Ohio Cooperative Living - December 2024 - Washington

OHIO COOPERATIVE

The value of membership

Members receive $558,000 in capital credits

ALSO INSIDE Sweet treats An enduring gift In with the new

Washington Electric Cooperative

HOW DO CAPITAL CREDITS WORK?

Co-ops are not-for-profit, so when there’s money left after bills are paid, it’s returned to members as “capital credits,” or “patronage capital.”

Annually, Ohio electric cooperatives return about $35 million to their members

Nationally, electric co-ops returned $1.6 BILLION to members in 2022, and $22 BILLION since 1988.

Members paying their bills generates operating revenue for the co-op.

When all the bills are paid, the extra money at the end of each year, called “margins,” is allocated back to each member based on how much electricity they purchased that year.

The co-op’s board approves a return of that money to members, often called “capital credits” or “patronage capital.”

INSIDE

FEATURES

22 GAUNT’S GIFT

In Yellow Springs, a unique legacy brings comfort during the holiday season.

26 OH HO, THE MISTLETOE!

Getting to the bottom of one of the season’s most fun, yet puzzling, traditions.

28 BALL DROPS

Ohioans ring in the new year with a quirky and eclectic collection of cool countdowns.

Cover image on most editions: Hancock-Wood Electric Cooperative member Joyce Davis shares this photo of the magic of Christmas, seen through the eyes of her children, Wes and Viola.

This page: Twenty Ohio co-ops (plus one from West Virginia) sent 50 students to the 2024 Electric Cooperative Youth Tour in Washington, D.C., making it the state’s largest-ever delegation.

Next up

Going back to our beginning, every leader of this organization has been distinctly different from the last. We’ve all had our own personalities, our own priorities, and our own approaches to the issues of the day. While none of us has been perfect, each has been the right person at the right time for the needs of the organization.

Bill Stuckey, for example, had been a national leader in the farm safety movement while working for Ohio State University’s Extension Service, and that culture of safety became his enduring legacy as the first executive manager of Ohio Rural Electric Cooperatives, Inc. Or Howard Cummins, who championed the creation of a monthly co-op magazine — this magazine, now in its 67th year of publication — and oversaw the formation of Buckeye Power the very next year.

Bob Cleveland, Dick Byrne, and Tony Ahern held the position before I became CEO in 2015, and I like to think all of us have had a hand in the success of our organization. We’ve done a good job of promoting and nurturing unity among Ohio’s electric cooperatives. We’ve built a solid foundation of trust among our membership and grown a national reputation for being strong advocates for electric cooperatives.

This will be my last column in these pages, as I’ll be retiring at the end of the year, full of gratitude for the opportunities and experiences my time with Ohio’s Electric Cooperatives has provided. I would like to think I’ve added to the legacy and the durability of our cooperative network by helping to build a strong, resilient, and adaptable team that is prepared for the challenges and the opportunities that the future will bring.

I’m confident in the co-op’s future and the leadership team that will be in place. Our board made the wise and well-considered decision to elevate Craig Grooms to become the organization’s seventh chief executive.

Craig, like all of his predecessors, is a different leader than those before him, and he will have his own way of doing things. Change is always a bit unsettling, but it’s also healthy, and now seems like the right time for a new approach. There are new challenges and opportunities ahead, and I’m sure that the team here at Ohio’s Electric Cooperatives will be ready to serve your interests.

Thank you and farewell.

Pat O’Loughlin PRESIDENT & CEO OHIO’S ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES

I’ll be retiring at the end of the year, full of gratitude for the opportunities and experiences my time with OEC has provided.

Wilbur Stuckey

Howard Cummins

Robert Cleveland

Richard Byrne

Anthony Ahern

Craig Grooms

Ohio Rural Electric Cooperatives

6677 Busch Blvd. Columbus, OH 43229 614-846-5757 www.ohiocoopliving.com

Patrick O’Loughlin President & CEO

Caryn Whitney Director of Communications

Jeff McCallister Senior Managing Editor

Amy Howat Assistant Managing Editor

Neal Kindig Graphic Designer

Contributors: Adobe Stock, Colleen Romick Clark, Getty Images, W.H. “Chip” Gross, Catherine Murray, James Proffitt, Craig Springer, and Damaine Vonada.

OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING (USPS 134-760; ISSN 2572-049X) is published monthly by Ohio Rural Electric Cooperatives, Inc. It is the official communication link between the electric cooperatives in Ohio and West Virginia and their members. Subscription cost for members ranges from $5.52 to $6.96 per year, paid from equity accruing to the member.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to editorial and advertising offices at: 6677 Busch Boulevard, Columbus, OH 43229-1101. Periodicals postage paid at Berne, IN 46711, and at additional mailing offices. Nothing in this publication may be reproduced in any manner without written permission from Ohio Rural Electric Cooperatives, Inc. All rights reserved. The fact that a product is advertised in Ohio Cooperative Living should not be taken as an endorsement. If you find an advertisement misleading or a product unsatisfactory, please notify us or the Ohio Attorney General’s Office, Consumer Protection Section, 30 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43215. Periodicals postage paid at Columbus, OH, and at additional mailing offices.

DEPARTMENTS

4 POWER LINES

Voice of reason: Pat O’Loughlin used his CEO megaphone to promote common sense and find common ground.

6 More than ever: The Electric Cooperative Youth Tour expands its reach and opens opportunities.

8 WOODS, WATERS, AND WILDLIFE

Homecoming? Long absent from Ohio forests, fishers may be returning to the Buckeye State.

10

CO-OP PEOPLE

Chestnuts everywhere: Eastern Ohio co-op makes a growing business out of those prickly-shelled nuggets.

13 GOOD EATS

Holiday treats: Gift these tiny sweets and bring joy to everyone’s taste buds!

17

LOCAL PAGES

News and other important information from your electric cooperative.

National/regional advertising inquiries, contact Cheryl Solomon

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

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

Alliance for Audited Media Member

30 CALENDAR

What’s happening: December/ January events and other things to do around Ohio.

34

MEMBER INTERACTIVE

The night before Christmas: Members anticipate Santa’s arrival in all kinds of merry ways.

Voice of reason

O’Loughlin used his CEO megaphone to promote common sense and find

common ground.

BY JEFF McCALLISTER

Pat O’Loughlin’s first column in what was then Country Living magazine, upon his elevation to president and CEO of Buckeye Power and the co-op statewide association in 2015, took note of “interesting times.” Now, as he retires from the post, he says the times are by no means any less interesting — and also uncertain.

The electric industry as a whole was in the final stages of a radical clean-up in 2015. The Cardinal Power Plant in Brilliant, of which Ohio co-ops were part-owners along with American Electric Power, had survived a nationwide wave of coal plant closures, thanks to more than $1 billion in investments that transformed it into one of the cleanest facilities of its kind in the world.

Nevertheless, the U.S. EPA had just issued a set of new regulations that Cardinal was unlikely to be able to meet, and while the Supreme Court eventually struck down those rules, more have followed. The polarization that has divided the American public on so many issues put a focus on electricity generation — while the rise of data centers, electric vehicles, and the like has driven demand for electricity to an all-time high. Interesting times (to say the least) for O’Loughlin and the co-ops.

“The worst thing that’s ever happened to our industry is that it’s become so politicized,” O’Loughlin says. “We’re an industry that’s built on science and engineering. Making electrons get to where they need to go, all at the speed of light, is actually an amazing thing that we’ve accomplished. But now it’s like we are just some political talking point, and that’s eliminated our ability to have rational conversations about what will work and what won’t work.”

O’Loughlin, who earned a master’s degree in environmental science at Miami University after completing his engineering degree, got his start in the industry working on renewable energy and energy-efficiency programs. One of his first jobs was to drive a prototype electric vehicle from its charging station to the corporate lot so company executives could try it out. Often, he says, the 10 ,000 -pound lead-acid battery would run out of juice after only a few miles, so he’d have to give that EV a tow back to its charger.

Those early days, he says, gave him unique insight about what is realistic and what is fantasy, and his job as CEO of Buckeye Power, the generation and transmission cooperative that provides power to more than 1 million Ohioans, put him in a position to be a rational voice in the national energy conversation.

O’Loughlin’s thoughtful approach helped the national co-op organization, the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, become one of the most powerful voices within the electric utility industry when it comes to finding that balance between reliability, affordability, and environmental responsibility.

He’s been called to testify before Congress on multiple occasions to advocate for co-ops and their members, and he even won the NRECA’s highest award for CEO communications.

“I knew early on that this was going to be a long struggle to find that balance,” O’Loughlin says. “The realization came pretty quickly that part of my job was to be involved in public advocacy for what we thought were commonsense solutions to some of these problems. So I tried to have the biggest megaphone I could find and work with people who were honestly trying to figure it out rather than just trying to demagogue things.”

While those conversations were happening, the uncertainty around EPA rules, among other factors, prompted AEP to sell its share of Cardinal Plant to Buckeye Power and the co-ops — which, under O’Loughlin, suddenly had to learn plant operations on the fly.

“When I talked about those interesting times in 2015, I didn’t realize that would happen,” he says. “It made us a different kind of company than we had been, and I think a better one. What I saw was people willing to put themselves out there and try things that were new and different and risky, knowing they could fail but willing to try anyway.”

And of course, the plant’s future is still uncertain, but O’Loughlin is sure that the leadership team already in place — Craig Grooms, currently the co-op’s chief operating officer, will step in as new CEO in January — is ready to guide the company into whatever the future holds.

“We have been and continue to be a learning organization, with a long history of being sensible, good co-op people,” O’Loughlin says. “We’ve never been afraid of challenges, and we are willing to learn and do new things. As a leadership team, I think everyone sees the possible paths they might end up on, whether we think they’re good ideas or bad ideas. I know they’ll be ready.”

