Ohio Cooperative Living – July 2026 - Statewide

WOODS, WATERS, AND WILDLIFE

Dragons

&

damsels

Ohio’s most acrobatic aerialists inspire viewing from hobbyists, just like birds do.

STORY

Think about a fast, maneuverable flyer in nature and likely a hummingbird may come to mind — so agile it can even fly backward! But if you want to see some aerial acrobatics that would make even a seasoned stunt pilot airsick, look no further than the order of insects known as Odonata: dragonflies and damselflies.

These colorful critters so inspired the Russian-American aviation pioneer Igor Sikorsky (1892–1972), he named one of his early helicopters the Dragonfly as a tribute.

“Ohio is a great state for dragonfly and damselfly numbers and diversity,” says Bob Glotzhober, curator emeritus of natural history at the Ohio History Connection in Columbus and one of the leading experts on the Buckeye State’s Odonata. “Currently 173 species have been identified, with new species still occasionally added to the list.”

Aggressive mini-predators, dragonflies and damselflies hunt their prey on the wing, capturing other flying insects such as small flies, mosquitoes (hooray!), and, at times, other dragonflies. Larger dragonflies can even take down swallowtail butterflies. And their appetite is voracious.

Glotzhober cites an early 1900s researcher in Florida who had reared a cageful of houseflies to present to a large dragonfly of the darner family for feeding. “The researcher kept feeding the dragonfly until he ran out of flies, and all in one sitting,” he says.

Although there are dozens of species of dragonflies and damselflies, separating the two categories in the field is simple. While at rest, dragonflies hold their wings perpendicular to their bodies, while damselflies rest their wings over their backs, parallel to their bodies. Dragonflies are also usually larger in overall size; damselflies are more slim and delicate.

Few wild animals have the vision of dragonflies. Their large, compound eyes make up the majority of their

Want to start dragonfly-watching?

The ODNR, Division of Wildlife, has a free field guide available to get you started: Common Dragonflies and Damselflies of Ohio. You can obtain a copy by calling 1-800-WILDLIFE. For more in-depth information, the book A Naturalist’s Guide to the Odonata of Ohio was published in 2024 by the Ohio Biological Survey (www.ohiobiologicalsurvey.org).

heads, with each eye having up to 30,000 facets. Each facet is a photoreceptor and is angled in a slightly different direction, resulting in extremely acute vision and the ability to see in nearly every direction simultaneously. That skill comes in extremely handy for an insect attempting to hunt prey and avoid being eaten at the same time.

Dragonflies and damselflies are also indicators of water quality, serving as barometers of the health of wetlands. The habitat determines the specific species found there.

Glotzhober studied the rare tiger spiketail dragonfly in Ohio for months before discovering its primary habitat.

“The reason tiger spiketails had been so little known is that they occupy a habitat almost exactly the opposite of most dragonflies and damselflies,” he says. “Most Odonata operate in brightly lit, sunny ponds, lakes, streams, or wetlands. In contrast, the tiger spiketail thrives along heavily shaded woodland streams.”

Though found in scattered habitats around the state, they seem to be most abundant in the hemlock ravines of southeastern counties, like those of the Hocking Hills region. “Furthermore,” he says, “they use only the smallest headwater streams, which are typically 1 to 3 inches in depth and may often be less than a foot wide.”

Glotzhober says the spiketails got their name from the unusual manner in which the females lay eggs. “They hover a few inches above a section of stream with a sandy bottom, usually with only an inch of water or less below them,” he says. “Then, pointing their abdomen downward, they ‘pogo-stick’ their abdomen into the stream bottom, ‘spiking’ their ovipositors into the sand to deposit an egg. I have observed tiger spiketails depositing eggs up to 370 times nonstop, presumably releasing at least one egg with each thrust.”

The eggs hatch into larvae, also known as nymphs — some of which survive several years before transforming into adult dragonflies. Adults, by contrast, live only a few short weeks or months, their primary goal being to reproduce.

Much like birding, the hobby of watching, identifying, and studying dragonflies and damselflies has been increasing in recent years. Aiding the popularity of that fun, leisure outdoor activity has been the proliferation of closefocusing binoculars and camera lenses. Field guides, too, have helped, becoming more plentiful and user-friendly.

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!

While at rest, dragonflies hold their wings perpendicular to their body (center photo), while damselflies rest their wings over their back, parallel to their body (top and bottom photos). www.ohiocoopliving.com

– Joe Namath Super Bowl lll MVP MDHearing Aid User

Pepper-uppers

Make good use of that home-garden bounty with these people pleasers.

CHICAGO-STYLE HOT GIARDINIERA

Prep: 15 minutes | Chill: 8+ hours, 1+ hour, 2 days

Cook: 5 minutes | Servings: 24

1 cup small cauliflower florets

1 large stalk celery, diced small

1 medium carrot, diced small

1 to 2 jalapeno peppers, sliced*

1 to 2 serrano peppers, sliced*

3 tablespoons kosher salt, divided cold water

2 cloves garlic, halved lengthwise

20 black peppercorns

1 teaspoon dried oregano

½ teaspoon fennel seeds

¼ cup pitted and sliced green olives (optional)

1½ cups white vinegar

In a large non-reactive container (glass, stainless steel, ceramic), mix together cauliflower, celery, carrots, jalapeno, and serrano peppers. Sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of the salt and cover with cold water. Cover container and refrigerate 8 to 12 hours.

