Country Living May 2010 by American MainStreet Publications

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Official publication of your Electric Cooperative

May 2010

Vol. 52 No. 8

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Faces of Bangladesh - 8 Peregrine parents - 11 World Equestrian Games - 16

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OHIO AND WEST VIRGINIA’S ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES www.buckeyepower.com

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Table of Contents

Volume 52, No. 8 May 2010

Features Look for us online at www.buckeyepower.com

Faces of Bangladesh Brad Gibson finds rewards in NRECA International Program.

Climate change legislation could see new life A bipartisan energy and jobs package is under consideration.

Peregrine parents? Falcons set up housekeeping on power plant ledge.

Over the border to Kentucky 16

A world-class event at a world-class facility The World Equestrian Games make their first visit to Kentucky.

It’s the horse, of course 2010 is the perfect time to visit Kentucky’s equine attractions.

World Equestrian Games

Bluegrass B&Bs Kentucky’s bed-and-breakfasts offer surprising diversity.

Medley of museums Sites on Louisville’s “Museum Row” are conveniently clustered.

Make the Corvette Connection Go to Bowling Green, Kentucky, to see the Corvette Museum and factory.

Keeping secrets Velvet veils its ice cream flavors in savory secrecy.

Cream of the crop Meigs County’s “dairy evangelist” is leading a milk revival.

Velvet Ice Cream

Stuart’s Opera House

Buckeye book bounty

What’s ahead for homes

The new ‘pared-down’ house

Keeping the arts alive in southeastern Ohio. The Ohioana Book Festival is a celebration of Ohio writers. How the recession will affect choices in homes. Smaller is big as the American home downsizes.

Departments Stuart’s Opera House

4 12 31 38 43

Editorial Energy Highlights Calendar Ohio Quiz Ohio Icon

On the cover Two peregrine falcons are courting on a ledge at the Cardinal Unit 3 power plant near Brilliant. See our story on page 11. Photo by Tim Daniel, Ohio Department of Natural Resources.

44 48 50 52 54

What’s Cooking? Outdoors Gardening Ohio Marketplace By the Way

Sandusky (P. 43)

Utica (P. 24)

Nelsonville (P. 34)

Meigs County (P. 25) Columbus (P. 36)

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As We See It Volume 52, No. 8 May 2010

Value of low expectations By ANTHONY J. AHERN

hen it comes to setting our goals and ambitions, an attitude of low expectations doesn’t seem to have much to recommend it. Meeting life’s challenges requires a positive frame of mind and a can-do attitude. But life is not all about goals, ambitions and challenges. A good part of life has to do with experiencing people and events, both in normal situations and in atypical situations. In these, there is much to recommend an attitude of low expectations. Have you ever noticed that when you experience raised expectations preceding an event or change, often the reality doesn’t quite live up to what you anticipated? Our human tendency to overinflate expectations raises the bar so that any shortcoming produces disappointment, which in turn can sully our attitude. The pleasant surprise that comes when our expectations are exceeded fosters in us a positive attitude, and a positive attitude is like a mirror that reflects light into a dark place. Also, have you noticed that some of life’s more enjoyable experiences are those that were not anticipated? Perhaps they were even more enjoyable because they occurred with little or no opportunity to frame them by our expectations. So, enhance more of your daily life experiences and your attitude by allowing low expectations to set you up to be pleasantly surprised. It can be contagious. ❏

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Contact us: www.buckeyepower.com Anthony Ahern Steve Oden Rich Warren John Howley Chris Hall Bernice Mattison Keith Crabtree Nikki Heath Marc Orr Margie Wuebker Chip Gross Sandy Woolard

President & CEO Dir. of Comm. Managing Editor Editor Art & Prod. Manager Publications Coord. Comm. Consultant Graphic Artist Editor Emeritus Food Editor Outdoors Editor Advertising

COUNTRY LIVING (ISSN 07470592) is the official publication of Ohio Rural Electric Cooperatives, Inc. With a paid circulation of 293,824, it is the monthly communication link between the rural electric cooperatives in Ohio and West Virginia and their members. Subscription price: $4.30 to $6.50 per year to co-op members; $12 per year to nonmembers. Nothing in this publication may be reproduced in any manner without specific written permission from Ohio Rural Electric Cooperatives, Inc. All rights reserved.

National advertising representatives:

NATIONAL COUNTRY MARKET, based at 611 S. Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78704 1-800-NCM-1181 THE WEISS GROUP, INC. 9414 E. San Salvador Dr., #226 Scottsdale, AZ 85258 480-860-5394

The fact that a product is advertised in Country 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 Office, Consumer Protection Section, 30 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43215, or call 1-800-282-0515.

Cooperative members — Please report any change of address to your local electric cooperative. Periodicals postage paid at Columbus, OH and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to editorial and advertising offices at: P.O. Box 26036 Columbus, OH 43226-0036 Telephone — 614-846-5757

Serving on the Ohio Rural Electric Cooperatives, Inc. Board of Trustees are Edward P. Sanders, chairman; William Oedy, vice chairman; Dennis Schindler, secretary/treasurer; Charles Grimes, Marinelle P. Jeffers, Thomas McQuiston, Robert McCort, Donald McCracken, Jack Kitchel, Daniel Mc Naull, Robert Wise, Shirley J. Stutz, David Corbin, Larry D. Martin, Jack Schmidt Jr., C. Emerson Snapp, James R. McConnell, Eugene Royer, Ned Doering, Larry Zeedyk, Harold Cooper, Lawrence Weirich, Jeff Wilson and Jody Parrish-Polen. Anthony J. Ahern, president; Kurt Helfrich, counsel.

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This month’s advertisers

Advertisers are solely responsible for the content of their advertisements. Publication of an ad does not imply endorsement by Country Living magazine. Advanced Tree................................................46 888-749-0799, www.advancedtree.com Aquacide Co. ....................................................7 800-328-9350, www.KillLakeWeeds.com/565 Belmont County Tourism Council...................43 800-356-5082, www.belmontcountytourism.org Brown County IN CVB........................................ 800-313-4686, text BROWNCOUNTY to 39649 Buckeye Power.....................................2, 47, 55 614-846-5757, www.buckeyepower.com Coshocton County CVB.............................49 800-338-4724, www.VisitCoshocton.com ClimateMaster.............................................13 877-436-6263, www.climatemaster.com Dish Network...............................Back cover 877-316-5796, www.infinityDISH.com DR Power Grader ......................................19

DR Field Brush ..........................................19 877-202-1711, wwwDRfieldbrush.com DRStumpGrinder........................................19 877-202-1711,www.DRstumpgrinder.com Farm Credit Services....................................5 800-444-FARM, www.e-farmcredit.com Greater Licking County CVB......................26 800-589-8224, www.EscapeToLickingCounty.com Moose Creek Lodge Interiors.....................42 740-412-1310, www.moosecreeklodgeinteriors.com Southern Builders.......................................38 800-633-8969, www.roofover.com Tecumseh!..................................................49 866-775-0700 www.tecumsehdrama.com The Wilds...................................................39 740-638-5030, www.thewilds.org Washington County CVB............................38 800-288-2577 www.MariettaOhio.org WaterFurnace.............................................6 800-GEO-SAVE, www.waterfurnace.com

877-202-1711, www.DRpowergrader.com

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Faces of Bangladesh

Gibson finds challenges and rewards in NRECA International Program

Story by STEVE ODEN; Photos by BRAD GIBSON

he faces of the Bangladeshi people intrigue Brad Gibson, Union Rural Electric vice president of communications and marketing, who this year joined the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) International Program’s outreach. They are faces of down-to-earth, hardworking people who own little — but hope and pride light their eyes. Helping them achieve a better quality of life is what compelled Gibson to volunteer. He is assisting one of the poorest nations in the world in better establishing a system of member-owned electric distribution utilities. Gibson evolved as an individual and as a professional in January and February during his introduction to the people, their culture and the challenges faced by 160 million citizens living in a geographic area the size of Iowa. “It really was like moving back in time,” he says, noting that human muscle power and beasts of burden are still mainstays of the Bangladeshi economy. This is why development on so many levels is tied to adequate electric generation capacity and distribution reliability.

region moves out of winter. Conditions become hot and humid, and farmers start their irrigation pumps [for rice field planting].” Natural gas fuels most electric generation, but there is shortage of this fuel, too. “The ready-made garment industry is large in Bangladesh, but it is hard to expand — or to succeed at promoting economic development in general — because of generation and reliability problems.”

Electric co-ops and development Bangladesh is a nation of daily power outages. “There’s not enough generation,” Gibson explains. The grid can supply around 3,900 megawatts (MW), but demand peaks at 5,500 MW. “The problem is significant at all times of the year,” he adds, “but especially as the

8—Country Living/May 2010

In a nation where power demand far exceeds generation capacity, Bangladeshi versions of rural electric cooperatives seek to raise the standard of living for their member-owners.

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Bangladeshi consultants. I’ve also made friends in Dhaka, Gibson’s job description is “communications specialthe capital, and at the PBSs.” ist,” tasked with working in the network of 70 PBSs (the Bangladeshi equivalent of rural electric cooperatives) across the country. Each PBS (Palli Bidyut Samity, in the Overwhelming sights and sounds native language) is member-owned, has a locally elected Sightseeing and touring the countryside are Saturday board and holds annual meetings just like co-ops in the afternoon treats. (Sunday is a workday; weekends are U.S. Helping the PBSs find ways to communicate with Friday and Saturday.) Visiting Westerners are welcomed their memberships is one of the into the mainly Muslim main challenges. population, but they’re not The other is improving comadvised to drive on their munications between the PBSs own. Forever seared into and a national bureaucratic Gibson’s memory are the organization called the Rural crowded highways and Electrification Board (REB). roads in Bangladesh: “The co-ops in Bangladesh careening cars and trucks, are large,” says Gibson. darting motorcycles and “According to the REB, there rickshaws, wagons drawn are 7.5 million meters serving by animals, honking horns 49 million members. This averand throngs of people. ages to around seven people per “You are quickly overhousehold. The average electric whelmed,” he says. “The bill is 40 to 80 kilowatt-hours sights and sounds, the per month.” smells — it is pretty Unlike many developing incredible.” He calls it a nations where electric theft is a “symphony of sound,” problem, 98 percent of from beggars tapping on Bangladeshi PBS members pay windows to the tinkling of for their electric service monthly. Brad Gibson’s first stint in Bangladesh as part of the rickshaw bells. NRECA International Program brought him an appreciThey have pride of ownership. It doesn’t take long to ation of the people and their culture. Because Bangladesh is so realize “you are half a poor, theft of distribution system world away” from America materials and equipment frequently occurs. Transformers and “how spoiled you are,” according to Gibson. are gutted, the empty pots left hanging on the poles “as if He heads back three more times this year under the the thieves believe the PBS will replace all the internal NRECA International Program. parts and mineral oil so they can steal it again,” Gibson “I think I gave a lot the first two months, but I was notes. given more,” he reflects. “I was most impressed by the Bangladeshi people. Before arriving, you know how poor they are, but you still wonder what they will be like. They Co-op communication challenges are happy, happier than you can imagine. They have their Illiteracy in the population tops 40 percent in rural families and food on the table — most of the time. They areas, and the nation as a whole is low-tech. How do curare kind and welcoming.” ❏ rent American electric cooperative communications tools — print media, video, broadcast, Internet and social media — stand up to these challenges? “How do you get the message out? You have to add to your toolkit,” Gibson reveals. Cultural song and dance is extremely popular in rural Bangladesh, he says. This might open the door for a type of unconventional (by Western standards) messaging between the PBSs and their members, in addition to using the communications tools more common here in the United States. These and other ideas are being explored, but Gibson now realizes that patience is needed in Bangladesh when setting and achieving goals. The challenges are huge and the needs are great. A Bangladeshi PBS annual meeting convenes. The PBS is patterned on the “I work with some great local people. A retired general and a CEO are serving as electric cooperatives’ business model.

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Climate change legislation could see new life in the form of a bipartisan energy and jobs package By STEVE ODEN and JOHN HOWLEY

ony Ahern, president and CEO of Ohio Rural Electric Cooperatives and Buckeye Power, Inc., suspects climate change legislation is not dead. “We don’t know what’s going to happen, but I am reluctant to say it won’t be resurrected,” he opined. In fact, three U.S. senators were poised to unveil their version of a comprehensive environment and energy bill Rep. Jim Jordan speaks to a group of Midwest Electric COPA members. Rep in mid-April. John Kerry (D-Mass.), Joe Bob Latta (left) also addressed the group. Lieberman (I-Conn.) and Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) hope their bill garners The latter point is of particular interest to electric coopsupport from Midwest and coal state Democrats and poseratives. Co-ops would prefer that Congress legislate sibly Republicans. It was developed with input from emission reductions, instead of allowing a powerful federPresident Barack Obama. al regulatory agency to set the rules. Even one of the The new measure will be a “jobs bill,” according to authors of the Clean Air Act, John Dingell, has called the Lieberman, and will include goodies to promote nuclear EPA’s involvement the makings of “a glorious mess.” energy, green power generation, clean coal, oil and natuElectric cooperatives aren’t sitting idle while decisions ral gas drilling and energy efficiency — a veritable smorare made about the reliability and affordability of their gasbord of funding and policymaking with potential to power supply. Thousands of trustees, employees and affect every household in the nation. members will converge on Washington, D.C., this month An official draft had not been issued before Country for the annual National Rural Electric Cooperative Living went to press, but senators and business leaders Association Legislative Conference. Meeting with senators who attended sounding-board meetings with the bipartiand representatives, they will discuss issues affecting the san trio confirm it includes cap and trade as a means of nation’s 900 co-ops and 45 million consumers. greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) reduction. Ohio co-op members who last year made their voices Opponents last year coined the term “cap and tax” heard through the Our Energy, Our FutureTM campaign are and were successful in portraying the negative economic being asked to contact their elected officials about the impact of creating a huge market for emission EPA’s intent to regulate emissions under the Clean Air allowances, the price of which would drive up costs for Act. The new climate change bill will spur similar action. energy and domestic products. But the Kerry-LiebermanIt’s a time of vigilance and grassroots response by electric Graham bill purports to first focus cap and trade on the co-op members. major emitting sectors such as coal-fired power plants, Rep. Bob Latta (R-5th Dist.), speaking to a gathering not economy-wide. of Midwest Electric’s Co-op Owners for Political Action “We don't use that term [cap and trade] any more,” (COPA) in April, said he expects cap and trade to be an Lieberman said. “We will have pollution reduction integral part of revived climate change legislation. targets.” His district will be among the hardest hit by rules limHere are a few things speculated to be in the new iting greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuel sources package: like coal-burning power plants. “It’s a job killer” during a • 2020 target for 17 percent emissions reduction over period of economic hardship, he warned. 2005 levels and 80 percent by 2050. “Two years ago, I represented the ninth largest manu• Hard price collar limiting GHG allowances to $10-$30 facturing district in the country and today it’s the twentiper ton pegged to inflation and a regulated market. eth. That’s how many jobs we’ve lost.” ❏ • National renewable-energy and energy-efficiency standards. NEXT MONTH: Analysis of the Kerry-Lieberman-Graham • Pre-emption of Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulation of greenhouse gas emissions under climate change bill. the Clean Air Act.

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Peregrine parents?

Falcons set up housekeeping on power plant ledge

By STEVE ODEN Photos by DONALD ROBERTS

all them Mr. and Mrs. Buckeye Power — at least for this nesting season. The peregrine falcons surprised employees at the Cardinal Unit No. 3 power plant near Brilliant in March with their appearance around a previously unused nesting ledge. Apparently already paired, the peregrines were observed and photographed during courtship rituals, including presentation of a gift from the male to the female of a small heron. The falcons were later observed mating on the ledge. Ohio’s small population of the threatened raptors draws intense scrutiny during nesting season. According to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), peregrine pairs had been reported at 25 sites by the end of March, with several clutches of eggs already being incubated.

Unit No. 3 is owned by Buckeye Power, Inc. Buckeye is the generation-and-transmission cooperative supplying wholesale electricity to the state’s electric co-ops. Other utilities’ power plants have become havens for nesting peregrines, in addition to bridges and high-rise buildings in busy urban areas. Also known as the duck hawk in many parts of the U.S., the falcon is known as a fierce hunter capable of taking other birds in midair. Peregrines also have the reputation of being among the fastest animals. They are capable of reaching speeds of 200 miles per hours when diving.

Like all raptors, numbers of peregrines dwindled until restrictions were placed on pesticide use. Ohio began introducing the birds in 1989. Several pairs were released in cities between 1989 and 1992. Last

year in Ohio, 19 nesting pairs of peregrine falcons are estimated to have successfully hatched and fledged 64 young. The peregrine falcon was removed from the federal endangered species list in 1999. It is listed as threatened in Ohio, downgraded from endangered in 2008. Federal funds for the peregrine falcon project and other wildlife diversity efforts of the ODNR Division of Wildlife are provided through the state Wildlife Grant Program, which targets species with the greatest conservation need. The division’s peregrine falcon management program is funded by the sale of cardinal license plates, the division’s new Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp and contributions to the state Wildlife Diversity and Endangered Species Check-off Fund. Internet users can follow the progress of monitored peregrine nests at the ODNR, Division of Wildlife's peregrine falcon Web page at www.wildohio.com. Check back with Country Living for reports on the Cardinal Unit No. 3 peregrine pair and whether they become parents. ❏

Country Living/May 2010—11

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Energy Highlights Build Smart Energy-efficient construction

Unvented attics and crawl spaces can improve energy efficiency By ALLEN ZIMMERMAN Last month, we began a discussion about attic venting, its history and development and the benefits of not venting. The signature feature of unvented attic and roof assemblies is the location of the thermal/airtight envelope directly adjacent to the roof sheathing. There are several major advantages when compared to conventional vented construction. For example, the thermal envelope design is simplified and much more likely to perform correctly, especially when dealing with complex roof designs and construction features such as knee-walls. Correct venting is difficult or impossible in many roof types, assemblies and situations, such as cathedral ceilings, shed roofs attached to the sides of houses, lack of soffits and sometimes in existing buildings. With unvented attics and roof assemblies, overhead heating and air conditioning ducts are automatically located inside the conditioned space as recommended for energy savings. The net result is well-insulated, airtight construction. Homes become more energy efficient, comfortable, healthy and durable. Re-examining crawl space venting Excess moisture in crawl spaces can result in high humidity and condensation. In turn, this can lead to mold and fungus growth and damage to structural components and other materials. Passive venting has long been a requirement of building codes as a means of removing excess moisture.

However, recent building science studies show that passive venting often is not an effective means of controlling moisture in crawl spaces for two reasons: (1) The air flow rate may be insufficient, and (2) Under weather conditions commonly encountered during parts of the year in temperate or hot, humid climates, venting can actually increase the moisture in crawl spaces. Major requirements and components of correctly designed and constructed unvented crawl spaces include surface runoff control; foundation drains and damp proofing; a fully sealed air/vapor-retarding barrier on the floor and perimeter walls; insulated perimeter walls; and incorporation of the crawl space as part of the conditioned space of the house. Unvented crawl spaces can provide positive, effective moisture control and add to energy efficiency and overall comfort. Final thoughts on whether or not to vent Vented attic and roof assemblies and crawl spaces will provide satisfactory performance in many situations. However, unvented versions based on the principles and applications of science and engineering have important advantages and help make buildings greener at both the top and the bottom. Designers, builders and building owners should educate themselves about these innovative practices and incorporate them as appropriate. Allen Zimmerman is a professor at The Ohio State University, Wooster campus. E-mail: zimmerman.7@osu.edu.

