Ohio Cooperative Living – December 2025 - Paulding Putnam Covewr wrap
Things to keep in mind when purchasing a spotting scope
Robert Hershberger of Time & Optics near Millersburg offers these tips to those considering the purchase of a new spotting scope:
• Budget: “When a birder enters our store, I show them three options: a scope at their price range, then one above and one below. That lets a person compare the differences in quality and operation.”
• Use: “Will the scope stay indoors, used to view birds near home bird feeders, or will they be taking the scope outdoors into the field? Or will it be a combination? It makes a big difference.”
Ask chip!
• Size, weight, and length: “For instance, 75mm to 100mm would be considered a large spotting scope, while 50mm to 65mm is usually considered a smaller scope. The bigger the lens, the longer the scope, and that adds weight. But a bigger lens is helpful for gathering light, so it’s brighter during times with low light, such as dawn, dusk, or on cloudy days. Also, some customers confuse field of view (the amount of area you see while looking through a spotting scope) with the diameter of the objective lens, but those two measurements have nothing to do with each other. Field of view is determined by the scope’s eyepiece, not the size of its objective lens.”
• Tripods and tripod heads: “If you mount a good-quality spotting scope on a poorly made tripod and tripod head you’ll be disappointed. So buy quality.”
• Try before you buy: “There is only so much you can determine by shopping for spotting scopes online — so go shopping where you can actually handle and look through various scopes. I’ve found that customers are usually happier with what they purchase in person rather than online.”
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!
Co-op members fulfill their son-in-law’s dying wish for an heirloom car.
BY MARGIE WUEBKER
Todd McMullen’s dream was to buy a Ford Mustang Cobra convertible and take his family on rides at dusk underneath a sky ablaze with color.
But that dream hinged on a more serious goal: First, he had to beat his glioma.
Todd had grown up in rural Darke County. He and his wife, Sara, were married in 2010, and he had found success working in the insurance field. But he began feeling unexplainably dizzy and had a lingering headache, and in 2012, doctors gave him the news that no one ever wants to hear.
Glioma is a fast-growing type of cancer that affects the brain and nervous system. Its survival rate varies widely depending on the specific type and how early it’s caught. He immediately began treatment — he followed the specific protocols his specialists ordered and underwent multiple surgeries — and it worked. Periodic follow-up MRIs indicated no suspicious growth.
Todd and Sara started a family — sons Colin and Corey were born a few years apart — and lived each day as a special gift.
The Mustang
At the time, Todd drove a 1989 Ford Mustang convertible, but decided to sell it shortly before they bought their first home in Columbus. “He always regretted doing that,” Sara says. Later, as the boys were getting older, they enjoyed attending the annual London (Ohio) Cobra Show.
“My husband was a dreamer,” Sara says with a chuckle. “Each year we attended that show, he talked about building three Carroll Shelby Cobras — one for Colin,
one for Corey, and one for us. Those were ambitious plans, considering it takes at least a year and a half to build each one.”
And so life went on, including those periodic discussions about that dream car and talks about those sunset drives with the top down. But the dream was interrupted by another dose of reality.
At the beginning of 2024, Todd did not feel well and knew something was amiss. Tests at the Cleveland Clinic confirmed his suspicions — the tumor was no longer dormant, and doctors also found at least three additional disorders that further complicated his condition, and soon he began feeling pain that was unrelenting.
Motivation
Sara, a former service coordinator with the Franklin County Board of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities, used her skills to investigate holistic treatments and other approaches when traditional protocols like radiation offered little relief.
“Todd would get up in the morning and slowly make his way down the stairs to his recliner,” Sara says. “He could no longer drive due to double vision, there were mobility issues on his right side, and he developed short-term memory problems. But he never complained despite the pain and everything else.”
In July of that year, Sara saw the black Ford Cobra sitting in a neighbor’s yard, a “for sale” sign in the windshield. She knew it was the motivation Todd needed. She helped him to their golf cart and a smile flashed across his face as soon as he saw the vehicle with its distinctive Cobra designs on the seats.
Dreamsat
atsunset
“Todd wanted that car,” Sara says.
He spoke a lot about the Cobra during the ensuing weeks, pointing out that Sara would have to do the driving, or planning which shows he wanted to take it to, or deciding whom he wanted to take around on those sunset drives.
The family spent much of the following months at the Cleveland Clinic, where doctors offered little hope after more tests indicated the cancer had spread to fluid around the brain and to the spinal cord. The disease ultimately claimed his life Oct. 24, 2024, exactly 12 years to the day from his initial diagnosis. He was 42.
Signs, and a decision
The idea of buying the car and fulfilling Todd’s wishes came as the family drove home from the Cleveland Clinic after his death.
Sara says a large truck emblazoned with “Ford” seemed to shadow them during the drive, which she, Colin (then 10), and Corey (6) found comforting because they all knew he was definitely a “Ford man.”
But there was also that sky.
Sara’s parents, Dave and Julie Heuing, members of Piquabased Pioneer Electric Cooperative, were on their way back to their home in Russia (Ohio), and couldn’t help but to be reminded of their son-in-law. “The sunset was unusually beautiful that day and we knew Todd would have loved it,” Julie says. By the time they all got home, she had made a decision.
“I did a lot of praying about buying the car, and I told Sara I wanted to do it for Todd,” Julie says. “I needed to
talk to my husband first, but Dave was in agreement that we should do it for Todd and the boys. My dad had two Mustangs when I was growing up and everything seemed so right.”
The Heuings test drove the Cobra and ended up purchasing it this past summer.
“The first time I took it out I could sense Todd in the passenger seat,” Julie says. “I looked over and told him to fasten his seatbelt because we were going for a ride.”
Sara says she and the boys also feel Todd’s presence when they take a ride in “daddy’s car.” Julie says she may take it to some car shows and might even take a spin along legendary Route 66.
“I am keeping Todd’s dream alive while enjoying the car myself,” she says. “When the time comes, I will pass it on to the boys, just as their dad planned.”
Julie Heuing takes a ride in the Mustang Cobra with her daughter, Sara McMullen, and grandsons Colin and Corey McMullen, who will inherit the car one day.
RECIPES AND PHOTOGRAPHS
BY CATHERINE MURRAY
Day-old delights
Don’t toss that old loaf — save some dough and upcycle that stale bread for some classic people-pleasers.
PEACHES AND CREAM BREAD PUDDING
Prep: 20 minutes | Bake: 1 hour | Servings: 8
6 cups 1 1/2-inch cubed bread*
3 cups fresh or frozen peaches (thawed)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
3 large eggs
1/3 cup sugar
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
*Bread can be frozen for up to 6 months! Keep a bag of bread ends and/or stale bread to use for croutons, bread pudding, and strata. Mixing different kinds, such as white, wheat, rye, sourdough, buns, and baguettes, works well for croutons. Skip adding sweet breads, such as cinnamon raisin, and thaw bread before making into croutons.
1 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Preheat oven to 375 F. Coat an 8x8-inch baking dish (or double recipe for a 9x13-inch dish) with cooking spray and fill with bread. For a firmer pudding, toast bread in oven for 10 to 15 minutes (optional). Meanwhile, in a small bowl, coat peaches with lemon juice; set aside. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, cream, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg. With a slotted spoon, spread peaches over bread, then pour remaining juice across the top. Pour in egg mixture, ensuring all bread visible on top has been coated with liquid, then pour the rest into the crevices. Press down with a spatula so bread soaks up liquid. Bake 55 to 65 minutes, until tips of bread are toasted brown and center is firm when pressed down upon. Dust with powdered sugar (optional) and serve warm.
