OHIO
APRIL 2019
COOPERATIVE Official publication of Pioneer Electric Cooperative | www.pioneerec.com
Living
The men behind the
power
Celebrating co-op lineworkers ALSO INSIDE 2018 Annual Report Giving vinyl a spin Scientist captains
Celebrate National Lineworker Appreciation Day: April 8
Lineworkers serve on the front lines of our nation’s energy needs, and we honor the men and women who work in challenging and oft en dangerous conditi ons to keep the lights on. To recognize your co-op’s dedicated employees, #ThankALineworker this April.
ohioec.org/purpose
OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2019
INSIDE HIGHLIGHT 24 GIVING VINYL A SPIN Cleveland’s Gotta Groove rides a wave
of nostalgia in the recording industry.
FEATURES 30 SCIENTIST CAPTAINS
Academics studying Lake Erie have found an invaluable, if unexpected, source of data.
34 THESE WALLS CAN TALK Dozens of Ohio post offices contain history lessons on community and American can-do spirit. Cover image on most issues: Union Rural Electric Cooperative crew leader Sean Luellen captured this image of URE line technician Sam Bevis at work in the bucket during a gorgeous autumn day. Lineworker Appreciation Day is April 8.
APRIL 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 1
UP FRONT
ALWAYS ON DUTY April showers bring out the best in cooperatives.
A
cross the state, Ohio’s electric co-ops invest in new and updated equipment to bring electricity to your home or business on a continuous and uninterrupted basis. Cooperatives engage technological advances to track the performance of our electric distribution networks and to solve problems quickly. We train our staff to be available when you need us and to resolve issues safely and reliably. Today, more than ever, our world is powered by our electric system. Yet, in spite of investments in technology, time, and preparation, Mother Nature still puts us in our place from time to time. The past winter brought an unexpected ice storm to northwestern Ohio, followed by a brutal February windstorm that caused power outages across the state. Now, as the season thaws into spring, we brace ourselves for inevitable thunderstorms, while crossing our fingers to ward against tornadoes. Your electric cooperative is staffed with dedicated employees who respond to each and every event that comes our way. From the member service representatives who take your calls to the engineers and managers who formulate appropriate action plans to the linemen who brave the elements to restore your electric service, each member of the team is committed to the three “R’s” — respond, restore, and reassure. April 8 is Lineworker Appreciation Day, when we recognize the professionals who put themselves in peril to provide the power that energizes us. Even under the best circumstances, line work is a difficult and potentially dangerous job. As recent events remind us, the skills of lineworkers are most crucial when conditions are worst. To do the job effectively and consistently, lineworkers rely on their support systems. Training, obviously, is of utmost importance, and your co-op ensures that lineworkers stay up to date on best practices. The rest of the co-op team is there to be sure that work is dispatched efficiently and that proper materials and equipment are on hand for repairs. They let our members know what to expect. Often overlooked, but perhaps most important, is the pillar of our families, as we respond to routine and emergency calls alike. Electric cooperatives are sometimes compared to a big family — check out page 4 to read about a few Ohio linemen who have taken that to another level … and the next time you turn on a light, thank a lineman.
2 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2019
Pat O’Loughlin PRESIDENT & CEO OHIO'S ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES
April 8 is Lineworker Appreciation Day, when we recognize the professionals who put themselves in peril to provide the power that energizes us.
April 2019 • Volume 61, No. 7
MORE INSIDE
Ohio Rural Electric Cooperatives 6677 Busch Blvd. Columbus, OH 43229 614-846-5757 memberinteract@ohioec.org www.ohioec.org Patrick O’Loughlin President & CEO Patrick Higgins Director of Communications Jeff McCallister Managing Editor Rebecca Seum Associate Editor Anita Cook Graphic Designer Contributors: Brian Albright, Colleen Romick Clark, Victoria Ellwood, W.H. “Chip” Gross, Catherine Murray, James Proffitt, Jamie Rhein, Damaine Vonada, and Kris Wetherbee. 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. Nothing in this publication may be reproduced in any manner without written permission from Ohio Rural Electric Cooperatives, Inc. All rights reserved.
DEPARTMENTS 4 POWER LINES
FAMILY AFFAIR: Line work is a profession that often sees fathers and sons, or even brothers, follow in each other’s footsteps.
8
WOODS, WATERS, AND WILDLIFE
SQUATCHER GATHERING: A Salt Fork State Park conference is the epicenter of Ohio’s Bigfoot phenomenon.
10 OHIO ICON
MIAMISBURG MOUND: The Adena mound near the Great Miami River is one of the nation’s tallest earthworks.
12 IN THE GARDEN BROCCOLI BASICS: It takes a bit of finesse to grow a stalk that’s
head and shoulders above the rest.
15 GOOD EATS
FLAVORFUL FUNGUS: High in fiber and vitamin-rich, mushrooms are a healthy and versatile way to enhance any meal.
18 CO-OP SPOTLIGHT
GUERNSEY-MUSKINGUM ELECTRIC: The east-central Ohio co-op counts The Wilds and Ohio’s largest state park among its members.
19 LOCAL PAGES For all advertising inquiries, contact
Cheryl Solomon American MainStreet Publications 847-749-4875 | cheryl@amp.coop The fact that a product is advertised in Ohio Cooperative Living should not be taken as an endorsement. If you find an advertisement misleading or a product unsatisfactory, please notify us or the Ohio Attorney General’s Offi ce, Consumer Protection Section, 30 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43215. Periodicals postage paid at Columbus, OH, and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to editorial and advertising offices at: 6677 Busch Boulevard, Columbus, OH 43229-1101
Cooperative members: Please report changes of address to your electric cooperative. Ohio Cooperative Living staff cannot process address changes. Alliance for Audited Media Member
News and important information from your electric cooperative.
28 CO-OP PEOPLE RAMPING IT UP: After a fortuitous find, South Central Power Company members specialize in aromatic agriculture.
37 CALENDAR
WHAT’S HAPPENING: April/May events and other things to do.
40 MEMBER INTERACTIVE MUD SEASON: Readers get down and dirty after April showers.
IN THIS ISSUE Marietta (p.4) New Concord (p.4,18) Paulding (p.5) Marysville (p.5,6,34) Newark (p.6) Lore City (p.8) Miamisburg (p.10) Cleveland (p.24) Gibralter Island (p.30)
Ada (p.34) Waverly (p.34) Granville (p.34) Springfield (p.34) Fairborn (p.34) New London (p.34) Georgetown (p.34) Portsmouth (p.34)
Ohio’s Electric Cooperatives is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
APRIL 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 3
POWER LINES
ALL IN THE Electric cooperatives are often thought of as “family” — after all, they share common principles and a commitment to their communities that make for relationships that go deeper than just another business or utility. Sometimes, though, “family” is literal. Line work, especially, is a profession that often sees fathers and sons or brothers, perhaps, follow in each other’s footsteps on the job. Here are some of their stories. BY VICTORIA ELLWOOD
Frank Wells and Jake Wells Between the two of them, brothers Frank and Jake Wells have more than half a century of service working on co-op lines. Jake is a crew foreman at Washington Electric Cooperative, based in Marietta, while Frank, the younger of the two, is a journeyman lineman with Guernsey-Muskingum Electric Cooperative, based in New Concord. Frank got into the business first, citing the compensation and chance to work outdoors as incentives. He didn’t waste time in sharing those attributes with his brother. “I tried everything else first — all sorts of different jobs,” Jake says, “but Frank kept trying to talk me into working with him as a lineman. At first I said ‘no way.’ I was scared to death to climb those poles. Not because I was afraid of heights, but because of the hazards of working with electricity.” He soon came around. “Back then, you just had to be brave enough to try it,” he says. While most line crews primarily use bucket trucks to maintain lines these days, Jake says he still climbs regularly. “We’re currently replacing 150 poles. I’m getting my hooks out and helping pave the way for the contractors.” The brothers grew up together on the family farm — where Jake still lives — north of Marietta. He cares for about a dozen head of cattle on his 60 acres and raised show pigs for a long time. Frank, on the other hand, calls his acreage a “hobby farm,” with some horses and a couple of pigs and “just enough land to keep me busy.” The brothers also enjoy caring for their co-op members. “You meet all kinds of different people, and I like that aspect of my job,” Jake says. “At the end of the day, when you get 400 to 500 people’s power back on when it’s five below zero, you feel pretty darn good.”
4 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2019
Mike Klima and Jake Klima Mike Klima, a journeyman lineman for 22 years at Paulding Putnam Electric Cooperative in Paulding, says he thinks he inspired his son, Jake, to follow in his career footsteps. “He saw that I liked my job and enjoyed the work,” Mike says. “We have a lot in common — working outside and doing things with our hands — so the job seemed like a good fit. I’m very proud of him.” Jake, a journeyman lineman at Union Rural Electric Cooperative, based in Marysville, is proud of his dad, too. “As a boy, it was normal for Dad to leave family functions and holidays when he was on call,” he remembers. “We kids understood that. It made us proud that he was helping people and restoring their electricity. I learned from him at an early age what the co-op was all about — we put our members’ needs first — so, when I was a senior in high school, I made my decision to be a lineman, too.” Getting to know the co-op members is central to the job, Mike says. “It’s a very rewarding career, especially as you get to know the customers. We always talk to people before we work on their property. We explain what we’ll be doing. They’re so appreciative of us working out there in all kinds of weather — rain or snow or 10 below zero.” Father and son also enjoy hunting and fishing together, whether angling on the waters of Lake Erie or dropping a hook in a pond near Jake’s house. The best thing, they both say, is swapping stories. “We can talk shop, share information, and compare how we do our jobs. Usually, I give Jake a call early in the morning to see how his day’s going to go,” says Mike. Adds Jake: “It’s fun to discuss different ways to get the job done.”
APRIL 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 5
Dana Springer, Ernie Springer, and Tyler Springer When Dana Springer was a youngster, he and his siblings could hear electric company dispatches come through on a scratchy radio at home when his dad, Ernie, was on call. Ernie, now retired, worked as a lineman and line supervisor for 35 years for Licking Rural Electric Cooperative, now The Energy Cooperative, based in Newark. “We could hear that old radio all night long. But we didn’t mind,” Dana says. In fact, it probably inspired him. Dana went to college for a couple of years and then worked on the family’s 1,000acre farm in eastern Ohio, where they grew corn and soybeans and raised cows and pigs. “Farming wasn’t very profitable in the 1980s, so I sent an application to the coops and started as an apprentice lineman at Union Rural. Now, I’ve been on the line crew for almost 34 years.” His dad, however, hasn’t completely given up the farm. Now retired from the co-op for more than three decades, Ernie still farms about 80 acres, and Dana still helps out during harvest time.
6 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2019
The two enjoy hunting and fishing together, and they also like to talk shop. “We get together and talk about how things are done,” says Dana. “He still looks at the lines when we’re driving down the road; it’s hard to get it out of your system.” Dana’s son, Tyler, has followed in his dad’s and grandpa’s footsteps, too, and works as a transmission operations reliability supervisor for AEP; his team is responsible 24/7 for the regional AEP transmission system, monitoring power flows and voltages. Dana says he’s always appreciated his job’s challenges. “I like working outside and doing something different every day, no matter what’s happening. A couple of weeks ago, we had two car wrecks that damaged poles and a windstorm that made a tree come down and break a pole.” Through the challenges, Dana always keeps some longtime advice in mind. “Dad’s always said, ‘Keep your mind on the job, keep your eyes on what you’re doing, make sure you get home at night. Be safe.’”
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WOODS, WATERS, AND WILDLIFE
SQUATCHER Salt Fork State Park conference is the epicenter of Ohio’s Bigfoot phenomenon STORY AND PHOTOS BY W.H. “CHIP” GROSS
D
o I believe in the existence of Bigfoot, a hair-covered, 8-foot-tall mysterious monster that smells bad and has been rumored to live in remote Ohio woodlands since the mid-1700s? No. No, I don’t.