Get up close and personal with the energy efficiency mobile display Look for it this year at co-op annual meetings, county fairs and builder workshops: a colorful trailer decaled with savings messages and transporting the Ohio Rural Electric Cooperative’s new mobile panel display, a demonstration of home construction and renovation energy-efficiency measures. It’s one thing to read about energy efficiency; it’s quite another to get up close and personal with the installation procedures, equipment and materials. The display is designed for viewers to “see through” walls and under siding, beneath floors and along foundations, around wall penetrations — anywhere in a

structure where integrity of the thermal envelope is critical. See how electrical outlet gaskets should be installed; examples of air dams and infiltration barriers; insulating materials; caulk and types of weather sealing; demonstrations of air infiltration through different insulating media; sealing around wall penetrations, windows and doors; CFL power usage and more. Ohio electric co-op energy advisors, managers and marketing professionals pitched in to build the display. Statewide training was held on setting up the display and demonstrating its features.

You can fight back against high energy bills.

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Energy Highlights Headlines and Deadlines

News affecting energy consumers

Recent Energy Star certification flap should be kept in perspective In the wake of a nine-month U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) investigation into energy efficiency product certification, the federal agencies responsible for the Energy Star® program have pledged to retest products bearing the consumer confidence label and adopt sterner qualification protocols. Started in 1992 and today operated in partnership with the Department of Energy (DOE) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Energy Star rates more than 60 product categories for efficiency. GAO, a nonpartisan congressional watchdog agency, last summer filed applications for 20 bogus products with the Energy Star program. Fifteen products — including a “gas-powered alarm clock” and a room air cleaner consisting of a feather duster mounted on a portable electric heater — received certification. “GAO’s investigation shows that Energy Star is for the most part a self-certification program vulnerable to fraud

and abuse,” concluded the report released last month. “EPA takes this report very seriously,” the agency responded on its Web site. EPA and DOE subsequently announced a process to expand testing of Energy Star-qualified products. “This week, DOE began testing some of the most commonly used appliances, which account for more than 25 percent of a household’s energy bill, and both agencies are now developing a system to test all products that earn the Energy Star label.” Buckeye Power CEO Tony Ahern said Ohio electric cooperatives and their members need to keep the Energy Star flap in perspective. “What has been achieved through Energy Star has been significant both in terms of the magnitude of energy saved and in educating the public about the value of energy efficiency. Let’s not throw the baby out with the bath water.”

Lake Erie

Boating, walleye fishing, water vistas and wind turbines?

The Cleveland Plain Dealer reported last month that vistas from Ohio’s northern Lake Erie coastline soon might be notable for wind turbine towers rising above the water. Cleveland could become home to Ohio’s first offshore wind turbines for the generation of electricity. Supporters see the project as a means of creating thousands of renewable energy jobs. But the price tag will be high, according to a report from the Cuyahoga County energy task force. The task force chairman admitted to being staggered by the $78 to $93 million cost for three to eight wind turbines. County Prosecutor Bill Mason, who led the citycounty feasibility study, said gaining state and federal grants and subsidies for the project is critical. Without subsidies, electricity generated by the wind turbines could cost 23 cents per kilowatt-hour, Mason told the Plain Dealer.

Power Siting Board OKs three commercial wind farms

Hans Hillewaert photo

14—Country Living/May 2010

Ohio’s first large commercial wind energy farms received the state Power Siting Board’s green light in late March, opening the door for three projects that could generate up to 500 megawatts of electricity when wind velocity is sufficient. The northwest corner of the state will be home to the trio of wind turbine farms if developers forge ahead with construction plans. The projects include: • Up to 27 wind turbines with 48 megawatts of capacity in Hardin County to be developed by JW Great Lakes Wind, the subsidiary of a German company. • Possibly 200 wind turbines at another Hardin County site developed by Envenergy Wind, LLC, of Chicago. Capacity is estimated at 300 megawatts if all turbines are erected. • A 50-turbine wind farm with total capacity of 135 megawatts in Champaign County northwest of Dayton. EverPower of New York City is the developer. Applications for other commercial wind farms are currently on file with the Ohio Power Siting Board but have not yet been approved.

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Power Bytes

Tidbits about energy technology

GE and Rheem heat pump water heaters to be tested for energy savings Buckeye and OREC join severFans of the British al field tests already underway science fiction TV show across the nation as heat pump Dr. Who may recall the water heaters become available hero’s implacable roboton the retail market. ic enemies called the Not new technology, but betDaleks. So some people ter, is how Buckeye Power’s could be excused for Bernie Woller describes air-tochuckling on first water heat pump units. “We actuglance at the new highally tested early versions in 1983 tech heat pump water and 1989,” he said, “but there heaters on display at have been major changes and Buckeye Power and refinements over the years.” Ohio Rural Electric Twenty years ago, a few speCooperatives in cialty manufacturers produced Columbus. units to be retrofitted on convenThe Rheem and tional water heaters. Reliability General Electric units was a question due to availability might appear to have of parts and service. Performance rolled off the TV sound Country Living Editor John Howley, who has written claims and actual results varied. stage, minus their ray about heat pump water heaters, examines the GE and “Today, large companies like gun cannons. But heat Rheem units. Rheem, GE and A.O. Smith are pump water heaters are involved. Home Depot and Lowe’s stores already are sellno laughing matter. Instead, the super-high-efficiency ing these units. They boast advanced control technology devices represent futuristic development in terms of setand reliable components,” Woller said. ting a new bar for energy savings. This new generation of heat pump water heaters is Buckeye Power, in cooperation with Ohio electric cooppricey compared to conventional units. The GE retails for eratives, will soon deploy several heat pump water around $1,600; the Rheem costs about $1,500. Federal heaters in real-world field tests to determine whether energy efficiency tax credits and rebates can help offset manufacturers’ claims are accurate that the units are the higher price tags and accelerate investment recovery capable of cutting electric water-heating costs in half. through operational savings. “If these products have an acceptable level of reliability, “One of the things we are interested in finding out don’t be surprised if the government changes its standards through our monitoring is when a heat pump water for water heater efficiency,” said Tony Ahern, CEO of heater actually begins to pay for itself through higher Buckeye Power. “It is appropriate that we monitor this new energy efficiency,” added Woller. technology.”

Only Yesterday Celebrating 70-plus years of Cooperative Living

The amazing electric car from the Farm Science Review

From Country Living’s coverage of the 1968 Farm Science Review comes this photo proving the old adage “There is nothing new under the sun.” The high-tech display featured 42 years ago shows an electric vehicle, albeit an extensively modified passenger model with a trunk-load of conventional auto batteries connected in series.

Buzz at the Farm Science Review 42 years ago was about the electric car. Country Living/May 2010—15

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A world-class event at a world-class facility The World Equestrian Games come to Kentucky — and North America — for the first time By KAREN KIRSCH

ing and dangerous discipline, since it requires both horse and rider to be in excellent physical shape and to be exington, Kentucky, is a great place to visit anytime, brave and trusting of one another. but from Sept. 25 through Oct. 10 the Kentucky Vaulting, which is gymnastics and dance performed Horse Park will host one of the world’s most spectacular on horseback, is perhaps more art than sport and often sporting events. For the first time ever, the Alltech features some of the heavy horse breeds such as Belgians World Equestrian Games, governed by the Fédération or Percherons. Équestre Internationale, will be held right here in our Reining is a Western riding competition through a preown backyard. cise pattern of circles, spins and stops all done at the lope Every four years, about 60 nations compete to decide (a slow, relaxed version of the the world’s most canter) and gallop (the fastest accomplished comgait). The American Quarter petitors in eight Horse is the leading Reining equestrian sports. The horsebreed. concept was first Driving is limited to Four in introduced in 1983, Hand, a skill unto itself (a vehiultimately coming to cle put to four horses), with fruition in Stockholm competition in Driven Dressage, in 1990, but until Marathon and Obstacle Cones. 2010 all Games have The Driving competition combeen held in Europe. bines elegance, excitement, skill Kentucky Horse Park and thrills. has been vying for Endurance tests the ability the World Equestrian and stamina of the horse being Games for 14 years. ridden over a 100-mile course. Being chosen was The horse completing the course quite an honor. in the shortest time is the winner. The location While ParaDressage has couldn’t be more fitbeen included in the Parating, since Lexington lympics since 1996, this is the horse capital of will be the first World the world. The 1,224To plan your trip: Equestrian Games competiacre Kentucky Horse The Web sites www.alltechfeigames.com and tion. To compete, riders Park is a working horse www.kyhorsepark.com give a wealth of information. Visitors must have measurable farm/theme park and equine can also complete a video training program to become a physical or visual impaircompetition facility entirely 2010 Alltech FEI WEGspert. The program showcases the ment caused by illness or dedicated to man’s relationGames’ eight equestrian disciplines, the Kentucky Horse accident. They are graded ship with the horse. The Park Park and what spectators can see and do during their visit. according to their disability has always been impressive, profile and judged against others with the same grade. but in preparation for this premier event it has been The Games’ opening and closing ceremonies promise transformed into the most outstanding and comprehento be outstanding. “We are inviting some of the greatest sive equestrian center in the world. performers from around the globe, including equine The exciting categories include Dressage, Driving, entertainers,” says ceremony producer Dr. Everett Endurance, Eventing, Jumping, Vaulting, Reining and, for McCorvey. “We will highlight both the best of Kentucky the first time, ParaDressage. For those unfamiliar with and the best of America.” The opening gala may feature equine sporting competitions, here’s a brief sketch of each some 600 performers, 200 horses, a 100-piece orchestra discipline: and 300 choir members performing a tribute to American Jumper classes are held over a course of challenging music, Kentucky and horses. obstacles. The purpose is to jump cleanly over a set In addition to watching the events, visitors can shop at course within an allotted time. the 800,000-square-foot Trade Show Village or at the Park Dressage, sometimes referred to as “Horse Ballet,” is gift shop. Another must-see is the permanent International an exquisite series of movements performed within an Museum of the Horse, an affiliate of the Smithsonian arena. Any horse breed may compete in Dressage. Institution. “No matter what you’re interested in, there’s Eventing comprises Dressage, Cross-Country and something in that museum that you will find interesting,” Show Jumping. Cross-Country is probably the most excit(Continued on page 18)

16—Country Living/May 2010

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It’s the horse, of course

2010 is the perfect time to visit Kentucky’s equine attractions

By DAMAINE VONADA

Kentucky Horse Park. There is nothing quite like it anywhere else. With an incredibly pretty setting, first-class ood fences make good neighbors,” wrote the poet arenas and activities ranging from pony rides to the Robert Frost. In Kentucky’s Bluegrass Region, esteemed Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event, Kentucky good fences make good scenery. On second thought, Horse Park is a working horse farm and premier competimake that great scenery, because fences are the hallmark tion facility as well as a terrific family attraction. of horse farms, and northern Kentucky is consummate The Commonwealth of Kentucky owns Kentucky Horse thoroughbred country. Park, which celebrates every equine form and function. In the gentle hillsides around Lexington and Louisville, Focusing on man’s relationship to the horse, the yearwhite and black round park is probboard fences are ably the only place the purest of local where visitors can traditions, encirsee horses reprecling racetracks senting dozens of and outlining pasdifferent breeds. tures carpeted with It’s also home to bluegrass. Stone two exceptional fences from the museums — the early 1800s frame American supremely scenic Saddlebred rural roads like the Museum, which Old Frankfort Pike salutes the high(Kentucky St. Rte. stepping breed that 1681). Built by originated in Irish immigrants Kentucky, and the from the limestone International bedrock that makes Museum of the Kentucky’s water Horse, a Smith sweet and its bour- The Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington is just one of the Bluegrass State’s equine sonian affiliate attractions, allowing you to get close to beautiful thoroughbreds like this one. bon smooth, these whose featured treasured fences 2010 exhibit is “A Gift from the Desert: The Art, History now mark the way to pristine horse farms where champiand Culture of the Arabian Horse.” ons are born, bred and trained in lavish surroundings. You could easily spend a couple of days enjoying At the heart of the Bluegrass Region, Lexington is called everything Kentucky Horse Park has to offer, but for a quick tour, take a narrated ride on one of the trolleys the Horse Capital of the World, and this year the prestipulled by brawny draft horses. Also check out the many gious World Equestrian Games are putting the city on the different kinds of horses in the Breeds Barn and stop by international map as never before. In fact, 2010 is a banner the venerable Man O’ War’s gravesite to view his lifeyear for horses in Kentucky. In addition to Lexington’s sized statue. And do visit the Hall of Champions, where World Games, the iconic Churchill Downs racetrack in racehorse royalty like Funny Cide, Kona Gold and Cigar Louisville will be the site of two renowned thoroughbred now reside. Getting up close to the hall’s old Kentucky racing spectacles. The first, of course, is Churchill Downs’ Derby and Breeders’ Cup winners is akin to visiting Dan own Kentucky Derby, which will be run May 1 and is the Marino or Michael Jordan at a retirement home. These first jewel in the Triple Crown for three-year-olds. The secsuperstar horses still look dandy — and they know it! ond is the Breeders’ Cup, a set of high-stakes world cham-

“G

pionship races slated for November 5 and 6. With such outstanding events this year, it’s an ideal time to visit some of Kentucky’s prime equine attractions. You’ll not only connect with Kentuckians’ unbridled love of horses, but also experience the Bluegrass State’s heritage and genial Southern hospitality.

Kentucky Horse Park, Lexington As soon as you walk through its grand stone gateposts, you’ll understand why the Fédération Équestre Internationale (FEI) awarded the World Games to

Keeneland, Lexington Emanating class and tradition, Keeneland’s racetrack and auction facilities are a handsome testament to why horseracing has been called the sport of kings. Wealthy horsemen the world over come to Keeneland to purchase promising thoroughbreds, and during its April and October racing seasons, pomp and pageantry are on full display as jockeys in resplendent silks parade their magnificent mounts around the paddock. Keeneland’s grand(Continued on page 18)

Country Living/May 2010—17

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A world-class event

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says Kentucky Horse Park Director John Nicholson. Lexington is within a day’s drive of two-thirds of the country’s population, but attending the Games at the Horse Park will require some planning. Tickets for this international affair are selling quickly. Start by looking over the schedule. Then choose which of the 16 days of events sound interesting and plan accordingly. Next, purchase your tickets, which can be done online or by calling 800-745-3000. Included in all admissions is a horse-drawn trolley tour of the Park, which is a great way to become familiar with the venue. Beyond the Park, the city of Lexington offers great dining, horse farm and distillery tours, shopping and the very best of Southern hospitality. ❏ Karen Kirsch is a freelance writer from Louisville. Photos courtesy of Primo Ponies Photography

It’s the horse

Dynaformer. The sire of Barbaro, Dynaformer commands a stud fee worth a king’s ransom, and his “date book” always fills up fast.

stand is so beautiful that racing scenes in Seabiscuit were filmed there, but even when it’s not filled with cheering spectators, people are welcome to enjoy its serene setting and impeccably landscaped grounds. It’s great fun to watch the morning workouts at Keeneland’s track and chat with trainers outside the barns. Since the workouts start at 6 a.m., plan to arrive early and have breakfast in the track kitchen, where the menu features Southern favorites like biscuits and grits. Afterwards, drop by the gift shop to find Kentucky-made products, apparel and accessories geared to the horsey set, and self-guided walking tours brochures. An afternoon stroll around Keeneland is a fine way to appreciate its idyllic acres and stately architecture, but keep in mind, horses always have the right of way!

Kentucky Derby Museum, Louisville

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The Thoroughbred Center, Lexington

Since about 1,000 horses usually are stabled there, the Thoroughbred Center has so many barns that it resembles an equine apartment complex plopped down amid Kentucky’s most stunning horse farms. The center’s thoroughbreds, however, definitely have not been put out to pasture. They’re being trained to race, and like the serious athletes they are, follow a conditioning and exercise regimen. What’s a day in the life of a racehorse like? Find out by taking one of the center’s guided tours; they’re available throughout the year and offer a hoofbeat-byhoofbeat excursion though the barns, tracks and other training facilities.

Three Chimneys Farm, Midway

Three Chimneys Farm is a picture-perfect destination on the lovely drive from Lexington along Old Frankfort Pike. One of the few breeding farms that provides public tours, Three Chimneys’ reputation for excellence attracts about 25,000 visitors every year, and it’s a sure bet that they’re totally impressed by the stallion complex where the illustrious Triple Crown winner Seattle Slew once stood at stud. Today, Big Brown and Smarty Jones, who both galloped to victory at the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness, are happily passing on their pedigrees at Three Chimneys Farm, yet its most sought-after stallion is

18—Country Living/May 2010

Since it’s located just inside Gate #1 at Churchill Downs, you might say that the Kentucky Derby Museum occupies the pole position at the racetrack where “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports” takes place every May. Recently reopened after suffering flood damage last summer, this museum preserves the history and traditions of Churchill Downs. From exhibits of mint julep glasses and elaborate Derby Day hats to popular barn and behind-the-scenes tours, it’s the next best thing to experiencing the fun and fanfare of the longest continuously held sporting event in the United States. You’ll discover why pound-for-pound, jockeys are considered the strongest of athletes, and you’ll learn about elite racehorses like War Admiral, Whirlaway and Secretariat. But don’t leave the museum without viewing The Greatest Race, a 360-degree, high-definition film that chronicles the unique sights and sounds of an entire Kentucky Derby Day. ❏

For more information: ™

™

2010 Alltech® FEI World Equestrian Games , Sept. 25 – Oct. 10, 2010, at Kentucky Horse Park; 859-255-2010 or 888-WEG-2010; www.alltechfeigames.com Kentucky Department of Travel, 800-225-8747, www.kentuckytourism.com Lexington Convention and Visitors Bureau, 800-845-3959 or 859-233-1221, www.visitlex.com Louisville Convention & Visitors Bureau, 800-626-5646 or 502-584-2121, www.gotolouisville.com Churchill Downs, 502-636.4400, www.churchilldowns.com Keeneland, 859-254-3412, www.keeneland.com Kentucky Derby Museum, 502-637-7097, www.derbymuseum.org Kentucky Horse Park, 800-678-8813 or 859-259-4224, www.kyhorsepark.com The Thoroughbred Center, 859-293-1853, www.thethoroughbredcenter.com Three Chimneys Farm, 859-873-7053, www.threechimneys.com

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Bluegrass B&Bs

Kentucky’s bed-and-breakfasts offer surprising diversity Italian jade marble, but the guest rooms are just as dignified — Queen Anne and Chippendale mahogany reproduction pieces abound in rooms that feature four-poster beds and, in some, private sitting areas. Blackridge Hall is just minutes away from the Kentucky Horse Park, Keeneland and dozens of other horse farms that make the Bluegrass region one of the most breathtaking landscapes anywhere. Nearby Georgetown has a lovely downtown area with lots of antiques and other unique shops in a well-preserved 19th-century streetscape. A self-guided walking tour is available. 4055 Paris Pike, Georgetown, KY, 502-863-2069, www.blackridgehall.com

Christopher’s Bed & Breakfast, Bellevue

hink of Kentucky, and you may picture yourself sipping mint juleps on a verandah, watching thoroughbreds frolic in a nearby field. Should you venture to the Bluegrass State this spring or summer, here are three genteel bed-and-breakfasts we offer for your consideration as refined places to lay your head.