BY AMY HOWAT

Ithanever More

f one word could sum up the 2024 Electric Cooperative Youth Tour for Ohio’s delegation, it would probably be “more.”

It wasn’t only that the Buckeye State’s contingent included 50 high school students from 20 Ohio electric distribution cooperatives (and one from West Virginia) — more students, representing more co-ops, than in any previous year, according to Missy Kidwell, who coordinates the program for Ohio co-ops. The tour’s programming was also expanded, so it meant more hands-on experiences, more peer connections, and more memories that will last a lifetime.

Building life skills

Since the late 1950s, Youth Tour has brought high school students from co-ops around the country to Washington, D.C., for a week every June. This year, more than 1,800 delegates from 44 states participated.

The program is much more than a sightseeing trip. While delegates visit areas of civic, historical, and cultural importance, they also meet with their elected representatives and learn about electric cooperatives. Along the way, they network with other youth, make lasting friendships, build knowledge, and develop skills that will help them later in life.

“It was a great experience,” says Darcie Reinhart, a 2023 delegate from Lexington who was sponsored by Consolidated Cooperative. “I got to meet people from rural areas in Ohio and across the U.S. Though we’re from different sides of the country, we have so much in common and we’re more closely connected than I thought we would be.”

Reinhart, then a student at Lexington High School, was elected by her fellow delegates to represent Ohio on the national Youth Leadership Council, which provides additional cooperative, electric industry, and leadership training to one student from each state while giving these

young members a voice in addressing cooperative leaders. Through YLC, Reinhart spoke to her co-op’s board of directors, made a speech at Ohio’s Electric Cooperatives’ winter conference, and attended the Power Xchange conference, a national meeting of cooperative leaders.

“Being a part of YLC helped me to step out of my comfort zone and learn a lot of leadership, communication, and social skills,” Reinhart says. “Before Youth Tour and YLC, I hadn’t sent emails to or called people I didn’t know. I hadn’t attended a business conference or spoken in front of a professional group.”

Fostering relationships

“I learned so much,” says Reinhart, now a freshman studying civil engineering at Ohio State University. “I applied those skills in my college applications and scholarship interviews. It’s something unique on my resume.”

Sophie Dougherty, a junior at Talawanda High School and 2024 delegate sponsored by Butler Rural Electric Cooperative, says Youth Tour also took her out of her comfort zone.

2024 Youth Tour delegate Sophie Dougherty (center) and friends enjoy the Cardinal Power Plant tour.

everCooperative Youth Tour expands its reach and opens opportunities.

“I gained new skills in meeting people and making meaningful connections,” she says. “I now have more confidence, which will help me in the future, whether it’s a social situation or a job interview.”

Learning about the Cooperative Difference

This year’s Youth Tour included two new stops for the Ohio delegates: the Flight 93 National Memorial (which is on co-op lines in rural Pennsylvania) on the way to D.C. and the Cardinal Power Plant (which provides electricity to Ohio co-ops) on the way back.

Dougherty says it surprised her, but her favorite segment of the trip was the tour of the Cardinal Plant. “It was so eye-opening,” she says. “I had not thought much before about where my energy comes from. I’m grateful we could stop to see this and meet the people who were running the huge machinery. I have so much more appreciation for what they do.”

are and all that they do for us, and I’ll have a lifelong relationship with my co-op.”

YLC has enhanced that knowledge and fostered her involvement locally and beyond, she says. “I’ve learned about co-ops, heard various speakers, and found out about jobs with co-ops.

Reinhart says for her, the most valuable aspect of Youth Tour was the relationship she gained with her co-op. “Before I went on Youth Tour, I didn’t really understand what a co-op was. But we attended a presentation, and I learned what my electric co-op is and how I can get involved. Now, I know what they

“I went to board meetings and wrote a speech to give to my local co-op board of directors,” she says. “I attended a meeting in Columbus with all of the directors around the state and I got to go to Power Xchange in San Antonio, where the YLC members were helpers and also attended lectures and learned a lot.”

Encouraging future delegates

To high school students who are eligible for Youth Tour, Reinhart has a message: Just apply.

“Even if you’re unsure, send in the application,” she says. “My dad encouraged me to apply and because of that application, a whole world was opened up to me. I can’t even imagine what my life would be like if I hadn’t done it.”

The 2025 Electric Cooperative Youth Tour will take place June 15 – 21 and is open to high school sophomores and juniors whose families are served by an electric cooperative. For more information or to apply, call your local cooperative or visit your co-op’s website.

Darcie Reinhart, who was elected by her fellow Youth Tour delegates to the national Youth Leadership Council, spoke to cooperative leaders at Ohio’s Electric Cooperatives’ winter conference.

Homecoming?

Long

absent from Ohio forests, fishers may be returning to the Buckeye State.

BY W.H. “CHIP” GROSS

Asecretive, solitary hunter of the deep woods is attempting a comeback in the Buckeye State.

The fisher, a fur-bearing mammal found only in North America, is also known as black cat, black fox, or fisher cat because of its dark brown to nearly black coat.

Their name notwithstanding, they prey upon a variety of small mammals (not fish) as well as fruit, nuts, fungi, and carrion found in a forest habitat — today, predominantly in Canada and parts of California. Interestingly, the minor league professional baseball team in Manchester, New Hampshire — the Class AA affiliate of the Toronto Blue Jays — is named the Fisher Cats. But Ohio?

“Fishers [have been discovered] in archaeological sites in Ohio, and they were found in Ashtabula County as late

as 1837,” says John Harder, associate professor emeritus in evolution, ecology, and organismal biology at Ohio State University. “However, unregulated trapping and habitat loss led to the extirpation of fishers from the state by 1850.”

Fishers are not small. Males can measure 4 feet in length from nose to tip of tail and weigh as much as 15 pounds. Females are half that size.

They are also one of the few predators that actively target porcupines for food, where available. Possessing the same pugnacious, tenacious disposition found in other members of the weasel family, fishers begin their attack by viciously and repeatedly biting the docile porky on its face and head before flipping it on its back to reach its vulnerable underbelly, which has fewer protective quills.

An agile climber, the fisher is nearly unique in that it can descend a tree trunk headfirst. The name “fisher” may have derived from the fact that early colonists settling along America’s Eastern Seaboard saw a similarity between the fisher and the European polecat they remembered from their homelands, which was also called “fitch” or “fitchet.”

Ohio’s first modern-day fisher sighting was in 2013, according to Katie Dennison, a biologist with the Ohio Division of Wildlife, and since then, there have been 40 confirmed fisher observations across nine northeast Ohio counties: Ashtabula, Columbiana, Geauga, Trumbull, Mahoning, Lake, Jefferson, Harrison, and Tuscarawas. “Two-thirds of those sightings occurred in the last three years,” Dennison says. “Fishers are moving westward from established populations in Pennsylvania and naturally colonizing Ohio.”

Dennison says the Division of Wildlife collects Ohio road-killed fishers to determine age and test their genetics, and in February 2023, biologists collected two roadkill fisher carcasses from northeast Ohio — one of which was pregnant. Does that mean fishers are reproducing in Ohio and a population has reestablished itself? Not necessarily.

“The division anticipates that natural reproduction in fishers will be confirmed in the coming years, and may already be occurring,” Dennison says. “But as far as their population being reestablished, it’s a little too early to say for sure. Things definitely seem to be moving in the right direction.”

I’m all in favor of fishers returning to the Buckeye State, making our wild ecosystem one additional species stronger, and as a result more resilient.

The historic range of fishers — before European settlement of North America — included much of the Northeast and Midwest in the U.S. The current range (in darker shading) is mostly in Canada, though the animal is making a comeback in parts of its former territory. www.ohiocoopliving.com

HAVE YOU SEEN ONE?

The Division of Wildlife relies, in part, on public reports to monitor Ohio’s growing fisher population (as well as that of black bears, badgers, weasels, and bobcats). So if you live in northeast Ohio or happen to travel that direction, keep an eye out for these new critters. If you spot one, you can report your observations of those species (including photos or videos) to the Division of Wildlife via the HuntFishOH mobile app or at www. wildohio.gov. Please contact your county wildlife officer to report roadkill fishers — it is not permissible to collect roadkill carcasses yourself.

W.H. “Chip” Gross is Ohio Cooperative Living’s outdoors editor. Email him with your outdoors questions at whchipgross@gmail. com. Be sure to include “Ask Chip” in the subject of the email. Your question may be answered on www.ohiocoopliving.com!

Chestnuts everywhere

Eastern Ohio co-op makes a growing business out of those prickly-shelled nuggets.

BY JAMES PROFFITT

Greg Miller’s father, Jay, planted his first bunch of trees on 100 acres in Carroll County back in the middle of the last century.

North America’s once-thriving population of American chestnuts had all but disappeared from the landscape due to a blight at the turn of the 20th century, so he planted blight-resistant Chinese chestnuts.

“He also planted every kind of nut tree that would grow here — and some that wouldn’t,” says Miller, a member of Carroll Electric Cooperative. “He noticed the walnuts and hazels and almonds and everything else weren’t doing so well, but the chestnuts were.”

So more land was acquired and in 1972, Jay and Greg planted 500 more Chinese chestnut seedlings, and the Empire Nut Company was born soon thereafter.

At one point, Miller says, a local coal company took note of all those nuts and briefly entered the chestnut game as a side-gig. It soon went bankrupt, however; the folks who bought up the land were looking for deer hunting sites rather than an agricultural specialty crop.

Eventually, though, all those trees began producing high volumes of nuts, and about 20 years ago, Miller began harvesting, processing, and selling the neighbors’ crops — and thus was born the Route 9 Cooperative. Currently, Route 9 processes and ships nuts from more than a half-dozen farms, including one in Kentucky.

Treasure vault

The Chinese trees produce a nut that’s well protected right up until its dangerously sharp, spiked pod opens. Miller says the porcupine-like pods keep animals from eating the nuts too soon, but they also make it difficult to collect the delicious morsels.