But many people do. So many, in fact, that the Buckeye State has no less than three annual conferences dedicated to Bigfoot believers. Much of the activity takes place in and around Ohio’s largest state park, Salt Fork State Park in Guernsey County near Cambridge. “The Bigfoot page is the most visited section of our website,” says Debbie Robinson, executive director of the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors and Convention Bureau. “Our 2019 events calendar includes the annual Ohio Bigfoot Conference, Bigfoot Adventure Weekends, Creature Weekends, and monthly Bigfoot night hikes at the park.” Another name for Bigfoot is Sasquatch, and true believers refer to themselves as “Squatchers.” USA Today even ranked Salt Fork as one of the top 10 “Squatchiest” places in the country. John Hickenbottom, a state naturalist at Salt Fork, coordinates the monthly summer Bigfoot night hikes, which take place during the holiday weekends of Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, and Labor Day. “The hikes have become very popular,” says Hickenbottom, “with anywhere from 150 to 300 people attending each time we hold one. We offer both a family-friendly hike and one for adults only.” Saturday, May 4, will mark the eighth annual Ohio Bigfoot Conference at Salt Fork. Attended by several thousand people including vendors, the official conference is only one day, but activities extend over the entire weekend. Its website says the conference has grown into the world’s premier Bigfoot conference. One of a half-dozen Bigfoot experts and celebrities who spoke at last year’s conference — and who is scheduled to appear again this year — is James “Bobo” Fay. Hailing from California, Fay is best known for his role on the Animal Planet TV show Finding Bigfoot. Fay says he sighted his first Sasquatch in 2001 in northern California and has seen several more in various places across the country. He’s not yet spotted a Sasquatch during his visits to Ohio, but claims to have heard two, both at Salt Fork State Park.
8 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2019
GATHERING A carved Bigfoot family tries to look inconspicuous at the Ohio Bigfoot Conference (left); Bigfoot expert Bobo Fay (black shirt) poses for a photo with a fan.
Asked why he believes Salt Fork is so “Squatchy,” Fay says that it’s the perfect Bigfoot habitat. “Sasquatch are omnivores, eating both vegetation and preying on other animals, and Salt Fork is a large natural area with plenty of wild foods. It also has a huge white-tailed deer population, which helps a Bigfoot survive the winter.” Bigfoot sightings have been reported from every state except Hawaii and by all demographics. “The number of reports nationally tends to correlate with rainfall totals,” Fay says. “For instance, 95 percent of Bigfoot reports come from areas with at least 20 inches or more of annual rainfall. In desert regions, there are very few sightings, virtually none. So, a Bigfoot sighting is not a cultural phenomenon — it’s a biological phenomenon.” According to Fay, the Ohio Bigfoot Conference is the oldest, biggest, and best-run Bigfoot conference in the country. “It’s a great time and definitely something people should check out,” he says. By the way, Salt Fork State Park is on Guernsey-Muskingum Electric Cooperative lines. Would that make any Bigfoot found living within the park an electric co-op member? For more information, visit www.ohiobigfootconference.org and www. visitguernseycounty.com. W.H. “CHIP” GROSS (whchipgross@gmail.com) is Ohio Cooperative Living’s outdoors editor, and in all his years spent outdoors, he’s not yet spotted a Bigfoot ... but he’s looking!
APRIL 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 9
OHIO ICON
THE MIAMISBURG MOUND Miamisburg BY DAMAINE VONADA
Location: On a 100-foot-high bluff near the Great Miami River in Miamisburg Mound Park. Provenance: Originally measuring 68 feet or more in height, the conically shaped Miamisburg Mound was built by members of the Adena culture, who flourished in what is now southern Ohio from approximately 800 B.C. to 100 B.C. The Adena — and later, the more sophisticated Hopewells — built thousands of earthworks near the Ohio River and its tributaries, and it’s believed that the Miamisburg Mound was constructed layer by layer as a burial place. “The Miamisburg area was probably an Adena gathering site,” says Miamisburg Historical Society curator Gary Petticrew. “We don’t know when they started the Miamisburg Mound, but it probably took hundreds of years to reach its zenith.” Pioneer Jacob Lawres purchased acreage containing the mound in 1806 and subsequently sold it to John Treon, who appreciated the mound’s historical and archeological significance. Although most ancient earthworks were leveled to make way for farms, quarries, roads, and factories during the 1800s, Treon and his descendants protected the Miamisburg Mound. In 1920, the Treon family sold it to Dayton industrialist Charles Kettering, who later donated the mound and 37 surrounding acres of parkland to the state historical society. The Civilian Conservation Corps constructed stone steps as a public works project in the 1930s, allowing visitors to ascend from the base to the top of Miamisburg Mound. Significance: Despite an 1869 excavation attempt that likely diminished its height to 65 feet, the Miamisburg Mound remains Ohio’s tallest — and one of the nation’s largest — conical earthworks. With 116 steps leading to an observation platform at its summit, the mound also is famous for its panoramic views of the Great Miami River Valley. Currently: The Ohio History Connection owns the Miamisburg Mound, the city of Miamisburg maintains Mound Park, and the Miamisburg Historical Society organizes tours and special events. It’s a little-known fact that: Two pioneering archaeologists from Chillicothe — newspaper editor Ephraim Squier and physician Edwin Davis — surveyed the Miamisburg Mound for their landmark scientific research study, Ancient Monuments of the Mississippi Valley. Released in 1848, Ancient Monuments was the Smithsonian Institution’s debut publication, and its very first figure depicts the “Great Mound at Miamisburgh, Ohio.” The Miamisburg Mound, 900 Mound Rd., Miamisburg, OH 45342. For additional information, call 866-580-6508 or 937-859-5000 or visit www.ohiohistory.org/visit/museum-and-site-locator/ miamisburg-mound or www.historicalmiamisburg.org.
10 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2019
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APRIL 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 11
IN THE GARDEN
BROCCOLI BASICS Broccoli is one of the easiest of veggies to grow, but it takes a bit of finesse to finish with a cut that’s head and shoulders above the rest. BY KRIS WETHERBEE; PHOTO BY RICK WETHERBEE
M
any of us gardeners have our vegetable favorites, but truth be told, I’m a bit biased when it comes to broccoli. Not only do its flowers attract beneficial insects, but its culinary versatility and ease of growing make this cool-season favorite one of the most desirable vegetables to grow in the kitchen garden. When grown in the cool weather of spring or fall, the result is a sweeter-tasting head with gourmet flavor. Growing broccoli with sweet, tender, tasty heads is all about getting plants off to a good start, keeping them content, and heeding the signs. The need for speed — One of the best-kept secrets to growing a prime head of broccoli is to grow it fast. Any setbacks that slow down the plant’s growth will result in inferior-tasting heads. Transplants are key for early-spring plantings. Set out four- to six-week-old hardened-off starts in the ground about four weeks before your last spring frost (young seedlings can withstand a light frost, but be sure to cover them if a heavy frost is expected). For fall-harvested crops, seeds sown directly into the ground in July to early August may produce more vigorous plants. Another way to speed things along is with the right amount of sun, soil, and water. Choose a sunny location with at least five hours of daily sun. Moist but well-draining soil rich in organic matter is best, with a soil pH between 6.0 and 6.8 and soil temperatures between 55 and 75 degrees. Deep, consistent moisture is key — lack of adequate moisture can result in premature, poor-quality heads. Mulch helps to maintain soil moisture, moderate soil temperatures, and keep roots cool. Happy plants make for tasty heads — Broccoli is a moderately heavy feeder, so keep plants well-fed by digging in a 2- to 4-inch layer of compost or a thin layer of rotted manure before planting. Work in about a half shovelful of either aged manure or compost or mix in 1/4 cup (per plant) of complete, nitrogen-rich organic fertilizer. If your soil fertility needs a boost, you may also need to side-dress plants with additional compost, rotted manure, or other nitrogen-rich fertilizer, such as fish meal. Start with a light side dressing when the central head is about an inch across. More may be needed once the central main head has been cut. Heed the harvest signs — All your efforts to grow broccoli with great taste will be in vain if you miss the signs on when to harvest the head. For best flavor, harvest when the unopened flower buds are just starting to swell, but before they begin to yellow. Wait too long and the stalks will become tough, with stronger-tasting heads. Harvest heads in the cool of the morning before the heat sets in the plant. Cut the central stalk at a 45-degree angle, about 5 to 8 inches below the head. Doing so will encourage side-shoot production and increase plant yield. Harvesting these side shoots regularly will encourage continued production. KRIS WETHERBEE is a master gardener from Oregon.
12 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2019
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READER RECIPE CONTEST
Meatless Monday
Ground rules • Entrants must be electric cooperative members or residents of an electric cooperative household.
Does your family do “meatless Mondays” or something similar? Are you a full-time vegetarian, or maybe just an occasional one? For our 2019 Ohio Cooperative Living reader recipe contest, we’re looking for the best meatless main dish recipe in Ohio. Whether it’s extra hearty or more on the lighter side, send us your best! The grand-prize winner will receive an Ohio-made KitchenAid stand mixer.
• To enter, write down your recipe, including all ingredients and measurements, directions, and number of servings. Then tell us the basic story behind your recipe — when, why, or how YOU do meatless. Is your recipe a family tradition, passed down through generations? Or did you make it up one day out of thin air? A good back story can never hurt! • Submissions may be an original recipe or one adapted from an existing recipe published elsewhere, with at least three distinct changes from the published version. • On each recipe, include your name and address, a phone number and email address where you can be contacted, and the name of your electric cooperative. • Entries should be submitted by email to memberinteract@ohioec. org, or sent to Catherine Murray, care of Ohio Cooperative Living, 6677 Busch Blvd., Columbus, OH 43229. • Limit of three recipes per entrant.
Two runners-up will receive consolation gifts.
Entry deadline: May 16, 2019
• Contest winners will be announced in the September edition of Ohio Cooperative Living.
Technical Scholarships Available for Adult and High School Co-op Members Rules and applications are available at www.ohioec.org/TechnicalScholarship APPLICATION DEADLINE: April 30
14 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2019
GOOD EATS
Ffungus lavorful
High in fiber and vitamin-rich, mushrooms are a healthy and versatile way to enhance any meal.