No matter how you cut it, diagonal, crisscross, or tiny bites, grilled cheese and tomato soup are the perfect pairing on a cold, rainy day.
Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 20 minutes | Servings: 4
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 (28-ounce) cans whole peeled tomatoes in juice
1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano cayenne, salt, and pepper to taste
10 slices stale white bread, divided 2 tablespoons spreadable butter
6 ounces sliced cheese of choice
In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, sauté onion in olive oil for 5 minutes; add garlic and sauté another minute. Transfer onion mixture to a blender or food processor, along with tomatoes in juice. Remove crust of 2 pieces of bread and tear in pieces; add to blender and puree until smooth. Transfer soup back to saucepan; add broth, sugar, basil, oregano, and cayenne, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring regularly, then reduce to a simmer; let cook 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Meanwhile, heat a large skillet (or an electric skillet if making all 4 at once) to medium-high. Butter bread on the outer facing sides of each sandwich and place the 4 bottom pieces butterside down in skillet. Top each piece with 2 slices of cheese and place second piece of bread on top, butter-side up. Cover with lid and grill, checking bottom of bread with a spatula after 3 minutes and continuing until bottoms are a medium brown and flip with ease. If cheese isn't fully melted, replace lid while grilling second side. Continue until bread is equally grilled on both sides and cheese is fully melted.
3 1/2 cups 1-inch cubed bread* garlic powder and black pepper for sprinkling
Melt butter in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. When butter is foaming, add cubed bread; stir multiple times to coat. Sprinkle with garlic powder and black pepper, stir, and sprinkle again. Stir once or twice a minute for 5 to 7 minutes, until golden brown on all sides. To keep for up to 2 weeks, cool completely before placing in an air-tight container and store in a cool, dry place.
When bread loses its freshness over time, it becomes optimal for turning into panko breadcrumbs you can use to create crispy appetizers and fried favorites. It’s a flavorful coating for breaded meats and vegetables, or as a crunchy topping for casseroles. Stale bread becomes a treasure trove of possibilities for your next culinary adventure — such as the eggplant Parmesan pictured below.
AIR FRYER PANKO BREADCRUMBS
Prep: 10 minutes | Fry: 5 minutes | Servings: 6*
4 slices day-old white bread
1 tablespoon olive oil
salt
Cut off bread crusts and discard. Dice bread into evenly sized cubes, approximately 1/2 inch. Discard any crumbs, as they soak up the oil and fall through the fryer basket. Spread oil on the bottom and sides of a large container or bowl with matching lid. Pour in diced bread; cover and toss to coat. Sprinkle lightly with salt; cover and toss once more. Fill fryer basket with a loose single layer of bread cubes.
Cook on air fryer setting (300 F) 3 minutes, rotate tray 180 degrees and continue cooking, keeping a close eye until lightly toasted. Set tray on a heatsafe surface until cooled, then toss cubes into food processor and pulse into small crumbs. Store in an airtight container in pantry for up to a week, in fridge for up to a month, or in freezer for 3 months. Makes approximately 1 cup.
As a benefit of membership, NRECA voting members (“Members”) shall have the right to use, distribute, reproduce, publish and publicly display (“Use”) the images contained in the NRECA industry art collection library (“Industry Art”) for the sole purpose of promoting their businesses. Members may not sublicense, sell, lease or rent the Images to any third parties, except that Members shall be permitted to allow third parties to Use the Industry Art on its behalf; provided that such third parties are prohibited from using the Industry Art for any other purposes.
As a benefit of membership, NRECA voting members (“Members”) shall have the right to use, distribute, reproduce, publish and publicly display (“Use”) the images contained in the NRECA industry art collection library (“Industry Art”) for the sole purpose of promoting their businesses. Members may not sublicense, sell, lease or rent the Images to any third parties, except that Members shall be permitted to allow third parties to Use the Industry Art on its behalf; provided that such third parties are prohibited from using the Industry Art for any other purposes.
Capital credits continue being allocated, but retirements will pause
I’m writing to you today not from behind a desk, but from the same place you are — as a Paulding Putnam member, rooted in this community, paying the same bills, and counting on the co-op to keep the lights on for our families, farms, and businesses. Like you, I pay my electric bill every month and feel the weight of rising costs. So when our board of trustees made the difficult decision not to retire capital credits this year, I want you to hear it straight from me:
By downloading the Industry Art, you agree to comply with the license rights and restrictions granted herein.
By downloading the Industry Art, you agree to comply with the license rights and restrictions granted herein.
Insurance, property taxes, cybersecurity, software, equipment — every line item is climbing faster than revenue. (The graphic below shows a few examples.) Continuing this trend will lead to a net loss in the coming years.
I want to be clear that this has absolutely nothing to do with the fiber internet project. The cost to provide your electric service is simply outpacing the revenues collected.
RANDY PRICE PRESIDENT AND CEO
This wasn’t taken lightly, and it wasn’t about withholding what’s yours. It was about protecting what we’ve all built together for the long haul.
We didn’t start retiring capital credits until 1997, and the world has changed. If we paid out now, we’d be borrowing against your future reliability.
But let me also say this: We haven’t forgotten who needs it most. Estates will still be retired this year. If a loved one has passed away, we’ll ensure their capital credits are returned to the family. That’s the co-op way.
As a benefit of membership, NRECA voting members (“Members”) shall have the right to use, distribute, reproduce, publish and publicly display (“Use”) the images contained in the NRECA industry art collection library (“Industry Art”) for the sole purpose of promoting their businesses. Members may not sublicense, sell, lease or rent the Images to any third parties, except that Members shall be permitted to allow third parties to Use the Industry Art on its behalf; provided that such third parties are prohibited from using the Industry Art for any other purposes.
I know some of you are hurting. If your bill feels heavier than it should, please call us. We have:
• Free home and business energy audits with our advisor to find leaks, inefficiencies, and savings.
By downloading the Industry Art, you agree to comply with the license rights and restrictions granted herein.
Let me be clear: Your capital credits are still being allocated. Every April, we update the amount of patronage you’ve earned — money that belongs to you and stays in your account. What we’re pausing is the retirement of older credits (distributing them as bill credits). The board has this authority under our Code of Regulations, Article VIII, Section 2, which gives trustees the responsibility to decide when retirements happen to preserve the co-op’s financial health. That’s not bureaucracy — it’s accountability.
Here’s why this matters now: From 2020 to 2024, we sold 21 6% more electricity, but the cost to deliver it rose 30 2% — an 8.6% decrease in margins on the electric side alone.
• Rebates on ENERGY STAR appliances, heat pumps, and more.
• Budget billing to smooth out peaks and valleys.
• Payment arrangements and aid for those in crisis.
You’re not a customer — you’re an owner. And as your CEO, my job isn’t just to keep the grid running today, but to make sure your grandkids inherit a co-op that’s still strong, still local, and still yours.
As a benefit of membership, NRECA voting members (“Members”) right to use, distribute, reproduce, publish and publicly display (“Use”) contained in the NRECA industry art collection library (“Industry Art”) purpose of promoting their businesses. Members may not sublicense, or rent the Images to any third parties, except that Members shall be allow third parties to Use the Industry Art on its behalf; provided that parties are prohibited from using the Industry Art for any other purposes.
By downloading the Industry Art, you agree to comply with the license restrictions granted herein.