Drain and rinse the chilled vegetables. In Mason jars (two 12 oz. or three 8 oz.), evenly divide garlic, peppercorns, oregano, fennel, and olives, then tightly pack in the vegetables, leaving an inch of room at the top. In a small pot, combine vinegar and remaining tablespoon of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and stir until salt is completely dissolved, about 2 minutes.

Carefully pour vinegar mixture evenly among jars. If vegetables aren't fully covered by the liquid, cap off with a bit of boiling water. Let jars cool to room temperature (1 to 2 hours) before refrigerating. For best results, wait a few days for the flavors to meld before eating. Serve as a side dish or as a topping for pizza, hot dogs, or Italian beef sandwiches. Will keep 3 weeks, likely longer, especially if stored in the back of the fridge.

*Know your heat preference! Serrano peppers are two to three times as hot as jalapenos. The seeds can be left in or removed. The tang of the vinegar and saltiness aid in balancing the heat while preserving the crunchiness of the vegetables.

Per serving: 7 calories, 0 grams fat, 1 gram carbohydrates, 0 milligrams cholesterol, 703 milligrams sodium, 0.5 gram fiber, 0 grams protein.

HARISSA CARROT AND QUINOA BOWLS

Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

1½ pounds carrots, sliced at an angle

2 large red peppers, sliced into thick strips

15.5-ounce can chickpeas, drained, rinsed, patted dry

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup

harissa seasoning*

1 cup quinoa

2 cups water

1 lemon, juiced

¼ cup sour cream or yogurt

small bunch cilantro, minced

Preheat oven to 400 F. Pile carrots, red peppers, and chickpeas in the middle of a large baking sheet; drizzle with olive oil and honey, tossing to coat. Spread out in a single layer and sprinkle with harissa and cumin. Bake 30 minutes, tossing halfway through, until carrots are easily pierced with a fork.

Meanwhile, place quinoa and water in a medium pot over high heat. Bring to a boil, stir, then reduce heat to medium low, cover, and cook 15 minutes, until tender. Remove lid and mix in the lemon juice. To assemble, spoon quinoa onto plates and top with roasted carrots, sour cream, and minced cilantro.

*Harissa is a north African hot chili pepper, available in the U.S. as a jarred seasoning (spice aisle) or sauce (international aisle), and labeled hot or mild. Use 1 to 2 teaspoons of seasoning or ¼ cup of sauce.

Per serving: 454 calories, 14.5 grams fat (3 grams saturated fat), 71 grams total carbohydrates, 7 milligrams cholesterol, 285 milligrams sodium, 13 grams fiber, 13 grams protein.

ITALIAN PASTA SALAD

Prep: 15 minutes | Cook: 10 minutes | Servings: 12

1 pound uncooked rotini pasta

1 small red onion, diced

2 green peppers, diced

3 cups diced celery (about 6 stalks)

6.5-ounce can sliced black olives, drained

1 cup sliced green olives with pimentos

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon dried oregano

1¾ cups creamy Italian dressing (such as Olive Garden brand)

¼ cup red wine vinegar

Cook pasta according to package instructions. Rinse with cold water until cool to the touch; set aside to drain. Meanwhile, in an extra-large mixing bowl, combine remaining ingredients, then stir in pasta. Give it a taste; to punch up the flavor, add a few more dashes of vinegar and/or some of the liquid from the green olives.

Per serving: 264 calories, 12 grams fat (2 grams saturated fat), 33 grams total carbohydrates, 7 milligrams cholesterol, 900 milligrams sodium, 2 grams fiber, 6 grams protein.

CHICKEN TINGA TACOS

Prep: 15 minutes | Cook: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast

1 medium yellow onion, quartered

2 cloves garlic, smashed

2 cups chicken stock

½ teaspoon oregano

1 to 3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce*

6 ounces tomato paste

18 small corn tortillas

Optional toppings: cotija cheese, minced cilantro, sliced avocado

In a pot over medium heat, bring chicken, onion, garlic, chicken stock, and oregano to a simmer, then cover, reduce to medium low, and cook 20 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165 F. With tongs, transfer chicken and onion pieces to a plate and set aside to cool. Skim any white bits from the surface of the chicken stock, then bring to a low boil and reduce by half.

Meanwhile, purée cooled onions and chipotle peppers with a small food processor or immersion blender, adding some chicken stock if needed. Transfer mixture to stockpot, along with tomato paste. Shred chicken, adding it to the pot along the way. Continue cooking until desired thickness is reached.

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm tortillas, 10 to 20 seconds per side. Stack onto a kitchen towel and wrap up until ready to serve.

*To add more flavor without adding as much heat, use some of the sauce around the peppers instead of the peppers themselves. Per serving (before toppings): 691 calories, 9 grams fat (1 gram saturated fat), 108 grams total carbohydrates, 86 milligrams cholesterol, 312 milligrams sodium, 6 grams fiber, 42 grams protein.

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Co-op members: Have you captured a memorable scene from around your community? See YOUR photo in the 2027 Ohio Cooperative Living cooperative wall calendar!