SIMPLE MUSHROOM SALAD Prep: 5 minutes | Servings: 4 Le aves from 1 large head bibb lettuce, washed 16 ounces white mushrooms, sliced thin 2 tablespoons oregano
2 teaspoons garlic salt 1/2 teaspoon pepper 4 tablespoons olive oil 1 lemon, juiced
On four salad plates or a large platter, lay down lettuce leaves. Top with sliced mushrooms and sprinkle with oregano, garlic salt, and pepper. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice. Serve cold. Per serving: 172 calories, 15 grams fat (2 grams saturated fat), 7.4 grams total carbs, 3 grams fiber, 4.6 grams protein
APRIL 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 15
PORTOBELLO BEEF BURGUNDY Prep: 20 minutes | Cook: 7–9 hours | Servings: 6 3 tablespoons canola oil 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 11/2 cups dry red wine 1 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon beef bouillon 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 pound sliced baby portobello 1/2 teaspoon thyme mushrooms 1 teaspoon rosemary 1 pound egg noodles, cooked 1/2 teaspoon pepper parsley for garnish (optional) 2 pounds stew beef In a large bowl, combine first six ingredients. Add beef, tossing to coat. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown beef in a single layer, flipping to brown all sides. When done, transfer to slow cooker. Add wine to skillet, stirring to loosen browned bits from pan. Add bouillon and bring to a boil. Transfer to slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 7 to 9 hours, until meat is tender. Stir in mushrooms. Cover and cook on high 30 minutes longer, until sauce is slightly thickened. Serve hot over noodles and garnish with parsley if desired. Per serving: 474 calories, 18 grams total fat (1 gram saturated fat), 28 grams total carbs, 2 grams fiber, 40 grams protein
MUSHROOM AND SUN-DRIED TOMATO CROSTINI Prep: 15 minutes | Cook: 25 minutes | Servings: 12 8 ounces sun-dried tomatoes in French or Italian baguette olive oil 1/4 cup olive oil 4 ounces Parmesan cheese, divided 1 teaspoon salt 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard 1/4 teaspoon pepper 11/2 teaspoons garlic powder 1 pound white mushrooms 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper Preheat oven to 350 F. Cut baguette into ½-inch slices. In a shallow dish, pour olive oil and mix in salt and pepper. Dip each slice into olive oil, coating both sides, and place on an ungreased baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes or until bread is golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through. Remove crostini and let cool. In a food processor, finely chop mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, and 2 ounces of Parmesan cheese. Stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper. Place mushroom mixture in large skillet and sauté on medium heat until hot and bubbling. Serve on top of crostini, garnished with Parmesan cheese. Per serving: 158 calories, 11 grams fat (2.5 grams saturated fat), 10 grams total carbs, 1.6 grams fiber, 6 grams protein
16 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2019
BAKED MUSHROOM AND SPINACH TAQUITOS Prep: 15 minutes | Cook: 15 minutes | Servings: 4 1/2 pound portobello mushrooms, sliced thin 6 ounces lite cream cheese, softened 1/3 cup plus 1/2 cup light sour cream 4 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, divided 1 teaspoon plus 1/4 teaspoon cumin 2 cups spinach 11/2 cups shredded colby jack cheese 12 6-inch corn tortillas cooking spray 1 tablespoon minced fresh cilantro 1 teaspoon lime juice 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder Preheat oven to 425 F. Cook mushrooms in a single layer in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes to release moisture. In a food processor, blend cream cheese, 1/3 cup sour cream, 2 chipotle peppers, and 1 teaspoon cumin until smooth. Add mushrooms, spinach, and colby jack cheese, pulsing to combine. In batches of 4, spread tortillas out on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel and microwave for 30 seconds. Take out of microwave and remove one tortilla at a time from plate. Place filling on one end of tortilla and roll tightly, careful not to overfill. Place seam-down in a 9 x 13-inch baking dish coated with cooking spray. Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling. Spray top of taquitos with cooking spray. Bake 13 to 15 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. To make dipping sauce, chop remaining two peppers and combine them with remaining 1/2 cup sour cream, 1/4 teaspoon cumin, cilantro, lime juice, and garlic powder. Serves 4 as appetizers, 2 as a meal. Per appetizer serving: 496 calories, 27 grams fat (17 grams saturated fat), 45 grams total carbs, 8 grams fiber, 21 grams protein
APRIL 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 17
CO-OP SPOTLIGHT
GUERNSEY-MUSKINGUM ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE
G
uernsey-Muskingum Electric Cooperative (GMEC) serves 17,091 consumer-members in east-central Ohio. The unglaciated terrain doesn’t lend itself to wide swaths of farmland, but the hills make for fine pasturelands for cattle raising, and poultry barns fit nicely in the valleys. Because it’s situated in the midst of the Utica Shale, the oil and gas industry is a strong economic driver for the region.
Avon calling! GMEC’s largest consumer-member, in terms of electricity use, is the Avon distribution center in Zanesville. Around 2.8 million Avon products are handled in this nearly 600,000-square-foot facility every day.
Proud heritage Astronaut and Senator John Glenn and his wife, Annie, grew up in the area and attended nearby Muskingum University. The John and Annie Glenn Museum in New Concord offers tours that enlighten visitors about the statesman’s life and career.
The great outdoors The area has much to offer for outdoorsmen and women. Hunting is a popular pastime in this area of the state, and an abundance of state-owned and privately run spaces in the area served by GMEC means there’s no lack of opportunities for getting back to nature. One of GMEC’s best-known consumer-members, The Wilds is a 10,000-acre conservation and education center operated by the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. Visitors ride in open-air vehicles through the habitats of wild creatures, including rhinos, zebras, giraffes, and ostriches. Wild animals aren’t always friends to electrical distribution, though. GMEC once had to help the facility safely relocate ospreys that thought the tops of electrical poles were a good place to build their massive nests. GMEC also powers Ohio’s largest state park. Hiking, fishing, golfing, a public beach, educational programs led by a naturalist, and more are available within the 17,229 acres of Salt Fork State Park. Fully equipped cabins are available to rent, as are accommodations with plenty of amenities at the lodge. Most recently, the state opened the Jesse Owens State Park and Wildlife Area, adding 5,735 acres of recreational land to the region, with a promise to expand to over 13,000 acres. Deerassic Park Education Center holds programs and events designed for the whole family to learn about and enjoy the outdoors. A herd of 30 deer call the property their home. Guernsey-Muskingum Electric Cooperative hosts a family fun day there every year, providing food and activities for members and their families.
18 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2019
COMMITMENT SAFETY
RELIABILITY
COMMUNITY
YOU
2018 ANNUAL REPORT P I O N E E R R U R A L E L E C T R I C C O O P E R AT I V E , I N C .
APRIL 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 19
COMMITTED TO
OUR MISSION Pioneer Electric Cooperative is committed to exceeding the energy needs and expectations of our consumer-members by providing safe, high-quality, and responsive service at fair prices.
20 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2019
A MESSAGE FROM THE BOARD CHAIR AND CEO
COMMITTED TO SAFETY, RELIABILITY, OUR COMMUNITIES, AND YOU At Pioneer Electric, we are committed to our consumer-members. That commitment is deep-rooted in our service. That has been the case since the beginning. Starting with the very first pole setting in Piqua in 1935 until now, safety, reliability, our communities, and our members are most important. Below are just a few items we believe exemplified our overall commitment in 2018: •
We took on a new safety initiative called Commitment to Zero Contacts, developed through the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association and Federated Rural Electric Insurance Exchange. We officially pledged to “commit to zero” in June. That decision helped to attain no lost time due to accidents or injuries since that pledge was taken — an accomplishment we have not attained since 2012. It has created an open dialogue among employees to discuss near-miss situations and learning from mistakes instead of being punished for them.
•
At the conclusion of the year, the ash tree removal program was 98 percent complete. We continued to test poles, replace poles, and trim trees as we have for years. Crews replaced lines and completed general maintenance on substations — all as a commitment to reliability and a commitment to you.
•
Our member service representatives answered more than 27,000 calls, because when you call and need assistance or have a question, you rely on our representatives to answer your questions and address your needs.
•
We strengthened our commitment to community by raising more than $2,600 in employee-contributed funds to donate to organizations that make an impact on the communities we serve. In addition to that, more than 680 pounds of nonperishable items were donated by employees to local food pantries, again helping local people — our communities. Children of members were awarded scholarships, and local economic development programs also received funds.
•
Our line personnel not only took care of our own members and communities, but also assisted our co-op communities by providing mutual-aid restoration in North Carolina in the aftermath of Hurricane Florence and Hurricane Michael.
•
And then, there’s you, our consumer-members, whom we are committed to serving every single day through reliable and responsive service, education, and rebate and incentive opportunities.
We acknowledge that our business would not exist without your support. Your high expectations, combined with your consistent appreciation and feedback, lets us know we are on the right track. We exist to serve you and are proud to do so 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year.
APRIL 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 20A
ZERO accidents or injuries leading to lost time or restricted duty in 2018
KLIST SAFETY CHEC strains ce sprains and d Goal #1 Redu therapist create l na tio pa occu • Wilson Health red program an industry-tailo briefs ns and safety se observatio Goal #2 Increa ions; 40 safety briefs rvat • 151 crew obse rity safety and secu on employee s cu Fo #3 l l al Goa e and down procedur g • Created lock areness trainin aw ug dr ed iv ce re s ee oy empl
Days of restricted duty due to accident or injury 177 43
29
0
SAFETY MITMENT T M O
In June of 2018, Pioneer signed the pledge to take part in Commitment to Zero Contacts, an NRECA and ZE Federated Rural RO Electric Insurance Exchange initiative to help eliminate injuries by electrical contact.
20B OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2019
O:
C
2015
C O N TAC
TS
2016
2017
2018
“In 2018, our crews maintained a high level of productivity while training three new linemen trainees and enhancing our safety programs. “Their hard work, dedication, and attention to detail resulted in zero lost-time accidents and injuries — a successful year from a safety perspective.” – Steve McClay, Manager of Safety and Construction
RELIABILITY POLE TESTING
6,096 tested, 196 failed, 163 replaced
LINE REPLACEMENT
12.1 miles of line in Shelby and Champaign counties Replaced underground in West Lake Village and Oak Ridge subdivisions in Shelby County 3,800+ trees removed (12,000+ since 2013) | 455 miles trimmed
TREE REMOVAL & TRIMMING OTHER UPGRADES
• Installed new underground in Fox Harbor subdivision in Miami County • Upgraded AMI software | Signed an agreement to replace AMI meters starting in 2019 • Installed new services for Newport Sewer System project *Enhanced maintenance work was completed on East Casstown, Halterman, Newport, and Route 66 substations for increased reliability.
AVERAGE OUTAGE TIME PER MEMBER:
24/7 SERVICE
110 MINUTES*
Our linemen worked
MEDIAN OUTAGE TIME PER MEMBER FOR ALL MIDWESTERN COOPERATIVES: 168 MINUTES*
6,436 HOURS outside of normal business hours in 2018.
*excludes major events.
PHONE SYSTEM UPGRADE In February 2018, Pioneer completed an upgrade from a second-tier to a first-tier telephone provider to ensure members could reach the co-op during times of high call volume — when you need to reach us the most.
DAMAGED POLE REPLACEMENT 8 CAUSED BY POLE-TOP FIRES 14 CAUSED BY STORMS 39 CAUSED BY VEHICLE ACCIDENTS
27,746
calls were taken by member service representatives in 2018.
APRIL 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 20C
COOPERATION AMONG COOPERATIVES
Hurricane Florence EnergyUnited, Dunn, N.C.
Hurricane Michael
South River, Statesville, N.C.
10 days | 10 linemen | 826 hours worked EMPLOYEE-FUNDED SCHOLARSHIPS
D O N AT I O N S
eight children of members.
$1,500 was donated to the
$7,000 in scholarships was awarded to
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT $7,500 was contributed to economic development projects in Champaign, Miami, and Shelby counties.
ARBOR DAY TWO trees were replaced east of the Pioneer Piqua office by employees to commemorate the holiday.
Dayton area Alzheimer’s Association.
680+ pounds of nonperishable items were donated to food pantries throughout Champaign, Miami, and Shelby counties.
SIX individuals were provided gifts for Christmas as part of Pioneer’s Kids for Christmas program — an annual giving program created by Pioneer employees more than 25 years ago.
COMMUNITY 20D OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2019
nted SAFETY DEMONSTRATIONS: Pioneer prese side, River ie, Loram Fort to tions nstra demo six safety . 2018 in and Kyle elementaries and the city of Troy
#WHOPOWERSYOU CONTEST: Members Bob and Midge Custer won the national contest for their commitment to bettering their community.
ENERGY BIKE PRESENTATIONS: Pioneer taught students from Jackson Center and Fort Loramie all about energy with the energy bike.
16,750+ EVERYTHING we do revolves around ...
6.2 MEMBERS PER MILE OF LINE
REBATES + INCENTIVES
MEMBERS
YOU SERVED
Residential: 51 Geothermal | 70 Heat Pump | 5 Insulation | 130 Cool Returns Commercial: 9 Lighting
$146,055* BACK TO OUR MEMBERS *Cost is shared with Buckeye Power
CAPITAL CREDITS
Capital credits are the margins of the cooperative that are allocated back to members based on each member’s share of the amount paid for electricity.
