Ohio Cooperative Living – January 2025 - Paulding Putnam

INSIDE

FEATURES

22 OHIO’S NATIONAL PARK

The Cuyahoga Valley National Park has come a long way in the 50 years since its first designation from the National Park Service.

28 ARTISTS AT WORK

Portsmouth’s iconic floodwall murals have sparked a new creative economy by the river.

Cover image on most editions: The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad operates in conjunction with the national park, giving visitors an up-close look at park offerings on a relaxing two-hour ride through the valley.

This page: The city of Portsmouth is protected by a 20-foot-tall, 2,000-foot-long floodwall, which has become both a canvas for an astounding array of murals and a driver of the local economy.

Gratitude and optimism

I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to lead two remarkable organizations, Ohio Rural Electric Cooperatives, Inc., and Buckeye Power, Inc. (together known as Ohio’s Electric Cooperatives). Our primary goals — providing affordable, reliable power and partnering with electric cooperatives across Ohio to enhance the lives of their members and communities — have never been more important, and I don’t take that responsibility lightly.

As I step into the role of CEO this month, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks and sincere appreciation to Pat O’Loughlin, whose leadership and dedication have had a profound influence not only on the electric cooperative network across Ohio and around the country, but also on me personally. Pat has been a mentor to me for nearly 30 years, dating back to before either of us was involved with the co-ops, but especially so during the last 21 years we’ve worked together in various roles at OEC.

As you have read in Pat’s messages here over the past 10 years, we are faced with numerous challenges in our mission to provide affordable and reliable power as the electric utility industry has become increasingly complex. However, I want you to know that I am committed to navigating these complexities to achieve the best possible outcomes for Ohio’s cooperatives.

Of course, the other part of our mission — enhancing the lives of our members — is no less important. Along with providing affordable and reliable electricity, we partner on local economic development initiatives, provide employee and community safety training, develop youth programs, and much more. These are fundamental contributions that we make to help strengthen our communities.

Through it all, I will keep you informed about the issues that impact our ability to carry out any part of our mission, because your awareness and advocacy are vital in the effort. It’s crucial that we work together to influence political leaders to pass reasonable laws and regulations that support our cooperatives. I look forward to meeting more of you over the next few years and working together to achieve our goals.

Thank you for your continued support of and dedication to your cooperative. Let us honor Pat’s leadership legacy by striving for excellence, embracing opportunities, and acknowledging the foundational principles that have brought us to where we are. By doing so, we can promote a bright future for Ohio’s electric cooperatives and for the members we serve.

I will keep you informed about the issues that impact our ability to carry out our mission, because your awareness and advocacy are vital in that effort.

Craig Grooms PRESIDENT & CEO OHIO’S ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES

Ohio Rural Electric Cooperatives

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

Craig Grooms President & CEO

Caryn Whitney Director of Communications

Jeff McCallister Senior Managing Editor

Amy Howat Assistant Managing Editor

Neal Kindig Graphic Designer

Contributors: Adobe Stock, Jodi Borger, Colleen Romick Clark, Getty Images, W.H. “Chip” Gross, Sarah Jaquay, Jill Moorhead, and Catherine Murray.

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

Into the future: Supported by experienced experts with a common passion for co-ops, OEC’s new leader aims to keep the statewide organization functioning at its highest level of success.

8 WOODS, WATERS, AND WILDLIFE

In search of the Labrador duck: The story of one man’s as-yet fruitless search for a long-extinct aquatic bird.

10 CO-OP PEOPLE

All in the family: Cooperative members bring their individual talents to work at their small business.

12

GOOD EATS

Tasty freeze: Make these meals ahead of time, then keep ’em on ice for a rainy day.

17

LOCAL PAGES

News and other important information from your electric cooperative.

32 MEMBER INTERACTIVE

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

34

On the slopes: Members capture and share their chilly winter exploits.

CALENDAR

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

Into the future

Supported by experienced experts with a common passion for co-ops, OEC’s new leader aims to keep the statewide organization functioning at the highest level of success.

The executive leadership team at Ohio’s electric cooperative statewide organization (from left): Kevin Zemanek, Tom Alban, Craig Grooms, Ben Wilson, Bill Roberts, Kurt Helfrich, and Doug Miller.

BY JEFF MCCALLISTER AND AMY HOWAT; PHOTOGRAPH BY NEAL KINDIG

In the first 83 years since Ohio’s electric distribution cooperatives pooled their resources to create a statewide association to provide services for their group, only six people have served in that organization’s executive leadership position before this month.

It’s a testament to continuity and consistency that is not lost on Craig Grooms as he assumes the role of president and CEO of Ohio’s Electric Cooperatives (the unified efforts of Ohio Rural Electric Cooperatives, Inc., the service organization, and Buckeye Power, the generation and transmission cooperative the co-ops formed to provide the electricity they distribute to their members). Grooms rose from his previous position as chief operating officer upon the retirement of Pat O’Loughlin, who served in the position for 10 years.

“Our association has a long history of leadership that has made sure these two organizations function at a high level,” Grooms says. “Coming in, my initial thought is, ‘first, do no harm.’ I have an obligation, a responsibility, to make sure we continue to function at that same high level, because our success directly translates into success for each of our member cooperatives and, in turn, into a better quality of life in the communities they serve.”

Grooms says his motivation to serve co-op members stems from his family’s roots in rural southern Ohio — specifically in the area served by West Union-based Adams Rural Electric Cooperative. “It’s a familiar story for really anyone connected to rural Ohio,” he says. “They value any chance to maintain that bond, and it’s even more rewarding when they can help improve life there. I’m humbled to have that same opportunity.”

Grooms will have an experienced senior leadership team in place to advise and support him in his work — each of whom brings a similar passion for the cooperative business model and motivation to make life better for co-op members across the state.

Tom Alban

Vice president for power generation

Tom Alban is responsible for the generation resources — which include the coal-burning Cardinal Power Plant and two natural gas-fired peaking plants — that provide reliable, always-available power to co-op members’ homes and businesses around the state.

Alban, who has a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering and a master’s in engineering management, started out at AEP, working projects like construction of a new power plant and adding emissions controls to existing plants. When he came to work for Ohio’s co-ops in 2004, that hands-on experience was invaluable when Buckeye took over operations at the Cardinal Plant, which had formerly been managed by AEP.

He’s found that while the physical operations and maintenance of aging power plants present an ongoing challenge, so too does the ever-changing landscape of regulations and compliance. “We spend a lot of effort in evaluating complex regulations and developing strategies to comply with them,” he says — but stresses that it’s worth it.

“There’s a big difference between working for an investor-owned utility and for cooperatives,” Alban says. “At cooperatives, it’s all about the members and providing affordable, reliable electricity, which makes people’s lives better. I’m proud to be a part of that.”

Doug Miller

Vice

president for statewide services

Doug Miller has been involved with electric cooperatives for 34 years. He worked his way up the ranks to become CEO at Logan County Electric Cooperative in Bellefontaine before joining the statewide association in 2014, and now proudly leads the division that, he says, helps put Ohio’s cooperatives in a position to fulfill their ultimate mission.

“People may think of their co-op just as the place they pay their electric bill, but their real purpose, their mission, is to improve the quality of life in the communities they serve,” Miller says. “So in turn, it’s our mission here to help them in areas of common need — things like legislative issues, training their linemen to safely keep the power on, organizing Youth Tour, or putting together a quality magazine to help them communicate with their members — so they can focus on other things.”

Miller says the community mindset was emphasized as soon as he started at the co-op. “I worked for a guy who put me in a position to be a community leader,” Miller says. “He made sure I understood that our success hinged on the quality of life in our community so we did all our work with that in mind,” he says. “It’s the same at co-ops everywhere; you can see just how committed they are. When you witness people coming together to work for the common good during everyday life or in a time of disaster, it’s magical. If I can be in a position to help make that happen, that’s right where I want to be.”

Bill Roberts

Vice president for accounting and finance

When he worked in accounting and finance in the retail industry, Bill Roberts’ main focus was helping his company’s bottom line, balancing the interests of shareholders who wanted to make the most money possible, customers who balked at high prices, and a management team looking out for its own compensation. “It was a real three-ring circus,” he says. Working for the past 15 years for the co-ops, though, where he’s played a significant part in setting the rates that members pay for their electricity, is an entirely different experience. “Here, no one asks, ‘How much money can we make?’” he says. “It’s ‘What can I do to keep rates both stable and affordable?’”

For example, Buckeye Power might earn unexpected revenue by selling electricity on the open market during severe weather. Instead of distributing those excess profits to shareholders or giving a bonus to the management team, Roberts might recommend paying down debt, or deferring some revenue to ensuing years’ budgets to protect against shortfalls later — thus avoiding future rate hikes. “The accounting decisions that I recommend to our board are not the same as they would be if we had different priorities,” he says. “It’s awesome to be able to focus on that end user, our member. But that’s what we do.”

Kurt Helfrich General counsel

Kurt Helfrich practiced for 20 years at an outside law firm, where he represented Ohio’s co-ops on a wide range of legal

and regulatory issues, before OEC hired him full-time to establish its in-house legal department in 2018. He is OEC’s principal lawyer, helping advance the organization’s interests in court, but also supporting Ohio’s co-ops as they navigate complex topics like large power contracts, Ohio electric utility territorial law, and energy regulations.

