ¹ West Creek Conservancy, Parma ¹ Seed Vault, Annehurst

Evans says that increased financial donations and more volunteers would allow the nonprofit to establish additional wildflower seed libraries. “So many people call us up and thank us for doing this,” he says.

MARCH 2026 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

27

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

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

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OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • MARCH 2026

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An 1800s farm boy with a talent for equine affairs is still an inspiration in his Ohio hometown.

Horse whisperer STORY AND PHOTOS BY DAMAINE VONADA

T

he name of John Solomon Rarey is known to most folks in the Franklin County town of Groveport; there’s a statue of him at the community’s rec center, after all, and his brother William was one of the original founders of the village (which at the time was called Rarey’s Port). The Rarey name graces several roads, buildings, businesses, and even a cemetery in the area.

In his day, though, John S. was a celebrity. “If he were alive today, Rarey would be world-famous,” says Rick Palsgrove, director of the Groveport Heritage Museum.

“Once he trained that untamable horse, everyone knew who he was.”

Rarey cemented his reputation as one of the greatest horse trainers the world has ever known when he won a bet with England’s Earl of Dorchester. The earl owned a horse named Cruiser, reported to be the fastest in England. But the animal also was vicious — a living fury who kicked two grooms to death, and who witnesses said had snapped an inch-thick iron bar with his teeth.

He was considered too dangerous to race.

A better way

Rarey was born in 1827 near what is now Groveport. His family owned several farms in the area, and from childhood, he displayed a genius for working with horses.

After he “broke” his first horse at age 12, locals began soliciting him to handle their horses. By 1855, he was testing his techniques on feral horses in Texas, and soon he was demonstrating them to British officers in Canada.

The “Rarey Method” was revolutionary for its time.

Instead of fear or pain, Rarey employed kindness, patience, a firm demeanor, and a soothing touch. “Rarey could train horses without hurting them,” says Palsgrove.

In 1857, Rarey ventured to England, where his abilities had attracted the attention of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. The royal couple asked him for a command performance at the January 1858 marriage of their eldest daughter at Buckingham Palace.

The Times of London reported the “surprising and successful result” when a cream-colored horse 30

OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • MARCH 2026

belonging to Her Majesty was “subjected to the manipulation of Mr. Rarey” during the event. “This particular animal has never permitted anybody to ride him,” the newspaper stated, “but he allowed Mr. Rarey to mount him without offering the least resistance.”

That horse, however, had nothing on the notorious Cruiser, and the English press challenged Rarey to conquer the fearsome dark bay. Dorchester bet Rarey a hundred pounds that he couldn’t tame Cruiser within three months.

Rarey did it in three hours.

When Rarey met Cruiser, the horse was being held in a cramped brick stable to limit his movement. Rarey boldly opened the stable’s oak door and stood before the stallion. Using a hushed voice and gentle stroking, Rarey quieted Cruiser enough to gently restrain him, and in no time the horse docilely lay down. Both Rarey and Dorchester rode Cruiser that day.

Back to Ohio

Having convinced England’s aristocracy of his prowess, Rarey embarked on a world tour. He gave lectures, did public demonstrations, rubbed shoulders with European royalty, and collected numerous accolades along the way.

Queen Victoria’s courtiers danced to the “Rarey Waltz.” A new word — “Rareyfy” — was coined, meaning to tame a horse by kindness.

In 1861, newly rich, Rarey acquired Cruiser from Dorchester and returned home. There, he built a 24-room mansion he called Cedarlawn, as well as a stable and a paddock for Cruiser. Dignitaries from around the world flocked to Groveport, and Rarey flew the flags of their home countries over Cedarlawn when they did.

Rarey and Cruiser toured northern cities, performing from Boston and New York to Chicago and Cincinnati.

“Rarey tamed whatever animals people brought to a show,” says Palsgrove. “Then at the end, out came Cruiser, and he’d shake hands with the horse.”

Rarey’s practices drew praise from all over. Abolitionist William Lloyd Garrison opined that Rarey provided a “lesson in substituting love for brutality.”

With the Civil War raging, the U.S. military also took notice. At the invitation of Gen. Henry Halleck, Rarey visited the Army of the Potomac in December 1862 to instruct Union cavalry officers, and even witnessed the Battle of Fredericksburg from a reconnaissance balloon.

