Ohio Cooperative Living – April 2026 - Butler

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Winter warriors

April is a month that naturally invites reflection. As seasons begin to shift and routines change, it gives us an opportunity to pause and recognize the people whose work often goes unnoticed, but whose impact is felt every single day. For electric cooperatives, April 13 holds special significance because it’s Lineworker Appreciation Day — a time to recognize those who keep our electric systems running through every challenge.

This year, that appreciation carries added weight. The winter of 2025–26 has been one of the coldest in recent Ohio history. Extended periods of freezing temperatures, snow, ice, and wind created difficult, and at times dangerous, conditions for anyone working outdoors. Yet through it all, our lineworkers continued to respond, repair, and restore, ensuring reliable service when our members needed it most.

Lineworkers perform highly skilled, physically demanding work that requires constant attention to both safety and precision. Whether restoring power after a storm or maintaining infrastructure in bitter cold, they often work in conditions most of us try hard to avoid. Their willingness to be on the front lines, at all hours and in all weather, allows the rest of us to stay warm, safe, and connected.

At the same time, it’s important to recognize another group of employees who are just as critical to keeping the lights on: our power plant operators. Reliable electricity begins with reliable generation. If there’s no power generated to run through them, the condition of the lines doesn’t matter. Power plant employees work around the clock, often in demanding environments that require constant focus and technical expertise, to ensure electricity is available.

Power plant operators, like lineworkers, faced challenges that came with extreme cold and high demand this winter. Their work may be less visible to the public, but it’s no less essential. Together, the generation team and line crews form a system that must function seamlessly to serve our members, and this month is the perfect time to thank them for their hard work and dedication. Their contributions are invaluable and we are grateful for their service.

Craig Grooms PRESIDENT & CEO OHIO’S ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES

Together, the generation team and line crews form a system that must function seamlessly to serve our members.

Ohio Rural Electric Cooperatives

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

Craig Grooms President & CEO

Caryn Whitney Director of Communications

Jeff McCallister Senior Managing Editor

Amy Howat Assistant Managing Editor

Neal Kindig Graphic Designer

Contributors: Alicia Adams, Colleen Romick Clark, Getty Images, Mary Mogan Edwards, Randy Edwards, W.H. “Chip” Gross, Catherine Murray, and Kevin Williams.

OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING (USPS 134-760; ISSN 2572-049X) is published monthly by Ohio Rural Electric Cooperatives, Inc. It is the official communication link between the electric cooperatives in Ohio and West Virginia and their members. Subscription cost for members ranges from $6.48 to $7.92 per year, paid from equity accruing to the member.

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

DEPARTMENTS

4 POWER LINES

Reluctant crusader: Tragedy propels co-op mom to a new role as an advocate for lineworker safety. 8

CO-OP PEOPLE

Riding for a cause: Members’ initiative brings national awareness, support to troubled veterans.

10 WOODS, WATERS, AND WILDLIFE

What are the chances? Ohio’s most popular game animals must overcome some long odds to reach adulthood.

13 GOOD EATS

Bake my day: Nothing beats your faithful oven for cooking flavorful food with less fuss and muss.

17 LOCAL PAGES

News and important information from your electric cooperative. 32

CALENDAR

What’s happening: Events and other things to do around Ohio.

36 MEMBER INTERACTIVE

National/regional advertising inquiries, contact Cheryl Solomon

American MainStreet Publications 847-749-9015 | cheryl@amp.coop

Cooperative members:

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

Alliance for Audited Media Member

Visit Ohio Cooperative Living magazine online at www.ohiocoopliving.com! Read past issues and watch videos about our articles or our recipes. Our site features an expanded Member Interactive area, where you can share your stories, recipes, and photos and find content submitted by other co-op members across the state. 13 8 10 4 36 32

Photobombs: Unexpected faces find their way into members’ photos of friends and family, as shown at right in South Central Power Company member Katie Grubba’s pic of her great-nephew, Ethan, and grandson, Camden, being crashed by Rebekah and Aunt Helen.

CORRECTIONS: An outdated advertisement on page 29 of our March issue offered gold coins for a price that was no longer available; we regret the error. A feature in our February issue incorrectly stated that Imogene Curtis, one of the organizers of the Lincoln School marches, had not graduated from high school; in fact, she was a high school graduate and attended college.

Tragedy propels co-op mom to a new role as an advocate for lineworker safety.

BY JEFF MCCALLISTER

Brandie Hale never imagined that she ever would be any kind of an activist. As a selfdescribed introvert who doesn’t like to talk — especially to large groups — it’s just not the kind of thing she’d put her energy into. Besides, as a mom of five kids, she’s always had plenty of other things to keep her busy, thank you very much.

Yet there she was, under bright lights on a stage with her husband, Brandon Hale, reminding hundreds of business and cooperative leaders from around the state about the importance of workplace safety.

“Safety is everything, something that can affect our lives every single day,” she told the crowd. “I definitely don’t like to do this kind of thing, but I will do it forever if it can keep one other family, one other person, from having to live what we live now.”

Pride and joy

Brandie’s oldest child, Blake Rodgers, was born March 25, 2000, and even before his first birthday, he had learned to climb steps and could even climb up onto furniture. As he grew up, he excelled at football and baseball and at being a big brother.

Blake went to trade school for his last two years of high school, and, despite a fear of heights, enrolled in lineworker school when he graduated. “Fearless, determined, and strong-willed,” his mom says. “I was totally clueless when he told me he was going to be a lineman. I was like, ‘All right, you do what you want, good for you.’”

In July 2022, he took a job as an apprentice lineman with Buckeye Rural Electric Cooperative in Rio Grande, tasked with maintaining power lines across some of the most treacherous terrain in the state. He loved the work — he took tremendous pride in keeping the lights on — and his infectious personality made him an immediate hit with his co-workers.

And every day after work, he’d call his mom to catch up and “push her buttons.”

Everything changed

From the time he was very young, Blake also loved Christmas — the lights, the decorations, the joy in the air — and was excited as Christmas approached that first year he worked at the co-op.

But there was work to do first. Three days before the holiday, Winter Storm Elliot barreled through the Midwest, bringing high winds, blinding snowfall, Continued on page 6

Continued from page 5 sleet, and record cold that affected the majority of the U.S. and parts of Canada.

Temperatures dropped by 40 degrees in a two-hour span, and the sleet that fell across the southern portion of the state did a number on Buckeye Rural’s distribution system. Hundreds were left without power by the morning of Dec. 23, 2022

As they do, the co-op line crews jumped into action. At 10:20 a.m., as he was working to try to get members’ power back on in time for their holiday celebrations, Blake Rodgers made contact with a line that was energized. It was fatal.

A mother’s pain

“You don’t realize how much someone fills your life until they’re not there,” Brandie says. “I love all my children with every piece of my heart, but I never understood how deep that love ran until I lost one. Losing a child feels like a part of your heart has been torn away — a million pieces that never quite fit back together.”

Christmas, once that most magical time of year, is now something Brandie and Brandon have to brace themselves for, as the season is filled with reminders of that day and of planning Blake’s funeral. It took a long time before they could even think about the events around Blake’s death — let alone talk about them.

But there they were, under those bright lights and speaking from their hearts about workplace safety to the leaders who set the tone and define the workplace safety culture at each of Ohio’s 24 local electric distribution cooperatives. And their message was clear.

“We’re asking you to do the impossible, to seek perfection,” Brandon told them. “I know many of you

have outstanding safety records, and that’s something that you should be proud of. You can’t allow that past success to let cracks open up for future failures to seep in.

“We all have a responsibility to those that we lead to do our very best every day,” he continued. “Every organization reflects its leader, every single one. If you make safety your priority, the people who follow you will make it their priority, too.”

Moving forward

In the aftermath of the tragedy, the family felt an outpouring of support, not only from the local community, but from around the state and across the country.

“He was our son and we loved him dearly, but we had no idea how many lives he truly affected in the short time he was alive,” Brandie says. “So now we do everything we can to honor him, to keep his memory going, and to help future linemen so no other family has to live through this.”

Brandie and Brandon put together an annual fundraising bash around Blake’s birthday in March that includes a memorial ride. The proceeds, along with support from the Community Foundation of Ohio’s Electric Cooperatives and the Ohio Line Supervisors Association, fund the Blake Rodgers Memorial Scholarship to support students entering lineworker training at the Scioto County Career Technical Center.

“There are limited opportunities for a lot of our young people in this part of the state, and we have been able to send seven young men through lineman school so far,” Brandon says. “We need good people in that line of work and we need to make sure they have the best training possible, so we just believe that it’s our best way that we can give back to the community that has given us so much support.”

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Riding for

a cause

Members’ initiative brings national awareness, support to troubled veterans.

BY MARY MOGAN EDWARDS

Jason White still works every day to manage the symptoms and struggles that came home with him from Operation Desert Storm in 1993. Difficult as it can be, though, he knows that the love of his family makes him one of the lucky ones.

“My wife, my daughter, and my granddaughter are my support system,” says White, an Army veteran with a 100% disability rating based on traumatic brain injury and PTSD. “If I’m having a bad day, they’re having a bad day — they absorb that for me.”

Many struggling veterans aren’t as fortunate, and the consequences are dire: On average, 22 veterans die by suicide every day in the U.S.

White has long done what he could to help fellow vets — for years, he donated modest proceeds from his YouTube channel to veteran-related causes.

In 2022, he told his wife, Angela, “I want to do something big for veterans.” Nearly four years later (their efforts were delayed temporarily when Jason had a heart attack shortly after his inspiration), the couple is an organizing powerhouse as the full-time volunteer operators of Riding 22 in 22 VSA, a 501(c)(3) organization that marries their desire to help veterans with their love of motorcycle roadtripping.

They’re currently preparing for year two of their centerpiece event: a group ride across 22 states in 22 days — hence the name — that connects vets across the U.S., raising awareness about suicide risk and helping many get the intensive mental-health treatment they need.

Angela contacts local news media, arranges police escorts in and out of towns, and makes sure every day features an event. It’s often a dinner hosted by a local veterans service organization or motorcycle dealership, with proceeds to benefit the cause.

Jason scouts potential routes for stops of interest. Most days feature four to five hours of riding, with stops every hour to hour and a half. The fundraising comes from suggested participant donations of $20 per rider and $10 per passenger, as well as dinner proceeds, corporate donations, and individual contributions made throughout the year.

Those efforts paid off last year when their premier event raised $11,000, which they donated to STRIVE — Ohio State University’s Suicide and Trauma Reduction Initiative. STRIVE conducts research and provides clinical treatment to people at risk of suicide. Riding 22’s donation has been used to pay travel and lodging expenses for veterans coming to Columbus for R&R, the initiative’s two-week intensive intervention for veterans with trauma and suicide risk.

The relationship with Riding 22 — not just the funding, but raising awareness among the veteran community — is critical to STRIVE’s success, according to Dr. Rosie Bauder, an OSU clinical assistant professor of psychiatry and behavioral health and principal investigator for the R&R program. “Community engagement is so important in suicide prevention,” Bauder says. “It means so much, all of their work to spread the word in ways that we wouldn’t be able to.”