If you have questions, please don’t hesitate to call Paulding Putnam at 800-686-2357, email us at member_services@ppec. coop or stop by our office to talk to us in person.
THE BOARD ELECTION PROCESS
Any cooperative member who resides in districts 1, 6 or 9 may obtain the required trustee petition from the cooperative office or online at www.PPEC.coop. To find your district, visit www.PPEC.coop. Under the “About Us” tab, click “Run for the Board.”
All completed petition forms must be returned to the cooperative office no later than 4 p.m. on Dec. 17, 2025. Ballots will be mailed in February; the election winners will be announced at our virtual annual meeting on March 28, 2026.
Thanks for the high marks
In the second quarter of 2025, Paulding Putnam earned an impressive ACSI score of 87 out of 100 — a standout achievement! This score outshines the national averages reported in the 2025 ACSI Energy Utility Study, ranking 13 points higher than investor-owned utilities, 12 points higher than municipal utilities, and 11 points higher than the average for cooperatives. It’s a clear reflection of our commitment to exceptional service and member satisfaction.
We wish you a merry Ch r i st ma s and a happy New Year!
Our offices will be closed Dec. 24, 25, and 31 and Jan. 1 for the holidays.
WATER HEATER WOES
We’ve all gotten used to having reliable hot water in our homes. Nobody wants to get caught off guard with an unexpected cold shower or failed water heater. I tend to live in the “if it isn’t broken, don’t fix it” school of thought, but a failed water heater can cause damage to your home and property. Emergency replacement of a water heater can add unnecessary cost, not to mention inconvenience. Evening or weekend replacement or repair can lead to higher costs charged by a plumbing company.
Here are some signs that your storage water heater might be approaching the end of its life.
The typical lifespan of a storage water heater is 10 to 15 years, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. If your water heater is older than that, plan to replace it soon. Don’t have records of when it was installed? No problem. Find the serial number on the water heater’s sticker or metal plate. Look up the serial number online or call the manufacturer to find its age.
Sediment or water on the floor or at the bottom of the water heater could mean its days are numbered. Sediment can be a sign of corrosion, which leads to a leak or failure.
Seeing rusty or discolored water when you turn on your faucets can be a sign the tank is rusting inside. If water is not getting as hot as it used to, it could be a sign of a failing electric element or a gas burner not functioning properly.
Odd noises could indicate an issue with the components. If you’re hearing unusual noises from your
water heater, schedule a checkup with a plumber. Well-functioning water heaters typically don’t make much noise.
A professional plumber may be able to replace failing components. If you are having issues with the tank itself, it’s likely time for a new unit.
If you’re in the market for a new water heater, a heat pump water heater might be a good fit for your home. These systems are two to three times more energy efficient than conventional electric-powered tank water heaters, according to the DOE. A federal tax credit is available until Dec. 31. You can claim 30% of the project cost, up to a maximum of $2,000, for the installation of an ENERGY STAR heat pump water heater. If your water heater is past its useful life or showing any signs of failure, consider investing in a new one before the end of the year. You might also be eligible for rebates from your state or electric cooperative.
Even if your water heater is in great shape, you can save at home by lowering your hot water use. Some easy ways to do this are washing laundry in cold water and installing high-performance aerators on faucets and showerheads to reduce the amount of hot water you use. If you have time-of-use rates, you can save by installing a timer on your water heater to prevent it from operating during peak energy use hours, typically in the mornings and evenings. It also helps lower the strain on your electric utility.
Knowing the signs of water heater failure can save you from home damage and offer opportunities to explore options for more efficient equipment to lower your electric use.
Peter Niagu, CKAE BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT AND KEY ACCOUNTS COORDINATOR
Scholarship opportunities
$5,700—Traditional Children of Members Scholarship
• Awarded to children of Paulding Putnam members who are high school seniors with a 3.0+ GPA
1st place: $1,000
2nd: ...............$700
3rd: $500
• Ten honorable mentions: $350 each
$2,500—General Scholarship Drawing
• Scholarship for members of any age or their children currently in college or trade/tech programs or starting by the start of the 2026-27 academic year
• Winners selected via a random drawing during the co-op’s annual meeting broadcast
Ten $250 scholarships
$1,800—Community Champions Award
• Scholarship for a student making a positive local impact
• Open to high school seniors in the Paulding Putnam Service territory; parent or guardian does not have to be a Paulding Putnam member
• No GPA requirement
1st place: .....$1,000
2nd: $500
3rd: $300
2025 Youth Tour participants
A week of building memories, skills, leadership, and friendships that will last a lifetime!
Experience the trip of a lifetime with Youth Tour!
• Explore Washington, D.C., through historic monuments, world-class museums, and visits with elected officials.
• Build leadership skills and discover how you can make your mark on the future.
• Connect with students from across the country and form friendships that last a lifetime, all sponsored by Paulding Putnam.
• Learn more about applying at www.PPEC.coop/BrightFutures
• Deadline to apply is February 6, 2026
Learn more about applying at www.PPEC.coop/BrightFutures
Noah Brinkman & Ella Crosby
Proud to live, work, and serve in the communities we call home
OPERATION ROUND UP - MEMBERS WHO ROUND UP THEIR BILLS TO THE NEXT DOLLAR HAVE DONATED $51,248 TO CHARITABLE GROUPS THIS PAST YEAR.
MakerFest - Linemen gave students hands-on experience climbing a pole, operating a digger, and using tools of the trade.
WELLER FARMS - Employees promoted our new fiber internet service as well as doing annual the candy drop, maze, and other activities.
PAULDING HISTORICAL SOCIETY
- Each year, employees sponsor and decorate a tree for the holidays.
COMMUNITY PARADES - Families joined with employees at five parades this past year. We love getting to see our members out and about.
FOOTBALL FRIDAY - GRILLING UP BURGERS AND BRATS TO SUPPORT PAULDING SCHOOLS’ ATHLETIC BOOSTERS IS A TRADITION!
Follow us on social media to see photos in our communities throughout the year!
PAULDING PUTNAM READY TO CONNECT
Fiber Internet is NOW AVAILABLE for select addresses in Paulding, Payne, Haviland, and Scott.
Now available for service (Green) Under construction - Available late 2025 (Orange) Coming soon - Available spring 2026 (Red) In design (Purple)
This isn’t corporate internet. This is your co-op delivering fast, dependable connectivity with the same values we’ve upheld since 1935: local control, fair pricing, and putting people first.
Here’s what makes our fiber internet service different:
Direct fiber connection – hardwired to your home or business for rock-solid reliability. Symmetrical speeds – upload as fast as you download, ideal for video calls, remote
Secure, managed Wi-Fi – with the PauldingPutnamIQ app for easy control
Local customer service – talk to someone who knows your community.
Simple, transparent pricing – no contracts, no hidden fees, no data caps.
Visit our website at fiber.ppec.coop to search your address and see if highspeed, reliable fiber internet from your co-op is available yet! If not, hang tight — our mainline fiber build is taking place over the next few years, with new areas getting released monthly! Rest assured, we’re coming your way
800-686-2357, email member_services@ppec.coop, or stop by to talk in person.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
ADAM SCHNIPKE CHAIRMAN
BILL BECKMAN VICE CHAIRMAN
1-800-686-2357
WWW.PPEC.COOP
Search your address
7:30 A.M.–4 P.M.