This unique B&B, named for the patron saint of travelers, won’t soon be forgotten — it’s situated in a former 19th-century church, and its gorgeous stained glass windows and hardwood floors remain in place, even in the guest rooms themselves. Vibrantly painted public areas are characteristic of this inn’s bold new look. Christopher’s has been selected for three consecutive years as one of the Top 15 B&Bs for Best Design and Décor. With more than 8,000 square feet of floor space, you won’t feel crowded at this sizeable accommodation with rooms that feature Jacuzzis, pressed tin ceilings and distinctive furnishings. You’ll find yourself within walking distance of the quaint shops of downtown Bellevue with its small-town feel, although you’re actually just across the river from Cincinnati. Also close by are the Newport Aquarium and the Newport on the Levee entertainment complex and the German-inspired Mainstrasse Village in Covington, not to mention the stadiums and amenities of downtown Cincinnati itself. But when you wake up with the sun streaming through a stained glass window, you’ll feel worlds away from the big city. 604 Poplar St., Bellevue, KY, 888-585-7085, www.bbonline.com/ky/christophers

Blackridge Hall, Georgetown

DuPont Mansion

At this gracious Georgian-style mansion in the heart of Bluegrass country, you really can sit on a verandah and watch horses frolic, although instead of having a mint julep, you’ll be having a gourmet breakfast served on fine china and crystal. This is indeed a stately Kentucky home, complete with ornamental iron gates and five acres of manicured, landscaped grounds. The elegant interior is filled with heirloom antiques, and host Jim Black enjoys telling the stories that lie behind them. The grand entryway features a double curved staircase with

This ornate Italianate mansion allows you to experience the opulence of the Gilded Age at its finest. Yes, it was built by those DuPonts, and it features marble fireplaces, hardwood floors, plaster moldings, 14-foot ceilings and antique furnishings. You’ll enjoy the three-course breakfast at a magnificent antique table with a crystal chandelier hanging above you and the player baby grand piano serenading you from another room. Situated in the heart of a neighborhood known as Old

Christopher’s Bed & Breakfast is situated in a renovated 19th-century church. (Photo by Robin Victor Goetz@GoRVGP.com)

By RICH WARREN

20—Country Living/May 2010

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Medley of museums

Sites on Louisville’s ‘Museum Row’ are conveniently clustered

By RICH WARREN

ay in Louisville means the Kentucky Derby, but first-time visitors to the city will be pleasantly surprised to find there’s so much more to discover in this gracious Southern city than just Churchill Downs. Besides fine old neighborhoods, historical sites and spacious parks, the city is blessed with outstanding museums, and to make it convenient for you, a number of them are clustered within a few blocks of each other. Downtown’s Main Street, flanking the Ohio River with its dramatic vistas, is also known as “Museum Row” since so many of them are literally neighbors of one another. There’s also an amazing diversity to these interesting institutions. What’s to see on “Museum Row?”

artifacts, one from Britain’s Royal Armouries (the only place in North America where they can be viewed), the other from The Frazier Collection itself. “The American Soldier: A Photographic Tribute” runs through September, and on May 15, another special exhibit opens on “Pirates: Treasures and Treachery.” 829 W. Main St., 866-886-7103, www.fraziermuseum.org

Glassworks Bringing together both glass artists and galleries of beautiful creations, Glassworks gives visitors a chance to (Continued on page 22)

Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory You can’t miss the world’s largest baseball bat, 120 feet tall and leaning against this mecca for baseball lovers. A giant-sized replica of the Louisville Slugger used by Babe Ruth, the bat gives a clue to what’s on deck inside — loads of baseball memorabilia, many specifically linked to the famous bats made in Louisville since 1884. There also is gear worn by famous major leaguers and Babe’s real bat in which he carved a notch for every home run he hit with it. Lots of interactive displays and a batting cage where you can face down 90 mph fastballs also offer entertainment. End your experience with a tour through the factory where bats are still being produced for today’s stars and receive a free mini-bat at the end of your tour (or get one personalized for you in the gift shop). A special exhibit through December 6 is “The Story of Negro League Baseball.” 800 W. Main St., 877-775-8443, www.sluggermuseum.com

Frazier International History Museum Daniel Boone’s Bible. A bow owned by Geronimo. George Armstrong Custer’s ivory-handled Colt pistols. Theodore Roosevelt’s “Big Stick” rifle. Artifacts from the wreck of a slave ship. All these make a thousand years of history come alive at the Frazier, where multimedia presentations and costumed interpreters including Abraham Lincoln, Joan of Arc and Annie Oakley make sure that visitors do more than just look at static exhibits. And yet, those exhibits are still fascinating and include two world-class collections of arms, armor and related

There’s one big reason you can’t miss the Louisville Slugger Museum (Photo courtesy of Louisville Convention and Visitors Bureau).

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Medley of museums

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watch glassblowing and flameworking, tour an architectural/stained glass studio or talk with the artists about the techniques they use to produce their hand-blown creations. Both guided and unguided tours are available, and workshops and classes are offered on such subjects as “Blow a Beer Mug or Wine Glass,” “Make Your Own Chip and Dip Bowl” and “Make Your Own Hot Glass Paperweight.” 815 W. Market St., 502-584-4510, www.louisvilleglassworks.com

Louisville Science Center Housed in a historic 19th-century warehouse, the permanent exhibits in this hands-on museum include “The World We Create,” which explores how creative thinking makes scientific advancement possible; “The World Within Us,” which explores the human body; “The World Around Us,” with exhibits about natural and earth sciences; and KidZone, a special play area for children 7 and younger. An IMAX theater offers a variety of giant-sized films. A special exhibit, “Robots: The Interactive Exhibit,” opened in March. 727 W. Main St., 502-561-6100, www.louisvillescience.org

Kentucky Museum of Art and Craft This museum dedicates itself to presenting the finest in contemporary art and craft with a strongly local and regional Kentucky flavor. Permanent exhibits of the work of more than 400 craftspeople can be viewed, but temporary new exhibits are mounted each month. Many of the works in the temporary exhibits are available for purchase (available at the exhibit’s end), and the sizeable gallery shop features a number of decorative and functional objects, including textiles, jewelry, wood, ceramics, glass and metal, also for sale. Current and upcoming exhibits by glass artisans make for interesting comparisons with the displays at Glassworks. 715 W. Main St., 502-589-0102, www.kentuckyarts.org

21C Museum and Hotel Look for the red penguins and chandelier hanging above the sidewalk! This unique destination is both a boutique hotel and an art gallery featuring contemporary artists — very contemporary, since the 21C refers to the 21st century. In the sizeable galleries, the works of emerging artists sit by side with those of internationally acclaimed painters, sculptors, photographers and multimedia artists. Out-of-towners will find the hotel a comfortable place to launch explorations of downtown and beyond, while at the same time mingling with natives of Louisville who’ve come to see the art. The upscale first-floor restaurant, Proof on Main, focuses on regional ingredients and both Kentucky and Tuscan cuisine, but the artwork theme works its way inside the restaurant as well, with colorful contemporary paintings adorning the walls. Both the New York Times

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and Travel and Leisure magazine have taken note of this interesting blend of a place to eat, sleep and view art, calling it “one of the most ambitious unions of art and hospitality ever undertaken.” 700 W. Main St., 877-217-6400, www.21chotel.com

Muhammad Ali Center This six-story museum is dedicated as much to the boxer’s values as it is to the man, a native of Louisville. Besides artifacts from Ali’s career, many exhibits spotlight what he’s identified as his core values: respect, confidence, conviction, dedication, giving and spirituality. That makes for an interesting blend — not only might you train in an interactive boxing area, but you also can watch highlights of Ali’s career at the five-screen Orientation Theater or examine the history of the Civil Rights era or seek inspiration at the 55-foot-long Hope and Dream Wall. Two art galleries have changing art and photography exhibits. 144. N. 6th St., 502-584-9254, www.alicenter.org

Kentucky Center Home of the Kentucky Opera, the Louisville Ballet and the Louisville Orchestra, the Kentucky Center is also the place to see such current and upcoming performances as Wicked; You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown; and Legally Blond. The center also has an impressive collection of 20th-century art, but one of its biggest draws for out-oftowners is “KentuckyShow!,” a 35-minute multimedia presentation narrated by Ashley Judd that gives a fascinating overview of the Bluegrass State’s regions, history, music and landscapes. ❏ 501 W. Main St., 800-775-7777, www.kentuckycenter.org or www.kentuckyshow.com

Bluegrass B&Bs

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Louisville, the DuPont is just one of many mansions in a part of town once populated by the city’s wealthiest citizens, now charmingly restored as an intact 19th-century neighborhood. Less than a mile from downtown Louisville, this B&B is 10 minutes or less from most of the city’s other attractions, including Churchill Downs. 1317 S. Fourth St., Louisville, KY, 502-638-0045, www.dupontmansion.com For other distinctive B&Bs, take a look at the Web site of the Bed & Breakfast Association of Kentucky, www.kentuckybb.com. Take your pick — stay in an antebellum mansion, Victorian manor, country estates, “gentleman’s farms,” organic farms and horse farms, even a mining camp and log cabins. More than a hundred accommodations are spread across the state’s nine distinctive regions. Use the Web site’s map to locate an accommodation in the part of the state you want to visit from the Bluegrass, the Kentucky Derby Region, Daniel Boone Country, the Southern Lakes, or the Bluegrass, Blues & BBQ region.

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Make the Corvette Connection in Bowling Green, Kentucky Story and photo by DAMAINE VONADA

GM’s secret “Project Opel” to the ’Vette that starred in the Route 66 television show to shark-inspired Sting Ray coupes to Indianapolis 500 pace cars to 2009’s ultra-fast ZR1 model. A film shown in the museum’s theater also highlights the Corvette’s inimitable niche in automotive history. Although the museum displays some 75 Corvettes, the “must-see” vehicles are in its Skydome, a circular area whose unique yellow roof and tail-light-colored spire have made it a local landmark. The Skydome serves not only as a Hall of Fame for people who have

emember the first time you saw a Corvette? Chances are you do, because the ’Vette is the iconic American sports car. A winning combination of style and speed, the Corvette has been turning heads — and capturing hearts — ever since General Motors debuted it in 1953 at New York City’s Waldorf Astoria hotel. The two-seat convertible featured innovations like a lightweight fiberglass body and a radio antenna hidden in the trunk. Its exterior was elegant polo white; the interior was smart sportsman red; and the sticker price was $3,498. “The Corvette,” noted a 1953 review in Motor Trend magazine, “not only has ‘go’ from a traffic light, punch at high speeds, an uncanny ability to stay flat through sharp turns and a solid ride, but has eye appeal as well.” Although Corvettes initially were made in Flint, Michigan, GM moved production to St. Louis, Missouri, in 1954 and then to Bowling Green, Kentucky, in 1981. Today Bowling Green is the unofficial Corvette Capital of the world, claiming bragging rights to the only Corvette assembly plant, the National Corvette Museum, and the National Corvette Homecoming, an annual gathering of ’Vette enthusiasts and owners. Visit the southern Kentucky town during the homecoming in mid-July, and you’ll be In Bowling Green, Kentucky, Corvette treated to a rare sight — scores of sleek Corvettes enthusiasts can see models like this one from 1954 at the National parading one after the other through the streets. But even if you’re not a car buff, the Corvette plant Corvette Museum, watch vehicles being assembled at the only Corvette plant in the country or attend the National Corvette Homecoming in July. and museum are worth seeing simply because the ’Vette was arguably the nation’s first true sports car. Like baseball, hot dogs and apple pie, Corvettes have helped produce or popularize the Corvette but also as a become part of our history, our lives and our culture. showroom for about 30 of the most famous ’Vettes. Its Take one of the assembly plant’s guided tours, and incomparable display includes the revolutionary 1953 you’ll observe how autoworkers and robots build the latest roadster, the last remaining coupe from the ill-fated 1983 models of America’s “dream car” in a facility the size of 22 model year and the 1995 Grand Sport prototype, distincfootball fields. Lasting about 75 minutes, the tours cover tively colored Admiral Blue. Shining like the jewels they virtually every aspect of the production process. Guides are, the Skydome’s cars embody the Corvette’s freewheelexplain how the ’Vettes are coming together, answer quesing spirit and status as an American legend. ❏ tions and dispense interesting tidbits of information. At the Damaine Vonada is a freelance writer from Xenia. paint shop, for example, you’ll learn that the most perennially popular Corvette color is black. White is the least popuEasily accessible from I-65, Bowling Green, lar, but every year GM offers a white paint option in tribute Kentucky, is about 300 miles from Columbus. For to the 300 inaugural Corvettes, which were all polo white information about attractions, accommodations and and hand built during 1953. events, contact the Bowling Green Area Convention On July 2, 1992, the one millionth Corvette rolled out and Visitors Bureau at 270-782-0800 or 800-326of the Bowling Green assembly plant, and that milestone 7465 or go to the Web site www.visitbgky.com. vehicle — which fittingly was white with a red interior — General Motors Bowling Green Assembly Plant Tour, is now displayed in the National Corvette Museum. 270-745-8019 or www.bowlinggreenassemblyplant.com. Conveniently located near the assembly plant, the National Corvette Museum, 800-538-3883 or Corvette museum is a nonprofit organization with no www.corvettemuseum.org. financial ties to General Motors. The expansive and modern museum opened in 1994, and its exhibits showcase National Corvette Homecoming, July 16-18, 270-791-2117 the evolution of the Corvette from its conception during or www.nationalcorvettehomecoming.com.

Country Living/May 2010—23

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Keeping secrets

Velvet veils its ice cream flavors in savory secrecy

By JAMIE RHEIN

on Campbell knows exactly how to mix up a batch of Velvet Ice Cream’s Original Vanilla — the very first flavor Joseph Dager hand-cranked back in 1914. Dager, founder of Velvet Ice Cream Company, concocted his flavorful treat in the basement of a Utica confectionary store. At the age of 15, when Dager first arrived as an immigrant from Lebanon in 1903, he was looking toward his future. Eleven years later, as he peddled his ice cream within a five-mile radius of where he made it, Dager found the secret to his success. It’s a secret Campbell knows as well. Offer people cold and creamy palate-pleasing perfection, and they’ll want more — a lot more. These days, “more” means more than 6 million gallons a year. Although Velvet has grown into an ice cream powerhouse and an Ohio summer destination hot spot, it stayed true to its humble roots, steeped in tradition. One tradition is the Dager family. Dager’s great-granddaughters, three sisters who took over the business from their Since 1914, we’ve all been father and his brother, screaming for Velvet ice cream. are the current keepers In May, head to Utica for the of the family’s legacy. Old-Fashioned Ice Cream The eldest, Luconda, is Festival, sponsored by Velvet and Velvet’s president. the Energy Cooperative. (Photo Another Velvet tradicourtesy of Velvet Ice Cream) tion is Ron Campbell. Campbell, who is in charge of making the eight variations of Velvet’s base — a mixture of sugar, milk and Ohio cream — has been faithfully following Dager’s ice cream recipes for the past 35 years. He knows the secrets of the 500-plus ice cream flavors that have been created since Dager’s first vanilla version — but he’s not telling. Neither is Brian Neighbarger, another company treasure who tag-teams with Campbell, taking up ice cream making where Campbell leaves off. Like a scientist with an artist’s palate, Neighbarger, a 29-year company veteran, oversees each day’s flavor production. Fruit, nuts, chocolate and more are churned into the ice cream’s base depending upon the day. Throughout the year, 60 flavors make it from the recipe notebook that Campbell and Neighbarger carefully guard into cartons and

24—Country Living/May 2010

then into cones, dessert dishes or spoons for carton-tomouth eating. Dager’s five-mile radius has expanded to include 26 states. Although Campbell and Neighbarger won’t tell the secrets of Velvet Ice Cream’s goodness to outsiders — except that Velvet doesn’t use premixed ingredients and that hitting a perfect freezing temperature is key — visitors are welcome to watch part of the process. Head to Ye Olde Mill when the factory is open to the public to see a slice of what it takes to work ice cream magic. The large glass windows of the walk-through viewing gallery show off the shiny machinery of the mixing and packing stations. Ye Olde Mill, a former 1817 gristmill, has been Velvet Ice Cream’s home since 1960, when the company needed more space. What you won’t see is exactly how a flavor is developed. For an insider’s peek, you have to be on the tasting panel — a lucky group of people who sit around a table four times a year to sample more than a dozen new flavor possibilities. Taste isn’t

Create a treat that can’t be beat Create a name and a concept for an ice cream flavor and you could win first place. A first-place win puts your picture on the cartons of the finished product and gives you a seat at the Velvet Ice Cream tasting table. Flavors must include local Ohio ingredients. Ages 9 to 99 can apply. See Velvet Ice Cream’s Web site for details. The 2010 contest ends September 30. the only variable that puts a flavor into a carton. Texture, smell and visual appeal weighs in. What tastes delicious may not look so yummy and thus won’t get a thumbs-up. One thumbs-up flavor this January was “Drama Queen.” That flavor — a concoction of bubble-gum ice cream with vanilla, blue and purple swirls and pastel sprinkles tossed in for good measure — landed sixth-grader Annie Toth a yearlong place at the Velvet Ice Cream tasting table. Toth’s creation was the first-place winner of Velvet’s 2009 Name a Flavor Contest. Her picture, featured on the Drama Queen carton, touts her success. The contest is just one way Velvet Ice Cream connects to the public. Ye Olde Mill is a gathering place for visitors (Continued on page 26)

May CLM FINAL_Dec CLM Master 11/12 4/15/10 11:34 AM Page 25

Cream of the crop

Meigs County’s very own ‘dairy evangelist’ is leading a milk revival

By LORI MURRAY

that the big boys don’t want us around.” Taylor and his wife, Victoria, invested their life’s savings in the business, determined to make a difference at a everal months ago while rushing through the aisles of time when they believe agriculture is at a turning point. my local supermarket, I watched a lady pick up a half “In this country, we are paying twice as much for medgallon of Snowville Creamery milk from the dairy shelf. icine as we are for food, and it’s time to admit that the “How is that milk?” I asked. She turned, looked me way we make this food is not contributing to our health,” straight in the eye, and said, “Try it — and you’ll never Taylor says. “We need to recognize that there is another drink the other kind of agriculture that isn’t about commodity. It’s about milk again.” making the finest food — and not the cheapest food.” Since then, Taylor is a friendly, upbeat bundle of energy. He starts I’ve stumbled most days at 4:30 a.m., doing Tai Chi in his living room. upon several A self-proclaimed go-for-it kind of guy, he claims to have other committaken his last real vacation in 1977. He spends most of ted consumers, his waking hours running the creamery, and he is paseach one of sionate about pointing out the differences between the them a borntwo dairy models — confinement and pasture grazing. again milk As he looks out drinker of over the rolling hills of sorts. Clearly, the dairy farm, he Snowville notes that the investCreamery customers demonstrate an ment is in the land, the unwavering loyalty to the product. But animals and the paths why? the cows use to travel For starters, Snowville Creamery milk back and forth from tastes better. This is milk the way it used the fields to the milkto be, 40 years or so ago — pasteurized ing barn. at a lower temperature and not homoge“This is different nized — the kind you have to shake than confinement before you pour because the cream actudairies where the ally rises to the top. The milk comes investment is in the from 350 grass-fed cows that live on the buildings and the trac400-acre dairy farm of Bill Dix and Stacy tors and equipment,” Hall, located in Meigs County. he says. The result is Just a stone’s throw away from the better-tasting, more milking barn, where the cows are nutritious milk. milked twice daily, is Snowville Taylor calls himself Creamery, located in a 6,000-squarethe dairy evangelist, foot pole barn. This is the brainchild of and people are joining Sarah is one of 350 grass-fed cows helping to proWarren Taylor, 58, a former dairy techhis crusade. He has nologist and consultant who throughout duce the milk used at Snowville Creamery, a Meigs been expanding prohis 30-year career designed some of the County enterprise that prides itself on producing duction at a rate of 5 to largest dairy processing plants in the milk “the way milk used to be.” 10 percent a month, world. About five years ago, he started and at the end of last year, Snowville Creamery turned a to explore the next phase of his life — making the finestprofit. Sales have doubled in the last seven months. The quality milk and marketing it at a fair price. milk, which occupies a price point that falls between the “We spent 30 years in this country trying to see how high-dollar certified organic milk and the lowest-cost cheap we could make milk,” he says. “But it doesn’t taste commodity milk, is gaining a following. good, and our children don’t like it.” Taylor and his in-store tasting team, part of a larger Taylor would like to change all that, but he is not the group that includes 18 full-time and 24 part-time employleast bit delusional. In fact, he is well aware that the task ees, educate consumers through in-store demos — primahe has taken on is daunting at best. “Nobody has ever rily in Whole Foods markets. Snowville Creamery milk is succeeded in building a business like this and making it currently sold throughout Columbus, Cleveland and work,” he says. “There has been so much consolidation (Continued on page 26)