Much of the proceeds from this year’s ride will again go to STRIVE, but the Whites also hope to simply help more veterans to join future rides. “Riding is therapy for a lot of veterans,” Angela says, but not all can afford the lodging and meal expenses of a three-week outing.

This year’s ride, set for May 22 to June 12, heads south to Louisiana and follows the Gulf Coast for a bit before turning north all the way to Maine, then back to Ohio for a closing ceremony. Anyone who wants to support it can join, including by car. “If you want to come with us for a day or a couple of days, for one gas stop or go for the whole 22, that’s all great,” Angela says. As the effort has gained recognition, they’ve attracted more sponsors — Harley-Davidson and Polaris are on board this year — and the Whites say those are getting generally easier to secure. This year’s goal: $22,000.

Angela knew their project was on the right track from the first night of last year’s ride, when a waitress at the kickoff dinner asked what the gathering was for. “We explained the goal,” Angela says, “and a man diagonal from our booth was listening. The couple got up and both came over to us. They were both in tears. The woman opened her jacket and her T-shirt had a military insignia and the ribbon that stands for veteran suicide awareness — they had lost a son to suicide. We’re faith-based people, and for me it was a sign from God that this is what we’re supposed to be doing.”

WOODS, WATERS, AND WILDLIFE

What are the chances?

Ohio’s most popular game animals must overcome some long odds just to reach adulthood.

million people living within its borders — some 282 folks per square mile — our state is still known nationally for its excellent sport hunting and fishing opportunities, particularly for wild turkeys, Lake Erie walleyes, and

What makes that more impressive is that both turkeys and deer were once extirpated from the Buckeye State; both were completely gone by 1904 . Today, however, those two species are back. Huge kudos are due the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Wildlife, for restoring healthy, huntable populations of those two game animals during the 20 th century.

Just as amazing, however, are the staggering odds that individual wild animals face to survive to adulthood in our modern environment. Take the wild turkey, for example. Joe Hutto, author of the 1995 book Illumination in the Flatwoods (which was made into a My Life as a Turkey), put it this way:

“The odds of a wild turkey reaching maturity are small. percent of all nests are destroyed or abandoned. Among the surviving nests, some eggs will be infertile. Of the young turkeys who hatch, 70 % will not last two weeks. The attrition rate of wild turkeys who have survived into maturity can be 70 % per year. When I see an adult wild turkey now in his natural habitat, I have a new appreciation for the sheer phenomenon of his existence. It is very difficult to become a wild turkey.”

As long as those odds may be, however, walleyes have it worse. In general, a female will lay 50 ,000 to 60 ,000 eggs each spring for every 2 . 2 pounds of her body weight. Anywhere from 5 % to 20 % will hatch, and only about one of every 10 ,000 fry will survive long enough to reach adulthood.

Though still certainly not a given, you have a much better chance to reach adulthood if you’re born a white-tailed deer. According to Clint McCoy, a white-tailed deer biologist with the Ohio Division of Wildlife, the last time that agency conducted a deer fawn survival study was in the early 2000 s in the southeast section of the Buckeye State.

“Over a period of three years, 2001 to 2004 , we captured, radio-collared, released, and monitored 81 fawns,” he says. “As you might imagine, the most vulnerable time for fawns was soon after birth, as about 20 % to 25 % died within the first 30 days of life. After that, the fawns were relatively safe through summer. About 65 % to 75 % of fawns survived until the various deer hunting seasons began opening in the fall.”

The annual fawn survival rate — those deer living to 1 year of age — varied during the three years of the study, with an average estimate of 58 percent survival in 2001 and 45 percent in 2002 and 2003 . McCoy says those Ohio rates are similar to what studies in other Midwestern states have found.

The survey counted deaths from natural causes (starvation, abandonment, disease), coyote and dog predation, vehicle collisions, legal hunting harvest, unretrieved hunter kills, and unknown mortality.

So, if you’re a licensed Ohio hunter or angler — we know there are about 1 2 million of you out there — what does all of this mean? If you’re fortunate enough to take a turkey this spring, waylay a walleye this summer, or down a deer this fall, make sure to appreciate the fact that you possess a true trophy, regardless of its size, in more ways than one.

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

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GOOD EATS Bake

AND PHOTOGRAPHS BY CATHERINE

MURRAY

For food with more flavor and perfect texture, with less fuss and muss, nothing beats cooking in your faithful oven.

TWICE-BAKED AND LOADED POTATO CASSEROLE

Prep: 20 minutes | Cook: 65 to 85 minutes | Servings: 10

6 pounds similarly sized russet potatoes, scrubbed (about 10 medium-sized)

4 tablespoons salted butter, room temperature

1 cup light sour cream

1 cup 2% milk

1 teaspoon seasoned salt

½ teaspoon pepper

3 green onions, thinly sliced (whites and greens separated)

1 cup shredded Monterey or pepper jack cheese

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

4 slices thick-cut, precooked bacon, diced

Preheat oven to 425 F. Prick potatoes with fork 4 to 5 times for steam to vent and place directly on middle rack in oven; bake 40 to 60 minutes, until soft when squeezed using an oven mitt. Lower oven temperature to 350 F.

When cooled enough to touch, remove skins from half of the potatoes and quarter the remaining half with a knife. Place potatoes and butter in a large bowl; carefully mash as steam escapes. Add sour cream and milk, mashing to incorporate. Mix in seasoned salt, pepper, white parts of onion, and jack cheese. Transfer to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, then evenly spread shredded cheddar on top. For soft bacon, spread it on top, too. (For crispy bacon, cook to desired doneness, then spread on top when casserole is done baking.) Tent with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes, then remove foil and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes, or until cheese has melted. Remove from oven and top with remaining green onion (and crispy bacon).

Per serving: 375 calories, 19 grams fat (10 grams saturated fat), 39 grams total carbohydrates, 57 milligrams cholesterol, 658 milligrams sodium, 5 grams fiber, 15 grams protein. my day

BAKED ZITI ARRABBIATA

Cook: 45 minutes | Bake: 20 minutes | Servings: 8

2 tablespoons salted butter

1 medium yellow onion, finely diced

5 cloves garlic, minced

28-ounce can high-quality whole tomatoes

15-ounce can high-quality tomato sauce

1/3 cup dry red wine (cabernet sauvignon, Chianti)

1 teaspoon sugar

½ teaspoon crushed red pepper

1 teaspoon dried oregano

¼ teaspoon fennel

1 pound ziti pasta

8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese

2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

In a large stockpot over medium heat, melt butter and sauté onion until translucent. Add garlic and cook another minute. Stir in tomatoes, tomato sauce, wine, sugar, and spices. Break up tomatoes with spoon while bringing to a low boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook uncovered 30 minutes, stirring regularly. Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package’s al dente directions; quickly drain and rinse.

Preheat oven to 400 F. Transfer rinsed ziti to stockpot with sauce and stir to combine. Spoon ziti into a 9x13inch baking dish. Layer mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top. Bake uncovered 15 to 20 minutes, until lightly browned and bubbling.

Per serving: 359 calories, 11 grams fat (6 grams saturated fat), 51 grams total carbohydrates, 31 milligrams cholesterol, 441 milligrams sodium, 5 grams fiber, 15 grams protein.

“SHAKE & BAKE” CHICKEN

Prep: 15 minutes | Cook: 30 minutes | Servings: 5

3 pounds chicken drumsticks (about 10 medium pieces)

¾ cup plain breadcrumbs

2 tablespoons cornstarch

1½ teaspoons salt

1 teaspoon pepper

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon paprika (smoked or regular)

½ teaspoon ground sage

2 tablespoons olive oil

Preheat oven to 400 F. Let chicken rest on counter while prepping ingredients. Place all dry ingredients (breadcrumbs through sage) in a zip-top bag, seal, and shake to combine. Coat an oven-safe wire rack with nonstick cooking spray, then place on top of a baking tray. Pat chicken pieces dry with paper towels, then rub evenly with olive oil. A few at a time, place chicken pieces in the bag and shake to fully coat; transfer to wire rack. Bake 25 to 30 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 165 F. Serve with favorite side dishes.

Per serving: 565 calories, 32 grams fat (8 grams saturated fat), 16 grams total carbohydrates, 250 milligrams cholesterol, 1,105 milligrams sodium, 1 gram fiber, 52 grams protein.

FRESH-BAKED CINNAMON RAISIN BREAD

Prep: 45 minutes | Proof: 3½ hours | Bake: 1 hour | Servings: 16 slices

1½ cups raisins

1¼ cups boiling water

1¼ cups whole milk, plus extra for brushing

7 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

5 tablespoons sugar, divided

5 teaspoons cinnamon, divided 1½ teaspoons salt

3½ cups + 2 tablespoons bread flour, divided

1½ teaspoons instant yeast

In a small heat-proof bowl, soak raisins in boiling water for 15 minutes, then drain and set aside. In a medium saucepan, melt 5 tablespoons of the butter into milk over medium heat until steaming. Remove from heat and whisk in 3 tablespoons of the sugar, 1 teaspoon of the cinnamon, and all of the salt. Pour mixture into the bowl of a stand mixer. Spoon and level 3½ cups of bread flour; pile on top of the milk mixture, then sprinkle yeast on top. With hook attachment on low speed, mix until flour is incorporated, then let mixer knead dough until smooth, springy, and stretchy, about 10 minutes. Stretch dough out on a clean surface, top with raisins, then fold/knead until raisins are fully incorporated. Form into a ball and return to mixer bowl; lightly coat with cooking spray, cover bowl with damp towel, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 2½ hours.

In a small bowl, whisk remaining 2 tablespoons bread flour, 2 tablespoons sugar, and 4 teaspoons cinnamon. Punch dough to release air, then roll flat to an 8x24-inch rectangle. Generously brush surface with milk, then evenly spread cinnamon mixture edge to edge. Starting at a short edge, tightly roll; brush with milk, pinch to seal, then turn seam side down. Pick up roll, bending ends down in an arch, and place ends into a 5x9-inch greased loaf pan. Press down on top to level it out. Lightly coat with cooking spray and let rise another hour, until dough is an inch above the pan.

Preheat oven to 350 F. Bake on middle rack for 50 to 60 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 195 F (tent with foil if necessary if it starts to over-brown). Melt remaining 2 tablespoons of butter; brush over top of bread when it comes out of the oven, then turn it out onto a cooling rack. Cool completely before slicing.

Per serving: 212 calories, 6 grams fat (3 grams saturated fat), 36 grams total carbohydrates, 15 milligrams cholesterol, 230 milligrams sodium, 2 grams fiber, 4 grams protein.

Check it out! See videos of some of our mouth-watering recipes being prepared at

www.ohiocoopliving.com

BUTLER RURAL ELECTRIC

Lineworkers are ready when it matters most

As general manager of Butler Rural Electric Cooperative, I have the privilege of seeing what it takes to keep the lights on for our members. In April, we take time to pause and recognize those who make that possible every single day — our lineworkers.