Three years later, after a debilitating stroke, Rarey died in 1866 at age 38. After Rarey’s demise, Cruiser resumed his unruly ways, but lived out his days at Cedarlawn in accordance with his friend and master’s will. Cruiser died in 1875, and the horse was still so well known that his obituary ran in The New York Times.

Legacy of horse and man

Though Palsgrove delights in showing visitors the passage in Little Women where Louisa May Alcott referenced the horse whisperer, today’s world has largely forgotten Rarey and Cruiser.

But not in Groveport, where their story remains very much alive.

Not only does the Groveport Heritage Museum devote significant exhibit space to the pair, but Cruiser is featured on the city’s seal. A mural saluting Cruiser graces the side of a building on Main Street, and in front of the Groveport Recreation Center, statues by Zanesville sculptor Alan Cottrill portray Rarey and Cruiser’s fateful first meeting — Rarey with his signature top hat and muttonchop whiskers and wild-looking Cruiser with teeth bared.

Groveport’s most enduring tribute to Cruiser comes from its school district, which chose him as its mascot in the early 1900s, inspired by his strength, spirit, and discipline. The school colors were also based on the horse — “black, because Cruiser was a very dark horse, and red, for his temperament,” says Palsgrove.

Although Rarey was laid to rest in his family’s plot in Groveport Cemetery, Cruiser’s burial site is a mystery; Palsgrove says the Rarey family kept it a secret because they feared grave robbers would steal the remains and put them on display.

A middle school building now occupies the place where Cedarlawn once stood, and a football field has replaced Cruiser’s barn and paddock. “Cruiser’s grave might be somewhere beneath that field,” says Palsgrove. “But we’re not sure, and I think we’re fine not knowing.

MARCH 2026 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

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MAR. 7–29 – Show Your Stuff Art Show, Historic Fort Steuben Visitor’s Center, 120 S. 3rd St., Steubenville, Mon.–Fri. 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Free. Local Ohio Valley artists will display their works of art in various media. Don’t miss your chance to see talent up close — and maybe even take a piece of it home! Presented by the Steubenville Art Association. 740-283-1787 or www.oldfortsteuben.com.

MAR. 14 – Shreve Migration Sensation, Clinton Township Garage, 225 E. McConkey St., Shreve, 7:30 a.m.–4 p.m. Free admission. A day of birding, nature exploration, and family-friendly activities in THROUGH MAY 31 – “The Woman Behind the the heart of the Killbuck Marsh Wildlife Area. www.

Lens: Frances Benjamin Johnston and the shreveohio.com/migration-sensation.

American Presidency,” McKinley Presidential MAR. 15 – Annual Buzzard Day Pancake Library and Museum, 800 McKinley Monument Dr. Breakfast and Craft Fair, Hinckley Preparatory NW, Canton. Exhibit of Johnston’s photographs Academy, Hinckley, 7 a.m.–2 p.m. $10–$15; 5 of Presidents McKinley, Cleveland, Harrison, and under free. This annual tradition marks the and others, as well as Southern architecture, return of the turkey vultures and the arrival of historic gardens, and African American and Native spring, with food, festivities, and a nod to the American students. 330-455-7043 or www. town’s history. www.hinckleyohchamber.com/ mckinleymuseum.org/events. happenings/#buzzardday.