“Once they open and the nuts fall out, everything eats them,” Miller says “They’re very high in carbohydrates, have a pretty high sugar content, and are high in oil and protein, so animals love them — and when I say that, I mean everything with four legs eats them, and some with two legs.”

After falling from trees in autumn, they’re collected by hand for processing. They go onto a grading table, where odd nuts are culled (later turned into chestnut flour) and sorted.

Most of Route 9’s crop is destined for the kitchen. Despite the common belief they’re solely a Christmas season snack, they’re a consistent yearlong seller. The vast majority are purchased online and shipped around the country.

“They’re often roasted, but they can be eaten raw, too, and they’re also put in various dishes,” Miller says. “They’re delicious.”

The gathering

Each September, more than 100 residents of the area, mostly Amish, show up to work the peak harvest —

which means gathering the nuts by hand or using a rolling metal basket on a pole called a Nut Wizard.

Some customers, however, aren’t interested in ordering online or buying chestnuts that have already been collected. Instead, they prefer to show up in rural Carrollton to get their own. Route 9’s self-service customers travel from Columbus, Pittsburgh, Cleveland, and beyond to roam the hillside orchards gathering their own fresh-from-thetree chestnuts.

“They’ll bring their kids out and enjoy just about the best time of year to be outside — late September, early October,” he says. “There’s something I think in humans’ nature: They love to gather things up. And yeah, people do it for fun.”

Huge, 25-pound bags are stored in giant walk-in coolers where they’re periodically hosed down with water while they await shipment. (Miller says they’re comparable to carrots in that you can eat them raw or cooked, and ideally you don’t want to let them dry out.)

Singular focus

In addition to selling chestnuts for snacking and cooking, Route 9 also sells nuts specifically harvested for seed planting, as well as small saplings. Miller also works with other chestnut varieties, including the European and Japanese trees, also grown for food, as well as several varieties planted for wildlife forage or for helping forest an area. That includes creating hybrid trees for specific uses like attracting wildlife.

But while some nut farmers have diversified their crops over the years, he’s found that the hilly, well-drained terrain around him is particularly suited to his specialty. “I just do chestnuts,” Miller says. “It was my father’s hobby. He planted his first trees in 1957 and I’m still doing it today.”

For information or to order, visit www.route9cooperative.com — though this year’s crop of culinary chestnuts is mostly sold out, the co-op is taking orders for fresh-peeled chestnuts, dry-peeled chestnuts, and chestnut flour, as well as seeds and seedlings.

BY CATHERINE MURRAY

Holiday treats

Gift these tiny sweets and bring joy to everyone’s taste buds!

EGGNOG SNICKERDOODLES

Prep: 20 minutes | Chill: 1 hour | Bake: 12 minutes | Servings: 24

1½ cups flour

1 teaspoon cream of tartar

½ teaspoon baking soda

teaspoon salt 4 tablespoons butter, softened ½ cup sugar 1 egg ½ cup store-bought eggnog 2 tablespoons sugar 1½ teaspoons cinnamon 1½ teaspoons nutmeg

Note: Cookies may be fluffier or chewier, depending on eggnog brand.

In a medium bowl, sift together flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat butter and ½ cup sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Beat in egg and eggnog, then beat in dry ingredients until just incorporated. Cover dough and chill 1 hour.

Preheat oven to 350 F. In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons sugar with the cinnamon and nutmeg. Scoop a tablespoon of dough and roll in the sugar and spice mixture. Place 2 inches apart on baking sheets.

Bake 10 to 12 minutes, or until cookies are just set in the center. Let cool 5 minutes before transferring to wire rack to cool. Store in an airtight container for up to a week.

Per serving: 74 calories, 2 grams fat (1 gram saturated fat), 12 grams total carbohydrates, 15 milligrams cholesterol, 47 milligrams sodium, 0.5 grams fiber, 1 gram protein.

CHOCOLATE MINT TREE-CAKES

Prep: 45 minutes | Bake: 20 minutes | Servings: 12

¾ cup flour

¾ cup sugar

1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

½ teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon salt

1 egg

1/3 cup full-fat Greek yogurt or sour cream

1/3 cup vegetable or canola oil

½ cup warm water

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the frosting:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

4½ cups powdered sugar, sifted

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

¼ teaspoon peppermint extract

1 to 3 tablespoons milk or cream green food coloring sprinkles for “ornaments”

In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Add egg, yogurt, and oil, and lightly mix. Add water and vanilla; mix until just incorporated. Expect the batter to be pourable.

Preheat oven to 350 F. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners. Evenly divide batter between cups. Bake 18 to 20 minutes. Set aside to cool completely.

With an electric mixer, beat butter and powdered sugar, on low at first then on medium until combined. Mix in vanilla and 1/8 teaspoon of the peppermint extract. Taste test before adding another 1/8 teaspoon of peppermint, plus a small amount of food coloring at a time until desired color is reached. Mix in a bit of milk to thin if needed for easy piping. When cupcakes are cool, pipe 3 or 4 frosting “trees” at a time and sprinkle them with “ornaments.”

Per serving: 464 calories, 22 grams fat (11 grams saturated fat), 67 grams total carbohydrates, 54 milligrams cholesterol, 163 milligrams sodium, 1 gram fiber, 3 grams protein.

SPARKLING CRANBERRY MUFFINS

Prep: 20 minutes | Bake: 25 minutes | Servings: 15

2 cups + 1 tablespoon flour

¾ cup sugar, divided

1½ teaspoons baking powder ½ teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon salt

3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

1 cup buttermilk

1 large egg

2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries

In a large bowl, mix together 2 cups of the flour, ½ cup of the sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a medium heatproof bowl, melt 2 tablespoons of the butter in microwave, then whisk in buttermilk, then egg. Pour wet mixture over dry mixture. Gently stir and fold until just incorporated. Toss cranberries in a tablespoon of flour, then fold into the batter.

Heat oven to 375 F. Evenly distribute batter into the cups of muffin pans (makes 15 muffins), either greased or paper-lined. Bake 20 to 25 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool a few minutes before loosening sides with a knife and turning muffins out onto a wire rack. For sparkling tops, lightly brush the top of each cooled muffin with remaining tablespoon melted butter and dip to coat in the remaining ¼ cup of sugar.

Per serving: 140 calories, 3 grams fat (2 grams saturated fat), 25 grams total carbohydrates, 20 milligrams cholesterol, 253 milligrams sodium, 1 gram fiber, 3 grams protein.

BETTER-THAN-FRUITCAKE BARS

Soak: 8+ hours | Prep: 20 minutes | Bake: 35 minutes | Servings: 16

2 cups finely chopped mixed dried fruit*

½ cup brandy, dark rum, or apple juice (or combination of the three)

3 cups flour

¾ cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon cinnamon

½ teaspoon ginger

¼ teaspoon allspice

¼ teaspoon nutmeg

¼ teaspoon salt

1 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into 1-inch slices

1 large egg

1 teaspoon almond extract

2 to 4 tablespoons cold water

½ cup glacé (candied) cherries, cut in half

1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts and/ or pecans)

*Common fruitcake dried fruits include apricots, cranberries, cherries, raisins, currants, pineapple, dates, figs, and prunes. Candied cherries are not the same as maraschino cherries.

In a small bowl, stir the dried fruits and soaking liquid. Cover and set aside to soak overnight. In a food processor, pulse together flour through salt (let flour settle before opening). Add the butter, egg, and almond extract, pulsing until dough forms a fine crumble (slowly drizzle in a bit of cold water if needed to help the dough crumble). Grease a 9-by-13-inch pan, then firmly pat about half of dough into the bottom, or however much is needed to cover edge to edge, saving the remaining dough for the topping.

Preheat oven to 375 F. Sprinkle soaked dried fruit and candied cherries evenly over the crust. Mix nuts into remaining crumble and spread over the fruit layer. Bake 30 to 35 minutes, or until top is lightly brown. Cool completely before cutting into bars. Store in an airtight container.

Per serving: 390 calories, 18 grams fat (9 grams saturated fat), 49 grams total carbohydrates, 41 milligrams cholesterol, 130 milligrams sodium, 2 grams fiber, 5 grams protein.

Check it out!

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

WASHINGTON ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE LOCAL PAGES

MESSAGE FROM THE GENERAL MANAGER

Giving back is the cooperative way

The holiday season brings a spirit of generosity and compassion. It’s a time to reflect on our many blessings and uplift those in need. While this is certainly a special time of year, cooperatives like Washington Electric are deeply rooted in giving back to their local communities year-round.

Our mission is reliable power. Our purpose is people — the members we’re proud to serve. That’s why we organize a food drive at our annual meeting, contribute to local charities, and support organizations such as youth sports to make a positive, meaningful impact for our community.

Another way Washington Electric Cooperative gives back is by investing in tomorrow’s leaders. Through presentations at elementary schools, scholarship opportunities, and the Electric Cooperative Youth Tour program, we aim to empower students for a brighter future. When we invest in our local youth, we strengthen the fabric of our community.

As a not-for profit electric cooperative, we believe in giving credit where credit is due — to the members who shape our co-op. One of the ways we do this is through capital credits. Because Washington Electric operates at cost, we give cash back to our members rather than outside investors or shareholders.

Here’s how capital credits work:

Washington Electric Cooperative members use the electricity we provide and pay their monthly bills, and we track their business with the co-op over time. Washington Electric pays all operating expenses throughout the year, and if any operating revenue is left over, we allocate it to members as capital credits. When financial conditions permit, the co-op’s board of trustees votes to pay capital credits back to the members. Washington Electric sends you a check or applies a credit to your energy bill.

Capital credits are just one of the many benefits of co-op membership. Giving back to our local members instead of outside parties is one of the many aspects that set cooperatives apart from other types of businesses.