TIMOTHY DERCK SECRETARY/TREASURER
JOSEPH KOHNEN
WILLIAM DOWLER
STEVE MCMICHAEL
DR. JOHN SAXTON
KEN NIESE
DR. RONALD BLACK
TRUSTEES
ERIN BORISSOV ATTORNEY
RANDY PRICE PRESIDENT/CEO
HAVE A STORY SUGGESTION? EMAIL: SKUHN@PPEC.COOP
FIND US ON: FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM, YOUTUBE, LINKED IN
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Cracking good time
The world’s largest collection of life-sized nutcrackers transforms Steubenville for the holidays.
BY MARGIE WUEBKER; PHOTOS COURTESY OF MADELINE STUTZMAN
The idea first came to Steubenville business owner Jerry Barilla in 2015 , when he thought that the sight of empty storefront windows deterred folks from coming to the downtown area to do their Christmas shopping. So, he set up a few nutcracker displays in those windows to make the area a bit more festive.
Fellow businessman Mark Nelson, however, put the concept in overdrive when he and his son-inlaw, Brodie Stutzman, built and erected a life-sized
nutcracker named Junior nearby. “He spent an entire year outside so we could see how he weathered heat, cold, rain, and snow,” Stutzman says. “He was such a hit that we created 150 more over the next few years.”
And so now, a decade after those first displays brought the area to life, more than 200 life-sized nutcrackers — the world’s largest such collection — transform downtown Steubenville each holiday season into the Nutcracker Village. This year’s event will continue through Jan. 9
Visitors to the Nutcracker Village encounter just about any character they could imagine in nutcracker form — from whimsical storybook heroes and cartoon characters to real-life movie and television stars; from historical legends and religious leaders to first responders and service members from the various branches of the military.
Rosie the Riveter is there, along with Charlie Brown, Captain Nemo, Shirley Temple, Pope John Paul II, Scarlett O’Hara, and John Glenn. Notable Steubenville
native Dean Martin has come home in nutcracker form, along with fellow “Rat Pack” members Joey Bishop, Sammy Davis Jr., and Ol’ Blue Eyes himself. New nutcrackers are added every year. (Famed soldier-turnedmovie-star Audie Murphy used to be here, but though most of the creations remain in the community, an outof-town visitor purchased Murphy’s figure to place in a Texas museum honoring the American hero.)
Stutzman says most of the nutcrackers he makes stand around 6 feet tall — with a notable exception. “I made
Continued on page 24
Cracking good time
continued from page 23
the Mouse King is 9 feet tall because I wanted him to look big and impressive,” he says.
The nutcrackers are carved from Styrofoam, which obviously makes the finished product easier to handle than wooden forms. The foam comes in 200-pound blocks — enough material for 14 figures. It takes roughly 400 hours to design, carve, and paint each one, and at the end of the process, they all get a fiberglass outer skin to afford some protection from the elements. Stutzman
estimates an additional 400 hours are spent each year on upkeep and repairs.
All that upkeep couldn’t happen without a legion of volunteers helping with everything from base-layer spray painting to making a twinkle in a Styrofoam eye and updating or repairing wardrobes.
“All the added detail brings each nutcracker to life and gives it personality,” says volunteer Gretchen Nelson, while working on one of the figures with her husband,
Mark. “Painting faces is the hardest part, but doing the hair can be tricky, too. Sometimes you have to take wigs apart and then glue the hair back on in layers, a few strands at a time.”
The wardrobes can also be complicated, depending on the specific character. Nelson recalls having trouble finding just the right fabric, for example, to make a skirt for Glinda the Good Witch. Even finding wands and other accessories is not as easy as it may sound.
It takes two full days to set up the elaborate display along the street and in front of sponsoring businesses. Other events taking place during the Nutcracker Village include a lantern parade led by jolly old St. Nicholas and the Children’s Corner, which offers free face painting, Christmas crafts, and photos with Santa Claus. There’s also a display of 400 Nativity scenes; a German Gluhwein Garden, where vendors set up shop to sell food and an assortment of wares; and several
productions of Woodenheart Follies, a family musical bringing to life nine nutcrackers. All the events are made possible through the Steubenville Cultural Trust, created to bring magic and hope to a city ready for its next great story.
“This all began as a way to revitalize downtown and help businesses,” Mark Nelson says. “We draw more and more people each year, so I think we’re accomplishing our goal.”
For more information, along with a full list of events, visit www.steubenvillenutcrackervillage.com.
Secure your stack with WaterFurnace geothermal.
Federal tax incentives1 for geothermal upgrades are changing, as many are set to expire at the end of this year. If you’re looking to upgrade your system, don’t miss out on 30% in savings by waiting too long.
Now is the time to upgrade equipment, perhaps with a WaterFurnace 7 Series Variable Speed All-in-One Unit.
Call us today to lock in your savings before these incentives disappear.
My husband, Tim, and our granddaughters, Kayla and Shelby Ross,
for
Cathy
Our horses enjoying a snowy day out of their stalls. Dawn Balser, Logan County Electric Cooperative member
Cousin fun day in the snow. Janeen Melroy, North Central Electric Cooperative member
Red Dog, enjoying the snow day. Denise Beckman, Butler Rural Electric Cooperative member
Our youngest, Ula, making a pond snow angel. Rana Watt, Darke Rural Electric Cooperative member
My grandson, Elijah, is ready for fun! Tammy Offenberger, Washington Electric Cooperative member
enjoying the snow mound that he plowed up high
them.
Ross, Lorain-Medina Rural Electric Cooperative member
Our sons, Ben and Greg, teaching our grandson, Jake, the art of competitive snowball fights. Pam Long, URE–Union Rural Electric Cooperative member
Upload your photos at www.ohiocoopliving.com/memberinteractive. Your photo may be featured in our magazine or on our website! Send us YOUR picture!
For March, send “Tea party” by Dec. 15. For April, send “Photo bombs” by Jan. 15.
Some of our cows in the snow. Alana Nau, Guernsey-Muskingum Electric Cooperative member
Aubrey and Aiden are enjoying a snowy hike at Hocking Hills. Miranda Noffsinger, Paulding Putnam member
My favorite farm on Route 56, especially in this winter scene. Judy O’Brien, South Central Power Company member
Loving the Buckeyes, Christmas, and the snow — all at once! Robin Herzog, Logan County Electric Cooperative member
My husband, Tim Kettler, plowing the driveway. Roberta Kettler, Frontier Power Company member
Relics
of faith
A
19th-century frontier priest created one of the largest collections of religious artifacts in the U.S. — in a rural Ohio convent.
BY MARGIE WUEBKER
When Francis de Sales Brunner, a Catholic missionary priest from Switzerland, first came to what is now Mercer County in the mid-1840s, one of the substantial number of religious artifacts he brought with him was a depiction of a miracle in which the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared from the rocks of a cliff to save a young boy who had fallen. Brunner established 10 convents after he arrived in the New World. But the monastery that had been created on those Swiss cliffs, called Mariastein (literally “Mary of the Rock”), where he had been ordained, was Brunner’s inspiration when he named the convent that would house his relics: Maria Stein.
His original collection, expanded through acquisitions and donations over the years, has grown into one of the largest collections of holy relics in the country, and today, the Maria Stein Shrine of the Holy Relics draws visitors from around the world to pray and reflect among more than 1,200 documented pieces displayed in a series of three hand-carved wooden altars and assorted glass cases.