Country Living/May 2010—25

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Keeping secrets

(–continued from page 24)

who return year after year. Along with the ice cream served up in a 19th-century-style ice cream parlor, Velvet offers plenty to do for a day trip. There’s the ice cream museum that tells ice cream history dating back to Roman times and boasts an ever-growing showcase of memorabilia and vintage gadgets, the gristmill and its museum, a picnic area, a restaurant and a gift shop. This is the only place in the United States where Velvet serves up its own brand of “delicious.” “People create memories here,” says Andre Dager, the sister in charge of guest relations. She cites stories of those who came to Velvet Ice Cream as a child and now bring their own. Some bring grandchildren. Others recall first dates and marriage proposals there . As for Andre, she recalls eating rainbow sherbet before breakfast until her mother slowed down the sisters’ ice cream eating habits. These days, ice cream eating includes a daily treat of Campbell and Neighbarger’s handiwork. Raspberry Fudge Cordial and Buckeye Classic are favorite flavors. That’s a Velvet Ice Cream tradition the Dager sisters are keeping. ❏ Jamie Rhein is a freelance writer from Columbus. Velvet Ice Cream, 11324 Mt. Vernon Rd., Utica, 800-589-5000. Restaurant and museum open daily May–Oct., 11 a.m.–7 p.m. Factory tours Mon.-Fri., 11 a.m.-3 p.m. on the hour. www.velveticecream.com.

Memorial Day weekend, ice cream-style Velvet Ice Cream takes center stage at the Utica Ice Cream Festival when contestants plunge into brain freeze territory to see how many pints they can plow though in just 3 minutes. The adult record is eight. With the younger crowd, wearing Velvet’s Old Fashioned Vanilla seems more common than eating it. Ring toss, egg toss and sack races are part of the family-friendly activities. There’s also live music, Border collie demonstrations, a large assortment of quality crafts and food to buy. Proceeds help fund community projects through the Utica Sertoma, LaSertoma and Serteen clubs. The festival is held May 29-31 on the grounds of Velvet Ice Cream Company and the Energy Cooperative on Mt. Vernon Road outside Utica. Hours are Sat. and Sun., 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; Mon. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Admission is free. Parking is $5.

Cream of the crop

(–continued from page 25)

Cincinnati, as well as some stores in Kentucky, Pittsburgh, and now — the Washington, D.C., area. “For us, Whole Foods has been key,” Taylor says. “Before we went to D.C., we were in nine Whole Foods markets, and we were serving 90 stores total. Those nine Whole Foods stores were 40 percent of our business. As of last November, we are in eight Whole Foods markets in D.C., and that accounts for about 10 percent of our volume right now.” Because the D.C. metro area is so densely populated, that volume is expected to grow. Taylor’s enthusiasm may be inspiring a milk revival. “I want to help 100 people build plants just like this all over America,” he says. “I am willing to give it all away. I am not looking to get rich. I don’t care about money at all.” Even better, Taylor believes he is just the man for the job: “There is nobody out there like me with the orientation and vision of trying to make this a reproducible model. There is nobody taking the dairy evangelist approach.” Is Taylor the man who can transform the dairy industry? “It became pretty clear to me that if there was anybody in the country who could do this, it was me. I knew the industry — and then, of course, I cared,” he says. “I thought it was wrong that milk this good wasn’t available and that dairy farmers weren’t paid well for their milk.” And then, with a serious look on his face, he says, “I didn’t just do this. I was compelled.” ❏ Lori Murray is a freelance writer from Columbus.

26—Country Living/May 2010

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Where the action is PLEASE NOTE — Country Living strives for accuracy in this listing, but strongly urges readers to confirm dates and admission charges before traveling long distances to events. Submit your listing AT LEAST 90 DAYS prior to the event by writing to Country Living, P.O. Box 26036, Columbus, OH 43226-0036, or send e-mail to bem@buckeyepower.com. Please note: Country Living will not publish event listings that do not include a complete address of where the event takes place or a telephone number to call for more information. H — Denotes events accessible to the physically challenged.

CO-OP ANNUAL MEETINGS May 8 — Union Rural Electric Cooperative, Inc., Marysville High School, 800 Amrine Mill Rd., Marysville, 10 a.m. May 18 — The Energy Cooperative, C-TEC Vocational School, Price Rd., Newark, 6 p.m. May 22 — Consolidated Electric Cooperative, Inc., Morrow Co. Fgds., Jr. Fair Bldg., 11:30 a.m.

Srs./Std. $12, C. $9. 419-772-1900. May 7 — Days of Yesteryear, Auglaize Village and Farm Museum, Krouse Rd., 3 miles west of Defiance on U.S. 24, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. $3, Srs. $2, Std. $1. Craftspeople demonstrating pioneer crafts and skills. 419-782-7255. May 7-9, 14-16, 21-23 — The Wizard of Oz, Fremont Community Theatre, 1551 Dickinson St., Fremont, Fri. and Sat. 8 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. $12, Srs./Std. $10. 419-332-0695 or www.fremontcommunitytheatre.org. May 8, 9 — Fremont Flea Market, Sandusky Co. Fgds., Fremont, Sat. 9 a.m.–4 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Free. 200 vendors. 419-332-5604 or www.sanduskycountyfair.com. May 8, 9 — Gordon Setter Specialty Dog Show, Lima Kennel Club, 1050 Thayer Rd., Lima, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Parking $5. 419-221-0523. May 9 — Spring Band Festival XXXV (Symphonic and Honors Bands), Freed Center, Ohio Northern University, 525 S. Main St., Ada, 4 p.m. $15, Srs./Std. $12, C. $9. 419-772-1900.

May 26 — Butler Rural Electric Cooperative, Inc., Millett Hall, Miami University, 5 p.m.

May 13–23 — You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown, Van Wert Civic Theatre, 8 p.m. (Sun. 2 p.m.). 419-238-9378.

Northwest

May 14-16 — Armed Forces Day Celebration, Hancock Co. Fgds., Findlay, Fri. noon-9 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m.-9 p.m., Sun. 8 a.m.-noon. $5, C. $3. 419257-2388 or www.finhanmilitary.org.

Lima Silver Spurs Square Dancing, Westwood Middle School cafeteria, 503 North Cable Rd., Lima, 2nd Sat., 8 p.m. 419-692-1786.

May 15 — Appalachian Opry Monthly Variety Shows, Famous Old Time Music Company, 20322 U.S. 33, Wapakoneta, 7 p.m. $10. 419-568-1220.

Tiffin T-Squares, Tiffin Developmental Center, 600 N. River Rd., Tiffin, 2nd and 4th Sat. , 8 p.m. Western square dancing. 419-937-2579. Bellefontaine Hi-Point See Saws Square Dancing, Masonic Temple, 600 N. Main St., Bellefontaine, 2nd Sat. of even months, 3rd Sat. of odd months, 8-10:30 p.m. 937-592-0571. Live Bluegrass Show, Lincoln Way Rec. Center, 2817 St. Rte. 602, North Robinson, 3rd Sat., 7 p.m.-11 p.m. $8. 419-562-4363. Through Aug. 1 — “CROQUET: A Sport Story,” Hayes Presidential Center, Fremont, Tue.-Sat. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. This collection examines the history of croquet during its 19th-century heyday. 419332-2081 or www.rbhayes.org. Apr. 28-May 1 — 42nd Street, Freed Center for the Performing Arts, 525 S. Main St., Ada, 8 p.m.; Sun., May 2, 2 p.m. $9-15. 419-772-1900. Apr. 30-May 2 — Nob Hammer-In, Auglaize Village and Farm Museum, Krouse Rd., 3 miles west of Defiance on U.S. 24. $3, Srs. $2, Std. $1. Open to those learning or improving blacksmithing skills. 419-395-1314. May 1 — Lima-Live Singles Dance, Heritage Elementary School, 816 College Ave., Lima, 8-11 p.m. $8. 419-371-5702. May 1 — Rick Prater and the Midnight Travelers, Pemberville Opera House, Pemberville, 7:30 p.m. $10. Bluegrass. 419-287-4848 or www.pembervilleoperahouse.org. May 1, 2 — McCluer Animal Swap Meet and Flea Market, McCluer Farm, 6440 Harding Hwy., Lima, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. 419-230-9134. May 1, 2 — Antique Farm Machinery Swap Meet, Seneca Co. Fgds., Tiffin, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. 419618-0017. May 1, 2 — Tri-State Gun Show, Allen Co. Fgds., Lima, Sat. 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m., Sun. 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. $4. 419-647-0067. May 1, 2 — Lore of the Laughery, Friendship, IN, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. A living history event demonstrating the lifestyle of the 1750-1812 era. 765563-6792 or nmlraevents@seidata.com. May 1, 2 — Tiffin Flea Market, Seneca Co. Fgds., Tiffin, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. 419-457-9613. May 7 — Dulcimers in the Cornfields Festival, Famous Old Time Music Company, 20322 U.S. 33, Wapakoneta. 419-568-1220 or 513-607-1874. May 7 — Spring Band Festival XXXV (Wind Orchestra), Freed Center, Ohio Northern University, 525 S. Main St., Ada, 8 p.m. $15,

May 15 — Bluffton Arts and Crafts Festival, downtown Bluffton, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. 419-358-5675 or blufftonchamber@gmail.com. May 15 — Franc D'Ambrosio, Niswonger Performing Arts Center, 10700 St. Rte. 118 S., Van Wert, 7:30 p.m. $20-$40. The “World's Longest Running Phantom” with the Lima Symphony Orchestra. 419-238-6722. May 20 — Tea at the Holderman House, Sandusky County Historical Society, 514 Birchard Ave., Fremont, 1 p.m. $12. 419-684-9184 or www.sanduskycountyhistory.org. May 20-23 — Buckeyes in the Arts — An Inspector Calls, Reed Hall, OSU-Lima, 4240 Campus Dr., Lima, Thur.–Sat. 8 p.m., Sun. 7 p.m. 419-995-8382. May 21-23 — YMCA Fitness Weekend, YMCA Camp Willson, Bellefontaine. 800-423-0427 or www.ymcacampwillson.org. May 22 — Hardin County Farmers Market, downtown Kenton, 9 a.m.-noon. 419-673-4131 or www.hardincountyfarmersmarket.com. May 28-30 — Buckeye Farm Antiques Tractor and Gas Engine Show, Auglaize Co. Fgds., Wapakoneta. $2. 937-596-6812. H. May 29 — Memorial Weekend Dance, East Harbor State Park, 1169 N. Buck Rd., LakesideMarblehead, 11 a.m. at the nature center. 419734-4424, ext. 2. May 29, 30 — Native American Heritage Days, Historic Lyme Village, 5001 St. Rte. 4, Bellevue, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $5, C. $2. A tribute to Native Americans, their culture, customs and music. 419-483-4949 or www.lymevillage.com. May 29, 30 — Practical Horsemanship Clinic, 4658 St. Rte. 199, Carey. $25 a day or $40 for both days to observe, and $50 a day or $80 for both days to participate. 419-294-4477. May 29-31 — Logan Hills Festival, 4595 C.R. 153, Zanesfield (1 mile west of the junction of U.S. 33 and St. Rte. 292 and C.R. 153). All participants are dressed in pre-1840 fur trade era clothing. 937-935-4318 or 937-935-9663. May 29-31 — Memorial Day Family Getaway Camp, YMCA Camp Willson, Bellefontaine. $123/adults, $95/teens 13-17 yrs., $85/child 612 yrs., 5 and under free. Register at 800-4230427 or www.ymcacampwillson.org. May 30 — Car, Truck and Motorcycle Show, Buckeye Farm Antiques, Auglaize Co. Fgds. (second exit west of I-75 on U.S. 33), 11 a.m.-4 p.m. $2. 419-738-6622.

May 31 — Memorial Day Parade, downtown Lima, 10 a.m. 419-733-5955. May 31 — Clyde Memorial Day Parade, downtown Clyde, 10 a.m. 419-547-7929 or www.clydeohio.org. May 31 — Memorial Day Parade, 10 a.m., downtown Kenton. 419-673-4131.

Northeast Bluegrass Saturday Nights, Homerville Community Center, St. Rte. 301, Homerville, 2nd and 4th Sat., 7-11 p.m. All pickers welcome. 330416-2222. Bluegrass Music, A-B-H Bluegrass Hide-Away, 850 Fitchville River Rd. S., New London, Fri. and Sat. jamming, doors open 6 p.m. Bands scheduled 2nd Sat. 440-225-5863 or 419-929-2400. Bluegrass Jam Session, Lafayette United Methodist Church, 6201 Lafayette Rd., Medina, Fri. nights, doors open 5:30 p.m., music 7-11 p.m. $2. 330-725-6176. An Evening of Bluegrass Music, Carpenters Cafe/Keim Lumber Co., 4465 St. Rte. 557, Charm, 3rd Mon., 5-7 p.m. 330-407-8124. Salt Creek Inc. Bluegrass and Buffet, April’s Country Kitchen, 640 Heller Dr., Newcomerstown, 1st Fri. through July. 701-498-4242. May 1 — Brunswick Youth Fishing Derby, North Park, 8:30-10:30 a.m. Register by April 30. 330-273-8000. May 1 — Wildlife Education Center Open House, Beaver Creek State Park, 12021 Echo Dell Rd., East Liverpool, 4 p.m. 330-385-3091. May 1 — Mushroom Madness, Malabar Farm State Park, Visitor Center, Lucas, 10 a.m. $10 includes guide book. 419-892-2784. May 1— Spoken Images and Spring Flower Festival, Kingwood Center, 900 Park Ave. W., Mansfield. Spoken Images, 3:30 p.m., Kingwood Hall; Spring Flower Festival, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 419522-0211 or www.kingwoodcenter.com. May 1, 2 — Pioneer Days at the Grist Mill, Mohican State Park, 3116 St. Rte. 3, Loudonville. 419-668-2497 or wolfcreekmill.org. May 1, 2 — Craft and Herb Fair, Quail Hollow State Park, 13340 Congress Lake Ave., Hartville, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 330-877-6652 or quailhollowpark.org. May 8 — Gazebo Garden Walk, Wellington’s Town Hall. 440-647-3987. May 8 — The Big Parade and Festival, Tappan Square, Oberlin, 11 a.m. www.oberlin.org. May 8 — International Migratory Bird Day, Maumee Bay State Park, 6505 Cedar Point Rd., Oregon, 8 a.m-2 p.m. at the nature center. 419836-9117. May 8, 9 — Brush and Palette Art Show and Sale, Kingwood Center, 900 Park Ave. W., Mansfield, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 419-522-0211 or www.kingwoodcenter.org. May 9-16 — Lilac Walk, Kelleys Island State Park. 419-746-2546. May 10-15 — Nest with the Birds, Kelleys Island State Park. Guided bird walks. 419-746-2546 or information@kelleysislandnature.com. May 14 — Tappan Square History Walk, Professor St., Oberlin, 11 a.m. Tickets must be purchased 48 hours in advance either on the Web site (www.oberlinheritage.org) or at the Monroe House's Museum Store. $6 adult, $1 discount for OHC members; free for children under 18. May 15 — May Night Haunt, Malabar Farm State Park, Lucas, 8 p.m.-midnight. Tours of Malabar’s haunted history. $30. 419-892-2784. May 15, 16 — Spring Plowing Days, Malabar Farm State Park, Lucas, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Draft horses compete in traditional contest. 419-892-2784. May 15, 16 — Kingwood Herb Society Spring

(Continued on page 32) Country Living/May 2010—31

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Where the action is (—continued from page 31) Garden Days and Plant Sale, Kingwood Center, 900 Park Ave. W., Mansfield, Sat. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 419-522-0211 or www.kingwoodcenter.org. May 16 — Medina Flea Market, 735 W. Lafayette Rd., Medina, 6 a.m.-3 p.m. 330-9484300, www.conraddowdell.com. May 16 — Ohio Toy Soldier Show and Sale, Galaxy Restaurant, 201 Park Centre Dr., Wadsworth, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. 330-722-6751. May 19 — Community Drum Circle, Common Ground, 14240 Baird Rd., Oberlin, 6:30-8:30 p.m. www.commongroundcenter.org. May 20 — Third Thursdays — Music, Flowers and a Sunset, downtown Vermilion, 6:30-8:30 p.m. An array of free musical entertainment for you! www.mainstreetvermilion.com. May 22 — Kayaking Symposium, Lakeview Park, 1800 West Erie Ave., Lorain, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. 440-949-5200 or www.metroparks.cc. May 23 — Exotic Bird Fair Expo, 735 W. Lafayette Rd., Medina, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 419-6852412 or www.exoticbirdfairexpo.com. May 27 — Summer Concert Series: Thursdays in the Park, Fort Steuben, 120 S. 3rd St., Steubenville, 6:30 p.m. 740-283-1787 or www.oldfortsteuben.com. May 29 — Mohican Traditions Arts and Crafts Festival, Central Park in downtown Loudonville, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 419-994-4789. May 29 — Spring Barn Dance, Malabar Farm State Park, Lucas, 7-10 p.m. Beginners welcome. 419-892-2784. May 29, 30 — Lorain Perch and Walleye Festival, Black River Landing, 421 Black River Ln., Lorain. 440-204-2273 or www.lorainportauthority.com. May 29, 30 — Great Lakes Fiber Show, Wayne Co. Fgds., Wooster. 330-264-9665 or www.greatlakesfibershow.com.