He says his work is important because there are few voices representing end-of-the line co-op members when those issues are being decided. “Other participants [in those proceedings] may represent narrow or conflicting interests such as shareholders, regulated utilities, environmental and renewable advocates, large industrial consumers, merchant generators, and transmission owners,” he says. “My sole mission is to represent the interests of the Ohio cooperatives and the members who own and control them.”

Kevin Zemanek Vice president for operations

Kevin Zemanek wears several hats, though perhaps his most critical task is managing Buckeye Power’s interactions with the larger electric grid — balancing the minute-by-minute supply of electricity to meet members’ needs. He also makes sure Buckeye stays in compliance with regional and national grid regulations, and he manages OEC’s physical facilities.

Zemanek has a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering technology and a master’s in engineering management. He started at Buckeye Power a little more than 20 years ago as a power system scheduler, gaining experience and responsibility ever since. “I was lucky that I joined just as our regional energy market was expanding to include Ohio, so I learned all of the market rules early on.” He was also part of the Cardinal Plant transition in 2018.

Zemanek says the best part of his work is being able to focus solely on what’s best for members. “We know exactly who we work for: the members at the end of the line,” he says. “Our goal is reliable, affordable, safe power, not just making money. We don’t have shareholders telling us what to do. Members have a voice at the distribution co-ops, and those co-ops have a voice on our board.”

Ben Wilson

Assistant vice president for power delivery

Ben Wilson says he leads the “wires” team, responsible for getting electricity from the power generators to the co-ops — usually at their substations — so the co-ops can distribute that energy to their members. Since joining OEC in 2012, he’s also led Buckeye Power’s work to incorporate alternative energy resources, such as the OurSolar program.

“I enjoy this work because I enjoy solving puzzles, and the electric grid is a big, complicated mess,” he says. “No one controls everything, and yet the grid somehow has to function while thousands of different organizations claim ownership over some part of the whole. I’m proud and happy that our members trust us to not only make sense of it, but to help bend it in the best direction over time.”

SOUTHEAST SEA ISLANDS

On this enchanting 9-day cruise from Charleston to Amelia Island, experience the charm and hospitality of the South. In the comfort of our modern fleet, travel to some of the most beautiful historic cities in America. The fascinating sites you visit, the warm people you meet, and the delectable cuisine you taste, come together for an unforgettable journey.

Small Ship Cruising Done Perfectly

WOODS, WATERS, AND WILDLIFE

In search of…

the Labrador duck

BY W.H. “CHIP” GROSS

Professional ornithologist Glen Chilton made quite the interesting offer in 2009: “I will pay a reward of $10,000 to the first person who can direct me to a genuine stuffed Labrador duck that I have not seen and described in my book, The Curse of the Labrador Duck. I don’t want to buy the duck; I just want to examine it. After I have verified its legitimacy, you get the money.”

A Canadian now living in Australia, Chilton is the world’s foremost authority on the extinct Labrador duck and was quite serious about his cash offer. No one ever collected.

“My editor at Harper-Collins Canada made the very wise suggestion that I put a time limit of one year on the offer,” Chilton says. “In that year, I had all sorts of claims on the money, but none of them turned out to be real Labrador duck skins. Some were re-creations from bits and pieces of other ducks, and some were females of other species.”

Chilton made the offer because he had just completed a nearly 10-year study to personally examine all 55 known remaining taxidermic mounts and study skins of the bird, and he wanted to make sure he had located them all.

His quixotic quest took him to museums throughout North America and Europe. He logged 72,018 miles on airplanes; 5,461 miles on trains; 3,408 miles in cars; 158 miles in taxis; 43 miles on ferries; and 1,169 miles on buses. That total of 82,257 miles is longer than three times around the earth at the equator!

The Labrador duck became extinct more than a century ago. Its breeding grounds are unknown, though suspected to be in northern Canada, but it wintered along the Atlantic coast, particularly in the vicinity of New York City. The last known Labrador duck, an immature male, was shot in the waters around Long Island in 1875. That bird now resides in the Smithsonian.

Though a serious ornithologist, Chilton has a well-developed sense of humor, which, though it extends to all birds, is particularly focused on the Labrador duck. In his book, he writes briefly about the famous bird artist John James Audubon (1785–1851) and his brush — pun intended — with the Labrador duck.

“When I say that it was Audubon’s goal to ‘study and paint’ birds in Labrador, I mean that he planned to shoot a lot of birds, bring their corpses back to camp, stick wires up their bums to hold them in place, twist them into postures they never could have attained in life, and then paint them,” he says. “You don’t have to look at many Audubon paintings to get a sense of what I mean.”

Here’s Chilton’s tongue-in-cheek description of a male Labrador duck he tracked down at the Redpath Museum in Montreal: “While measuring its left wing, I glanced at its head, and could swear that it was giving me a reproachful look. I wanted to explain that he had been dead for at least a hundred years before I was even born, and that I am a vegetarian, and don’t shoot ducks or any other animals, and that I feed bread crumbs to ducks every chance I get, and … but I didn’t feel that he would be satisfied with any answer I gave.”

The closest Chilton ever came to Ohio during all his miles of travel was when he visited a Labrador duck specimen at the University of Michigan’s Museum of Zoology. Of his experience there, Chilton said, “The city [Ann Arbor] has a population of 109,000 but Michigan Stadium seats 105,000 for university football games. Oddly, attendance at a single football game almost exactly matches the number of visitors to the University of Michigan’s Museum of Art in a year. And the museum is free.”

(Of course, all of us Ohio State Buckeye fans somehow suspected that.)

The Curse of the Labrador Duck, ornithologist Glen Chilton’s very entertaining book, is available at www.glenchilton.com.

wanted to be able to personalize and help find solutions for companies when they need it,” says Neil Schroer, who owns the company along with his wife, Genny; two of their daughters, Emily Schroeder and Tracy Platfoot; and son-in-law, Josh Platfoot.

(By the way, entrepreneurial spirit runs through the family: Neil and Genny also have a son, Eric, who manages a local machine shop with his wife, Karen, and another daughter, Jacquelyn, who owns a gluten-free meal prep business.)

The origin of 6S Products, a member of Urbana-based Pioneer Electric Cooperative, goes back a long way. Neil

members went in different directions professionally — ranging from the U.S. Postal Service to real estate and accounting. But they recognized the need for their expertise and the niche market they could provide in plastics manufacturing.

“We stayed out of plastics for a few years and then finally realized there was a role that we could fill,” Neil says.

“With our combined experience, we thought we could add value to the industry overall.”

And so they founded 6S Products in 2003 — each bringing different expertise to the business. Josh and

Emily, who previously worked as production injection molders, became the company’s plant manager and warehouse manager; Tracy, who had worked in quality control, became the company’s quality manager; Genny handled the accounting and human resources; and Neil focused on building the infrastructure and securing a customer base.

“We sat back and said, ‘OK, we know we can do this, but we have to fill a niche,’” Neil says, “and that was to stay small and agile enough to allow us to change with the industry.”

Primarily a third- and fourth-tier vendor, 6S Products manufactures items such as fasteners, clips, and assemblies that are used throughout the automotive industry in dashboards, doors, motors, and interior areas that, while they may not be seen by the consumer, are a vital part of the finished product.

As with many startup businesses, the early years were not easy.

“We started with one press until we had more sales than that one press could handle,” Tracy says. “We used to have a couch and a TV in the office, and when that press required a constant operator, that couch became a bed. We did whatever it took to keep that first press up and running.”

Today, the company utilizes 15 injection molding presses that run 24 hours a day, seven days a week, producing hundreds of different types of products. That translates into millions of parts shipped per month — all weighcounted and constantly verified, Josh says, to ensure they meet customers’ requirement and standards.

“Twenty years ago, there were people standing in front of a press and making one part at a time,” Neil says. “We

believe that adding automation to the newest technology is the key to supplying reliable, quality products and enabling competitive pricing for our customers.” The high-precision presses are the latest available, with innovative, robotic equipment to ensure process control and repeatability.

Still, the company has an average of 15 associates on the payroll (including the five owners) and contracts an additional 15 to 20 sub-assemblers.

“We have a good workforce, and that is really important,” Neil says. “We provide a flexible, family-oriented, clean work environment, and staying small gives us an advantage because we don’t have to layer management and can keep our pricing competitive. Everyone does whatever needs to be done.”

Of course, the all-electric Cincinnati Milacron presses make the electric cooperative an important partner as well.

“I wanted this business to be on co-op lines,” Neil says. “They are great at keeping us informed, and we are pleased with how quickly they respond to get us back up and running if there are outages due to storms or other issues.”

And that small, family-oriented atmosphere means they can get be a little more personally involved with their customers, which Neil says is a benefit for both.

“We recently had a gentleman come into the office who told us, ‘This product is my dream and I want to make it a reality by taking it to market,’” Neil says. “We were able to help him put his ideas on paper and put him in contact with a tooling company to produce his mold. We produced the product for him, and he was able to package and market his dream. It’s a great feeling to be able to be a part of that process.”

6S Products in Anna uses injection presses to produce items, such as automotive dashboard clips, for larger manufacturers. These items are usually unseen but vital parts of the finished product.

Tfreeze asty

Make these meals ahead of time, then keep ’em on ice for a rainy day.