When storms affect our communities and outages occur, many people experience inconvenience, but our lineworkers see a call to action. Our crews are always ready when it matters most — leaving family dinners, working through the night, and heading into challenging conditions to restore power as safely and quickly as possible. That readiness is not accidental. It comes from rigorous training, deep experience, and a shared commitment to serving others.

What makes cooperative lineworkers especially remarkable is they aren’t just restoring power to a system — they’re restoring power to their own communities. They live here. They raise their families here. They understand electricity is more than a convenience; it’s essential to daily life, to local businesses, to schools, farms, and emergency services. Powering the places we call home is personal to our lineworkers.

Electric cooperatives like Butler Rural Electric Cooperative were built on the principle of neighbors helping neighbors, and our lineworkers embody that spirit every day. They are the first to respond and the last to leave, often working long hours behind the scenes. At times, serving our neighbors means going beyond our own service territory through a process known as mutual aid. During major outage events, Butler Rural Electric Cooperative crews stand ready to assist neighboring co-ops — sometimes

close to home, and sometimes across state lines — to help restore power. This spirit of mutual aid strengthens all cooperatives and ultimately benefits the members we serve.

We understand any time the lights go out can be frustrating, bringing everyday life to a halt. We are incredibly grateful to our members for your patience and encouragement during these times. Line work is demanding, physical, and at times, it can be dangerous. Our crews approach each job with a focus on safety and teamwork. They take pride in their craft and in the trust our members place in them.

Tom Wolfenbarger GENERAL MANAGER

On April 13, we will celebrate Lineworker Appreciation Day, but one day is hardly enough. Every day, we thank lineworkers for their service and dedication, which are the backbone of our cooperative.

To our lineworkers: Thank you for your hard work, your readiness, and your unwavering commitment to the communities we serve. We are proud to stand behind you and are grateful for all you do.

THIS MONTH’S BILLS WERE MAILED APRIL 7 AND ARE DUE APRIL 21

See next page for payment options

THIS MONTH’S BILLS WERE MAILED

APRIL 7 AND ARE DUE APRIL 21

Consider the convenient, secure payment options below to avoid mail delays and late fees.

AUTO PAY

Reduce the stress of missing a payment or receiving a late charge by having your payment automatically removed from your checking or savings account on the due date.

Follow these steps to enroll in Auto Pay:

1. Log in to SmartHub

2. Select Bill & Pay then Auto Pay Program

3. Accept the Auto Pay Terms & Conditions

4. Select Enroll under Auto Pay Enrollment

5. Follow the instructions and continue paying your bill until your statement reads “Automatic Payment –DO NOT PAY!”

ONLINE

Pay online through SmartHub by visiting butlerrural.coop or download the SmartHub app. If you don’t want to create a SmartHub account, use the Pay Now tab on the home screen of our website to quickly and securely make a payment.

MOBILE APP

Easily manage your account on the go and make payments with our free SmartHub app. Available on the App Store or Google Play Store — search for SmartHub.

PHONE

Call 855-940-3867 to use our Self-Serve phone number. The automated system allows you to pay your bill 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also call our office at 513-867-4400 during normal business hours to pay with a card.

COOPERATIVE’S OFFICE

Pay your bill at the cooperative’s office at 3888 Stillwell Beckett Road in Oxford, Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Our office has a drop box that can be used to make payments after hours or on the weekends. Please, do not put cash in the drop box.

FIRST FINANCIAL BANK

Pay your electric bill at any First Financial Bank location with no charge. Visit the bank’s website for branch locations. Payments may take up to 24 hours (during normal business hours) to be received.

BILL CREDIT WINNERS

Did you attend our virtual annual meeting in April? If so, you could be the winner of a $50 bill credit. Congratulations to the February winners!

Jason M. Carder • Craig Hahn • Brandon T. Ledbetter • Ronda Maguire • Mitchell Smith

2026 VIRTUAL ANNUAL MEETING

Thursday, April 30, beginning at 6:30 p.m. Visit butlerrural.coop or call 513-867-4400 to register

Tune in to our virtual annual meeting Thursday, April 30, at 6:30 p.m. You can view the meeting online or listen by phone. The meeting is expected to last one hour. To register, visit butlerrural.coop and click on the Annual Meeting tab or call us at 513-867-4400. Registration deadline is 8 a.m. on April 30.

During the meeting, you will hear from the co-op’s Board of Trustees President David Evans and General Manager Tom Wolfenbarger, hear board election results, and learn about our upcoming projects and programs. You will also have a chance to submit questions to be addressed during the meeting.

VIEW ONLINE using a computer, laptop, or smartphone. Members who register for the meeting will receive a link through email on April 30 allowing them to join the meeting. No special software is required beyond an internet connection.

LISTEN BY PHONE No computer or internet connection? No problem! Register to listen by phone. Members will receive a phone call to listen to the meeting live April 30.

Each member who views or listens to the entire annual meeting will receive a $25 bill credit! Plus, members who view or listen to the entire meeting will be entered to win an additional $50 bill credit. Bill credit winners are drawn each month. VIEW OR LISTEN TO THE ENTIRE MEETING AND RECEIVE A $25 BILL CREDIT!

BUTLER

Official Notice of Annual Meeting of Members

Butler Rural Electric Cooperative, Inc.

3888 Stillwell Beckett Road Oxford, Ohio 45056

The annual meeting of the members of Butler Rural Electric Cooperative, Inc., will be held on Thursday, April 30, 2026. The virtual meeting will be made available to members on this date at 6:30 p.m.

A business meeting will act on the following matters:

1. The report of officers, trustees, and committees.

2. Announcement of the results of the board election.

DISTRICT 6

Morgan Township

Steven Grote

2338 California Road Okeana, Ohio 45053

Michael Lampe

3918 Race Lane Road Okeana, Ohio 45053

Darryl Huff

1755 Indian Woods Lane Okeana, Ohio 45053

Michael Tilton, Secretary and Treasurer January 21, 2026

DISTRICT 7

3. All other business which may come before the meeting or any adjournment or adjournments thereof.

In connection with the election of three (3) trustees, the following members have been nominated for trustees by the committee on nominations appointed by the board of trustees of the cooperative pursuant to the code of regulations:

Hanover and St. Clair townships

Melissa Hays 2299 Morman Road Hamilton, Ohio 45013

Michael Tilton

2281 Stillwell Beckett Road Hamilton, Ohio 45013

DISTRICT 8

Colerain, Crosby, and Harrison townships

John Broering 11830 New Biddinger Road Harrison, Ohio 45030

Victoria Corder 1182 Trailhead Place Harrison, Ohio 45030

Non-Discrimination Statement

Butler Rural Electric Cooperative, Inc., 3888 Stillwell Beckett Road, Oxford, Ohio is the recipient of Federal financial assistance from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, age, marital status, family/parental status, income derived from a public assistance program, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity, in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA (not all bases apply to all programs). Remedies and complaint filing deadlines vary by program or incident.

Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language,

etc.) should contact the State or local Agency that administers the program or contact USDA through the Telecommunications Relay Service at 711 (voice and TTY). Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English.

To file a program discrimination complaint, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, AD-3027, found online at How to File a Program Discrimination Complaint and at any USDA office or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by: (1) mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Mail Stop 9410, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; (2) fax: (202) 690-7442; or (3) email: program. intake@usda.gov.

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.

YOUR VOTE MATTERS IN OUR UPCOMING ELECTION

Did you know Butler Rural Electric Cooperative is member-owned and operated? Co-ops are democratic organizations whose members have equal voting rights and can influence policies and decisions by participating in co-op elections. This concept — called Democratic Member Control — is one of the guiding principles that guide our daily operations.

In this year’s election, Butler Rural Electric Cooperative members will elect three trustees in

ON THE BALLOT

• District 6 trustee: Morgan Township

• District 7 trustee: Hanover and St. Clair townships

Districts 6, 7, and 8. Co-op trustees are members just like you. They serve on the co-op’s board to help make decisions on the members’ behalf. Board members ensure the co-op always operates in the best interest of its members.

As a member of Butler Rural Electric Cooperative, your vote is your voice, and it can be used to shape the future of your co-op! We encourage our members to participate in the upcoming election.

• District 8 trustee: Colerain, Crosby, and Harrison townships

Learn more about your trustee candidates at butlerrural.coop.

VOTING INFORMATION

The 2026 election began March 23 and ends April 28. All ballots must be received by April 28 to be counted. Results will be shared during our virtual annual meeting April 30, on our website, and in Ohio Cooperative Living. Members can vote:

• ONLINE – An election vendor sent an email to the email addresses on file for all Butler Rural Electric Cooperative members. You can also access your ballot at butlerrural.coop.

• THROUGH SMARTHUB – Log into SmartHub and select the “Vote Now” button to access your ballot.

• BY MAIL – An election packet was mailed to your home in March. Simply complete the ballot and mail it using the provided return envelope.

BUTLER RURAL ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

MEET THE CANDIDATES DISTRICT 6: MORGAN TOWNSHIP

Family

Wife - Amy Grote, Children - Nicholas, Brent, Alena, Jessica and Lydia, 3 Grand Children

Education

Miami University - BS in Paper Science and Engineering; AS in Mechanical Engineering Technology

Employment

Business Development

Manager Solenis LLC...Specialty Chemical Company

Leadership and community activities

Past member of the Ross and Morgan Township Volunteer Fire Department with over 20 years of service between both. Active member of the Morgan Township Board of Zoning Appeals..Starting my 21st year.

Family

Married to my wife, Donna, for 53 years. We have two children, daughter, Deana Fackey, Son, Devin Huff and four grandchildren.

Education

Graduated from Ross High School, Miami University degree in Real Estate Law, Ross High School AlumniPresident

Employment

Retired Sales Manager, Thomas McConnell Cadillac 10 years, Manager Goodwood Store, Ross, Ohio, Security for Argosy Casino, United State Postal Driver, Morgan Twp. Trustee, 16 years

Leadership and community activities

Morgan Ross Athletic Assoc. Trustee, Ross Select Baseball Manager and Organizer, Ross Little Pro Coach, Ross High School Booster Member, Morgan Twp. 4-H Member, Morgan Twp. Historical Society, Pres. of (CAP) Citizens Against Pollution to stop dumping Sludge in

What do you do in your free time?

My wife and I enjoy spending our free time on the lake along with exploring the mountains of WV in our side by side. The county fairs are a big hit as some of our children showed cattle and hogs.

Why are you interested in serving on the board?

As indicated above, I have a long history of community service and have enjoyed serving the community in those different fashions. The Butler Rural Board is the next challenge for myself to utilize my experiences to participate and contribute to continuing to maintain Butler Rural the great co-op it is.

What are the biggest challenges facing the cooperative? I believe, with any business, for profit or non-profit such as the co-op, being competitive in an ever-changing environment is the biggest challenge. This has to be maintained without sacrifice to the customers you serve.

How would you fulfill our mission of serving members? Using my career experiences, ensure we continue providing reliable and affordable services to our co-op members.

Morgan Township, Morgan Township Resident of the Fernald Citizens Task Force, Member of the Citizens Reuse Committee, Emergency Management Agency Executive Board, Red Cross Volunteer, Hamilton Antique Car Club Member

What do you do in your free time?

Spend time coaching my grandchildren and helping with their 4-H Projects.