Central Country Jubilee, music show, high school gym, 1 Second St., Shawnee, 2nd Sat., doors open 6 p.m., show at 7 p.m. $8, Srs. $7. 740-438-7232 or 740-452-2376. Band and Dancing, Linton Community Center, St. Rte. 93 and College Ave., Plainfield, 1st Sat., 8-11 p.m. 740-545-6425 or 740-502-2901. Marion Hicks and Chicks Square Dancing, Sunny Acres Barn, 4600 St. Rte. 309, Caledonia, 1st and 3rd Sat., 8 p.m. 419-947-6081. Pickerington — Friendly Ties Western Square Dance, Pickerington Senior Center, 150 Hereford Dr., Pickerington. 1st and 3rd Sun., 7-10 p.m. 614-866-1816. Bluegrass Show, Three Rivers Fire Dept., U.S. 36 and St. Rte. 621, Canal Lewisville, every 4th Sat. show starts 7 p.m.-9 p.m., jam to 11 p.m. $5. 740-498-8456. Through Dec. 2 — Paws in the Plaza, Creekside Plaza, 123 Mill St., Gahanna, Thurs., 4:30 p.m. until dark. Free. Join other dogs as they bring their owners to stroll through the paths, river walks, pet-friendly shops and visiting vendors and businesses throughout downtown. 614-3424041, www.visitgahanna.com. Through May 8 — Dogwood Festival, Pomerene Center for the Arts, 317 Mulberry St., Coshocton. 740-622-0326 or www.pomerenearts.org. Through Jun. 19 — Art Quilts and Textiles by Susan Nash, Zanesville Museum of Art, 620 Military Rd., Zanesville, Tue., Wed., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Thur. 10 a.m.-8:30 p.m.; Fri., Sat. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. $6, Srs./Std. $4. 740-452-0741. Through Oct. 1 — Lancaster Farmers Market, Memorial Dr. and Wheeling St., Sat. 8 a.m.-1 p.m., Wed. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. www.lancasterfarmersmarket.org. May 1 — Central Ohio Symphony: May Concert, Gray Chapel, Ohio Wesleyan University,

32—Country Living/May 2010

61 S. Sandusky St., Delaware, 8 p.m. $4-$20. 740-362-1799, www.centralohiosymphony.org. May 1 — Arbor Day Festival, Dawes Arboretum, 7770 Jacksontown Rd., Newark, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Free. 740-323-2355 or 800-44-DAWES. May 1, 2 — Fairy Tale Violets Sale, Franklin Park Conservatory, 1777 E. Broad St., Columbus. Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. 614-864-8130, www.fpconservatory.org. May 1, 2 — Ohio State Rabbit Breeders Show and Sale, Ohio Expo Center, 717 E. 17th Ave., Columbus, Sat. 7 a.m.-9 p.m., Sun. 7 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. 330-345-7743, www.osrba.net. May 1, 7, 8 — Dead Man’s Cell Phone, Otterbein College, Arena Theatre, 100 W. Home St., Westerville; May 1, 7:30 p.m.; May 7-8, 8 p.m. 613-823-1600 or 614-888-4567. May 2 — Hansel and Gretel — Family Series, Palace Theatre, 276 W. Center St., Marion, 3 p.m. $8. 740-383-2101 or www.marionpalace.org. May 2 — Johnny Steiner's “Coast to Coast,” Palace Theatre, 276 W. Center St., Marion, 3 p.m. $10. 740-383-2101 or www.marionpalace.org. May 2 — Downtown Powell Street Market, 47 Hall St., Powell, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 614-396-3336, www.visitpowell.com. May 2 — Reprise! Lancaster Chorale performance, Faith Memorial Church, Lancaster, 3 p.m. 740-687-5855 or www.lancasterchorale.com. May 5 — Central Ohio Symphony Orchestra, Palace Theatre, 276 W. Center St., Marion. 740383-2101 or www.marionpalace.org. May 6-16 — Columbus Children's Theatre: Jack and the Beanstalk, Park Street Theatre, 512 N. Park St., Columbus, Thur.-Sun. $9-$21. 614224-6672, www.colschildrenstheatre.org. May 7 — Art and Culture Walk, downtown Marion, 4-8 p.m. 740-244-9567. May 7-29 — Pets Special Exhibit, Monarch Art Gallery, Lancaster, Tues.-Sat. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and by appointment. 740-681-2787. May 7, 8 — Civil War Encampment, Ohio Statehouse, Broad St. and High St., Columbus, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. 888-OHIO-123, www.ohiostatehouse.org. May 7-9 — Central Ohio Folk Festival, BattelleDarby Creek Metro Park, 1775 Darby Creek Dr., Columbus/Galloway, Fri. 6-9 p.m.; Sat. 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Sun. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. $10. 614-267-4128 or www.cfms-inc.org. May 7-10 — Eastern Ohio Quarter Horse Show, Ohio Expo Center, 717 E. 17th Ave., Columbus, Fri.-Sun. Free. 614-644-3247, www.eoqha.us. May 8–Aug. 7 — Ohio Ceramics: Deco to Modern, Zanesville Museum of Art, 620 Military Rd., Zanesville, Tue., Wed., Fri. 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; Thur., 10 a.m.–8:30 p.m. Sat. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. 740452-0741 or www.zanesvillemuseumofart.org. May 8 — May Herb Day, Creekside Plaza and Gahanna Historical Society Settlement, 123 Mill St., Gahanna, 9-4 p.m. 614-475-3342, www.visitgahanna.com. May 8 — Fairfield County 4-H Advisors Open Horse Show, Fairfield Co. Fgds., Lancaster, 9 a.m. 614-833-9703. May 8 — Worthington Plant Fest, Worthington Village Green, St. Rte. 161 and U.S. 23, Worthington, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. 614-891-6293, www.owba.net. May 8, 15 — Bird Walk, Dawes Arboretum, 7770 Jacksontown Rd., Newark, 8–11 a.m. $8/$5 members. 740-323-2355 or 800-44-DAWES. May 8, 9 — Tour of the Scioto River Valley — Bicycle Rally. TOSRV is a 200-mile round-trip bicycle tour from Columbus to Portsmouth held since 1962. 614-461-6648, www.tosrv.org. May 9 — A Celtic Gathering, Fairfield Co. Fgds., Lancaster, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. 740-654-4149 or www.lancastercelticgathering.com. May 9 — Romantic Full Moon Canoe Trip, Hocking Valley Canoe Livery, 31251 Chieftain Dr., Logan, 7-midnight. Per canoe: $42. 800-6860386, www.hockinghillscanoeing.com. May 13 — Party in the Park, Busby Park,

Marion. Pet and animal adoption. 740-244-9567. May 14-16 — Antiques and Gardening, Bryn Du Mansion, 537 Jones Rd., Granville, Fri.-Sat. 10 a.m-6 p.m., Sun. noon-5 p.m. $8-$20. Dealers from throughout the nation. 740-587-7053, www.bryndu.com. May 14-Jul. 4 — Quilt Surface Design Symposium Show, Ohio Wesleyan University, Ross Art Museum, 60 S. Sandusky St., Delaware. Free. Quilts by local and national artists. 740203-6908, www.owu.edu. May 15 — Wildflower Walks and Book Signing, Dawes Arboretum, 7770 Jacksontown Rd., Newark. Two sessions: 11 a.m.–1 p.m. or 2–4 p.m. $20/$15 members. 740-323-2355 or 80044-DAWES. May 15 — Komen Columbus Race for the Cure, Ohio Statehouse, Broad St. and High St., Columbus. 888-OHIO-123, www.ohiostatehouse.org. May 15 — Carroll Historic Home Tour, noon-5 p.m. $10 presale, day of tour $12, C. $5. Private homes, Rock Mill (the oldest mill in Ohio) and a converted one-room schoolhouse visited at your own pace. http://cahstour2010.vpweb.com or 740-756-7084. May 15 — Chinese and Silent Auction, Lancaster Campground Activity Bldg., 2151 W. Fair Ave., Lancaster, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Lunch will be served. 740-653-2119 or www.lancastercampground.com. May 15 — Herbal Skincare Workshop, Mockingbird Meadows, Honey and Herb Farm, 16671 Burns Rd., Marysville, 1:30-4:30 p.m. $45. 614-354-5162. May 15, 16 — Delaware Arts Festival, downtown Delaware, Sat. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 740-363-2695, www.delawareartsfestival.org. May 15-Sept. 7 — A Celebration of Anchor Hocking, Ohio Glass Museum, Lancaster, Tues.Sun. 1-4 p.m. 740-687-0101 or www.ohioglassmuseum.org. May 16 — Palace Big Band — Dancing, Palace Theatre, 276 W. Center St., Marion, 3 p.m. $20. 740-383-2101 or www.marionpalace.org. May 19-22 — Ham and Eggs, Lancaster Men’s Chorus Production, Ohio University, Lancaster, 8 p.m. 740-407-7737. May 20-23 — All American Youth Horse Show, Ohio Expo Center, 717 E. 17th Ave., Columbus, Thur.-Sun. 8 a.m.-11 p.m. Free. 800-413-6222, www.aayhs.com. May 20-23, 27-29 — Pippin, Otterbein College, Cowan Hall, 30 S. Grove St., Westerville, 7:30 opening night; Sun. matinees 2 p.m.; all others 8 p.m. $25. 614-823-1600 or 614-888-4567. May 21 — Night Hike, Dawes Arboretum, 7770 Jacksontown Rd., Newark, 8:30–10:30 p.m. Visitors Center. 740-323-2355 or 800-44-DAWES. May 22 — Home Gardening Series: Hummingbirds, Dawes Arboretum, 7770 Jacksontown Rd., Newark, 9–11 a.m. $15/$8 members. Reservation required. 740-323-2355 or 800-44-DAWES. May 22-23 — Festival of Flint, Everett Park, 170 Everett Ave., Newark, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $5, Srs./C. $2. 740-403-5560 or vwgraham@att.net.

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Where the action is May 22-23 — Eastern Ohio Quarter Horse Association Show, Fairfield Co. Fgds., Lancaster, 8 a.m. 740-214-2846. May 23 — First Aid Naturally Workshop, Mockingbird Meadows, Honey and Herb Farm, 16671 Burns Rd., Marysville, 1:30-3:30 p.m. $20. 614-354-5162, or www.mockingbirdmeadows.com. May 25 — Thurber House Evenings with Authors: Lee Child, Columbus Performing Arts Center, 549 Franklin Ave., Columbus, 7:30 p.m. $15-$20. 614-464-1032, www.thurberhouse.org. May 30 — Reality Dreams/Toys to Share Open Horse Show, Fairfield Co. Fgds., Lancaster, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 740-385-3431. May 28 — Family Friday Night COSI, 333 W. Broad St., Columbus, 5-9 p.m. Family Friday Night admission 2 and up, $8. COSI stays open late for family-friendly fun the last Friday of every month. 614-228-2674, 888-819-COSI, www.cosi.org. May 29-31 — Selma Walker Memorial Weekend Powwow, Franklin Co. Fgds., Hilliard, Sat. 11 a.m.-midnight, Sun. 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Mon. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Weekend pass $15. 614443-6120, www.naicco.org. May 29, 30 — Asian Festival, Franklin Park, 1777 E. Broad St., Columbus, Sat. 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Free. Showcases Asian culture and heritage. Fifteen Asian ethnic groups are represented in this event, which will feature performances by artists from all over the world, along with hands-on art demonstrations, interactive dance, ethnic music, Tai Chi and martial arts workshops. Eat Asian cuisine and enjoy art and crafts and Asian games including Mahjarn, Takraw and table tennis. 614-451-3550, 614402-3384, www.asian-festival.org. May 31 — Sunbury Memorial Day Flea Market, Sunbury Village Square, Cherry St. and Rte. 37, Sunbury, 7 a.m.-5 p.m. $1. More than 150 vendors offering timeless treasures, crafts, antiques, plants and food. Antique shops surround the square and two other flea markets are held nearby. 740-965-3047, www.sunburybigwalnutchamber.com.

Southeast Bluegrass Music Jam, River’s Edge Activities Center, St. Rte. 7, 4-1/2 miles s. of Sardis and 11/2 miles n. of Fly, 1st Sat., 6 p.m. All bluegrass, old-time country music bands and public welcome. 740-213-3285 or 740-865-2288. Classic Country Music Show, Liberty Bell Restaurant, 102 N. Broad St., Bremen, Sat. 4-8 p.m. $5. 740-569-4883 or 740-743-3018. Ohio Valley Opry, Twin City Opera House, 15 W. Main St., McConnelsville, 3rd Sat. 740-962-3030 or www.operahouseinc.com. H. Paint Valley Jamboree, Paxton Theatre, 125 E. Main St., Bainbridge, every Sat. 7 p.m. $9, Srs. $8. 740-634-3333. Ross County Quilters Guild, Tyler Methodist Church, 260 Mill St., Chillicothe, every Wed., 11 a.m.2 p.m. All levels of quilters welcome. 740-774-1013. Apr. 30-May 1 — Hopalong Cassidy Reunion and Western Toy Show and Sale, throughout Cambridge and Pritchard Laughlin Civic Center. 740-826-4850.

Colony, 530 First Ave., Gallipolis. Festival competition award winner’s art exhibit. Tue.-Fri. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Sun. 1-5 p.m. 740-446-3834 or www.frenchartcolony.org.

May 1 — Rumblin’ by the River Kick off Cruise In “Run for The Roses,” The Bandstand on Front St. and Susanna Way, New Richmond, 4-8 p.m. 513-310-4761 or www.newrichmond.org.

May 7-9 — International Migratory Bird Weekend, Hocking Hills St. Park, Logan. Guided hikes and programs. 740-385-6841, 740-3858003 or birdhocking.com.

May 1 — Fish Ohio Free Clinic, Hueston Woods State Park, 6301 Park Office Rd., College Corner, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. 513-523-6347.

May 7-Oct. 29 — Guernsey County Farmers Market, Courthouse Square, Cambridge, Fri. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 740-439-5522, 740-439-2238 or www.guernseycountyfarmersmarket.com. May 8 — Spring Corn Hole Tournament, Ross County Sportsmans and Wildlife Club Lodge, 501 Musselman Mill Rd., Chillicothe. Registration 10 a.m., tournament 11 a.m. $25 per team. 740-6499614 or kim.danny@roadrunner.com. May 8 — Whippoorwill Hike, Shawnee State Park, Portsmouth, 8 p.m. at the park office. Bring a flashlight. 740-858-6652. May 8 — Bass Tournament, American Bass Anglers South Division Fishing Tournament, Gallipolis public access ramp, 300 First Ave., Gallipolis, 6 a.m.-2 p.m. 740-446-6882. May 8 — Ohio Valley Symphony University Choirs, Ariel Dater Hall, 426 2nd Ave., Gallipolis, 8 p.m. 740-446-6882. May 8, 9 — Youth Fishing Derby, Muskingum River State Park, 1 p.m. at Zanesville Lock #10 by the Y-Bridge. 740-453-4377. May 9 — Mother’s Day Concert – The Local Girls, Washington State Main Campus, Marietta, Arts and Science Building, 3 p.m. 740-374-8716. May 14 — Ole Car Club Cruise In, K-Mart, 185 Upper River Rd., Gallipolis, 5-8 p.m. 740-446-0945. May 14-16 — French 500 Flea Market, Gallia Co. Fgds., Gallipolis, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. 740-446-4120 or www.galliacountyfair.org. May 15 — Marcy’s Trailride, Bob Evans Farms, St. Rte. 588, Rio Grande. Ride begins 2 p.m., dinner 6 p.m. 740-245-5304 or 800-994-FARM. May 15 — Landscape Workshop and Plant Exchange, Bob Evans Farms, St. Rte. 588, Rio Grande, 8 a.m.-noon. 740-245-5304 or 800994-FARM. May 20-22 — Spring Gospel Sing, Spring Valley Campground, 8000 Dozer Rd., Cambridge. 740432-3787 or www.gospeljubilee.org. May 22 — Know and Grow Seminar, Bob Evans Farms, St. Rte. 588, Rio Grande, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. 740-245-5304 or 800-994-FARM.

May 11-Jun. 10 — Between Fences, Chisholm Historic Farmstead, Metro Parks of Butler Co., 2070 Woodsdale Rd., Trenton, Wed.-Sun. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 513-867-5835. May 15 — Middletown Symphony Concert, Miami University Middletown, 4200 E. University Blvd., Middletown, 8 p.m. 513-727-3200. May 15 — Queen City Bird Festival, Hueston Woods State Park, 6301 Park Office Rd., College Corner. 513-524-4250. May 15 — Spring Wildflower Hike, Pike Lake State Park, 1847 Pike Lake Rd., Bainbridge, noon at the amphitheater. 740-493-2212. May 15, 16 — Upper Valley Fiber Fest, Miami Co. Fgds., Troy, Sat. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.4 p.m. info@uppervalleyfiberfest.org. May 21 — Taste of the Arts, downtown Piqua, 59 p.m. A blending of arts, music and food from surrounding restaurants. 937-773-9355. May 22 — “Little Sure Shot Gala,” Garst Museum and Annie Oakley Center, 205 N. Broadway, Greenville, 6:30 p.m. 937-548-5250 or www.garstmuseum.org. May 22, 23 — Fishing Has No Boundaries, Cowan Lake Association of Sportsmen, South Shore Marina, Cowan Lake, 7379 St. Rte. 730, Wilmington. $10. Volunteers assist handicapped anglers during this event. 937-289-2340. May 23 — Old Fashioned Days Car, Truck and Motorcycle Show, Troutwine Auto Sales parking lot, Arcanum. Registration 9 a.m., judging noon. $8. 937-737-0068 or 937-692-5006.

May 29 —Family Circus Festival, Kiser Lake State Park, 4889 N. St. Rte. 235, St. Paris. 937362-3822 or 937-362-3565.

May 31 — Valley Gem Sternwheeler Memorial Day Muffin Cruise, 601 Front St., Marietta, 10:3011:30 a.m. $10, Srs. $9, C. $5. 740 373-7862. May 31 — Memorial Day Train, Hocking Valley Scenic Railway. Any veteran or current member of the armed forces and members of their immediate families are invited to ride for free on the 1:30 p.m. train on Memorial Day. 800-967-7834 or call the depot on the weekend at 740-753-9531.

May-Sept. — Oxford Farmers Market, Sat. 7:30-noon, 513-505-5238 or oxfordfarmersmarket.com.

May 5-28 — First Forty Years, French Art

May 8 — Matt Maupin Memorial Kid’s Fishing Tournament, Pattison Park 2227 U.S. 50, Batavia, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. 513-732-2977 or www.parks.clermontcountyohio.gov.

May 28-31 — Muskingum Valley Trade Days, Reinersville, on St. Rte. 78, east of McConnelsville and west of Caldwell. 740-558-2740 or www.mvtradersday.com.

May 1 — Spring Wildflower Hike, Lake White State Park, 2767 St. Rte. 552, Waverly, 10 a.m.noon at the main parking area. 740-493-2212.

May 2 — “The Tortoise and the Hare,” French Art Colony, 530 First Ave., Gallipolis. 740-4463834 or www.frenchartcolony.org.

May 8 — Beauty and the Beast, Murphy Theatre, 50 W. Main St., Wilmington, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. $12-$16. 800-274-3848.

May 28-30 — Springfield Swap Meet and Car Show, Clark Co. Fgds., Springfield, Fri., Sat. 7 a.m.-6 p.m., Sun. 7 a.m.-4 p.m. 937-376-0111 or www.ohioswapmeet.com.