Our members guide every decision we make and are the reason our co-op exists. To us, you’re more than a customer. This holiday season, we hope you’re proud to be part of a community-focused co-op that puts people before profits.

From your friends at Washington Electric Cooperative, we hope you have a bright, blessed holiday season.

Jeff Triplett GENERAL MANAGER

$558,000 paid back to co-op members

Washington Electric Cooperative announces a significant return of $558,000 in capital credits to its members.

Capital credits are a unique feature of electric cooperatives, which are owned by their members. When a cooperative generates surplus revenue beyond its operational costs, it retains those funds to reinvest in its electrical system and services, such as equipment upgrades, new line construction, and right-of-way maintenance. Eventually, a portion of these earnings is returned to members based on their electricity usage.

The ability to return capital credits to members is a sign of the cooperative’s successful financial stewardship.

“By sharing its financial success, Washington Electric Cooperative reinforces its role as a community partner,”

says General Manager/CEO Jeff Triplett. “Capital credits ensure that our members reap the benefits of their investment in the cooperative.”

This year’s capital credits return will be paid to members who received service from Washington Electric Cooperative in 1990. Current, active co-op members who earned capital credits in 1990 will receive a credit on the electric bill issued at the end of November. Former members for whom we have accurate mailing addresses will receive a check in mid-December.

1. Members pay their electric bills, and we track their business with us each month.

How Capital Credits Work

Electric co-ops are not-for-profit and operate at cost. Capital credits are a financial benefit of co-op membership.

2. The co-op pays operating expenses throughout the year and allocates any leftover operating revenue as capital credits.

3. When financial conditions permit, the co-op board votes to retire (pay) capital credits to the members.

4. We send members their share of capital credits as a bill credit or check.

Washington Electric Cooperative members visit Cardinal Power Plant

On October 9, about 20 Washington Electric Cooperative members took an enlightening trip to the Cardinal Power Plant in Brilliant, Ohio. This visit offered an exclusive opportunity for co-op members to gain firsthand insight into the operations of one of Ohio’s key energy facilities, owned by the state’s electric cooperatives.

The day began with an overview of the plant’s history and its role in supplying reliable electricity to cooperative members. Participants were led on a guided tour, where they observed the plant’s state-of-the-art technology and learned about the processes involved in energy generation.

Members were particularly interested in the plant’s commitment to environmental stewardship and its initiatives to reduce emissions. Discussions highlighted the need to strike a balance between developing clean energy sources and ensuring the stability and affordability of electricity for cooperative members.

Want to help make decisions that affect your co-op?

Run for a position on the board of trustees

Being a member-consumer of an electric cooperative means you have a say in the matters that affect you and your community. Washington Electric is guided by a member-elected board of trustees that is responsible for making decisions related to the co-op’s financial goals and other policies. If you’re someone who is interested in taking a more active role in your cooperative, we urge you to consider running for a seat on the board.

The candidate filing period lasts from Nov. 1 to Jan. 7, and applications are available at www.weci.org or by contacting our office. There are three open seats in the 2025 election, which will take place by mail in the spring.

Results will be announced at the co-op’s annual meeting on May 15.

Members may also file to run by petition. Petitions require the signatures of 25 individual Washington Electric Cooperative members and must be filed with the board secretary by March 16.

Please visit our website or contact our office for applications or questions.

Candidate applications are reviewed by a nominating committee, which verifies eligibility. To be eligible to run for trustee, candidates must meet the following conditions:

• Must be a bona fide permanent resident in the area served by the cooperative

• Must not be in any way employed by or financially in control of an enterprise in direct business competition with the cooperative or that supplies goods or performs services for the cooperative

• Must not have been 60 days in arrears on any payment or obligation to the cooperative in the past three years

• Must be at least 18 years of age and not have had a felony conviction of record upon a criminal background check

• Must not have filed for bankruptcy in the past 10 years

• Must be fluent in speaking and writing the English language

• Must not be a close relative of a current employee or trustee

WASHINGTON ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE LOCAL PAGES

NOTES

Capital credits

Washington Electric Cooperative, Inc., refunded capital credits totaling $194,672.93 to the estates of 84 members through October. If you know a deceased member, please have the executor of the estate call our office for information on the member’s capital credits.

Credit for account number

If you find the number of your account in the local (center) pages of this magazine, call the co-op office by the 16th of the month in which it is published; you will receive at least $10 credit on your electric bill.

Co-op rebate programs

Water heater – rebates of $150 for qualifying 50-gallon or higher new electric water heaters.

Geothermal – rebates of $600 for newly installed ENERGY STAR-rated geothermal systems.

Air conditioners – rebates of $100 for ENERGY STARrated whole-house air conditioning systems

ENERGY STAR Appliances – $100 rebate for members who replace existing refrigerators and stand-alone freezers with a new ENERGY STARlabeled appliance. Rebates of $25 for ENERGY STAR-labeled electric clothes washer or electric clothes dryer. Rebates available on first-come, first served basis.

Call or visit our website for details.

Co-op services

Outage reporting – Call 740-373-2141 or use the SmartHub app to report a power outages 24/7.

Outage alerts — Use our SmartHub system to sign up for free outage alerts and other co-op information.

Online bill payment — Visit www.weci.org to use our secure SmartHub online payment system.

Automatic bill payment — Call our office for details on having your electric bill drafted from your checking or savings account each month.

Pay your bill by phone — Call 844-978-2641 to pay your electric bill with a check, credit card, or debit card.

Board meetinghighlights

Washington Electric Cooperative’s board of trustees met in regular session on Oct. 24 at the co-op’s office in Marietta. The following actions occurred:

• Board members approved the cooperative’s capital credit estate retirements, new member list, and the October safety report.

• Director of Finance and Administration BJ Allen presented the August 2024 financial reports and the first drafts of the 2025 operating and capital budgets.

• Board members reviewed proposed revisions to the following policies:

• Policy 208, Members at Board Meetings

• Policy 528, Corrective Discipline

• Board members approved modifications to the following policies:

• Policy 513, Sick Leave

• Policy 517, Administrative Leave

• The Board approved a resolution to reallocate $110,827.46 in unclaimed capital credits from 1986 and 1987

• General Manager/CEO Jeff Triplett presented reports on the engineering and operations department, as well as updates on recent co-op events, trainings, and member inquiries.

• Director of Marketing and Member Services Jennifer Greene provided a report on the marketing and member services department.

• Director of Information and Operational Technology Allen Casto reported on the activities of the co-op’s IT department.

Washington Electric Cooperative is democratically controlled and governed by local people committed to policies that result in a safe and reliable electric system, fair rates, financial responsibility, and superior member service.

The cooperative’s next board meeting is scheduled for 9 a.m. Dec. 30 at Washington Electric’s office at 440 Highland Ridge Road, Marietta.

• An all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C., sponsored by Washington Electric Cooperative.

• A week of visiting historic monuments, touring world-class museums, and meeting elected officials.

• Applicants must be sophomores or juniors in high school.

• You and your parent or guardian must be served by an Ohio Electric Cooperative.

• Deadline is Jan. 31, 2025. WHAT IS YOUTH TOUR? weci.org/youth-programs

• A chance to develop lifelong friendships with delegates from across the country!

FACEBOOK/INSTAGRAM: @OhioYouthTour

your parents Washington Electric Cooperative members? If so, you could win more than $4,600 in scholarships!

A Christmas story Lights of hope:

In a small village nestled among the rolling hills of southeast Ohio, Christmas Eve dawned with a magical blanket of snow. Fluffy white flakes danced gracefully from the gray sky, transforming the landscape into a winter wonderland. Children, bundled in bright coats and mittens, tumbled out of their homes, laughter echoing through the crisp air as they built snowmen, tossed snowballs, and gleefully sledded down hills.

As evening approached, families gathered around their fireplaces, sipping hot cocoa and sharing stories while decorating their Christmas trees. The sweet scent of pine mixed with the rich aroma of baked cookies wafted through the air, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. But just as night fell, the serenity of the evening was shattered by dark clouds. Soon, a fierce winter storm erupted. The wind howled and snow whipped through the streets.

Inside homes, the glow of twinkling lights soon flickered and then extinguished, plunging the village into darkness. A collective gasp echoed through the neighborhood as families realized the storm had knocked out power. Panic set in briefly, but then the spirit of the holiday took over. Candles were lit, and families huddled together, finding comfort in each other’s presence. They began to call for help.

The call came in from Washington Electric Cooperative, jolting the team from their own holiday celebrations. The crew — Kenneth, Ross, Larry, Jamie, Dakota, Cody, Chase, Clayton, Coty, Alex, Tyler, and Codi — had to put aside their Christmas plans.

“Listen up, everyone,” Kenneth said as they gathered in the operations center. “We’ve got a serious storm out there, and it’s Christmas Eve. We need to get out there and restore power for the community. They’re counting on us.”

Each lineman felt the weight of the moment. They all had families and friends waiting for them at home, anticipating an evening filled with fun traditions. Some had young children, wide-eyed with excitement about Santa’s imminent arrival. It was a tough decision to leave their loved ones behind, but they understood the importance of their work. Power is essential, especially on a night like this.

“I’ll make it up to my family,” Chase said, a hint of regret in his voice. “We’ll have a big breakfast together tomorrow.”

Tyler nodded in understanding. “We’ll be back as soon as we can. They’ll be proud of us for helping our community tonight.”

The team climbed into their trucks and drove into the storm, snow whipping around them as the roads became increasingly treacherous. With each passing moment, the wind howled louder, and the storm grew more ferocious. But they were determined to bring back warmth and light to the village.

As they began to work on downed lines, the team shared stories of their own Christmas traditions. Laughter broke through the cold air, creating warmth to contrast the harsh winter night. But in the back of their minds, each lineman carried thoughts of home — of waiting children, warm hugs, and the laughter of family.