Why are you interested in serving on the board?

I’m a very active person and excited to explore something I’ve never been a part of that serves the public and myself.

What are the biggest challenges facing the cooperative? Finding ways of providing the highest quality of product and service while Keeping cost as low as possible.

How would you fulfill our mission of serving members? I feel very comfortable in speaking to the public and answering their questions, because as my past experience as trustee.

Darryl Huff was nominated by petition. To submit a petition, Darryl collected 25 signatures from cooperative members and was interviewed by the nominating committee. The committee determined Darryl is qualified to run for the board of trustees.

MEET THE CANDIDATES DISTRICT 6: MORGAN TOWNSHIP

Family

One daughter, Marina Lampe-Donohue, and two grandchildren. My wife Lisa and I live In Morgan Township.

Education

30 year Butler Rural Electric member. I grew up working in my family’s electrical business, Ferd Lampe Electric. I completed a College internship at Cincinnati Gas and Electric. Attended University of Cincinnati and Harrison High School.

Employment

Prior auxiliary police officer with Ross Township. Active police officer and detective with Green Township, serving nearly 30 years. My roles included Patrol, Training, DARE Officer, SWAT Hostage Negotiator, and current Detective. I investigate and solve complex cases, working with courts

and the public. I read, interpret and apply Ohio law. I help hire and train officers and served 15 years on the FOP wage negotiating team. Awarded Officer of the Year twice.

Leadership and community activities

Former auxiliary Ross Township Police officer. Taught DARE to 5th graders. Coached St. Johns basketball and Cincy West soccer, Volunteered at church festivals, current parishioner St. Aloysius Church, Shandon.

What do you do in your free time?

I enjoy family time, boating, travel, and off-road vehicles.

Why are you interested in serving on the board?

I bring decades of public service, honesty, education, and common sense—committed to reliable, affordable electric service.

What are the biggest challenges facing the cooperative? Addressing a growing electric demand. Keeping costs low and providing good value.

How would you fulfill our mission of serving members? Listen to members, be fiscally responsible, and work hard keeping Butler Rural Electric strong for the future.

We offer $150 for the installation of a new central air conditioning unit and $100 for the purchase of a new refrigerator or freezer. Refrigerators, stand-alone freezers, and central air conditioning units must be new and Energy Star-rated at the time of purchase and installation. The purchase and installation of the Energy Star refrigerator, standalone freezer, or central air conditioning unit must be approved by the cooperative to receive the rebate. This rebate will be applied as a credit on your electric bill.

BUTLER RURAL ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

MEET THE CANDIDATES DISTRICT

7: HANOVER AND ST. CLAIR TOWNSHIPS

Employment

Family

Married 19 years to my husband, Derek, with two daughters.

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Urban Studies (Planning and Administration) from the College of Charleston, SC, and a Public Administration Master’s from Villanova University. American Institute Certified Planner.

Over 20 years of experience in local government, specializing in community development for localities such as Las Vegas, Anderson Township, and Montgomery. I currently serve as the Chief Building Official for the City of Springdale.

Leadership and community activities

As Director of a building department, I lead a

Family

Wife Teresa, children; Laurel, Olivia and Clark

Education

Talawanda HS, and Miami University. Certifications through National Rural Electrical Cooperative; Credentialed Cooperative Director, Board Leadership, Director Gold Credentials.

Employment

Retired Chief Deputy Auditor, Butler County Auditor’s Office.

Leadership and community activities

Secretary/Treasurer Butler Rural Electric. Board Trustee 20+ years. Butler County Sheriff’s Mounted Patrol since 1994. Instructor Butler County Sharpshooters 4H club. Past; Butler County Farm Bureau Board, Butler County law Library Board, Hanover Township Park Committee.

multidisciplinary team including building inspectors, administrative staff, a plans examiner, as well as the city planner and city engineer. Active in the American Planners Association.

What do you do in your free time?

My husband and I own and operate SunWake Farm, raising beef cattle and chickens. I enjoy farming, spending time with family, and a good cup of coffee.

Why are you interested in serving on the board?

To help maintain reliable, affordable power for our community and to position us to successfully navigate future challenges.

What are the biggest challenges facing the cooperative?

Balancing development growth and the increasing demand for electricity. In addition, ensuring a dependable power supply to customers, while keeping rates affordable.

How would you fulfill our mission of serving members? By engaging with our members, understanding their concerns, and remaining informed about the issues facing our cooperative.

What do you do in your free time?

Woodworking, Bee keeping, Muzzleloading

Why are you interested in serving on the board?

As a board member I can help ensure members have reliable and affordable electricity. The board ensures the cooperative operates in a manner that respects the core habits of cooperatives, which includes democratic member control, concern for community, and the collective benefit of members instead of an outside shareholder profit.

What are the biggest challenges facing the cooperative?

As members invest in electric Vehicles (EV) we need to ensure our distribution system can handle increased use by EV by encouraging non peak hour charging. Data Centers could be an issue in our area unless the companies that build them insure they have enough energy generation without harming cooperative members. How would you fulfill our mission of serving members? By communicating with our state and national legislators on issues that can affect electric cooperative members. Board members need to continue to educate themselves on the changing environment of electric generation and transmission systems.

MEET THE CANDIDATES DISTRICT 8: COLERAIN, CROSBY, AND HARRISON TOWNSHIPS

Family

Six adult children, 9 grandchildren

Education

Chemical Engineering

Degree from UC,

Mechanical Engineering

Degree from Miami University

Employment

Consulting Engineer - 40+ years in the manufacturing sector

Leadership and community activities

Co-op member for over 40 years. Member of Harrison High School STEM program advisory board, regular blood donor, assist with youth sports activities.

What do you do in your free time?

Taking care of home, spending time with family, and traveling.

Family

I have a wonderful husband Tim, and one son, Lucas.

Education

Bachelor’s of Arts from the University of Cincinnati, Master’s of Accountancy from Northern Kentucky University

Employment

I’ve spent the past 12 years working in finance for several Fortune 500 corporations. I currently work for Nuvei, an international technology company.

Leadership and community activities

I’ve led a team for the American Lung Association’s Fight for Air Climb for 11 years, and I’m an active member of the Trailhead Ladies Group. I’ve also volunteered for the Harrison Mayor’s Fund, and the Harrison Recreation Commission.

Why are you interested in serving on the board?

My manufacturing background and training have exposed me to the needs of industry as well as the needs of society in general. I’ve learned to seek better solutions to problems individuals and businesses face daily. Through travels and exposure to the technical world, I’ve seen how different regions and countries deal with providing for energy needs. This includes what works well, and what doesn’t efficiently meet the needs of the people.

What are the biggest challenges facing the cooperative?

Population and business growth in our area is demanding a greater supply of reliable and affordable energy. Providing this is the challenge facing not only our co-op, but energy providers throughout the country and the world.

How would you fulfill our mission of serving members?

I would work with board members to develop plans and decisions that would continue to provide energy to co-op members as affordably as possible, and make changes necessary to maintain the high reliability of energy supply that people rely on.

What do you do in your free time?

I enjoy traveling, crafting, exploring the outdoors, and home improvement projects.

Why are you interested in serving on the board?

I want to ensure the cooperative continues to provide all members with reliable, affordable service, and effectively adapts to changes impacting the energy industry. My experience in financial management allows me to give back to the community by helping ensure the continued future success of the cooperative.

What are the biggest challenges facing the cooperative?

The increased energy demands of emerging technologies and rapid development, as well as changing regulations and the adoption of renewable energy sources all pose significant challenges.

How would you fulfill our mission of serving members?

I will bring a fresh perspective to the board, and represent all members, voicing their concerns and working to ensure the co-op continues to provide reliable, affordable service in the face of a rapidly changing industry landscape.

It means having an electric company made of your neighbors.

Energizing Every Moment

What does it mean to be a Butler Rural Electric Cooperative member?

It means having a say in the way your electric company operates.

It means having your dollars reinvested in your community. It means having a real person to talk to when you need help.

It means having an electric company who cares about you.

That’s the value of being a Butler Rural Electric Cooperative member. Builtbyourneighbors,forourneighbors.

We Want To Hear From You!

Butler Rural Electric Cooperative is working with NRECA Market Research Services to complete member satisfaction surveys.

The random surveys will be conducted by email and not everyone will be contacted. Emails will have MarketResearch@nreca.coop in the “From” line.

If you are contacted, we would greatly appreciate a few minutes of your time to share your opinions about the cooperative. All information is confidential. We strive to provide all member-owners with reliable electric service. By participating in the survey, you will help us make decisions that benefit you, your family, and your neighbors. Your thoughts and opinions about the co-op help us

Thank you for 90 years!

April 4 marks 90 years as your local, not-for-profit cooperative! We have had so much to celebrate over the past 90 years, and it’s amazing to see the ways our co-op and communities have grown and changed in that time.

When the cooperative was formed in 1936, local neighbors came together with a shared belief that rural families deserved the same opportunities as those in larger cities. Bringing electricity to farms and homes wasn’t easy, but it was worth it — and that decision changed daily life across our area.

Those early years took determination and cooperation.

Members invested in their own future, power lines were built mile by mile, and electricity slowly began lighting homes, barns, and shops for the first time. Simple things we take for granted today — electric lights, refrigeration, and household appliances — transformed daily life and helped rural communities thrive.

managing our lives in real time. Many of the things we now consider “everyday” would have seemed unimaginable to those early cooperative members in 1936, yet they all depend on a safe, reliable electric system working quietly in the background.

Today, electricity is woven into nearly every part of daily life. From charging cell phones and staying connected through the internet to powering home offices, camera and security systems, farm operations, and businesses, we rely on electricity more than ever before. We’re constantly on the go — streaming, communicating, monitoring, and

Over the past nine decades, so much has changed. The electric system has grown and modernized, technology has advanced, and energy needs continue to evolve. Through it all, the cooperative spirit of neighbors helping neighbors has remained at the heart of what we do.

While we reflect on where we’ve been, this anniversary is also about looking ahead. The work we do today — planning, investing, and adapting — helps ensure reliable service for future generations.

Ninety years from now, what will people say about the choices we made? Our hope is people will see a cooperative that honored its past, embraced change, and always put its members first.

We would not be where we are today without you, our members. We were founded by and for our communities in 1936, and you remain at the center of everything we do today. Thank you for being part of our cooperative — yesterday, today, and into the future.

pathways Pollinator

Create friendly gardens that buzz with life.

BY ALICIA ADAMS

Imagine taking a statewide road trip only to find every highway restaurant, hotel, and gas station closed. For a traveler, being tired, hungry, and in danger of running out of gas makes the journey difficult, if not impossible. For the pollinators of Ohio (bees, butterflies, moths, and hummingbirds), that’s often the reality of navigating manicured lawns and concrete.

It’s not just a problem for bugs and birds. Whether on a commercial farm or in a gardener’s backyard, many of Ohio’s crops — cucumbers, pumpkins, and tomatoes, for example — depend on a healthy pollinator population. As wild, weedy spaces become more scarce, pollinators face increasing challenges. According to Ohio State University Extension, “Animal pollinators and bees in particular are currently facing many threats, such as lack of forage (flowers for food) and lack of suitable nesting sites.”