Southwest

May 1, 2 — Flora-Quest, Shawnee State Park, 4404 St. Rte. 125, Portsmouth. Wildflower workshops and tours. Must preregister, fee required. 740-858-6652 or www.flora-quest.com.

May 8 — Bethel Art and Music Fest, Plane Street in Bethel, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 513-734-4445.

May 27-31 — Moonshine Festival, Main St., New Straitsville, Perry County. 740-394-2838 or rspicer@live.com.

May 1 — Youth Fishing Tournament, Lake Hope State Park, 27331 St. Rte. 278, McArthur, 8-11 a.m. at the parking lot below the dam. 740-596-5253.

May 1 — Fishing Derby, Strouds Run State Park, 2895 Lake Dr., Pleasant Plain. 740-767-3570.

May 1, 2 — Gold Rush Days Campout, East Fork State Park, 3294 Elklick Rd., Bethel. 513-734-4323.

Apr. 30-May 2 — Intn'l Bowhunters Org. Ohio State 3D Championship, Clinton Co. Farmers' and Sportsmen's Association, 301 Batson Rd., Wilmington, Fri., Sat. 8 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sun., 8 a.m.-3 p.m. $25 entry fee to shoot championship course; $5 per round on practice course for guests and noncompetitive shooters. 937-725-5008. May 1 — Safe Boating Class, Division of Watercraft, Cowan Lake Association of Sportsmen, 331 Beechwood Rd., Wilmington, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. $5. 937-323-1582.

May 29 — Youth Fishing Derby, Washington Twp. Park, 2238 St. Rte. 756, Moscow, registration 7:30 a.m., derby 8:30 a.m. $5. 513-5532072. May 29 — Wheat Ridge Art Market, Miller’s Furniture, 960 Wheat Ridge Rd., West Union. 937-544-4620. May 29 — Cast Iron Cooking Workshop, Caesar Creek State Park, Waynesville, 10 a.m. at the nature center. Must preregister, $10 fee. 513-897-2337. May 30 — Kids Archery, Kiser Lake State Park, 4889 N. St. Rte. 235, St. Paris, at the campground. 937-362-3822 or 937-362-3565.

West Virginia May 1 — Engines and Wheels Festival, North Bend State Park, Cairo, WV, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Free. 304-643-2931 or 800-CALL-WVA. May 7, 8 — Bluegrass Festival, North Bend State Park, Cairo, WV. Live bands, crafts. 304643-2931.

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Stuart’s Opera House

Keeping the arts alive in southeast Ohio

Story and photos by JOHN HOWLEY

The opera house served until 1924 as a place for lectures, visiting theater troupes, community events, political hreatened by the wrecking ball and nearly destroyed meetings and later movies. The business went through by fire, Stuart’s Opera House has survived to bring a several changes in management and ownership while the variety of music, art and other cultural building remained owned events to the people of Nelsonville and by the Stuart family. Stuart’s Opera House southeast Ohio. In 1977, the newly • Opened in 1879 — expanded in 1881 Located on the historic town square just formed Hocking Valley • Seating capacity listed at 1,200 in early off U.S. 33, Stuart’s is one of the few survivMuseum of Theatrical 20th century ing opera houses that were popular in many History announced plans • Closed in 1924 towns during the latter part of the 19th cento revive the old opera • Plans to reopen theater announced in 1977 tury and early 20th century. • Fire nearly destroyed the building in 1979 house, which had been The opera house thrives today after sitting • March 8, 1997 — grand reopening mainly untouched since • Current seating capacity of 395 idle for more than six decades. closing in 1924. “There were some folks who wanted to Money was raised and see it all the way to the ground. The most positive rallied cleanup work began, with the official reopening taking around and brought it back to life,” said Tim Peacock, place in May of 1979. Less than a year later, Stuart’s was executive director since 2002. “It’s pretty incredible when hit with a disaster—a fire consumed nearly everything. you think about it. It was the early ’80s and there wasn’t Some called for the building to be torn down but those money here. It was kind of a crazy venture and I’m sure who had been working to restore the theater persevered glad they did it. I can’t imagine taking something like that and again began work on the restoration. on.” It was a long process with many hurdles to overcome, The opera house was opened in 1879 by George Stuart, but on March 8, 1997, the grand reopening of Stuart’s a Nelsonville resident who had spent many years traveling Opera House was held. The performance that night was the state leading a troupe of minstrels on a canal boat. Jack F. Spell’s Ladies and Gentlemen: Mark Twain, a piece

Nelsonville festival fills three days with music, art The music and the art focus a cultural spotlight on Serving as a complesoutheastern Ohio that weekend. ment to the year-round “I love the idea of people getting exposed to someactivities at Stuart’s Opera thing they weren’t expecting,” said Tim Peacock, execuHouse is the Nelsonville tive director at Stuart’s Opera House and festival organizMusic Fest. er. “A lot of people have never heard of Nelsonville and For five years the music we’re trying to change that.” and arts festival has been The appeal of the festival took a big jump last year bringing the best in local when Willie Nelson was the headliner. The Saturday and national talent to night crowd that generally had been around 1,500 peosoutheast Ohio for three ple for the first four years swelled to more than 5,000 to days in May. see Nelson. Year six will be no difBringing that many people to town helps realize the ferent, with country icon festival’s goals, including exposing Stuart’s Opera House to Loretta Lynn headlining on more music fans and bringing money to the community. Saturday night during the “We see it as a fairly positive economic impact. There festival, which runs May will be a lot of people who learn about Stuart’s who’ve 14–16. never heard of us before,” Peacock said. Critically acclaimed The festival started in downtown Nelsonville before singer/songwriter Todd Snider and Academy Loretta Lynn will headline the Saturday moving to the edge of town on the Hocking College campus in recent years. Being at the college has provided the Award® winner The Swell lineup at this year’s Nelsonville Music festival with better facilities for staging the event, includSeason headline the Festival. ing ample parking and a camping area. Sunday lineup, and other For a complete schedule of musical acts and ticket infortop national acts, such as Billy Joe Shaver, Michael Hurley and Black Joe Lewis, fill up a weekend of fun and music. mation, visit www.nelsonvillefest.org or call Stuart’s Opera House at 740-753-1924. About three dozen local artists will be displaying their work as well. There is a children’s activity area, and all the food vendors are local.

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Spell had developed specifically for the reopening of Stuart’s 20 years earlier. Stuart’s Opera House operates today in a similar manner to how it did 100 years ago. “Our purpose is to be a public performing arts center. That’s kind of generic, but we play an important role in the Nelsonville arts scene and the Athens County and southeast Ohio arts scene,” Peacock said. “The space was barely used six years ago. Now there are more than 75 public performances a year,” Peacock added. “When you count rehearsal nights and private functions, the place is used a couple hundred nights a year. It’s not just a performing arts center; it’s a community center.” And it’s not busy just at night. Up-and-coming band The Felice Brothers perform on stage. For more informaStuart’s hosts students from tion, visit www.stuartsoperahouse.org. throughout the Nelsonville area during the year. With only about 400 tickets available for each show “Most of our audience members don’t realize we bring in 5,000 to 6,000 kids. For many of [these students], their Stuart’s produces and many free events on the schedule, finding funding for activities at the opera house is crucial. first theater experience ever is at Stuart’s,” Peacock said. “One of the biggest challenges is constantly having to Stuart’s hosted Arts Midwest World Fest, a two-year fund-raise. It’s the nonglorified, least fun, in-the-trenches program that brought in performers from Canada, Israel, job, but it’s probably the most important work — exciting Mexico and Mongolia. “Each group came and spent a full other people into agreeing how important this place is. We seven days. We took them to schools to perform and wouldn’t exist if it was just on shows,” Peacock said. “It’s bused other kids here,” Peacock said. a challenge to keep a 130-year-old building operating and Stuart’s also hosts art exhibits, has a free film series not knowing when the next malfunction is going to hapand free outdoor concerts, hosts the Red Cross bloodpen — and it’s going to happen.” mobile and holds music Despite being reopened for more swap meets. than a decade and having had folks While there are no specome to shows from as far away as cific guidelines outlining Canada, Chicago and North what type of shows the theCarolina, another challenge is getater produces, “we’re often ting people in the area to realize grouped in the Americana, Stuart’s is there. folk and roots music cate“We still have people within a gory — which is probably 15-mile radius who say, ‘I’ve never most of what we do,” heard of you,’” Peacock said. Peacock said. “We’re still working on getting the The size of the theater word out and letting people know has some say in the acts we’re here. they can bring in. “There are adults [in Nelsonville “We try to bring in the and Hocking County] for whom this best in the folk music world place sat empty their whole childhood, or the Americana music so it is sort of a new thing to have a world. With the room only place where theater is taking place.” ❏ being 400 seats, we can’t Acclaimed singer/songwriter Todd Snider, pictured bring in people on the cover acknowledging a capacity crowd at Stuart’s last Historical information from of People magazine,” he said. spring, will headline Sunday’s lineup at the Crossroads of a Community: A “I gauge it by if my mom Nelsonville Music Fest. History of Stuart’s Opera House and knows who they are, they Nelsonville, Ohio by William F. Condee. can’t come to Stuart’s Opera House, but that doesn’t mean [the musicians that do come] aren’t good.”

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Buckeye book bounty

The Ohioana Book Festival is a celebration of Ohio writers

By BILL EICHENBERGER

Ohio, most using Amish country as a backdrop. This fall her four-book Amish backlist will be republished, and she recently signed a contract for another Ohio Amish trilogy. hough humorist James Thurber lived in New York and Additionally, she’s written suspense novels set in her Connecticut during the latter years of his life, he hometown of Toledo; in Athens, the town where she did allowed that “the clocks that strike in my dreams are her undergrad work; and in Columbus, where she got a often the clocks of Columbus,” his childhood home. Many master’s degree in literature at OSU and where she’s lived of the writers who will appear at the Ohioana Book for the last 40 years. Festival could (and have) said as much themselves. “For my contemporary novels, I consider myself an The Ohioana Book Festival, now in its fourth year, has Ohio author, even if I set the novel somewhere else,” grown from a hastily organized event that attracted 500 Harper said. book lovers in May of 2007 to an all-ages party that drew Children’s book illustrator Will Hillenbrand said his more than 3,000 fans last year. It has grown thanks to Midwestern roots may not be readily apparent but that the patronage of Ohio’s First Lady, Frances Strickland. they are there nevertheless. “The Ohioana Library was started [in 1929] by a First “Ohio is deep in me and my work,” he said. “This feelLady [Martha Kinney Cooper], and I love that connection ing goes past the visible illustration and is not easily seen as well as believe in the effort,” Strickland said. on first blush. That is to say, when I’m doing a book like Because the Ohioana Book Festival features Ohio Baby Dragon or Sleep, Big Bear, Sleep! I am not visualizauthors (and, to a lesser extent, highlights books about ing an Ohio place or landscape so much as an Ohio Ohio), organizers expect to draw from the entire state. connection. “This began as “The way I something of an relate to the experiment revolving world is the around a single way I have book,” said Ohioana experienced it Library Director here in Ohio. Linda Hengst. “In How can a child 2007, Ohio Univerpossibly consity Press published nect to and care Good Roots, a collecabout a sleepy tion of essays by bear or a baby Ohio writers on the dragon unless influence the state they feel had on their lives familiar?” and books.” Kassie Rose, “We have since the book critic become a true celefor Columbus’s bration of our state’s NPR radio stawriters and have tion, WOSU, drawn book lovers spent more than from Cleveland, Jeff Smith, author of the Bone graphic novel series, was a featured a year doing Cincinnati, Toledo, Kent and many other author at last year’s Ohioana Book Festival. (Photos courtesy of Ohioana Library) broadcasts on Ohio authors locations throughout for her award-winning series, Ohioana Authors. She has the state.” attended all three Ohioana book festivals. Take novelist Karen Harper, for example. She has writ“I think, as with anything that begins and marches ten nine historical mysteries set in Tudor England featurforward as an annual event, the Ohioana Book Festival ing Queen Elizabeth as an amateur sleuth. has matured,” she said. “One year, the authors were But she will be appearing as a featured author at this placed on the periphery of the large room at the State year’s Ohioana festival not because of her passion for Library where they gathered at tables, signing their England (she’s a self-described Tudormaniac) but for her books. Last year, they were placed in the center of the connections to Ohio. room. It made a huge difference because the authors were “I am first of all a writer, a storyteller,” Harper said all together, there wasn’t this empty space in the middle, recently. “And one of my great loves is Tudor England, and the room felt more energized with their conversations where I have set several of my historical novels.” and book sales.” Harper also has written many suspense novels set in

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Rose said she noticed another significant difference in 2009: “The first year, I didn’t see many kids at the festival. Last year, kids with their parents were everywhere. R. L. Stine was featured as well as other popular kids’ authors. It’s great to see this event become a draw for readers

Featured authors at the Ohioana Book Festival David Catrow: A cartoonist, illustrator and children's book author, Catrow has won the Cox Award for editorial cartooning and illustration nine times. His work illustrating Kristyn Crow's The Middle-Child Blues was praised in Publishers Weekly with a lofty comparison: “Dr. Seuss's influence can be seen in Catrow's squiggly line drawings, which feature mushroom-like trees and eccentric characters.” Until 2008, Catrow was the editorial cartoonist for the Springfield News Sun. His work was syndicated in more than 900 newspapers. He's dedicated himself solely to illustrating and writing children's books. He lives in Springfield. Dan Chaon: The Cleveland resident and Oberlin College creative writing teacher first came to national attention in 2002 with his collection of short stories Among the Missing, winner of the O. Henry Award. He has won Pushcart Prizes for three of his stories in 2000, 2002 and 2004. His first novel, You Remind Me of Me, was published to acclaim in 2004. Entertainment Weekly named his most recent book, Await Your Reply, one of the 10 best published in 2009. Jennifer Chiaverini: Wikipedia describes Chiaverini as an “American quilter and author,” leaving off the fact that she is a Cincinnati native. Her 13-volume Elm Creek Quilts series was launched in 1999 and will move off the unlucky number in April with the publication of No. 14, The Aloha Quilt, set in Hawaii. Chiaverini has also published three volumes of quilt patterns derived from her Elm Creek books. Lori Foster: Ohio produces its fair share of romance writers, none more popular or prolific than West Chester's Foster. Since publishing her first novel, Impetuous, in 1996, Foster has gone on to write more than 70 titles, including Hard to Handle, which peaked at No. 2 on the New York Times Best Seller List in 2008. In addition to her Temptation Blaze and Temptation Heat series, she also writes SBC (Supreme Battle Challenge) novels, featuring ultimate hunks and their lovers, as well as urban fantasy written under the pseudonym L. L. Foster, which she describes on her Web site as her “darker” side.

R. L. Stine, author of the popular Goosebumps children’s books, signs at last year’s festival. of all ages.” Hengst said she’s not at all worried that the festival is limited to Ohio authors and books about Ohio. She even objected to use of the word “limited.” Concurred Rose: “When WOSU’s Ohioana Authors series began in 2005, I couldn’t imagine there would be enough dead, let alone living, Ohio authors to fill a year’s worth of compelling weekly programs. Sure, there’s James Thurber and Toni Morrison, I thought, but who else that anyone would know or care about? “Very quickly I realized how wrong I was. I learned that many authors are born in Ohio and then they leave to live on the coasts. Their work hits the literary map or best-seller list and we don’t realize they’re from Ohio, that their roots are here. There are more Ohio authors than we realize.” Harper said there are several (Continued on page 39)

Andrew Hudgins: A 2010 recipient of a Governor's Award for the Arts in Ohio, Hudgins has also been a finalist for both the Pulitzer Prize (for Saints and Strangers in 1985) and the National Book Award (for The Never-Ending: New Poems in 1991). He won the Poets Prize for his narrative poem After the Lost War. His most recent collection of poems, Shut Up, You're Fine: Poems for Very, Very Bad Children, was described by the Columbus Dispatch as “snort out loud and choke on your coffee funny.” Angela Johnson: The Ohioana Award-winning author of novels and poems for children was born in Alabama but now calls Kent home. She has three times won the Coretta Scott King Award for “outstanding inspirational and educational works that promote understanding and appreciation of the cultures of all peoples.” Her 2009 book, Sweet, Hereafter, was the final book in Johnson's Heaven trilogy. Lisa Klein: After teaching Renaissance literature and Shakespeare at the Ohio State University for eight years, Klein turned her attention (and shifted her career) toward the writing of historical novels for young adults. Ophelia, a retelling of Hamlet from that play's tragic heroine, was followed in short order by the compelling Civil War saga Two Girls of Gettysburg, and 2009's Lady Macbeth's Daughter. David Lee Morgan Jr.: A sportswriter for the Akron Beacon Journal since 1995, Morgan was the chosen one of The Chosen One and was allowed permission to write LeBron: The Rise of a Star in 2003. His two most recent books are also about Ohio sports stars, 2009's Kelly “The Ghost”Pavlic: Pride of Youngstown and More Than a Coach: What It Means to Play for Coach, Mentor and Friend Jim Tressel. Ted Rall: The current president of the Association of American Editorial Cartoonists and two-time winner of the Robert F. Kennedy Journalism Award proudly announces on his Web site that he was “expelled [from Columbia University] for academic and disciplinary reasons.” What better bona fides for a cartoonist known for puncturing those in power? A 1981 graduate of Fairmont West High School in Kettering, Rall was at first self-syndicated before establishing a relationship with Universal Press Syndicate. In addtion to his cartooning, Rall is the author of the graphic novel The Year of Loving Dangerously. Lucy Snyder: A graduate of the Clarion Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers’ Workshop, Snyder produces a column for Horror World on science and technology for writers.

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Ohio Quiz By DAMAINE VONADA

Ohio islands This month’s quiz highlights the islands located in Ohio’s rivers and lakes. We’ll provide the clues about these dots of land; you connect them with the correct answer. For example, if the clue is: Jointly owned by Ohio and Michigan, ______ Island near Maumee Bay is named for a Miami Indian leader, the answer would be: Turtle.

CLUES 1. _____ Island on the Ohio River commemorates a Civil War battle fought on Ohio soil in 1863. 2. Actually a peninsula at the mouth of the Cuyahoga River, ______ Island boasts a park with eye-popping views of Cleveland. 3. In the Maumee River, _____Island got its name from a notorious frontiersman. 4. A relic of the Wisconsinan glacier, ______ Bog on Buckeye Lake is a unique floating island and nature preserve. 5. _____ Island in Lake Erie’s Sandusky Bay served as a prison for captured Confederates during the Civil War. 6. First in a trio of Lake Erie isles, ______ _____ Island is renowned for its lofty landmark, Perry’s International Victory and Peace Memorial. 7. Second in Lake Erie’s splendid trio, ______ ______ Island was once home to Ohio’s “Wine King,” George Lonz. 8. At the top of the trio, _____ _____ Island lays claim to the Isle St. George viticultural area. 9. While _____ Island got its name from the enterprising brothers who owned it in the 1800s, its fame came from the Glacial Grooves carved into its bedrock. 10. Roche de _____ is a large limestone island in the middle of the Maumee River. 11. In the late 1800s, financier Jay Cooke built a castle-like mansion on _____ Island in Lake Erie’s Put-inBay; today it’s home to Ohio State’s Stone Laboratory.