MAR. 1–31 – Ice Wine Festival, Wineries of the MAR. 21–22 – Vintage Decoys and Wildlife Art Grand River Valley, 12–5 p.m. Each of the seven Show and Sale, Holiday Inn Cleveland South, participating wineries will provide samples of their 6001 Rockside Rd., Independence, Sat. 9 a.m.– ice wines along with an appetizer. $10 at each 4 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. $5; 17 and under free. location. www.grandrivercellars.com/events/2026- Largest venue in the Midwest for decoy collectors, wggrv-ice-wine-festival. competitive carvers, and wildlife/waterfowl MAR. 6, 13, 20, 27 – Beginner Beekeeping artists. Carving contests, hands-on demos, Class, Life Church, 1033 Elm St., Grafton, 7–9 Saturday auction, raffles, cash prizes, and more. p.m. $50. Series of four classes offered by the ohiodecoycolcarvers@hotmail.com or Lorain County Beekeepers Association will cover www.odcca.net. topics such as beekeeping equipment, hive MAR. 21–22 – Model Railroad Show, Lakeland management, and hive care. Additionally, hands-on Community College, 7700 Clocktower Dr., Kirtland hive openings offered on Apr. 18 and 25. https:// (St. Rte. 306 at I-90, exit 193), 10 a.m.–4 p.m. $9– loraincountybeekeepers.org. $16 (cash). Model railroad dealers and exhibitors, MAR. 7–29 – Chatham’s Annual Sausage and operating layouts, historical displays, collectibles, Pancake Breakfast, presented by the Chatham and more. 216-598-8842, www.facebook.com/ Fireman’s Association, Chatham Memorial Hall RailfestTrainshow, or www.railfest.org. (former VFW Hall), 6299 Avon Lake Rd., Chatham, MAR. 22 – World Tour of Music: Larry and Sat./Sun. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Adults $12, Srs. $11, Joe, Akron-Summit County Public Library, 60 Children $8. Contact Steve Arters at 330-635-0958 S. High St., Akron, 2 p.m. Free. The versatile or Frank Keeling at 330-410-6237 for additional multi-instrumentalists and singer-songwriters will information. perform a fusion of Venezuelan and Appalachian folk music on harp, banjo, cuatro, fiddle, maracas,

WEST VIRGINIA

MAR. 27–29 – Wheeling Polka Festival, Oglebay Park, Wilson Lodge, Glessner Auditorium, 465 Lodge Dr., Wheeling. $25; 3-day pass, $69. Enjoy live polka bands, spirited dancing, and classic Polish fare.

Tickets sold online only. www.oglebay.com/polka.

APR. 11 – Civil War Symposium: “Chronicling the Fight: Art and Photography of the Civil War,” Davis & Elkins College, 535 Campus Dr., Elkins, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. $35. Topics include Matthew Brady, the famous photographer who made the horrors of war more intimate, and the stories and photographs of West Virginia soldiers. https:// beverlyheritagecenter.org/events.

guitar, and upright bass. Seating is on a firstcome, first-served basis. 419-853-6016 or www. ormaco.org.

MAR. 28 – Hop Around Millersburg, Historic Downtown Millersburg. Free. Spring open-house celebration for all ages! Adult Easter egg hunt with store coupons and gift cards, kids’ scavenger hunt, coloring contests, and open-house events at the downtown businesses! The Easter Bunny will be at Miller’s Creamery. 330-674-2412 or https:// historicdowntownmillersburg.com/event/hoparound-millersburg-march-28-2026.

APR. 3 – Pretzel Day, Historic Zoar Village, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Celebrate Good Friday like a true Zoar Separatist with pretzels, pretzels, and more pretzels! Stop by the Zoar Bakery for a fun, flavorfilled day with fresh pretzels straight from the oven or at one of the grab-and-go stations. Please be patient, as bakery wait times may be long. 330874-3011 or www.historiczoarvillage.com.

APR. 11 – Cuyahoga Falls Amateur Radio Club Hamfest and Computer Show, Emidio and Sons Expo Center, 48 E. Bath Rd., Cuyahoga Falls, 8 a.m.–1 p.m. $10. 330-790-1680 or www.cfarchamfest.org.

APR. 11 – “Over Here!”: World War I Program, Fort Laurens Museum, 11067 Fort Laurens Rd., Bolivar, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Learn about the First World War from reenactors portraying the soldiers who fought “over there.” 330-874-2059 or www. fortlaurensmuseum.org.

APR. 12 – Joe Rangel: “The Music of Bing Crosby,” Wadsworth Public Library, 132 Broad St., Wadsworth, 2–3 p.m. Free. The jazz vocalist and guitarist will showcase music performed by Bing Crosby. Not only will he sing, but he also will accompany himself on a seven-stringed guitar.

Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. 419853-6016 or www.ormaco.org.

APR. 12 – Medina Model Railroad and Toy Show, Medina Co. Fgds. Community Center, 735 Lafayette Rd. (St. Rte. 42), Medina, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. $8. Over 250 tables. New and used train sets and components from HO to G scale, operating layouts, vintage toys, and more. 330-948-4400 or www. conraddowdell.com.