One way humans can help is by planting a pollinator pathway, creating an environment where those farm and garden helpers don’t have to work so hard just to get by.

A pollinator pathway is a grouping of native, diverse plants that help beneficial insects and birds survive in developed areas. Made up of plants that bloom in succession, they provide corridors of food and shelter from spring to fall. Typically located

along roads, sidewalks, and yards, these pathways provide different landscapes needed to create bridges between habitat areas that might be too far apart otherwise.

Design your own pathway

Pollinator pathways don’t have to be special gardens. They can grow in everyday spaces like farm edges, small-town backyards, and roadsides between communities.

Pathways need two types of plants to create a supportive environment: nectar/pollen plants that provide food for adult pollinators and host plants for butterfly/moth caterpillars to feed on and grow. To make planting decisions easier, you can use the “three-by-three” formula: Pick three native species that bloom in each of the three seasons: spring (March–May), mid-summer (June–August), and late summer/fall (September–November). Different types of pollinators are active at different times of the year, so having a continuous bloom is critical.

When possible, it’s especially helpful if such groupings can be within 300 to 500 yards of another, creating that pathway of pit stops that pollinators need. By choosing to grow a pollinator pathway, you not only plant a vibrant, active garden but also choose to help sustain the creatures that keep farms, fields, and communities thriving.

Stagger bergamot (above), wild columbine, and New England aster (below) to provide a consistent food source for pollinators.

Pollinator-friendly plants

Here’s a season-by-season list of native plants to get you started: Spring

Willow (Salix species)

Wild columbine (Aquilegia canadensis)

Chokecherry (Prunus virginiana)

Summer

Common milkweed (Asclepias syriaca)

Purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea)

Wild bergamot (Monarda fistulosa) species)

Symphyotrichum novae-angliae)

Lobelia cardinalis)

In times of economic uncertainty—when inflation rises, markets fluctuate, and long-term financial stability feels less predictable—many investors turn to gold as a dependable store of value. By holding a portion of your wealth in gold, you can help safeguard your portfolio and preserve longterm financial security, even when broader economic conditions are unclear.

Since 2015, gold has surged over 400% — outpacing both the S&P 500 and the Dow during the same

American Gold Reserve is releasing government-issued $5 Gold American Eagles completely free of dealer markup for only $529 each. These beautiful $5 Gold American Eagles are a perfect way to enter the gold market. Set for immediate public release, availability is limited and supplies are expected to sell out quickly.

GOVERNMENT BACKED U.S. GOLD

• Free of dealer markup.

• Gold provides protection against inflation and deflation.

• Gold offers financial cover during geopolitical and macroeconomic uncertainty.

• A strong portfolio diversifier.

Geothermal isn’t just about comfort. It’s about energy independence, grid resilience, and good jobs.

Geothermal heating and cooling doesn’t just make homes more comfortable and efficient—they’re powered by a domestic, underground energy source that’s available 24/7, rain or shine.

Made in the USA: Our geothermal systems are built right here in America, supporting advanced manufacturing jobs.

Grid-friendly: While AI, EVs, and data centers push power demand to new heights, geothermal helps reduce peak load—easing the burden on our utilities.

Job-creating: From HVAC contractors and well drillers or trenchers to engineers and architects, geothermal supports a wide network of high-paying, skilled jobs in every community it touches.

Geothermal isn’t just smart for homeowners. It’s smart for the country.

DIY

pond

Thinking about a water feature to zhuzh up your backyard landscape?

We’ve got some tips.

BY RANDY EDWARDS

When we moved into our house nearly three decades ago, there was a small pond in the backyard garden, its shape fixed by a hard plastic liner. The pond was choked with excess vegetation that hid, somewhere in the depths, a small pump that did not pump.

Yearning for the sound of running water and croaking frogs in our suburban backyard, we put rebuilding that pond at the top of our to-do list. Since money was tight and we were up for a challenge, we did it ourselves — removing the old, cracked pond liner and starting from scratch.

It was physically demanding work, and it took some trial and error to balance our water chemistry, but for more than two decades now, the pond has provided a visual and audible centerpiece to our landscape.

Even a small pond adds beauty and interest to a backyard, says Justin Miller, general manager of Aquarium Adventure in Columbus, and for the homeowner, an added value is “stress relief.”

“You sit out there with the sound and the movement of the water and it just relaxes you,” he says.

Planning a DIY pond?

Here are a few things to consider if you’re thinking about wading into a pond project of your own: Check local regulations: A permit may be required, especially if your pond will be more than 1,000 square feet at the surface. Community rules differ everywhere, though, so call before you dig. That goes for the utilities, too — dial 811 and have your utilities marked so you can avoid buried water, gas, and electric lines.

Choose a spot: Do you want to gaze out on your pond from your patio? Or practice the Japanese garden principle of miegakure (hide and reveal) and tuck the water feature behind some shrubbery, so that visitors will discover it as they walk through your yard? Either way, you’ll need an electricity source nearby, for aeration.

Aeration: Fountains or waterfalls will keep water moving, prevent mosquitoes, add oxygen to the water, and provide a pleasing murmur and splash to your pond. Some pumps are submerged in the deepest part of the pond, while others hang at the pond’s edge, doing double duty by skimming out debris. Do some research and pick the best setup for your needs.

Decide your depth and shape: If you want fish, you’ll want the water at least 2 feet deep — 3 feet for larger species like koi. Gently sloping edges will encourage frogs to visit, but fish love tadpoles, so many people choose either fish or frogs, not both.

You can hire a landscaper or a company like Aquarium Adventure to install a backyard pond, but if DIY projects spark joy for you, a small backyard pond is a doable project — as long as you have a strong back (or some friends who do).

Digging the basin is the hardest part of the project, Miller says, so many times, homeowners will hire an excavator to do that heavy lifting even if the rest of it is DIY.

Miller strongly recommends a full pond clean-out each spring. Empty the water, remove accumulated debris, and clean and inspect the liner. When you refill the pond, be sure to remove the chlorine that occurs in tap water, using a chemical detoxifier or simply by letting the water sit for several days before adding back plants or fish.

Choose a liner: Soft-sided liners will conform to the basin you dig, they’re easy to install, and Miller says 45-mil liners like those sold in his store will last decades. Preformed shell liners offer ease of installation, a clean look, and resistance to puncturing by rocks, roots, or animal burrowing.

Pond chemistry is key: Proper pH levels are key for fish and plant health. Excess nutrients will cause excess algae to grow, turning the water an unsightly green. Test your water regularly and use barley bales, chemical algicides, or UV sterilizers to keep your water clear.

Add some plants: Pond plants add beauty, provide shelter for fish, and can help balance water chemistry. Options include submerged plants, floaters, and marginals. Many are perennial and can be sunk to the bottom of the pond to weather the winter.

Mosquito-proof your pond: Proper aeration helps. Fish will eat mosquito larvae. Consider biological additives to the pond that will kill larvae but not harm fish or frogs.

Seniors get new medical alert device

Instantly connects to free unlimited nationwide help with just the push of a button with no contracts, no deposits, and no monthly bills

■ NO MONTHLY BILLS: “My wife had an old style help button that came with hefty bills every month and she was embarrassed to wear it because it made her look old,” said Frank McDonald, Canton, Ohio. “Now, we both have FastHelp™, the sleek new medical alert device that our grandkids say makes us look ‘cool’ not old,” he said. With FastHelp, seniors never have to worry about being alone and the best part is there are no monthly bills ever.

Seniors

born before 1964 get new medical alert device

Nationwide: Demand for new Medical Alert Device soars

The phone lines are ringing off the hook. That’s because for seniors born before 1964, it’s a deal too good to pass up.

Starting at precisely 8:30am today the Pre-Store Release begins for the sleek new medical alert device that comes with the exclusive FastHelp™ One-Touch 911 Button that instantly connects you to unlimited nationwide help everywhere with no contracts, no deposits and no monthly bills ever.

“It’s not like old style help buttons that make you talk to a call center, only work when you’re at home and come with hefty bills every month. FastHelp comes with state-of-the-art cellular embedded technology. That means it works at home or anywhere and everywhere cell service is available whether you’re out watering the garden, driving in a car, at church or even hundreds of miles away on a tour or at a casino. You are never alone. With just a single push of the One-Touch E Button you instantly get connected to free unlimited help nationwide with no monthly bills ever,” said Jack Lawrence, Executive Director of Product Development for U.S. based Universal Physicians.

“We’ve never seen anything like it. Consumers absolutely love the sleek new modern design and most of all, today’s instant rebate practically pays for it and no monthly bills ever,” Lawrence said.

FastHelp is the sleek new medical alert device with the best of combinations: a quality, high-tech engineered device that’s also an extremely great value because there are no monthly bills ever. ■

■ FLYING OUT THE DOOR: Trucks are being loaded with the new medical alert devices called FastHelp. They are now being delivered to lucky seniors who call the National Rebate Center Hotline at 1-800-209-4926 DEPT. FSTH145 today. Everyone is calling to get FastHelp, the sleek new medical alert device because it instantly connects you to unlimited nationwide help everywhere cell service is available.

HOW TO GET IT

BORN BEFORE 1964:

Use the rebate coupon below and call this Toll-Free Hotline: 1-800-209-4926

EXT. FSTH145

BORN AFTER 1964:

You cannot use the rebate coupon below and must pay $299 Call: 1-800-209-6405

EXT. FSTH145

■ SENIORS SNAP UP NEW MEDICAL ALERT DEVICE: Instantly connects you to free unlimited nationwide help with no contracts, no deposits and no monthly bills ever. Nothing to hook up. You don’t need a land line or cell phone. It’s ready to use right out of the box. Comes with new cellular embedded technology that works at home or anywhere you go so you are never alone.

BOTTOM LINE: You don’t need to shop around. We’ve done all the leg work, this deal is too good to pass up. With the instant FastHelp rebate, it is a real steal at just $149 and shipping. There are no monthly bills ever.

PROS: It’s the sleek new medical alert device that comes with the exclusive FastHelp One-Touch 911 Button that instantly connects you to free unlimited nationwide help with no contracts or deposits. It connects you to the vast available network of cellular towers for free and saves seniors a ton of money because there are no monthly bills ever making this deal a must have. Plus it’s the only medical alert device that makes seniors look important, not old.

CONS: Consumers can’t get FastHelp in stores until later this year. That’s why it’s so important for seniors born before 1964 to call the National Rebate Center Hotline within the next 21 days. For those who miss that deadline, the sleek little medical alert device will set you back over $300 bucks.

Hurricane Help

“We had two hurricanes recently. I had no electricity for 6 days. I fell, so I pushed the button, and they came right out and picked me up off the floor. I tell many of my friends they need to get FastHelp!” - Virginia, FL

LIFESAVER

“When I got my FastHelp I never thought I’d have to use it, but when I fell and broke my hip it saved my life.” - Harold, OH

Very appreciative of having FastHelp

“I did have an emergency. Help RESPONDED quickly and came in a few minutes.” - Irving, PA

WE LOVE THE PRODUCT

“We bought it outright with no bills ever.” - Rosemary, NY

Safe anywhere

“This little FastHelp device is my guardian angel. I’m so glad my daughter-in-law got it for me.” - Pete, FL

A+ Rating: These are unsolicited consumer feedback from satisfied customers as reported to Universal Physicians.