Hours passed, and slowly but surely, the lights flickered back on in home after home. At one house, an elderly couple had just finished decorating their tree when the power returned. They stood at their window, smiles of joy spreading across their faces as they watched the glow of their neighbors’ homes illuminate the snowy road.

With each restored connection, the Christmas spirit filled the air. But the storm was relentless, and soon the team faced their toughest challenge yet: The church, the heart of the village, stood dark and silent. It was a beloved gathering place where families would traditionally celebrate Christmas Eve with carols and candlelight services. The team knew they had to get the power restored there, no matter the cost.

The snow piled higher as they trudged through the drifts toward the church. The wind screamed as they approached the large wooden doors, and Alex gently knocked. Inside, the congregation had gathered for an impromptu service, singing softly by candlelight. Their voices floated out into the night, a testament to their faith and community spirit.

The team set to work. After what felt like an eternity, they heard the satisfying click that signaled that power had been restored. Clayton flipped the switch, and the church’s steeple blazed to life against the stormy night sky. The warm glow spilled through the windows, illuminating the faces of those inside.

A wave of applause erupted, and cheers filled the air. The team, exhausted but exhilarated, stepped back to witness the magic unfold. The church, once again alive with light, became a beacon of hope and warmth in the storm.

With the church restored, the crew turned to leave, but the congregation invited them inside. “Join us for caroling!” a woman exclaimed, her eyes shining with gratitude.

Though they were tired and their families were waiting at home, the team couldn’t resist the warmth of community and celebration. They stepped inside, and the energy of the room enveloped them. As the group sang familiar songs, their voices harmonized with the crackling of candles and the soft glow of lights. It felt like a scene from a storybook, and in that moment, all the stress and cold melted away.

The storm still raged outside, but inside the church, joy prevailed. Alex, Clayton, Dakota, Codi, Ross, Jamie, Chase, Coty, Cody, Larry, Tyler, and Kenneth basked in the feeling of accomplishment, knowing they had made a difference.

When they finally left the church, the storm had eased, leaving behind a tranquil, snowy silence. The moon shone brightly above, casting a silver glow over the peaceful village. 1290515415 As they drove back to Washington Electric Cooperative, they reflected on the night.

“Did you see their faces?” Dakota asked, his eyes bright. “It was worth every second out there.”

“Absolutely,” Codi replied. “This is what it’s all about.”

Spark joy and light this holiday season. From our co-op family to yours, we wish you a safe and warm season with friends and loved ones.

So our employees may enjoy the Christmas holiday with their loved ones, Washington Electric Cooperative’s office will be closed Dec. 24 and 25. Our office will also be closed on Jan. 1 to celebrate New Year’s.

OFFICE HOURS CONTACT

740-373-2141 | 877-594-9324 www.weci.org

REPORT OUTAGES 877-544-0279 or via SmartHub OFFICE

440 Highland Ridge Road P.O. Box 800 Marietta, OH 45750

OFFICE HOURS Mon.–Fri., 8 a.m.–4 p.m.

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Paul Fleeman, CCD, BL Chairman 740-934-2306

Brent Smith, CCD, BL Vice Chairman 740-585-2598

Betty Martin, CCD, BL

Secretary-Treasurer 740-473-1539

Gale DePuy, CCD, BL

Assistant Secretary-Treasurer 740-473-1245

William Bowersock, CCD, BL

740-373-5861

Brian Carter, CCD, BL 740-732-4076

Larry Ullman, CCD, BL 740-934-2561

CCD — Credentialed Cooperative Director BL — Board Leadership

Gaunt’s gift

In Yellow Springs, a unique legacy brings comfort during the holiday season.

BY DAMAINE VONADA

During the first holiday season after the death of her husband, the noted local artist Jack Hubbard, in 1987, Pat Hubbard received a curious gift delivered to her Yellow Springs home: two sacks — one filled with flour, the other with sugar. The following year brought that same remarkable gift, and more followed every holiday season until her own death in 1999.

Providing flour and sugar to the widows (and widowers) of the town is a Yuletide tradition unique to Yellow Springs, and it dates back 130 years — all of it thanks to the generosity of a formerly enslaved man named Wheeling Gaunt, who settled in the

southwest Ohio village after he purchased his own freedom during the Civil War.

“Wheeling Gaunt was a person of faith and a very resilient man who did not let adversity beat him down; he used it as a motivation to achieve,” says Brenda Hubbard Ibarra, Jack and Pat’s daughter. Although she had been born and raised in Yellow Springs, Ibarra was unaware of Gaunt’s story until her mother started getting those gifts. Inspired, she immersed herself in researching that history, and in 2021, she self-published Legacy of Grace: Musings on the Life and Times of Wheeling Gaunt.

“My mother had been so impressed, so grateful, that someone could be so full of kindness and generosity despite such bitter hardships,” Ibarra says.

Gaunt was born in 1812 on a tobacco plantation in Carrollton, Kentucky, son of the white plantation master and an unidentified Black woman whom his father seems to have sold when Wheeling was only about 4 years old.

Because his father permitted him to work away from the plantation, Gaunt earned money of his own by selling apples, polishing boots, and doing other odd jobs, and saved enough by the mid1840s to buy his freedom from his white halfbrothers for $900

As a free man, Gaunt worked as a teamster and laborer in Carrollton, and within a few years, he was able to pay for the manumission of his wife, Amanda, and for another young relative. He also began building a substantial commercial and residential real estate portfolio.

During that time, Yellow Springs, about 100 miles to the northeast, had a growing anti-slavery and egalitarian reputation — home to Antioch College, whose first president, Horace Mann, was a staunch abolitionist, and close to Wilberforce, where the African Methodist Episcopal Church was operating a fledgling college, now Wilberforce University, for Black students.

Gaunt prospered in Yellow Springs. He worked hard to acquire prime properties, and built a handsome home for himself and Amanda (who died in 1885), as well as other homes that are still in use today. He also learned to read and write, and even ran, albeit unsuccessfully, for the village school board.

By the time he died of kidney disease in May of 1894, Gaunt was one of Yellow Springs’ wealthiest, most highly respected residents. The Yellow Springs newspaper reported that Gaunt’s memorial service was “filled to suffocation” with mourners, and his obituary in the Xenia Gazette declared, “He was one of the best citizens of our village and will leave a record and example of fair dealing and benevolence which would be well to imitate by those who are left behind.”

Continued on page 24

not what we have but what we share.”

A life-sized bronze statue of Wheeling Gaunt, designed by the renowned sculptor and longtime village resident Brian Maughan, stands at the busy intersection of Dayton Street and Xenia Avenue (U.S. 68) in downtown Yellow Springs. It graces a small park on the Little Miami Scenic Trail, and engraved on its pedestal is a quote attributed to him: “It’s

Continued from page 23

Gaunt willed all his Yellow Springs real estate to Wilberforce University, with the exception of 9 acres of farmland reserved for the Village of Yellow Springs — with the stipulation that income from renting it would go into a fund used to give flour to “poor worthy widows” on the evening before Christmas Day. That December, village workers delivered 69 sacks of flour to 23 widows.

Today, the acreage Gaunt donated is the Gaunt Park recreation complex, and the village continues to support the widow’s fund from swimming pool entry fees. Decades ago, the village opted to distribute sugar as well as flour to widows, and during the 2012 Christmas season, it began supplying widowers too. On average, about 90 individuals annually benefit from Gaunt’s bequest, and this year, the village dispensed 5 pounds of sugar and 5 pounds of flour to each of them during Thanksgiving week.

It’s impossible to gauge the comfort and joy that Gaunt’s simple gifts have brought to generations of villagers. If nothing else, they are annual lessons in compassion taught nowhere else but Yellow Springs.

Legacy of Grace: Musings on the Life and Times of Wheeling Gaunt is available through the Yellow Springs 365 Project (www.the365projectys.org/ shop) or on Amazon.

SCOTT ANTIQUE MARKETS

Oh ho, the

mistletoe!

Getting to the bottom of one of the season’s most fun, yet puzzling, traditions.

BY CRAIG SPRINGER

It’s the best time of the year — or so sings Burl Ives, over and over leading up to Christmas Day. Of course, cups of cheer (spiced cider, perhaps) will likely make an appearance, and (croons Burl) there may or may not be snow.

Lots of Christmastime traditions are easy enough to understand — stockings hung by the chimney with care, for example, have an obvious, convenient, and practical purpose for Santa Claus when he pops out of the chimney.

But back to Burl, who also highlights a truly puzzling one: little sprigs of an emerald-green, white-berried plant, hanging “where you can see,” where someone might just be waiting for you to steal away a kiss. Seems about as quirky as displaying a freshly cut pine tree in your living room.

Like the Christmas celebration itself, hanging mistletoe in your house is rooted in ancient tradition. But before we get to that, it’s worth noting that mistletoe has no real roots — it’s a parasite, making its way in life by living off of rooted trees. “Mistletoe makes its own sugar, but poaches water from trees,” says Savannah Ballweg, who manages the Miami University botanical conservatory in Oxford.

According to Ballweg, Ohio is home to one species of mistletoe: American mistletoe, also known as oak mistletoe, found mostly in the southern part of the state.

The thick evergreen parasite indeed has an affinity for the larger branches of oaks, but also takes to gum, hackberry, maples, and ashes, particularly along stream courses. It’s at its most visible standing out as a small green globular shrub nestled on larger tree branches after the leaf fall.

More about roots: The word “mistletoe” is rooted in German, from “mist,” meaning feces, and “tang,” meaning twig or tree branch — the little white berries of the plant do resemble something that has passed through the gut of a bird.

Besides being the actual word’s origin, the name, as translated, also explains a little about the parasite’s

reproduction.