Send us your event Submit listings AT LEAST 90 DAYS in advance to

events@ohioec.org.

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

MARCH 2026 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

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2026 CALENDAR

MARCH/APRIL

CENTRAL

MAR. 21 – GCHS Band Spring Craft and Gift Bazaar, Grove City High School, 4665 Hoover Rd., Grove City, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. $5; 5 and under free.

Homemade food and baked goods available for purchase. 614-801-3300 or www.gchsbands.org/ bazaar/spring-bazaar.

MAR. 21 – Ohio Boating Education Course, Alum Creek State Park, Horace R. Collins Classroom, 3307 S. Old State Rd., Delaware, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Free. This class fulfills Ohio’s mandatory boater education law requirements. Bring a sack lunch. Register in advance by calling Alum Creek Park Office at 740-548-4631. More information available at https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-aMAR. 6, 13, 20, 27 – Friday Fish Fries, Saint visit/events-calendar (search “boating”).

Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 600 Hill MAR. 21 – Sewing Smorgasbord, Sheridan Middle Road N., Pickerington, 4:30–7 p.m. Hosted by the School, 8660 Sheridan Rd., Thornville, 9 a.m.–3:30 Knights of Columbus. Featuring fried and baked p.m.; doors open 8:15 a.m. $10 (cash only). Over fish, fresh salmon, macaroni and cheese, and more! Carryout available. See our website for more 30 classes, over 15 exhibitors, fabric fair, scissor details. www.kofc11187.com/fishfry. http://kofc11187. sharpening, sewing machine raffle, two fat-quarter raffles, door prizes, and three “themed” basket com/FishFry.htm. raffles! No preregistration required for classes.

MAR. 6, APR. 3 – First Friday Art Walk, downtown Lunch available for purchase. 740-405-7891, Zanesville, 5–8 p.m. Come downtown on the first crshuster1@gmail.com, or www.facebook.com/ Friday of each month, when all our participating osuextensionperry. galleries, studios, and small businesses are open at the same time! See the Artist Colony of Zanesville’s MAR. 22 – Columbus Spring Avant-Garde Art and Craft Show, Makoy Event Center, 5462 Center website for a map of current participants: https:// St., Hilliard, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. $3, under 12 free. Large artcoz.org/arts-district-map. show featuring artists and crafters selling their MAR. 20–22 – Open Season Sportsman’s original handmade items. 440-227-8794 or www.

Expo, Ohio Expo Center, Bricker Bldg., 717 E. avantgardeshows.com.

17th Ave., Columbus. The latest in outdoor and MAR. 22 – Columbus Toy and Game Show, hunting gear, hands-on demos, trophy deer Ohio Expo Center, Lausche Bldg., 717 E. 17th Ave., contest, expert seminar speakers, shooting and Columbus, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. $15; 10 and under free; archery ranges, door prizes, and entertainment early buyer, 8–9 a.m., $20. Buy, sell, and trade like Twiggy the Water-Skiing Squirrel! www. new and retro toys, video games, and collectibles. openseasonsportsmansexpo.com/ohio.

Free arcade games, celebrity guests, free family MAR. 20–22 – Peony Palooza, Groovy Plants activities. www.ctspromotions.com.

Ranch, 4140 Co. Rd. 15, Marengo, 9 a.m.–6 MAR. 22 – Ohio Bridal and Wedding Expo, p.m. From garden peonies to premium itohs Greater Columbus Convention Center, 400 N. and tree peonies, we’ll have them all! www.

High St., Columbus, 1–5 p.m. Free with pass (see groovyplantsranch.com.

website), or $10 at door. Find the perfect gown, DJ, photographer, reception venue, band, and honeymoon destination! Fashion show, food sampling, photo gallery, prizes and giveaways, and much more. https://bridalshowsoh-cc.com.

MAR. 27–29 – Columbus Home Improvement Show, 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. See the latest innovations and design trends from hundreds of exhibitors. Local remodeling and building experts will be on hand to answer your questions. www.homeshowcenter.com/overview/ columbushome2.

MAR. 28 – Annie Glenn Tea and Toys, John and Annie Glenn Museum, 72 W. Main St., New Concord, 1–3 p.m. $20 per guest. Join us for a fullservice tea featuring a historic toy presentation and full tour of the museum. Spaces are limited. Email information.maem@gmail or call 740-826-3305 to reserve a seat.