READY FOR BREAKFAST STRATA

Prep: 15 minutes | Bake: 75 minutes | Servings: 8

2 tablespoons salted butter

8 store-bought onion rolls (approximately 15 ounces)

12-ounce jar roasted red peppers, drained and diced

1 cup shredded Italian cheese blend

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

10 large eggs

1 cup French onion dip

2 cups half-and-half

Butter a 9x13-inch baking dish. Tear onion rolls into chunks and place in the bottom of the baking dish. Sprinkle with roasted peppers, cheese, salt, and black pepper. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, French onion dip, and half-and-half. Evenly pour over the bread and cheese. Cover casserole with foil and seal in an extra-large freezer bag for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen: Preheat oven to 350 F. Remove casserole dish from bag and place in oven with foil on. Bake 65 minutes, remove foil, and continue another 10 minutes or until strata is puffed and set in the middle. Serve hot.

SPICY SAUSAGE AND SHRIMP STEW

Prep: 20 minutes | Cook: 20 minutes | Servings: 8

12 ounces Andouille sausage, sliced

1 medium onion, diced

1 green pepper, diced

5 ribs celery, diced

1 bunch Swiss chard, ribs and leaves separated and chopped

1 pound uncooked shrimp, deveined, peeled, tail-off

1 cup corn

4 cloves garlic, minced

28-ounce can petite diced tomatoes

6-ounce can no-salt-added tomato paste

Note: This recipe makes 8 servings, written to make 2 batches of stew.

2 beef bouillon cubes

2 teaspoons Creole seasoning

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 cups water (divided)

Divide sausage, onion, green pepper, celery, and chopped Swiss chard ribs between two freezer bags. Stand bag up, remove excess air, seal, and fold over (creating a “roll”).

Divide the next set of ingredients between two new freezer bags: Swiss chard leaves, shrimp, corn, garlic, tomatoes, tomato paste, bouillon, and Creole seasoning. Stand bag up, remove excess air, seal, and fold over (creating a “roll”). Store bags in freezer for up to 2 months.

Take one of each bag out of freezer and place on a plate or hand towel in fridge to thaw a day ahead. When ready to cook, unzip sausage bag and over the sink, lightly drain any accumulated water. In a stockpot over medium heat, sauté sausage mix in a tablespoon of olive oil until vegetables are soft and sausage is seared. Pour second bag of ingredients into stockpot along with a cup of water. Stir, bring to a quick boil, then simmer on low until shrimp is fully cooked. Serve hot.

KOREAN BEEF SLOPPY JOES

Prep: 15 minutes | Cook: 20 minutes | Servings: 8

1 tablespoon sesame oil

1 small onion, finely diced

1 red pepper, finely diced

1 carrot, shredded

2 pounds lean ground beef

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup beef broth

¼ cup soy sauce

2 tablespoons honey

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

1 teaspoon ground ginger

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes

This is a double recipe; serve half now and freeze half for later!

1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with a splash of water

8 hamburger buns

optional toppings: pickled vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté onion, red pepper, and carrot in sesame oil. Cook until softened, about 7 minutes. Add ground beef, breaking up the meat as it cooks through. Once browned, add garlic and stir for a minute. Stir in beef broth through cornstarch. Simmer on medium-low 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened. This is when you can serve half for dinner. Let the leftovers cool before transferring to a large resealable freezer bag. Squeeze out excess air, seal, and freeze for up to 3 months.

From frozen: Place bag on a plate or hand towel in fridge to thaw a day ahead. When ready, pour into a medium skillet over medium heat and stir frequently until warmed through. If mixture begins to dry out or stick to the skillet, add a splash of water and continue stirring. Serve on buns with optional toppings.

PEANUT SAUCE CHICKEN AND RICE

Prep: 15 minutes | Bake: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

¼ cup creamy peanut butter*

¼ cup chili sauce

2 tablespoons ketchup

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons low-salt soy sauce

½ teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon garlic powder

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken strips

*Natural peanut butter may cause sauce to separate.

2 cups cooked rice of your choice

optional: crushed peanuts, minced parsley

Mix together first 7 ingredients (peanut butter through garlic powder) in a freezer-safe container. Seal and freeze for up to 3 months. Chicken can be frozen alongside sauce or bought fresh.

Place container of sauce (and chicken, if frozen) on a plate or hand towel in fridge to thaw a day ahead. When ready, preheat oven to 350 F. Slather chicken strips with sauce and lay flat in an even layer in a 9x13-inch baking dish. Bake covered (for a smooth sauce) or uncovered (for a glaze) for 20 to 25 minutes, until chicken is cooked through. Serve sauce and chicken over rice and garnish with peanuts and parsley.

PAGES

MESSAGE FROM THE CEO

RANDY PRICE President & CEO

A new year and your gift of membership 2025

We saw a lot of changes over the last year here at the cooperative and I feel we are a stronger co-op for it. We are excited to announce some important changes to our team that will help drive the future growth and success of our cooperative. As we continue to expand with our fiber division and adapt to meet the evolving needs of our members, bringing in new talent and expertise is crucial. These new employees bring fresh perspectives, skills, and energy that will enhance our ability to serve our community effectively. You can read more about these staff changes on page 18H.

$2 million in capital credits

Last month, we gave $2 million in patronage cash back to members. On your December bill, you may have noticed a credit for a “Capital Credits Refund.” Each of us as members contributes a portion of equity into the cooperative through our electric bills. This equity is then used to build the electric system that serves us. After some period of time, if the cooperative is financially strong, this equity is returned to us members. For some members, this equates to nearly one month’s electric use!

This is a very valuable difference in the co-op model: a perk only co-op members receive.

2025 work plan

As the new year starts, so does a busy construction season of rebuilding and maintaining our electric facilities that serve your home or business. Poles, electric wires, and all the associated hardware don’t last forever. In 2025, we will be replacing nearly 20 miles of old copper line and testing about 3,460 poles. Multiple substations will be upgraded, and we’ll continue investing six figures into sectionalizing equipment to help restore outages faster. We’ll also be aggressively maintaining our electric rights-of-way to ensure plant growth does not interfere with your reliability.

2025 will be an extremely busy year to say the least, especially as we begin construction of our fiber network. I hope to see ALL our members attend at least one of our planned events this year. Look for more on that in future magazines. I also encourage you to follow us on social media so you can stay up to date on energy-saving advice, internet updates, construction, industry news, and more.

$ 2 million in capital credits: Your piece of the pie!

Your co-op tracks how much electricity you use throughout the year. At the year’s end, we complete financial matters and see if any margins are left.

We notify you of how and when you’ll receive your capital credits payment. 1 2 3 4 5

Our board allocates the margins to members as capital credits, based on electric use.

When our financial condition permits, the board pays out capital credits.

How do capital credits work?

Money remaining after PPEC’s bills are paid each year is known as margins. This money is used for capital expenditures, such as building or replacing lines, and is not paid back immediately. This becomes your investment, or equity, in the company. In a for-profit company, this money would be called profit. To be a true not-for-profit cooperative, we believe this money should be returned to you. We call it capital credits.

When will I get my capital credits?

They usually are issued or returned to you in December. If you’re a current member, you’ll see this as a credit on your energy bill. If you’re a past member owed capital credits, you also will receive this refund. This is why it’s important to keep your address on file with us, even after you move.

In 2024, PPEC returned $2 million in capital credits to members from 1990–2023. Read more online at www.PPEC.coop/capital-credits.

As we all know, energy demands continue to rise, and weather patterns grow more unpredictable, so understanding how we use electricity becomes increasingly crucial. Every household and business in our community plays a significant role in keeping our grid reliable and avoiding potential power interruptions. This guide will explain why your actions matter and how simple changes can make a big difference.

This is typically a last-resort measure, but we need to prepare for the growing risk of extreme weather and changes in energy generation.

To avoid total system failure, grid operators may implement rolling blackouts, or load-shedding, temporarily cutting power to specific areas to reduce demand and stabilize the system.

3. The current situation: Rising demand, less generation

We are in a unique situation in which energy demand is rising. Still, generation is restricted, due to EPA environmental regulations and a push to shift from coal and nuclear power generation.

At the same time, renewable energy sources like wind and solar, while vital, are less predictable and cannot always meet demand at critical times.

1. Understanding peak demand

Peak demand refers to the moments when electricity demand is at its highest. These peaks typically occur during extreme weather events — either in the hottest days of summer, when air conditioning usage spikes, or in the coldest days of winter, when heating systems run at total capacity.

Electricity consumption patterns vary throughout the day, with demand often peaking in the early evening, when people return home, businesses are still running, and both residential and commercial systems are using large amounts of energy simultaneously.

As energy consumption increases, the grid faces more strain, especially when power generation is limited. This is where the concept of load-shed comes into play.

2. What is load-shedding?

Load-shedding is a controlled measure, during which certain areas may experience temporary power outages to prevent a more significant grid failure.

Regional grid operators like PJM (serving Ohio and Indiana, among other states) are responsible for balancing supply and demand in real-time. These operators constantly monitor the grid and dispatch power plants to adjust their output as needed. If demand rises, they will bring additional generators online; if demand is expected to fall, they will reduce generation.

Regional Transmission Organizations Independent System Operator s Electric Utilities

The amount of electricity generated and how much is sent to where it’s needed are typically coordinated and monitored by regional grid operators that essentially act as energy traffic managers. PPEC receives orders from PJM, our grid operator.