We’re looking for the best images to showcase in every season of the year — flowing landscapes, delicate flowers, amazing animals, or just everyday life. Winning entries will receive a cash prize and be featured in next year’s calendar!

Photo requirements

☀ High-resolution, color, digital images only

☀ Horizontal format, capable of filling an 8x11-inch image area

☀ No watermarks or extreme filters

☀ Only JPG or TIFF formats accepted

HOW TO ENTER

☀ Send submissions by email attachment only to photo@ohioec.org

☀ Provide an explanation of the photo — the what (or who), where, and when — as well as the name of the photographer if it was someone other than you

☀ Include your name, address, phone number, and the name of your co-op

☀ One entry per household

The bald eagle has been our national symbol since the Continental Congress first adopted the design for the Great Seal of the United States, six years after the signing of the Declaration of Independence. But it wasn’t officially designated as our national bird until 2024.

One of the largest bald eagle nests ever discovered was the Great Nest, located near Vermilion in the early 20th century (inset, above right). By 1979, however, there were only four nesting pairs of bald eagles left in the Buckeye State, their numbers having been decimated by poisonous chemicals accumulating in the environment, mostly DDT. Once those chemicals were outlawed, the eagle population soared to recovery, and

Ohio now boasts nearly 1,000 nests (not including the replica, top right, on display at the Magee Marsh Wildlife Area near Toledo), and bald eagles were removed from the “threatened” list in 2007. Intrepid birders, in fact, can now find nests in 87 of Ohio’s 88 counties. These days, the majestic eagles are threatened more by other birds protecting their territories (such as the red-winged blackbird pictured above) than by humans.

Revolutionary Ohio

The Buckeye State celebrates America’s birthday by reliving history.

BY VICKI REINHART JOHNSON

As the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary this year, Americans are paying particular attention to the history of the nation: the “shot heard ’round the world,” the Declaration of Independence, the Revolutionary War, and all of the history from just before and after the birth of the nation.

Colonial America's western frontier — including the area that would become Ohio in 1803 — was a bit far removed from most of the battlefields and political intrigue of the Revolutionary War. But from a broader view, the Revolution was only part of a 60-year power struggle for control of the continent that began with the French and Indian War in 1754 and didn’t really end until the War of 1812, often called the "second war for independence.”

And Ohio was front and center the whole time. So, events and experiences marking the semiquincentennial are happening across all 88 counties during the course of the year — including a number of historical reenactments, during which visitors (and participants) can get a realistic look at life on the frontier during that time.

“Reading about history in a book is good, but it doesn't give you the same feel as attending a living history event,” says Cindy Jackson, a reenactor who is coordinator of the Fair at New Boston, an annual Labor Day event in Springfield that includes several reenactments during its run. “It helps us get in touch with history instead of it being a dry subject in a textbook — and when you see it happening right in front you, it isn't as pretty as in the movies.”

Encampment at the Confluence

June 27–28, Pontiac Park, Defiance www.facebook.com/groups/488387566974170

The Confluence event reenacts the daily life of people in the 1770s through the early 1800s at the site where Fort Defiance was built in 1794 on orders from Gen. "Mad" Anthony Wayne at the confluence of the Auglaize and Maumee rivers.

“The Confluence is a really great event because it is literally on the banks of history,” says Taylor Moyer, historical programs manager for the Black Swamp Intertribal Foundation, who serves as coordinator of the event.

“You're literally standing on the spots where Fort Defiance was,” says Moyer, who is also a reenactor. “I think there's something profoundly important about being on the same sites as where the people before you walked. It’s right there at the site where all of those events happened.”

Visitors can experience live musket and cannon demonstrations on Saturday, see cooking demonstrations, enjoy hands-on activities, and much more throughout the weekend. On Saturday evening, there will be an America 250 commemoration featuring a wreath-laying ceremony, music, and guest speakers.

American Revolution: The 60 Years’ War for Ohio and

Life in Early Ohio

Aug. 22–23 (Revolution) and Sept. 19–20 (Early Ohio), Fort Meigs, 29100 W. River Road, Perrysburg; www.fortmeigs.org

Fort Meigs, built on orders from then-Gen. William Henry Harrison as a reaction to British attacks on American forts in the Northwest Territory during the War of 1812, hosts a number of reenactments during the course of every year.

The Revolution event this year will feature military and battle demonstrations by hundreds of reenactors from across the U.S. and Canada. There will be an interactive ambush, hands-on activities for kids, fife and drum music, colonial farming, baking demonstrations, “coffee in the colonies,” textile production, and an 18th-century duel.

During the “Life in Early Ohio” event, the Old Northwest Military History Association and Fort Meigs staff focus on historic trades such as rope making, tomahawk throwing, box loom weaving, baking, gardening, blacksmithing, tea gardening, harness making, spinning, and cooking.

Hours are 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admissions range from $10 to $15.

Continued on page 28

Stirring Revolutionary resolve

BY CRAIG SPRINGER

Historians note the April 1775 “shot heard ’round the world” — the opening round of gunfire when colonial Patriots engaged the British army for the first time during a skirmish in Massachusetts.