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Book bounty (–continued from page 37) factors that make the Ohioana experience better than most. “I’m a born-and-bred Ohioan, so it’s great to meet other authors with Ohio ties. The national conferences I attend tend to be specific to genres: Mystery Writers of America, International Thriller Writers, Historical Novel Society, Romance Writers of America, and so on. It’s enlightening to mingle with poets, nonfiction authors, children’s authors and the like.” The festival includes panel discussions on predetermined topics as well as author readings, signings and conversations. If there’s one thing that sets it apart from other events of its ilk, that one thing is access. Hillenbrand was succinct in his praise for the festival: “Book lovers should roll out in huge numbers for this special event because it is a great party! Authors meet readers; readers meet authors; we all celebrate each other.” Rose regularly attends book events throughout Ohio and elsewhere. She said she wouldn’t hesitate to recommend the Ohioana festival to a friend in Youngstown or Zanesville. “You can talk with the authors in a friendly environment, get to know them and their work, and hear what they have to say about current literary trends. There’s a great diversity of topics to choose from among the panels and readings, let alone many books to browse and purchase, so there’s no loss for something to do. “It’s a great opportunity for aspiring authors to mingle with published authors, too. Best of all, there’s that likelihood of discovering a new, good book to take home with you.” The Ohioana Library, and by extension its festival, reminds us all that you can take the writer out of Ohio but you can’t take Ohio out of the writer. Said Strickland, “That [idea] definitely resonates with Ted [the Governor] since he is a native Ohioan, and I am proud to say I’m from Ohio. Every day I learn something I didn’t know or remember

about Ohio and am impressed all over again. Of course, Ohioana Library is the keeper of the stories and is a treasure trove for anyone who wants to be reminded of the rich heritage that Ohio boasts.” ❏ Bill Eichenberger is a freelance writer from Columbus. The Ohioana Book Festival will be held from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 8, in the State Library of Ohio, 274 E. 1st Ave., Columbus. See sidebar for a list of featured writers, who will take

part in panel discussions, readings and conversations. In addition, a book fair will feature more than 60 Ohio authors, and there will be children’s activities throughout the day. The festival is free and open to the public. For more information, phone the library at 614-466-3831 or visit http://ohioanabookfestival.org.

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What’s ahead for homes

How the recession will affect choices in homes

By CAROL RICH

windows, doors and skylights that meet or exceed Energy Star® standards. And they are making homes especially ould the two-story family room go the way of avocado well-insulated. appliances? Builders and architects say that as people New home builders are looking at every way they can build and remodel their homes today, they are looking for to make their homes tighter, with less energy loss and different features than they were before the economic greater efficiency. “We look at the home as a whole sysdownturn. tem and try to make it perform as a whole,” says Zenios. What do consumers want post-recession? “They are Adds Zenios: “Everybody is looking for products that asking for uncompromised quality, they’re asking for are definitely more green, more environmentally friendly.” energy efficiency and they’re asking for maintenance-free Darryl Rogers, principal at Rogers Krajnak Architects, living and sustainability,” says Zenios Michael Zenios, agrees. “Many of our clients are asking us questions president of 3 Pillar Homes and the 2010 president of the about how to make a home more sustainable and more Building Industry Association of Central Ohio. energy efficient. We can guide them through the decisionBuyers are emerging from the “Great Recession” more making process and assist them with making good budget-minded than ever. Those building new homes want choices about systems and equipment that bring a susthem to be smaller than the showplaces of the 1990s and tainable aspect to their home.” early 2000s, with less square footage and more features creRogers says that one of the easiest things somebody ated for function. who wants to be more Two-story spaces earth-friendly can do that are expensive to is use no or low VOC heat and cool are (volatile organic comheaded for extinction. pounds) paints. “As budgets get Choosing a sustighter and people’s tainable floor product requirements have is another good way grown, it makes sense to be green. Bamboo to cut the unnecessary and cork are two susspace and redistribute tainable flooring it smartly,” says choices, says Rogers. Zenios. Both are created out People are reconof rapidly renewable figuring their homes resources. by giving up formal It’s easier than ever living rooms and even to find building proddining rooms for ucts made out of recylarger kitchens or cled materials. Glass organizational areas tile made from shards like mudrooms. of old glass and engiToday’s consumers Homeowners are emerging from the “Great Recession” more budget- neered wood made are more cautious minded than ever. They are reconfiguring their homes to give up formal from wood scraps that than ever about purliving rooms and dining rooms for larger kitchens or organizational might otherwise have chasing a home. been thrown away are areas. (Photo courtesy of 3 Pillar Homes) Often they plan to live just two examples. in their houses longer than buyers did five years ago. As a Rogers explains that daylighting — placing windows result, home quality has taken on an added emphasis. and skylights so natural light supplies a home’s lighting Zenios notes that consumers are asking builders to use during the day — is another way to make homes more materials that are both high-quality and low-maintenance. energy efficient. These often include high-performing man-made products, “Instead of going into the house and turning on 10 like engineered wood products or fiber cement siding. People light fixtures, you can just go into the house and have reason that a siding product that looks like wood, but that is natural light provide the illumination you need during the insect resistant and holds paint three times longer, is a day,” says Rogers. “The challenge of daylighting is that quality addition to their home. you have to control it. Bringing daylight in through the Rising energy costs and greater environmental awarewindows means you can also get glare and heat, so you ness have made homeowners eager to increase their have to be careful to control it so it doesn’t bring a negahouse’s energy efficiency. As a result, products like hightive effect.” efficiency heating and cooling systems have become the (Continued on page 42) industry standard. Builders have stepped up their use of

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The new ‘pared-down’ house

Smaller is big as the American home downsizes

By KAREN HOLCOMB

embracing the smaller-is-smarter philosophy. New homes — which had grown over the decades to double the size he grand staircase swept around both sides of an of the typical 1960s residence — are shrinking. expansive marble-tiled foyer. A coffered ceiling towAccording to the National Association of Home ered overhead. Huge, mostly unused formal rooms Builders, the average square footage of a new home has unfolded one after the other on the first floor, while the dropped 6 percent over the past year. And nearly 60 perwalkout basement featured a second kitchen. cent of residential builders say they plan to decrease the Yes, it was a dream house. My husband and I were square footage of homes they construct in 2010, accordmomentarily seduced by the grandeur of the 1920s Tudor ing to NAHB. home our realtor It’s a trend Sarah Susanka saw had shown us. coming. Susanka, an English-born But we later American architect, published her learned the visionary first book, The Not So monthly utility Big House, in 1998. In it, she bill averaged advocates paring down living $2,000, and the space into more efficient, peopleoriginal slate roof friendly rooms with multiple uses required costly for today’s busy lifestyle. Stuffy annual mainteformal rooms, she writes, “stand nance. And with as a memorial to the way we used two young chilto live.” She urges homeowners to dren, did we realvalue quality over quantity and ly need all that “build better, not bigger.” formal space? For Susanka, the best-selling When it came author of eight Not So Big books, time to purchase the philosophy was not a matter of One of Gayle Niehaus' favorite rooms is this small solarium economic necessity, but a lifestyle a new home, we opted instead to adjoining her kitchen. Yellow walls, skylights and large win- choice. People are turning away buy a more casual dows make the space sunny and inviting. from those atrium-style great model with half rooms, she believes, because they find it hard to truly relax the square footage of that grand old Tudor. Every inch of beneath a towering ceiling more suited to a public space our new home is usable and family-friendly, and we love such as a courthouse, hospital or airport. it. When the housing bubble burst, we knew we had Children, she noted, have the right idea. They gravitate made the right decision. to the smallest room in the house for the sheltering, nurAs it turns out, we are not alone. Many Americans are turing feeling it provides. I noticed the phenomenon with choosing smaller, smarter homes as part of a trend my own son and daughter, who always played in a tiny dubbed “the downsizing of the American dream.” In this second-story landing at the top of the stairs in our first economy, going smaller is big. home. In our new home, they prefer to be in our small “To be honest, everyone is trying to cut down on square office space in the winter and our screened-in porch in footage,” said Todd Palechek, AIA, a Hamilton architect the warmer months. who designs custom residential homes, renovations and Susanka’s “Not So Big” home is cozy and warm, incoradditions in the southwestern Ohio area. porating natural materials such as wood and stone, recy“A lot of things have driven it — the economy, Number cled and salvaged items, screened-in porches and viewone. Back in the day, everybody wanted this two-story open maximizing windows. Concepts from the past, such as foyer great room as soon as you walk in, and that’s sort of built-in bookcases and window seats, are combined with wasted space. People are getting away from wasted square modern ideals, such as energy efficiency and sustainability. footage and going with more practical square footage.” For Susanka, a home should be not only beautiful but also Along with eliminating those huge foyers, Palechek’s practical, environmentally correct, built to endure and taiclients are opting for eat-in kitchens or breakfast nooks lored to the personal needs and values of its occupants. instead of formal dining rooms, and taking advantage of Today, Susanka’s message is more relevant than ever. what would normally be unusable nooks or attic spaces by Palechek heard her speak at an American Institute of introducing additional storage or other functional space. Architects national convention and has since watched her “I’ve seen the introduction of multipurpose spaces, “Not So Big” philosophy take hold throughout Ohio — and such as studies that can serve as a guest bedroom or with his own clients. Along with including warm, lighteven a formal dining room, for resale purposes — if they filled, multifunctional spaces, sometimes it means joining are placed strategically,” he said. multiple generations under one roof. Statistics show that homebuyers and builders alike are (Continued on page 42)

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What’s ahead for homes Creating spaces that make their lives easier is a fast-growing priority for homeowners. “It all flows back to better and more functional living,” says Craig Tuckerman, president of the Tuckerman Home Group. Tuckerman builds homes based on the way his own family — which includes three kids and two golden retrievers — and his buyers are living. “That’s why we’ve created rear home entries, drop zones, organizational rooms and mudrooms that make the homes more enjoyable for the buyers,” he says. The popularity of mudrooms is on the increase, and today these spaces are larger and more multifunctional. People use them not just as super-sized closets but as areas where they can organize themselves. Along with mudroom basics

(–continued from page 40)

like cubbies and hooks, homeowners are adding elements like laundry facilities and charging stations. Some people are even installing sinks and specialized storage so they can more easily pursue messy hobbies like home brewing. Dedicated study areas for the kids are also gaining importance. People are adding computer ports and desks in spaces that are often near the kitchen or in lofts — and they are choosing a place to sit down and help their kids with their homework over other home features. Entryways are receiving more attention. Tuckerman says homeowners seldom use their front door — they usually enter through the garage or back door. Often this leads them directly into the laundry area or mudroom, so whenever they leave or come home they have to step

around the dirty laundry or kitty litter box. To make home entry a better daily experience, Tuckerman has been creating attractive entryways through a rear foyer or hallway. As budgets remain tight, people are building homes on smaller lots. Since they are living closer to their neighbors, they are making design choices that give them more privacy. For example, they are less likely to add a wall of Palladian windows. Says Tuckerman: “In the end, people need more affordable homes, and they are making floor plans more efficient and putting homes on a smaller footprint. We builders have had to redesign homes to make them more efficient to fit on the home site and to be less expensive while still not sacrificing quality.” ❏ Carol Rich is a freelance writer from Columbus.

The new ‘pared-down’ house

(–continued from page 41)

Gayle Niehaus of St. Clair Township did both. She and her husband, David, a juvenile court judge, lived together in a spacious home on 66 acres. The lower level had been designed for Gayle’s parents, but they passed away before they had a chance to move in, and David died unexpectedly shortly after that. Niehaus was left with a 3,300square-foot residence complete with a cabin, barn and picnic house on the grounds. Her solution: Keep her beloved home, but gather other family members under the same roof. Niehaus’ daughter, son-in-law and their two children gave up their home in Cincinnati and moved in with her. “It’s kind of going back to the extended generations living together on the farm — like John Boy,” Niehaus joked. Niehaus may eventually build and move into separate mother-in-law quarters she and Palechek have designed to maximize every inch of its 1,750 square feet. Niehaus, a retired principal, asked for a “multipurpose room” incorporating a guest bedroom, solarium and studio to accommodate her passions for wildlife photography and sundrenched spaces. A combination kitchen and great room are planned,

42—Country Living/May 2010

with a porch and windows to incorporate lovely views of her property. It’s a page right out of Susanka’s book, as is her current home, with its window seats, skylights, openconcept floor plan — and lack of formal spaces. “We wanted to live small, which is the whole purpose of this house,” Niehaus said. Experts believe the smaller-issmarter philosophy will endure beyond the current economic crisis. It not only appeals to environmentalists concerned with greener living, but it also feeds the 21st-century human need to reconnect with nature. The McMansion, with its soaring ceilings and unused formal rooms, has fallen out of favor for now. As Susanka wrote: “It’s time for a different kind of house. A house that is more than square footage; a house that is Not So Big, where each room is used every day. A house with a floor plan inspired by our informal lifestyle instead of the way our grandparents lived. A house for the future that embraces a few wellworn concepts from the past. A house that expresses our values and our personalities. It’s time for the Not So Big House.” ❏ Karen Holcomb is a freelance writer from Hamilton.

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Ohio Icon

Toft Dairy Sandusky

By DAMAINE VONADA Location: 3717 Venice Road, Sandusky Provenance: The dairy dates back to 1900, when Chris and Matilda Toft began selling raw milk from their farm on the outskirts of Sandusky. “They had a horse and wagon to haul the old 10-gallon milk cans, and they sold milk by the dipper,” said Eugene Meisler, current president of the dairy and a grandson of the Tofts. As their business grew, the couple moved their dairy operation to Sandusky, where they added ice cream to their product line and opened a soda fountain in the 1940s. Eventually, the Tofts’ daughter and son-in-law, Edna and Carl Meisler, acquired the Toft Dairy, and in 1985 a large production plant and ice cream parlor were built at the corner of Venice Road and Edgewater Drive on Sandusky’s west side. Significance: Celebrating its 110th anniversary this year, Toft’s is the oldest dairy producing milk and ice cream in Ohio. It is still owned by the same family, whose fifth generation is now involved in supplying customers with products ranging from buttermilk and cottage cheese to sherbet and fat-free ice cream. Currently: According to Meisler, Toft Dairy processes about 34 million pounds of milk and 900,000 gallons of ice cream every year. It only uses milk from local farms. “I’m proud to say that we have an excellent supply for our milk,” said Meisler. “All of our milk is produced within a 50-mile radius of our plant.” Although Toft’s also has ice cream parlors in Port Clinton and Fremont, the parlor at its Venice Road facility possesses an old-time ambiance that is popular with both Sandusky-area residents and Lake Erie tourists. Toft’s classic vanilla is the dairy’s best-selling ice cream, followed by Moose Tracks®, butter pecan and chocolate. It’s a little-known fact that: The vintage milk wagon displayed at the Venice Road plant is a replica of the one Chris Toft used a century ago. ❏ Toft Dairy, Inc., 3717 Venice Rd., Sandusky, 419-625-5490; also 4002 East Harbor Rd., Port Clinton, 419-732-8857 and 1306 Oak Harbor Rd., Fremont, 419-334-7400. For additional information about Toft Dairy, its products and its ice cream parlors, visit www.toftdairy.com.

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What’s Cooking?

Daffy for taffy

Brunswick man has fun demonstrating the art of pulling taffy

By MARGIE WUEBKER

Sorghum versus molasses

Most people use the words “sorghum” and “molasses” interchangeably. mos Campbell maintains that However, they are two different things. pulling taffy is one part of hisMolasses comes from the juice of the sugar cane stalk, and sorghum is made tory worth reliving for people of all from the juice of the sweet sorghum cane plant, which is a cereal grain. ages across the Buckeye State and Molasses is darker and can be bitter because much of the sugar is removed in beyond. the refining process. Sorghum, on the other hand, has no sugar removed and is Campbell, a Brunswick resident much sweeter. who once owned Karmel Korn shops It is believed African slaves introduced sorghum, which was known as “guinea in the Cleveland area, demonstrates corn,” into this country in the early 1700s. Sweet sorghum has been cultivated the process at senior citizen centers, here since the 1850s. libraries, nursing homes, festivals, Sorghum cane is pressed to extract the juice, then boiled down and evaporated to create a rich, golden syrup. schools and historical societies At one time sorghum and molasses were much cheaper than refined sugar. throughout Ohio and elsewhere. However, sugar prices dropped after World War I ended, “I’m a grandfaincreasing the demand for white sugar crystals. ther who loves When substituting for other sweeteners, use 1/2 to 3/4 bringing history to of the sweetener amount called for in the recipe. Before his grandkids and measuring sorghum for use in recipes, lightly spray the to children and measuring cup with vegetable oil and it will slip out more older folks across easily. the country through pulling efforts at the stove. All is not lost, years ago, and taffy,” he tells but correcting the problem adds she became attentive audianother step to the process.” the star of the ences. “People Finished taffy is stored in large show,” he used to pull taffy bowls awaiting their presentations. says with a 150 years ago, and chuckle. “She it was a socially enjoys meeting historic event I SORGHUM POPCORN BALLS people as enjoy bringing 1 c. sugar much as I do. back.” 1/4 c. pure sorghum We’re going to Following the 1/4 c. water keep doing death of his wife 1 tsp. salt this as long as 11 years ago, 1 Tbsp. butter the good Lord Campbell began 2 qts. popped popcorn is willing, the frequenting a Amos Campbell, known far and wide as creek doesn’t Butter, for hands and pan nearby senior citiJupie the Taffy Man, demonstrates how rise and the zen center. One to wrap pulled taffy around a plump devil don’t day the conversaIn a 2-quart saucepan, combine care.” tion turned to new apple. sugar, sorghum, water, salt and The Campbells make taffy monthly, activities, and he asked, “Have you butter. Cook to the hard-ball stage 200 to 300 pounds at a crack, using ever pulled taffy?” The demonstra(about 250 degrees on a candy the inspected and licensed kitchen at tion he later presented led to more thermometer), stirring occasionally. Mapleside Apple Farms in Brunswick. programs, taking him to at least 10 Remove from heat. Working quickThey know the recipe containing oneor 12 states and even the NASA ly, stir in popped corn and turn into third sorghum, corn syrup and sugar Building in Washington, D.C., where a buttered pan. With buttered by heart. people looking into what the future hands, shape into balls and place “Taffy can be very temperamenmight hold sought to gain insight on waxed paper to cool. Makes tal,” he warns. “It can crystallize and into the past. about 6 popcorn balls. form granules despite your best “I married [my second wife] Flo two

44—Country Living/May 2010

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BEST SORGHUM COOKIES 1/2 c. margarine 1/2 c. vegetable shortening 1-1/2 c. sugar 1/2 c. sorghum 2 eggs, lightly beaten 4 cups white flour 1/2 tsp. salt 2-1/4 tsp. baking soda 2 tsp. ground ginger 1-1/2 tsp. ground cloves 1-1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon In a large mixing bowl, cream margarine, shortening and sugar. Beat in sorghum and eggs; set mixture aside. In another bowl, combine flour, salt, baking soda, ginger, cloves and cinnamon. Blend thoroughly with wire whisk. Gradually mix flour mixture into creamed ingredients until dough is blended and smooth. Roll dough into 1-1/2inch balls. Dip tops in granulated sugar; place 2-1/2 inches apart on greased cookie sheet. Bake at 350 degrees for 11 minutes. Yields about 3 dozen cookies. Note: These soft and chewy cookies freeze well. The night before a scheduled event, the Campbells briefly place the candy in a microwave oven to soften before dividing the lot into half-pound portions. They could pack the picnic coolers with their eyes closed following a tried-and-true method — three layers of individual containers and then a heating pad before another layer of containers. Leaving the heating pad on low overnight assures the candy will be pliable for the next day’s pullers. Prior to showtime, he dons a white apron bearing the colorful insignia of the Sweet Sorghum Producers and Processors Association and adds a top hat his daughter purchased at a yard sale for good measure. A string tie and arm garters complete the ensemble. Campbell, who answers to the nickname “Jupie, the Taffy Man,” shares memories of crisp autumn days when relatives flocked to his parents’ house with rambunctious youngsters in tow. Most of the children could not pronounce the “Junior” tacked onto the end of his name, and the moniker “Jupie” stuck.