Electricity is generated at a power plant, then sent across the grid to homes, schools, and businesses.

Nick Eltzroth CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

Factors that affect electricity supply and demand

• Demand surges

• Extreme temperatures

• Infrastructure costs and availability

4. How members can help

Small changes make a big difference. Simple actions, like turning off lights, adjusting thermostats, and unplugging unused devices during peak times, can significantly reduce demand on the grid.

Timing is crucial. Shifting energy-intensive activities like laundry or dishwashing to non-peak hours helps reduce overall grid strain.

As electricity demand varies throughout the day, grid operators, power plant operators, and electric utilities work to forecast, plan, and purchase enough electricity for everyone.

5. Why it matters for our community

When we take small steps to reduce energy usage, the cumulative effect is substantial. It helps avoid the need for load-shedding and keeps our grid stable, especially during extreme cold spells.

Reducing demand also keeps energy costs down for everyone, as high-demand periods are typically when energy is most expensive.

Conserving energy also means fewer emissions and a smaller carbon footprint for our community, which aligns with long-term sustainability goals.

Ensuring communities have the exact amount of electricity they need is a challenging task, but behind the scenes, a network of industry experts makes it happen every day.

• Supply chain challenges

• Fuel costs

• Federal and state regulations

6. The risks of inaction

If we don’t take proactive steps, we may face more frequent power outages, higher energy costs, and a greater likelihood of emergencies during critical weather conditions.

7. The role of PPEC

PPEC is committed to ensuring reliable power for all members, but we need your help to meet peak demand and navigate the challenges of today’s energy landscape. Together, we can create a more resilient grid that can weather any storm.

Managing peak demand and being prepared for potential load-shedding is a shared responsibility that requires the active participation of every member. Small actions — like reducing energy use during peak times and shifting high-consumption tasks to off-peak hours — can make a significant difference. By working together, we can reduce the risk of power outages, keep energy costs manageable, and support a more sustainable future for our community.

A deeper dive: Why balancing supply and demand is essential

The electrical grid in the U.S. operates on alternating current at 60 Hertz. This means the direction of current changes back and forth 60 times per second. The frequency of the grid is a direct indicator of the balance between supply and demand. When supply matches demand, the frequency stays stable. Deviations, even small ones, can harm equipment like power plants, transformers, and appliances. Low frequency can disrupt motors and damage turbines, while high frequency may cause overheating or equipment shutdowns, potentially leading to supply shortages. Maintaining a stable frequency is crucial to grid reliability and equipment safety.

SHAPING FUTURE LEADERS: DISCOVERING D.C. WITH PPEC LIFETIME TRIP OF A

Youth Tour is an incredible leadership experience and free travel opportunity to Washington, D.C., sponsored each year by Paulding Putnam Electric Co-op. Each June, about 40 high school seniors and juniors from Ohio and Indiana, along with 1,800 students from across the country, come together to visit some of the city’s most iconic sites.

The itinerary includes visits to landmarks like the United States Capitol, the Lincoln Memorial, the Smithsonian Institution, and the Vietnam and Korean war memorials. The journey also encompasses cultural and historical sites such as the Washington National Cathedral and the solemn grounds of Arlington National Cemetery.

The trip is not just about sightseeing; it’s also about understanding the power and responsibilities of leadership. Students have the unique privilege of meeting with their congressional representatives, allowing them to voice their thoughts, concerns, and dreams for a brighter future. In previous years, students met with Rep. Bob Latta and Ohio senators, including Vice President-elect JD Vance.

Isabella Pittman (Miller City New Cleveland High School) and Mallorie Maag (Ottawa-Glandorf High School) were chosen to represent PPEC on the 2024 Youth Tour. Both Isabella and Mallorie shared their experiences with us.

What was Youth Tour like? Were you nervous?

Isabella: “Youth Tour was an amazing experience that helped me explore our government, learn about key figures and events in America’s past, and meet people from all over the country.”

Mallorie: “It was an experience I would never trade for anything. I was able to meet new people from across Ohio and make friendships that will last a lifetime. At first, I was a little nervous, unsure of what it would be like to meet so many new people, but it was really easy.”

What was your favorite place to visit?

Isabella: “My favorite stop was the FDR Memorial. It was not made in Greco-Roman style like most monuments but instead

incorporated waterfalls and different sections for each of his three terms of presidency. I also liked how they highlighted Eleanor Roosevelt’s role during his presidency and how she used the position of first lady as a platform to stand up for her morals.”

Mallorie: “My favorite part was speaking with legislative assistant offices. I got to hear about what their jobs are like and the views of the congressmen they work for on key issues.”

What did you learn about co-ops?

Isabella: “I learned a lot about how electric co-ops work, especially when we toured the Cardinal Power Plant. It was eye-opening to see how electricity is generated and the efforts being made to make the emissions as clean as possible.”

Mallorie: “I learned that electric co-ops do more than just supply energy. It was neat to learn how electricity is produced and distributed across Ohio.”

Why should students apply for Youth Tour?

Isabella: “Youth Tour helped me make many connections with kids from all over the state and even some out of state. I played cards with girls from Arkansas and learned new line dances from kids in Nebraska. It was overall a remarkable experience that helped me connect with my country and the people that live within it.”

Mallorie: “I’d say it’s a one-of-a-kind opportunity. It’s not often you get a chance to visit our nation’s capital, learn so much about it, and meet new people in such a meaningful way. Plus, the trip is free, which makes it even better!”

Apply for the 2025 Youth Tour Today!

The 2025 trip takes place June 15 to 21. This is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, and you won’t want to miss the chance to go! Current high school sophomores and juniors must apply by February 10, 2025

Isabella Pittman & Mallorie Maag

and trade students, and community superstars!

Scholarship opportunities

$3,500—Traditional Children of Members Scholarship

• Awarded to children of PPEC members who are high school seniors with a 3.0+ GPA

1st place: $1,000

2nd: ...............$750

3rd: ................$500

• Five honorable mentions: $250 each

• Winners selected via a random drawing during the co-op’s annual meeting broadcast PPEC

$5,000—General Scholarship Drawing

• Ten $500 scholarships for members of any age or their children currently in college or trade/tech programs or starting by the start of the 2025-26 academic year

$1,500—Community Champions Award

• Scholarship for a student making a positive local impact

• Open to community-nominated students or applicants with a letter of recommendation

• No GPA requirement

• Must start college or a tech/trade program by the start of the 2025-26 academic year

PAULDING PUTNAM ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

Members donate $13,332 to 13 local organizations

PPEC members recently donated $13,332 to 13 local charities and community projects through the cooperative’s Operation Round Up program. Thanks to the 80% of members who round up their electric bills and donate to this fund, PPEC has provided more than $710,900 to northwest Ohio and northeast Indiana communities since 2010.

Participating members round up their monthly electric bills to the next dollar, with the extra pennies being used to help fund charities and groups in their communities. Each quarter, the funds are dispensed to local causes that applied for funding.

The most recent donation recipients include:

• Antwerp Local Schools: $1,000 to purchase adjustable desks and chairs for the special education resource room.

• Columbus Grove Pleasant Township Joint Fire District: $1,215 to purchase a water-straining system to ensure water pumped into the trucks is free of rocks and other materials.

• Family Promise of Lima: $1,500 to purchase air mattresses, pumps, sheet sets, and bed covers.

• Friends of the Grover Hill Library: $1,500 to help replace and repair their water system.

• Junior Achievement of Northern Indiana: $1,000 to purchase classroom kits.

• MAV Youth Mentoring: $1,000 to support the Buddies Program and One on One matches.

• Ottawa Head Start: $1,000 to purchase outdoor learning space activities and play station.

• Paulding Chamber of Commerce: $1,000 to support the Trails Project marketing efforts (printed materials, ads on local radio stations).

• Paulding County Opportunity Center: $ 225 to purchase movie tickets for the Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) Program.

• Power House Youth Center: $1,000 to purchase a refrigerator for the after-school program.

• Vantage Career Center: $1,300 for the Toss a Toy program for local kids.

• VFW Van Wert County: $592 to replace a freezer.

• Wayne Trace Schools (Payne and Grover Hill Elementary): $1,000 to purchase sensory items.

Operation Round Up was started in 2010 as a way to give back to PPEC’s communities. Groups in both Ohio and Indiana can apply by visiting www.ppec.coop/operationround. If you want to participate by rounding up your monthly bill, call PPEC’s office at 800-686-2357. The average member’s donation is about $6 per year.

ENERGY STAR! Be an

AND KEY ACCOUNTS COORDINATOR

As the holiday season approaches and the days grow colder, you may be considering ways to stay cozy while also managing home energy use.

One of the best ways to make your home more energy efficient is by choosing products with the ENERGY STAR label. But what exactly does that label mean, and how can it benefit you?

How products earn the ENERGY STAR label

ENERGY STAR is a program by the U.S. Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency to help consumers identify energy-efficient products that save money and reduce environmental impact.

Products that earn the ENERGY STAR label must meet strict guidelines for energy efficiency, performance, and cost effectiveness. Here’s how the process works:

1. The product must be more energy efficient than typical models. This helps you save on energy bills by using less electricity while still providing the same performance.

2. The product must be tested in EPA-recognized labs, following standardized procedures. These tests ensure the product meets all energy efficiency and performance requirements.