From a small garage to tinker on your vintage automobile to an elaborate workshop to focus on your woodworking hobby, a residential storage and hobby building designed and constructed by Morton is crafted to provide a stronger, longer-lasting, better-looking structure customized to fit your needs. Don’t settle for second best — because Morton has a quality that’s unmistakable, just like you.

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FOUND!

Cache of 1,193 First-Year 1964 Silver Kennedy Half Dollars

Collectors LOVE “firsts” as no collection is complete without the very first coin. First-year coins are almost always the most coveted coins and the 1964 First Year Silver Kennedy Half Dollar is no exception, especially when you consider the coin has been struck for over 60 years! But there’s something else that makes the FirstYear 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar hoarded by all…

THE ONLY SILVER KENNEDY STRUCK IN 90% SILVER

What makes the 1964 Silver Kennedy Half Dollar stand out is its silver composition. While Silver Kennedy Half Dollars were issued from 1964-1970, the 1964 Silver Half is the ONLY YEAR made in 90% silver!

PUBLIC RELEASE - ONLY 1,193 COINS AVAILABLE

Rarcoa, America’s Oldest Coin Company, is announcing the public release of 1,193 of the very first year and only 90% silver year, 1964 Silver Kennedy Half Dollars. What may be even more impressive is that each coin is in Brilliant Uncirculated condition, pristine as the day they were released.

SOLD NATIONALLY FOR AS MUCH AS $103

This same 1964 Silver Kennedy Half Dollar sells nationally for as much as $103. But thanks to Rarcoa’s buying power and deep numismatic expertise, you won’t have to pay $103. You won’t have to pay $90. You won’t even have to pay $70.

If you call now you can secure your first-year, only 90% silver, 1964 Silver Kennedy Half Dollar for as low as $59 per coin!

1964 Silver Kennedy Half Dollar Brilliant Uncirculated 1-9    $69.95

10-19 $64.95 Save $5 or up to $95 20+     $59.00 Save $10 each or $219 or more

FREE SHIPPING on 3 or More!

Limited time only. Product total over $149 before taxes (if any). Standard domestic shipping only. Not valid on previous purchases

Please mention this code when you call.

arth

Yes, temblors happen,

even in the heart of it all.

E quake!

BY KEVIN WILLIAMS

The early hours of February 22 were typical for a Sunday morning in rural Highland County. Absent the typical weekday rush, most residents of the area in rural southwestern Ohio were still sleeping, or perhaps up and enjoying that first cup of coffee or starting to get ready for chores or church.

But then, a little before 6 a.m., something happened that was not at all typical. Dozens of posts and comments on social media forums described a sound like thunder, rattling windows, and items falling from shelves. Turns out, the shaking that caused the early wake-up call was an earthquake — a mild 2.5 temblor deep below the earth’s surface a couple of miles or so east of Hillsboro.

Ohio, of course, is not immune from seismic activity.

There are several long-dormant fault zones known as remnant strain faults underneath the Buckeye State, according to Mike Brudzinski, a geology professor and earthquake expert at Miami University in Oxford — and some of those, he says, have energy built up in them like a cocked gun.

But knowing which faults are ready to fire is still out of scientific reach.

“Over long periods of time, small changes in stress in the earth can tip a fault over the edge,” Brudzinski says. “How many cocked guns are left and how many faults are really primed? There is no way to know; we really can’t anticipate when and where they will occur. Our ability to forecast earthquakes is not great.”

While Hillsboro may have been the site of the most recent shaker, Brudzinski says that Anna, a town of 1,500 people between Dayton and Lima, is the earthquake epicenter of the Buckeye State.

Anna, which sits atop the Anna-Champaign Seismic Zone, a fault deep below the surface, frequently experiences small trembles — but also was the site of two of the largest earthquakes in Ohio’s recorded history (see list, opposite page). “You might be able to make the case that for magnitude 5 0-size events, Anna is the only place in the state,” Brudzinski says.

But it definitely isn’t the only place that shakes. Magnitude 3.0 events are a regular occurrence northeast of Cleveland, for example, though many of those are related to fracking rather than naturally occurring faults in the earth’s crust.

The biggest earthquake threat to folks in Ohio, in fact, actually comes from outside the state. The New Madrid Seismic Zone, which runs through Missouri and Illinois, spurred magnitude 7.0 earthquakes in the early 1800s that were felt as far away as Boston. Brudzinski says a hypothetical 7 5-plus event in the northeast part of that zone today likely would cause widespread disruption over the entire eastern part of the country, including much of Ohio. Damage would be greater than even a 6 0 event centered in Anna — where the damage would still be significant, but likely would be more contained to the immediate area.

Brudzinski says there is a good chance most Ohioans will not experience an earthquake in their lifetime. He says that a “big one” could happen here, “but it could happen in a lot of other places too.”

Check out www.ohiocoopliving.com to read about the author’s personal earthquake experiences and Ohio’s contribution to earthquake science.

“A deep rumbling accompanied the tremor, and those living on traffic arteries were inclined at first to believe the noise was caused by passing trucks. Because of the quietness of the hour, the quake was noticed by many more persons than the one which shook Ohio the previous Tuesday. Tumbling brick chimneys and shattered glass awakened residents of Anna, where the latest quake probably centered, similar to that of last week, seismologists reported.”

— The Bluffton News, March 11, 1937

EIGHT NOTABLE OHIO EARTHQUAKES

Anna (Shelby County), March 9, 1937, magnitude 5.4. The largest earthquake in Ohio history. Caused severe damage, including cracked buildings, toppled chimneys, and structural issues.

Anna (Shelby County), March 2, 1937, magnitude 5.0. Occurred one week before the larger quake. Damaged churches and chimneys throughout the area.

LeRoy Township (Lake County), Jan. 31, 1986, magnitude 5.0. Struck near Cleveland in Lake Erie. Felt in 10 states and southern Canada; caused broken windows and cracked plaster.

Lima (Allen County), Sept. 19, 1884, magnitude 4.8. Significant for the late 19th century.

Portsmouth (Scioto County), May 17, 1901, magnitude 4.2. Dislodged bricks from chimneys and cracked windows.

Crooksville (Perry County), June 20, 1952, magnitude 3.9. Caused minor to moderate damage.

Pomeroy (Meigs County), Nov. 5, 1926, magnitude 3.6. Caused minor to moderate damage around southeastern Ohio.

Youngstown (Mahoning County), Dec. 31, 2011, magnitude 4.0. About 2.5 miles northwest of the city.

2026 APRIL/MAY

CALENDAR

NORTHEAST

APR. 16 – Cabaret Dinner: The Belleville Trio with Gypsy Jazz from the 1930s, Corkscrew Saloon, 811 W. Liberty St., Medina, 6 p.m. $70/person; includes dinner and first drink. Enjoy a buffet dinner in a relaxed atmosphere while listening to club-style jazz from another era. Limited attendance; book now to avoid disappointment: www.ormaco.org or 419-853-6016

APR. 17 – Homeschool Day, Historic Zoar Village, 9 a.m.–2 p.m. $8; 5 and under free; 1 free adult admission per group. Learn how the Zoar Separatists and other people in the 19th century prepared for spring through hands-on activities, including a bread relay, butter churning, seed planting, and tin smithing. Reservations requested. 330-874-3011 or www. historiczoarvillage.com.

APR. 18–19 – Spring Button Show: “Hearts Full of Buttons,” Carlisle Inn, 1357 Old Rte. 39, Sugarcreek, Sat. 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.–2 p.m. $5; under 18 free. Open to the public. Antique, vintage, and modern garment buttons for display and sale. Sat. banquet, 6 p.m.; education programs, 7 p.m.; Sun. silent auction, 8 p.m. https://ohiobuttons.org or showinfo@buttons.org.

NORTHWEST

THROUGH MAY 12 – Line Dancing, Delphos Eagles Aerie #471, 1600 E. Fifth St., Tues. 6–7:30 p.m. $5

Step-by-step instructions given at the beginning of each class. Everyone can learn! Private lessons also available. Taught by Kelly Jackson Kroeger (see her Facebook page). www.visitgreaterlima.com/calendar.

APR. 4–5, MAY 2–3 – Tri-State Gun Show, Allen Co. Fgds., 2750 Harding Hwy., Lima, Sat. 8:30 a.m.–4 p.m., Sun. 8:30 a.m.–2 p.m. $8; 18 and under free. Over 400 tables of modern and antique guns, edged weapons, and sportsmen equipment. 419-647-0067 (Manetta Obringer) or www.allencofair.com/events-calendar.

APR. 11–12, MAY 9–10 – Findlay Flea Market, Hancock Co. Fgds., 1017 E. Sandusky St., Findlay, Sat. 9

APR. 20–MAY 3 – Spring Quilt Show, Fort Steuben Visitor Center, 120 S. 3rd St., Steubenville, Mon.–Fri. 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Sat. noon–4 p.m., or by appointment. Free. Over 25 local creations — from handstitched family heirlooms to machine-crafted modern designs — will be on display. 740-283-1787 or www.oldfortsteuben.com.

APR. 23–26 – Geauga County Maple Festival, Chardon. Oldest maple festival in the U.S. Arts and crafts show, bathtub races, grandstand entertainment, rides, lumberjack competition, two parades, pancakeeating contest, all-you-can-eat Pancakes in the Park every day, and more. 440-332-7055 or www. maplefestival.com.

MAY 2 – Magic of Moms Craft and Vendor Show, Emidio and Sons Banquet Center, 48 E. Bath Rd., Cuyahoga Falls, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Free admission. Local vendors and crafters, raffles, 50/50, and much more! Proceeds benefit Cuyahoga Falls Amateur Baseball Association. www.facebook.com/everydaylimes/events.

MAY 2–3 – Annual Ohio Civil War Show, Richland Co. Fgds., 750 N. Home Rd., Mansfield, Sat. 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. $8; under 12 free. Seven buildings; 800 exhibitors. Artillery show, cannon firing demos, living history campfire, fife and drum corps, WWII small arms demos, and much more. https:// ohiocivilwarshow.com.

MAY 5 – Brad Wagner and Anthony Fuoco: “A Jazzy Evening,” Canal Fulton Public Library, 154 Market St. NE, Canal Fulton, 6:30–7:30 p.m. Free. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. The duo will present a concert of jazz standards. Wagner plays saxophone with the Cleveland Jazz Orchestra, and Fuoco teaches piano and jazz studies at Baldwin Wallace University. 419-8536016 or www.ormaco.org.

MAY 7 – George Foley: “Music Born in America,” Medina County District Library, 210 S. Broadway St., Medina, 6:30–7:30 p.m. Free. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. Foley will share the story of the evolution of jazz through the early part of the twentieth century while performing this uniquely American art form as a part of the 250th American anniversary celebration. 419-853-6016 or www.ormaco.org.