$2,286,684 BACK TO OUR MEMBERS
APRIL 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 20E
Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2018 ASSETS Electric Plant In service — at cost $114,759,444 Construction work in progress 337,307 Subtotal $115,096,751 Less accumulated provision for depreciation and amortization 36,601,262 Net electric plant $78,495,489 Other Assets & Investments Investments in associated organizations $37,432,171 Total other assets and investments $37,432,171 Current Assets Cash and cash equivalents Accounts receivable (less accumulated provision for uncollectible accounts of $60,148) Materials and supplies Prepayments — Buckeye Power, Inc. Other current assets Total current assets Deferred Debits Total Assets
TOTAL ASSETS
$4,421,270 5,465,526 754,057 126,036 1,568,764 $12,335,653 $559,686
$128,822,999
ELECTRIC PLANT
$128,000,000
$115,000,000
$124,000,000
$110,000,000
$120,000,000 $116,000,000
$105,000,000
$112,000,000
$100,000,000
$108,000,000
$95,000,000
$104,000,000 $90,000,000
$100,000,000
$85,000,000
$96,000,000 $92,000,000
$80,000,000
$88,000,000 $75,000,000
$84,000,000
$70,000,000
$80,000,000 2014
2015
2016
20F OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2019
2017
2018
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018
Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2018 EQUITIES AND LIABILITIES Equities Patronage capital Other equities Accumulated other comprehensive income Total equities Long-term Debt CFC mortgage notes less current maturities Total long-term debt Other Noncurrent Liabilities Accumulated provision for pensions and benefits less current maturities Obligations under capital leases less current maturities Total other noncurrent liabilities Current Liabilities Current maturities of long-term debt Current maturities of obligations under capital leases Accounts payable — purchased power Accounts payable — other Consumer deposits Accrued taxes Current maturities of accumulated provision for pensions and benefits Other current liabilities Total current liabilities Deferred Credits
$43,826,017 $43,826,017
$1,360,596 89,756 $1,450,352
$1,743,466 181,928 3,863,806 799,305 258,718 1,874,416 113,170 652,996 $9,487,805
Total Equities and Liabilities
$70,482,284 194,800 2,516,389 $73,193,473
$865,352
$128,822,999
FOR A MORE IN-DEPTH VERSION OF THE ANNUAL REPORT, VISIT HTTPS://REPORT.PIONEEREC.COM.
APRIL 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 20G
Statement of Revenue & Patronage Capital for the year ended December 31, 2018 Operating Revenues Operating Expenses Cost of power Distribution — operation Distribution — maintenance Consumer records and collection expense Administrative and general expense Sales expense Depreciation and amortization Taxes Other income deductions Interest on long-term debt Other interest expense Total operating expenses Operating margins before capital credits Buckeye capital credits Other capital credits Net operating margins Nonoperating Margins Interest and dividend income Other nonoperating income Total nonoperating margins Net Margins Patronage Capital — beginning of year Retirement of capital credits — general Retirement of capital credits — estate Patronage Capital — end of year
$71,571,602
$49,015,290 5,250,587 3,157,421 989,185 2,261,033 690,326 3,655,301 1,695,042 8,913 2,100,682 7,700 $68,831,480 $2,740,122 3,996,336 230,552 $6,967,010
$129,190 7,461 $136,651 $7,103,661
$65,665,307 (1,973,626) (313,058) $70,482,284
Interest 3¢ Depreciation Consumer 5¢ Accounting 2¢
Where does each dollar of your electric bill go? Power Cost 68¢
20H OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2019
Taxes Operations/ 2¢ Maintenance 12¢ Administrative Margins 3¢ 4¢
Statement of Cash Flow for the year ended December 31, 2018 Cash Flows from Operating Activities Cash received from consumers Interest and dividend income Capital credits Cash provided by operating activities Cash paid to suppliers and employees Interest and taxes paid Cash disbursed for operating activities Net cash from operating activities
$60,882,847 4,159,978 $65,042,825 $9,638,614
Cash Flows from Investing Activities Construction and acquisition of plant Proceeds from disposal of plant Investment in associated organizations Other nonoperating income Net cash used by investing activities
$(3,763,334) (1,342,962) 13,779 7,461 $(5,085,056)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities Decrease in consumer deposits Payments on long-term debt Patronage capital credits retired Net cash used by financing activities
$(4,155) (1,711,029) (2,286,684) $(4,001,868)
Net Increase in Cash Cash — beginning of year Cash — end of year
$551,690 3,869,580 $4,421,270
$73,319,604 129,190 1,232,645 $74,681,439
Reconciliation of Net Margins to Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities Net Margins $7,103,661 Adjustments to Reconcile Net Margins to Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities Depreciation $3,655,301 Buckeye Power Inc. and other capital credits (noncash) (2,994,244) Provision for uncollectible accounts receivable 23,050 (Increase) decrease in: Customer and other accounts receivable 495,802 Current and accrued assets — other 52,779 Deferred debits 609,972 Increase (decrease) in: Accounts payable (4,164) Accrued taxes 59,264 Current and accrued liabilities — other 28,461 Deferred credits 819,664 Other nonoperating (income) loss (7,461) Accumulated provision for pensions and benefits (106,526) Obligations under capital lease (260,370) Retired capital credits — gain 163,425 Total adjustments $2,534,953 Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities $9,638,614
APRIL 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 20I
THANK A LINEMAN art contest
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE WINNERS AND THANK YOU TO ALL WHO PARTICIPATED! This year, Pioneer held its third annual art contest, open to students in kindergarten through 8th grade. This year’s theme was Thank a Lineman: show why you’re thankful for electricity.
were judged by Pioneer employees based on creativity, thoughtfulness, and overall artistic ability. All submissions were on display at Pioneer’s annual meeting on March 23.
Twenty-two entries were divided into three categories: K–2nd, 3rd–5th, and 6th–8th grades. Submissions RUBY SLEMMONS, GRADE 7, OVERALL WINNER
20J OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2019
ABIGAIL CARNAHAN, GRADE 3, 3RD–5TH FIRST PLACE
LILY GOMEZ, GRADE 6, 6TH–8TH FIRST PLACE
EZRA KIRKPATRICK, GRADE 1, K–2ND FIRST PLACE
APRIL 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 20K
Congratulations
2019 SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS
Grantham Tiefenthaler
Zachary Niswonger
Rachel Sebastian
ST. CHARLES PREPARATORY SCHOOL
TROY HIGH SCHOOL
BETHEL HIGH SCHOOL
$2,000
$1,500
$1,000
Emily Austin
Nathan Edelmann
Daniel Katwyk
Elizabeth Schipfer
FORT LORAMIE HIGH SCHOOL
ANNA HIGH SCHOOL
TROY HIGH SCHOOL
MECHANICSBURG HIGH SCHOOL
$500
$500
$500
$500
Maria Schmiesing
Ben Schmitmeyer
Jaxon Wright
LEHMAN CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL
ANNA HIGH SCHOOL
KENTON RIDGE HIGH SCHOOL
$500
$500
$500
20L OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2019
who they are . .
Grantham “Grant” Tiefenthaler is the son of Jeffrey and Heather Tiefenthaler of Mechanicsburg. Grant plans to attend Indiana University and major in finance/business. He participated in 4-H as part of the Mechanicsburg Leaders and Feeders, Dublin Community Church youth group, student council, and basketball and volleyball at St. Charles Preparatory School. He is a member of the National Honor Society, tutored at Bexley Library, and worked at Graeter’s Ice Cream.
Daniel Katwyk is the son of David and Karmen Katwyk of Troy. Daniel plans to attend Ohio State University and major in mechanical engineering. Daniel is a member of National Honor Society and the orchestra chamber group. He participates in Troy’s orchestra, Xtreme Bots, Amateur Radio, the Springfield Youth Orchestra, and activities within his church. He has served as a Cub Scout camp leader and has been an active member of Boy Scouts of America — earning his Eagle Scout designation.
Zachary Niswonger is the son of Christopher and
Elizabeth Schipfer is the daughter of John and Marlo
Heather Niswonger of Troy. Zach plans to major in engineering. His activities included Teen Leadership Troy, Troy Football Little Man’s Camp, football, Troy pen pal, and Key Club. He is a National Honor Society member and worked at Kroger.
Schipfer of Mechanicsburg. Elizabeth is undecided on a major. She is a member of the National Honor Society, volunteers as a server at her church, and works at the youth baseball concession stands and at In Good Taste Catering. She has been active in 4-H, Future Farmers of America, musicals, and cheerleading. Elizabeth also plays volleyball and basketball and serves as a class officer and a member of student council.
Rachel Sebastian is the daughter of James and Lori Sebastian of Tipp City. Rachel plans to attend the University of Dayton and major in applied mathematical economics. Rachel is active in a number of extracurricular activities including vacation bible school, Relay for Life, Buckeye Girls State, and band. Rachel runs track, plays volleyball, and plays piano at church. She is a member of National Honor Society, babysits, tutors, and has participated in the Dayton Philharmonic Youth Orchestra.
Emily Austin is the daughter of James and Barbara Austin of Fort Loramie. Emily plans to major in a medical field. Emily is very involved in her church, volunteering as a eucharistic minister, server, and playing taps for military funerals. She is a member of the student council and National Honor Society. She is a cheerleader, plays volleyball, and is a cashier at the local grocery store. Emily is a tutor for 4th- and 6th-grade math students and serves as a D.A.R.E. role model. Nathan Edelmann is the son of Cheryl and David Edelmann of Anna. Nathan plans to attend the University of Dayton and major in mathematics. Nathan has been active in the marching, concert, and jazz bands. He participated in solo and ensemble and academia, volunteered with Catholic Heart Workcamp, Sacred Heart Parish Council, and Dorothy Love Retirement Community. Nathan is also a member of National Honor Society and worked at Trackside Treats in Anna.
Maria Schmiesing is the daughter of Kevin and Anne Schmiesing of Sidney. Maria plans to attend Franciscan University of Steubenville and major in communication arts–multimedia. She is active in cross-country, track, soccer, Pro-Life Guards, musicals, church youth group, Shelby County Right to Life, nursing home ministry, and other community service. Maria works at McDonald’s, does housecleaning, landscaping, and babysitting and sells her own artwork. Ben Schmitmeyer is the son of Gary and Kelly Schmitmeyer of Anna. Ben plans to attend the University of Northwestern Ohio and major in robotics and automation technology. He is active in 4-H, band, archery, and student council. He volunteers as a eucharistic minister and mass server at his church, is a member of National Honor Society, is a class officer, and works as a surface mount technology manager at Buckeye Electrical Products Inc.
Jaxon Wright is the son of Virgil and Melissa Wright of Mechanicsburg. Jaxon plans to attend Cedarville University and major in exercise science. He is active in baseball, swimming, soccer, and musicals at Kenton Ridge. He also volunteers with the Mechanicsburg Christian Fellowship, Kenton Ridge Booster Club, DNA Community Center, The Caring Kitchen, and Northridge Lions Club. Jaxon also works at Ohio Valley Sports Medicine.
APRIL 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 21
Bensman set to retire from Pioneer’s board of trustees after 21 years of service Orville Bensman of Sidney retired from the Pioneer board of trustees on March 23 at Pioneer’s 83rd annual meeting of members. Bensman, who reached his term limit, served the cooperative for 21 years. He began on Pioneer’s board of trustees in 1998, following in the footsteps of his uncle, Werner Bensman, who served on the board from 1964 to 1996. Prior to being elected to the board of trustees, Bensman served four years on the Shelby County nominating board. During his time on the board, Bensman attained his Board Leadership, Credentialed Cooperative Director, and Director Gold Credential certificates through the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA). He considers deregulation one of the board’s biggest accomplishments throughout his years of service to the cooperative.