3. Once tested, the product’s data is reviewed by a third-party certification body to verify it meets the set standards. This ensures that only the best products receive the ENERGY STAR label.

Even after a product is certified, the EPA conducts “off-theshelf” testing on random samples of ENERGY STAR products to ensure they continue to meet the required standards. If a product fails to meet the performance requirements during verification testing, it can be disqualified from the

ENERGY STAR program. The EPA has clear procedures for handling such disqualifications to maintain the integrity of the label.

Speaking of labels

Whether you’re upgrading your refrigerator, replacing lightbulbs, or purchasing new electronics, the blue ENERGY STAR label is your assurance that the product has passed all energy efficiency tests. It’s easy to spot and can be found on products ranging from small and major appliances to electronics.

Many large appliances, such as washing machines and clothes dryers, include a yellow Energy Guide label that provides estimated energy use. Comparing these labels can help you determine how much you’ll save with an ENERGY STAR model compared to a standard model.

While ENERGY STAR products can cost a little more up front, their energy savings over time will often cover the difference. They help reduce your household energy consumption, which could translate to lower utility bills.

Why should I care?

As a member of an electric cooperative, your choice of energy-efficient products benefits not only you but also our entire community. When co-op members use less energy, it lowers overall electricity demand, helping to stabilize rates and reduce costs for everyone.

As you shop for appliances, electronics or other home equipment this holiday season, look for the ENERGY STAR label. Whether it’s a new washing machine or energy efficient lighting options, these products are a simple and effective way to save money and lower energy use. Check with your local electric co-op to see whether it offers rebates or incentives for purchasing ENERGY STAR products.

To browse products that have earned the ENERGY STAR label, visit https://www.energystar.gov.

One of the best ways to make your home more energy efficient is by choosing products with the ENERGY STAR label. Photo Source: Energy Star

Peter Niagu, CKAE BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Community outreach

THANK YOU TO OUR MEMBERS AND EMPLOYEES

This past year, PPEC members and employees donated more than 80 coats to local organizations to help keep kids and adults warm this winter.

Paulding County Opportunity Center

Oakwood Elementary

Thomas Edison in Van Wert

Paulding County Christmas for Kids

St. James Lutheran Food Pantry, New Haven

Payne Elementary

Continental Elementary

PPEC member and past CEO George

dropped off items during the drive

Our Veterans Day drive collected a large supply of personal hygiene supplies to support the men and women who served.

PPEC staff raised more than $1,900 internally, which will be divided between three different local organizations through our C.R.E.W. committee activities.

PPEC staff decked the truck for the annual Merry & Bright Parade in Paulding.

Clothes For Joes

Carter

PAULDING PUTNAM ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

PPEC reflects on year-end growth with staff changes

High-speed internet deployment, workforce development a top priority in 2025

Paulding Putnam Electric Cooperative has experienced remarkable growth in 2024, positioning itself for a stronger future as it prepares for the multi-year deployment of high-speed fiber internet service in late 2025. This growth has been driven by a dedicated investment in leadership, local workforce development, and member-focused initiatives that improve quality of life.

“In 2024, we’ve laid the groundwork for an exciting future,” said PPEC President and CEO Randy Price. “From recruiting and promoting top local talent to refining our culture and services, we are laser-focused on delivering value to our members. As we prepare to provide high-speed internet alongside electricity, we must prioritize that our cooperative has the right local people and tools in place to make this additional service seamless and impactful.”

Key Staff Changes

Promotions:

• Nick Eltzroth (Fort Wayne, IN): Promoted to Chief Operating Officer.

• Stacy Morrison (Defiance, OH): Promoted to Director of HR and Administration.

• Rob Weisenburger (Oakwood, OH): Promoted to Engineering Supervisor.

• John McMaster (Paulding, OH): Promoted to Line Supervisor.

New Hires:

• Renee Hull (Cecil, OH): Chief Financial Officer.

• Chris (C.J.) Gaskill (Defiance, OH): Broadband OSP Manager.

• Jeff Noggle (Fort Wayne, IN): GIS Technician.

• David Taylor (Hicksville, OH): Apprentice Lineman.

• Austin Wisner (Cloverdale, OH): Lineman.

Position Changes:

• Zak Kauser (Paulding, OH): Took on the role of Staking Technician and is completing additional training.

• Barb Rife (Paulding, OH): Transitioned to Engineering and Operations Coordinator.

• Adam Drummelsmith (Leipsic, OH) and Mike Taylor (Paulding, OH): Graduated from the Central Ohio Lineworker Training program, becoming journeyman linemen. This hands-on coursework took four years to complete with on-the-job training.

• Josh Smith (Antwerp, OH): Assumed the role of Warehouse Coordinator, assisting with inventory management.

• Peter Niagu (Payne, OH): Transitioned to Business Development & Key Accounts Coordinator, managing economic development, renewable energy, and energy advising. Niagu recently earned his Certified Key Account Executive certification.

• Jamie Mericle (Paulding, OH): Added accounts payable duties to her role, which also includes member service. Mericle won the Q2 Rockstar Employee Award.

• Maddy Lamb (Van Wert, OH): Transitioned from parttime to full-time Marketing Specialist, expanding her duties to include youth programs and cross-training.

Preparing for the Future

PPEC is not only focused on today’s needs but is also actively investing in a future that will benefit the next generation. The upcoming launch of high-speed internet will bring transformative benefits to the region.

“High-speed internet is not just a convenience; it’s a necessity for education, work, and quality of life,” Price said. “We are preparing to ensure every member has access to reliable service that meets their needs.”

As our electric cooperative continues its journey to bring high-speed fiber connectivity the members and community, we are excited to announce the hiring of our first official fiber employee.

Christopher Gaskill

Broadband OSP Manager

We are excited to welcome Christopher “C.J.” Gaskill, our Broadband OSP Manager, to the PPEC team! He joins us with 14 years of experience in the industry.

Before being hired, C.J. was named a recipient of the Defiance Chamber of Commerce’s “4 Under 40” award, intended to recognize community members who have distinguished themselves early in their careers. We are proud of C.J.’s hard work and excited to see that dedication work for our membership.

Here’s a fun Q&A with C.J. to help our members get to know the newest member of our PPEC family.

Tell us about your family.

“My wife, Katy, and I recently celebrated our 10-year anniversary. We are proud parents to a 9-year-old daughter, Cora, and a 5-year-old son, Carson. We live in Defiance, Ohio.”

Why did you want to work at PPEC?

“I’m excited to support the development of a reliable fiber internet connection to serve the rural communities within PPEC’s service area.”

Tell us about your work history.

“For the last 14 years, I have worked with a wireless internet service provider, where we initiated and developed a fiber-to-the-home offering over recent years. Before my departure, I served as the plant manager, overseeing the company’s growth and operational success.”

What will you be doing here at PPEC?

“I will be committed to delivering reliable internet service to our members while building a team focused on exceptional, member-oriented service.”

What are you looking forward to?

“Working with a great team to introduce innovative solutions that bring valuable benefits to both our company and our members.”

What are some of your hobbies and interests outside of work?

“Attending my kids’ sporting events, camping, riding sideby-sides, and playing golf.”

A fun fact about you?

“I am the fire chief of Noble Township Fire Department.”

A favorite quote that inspires you or you like to live by?

“Life has no limitations except the ones you make.”

We are looking for members to share how having high-speed, reliable internet will benefit you. Contact us at 419-399-1868 or email eherman@ppec.coop and share why you are excited. You might even be featured in our upcoming video or future marketing materials!

Did you know space heaters are one of the most expensive home appliances to use? The average space heater uses about 1,500 watts of energy per hour. That’s more than $100 per month if used all day! Instead of using a space heater, consider adjusting your thermostat by a few degrees or installing a heat pump. Take control of your energy use by using our energy calculators on our website. Find out how the little changes add up with enhanced home use data. Learn more at www.bit.ly/PPECEnergyCalculator.

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national park hio’s

Cuyahoga Valley has come a long way in the 50 years since its original National Park Service designation.

BY SARAH JAQUAY

Imagine, if you will, the 1974 landscape in the valley carved out by the Cuyahoga River between Akron and Cleveland: beautiful waterfalls surrounded by deep woods, interesting and plentiful rock formations, colorful meandering meadows, idyllic small lakes.

But those 33,000+ acres also were heavily used by residents, by industry, by commerce. The land also included Richfield Coliseum, then a popular concert venue and home of the still-fledgling Cleveland Cavaliers; a declining (now abandoned) paper mill and surrounding company town that had sprung up around it; and a private dump that would soon become an EPA Superfund site because of its toxic contamination.

In December of 1974, 50 years ago last month, the U.S. Congress passed legislation to create the Cuyahoga Valley National Recreation Area, the third national

Continued on page 24

Continued from page 22

recreation area created as part of the federal government’s “Parks for the People” movement (the others were the Golden Gate National Recreation Area in San Francisco and Gateway National Recreation Area near New York City). The CVNRA became a national park in 2000 — 25 years ago this year.

“There’s a lot of hope involved in taking a landscape and turning it into a national park,” says Jennie Vasarhelyi, chief of interpretation, education, and visitor services at Cuyahoga Valley National Park, which marks its anniversaries with a series of events and celebrations over the coming year.

The “Parks for the People” movement was partly in response to urban unrest that had spread across America during the Vietnam era, and partly to make National Park Service lands more accessible to people who couldn’t visit the more iconic but remote locations, such as Yosemite, Yellowstone, or the Badlands.