The shrine’s executive director, Mark Travis, says relics usually are objects that are associated in some way with Catholic saints, and roughly 95 percent of the collection are considered first class — meaning body parts, usually
bits of bone or hair. Second-class relics are objects, such as a book or a rosary, that were touched or used by a saint; objects that have been touched by a first- or second-class relic, such as a piece of cloth, would be considered thirdclass. The collection also includes slivers of wood that are said to have come from the crucifixion cross and the manger of Bethlehem.
Audio guides are available to help visitors learn more about the shrine, which sits on nearly 30 acres in the unincorporated town of Maria Stein.
Brunner founded the convent for the Sisters of the Precious Blood in 1844; the original frame building that served as the convent and housed the relics stood until a permanent brick building went up in 1860.
When additional relics were given to the sisters in 1875 and pilgrims began arriving, it became clear that larger accommodations were needed. Two new chapels — including one specifically to house the relics — went up in 1892, and a large, modern, four-story motherhouse was completed in 1901. Visitors can still see the outline of the original brick structure in the courtyard.
Numerous wings were added and renovation projects undertaken over the years, and the building was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1976
In the meantime, however, the order moved its motherhouse operations to Dayton, and the number of sisters residing at Maria Stein had declined to a point where the order needed help to oversee and maintain property and holdings. In December 2017, the convent transferred the deed to the shrine’s board of directors.
Travis is often amazed to see license plates from throughout the country in the parking lot. Visitors also come from places like New Zealand, Germany, and Switzerland, drawn there mostly by word of mouth.
Most visitors linger in the two chapels, viewing the relics and colorful stained glass windows imported from Germany.
In the main building, the first floor includes a reception area and a large gift shop. The Heritage Museum on the second floor offers a detailed history of the shrine, with displays showing how early nuns supported the congregation. In addition to creating and selling religious statues made from papier-mâché, they also fashioned vestments with intricate hand-sewn detail, tatted lace, and crocheted altar cloths. The order was mostly self-sufficient, growing vegetables and raising livestock.
The nuns also baked bread and pastries both for their own needs and to serve visitors. Today volunteers bake goods to be served at the Brunner Bake Shop on the third floor.
The adjacent Gathering Place is often used for meetings, programs, meals, and social events.
The building’s fourth floor has not been remodeled and is not currently in use, according to Travis — getting there would be a problem anyway, as the elevator only serves three floors.
Numerous events are held on the grounds every year. The largest of those — the three-day Maria Stein Countryfest each June — is a collaboration with the local Knights of St. John and American Legion Post 571, and features a tractor pull, amusement rides, concessions, and live music, as well as a pilgrimage that is a decades-old tradition.
Travis calls the Shrine’s 180 volunteers the “heartbeat” of the organization, since it employs a small staff. Proceeds from the ongoing heritage fundraising campaign, seasonal events, shop sales, and rental fees from the Gathering Place help maintain the facility.
“The Precious Blood sisters entrusted us with their legacy, and we are committed to preserving it for generations to come,” Travis says. “This is a place for all faiths, offering an atmosphere of peace, prayer, and hospitality.”
Maria Stein Shrine of the Holy Relics, 2291 St. Johns Rd., Maria Stein. www.mariasteinshrine.org.
JUST RELEASED!
No coin embodies the spirit of America more than the Morgan Silver Dollar. From the Comstock Lode discovery that provided millions of ounces of silver to make them, to outlaws robbing stagecoaches in the Wild West to pay for their bar tabs and brothel visits, the hefty Morgan Silver Dollar holds a special place in American history.
It’s no wonder collectors and history buffs alike clamor to get their hands on them. That is, if they can get their hands on them.
Prized Last-Year Coins
Collectors love “lasts” as no collection is complete without the last coin struck. Last year coins are often hard to fi nd and always in demand. Little did master engraver George T. Morgan know the legacy he was creating when he designed what has become known as “The King of Silver Dollars” but it came to an end 104 years ago with the last-year 1921 Morgan Silver Dollar, the most beloved coin in American history.
Public Release - Only 832 Coins Available
Rarcoa®, America’s Oldest Coin Company, is announcing the public release of 832 of the very last year 1921 Morgan Silver Dollars, struck at the iconic Philadelphia Mint. Each coin today comes in Brilliant Uncirculated condition, pristine as the day they were struck!
Hold 104 Years of American History
Struck in 1921, each coin is one hundred and four years old. Could Charles Lindbergh have carried your coin in his pocket during his fl ight across the Atlantic? Or maybe your greatgrandfather carried it while storming the beaches of Normandy during World War II before ending up in a small coin shop in Tuscaloosa, Oklahoma. Each coin has its own unique history and you can hold 104 years of American history when you buy yours today!
A Miracle of Survival
Coin experts estimate that only 15%-20% of Morgans are still surviving today due to multiple mass-meltings over the years. The Pittman Act of 1918 melted over 270,000,000 coins, that’s almost 50% of all coins produced at the time. Untold quantities were melted in the 1980s and 2000s when silver prices rose up to $50 per ounce.
Sold Nationally for as much as $141
This same 1921 Morgan Silver Dollar sells elsewhere for as much as $141. But thanks to Rarcoa’s buying power and numismatic expertise, you can own one for as little as $69, in quantity while supplies last. That’s a difference of up to $72!
Because the precious metals market is always active and dynamic, prices may adjust to reflect the latest market opportunities.
Act now and you can SAVE BIG when you buy more! But don’t wait, our inventory won’t last long.
1921 Morgan Silver Dollar Brilliant Uncirculated 1-4 coins - $79 each
5-9 coins - $74 each, Save up to $45 + FREE SHIPPING 10+ coins - $69 each, Save $100 or more + FREE SHIPPING
2025-26 DECEMBER/JANUARY
CALENDAR
NORTHWEST
THROUGH DEC. 30 – Upper’s Winter Fantasy of Lights, Harrison Smith Park, 525 E. Wyandot Ave., Upper Sandusky, Fri.–Sun. 6–10 p.m., Mon.–Thur. 6–9:30 p.m. $10/car, $15/van, $50/tour bus. The park’s 33 acres will be ablaze with millions of lights and a myriad of unique light displays. 419294-2351 or www.uppersfantasyoflights.org.
THROUGH DEC. 31 – Lake of Lights, Saulisberry Park/France Lake, 13344 St. Rte. 67 W., Kenton, 6–9 p.m. daily. $5 per car. Drive-through lighting event. Special events held on the weekends. 567674-4567, lakeoflights08@gmail.com, or www. facebook.com/LakeOfLights.
THROUGH JAN. 3 – NWORRP North Pole Express, Northwest Ohio Railroad Preservation Inc., 12505 Co. Rd. 99, Findlay. $5; 12 and under, $3. Hop on board our quarter-scale trains for a trip through a winter wonderland of lights and festive decorations. See operating toy trains, hundreds of decorated trees, and Santa and Mrs. Claus on select nights. 419-423-2995, www. facebook.com/nworrp, or www.nworrp.org.
THROUGH JAN. 4 – “Hayes Train Special” Model Train Display, Hayes Library and Museums, Spiegel Grove, 1337 Hayes Ave., Fremont. Free; donations accepted. Operating
SOUTHWEST
THROUGH DEC. 31 – Light Up Middletown, Smith Park, 500 Tytus Ave., Middletown, 6–10 p.m. nightly. Drive-through fantasy light display, open in all weather. Admission by cash donation — you set the price! www.lightupmiddletown. org.