Birds do, in fact, find the seeds to be yummy, and many that pass through a bird’s gut are deposited, covered in a sticky yet nutrient-rich gut-gunk, on tree branches. There, they sprout and send rootlets into the bark, where they tap into the host’s water and mineral nutrient supply.

Despite having evergreen leaves, they do little photosynthesis — and that is mostly in winter, according to Ballweg. “They carry some of their own weight,” she says. “Mistletoe does not kill host trees and lives a remarkably long time, up to 100 years.”

Mistletoe bears fruit at the approach of the winter solstice, which, according to Ballweg, ancient European cultures saw as a symbol of love, fertility, and perseverance.

And that, then, lends to the kissing tradition, though the full story comes from the Norse myth of Baldr, the god who was done in by an arrow made of mistletoe. Baldr’s mother, the goddess Frigg, cried tears that restored him to life, and those tears became the white mistletoe berries. Forever afterward, the grateful mom granted a kiss of her protection to anyone who passed under mistletoe.

Kissing under berry-laden mistletoe, then, was one of the pagan traditions that northern Europeans brought with them when they converted to Christianity. Holly (as in “have a holly-jolly Christmas”) was another. Also, as a way to ward off evil spirits around the time of the winter solstice, they often decorated their houses and barns with — you guessed it — freshly cut evergreens. Not so quirky after all.

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Ball drops

BY DAMAINE VONADA

TOhioans ring in the new year with a quirky and eclectic collection of cool countdowns.

his New Year’s Eve, forget Times Square — New York City’s annual ball drop is too far away, and besides, there are plenty of options here in Ohio, where towns throughout the state proudly ring in the new year with eclectic and imaginative ways to celebrate their customs, culture, and industries.

New Year’s Eve Donut Drop, Lakeside

Anyone who has ever spent a summer day experiencing the Lakeside Chautauqua community on the shores of Lake Erie knows that residents and visitors alike relish the Patio Restaurant’s homemade donuts. Those famous cake donuts inspired a new tradition in 2022: dropping an inflatable plastic donut decorated with multi-colored “sprinkles” from Lakeside’s waterfront Pavilion. A DJ plays dance music during this only-in-Lakeside event, which of course serves Patio donuts plus hot chocolate for toasting the new year. Tip: Lakeside waives gate and parking fees for the Donut Drop, and its Fountain Inn is open for overnight stays.

419-798-4461; https://lakesideohio.com/calendar/ special-events-calendar

Glass Town Countdown, Lancaster

Anchor Hocking has manufactured glassware in Lancaster since 1905, and the Glass Town Countdown reflects genuine hometown pride that culminates with a sparkling fireworks display. The downtown festival showcases a giant globe laden with 500 art glass ornaments, but instead of being dropped, it’s gingerly lifted off the ground by a crane. The round ornaments for this uplifting experience are produced in the glassblowing studio at Lancaster’s Ohio Glass Museum, where they’re either personally made or purchased for the globe by townspeople.

www.destinationdowntownlancaster.com/events/ glasstowncountdown

Ringin’ the Square, Mansfield

With a lovely landmark fountain, a Johnny Appleseed historic marker, and a replica of “Brooks’ Bench” from the filmed-in-Mansfield The Shawshank Redemption, nothing captures Mansfield’s identity quite like its Central Park town square. Crowds gather there annually to fete the new year with live bands, food trucks, outdoor ice skating, and a lighted, made-in-Mansfield metal ball that descends from a 10-story building — all followed by a fireworks show. Tip: The DLX Restaurant, located on the square, serves a pre-ball-drop dinner buffet that includes champagne and party favors. www.destinationmansfield.com/new-years-eve

New Year’s Ball Drop Party, Logan Logan Town Center merchants are hosting their first-ever New Year’s bash this year — live music, an ice-skating rink, and a Polar Express “train” ride that’s a barrel of fun for kids — near the iconic Main Street gazebo and Hocking County courthouse. The midnight countdown features an enormous sphere built by local high school welding students, and it’ll be covered with colorful, 16-inch-long glass spirals created by skilled artisans at the renowned Jack Pine Studio.

www.explorehockinghills.com/festivals-events/ downtown-logan-new-year-s-eve-ball-drop-party

Rockin’ Poppin’

New Year’s Eve Celebration, Marion

Organized by a local news channel, Marion’s familyfriendly event starts at 6 p.m. At midnight, the Popcorn ball, illuminated with hundreds of white lights that give a nod to the community’s nearly 100-year-old popcorn manufacturing heritage, will drop. Also on tap are popcorn-themed Minuteto-Win-It games, food vendors, bounce houses, and pro wrestling.

www.newsforce247.com

New Year’s Eve Walleye Drop, Port Clinton

What’s a small town to do when it’s got an enormous reputation as “The Walleye Capital of the World”? Embrace the nickname with a street party that lures thousands of people to downtown Port Clinton, where Wylie the Walleye, a 20-foot-long, 600-pound fiberglass fish, is lowered by a crane at the stroke of midnight. A Minnow Drop for small fry is held in the afternoon, and the event’s “bar swim” has heated buses that ferry grown-ups to lakeshore establishments serving food and libations.

www.shoresandislands.com/events

2024

CALENDAR

DECEMBER/JANUARY

an intricate Victorian holiday scene. Interactive buttons, multi-tier layout. 419-332-2081 or www. rbhayes.org.

DEC. 4 – Down on the Farm Story Time, Proving Ground Farm, 5670 E. Twp. Rd. 138, Tiffin, 10 a.m. Stories and activities geared for preschoolage children focus on farming and nature in a picturesque outdoor setting. 419-447-7073, www. conservesenecacounty.com, or find Seneca Conservation District on Facebook.

THROUGH DEC. 29 – NWORRP North Pole Express, Northwest Ohio Railroad Preservation Inc., 12505 Co. Rd. 99, Findlay. $5; 12 and under, $3. Hop on board our quarter-scale trains for a trip through a winter wonderland of lights and festive decorations. See operating toy trains and hundreds of decorated trees, plus Santa and Mrs. Claus on select nights. 419-423-2995, www.facebook.com/nworrp, or www. nworrp.org.

THROUGH DEC. 30 – Upper’s Winter Fantasy of Lights, Harrison Smith Park, 525 E. Wyandot Ave., Upper Sandusky, Fri.–Sun. 6–10 p.m., Mon.–Thur. 6–9:30 p.m. $10/car $15/van, $50/tour bus. The park’s 33 acres will be ablaze with millions of lights and a myriad of unique light displays. 419-294-2351 or www. uppersfantasyoflights.org.

THROUGH DEC. 31 – Lake of Lights, Saulisberry Park/France Lake, 13344 St. Rte. 67 W., Kenton, 6–9 p.m. daily. A drive-through lighting event. Special events held on the weekends. 567-674-4567, lakeoflights08@gmail.com, or www.facebook.com/ LakeOfLights.

THROUGH JAN. 5 – “Hayes Train Special” Model Train Display, Hayes Library and Museums, Spiegel Grove, 1337 Hayes Ave., Fremont. Free; donations accepted. Operating model train display runs through

WEST VIRGINIA

THROUGH DEC. 29 – Celebration of Lights, Morris Park, Fairmont. $10/car, $30/bus. See over 540 Christmas light displays in this 1 3-mile drive-through tour. Wednesdays are walker nights: $5/person; under 12 free. See website for schedule. 304-366-4550 or www.celebrationoflightswv.com.

THROUGH JAN. 5 – Winter Festival of Lights, Oglebay Resort, Wheeling. Featuring 300 acres of twinkling lights over a 6-mile drive, with more than 100 lighted attractions. Per-car donation requested, valid for the entire festival season. 877-436-1797 or www. oglebay.com/events/festival-of-lights.

DEC. 7 – Model Train Clinic, Hayes Presidential Library and Museums, Spiegel Grove, 1337 Hayes Ave., Fremont, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. $5; 5 and under free. Get your model trains in excellent working order just in time for the holidays. Clinic participants can run their trains on the “Hayes Train Special” track. 419332-2081 or www.rbhayes.org.

DEC. 12–15, 19–22 – Winter Wonderland Light Display, Sandusky Co. Fgds., 901 Rawson Ave., Fremont. Drive-through Thur./Sun. 6–8 p.m.; walk-through Fri./ Sat. 6–9 p.m. Admission $1 or a nonperishable food item per person to benefit food pantry. Craft shows, kids’ activities, horse rides, refreshments, entertainment, and Santa every Friday and Saturday! 419-332-5604 or www. sanduskycountyfair.com.

DEC. 14 – National Model Railroad Association Train Show, Allen Co. Fgds., 2750 Harding Hwy., Lima, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. $5; 12 and under free. 419-2287141 or www.allencofair.com/events.

DEC. 15 – Winter Festival of Crafts, Franciscan Center at Lourdes University, 6832 Convent Blvd., Sylvania, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Free admission/parking. A beautiful setting for our last show of the year. Pick up that last-minute holiday gift or decoration that will make your holiday bright! 419-842-1925 or www. toledocraftsmansguild.org/shows.html.

DEC. 20 – Classic Movie Night: White Christmas, Hancock Historical Museum, 422 W. Sandusky St.,

Findlay, 7 p.m. Free. Historical information presented before and discussion after the movie. Popcorn and refreshments provided; BYOB. 419-423-4433 or www. hancockhistoricalmuseum.org/special-events.

DEC. 20–21 – Hayes Home Holidays, 1337 Hayes Ave., Fremont, 5–9 p.m., final tour starting at 8 p.m. $8–$10; 5 and under free. Tour the Hayes home to see the historically accurate Christmas decorations. Before or after the tour, enjoy the “Hayes Train Special” model train display in the auditorium. 419332-2081 or www.rbhayes.org.

DEC. 20, 22 – Silver Screen Classics: It’s a Wonderful Life, Valentine Theatre, 400 N. Superior St., Toledo, Fri. 7:30 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. $5. Frank Capra’s classic tale comes to life on the big screen. 419-242-2787 or www.valentinetheatre.com.