But the figurative “first shots” of the American Revolutionary War were words, pointed and barbed — assertions on paper that tyranny from across the Atlantic would not be tolerated in the American colonies. Those words, known as the Fort Gower Resolves, were crafted in November 1774 in what is present-day Hockingport, at the confluence of the Hocking and Ohio rivers, and published four months before those Patriots fired upon the Redcoats at Lexington and Concord, more than 18 months before the adoption of the Declaration of Independence.

The Fort Gower Resolves was a gutsy expression of American independence, backed by promised action of force.

It read, in part, “As the Love of Liberty, and Attachment to the real Interests and just Rights of America outweigh every other Consideration, we resolve that we will exert every Power within us for the Defence of American Liberty, and for the Support of her just Rights and Privileges; not in any precipitate, riotous, or tumultous Manner, but when regularly called forth by the unanimous Voice of our Countrymen.”

In today’s parlance, it might be described as a challenge to “fool around and find out.”

To understand how that came to be, rewind a bit. The Virginia colonial government authorized a military expedition during the summer and fall of 1774 through present-day West Virginia and Ohio against Native Americans, primarily Shawnee, that later became known as Dunmore’s War.

Virginian soldiers engaged combatants up the Muskingum, Scioto, and Hocking rivers, some going as far as presentday Columbus to quell Native American attacks on encroaching settlers.

As they were making their way back from the interior of the state, some 500 men gathered at Fort Gower. It was there that they got word that the Continental Congress in Philadelphia enacted a boycott of British goods in protest of the British Parliament’s “Intolerable Acts.”

The Virginians at the mouth of the Hocking were incensed. The Resolves they crafted were published in December 1774 in the Virginia Gazette, quickly shared throughout the colonies, and eventually read in Parliament across The Pond. The words stirred revolutionary sentiment among the Colonists and inspired the resolve of their countrymen to stand for liberty.

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Continued from page 25

The Fair at New Boston

Sept. 5–6, George Rogers Clark Park, 936 S. Tecumseh Road, Springfield; www.facebook.com/FairatNewBoston

Sponsored by the George Rogers Clark Heritage Association, the fair’s event reenacts the period between 1790 and 1812 and features vendors of period wares as well as entertainment such as puppets and music, food, a tavern, craftsmen, Woodland Indian Village, and a military encampment. Visitors can even learn dance steps from the period and watch battle reenactments each day.

Reenactors often slog through mud and step over ox manure, and those real-life situations are learning experiences for both reenactors and those watching them. “It gives you a better understanding of the struggles the early settlers had,” says coordinator Cindy Jackson. “We have not just vendors, but demonstrators. You’re not just buying a piece of pottery, you’re going to see the steps of that product being produced. You might observe a piece of wood being turned. You’re actually seeing these products how they were produced 200 years ago.”

Historic Trade Faire and Fall Festival

Oct. 17–18, Johnston Farm and Indian Agency, 9845 N. Hardin Road, Piqua; www.johnstonfarmohio.com

With reenactors showing scenes from the American frontier from the mid-1700s into the 1800s, visitors can see historical vendors, military camps, log cabin life, and craftsmen and artisans demonstrating skills such as blacksmithing, weaving, and hearth cooking.

And some events for next year…

Revolutionary War Encampment

May 2027, Willard Middle School, 23 Whisler Drive, Willard; www.facebook.com/WillardRevWar

Every May for the last 23 years, eighth-grade students at Willard Middle School have created a Revolutionary War Reenactment and Encampment as the culmination of a yearlong curriculum. It includes numerous stations depicting life in the 18th century, including everything from military reenactments and drills to frontier soap-making. Students bring history to life by reenacting famous events and battle scenes including Lexington and Concord, Bunker Hill, Valley Forge, and the surrender at Yorktown.

Revolution on the Tuscarawas

May 2027, Fort Laurens, 11067 Fort Laurens Road, Bolivar; www.fortlaurensmuseum.org

The Fort Laurens Museum in Bolivar stages an annual reenactment that takes place every May. Fort Laurens, Ohio’s only Revolutionary War fort, was built along the Tuscarawas River, finished in December 1778. It was constructed under the orders of Lachlan McIntosh, an American commander sent to the Ohio territory to defeat the Wyandot people, who were British allies, and to attack the British in Detroit. However, the British laid siege to the fort during the winter of 1779 and the fort was abandoned later that year.

Signing day

Ohio’s Declaration of Independence celebration honors a momentous event that came a month after the Fourth of July.

Americans obviously celebrate July 4, Independence Day, honoring the date on which the Continental Congress officially adopted Thomas Jefferson’s statement declaring the American colonies’ independence from Britain. This year, as part of the official U.S. celebration of the nation’s 250th birthday, the Lake Erie Heritage Foundation will celebrate an event that was arguably even more momentous, which came nearly a month later.

Declaration 250 will take place at Commodore Perry’s Victory Monument and International Peace Memorial in Put-in-Bay on the 250th anniversary of the actual signing of the Declaration of Independence.

Thomas Jefferson drafted the Declaration in June 1776, and on July 3 and 4, members of the Continental Congress reviewed and adopted it. The document then was reproduced on parchment, and delegates signed it on Aug. 2, formally declaring the colonies independent from Britain.