“Orville has been dedicated to the board of trustees throughout his 21 years,” says Board Chair Ron Clark. “He has always put the welfare of the membership first.” Bensman will greatly miss his time on the board and the relationships he has Orville Bensman RETIRING BOARD TRUSTEE built. To fill this new void of time, he looks forward to helping his sons on the farm. “It’s been enjoyable coming together with a quality board to get things done,” says Bensman.
check out our new
OFFICE HOURS
Monday–Friday: 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Saturday–Sunday: Closed
ALWAYS CALL 811 BEFORE YOU DIG!
Changes will take effect on April 15, 2019. Emergency service is still available 24/7 by calling 800-762-0997.
PIONEER RURAL ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE, INC.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Ronald P. Clark CONTACT
Chair
800-762-0997 | 937-773-2523 www.pioneerec.com
Mark A. Bailey First Vice Chair
Colleen R. Eidemiller MAIN OFFICE
Second Vice Chair
344 W. U.S. Route 36 Piqua, Ohio 45356
Terrence A. Householder
DISTRICT OFFICE
767 Three Mile Road Urbana, Ohio 43078 OFFICE HOURS
8 a.m.–5 p.m.
22 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2019
Harold T. Covault Donald D. DeWeese Dwain E. Hollingsworth Douglas A. Hurst Edward P. Sanders Paul R. Workman Donald K. Zerkle Trustees Emeritus
Secretary
Ron L. Bair Treasurer
Orville J. Bensman Roger J. Bertke Ted R. Black Duane L. Engel Trustees
Ronald P. Salyer President/CEO
HAVE A STORY SUGGESTION?
Email your ideas to: member@pioneerec.com
#
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APRIL 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 23
revival Cleveland’s Gotta Groove finds success in record revival. BY BRIAN ALBRIGHT
24 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2019
COURTESY OF GOTTA GROOVE RECORDS
GIVING VINYL A SPIN
W
According to the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), vinyl sales hit rock bottom in 2005, when they accounted for less than 1 percent of industry revenues. But Slusarz (a former executive at Newbury-based manufacturer Kinetico) and Earley (a record wholesaler) both felt that vinyl was about to experience significant growth, while existing manufacturing capacity was limited. “A lot of the new records were being made by indie rock acts, but there weren’t enough copies being made,” Earley says. “It was a challenge at the wholesale level because once a record sold out, it was a long time before you could get more pressed.”
BRIAN ALBRIGHT
hen Vince Slusarz and Matt Earley teamed up to open Gotta Groove Records in Cleveland, a casual music fan might have wondered if they were out of their minds. In 2009, the facility was one of the first new record-pressing plants to open in decades — long after sales of vinyl LPs had been eclipsed by CDs, downloads, and musicstreaming services.
Slusarz had retired and was interested in starting his own company — one that would create manufacturing jobs in the region. He was a longtime fan of vinyl and took note when his college-age daughter started buying new vinyl records. “I looked at the statistics and saw that vinyl sales were creeping up, and I wondered if there could be a potential business in it,” Slusarz says.
Earley, meanwhile, had come to a similar conclusion about the vinyl market. He reached out to the same New Jersey pressing plant to make an offer on the equipment, but Slusarz already had the presses. Earley made contacted Slusarz, and after a few months of meetings, he stepped in as Gotta Groove’s vice president of sales and marketing. Continued on page 26
BRIAN ALBRIGHT
Slusarz had to clear two hurdles, though: He didn’t know anything about making records, and there hadn’t been any new record presses made in decades. He was able to buy his first presses from a New Jersey plant that was about to shut down. He drafted a mechanic from his former company to help set up the equipment.
COURTESY OF GOTTA GROOVE RECORDS
Above: Gotta Groove owner Vince Slusarz displays raw vinyl (top) as well as a lacquer disc used to create the metal record pressing plates. Opposite, a newly pressed record comes off of the stamper. Below, there’s just something about playing a record on a turntable that streaming can’t match.
APRIL 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 25
Sounds of success Gotta Groove almost immediately attracted clients because of the dearth of pressing plants in the U.S. at the time (there are now around 30), but Slusarz has since grown the business by targeting underserved clientele. While roughly 20 percent of Gotta Groove’s business comes from major labels, the company primarily fills a niche by providing one-stopshop record production and distribution services for smaller labels and independent artists.
BRIAN ALBRIGHT
Continued from page 25
Gotta Groove occupies part of a sprawling, century-old industrial complex that used to house Tyler Elevator Products. A few dozen employees (many of them local musicians themselves) work at the factory, which operates eight presses and two shifts.
Slusarz’s bet on vinyl has paid off. The RIAA reports that vinyl sales rose from $66 million in 2009 to $395 million in 2017. Gotta Groove now presses 1 million records or more each year — everything from a reissue of Fleetwood Mac’s Greatest Hits to local indie releases. They also press records for a number of Ohio-based labels, including Rockathon Records, home to Dayton-based indie rock veterans Guided by Voices. “There’s a desire among people to own something tactile and physical, and there’s some backlash to digital music, too,” Slusarz says. “For younger people, there’s also a social aspect to vinyl. No one says, ‘Come over to my house and listen to streaming music.’ But you can invite people over to put on records, and they can thumb through your albums while they listen. It’s a pleasurable experience.” Gotta Groove Records is located at 3615 Superior Ave., Suite #4201A, Cleveland, OH 44114. Visitors can tour the plant — just call ahead at 800-295-0171. Visit their website at www.gottagrooverecords.com.
26 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2019
BRIAN ALBRIGHT
Making a record is a multistage process. Master recordings are first transformed into a lacquer disc, which is used to create a two-part metal stamper. Those stampers are affixed to the record presses at Gotta Groove, where chunks of raw vinyl are pressed between them, like batter in a waffle iron. Cold water stiffens the vinyl, and after the excess is trimmed off the edges, the records drop into a stack. Quality control staff inspect the records and listen to a sample of each batch before they are packaged and prepared for shipping.
Gotta Groove employees Heath Gmucs (closest to the press) and Kevin McCann inspect one of the company’s record presses (bottom). Once the record is pressed, the excess vinyl is trimmed and the finished record is dropped onto a stack (top).
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APRIL 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 27
CO-OP PEOPLE
RAMPING it up fter a fortuitous find, South A Central Power Company members specialize in aromatic agriculture.
T
he pursuit of fortune often leads people far from home. Sometimes, however, Lady Luck shows up unannounced literally right in your own backyard. In 1976, David and Jane Kunkler purchased 40 rural acres in Perry County at a sheriff’s sale, built a home, and moved in. “The land had been uninhabited since 1888,” David Kunkler says. “A family by the name of Elder last lived on it. The husband and wife raised 13 children here.” The Kunklers, members of South Central Power Company, enjoyed their picturesque property immensely, but they were often curious about the small, green plants that emerged from the forest floor during late winter each year. Growing in profusion, the plants covered 5 acres or more. 28 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2019
“It wasn’t until 2008, while reading an issue of Bon Appetit magazine, that I discovered the plants were ramps,” Kunkler says. “I learned that some people were paying big money for them — $13 per pound on the East Coast.” Also known as spring onions, wild leek, wood leek, or wild garlic, ramps grow wild throughout much of the eastern U.S. and north into eastern Canada. According to the Kunklers, the epicenter of ramps in North America is West Virginia. Huntington’s annual April ramp party — April 27 this year — is known as Stink Fest. Ramps smell and taste much like a crisp, garlicky onion. The Kunklers prefer them minced into sauces or chopped up and cooked with rice and a little butter. Sliced and fried with potatoes and eggs is also tasty. During spring, the entire plant is edible, including bulb, stem, and slim leaves that measure about 10 to 12 inches long.
David Kunkler, left, shows off part of his harvest from the family ramp-farming operation in Perry County. Kunkler and his wife, Jane, came across acres of ramps growing on their property shortly after they bought it in 1976, and they have turned the find into a profitable mail-order business.
The Kunklers sell ramp seeds (60 seeds for $4) and bulbs ($10 per pound) year-round. They sell whole plants (also $10 per pound) during spring. “People buy whole plants to eat, but they buy the seeds and bulbs to begin growing their own ramp gardens,” Kunkler says. “It takes five years for seeds to develop into a harvestable ramp patch, but much less time if you plant bulbs.” The Kunklers are split about how the ramps came to be growing on their property and not on those of any of their neighbors. “I believe it was the Elder family who planted them years ago,” Kunkler says. “Winter vitamin deficiencies were common during the 1800s, and eating spring ramps literally saved people’s lives.”
His wife disagrees, however. “I think that ramps have always grown here naturally, as our land is too steep and rocky for farming. As a result, it has never been plowed or even timbered,” she says. Jane and David first began selling their ramps to a market in Columbus’s Short North District, as well as to a few highend restaurants in central Ohio. Today, they sell mainly online, shipping 500 to 600 pounds of ramps annually to gourmets in every state except Alaska and Hawaii. “Our local postmistress in Somerset tells us she knows exactly when one of our boxes arrives for shipping,” Jane Kunkler says. “She can tell by the smell.” For more information on the Kunklers’ ramp business or to order, visit www.ledgerockfarms.com.
APRIL 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 29
Scientist CAPTAINS
Academics studying Lake Erie have found an invaluable, if unexpected, source of data.
PHOTO COURTESY OF OHIO SEA GRANT
BY JAMES PROFFITT
Charter captain Dave Spangler (in yellow) practices a little citizen science aboard a Stone Lab vessel near Middle Bass Island.
I
t’s no secret that Lake Erie’s recent algae blooms have a small army of scientists and conservationists working nonstop to remedy its troubles. But a little-known faction has been feeding valuable data to those problemsolvers: charter captains.
Now, more than a dozen captains provide a steady seasonlong stream of info to scientists. “We give the exact location we were when we sampled and offer the water temperature, depth, clarity, and also wind conditions and anything else that’s happening at the time,” Spangler says.
“We first started with the Ohio EPA,” says Dave Spangler, longtime captain and vice president of the Lake Erie Charter Boat Association (LECBA). The EPA, he says, sent lab technicians wading near shore to collect samples. “The better part of the Western Basin just wasn’t getting covered,” he says. “We’re all out there every day already, so why not (make use of us)?”
Algae blooms, which can create harmful toxins in the water, have been around for years, but gained notoriety in 2014, when a massive bloom caused Toledo’s drinking water to become unusable for three days. The Toledo water crisis made international news — and it was terrible for tourism, including the fishing business. Captains’ work as scientists has been expanding ever since.
30 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2019
PHOTO BY JAMES PROFFITT
Ohio Wildlife Council member George Klein takes a break from fishing to check out the most recent data compiled by charter captains.
“During the past two seasons, we’ve been sport fishing out on the lake with Ohio Division of Wildlife, and we implant walleye with radio telemetry transmitters,” says Paul Pacholski, LECBA president. Pacholski works nearly full time on education, public relations, and data collecting for the group. “We’ve recently worked with Wayne State University on an invasive species study and Heidelberg University on a Maumee River water flow study,” he says. In fact, Pacholski says he and other charter captains have worked with just about every university in the region on not only Lake Erie-related research projects, but also inland marshes and estuaries. When asked if charter captains weren’t supposed to be out on the lake during the algae crisis, Pacholski laughs. “My mom wrote me a note that said I can go anywhere I want,” he brags. Justin Chaffin, research coordinator at Stone Lab, Ohio State University’s island science spot (situated on tiny Gibraltar Island at Put-in-Bay), says the partnership works well. “We train the captains to collect the samples, but also to talk about the data and issues with their customers, and that translates into a really great outreach project.” Chaffin says info from charter captains gets compared to bona fide, professional data — and it’s solid. “It’s surprising how accurate the charter captain data set is,” he says. “The added benefit is they have opportunity to talk with the public about all the issues and disseminate accurate information.” Captains have their fishy fingers into more than just algae blooms and radio telemetry. Another Stone Lab study determines how water turbidity and algae affect the vision of both walleye and their favorite food, emerald shiners.