DEC. 26–31 – Horse-Drawn Sleigh Rides at Spiegel Grove, 1337 Hayes Ave., Fremont, 1–4 p.m. $7; 2 and under free. Ride through the grounds in a horsedrawn sleigh, as President Hayes did, or in a horsedrawn trolley. Rides are by South Creek Clydesdales. 419-332-2081 or www.rbhayes.org.

JAN. 3–31 – Art Contest: “Not So Bad Art by Good People,” sponsored by the Logan County Art League. Artwork created by 11 selected Logan County VIPs will be on display until Jan. 30 in the lobby of the Citizen’s Federal Savings and Loan, 100 N. Main St., Bellefontaine, during bank lobby hours. Vote for your favorite in person or on our website. Artwork auctioned to the highest bidder at Honey Birch Farm on Jan. 31. https://logancountyartleague.org.

JAN. 4–5 – Tri-State Gun Show, Allen Co. Fgds., 2750 Harding Hwy., Lima (2 miles east of Lima on St. Rte. 309), Sat. 8:30 a.m.–4 p.m., Sun. 8:30 a.m.–3 p.m. $8; 18 and under and members free. Cash only. 450 tables of modern and antique guns, edged weapons, and sportsmen equipment. 419-647-0067 (Manetta Obringer) or www.allencofair.com/events.

DECEMBER/JANUARY

NORTHEAST

THROUGH DEC. 29 – Elegant Illusions DriveThrough Park, Portage Co. Fgds., 4215 Fairground Rd., Atwater, Thur./Sun. 6–9 p.m., Fri./Sat. 6–10 p.m., closed Mon.–Wed. $20 car, truck, SUV, van; $40–$50 limo and bus. All-new LED displays, the latest in animatronics, and over 50 holiday scenes, plus visits with Santa and Mr. Grinch. 330-947-2974 or www. elegantchristmaslighting.com.

THROUGH DEC. 31 – “Elegance of Christmas Past,” Victorian House Museum, 484 Wooster Rd., Millersburg, Sun.–Thur. 1–4 p.m., Fri./Sat. 1–8 p.m. This year we are re-creating some decorating themes of the past, as well as adding a vintage clothing display throughout the house. 330-674-0022 or www. facebook.com/VictorianHouseMuseum.

THROUGH DEC. 31 – Ashtabula County’s Lights on the Lake, Lakeshore Park, 1700 E. 1st St., Ashtabula, Fri.–Sun. 6–9 p.m.; open Dec. 24–25, 31: 6–9 p.m. Car or van $5, bus $1/person, mini bus $20. Largest holiday light display on Lake Erie, with over 70 displays on 54 acres of rolling hills and the majestic lake as a backdrop. 440-993-1051 or www.aclotl.com.

SOUTHEAST

THROUGH DEC. 22 – The Magic of Christmas Mansion Tours, Belmont County Victorian Mansion Museum, 532 N. Chestnut St., Barnesville, Fri. 5–8 p.m., Sat./Sun. 1–4 p.m. Join us for some Christmas cheer and see our museum decorated for the season. This year’s theme is Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. www.belmontcountymuseum.com.

THROUGH DEC. 22 – Santa Train, Hocking Valley Scenic Railway, Nelsonville Depot, 33 W. Canal St., Nelsonville. $19–$24; under 3 free. Santa boards the train and visits with each child as the train traverses the historic Hocking River Valley. See website for dates and times. www.hvsry.org/train-rides/santa.

THROUGH JAN. 10 – Steubenville Nutcracker Village and Christmas at the Fort, Steubenville Visitor Center, 120 S. 3rd St., Steubenville. Free. Over 200 large-as-life, unique nutcrackers are stationed throughout the downtown and Fort Steuben Park 24/7; Advent Market, hayrides, the Holly Trolley, children’s activities, music, crafts, and much more. 740-283-4935 or www.steubenvillenutcrackervillage. com.

NOV. 29–DEC. 1, 6–8, 13–15, 20–29 – Medina County Fair Drive-Thru Holiday Lights, Medina Co. Fgds., 720 W. Smith Rd., Medina, Sun.–Thur. 6–9 p.m., Fri./Sat. 6–10 p.m. Car $10, small bus/15-passenger van $20, large bus $50 330-723-9633 or www. medinaohiofair.com.

NOV. 29–DEC. 1, 5–23, 26–30 – Stan Hywet’s Deck the Hall, Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron, 3–8 p.m. $9–$24; 2 and under free. Over 1 million holiday lights illuminate the estate, and the Manor House is decorated in beautiful holiday fashion. Enjoy shopping and refreshments before or after the tour. 330-315-3287 or www.stanhywet.org.

DEC. 6–8, 13–15 – Candlelight Holiday Tours of Malabar Farm, 4050 Bromfield Rd., Lucas, Fri./ Sat. 5–8 p.m., Sun. 1–4 p.m. $6; ages 6–18, $4 Self-guided tours of Louis Bromfield’s Big House, all decked out for the holidays. Enjoy cookies and warm drinks after the tour. 419-892-2784 or www. malabarfarm.org/events.

DEC. 14 – Solon Hometown Holiday Market, Solon Recreation Center, 35000 Portz Parkway, Solon, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Free admission. Artists and crafters will be selling their original handmade items. Celebrate the holiday season while shopping local! www. avantgardeshows.com.

THROUGH DEC. 28 – Athens Farmers Market, Athens Community Center, 701 E. State St., Athens, Sat. 9 a.m.–noon. Voted Ohio’s #1 favorite farmers market! 740-593-6763 or www. athensfarmersmarket.org.

THROUGH JAN. 1 – Dickens Victorian Village, downtown Cambridge. Stroll the streets to view scenes depicting life in Victorian England, featuring life-sized, handmade mannequins wearing real vintage clothing. 800-933-5480 or www. dickensvictorianvillage.com.

THROUGH JAN. 1 – Guernsey County Courthouse Holiday Light Show, Cambridge, 5:30–9 p.m. nightly. Four different light and music shows performed each evening. Extended hours on selected dates. 800-933-5480 or www. dickensvictorianvillage.com.

DEC. 14–15 – Chillicothe Christmas Tour of Homes, downtown Chillicothe, Sat. 4–8 p.m., Sun. 1–5 p.m. $25. Tour 10 beautifully decorated homes and museums, including historic and mid-century modern homes. www.visitchillicotheohio.com.

DEC. 15 – Columbus Symphony Holiday Pops Spectacular, Ohio University Chillicothe, Shoemaker Center Gymnasium, 101 University Dr., Chillicothe, 4–7 p.m. $5–$25. www.downtownchillicothe.com.

2024

CALENDAR

DEC. 14–15 – Jingle Mingle Craft and Vendor Show, Ehrnfelt Recreation Center, 18100 Royalton Rd., Strongsville, Sat. 9 a.m.–2 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Free admission. Over 70 vendors selling handmade crafts, wood items, home decor, seasonal items, handmade cards, and much more. www. hometownvendors.org.

DEC. 22 – Flea Market of Collectables, Medina County Community Center, 735 Lafayette Rd., Medina, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. $2. Early bird special admission 6–9 a.m., $3. A treasure trove of vintage items and collectibles. 330-948-4300 or https://conraddowdell. com/event.

JAN. 4 – Snow Dogs Train Show, presented by Cuyahoga Valley S Gauge Association, Emidio and Sons Expo Center, 48 E. Bath Rd., Cuyahoga Falls, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. $6; under 12 free. Free parking. Operating layout of several gauges, many dealers, good food at reasonable prices. www.cleveshows. com or www.cvsga.com.

JAN. 12 – Bill Lestock: Mandolin, Wadsworth Public Library, 132 Broad St., Wadsworth, 2–3 p.m. Free. Lestock plays original instrumental mandolin music that blends bluegrass, old-time, baroque, and blues. A firefighter for 33 years, he incorporates melodies and imagery inspired by a life and culture of firefighting. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. 419-8536016 or www.ormaco.org.

JAN. 13 – Mohican Winterfest, Loudonville. Free. Family festival centering around Olympic Ice Carvings and the Model Train Expo. 419-994-2519 or www. discovermohican.com.

DEC. 16 – Christmas with John Berry, Majestic Theatre, 45 E. Second St., Chillicothe, Time: 7:30 p.m. $25–$55. The Grammy-winning singer/songwriter is back for his 28th annual Christmas tour. bringing the joy of live music and much-needed Christmas spirit to his fans. www.majesticchillicothe.net.

DEC. 21 – Solstice Watch, Sacra Via Park (between Third and Second Streets), Marietta, 4–5:30 p.m. Free. Weather permitting, we will view the sun setting in near perfect alignment with Sacra Via. Maps provided. Archaeologist Wes Clarke will discuss the astronomical alignments of Marietta’s mound structures. 740-373-1480 or www. mariettacastle.org.

DEC. 31 – New Year’s Eve Train and Fireworks, Hocking Valley Scenic Railway, Nelsonville Depot, 33 W. Canal St., Nelsonville, 10:30 p.m.–12:30 a.m. $25–$38. The train will travel to East Logan and return, stopping near the stroke of midnight to ring in the new year with a fireworks display! Refreshments served. www.hvsry.org/train-rides/new-years-evetrain-fireworks.

JAN. 11 – The Outlaws, Peoples Bank Theatre, 222 Putnam St., Marietta, 8 p.m. $33 and up. www.peoplesbanktheatre.com/event.

2024 CALENDAR

DECEMBER/JANUARY

CENTRAL

THROUGH JAN. 1 – Butch Bando’s Fantasy of Lights, Alum Creek State Park Campgrounds, 3311 S. Old State Rd., Delaware, Sun.–Thur. 5:30–9 p.m., Fri./ Sat. 5:30–10 p.m. Locally owned and family-operated drive-through holiday light show. See website for ticket information. 614-412-3499 or https://butchbandosfantasyoflights.com.