Deb Yandala, president and CEO of the Conservancy for the CVNP, a nonprofit organization that promotes and fundraises for the park, says there was incredible local support for the CVNRA at the time. “This park exists because of our community members,” she says, crediting everyone from garden club members who led bus tours of the valley to politicians like the late Ralph Regula (R-Canton) and the late John Seiberling (D-Akron), who worked across the aisle in support of the founding legislation.

general counsel, and U.S. ambassador to the Seychelles, had a role. “When the Cuyahoga River burned (in 1969), he really raised environmental awareness,” Yandala says. That national moment, with Stokes’ advocacy, helped lead to the Clean Water Act and other federal legislation protecting natural resources, and helped push both the Cuyahoga Valley’s original designation with the NPS and its elevation to a national park 25 years later.

“The park didn’t really change that much when it achieved national park status,” Vasarhelyi notes, ”but the public’s perception of it did.”

And almost immediately, the region saw an uptick in tourism. “The CVNP became a must-stop for people who want to hit every national park,” says Lindsay Regan, the conservancy’s director of park experiences.

The park is open 24 hours a day, every day of the year (with the exception of a few specific areas that close from dusk until dawn). No entry fee or pass is required. For general information about the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, visit www.nps.gov/cuva/index.htm, and for specific anniversary information, see www. cvnp50.com. Keep checking back, as new events are added regularly.

Even Carl Stokes, the iconic former Cleveland mayor, New York City news anchorman, United Auto Workers

Celebrating success

The CVNP and its conservancy are hosting a variety of smaller events and programs to mark its anniversaries over the coming year, rather than one or two signature events.

A speaker series runs through April and features topics including the urban parks movement, recreation as a human right, and the importance of beavers to restoring biodiversity.

z The conservancy’s Rhythm on the River concert series will also continue at the park’s Howe Meadow in 2025, free and open to the public.

z The conservancy also commissioned a public art project to mark the anniversary — a mural that covered layers of graffiti on the Boston Mills Road bridge abutment that’s visible to kayakers on the river and to tourists at the visitor center on Riverview Road.

tips for visiting the CVNP Top 6 6

n Know before you go. Research the park’s areas and activities before your arrival at www.nps.gov/ cuva/index.htm or by downloading the NPS app.

o Make reservations early — especially if you plan to use one of the park’s reservable picnic shelters or want to find lodging at the park’s historic Stanford House.

p Avoid the crowds. Parking can be hard to find around midday on warm sunny weekends — it’s less busy earlier or later in the day, or on weekdays.

q Check the weather. Because the park is close to Lake Erie, conditions can change quickly. If it’s been stormy, check the website for alerts about trail and road closures.

r Start at the visitor center. Boston Mill Visitor Center has staff and volunteers available to answer any questions and help plan your visit. It’s open daily, though hours change seasonally.

s Leave no trace. It’s always a good idea to “pack out” what you “packed in,” and if you’re visiting with pets, make sure to clean up after them.

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Artists work at

Portsmouth’s iconic floodwall murals have sparked a new creative economy by the river.

STORY BY JILL MOORHEAD

Along the banks at the confluence of the Ohio and Scioto rivers in southern Ohio, murals seamlessly blend into their surroundings, their muted colors echoing the tones of the buildings and landscape around them.

These paintings turned a barrier once considered an eyesore into one of the largest public art displays in the United States — a nearly half-mile-long outdoor gallery documenting Portsmouth and the people who have occupied the area for more than 2,000 years.

The murals are more than just public art; they’re a symbol of resilience. Once a bustling center for steel and shoe

manufacturing, Portsmouth saw its fortunes plummet with the collapse of those industries. The floodwall, built after a 1937 flood that devastated the city, stood for decades as a bleak reminder of what was lost.

An emotional boost

The idea for murals originated in the early 1990s, when local doctor Lewis R. Chaboudy visited Steubenville on a motor coach tour with AAA, saw that town’s outdoor murals, and knew right away he wanted something similar in Portsmouth.

In 1993, Chaboudy and others formed Portsmouth Murals Inc., a nonprofit organization with an ambitious

mission: to turn Portsmouth’s history into public art that would uplift the city.

Robert Dafford, a Louisiana-based muralist known for his historical realism, was invited to take on the project. Initially, the plan was to create just a few panels, but the scope quickly expanded. “We realized Portsmouth’s story couldn’t be told in two or three murals,” Dafford says.

Over the next three decades, he created 75 murals, covering 20,000 square feet. His artworks chronicle the evolution of Portsmouth from its Shawnee roots to its industrial boom and celebrate its role as the hometown of professional athletes and trailblazing Black musicians.

Each mural was meticulously researched, with Dafford working closely with historians and community members to ensure the accuracy of the images.

An economic boost…

Beyond their beauty and historical significance, Portsmouth’s murals have helped to reshape the local economy. Along with uplifting the community, Chaboudy and the others in the nonprofit also thought the murals might attract visitors to the sleepy Ohio River town.

And oh, the visitors. Retirees and art lovers arrive by the busload, along with individual travelers who are drawn in by signage on the surrounding highways.

“They’re an anchor for the city,” says Nate Welch, executive director of the Portsmouth-Scioto County Visitors Bureau. “Visitors come for the murals and end up exploring downtown, eating at restaurants, and shopping in local stores.”

But while it was always assumed the murals would bolster Portsmouth’s tourism and hospitality industries, they’ve unexpectedly aided in developing an entirely new industry: art itself. While Dafford is the primary artist, maintaining the murals has become a community effort.

…in

more ways than one

For local painter Mike Doherty, these walls became a career. At 18, through a friend’s connection, he joined Dafford’s renowned team, initially assisting with tasks like painting borders and filling in colors. Over time, Doherty honed his skills, developing an eye for color mixing and large-scale compositions. Doherty spent more than a decade working with Dafford around the country, and has painted murals in Raising Cane’s franchises in more than 30 states. He has become primary caretaker of the murals in between Dafford’s yearly summer visits.

“The murals are huge,” Doherty explains. “Concrete expands and contracts, and paint fades. Every year, there’s something to fix — cracks, chipping, or faded colors.” He also applies protective clear coats to shield the murals from weather and ultraviolet rays, all while balancing his work as a house painter. “It’s not always glamorous,” he admits, “but it’s rewarding.”

Funding for maintenance is a constant challenge. Most of the support comes from small donations, grants, and events like the city’s annual Baseball Banquet, which features baseball greats. While grants from organizations

like the Appalachian Regional Commission and assistance from the Scioto Foundation have helped, much of the work relies on volunteers and local generosity.

A new generation

Dafford’s work has inspired a new generation of muralists, who are now painting just a street over, expanding the city’s public art footprint into restaurants and other businesses. Elsewhere, the city’s Trillium Project provides a place for public painting and sponsors Second Glance, a grassroots revitalization program hinged on public art.

Themes like the city’s role in the Underground Railroad are planned for the future. And a $34 2 million riverfront redevelopment grant will further integrate the murals into Portsmouth’s landscape; plans include an amphitheater, updated pathways, and new docks to draw river traffic.

For Dafford, who grew up in Louisiana, becoming a muralist was unimaginable. “I didn’t know you could be an artist like this,” he says. So he also makes a point of working with educators and students, ensuring that young people in Portsmouth see art as a viable career.

“There’s an entire generation in Portsmouth that’s grown up with the murals,” he says. “For them, public art is part of their reality — it’s always been here.”

An immersive audio and visual tour of the Portsmouth Floodwall Murals is available on the Portsmouth Murals App, which can be found in the App Store and Google Play. The app includes an audio guided tour and written content that provide historical background and artistic commentary for each mural panel; rich and detailed digital images of the murals; historic photographs and contextual imagery; embedded web links to relevant resources; and a map that allows visitors to explore the entire community.

Robert Dafford, the original muralist, spends several months each year in Portsmouth, updating the murals and painting new ones.

Hitting slopes the

With our kids at the top of Storm Peak in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, elevation 10,372 feet. Briana Corcoran, Butler Rural Electric Cooperative member

just

and

are

My 4-year old granddaughter, Wren Ruggles, skiing in Park City, Utah. Kim Ruggles, Hancock-Wood Electric Cooperative member

Me and my husband, Doug. There can be

as much fun skiing on the mountain in Beaver Creek, Colorado, as there is goofing off at the base! Lorie Wilbur, Lorain-Medina Rural Electric Cooperative member

Cora Walters, Henry Hayes,

Reid Walters on the slopes at Mansfield Snow Trails. These

my grandchildren. Barbara Rosetti, Carroll Electric Cooperative member

On the slopes at Mad River Mountain with grandma! Abby Bushman, Midwest Electric member

Tubing fun with Roman. Kim Kimble, North Central Electric Cooperative member

Ski lift in Mammoth Lakes, California, visiting my son Spencer, with my younger son, Carter, nephew Abraham, and Enoch. Kevin Schmid, Holmes-Wayne Electric Cooperative member

My daughter, Amanda, and son-in-law, Josh, with my grandsons, Jayden and Camden, and granddaughters, Jazmin and Alizah, at the huge sledding hill at Darby Creek Metropark. Katie Grubba, South Central Power Company member

CALENDAR

CENTRAL

JAN. 3 – Intro to Birding, southern end of Canal Park’s Towpath Trail, 25500 Canal Rd., Circleville, 8–11 a.m. Join naturalist Meghan Ellis on a bird hike while participating in the Christmas Bird Count! Please dress to be outside. There will be a walk along a relatively flat grass path. An adult must accompany all children under 12. Program will be canceled in the case of inclement weather. To register, email mellis@ pickawaycountyohio.gov.