MAY 7 – National Day of Prayer Event, LaGrange Global Methodist Church, 105 W. Main St,, LaGrange, noon. All are welcome. For more information, call the church office at 440-355-4561

MAY 8–9 – Maifest German Festival, Historic Zoar Village, Fri. 5:30–10 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Free. Celebrate the coming of spring with a traditional German festival filled with beers, brats, and bands! Discounted guided tours of the village: $5/adult; 11 and under free. Car show on Saturday ($10 registration fee) will feature a variety of antique German-made vehicles. 330-874-3011, zoarinfo@zca.org, or www. historiczoarvillage.com.

MAY 9– Plant Discovery Day Sale, Secrest Welcome and Education Center, 2122 Williams Rd., Wooster, 9 a.m.–1 p.m. (Members get first pick Fri., May 8, 3–4 p.m.) Over 120 different trees and shrubs, perennials, and herbs for sale. Find rare and exotic plants, native plants, vegetables, and more. www. friendsofsecrest.com.

MAY 9 – America 250: Zoar Art Tours, downtown Zoar, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. $12. Discover the charming village of Zoar through the eyes of the artists who were inspired by its beauty. This guided tour weaves together the town’s unique 19th-century heritage with the stories of renowned painters who captured its quiet streets, lush landscapes, and historic architecture. 330-874-3011 or www.historiczoarvillage.com.

a.m.–4 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Free admission. New, used, and vintage items, crafts, and more. Food trucks on-site. Vendors welcome! 419-619-0041 (Christine) or www.findlayfleamarket.com.

APR. 11, 25, MAY 9, 23 – Market on Main, downtown Kenton. Outdoor market showcasing vendors, makers, and growers. Shop local, discover unique goods, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. 419-673-4131 or www. facebook.com/marketonmainkenton.

APR. 17–19 – World War II Reenactment, AuGlaize Village 12296 Krouse Rd., Defiance. Features a camp area, open to the public, and then stations where reenactors will discuss being an Allied or Axis soldier during different points of the war. School Day on Friday and public “battles” on Saturday. America 250 Celebration additions: U.S. WWII half-track vehicles; demo showing how socks were made during WWII for the soldiers; WWII-era dance Saturday evening, open to the public. 419-990-0107, villageauglaize@gmail.com, or www.auglaizevillage.com.

APR. 18 – Lima Sister Cities Association Annual Cherry Blossom Festival, Sister Cities Garden, 202 W. Eureka St., Lima, 1–4 p.m. Celebrate the blooming of our nine cherry trees with Japanese cultural activities and entertainment. www.limasistercities.com.

MAY 2–3 – NWORRP Opening Weekend, 12505 Co. Rd. 99, Findlay, 1–4 p.m. Join us for an afternoon party to celebrate our 2026 season. Quarter-scale train rides,

carnival games, inflatables, mini-golf, and great food all available. 419-423-2995, www.facebook.com/nworrp, or www.nworrp.org.

MAY 9 – Annual Lilac Festival and Street Fair, Clinton Street, Defiance, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Free. Celebrate the official flower of Defiance with the community’s largest arts and crafts fair. Free lilacs to the first 750 attendees. 160+ arts and crafts vendors, food vendors, children’s activities. 419-782-0739 or https://visitdefianceohio.com.

MAY 9 – Market on Main and Spring Fest, downtown Kenton, 9 a.m.–2 p.m. Free admission. Vendors, food trucks, kids’ activities, and more. 419-673-4131 or www. facebook.com/marketonmainkenton.

MAY 9–SEP. 13 – NWORPP Museum Summer Hours, 12505 Co. Rd. 99, Findlay, Sat./Sun. 1–4 p.m. $3; 12 and under, $2. Quarter-scale train rides, model train displays, museum tours, games, play area, and more. 419-423-2995, www.facebook.com/nworrp, or www. nworrp.org.

MAY 14–16 – Findlay Armed Forces Day Celebration, Hancock Co. Fgds., 1017 E. Sandusky St., Findlay, 7 a.m.–9 p.m. Free admission. Reenactments, living history displays, encampments, swap meet with over 170 vendors, weapons and military vehicles from all eras, including the American Huey 369, UH-1B Gunship 049, and M4A3E8 Sherman Tank. www. findlaymilitaryshow.org.

APR. 6, 20, MAY 11, 25 – American Sign Language Class, Betsey Mills Club, 300 4th St., Marietta, 6 p.m. Free to members; $10/class non-members. Taught by deaf instructors and interpreters. Learn ASL and deaf culture. All ages welcome. 740-373-4981 or www. betseymills.club.

APR. 7, 14, 21, 28 – Training Tuesdays: Garlic Mustard Removal, Mound City Group, Hopewell Culture

National Historical Park, 16062 St. Rte. 104, Chillicothe, 9 a.m. Attend a training on one of these dates to learn identification and safety for the removal of invasive garlic mustard from park grounds. Once trained, stop by any day in April and volunteer anytime from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. to help. www.facebook.com/hopewellohionps/events.

APR. 7, 21, MAY 5, 19 – Mom Café, Betsey Mills Club, 300 4th St., Marietta, 10–11:30 a.m. Free to new or expectant parents. Open to all moms. Join us for discussion, self-care, and resources. Snacks provided. 740-373-4981 or www.betseymills.club.

APR. 12 – “Notable Souls of Grandview Cemetery,” Grandview Cemetery, 300 Brookside Dr., Chillicothe, 1–4 p.m. $10. Costumed guides share stories of notable Ross Countians buried here, including Nathaniel Massie,

early elected officials, and other men and women who shaped the world. 740-702-7677, 740-253-1067, or www. visitchillicotheohio.com/america250-rosscountyohio.

APR. 15 – Vision Journaling, Betsey Mills Club, 300 4th St., Marietta, 4–6 p.m. Learn to creatively collect your thoughts and create your very own vision journal using writing and images to explore your next chapter. 740-3734981 or www.betseymills.club.

APR. 18 – Earth Gathering Festival, Pump House Center for the Arts, 1 Enderlin Circle, Chillicothe, 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Free. Juried-invitational art festival with an Earth Day theme. Earth-friendly art, music, food, products, and ideas. www.visitchillicotheohio.com.

APR. 18 – Positivi-Tea Luncheon, Mr. Lee’s Restaurant (Banquet Room), 2000 E. Wheeling Ave., Cambridge, 11:30 a.m.–2 p.m. $20/person. Catered lunch, guest speaker, and basket raffles. Contact Melissa Swingle at 330-814-0188 for tickets.

MAY 2 – The Big Deal at Great Seal, Great Seal State Park, 4908 Marietta Rd., Chillicothe, 8 a.m. Trail running event includes Big Deal 100-mile, 100K, 20-mile, and 5K on a 20-mile loop with 2 road crossings and 3,000 feet of elevation gain per loop. www.runfluentevents.com.

MAY 2 – Ohio Is for Writers Book Fest, Chillicothe–Ross County Public Library Annex, 140 S. Paint St., Chillicothe, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Meet and support Ohio authors and discover your next favorite read. 740-702-4145 or www. visitchillicotheohio.com/america250-rosscountyohio.

MAY 2 – Twitty & Lynn: “A Salute to Conway & Loretta,” Majestic Theatre, 45 E. Second St., Chillicothe, 7 p.m. $45–$65. Tribute to the famous duo by their grandchildren Tre Twitty and Tayla Lynn. www. majesticchillicothe.net.

MAY 2 – Caldwell Lake Disc Golf Tournament, 47044 Caldwell Lake Rd., Caldwell. This is one of the most

challenging and scenic disc golf courses in southeastern Ohio. Players are welcome to come and practice before the event. 740-732-4645 or golf@caldwellohio.org.

MAY 2–24 – Spring Plant Sale, Adena Mansion & Gardens, 847 Adena Rd., Chillicothe, Wed.–Sat. 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 12–5 p.m. Browse a selection of vegetables and flowers; get advice and information from our horticulturalist. www.adenamansion.com.

MAY 6 – Women in Business Salon, Betsey Mills Club, 300 4th St., Marietta, 6–8 p.m. $25/meet or $75/ full salon. First of a trilogy (next sessions Jun. 3, Jul. 1). Businesswomen meet once a month for three months to share insights and real-world experience. Snacks and drinks available. 740-373-4981 or www.betseymills.club.

MAY 7–9 – Wildflowers and Songbirds of Ohio’s “Deep South,” Tremper Mound Preserve, 20580 St. Rte. 73, McDermott. Join us for a late-spring wildflower immersion, exploring stunning flora. 937-794-3360, arcpreserveinfo@gmail.com, or www. arcofappalachia.org.

MAY 8–10 – Chillicothe Trade Days, Ross Co. Fgds., 344 Fairgrounds Rd., Chillicothe. Old school-style market days event. Hundreds of vendors selling antiques, livestock, plants, crafts, and more. www. chillicothetradedays.com.

MAY 9 – Ohio Creates: Arts, Culture, and Entertainment, Pump House Center for the Arts, Chillicothe, 2 p.m. Doors open 1:30 p.m. Learn about Chillicothe/Ross County’s artists of the past, while enjoying the displays of the present. Refreshments available. 740-702-7677, 740-253-1067, or www. visitchillicotheohio.com/america250-rosscountyohio.

MAY 10 – Mother’s Day Dinner, Fearing Township Fire Department, 1975 Stanleyville Rd., Whipple, starting at 11 a.m. For information, contact Jeff Lauer at 740-516-3989

GROUND

2026 CALENDAR APRIL/MAY

SOUTHWEST

THROUGH APR. 30 – Bunny Paperweight, Neusole Glassworks, 11925 Kemper Springs Dr., Cincinnati. $50/person per 30-minute session. Reservations required; payment due at scheduling. Ages: 5 years and older. With help from our professional glass artists, sculpt your own adorable bunny paperweight from hot molten glass. Pickup in 7 days. 513-7513292, neusoleglassworks@hotmail.com, or http:// neusoleglassworks.com.

THROUGH APR. 30 – Easter Egg Paperweight, Neusole Glassworks, 11925 Kemper Springs Dr.,

us your event Submit listings AT LEAST 90 DAYS in advance to events@ohioec.org

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

WEST VIRGINIA

Cincinnati. $50/person per 30-minute session. Reservations required; payment due at scheduling. Ages: 5 years and older. With help from our professional glass artists, sculpt your own adorable Easter egg paperweight from hot molten glass. Pickup in 7 days. 513-751-3292, neusoleglassworks@hotmail.com, or http://neusoleglassworks.com.

THROUGH MAY 27 – Bluegrass Wednesdays, Vinoklet Winery, 11069 Colerain Ave., Cincinnati, Wed. 6:30–8:30 p.m. Enjoy dinner, wine, and an evening of free entertainment by Vernon McIntyre’s Appalachian Grass. Reservations recommended. 513-385-9309, vinokletwinery@fuse.net, or www.vinokletwines.com.

APR. 17–19 – Wildflower Pilgrimage, Highlands Nature Sanctuary, 7660 Cave Rd., Bainbridge. $225 Daylong field trips to botanical hotspots and floral showcases of our region, featuring both Arc preserves and other private and state-owned natural areas. Includes two breakfasts and one dinner, as well as evening keynote presentations at the Paxton Theatre. Register at www.arcofappalachia.org/wildflowerpilgrimage.