“They transformed a resolution into a binding act of commitment,” says David Zavagno, executive director of Lake Erie Heritage Foundation. “That moment — where individuals stepped forward and put everything on the line — is at the heart of our event.”

Zavagno says that the July 4 action was important, but it was the delegates’ actual signing of the declaration that was an act of mutiny against

Britain and its king. “Signers picked up a pen and risked their life, knowing they would be forced to pick up a sword to defend it,” he says.

Declaration 250 events will take place in Put-inBay Aug. 1 and 2, centered around the victory and peace memorial, which commemorates the end of the War of 1812

“The monument represents America’s second war for independence, fought and won on Lake Erie,” Zavagno says. “Connecting 1776 to 1813 creates a complete narrative, and Ohio sits at the center of that story.”

The weekend will include Revolutionary War and War of 1812 reenactors and “Freedom Village,” along with the Ohio State University and Bowling Green State University marching bands, the Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps, the Bristol County Fifes and Drums, and the United States Navy Band. In addition, there will be a tall ship on display and what’s billed as one of the largest fireworks displays in the country over Lake Erie.

The weekend culminates in a National Signing Ceremony on Aug. 2, when thousands of participants will add their names together in a shared moment tied directly to 1776. “We are asking everyone to ‘sign on,’ transforming the event from something people watch into something they become part of,” he says. “The defining element is participation.”

— VICKI REINHART JOHNSON

For information on participation, visit www.lakeerieheritage.org.

2026

CALENDAR

NORTHEAST

JULY/AUGUST

animals, and exhibits, along with a variety of food, vendors, and much more. 330-637-6010 or www. trumbullcountyfair.com.

JUL. 17–18 – Medina County Antique Power Association Annual Engine and Power Show, Medina Co. Fgds., 720 W. Smith Rd., Medina, 9 a.m.–7 p.m. Admission by donation. Featuring International Harvester, Farmall, and Cub Cadet. Tractors, trucks, antique cars, kiddie tractor pulls, flea market, food concessions, and more. 330-635-9950 or 330-242-7060

JUL. 26 – Millersburg Food Run 10K/5K and 1-Mile Race, Hipp Station, 62 N. Grant St., Millersburg. Registration opens at 7 a.m., race starts at 8 a.m. Costs $8–$40. Funds raised go to the Love Center Food Pantry. https://runsignup.com/Race/OH/ Millersburg/MillersburgFoodRun.

THROUGH AUG. 1 – “Joyce Hannon Followed Her Dream,” McCook House Museum, 15 2nd St., Carrollton, Fri./Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $5. Exhibit featuring the accomplishments of Joyce Hannon, who developed a promising property in Carroll County into a popular destination. View a collection of her hats and other memorabilia. 330-437-9715 or kathorn4120@gmail.com.

THROUGH SEP. 5 – Dennison Depot Railroad Museum Guided Tours, 400 Center St., Dennison, Wed./Sat. 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m. $4–$8; under 7 free. Knowledgeable guides will lead guests through beautifully restored exhibits, share stories of Dennison’s important role in American railroad history, and highlight the legendary WWII Canteen that served more than 1 5 million soldiers. 740-922-6776 or www. facebook.com/DennisonRailroadDepotMuseum.

THROUGH NOV. 21 – Age of Steam Roundhouse Tours, 213 Smokey Lane Rd. SW, Sugarcreek, Thur.–Sat. 10 a.m., 12 p.m., 2 p.m. $12–$20; 2 and under free. Learn the fundamentals of steam locomotives and experience the storied past of the railroad. Only online purchases are guaranteed for the selected day and time. Youth tours available ($5–$10) on select Friday and Saturday afternoons. 330-852-4676 or https://ageofsteamroundhouse.org.

JUL. 10–11 – Caboose Rides at the Roundhouse, Age of Steam Roundhouse Museum, 213 Smokey Lane Rd. SW, Sugarcreek, 10 a.m.–3:40 p.m. $4; tickets must be purchased at depot on day of event. Experience the sights, sounds, and atmosphere of classic railroading! Guests will ride on a train made up of four historic cabooses coupled together and pulled by one of our diesel locomotives through the museum grounds. 330-852-4676 or https:// ageofsteamroundhouse.org/blog/caboose-rides.

JUL. 14–19 – Trumbull County Fair, 899 Everett Hull Rd., Cortland. Truck and tractor pulls, rodeo, racing pigs, Demolition Derby, grandstand entertainment,

WEST VIRGINIA

JUL. 18, AUG. 15 – Age of Steam Roundhouse Ferroequinologist Tours, 213 Smokey Lane Rd. SW, Sugarcreek. $75; tickets must be purchased in advance. An extended three-hour-long guided tour providing an in-depth look at the technical aspects concerning steam engineering, locomotive mechanics, industrial heritage, railroad history, and roundhouse architecture. 330-852-4676 or https:// ageofsteamroundhouse.org/event-details/theferroequinologist-tour.

JUL. 19 – Zoar Homecoming Picnic–America 250, Historic Zoar Village, 1–3 p.m. Current and former residents, descendants, community members, and dedicated volunteers are welcome for a day of food, friendship, and shared memories. Reconnect with old friends, make new ones, and celebrate the spirit of Zoar. 330-874-3011 or www.historiczoarvillage.com.