JAN. 3, FEB. 7 – 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.

JAN. 4–FEB. 15 – Wonderful Winter Birding, Dawes Arboretum, 7770 Jacksontown Rd., Newark, 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Included in Arboretum admission. Join us for winter bird watching. Hone your identification skills and get some winter feeding tips! Come early to participate in Project Feederwatch, a citizen science initiative to monitor winter bird populations. 740-323-2355 or www.dawesarb.org.

JAN. 6–MAR. 12 – Tai Chi in the Parks, Park District Headquarters, 16405 U.S. 23, South Bloomfield, Mon./Wed. 11 a.m.–12 p.m. For beginners. Held indoors in the event room. Tai chi can help decrease arthritis pain, prevent falls, increase flexibility, improve physical/mental balance, and can be done seated or standing. Registration required; visit Eventbrite to purchase your $18 ticket for the full 8-week course. www.pickawaycountyparks.org/events.

JAN. 9 – Winter Group Walk Series: Thursday Trail Tour, Canal Park, 23352 Canal Rd., Circleville, 9:30–11:30 a.m. To register, email mellis@ pickawaycountyohio.gov. Please dress to be outside and for a walk along various trail surfaces. An adult must accompany all children under 12. Program will be canceled in the case of inclement weather. www. pickawaycountyparks.org.

JAN. 11 – Cookies and Canvas, Park District Headquarters, 16405 U.S. 23, South Bloomfield, 10:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. $40. Join Hocking Hills artist Donna Smith in the event room for a cozy afternoon of painting winter birds. Hot cocoa and cookies will be served. Paid registration required; purchase ticket at Eventbrite. An adult must accompany all children under the age of 12. Email questions to mellis@ pickawaycountyohio.gov.

JAN. 18 – Hocking Hills Winter Hike, 20160 St. Rte. 664 S., Logan, continuous starts from 9 to 11 a.m. Free. Enjoy winter’s splendor on this challenging 6-mile hike from Old Man’s Cave to Ash Cave. Remember to dress for the weather. Refreshments available; donations appreciated. Shuttle returns hikers to the parking area.740-385-6841 or www. hockinghills.com.

JAN. 18 – Winter Tree ID, Park District Headquarters, 16405 U.S. 23, South Bloomfield, 1–3 p.m. Discover the unique characteristics of various bark types and learn how to recognize trees in their leafless glory. Please dress to be outside. There will be a walk along a paved path. An adult must accompany all children under 12. Program will be canceled in the case of inclement weather. To register, email mellis@ pickawaycountyohio.gov.

JAN. 25 – One Night in Memphis, Marion Palace Theatre, 276 W. Center St., Marion, 7:30 p.m. $29–$49. The show pays homage to the “Million Dollar Quartet” — Elvis Presley, Carl Perkins, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Johnny Cash — and their iconic 1956 jam session at Sun Records. 740-383-2101 or www. marionpalace.org.

JAN. 25–26 – Scott Antique Market, Ohio Expo Center, Bricker and Celeste Bldgs., 717 E. 17th Ave., Columbus, Sat. 9 a.m.–6 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Free admission; $7 parking. 800 exhibit booths. info@ scottantiquemarket.com or www.scottantiquemarkets. com.

JAN. 31–FEB. 2 – The Log and Timber Home Design-Build Expo, Ohio Expo Center, Rhodes Bldg., 717 E. 17th Ave., Columbus, Fri. 1–7 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. $10 online, $12 at door; 18 and under free. Tickets good all weekend. An expo for log home, timber frame home, and rustic furniture enthusiasts. www.loghomeshows.com.

FEB. 6 – Winter Group Walk Series: Thursday Trail Tour, Metzger Preserve, 300 Ballard Ave., Williamsport, 9:30–11:30 a.m. To register, email mellis@pickawaycountyohio.gov. Please dress to be outside and for a walk along various trail surfaces. An adult must accompany all children under 12. Program will be canceled in the case of inclement weather. www.pickawaycountyparks.org.

FEB. 7 – Grand Shanghai Circus, Marion Palace Theatre, 276 W. Center St., Marion, 7:30 p.m. $29–$49; 12 and under, $13. Breathtaking blend of traditional Chinese acrobatics and modern theatrical techniques. 740-383-2101 or www.marionpalace.org.

FEB. 7 – Marysville Winter Bluegrass Series: The Appalachian Road Show, Cornerstone Global Methodist Church, 207 S. Court St., Marysville, 7 p.m. Doors open 6 p.m. Entertainment, food, homemade pies on-site. 937-642-4712 or www. marysvillewinterbluegrass.com.

FEB. 7–9 – Columbus Fishing Expo, Ohio Expo Center, Bricker Bldg., 717 E. 17th Ave., Columbus, Fri. 12–7 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. $5–$15. Three days of sport fishing education and fun. Every major line of boats, rods, guides, tackle, and Canadian outfitters, all under one roof. 614-3615548 or www.nationalfishingexpos.com.

FEB. 8 – Wings and Wood: Bluebird House Building Workshop, Park District Headquarters, 16405 U.S. 23, South Bloomfield, 10:30–11:30 a.m. $15. Learn about bluebirds, their habitats, and how to care for your new birdhouse. Purchase your ticket at Eventbrite. For questions, email mellis@pickawaycountyohio.gov. An adult must accompany all children under 12. www. pickawaycountyparks.org.

Submit listings AT LEAST 90 DAYS prior to the event to: Ohio Cooperative Living 6677 Busch Blvd., Columbus, OH 43229 or send an email to events@ohioec.org.

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

NORTHEAST

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, Holly Trolley, children’s activities, music, crafts, and much more. 740-2834935 or www.steubenvillenutcrackervillage.com.

JAN. 11–12, FEB. 8–9 – Medina Gun Show, Medina Co. Fgds. Community Center, 735 Lafayette Rd. (St. Rte. 42), Medina, Sat. 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. $8 450 tables of displays. 330-948-4400 or www.conraddowdell.com.

JAN. 16–19 – Cleveland Boat Show, I-X Center, 1 I-X Center Dr., Cleveland, Thur. 12–9 p.m., Fri./Sat. 10 a.m.–9 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $20, Srs./Military $15 (door only), under 7 free. Wide variety of watercraft, knowledgeable marine vendors, lifestyle exhibits, delicious local food, activities, and live entertainment,

NORTHWEST

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. 17–19 – Camp Perry Open Civilian Markmanship Program, Gary Anderson CMP Competition Center, 1000 N. Lawrence Rd., Port Clinton. This year’s match will include a three-position air rifle competition, a 60-shot standing air rifle event, and a 60-shot air pistol event. 419-635-2141 ext. 704 (Catherine Green) or https://thecmp.org/event/2025camp-perry-open.

including Twiggy the water-skiing squirrel! www. clevelandboatshow.com.

JAN. 18 – Hartville Antique Show, Hartville MarketPlace and Flea Market, 1289 Edison NW, Hartville, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Showcasing local vendors selling vintage, antique, and unique items. 330-8779860 or www.hartvillemarketplace.com/events.

JAN. 19 – Flea Market of Collectables, Medina County Fgds. Community Center, 735 Lafayette Rd. (St. Rte. 42), Medina, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. $3. Early-bird special admission, 6–9 a.m., $4. A treasure trove of vintage items and collectibles. 330-948-4300 or www.conraddowdell.com.

JAN. 25 – TCA Great Lakes Division Train Meet, Cuyahoga Co. Fgds., 164 Eastland Rd., Berea, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. $6; families $10; 17 and under free. New location. Free parking. Handicapped accessible. New and old trains, many brands and scales, parts, repair manuals, and much more. 330-273-6404 (John) or www.greatlakestca.org.

JAN. 30 – “When It Snows, Ain’t It Thrilling,” McKinley Presidential Library and Museum, 800 McKinley Monument Dr. NW, Canton, 6 p.m. $25; includes lunch. See antique winter clothing, sleighs and sleds, ice skates and snowshoes; learn about popular winter leisure activities before there was TV and Wi-Fi. Preregistration required by Jan. 23 330455-7043 or www.mckinleymuseum.org/events.

JAN. 31–FEB. 1 – Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, KeyBank State Theatre, Playhouse Square, 1519 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, Fri. 7:30 p.m., Sat. 2 and 7:30 p.m. $29–$99. One of the most significant

modern dance companies of today will enthrall audiences with their high-energy dancing, stunning movement, and kinetic storytelling. 216-241-6000 or www.playhousesquare.org.

JAN. 31–FEB. 9 – The Great Big Home and Garden Show, I-X Center, 1 I-X Center Dr., Cleveland. $5–$15; 5 and under free. See website for hours and schedule of events. Explore more than 600 exhibits, meet industry experts and home professionals, and enjoy unique feature displays such as the garden showcase. www.greatbighomeandgarden.com.