THROUGH DEC. 23 – North Pole Express, LM&M Railroad, 16 E. South St., Lebanon. $35–$50; under 2, $10. Visit with Santa and his elves as you take a ride on a vintage train! Children
model train display runs through an intricate Victorian holiday scene. Interactive buttons, multitiered layout. 419-332-2081 or www.rbhayes.org.
DEC. 6 – Christmas at Apollo Craft Show, Apollo Career Center, 3325 Shawnee Rd., Lima, 9 a.m.–2 p.m. $5; 12 and under free. Over 100 crafters selling homemade and handcrafted wares. Food available for purchase. www.facebook.com/apollocareercenter.
DEC. 6 – Donuts with Santa, Koenig Equipment, 306 N. Main St., Botkins, 10-11:30 a.m. Festive fun, sweet treats, and a visit from the jolly elf, plus holiday savings on John Deere toys and merchandise. www.koenigequipment.com/ resources/events.
DEC. 8–22 – Winter Wonderland Light Display, Sandusky Co. Fgds., 901 Rawson Ave., Fremont. Drive-through, Dec. 8–18 and 21–22, 6–8 p.m., $5 per car. Walk-through, Dec. 19–20, 6–9 p.m., $2, under 12 free. 419-332-5604 or www. sanduskycountyfair.com.
DEC. 19 – Classic Movie Night: It’s a Wonderful Life, Hancock Historical Museum, 422 W. Sandusky St., Findlay, 7 p.m. Free; donations accepted. Historical information presented before and discussion after the movie. Popcorn and refreshments provided; feel free to BYOB. 419423-4433 or www.hancockhistoricalmuseum.org/ special-events.
DEC. 19–20 – Hayes Home Holidays: “Spirits of Christmas,” Spiegel Grove, 1337 Hayes Ave., Fremont, 5–9 p.m., final tour starting at 8 p.m. Tour the Hayes home and hear beloved Christmas stories by Charles Dickens. Before your tour, enjoy the “Hayes Train Special” model train display in the auditorium. 419-332-2081 or www. rbhayes.org.
DEC. 19–20 – Silver Screen Classics: It’s a Wonderful Life, Valentine Theatre, 400 N. Superior St., Toledo, 7:30 p.m. $8. See Frank Capra’s perennial holiday classic on the big screen. 419-
will receive a souvenir bell and a holiday cookie. Hot chocolate available for purchase. www. lebanonrr.com/holiday-special-events.
THROUGH DEC. 28 – Ornament Blow, Neusole Glassworks, 11925 Kemper Springs Dr., Cincinnati, Wed./Thur. 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Fri.–Sun. 10 a.m.–8 p.m. (closed 24th and 25th). $45 per 15-minute session. Must be 5 years and older. With help from our professional glassblowers, you can make your own Christmas ornament from hot molten glass! Reservations required. 513-751-3292 or neusoleglassworks@hotmail.com.
THROUGH JAN. 4 – Holiday Lights on the Hill, Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park and Museum, 1763 Hamilton-Cleves Rd., Hamilton. Tues.–Thur., Sun.: 6–9 p.m.; Fri./Sat.: 6–10 p.m.; closed Mondays. $25 per carload. Drive-through tour featuring over 1 million lights and illuminated installations by local artists. www.pyramidhill. org/events/lights.
THROUGH JAN. 28 – Bluegrass Wednesdays, Vinoklet Winery, 11069 Colerain Ave., Cincinnati, Wed. 6:30–8:30 p.m. Enjoy dinner, wine, and
242-2787 or www.valentinetheatre.com.
DEC. 26–31 – Horse-Drawn Sleigh and Trolley Rides at Spiegel Grove, 1337 Hayes Ave., Fremont, 1–4 p.m. $6 trolley, $7 sleigh; 2 and under free. Rides are drawn by South Creek Clydesdales. 419-332-2081 or www.rbhayes.org.
DEC. 31 – Lima Symphony NYE Pops: Queen in Concert, Veterans Memorial Civic and Convention Center, #7 Town Square, Lima, 7:30 p.m. $40–$50. Ring in the new year with this rock spectacular that brings the iconic music of Queen to life. 419-222-5701 or www.limasymphony.com.
JAN. 3 – Model Train Clinic, Hayes Presidential Library and Museums, Spiegel Grove, 1337 Hayes Ave., Fremont, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. $5; 5 and under free. Veteran model train hobbyists will examine your model train and help you with issues. You can also run your trains on the “Hayes Train Special” track. 419-332-2081 or www.rbhayes.org.
JAN. 3–4 – 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. Cash only. Over 400 tables of modern and antique guns, edged weapons, and sportsmen equipment. 419-647-0067 (Manetta Obringer) or www. allencofair.com/events-calendar.
JAN. 6–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.
JAN. 8 – Alter Ego: The World of Rock n’ Roll, Crouse Performance Hall, Veterans Memorial Civic and Convention Center, #7 Town Square, Lima, 7:30 p.m. $25–$76. Tribute show catapulting you through a time warp where ’70s disco fever clashes with ’80s rock rebellion and ’90s pop anthems. 419-224-1552 or www.limaciviccenter.com.
an evening of free entertainment by Vernon McIntyre’s Appalachian Grass. Reservations recommended. 513-385-9309, vinokletwinery@ fuse.net, or www.vinokletwines.com.
DEC. 1–31 – ParkLights at Caesar Ford Park, 520 S. Stringtown Rd., Xenia, 6–9 p.m. Drivethrough dazzling light display. 937-562-6440 or www.gcpkstrails.com/events/parklights.
DEC. 10–11 – “Jingle Jazz: The Nutcracker Remix,” The Redmoor, 3187 Linwood Ave., Cincinnati, 7 p.m. $10–$35. This swinging holiday tradition features jazzy takes on classic carols and soulful seasonal surprises. We also will be celebrating the release of CCJO’s brandnew Nutcracker Remix album. 513-227-1039 or www.cincinnatijazz.org.
DEC. 19 – A Madcap Christmas Carol, Oxford Community Arts Center, 10 S. College Ave., Oxford, 7–8 p.m. Featuring Madcap Puppets. A brand-new, family-friendly twist on a classic tale. Recommended ages: 4–10 513-524-8506 or www.oxarts.org.
NORTHEAST
THROUGH DEC. 28 – Ashtabula County’s Lights on the Lake, Lakeshore Park, 1700 E. 1st St., Ashtabula, Fri.–Sun. 6–9 p.m.; Dec. 24–25, 6–9 p.m. Car/van $5, bus $1/person, mini bus $20 Largest holiday light display on Lake Erie, with over 70 displays on 54 acres of rolling hills and the majestic backdrop of Lake Erie. 440-993-1051 or www.aclotl.com.
THROUGH DEC. 28 – Elegant Illusions DriveThrough Park, Portage County Randolph Fgds., 4215 Fairground Rd., Atwater. $20 car; $40–$50 limo/tour bus. All-new LED displays, the latest in animatronics, and over 50 holiday scenes, plus visits with Santa and Mr. Grinch. 330-947-2974 or www.elegantchristmaslighting.com.
THROUGH DEC. 31 – “Brightman Family Christmas: Holidays at the Mansion,” Victorian House Museum, 484 Wooster Rd., Millersburg, Sun.–Thur. 1–4 p.m., Fri./Sat. 1–8 p.m. $10; seniors and veterans/active military, $9. Step back in time and celebrate the holidays in
WEST VIRGINIA
Victorian splendor! 330-674-0022 or https://www. holmeshistory.com/museum.