MAR. 28–29 – Scott Antique Market, Ohio Expo Ctr., Bricker and Celeste Bldgs., 717 E. 17th Ave., Columbus, Sat. 9 a.m.–6 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Free admission; $7 parking. 800 exhibit booths. info@scottantiquemarket.com or www. scottantiquemarkets.com.

APR. 9–12 – Equine Affaire, Ohio Expo Center, 717 E. 17th Ave., Columbus. $10–$20; 6 and under free. The nation’s premier equine expo and equestrian gathering, featuring training clinics, seminars, demos, exhibits, equine entertainment and competition, and much more. 740-845-0085 or www.equineaffaire.com.

APR. 11 – Sunbury Piece Corps Quilt Show, Sunbury United Methodist Church, 110 W. Cherry St., Sunbury, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. $5. Quilts on display, vendors, quilting rummage sale. Food for sale around lunchtime. Email sunburypiececorps@ aol.com.

SOUTHWEST

crafts. Vendors, food truck, coffee truck, and live entertainment. www.appartguild.com MAR. 31 – Miami University Appalachian Studies Concert, Harry T. Wilkes Conference Center, 1601 University Blvd., Hamilton, 7 p.m.

Free. Enjoy an evening of lively bluegrass music

by Vernon McIntyre’s Appalachian Grass, featuring lightning-fast instrumentals, close harmonies, and entertaining novelty songs. 513-785-3277 or www. facebook.com/MiamiRegionalsAppStudies.

APR. 11 – Family Trout Fishing, Caesar Creek State Park, 8570 East St. Rte. 73, Waynesville, 9 a.m.–12 p.m. Family-friendly fishing event in partnership with ODNR. Meet at the Caesar Creek Youth Pond. https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-avisit/find-a-property/caesar-creek-state-park.

MAR. 15 – Cincinnati Spring Avant-Garde Art and Craft Show, R.S.V.P Event Center, 453 Wards Corner Rd., Loveland, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $3; under 12 free. Kick off spring with us! This large show will feature artists and crafters selling their original handmade items. Concession stand by the venue. www.avantgardeshows.com/events.

MAR. 26–29 – Cincinnati Auto Expo, Cincinnati Convention Center, 525 Elm St., Cincinnati. $9–$11; 12 and under free with paid adult/teen admission.

Compare the newest models created by your favorite manufacturers while learning more about the latest technologies that enhance driver and passenger experience. Fun for the whole family!

THROUGH APR. 29 – Bluegrass Wednesdays, 513-326-7100.

Vinoklet Winery, 11069 Colerain Ave., Cincinnati, MAR. 28 – Cabin Fever Arts Festival, Southern Wed. 6:30–8:30 p.m. Enjoy dinner, wine, and an evening of free entertainment by Vernon McIntyre’s State Community College, Patriot Center, 100 Hobart Dr., Hillsboro, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Free Appalachian Grass. Reservations recommended. admission. Presented by the Appalachian Artisans 513-385-9309, vinokletwinery@fuse.net, or www.

Guild. A showcase of quality handcrafted arts and vinokletwines.com.

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OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • MARCH 2026

SOUTHEAST

weekend pass, $120. The festival brings together some of the most talented blues performers from around the country. For information, call Jay Phillips at 304-481-8389 days, evenings, and weekends. For lineup and schedule, visit https:// bjfm.org/blues-festival.

MAR. 20–22 – Retreat: “Bloom and Create,” Riverview Conference Center, 20 N. Plaza Blvd., Chillicothe. $130. Twigs & Twine Craft Shop is hosting a three-day spring crafting getaway!

Bring your projects and enjoy a weekend full of creativity, friendship, and inspiration. www. twigsandtwinecraftshop.com.

MAR. 21 – Fearing Township Volunteer Fire Department Annual Dinner, 1975 Stanleyville Rd., Whipple, 4 p.m. For more information or questions, call 740-516-3989.

MAR. 27 – “The Gambler Returns”: Kenny Rogers Tribute, Majestic Theatre, 45 E. Second St., Chillicothe, 7:30 p.m. $30–$40. Country recording artist Alan Turner re-creates the magic of a night with Kenny. This full band show will take you on a musical journey through the career of an American icon and legend. www.majesticchillicothe.net.