JUL. 21–25 – Ashland Chautauqua 2026: America’s Stories, 209 Parkside Dr., Ashland. Free. Living history performances and daytime workshops on Erma Bombeck, Thomas Paine, Mary Fields, Washington Irving, and Coretta Scott King. Evening performances held at the Guy C. Myers Memorial Band Shell at Brookside. info@ashlandchautauqua.org or www. ashlandchautauqua.org.

JUL. 24 – Freedom Brass Band, John Streeter Garden Amphitheater, 2122 Williams Rd., Wooster, 6:30 p.m. Free. In the event of rain, the concert will be held inside the Welcome Center. 419-853-6016 or www.ormaco.org.

JUL. 25 – The Back Porch Swing Band, Buffalo Creek Retreat, 8708 Hubbard Valley Rd., Seville, 7 p.m. Free. 419-853-6016 or www.ormaco.org.

JUL. 25–26 – Zoar Antiques and Artisans Show, Historic Zoar Village, Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. $12; 12 and under free. Over 60 dealers, artisans, and folk artists will showcase Americana, country, primitives, furniture, watercolor painting, and much more. Live demos of 19th-century techniques for weaving, spinning, blacksmithing, butter churning, and kraut making. 330-874-3011 or www. historiczoarvillage.com.

JUL. 11, 25 – Myths of the Mountains, Fort New Salem, 81 Settlers Lane, Salem. Lamplight guided tour (approx. 1 hour) led by period-dressed guides, with each cabin housing a storyteller who spins tales of Appalachia. Gates open at 8 p.m.; groups begin tours every 10 minutes. 304-695-2220, director@fortnewsalemfoundation.org, or www.fortnewsalemfoundation.org.

AUG. 7–9 – Dulcimer Festival, Fort New Salem, 81 Settlers Lane, Salem. $8 general admission with no workshops; 10 and under free. Workshops $28–$58. Concerts, Appalachian artisans, and hands-on music workshops. See website for schedule. 304-695-2220 or www.fortnewsalemfoundation.org.

JUL. 31, AUG. 1 – SAR Changing of the Guard Ceremony, Fort Laurens, 11067 Fort Laurens Rd., Bolivar, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Free. The Sons of the American Revolution will perform a traditional D.C.style Changing of the Guard ceremony in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. 330-874-2059 or www. fortlaurensmuseum.org.

AUG. 1 – Jazz Under the Stars: Pulse, Uptown Park, Medina, 7 p.m. Free. In the event of rain, concert will be held at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 317 E. Liberty St., Medina. 419-853-6016 or www.ormaco.org.

AUG. 1 – Touch-A-Truck, Touch-A-Train, 213 Smokey Lane Rd. SW, Sugarcreek, 9:30 a.m.– 4 p.m. Free admission. Join us for a day welcoming youth to explore vehicles and equipment of all sizes and shapes. Police, fire, and other emergency vehicles will be joined by semi-tractors, farm tractors, and everything in between. Roundhouse tours available at an additional cost. https://ageofsteamroundhouse. org/blog/touch-a-truck-touch-a-train.

AUG. 1–2 – American Heritage Timeline–America 250, Fort Laurens, 11067 Fort Laurens Rd., Bolivar, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Come meet American soldiers spanning across several pivotal wars, notable people from the Revolutionary War, and key signers of the Declaration of Independence. Additionally, witness a duel between General Lachlan McIntosh and Button Quinette. 330874-2059 or www.fortlaurensmuseum.org.

AUG. 3–9 – Medina County Fair, Medina Co. Fgds., 720 W. Smith Rd., Medina. Warren Zeiders in concert Aug. 5 330-723-9633 or www.medinaohiofair.com.

AUG. 6–8 – Antrim Community VFD Annual Fireman’s Festival, 20217 Cadiz Rd., Freeport. BBQ chicken, firehouse beans, lots of sides, plus ice cream starting at 5 p.m. each evening. Free, live music each night. Thursday, royalty crowning; Friday, Firemen’s Parade; Saturday, tractor parade and kiddie pedal pull. Kids’ games, raffles, nickel pitch, and more. antrimvfdtreasurer@yahoo.com.

AUG. 8 – Rummage and Bake Sale, Burbank Community Church of Faith, 124 Mill St., Burbank, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Handicapped accessible. 330-6246122 or venuswise1@gmail.com.

THROUGH AUG. 16 – CAPA Summer Movie Series, Ohio Theatre, 55 E. State St., Columbus, Wed.–Sun. 7:30 p.m., Sun. matinee 2 p.m. (no shows on July 4 weekend). $5–$6. Series showcasing classic films and cult favorites. “Cartoon Capers” Aug. 1 at 10 a.m. 614-469-0939 or www.capa.com.

THROUGH 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.

THROUGH NOV. 28 – Huber Machinery Museum Hours, 220 E. Fairground St., Marion. Open Sat. 1–4 p.m. or by appointment. Admission by donation. Huber farm tractors, threshers, road graders, road rollers, Marion Steam Shovel Company, Marion Power Shovel Company history. View machinery, photos, and other related items, including a Marion model 21 steam shovel. hubermuseum@gmail.com or www. facebook.com/hubermachinerymuseum. To schedule a visit, call 740-387-9233 or 614-271-9951 and leave a message.