THROUGH JAN. 3 – Christmas at the Fort, Historic Fort Steuben, 120 S. 3rd St., Steubenville. Holiday Market, colorful lights and decorations, puppet shows, photo opportunities, music, Christmas Shoppe, Holly Trolley rides, and tours of Fort Steuben. www.oldfortsteuben.com.
THROUGH JAN. 9 – Steubenville Nutcracker Village, downtown Steubenville. Free. See 200 large-as-life, unique nutcrackers stationed amid lights and holiday decorations throughout the downtown 24/7. Also enjoy hayrides, children’s activities, music, crafts, and much more! 740-2834935 or www.steubenvillenutcrackervillage.com.
DEC. 4–23, 26–30 – Stan Hywet’s Deck the Hall, Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron, 3–8 p.m. $13–$28; 2 and under free. Over 1 million holiday lights across the estate, dazzling winter-themed décor inside the Manor House, shopping, refreshments, and visits with Santa. 330-315-3287 or https://stanhywet.org/ events/deck-hall.
DEC. 5–7, 12–14 – Candlelight Holiday Tours of the Big House, Malabar Farm, 4050 Bromfield Rd., Lucas, Fri./Sat. 5–8 p.m., Sun. 1–4 p.m. $6 adults, $4 children. Self-guided tours of Louis Bromfield’s historic home, all decked out for the holidays. Enjoy cookies and warm drinks after the tour. 419-892-2784 or www.facebook.com/ MalabarFarm/events.
DEC. 5–7, 12–14, 20–28 – Medina County Fair Drive Thru Holiday Lights, Medina Co. Fgds., 720 W. Smith Rd., Medina, Sun.–Thur. 6–9 p.m., Fri./Sat. 6–10 p.m. Cars $10, small bus/15-
passenger van $20, large bus $70 330-723-9633 or www.medinaohiofair.com.
DEC. 13–14 – Jingle Mingle Craft and Vendor Show, Ehrnfelt Recreation Center, 18100 Royalton Rd., Strongsville, Sat. 9 a.m.–2 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Free admission. Over 70 vendors selling handmade crafts, wood items, home decor, seasonal items, handmade cards, and much more. www.hometownvendors.org.
DEC. 14 – Willoughby Winter Pop-Up Shop, Willoughby Senior Center, 36939 Ridge Rd., Willoughby, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Free admission/ parking. Join us for our last show of the season, where artists and crafters will be selling their original handmade items. www.avantgardeshows. com.
DEC. 21 – Flea Market of Collectables, Medina County Community Center, 735 Lafayette Rd., Medina, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. $3. Early bird special admission 6–9 a.m., $4. A treasure trove of vintage items and collectibles. 330-948-4300 or https://conraddowdell.com/event.
JAN. 3 – Snow Dogs Train Show, Emidio and Sons Expo Center, 48 E. Bath Rd., Cuyahoga Falls, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. $6; under 12 free. Free parking. Operating layout of several gauges, many dealers, good food at reasonable prices. www.cvsga.com.
JAN. 7–11 – Ohio RV Supershow, I-X Center, Cleveland, Wed.–Fri. 12–9 p.m., Sat./Sun. 10 a.m.–9 p.m. $15–$18; 12 and under free. Discover the latest RV models, meet industry experts, and find everything you need for your next adventure. Demos, fun activities, and entertainment. www. ohiorvshow.com.
THROUGH DEC. 29 – Celebration of Lights, Morris Park, Fairmont. $10/car, $40/bus. See over 540 Christmas light displays in this 1 3-mile drivethrough tour. Wednesdays are walker nights and are closed to traffic: $5/person; under 12 free. Closed 24th and 25th. 304-366-4550 or www. celebrationoflightswv.com.
THROUGH JAN. 4 – Winter Festival of Lights, Oglebay Resort, Wheeling, nightly from dusk to midnight. Featuring 300 acres of twinkling lights over a 6-mile drive, with more than 100 lighted attractions. Suggested donation of $30 per car; pass good for the entire festival season. 877-4361797 or www.oglebay.com.
2025-26 DECEMBER/JANUARY
CALENDAR
SOUTHEAST
THROUGH DEC. 20 – The Christmas Cave, White Gravel Mines, 4007 White Gravel McDaniel Rd., Minford, Fri./Sat. 4–10 p.m. Free admission; donations appreciated. See the story of Christ’s birth unfold around you in lighted displays throughout the cave. 740-820-6161 or www. whitegravelmines.com/the-christmas-cave.
THROUGH DEC. 20 – Santa Train, Hocking Valley Scenic Railway, Nelsonville Depot, 33 W. Canal St., Nelsonville. $19–$24; under 3 free. Santa boards the train and visits with each child as the train traverses the historic Hocking River Valley. See website for dates and times. www. hvsry.org/train-rides/santa.
CENTRAL
THROUGH JAN. 4 – Butch Bando’s Fantasy of Lights, Alum Creek State Park Campgrounds, 3311 S. Old State Rd., Delaware, Sun.–Thur. 5:30–9 p.m., Fri./Sat. 5:30–10 p.m. Locally owned and family-operated drive-through holiday light show. See website for ticket information. 614-412-3499 or https://butchbandosfantasyoflights.com.
THROUGH JAN. 6 – Nativity at Cathedral Square, St. Joseph Cathedral, 212 E. Broad St., Columbus. Free. Historic outdoor life-sized Nativity display (formerly at State Auto). Lighting times: daily 6–8 a.m., 5–11:30 p.m.; until 12:30 a.m. Fri./Sat.; Christmas Eve 3 p.m. until 8 a.m. Christmas Day. Choir schedule available at www. facebook.com/catholicmuseumcolumbus.
DEC. 7 – Coshocton Community
Choir: Christmas Festival Concert, River View High School Auditorium, 26496 St. Rte. 60, Warsaw, 3–4:30 p.m. Free-will donations only. The 80-voice adult choir, the Coshocton Youth Chorale,
THROUGH DEC. 21 – The Magic of Christmas Mansion Tours, Belmont County Victorian Mansion Museum, 532 N. Chestnut St., Barnesville, Fri. 5–8 p.m., Sat./Sun. 1–4 p.m. Join us for some Christmas cheer and see our mansion museum decorated for the season. www.belmontcountymuseum.com.
THROUGH DEC. 31 – Dickens Victorian Village, downtown Cambridge. Stroll the downtown streets to view more than 100 lifelike scenes that capture the spirit of Victorian England. 800-9335480 or www.dickensvictorianvillage.com.
THROUGH JAN. 1 – Guernsey County Courthouse Holiday Light Show, Cambridge. Synchronized light and music shows nightly. More than 85,000 lights, two amazing 23-foot Christmas trees, and 60 animated displays. 800933-5480 or www.dickensvictorianvillage.com.
THROUGH JAN. 4 – Winterfest, Market Square Park, Portsmouth. Get ready to step into a winter wonderland where the festive spirit comes alive, with an ice skating rink, craft vendors, food trucks, live music, carriage rides, and even visits with Santa Claus himself! www. friendsofportsmouth.com/Winterfest.
DEC. 10 – A Christmas Carol, Peoples Bank Theatre, 222 Putnam St., Marietta, 7 p.m. $29–$54. A dazzling new adaptation of Dickens’
beloved classic Christmas story, with more than two dozen timeless Christmas carols woven throughout the production. 740-371-5152 or www.peoplesbanktheatre.com/event.