FEB. 1 – Mid-Winter Stamp and Coin Show, Mozelle Hall, Ashland Co. Fgds., 2042 Claremont Ave., Ashland, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Free admission, plenty of parking. Fourteen stamp dealers and coin dealers. For more information, contact Tom Zuercher at 419-4961317

FEB. 2 – Model Railroad and Toy Show, Medina Co. Fgds. Community Center, 735 Lafayette Rd. (St. Rte. 42), Medina. $8. Shop trains and planes and things that go! 330-948-4400 or www.conraddowdell.com.

FEB. 8–9 – PAW Patrol Live! “A Mighty Adventure,” KeyBank State Theatre, Playhouse Square, 1519 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, Sat. 10 a.m., 2 p.m., 6 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m. $33+. 216-241-6000 or www.playhousesquare.org.

FEB. 9 – Bob Esterle and Billy Joe Wiseman: Contemporary Jazz, Pop, and Rock, Wadsworth Public Library, 132 Broad St., Wadsworth, 2–3 p.m. Free. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. 419-853-6016 or www.ormaco.org.

JAN. 17–19 – Lima Home Show, Allen Co. Fgds., 2750 Harding Hwy., Lima (2 miles east of Lima on St. Rte. 309), Fri. 12–6 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Free admission. Explore the latest in home improvement, remodeling, outdoor living, and more. Meet with local contractors and remodeling experts. https://limahomeshow.com.

JAN. 18–19 – Concert: “Organ by Candlelight,” Trinity United Methodist Church, Lima, Sat. 7:30 p.m.; St. Augustine Church, Minster, Sun. 4 p.m. $30. The Lima Symphony will perform alongside guest artist Jared Post on the pipe organ. Experience classical music in its most authentic form in the sanctuaries of two beautiful churches. 419-222-5701 or www. limasymphony.com.

JAN. 25 – Rock the Dock: Ambrosia, John Ford Coley, and Peter Beckett, Crouse Performance Hall, Veterans Memorial Civic and Convention Center, 7 Town Square, Lima, 7:30 p.m. 39+. 419-224-1552 or www.limaciviccenter.com.

FEB. 1–2 – 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 sportsman equipment. 419-647-0067 (Manetta Obringer) or www.allencofair.com/events.

FEB. 2 – Family Concert: “Symphonic Safari,” Veterans Memorial Civic and Convention Center,

7 Town Square, Lima, 3 p.m. $10. Lions and tigers and bears, oh my! Bring the whole family to enjoy our multimedia production of animal-themed works, featuring life-sized animal puppets choreographed to vibrant music. 419-222-5701 or www. limasymphony.com.

FEB. 3 – Ice-A-Fair, 685 Main St., Vermilion, 11 a.m.–7 p.m. Free winter event for the entire family, featuring more than 50 ice sculptures on display and ice carving demos throughout the day. Kids’ train rides, trolley tours, prizes, raffle baskets, and more. Ends with the towering Fire & Ice display at 6 p.m. 440-963-0772 or www.mainstreetvermilion.org/ice.

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

FEB. 13 – Forever Seger: The Silver Bullet Experience, Crouse Performance Hall, Veterans Memorial Civic and Convention Center, 7 Town Square, Lima, 7:30 p.m. $25+. Bob Seger tribute, with special guest Brett Wiscons. 419-224-1552 or www.limaciviccenter.com.

FEB. 15 – Winter Brewfest, Fifth Third Field, Washington and St. Clair Sts., Toledo, 5–9 p.m. 21+ only. $65–$85. Designated-driver ticket $40. The coolest and largest outdoor beer tasting in the region. www.milb.com/toledo/events/brewfest.

2025 CALENDAR

SOUTHWEST

JANUARY/FEBRUARY

JAN. 17–26 – Greater Cincinnati Remodeling Expo, Sharonville Convention Center, 11355 Chester Rd., Sharonville, Fri. 12–6 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Meet local experts and get the advice you need to help you with your home improvement projects. Explore innovative displays showcasing the latest trends in design and product offerings. www.homeshowcenter.com/overview/ Cincinnati.

JAN. 28 – Drawing Room Chamber Concert with UD Faculty Jazz Trio, Troy-Hayner Cultural Center, 301 W. Main St., Troy, 7:30 p.m. Free. www. troyhayner.org/music.html.

Rd., Loveland, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. $10; Scouts in uniform and kids 12 and under free. Fly fishing education and demos, fishing guides, watercraft, casting pond, raffles, door prizes, and much more. Register for workshops online: www.buckeyeflyfishers.com.

FEB. 7–9 – Hearts Afire Weekend, Loveland. You’re invited to the City of Loveland, known as the “Sweetheart of Ohio,” to celebrate Valentine’s Day. Event features fire, ice, entertainment, and loveinspired fun! https://lovinlifeloveland.com/events/ loveland-hearts-afire-weekend.

THROUGH FEB. 26 – 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.

SOUTHEAST

FEB. 1 – Cincy Beerfest, Cintas Center, 1624 Musketeer Dr., Cincinnati. Afternoon and evening sessions. Must be 21+. Sample hundreds of local and regional craft beers, as well as samples from new craft wineries and distilleries. admin@beerfestinfo. com or https://cincybeerfest.com,

FEB. 1 – Greater Cincinnati Fly Fishing Show, Oasis Conference Center, 902 Loveland-Miamiville

FEB. 8 – Cincinnati Winter Blues Experience VI, Manor House, 7440 Mason Montgomery Rd., Mason. $30–$35. See website for artist lineup and other information: www.winterbluesexperience.com.

FEB. 8–9 – Love Your Craft and Vendor Show, Clark Co. Fgds., 4401 S. Charleston Pike, Springfield. Come support the Clark County SPCA. 937-207-8613 or on Facebook: fb.me/loveyourcraftshow.

JAN. 11 – Winter Hike at Shawnee State Park, 4404 St. Rte. 125, West Portsmouth, 9 a.m.–2 p.m. Free. Join us for a 5-mile community hike on the park loop. Meet at the Turkey Creek Beach parking lot between 9 and 10 a.m. to get started. Beans and cornbread at the Nature Center after the hike. https:// ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/ shawnee-state-park.

JAN. 18 – JIG: A Trinity Irish Dance Company Production, Peoples Bank Theatre, 222 Putnam St., Marietta, 8 p.m. $39–$62. Centered by a live

WEST VIRGINIA

band in a unique space, JIG immerses audiences in an authentic experience that celebrates the power of vibrations, rhythm, and movement. www. peoplesbanktheatre.com.

JAN. 18–19 – Pre-1890 Trade Fair, Canter’s Cave 4-H Camp. 1362 Caves Rd., Jackson, Sat. 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. $4; 12 and under free. Dealers selling items common to the 18th and 19th centuries. For additional information, call 740-7733891

JAN. 25, FEB. 15 – Buckeye Trail Trek, Shawnee State Park, 4404 St. Rte. 125, West Portsmouth, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Free. Traverse 4 miles through Shawnee’s beautiful, unglaciated, rugged terrain. Pack snacks and water, wear sturdy hiking boots, and bring a hiking stick. https://ohiodnr.gov/go-anddo/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/shawnee-state-park. FEB. 1 – Resurrection: A Journey Tribute, Pritchard Laughlin Civic Center, 7033 Glenn Hwy., Cambridge, 7 p.m. Doors open at 6 p.m. $25 740-439-7009 or www.pritchardlaughlin.com.

FEB. 7 – ABBAFAB, Majestic Theatre, 45 E. Second St., Chillicothe. $39–$59. The premier ABBA experience. www.majesticchillicothe.net.

FEB. 7 – Marlon Wayans Wild Child Tour, Peoples Bank Theatre, 222 Putnam St., Marietta, 9 p.m. $47+. www.peoplesbanktheatre.com.

FEB. 8 – Winter Hike at Burr Oak, Burr Oak State Park, 10220 Burr Oak Lodge Rd., Glouster, 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Free. Join hiking enthusiasts for this annual tradition. Hike lengths are 1, 3, 5, and 8 miles. Wear sturdy hiking boots and dress for the weather. Enjoy free bean soup and corn bread after the hike. https:// ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/ burr-oak-state-park.

FEB. 12 – Full Snow Moon Hike, Lake Hope State Park, 27331 St. Rte. 278, McArthur, 6:30–8:30 p.m. Free. Enjoy a moonlit 2-mile hike through the forest. https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-aproperty/lake-hope-state-park.

FEB. 14 – Great Backyard Bird Count, Lake Hope State Park, 27331 St. Rte. 278, McArthur, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Join an annual citizen science effort to count birds. https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/finda-property/lake-hope-state-park.

JAN. 17–19 – Winter Wonder Weekend, North Bend State Park, 202 North Bend Park Rd., Cairo. Come for a weekend full of hikes, crafts, and fun activities, and enjoy the beauty of nature in the wintertime! Package

prices include lodging for two nights, plus all meals and activities over the weekend. For reservations, call 304-643-2931 or visit www.northbendsp.com.

Members, friends, and employees of Ohio’s Electric Cooperatives would like to thank the following for their generosity in supporting our efforts to fight blood cancers at the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s 2024 Light the Night Walk:

Double-platinum sponsors:

Platinum sponsors: Mary Beth & Tom Alban

Gold sponsors: ACES CoBank McCarl’s

Your Partner for Success Silver sponsors:

Your support was crucial as our company raised $64,720 for this year’s event.

Sargent & Lundy

Bronze