“We had a large family, and so did Aunt Edna,” the Butler, Pennsylvania, native says. “Umpteen kids gathered around the dining table covered with oilcloth. We passed around a big basin of warm, soapy water and nail brushes to make sure our hands were clean.” Aunt Edna and his mother stirred pots of molten candy atop the kitchen range while the children waited for what seemed an eternity. As the cooked confection cooled, they liberally coated their hands with butter for the next stage — pulling the pliable candy back and forth while sneaking an occasional sample when the adults weren’t looking. Like his mother and aunt, Campbell shows participants how to stretch the taffy, then fold it over and repeat the process not once but many, many times to ensure a lighter and chewier outcome. Plastic food-service gloves

eliminate the need for butter these days. “There are two ways to tell when you’re done pulling,” he says. “Either the taffy in your hands is a good five shades lighter than what you started with, or you get so tired you simply can’t pull it any more.” The candy can be cut into small pieces and wrapped in wax paper at this point to keep it soft, or it can be flattened in generous squares and draped around plump apples. Add a sturdy stick, and you have a taffy apple to enjoy. History also plays a part in the tasty programs. After all, sorghum was one of the main sweeteners during the 18th and 19th centuries. Sugar was a precious commodity at the time, so American settlers often sought cheaper alternatives like sorghum molasses. (Continued on page 46)

Positively sweet By DIANE YOAKAM, RD, LD

have a confession: I’m a dietitian and I eat sugar. That’s right, real sugar! In fact, I allow my kids to eat it too. So much negative attention is given to sugar that I think it’s time to shed a little positive light on nature’s sweetest ingredient. We’ve all heard the claims: “Sugar causes weight gain” or “Eating too much sugar will make you diabetic.” There is no evidence that either statement is true. Weight management is all about calories in versus calories out. If you eat more calories than your body needs, you will gain weight. Whether those excess calories come from cheeseburgers, potato chips, sugar or any other food, the result will always be the same. Sugar itself does not cause weight gain unless it is eaten in excess, as is the case with all foods. Evidence shows that as per capita consumption of total sugars continues to decline, consumption of fat and total calories continues to climb. Obesity can be attributed to many factors, including a much more sedentary lifestyle coupled with this increase in calorie consumption from many food sources, not solely sugar intake. One of the greatest benefits of permitting sugar in children’s diets is that it persuades them to eat healthy foods they might not otherwise choose. When my 7year-old asks for her heaping bowl of strawberries to be “sweetened up,” or my 5year-old requests that I cook “sweet carrots” as she calls them, I don’t hesitate to add ½ to 1 teaspoon of white sugar, respectively, to either of these dishes. Those 8 to 15 added calories magically make healthy food choices appealing. Food products containing “less sugar,” such as some ready-to-eat cereals and snack foods, are not necessarily lower in calories or higher in nutritional value. This alteration in sugar content often requires a shift in other ingredients to improve the quality of the product, which in turn can actually add calories back in to the item. It’s important to take a look at the big picture, rather than just one meal or just one day’s food intake. If every meal is washed down with soda pop and ends with dessert, then a change is in order. However, a well-balanced lifestyle, incorporating all the food groups and regular physical activity, allows room for a modest amount of sugar, especially when it urges us toward healthful food choices. For more information on how sugar can fit into a healthy lifestyle, visit www.sugar.org.

Country Living/May 2010—45

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Daffy for taffy Campbell brings out a cone-shaped container wrapped in blue paper, explaining that grocers back then whacked off a pound or two from the block of sugar in accordance with the customer’s order. Oldsters in the audience share family stories handed down from one generation to another. Frugal housewives used the sugar sparingly and saved the wrapping religiously. Placing the paper in water along with white cotton fabric imparted an attractive pastel blue shade for their clothing at no added cost. Molasses-based taffy got some sweet competition in 1902 with the advent of corn syrup, commonly used in salt water taffy. As for the name “taffy,” Campbell believes it came from England and Wales, where folks enjoyed a similar sticky candy they called tuffy. He has no idea how salt water taffy acquired its name and has yet to meet anyone who knows for sure. He likes to share the tale of the “great molasses flood” of Jan. 15, 1919, in Boston. The United States Alcohol Company maintained a huge 2.5-million-gallon The Rev. tank filled with sorghum umphantly molasses for use in the

( – continued on page 45) production of rum. A sudden 40degree temperature rise split the tank wide open, unleashing a 15-foot wall of sticky molasses across the north side of the city. “It pushed down houses, derailed train cars and claimed 21 lives,” Campbell says. “Years have come and years have gone, but folks in the North End claim they can still smell sweet molasses on hot summer days.” ❏ For taffy recipes, consult www.cooks.com and search for “taffy.” For directions for a children’s old-fashioned taffy pull party, consult www.pioneerthinking.com/vk_taffypull.html

Larry Wyen, a retired priest, trigives his sorghum-based taffy a final pull during a recent taffy-pulling program.

Readers’ canning concerns We received some letters from readers expressing concern over the safety of the recipes we ran in our March issue that focused on the Pohlman family and their home canning enterprise. One writer, a home economist who teaches canning classes, stressed that the recipe for Tomato Bouillon needed to be processed in a pressure canner. She also asked for clarification of what it meant to “cold pack” the Spaghetti Soup recipe. We decided to follow this reader’s suggestion to run the recipes past an OSU Extension agent/educator and sent them to Doris Herringshaw of the Wood County Extension office for her review. Doris concurs with another writer who wrote: “Some will say that my grandmother and great-grandmother canned this way and they did just fine. Maybe that is so, but it is better to err on the side of safety.” Doris agrees, adding that “the potential exists for there to be a problem” if these recipes aren’t processed in a pressure canner for the length of time recommended by USDA canning guidelines. In other words, better safe than sorry. Doris feels the recipes we ran could all be easily frozen as a means of preservation. She also recommended that readers interested in canning recipes consult the Web sites of either the USDA Guide to Home Canning, at www.uga.edu/nchfp/publications/publications_usda.html, or Ohioline, at http://ohioline.osu.edu., which has a section on food preservation with detailed guidance for canning meat, fruit and vegetables.

46—Country Living/May 2010

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Outdoors

Story and photos by W. H. “CHIP” GROSS

eekeeper Jim Tew once had as many as 80 colonies of honey bees but has seen that number drop in recent years to as few as 27. “I don’t know where all the bees have gone,” he said, shaking his head. “But the disappearance is not just happening here in Ohio and the Midwest. It’s happening all over North America. The bees are just simply gone.” Tew is no average apiarist. He’s Dr. James E. Tew, State Extension Beekeeping Specialist with the Ohio State University’s Department of Entomology. In other words, he’s Ohio’s head beekeeper. How extensive is the honey bee die-off? Take a look at these numbers. In 1975, there were about 5 million bee colonies in the U.S. Today, that number is just 2.4 million colonies. In 1957, there were 120,000 colonies of bees inspected by the Ohio Department of Agriculture. In 2009, there were just 30,000 colonies. “And as a result, the number of beekeepers, too, has been falling,”

said Tew. “In 1978, when I first began working in Ohio, there were some 12,000 apiarists. Today, there are only about 3,500.” Major honey bee die-offs have happened before. “Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD) is the current name for the massive bee die-off we’ve experienced in recent years,” said Tew. “But before that it was called Disappearing Disease, before that Autumnal Collapse, before that Vanishing Bee Syndrome, and before that Spring Collapse. We’ve experienced these odd bee die-offs for a long, long time, as far back as the 1800s. We just don’t know what causes them.” What do scientists think might be the reason(s) behind the disappearance of so many honey bees? Every biologist has

Are killer bees headed for Ohio?

Africanized “killer” bees have grabbed headlines in many southern states in recent years, establishing themselves in California, Florida, Texas and Arizona. But are they on their way to Ohio? “It’s not likely,” said Dr. James Tew. “For one thing, even if they did somehow get here they could not withstand our severe winters.” Tew added, though, that aggressive, Africanized bees will hybridize with European honey bees — the kind of bees found in Ohio — but only in warmer climates.

48—Country Living/May 2010

his or her opinion, with theories running the gamut: disease, changes in population genetics, inadequate nutrition, misuse/overuse of pesticides, etc. Tew added that experts can’t even say for sure whether this current dieoff is in any way related to earlier ones. So with answers being few, is the end of the bee world at hand? Is this honey bee Armageddon irreversible? No, according to Tew. “Surprisingly, the current economic recession has been good for the beekeeping industry,” he said. We’ve seen a respectable increase recently in the number of new beekeepers, and beekeeping equipment sales are booming. There is also strong demand for local honey.” The obvious benefit to humans of having bees in the ecosystem is pollination. But honey bees don’t bear the pollinating role alone. Many other species of bees and insects also

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pollinate crops. To give some longrange perspective, the plants and trees of North America were doing well on their own long before European honey bees were ever brought to the New World several hundred years ago. However, now with only half the number of honey bees we had about 30 years ago, and the human population continuing to grow, we are asking fewer and fewer bees to do more and more. Tew said that he’s often asked the question, what would the world be like without bees? “I don’t have a clue how to answer that,” he said. “What would the world be like without clean air, or clean drinking water? All I know for sure is that, fundamentally, we need bees.” Have a honey bee question? Dr. James E. Tew writes monthly articles for national beekeeping publications, and is the author of two books: Beekeeping Principles and Backyard Beekeeping. He can be contacted at: State Specialist, Beekeeping, Ohio State University Extension, 1680 Madison Ave, Wooster, OH 44691. Call him at 330-263-3684 or send an e-mail to tew.1@osu.edu.

How can you help bees make a comeback?

“Plant a vegetable or flower garden,” said Dr. James Tew. “A garden is an island, a food source for feeding bees during the summer months.” Tew went on to say that he believes bees are changing their behavior, moving more and more into cities and towns than ever before. “They’re now living in backyards all across the country,” he said, “and trying to survive in an urban, suburban environment is not easy for a bee.” Some cities are now considering allowing residents to keep bee hives within city limits. Tew also suggests that no matter where gardeners and homeowners live, they should use pesticides and herbicides sparingly.

columns through his Web site: www.chipgross.com. He would also like to hear from you about any story idea you might like him to cover.

W. H. “Chip” Gross is Country Living’s outdoors editor and can be reached for comment about any of his “Woods, Waters & Wildlife”

Getting started at beekeeping: What it costs

According to Dr. James Tew, basic beekeeping equipment can be purchased for as little as $175, with a colony of bees costing anywhere from $75 to $90. If you are just beginning, Tew suggests finding an established beekeeper, a mentor, who can help get you started. “Beekeeping is not particularly difficult,” he said, “but it’s not easy either. It’s somewhere in between, and it’s always helpful to have someone show you the ropes when you’re first getting started.”

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Gardening

Container gardening on a budget From old and faded to new and beautiful Nasturtiums endure the hottest sun and form a lovely cascade from a planter stand or hanging basket.

Story and photos by TONI LELAND

rilliant begonias nestled among schefflera and vining philodendron; purple fountain grass cascading over gazania or gerbera daisies; red and green-leaved caladium paired with sparkling white impatiens. Beauty and movement expand the corners of a porch or deck. Filling your living space with gorgeous planters and eye-catching arrangements doesn’t have to cost a fortune. With a little ingenuity, you can have a garden space that will only look expensive.

Container options

From new to used to refurbished, the choices for planting containers are myriad, but the goal here is to bring beauty into your garden, patio or deck for only a modest financial outlay. Before purchasing patio pots or planters, take stock of what you might already have on hand. Are there any that could use a face-lift to make them presentable again? Today’s paints and textured stains are wonderful for turning faded, worn containers into beautiful decorative pieces. Once you’ve chosen some from your own collection, expand your search to yard sales, thrift shops and “dollar stores.” If you like unusual containers, consider using items that weren’t meant to be planters. An old copper cooking pot makes a nice outer container for golden yellow chrysanthemums. A child’s toy wheelbarrow is adorable filled with petunias. Try bright red geraniums in a pair of discarded work boots. A cracked birdbath is the perfect planter for “hens and chicks” or other rock garden varieties that need little water. Even an old ceramic chimney pipe planted with trailing sweet potato vines can be a conversation starter. For the more adventurous gardener with plenty of space, fill an old-fashioned bathtub with tall annuals such as snapdragons, cosmos and zinnias. Virtually anything that will hold soil can be used as a planter — be creative and you’ll stretch your gardening dollar.

50—Country Living/May 2010

Strong sunlight plays havoc with plastic and resin items that spend the season outdoors, but a trip to a paint department will remedy the problem. Krylon® produces an entire line of paints made specifically for outdoor plastics and resins. The range of colors is enticing, with many designer colors not usually available in outdoor spray paint, plus four colors with a textured look. One can of paint will refinish four to five small pots, or two medium to large pots, or one extra-large pot for between $5 and $7. The colors will stand up to the elements for about two seasons. For plaster or concrete containers, most spray enamels will work quite well as long as the piece is well prepared before painting. Metal containers should be painted with ® Rustoleum or similar products for outdoor use. Regardless of what your container is made of, the key to a successful refinishing job is preparation. The most important step is cleaning the item thoroughly. Use dish detergent and a nylon scrubber to get the surface of plastic squeaky clean. For textured surfaces, follow the first scrub with a stiff bristled brush to get at the crevices. Any residue of mildew or dirt will cause the paint to pop off in that area. Clean the inside of the pot from the rim down about 4 inches. The rest of the area will be below the soil line. Now, rinse thoroughly, wipe the surfaces with rub-

A planting for hot spots: two varieties of marigolds, an asparagus fern and vinca vine.

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bing alcohol and set aside to dry. When you are ready to paint, spread newspaper or a drop cloth in your work area, then set a cinder block or something similar in the center of the protected area. Now, spray the inside top four inches of the pot first. Pick the pot up and turn it upside down over the cinder block and let it “hang” there for the rest of the process. Using an even sweeping motion, apply a thin first coat to the outside of the pot. Allow it to dry according to the manufacturer’s directions, then apply the second coat and allow to dry completely. It’s a good idea not to touch or move the pot for about twelve hours while the paint cures. Tip: When stacking these pots at the end of the season, put newspaper between them to protect the paint.

Planning the masterpiece

The cost of planters isn’t the only factor in the economics of container gardening. A visit to a nursery or garden center can quickly escalate into a very large outlay of money. The next step in your budget project is to assess where your planters and patio pots will be located. Why? Because what you plant in them will depend on the conditions the plants require. A huge variety of annuals and perennials are available that provide color, texture, height and depth to a garden. Most of these varieties require one of the following conditions in order to flourish: full sun, partial sun, full shade, partial shade, warm temperatures, cool temperatures, high moisture, little to no moisture, rich organic soil or average soil. Your choices for each container will have to be complementary to successfully grow together. Plants that require shade and lots of water, such as impatiens, cannot be included with plants that need full sun and dry soil, such as sedum — neither will flourish as you’d like. Consult a good gardening book or your extension office if you’re unsure what to use. A wealth of information is available on the Web — do a search for the conditions you’ll need: e.g., “shade-loving plants” or “plants for full sun.”

The final touch – plants!

Let your imagination soar when choosing colors and textures for your containers. Consider unusual color combinations such as purple and orange — not something you’d necessarily wear, but absolutely gorgeous together in nature. Some foliage plants such as coleus or caladium accentuate their blooming partners. Textures also play an important role in the success of a container planting. Mix feathery foliage and broad leaves and, where possible, add some vining varieties. Try pair-

Four varieties of coleus pair beautifully with chartreuse and black sweet potato vine. ing some hosta slips with snapdragons, or a beautiful daylily with multicolored coleus. At the end of the season, plant the perennial in the garden, and discard the spent annuals. Cut your plant costs in half by utilizing your house plants in a few containers. Most house varieties like low light, so these are perfect for a shady porch or secluded corner that never gets direct sunlight. Dracena or philodendron make a nice addition to a pot of scarlet New Guinea impatiens or nonstop begonias. Your house plants will love their vacation outside, and be healthy and vigorous by the time summer is over. Now, put away your bankroll and create something beautiful! ❏ Toni Leland is a freelance writer and gardener in Nashport.

Country Living/May 2010—51

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Country Living/May 2010—53

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By the Way

Dandelion days By ELAINE BRIDGE

54—Country Living/May 2010

he redbuds are in bloom, so spring has officially “sprung” in my heart. Some look to robins to herald the season, but I wait for the redbud trees to announce its arrival. And it seems like I’ve been waiting a long time. Easter was early this year, which made the usual spring blossoms seem late, and an April snow seemed to delay things further. Wanting my visiting mother-in-law to see the annual redbud show, I waited in vain for the blossoms to open up, even stopping at a local nursery one day to check there for early bloomers. Unfortunately, she left town before the trees came into their springtime glory. But while she was visiting us, there did come a day when my yard was suddenly awash in color — pink and white blossoms, the fresh green of new leaves, even the birds were changing into their brighter springtime garb. But yellow seemed to be God’s color of choice, as He splashed it on the goldfinches at my backyard feeders, used it to dress the daffodils as they emerged from the ground and dotted the expanse of my greening lawn with dandelions. As impatient as I was awaiting the arrival of spring, I was still unprepared for my mother-in-law’s exuberant announcement one morning that the dandelions were here. I had to remind myself that she’s a mother, and most mothers have a soft spot in their hearts for dandelions, or perhaps for the children who pick them. As if in his own celebration of the new season, my youngest son gave me two gifts one day last spring — a fistful of daffodils in one hand, and a single dandelion flower in the other. As beautiful as the daffodils were, it was the lone dandelion flower that meant the most to me. A common weed and the bane of avid gardeners, the dandelion seems prone to propagate with every breath of wind, especially in the most manicured lawns where it is the least welcome. Yet its easy availability and brilliant hue make it the childhood favorite of little boys and girls wanting to bless their mothers with a floral gift. Dandelions do more than just signal the arrival of warmer weather. They are also indicators of innocence in a child’s life — a time when a brightly colored flower speaks only of an offering to one they love. Children delight not only in the dandelion flower but equally in the seed heads, which they blow apart to carry their wishes away like prayers being borne heavenward on angel wings. They know nothing of the dark side of the dandelion — the difficulty in eradicating it from gardens in which it’s gained a foothold. Yet in every child’s life, there comes a day when his perspective suddenly changes, and a dandelion becomes a weed unworthy of a place in a mother’s bouquet — a day which marks the end of another mother’s springtime gifts. Dandelion days are to her from that moment on only a precious memory. And so the lone flower I received that morning not only marked the start of the season. It told me that for at least a little while longer it’s still springtime in my young son’s soul. ❏ Elaine Bridges is a writer from Hamilton. She obviously wrote this in a springtime season when Easter fell early, and at our press time in mid-April we are all praying that the snows of 2010 are at an end!

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Country Living/May 2010—55

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