DEC. 11, 18, 20 – Victorian Christmas Tours: The Davis Family Christmas, The Castle Museum, 418 4th St., Marietta, 7–8 p.m. $14 50; 7 and under free. Reservations recommended. Step back into 1888 and discover how the Davis family celebrated the holiday season. Enjoy engaging stories, immersive displays, and interactive moments. 740-373-1480 or www. mariettacastle.org.
DEC. 16 – Christmas with John Berry, Majestic Theatre, 45 E. Second St., Chillicothe, Time: 7:30 p.m. $32–$57. The Grammy-winning singer/ songwriter is back for his 29th annual Christmas tour, featuring classic carols, fan favorites like “O Holy Night,” and heartwarming stories. VIP packages available. www.majesticchillicothe.net.
DEC. 31 – New Year’s Eve Train and Fireworks, Hocking Valley Scenic Railway, Nelsonville Depot, 33 W. Canal St., Nelsonville, 10:30 p.m.–12:30 a.m. $25–$38. The train will travel to East Logan and return, stopping near the stroke of midnight to ring in the new year with a fireworks display! Refreshments served. www. hvsry.org/train-rides.
the Coshocton Singers, the Roscoe Brass, and additional instrumentalists will perform sacred choral music, familiar Christmas tunes, hymns, classical and popular works, and more. 740-6230554 or www.coshoctoncommunitychoir.org.
DEC. 12 – Columbus Symphony Orchestra Holiday Spectacular, Faith Memorial Church, 2610 W. Fair Ave., Lancaster, 7:30 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Adults $30, children $10 Tickets available online or by calling the CBUSArts Ticket Office at 614-469-0939 or the church office at 740-654-1711. For more information, visit www. columbussymphony.com or www.faithm.ch.
DEC. 13 – Holiday Cookie Walk, Fairfield County Genealogical Research Library, 503 Lenwood Dr., Lancaster (corner of West Mulberry and Lenwood), 1–4 p.m. Homemade cookies $6 per pound. 740653-2573 or www.fairfieldgenealogy.org.
DEC. 14 – Columbus Winter Avant-Garde Art and Craft Show, Makoy Event Center, 5462 Center St., Hilliard, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $3; under 12 free. Artists and crafters will be selling their original handmade items. Full concessions stand on-site. A portion of proceeds will benefit a local nonprofit, Hope Hollow. www.avantgardeshows.com.
DEC. 20–21 – Scott Antique Market, Ohio Expo Center, 717 E. 17th Ave., Columbus, Sat. 9 a.m.–6 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Free admission. Parking $7. America’s favorite treasure hunt! info@scottantiquemarket.com or www. scottantiquemarkets.com.
DEC. 21 – Last Chance Holiday Market, Historic Granville Inn, 314 E. Broadway, Granville, 11 a.m.–
4 p.m. Free admission and parking. A Made Local event in Ohio’s very own Hallmark Christmas village! 30 vendors. 614-937-7177 or www. facebook.com/madelocalevents/events.
JAN. 2 – First Friday Art Walk, downtown Zanesville, 5–8 p.m. Come downtown on the first Friday of the month, when all our participating galleries, studios, and small businesses are open at the same time! For a map of current participants, visit https://artcoz.org/arts-districtmap.
JAN. 2–4 – Columbus Building and Renovation Expo, Ohio Expo Center, Kasich Hall, 717 E. 17th Ave., Columbus, Fri. 12–6 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–5 p.m. $5; under 18 free. Parking $7. From top-quality exhibits to insightful demos and more, you’ll discover thousands of ways to design or renovate your home. www. homeshowcenter.com.
JAN. 9–18 – Ohio RV and Boat Show, Ohio Expo Center, 717 E. 17th St., Columbus. $13–$15; 12 and under free. Parking $7. See the new year’s RVs, campers, boats, pontoon/tritoons, PWC, golf cars, and motorcycles. www.ohiorvandboatshow.com.
JAN. 11 – Buckeye Valley FFA Alumni Annual Farm Toy Show, Buckeye Valley High School, 901 Coover Rd., Delaware (3 miles north of Delaware off Rte. 23), 9 a.m.–2 p.m. $2; 12 and under free. Vintage and new farm toys, toy trucks, farm collectibles, NASCAR items, and much more! Baked goods, food, raffle, door prizes, kiddie tractor pull (9 a.m.–noon). Breakfast $7, 8–10 a.m. (includes show admission). 740-272-1782
WINTER ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND SAFETY TIPS
Energy strategies to keep your holidays merry, bright, affordable and safe!
Energy strategies to keep your holidays merry, bright, affordable and safe!
ohioec.org/energy
Seal air leaks to prevent heat from escaping and cold air from entering your home.
Seal air leaks to prevent heat from escaping and cold air from entering your home.
Use timers indoors and out to give your decorations — and your electric bill — a break.
Use timers indoors and out to give your decorations—and your electric bill—a break.
Switch to a smart thermostat and save up to 15% on energy costs.
Switch to a smart thermostat and save up to 15% on energy costs.
Open blinds and curtains during the day to allow sunlight in to warm your home. Close blinds and curtains at night to keep out cold, drafty air.
Open blinds and curtains during the day to allow sunlight in to warm your home. Close blinds and curtains at night to keep out cold, drafty air.
Switch to LED lights. They stay cool, use up to 80% less energy than traditional bulbs, and reduce the risk of fire.
Switch to LED lights. They stay cool, use up to 80% less energy than traditional bulbs, and reduce the risk of fire.
Lower your water heater temperature to 120 degrees to prevent scalding and save energy.
Lower your water heater temperature to 120 degrees to prevent scalding and save energy.
Avoid running cords under rugs or in places where pets might be tempted to chew.
Avoid running cords under rugs or in places where pets might be tempted to chew.
STAY CONNECTED TO WHAT — AND WHO —
MATTERS MOST WITH FIBER INTERNET
PERFECT FOR TECH LOVERS
Giving (or getting) smart devices this season? Make sure your internet can keep up. With fiber, all your devices work smoothly — no lag, no buffering, just a fast, reliable connection. Whether it’s smart home tech, gaming systems, or streaming devices, fiber has the speed and capacity to support them all.
FEEL CLOSE, EVEN FROM AFAR
Can’t be together this holiday season? Whether a loved one is deployed, away at college, or travel just isn’t possible, fiber internet helps you stay truly connected. Enjoy crystal-clear video calls and fast, reliable messaging so you can share special moments in real time — no dropped calls, no delays.
STRESS-FREE HOLIDAY HOSTING
Expecting a house full of guests? With fiber internet, you can entertain with confidence. Look up holiday recipes on your tablet, stream festive playlists, or enjoy holiday movies and online games — all at once. Fiber delivers the bandwidth you need to keep everything (and everyone) running smoothly.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS
FROM ALL OF US AT
Set time limits, block inappropriate content, share guest Wi-Fi networks, & manage device priorities to keep everyone safe & connected – all with our PauldingPutnamIQ app! Call to make the switch! 800-686-2357 | fiber.PPEC.coop
By the same not-for-profit cooperative that keeps your lights on
• Free standard installation – we’ll do the job right!
• Direct fiber to your door – no weak signal
• Equal upload & download speeds – great for work, school, and streaming
• Packages for every household type
• Secure, managed Wi-Fi with our convenient PauldingPutnamIQ app
• Parental controls, user profiles, and built-in cybersecurity!
• Local customer service – from people who live here
• Clear pricing – no contracts, hidden fees, no surprises