“We’re learning some really cool things about which lure colors that walleye prefer under different conditions,” says Suzanne Gray, assistant professor of aquatic physiological ecology at Ohio State. Spoiler alert: “When there’s an algae bloom, I believe having black components in the lure is beneficial,” she says. While Gray and staff have been working with fish in the laboratory, captains are doing the same on the lake via a cellphone app developed by graduate student Chelsey Nieman. The app allows captains to capture and send on-the-water data — and photos — back to Stone Lab. The photos provide information as detailed as a fish’s eye size, exact location of a catch, and an image of water at the site, all of which is meshed with satellite imagery and info from scientific buoys and weather stations. “They have a vinyl sheet with a ruler on it,” Gray says. “There’s a color wheel and a place to put the lure that caught the fish. They place fish on the ruler, the lure in the box, and take a photo off the side of the boat. Some of the charter captains love to email Chelsey with their stories. I think it’s great.” This summer, Gray, staff, and students will fish with captains in controlled angling studies. “So far, they’re only telling us what’s successful, not all the lures they switched out, all the ones that didn’t catch fish. This is the first time I’ve tapped into the expertise of people who are actually out there, the ones on the water. They know the lake and they know the fish, and that’s been truly awesome.” JAMES PROFFITT is a freelance writer from Marblehead.
APRIL 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 31
Chicago Doctor Shakes Up Hearing Aid Industry
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Chicago – A local board-certified physician has done it once again with his newest invention of a medical-grade, affordable hearing aid. This new hearing aid is packed with all the features of traditional hearing aids found at clinics for a mere fraction of the cost. Now most people with hearing loss are able to enjoy crystal clear, natural sound — in a crowd, on the phone, in the wind — without suffering through “whistling” and annoying background noise.
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APRIL 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 33
These walls can talk Dozens of Ohio post offices contain history lessons on community and American can-do spirit. BY JAMIE RHEIN
D
uring the Great Depression, two federal programs — the Public Works of Art Project (PWAP) and the Federal Art Project (FAP), which was a part of the Works Progress Administration (WPA) — put thousands of artists to work. Murals were painted across the U.S., including more than 60 in Ohio, with post offices reaping the bounty. The post offices, several of which themselves were built with WPA money, “are a great snapshot of Ohio history and public art,” says Barbara Powers, head of the State Historic Preservation Office. “So many murals focused on scenes with local connections and an element of nostalgia.” Many of the buildings still retain their original woodwork and features. The murals, mostly oil on canvas and glued to the walls, are as varied as the communities that inspired them. When artist Albert Kotin took on the Ada post office mural in 1939, he imagined life in the 1800s when “people had settled down to peaceful pursuits,” he wrote. His Country Dance is a lively mix of musicians, partnerswinging couples, and children joining in. In Marysville, James Egleson’s nostalgic view depicts two farmers, hoes propped nearby, reading their newspapers as their cows look on. In 1940, Egleson painted The Farmer fresco-style, directly on a post office wall. Ron Best’s 1942 mural in the Waverly post office also tells of nostalgic times. Arrival of the Packet shows a boat with passengers traveling along a canal while townspeople look on. Artist Wendell Jones turned to Granville’s religious past for inspiration. In the 1938 First Pulpit in Granville, settlers join in thanks after cutting down a tree for their first altar
34 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2019
and pulpit. For Jones, his painting shows Americans as those who “shall never be destroyed.” At age 13, Herman Wessel went to the Cincinnati Art Academy, beginning a career that spanned the world. His two 7-foot murals in the Springfield post office depict the city’s early industries. Printing in Springfield and Manufacture of Farm Implements are in the post office’s original section, which is now a museum. The detailed, art deco postal windows and the period artifacts round out the artistic touches in the room. Like the Springfield post office, other post offices have changed. The original post office in Fairborn has been turned into a library. Fortunately, the 1941 Wright Brothers in Ohio mural by Henry Simon was moved to the town’s new post office. In 1940, when Lloyd R. Ney painted his New London Facets in the New London post office, town resident Vaughn Neel was 11 years old. Later, as the post office’s window clerk, Neel created a binder of mural-related correspondence and articles. “This is one of three murals like it in the U.S.,” recalls Neel, who at 88, recently retired as treasurer of the New London Historical Society. Ney pushed for his abstract design to be accepted by the FAP, which leaned toward realistic scenes. Recently cleaned, the mural showcases the bright colors of Ney’s vision, and the post office still has the binder that Neel created. Ohio native Richard Zoellner has murals in two post offices. Tobacco Harvest, painted in 1938 for the Georgetown post office, shows farmers in a tobacco field with Georgetown’s prominent buildings in the background. His smaller 1937 murals in the Portsmouth post office, Coal Barges and Waterfront, depict that town’s river history.
Also at the Portsmouth post office, town native and artist Clarence H. Carter’s four murals, Characteristic Local Scenes in Portsmouth, cover three walls. Although Carter’s visual story of Portsmouth’s riverboat, farming, and factory history is stunning, for longtime resident Robert Mohl, the mural of the town’s 1937 flood is most remarkable. “See how the sacks were filled to try to stop the water,” he says, pointing to the frantic scene. For Mohl, 80, the murals opened his mind when he was a child. “When you are a kid, you are down so low — the murals are up so high. It’s staggering to realize that the world isn’t billboards once you appreciate the world of handmade, of brushes, colors, and ideas.” JAMIE RHEIN is a freelance writer from Columbus.
Opposite page: Richard Zoellner’s Tobacco Harvest adorns the wall at the post office in Georgetown; Manufacture of Farm Implements (above) is one of two murals Herman Wessel created for the post office at Springfield; right, top to bottom: Country Dance in the Ada post office imagines life in the 1800s; Lloyd R. Ney had to lobby the Federal Art Project to accept his abstract design for the New London post office; Clarence H. Carter painted four murals that cover three walls at the post office in Portsmouth.
APRIL 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 35
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36 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2019
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Before
2019
APRIL/MAY COMPILED BY COLLEEN ROMICK CLARK
CALENDAR
APR. 13 – Bucyrus Model Railroad Association Train Show and Swap Meet, Crawford Co. Fgds., 610 Whetstone St., Bucyrus, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. $5, under 12 free. Club Room will be open with operating layouts for all to enjoy. Exhibit tables available for selling, trading, and swapping. 866-562-0720 or 419-462-5035. APR. 13 – CMP Monthly Air Rifle and Air Pistol Match, 1000 Lawrence Dr., Port Clinton. Free admission and parking. Competitions feature a Junior Air Rifle 3x20 and 3x10; 60 Shots Air Rifle and Air Pistol match; and 20shot Novice Prone match. Rental equipment is available for a small fee. 419-635-2141 (Brad Donoho), lsherman@ THROUGH APR. 28 – “Expanded Views: Native thecmp.org, or www.thecmp.org. American Art in Focus,” Toledo Museum of Art, 2445 APR. 20 – Hayes Easter Egg Roll, Spiegel Monroe St., Toledo. Both historical and contemporary Grove, Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library and Native American art is featured, including new acquisitions Museums, Fremont, 2–3:30 p.m. Admission is three and a large-scale work by James Lavadour. 419-255-8000 hard-boiled colored eggs. For kids age 3–10. Prizes, or www.toledomuseum.org. games, crafts, and visits with the Easter Bunny. 419APR. 5, 12, 19, 26; MAY 3, 10 – First Fridays, 332-2081 or www.rbhayes.org. downtown Sidney. Participating shops and restaurants APR. 20 – Easter Egg Hunt, Northwest Ohio stay open later, and many offer a First Friday discount. Railroad Preservation Inc., 12505 Co. Rd. 99, Findlay. 937-658-6945 or www.sidneyalive.org. Adults, $3; children 12 and under, $2 (includes a train ride). APR. 7 – Toledo Doll, Bear, and Toy Show, Lucas Continuous egg hunt with multiple age divisions from Co. Fgds., Maumee Rec. Ctr., 2901 Key St., Maumee, 10 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Quarter-scale train rides continue until a.m.–4 p.m., early admission 8:30 a.m. Admission $6; 4 p.m. 419-423-2995, www.nworrp.org, or www. early bird, $20. Free parking. Antique, vintage, artist, and facebook.com/nworrp. modern dolls and bears, as well as accessories, antique APR. 21 – Easter Egg Hunt on the Square, 109 S. toys, vintage holiday items, appraisals, and on-site doll Ohio Ave., Sidney. The hunt starts promptly at 11 a.m. Four stringing. 734-282-0152, sandy4085@hotmail.com. or groups: ages 1–2; 3–5; 6–8; and 9–11. 937-658-6945 or www.toledodollshow.com. www.sidneyalive.org. APR. 11 – Through the Drinking Glass Tasting APR. 22, 24 – Hidden Spaces, Secret Places and Pairing Event: Ohio Wines, 109 S. Ohio Ave., Tour, downtown Sidney. Tour starts at 109 S. Ohio Ave. Sidney. Time to be determined. 937-658-6945 or www. Tickets available on website; space is limited. 937-658sidneyalive.org. 6945 or www.sidneyalive.org. APR. 12–13 – Home Sweet Home: A VintageAPR. 27 – Chocolate and Wine Walk, 5495 Liberty Inspired Market, Allen Co. Fgds., 2750 Harding Hwy., Ave., Vermilion, 11 a.m.–5 p.m. $20. Take a stroll through Lima, Fri. 5–8 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.–4 p.m. $5, under 12 free. downtown Vermilion while sampling chocolate treats and/ Free swag bags to the first 50 guests. Vintage, rustic, or wine as you visit the quaint shops. 440-967-4477 or primitive, shabby chic, antiques, repurposed, and upcycled http://vermilionchamber.net. items. Food trucks on site. 419-230-1756 or http:// APR. 27–28 – The Fantastic Tiffin Flea Market, homesweethomevintagemarket.com. Seneca Co. Fgds., 100 Hopewell Ave., Tiffin, Sat. 9 APR. 12–14 – Southern Gospel Expo, Trinity a.m.–4 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Free admission and Friends Church, 605 N. Franklin St., Van Wert, Fri. 5 p.m., parking; handicap accessible. 250 to 400 dealers per Sat. 4 p.m., Sun. 6:30 (doors open at 4 p.m.). Free. Over show. 419-447- 9613, tiffinfleamarket@gmail.com, or 25 gospel groups from around the country. Food court www.tiffinfleamarket.com. available each night. 419-238-2788 or www.trinityvw.com. APR. 27–28 – Ghost Town Spring Crafts and APR. 12–14 – Zombie Prom: Atomic Edition, Antiques Festival, 10630 Co. Rd. 40, Findlay, Sat. 9 McDonald’s Youth Theatre, 991 N. Shore Dr., Lima, Fri./ a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. www.facebook.com/ Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. A girl-loves-ghoul rock ‘n’ roll Ghost-Town-Findlay-Ohio-1525098627787387. off-Broadway musical set in the 1950s. www.amiltellers.org.
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APR. 6 – Wheeling Jamboree Anniversary Show, Capitol Theatre, 1015 Main St., Wheeling, 7–10 p.m. $20–$65. This annual event celebrates the occasion when
the country music program left the radio studio to become the second-oldest country broadcast stage show in history. 304-243-4470 or www.capitoltheatrewheeling.com. APR. 21 – Easter Day Buffet, North Bend State Park, 202 North Bend Park Rd., Cairo, 11 a.m.–3 p.m. $23.95. Reservations recommended. Easter egg hunt at 2 p.m. 304-643-2931 or www.northbendsp.com. MAY 1–OCT. 27 – Blennerhassett Voyage Package, North Bend State Park, 202 North Bend Park Rd., Cairo. $130, includes one night of lodging at North Bend, sternwheeler ride to and from Blennerhassett Island, wagon ride tour of the island, and tour of Blennerhassett Mansion. 304-643-2931, www.northbendsp.com, or www. blennerhassettislandsatatepark.com.