MAR. 28 – Flint Knapping Demonstration, Hopewell Mound Group, 4731 Sulphur Lick Rd., Chillicothe, 1–3 p.m. Ed Moreland will discuss the history of flint knapping and the knapping process, followed by a live demonstration. Learn about this ancient technology. 740-774-1126 or www. friendsofhopewell.org/events.

APR. 4 – Stanleyville Community Group Easter Egg Hunt, Fearing Township Volunteer Fire Department, 1975 Stanleyville Rd., Whipple, 10 a.m.

Come hunt some eggs and get your picture taken with the Easter Bunny. For more information, call 740-336-4062 or email us at fearingtownship@ gmail.com.

APR. 11 – First Capital Lecture Series: “Ohio Moves: Transportation — The Erie Canal,” Dard Hunter Studio, 125 W. Water St., Chillicothe, 2–4 p.m. Free. Tom Troester will share the story of the canal that ran through Chillicothe from 1831 to 1907. The presentation will be in a former canal warehouse built in 1847, much of which is still original. A guided tour of a small section of the canal will be available after the lecture. www.visitchillicotheohio.com/america250rosscountyohio.

APR. 11–12 – Association of Ohio Long Rifle Collectors 51st Annual Show, Lafayette Hotel, 101 Front St., Marietta, Sat. 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.–2 p.m. $8; members and children under 12 free. Buy, sell, or trade. Features Ohio-made muzzleloading rifles and their accouterments from the 18th and 19th centuries; over 200 makers.

Includes rifles from the late, contemporary builder Warren Offenberger and antique guns

by Stilgenbauer. Also demos of leatherwork and engraving. For info, contact John Reinbolt at 419429-9825 or jreinbolt24@bright.net. Visit http:// aolrc.com or follow us on Facebook.

Green, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. $1; open to the public.

Roving, fleeces, exotic fibers, handcrafted items, homespun yarns, books, dyes, spinning and weaving equipment and supplies, and demonstrations. Lunch available. For more information, email blackswampsg@gmail.com.

MAR. 21 – The Lettermen, The Ritz Theatre, 30 S. Washington St., Tiffin, 7:30 p.m. $20–$50. 419-4488544, info@ritztheatre.org, or www.ritztheatre.org.

MAR. 22 – Findlay Spring Model Train Show, Northwest Ohio Railroad Preservation Inc., 12505 Co. Rd. 99, Findlay, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.; trains run until 4 p.m. $5; 12 and under free with adult admission.

Vendors will be displaying and selling model trains, THROUGH MAY 12 – Line Dancing, Delphos toy trains, and railroad memorabilia. Quarter-scale Eagles Aerie #471, 1600 E. Fifth St., Tues. 6–7:30 train rides available: $3 adults, $2 children. 419p.m. $5. Step-by-step instructions given at the 423-2995, www.facebook.com/nworrp, or www. beginning of each class. Everyone can learn! nworrp.org.

Private lessons also available. Taught by Kelly MAR. 28 – Maple Syrup Festival, Williams Jackson Kroeger (see her Facebook page). www.

Co. Fgds., Montpelier, 8 a.m.–12 p.m. Contact visitgreaterlima.com/calendar.

MAR. 7–8, APR. 4–5 – Tri-State Gun Show, Allen the Williams SWCD at 419-636-9395 for more information or email amichaels@williamsswcd.org.

Co. Fgds., 2750 Harding Hwy., Lima, Sat. 8:30 MAR. 31 – The Music Man, Veterans Memorial 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 Civic and Convention Center, #7 Town Square, guns, edged weapons, and sportsmen equipment. Lima, 7:30 p.m. $62–$102. There’s trouble in River City when a fast-talking traveling salesman named 419-647-0067 (Manetta Obringer) or www.

Harold Hill arrives and cons the townspeople into allencofair.com/events-calendar.

MAR. 20 – The Student Prince in Old Heidelberg, buying instruments and uniforms for a boys’ band, The Ritz Theatre, 30 S. Washington St., Tiffin, 7:30 but his plans to skip town are foiled when he falls p.m. Join us for a free screening of this 1927 silent for the town librarian. www.limaciviccenter.com.