JUL. 3, AUG. 7 – First Friday Art Walk, downtown Zanesville, 5–8 p.m. Come downtown on the first

SOUTHWEST

THROUGH OCT. 8 – Piqua Community Farmers’ Market, 116 W. High St., Piqua, Thur. 3–6 p.m. The very best locally grown food, home-baked items, and handmade crafts. www.piquafarmersmarket.com.

JUL. 16 – Summer Concert on the Lawn, Historic Bear’s Mill, 6450 Arcanum Bear’s Mill Rd., Greenville, 6 p.m. $20; purchase tickets on our website. Enjoy live music from world-renowned hammered dulcimer artist Ted Yoder! 937-548-5112 or www.bearsmill.org.

JUL 21 – History Roundtable, New Madison Public Library, 142 S. Main St., New Madison, 6–7 p.m. Free. Reservations recommended. Open discussion of the history of New Madison, Palestine, and Hollansburg. 937-996-1741, info@ newmadisonpubliclibrary.org, or www.mynmpl.org.

JUL. 24–26 – Annie Oakley Festival, Darke Co. Fgds., Gate 5, Greenville, Fri. 12–8 p.m., Sat. 11 a.m.–8 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Family-friendly festival honoring Darke County’s most famous daughter, with western arts, cowboy mounted

Friday of each month, when all our participating galleries, studios, and small businesses are open at the same time! See the Artist Colony of Zanesville’s website for a map of current participants: https:// artcoz.org/arts-district-map.

JUL. 3–4, AUG. 7–8 – The Downtown Exchange Artisans Market, 527 Main St., Fri. 5–9 p.m., Sat. 11 a.m.–3 p.m. A unique shopping experience featuring quality Ohio makers and artisans. Arts, crafts, and food. www.downtown-exchange.com/DTXAM.

JUL. 16–19 – Miami Valley Steam Threshers Association Annual Reunion, Pastime Park, Plain City. Featuring Minneapolis Moline. Live demos provide a glimpse into the farming practices of yesteryear. Enjoy scenic tractor rides, the Grand Parade on Friday, and truck/tractor pulls on Saturday. www.mvsteamshow.com.

JUL. 17–18 – Annual Outville Power Show, Harrison Township Complex, 6750 Outville Rd., Outville, Fri. 11 a.m.–dark, Sat. 9 a.m.–dark. GPS users: 6750 Outville Rd SW, Pataskala, 43062. Working and static antique construction and farm equipment on display. Car and truck show on Saturday. The Outville B&O Depot is located on the complex. Food vendors on-site. 740404-0853, outvillepowershow@yahoo.com, or www. facebook.com/outvillepowershow.

JUL. 17–18 – Pieceable Quilters 2026 Quilt Show, Zane State College Campus Center, 1555 Newark Rd., Zanesville, Fri. 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.–4 p.m. $6 Over 100 beautiful quilts and quilt-related projects on display, in addition to vendors, demos, a raffle quilt, a silent auction, and a Quilter’s Boutique with handmade items for sale. zanepqg@gmail.com.

JUL. 18 – Boogie on the Blacktop: Dan Orr Project, Circleville Eagles, 135 E. Main St., Circleville, 7–11 p.m. $5. Outdoor concert with food vendors and drinks. www.pickaway.com.

JUL. 18 – TRFD Car Show and Eagles Tribute Concert, Main Street, Coshocton. The Jason Fisher Memorial Car Show, sponsored by the Three Rivers Firefighter’s Association, will feature cars, trucks,

shooting, shooting contests, musical performances, and much more. www.annieoakleyfestival.org.

JUL. 25–26 – Gathering at Garst, 205 N. Broadway, Greenville, Sat. 10 a.m.–8 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Free. Live historical reenactments, booming cannons, engaging encampments, artisan vendors, food, local brews, and live music. www. darkecountyparks.org.

JUL. 25 – The Dulcimer Guy: Matthew Dickerson, Garber Nature Center, 9691 OH-503 N., Lewisburg, 7–9 p.m. Free. Join us for a fun evening of dulcimer music. 937-962-5561, pcpdevents@gmail.com, or www.preblecountyparks.org.

JUL. 26–AUG. 1 – Butler County Fair, Butler Co. Fgds., 1715 Fairgrove Ave., Hamilton. www. butlercountyohfair.org.

AUG. 1 – Down a River, Down a Beer, 919 S. Main St., Piqua, 5:30–9 p.m. $40. A craft beer-tasting event benefiting the clean-up of the Great Miami River and environmental education in the Miami Valley. Check out the website for more information: www.downariverdownabeer.com.

AUG. 1 – Vernon Fest, Famous Old Time Music Co., 1196 Ross Millville Rd., Hamilton, 11 a.m.–10 p.m. $20/person. Family-friendly music and fun, featuring Vernon McIntyre’s Appalachian Grass plus other fine regional bands, raffles, split the pot, and door prizes! Food and drink for sale on-site. Bring a lawn chair. 419-568-1220, vernon@iglou.com or www. fotmc.com/vernon-fest.