APR. 28 – Glass City Marathon, 2801 W. Bancroft St., Toledo. 26.2-mile marathon, 13.1-mile half marathon, 5K, and five-person relay. www.glasscitymarathon.org. MAY 1–5 – Annual Quilt Show, Founder’s Hall at Sauder Village, 22611 St. Rte. 2, Archbold, Wed.–Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Quilts on display from around the region, vendor market, exhibits, and workshops. Appraisals Thur. and Fri., and Sat. by appointment only. 800-590-9755 or https:// saudervillage.org. MAY 3–12 – Biggest Week in American Birding, Maumee Bay Lodge and Conference Ctr., 1750 State Park Rd., Oregon. Free. Enjoy the spectacular birding in northwest Ohio, the “Warbler Capital of the World.” Activities include guided walks through Magee Marsh, bird ID workshops, birding by canoe, and birder’s marketplace. 419-898-4070 or www. biggestweekinamericanbirding.com. MAY 4 – Kentucky Derby Affair on the Square, 109 S. Ohio Ave., Sidney. Time to be determined. Get your hats and bow ties ready! Vote for your favorite jockey, and enjoy southern fare and bourbon mint juleps at the cash bar (21 and over). 937-658-6945 or www. sidneyalive.org. MAY 4–5 – “Springtime in Ohio” Art and Craft Show, Hancock Co. Fgds., 1017 E. Sandusky St., Findlay, Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–4 p.m. $6 for unlimited entry both days; under 12 free. Repurposed goods and furniture, décor, jewelry, kids’ activities, and demos. 419436-1457 or http://cloudshows.biz/event-calendar. MAY 5 – Fort Recovery Museum Opening, 1 Fort Site St., Fort Recovery. 1 p.m. Free. Dedication of battlefield exhibits; virtual tour; unveiling of 1793 fort wall discovery/demarcation. Speaker at 3 p.m. 419-375-4384, www.fortrecoverymuseum.com, or find us on Facebook. MAY 11 – Lilac Festival and Street Fair, downtown Defiance. Celebrate the official flower of Defiance with the community’s largest arts and crafts fair. Free lilacs to the first 500 attendees. 5K race, the Power of Purple parade, music, vendors, and kids’ activities. 419-782-0739 or http:// visitdefianceohio.com/annual-events. MAY 11 – Spring on the Farm, Sauder Village, 22611 St. Rte. 2, Archbold, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Explore the farm with your children through great books and many fun hands-on activities. 800-590-9755 or https://saudervillage.org. Continued on page 38
PLEASE NOTE: Ohio Cooperative Living strives for accuracy but urges readers to confirm dates and times before traveling long distances to events. Submit listings AT LEAST 90 DAYS prior to the event to Ohio Cooperative Living, 6677 Busch Blvd., Columbus, OH 43229 or events@ ohioec.org. Ohio Cooperative Living will not publish listings that don’t include a complete address or a number/website for more information.
APRIL 2019 • OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING 37
2019 CALENDAR
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Stop by the Visitor Center at 120 S. 3rd St. to get a map. 740-283-1787 or www.visitsteubenville.com/events. APR. 25–28 – Geauga County Maple Festival, Historic Chardon Square, Chardon. Arts and crafts, lumberjack competition, beard and mustache contest, bathtub races, pageants, and other events. Enjoy allyou-can-eat Pancakes in the Park every day, 8 a.m.–2 p.m.: adults $8, under 6 free. 440-286-3007 or www. maplefestival.com. APR. 26–27 – 55th Annual International Watch Fob Association Show and Sale, Lakeside Sand and Gravel, 3540 Frost Rd., Mantua, Fri. 9 a.m.–8 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Free admission. The world’s largest watch fob, construction memorabilia, and toy show. Free refreshments. 440-816-1882 or chuck@ dhsdiecast.com, www.watchfob.com, or www.facebook. com/iwfai. APR. 27 – Medina Spring Avant-Garde Art and Craft Show, Medina Community Rec. Ctr., 885 Weymouth Rd., Medina, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $3, under 12 free. Join us at our newest show launching this spring! Feature artists and crafters selling their original handmade items. www.avantgardeshows.com. APR. 27 –18th Annual Lakeside Sand and Gravel Open House and Antique Equipment Show, 3450 Frost Rd., Mantua, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Antique construction and mining demos. Bus tours of the company’s sand and gravel operations. Lunch provided with donation. 330-274-2569 or www. lakesidesandgravel.com. APR. 27–MAY 11 – Annual Spring Art Show and Sale, Eastern Gateway Community College, 4000 Sunset Blvd., Steubenville. Sponsored by Steubenville Art Association. 740-264-2959. MAY 3–4 – Dandelion May Fest, Breitenbach Wine Cellars, 5934 Old Rte. 39 NW, Dover, Fri. noon–7 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.–7 p.m. Dandelion food and wine tastings, dandelion sangria, dandelion picking contest and jelly-making, entertainment, and vendor fair. 5K run. 330-343-3603 or www.breitenbachwine.com/events/ dandelion-festival.
MAY 4–5 – Ohio Civil War Show and Artillery Show, Richland Co. Fgds., 750 N Home Rd., Mansfield, Sat. 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. $7, under 12 free. Free parking. Military items, relics, and memorabilia to buy, sell, or trade. Cannon firing and WWII small arms demos, Civil War hospital scenario and encampments, and much more. www.ohiocivilwarshow.com. MAY 4–5 – Model Train Days, Painesville Railroad Museum, 475 Railroad St., Painesville, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $5, C. (3–12) $3, Family $12. Operating layouts in N, HO, and S scale, and O and G gauge. Flea market on grounds. Food and drinks available. 440-417-6746 or www. painesvillerailroadmuseum.org. MAY 5 – Harrison Career Ctr. FFA Tractor, Truck, Engine, and Car Show, Harrison Co. Fgds., 550 Grant St., Cadiz, 11 a.m.–4 p.m., registration starting around 9:30 a.m. Donation for admission. 330-440-5578, HCCFFA@yahoo.com, or www.facebook.com/HCCFFA. MAY 11 – Harrison Coal & Reclamation Historical Park Dinner/Auction, Wallace Lodge, Sally Buffalo Park, 100 College Way (43000 Industrial Park Rd.), Cadiz. $18. Doors open at 5 p.m., dinner at 6 p.m., followed by speaker and auction. For reservations or to donate items: 740-391-4135, 740-942-3895, info@ hcrhp.org, www.hcrhp.org, or www.facebook.com/ HCRHP. MAY 11 – German Maifest, Historic Zoar Village, 198 Main St., Zoar, 10 a.m – 5 p.m. Free. Traditional German food and drink, music, dancing, games, art projects, and a Maypole. Grand opening of the “Sense of Zoar” art exhibit at the Bimeler House. 800-262-6195 or www. historiczoarvillage.com/events. MAY 11 – Avon Spring Avant-Garde Art and Craft Show, Emerald Event Ctr., 33040 Just Imagine Dr., Avon, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $3, under 12 free. www. avantgardeshows.com. MAY 11 – Zoar Plant Sale, Zoar Garden, 168 W. 4th St., Zoar. 8 a.m.–4 p.m. Annuals, perennials, hanging baskets, vegetables, shade plants, and shrubs. www. historiczoarvillage.com/events.
tickets, and raffle. Lunch at 12:30 with the Style Show to begin shortly afterward. 740-439-8151 or http:// seormc.org. APR. 13 – Patty Griffin, Stuart’s Opera House, 52 Public Square, Nelsonville, 8 p.m. $43–$58. 740-7531924 or www.stuartsoperahouse.org. APR. 14 – Ben-Hur, Athena Grand, 1008 E. State St., Athens, 6 p.m. $12.50. 60th anniversary of this film classic. 740-593-8800 or www.athenagrand.com. APR. 20 – Earth Gathering Festival, Pump House Ctr. for the Arts, 1 Enderlin Circle, Chillicothe, 11 a.m.–6 THROUGH DEC. – Athens Farmers Market, p.m. Free admission. Juried art festival with an Earth 1000 E. State St., Athens, Wed. 9 a.m.–1 p.m., Sat., Day theme. Affordable handmade art and great music 9 a.m.–noon. Farmers, orchardists, specialty food from local and regional artists. 740-772-5783 or http:// producers, bakers, horticulturalists, cheese makers, and visitchillicotheohio.com. more. 740-593-6763 or www.athensfarmersmarket.org. APR. 20 – Easter Egg Hunt, Deerassic Park APR. 12–14 – Annual Wildflower Pilgrimage, Education Ctr., Cambridge, 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Free. Youth Highlands Nature Sanctuary, 7660 Cave Rd., Bainbridge. under 12 hunt eggs for tickets and prizes. 740-435-3335 Join us for a weekend of guided hikes, delicious meals, or www.deerassic.com. and special talks from our guest speakers. Our 2019 APR. 25–28 – Pike County Dogwood theme is “Signature Animals of the Great Eastern Festival, Main St., Piketon. Daily entertainment, Forest.” Space is limited and registration is required. food, contests, rides, parade, and more. www. 937-365-1935 or www.arcofapplachia.org/annualpikecountydogwoodfestival.com. wildflower-pilgrimage. APR. 27–28 – Lucasville Trade Days, Scioto Co. APR. 13 – 51st Wing 12 Daffodil Luncheon, Fgds., 1193 Fairground Rd., Lucasville. $3, under 13 free; Pritchard Laughlin Civic Ctr., 7033 Glenn Hwy., early bird admission, $4. Free parking on fairground lots. Cambridge. Doors open at 11:30 a.m. Vendors, quilt 937-728-6643 or www.lucasvilletradedays.com.
APR. 28 – Spring Hike, Adena Mansion and Gardens, 847 Adena Rd., Chillicothe, noon–4 p.m. Free. Guided woodland hike, limited to the first 30 who register the day of the hike. Two hikes, at noon, and 2 p.m. Children must be accompanied by an adult. http:// visitchillicotheohio.com/event/spring-hike-2. MAY 2–5 – Wild Turkey Festival, 100 E. Main St., McArthur, Thur. 5–11 p.m., Fri./Sat. 11 a.m.–11 p.m., Sun. noon–5 p.m. Carnival rides, games, car show, quilt show. Parade and crowning of the Wild Turkey Festival Queen at 6 p.m. Saturday. 740-591-1118, chriscram59@ gmail.com, or www.wildturkeyfestival.com. MAY 3–5 – Spring Women’s Retreat, Highlands Nature Sanctuary, 7660 Cave Rd., Bainbridge. Enjoy the company of other like-minded women and get back to nature in the way that suits you best. Space is limited. Register at http://arcofappalachia.org/womens-retreat/ or 937-365-1935. MAY 3–SEPT. 27 – Rise and Shine Farmers Market, 2135 Southgate Pkwy., Cambridge, Fridays, 8 a.m.–noon. 740-680-1866. MAY 4 – Spring Fest, Deerassic Park Education Ctr., Cambridge. 740-435-3335 or www.deerassic.com.
NORTHEAST
THROUGH APR. 22 – I-X Indoor Amusement Park, IX Center, One I-X Dr., Cleveland. Annual spring event offers a full day of family fun at a budget-friendly price! Rides, games, food, and attractions, all under one roof. 216-265-2586 or www.ixamusementpark.com. APR. 1–13 – Spring Quilt Show, Historic Fort Steuben Visitor Ctr., 120 S. 3rd St., Steubenville, Mon.–Fri. 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Sat. noon–4 p.m. 740-283-1787 or www. oldfortsteuben.com. APR. 4–6 – Vernal Poolooza Science Conference, Ashland University Convocation Ctr., 638 Jefferson St., Ashland. www.ohwetlands.org/ vernalpoolooza-2019. APR. 13 – Canton Spring Avant-Garde Art and Craft Show, St. George Serbian Ctr., 4667 Applegrove St. NW, North Canton, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $3, under 12 free. 440-227-8794 or www.avantgardeshows.com. APR. 14 – Black Violin: Classical Boom, Connor Palace, Playhouse Square, 1519 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, 7 p.m. $10–$45. 216-771-4444 or www.playhousesquare. org/events. APR. 19–MAY 12 – Shrek the Musical, Geauga Lyric Theater Guild, 101 Water St., Chardon, Fri./Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. $10–$18. Based on the Oscar-winning film. 440-286-2255 or www.geaugatheater.org. APR. 21–MAY 12 – The Great Steubenville Eggsibition, various locations, Steubenville. Huge handpainted “eggs” offer a downtown scavenger hunt!