APR. 4 – NWORRP Easter Egg Hunt, Northwest film. and a few surprises! 419-448-8544, info@ Ohio Railroad Preservation Inc., 12505 Co. Rd. 99, ritztheatre.org, or www.ritztheatre.org.

MAR. 21 – Black Swamp Spinners Guild Annual Findlay, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. $3; 12 and under, $2. A continuous scavenger egg hunt for all ages with a Market Day and Fiber Fair, Wood Co. Fgds., chance to win a “Golden Ticket” good for the 2026 Junior Fair Bldg., 13800 W. Poe Rd., Bowling season. No competition here! Just fun and treats

for all participating youngsters. Quarter-scale train rides continue until 4 p.m. 419-423-2995, www. facebook.com/nworrp, or www.nworrp.org.

APR. 5 – Lima Community Easter Dinner, Veterans Memorial Civic and Convention Center, #7 Town Square, Lima, 12:45–2 p.m. Free. Gather with the community around a common table for Easter dinner. www.limaciviccenter.com.

APR. 10–12 – McDonald’s Youth Theatre: The Hobbit, Encore Theater, 991 N. Shore Dr., Lima, Fri./Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. $10; 10 and under, $5. You’ve read the book and seen the movies — now journey there and back again in the stage adaptation of Tolkien’s epic tale of magic, treasure, and dragons. www.amiltellers.org.

APR. 11 – F.A.C.T Pound Out Cancer Event, Tiffin University, Tiffin, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Buy a T-shirt, join in the POUND workout, check out the vendors, silent auction, and food trucks. All proceeds go to support F.A.C.T of Seneca County. www.facebook. com/poundoutcancertiffin.

APR. 11 – Lima Symphony and Chorus: “Fate and Fortune,” Veterans Memorial Civic and Convention Center, #7 Town Square, Lima, 7:30 p.m. $15–$50.

Dive into a powerful musical journey exploring the forces that shape our lives — desire, destiny, and the unpredictable tides of fortune. Don’t miss this exhilarating night of music! 419-222-5701 or www. limasymphony.com.

APR. 11 – Spring for the STARS Vendor and Craft Fair, Elida Elementary School, 300 Pioneer Rd., Elida, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. $2; free for K–5th grade. Over 40 vendors with handcrafted items and great gift ideas. Concessions available. For more information, contact Nicole Oen at noen@elida.k12.oh.us.

MAR. 14 – Miller’s Automotive Swap Meet and Car Show, Ross Co. Fgds., 344 Fairgrounds Rd., Chillicothe, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. $8; under 14 free. Open to all motorsports from restoration to racing, including race cars, tools, hot rods, apparel, collectibles, rat rods, go-karts, and more. 740701-3447 (Nate), 740-701-2511 (Brian), or www. millersswapmeet.com.

MAR. 17 – RUNA: Celtic Roots Music, Peoples Bank Theatre, 222 Putnam St., Marietta, 7 p.m. $27–$67. This music “super group” interweaves the haunting melodies and exuberant tunes of Ireland and Scotland with the harmonies and rhythms of jazz, bluegrass, flamenco, and blues. www.peoplesbanktheatre.com.

MAR. 20–21 – River City Blues Festival, Lafayette Hotel, 101 Front St., Marietta. $45–$60;

NORTHWEST

MARCH 2026 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

35

Tea party

MEMBER INTERACTIVE

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3

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5 6

1. Lilly and friends’ tea party. Margo Wolf, Butler Rural Electric Cooperative member

4. An afternoon lunch tea party with daughter and granddaughter. Marge Weitzel, Midwest Electric member

2. Our granddaughters, Brynlee and Aubree, enjoying a little tea. Janet Ruffing, North Central Electric Cooperative member

5. Our grandson, Owen Warnecke, enjoying his tea party with his friends. Della Wenninger, Paulding Putnam Electric Cooperative member

3. Our daughters, Bernadette and Hattie, having a tea party with all of their favorite stuffed animals. Olivia Winner, Pioneer Electric Cooperative member

6. Myself, my sister Michaila, mother, Maureen, and grandmother Connie (all co-op members) out for a tea party day at a tea house in Ohio! Katherine Klaus, The Energy Cooperative member

Send us

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OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • MARCH 2026

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