AUG. 4 – Historical Speaker Series: “Harrison Township Revolutionary War Patriots,” New Madison Public Library, 142 S. Main St.,

motorcycles, tractors, and more. Registration begins at noon; trophy presentation at 4 p.m. 7 Bridges: The Ultimate Eagles Experience will begin at 7:30 p.m. Bring a lawn chair and enjoy the free concert on the courthouse lawn. 740-502-1509

JUL. 24–25 – Canal Winchester Blues and RibFest, Historic Downtown Canal Winchester, Fri. 5–11 p.m., Sat. noon–11 p.m. Free admission. Live blues music, mouthwatering ribs, local food and vendors, and fun for the whole family. www.destinationcw.org or www. bluesandribfest.com.

JUL. 25 – Black Wing Summer Blast Car Show, 3722 Marysville Rd., Delaware, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Join us for a family-friendly, fun-filled day, with a huge raffle, manufacturer rep expo, food trucks on-site, and more! Car show 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Proceeds to benefit the “Grow the Sport Fund” to support youth shooting sports for 6th to 12th graders. 740-780-5287 or https:// blackwingsc.com/summer-blast.

AUG. 7–9 – Annual Farm Days, Morrow Co. Fgds., 195 S. Main St. (U.S. 42), Mount Gilead. $5; under 12 free. Featuring Massey Harris Ferguson Tractors and equipment. List of events at www. morrowcountytractor.com. For more information, call Dwight Murphy at 740-225-4038

AUG. 8 – Union County Master Gardener Volunteers Annual Plant Sale, Union County Services Center, 940 London Ave., Marysville, 8 a.m.–noon. Free admission. Sun and shade perennials, native plants, shrubs and trees, grasses, bulbs, day lilies, and some house plants. Only cash or check accepted. Proceeds benefit MGV projects in Union County. 937-644-8117, https://union.osu.edu, or find us on Facebook or Instagram.

AUG. 15 – Annual Fly In, Hideaway Hills, 29042 Hideaway Hills Rd., Sugar Grove, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Fly in or come for the festivities. Lunch for a donation will be served 11 a.m.–1 p.m. We are celebrating the 250th USA Birthday. Free breakfast off the menu at our Clubhouse for Pilots. This is a grass field, Identifier 110A. For questions, call or text Lanette at 614-561-4876

New Madison, 6–7 p.m. Free. Presented by representatives from Fort GreenVille Daughters of the American Revolution. 937-996-1741, info@ newmadisonpubliclibrary.org, or www.mynmpl.org.

AUG. 5 – Bluegrass Wednesday, 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 strongly recommended. 513-385-9309, vinokletwinery@fuse.net, or www. vinokletwines.com.

AUG. 6–9 – World’s Longest Yard Sale, locations along U.S. 127 through Greenville. www.127yardsale.com.

AUG. 8 – Biergarten, Liberty Home German Society, 2361 Hamilton Cleves Rd., Hamilton. Food, music, German beer. Doors open at 5 p.m. The Rick Ipach Band plays 6–10 p.m. 513-571-6198, www. libertyhome.net, or on Facebook: The Liberty Home Association.

AUG. 15 – Rockin’ River Duck Drop and Jeep Cruise-In, Lock 9 Park, 125 E. Water St., Piqua, 6–9 p.m. Thousands of numbered rubber ducks will make their way down the Great Miami River. Will yours be the winner of a $1,000 grand prize? Bring your “ducked”-out Jeep for a chance to win one of our unique trophies and prizes. Enjoy family-friendly activities, food trucks, and a hometown concert to end the day. Purchase tickets at Mainstreet Piqua, 326 N. Main St., or www.mainstreetpiqua.com. Ducks are $5 each or 6 for $25

1 — My son, Colton, pulling at a local tractor pull. Heather Casper, Carroll Electric Cooperative member

2 Fourth of July golf cart parade at East Fork State Park with my husband, Don Burroughs, and my grandson, Jackson. Gayle Burroughs, South Central Power Company member

3 Alpaca, Seamus, wishing America a happy 250th birthday. Rob Turk, Firelands Electric Cooperative member

4 Scout, showing her patriotism. Doug Doellinger, URE–Union Rural Electric Cooperative member

5 My grandchildren, Xander, Jack, Macklin, and Charis, waiting for the fireworks to start! Rochelle Clouse, Mid-Ohio Energy Cooperative member For October, send “Best friends” by July 15; for November, send “Tailgate party” by August 15. Upload your photos at www.ohiocoopliving.com/memberinteractive.

Beat thePeak

As a member of an Ohio Electric Cooperative, you can help keep the rates stable and a ordable by reducing energy use during peak hours on hot summer days. The hottest times of day — usually between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. — create the highest demand for electricity and when demand is high, so is the price. If we can reduce electric use during peak hours, we can reduce power costs for all members.

Here are a few simple ways you can help your cooperative “beat the peak” this summer by shifting your energy use to o peak hours:

Turn o unnecessary lights and electronics when they aren’t being used

Run your dishwasher and do laundry early in the morning or later in the evening

Shut blinds and curtains during the day to keep the sun from warming your home

Schedule your pool pump to run during o -peak hours

By adjusting the times you use electricity this summer, you can help us keep stable despite the heat! If we all work together, we all will benefit. That’s the power of cooperation and your electric cooperative membership.