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THROUGH SEPT. 15 – “Blooms and Butterflies,” Franklin Park Conservatory, 1777 E. Broad St., Columbus, daily 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $12–$19,under 3 free. Daily butterfly releases at 1 and 3 p.m. 614-715-8000 or www.fpconservatory.org. THROUGH AUG. 3 – “Luminous: Encaustic Works by Barbara Vogel,” Zanesville Museum of Art, 620 Military Rd., Zanesville, Wed., Fri., Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Thur. 10 a.m.–7:30 p.m. $4–$6; under 10 and members free. www.zanesvilleart.org. APR. 5–7, 12–14 – O’Donnell’s Pub, Zanesville Community Theatre, 940 Findley Ave., Zanesville, Fri./ Sat. 8 p.m., Sun. 2:30 p.m. Comedy by Zanesville native Christopher Brooks. 740-455-6487 or www.zct.org. APR. 6, 13, 20, 27 – Spring Farmers’ Market, Weasel Boy Brewing Company, 126 Muskingum Ave., Zanesville, 11 a.m.–2 p.m. www. zanesvillefarmersmarket.org. APR. 7 – Ragtime Rick and the Chefs of Dixieland, Clintonville Woman’s Club, 3951 N. High St., 2–5 p.m. $15–$20. Sponsored by the Central Ohio Hot Jazz Society. 614-558-2212, www.cohjs.org, or Facebook. com/COHJS. APR. 11–14 – Equine Affaire, Ohio Expo Ctr., 717 E. 17th Ave., Columbus. $8–$15, under 6 free. Experience the nation’s premier equine exposition. 740-845-0085 or www.equineaffaire.com. APR. 12–13 – Spring at the Round Barn, Fairfield Co. Fgds., 157 E. Fair Ave., Lancaster, Fri. 4–8 p.m. (early buying: $10), Sat. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. ($5, under 12 free). Free
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parking. An upscale market bringing together more than 125 vendors. Farmhouse décor, clothing, candles, jewelry, crafts, live music, and food trucks. 614-296-1621 or find us on Facebook. APR. 13 – Church Basement Ladies: Rise Up, O Men, Marion Palace Theatre, 276 W. Center St., Marion, 2 p.m. $20–$35. Hilarious new national touring musical is the latest addition to the Church Basement Ladies series. 740-383-2101 or www.marionpalace.org. APR. 13 – Midwest Scholastic Rowing Sprints, Dillon Lake, 5265 Dillon Hills Dr,, Nashport. www. midwestscholasticrowing.com. APR. 13–14 – AG Days, presented by Hocking County Farm Bureau, Hocking Co. Fgds., 150 N. Homer Ave. Logan, Sat. 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Historic farming practices, antique tractors, threshing machines and corn sheller, steam-powered sawmill, and hit-and-miss engines. Bluegrass band, kids’ activities. 740-474-6284 or www.ofbf.org. APR. 13, 27, MAY 11 – Nelson T. Gant Homestead Tours, 1845 W. Main St., Zanesville, 11 a.m.–1 p.m. or call for appointment. Officially recognized as an Underground Railroad site. 740-453-0988, 740-3191157, or www.nelsontgantfoundation.org. APR. 26–28 – Mohican Wildlife Weekend: Pick Your Path, various locations in Ashland and Richland counties. Free. A celebration of wildlife habitat, heritage, and natural history. Workshops and demonstrations. 800642-8282 or www.mohicanwildlifeweekend.com. APR. 26–28 – Vintage Market Days, Franklin Co. Fgds., 4951 Northwest Pkwy., Hilliard, Fri./Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–4 p,m. $10 for early buyer, $5 for Sat./ Sun. only, under 13 free. An upscale vintage-inspired indoor/outdoor market featuring original art, antiques, clothing, jewelry, decor, outdoor furnishings, and more. www.vintagemarketdays.com. APR. 27 – Earth Day Celebration, Coshocton County Career Ctr., 23640 Airport Rd., Coshocton, 12–4 p.m. Free. Exhibits and vendors including artisans, organic farmers, community groups, and Native American culture. Explore solar power and green enterprises. Live raptor demos, kids’ activities, entertainment, and food. 740-5026546 or www.cecaware.org.
St., Hamilton, 7–9 p.m. Free. Lively bluegrass music. vaughnjh@gmail.com. APR. 5, MAY 3 – Vernon McIntyre’s Appalachian Grass, Butler County Coon Hunters Club, 200 Warwick Rd., Hamilton, 7–9 p.m. Donations requested. Enjoy an evening of lively bluegrass music. 513-410-3625. APR. 12–13 – Midwest Ceramic Association Show, Butler Co. Exhibition Bldg., Butler Co. Fgds., 1715 Fairgrove Ave., Hamilton, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Ohio’s original ceramic show. www.midwestceramics.org. APR. 14 – Annual Farm Toy Show, Champaign Co. THROUGH JUNE 16 – Butterflies of Ecuador, Fgds., 384 Park Ave., Urbana, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. $2, under 12 Krohn Conservatory, 1501 Eden Park Dr, Cincinnati, 10 free. Look, buy, sell, or trade. Over 120 tables, including a.m.–5 p.m. $7, Srs. $6, C. (5–17) $4, under 5 free. 513parts dealer. 937-826-4201. 421-5707 or www.cincinnatiparks.com/krohn. APR. 21 – Easter Egg Hunt, Young’s Dairy, 6880 APR. 1–31 – Easter Egg Paperweight Blow, Springfield-Xenia Rd., Yellow Springs, 2 p.m. Free. Neusole Glassworks, 11925 Kemper Springs Dr., Open to children up to age 10. 937-325-0629 or www. Cincinnati, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. $40 per 30-minute session. youngsdairy.com/easter-egg-hunt/. For ages 5 and older. Sculpt molten glass into egg-shaped APR. 26–28 – Bellbrook Sugar Maple Festival, paperweights! Pickup in 7 days. Reservations required. downtown Bellbrook. Live bands, beer garden, parade, 513-751-3292 or neusoleglassworks@hotmail.com. children’s tent, 5K run, dog show, recycled sculpture APR. 1 – Vernon McIntyre’s Appalachian Grass, contest, and more. www.sugarmaplefestival.com. Miami University Downtown Downhome, 221 High
APR. 27 – Ohioana Book Festival, Columbus Metropolitan Main Library, 96 S. Grant, Columbus, 10:30 a.m.–5 p.m. Free. More than 100 Ohio authors gather with readers for a day of panel discussions, readings, a book fair, children’s activities, and more. 614-466-3831 or www. ohioana.org. APR. 27 – Taste of Marysville, Marysville High School Field House, 800 Amrine Rd., Marysville, 5–9 p.m. $10 buys 8 tasting tickets; you choose the vendors. 937-243-5833 or www.tasteofmarysville.com. APR. 28 – Southeastern Ohio Symphony Orchestra Concert, Brown Chapel, College Dr., New Concord, 7 p.m. $15. Season finale of favorites! 740-8268197 or www.seoso.org. APR. 28 – Zane Grey Day, National Road–Zane Grey Museum, 8850 E. Pike, Norwich, 1–4 p.m. An afternoon of fun outdoor activities. www.ohiohistory.org. MAY 3 – Chocolate Hop, Columbus and Center Sts., Pickerington, 6–8 p.m. $5, receive a map of locations around the Olde Village where you will receive a chocolate treat. www.pickeringtonvillage.com. MAY 3 – The Everly Brothers Experience, Marion Palace Theatre, 276 W. Center St., Marion, 7:30 p.m. $15– $28. The Zmed Brothers simulate the sound of the legendary rock ’n’ roll singing duo. 740-383-2101 or www. marionpalace.org. MAY 4–5, 11–12, 18–19, 25–26 – Rock Mill Weekends, Stebelton Park at Rock Mill, 1429 Rockmill Place NW, Lancaster, Sat./Sun. 12–4 p.m. Free. Tour the restored 1824 gristmill. Grinding demos on May 26. 740681-7249 or www.fairfieldcountyparks.org. MAY 4, 11, 18, 25 – Spring Farmers’ Market, Muskingum Co. Fgds., 1300 Pershing Rd., Zanesville, 9 a.m.–12 p.m. www.zanesvillefarmersmarket.org. MAY 11–12 – Midwest Scholastic Rowing Championships, Dillon Lake, 5265 Dillon Hills Dr,, Nashport. www.midwestscholasticrowing.com.
APR. 26–28 – Vintage Market Days, Greene Co. Fgds., 120 Fairground Rd., Xenia, Fri./Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–4 p,m. $10 for early buyer, $5 for Sat./Sun. only, under 13 free. An upscale vintage-inspired indoor/ outdoor market featuring original art, antiques, clothing, jewelry, home décor, outdoor furnishings, and more. www.vintagemarketdays.com. MAY 5 – Music at the Mound with Steve Free, Serpent Mound, 3850 OH-73, Peebles, 1 p.m. Free admission; $8 parking fee. http://arcofappalachia. org/steve-free. MAY 10 – Taste of the Arts, Main and Ash Sts., Piqua. An evening of fun, music, and food. Shop, enjoy live music, and sample food from various local restaurants and caterers. 937-773-9355 or www. mainstreetpiqua.com. MAY 10–12 – Appalachian Festival, Coney Island Amusement Park, 6201 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati, Fri. 9 a.m.–9 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–9 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–6 p.m. $10, Srs. $5, C. (2–12) $2, under 2 free. Crafts, food, Living History Village, old-time dance, storytelling, and music. www.appalachianfestivalcincinnati.org.
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4. Our grandchildren, Jeffrey and Jaime, having fun making mud pies. Patty and Larry Quaglia South Central Power Company members
1. Our son, Kyle Ross, doing what he does best — playing in the mud. Tim and Cathy Ross Lorain-Medina Rural Electric Cooperative members
2. DIY mud boots and gloves — Shelby, daughter of Ryan and Jen Michaels. Jenifer Michaels North Central Electric Cooperative member
3. Our dog, Finley, LOVES the mud season. Julie Puckett Pioneer Electric Cooperative member
5. Years ago, my son, Spencer, and his friends, Maddi and Morgan, enjoyed the end of summer at an annual Swamp Festival in Moreland. Tonya Schmid Holmes-Wayne Electric Cooperative member
6. The Urbansky brothers, Avan and Ean, take a mud bath. Betty Urbansky Lorain-Medina Rural Electric Cooperative member
7. My grandsons, Nick and Jake Swisher, happily riding in a field of mud! Pat Swisher Buckeye Rural Electric Cooperative member
8. Pugs and Nubs were caught in the Pig Scramble at the Attica Fair by Lily and Lucas Pifher. Ruth Pifher North Central Electric Cooperative member
9. Our children, Emily and Luke, enjoying the country life. Troy and Kim Howard South Central Power Company members
10. Grandson Wesley Cadigan and grandnephew Ashton Fannin out mudding in the spring. Steve Lemon South Central Power Company member
40 OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING • APRIL 2019
At Ohio’s electric cooperatives, we work hard to take care of our neighbors—whether that’s across town or across the globe. Ohio cooperative linemen brought electricity for the first time to three remote Guatemalan villages over two trips in two years. We’re helping to light the world, one village at a time.
ohioec.org/purpose