THROUGH JAN. 5 – Wildlights at the Zoo, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, 4850 W. Powell Rd., Powell, Sun.–Thur. 5–9 p.m., Fri./Sat. 5–10 p.m. Included with zoo admission. Millions of LED lights, animated musical light shows, Santa, reindeer, and plenty of holiday family fun. www.columbuszoo.org/wildlights.

NOV. 29–JAN. 6 – Nativity at Cathedral Square, St. Joseph Cathedral, 212 E. Broad St., Columbus. Free. Historic outdoor life-sized Nativity display (formerly at State Auto). Lighting times: daily 6–8 a.m., 5–11:30 p.m.; until 12:30 a.m. Fri./Sat.; Christmas Eve 3 p.m. until 8 a.m. Christmas Day. Choir schedule available at www.facebook.com/catholicmuseumcolumbus.

SOUTHWEST

THROUGH DEC. 18 – Bluegrass Wednesdays, Vinoklet Winery, 11069 Colerain Ave., Cincinnati, Wed. 6:30–8:30 p.m. Enjoy dinner, wine, and an evening of free entertainment by Vernon McIntyre’s Appalachian Grass. Reservations recommended. 513-385-9309, vinokletwinery@fuse.net, or www. vinokletwines.com.

THROUGH DEC. 23 – North Pole Express, LM&M Railroad, 16 E. South St., Lebanon. $35–$50; under 2, $10. See website for days and times. Take a ride on a vintage train to visit with Santa and his elves! Children will receive a souvenir bell and a holiday cookie. Hot chocolate available for purchase. 513933-8022 or www.lebanonrr.com/northpole.

DEC. 6, JAN. 3 – First Friday Art Walk, downtown Zanesville, 5–8 p.m. Come downtown on the first Friday of each month, when all our participating galleries, studios, and small businesses are open at the same time! https://artcoz.org/arts-district-map.

DEC. 14 – Annual Holiday Cookie Walk, Fairfield County Genealogical Research Library, 503 Lenwood Dr., Lancaster (corner of West Mulberry and Lenwood), 1–4 p.m. Great variety of holiday treats. 740-653-2573 or www.fairfieldgenealogy.org.

DEC. 15 – Columbus Winter Avant-Garde Art and Craft Show, Makoy Event Center, 5462 Center St., Hilliard, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $3; under 12 free. Artists and crafters will be selling their original handmade items. Full concessions stand on-site. A portion of proceeds will benefit Hope Hollow. www. avantgardeshows.com.

DEC. 21–22 – Polaris Makers Market Christmas Shows, Polaris Fashion Place, 1500 Polaris Parkway, Columbus, Sat. 12–6 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–9 p.m. Local makers and small businesses selling their one-of-a-kind wares and holiday gifts. www. polarismakersmarket.com.

DEC. 21–22 – Scott Antique Market, Ohio Expo Center, 717 E. 17th Ave., Columbus, Sat. 9 a.m.–6 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Free admission; parking $7. America’s favorite treasure hunt! info@ scottantiquemarket.com or www.scottantiquemarkets. com.

JAN. 3–5 – Columbus Building and Renovation Expo, Ohio Expo Center, Kasich Hall, 717 E. 17th Ave., Columbus, Fri. 12–6 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Sun.

11 a.m.–5 p.m. $5, under 18 free; parking $7. From top-quality exhibits to insightful demonstrations and more, you’ll discover thousands of ways to design or renovate your home. www.homeshowcenter.com.

JAN. 10–19 – Ohio RV and Boat Show, Ohio Expo Center, 717 E. 17th St., Columbus. $15, 12 and under free; parking $7. The new year’s RVs, campers, boats, pontoon/tritoons, PWCs, golf cars, and motorcycles. On-site beer garden and refreshments provided by Schmidt’s Sausage Haus! www.ohiorvandboatshow.com.

JAN. 12 – Columbus Paper, Postcard, and Book Show, Franklin Co. Fgds., Edwards Bldg., 5035 NW Parkway, Hilliard, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. $6. Vintage paper, postcards, books, ads, non-sports cards, photographs, comics, magazines, documents, and much more. 614-206-9103 (Terry Bigler) or www.facebook.com/ Columbus-Paper-Show-134469001768

JAN. 12 – Columbus Wedding Expo by A Bridal Affair, Marriott Columbus Northwest, 5605 Paul Blazer Parkway, Dublin, 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Free admission; registration required. Giveaways including wedding rings, honeymoons, and gift cards; vendor discounts and specials. Every couple receives a special wedding gift card, value $200. Register at www.eventbrite.com.

JAN. 12 – Ohio Guitar Show, Makoy Center, 5462 Center St., Hilliard, 11:30 a.m.–5 p.m. $10 (cash only). Over 100 dealers. Buy, sell, or trade guitars, amps, effects, parts, catalogs. 740-797-3351, guitardigest@ frontier.com, or https://ohioguitarshow.com.

THROUGH DEC. 31 – Light Up Middletown, Smith Park, 500 Tytus Ave., Middletown, 6–10 p.m. daily. A drive-through fantasy light display, open in all weather. Admission by cash donation; you set the price! www.lightupmiddletown.org.

THROUGH JAN. 5 – Christmas at the Junction, 7379 Squire Court, West Chester. Take a magical journey through a winter wonderland to the North Pole and visit Santa and Mrs. Claus. World’s largest train display, kids’ play area, interactive attractions. We are closing in January 2025, so this is your last chance to enjoy our amazing event! www. entertrainmentjunction.com.

THROUGH JAN. 5 – Holiday Lights on the Hill, Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park and Museum, 1763 Hamilton-Cleves Rd., Hamilton. Tues.–Thur. 6–9 p.m., Fri.–Sun. 6–10 p.m.; closed Mondays except Dec. 23; closed Christmas Day. $25/car; $50/large vehicle. Drive-through tour featuring over 1 million lights and illuminated installations by local artists. www.pyramidhill.org/events/lights.

DEC. 1–31 – ParkLights at Caesar Ford Park, 520 S. Stringtown Rd., Xenia, 6–9 p.m. Drive-through dazzling light display. 937-562-6440 or www. gcparkstrails.com/events/parklights.

DEC. 11–12 – “Jingle Jazz: The Nutcracker Remix,” The Redmoor (Mt. Lookout), 3187 Linwood Ave., Cincinnati, 7 p.m. Ring in the holiday season with the CCJO! Enjoy swinging remixes of your favorite holiday classics, many of which were written by members of the orchestra. 513-227-1039 or www. cincinnatijazz.org.

DEC. 14 – Christmas in Loveland, Historic Downtown Loveland, 4–8 p.m. Free. Carriage rides, complimentary tastings from area restaurants, crafts, holiday beverages, live Christmas entertainment, live Nativity scene, and more. https://lovinlifeloveland. com/events/christmas-in-loveland.

DEC. 21 – Winter Drive-in Movie, Hueston Woods State Park, 6301 Park Office Rd., College Corner, 6–10 p.m. Free; donations appreciated. Join us at the beach to enjoy two winter movie favorites! Food trucks and vendors will be available. 513-523-6347 or www.ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-aproperty/hueston-woods-state-park.

JAN. 11 – “Chocolate Meltdown and More!,” Oxford Arts Center, 10 S. College Ave., Oxford, 1–5 p.m. Free. Chocolate vendors, art exhibition, games, and other fun events. 513-524-8506 or www.oxarts.org.

These are two of our 16 great-grandchildren: Stella (5) and Sterling (3), decorating our tree!

, Firelands Electric Cooperative member

Our grandchildren, Tori, Trevor, and T.J. Wilson, being “good little children” in anticipation of Santa!

For March, send “Hoops hysteria” by Dec. 15.

Upload your photos at www.ohiocoopliving.com/memberinteractive. Your photo may be featured in our magazine or on our website. Send us YOUR picture!

For April, send “Spring break” by Jan. 15.

Linda Marks

Patty Quaglia, South Central Power Company member

Grandpa Gary reading ’Twas the Night Before Christmas to his granddaughter, Emma. Fianna Wagner, Darke Rural Electric Cooperative member

Son JJ Raynes, mother Michelle DeSantis, and Santa. Marie Raynes, South Central Power Company member

Maverick Johnson, grandson of Mark and Tammie Johnson. Tammie Johnson, Washington Electric Cooperative member

before Christmas

My

Linda

Roman,

Grand-twins, Sam and Lily, anxiously waiting for Santa. Cheri Raphael, Firelands Electric Cooperative member

Moo-ry Christmas from the Carmins — Caleb, Jess, Colby, Jase, Fin the beagle, and Winchester and Remington.

Jessica Carmin, URE–Union Rural Electric Cooperative member

filling the stockings.

Kim Kimble, North Central Electric Cooperative member

My great-grandson, Tucker, has the milk and cookies out and is ready for Santa.

Susan Wiberg, South Central Power Company member

granddaughter Ruby and her dog, Harbor, eagerly awaiting Santa!

Hug, North Western Electric Cooperative member

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WINTER ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND SAFETY TIPS

Energy strategies to keep your holidays merry, bright, affordable and safe!

 Seal air leaks to prevent heat from escaping and cold air from entering your home.

 Use timers indoors and out to give your decorations—and your electric bill—a break.

 Switch to a smart thermostat and save up to 15% on energy costs.

 Open blinds and curtains during the day to allow sunlight in to warm your home. Close blinds and curtains at night to keep out cold, drafty air.

 Switch to LED lights. They stay cool, use up to 80% less energy than traditional bulbs, and reduce the risk of fire.

ohioec.org/energy

 Lower your water heater temperature to 120 degrees to prevent scalding and save energy.

 Avoid running cords under rugs or in places where pets might be tempted to chew.