APR. 18 – Family Program: Wildlife and Wildflower Hike, Wagers’ Devil’s Backbone Memorial Park, 1301 OH-725 W., Camden, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. Free. Led by Savannah Ballweg from OSU Extension Office. Join us for a hike and learn to identify nature. 937962-5561, pcpdevents@gmail.com, or www. preblecountyparks.org.

APR. 18 – Wildflower Pilgrimage JR, Highlands Nature Sanctuary, 7660 Cave Rd,, Bainbridge. $20/family. For youth ages 6–10 years old and their families. Begins with a presentation, followed by a guided walk around the pond to explore beaver activity. Bring your own picnic lunch. Register at www.arcofappalachia.org/ wildflower-pilgrimage-jr.

APR. 25 – An Art Affair: Fine Art Sale and Exhibition, Tipp Center, 855 N. 3rd St., Tipp City, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Free admission. Door prizes, food trucks, music, and 40+ fine art vendors! 937-543-5115 or www. tippcityartscouncil.com/an-art-affair or call.

APR. 30 – Historical Speaker Series: Shari Petersime, New Madison Public Library, 142 S. Main St., New

APR. 25 – Ramps and Rails Festival, Elkins Depot, 315 Railroad Ave., Elkins, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Learn about this unique indigenous Appalachian leek while enjoying local arts and crafts, live music, and delicious ramp-themed foods. Train rides available. 304-635-7803 or www.elkinsdepot.com/events/ ramps-and-rail-festival.

MAY 9–17 – West Virginia Strawberry Festival, downtown Buckhannon. Food vendors specializing in strawberry treats of all kinds, live entertainment, craft and vendor show, three parades, carnival, games, exhibits, and much more! 304-472-9036 or www.wvstrawberryfestival.com.

Madison, 6–7 p.m. Free. Petersime will share the history of Longtown, a 19th-century, predominantly African American and multi-racial settlement in Darke County, Ohio. Reservations recommended. 937-996-1741, info@ newmadisonpubliclibrary.org, or https://mynmpl.org.

MAY 2 – Bear’s Mill Spring Open House, Historic Bear’s Mill, 6450 Arcanum Bear’s Mill Rd., Greenville, 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Check out our spring products and join us for free grinding demonstrations with the miller at 12, 2, and 4 p.m. www.bearsmill.org.

MAY 2 – Spring Women’s Walk in the Woods, Highlands Nature Sanctuary, 7660 Cave Rd., Bainbridge, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. $20. Come together with women of all ages and occupations to relax and connect in the beauty of our natural world. We will meet at the Appalachian Forest Museum to hear a presentation from a guest speaker and enjoy a packed lunch (please bring your own). We will then depart for a hike on one of the stunningly beautiful trails near the Sanctuary. www. arcofappalachia.org/walk-in-the-woods-1

MAY 8 – Taste of the Arts, 326 N. Main St., Piqua, 5–9 p.m. Join us for a delightful evening of fun, music, and food in downtown Piqua. See various demonstrations at the storefronts while enjoying a variety of live music. Choose from a wide selection of food options from local restaurants and caterers. Items range from $1 to $5 www.mainstreetpiqua.com.

MAY 9 – A Decadent Affair, Tipp Center, 855 N. 3rd St., Tipp City, 5–9 p.m. Premier event bringing together the best in local wine, art, music, and gourmet delights. VIP experience will be held from 5 to 6 p.m.: Enjoy early access, exclusive tastings, and more. Space is limited; only 150 tickets available. For tickets, call 937-543-5115 or visit www.tippcityartscouncil.com/a-decadent-affair.

APR. 3–4 – Artisans Market, The Downtown Exchange, 527 Main St., Zanesville, Fri. 5–9 p.m., Sat. 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Arts and crafts by quality Ohio makers and artisans. Food available. www.downtown-exchange. com/DTXAM.

APR. 3, MAY 1 – First Friday Art Walk, downtown Zanesville, 5–8 p.m. Come downtown on the first Friday of each month, when galleries, studios, and small businesses are open at the same time! See the Artist Colony of Zanesville’s website for a map of participants: https://artcoz.org/arts-district-map.

APR. 17 – Malpass Brothers, Cornerstone Global Methodist Church, 207 S. Court St., Marysville. Doors open 6 p.m., concert 7 p.m. Part of the Marysville Winter Bluegrass Series, Entertainment, food, homemade pies on-site. 937-642-4712 or www. marysvillewinterbluegrass.com.

APR. 18 – Pickerington Community Chorus: Spring Concert, Epiphany Lutheran Church, 268 Hill Rd N., Pickerington, 3 p.m. Free admission; freewill offering will be taken. www.facebook.com/ Pickeringtoncommunitychorus.

APR. 18 – Quilters Market Day, Fredericktown Schools, 111 Stadium Dr., Fredericktown, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. $5. Flea market. Buy/sell quilting tools, books, patterns, fat quarters, quilted items. Fat quarter drawing. Quilt show (non-juried). For information, call Patty at 740-6946140 or visit www.fredericktown.org.

APR. 22 – Wise Lunch, Headwaters Outdoor Education Center, 151 Home Rd., Mount Gilead, 12 p.m. in the main

MARKETPLACE

building. Bring your lunch and visit; discuss building the new tiny terrarium, then make one to take home. Materials are provided and free. Call 419-946-7923 to reserve your spot.

APR. 24–26 – The Big Roadshow: “Transportation Milestones That Shaped Pickerington,” Pickerington Senior Center, 150 Hereford Dr., Pickerington, Fri. 4–7 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.–7 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Free. An America 250 event. Focuses on Zane’s Trace, Ohio & Erie Canal, the railroad, and I-70. Model train displays, LEGO exhibit, wood carvings, historical timeline and photos, antique vehicles, kids’ activities, and more. Food available. www.pickhistory.org.

APR. 25 – Earth Day Celebration, ECO Center, 1757 Co. Rd. 59, Caledonia, 12–3 p.m. Free. Fun-filled and educational day for the entire family! Local art, inflatables, barrel train, farm animals, kids’ arts and crafts, local produce and earth-friendly vendors, environmental exhibitors, nature scavenger hunt, mini ziplines, and outdoor nature lessons. www. ecocenterohio.com.

APR. 25 – Pickerington Train Depot Tours, Toledo & Ohio Central Train Station, 50 N. Center St., Pickerington, 9 a.m.–6 p.m. Tours on the hour. Reenactor Tony Mills will portray Clyde Leach, the depot agent during a time when Pickerington was home to both the state’s largest creamery and a major grain mill. www.pickhistory.org.

APR. 25 – Rock Your Garden: A How-To Workshop, Darby Landscape Supply, 8075 Harrisburg Pike, Orient, 10–11 a.m. Free. Discover how to use stone to add structure, texture, and visual interest to your landscape. Plus, tour of a rock production plant covering types of rocks and where they come from. All participants receive a free rock to add to their home landscape. 614809-8538 or www.darbylandscape.com.

APR. 26 – Coshocton Community Choir Spring Concert: “Still Be My Vision,” McKinley Auditorium, Coshocton High School, 1205 Cambridge Rd., Coshocton, 3–4:30 p.m. Free admission; freewill donations only. Includes the 80-voice adult choir, the Coshocton Youth Chorale, the Coshocton Singers, the Roscoe Brass, and other instrumentalists. 740-6230554 or www.coshoctoncommunitychoir.org.

APR. 26 – Marysville Toy Show, Union Co. Fgds., Beef Barn, 845 N. Main St., Marysville, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. $6; 12 and under free; early buyer (8–9 a.m.) $12 Free parking. Die-cast cars, action figures, model kits, farm toys, all toys old and new. Find us on Facebook @ Marysville Toy Show or visit www. marysvilletoyshow.com.

MAY 1 – Pickerington Chocolate Hop, Olde Pickerington Village, 6–8:30 p.m. A $5 donation gets you a map of locations around the Village where you will receive a little chocolate treat as a thank-you. Begin on the plaza at Columbus and Center Streets. Limited number of maps; donate in advance to reserve a map. www.pickeringtonvillage.com.

MAY 2 – Birds of the Preserve: Spring Migration Hike, Park District HQ, 16405 U.S. 23, South Bloomfield, 9 a.m.–noon. Free. Guided bird walk through the preserve, celebrating the return of spring neo-migrant birds. For all experience levels. We’ll follow a paved path with the possibility of off-trail exploration in the woods. Dress for the weather. Adult must accompany any child under 12. For questions, email mellis@pickawaycountyohio.gov or visit www. pickawaycountyparks.org/upcoming-events.

MAY 2–OCT. 31 – Coshocton Farmers Market, Coshocton County Maintenance Garage, 23220 Co. Rd. 621, Coshocton, Sat. 8:30 a.m.–noon. Locally grown produce, baked goods, and artisan crafts. Rain or shine. www.facebook.com/coshoctonfarmersmarket or market.manager@coshfarmmarket.org.

MAY 9 – Landscape Basic Design: A How-To Workshop, Darby Landscape Supply, 8075 Harrisburg Pike, Orient, 10–11 a.m. Free. We will cover the basics of garden design using color, height, texture, size, and hardscape vs. softscape; also animal resistance, weeds, and maintenance Each participant receives a free flower to take home and plant. 614-809-8538 or www. darbylandscape.com.

MAY 9 – Spring Fling Craft Show, Sims Farm, 11300 Chilli-Lanc. Rd., Amanda, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Indoor and outdoor vendors. Plants and much more for Mother’s Day gifts. Silent auction of quarter beef from Hoffman Farms to benefit the Sewing Shefs 4-H Club. For more information, call 740-974-8747

1. My daughter, Emma, loves to photobomb her daddy, my husband, Mark. Rachael Belford, Consolidated Cooperative member.

2. My twin sister, Laura Cupp, struck a pose, so my daughter, Sierra Barnette, and I took the opportunity to photobomb her! Lori Highfield, South Central Power Company member.

3. Pick me! Bailey sits so pretty while Zoey Rose photobombs with jumps in the background. Rose Edwards, Frontier Power Company member.

My husband photobombing the girls’ photo. Julie King, Midwest Electric member.

5. Got a group picture taken while snow skiing and later realized this random guy bombed the picture! Jennifer Huffman , Hancock-Wood Electric Cooperative member.

6. My son photobombing my granddaughter while visiting the Statue of Liberty. Janet Fox, Buckeye Rural Electric Cooperative member. 1 4 2 5 6 3

For July, send “America” by April 15. For August, send “Showtime at the fair” by May 15. Upload your photos at www.ohiocoopliving.com/memberinteractive. Your photo may be featured in our magazine or on our website. Send us YOUR picture!

Call before you dig!

ohioec.org/purpose

Know what’s below—dial 811 before any project that requires digging.

Underground utilities, such as gas, water, and electric lines, can be a shovel thrust away from turning a spring project into a disaster. Play it safe by dialing 811 three days before digging to find out where utility lines run on your property. It’s free, fast—and may save a life!